Turning a Blind Eye

Lord Nelson is credited for the phrase turning a blind eye. He was blinded in one eye early in his Royal Navy career. In 1801, during the Battle of Copenhagen Admiral Sir Hyde Parker, of the British forces, ordered Nelson's forces to withdraw. Naval orders were transmitted via a system of signal flags at that time. When this order was drawn to the more aggressive Nelson's attention, he lifted his telescope up to his blind eye, said he saw no signal, and ordered his forces to continue to press home the attack.

The first recorded use of the phrase, as we know today is credited to Martha Wilmot: Impressions of Vienna, 1819-1829. These were reprinted in 1935 and this quotation is recorded as being sent by Ms. Wilmot in 1823:

Life is a balancing act. Some issues are not clearly defined as black or white, right or wrong, good or bad, satisfactory or mediocre. The list goes on. Add to this power struggle, control issues, emotional entanglements, finances, trust and respect or lack of it. You can see fireworks starting. Does anyone care for the truth? But ask yourself, whose truth? Will you take a stand or turn a blind eye? "turn a blind eye and a deaf ear every now and then, and we get on marvelously well." At home or in the workplace, there are instances where it is easier not to see or hear unpleasant issues with the hope that these issues will just blow away. This is a judgment call. What are the implications of turning a blind eye? Is this a recurring scene that goes on like a broken record?

In a family, is it easier to turn a blind eye than to say something and risk getting crucified for expressing your thoughts or feelings? Or be accused of being a troublemaker, or being insensitive? Really, where do you draw the line?

You prefer not to make a comment,yet you feel free to discuss the issue with someone who probably does not care. This stance can not be healthy for any relationship.

There are those who do not want to get involved in any way. They find it easier not to get involved, walk away like nothing happened. This lack of interaction too often risks a communication breakdown. Why not express your opinion or feelings?

This is a real paradox- today's society is more confident in their knowledge; pride themselves with being well-informed; impressed with their ability to multitask and proficiency with technology. But is it easier to turn a blind eye than choosing to be interactive?

This article does not intend to touch upon global issues. It is too intense and too broad to discuss. But we are all aware of how often the capable citizens of the world turn deaf ears to the less fortunate. The few dedicated persons or agencies do a noble and commendable effort to reach out. There are more who choose to turn a blind eye because it does not concern them.

Perhaps, we are all guilty of turning a blind eye now and then.

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