It was encouraging to be among the enormous crowds of people peacefully resisting and showing up in defense of our democracy at the No Kings Rallies this past weekend. It was uplifting to see the creative costumes, signs and giant puppets, a reminder of the power of art to poke holes in the fragility of abusive power. It was a helpful reminder of all the ways vigilance, care, and courage are rising. With so much going on, I know we’re all doing our best to find balance, and to say yes to what we can while knowing we can’t do it all.
Being on high alert at all times takes its toll on us. So we have to remember to rest and replenish. It’s okay to silence the phone alerts, stop doom scrolling, and read some whimsical fiction. And, we also can’t bury our heads in the sand about all the collapse of civil society as we know it. I keep asking myself what I will say to my children’s children about how I responded to the rise of fascism in this country. I don’t want to be ashamed of my answer. Though it’s difficult to know how to have a real impact, we can all do something, however small.
I know I am fortunate to have access to a pulpit from which I can speak truth to power about the injustices of our times. I know it is a privilege that I must use well. And I also know not everyone can or wishes to show up at a protest or march or an action that puts them at risk. Each of has the right and the responsibility to take care of ourselves and our loved ones in the ways we are able to during this unravelling.
The ways of showing up, with self-care and care for others, are many. Writing letters to the editor, calling representatives, joining a phonebank, reaching out to local schools to ask about showing up as a deterrent to ICE during pick up and drop off times, joining a local response team, attending a know your rights training and passing out KYR cards, subscribing to trusted news sources rather than social media. If you have people who do your yardwork, you might consider giving them the rest of the autumn off and paying them anyway. You can also continue to live your values in your everyday life – being kind, curious, welcoming, and equitable in your interactions.
I saw a sign at the Chicago No Kings march with a trans flag that read, “My existence is my resistance.” It made my heart break and swell with pride at the same time. It is true that for some of us, merely existing authentically in a culture that wants to destroy you is an act of courage and resistance. Thank you, Beloveds, if you are one who shows up every day as your beautiful self to live and thrive as best you are able.
It is also true that for the sake of our mental health, many cannot handle paying attention to the onslaught of filth raining down from the tyrant in chief every day. We need to know how to take care of ourselves and stay in the struggle in whatever ways we can while also finding joy, beauty, and rest. The upcoming Serendipity Fundraiser will have lots of opportunities for fun in community. THAT is an act of resistance too!
I’m so grateful for the many ways you are showing up – for your families, yourselves, each other, and this community. This world needs you to survive, so that we all might make it through to more mutual thriving. If you need support or care, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Rev. Susan, or the Pastoral Care Team.
In the meantime, keep breathing in peace, and breathing out love, as best as you are able, knowing you are not alone.
With love and in service
Rev. Eileen
Practicing Beloved Community at UCE 