metonymy4u

I think that the problem with racism is the problem of cruelty, which has been with us as long as we can remember. But far from seeing it as an essential feature of us, I think we need to think differently. If we re-describe cruelties not as necessary parts of our human landscape, but rather each as single events with unique beginnings and endings, the opportunity presents itself over and over again to choose another path. The antidote to cruelty, contrary to our classical liberal tradition, thus lies not in a byproduct of power, but in an understanding of habit. And we may look then, not to fear, but to mindful choice, to lead us to a new relationship with one another.