Which Is It?
Hi there, come on in. Good day? Yes, me, too. Not bad. Grab a seat on the sofa - may I get you something? Sure! No problem, I'll be right back.
What? No, I don't think so. What's the point? All we achieve by talking about it is to give it legitimacy. A voice. If you are already offended and horrified, there's no real sense in adding to the mire in which it exists. Ignore the devil and he goes away - forget the fear and it fades. Right?
Why the uproar? I see, a different opinion. Imagine that. Yes, I hear you - I see your point. Perhaps it is necessary to speak out against the noise when you hear it. To express the truth as you see it. Will it help in the long run? Does that matter more than the words and thoughts you project? I'm just wondering aloud. I do that a lot.
Someone answer me, if you will be so kind. When we expose ourselves in order to be recognized ... to be appreciated, fulfilled ... is it for those reasons alone or to make a difference? Making a difference can mean suffering and hardship. Justification can mean an ego boost.
Which is it?
Hi, Sweetie...Thought I'd take you up on that glass of wine and a toast...
Today was a good day!
October 14, 2008 9:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Speaking for myself, coming out about abortion rights and my fear of losing them under a McCain administration by writing a public blog about a personal abortion was not easy. Turns out, I've shared my more recent blogs here with enough people I work with, who know how to click a username, that they now know about something deeply personal that happened to me three years ago.
Do I worry a little about what my coworkers think of me, because of it? Sure.
Am I sorry I wrote my post about it?
Hell no. I was concerned about the rights of women then, and I'm still just as concerned about the rights of women now.
Sometimes, speaking up means taking risks. Sometimes, it gets you a lot of attention. Good attention is great. New friendships, or just ego strokes, are a nice thing. Good attention is even greater if it brings attention to the topic at hand....even if it's uncomfortable attention.
Oh, here, honey, I brought some wine. A Shiraz and a Pinot. Open whichever one you want first.
October 14, 2008 9:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
You have an odd way of reaching into my mind, Lis. Thank you for your post on abortion, and for so many others. You've made an excellent point this evening.
The corkscrew is working on the Pinot - thanks again.
October 14, 2008 9:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
This new stuff is gonna make me lose what's left of my mind. So yes! A tall glass of wine and a toast is in order -
Here's to still,
A woman who -
Given the chance,
Knew what to do.
Cheers, my friend!
October 14, 2008 9:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
(clinks glasses)
Way to go, Still! From one former Republican to another -- you go, girl.
October 14, 2008 10:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
Thank you, thank you, thank you...You guys are the best and I'm sooooo happy to be sharing my joy with you!
Here's to you! And another to our next President, Barack Obama! (God willing and the creek don't rise!)
Great Pinot, Lis...thanks!
October 14, 2008 10:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hey there - hope everyone's still up for some good news. Ran across a wonderful story today: There's an organization that interviews and selects good (really good) high school age students from "underperforming" schools - usually in poorer or dangerous inner city areas - and sends them to good neighborhoods, where they are safe and in good school districts. Do these kids miss their families? Of course - they talk regularly and get home when they can (all funded by donors). They get a good atmosphere and a school where they are encouraged to do well and look at good colleges in their future.
Good story, great kids, all of them. I hope every one of them does well in life and I suspect they will.
Just when I think I'm getting a bit too misanthropic, something good like this. Must be turning into an old softie...
October 15, 2008 1:02 AM | Reply | Permalink
Completely off topic, I just wanted to tell you to get some sleep, young lady. You were up too late last night.
Scolding completed, now I hope you have a good night.
October 15, 2008 1:12 AM | Reply | Permalink
LOVE the new avatar! How are you Matt?
October 15, 2008 1:54 AM | Reply | Permalink