As Pride Month draws to a close and the nation commemorates various aspects of independence, it prompts a reflective pause to ponder the complexities of our societal fabric. The juxtaposition of celebrating freedom while grappling with the challenges of inclusivity and acceptance can be both poignant and perplexing. The sentiment expressed by colleagues, encapsulated in remarks such as "well, the immigrants are all rapists," serves as a stark reminder of the prevailing attitudes and prejudices that continue to permeate our discourse, including "fake news." All he has to do is state a sing-song meaningless slogan and it amplifies everything as "real." But hate and fear are not what we are. We do not punish women or shoot people accidentally in our driveways. And yet...
It beckons us to delve deeper into the collective narrative of our shared history, where the very essence of our identity is intertwined with migration and the pursuit of a better life. The notion of 'us versus them' becomes increasingly blurred when we confront the reality that, at some point in time, we were all immigrants seeking refuge, opportunity, or freedom.
This introspective contemplation urges us to confront the inherent contradictions in our beliefs and actions, challenging us to reconcile the ideals of equality and justice with the harsh demons of discrimination, racism and bias. It underscores the imperative of fostering empathy, understanding, and solidarity in a world that is often defined by division and discord.
Ultimately, these moments of reflection should serve as a catalyst for dialogue, growth, and transformation. They compel us to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge preconceived notions, and strive towards a more inclusive and compassionate society where the richness of diversity is celebrated, not vilified.
I am worried about several things.
1. A proven rapist and dictator's supreme power supremely corrupted by the supreme court.
2. Reproductive rights - especially if the woman was raped or is not prepared for children.
3. Gun control - so that common sense initiatives can finally find their way through the ridiculous loopholes (who needs an assault weapon? Who????). The 2nd amendment was not about everyone being armed so they could shoot up their school.
4. Teen suicide - we sounded the alarm but nothing changed. No new pay or benefits for social workers.
5. Young adult mental health - the phones were good until they weren't. Phones are in their hands at too young an age. Everyone must read Jon Haight's the Anxious Generation to see the startling combined proven impact of phones combined w. anxious fear-based parenting.
6. Millenniums' voting - get out there or things will only get worse!
7. Israel - our only ally in the middle east got a lot of things wrong. But they are required to continuously defend their right to exist. This is exhausting. Cease-fire is essential with a promise to preserve the people's self-determination to live freely.
8. Climate - by studying climate data and trends, scientists can make informed decisions to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. We need leadership now.
However this anxious time in history plays out, I pray that our children will have a safe world in which to grow up in peace. Not so much Happy 4th, more like let's get a re-boot, STAT.
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