I recently became aware of the discussion in our community about inclusivity and activities at the 2019 BLE reunion. This morning I asked the question, what virtue do I need to contribute to this most challenging issue and the discussion in our houses. Sacrifice is spot on. I cannot speak to what other people should or should not do, but I can check my own actions, thoughts and beliefs. I cannot strive to work for the eradication of racial prejudice if I do not exhibit a sense of fellowship with all races. It takes effort, detachment and effort not to see "otherness" and I often fall short. This is not the work of just thought leaders or persons in position of power, this is the work of everybody on earth. We cannot simply play lip service to it. Our actions are what brings about change and it becomes apparent by the company we keep, the quality of our conversations and our pursuits. I think the quotation on the card says it perfectly;
"We need people who will dare to risk anything and everything to see things different"
~Shushobha Barve
The gift of this event was that in the most recent meet up of Southwestern Ontario's Brightest we had a conversation about race, thereby deepening our relationship with one another and showing a willingness to learn how to talk about this difficult issue. We talked about the sacrifice of those fearless souls who have brought about change by giving of their lives, their freedom and comfort. The lesson is that it is now our turn... what will we do?
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