Then They Came for Me

First they came for the Communists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist

Then 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 out for me

Martin Niemoller, German Lutheran pastor and theologian

I consider myself to be a kind woman, a compassionate woman – a woman of integrity and morals. I love my partner, my family, my friends, and my country. 

That being said let me take the time to say that what I have witnessed in this country over the past week is far from kind, compassionate, loving or moral.

And I am disheartened, disappointed and dare I say angry with those among us who keep supporting a leader who continues to breed contempt, misinformation and division among citizens that he took an oath to protect and represent.

Mom taught me to respect different religions, cultures, opinions and political persuasions. 

God and my innate ability to see right from wrong has taught me that I can not remain silent when I witness overgrown school yard bullies harass, intimidate and threaten those among us who try to be reasonable and understanding.

So today I say to you:

Do not assume that my silence has been one of approval.

 I do not approve of the hatred and violence that is being shown by some of my fellow Americans.

Do not assume that my tears that are flowing are tears of weakness or old age.

 My tears represent my humanity and the wisdom of a life long lived.

And by all means, do not assume that I believe in liberal or socialist views because my opinions are steeped in the belief that education is important to a free, democratic government.

 My openness to people’s differences and my wishes to help my fellow man were fostered not by just a well-earned education, but by a hard-working woman raised by proud, hard-working Italian immigrants.

What we witnessed at the Capitol building in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 was not an act of heroism or courage, as much as an act of cowardice and terrorism incited by individuals who truly have no business in governing this country.

And I am sad and ashamed for my country and for myself.

We can no longer remain silent or politely “stand by” because to do so makes us complicit in what we know in our hearts is wrong.

This is not a political issue as much as it is a personal one, People.

It’s time to start speaking to each other (and for each other) before there’s “no one left to speak out for you”.

I sincerely pray that all of you remain safe and healthy and I’ll catch up with you the next time, looking at life from my shoes.