Find myself bemused and deeply touched this Valentine's Day.
There are times when the forces arrayed against decency and justice seen so overwhelming that a lot of us can wonder if what we do really makes a difference.
Can our voices be heard amidst all the noise? Can we help?
You've always helped keep me going. What I didn't realize until this morning was that helped my PTSD Disabled Viet Vet keep going as well.
He was traumatized by Nam on top of severe losses in early childhood.
It has always been difficult for him to hear me express my fears and anger about what has been occurring in this country for far too long, especially over the last four years. I always try to balance everything with hope, reminding him of the good that has been accomplished and deserving of being fought for.
He knows traitors and betrayers when he sees them. His quiet rage at former Secretary of Defense McNamara is palpable. Needless to say he loathes draft dodging crime magnet and traitor Trump, and his enablers.
I've limited what is shared with the SO because I know it’s upsetting. What I didn't know until today is that the little I do speaking out, writing, donating to campaigns, educating myself - matters to him.
He gave me a card on this Valentine's Day unlike any he has ever given me before.
"You've got a powerful voice.
Listening to what you have to say
Always puts me in a hopeful place
You show me how change can happen
When you face the world with pride, confidence,
And a voice that can't be silenced.
Keep speaking up.
The world is listening. "
I was in shock reading it, then the tears fell and I threw myself at him. Carefully. His health has left him fragile.
He knows he's not alone. You have done the same for me.
What the card says that he gave me is also true of all of you.
"You've got a powerful voice.
Listening to what you have to say
Always puts me in a hopeful place
You show me how change can happen
When you face the world with pride, confidence,
And a voice that can't be silenced.
Keep speaking up.
The world is listening. "
Through the years we have let one another know that we're not alone,
We’ve helped each other keep going.
I can't think of more loving and precious gifts.
Thank you for being the good in the world.
Happy Valentine's Day.
Melvin Davis’ bass guitar solo introduction is stunning and then of course, Chaka makes an old standard uniquely her's. Thought you may enjoy it.