The Award Winning News Publication of Mercy College

The Impact

The Award Winning News Publication of Mercy College

The Impact

The Award Winning News Publication of Mercy College

The Impact

A Call for Respect

A+Call+for+Respect

In today’s world, the challenge lies in respecting one another’s opinions.

Struggling with the difficulties of accepting diverse beliefs is one of the most significant tasks.

I’ve become acutely aware of the issues we face due to varied thinking, beliefs, and societal statuses, for most social media shapes their convictions.

It strikes me as perplexing that specific individuals wield significant influence on these platforms despite their lack of expertise.

While I steadfastly believe in mutual respect for differing opinions, it seems lacking within our generation. We are described as the “Crystal Generation,” likening us to delicate crystals easily broken with a mere glance.

Why are we so-called the crystal generation?

Perhaps because we are perceived as sensitive and unable to withstand criticism, we are all uniquely crafted, and in today’s world, influence is sometimes bestowed upon those who neither deserve nor uphold positive values in society.

I find it astonishing the amount of irritability among us.

This generation’s deficiency of respect is glaring, prompting me to write and raise consciousness. Writing possesses the powerful ability to connect with others.

I intend to imprint more  respect for others and their beliefs. Religion, intended to foster unity, paradoxically seems to be a source of division. I was raised in a Christian family, so religion has always been a big part of my life.

Traveling the world and encountering new experiences has challenged my beliefs, leading me to assert that every deity, regardless of faith, emphasizes respect, and respecting humans equates to loving the world and its creator.

I find it somehow unsettling to get to the conclusion that a deity of love and respect would encourage such atrocious behavior, promoting hatred in the world.

I am not a divine authority on right and wrong, but I know that causing harm due to a lack of respect is absurd. I feel for those who suffer from the lack of decency of specific individuals. I feel for what’s going on in the world.

The prevalence of ignorance in the world at times infuriates me. It underscores the importance of listening more than speaking and educating ourselves before opining.

As a young adult, I struggle with a sense of powerlessness in these situations, yet I feel a responsibility to contribute, even if it’s just through written words.

Every action you do matters; may we contribute with a bit of bread, but is some bread.

And damn, do we need bread in these times.

I recently attended a seminar where the speaker left me with a lasting thought. What matters most is not necessarily what you think but your ability to respect differing opinions.

Let’s introspect and understand why we are often bothered by others’ opinions.

People have gone to great lengths to prove someone else wrong, especially regarding personal beliefs. While acknowledging that many speak without sufficient knowledge, a level of respect should prevail when it comes to matters of personal conviction.

Let’s learn to respect each other, not necessarily agree, but appreciate the diversity of perspectives.

In these dark times, as we confront the hate around us, may we seek wisdom, whether from a deity or within ourselves.

As we continue to evolve, let’s aspire to shed the label of the crystal generation and embrace the strength of diamonds with bright and open minds.

Let’s nurture intelligent and empathetic leadership within our community – what’s going on in the world is a heartfelt call for all of us to step into reality.

If we don’t take the reins, who will bring about the change we long for?

It’s time we lift the veil from our eyes and confront the undeniable truth: our world is in pain.

Contemplating the current turmoil makes me question my beliefs and surroundings, and that’s okay. Sometimes, there is so much to choose from. So many beliefs and thoughts.

In the end, what we believe shapes our morals as well.

I can’t fathom the challenges faced by older generations during World War II or those who lived during the Great War. Many have gone through so much, but I acknowledge that every era has struggles.

I desire a world marked by mutual respect and overarching empathy. Despite differing opinions and beliefs, we are all human, sharing common values.

My words may not change the world, but I want to contribute by respecting everyone’s opinions and beliefs.

I encourage you to do the same; you’ll find yourself more invested in your own mind than in others.

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About the Contributor
Carla Gradiz
Carla Gradiz, Associate Editor
Carla Gradiz is a sophomore at Mercy University; she is an international student and majors in Journalism with a minor in Psychology. Carla comes from Honduras, Central America. She is passionate about where she comes from and focuses her writing on real issues her community faces and the issues she has to face as an international student. With much curiosity, Carla likes to explore different cultures, loves traveling to meet new people, and wants to impact the world positively. She believes writing is a powerful form of expression and a way to leave her mark. Carla writes a column titled You Can't Handle It,  in which she bravely shares real-life experiences, addresses critical issues, and raises awareness about topics she believes deserve more attention. She's passionate about using her writing to shed light on these issues. She can be reached at [email protected].

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