“As a nation, we began by declaring that 'all men are
created equal.' We now practically read it 'all men are created equal, except
negroes.' When the Know-Nothings get control, it will read 'all men are created
equal, except negroes, and foreigners, and Catholics.' When it comes to this I
should prefer emigrating to some country where they make no pretense of loving
liberty – to Russia, for instance, where despotism can be taken pure, and
without the base alloy of hypocrisy.”
In even the most extreme situation we still choose our next action
even if only a thought or feeling. Even though a threat may lead to our sure death
it does not absolutely determine our next choice or the consequences of that
choice. When we experience fear the larger danger is to choose powerlessness.
Closely focusing on a bully is a mistake. Listening too closely to fearful and
impulsive people as they make impulsive choices is a mistake. Owning my
choice and my possible outcomes gives me at least a bit of autonomy... and
peace.