A Problem

"We have a problem.”
“A problem?”
“Yes.  We all need to come together and fix it.”
“Where is the problem?”
“It’s everywhere.  All encompassing.  It’s been there for years and years.”
“I don’t see it.”
“That’s because you are likely part of the problem.”
“I don’t want to be part of the problem.  I just don’t see the problem.”
“We don’t want you to be part of the problem.  We want you to help us fix the problem.  So we will teach you how to see the problem.”
“I can learn how to see the problem?”
“Not only can you learn…it’s important that you see the problem.”
“How do I begin to see the problem?”
“First you will need to accept that you are part of the problem.”
“And then I can stop being part of the problem?”
“Probably not.  We don’t think that is possible other than at the margin.  But you can alert others to the problem.  And that will please us.”
“Do they see it?”
“Most will be blind to it.  That is why we need people like you to join us and tell people of the problem..”
“What will I say?”
“First, through your words and actions you must remind everyone at all times that you can see the problem and that it is against everything that you stand for.”
“Okay.”
“Then let them know that they are making things worse for us by being part of the problem.”
“And if they still cannot see the problem?”
“Then you should shame them for their ignorance.”
“And if they should push back?”
“They should be shunned.”
“But what if they are right?”
“That is the type of question that perpetuates the problem.  Don’t go there.”
“Are you part of the problem?”
“Of course not.  We are here to fix the problem.”
“So not everyone is part of the problem?”
“Correct.  Our group is fixing the problem, we are not part of the problem.”
“And you all can see the problem?”
“Absolutely.  We have felt the effects of this problem for years and years.”
“I’m sorry.  That must be terrible.”
“Don’t patronize.  It is impossible for you to empathize with us because of your proximity to the problem itself.”
“The one I cannot see?”
“Yes.”