Powerful essay, easy to understand...I strongly encourage you to read this. I remember the first time, as well, when I was told as a white woman that I had privilege. What? Im a lesbian, a woman, working to eat and live...while, yes, I came from a family that helped support me when I found myself in need, I earned what I had. I fought for equal rights, was arrested for my beliefs...so privileged? When someone called me racist for the first time (after, I felt, that I had worked so hard and long to make things better...I was a good liberal queer activist, afterall), I was mortified...what did THEY know about ME? Well, they didnt have to know the details of my personal life, but they did see the result of my I got it all figured out mentality, which, did result in some pretty racist decisions. It wasnt my intent at all, but it still was. I honestly dont want to hurt people, anyone, so it was an opportunity for me to stop and listen. (not an easy task, especially for me!!) Since then, Ive worked hard, very hard on taking a deep breath, shutting up and listening. Learning what it means to be an ally, and trying like hell to do so often. But if you want the truth, there are times when Im just plain exhausted and stop, but my sisters and brothers of color, for instance...THEY dont get to stop...those who are not able-bodied dont get to stop, those who ...get the point? I feel that my faith has called me to try to be a part of the solution, not the problem. To help make this world a place where Heaven can be reflected...and it is HARD work. Blessed are the righteous who are persecuted for my sake...it is NOT easy re-learning; it is NOT easy listening; it is NOT easy healing brokenness; it is NOT easy speaking up...BUT...it is what people of faith ESPECIALLY are called to do. I guarantee you...once one gets passed their outrage of being called out...and once one begins to unpack it all and clear out the garbage in our lives; once we begin to act or even just CARE about anothers experience...our own lives will change for the better...
Posted on: Sat, 13 Dec 2014 16:58:47 +0000
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