Some propose a wall. Others say no wall is necessary.
Some propose amnesty. Others say amnesty isn’t appropriate.
Some believe no immigrants should ever be let in. Others believe all should be welcomed any place, any time… the more, the merrier…
Your tired, your poor… those huddled masses yearning to be free… oh, what to do…
Here. There. In the U.S. and Europe… oh yes, what to do.
When we attempt to decipher the different aspects and angles, I think the challenge comes in that we each trump one aspect of the argument (fun to use that word there, by the way); one angle means more to us than another.
As referenced in Tuesday’s post, for example, it’s very difficult to see the limp, lifeless body of 3 year old migrant, Aylan Kurdi, and not want to turn around and scream, “Let ‘em in! Let them all in!” I admire the compassion of those who immediately wish to aid and abet all yearning, huddled masses. The empathy… the compassion… the desire to help the seemingly least of these in securing a solid, stable life is a beautiful thing.
Also embedded within the masses, no less, are those who desire to destroy us. Make no mistake about it: there are many people on this planet intent on strategically sneaking into our country for the sole purpose of destruction. As the 14th anniversary approaches Friday of arguably, the most contemporary “date which will live in infamy,” many persons want to make certain terrorism never again happens on American soil. I admire the resolve of those who work tirelessly in those efforts. To protect… to defend… the desire to limit terrorism is an honorable thing.
Still more within the masses are persons who wish to make a better life for others. Years ago, when living in Southeast Florida, I had much contact with legal and illegal aliens. Perhaps it was Pepe who touched me most. Pepe was here in this country legally, working two totally non-glamourous jobs, 80 hours per week, paying taxes, and sending more than half his check to his family in another country. He never complained. He was a law-abiding citizen of one country — and a law-abiding resident of the other. I admire the kindness of those who generously pave the way for people like Pepe. The generosity… the humility… the genuine helping of a brother or sister in need is a wonderful thing.
Others included within the migrants are persons who have no intention of ever contributing positively to the totality of society. They don’t pay taxes; they don’t give back. They’re not terrorists, but they do intend to take advantage of the welfare assistance and social services our government abundantly provides. I admire the persons who are thus concerned about the strain on a system that doesn’t support itself fiscally. Life isn’t free; someone has to pay for it. The fiscal-responsibility… the proven business practice… the logic of ensuring a process or program is financially solvent is a prudent thing.
So we have the following:
- Compassion & empathy
- Protection & defense
- Kindness & generosity
- Fiscal-responsibility & prudence
Each of those motivating aspects is valid. The challenge and dissension arise when we trump (there’s that word again) one aspect over another. I get it. One aspect often means more to us. Sometimes we can only see a single side. That one aspect, however, does not allow us to negate the validity of another angle or opinion. It also does not allow us to omit the legitimacy that lies within other angles.
Compassion, protection, kindness, and fiscal-responsibility are each valid, pursued priorities. While no doubt it’s harder, if we are committed to coming up with a wise, comprehensive way to address all immigration issues, we must consider each of the above.
And… dare I say… let go of the trump…
Respectfully…
AR