Be the Light in the Darkness
So, in an ideal universe I would be writing on a number of other subjects but this is where I landed. It is sort of like Joy, but more about how you share what you have with others and give them strength. I decided to call this: “Being the Light in the Darkness.”
So, I don’t think I need to spend much time on WHY things are Dark. We have a fascist President unilaterally deporting people to foreign countries (including those serving in the military), and making strikes on foreign countries without even discussions with Congress. They are also trying to stop vaccinations while measles is growing and 1,000 other things. Times are rough and our leaders are dangerous morons attacking a world order that cannot easily be fixed.
Still, we stand and we rise. But a LOT of folks are hurting a lot. This is understandable. Sometimes it is hard on us too but, hopefully, we are still standing and can share a bit of the Light that keeps us going. So, what can we do:
Hug people. This seems silly and very Hippy but I have had a number of people tell me that my hugs have power and make them feel better. A very simple and easy thing to do. BUT, make sure it is something they actually want and need. Consent is key.
Advise various parents on how to deal with their trans and queer kids. There is a REALLY simple pair of truths here: Love your children AND Adults Protect children. However, as simple as that sounds, it seems TOO simple and a lot of trans parents and guardians find it hard to believe. Over the last few years, a number of parents (mostly fathers or grandfathers) have reached out to me and I have said: “Love them”. Honestly, this is true across the board but trans kids are under attack right now. If you love someone, you find a way to meet them where they are and not to tell them who they are.
Visit other communities and be supportive. I have mentioned that I go to a local mosque from time to time and there is going to be a lot more Islamophobic crap now and a LOT more to come. Also spend time with other religious communities that are not yours. I also keep in contact with Pagan and Heathen communities but your situation may be different. A LOT of religious minorities are under attack.
Listen. A lot of people are hurting and need someone to share their troubles with. Like point #1, this seems deceptively simple but is actually hard and important.
Share music and play music, if you can. Sometimes just sharing a song can boost someone’s spirits. Don’t forget to sing and dance a little too. For me, Bloodywood and ukulele seem to matter and help a lot. Find your own and then share.
Watch for others who need a hand up. I promise you they are all around. Don’t be so busy that you are not able to see someone who is faltering. Maybe the next time, it will be you who needs Light shared back.
A thousand small kindnesses are how we share Light and keep each other going.
15 Rounds
Time in someone’s corner matters too.