How can I even begin to understand what you are going through? My heart aches, the tears spring to my eyes every day, when I think of so many who have had to grow up in an unjust world, who were told at a young age that if a police officer pulled you over, to always be polite, never talk back, and always say “yes sir,” who had to endure years of oppression, of feeling like even if they were successful, and accomplished, and educated, it would never be good enough, never be able to wipe away the prejudice, the assumptions, and the blatant racism that came along with judging someone solely based off of the color of their skin. I will never truly understand what that feels like but my heart breaks for you.
Before I get too far into this post, I want you to know that I am with you, I hear you, and I pray that this country and this world take the steps to change. No one should go through life feeling anything but loved, accepted, and supported. Black Lives Matter, just as they always should have.
God didn’t put us on this earth to look the same, just like He didn’t put us on this earth to think the same, or feel the same. That would be boring. We are all human beings, and we are all special in our own way. Our differences should be celebrated, not condemned. We are all brothers and sisters in this world and we were created equal so let’s get back to that. We were born out of love, and as children we saw people for their hearts. Let’s get back to that too.
I want my future children to grow up in a world where people are treated equally, from a place of love. That people open their hearts to the beautiful differences that make us uniquely human and embrace them. That they may have friends from all walks of life, from different backgrounds, and cultures. And finally, that they themselves are good people, that never lose that acceptance and way of seeing and loving people solely for their hearts and their minds. What a beautiful thing that would be.
I have had a hard month. I’m sure most of us have. I’ve struggled with what to write, to express everything I’ve been feeling inside but I couldn’t seem to get it out, I’m still not sure if I’m getting it out the way I really want; I might never be able to, but at least it’s a start. I have to say this, I knew our country was divided. I knew it was bad. I just didn’t realize how bad. We as a nation are broken. We need to fix it. They say in times of tragedy is when hope rises and people truly come together. We have seen this and it has given me hope.
I am amazed and proud of our people who have come together to fight for what is right, who have risked their lives in the midst of a global pandemic to stand up to injustice, whose passion and whose voices are so loud that they’ve made waves. We can feel the tides shifting. Slowly but surely they are shifting. This is a turning point in the history of our country and we are watching it unfold before our very eyes.
I feel in my heart that love is stronger than hate and if we keep at it, we will have a better world for us and our children, the dreams of peace and equality will be reality, and we can be proud of where we come from once again.
I hope for all of you gods and goddesses, that you stand strong, stand together, love with an open heart, and “be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Stay healthy, be passionate, be well,
Charissa
P.S. The above photo was taken by photographer Deb Cram at a candlelight vigil for George Floyd in my town of Dover, NH. Over 1,000 people showed up to show support and solidarity and to address the need for change against the “violence of police brutality against innocent black lives.” This brought tears to my eyes but a smile in my heart. Please keep this unity going. Please don’t stop supporting one another. Please continue to let your voices be heard. ❤️
Light Shine Wellness 