Lynette Sheffield, Indivisible Bend Member
This IS Central Oregon.
Which means the weather...varies.
Different times of year or sometimes, within a single hour, we're standing there, through rain, shine, snow, wildfire smoke and/or wind gusts that threaten to turn our signs into hang gliders.
There have been days when I get home, eat popsicles for dinner, and call it a night.
Lately, though, it's been get home, make a cup of tea, and want to pour it on my feet.
Besides the weather, there is the pain. For most of us, our bodies do not approve and reminders are freely given.
Usually the neck, shoulders, maybe jaws, knees, sometimes biting numb fingertips, all let us know we have taken multiple journeys around our star and therefore, would greatly prefer we instead go to brunch.
Those of us who are standing there with our bits of cardboard and creaky joints suffer no illusion we are convincing anyone to change their minds.
Because most of us, not all, but most, are past a certain age. We have lived through multiple administrations and we know, without a doubt, this one is different.
We also know that, as a country, we can do better.
For the most part, the overwhelming majority of responses are positive.
However, as we talk among ourselves, remarks are made along the lines of, "Do they really think their ugly meanness will make us stop?"
Do they think the sight of a middle finger,
thumb turned downward,
exaggerated engine revving, or
shouted insults,
will convince us of the error of our ways, and by golly, those in DC actually should be adored and obeyed in all things?
And brunch does sound nice.
So, why?
Because there is value, great value, in knowing it's not just you.
You are not the only one who is both infuriated and frightened at current events.
And history has shown, that sustained organized, non-violent protest works.
Change will not happen unless change is demanded.
While there is no question irreparable harm has been done, it is possible for us, as a country, to do some things.
Sadly, not all will be held accountable but that doesn't mean redress is impossible.
We have a history of it. Got it in writing, too.
Governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.
And those neighbors of yours...suffering through many physical discomforts...whims of nature...hostility and insults...standing there with their cardboard signs...well, those people do NOT consent.
