Considering Our Future
Anyone who likes change raise your hand. I don’t see many hands up and you sure won’t see mine! But I suspect that we all see the need for change and are looking for our particular way to contribute to creating a world that works for everyone.
Below are three excerpts I like that relate to this transition time in our lives where we need vision, guidance, support and wisdom to accompany us on an unknown path forward. I hope they’ll help you as well.
Sister Joan Chittister
Everywhere there are people who, despite finding themselves mired in periods of national [disruption] or personal marginalization refuse to give up the thought of a better future or give in to the allurements of a deteriorating present. They never lose hope that the values they learned in the best of times or the courage it takes to reclaim their world from the worst of times are worth the commitment of their lives. These people, the best of ourselves, are legion and they are everywhere.
It is the unwavering faith, the open hearts, and the piercing courage of people from every level of every society that carries us through every major social breakdown to the emergence again of the humanization of humanity. In every region, everywhere, they are the unsung but mighty voices of community, high-mindedness, and deep resolve. They are the prophets of each era who prod the rest of the world into seeing newly what it means to be fully alive, personally, nationally, and spiritually.
Robert Hubbell
In resisting, protesting, and organizing, we have transformed ourselves and the face of American democracy. There is no going back. We will never again take for granted the blessings of liberty or the fragility of democratic norms. We have learned that vigilance is the price of freedom and that truth requires defenders willing to speak on its behalf. Along the way, we have forged friendships born of passion, hard work, and love of country.
Editors of Yes! magazine, “Our Work Continues”
We also know that no single political moment—no leader, no individual shock wave—solely determines the future. No matter who’s in office, the work continues. . . . Regardless of how this election shakes out, your voice is still needed. The work you’re already doing to make the world more just, equitable, and sustainable, must continue. Your willingness to learn, to grow, to connect with and support your fellow human beings—that will always be essential. The planet will still need your care and restoration, Black lives will still matter, Indigenous peoples will still have rights, immigrants will still be welcomed, and everyone in this country will still be entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The past four years have reminded us that we need to protect and expand those rights if we want to keep them at all.
Nelson Mandela
I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended.
I look forward to walking the path with you in the new year.
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