Show up and Engage

Photo Credit: Jacob Earl: https://flic.kr/p/Tuasqx

The podcast DecodeDC had an episode about the success of the National Rifle Association.  Essentially, it comes down to their membership showing up and being engaged. Regardless of what you think of how they use their power, it was a good reminder of the value of loud, consistent voices no matter the number.  

They pay attention and are willing to raise a fuss.  It works. 

It's easy, and in fact tempting, to be apathetic.  "The legislature is never going to change...My vote doesn't matter...They've already chosen the actress for the lead role...Those people are so much smarter than I am, why even show up?"

We have to anyway.  Once we give up on the idea that improvement in our lives, workplaces, communities, and society is impossible, then the light that makes life worth living dims and fades to black.  

So continue to talk about what is important to you.  Research ways to work around or erode obstacles. Gather with others to discuss what the ideal future looks like.  Learn about people and history and economics and technology.  Learn how to be an effective communicator and advocate.   Show up, full of energy, ready to make the next step forward, even if it's small.  Or even to stand, strong and resolute with pride, to prevent further losses.  Because if you don't continually show up and remind everyone of what's important, then over time, people may start to forget that it *is* important.