Not Guilty by Association

Having ties to a criminal, murderer, or rapist does not make a person these things by association. Rejecting hate does not mean rejecting a person who hates. Rejecting murder does not mean rejecting the murder. Rejecting rape does not mean rejecting the rapist. We can abhor these acts, but does it require one to disown and disentangle oneself from those who may have committed these acts? By doing so, does it not just feed the hate? To suddenly dislodge oneself from close association with someone because of their actions, does not bring a person closer to understanding, or love. Instead, it promotes the demonization of individuals. It turns individuals into symbols and idols, to either be worshiped or cursed. To cast another aside is to elevate oneself above all others. To bring into the fold is to show compassion, and understanding. To show compassion and understanding, is to give an invitation to unconditional love.

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