All morning I’ve had landslides on my mind. Big things are happening all around us that feel like they’ve spontaneously sprang up from nowhere. But everything starts somewhere. No movement ever sprang to life fully formed.
It’s hard to find the right words for everything happening in America right now. There are big problems we all need to work to fix. Without our communities banding together to support those groups that are being overlooked or pushed down or actively attacked, real change will not be possible. When a neighbor asks, “can you help me?” most of us try to offer a hand. Right now, these communities are asking for our help. It is not right to reject their request for help just because our lives are comfortable right now.
Life can be hard for all of us on a normal day. 2020 has yet to provide any of us many normal days. This year is shaping up to be a crucible for our institutions. Which ones will accept the opportunity to change and grow? Which ones will push back and pretend “there’s nothing to see here.”
One voice does not make a difference on its own. But one voice can ask another for help, which then becomes two voices. Repeat long enough, and suddenly a movement can be heard. It is not necessary for your voice to echo throughout the world on a news channel. Sometimes a voice on a team call is enough. Sometimes offering a supportive shoulder is enough. Sometimes it is necessary to grab the megaphone.
Each of us are in different positions. Each of us have different abilities. Each of us are part of different communities. Support will not look the same in every area. You may only have one voice, but one voice among many could be the tipping point for another voice to be added. Never underestimate the impact your one voice could have on others.