I have great appreciation for Michael Leunig’s work. In fact, I believe he is one of the world’s greatest cartoonists and his poetry is equally thought provoking. So when I heard he was giving a talk at a local bookstore I jumped at the opportunity to attend.
At this talk, he commented that what was missing in politics today is love and I totally agree with him. In Australia, at present, there is a push towards a more conservative government. This translates into funding cuts for any service to those in our society who are in greatest need. Basically, if you can’t pay for something yourself you’re going to go without. There is neither consideration as to what is best for the community as a whole now and into the future nor any thought as to how to create a caring, culturally enriched and inclusive society. Everything is about money and cutting spending is the priority. No spreading love – instead, refugees, welfare recipients, non-whites, non-Christians and the opposition are blamed for all our “perceived” woes. They are scapegoats, for it is far easier to point the finger than it is to have a vision for Australia and the world at large. Divide and conquer instead of inspire, unite, lift and love. Worldwide, this seems to be the prevailing way to govern.
It is not just love that is absent in politics and life at large. In my view, what is also missing in the world today is respect. Respect for other peoples’ cultures, religions, gender, sexual preferences, abilities as opposed to disabilities, working rights and a right to be oneself.
As the Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Abu Mohammad, has said, “There is a difference between showing respect for someone’s belief and sharing those beliefs.” Too many people are being exploited, persecuted and bullied.
We are living in a world that is becoming increasingly violent but few are investigating the reasons for this violence. Rather we look at the tools of the trade such as guns. We increase camera surveillance and give our police more violent instruments of control like tasers (which are easily misused) as a means to react to violence rather than trying to prevent it. What we should be analysing is why people become so disconnected, disenchanted, angry, rejected and lacking in respect for others that violence, racism and other abuse become an acceptable option.
The recent Boston bombing was very upsetting. When is all this hatred going to end? It is shocking that people can’t even run is a marathon without being in danger. Even going to the movies or a youth camp can turn into a nightmare. No one should have this pain inflicted on them. When I look at the perpetrators of these crimes I wonder what went wrong in these young men’s lives for them to do such things. Are we all in some way responsible for creating a world that spawns such evil acts?
What the world needs now is love and respect so we can all live in peace and harmony.
To view Michael Leunig’s cartoons and poems visit http://www.leunig.com.au/
Image Credit
“Love & Respect” by Josh Kenzer. Creative Commons Flickr. Some rights reserved.
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