— Howard W. Norton (June 8, 2020)

I am saddened by the tragic death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. No human being should suffer a death like his.  Floyd’s murder and its aftermath have shaken the nation and cast a bright light on the number one social problem in America today.  That problem is racism.

Although the word “racism” appeared first in the 1930’s, this poison has existed for thousands of years.  Racism is based on the arrogant view that my race is superior to all others, and all others are inherently inferior and less deserving than mine. 

At the individual level, racism says, “I am better than you. Even though you may be physically and mentally stronger, wealthier, and better educated than I am, you are inferior because of your race.  I, therefore, can treat you anyway I please.”

This view of self and others is the polar opposite of Christian teaching.  Jesus says, “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them . . . .” (Matthew 7:12 – ESV).  This is the Golden Rule that we’ve known since childhood.  It’s time to practice it.

We must eradicate racism in all its forms.