It is sometimes difficult for progressives to understand just how inherently threatening our message can be to those whose sense of identity depends on clinging to their position in the collapsing hierarchy of power and privilege. Even if we call only for a world of love for all people and all beings, skilled propaganda masters of the right easily take our words and spin them in a way that make them feel threatening to their followers. Of course Van’s language is not so restrictive, and appropriately so. His honesty without malice or blame is why we love him and look to him as a leader. We on the progressive side best respond by being strong and centered in the artful manner of Joanna Macy’s Shambhala warrior, deflecting the thrusts of the forces of hateful violence in ways that disarm them without responding in kind. I believe the culture is shifting at a deeper level. Ever more people are awakening to the possibilities of a world beyond the old social ordering, a world that truly fulfills the American ideal of liberty and justice for all, and they are redefining their personal identities accordingly. The shift is only partially visible, however, because those who navigate it are less inclined to respond in kind to the voices of fear and hate and thus get less media attention. David Korten ☀
Thursday 17 September 2009
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