Racism - A matter of choice

Words hold power. The ability to influence thoughts, emotions, actions and change. A single word can raise a nation or bring it to its' knees. It is our choice which words we apply to each other and situation. Racism florishes and diminishes upon these choices. The United States is a unique cornerstone in the world in that we are not built upon one race, instead we are like a Monet Painting, a merging of colors that blend to become something unique and beautiful. In this blossoming country of ours, the world gathers to become one. Martin Luther King spoke of a dream. His dream was one in which logic and the heart would prevail over words of fear, jealousy, hurt and anger. His words, his choices, were ones of unity not seperation. It is each individuals choice as to whether or not racism comes to light or fades into the dark. Racism is a word of uglyness and fear. It embodies narrow minded logic and does not allow the individual to see a more broader picture. Those who choose these words do not stop to think before they speak. This does not just effect one race but all.

A white youth, who listens to an African-American rap group and idolizes them, chooses to dress speak and embody what he percieves as his idols behavior. He encounters African-American youths and harsh words are thrown at this youth. Accusations of him trying to be "black" Negative attacks such as the term "whigger". All because he enjoyed and idolized a group not of his race. This just as much as a black woman getting on a public bus and wanting to go home from work, but being told she could not sit there because of the color of her skin, are forms of racism.

Racism is not Black vs. White. It is not White vs. Black. It is a matter of choice. We are a nation of free will. We are a nation that is truly a Monet Painting. Everyday we show the world what we choose to do and say and therefore not only shape our future but that of the world. Martin Luther's dream has been coming to pass for a very long time now. Let the Monet Painting that is our nation continue to come to life. Think and listen before speaking. For every action there is a reaction. Racism - the choice is yours.