Grief and Sorrow for Minneapolis

The unfolding events in Minneapolis fill me with grief and sorrow. I have no words to express the deep sadness I feel for everyone who is angry, grieving, afraid, and in despair. But I am not shocked or dismayed or surprised at the events that are unfolding. As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “A riot is the language of the unheard.” 

Grief and Sorrow for Minneapolis

Last night before I went to bed, I heard of the setting of fires, looting, and unrest throughout the metropolitan area. I was so sad I didn’t know if I could sleep thinking of all that was happening. So I sat and did tonglen before going to bed. Repeating the phrase, “Breathe in chaos, anger, and pain, breathe out peace, compassion, and calm,” I became calm. 

Please, let us all listen deeply to the pain of the black communities in Minnesota and throughout the country. And then let’s step up to support our fellow human beings in demanding deep structural and societal change.

Recently I told a friend, “I’m not a social activist. It’s just not who I am.” But after the events of this week I know that I need to act and speak and support  the changes that black communities and communities of color demand.

First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out— because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

   — Pastor Martin Niemöller

I am a human being. We are all human beings whatever our race or country of origin and we all deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

May you be comforted in sorrow. May you be at peace.