This used to be me...
Honestly, I felt that being neutral would foster peace in some way. Instead of adding more fuel to the fire, I figured I’d anchor the light to lessen the tension between any opposing forces. Truth is, I was scared to see what would happen if I immersed myself in those situations.
Reflecting back on my life now, I remember how rebellious I was towards the judgments made against me, especially in being lesbian, and a free-spirited woman in the Asian culture. I caused a ruckus and traumatized other people just to make a statement because THAT paved way for me to actually be seen and heard. Regardless, I didn’t like the person I was becoming.
As I became reckless with my anger, I saw the hurt I was causing others so I eventually shut it off. As a result, I became ignorant towards the injustices of the world. It was all personal really. I didn’t want to end up hurting anyone else... but I had to come back to reality and realize that as unfortunate as it is, most of us need trauma in order to wake up.
Anger is not always unnecessary. When fueled by a greater cause, it CAN positively impact humanity. If we want change, we need to actively make that change. Reckless behavior is a cry to be seen and heard because, unfortunately, using a more peaceful approach hasn’t been working. We want peace but we are not ready to fully embody that yet as a whole. This is where we are right now and this is what it takes to eventually reach solidarity.
My heart goes out to the black community. I can’t imagine the magnitude of pain and fear you all are facing on a day-to-day basis. Enough IS enough. Your words and actions are valid. I see you. I hear you. I stand by you.
Illustration Artist: Unknown
Quote by Desmond Tutu