I've been taking in as much as I can before putting out any sort of personal comment understanding that I can't stay quiet. As a public voice I don't want to say the wrong thing because there is so much I'll never fully understand.
Part of what is happening in our country right now is both necessary and heartbreaking. This country started out of protest. To the peaceful protesters - keep on until your voice is heard - I do believe we are seeing that happen. To those causing destruction - GO HOME!
I feel heavy. I feel sad. I'm still trying to wrap my brain around all the feelings I'm having for my friends that are the most personally effected - how I can best support them.
I'm reading a lot from people that have found their way to articulate better than I at the moment and one statement that resonated came from Tim McGraw... we must improve!
"Nobody’s ever improved on the ideal that all are created equal and that we should love one another as we love ourselves…. I don’t know how it feels to be black in America.
I don't know how it feels to walk down the street at night and feel eyes of suspicion.
I don't know what it's like to carry the worry for my child simply because they are black.
I won't pretend to.
I am a human being who loves people, all people.
I believe all people have inherent human rights - to live, pray and love as they choose or how they are born into this world.
I believe that love, respect and understanding of each other is a light to guide our way.
Our collective heart should break with every injustice brought to light.
Our collective voices should be heard for each and every injustice brought to light, for there are many in the darkness.
We must find a way to shine light on what is happening.
Find a way to talk,
Find a way to understand,
Find a way to hold accountable those who won't see, won't understand and won't love.
I wish I knew the answers.
I'm just a man who loves his family.
And wants this world, this country, this life to be experienced to the best of any child's imagination and ability.
Without regard to color, creed, religion or sexual orientation.
It's just time that we understand that
Your child feels and loves
My children feel and love
All children feel and love
Hate is observed and taught.