The more afraid we are of the shadow of racism, the more conscious we might become of our own unsuspected biases.
Interpretation
Fear of racism can lead to greater self-awareness of our own biases.
This quote suggests that when we acknowledge and confront our fears regarding racism, we open ourselves up to recognizing and understanding our own implicit biases. Rather than hiding from the issue, facing these fears can promote personal growth and awareness about how we perceive and treat others.
In practice
During a diversity training session, this quote can be shared to inspire participants to reflect on their own biases.
I routinely interview college students, mostly from top schools, and I notice that their brains are like old maps, with lots of blank spaces for the uncharted terrain. It's not that they lack for motivation or IQ. It's that they can't connect the dots when they don't know where the dots are in the first place.
The most interesting conversation is not about why Donald Trump lies. Many public figures lie, and he's only a severe example of a common type. The interesting conversation concerns how we come to accept those lies.
We live in a world in which data convey authority. But authority has a way of descending to certitude, and certitude begets hubris.
The American birthright belongs, potentially, to everyone. This is unprecedented. Other countries accept migrants on the basis of economic necessity or as a humanitarian gesture. Only in America is it the direct consequence of our foundational ideals.
Christianity, whatever else it is, is an explosion. Unless it is sensational there is simply no sense in it. Unless the Gospel sounds like a gun going off it has not been uttered at all.
"You're a bitter man," said Candide. _x000D_ "That's because I've lived," said Martin.
I can tell you that solitude Is not all exaltation, inner space Where the soul breathes and work can be done. Solitude exposes the nerve, Raises up ghosts. The past, never at rest, flows through it.
Commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still.
It's easy to become a satellite today without even being aware of it. This country can seduce God. Yes, it has that seductive power; the power of the dollar.
A person is born with desires of the eyes and ears, and a liking for beautiful sights and sounds. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to immorality and lack of restriction, and any ritual principles and propriety will be abandoned.
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