My daily “life things” are spent on a roller coaster of emotions. Not the modern metal behemoths, but the old creaky wooden models of my youth that forced a quick prayer of “ please let me live to my next birthday” as the ancient cars rattled around terrifying turns and threatening embankments.
I can find delight in a good cup of coffee yet simultaneously experience impending doom as I read about the escalating conflict in the Middle East. I look forward to a day spent with an old friend, but still ruminate about our grandchildren’s future. I spend a delightful day with family, yet other families are being torn apart by ice raids. Hundreds of joyous photos of the “No Kings” protests are all over my feed, nevertheless an unhinged post from our unhinged president sends me into a downward spiral of gloom.
On Saturday I attended our local protest. Four corners of a busy intersection were bursting with signs and music and energy. I came alone, which was way out of my comfort zone, but I knew I had to be there. So I used gold marker to write an Elie Wiesel quote, put on comfy clothes and shoes, and drove to the location. As I got out of my car I could hear the buzz from the parking lot. It was palpable. Most cars honked and waved at the throngs of protesters, but I also saw a few middle fingers. One or two cars revved their engines, attempting to appear tough, and a lone car with a 2024 maga campaign flag kept driving by to loud, boisterous boos.
After I left, I felt proud to be a part of such a gathering, and when the photos began to appear on social media it was apparent I was just a small cog on a magnificent day. Yet…my hope became bogged down as evening approached. The murder of a Minnesota state representative and her husband reminded me this fight against facism will be a long one. It won’t end with one glorious day. We the people need persistence and determination. We. The. People.
So, my emotional roller coaster continues:
I volunteer at a disaster relief event for the victims of May’s massive tornado. I am gifted with many “Bless you’s” and one big hug, but also acknowledge the major struggles these individuals are dealing with on a moment to moment basis.
I email my republican representative and senators, knowing my logic and protests will be ignored. I still write.
I briefly look at news and social media in the morning, and then log off for the remainder of the day. Instead, I read, write, walk, go to the library, support our local bookstores and other small businesses, cook and bake good food, listen to amazing music, take myself on adventures. Live with love. Walk in grace.
I am looking into other volunteer opportunities. Action instead of worry.
I will continue my boycott of businesses that support this administration. Boycotts work.
I will attend the next protest. Peaceful protests work.
I will be a good neighbor, a steward, an agent of kindness. I will channel humility, understanding, and empathy. All work.
I haven’t listened to many political podcasts since November because…my heart, but I did listen to the June 15th episode. Jon Favreau interviewed Erica Chenoweth, a Harvard political scientist who has studied global activism. Her finding on how 3.5 of the population can bring about social and political change is fascinating. If you are interested in how we CAN make a change, give it a listen. Here is the link:
The Stones have been in my head lately. We can be our own saviors in this mess. Our own emotional rescue.
Stay in action with love. It’s what you are showing us all! So inspiring! Thank you!❤️
I hear you, sister. I didn't know in advance that you were attending the protest, but my heart did. I prayed for you all day, your safety, that your message would be heard.