I wish there was no "them."

The idea of “us and them” is a powerful illusion—one that divides, isolates, and blinds us to the truth about others and ourselves. It quashes love, hardens hearts, and keeps us from loving our neighbor as ourselves. These divisions go beyond faith; they seep into our views on race, economic status, and—one of the most divisive forces today—politics. We are told to fear those who look, live, or believe differently. We are conditioned to blame, to assume the worst, to find reasons to separate rather than unite. Why? Because division is a tool used by those who seek power over us all.

When Heartsong Church in Memphis learned a Muslim complex would be built next door, fear and uncertainty crept in. But instead of retreating, they turned to the teachings of Jesus. Love, not division, was the answer. What began as a challenge became a blessing. Friendships formed, hearts opened, and both communities were made richer.

The world tells us to build walls between “us” and “them.” But when we truly listen, when we look beyond the surface, we find that there is no “them”—only us. Heartsong proved that differences are a bridge, not a barrier, and love is always greater than fear. The same is true for every division in our world. It is up to us to reject the forces that try to keep us apart and choose something greater: understanding, kindness, and love.