I stand in solidarity with the black community. I will march with you.

Thankful Notes (#291)

I’m not quoting anyone today.

And I’m not sharing stories about the kitchen or my dad or projects around the house.

This won’t be a long post and I will just get right to it.

As clearly and plainly as I can say:

I stand in solidarity with the black community. I will march with you.

I stand against racism both individual and systemic (which was built-in from the beginning).

I stand against social injustice.

Black Lives Matter. No addendums needed. No asterisks. No buts. No alsos.

Black Lives Matter.

I’m saying this because I believe it, because I’ve said it before, and because it needs to be said again. And again. And again. I’m saying this because it is so deeply tied to my faith. Because our Shepherd will leave the 99 to go rescue the 1 who is at great risk.

I’m saying this because a friend who I love and care very much about, who is black, confronted me in love today… asking me why I am being quiet and subtle, reminding me that people are watching and listening, calling me to use my voice and platform.

The conversation hurt because they know me too well and they were right.

I was being too quiet.

And I knew my reasons were just excuses, “I’ve marched and preached and blogged and said this stuff for years – maybe someone else’s voice needs to be heard, maybe I can amplify theirs,” and “I’ve been pretty clear on Twitter and Instagram but I hate Facebook and all the crazytown that goes with it – I don’t want to end up amplifying those voices in the comments.”

I cried during our conversation. I apologized. Most importantly, I listened… actually listened without letting defensiveness crash in.

So, that leads me to being thankful. I’m thankful for real friends who don’t let you walk around with your zipper down or cilantro on your tooth or your quiet carefulness get in the way of what needs to be said.

I got pastored today. And I’m so very glad they didn’t hold back.

To my friends of color, I’m sorry for not saying enough. I’m listening and learning… I know I can do that. I am with you and for you and I will continue to be.

Amen.