The Noise We Make

getting in good trouble

See what had happened was…

During the pandemic and a year after a disturbing local domestic terrorist attack¹, something unique and wonderful happened when I found a new social media feature – Spaces on Twitter –I found a sense of purpose and an outlet to carry it out. I’ve long had visions of being an author dancing in my head because I had stuff to share.²

I’m also very aware that it would require A) That I Write, B) Be consistent with it, knowing I was not doing that and not likely to begin anytime soon. Why because it required a focus and discipline that I had yet to master. I was being honest with myself. Given that truth, I was also a believer of bloom where you are planted, do what you can till you can do better.

So, here’s what I been doing for the last two years…

I have hosted a weekly live “goodtrouble” chat focused on increasing civic engagement³. I have been honored to have a fabulously talented cohost “SoulSister” with union and media expertise. I’ve also had the pleasure of having some wonderfully well-informed diverse guest cohosts. Every Monday at 12p CST for a few hours we cover current, geopolitical and historical events relative to this political moment.

We take an in-depth look at many historical events and past eras against the backdrop of current events reminding folks of how history often rhymes and to consider the times. A time where we are seeing an all-out assault on the education system. I ask why and then I look at historical examples when there was active measure to destroy or drastically change the institutions of learning, it has always been connected to indoctrination of some kind usually authoritarian (i.e. Hitler)

The guiding principle for the discussion is to lead with facts and receipts mixed with history and our diverse informed opinions on the potential impact to our communities, country and democracy. Solutions are a necessary aspect of the discussion –no pity party allowed. The actions people take will be different because it’s important to work within areas of great interest and comfort that can be sustained. Keeping a few thoughts in mind.

The Serenity Prayer to find a sense of balance.

"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference"

…followed with a quote to stoke my activism

“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” ― Angela Y. Davis

I always end the chat with a quote from John Lewis to keep a sense of hopefulness.

Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble. #goodtrouble

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020_Nashville_bombing

2. “Mockingbird on a Mushroom” Photo credit: Desia Batiste

The Mockingbird not only has a beautiful song of its own, but also can imitate the songs of dozens of other birds reminds of us the importance of expressing ourselves and having faith to show who we really are

3.