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November 24, 2014

Ferguson: What if they threw a riot, but no one came?

By J. Edward Tremlett

Wouldn't it be nice for a change?

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As of this writing, we have learned that the Grand Jury has made its decision in the matter of Office Darren Wilson, who either shot and killed Michael Brown in self-defense, in cold blood, or some combination of the two on August 9th.

Whichever way the Grand Jury decides, it goes without saying a lot of people are not going to be happy with it. Those who think Michael Brown didn't deserve what happened to him will be incredibly incensed if it's decided Wilson doesn't get indicted. Meanwhile, those wearing the "I'm Darren Wilson" shirts will feel that "political correctness" won the day if he is.

But as the people on the streets wait for an official answer, and the rest of us hold our breath, here's a good question: what if they held a riot, and no one came?

What if, instead of raging, people protested peaceably and with honor?

What if, instead of saying angry things, spokespeople were calm and adamant?

And what if, instead of giving either side's self-appointed thought leaders more ammunition for their own, personal crusades, the people found a way to make their displeasure known that couldn't be turned into negative junk on FOX News or Comedy Central?

Wouldn't it be great to see our talking heads be at a loss for words, as the story they all had in their heads just sort of collapsed around them, and they'd actually have to report something good for a change?

Because, while any jackhandle can throw a brick at a glass window, it takes a lot more to rebuild trust and respect within a community.

But all the ideas in the world won't do anything by themselves. They take energy to accomplish.

And if the people who were disappointed, or even enraged, at whatever the grand jury says turned that anger and disappointment into energy, and worked to fix the problems they perceive led to this event?

Well, that might be the best outcome of all.

That's what I'm hoping for, here.


Authors Website: http://rant-farm.blogspot.com/

Authors Bio:

J. Edward Tremlett is a lot of things, currently. He's back in the states after a seven-year stint in Dubai, UAE. He's been published in such diverse places as The American Partisan, the International American, The End is Nigh, Pyramid Magazine and Worlds of Cthulhu.

He's proudly in the thrall of the evil people who make bad things happen all around the world. He gets paid to shill for them on sites just like this, and is well-paid to do so. He also stole your car, ate your lunch, and had an amazing time with your lover while you were at work. But don't tell anyone. The machine is listening, always.

Please be aware that numerous things that are said are not to meant be taken seriously. Please be aware that serious things that are said are meant to be taken numerous ways. Please be seriously numerous with those things that are meant but not said, rather than said but not meant. Please be. : )


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