Non-violence as fact and fiction

 

Non-violence as fact and fiction

When discussing non-violence it is important to understand fact from fiction- mainly, editorializing in our common culture. This is important since we often overlook the non-violent path when we editorialize. Often editorializing can rile up the masses, inflame passions and stir emotions, and it is important to sift our opinions from fact. Non-violence rests largely upon fact and the practicing of non-violence is subjective rather than objective.

As journalists, we should we wary when we editorialize, paying careful attention that we do not spur violence with our words. Oftentimes, editorials that are harsh can often lead to conflict and struggle that can often lead to violence. When we apply non-violent principles we notice that editorializing will also be bathed in humility.

Too many times, our opinions that are meant to galvanize someone can often be misconstrued. If you really hated that show, it is important that rouse people to hate all the actors or that your opinions do not result in a mass uprising.  If we can give our opinions in a more humane way, we realize that our opinions are more grounded in fact and clearheaded. For someone to hate the show or what is expressed should never leave the actors in fear for their livelihood or be booed off stage or heckled for instance but a quietus review of our sentiments is needed for an appropriate public response.

Too much editorializing, oftentimes, during times of crisis, can often lead to bitterness and resentment, anger and hostilities. We need to be wary of our editorializing and ensure that it also follows non-violent principles. Non-violence is a reality that is based in fact and by practicing non-violence we are also committing ourselves to a accepted reality. Violence is in fact, a non-reality or an imagined reality since the act of violence is always premeditated or conjectured until it becomes a heinous act and thereafter, can even refuted as being real, at all. On the other hand non-violence is not imagined but a reality that is ever-present in our lives and a way of life. It is practiced every day, in every aspect of our lives to give credence to our lives and is never based on “likes” or “dislikes” but “the way it is”. When we practice non-violence, we are showing the world that we are living in a real world not just a figment of our imagination.

Oftentimes, over-editorializing can often lead to misguided opinions and beliefs and we should be very careful when we pass judgments. It can lead to discord and disagreement. When we apply non-violence, we realize that we are also accepting a reality that is clear and laid-out. The non-violent path is always clear and is not muddied by the temptations of violence. A simple reference to the non-violent can always clear up our high-minded opinions that are so often expressed on the political stage in the case of a bill being passed that you might disagree with but how does it relate to non-violence in our lives? That simple reminder can often determine the gross neglect of editorializing with the reality of non-violence.

If we apply the principles of the Mandela every day in our lives, we see that the truth is clear and our editorializing no matter how much can never tarnish that reality. Therefore, it is important to discern the difference between editorializing and fact.

 

AJ Naseem is a writer and proponent of non-violence. He is currently affiliated with AVP.