Initially, I had a different topic and post that I planned to write this week. Instead of discussing what is happening in our country, I felt it was time to discuss spiritual activism.
AI describes spiritual activism as the following:
Spiritual activism is a practice that combines spirituality and activism to create a call to action for social justice. It can be a way of life that involves daily thoughts, speech, and actions that are anti-oppressive. Spiritual activism can also involve interfaith dialogue and collective action.
As a member and Practitioner of the Centers for Spiritual Living, we believe we need to be the change we want to see in the world. I genuinely believe this is important, but when we are dealing with the potential pain and mistreatment of our fellow citizens, action needs to follow the prayers and changes we want to see happening.
I am no political activist! But I do believe in peace, love, and justice for all, whether they are black, Hispanic, gay, transgender, ‘illegal’, or any other marginalized group of people.
Instead of making suggestions, I rely on people I respect to share their thoughts on this subject. Here are excerpts of some of the articles I have read in the last few days that I feel are worth sharing. The first quote is by a woman I personally know and love:
This is NOT the time to raise your hands in the air and ask, “What can I do?”
This is the time to stay informed and stay conscious.
This is the time to avoid foolhardiness and overconfidence in our current leaders.
This is the time to question even more than before – question everything.
Resistance begins with a radical idea: We can live in a world governed by conscious, compassionate, and generous people. This is not the time to give up; this is the time to use your voice to create a world that works for all.
~ Rev. Dr. Michelle Wadleigh, STAY VIGILANT MY FRIENDS
Here is another by a well-known New Thought leader:
Telling the Truth to Move Forward
Only by telling the truth about where we are can we access the power to move forward. Oneness calls us to stand together, not just in spirit, but in action. It calls us to reject what divides and oppresses, and to build a world where compassion, justice, and equity prevail.
So, let us embrace the audacity of oneness. Let us step into the storm—not to be overwhelmed by it, but to calm it with truth, solidarity, and transformative action.
~Rev. David Alexander, Oneness is not Passive
The information outlined in this article may also be helpful: What you can do, Ten ways to resist Trump II by Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor, advisor to several past presidents, and writer.
I would also like to quote an affirmation from Centers for Spiritual Living’s A Vision of Compassionate Leadership: A Response to Project 2025:
Let us affirm together: I affirm that the United States and its elected leaders are guided by wisdom, compassion and integrity in all decisions and actions. I envision a nation where justice and equality prevail and where every voice is heard and respected. I affirm that our leaders are inspired to work together harmoniously for the greater good, fostering unity and understanding among all people.
We all need to find our own way of expressing Spiritual Activism. If nothing else, we must stay vigilant, protect the rights of those who are vulnerable when and where we can, and pray often!