If you've been keeping up with the news, you are aware that there was a tragic mass shooting that took place at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, 2016. The shooting resulted in 50 people being killed and 53 people being injured. All of the victims identified as a member of the LGBTQ community. The victims visited the nightclub regularly as a place to get loose and have a feeling of acceptance in a society that spews so much hate and judgement toward them.
When I became aware of this tragedy, my heart hurt for many reasons. Innocent lives were taken in a place that many members of Orlando's LGBTQ community saw as a safe haven. These were people that lived regular lives just like you and me. They had careers, families, homes, pets, necessities and life savings; they mattered and they were valid. But one thing a friend of mine, who identifies as a homosexual male, brought to my attention was, "where did all of this care and attention come from? We've been fighting for sympathy, care, aid, love and all of this for so long. Why is it coming now? After a tragedy."
I didn't have much to say besides, "Damn." Because he was right. I go on Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms and news stations on TV and see hashtags that want to show love and condolences to the fallen victims and their families. But for real, where was all of this before the tragedy?
Some peers of mine who come from extremely religious homes are even beginning to show their empathetic sides for LGBTQ members. People that used to say the struggles and things that people of the LGBTQ community face are all a result of their "choice of sexuality and way of life." It just leaves me in awe to see how quickly things can change once a life is taken. The way love can be flipped like a switch when it is most convenient and socially normal.
Witnessing all of this made me think -- when did love become a switch? More specifically, why is someone seen as a regular person once their life is taken? Why isn't that same love and empathy shown at all times?
It's wonderful to see the dialogue, discussions and advocacy taking place regarding this tragedy. But I really want everyone to understand that love is not a switch. It can't be turned on and off. It's not something you should radiate only in times of tragedy or hurt. The same thing goes with the acceptance of other people's lives and the way in which they choose to live it. If someone hasn't given you a reason not to be polite to them or love them, then you better be radiating some good energy and sharing a "hello" or a simple smile or head nod as a gesture of respect and acknowledgement for one's presence and lifestyle.
At the end of the day, I'm not here to say stop showing love whenever a tragedy occurs. But try to make it a persistent behavior. Learn to accept others for who they are and the struggles they face in our society. Make empathy a personality trait of yours. Just because someone doesn't share the same struggle as you doesn't make them someone you can't love or relate to. We're more alike than you may think.
Be mindful my friends. Peace and love.
