The pathway I never expected to have to walk is the pathway I think we are all on now and that is losing our democratic rights. Among them is the right to freedom of speech. The loss is oppressive to say the least and dangerous in the long run. It makes me fear that our current administration will do all in its power to interfere with the coming election in its attempt to silence voices particularly those of our brown- skinned fellow citizens.
I grew up in a family where I was told not to open my mouth because I had nothing worthwhile to say. It turned me into a very quiet child, but I did find my voice when I left my family situation. Some good came out of it in that it developed in me a strong sense of empathy for people who were oppressed or not valued as much as others.
I firmly believe silence is acquiescence. So, we must find some way to protest what we feel is wrong and show gratitude for what is right and good. For that reason, I do write to my senators, representative, and even to the president. I just received a response letter from the White House the other day with the golden seal and the Sharpie-like signature. I do not know if the people to whom I write ever see the letters. Nor do I know if the response letters are form letters or written by A-I as I suspect many are. But I do know staff tallies the subject matters written about. I think that a tsunami of letters on a certain subject would get someone’s attention.
As soon as I saw we were denying the right to due process to immigrants, I knew we started down this path. To deny rights to anyone can soon turn into denial of rights to others. Witness Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Now is the time to speak out. Jesus was unafraid to speak truth to power and we should do likewise.
Prayer: Dear God, give us the courage to do thy will on behalf of all of your children. None are “garbage” or should be labeled “domestic terrorists” when that isn’t correct. We pray for those who would say otherwise that they may be enlightened. Amen
Dorothy Northey