The past few days have felt like a cleansing of sorts. It may seem like I have been dumping a lot of thoughts and opinions, which I have, but they aren’t new to me. I’ve felt and thought this way for a long time. I just haven’t been as vocal, at least not with using my own words. It’s a lot different when it comes from your heart rather than when it comes from a meme.
I was scared. Scared I’d lose friends or family – my extended family and a good percentage of my peers are conservative. Scared that sharing my opinion would turn off those I’d just met. Scared my opinion would cost me my job or income.
After Tuesday, none of that mattered. Those fears were trivial compared to what others were facing – being beaten, threatened am urdered for their beliefs, skin color, gender identification or sexual orientation.
I was just scared of being judged. It sounds absurd now. Especially after I let my liberal flag fly and didn’t receive any notable backlash, which either means they don’t care or they tuned me out months ago.
What’s next is the action. My words mean nothing if I don’t stand up and act on them. It’s time to make the time to volunteer and show up. I’ve been researching where and how I can be most beneficial and I’ve honed in on what area I am most passionate about.
Human rights has always been a passion of mine and as HRC said, women’s rights are human rights. So, I’m going to look to get involved with Planned Parenthood. Additionally, I’d like to find either a pro immigration oran LGBTQ+ organization to engage with. Finally, I am looking into either running for office or getting involved with the DNC to help others run.
So, if you have any referrals or connections in the Nashville area that can help me put this into play, please let me know!
Words without action are empty.