(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Augusta Press.)
The past several days were a bit volatile with their share of highs and lows. However, I was able to smile at the column by Ms. Sylvia where she passed out her Turkey Awards. If you missed it, which I am sure very few of you did, please go check it out.
Speaking of lows
Last week our community lost an aspiring young politician with the tragic death of Tyrique Robinson. His death was unexpected to say the least, and in the eyes of many—preventable.
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Opinion
Many things have been said within the community in reference to this. However, the only thing as a community we need to echo is sharing kindness and forgiveness.
The great things about kindness and forgiveness are that they can start with just one person, and they’re actually free. They don’t require a lot of thought and can be accomplished with a simple hello and a few words.
The greatest benefit of being kind and forgiving is that they help the person who is extending the kindness and forgiveness the most. Don’t get me wrong, acts of random kindness and forgiveness can change the day of the person to whom they’re extended. But let’s be honest: seeing a smile on someone else’s face makes you feel good on the inside.
So let’s try to work on that a little harder, and I promise we can change the world. REMEMBER: you can’t be forgiven unless you are willing to FORGIVE. You probably hear that from your pastor on a regular basis.
Now, let’s get to local stuff
We have to address the monuments and all things Confederate. If we don’t, then we will seem as if it doesn’t matter. Wait. Does it really matter? I guess it depends on who you ask.
Over the last few months, I have seen a lot of people march in and out of the Commission Chambers. Some are in support of and some are against the monuments. When I say monuments, please understand that I mean everything from the statues, to name changes, to big markers.
The issue with this is that there are two extremes. There are people who say that all things Confederate must go and the names must be changed. Then, there are the people who show up—attired in Confederate hats and shirts—saying that everything Confederate needs to stay in place. Neither side is willing to come to a compromise on a solution that would satisfy the middle.
Let’s be honest. Most people don’t have a clue what the fuss is about or even know where to find most of those markers. They don’t know about the big Confederate monument on Broad Street and think the Fifth Street Bridge is just that—the Fifth Street Bridge. Removing a marker, altering a name, dismantling a monument, will not change a persons heart if there is hate in it.
Let me be clear. I don’t believe that everyone who walks around with a Confederate flag on their shirt is a racist. Nor do I believe that everyone who walks around with a cross around their neck is a Christian. What I do believe is a lot of conversation needs to be had to help with what is obviously a racial divide in this community.
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However, at this point, it does not matter how anyone feels. The people we elected to specific jobs—the Commissioners—have voted, and the bridge name will be changed.
We did vote for them to lead our community right? So, we must trust that they have this city’s best interest at heart. To be honest—and this is strictly my opinion—I don’t care what they do about Confederate stuff. Ain’t no monument ever impeded my progress.
Now, some of you radicals who are so-called Christians have tried. Something that puzzled me is the fact that some of you feel people should be able to express their opinions and agree that this country was built on that principle. However, only if that opinion matches up with yours. That’s a different conversation for another day.
I can say this. Let the monuments stay. I’m only saying that because they will soon all be down. Just make sure to change Sammie Sias Way as you change street names. Speaking of Sias, what’s the status of that case? Does anyone reading this column know? Maybe he’s waiting on a particular someone’s term to end so he doesn’t have to travel alone. . .
Hardie stated that last Tuesday’s meeting was his second to last meeting. Someone said Moses Todd is still clapping.
With that being said, I do have question in regard to how often you can speak in front of the commission. I thought there was an ordinance in place that limited the… Here I go getting ahead of myself again.
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One final thought
If you missed the Home Opener for the Augusta University Men’s Basketball Team, you missed a treat. A full house, not just from our community, but also community leaders. It was easily a shining moment for our Harvard-On-The-Hill as they spanked the school they were playing.
The crowing moment without a doubt was the naming of the floor in honor of Coach Clint Bryant to include his very own signature and being named Athletic Director Emeritus. Super classy event for a super classy, well-deserving person. Congratulations Coach Clint Bryant and enjoy your retirement.
Michael Meyers is a columnist for The Augusta Press. Reach him at Michael.meyers@theaugustapress.com
