Wake Up Strong
Last night I found myself on the couch under a blanket, reeling from the shock of this election. I felt paralyzed to do anything save for wallow in fear and disbelief. But amid my despair I had a mantra: tomorrow, I wake up strong.
I must wake up strong because there is work to be done. A large percentage of quality people forgave the hateful speech, extreme narcissism and disregard for ethics exhibited by a wholly inexperienced candidate and elected him President of the United States. As a champion of Democracy I accept AND respect that people voted for change, voted in line with their Party, voted for their upward mobility, voted out of concern for the Supreme Court. But the fact that so many voters tolerated, repeated and supported the inflammatory rhetoric of his campaign … well, there is work to be done.
So today I woke up strong, and, from a place of strength, I made a to-do list:
1. Stand Up for Equality
My political passion is fueled by a desire to stand with those who are discriminated against and oppressed. Today, I especially want to add my voice and actions to the LGBTQ community who have had to fight tirelessly against bigotry, violence and ignorance to gain civil rights and protections that the rest of us enjoy as a given. The incoming administration openly intends to infringe upon these rights.
My feminism has also been fired up by this campaign. We need to elevate our standards of equality and reject these tired, inexcusable double standards of behavior!
So I ask myself, what can I do? I’m researching, but step one: Join the ACLU. Step two: Write more about this. Part of my research today included reading both the Democratic and Republic Party Platforms on these issues. There is a lot to say.
2. Remember: Art is Activism
Throughout our history, art in all its forms has given voice to the voiceless. It enlightens us and challenges us. It holds a mirror up to our humanity, for better or for worse. It is a respite and a resource. It INSPIRES us. It leaves a legacy. Furthermore, the artistic community is the most inclusive community I know; differences are celebrated, all are welcome. I renew my commitment to The Arts as a patron and a creator.
3. Do My Job
As it happens, I am in the business of wellness and individual expression. I need to take better ownership of my work because I firmly believe that if we take care of ourselves, we take care of each other. Peace begins within. Self-knowledge leads to greater wisdom and wisdom leads us to walk our paths with greater compassion. Expressing our individual light illuminates everything around us. I need to do my job and do it well.
4. Look, Learn, Love
Seek the best in others.
Become knowledgeable about the things that matter to me.
Spread the mighty power of love.
3 Responses to “Wake Up Strong”
Beautifully written. Thank you for these wise & heartfelt words. ♡
Yes, beautiful! And wise! And inspiring! Thank you!
Thank you Luisa; I needed this!
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