“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak…” Ecclesiastes 3: 1-7
I call this blog Words to Spare because I usually have lots to say. Right now, I’m finding it very important to speak up. I’m engaging in lots of conversations with fellow white folks, doing my best to share what I’ve learned and help lighten the emotional labor of my Black friends who don’t necessarily want to be answering every question from every acquaintance who is suddenly paying attention. I’ve been to a prayer rally in my town and have plans to attend an NAACP gathering tonight and another prayer rally next week. I’ve been talking about justice for a long time around here, but the whole world feels different right now, and I don’t think it needs more of my words.
This week, I’m finding it very important to also be silent. On Instagram, I’m trying to amplify Black voices, and pause my own photos and words so that others can be better heard. And I think that’s what I need to do here, too.
I stand with my Black brothers and sisters against injustice. I honor them as fellow image bearers of God. I’m anti-racist, and I will give my time, votes, dollars, and words to dismantle the systems that have harmed so many of them for so long.
Please take a few minutes to read these perspectives, and pray with me for humility in our own hearts and for justice in our nation.
Bryan Stevenson on the frustration surrounding George Floyd’s murder
The Grio on part of the problem with our criminal justice system
Ibram X. Kendi and Yoni Appelbaum discuss policing, protests, and this moment in history (audio/podcast)
President Barack Obama on activism and engagement
The Jewish Telegraphic Agency on an interfaith rally in Chicago
Black pastors in Raleigh on the protests after George Floyd’s murder
and John Piper (who’s a white guy, but I hope you’ll read his words to fellow white folks) on the sin of structural racism
Resources for learning more:
Be The Bridge: a faith-based community for racial reconciliation
