Be the change you want to see.

I've just realized today that I have never made enough time to grieve My America. I've spent so much time pushing back against This Is Not Normal and reaching for the Better Angels Of Our Natures ... It's a kind of denial, isn't it? And I hide in fanfiction, both writing and reading, when my heart hurts...
And I will let myself have today. Two years ago today, I was feeling safe, and safe in my California bubble. I was convinced that gradually I would be able to help more of my friends and community who felt unsafe, into a better life.
And then the coup was successful. Coup is definitely the correct word, an Illegitimate government seized power. Immediately, even before the inauguration, they started smashing, dismantling, and poking holes in the social safety net and the mechanisms of civil society.
Today I grieve My America. I'll allow myself the time. And then I'll get back to work throwing new ropes at the edges of the safety net those bastards keep slashing at. And then I'll get back to slapping duct tape on the ragged cushion below the safety net. And then I'll get back to learning how to throw sand and sabots into the gears trying to chew up what Jesus called The Least Of These (I'm not christian, I'm paraphrasing)
I will do what I can do. Here. To grow the New America, to fight to protect and provide for those under attack.
"to ease pain and encourage growth", thank you @dduane for the concept.
My gods won't let me do less than that. My INTEGRITY won't let me do less than that.
I love you. Remember that. Keep fighting, and let's all take care of each other.