The last week has been a time for deep reflection, not only on our own beliefs but also on how we react to the events unfolding around us. It’s disheartening to see individuals from both sides of the political spectrum trying to frame the tragic cold-blooded murder of Charlie Kirk as merely a political issue. When we remove politics from this tragedy, we are left with a heartbreaking reality: a man was speaking at a place of higher learning when another young man made an irreversible decision that ended both their lives.
In examining this situation without the lens of party affiliation, we can see that there is no justification for such violence. This tragedy calls for us to confront a deeper issue within our society—our tendency to exist within echo chambers. We often find ourselves surrounded by viewpoints that mirror our own, reinforced by friends and social media. When faced with ideas outside these comfortable spaces, it can feel like an attack on our moral character and worldview.
The longer we remain in these echo chambers, the more extreme our perspectives can become. Consider how two different groups can read the same text—like the Quran—and derive entirely different meanings and moral outlooks from it. This divergence illustrates how separation leads to radical interpretations; one group may embrace peace while another may resort to violence.
As I conclude my thoughts today, I urge all of us to step outside our echo chambers and genuinely engage with differing viewpoints. Let’s strive to understand others as if we were in their shoes—what drives their beliefs? Why do they hold such strong convictions? Working through these complex issues is not innate; it requires effort and humility. It’s essential for us to recognize that no one holds all the answers, and true understanding comes from listening as much as it does from speaking.

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