Last night, I joined my neighbors to meet Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, who is running for Governor of New Jersey. This would not be significant in normal times. Yet, I am a registered Republican. She is running on the Democratic ticket. In today’s political climate, that is considered a traitorous act. I was curious and wanted to hear what she had to say. She is a force. She is talented, articulate, and funny. She laid out her plan. It is an actual plan to improve the lives of everyone in New Jersey, not just an idea. It was encouraging, but did not push me to write this morning.
When I arrived, I found a seat in the second row. As usual, my husband tells everyone I would talk to a wall. I initiated a conversation with the woman next to me. She asked me about the primary election, and I shared that my focus was on education. She was a former adjunct psychology professor at Brookdale Community College, where I serve on the board. “Nothing happens accidentally; everything happens through necessity.” We started the toe-dipping state-of-the-world conversation to decide whether to continue or pivot. We were aligned by fear, and I instantly felt my shoulders soften. I shared that I am afraid for everyone, especially my daughters and grandchildren. “My daughters are Asian, and while they are US citizens, they are not white. I know how this works; today it is brown people, next it is black, and then it is Asian. I am sick with worry”. I see her searching for her words, and then she responded, “And you should be.” Validation and fear fuel my emotions, and I sit alone.
foursetsofeyes 