While I stand on the side of those disappointed in the recent election, I have kept relatively quiet in taking any political stance in this precious writing space. Maybe it’s fear of losing friends and family who are important to me, but the time has come to agree to disagree. That’s okay. I purposely waited until after Veteran’s Day to write this post. I honor veterans and appreciate their service.
I choose to wear a safety pin in peaceful protest. I wear it as a symbol of moving forward with hope and solidarity. I wear it to support those who feel threatened by the hate and fear mongering as a sign that they are safe with me. I wear it as my biracial grandson goes off to school with fear that he may be the target of hate crimes. I wear it to support my LGBTQ friends and family. I also wear it for those who struggle with the hatred that has infiltrated our country: immigrants, disabled, veterans, refugees, women and survivors.
I do NOT wear this safety pin because I am anti-Trump. I wear it as a symbol of pro-acceptance and unity. I stand with those in peaceful protest, not those who burn flags and riot in the streets.
I choose to remain friends with those who do or don’t share my beliefs and hope my friends and family will honor our differences.
The finest thing is that we share our heart’s feelings. Thank you, Margie!
Words so true, so open, so vulnerable; words that made my day as my sorely troubled heart was soothed by the voice of another who shares my concerns but reacts with compassion, acceptance, and hope. I’m going to go find a safety pin.