VOTE
CHANGE
February 5, 2021
November 1st is All Saints Day which is commonly celebrated by Catholics and other Christian religions. It is a day to honor those who have transitioned or passed away. In a year like none other in my life, 2020 has given me more opportunities to honor so many in my life in this way than I would have expected. I wish you much grace and love to those you honor as angels and saints.
November 3rd is Election Day in the United States. A day some would argue should be celebrated as a day to honor our right to vote for the candidate of our choice. It is a day we should trust that those elected will honor our electoral system and represent the people’s decision in our democracy. On this day in 2020 we are voting to protect our democracy hoping that our America will once again be able to stand tall with our allies in support of peace, honor, and justice for all.
Political. Maybe.
I recall a conversation I had with a colleague as I entered into the corporate landscape. I said to him, “I really don’t want to “play” politics at work.” He paused, looked at me, choosing his words carefully and responded. “It’s really not whether or not you want to play politics, it’s more about how well you will play politics. I suspect you are not interested in being a “B” player.” This conversation was followed by several more enlightened conversations and experiences that provided me grounding in my early learning about politics, the plight of African Americans (particularly in the workplace), and leadership.
Today, I believe we are all in the fight of our lives for democracy in America. When the least of us is not honored, no one is honored. When the least of us is stressed, feels hopeless or helpless, in one way or another we are all affected. And too, when love, mercy, grace, and justice is felt for the least of us, we all can be filled with joy, happiness, and light. It is up to each of us to do our part exhibiting courage to do what is right and just. Each of us want for the same things in this life – to be loved, to matter, to be appreciated. See me, hear me, show me you care. What would life be if we all lived this mantra? I contend there would be a lot more listening, meeting people where they are, and progress towards outcomes that matter and are mutually beneficial.
As we reflect and work to be better at who we are for ourselves, let’s get out and VOTE and excite your friends and fellow Americans to do the same.
Voice your choice. Think about what matters for us as a nation and vote your heart. Give respect to yourself and others knowing we deserve a better more inclusive nation. After all, this country was built by those rising up to be counted, included, and longing to be valued, heard, seen, and appreciated. May all our voices carry the message that serves us all proudly.
Opportunity. This is our collective opportunity to stand up, speak up and engage in conversations, listening deeply to learn, grow ever becoming our best selves. This is the time to go to the mountain top and shout reclaiming our rightful place as valued, committed, and determined Americans who care about our democratic nation and all that it means to realize equity for all.
Trouble. Yes, it’s time to embrace “Good Trouble”. Enough is enough. No time to fear, there’s too much at stake for all people in this nation. Do whatever you can from where you are knowing that every dollar, call, or conversation matters.
Energize. Yes, I know we are all exhausted. Hurricanes. Lies. Coronavirus. Shelter in Place. Masks. Home Schooling. Election Fatigue. Video Fatigue. Distancing. Injustices. Inequities. Telling your story repeatedly. Living your story repeated. Fires. Death. And some of us remain excited. Yes, excited because a new day is dawning. We cannot give up, slow up, or rest up. We are nearing the finish line for this election and we must BELIEVE and KNOW what is right will prevail.
There is no room for FEAR or DOUBT. Make your thoughts and actions count. BELIEVE in you and BELIEVE in us!!! This is the hurdle before us. We will have more hurdles to cross, more challenges ahead, and we must stay diligent, committed and steadfast!
