Action, interaction and reaction

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Recently, we heard the verdict of the Motion Picture Academy Awards Board on the slap that was seen and heard around the world in real time by about 80 million people.

Will Smith’s egregious attack on Chris Rock at that March 27 gala has sent ripple effects around the world. This has left us to wonder how one who has been on the stage of life for so long and bedecked with so many accolades, in a moment of anger, could allow himself to be relegated to such a dark corner in his history. This has left many in bewilderment.

How could such a crowning moment in his professional life become the darkest hour in his biography?

I contemplated this event because it had an impact on me. And as I ponder anew what people endure, I find the following lessons from the scenario instructive: -

THE LESSONS

1. It is not difficult for one to fall from grace to disgrace. In a split second of rage, thoughtless actions can really muddy the water. Words do have effect, for ill or for good. Words can hurt, they can heal, they can harm. They are like sped arrows – once launched, they cannot be recalled.

I have learned that lesson well and empathise with Will Smith for his creation of ill will. In the midst of that drama he has left trauma and emotional pain.

Words richly spoken are still like apples of gold in pictures of silver. It’s amazing how words can trigger emotional pain and trauma, especially when spoken from the big screen. They bring out the best and worst in people, stir up childhood pain, present struggles, unresolved issues, which if remain unresolved can rear their ugly heads in situations we never planned for.

The need for centring and therapy cries out to the affected to get help. There is the need to address trauma and unresolved issues before they paralyse us. The way to deal with our anger is not to resort to the ugly muzzle of the gun or other missiles which are so prevalent in our society.

2. Another lesson that needs to be learned is that violence begets violence. Many have commended Will for standing by, and standing up for, his wife in the face of her derision, but taking matters in his own hands on the public stage has proven to be dangerous. It is a wrong message to send, especially to those who idolise him. Many are in jail today, or even in the cemetery, because of the actions and interactions, as well as their reaction.

I think a takeaway is that momentary rash decisions and actions have ripple effects, and long and lasting consequences. Will slapped the ‘Rock’, and now he is slapped with a hefty penalty.

3. Never be afraid to apologise when you do wrong, is a lesson parents teach their children. Adults should not be afraid to puncture their ego and fess up to their wrong, and apologise in sincerity.

I’m glad that ultimately Will got to the cooling-off time, where he was man enough to apologise and repent with bitter tears. I trust we will all accept his contrition and pray for him through whatever issues he is waging war against. Hopefully, Will can use these wilderness years to build himself a pulpit and become an advocate against rage, anger and disrespect.

Every action has an equal reaction, science says, so be careful how you act.

“Act like people with good sense and not like fools,” the apostle Paul encouraged, and I endorse.

DR BURNETT ROBINSON