Currently: June 2020
When you ask what life looks like currently, I can’t talk about anything except the fight for justice and peace in response to current events and the horrible and gut-wrenching deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and so many others. Today’s post and prompts (hosted by my friend Anne!) centers on these conversations, this heart, and content by and from BIPOC friends and leaders and neighbors.
FEELING //
Heavy-hearted, but hopeful. Grieved but grateful for signs of progress and greater awareness. Proud of those protesting and speaking out and speaking up for justice. Angry that it has taken this long, this many deaths, this much tragedy, this much pain. Reflective and repentant — there is always, always more work to be done, in my own heart, in my own thinking, in my own awareness, in my own life, and then beyond. Convicted and committed to doing all that I can, with all that I have, right where I am. (On my social media, I’m muting my own content to #amplifymelanatedvoices and listen and learn.)
WEARING //
This shirt. Love your _____ neighbor. Love your Black neighbor. (Thanks, The Happy Givers, for making this shirt, and for this Black Lives Matter shirt I preordered as well.)
BUYING //
My money lately is going to buy books by BIPOC on anti-racism and how to be a better ally. I’ve gathered up so many of the recommendations and books lists and other resources that have been created and shared, and you can find it here.
CRAVING //
In researching Black-owned businesses and restaurants in Richmond, I saw my favorite vegetarian restaurant Ipanema on the list, and I cannot wait to place a takeout order ASAP. The best vegan food in the city!
DISCUSSING //
Racism. Privilege. Accountability for inhumane and unacceptable police actions. Protests and riots in my city and beyond. How to better love, support, learn from, listen to, and stand in solidarity with my BIPOC neighbors and friends. Just Mercy and what I’m learning and how my heart is breaking as I read.
