Protect the innocent among us

I believe we all have a powerful desire to protect the helpless, weak, and small. Even if we ignore the feeling, it's ingrained inside us. We love rooting for the downtrodden, the underdogs, and the undeserving--especially in sports. Sometimes we can't simply stand on the sidelines and cheer; we must get up and get involved. One example is when we see someone being bullied. It's a difficult circumstance to find yourself in, with lots of dangerous possibilities, and you must make a choice about what to do.

Inserting yourself into the lives of others isn't a thing to be taken lightly. We want to protect, yet face problems from the very act of protection itself. Sometimes the consequences can be severe indeed. In modern society we tend toward not getting involved, particularly when it's uncomfortable or consequential. The television show "What Would You Do?" is popular in the United States, which takes the "Candid Camera" concept and applies it to situations we all might find ourselves facing. It's heart warming to see how most people actually will do the right thing, despite the pressures applied. When the television cameras are revealed, there's not just a sense of relief, but satisfaction and pride.

Don't give up on us. Sure, there's bad people abounding in our societies, but there are also plenty of good people to tip the balance well into the favor of the kind and generous. Yes, there is evil. There is also good. And good wins out in the end. Never forget that.

- M