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| Hoosier United Methodist News |
November 2001 |
Reflection on an unthinking bias
I confess! And I am ashamed!
A few weeks ago I boarded a plane for the first time since the tragic events of Sept. 11th. I had no apprehension about flying and immediately settled in my seat. While doing so, I noted two young men boarding with other passengers. They appeared to have Middle Eastern physical features.
One of the young men, with a carry-on parcel, found an open overhead bin and there placed his bag, but proceeded to his seat further toward the rear of the plane.
But the momentary event had seized my attention and caused both apprehension and suspicion. However, as is my custom when traveling by plane, I was asleep before the flight departed.
When I awakened I reflected on my reaction to the young men. Had I engaged in a kind of psychological racial profiling, I thought? How many times had persons of Middle Eastern "appearance" gone unnoticed? How many times had I witnessed and, myself, placed a carry on parcel in the first available overhead bin not corresponding to my assigned seat?
I pride myself on being one of keen self-awareness and relatively free of bias; yet, in this present atmosphere I had succumbed to making some pre-judgments about two young men based solely on their appearance. As one who is the object of such thinking every day of my life, I should know better! I do know better. Thank God that "informed" conscience clicked in preventing any irrational fear or anxiety, or worse lingering negative attitude.
Like you, I have been dismayed by reports of violent actions and negative response toward those believed to be Muslims or persons of Middle Eastern extraction. Many of our citizens, including children and youth, have been targets of verbal abuse and other forms of negative behavior because of their assumed ethnic background or faith allegiance.
Such actions are inappropriate and clearly un-Christian and un-American. A more appropriate response at this time in our national life, is to reach out to our Muslim brothers and sisters for greater understanding, support, and to reaffirm our common ground as citizens, neighbors, and members of the human family.
The evil being perpetrated against our nation at this time is not the product of the Islamic faith, nor an entire ethnic group. It is the result of terrorists and a fanatical ideology. Sadly, supported by many.
We are not helpless, however, in the face of this unprecedented targeting of our nation and its citizens.
We can refuse to let fear, anger and prejudice find fertile place in mind, heart and spirit.
One can honestly acknowledge thoughts unbecoming of Christian conscience. To deny them may be to leave them unattended to fester. Pray that they be removed. My mother's favorite phrase was, "I've turned it over to God!" For many that may be the way to deal with such thoughts.
Congregations and pastors may find ways to bring together members of a neighboring mosque or synagogue for a time of sharing dialogue and, yes, prayer.
Opening sanctuaries for times of prayer and reflection throughout the week, celebration of the Eucharist daily, study groups focused on understanding the Islamic faith, a visit to a neighboring mosque or Islamic center are but a few ways that Indiana United Methodists might respond to assure that no ill will, bias or anger, irrational thought or behavior take root in spirit or mind.
Review the official positions of The United Methodist Church on terrorism and interfaith relations as found in The Book of Discipline and The Book of Resolutions. These will be instructive and informative.
These are challenging days for our nation. People of faith are experiencing a mix of emotions and reactions. To be sure, unfortunately, political partisanship will emerge as time goes on.
May we find ways to express the spirit of The One called, The Prince of Peace.
Even a bishop needs to be reminded!
Last updated on 01/14/2004