The Dappled Willow

In light of the heartbreaking and important conversation about racism in our society, the Spring 2020 One Room Challenge was put on hold for one week.

The One Room Challenge team released the following statement:

“We stand in solidarity over the racial injustice and murders of George Floyd and the many other victims of police brutality and racism. To both honor and respect these victims there will not be a Week 5 of the ORC and posting will return next week. This team will use this time to better educate ourselves to be the best possible allies.”

-ONE ROOM CHALLENGE TEAM

I appreciated this decision from the organizers. The many aspects of this issue captivated my complete attention and I agreed that the messages and voices of so many insightful individuals were way more important than DIY and design.

I didn’t get any projects done during that time. I was listening, reading, diving into history, data, opinions and difficult conversations with loved ones. I was praying. And discerning how I can make a difference.

I found Danielle Coke’s (@ohhappydani) Instagram Live series “Turning Awareness into Action” very helpful.

She broke it down into three sessions;

• UPWARD: The Sin of Silence and God’s Heart for Justice,
• INWARD: Taking Inventory and Assessing Implicit Bias
• OUTWARD: Starting Conversations and Making Real Change

I so appreciated her loving and faith-filled approach to this difficult topic.

I found a lot of helpful resources over the past few weeks and I am glad to implement many recommendations in my life, my household and my communities.

It doesn’t feel like enough.

I know the necessary changes to eliminate racism from our society won’t happen overnight. Unfortunately devouring information every free moment, negatively impacting my sleep, and driving myself to an unhealthy mental state won’t help either. It isn’t easy to accept that I can only do so much.

As a goal-setter and doer I tend to want a clear plan with measureable results. I truly strive to do as much as I can. Slacktivism and performative allyship are not my M.O. but I am committed to being a part of the necessary change our society needs.

Cheers,

Lydia

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