For an alcoholic, “doing a geographic” is a knee-jerk response to anxiety. But anger is a more powerful force than anxiety, one that argues for staying put and fighting.
Susie, thank you for being so brave in telling and sharing the truth. It’s so difficult to believe and understand what is happening to our country. You are a light in the darkness!
Susie, I’m feeling all of these same feels, too. Thank you for the reminder that there are ways to be of help, even if they are small, incremental ways. Please continue to share in your oh so very eloquent way…it really does help.
Thank you for sharing. This, too, is a form of resistance. Every call, email,
written letter, like, share, video, post and story are ways we can help the ground resistance in real time. Hopefully one person at a time will feel uncomfortable enough to notice and join in solidarity. Your writing lifts me up and validates our
For those of us so far (physically) from what is happening in so many places in this country, helping in small ways is how I also cope. By helping out in our small ways, we are showing the community that we are a part of that we are still human, willing and able to give one another hope one day at a time. As always, thank you for verbalizing what I often feel.
Hi Susie, Thank you for being vocal, brave, and enraged at the current administration and recent events in Minneapolis and across the U.S. There is nothing wrong with taking "a stand" and calling out the lies that this administration wants to justify in pursuing their agenda of racism, anti-immigration, etc. As they try to rewrite history, if people don't speak out, the truth will be lost and this "new norm" from the administration will become the standard. It takes a strong person to stay and "fight" for the rule of law, the Constitution, and protecting one's neighbours. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to protect our democracy and call out the "leaders" who use violence and bullying tactics to enforce their agendas. Real leaders stand up to the bullies, call them out, regroup, and form alliances with like-minded people. This administration has weaponized EVERYTHING and forced people to speak out in the name of truth and justice. As dire as the current political environment is, there is much hope for the Midterms. I believe there will be a major shift in the House and Senate as the cracks in this administration deepen and support falters. There will be a reckoning and in the meantime, continue to have hope and faith in the process and do the things you can to speak your truth in the name of the rule of law, the Constitution, and justice. Hold on Susie!!
Jo-Anne, you are very inspiring yourself - well said!! We will keep trying to keep the truth front and center. The gaslighting really bothers me and I hope the truth does get in front of people. I hope you're right about the midterms, but I know Trump is itching to mess up the elections. We'll see! Take care!
Thank you Susie! The gaslighting infuriates me also but I believe that when people try so hard to lie, it is because they are afraid of losing control in a situation. The cracks are already showing and as constituents feel the effects of the economy, tariffs, ICE raids, etc., they will reach out to their members of Congress who will "break" with Trump in order to be re-elected. That's why speaking up is so important. Trump's policies will be his undoing....it is just going to take a little more time. Keep the faith in the constitution!! Sending hugs and hope!
I would be very disappointed if you had NOT spoken about these atrocities--it would have meant one thing and one thing only--that you support the evil ones. So I for one am more than glad to see these subjects included in your posts, I look forward to them and thank you for them.
As I just said to friends who are also paid subscribers - I love your insights, self-awareness, vulnerability and of course articulate writing. Keep at it PLEASE! 🙏 ❤️
Oh Diane, that's very kind. Sometimes I do close my eyes when I press the publish button and think, "ooh, I hope this isn't too much!" But it is who I am! I really appreciate your steadfast engagement here. Thank you.
thank you for telling the truth, and sharing your truths. taking personal action (calls, donations etc.) empowers me, following the walking monks ("today will be my peaceful day") settles me, but it's all only temporary. my friends and i inspire each other to be beacons of light. some days are darker than others, and still we try.
I love that you and your friends are inspiring each other to be beacons of light. I will remember that and think of it when things look dark. Thank you.
Thank you Susie, as always you speak your truth so beautifully. It's all so overwhelming right now. Autocracies thrive on making people feel hopeless, helpless, fearful and enraged and I feel like the most powerful form of resistance comes in standing in your truth and illuminating the way for those around you with your words and your spirit. May we all find ways to support each other in our own way ~ with the reminder that we are a global, collective community with a shared consciousness. We are connected deeply with one another across borders, states and countries.
My goal is to remind myself and those around me of this connection and how damaging the illusion of separateness has and will continue to become if we don't support, care for each other and most importantly, honor this journey we are on together as human beings. I will always maintain the light is so much more powerful than the darkness. We must protect our First Ammendment Rights and the Freedom of the Press. Your voice matters and is appreciated, a ray of light in the storm swirling around us. Thank you for shining so brightly.
Polly, you make so many good points here! I, too, feel really strongly that we are all connected, that our actions have a ripple effect, and that we need to buoy each other up. (And I think the current drive to isolate the US from its allies is an example of a break that is ultimately not going to serve anyone well.)
Yes, we must care for each other, protect our rights, and keep ourselves stable and healthy so we can help others! Yay for the light - and thank you for the light you spread, Polly.
I never realized how passionate I am about our Constitutional rights until they were threatened on a daily basis. As a former news reporter, it’s insulting watching the press conferences defending these senseless killings. What’s terrifying is that there is no end in sight.
I'm sorry - as a former reporter, this must be especially maddening for you. Those press conferences are unbelievable. I hope at least that people can begin to understand these people for who they are. Sigh!
I’m upgrading to be a paid subscriber because you are brave enough to share your perspective and take a stand. Plus, thanks for referencing Heather Cox Richardson. She is a beacon in this time - a daily must read for me for years.
Carol, thank you so much for upgrading! Your support means a lot - and I will keep on trying to be brave. And yes, I learn so much from Heather Cox Richardson. We are so lucky to have her.
Wonderfully said. I'm not looking to engage in so-called political thought at every turn, either, but to ignore it and not face the reality of what's happening in MN and across the country feels like trying to live in an alternate world. It does not seem possible to separate the two.
I looked at social media yesterday for much longer than I wanted to; I saw my neighbors post things about how Alex Pretti got burned touching a hot stove and blamed the stove. Enraged is just about the right word for how I felt after reading that. How do they not see what is actually happening? I know the answer is Trump and his army of conspiracy theorists and trolls, and I wonder why so many people in this country feel better embracing that world view than investing in truth and fairness. My mind goes there and I start to spiral. We are so much better than this.
I had not heard the term "doing a geographic" before, but that describes how I've handled making some big changes in my life. Moving seems so appealing sometimes, and it has worked for me in the past, but you are right in that wherever you go, there you are. I think now, though, I'm not looking to run from myself but from the masses of people whose minds have been warped to support hatred and violence. A secluded island where it's me, my family, the animals, and nature sounds so good right now. I guess because it would be peaceful, and I just want peace.
Thanks for this post. It makes me feel better knowing someone else out there gets it.
Oy, I totally understand all of this. Peace would be lovely. And yes, "doing a geographic" is not always a bad idea. Honestly, it comes in to mind because I have a hard time feeling like I'm somehow aligned, or in some way supporting by association, the terrible things going on.
It really is such a balance between staying informed and making yourself crazy. Reading those comments is crazy-making - and I think there is not much in our every day lives that makes us absolutely enraged like that so when we see what's going on or hear those comments, that feeling of being enraged is almost scary.
Anyway, I'm glad we can talk about it a little bit. Take care and dream of flowers!
Once again, thank you so much for your inspiring words, Susie! I’m with you! I can see that you’re doing more than I am, but I’ve made a few donations to the Democratic Party. I get so wound up when I watch or read the news, and my daughter tells me to turn off the tv; but it makes me so angry that I can’t.
I totally understand all those emotions Ethel - it's so hard! You're doing everything you can - and taking care of your daughter (and yourself!) so just keep on doing that!
I question what the extent of the education and training is for ICE agents as well the screening for intelligence level. It appears to me from watching the videos that fear is a big factor in the responses of agents. It reminds me of pack-like behavior that you would see in a group of dogs or wild animals attacking one “predator”, who has no one to help him protect himself. I also question the self-righteous responses from those in charge when questioned about the use of wearing masks.
Keep writing whatever is called for. I'm with you. [Even as a fellow Vineyarder I did activate my Canadian citizenship and get my CA passport this past year (thanks to my dad being born in northern BC) so I'm with you on that piece of it too!
Hi Morgan. Oh wow, that was smart. You hate to have to think about these things. (I'm afraid I wouldn't have much luck with CA with only a great-grandmother - too many generations! Though apparently my husband could be eligible for an Irish passport if he had his grandparents birth certificates!) Thank you as always, for all your support. Hope you are staying cozy in all this snow.
Susie, thank you for being so brave in telling and sharing the truth. It’s so difficult to believe and understand what is happening to our country. You are a light in the darkness!
Donna, thank you for your kind words - and as always - your support. Hope you are doing okay.
Susie, thank you for sharing. It helps. Hugs from Oregon.
Thank you Colette!
Susie, I’m feeling all of these same feels, too. Thank you for the reminder that there are ways to be of help, even if they are small, incremental ways. Please continue to share in your oh so very eloquent way…it really does help.
Thank you Stephanie, I am so glad if it is helping! Take good care.
Every word, Susie. Amen.
Hi Doug. And yes, unbelievable, right?
Thank you for sharing. This, too, is a form of resistance. Every call, email,
written letter, like, share, video, post and story are ways we can help the ground resistance in real time. Hopefully one person at a time will feel uncomfortable enough to notice and join in solidarity. Your writing lifts me up and validates our
ever so uncomfortable reality.
Thank you Polly, and I do agree with you. Every little motion that indicates "no, this is not acceptable" is important.
For those of us so far (physically) from what is happening in so many places in this country, helping in small ways is how I also cope. By helping out in our small ways, we are showing the community that we are a part of that we are still human, willing and able to give one another hope one day at a time. As always, thank you for verbalizing what I often feel.
Hi Carollyn! It's the butterfly effect - a small thing can have wide repercussions so if we all do good small things, we will move the needle!
Hi Susie, Thank you for being vocal, brave, and enraged at the current administration and recent events in Minneapolis and across the U.S. There is nothing wrong with taking "a stand" and calling out the lies that this administration wants to justify in pursuing their agenda of racism, anti-immigration, etc. As they try to rewrite history, if people don't speak out, the truth will be lost and this "new norm" from the administration will become the standard. It takes a strong person to stay and "fight" for the rule of law, the Constitution, and protecting one's neighbours. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to protect our democracy and call out the "leaders" who use violence and bullying tactics to enforce their agendas. Real leaders stand up to the bullies, call them out, regroup, and form alliances with like-minded people. This administration has weaponized EVERYTHING and forced people to speak out in the name of truth and justice. As dire as the current political environment is, there is much hope for the Midterms. I believe there will be a major shift in the House and Senate as the cracks in this administration deepen and support falters. There will be a reckoning and in the meantime, continue to have hope and faith in the process and do the things you can to speak your truth in the name of the rule of law, the Constitution, and justice. Hold on Susie!!
Jo-Anne, you are very inspiring yourself - well said!! We will keep trying to keep the truth front and center. The gaslighting really bothers me and I hope the truth does get in front of people. I hope you're right about the midterms, but I know Trump is itching to mess up the elections. We'll see! Take care!
Thank you Susie! The gaslighting infuriates me also but I believe that when people try so hard to lie, it is because they are afraid of losing control in a situation. The cracks are already showing and as constituents feel the effects of the economy, tariffs, ICE raids, etc., they will reach out to their members of Congress who will "break" with Trump in order to be re-elected. That's why speaking up is so important. Trump's policies will be his undoing....it is just going to take a little more time. Keep the faith in the constitution!! Sending hugs and hope!
Thank you Jo-Anne, I will!
I would be very disappointed if you had NOT spoken about these atrocities--it would have meant one thing and one thing only--that you support the evil ones. So I for one am more than glad to see these subjects included in your posts, I look forward to them and thank you for them.
xo
Oh, that's reassuring Deborah. Thank you for the encouragement. No support for evil!
It has been clear from the first posting I ever read of yours, :)
❤️
As I just said to friends who are also paid subscribers - I love your insights, self-awareness, vulnerability and of course articulate writing. Keep at it PLEASE! 🙏 ❤️
Oh Diane, that's very kind. Sometimes I do close my eyes when I press the publish button and think, "ooh, I hope this isn't too much!" But it is who I am! I really appreciate your steadfast engagement here. Thank you.
thank you for telling the truth, and sharing your truths. taking personal action (calls, donations etc.) empowers me, following the walking monks ("today will be my peaceful day") settles me, but it's all only temporary. my friends and i inspire each other to be beacons of light. some days are darker than others, and still we try.
I love that you and your friends are inspiring each other to be beacons of light. I will remember that and think of it when things look dark. Thank you.
Thank you Susie, as always you speak your truth so beautifully. It's all so overwhelming right now. Autocracies thrive on making people feel hopeless, helpless, fearful and enraged and I feel like the most powerful form of resistance comes in standing in your truth and illuminating the way for those around you with your words and your spirit. May we all find ways to support each other in our own way ~ with the reminder that we are a global, collective community with a shared consciousness. We are connected deeply with one another across borders, states and countries.
My goal is to remind myself and those around me of this connection and how damaging the illusion of separateness has and will continue to become if we don't support, care for each other and most importantly, honor this journey we are on together as human beings. I will always maintain the light is so much more powerful than the darkness. We must protect our First Ammendment Rights and the Freedom of the Press. Your voice matters and is appreciated, a ray of light in the storm swirling around us. Thank you for shining so brightly.
Polly, you make so many good points here! I, too, feel really strongly that we are all connected, that our actions have a ripple effect, and that we need to buoy each other up. (And I think the current drive to isolate the US from its allies is an example of a break that is ultimately not going to serve anyone well.)
Yes, we must care for each other, protect our rights, and keep ourselves stable and healthy so we can help others! Yay for the light - and thank you for the light you spread, Polly.
You rock, Susie! THANK YOU for your words and your honesty. x
🩷
I never realized how passionate I am about our Constitutional rights until they were threatened on a daily basis. As a former news reporter, it’s insulting watching the press conferences defending these senseless killings. What’s terrifying is that there is no end in sight.
I'm sorry - as a former reporter, this must be especially maddening for you. Those press conferences are unbelievable. I hope at least that people can begin to understand these people for who they are. Sigh!
I’m upgrading to be a paid subscriber because you are brave enough to share your perspective and take a stand. Plus, thanks for referencing Heather Cox Richardson. She is a beacon in this time - a daily must read for me for years.
Carol, thank you so much for upgrading! Your support means a lot - and I will keep on trying to be brave. And yes, I learn so much from Heather Cox Richardson. We are so lucky to have her.
Wonderfully said. I'm not looking to engage in so-called political thought at every turn, either, but to ignore it and not face the reality of what's happening in MN and across the country feels like trying to live in an alternate world. It does not seem possible to separate the two.
I looked at social media yesterday for much longer than I wanted to; I saw my neighbors post things about how Alex Pretti got burned touching a hot stove and blamed the stove. Enraged is just about the right word for how I felt after reading that. How do they not see what is actually happening? I know the answer is Trump and his army of conspiracy theorists and trolls, and I wonder why so many people in this country feel better embracing that world view than investing in truth and fairness. My mind goes there and I start to spiral. We are so much better than this.
I had not heard the term "doing a geographic" before, but that describes how I've handled making some big changes in my life. Moving seems so appealing sometimes, and it has worked for me in the past, but you are right in that wherever you go, there you are. I think now, though, I'm not looking to run from myself but from the masses of people whose minds have been warped to support hatred and violence. A secluded island where it's me, my family, the animals, and nature sounds so good right now. I guess because it would be peaceful, and I just want peace.
Thanks for this post. It makes me feel better knowing someone else out there gets it.
Hi Kate!
Oy, I totally understand all of this. Peace would be lovely. And yes, "doing a geographic" is not always a bad idea. Honestly, it comes in to mind because I have a hard time feeling like I'm somehow aligned, or in some way supporting by association, the terrible things going on.
It really is such a balance between staying informed and making yourself crazy. Reading those comments is crazy-making - and I think there is not much in our every day lives that makes us absolutely enraged like that so when we see what's going on or hear those comments, that feeling of being enraged is almost scary.
Anyway, I'm glad we can talk about it a little bit. Take care and dream of flowers!
Once again, thank you so much for your inspiring words, Susie! I’m with you! I can see that you’re doing more than I am, but I’ve made a few donations to the Democratic Party. I get so wound up when I watch or read the news, and my daughter tells me to turn off the tv; but it makes me so angry that I can’t.
I totally understand all those emotions Ethel - it's so hard! You're doing everything you can - and taking care of your daughter (and yourself!) so just keep on doing that!
I question what the extent of the education and training is for ICE agents as well the screening for intelligence level. It appears to me from watching the videos that fear is a big factor in the responses of agents. It reminds me of pack-like behavior that you would see in a group of dogs or wild animals attacking one “predator”, who has no one to help him protect himself. I also question the self-righteous responses from those in charge when questioned about the use of wearing masks.
Keep writing whatever is called for. I'm with you. [Even as a fellow Vineyarder I did activate my Canadian citizenship and get my CA passport this past year (thanks to my dad being born in northern BC) so I'm with you on that piece of it too!
Hi Morgan. Oh wow, that was smart. You hate to have to think about these things. (I'm afraid I wouldn't have much luck with CA with only a great-grandmother - too many generations! Though apparently my husband could be eligible for an Irish passport if he had his grandparents birth certificates!) Thank you as always, for all your support. Hope you are staying cozy in all this snow.