dismay

dismay

Looking at the world around me, I see a global pandemic that is disproportionately affecting the disadvantaged.

I see billionaires getting richer.

I see cruelty in how we treat those seeking refuge.

I see unfairness in who is given a chance to develop their potential.

I see violence where there should be protection.

I see fires and floods.

And I see no rational reason to think things will be better soon.

I feel dismay.

Dismay

The dictionary meaning is: feelings of consternation and distress, generally caused by something unexpected. The word’s etymology is odd. “Dis” comes from the Latin to express negation, while “may” is a Germanic verb used to express possibility and permission – or hope in the optative mood. 

It may rain.

May I ask a question.

May the road rise to meet you.

It seems that “dismay” is the negation of possibility, permission, hope.

Oh.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *