One thing I’ve focused on in these online conversations across difference is engagement vs investment.
Lots of us are so invested in an outcome that it’s impacting our abilities to healthily and strategically engage. This is why I offer consulting to help people do the engagement work effectively because of how invested they are in their relationships.
A dear friend inboxed me to let me know I didn’t need to invest my time responding to a racist performance in her comments and I said,
I’m not investing, I’m engaging.
A dear friend inboxed me to let me know I didn’t need to invest my time responding to a racist performance in her comments and I said, I’m not investing, I’m engaging. There is a good, healthy difference.
I was asked yesterday if I felt an urgency in these moments before this window of opportunity for race relations on the backs of Black Lives closes, and I said “no. I do not feel a sense of urgency.” I said this because I come from a culture of marathoners in this race for justice. When this window closes, I’m still doing the work.
I have watched my mother’s tireless work with the local police departments – and so many scores of white people – all the while deeply supporting the safety and growth of Black Students. This is, and has always been, and will always be a marathon, not a sprint.
Books will give you knowledge. Read them.
Actions will give you stamina. Take them.
Stamina will give you growth. Stay focused.
Invest in you, then engage with others. Hold the line.
Do justice.
Love mercy.
Amen.