Where Has Our Compassion Gone?

Yesterday's news about Michelle Duggar having a miscarriage in her 2nd trimester was very sad to hear.  As bad as that news was, it was quickly followed by hateful, mean-spirited, and extremely rude comments against her, her husband, and their family.

The fact that they have 19 children and this would have been 20 cannot be ignored.  Other facts that cannot be ignored is that the practice of their religion has them put the number of children they have in God's hands, they are not on welfare or other assistance, and they are able to financially support the whole family.  If you have ever seen the show, ALL children receive plenty of attention from mom and dad.

What this story did, however, was show how cruel we can be.  The comments were horrible.  Here are a few:

These people are truly stupid! This woman is going to kill herself trying to have a thousand kids

Great news she miscarried.

 

She is only upset because of the extra money she is losing out on by not having another child

 

There were, however, a few compassionate people out there with similar comments to this one:

 

It doesn't matter how many children they have decided to have, at this moment they lost a baby that they loved. They suffered a lost, everything else is irrelevant right now..

 

or this one:

 

I'm willing to bet not one of her 19 children would spew the venom that Ive read on this thread if any of you had lost a baby.Makes you wonder whose parents should have taken birth control...

 

The vast majority of comments were cruel and uncalled for.  Those who showed compassion were quickly attacked.  It seems to be the way, now days.  Especially in the world of Facebook-style relationships.  We use this wonderful tool to keep in touch with old friends and maybe even make new ones.  Yet, when a discussion thread grows legs and opposing views are stated, people lose all sense of decorum and say things that I absolutely know they would not say to the person to their face.  We like to hide behind the safety of animosity and our computer screen.  I see things said that would never be said in decent society...if that even exists anymore.

 

This is not something that happens only with the Duggars.  I see it all the time in the comments below news articles.  Whether it be about a child abuse scandal, someone arrested, or a sports icon trying to make a comeback.  We, as a society and an educated people, have forgotten how to wish someone well.  We no longer believe in innocent until proven guilty.  Instead, we try, judge, and convict as soon as the allegation is made. 

 

What happened to us?  Where did our compassion go?  What happened to being sad when someone loses their baby...whether is is #1 or #20?  What happened to hoping someone learned their lesson and can become a better person?  Maybe that is why so many young people are so messed up.  They have never seen compassion, so how can they have any?  We look at the person holding the sign that says, "My family is starving, please help.  God Bless You!" with disdain and contempt and say under our breath..."Go get a job".  Not realizing they may have had a very good job that they were laid off from and can't get one now because they are "over qualified".  Or the two jobs they are working still can't pay the rent.

 

I urge you, not just during this Christmas season, but always, to look at those who have been struck by misfortune or adversity with a little more compassion.  Soften your comments as you post or speak to someone.  There is a way to bring peace around us...and it starts with one person...you!

 

God Bless you all and have a very Merry Christmas!!