The Anti-Depression Edition
Overwhelmed and ready to check out? Worn down and tuning out? We're now at the point where, to paraphrase a bumper-sticker from earlier days: "If you're not depressed you're not paying attention." So here are three quick things that might help:
- Read this short piece from historian Howard Zinn:
TO BE HOPEFUL in bad times is not just foolishly romantic. It is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty, but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness. What we choose to emphasize in this complex history will determine our lives.
If we see only the worst, it destroys our capacity to do something. If we remember those times and places – and there are so many – where people have behaved magnificently, this gives us the energy to act, and at least the possibility of sending this spinning top of a world in a different direction.
And if we do act, in however small a way, we don't have to wait for some grand utopian future. The future is an infinite succession of presents, and to live now as we think human beings should live, in defiance of all that is bad around us, is itself a marvelous victory."
- Consider this thoughtful article from Adam Kinzinger (with a link at the bottom of the article to his new merchandise site offering great "No Kings swag" including the sweatshirt featured in our last post/newsletter):
Don't Lose Heart: A Blueprint for Staying in the Fight:
The most important battle we face isn't in Congress, in the courts, or at the ballot box. It's the one happening right now inside each of us.
- Take some solace that you're not alone – and then take steps not to be alone:
How Trump turmoil is driving more people to the therapist’s office: ‘This is all upside down’
As ‘political depression’ enters public discourse, therapists are encouraging people to engage with their communities
Ways to take action now
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Plan now to show up on March 28 for No Kings #3. We need to show them that the more they attack democracy, the more of us are going to show up to defend democracy. If you're here in Santa Fe and don't want to go alone, email us and we'll try to connect you with like-minded folks.
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Protect your right to vote. New Mexico has passed a law prohibiting the deployment of troops to polling places. If you live in New Mexico, email your legislator and the Governor thanking them. If you live in any other state -- or have friends or relatives in any other state -- share this initiative and urge passage of similar legislation everywhere.
And as always:
Check out our updated Signs of Hope, for reasons to not sink into despair!
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Spread the word by sharing this email with friends and relatives, especially those feeling helpless, hopeless or just frustrated!
If you have questions, comments, concerns, suggestions, or just want to share with us what action you've taken (always great for us to hear!), just email us at foshereandnow@gmail.com.