I am one of hundreds of millions of Americans who have benefited from living in this imperfect democracy. I have been able to attend college and obtain graduate degrees. I have owned a home and raised children in a great public school system. I have not gone hungry. I have had access to health care, including vaccines. I have participated in free and fair elections. I have never experienced war or displacement at home. And more.

We are not going to be saved by someone, magical thinking or just prayer. So, what are we doing?

Have we started building community to bridge the divide and reach common ground? Have we found a place where we can volunteer or be of service? Are we sending money or participating in an organization that is focused on justice? Are we having honest conversations without hysteria and “awfulizing.” Are we active with groups to help us organize in opposition and sustain activism?

Are we participating in our local government? Can we support someone who has lost their federal job or is in fear of being deported? Are we posting signs? Have we closed our Facebook, Amazon or X account? Have we stopped our subscription to the Washington Post or any other news organization that has capitulated? Have we offloaded our Tesla? Have we offered kindness and patience today?

I don’t know how brave any of us are by ourselves, but I do know there is strength in numbers.

Carolee Lindsey
Cumberland