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My dear friends, today is a day of reflection for me. I feel the turmoil and the fragility of our democracy intensely. And I wonder: what can I do? Do I just turn away and close my eyes? Do I allow the sense of powerlessness that washes over me to win?
I don't know the answers. But I have decided that there are things I can do right now: I will stand up for love and inclusion. I will hug my children and kiss my spouse. I will love my neighbor. I will promote understanding and acceptance by listening deeply when I encounter viewpoints that are different from my own. I will be vigilant that my words are aligned with my sense of integrity. I will not use what I believe to manipulate others. I will personify the peace that I seek in this world. And when I fail to do so, I will forgive myself and try again.
I will fight hatred and injustice by not fanning its flames. I will reach out to people in need. I will seek to walk a mile in others' shoes before I judge. I will stand like a rock when winds of anger blow past me. I will not buy into the hype that seeks to only separate and outrage. I will deepen my commitment to learning our history and understand that freedom is not possible for all until truth and reconciliation (rather than repression and ignorance) are heard, processed, and honored.
I will do research when met with cheap talking points aimed to infuriate and inflame. I will embody love each time I am met with anger and fear. I will. And I will renew my commitment each time I fail and keep going. I will walk boldly and with determination. I will remind myself that growth is painful. I will never give up on love.
– Marie Trout, 8/12/17
Marie became a U.S. citizen this month. She says:
Feel free to copy, or modify (the above) however meaningful to you and state it to yourself, to your friends, and set your intention too for each step forward. We are the future. We have the power.
Question of the week: What have you done for love or justice that was out of your comfort zone?
Closing reflection:
There is no way to peace; peace is the way.
-A. J. Muste
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Wednesday, September 20, 2017
I Will Never Give Up on Love
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