There are a myriad of adages that appeal to man’s sense of humanity but fall short of implementation. One such adage is often brought to our attention and relates to our brother’s keeper. The meaning may vary from one person to another, but overall it resonates that we are all in this together. When one falls, we all fall. Therefore, we should have an inherent desire or even responsibility to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves. This concept is divine and universal and if truly practiced would eliminate a lot of the woes and suffering of our fellow brothers and sisters, locally as well as worldwide. This practice would provoke a will to work toward equality, truth, and righteousness for all—not just a few.
The truth is that many people who are blessed and fortunate to have a full plate are quick to judge and blame others. They claim that others fall short because of a lack of drive to succeed. They do not feel that they are their brother’s keeper. It is a ‘fend for yourself’ world. It’s not about helping others but about self. However sad, this attitude seems to be proliferating and many would say is becoming the rule. In fact, many universities and corporate businesses seem to assert that success is all about getting what you want regardless of the cost to others. Thus, the frightening outcome is a generation of young citizens engrossed in self. (It’s all about me).
We are finding too many people who seem oblivious to helping or giving back to others, especially their communities. Too many of them appear indifferent and apathetic to any community or civil problems that don’t affect them personally or directly. They seem immune to cries of the oppressed, disenfranchised, economically disadvantaged, and those unable to access affordable health care. They don’t fight for quality education for all children as long as their child is taken care of, most likely in a private school. They are not concerned with economic injustice or that many people are not making a living wage and often have to work two jobs (making it hard to spend time with their children). The inability or refusal to see oneself in another person’s shoes makes it easy to live in denial of the realities that befall your fellow brethren.
Many people who have been privileged and inundated with entitlements just don’t seem to get it. They just can’t seem to visualize that there are those who have not been giving the opportunities or niceties that they may have been born into and take for granted. Maybe some may feel a false sense of superiority by looking down on others. Whatever the reason, the veil of deception must be removed so that truth can clearly be seen. The truth supersedes all, despite man’s greed in his manipulation of and pursuit for power and wealth. Truth is mandated by a higher calling. Despite our different denominations or religions, we are all bound to work toward helping and uplifting our fellow brothers and sisters. This spirituality transcends into defining humanity. We are all intertwined. When one falls, we all fall. Yes, we are our brother’s keeper. Let’s work to make these words a practice, not just well intended adages. It all starts at home and grows. Help uplift humanity. Do your part.
