Dancing & Pittsburgh

I really wonder sometimes — where I get this never-fading faith in the good of people — in humanity?

This morning it dawned on me that I know exactly where it comes from — my grandparents. Each of them have taught me, in their own unique way, that love is the only thing that will bring more love to the world. That compassion is what will solve problems, not hate.

Yesterday, we celebrated my Nanny’s 75th Birthday. Looking around the room, it’s evident that there are no parameters to love in our family.

We are quite an eclectic group of people — made up of immigrants, people of color, varying faiths, and members of the LGBTQ community. Some of us are blood, while others were found… but needless to say, my 23 & Me results are all sorts a crazy.

At the party, I watched my niece and nephew dance all afternoon. It brought such a smile to my face, but it also took everything for me to hold my tears in.

As they danced, I couldn’t stop thinking about the families in the caravan, worried about their mail, and in Kentucky and Pittsburgh who, like our ancestors, were persecuted for their faith and race and beliefs. For simply existing.

This very moment reminded me that in the darkest of days, the brightest beacons of humanity ALWAYS shine through.

It’s time to shine people, every one of us. We must continue to transform collective memory into collective action. Our actions — today, tomorrow, and all the days to come — must represent the best of humanity.

I hope all of the children in my life will come to understand not only the importance of voicing dissent, but also the importance of having the freedom to do so.

I hope to be a positive example in their lives — to be someone who teaches them to respect all people, to stand up for what they believe in, and to fight for the rights of others.

This week was rough. It tested my beliefs. But the future I’m fighting for is close. This fight is getting harder, but that’s because we’re winning.

Let’s embrace our neighbors, friends, and family members with kindness and with concern. Let’s embrace our children, our parents, and our grandparents. And let’s embrace our God, whomever and whatever we believe that to be.

This is not a drill.

This is real life.

This is really happening.

P.S. — Dance your way to the polls and get out to vote on November 6.