You wouldn't understand, you're not (insert minority here).

We hit some big topics in class today, and I think everyone was pleased on the direction the discussion took. We define conflict as incompatible goals or impeding needs between two parties. Interests become intangible for either one or both involved. We talked a little about the idea of confronting conflict and the possibility of this being therapeutic. Sometimes the best thing is just laying it all on the table and starting at square 1. What we have to remember is that we are all programmed differently. I usually play the role of wussy, passive aggressive, fine whatever you win attitude (except with my poor baby sister--I really do love you Bean, I'm just being the bossy big sister because that is the role society gave me I swear!). Ok, this is not true all the time. If i am really passionate about something so for me the obvious...hunger and homeless awareness, cross-cultural issues, unnecessary religious slander, minority (and we aren't just talkin race and gender...there's a lot more to it kids) equality, etc....I am more likely to have a stronger presence in the conflict. A common comeback in these conflicts I usually receive is something along the lines of "oh but sweetie, (ok firstly, I have a name and I am not 5 anymore thanks) do you really know what it is like to be them? Great, you are helping, but you just don't understand." I was talking to a friend today about these issues and peoples' opinions about it. Well here's the thing Debbie Downer, your deterrence will not stop me from believing in the minorities or injustices one group or another faces. AND just because I am not a part of said minority, does not mean that I cannot support their causes. All things aside, have you ever thought about your presence in a conflict? What I'm going for here is the idea that our identity contrains us on representation. We are limited by our gender, race, sexual orientation, language, religious, etc. if we are supporting a different group than what we are considered. Whatever, I'll still be in Guate helpin the orphans, even if I'm not chapina. You don't like it, then stop reading this blog and start your own charity work or conflict, whichever you prefer; although your good deeds may just make more conflict, which seems to defeat the whole purpose right? But these conflicts have the potential to bring about social change. Conflict in turn will become aggression which could be positively described (wait really?) as motivation, or the desire/willingness to push. Now of course, this could go horribly wrong and you could end up with violence, which really never is the answer. ever. Even the parameters of violence are reduced to simply physical violence; however, there is a whole slew of them that are overlooked all the time. And we are supposed to be such an aware race...right.