"Black people are missing in Three Rivers. They are missing from downtown storefronts, positions at schools, boardrooms, and the Armstrong factory. Strategically, they are missing from the heart of the city. Living in downtrodden homes, next to a downtrodden park on the outskirts of town. Like the now vandalized street mural on Broadway."
“We can compromise. We can believe more than one thing to be true at the same time. We are capable of the work that needs to be done. If only we showed up to hard conversations ready to listen to understand. Using divisive tactics like the false dilemma fallacy whether on purpose or accidentally will hinder all good intentions.”
"Why do we resort to ignoring every fiber of our being to appease others? Everywhere I look, I see people who are crippled by the fear of what might happen if they were to veer from tradition, or religious indoctrination. Placing the opinions of others above their own authenticity. Forcing themselves towards "achievement" as approved by society. We are prone to do this, although it is a well-known fact that you can't please everyone. When you are making decisions for the heart, and in line with your purpose you cannot even rely on a majority vote."
"There are many painful truths living and being aware as an American minority. One being the road to reconstruction is hard. But the call for justice reform is a torch that must be carried, a light that cannot be snuffed out. Nothing is going to change until the system is dismantled and reconstructed. Preferably with everyone effected present during the conversations. It can happen. It has to. Policy over everything."
"When someone is grieving one of the best things to do is just be present. Your presence was felt Three Rivers. I balled afterward and finally regained a sense of peace knowing that so many others care, are willing to have the hard conversations, and take a stand against injustice. After all of the mourning, there was joy."
"Sacred Space" is an excerpt from "Breathe" a chapbook by Aundrea Sayrie.
I pushed out the thought, "This is not fair” with "What is this teaching me, and what good remains?" Even when it's dark and hard to see, there is always a silver lining.
"Knowing exactly what is right for everyone while watching the world continue to grapple with the Coronavirus is an impossible feat. An easier task is to at the very least, take the time to evaluate and understand what feels right for you."
"If we are serious about healing as a nation, we must start by communicating. Unpolished and raw communication. I want to do my part in both listening and sharing because it is time for a change."
"There is an uproar in the streets for Ahmaud Arbery. Outcry turned into rejoicing as justice is now being sought. His killers admitted to ending his life in February, yet until yesterday they were free of charges, living their best lives."
A NOTE FROM OUR EDITOR
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