Red Flags

Sometimes when I am watching the news, or seeing a documentary, or listening to the radio, sometimes things happen that send up red flags.  The illusion of believability is shattered.   The suspension of disbelief is re-engaged.

I have found that what sets off these red flags have changed recently.   They now include such things as:

a) When anyone talks about compassion and forgiveness I ask myself, how do they treat people who are not part of their group, their beliefs, their race, their gender, etc.   It is really a mark of someone's character when they practive what they preach with everyone, and not just those that are convenient or like-minded.

b) When someone says "Trust Me" do they routinely trust others around them?  When people extend trust to others, then they are trustworthy. 

c)  If anyone makes the statement, "It was a difficult decision, but it had to be made!" then I ask myself if they indeed weighed the options, or perhaps took the more expedient route. 

d)  Some people say that they love everyone.  I want to know if they indeed love, or are at least kind to everyone around them.   How do they treat their friends, antagonists, rivals, workers?

e)  Occasionally, I hear, "I am willing to do anything to help."  The questions I want answered then include what that person does in private.  Do they help those people without the cameras, reporters, radio or TV going?

I am not saying that I have become more cynical.   In fact, I find that a lot of people whom I had considered a little hypocritical or disingenuous I have actually judged too harshly.

I find some people who are loving, understanding, people of character, willing to offer a helping hand at any time in any circumstances.  Some people are accepting of all people, beliefs, etc.  

Instead of seeing more wrong or more disappointed with people, I find more optimism lately in the human race.