At one point in her story, I really resonated with her. She wrote,
" I've felt more and more strongly that there is an activist inside me, waiting for me to be brave enough to let her out."
I have felt more and more lately that there is something inside of me desiring to be a part of standing up for what's right and what's good. There is so much pain and suffering in this world and I want to be able to help in some way. But the only thing I end up doing is saying a prayer. It has nothing to do with a lack of compassion. In fact, I think sometimes I have too much. Most of the time I can't even finish an article in Newsweek or the paper because my tears bleed the newspaper print. I have even, at times, read the headline and decided not to read it knowing of the overwhelming emotion it will stir up in me and sometimes I am already too emotionally drained to go there.
But I know it's there and the injustice in the story still calls out to me.
But what can I do? I am a mother of 2 soon to be 3. I am a stay at home mom with little time who knows nothing of being an activist. I wouldn't even know where to start and what cause to claim. There are so many and my heart hurts for them all. I try to help within our community, there are so many needs there, but my time soon becomes "mine" and I don't always do what I know I should.
I am aware of my excuses and of my lack of self motivation, it's not something I am proud of. I am continually jealous of teenagers that stand up and organize a cause to support some kind of injustice. They just amaze me. If they can start something, why can't I just join?
It's a question I ask myself all the time....and I feel like I am getting closer to being able to let the doer part of me out.
I hope it's soon. I know God calls me to something more......I just hope His voice isn't getting hoarse.
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4 comments:
Jen, I can sense the burden on your heart. I think that God has given you the gift of empathy. Look to Him to see how He would have you use that gift.
In my eyes, you're already an activist. You speak out about the injustices that you see happening in the situations around you. Usually, the resources that we need to get something started is right in our hands. For instance you are a very emotive blogger. I have read you speak out against the injustices happening at your church (injustices which are no less important in my opinion).
The best activism is the type that emerges from genuine grass roots efforts.
I've read a few of the blog comments left by your readers..., I see the way that your insights touch and resonate with them. I believe that you can command that same voice, and in turn plant seeds of action through the power of blogging.
You are an activist! I know that you are, because I've read your editorials so many times before.
Dionne-
thank you so much for your thoughtful words that touched my soul. you made me feel like I could do something. I had never thought of this blog as a platform to be able to "do". thank you for encouraging me with your rousing words that stir in me the possibility that i can stand for injustice. :)
I agree with Dionne -- the sharing of your thoughts in a public forum is brave. And before we 'do' anything, it's about 'being,' and I know who you are. It's all about the journey, and listening to that still small voice. When it tells you to do something, whether that is to write a blog post, send a thoughtful card or email, send out a prayer, or walk out the door to join others in raising awareness -- it's about being present and able to hear that voice.
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