Like the youth of the “Holy Struggle,” I, to put it mildly, do not trust Pashinyan’s government. Not only do I distrust him, but I also believe that every additional day he remains in the prime minister’s chair brings us closer to the de facto abolition of the Armenian state. The appearance of any other person in that position—regardless of party affiliation—might offer some hope, though of course, it offers no guarantees. The situation we find ourselves in is the result not only of a humiliating defeat but also of serious social degradation. Therefore, to be honest, even a potential change of power does not inspire much optimism in me.
I also dislike the tone used by Civil Contract MP Vahagn Aleksanyan when promoting his party’s agenda. In fairness, however, this is the typical approach of all party “agitprop” leaders.
But when an elderly woman approaches a demonstration—one that is, I should stress, promoting slogans I fully support—and expresses dissatisfaction or even hurls insults and waves a cane, the only humane response should be: “Ma’m, don’t worry—everything will be fine.” She should not be drawn into political arguments that only inflame her further. Especially if the young protesters are not strangers to Christian values such as forgiveness, patience, and tolerance.
The worst thing happening today—and what, in fact, contributes to our social degradation—is that political disagreements, which are natural in any society, are turning into personal hostility.
Read also
You may say, “But don’t forget that they…” For example: “Don’t forget that their police officers dragged away mothers who had lost their sons in the war?” That is indeed a serious issue. But here’s the deeper question: Is my behavior guided by the behavior of others—or by my own internal, unshakable principles that are not dictated by any external factors?
Each of us must answer this question. The first path—reacting based on others’ actions—is easy, but as millennia of human experience show, it leads to baseness and cruelty. The second path is difficult and, for many, unacceptable. But my goal is not to be acceptable to anyone.
Aram ABRAHAMYAN
