TO THE EDITOR:
Gary Birdsong, the Pit Preacher, had quite an interesting day last week. I only witnessed a few moments, but they inspired me to meditate over how I react to him and similar people.
Gary spends his life feeding fear and anger. His anger immediately assaults you and infects your heart. The disease finds a comfortable home in someone who responds with rage, and it will spread throughout your life, poisoning relationships. His corner only breeds anger and contempt, and I warn you not to tarry there. Anger drives him, and if you lose your head, anger moves you as well. Other, more noble options exist.
It’s a long, slow, arduous path that I’ve watched work consistently — we need to show Gary compassion. It feels impossible, but is so essential. How often do you imagine he speaks with people who respect him, but deny his incorrect beliefs? How is he supposed to treat other people with respect when no one treats him with any? For the first time in my lengthy education, I saw two students show Gary such unbelievable, impossible respect that I had to applaud and hopefully continue their efforts.
It’s difficult to follow their example — Lord knows I’ve tried. Anger is so quick, it often robs our judgement before we know it. That’s why I want to make this request: treat yourself, and Gary, with the respect you both deserve. If you can’t show him love, go somewhere else. Time spent fueling hate is time wasted not growing love.
Fulton Byrne ’14
Computer Science
