The necessity of the in-between

“Say something – right now. 
If you’re not for me, you’re against me.
Silence is compliance or ignorance.” 

The online world of “instant” posts and heated debates on controversial topics has little tolerance for indecision. 

It is true that indecisiveness can be used as a cover to never take a stand or risk anything at all.
It is true that not making a decision can be abused as a way to avoid taking responsibility.
It is true that silence in the face of evil gives power to the oppressors.
It is true that we can be on the fence for too long and forget to stand up for what’s important: human dignity and the right to life.
Peace and tolerance. Love and understanding. 

But being indecisive at times does not always mean that we don’t care.
It might mean that we want to dig deeper instead of staying on the shallow surface.
It might mean that we want to understand complex issues instead of blurting out platitudes.
It might mean that we dare listening to several perspectives instead of resorting to exclusive binary thinking. 

I want to make educated decisions and stay true to my word afterwards.
My yes should be a wholehearted “Hell Yeah!” and my no a well justified rejection.
My comments should mean something and make a difference to the people I talk to. I don’t need to add more fuel to the fires already burning on our social media channels, workplaces, public spaces and dinner tables. 

Instead, I want to open space for honest conversation, open-ended thinking, deep questions and genuine connection – especially with people who we might not necessarily agree with.
I want to build a longer table instead of erecting thicker walls.
This takes courage, heart and… time to be undecided – at least for a while. 

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Writing for Five Minute Friday today.