RE: The paradox of the justice system and our relationships with our indigenous brothers and sisters
Oh how this breaks me. There are some topics that are so very raw, so salient and pungent. This is one such case. This is all of the abuse of the past not only continuing but being systematically condoned. We are still less than people to this system. I find that when I am faced with disgusting displays of violence and racism, I want to shut it out...to avoid it...I think this is a form of protecting ourselves...to not watch the pain and injustice. Because it breaks our hearts. I think it is time we allow our hearts to be broken, not out of any sense of giving up, but because we will never act if we pretend as though the pain isn't there. Pain is a very important tool. It triggers a response. And it is supposed to. It helps us move away from, or rise up against what is hurting us. I hope everyone can allow this man the dignity of letting their hearts break wide open. Feel the hurt of his family, and the families of all others who have lost a loved one to state sanctioned violence and racism. And then, take that pain and begin to voice your pain. And...then...demand change. Support our peoples to remove ourselves from the continued abuse so that we can rebuild our ways, our communities and have a secure future of our own design.
I think your vision is a powerful one as that mirrors how I was able to heal my own pain. I agree that if we allow the pain, speak about it, sharing it, feel it and express it, that our hearts do in fact heal. The pain does not go away though. We learn how to live with it and it provides strength to confront others who are also struggling.
I've seen for far too long people afraid to speak about their pain. Despite 10 years of demonstrating how it is done, few choose to walk that path. But that is changing and I'm excited. Once people stand up to speak of their pain, things will start to shift as it can no longer be ignored, dismissed or minimized. This is a powerful and healing energy that is starting to wake up and I'm grateful to be a witness to it all. Bravo to you my dear neighbour, sister and friend. I stand beside you as we all express our own pain and feelings.