Cultivate Joyful Rebellion

Because misery isn’t required for revolution.

(Pencil on Paper)

Many years ago, an academic fellow of mine said, “Being outraged is an indulgence.” They’ve probably forgotten this conversation, because this statement was obvious to them. To me, it was a totally new concept.

Up until that point, I’d spent my time around holier-than-thou outrage martyrs, who most definitely established their sociopolitical elitism ranks through the comparison of their respective despair.

It’s taken many more years for this, along with the wisdom of community organizers, and a more nuanced understanding of emotions and actions, to really get roots in my psyche.

Emotions are just emotions. Thoughts are just thoughts. Neither sorrow nor cynicism are necessary to prove you care. Showing up in the world, even when it's burning and you feel small, is the only proof there is.