I write this from a place of privilege.

The stories are on my newsfeed, the images are on my TV and the words are in my ears. But I have the privilege of being able to put down my phone, turn off the TV and change the subject of the conversation.

Most of the time though, I pay attention. And when I do, I feel a heavy, heavy weight bearing down on me. I feel it on my chest. Sometimes the weight makes it difficult to breathe. I cry all the time.  

There is so much pain in the world right now.

There are mothers and fathers whose daughters are missing. They cannot sleep knowing their children may be in danger.   Young Black and Indigenous men and women are being murdered by the police. The justice system has failed to provide them any semblance of justice or peace. There are protests throughout the world against White supremacy and the systems built on this foundation of hatred and injustice.

There are children, very small children, torn from their parents’ arms. They are so scared – they must be so scared – and just want to feel safe with and loved by their families.

I am choosing to write because I find writing and planning cathartic. Like so many, I am privileged – my family is safe and intact – but I feel the weight of families in pain, and it’s hard to know what to do.

I refuse to let the magnitude of the pain paralyze me into a state of inaction, but where do I start?

I have always felt that things are more manageable on paper. If I had a major essay to write in school, I would start writing an outline and immediately feel a sense of relief. The stress of an upcoming exam would start to dissipate as soon as I wrote down a study plan. I write a to-do list at the end of each day at work so I can go home feeling as prepared as possible for the next day to come.

Is there a to-do list for this level of pain and suffering?   Honestly, I don’t know. But, it’s worth a try, so here goes…

Sara’s Different Kind of To-Do List

1. Learn – Take some time to research organizations and people who are in positions to make a difference.

2. Give – Whether at the local, national or international level (or all of the above), there are people who are fighting every day and they need support and resources. Give what you can. Give generously.

3. Speak out – Do not get into debates with internet trolls, but when you hear people spouting hate or mistruths, do not stay silent. Though it may be easier to walk away or to change the subject, some things are important enough to fight about.

4. Love – Put as much love and kindness into the world as possible. If you see people in pain, meet their pain with love, but also recognize that fighting can be an expression of love, too. Speaking up for those whose voices have been silenced or marginalized is a powerful way to love.

5. Breathe – Even when you feel short of breath and the tears are coming hard and fast, remember to breathe and take care of yourself. You will be in no position to learn, give, speak out or love if you do not take time to breathe.

6. Repeat.

Are you feeling overwhelmed with what’s happening in the world right now?  Please post a comment below and let us know.

And if someone you know might like Sara’s To-Do List, share it with them.

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