Emphasizing Kindness: A Call for Compassion Amid Rising Violence

As violence continues to escalate in communities across the United States, the need for compassion and understanding has never been more urgent. The recent murder of political commentator Charlie Kirk and a tragic shooting incident at Evergreen High School, where a 16-year-old took his own life after opening fire, highlight the critical conversations we must engage in to foster kindness and patience among one another.

In reflecting on these events, longtime Longmont resident Sue Winthrop finds solace in the words of her favorite prayer, “Avinu Malkeinu,” as performed by Barbra Streisand. Winthrop emphasizes the prayer’s call for divine compassion, urging society to work towards ending war, famine, and hatred. She calls for a collective response to the rising violence, advocating for a shift in how individuals communicate and engage with one another.

Winthrop has adopted a new approach in her interactions, particularly during protests in Longmont. Instead of confrontational messaging, her sign now reads, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” She believes that fostering kindness is essential, regardless of differing political beliefs. To facilitate more constructive discussions, the senior rabbi at her synagogue introduced the acronym “PLANTS,” which serves as a guideline for engaging in difficult conversations:

Patience,
Listening,
Asking genuine questions,
Not assuming the first response is the only perspective,
Truth,
Sharing feelings.

Winthrop has put PLANTS into practice in her conversations with her friend Art, a veteran who served six tours in Iraq. Their discussions often delve into sensitive topics, such as the recent deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles. While their views differ, they have managed to find common ground, illustrating the potential for understanding when patience and active listening are prioritized.

The tragedy at Evergreen High School has left a profound impact on Winthrop. The notion of “children shooting children” resonates deeply, particularly given the age of the shooter. In her quest for understanding, she turned to an interview featuring family therapist Craig Knippenberg on Colorado Matters. Knippenberg’s insights into adolescent brain development, particularly the underdevelopment of the frontal lobe, shed light on the emotional struggles faced by young people. His book, “Wired and Connected,” offers vital information for anyone working with adolescents, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health and emotional intelligence.

Winthrop’s experience in public health has informed her understanding of the pathways that lead to violence. She notes that individuals may go through several stages before resorting to violence, including expressing grievances and creating manifestos. By recognizing these early signs, communities can intervene before violence occurs, potentially saving lives.

The call for a more compassionate society extends beyond individual conversations. Winthrop believes that collectively, communities can create an environment where peaceful dialogue thrives. By promoting kindness, understanding, and patience, there is hope for a future where hate diminishes and empathy prevails.

In closing, Winthrop wishes for a peaceful year ahead, encapsulated in the phrase “Shannah Tovah,” or “A good year.” She encourages everyone to embrace this sentiment and work towards fostering a culture of kindness in their daily interactions. As society confronts ongoing challenges, the power of compassion and understanding may be the key to overcoming division and creating a better world for all.