The Vigil diary is like a chapel and not a place to argue or debate. It is not the place for that. If you have a disagreement with something in a Vigil, feel free to take it outside and write a diary about it – but please don’t disrupt the contemplation of others in the Vigil itself.
Occupy: definition according to www.merriam-webster.com
1: to engage the attention or energies of
2a : to take up (a place or extent in space) b : to take or fill (an extent in time)
3a : to take or hold possession or control of b : to fill or perform the functions of (an office or position)
4: to reside in as an owner or tenant
I have 3 young adult cousins who have been in the process of occupying. One has been here in Pittsburgh and at State College/Penn State, one in Austin, and one in Denver. Last night, my cousin in Denver was with the occupiers when the police became violent. We finally heard from his mom that he is safe—he endured pepper spray, went home, and is back today. He has been there day and night. My cousin in Austin made it home last night, and she is back for rally in Austin today. She has regularly been bringing food and clothes to the people who are staying overnight there. My cousin at Penn State has organized groups of students to travel to Pittsburgh to protest. She is gaining her wings as a community organizer.
These are but 3 young people fighting the good fight. They occupy my heart, as do the many others out on the streets protesting. I am not able to be with the protesters for a variety of reasons, but I can do some of these 15 things.
I will also be keeping the protesters in thought and *prayer. Please feel free to add other ways to help those that are out there!