The murder-suicides involving two Filipino couples in the past month has stirred up some conflict online. It's sad enough to see two families thrown into tragedy's way, but for outsiders to do any kind of labeling is preposterous -- as if abuse and homicide have nothing to do with other ethnicities.

There is only ONE race, the human race. We have nations and nationalities, ethnic groups and ethnicities, but only one race.

The concept of race was perpetuated by prejudiced anthropologists a century ago who were too lazy to recognize the incredible diversity of the human race. It was easier for them to label people into three groups: Caucasoid, Negroid and Mongoloid.

That labeling is outdated and ignorant, always was and always will be.

The issue of dysfunctional relationships and spousal abuse goes back to the beginning of time. Doesn't matter what country or ethnic group(s) you come from. It also has nothing to do with gender. There are horribly abusive relationships among same-sex partners, too.

It's all about respect. The bottom line, through all of the horrific crimes and the trail of tears left behind for survivors, is respect.

With respect, the need to control ceases. With respect, acceptance overcomes disappointment. With respect, we can agree to disagree, and we can move on.

I saw abuse when I was a toddler. The imprint never completely leaves when you see two people you love hate each other, hit each other, or attempt to. Domestic abuse often repeats itself, but I thank God that I didn't end up like anyone who abused his wife or girlfriend.

Without respect, the value of a life diminishes, and we have what we have. I can't help but wonder why some of us opt for the worst-case scenario. When sh*t hits the fan, the best thing any of us can do is walk. Go walk around the block, or for a mile, 10 miles. Whatever it takes to cool off.

That applies to all of us, regardless of "race."

Previous Article: Dude, his children were ordered to surf
Next Article: Post-season baseball, softball ... and football?