During the last couple of weeks, I’ve engaged more than ever with all sorts of people from different political and religious backgrounds in Lebanon. Most of the topics I usually share on the blog are fun or socio-economical and I’ve always try to stay away from politics, but one cannot ignore a revolution taking place in his country. If anything, the best thing to do is embrace it, support it and more importantly try to lead constructive talks with those with or against the protests.
Unlike the 2005 revolution, this revolution wasn’t tainted by any political background, despite all attempts from some parties to ride the wave, and the beauty of the protests is that they were widespread across Lebanon and the demands are ones that ALL people want, or let’s say the majority of Lebanese want.
This being said, there’s still a fear factor that’s not easily broken, one that’s instilled by ruling political parties and that manifests itself in rejecting the other at all cost without even attempting to talk or discuss some matters. This revolution helped break it even if partially, and I believe all of us should help promote dialogue among each others to help make this country a better place.
This might not help form the government we want, or revive the economy and bring back investments, but it will reinforce the bond between Lebanese people and weaken the grip of traditional political parties. We all want better roads, a cheaper medical care, better schools, a faster internet, a cleaner environment and we should ALL agree that if a person in charge is not doing his job, he shouldn’t be in that position, no matter what party he belongs to.
This should be the starting point to any discussion. Hold your leaders, representatives, Zaiims, warlords accountable, put pressure on them because whatever happens is not affecting them, it’s affecting us people and turning us against each other.
The people is the ONLY victim of years of corruption, theft, incompetence and negligence. Talk to each other, don’t curse at each other, try to align on some common points, be friendly and open to others’ ideas and try to be as constructive as possible. It might be your neighbor, your friend, your colleague or just a FB acquaintance. Don’t rush to block them or curse them, talk to them and see where this gets.