19 Comments
User's avatar
Ira's avatar

Very nice, KC.

Despite how terrible things seem, on too many occasions,

I frequently am struck by signs that there ARE a lot of decent and even wonderful people most everywhere. Thanks for sharing your story of how someone personally introduced more light and obliterated some darkness. Much appreciated.

K.C. Knouse's avatar

It certainly made an impression on me, Ira. And it put an end to that kind of hateful grafffi. I appreciate your support.

Sharron Bassano's avatar

One person at a time, one small gesture, initiates change in the world. Thanks for reminding us of this important lesson, cousin.

K.C. Knouse's avatar

That's what it is, Cousin. What a joy to see it happen. Thanks for your thoughtful comments. I look forward to receiving them.

Christopher Sworen's avatar

Unfortunately, it seems like it's currently in vogue to call the people of the religion you mentioned names and otherwise persecute them. I like how you compared the graffiti to the trash lying near the ditch. I agree, love is the answer. As the Good Book says, "Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs."

Thank you for sharing this inspiring account, K.C.!

K.C. Knouse's avatar

Thank you for the thoughtful comment. Christopher. That is the way I was taught growing up. I appreciate your support and encouragement.

Parker McCoy's avatar

Love is definitely always the answer. It truly keeps the light shining in the world. And we need every beacon of light we can get. Someone wrote something obscene in chalk on a church near my mom's house recently. On a CHURCH. Disgusting. It's gone now, but man. What lowlifes. Still, love will win in the end. And honestly, I don't like any graffiti. Nothing gives anybody the right to do that. It's not theirs to do as they please. So disrespectful. Great post, KC.

K.C. Knouse's avatar

I couldn’t agree with you more, Parker. Thank you for your thoughtful comment. What impressed me at the time was that someone took the time to erase the hateful message and then replace it with a positive one. Usually, it’s just removing the hateful message.

James Ron's avatar

It's human nature, not humane nature. Love and peace has a short life span. There are always those who don't have love and peace within them and can't abide by those who do. A real thought provoker, Ken. Thanks.

K.C. Knouse's avatar

Thank you for the kind words, Ron. It seems it is often easier to hate than to love. People seem to get more attention with hateful language, as well. I appreciate your support, my friend.

Jesse Gleim Writer's avatar

Love is indeed the answer, K.C. I'm glad such vile filth was covered up with something positive. Another wonderful piece.

K.C. Knouse's avatar

Thank you for your comment and encouragement, Jesse. I considered it a miracle at the time.

MamaCarole's avatar

Beautiful snippet of time which brought many happy memories of love triumphant over all.

Plus it inspired me to start a post about my ditch. 💙

K.C. Knouse's avatar

Thank you for reading and commenting, MamaCarole. I'm pleased my story inspired you to tell one of your own. I'll be on the lookout for it.

Sharon Hudson's avatar

What a wonderful testament to the resilience of a loving community, K.C.! Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "...Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." I love that you and your dog enjoy the beauty of nature, in your daily walks. Nature will always find a way, just as love does.

K.C. Knouse's avatar

Martin Luther King practiced what he preached. All I have to do is witness how quickly weeds reappear after a rain shower to realize that nature always finds a way. The ditch is a good example, too. Nobody planted those trees and other vegetation, and no one tends to them, yet they thrive. Thank you for your comments, Sharon. It's why I write.

Mike's avatar

Dear K.C., thank you for sharing this. I am extremely glad that people in your community chose love over hate. You've got some great neighbors, and I hope their message touches the hearts of those who left the swastika and helps them turn away from whatever evil they are seeking. Peace, Mike

Steve Elliott's avatar

What a wonderful piece. As every wise man knows: love is indeed the answer. Shanti!

Colleen Bent's avatar

oh I liked this :)