Where is John Donne when we really need him?

"We can cut people up with words, just using the power of our tongue or typewriter. But that in not the path I choose to take. That is not the path that Charlie took. He chose to convince, not conquer."

For those who might not remember English Lit from the 11th grade (when they still taught the real English Lit), some of the course language and heartless discourse coming out of the left reminds me of one of my favorite poems. Even though it is not long, I will only repeat a small part of it. They were poignant words in the 1600's and should ring true as such today. 

No Man is an Island

by John Donne

...Each man's death diminishes me,

For I am involved in mankind.

Therefore, send not to know

For whom the bells toll

It tolls for thee

I am reminded of this poem from time to time for very different reasons. Today, when I have read some of the most unbelievable and vile garbage, aimed at poor Charlie Kirk, by blood started to boil. Charlie Kirk was not a hater. Not ever. He was a truth teller, as he saw the truth. Did he have the right to do so? In America - yes. Did anyone have the right to shoot him dead while speaking? Not in this country. Not in the world that John Donne wanted to live in.

The vitriol in some of our language today is beyond the pale. It is beyond the norm. Even if Charlie had been a total jerk (which he was anything but that), saying such cruel and inhuman things where his friends and family could see them, makes me check myself, not once, but twice. Why? If I were to be of the world instead of in the world, that would bring out my most carnal and basic instincts. Not violence, but I know words. I know what James 3 in the Bible teaches us. We can cut people up with words, just using the power of our tongue or typewriter. But that is not the path I choose to take. That is not the path that Charlie took. He chose to convince, not conquer.

How would John Donne react if he saw the world today? With the hate and malice? He might have wondered why things have not changed much since he wrote this now famous poem in the 1600's. I do think however, that Mr. Donne would not be pleased with what he hears today. My take? No matter what you might feel in a damaged heart of compassion, check your words at the door. Why? Because no man is an island.