EXPANDED LIST OF IDEAS AND THOUGHTS ABOUT EVERYDAY RESISTANCE---THE WORK OF FREEDOM IS UP TO EACH OF US

Here please is a newly expanded version of my everyday resistance list---

Resistance is a reasonable and hopeful everyday response to money-owned politics, failing institutions, an often violent and ignorant culture & because we want to have useful and meaningful lives. 

Each day has value and all people can change the culture and change the course of events.  

Here are 17 thoughts, ideas & concepts of everyday resistance--

1. You’d might as well be open about resistance since you’re being monitored in any case.

2. Consider writing a brief private (or public) mission statement defining your hopes and objectives. There is a lot of noise in our society and it helps to have a clear direction. 

3. You'll have to do it yourself and not wait for others.

4. Resistance in this culture can take the form of simple courtesy, trusting others and respect for the everyday work people do.  

5. You can take lousy things and define them on hopeful terms. For example--I donated 25 cents to Amnesty International for every negative e-mail I got in a recent nasty campaign for Mayor of Houston. We can deny miserable people the chance to fully define the public environment.

6. Private conversations with others that offer your views and explain your actions are part of resistance. 

7. The soft power of example and quiet words is important. This is what many respond to best.  

8. Have faith in both the impact one individual can make and also in the potential of collective action.   

9. Question your allies as much or more so than you question those who hold opposite views. Ask questions of everybody.

10. Work to understand the thoughts and motives of people on the opposite side of your viewpoints. Don't let the hopeful work of everyday resistance be about hate and anger. Give folks what credit you are able for the well-intentioned nature of their beliefs and actions. 

11. Don't be afraid of a measure of elitism or distance from others. You might be justified and this may be what keeps you able to move forward and remain hopeful. Time by yourself can help build connection with others.

12. When the chance presents itself, stick up for somebody who is outside the circle of power or concern in a given setting. Develop the habit of resistance in everyday settings.   

13. Create and maintain your own channels and networks to keep resistance going and to remind yourself that you have friends and allies when things are rough. 

14. Global Voices is a good website to read. Global Voices writes about everyday people who take responsibility for their own freedom and for the future of the places where they live. Find resources that you find helpful in moving forward.   

15. Know that big hopeful change does happen. Recall the Berlin Wall or apartheid South Africa and take heart.

16. Make the decision to act or speak and then do so

17. What are your thoughts on what I’ve said here? Resistance is both personal and collaborative. 

Leave a comment on the blog or e-mail me at naa618@att.net with any suggestions or improvements you have for this list. 


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