“These are the times that try men’s souls.”
Those words are no less true today than they were in 1776 when Thomas Paine wrote of summer soldiers and sunshine patriots. Indeed, these trying times seem to come around over and over again, and each generation is faced with a choice; to stand aside, and let the forces of those who would destroy us continue to grow in power, or to stand up, each voice echoing the call for freedom for all. When faced with violent, racist fools who have no qualms with killing those who oppose them, standing up is a frightening thought. But that is what we must do. It’s not going to be pretty, nor will it be easy. There will be times when you alone may be the voice that steps up and faces this fascist garbage that has once again raised its putrid head from the filth of the shadows. But you are not alone – there are more of us, more people who believe in freedom, equality, kindness, than you will ever find hiding behind the cross, wrapped in confederate flags and raising a ‘Heil’ as they flood the night carrying torches.
We must not be afraid to raise our voices, to speak out against hate, against bigotry, against fascism. And should our hands be forced, we should not be afraid to defend ourselves. We aren’t a bunch of snowflakes; we are all diamonds, glistening in the light of mutual respect, kindness and love. And we will not melt away.
Do not stand idly by while they preach their purulent, pus-laden ideology. Do not tolerate another Charlottesville.
