You know how the MARVEL movies go, right?! You’ve gotta watch until after the credits are over, so that you can see the extra scene. In Black Panther’s extra scene, Ta’Challa takes the podium at what looks to be a press conference, dropping some last minute wisdom on us. The whole spiel is powerful.
“More than ever, the illusions of division threaten our very existence.
We all know the truth: More connects us than separates us, but in times of
crisis, the wise build bridges. But the foolish build barriers.
We must find a way to look after one another as if we were one single tribe.”
I cried a lot during that movie and that scene was no exception. His statement reminds us that You and I are no different despite our skin color, educational background, socioeconomic status, faith or sexual orientation. I am compelled to respect you because you, too, are just out here trying to live your best life.
Ta’Challa also has it right when he says that we are more alike than we are different. If we were all walking this earth looking, acting and speaking the same, the world would be a very boring place. Instead, we all come from different walks of life and through our stories, we can share so much with one another that can make us even better people.
It seems so simple, but continues to be the main reason there is so much hatred. This world isn’t fair. However, in the words of Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” I like to smile at folks and even speak to them. MY! What a grand gesture. :) It is becoming a lost art and I want to do everything in my power to keep it around. With time comes great advances in technology and other things so important to our existence, however, we cannot let it strip of us finding value in human existence.
Let’s not forget that at the heart of it all is humanity. Merriam-Webster defines humanity as “compassionate, sympathetic, or generous behavior or disposition : the quality or state of being humane.” We are all we have got, so let’s be kind, considerate and thoughtful with one another whenever the opportunity presents itself. It’s the genteel thing to do.