Mom had a go-to expression for moments when it looked like I was about to go along with the crowd or when I wasn’t thinking for myself. Her go-to phrase was, “Ring in the nose!” The implication was that I was being led around like a compliant bull rather than making my own decisions.
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately.
Some of my fellow Americans seem willing to accept behavior that mom would have questioned, saying, “Ring in the nose!” Some follow ethically-challenged politicians. Some support those who seem to delight in retribution and cruelty. Others follow those who promise greatness but act in ways that practically guarantee the opposite.
In some cases, evidence and reflection are absent. Some people who have no idea what DEI or CRT mean, much less how these have been implemented, are nevertheless against these things because their idols are. People who do not understand even the basics of how science works follow those who loudly and repeatedly share uninformed opinions. Mom’s retort: “Ring in the nose!”
In some cases, laziness prevails. Thinking for oneself requires effort. Following someone else is easy – comforting. Mom urged me to make the effort, especially when others were trying to control me or lead me to abandon my principles. It seems to me we are expected to follow “leaders” who act in ways diametrically opposed to the values I was taught as a youngster.
I can’t. I won’t. If I were to be led around by a ring in the nose I would risk being disinherited. Mom also used to say, “If you did that, I’d disown you!” Even though Mom and Dad are no longer with us, I still want to be worthy of inheriting their blessing. I hear my Mother’s words when I see people following a man who thinks he is a king.
Many of our would-be-king’s followers are quick to accuse others of being “sheeple” whenever they disagree with their leader. However, I’m sure “ring in the nose” applies to people on both sides of the political spectrum. All I ask is that we think for ourselves.
A final note on the “Man Who Would Be King.” Rudyard Kipling wrote this memorable story about two men who attempted to become kings of Kafiristan. They promised people greatness. They exploited their hospitality. They pretended to be Gods. In short, they lied. When their deception became evident, their former followers beheaded one and crucified the other. The people cried out, “Not a God nor a Devil but only a man!”
Those who connive to gain control of others may find that taking advantage of good faith can have brutal consequences. Mom taught me not to give anyone such control. Maybe all of us should be more careful who we follow.
MurrayWorks 