If protest depended solely on success, there would be little protest of any durability or significance. History provides scant evidence that individual acts of protest consistently yield immediate, tangible results. — Wendell Berry.
However, enduring protest is often fueled by a more profound and enduring hope: the preservation of one’s integrity. This is the core of Wendell Berry’s insight. By actively resisting injustice, even when the odds seem insurmountable, we safeguard the essential qualities of our own hearts and spirits – qualities that would be irrevocably eroded by complicity.
This principle holds true regardless of the political climate. It is a tragic irony that this inauguration takes place on the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., a man who dedicated his life to nonviolent protest in pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
Our fundamental duties as human beings transcend the actions of any government. We are called to love our neighbors, to care for the vulnerable, and to strive for a world where justice and compassion prevail. As Wendell Berry reminds us, protest is not an end in itself, but a means to an end.
True change begins with individual action. While local, state, and national governments have crucial roles to play, we are ultimately responsible for shaping the world around us. When our leaders fail to uphold the principles of justice and human dignity, we are called to step into the breach. We must not merely complain; we must act.
This action may take many forms – from peaceful protest and civic engagement to acts of service and direct support for those in need. The goal is not simply to oppose injustice, but to actively build a more just and equitable society. By doing so, we not only preserve our own souls but also contribute to a collective effort to create a world where all people can thrive.”
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