Having just witnessed a man of privilege brandishing a chainsaw while bragging about the many people his actions have ejected into unemployment, I am heartsick. I understand how an individual in power may lose his way, but this occurred in front of a cheering throng delighted with the theater of cruelty. It deepened my sadness immensely to know that fellow citizens have been treated so poorly. The waves of anxiety and despair that such intended actions cause is a burden that will be carried forever.

I was struck by the cheerful acceptance of this intentional cruelty and wondered if any in the mosh pit had ever experienced job loss or hardship that caused others to celebrate. Is this how we treat neighbors? Is the Golden Rule only for others? Or is this just business where comity and compassion are quaint concepts that add unnecessary friction in the pursuit of cash?

It seems so easy to suspend consideration for others when caught up in the frenzy where comradery of cruelty abounds. In the quiet moments that will come when the puppet masters have turned their attention to other follies, one may be left with the realization of deep pain needlessly visited upon fellow citizens – indeed all citizens of the world whom cruelty has touched. It is a heavy burden to carry on the long road ahead.

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Kevin Deeny