As I reflect on all the chaos happening, I feel overwhelmed. When I realize that millions of people don’t see what I see, don’t feel what I feel—whether it’s due process being ignored, people being snatched off the street while going to court, work, or school, or when safety net programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and USAID are gutted or cut, or when federal watchdog departments are eliminated, or when Congress is bypassed and the country is governed by executive orders (many unlawful), or when the Supreme Court allows profiling…I just want to numb myself with Netflix, food,…and escape.
This is why it is important to stay connected with others who may not agree with everything you do but also recognize when something is wrong. We are not heading in the right direction, and democracy is under threat. I have, at least for now, come to see protests (which I unconsciously refer to as retreats) as a community space—an opportunity to come together, be seen, heard, and even celebrated. It is a place of courage and compassion that reminds us we are not alone.
Additionally, as we Stand Up, Show Up, and Speak Up, we are showing the world that something is wrong, and it’s time to pay attention. Protests are currently a salve for our souls.
On a personal note, my faith, church, and small group all help me stay grounded in truth and the importance of love and justice. The words of Jesus in the Beatitudes both energize and challenge me, especially regarding hungering and thirsting for justice and being Salt & Light. The gift of being in a community of people who mostly see as I do is incredibly valuable, as is my belief in a God whose essential and eternal nature is love. In the end—LOVE WINS!
These are difficult times, so please do not try to undertake this journey alone. Instead, seek out people, churches, and non-profits that you can join, which offer community and are making a positive impact in our community, state, and country. I hope to see you at our next local protests (Oceanside on 9/27; Carlsbad on 10/18—see events page).
Do take care of you.