Lessons from Minneapolis

If you happened to see the January 16, 2026, New York Times Article and Video “Video Analysis of ICE Shooting Sheds Light on Contested Moments”, you now know what truly happened.

To state the obvious, as Americans, we have the first amendment right to freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and the right to petition. But there are so many life lessons demonstrated in the tragedy, article and video that we can apply to our everyday life.

1. Do not rush to judgement.

2. Sometimes we must break things down into milliseconds to find the truth.

3. Take a breath, pause before you act.

4. Look at things from all angles and points of view.

5. Don’t believe everything you hear or read even if it’s from someone in a position of power.

6. Keep questioning and learning until you have the correct answer or solution.

7. Take your time when making important decisions.

8. And most importantly, approach challenges and obstacles with love and compassion, not anger and hate.  

Our lives depend on it.  

Lisa Araujo

Winder