This is the normal time slot for my Monday review, but not today. Nothing about what this country has seen over the past few days - much less its entire history - is normal.
Writing a stationery post today seemed pointless, and out of touch. I'm angry. I've been angry for a while about what is happening to my country. I keep my real-world activism and support mostly off the internet, but I think the way I live my life and try to lead by example is well known by longtime friends and followers. I've always followed the mantra “actions speak louder than words,” but words matter too. Sometimes more. And I have a platform to share those words.
Black Lives Matter.
Do you believe in that statement? Great. Make sure you are doing everything in your power to live it every day.
Black Lives Matter.
Does that make you uncomfortable? Good. Take a look inside yourself, try to understand why, and work on improving. Education is key, and resources are plenty. I sat my kids down this weekend to watch Killer Mike’s speech on the riots in Atlanta. In those 8 minutes, I paused it three times to have a discussion with them, and allow them to ask questions. I have a responsibility as a parent to teach them to be understanding, empathetic, and an ally to everyone.
Black Lives Matter.
Do you not want to see those words? Do you want me to stay in my lane and talk about pens? Not today. And if you don't like it, please feel free to unfollow me across the internet.
Things will be back to normal soon enough here on The Pen Addict, but they have never been, nor will they ever be, for Black people in this country unless things change right now. Do your part to change systemic oppression today, tomorrow, and the rest of your time on this planet all of us share.
Black Lives Matter.
