Torn between wanting to keep up with the news in the hope of hearing that 45 will be indicted, versus feeling my brain boiling in rage and frustration over the ignorance, selfishness and cruelty of the Rethugs in Congress... I rarely comment these past few weeks because I feel incoherent and wonder whether all the small things I do can m…
Torn between wanting to keep up with the news in the hope of hearing that 45 will be indicted, versus feeling my brain boiling in rage and frustration over the ignorance, selfishness and cruelty of the Rethugs in Congress... I rarely comment these past few weeks because I feel incoherent and wonder whether all the small things I do can make a difference in saving our democracy. However... WE THE PEOPLE must persist, and I follow HCR and Robert Hubbell and Jess Craven and others on Substack to hang onto my sanity.
@JustJanice, I write, first, to thank you for your comment and, second, to note, while it is impossible to foretell precisely when any of our endeavors will reach critical mass, suddenly creating change, I take heart from trusting that each person who joins us brings us one step closer.
Yes! That is the motto of our postcard group. We have been writing our fingers off, sending get-out-the-vote cards for our critical Wisconsin Supreme Court Election on April 4th. If we can swing the court left by one person, it will make a HUGE difference in our state for the safety of democracy in the 2024 election. And, a big thank-you to all of you from other states that also have been sending postcards; several of us have received those.
Robin, Despite having just posted a comment critiquing the accuracy of the Mead quote, I write to note how heartened I am knowing so many of us have prioritized working for Judge Janet this past month over all our other projects.
Christopher, I hesitated for a long time, contemplating whether to post this reply. However, given the stakes, and despite my warm feelings for the Mead quote, I feel obligated to note that there simply is no evidence to support it. To the contrary, every world-changing movement has clamored for millions of thoughtful, committed people.
MaryPat, Looking back at some world-changing events: The civil rights movement, the woman’s movement, the anti-war movement, the end of apartheid. Who did that? Not a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals, but millions of thoughtful, committed individuals.
Yes. But here is my perspective as a "Start Up Specialist." Every project, company, association and movement I started I did so when a small group (we thought we were pretty thoughtful and committed) of 5 or 6 of us came together, recognized a problem and decided we could do something about it. That doesn't mean every small group is successful in changing the world, but it is through small groups where the concern is identified, studied, confronted, tested and planted, before merging with the many. I started the new state nursing association, ANA-Michigan, with a few colleagues on my beach. It now has thousands of members. Major movements are hatched this way. Then, you are right: when millions of thoughtful, committed folks come together, they make a difference - because they have the road map, playbook, tools, and rallying cries finessed in one or more of the small groups.
MaryPat, Though I deeply appreciated your remarks, I would note the prevailing view, to which I subscribe, recognizes, while small groups such as yours can produce powerful results, the idea that a small group can start a world-changing movement is not based in fact.
Were one to ask, “But doesn’t it start with a small group?” the answer, rooted in historical movements, is no. That explanation is too mechanical. As Civil Rights and Antiwar Activist Tom Hayden has said, “No one ever predicts when or where people will rise up…”. Extrapolating from Hayden, I would contend small groups neither can predict when a world-changing event will start, let alone start it.
Some people read the news, feel despair and withdraw. Other people, thankfully, read the news, get mad and take action like Greta Thunberg and countless others.
It's that first group that keeps me baffled. There's no despair in Magaland which is why they, a mostly small group, are getting all the attention. I hope you can find courage to be part of the solution.
Christopher, Despite my taking issue with your presumptuous final sentence, given my comment has no bearing on the level of my commitment, my engagement, my caring, my work, I would note that the example of Greta Thunberg pokes a gaping hole in my argument, particularly my remark to MaryPat stating that small groups cannot start a world-changing event.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
... by Margaret Mead!...
...was my go-to quote in the classroom when I was teaching, prominently posted on the wall. It applies to everything! It was food for the soul and the foundation for many a discussion across the board. Everyone here, copy/paste this quote, and refer to it daily. It’s a good reminder to stay on track, stay focused. You won’t regret it.
Thank you to all here for so earnestly sharing your sanity, your humanity, your knowledge, and your hearts. Together, it’s a wonderful community!
Morning, JustJanice! I feel the same as you. I have chosen to hunker down and quietly do the "small things." Surely, if we all do the same, we can make a difference.
I’m in the same camp of fear and hope. And have the same unlimited resources of poems, proverbs and Truths. In the end... that is my biggest worry, that the money, corruption, power, Supremes, republicans (yes I mean it out loud and not abbreviated) are taking down our Democracy faster than we can prevent their fascist actions from causing irreparable damage. I don’t know if I’ve been more worried. Gratitude to Professor Richardson for daily connecting today to history. So in the end I will quote, Jorge Santayana’s warning, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” But in some ways he is wrong. I would amend him. Those who know the past and don’t care of our future, our children, our environment, our present pressing needs for survival, individuals and the planet, they are condemning us to a downfall. Still no one can steal our Hope. And so far, voting and continuing to work against the repubs and their machine, staying Woke, is our charge.
I get it Irenie. I've been shocked over and over with what's been happening in our country, especially the last 6 years. And I don't really understand why everyone hasn't woken up to how dire things are by now. And I know you are speaking in generalities, but I know smart Republicans who want to survive, and who love children and want a better future for themselves and their family and neighbors. I think they don't understand how dire the situation is for everyone and that in the end we're all in the same boat. I think they are misguided for various reasons. They aren't corrupt or greedy or uncaring. They are good people. Keep speaking your truth. But people aren't going to listen if they think you regard them as stupid monsters.
Jay, I agree that alienating people is not the way to try to work together or communicate or make changes. I do not think people who disagree with me or are republicans are monsters. Not at all. Did I say that or communicate that? This is what I said, my worries: “… in the the end... that is my biggest worry, that the money, corruption, power, Supremes, republicans (yes I mean it out loud and not abbreviated) are taking down our Democracy faster than we can prevent their fascist actions from causing irreparable damage.” “Fascist actions.” Calling out those actions. Well, maybe that is too harsh. Too real. Preventing actions that harm rather than help? That use words that some people hear and fear connected to what they have learned. Yes, by now, I think the republican party has stepped over the line in not calling out violence and hate. But I don’t rudely or disrespectfully argue with people who disagree with me.
Sorry, I think it was the part that you pointed out that you were spelling out word republicans instead of repubs that threw me. I am not that familiar with your comments. I shouldn't have used the word monsters. I never thought that you were intolerant. I simply thought that it might appear that way to some people. Again, sorry for the misunderstanding.
Jay, We, you and I, we talk to each other, and agree or disagree and still continue the conversation. You were right though, if and when we communicate with people we know disagree with us, or we with them, listening and maybe asking a question, not with a hostile attitude, is important if we actually want to communicate. We are so divided, it’s not often I have that opportunity. You’re kind to apologize but I wasn’t angry or hurt. And I appreciate thinking about how someone who doesn’t know me, might not “know “ me.
Thank you for posting this, and thank you for sharing how it is for you now. I find myself commenting less, mostly because of said incoherent rage that only expresses itself in blasphemy, vulgarity, or profanity, but also because I simply cannot articulate my thoughts/feelings about where we are headed and why.
I find that over the past year my formerly complete sentences in my head have been reduced to just, "wtf, again???!!" And that's with trying not to read anything about Florida, or Idaho, or the news in general regarding the Rethugs in Congress. Glad and sad that we are united by shared outrage at the inhumanity and ignorance on display. Thanks for being here.
Torn between wanting to keep up with the news in the hope of hearing that 45 will be indicted, versus feeling my brain boiling in rage and frustration over the ignorance, selfishness and cruelty of the Rethugs in Congress... I rarely comment these past few weeks because I feel incoherent and wonder whether all the small things I do can make a difference in saving our democracy. However... WE THE PEOPLE must persist, and I follow HCR and Robert Hubbell and Jess Craven and others on Substack to hang onto my sanity.
@JustJanice, I write, first, to thank you for your comment and, second, to note, while it is impossible to foretell precisely when any of our endeavors will reach critical mass, suddenly creating change, I take heart from trusting that each person who joins us brings us one step closer.
Hear Hear! Me too Barb.
You yourself just stated the answer to the problems that vex us all:
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
Take action and feel better. No act is too small.
Yes! That is the motto of our postcard group. We have been writing our fingers off, sending get-out-the-vote cards for our critical Wisconsin Supreme Court Election on April 4th. If we can swing the court left by one person, it will make a HUGE difference in our state for the safety of democracy in the 2024 election. And, a big thank-you to all of you from other states that also have been sending postcards; several of us have received those.
Robin, Despite having just posted a comment critiquing the accuracy of the Mead quote, I write to note how heartened I am knowing so many of us have prioritized working for Judge Janet this past month over all our other projects.
We're tryin'! Got your back! 💙
👏👏👏👏
Thank you all, Robin!
Christopher, I hesitated for a long time, contemplating whether to post this reply. However, given the stakes, and despite my warm feelings for the Mead quote, I feel obligated to note that there simply is no evidence to support it. To the contrary, every world-changing movement has clamored for millions of thoughtful, committed people.
After a few thoughtful, committed citizens got the millions to act and vote.
MaryPat, Looking back at some world-changing events: The civil rights movement, the woman’s movement, the anti-war movement, the end of apartheid. Who did that? Not a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals, but millions of thoughtful, committed individuals.
Yes. But here is my perspective as a "Start Up Specialist." Every project, company, association and movement I started I did so when a small group (we thought we were pretty thoughtful and committed) of 5 or 6 of us came together, recognized a problem and decided we could do something about it. That doesn't mean every small group is successful in changing the world, but it is through small groups where the concern is identified, studied, confronted, tested and planted, before merging with the many. I started the new state nursing association, ANA-Michigan, with a few colleagues on my beach. It now has thousands of members. Major movements are hatched this way. Then, you are right: when millions of thoughtful, committed folks come together, they make a difference - because they have the road map, playbook, tools, and rallying cries finessed in one or more of the small groups.
MaryPat, Though I deeply appreciated your remarks, I would note the prevailing view, to which I subscribe, recognizes, while small groups such as yours can produce powerful results, the idea that a small group can start a world-changing movement is not based in fact.
Were one to ask, “But doesn’t it start with a small group?” the answer, rooted in historical movements, is no. That explanation is too mechanical. As Civil Rights and Antiwar Activist Tom Hayden has said, “No one ever predicts when or where people will rise up…”. Extrapolating from Hayden, I would contend small groups neither can predict when a world-changing event will start, let alone start it.
Some people read the news, feel despair and withdraw. Other people, thankfully, read the news, get mad and take action like Greta Thunberg and countless others.
It's that first group that keeps me baffled. There's no despair in Magaland which is why they, a mostly small group, are getting all the attention. I hope you can find courage to be part of the solution.
Christopher, Despite my taking issue with your presumptuous final sentence, given my comment has no bearing on the level of my commitment, my engagement, my caring, my work, I would note that the example of Greta Thunberg pokes a gaping hole in my argument, particularly my remark to MaryPat stating that small groups cannot start a world-changing event.
How do you think social media has change the meaning of this quote? For better or worse?
Very good question Sharon B.
Christopher J. (Ohio),
I second your comment!
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
... by Margaret Mead!...
...was my go-to quote in the classroom when I was teaching, prominently posted on the wall. It applies to everything! It was food for the soul and the foundation for many a discussion across the board. Everyone here, copy/paste this quote, and refer to it daily. It’s a good reminder to stay on track, stay focused. You won’t regret it.
Thank you to all here for so earnestly sharing your sanity, your humanity, your knowledge, and your hearts. Together, it’s a wonderful community!
Morning, JustJanice! I feel the same as you. I have chosen to hunker down and quietly do the "small things." Surely, if we all do the same, we can make a difference.
I’m in the same camp of fear and hope. And have the same unlimited resources of poems, proverbs and Truths. In the end... that is my biggest worry, that the money, corruption, power, Supremes, republicans (yes I mean it out loud and not abbreviated) are taking down our Democracy faster than we can prevent their fascist actions from causing irreparable damage. I don’t know if I’ve been more worried. Gratitude to Professor Richardson for daily connecting today to history. So in the end I will quote, Jorge Santayana’s warning, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” But in some ways he is wrong. I would amend him. Those who know the past and don’t care of our future, our children, our environment, our present pressing needs for survival, individuals and the planet, they are condemning us to a downfall. Still no one can steal our Hope. And so far, voting and continuing to work against the repubs and their machine, staying Woke, is our charge.
Morning, Irenie! To me, staying Woke is huge. Let the un-woke blather on!
Lynell, I’m with you. I’ve always been awake!!! Awoke.
😎
I get it Irenie. I've been shocked over and over with what's been happening in our country, especially the last 6 years. And I don't really understand why everyone hasn't woken up to how dire things are by now. And I know you are speaking in generalities, but I know smart Republicans who want to survive, and who love children and want a better future for themselves and their family and neighbors. I think they don't understand how dire the situation is for everyone and that in the end we're all in the same boat. I think they are misguided for various reasons. They aren't corrupt or greedy or uncaring. They are good people. Keep speaking your truth. But people aren't going to listen if they think you regard them as stupid monsters.
Jay, I agree that alienating people is not the way to try to work together or communicate or make changes. I do not think people who disagree with me or are republicans are monsters. Not at all. Did I say that or communicate that? This is what I said, my worries: “… in the the end... that is my biggest worry, that the money, corruption, power, Supremes, republicans (yes I mean it out loud and not abbreviated) are taking down our Democracy faster than we can prevent their fascist actions from causing irreparable damage.” “Fascist actions.” Calling out those actions. Well, maybe that is too harsh. Too real. Preventing actions that harm rather than help? That use words that some people hear and fear connected to what they have learned. Yes, by now, I think the republican party has stepped over the line in not calling out violence and hate. But I don’t rudely or disrespectfully argue with people who disagree with me.
Sorry, I think it was the part that you pointed out that you were spelling out word republicans instead of repubs that threw me. I am not that familiar with your comments. I shouldn't have used the word monsters. I never thought that you were intolerant. I simply thought that it might appear that way to some people. Again, sorry for the misunderstanding.
Jay, We, you and I, we talk to each other, and agree or disagree and still continue the conversation. You were right though, if and when we communicate with people we know disagree with us, or we with them, listening and maybe asking a question, not with a hostile attitude, is important if we actually want to communicate. We are so divided, it’s not often I have that opportunity. You’re kind to apologize but I wasn’t angry or hurt. And I appreciate thinking about how someone who doesn’t know me, might not “know “ me.
Morning, Lynell! I think I'll join you in doing some small things to make a difference.
It's an honor and a privilege to be with you, Ally...morning!
Ditto All!
Morning, MaryPat!
Thank you for posting this, and thank you for sharing how it is for you now. I find myself commenting less, mostly because of said incoherent rage that only expresses itself in blasphemy, vulgarity, or profanity, but also because I simply cannot articulate my thoughts/feelings about where we are headed and why.
I find that over the past year my formerly complete sentences in my head have been reduced to just, "wtf, again???!!" And that's with trying not to read anything about Florida, or Idaho, or the news in general regarding the Rethugs in Congress. Glad and sad that we are united by shared outrage at the inhumanity and ignorance on display. Thanks for being here.
Venting on TCinLA's site is very satisfying (if vulgar, profane...)
Agreed.
JustJanice, thank you....I pay attention, read, despair, and occasionally have to take a news break, for sanity, and do what little I can.
Janice WE SHALL OVERCOME SOME DAY!