For the first time since the election, last night I got enough sleep and woke with energy and optimism. I was in denial, and then depressed. I could not concentrate at work and could not sleep at night. Two days ago, my husband talked to me and told me I could not go on like this, that it would hurt our marriage and my emotional health. Yesterday, after work, I read the news, but I also read a book and went for a walk. I went to bed feeling a little better, and today woke up refreshed. I feel resolve instead of hopelessness.
We must now be prepared. Not panicked, not hysterical*, not paralyzed. Prepared for the worst, and also hopeful for the best. I am going to Washington for the Women’s March**. I am prepared to go to Washington again, and also to attend demonstrations in my area of the country (Kentucky/Indiana). I am prepared for non-violent civil disobedience.
I also made peace with Trump supporters in my thoughts. After the election, for many days all I could feel was all-consuming rage and fear. I do not forgive Trump voters. I do believe they are human beings. All human beings deserve decency, even when they do not return the favor. That does not mean we should work with them or appease them. As Dr. King said, the greatest stumbling block can be the “white moderate who is more devoted to ‘order’ than to justice.”
Bannon said yesterday that he believed in the power of darkness and admired Darth Vader. So, I will counter with Yoda. “Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” I ask everyone to let go of destructive rage, and be prepared for the challenges to come.
* I am not denigrating anyone by calling them “hysterical.” I was somewhat hysterical, that is why I put the term in the diary.
** I know there are issues with the name and organizing of the Women’s March on Washington. The name can be seen as taking away from the 1963 March on Washington organized by Dr. King. The organizers were originally all white women. They are now more diverse, and acutely conscious of the name’s dynamics. Right now there is not a traditional website (they are working on one), only Facebook, which can be inaccessible. https://www.facebook.com/events/2169332969958991/
The Women’s March is not perfect. The grassroots organizers are unpaid and doing their very best to organize a meaningful event on short notice. I believe doing something is better than doing nothing and cannot wait to attend the March. Maybe I will diary this as it gets closer and details firm up. ;)