Resistance To A Wicked Culture Is An Everyday Hopeful Thing And Is Up To Each Of Us

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

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

Here are 11 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. You'll have to do it yourself and not wait for others.

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

4. 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.

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

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

7. At our best, we see both the needs of the individual and the necessity of collective action.   

8. Question your allies as much or more so than you question those who hold opposite views. 

9. 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. 

10. We need to create and maintain our own channels and networks to keep resistance going and to remind ourselves we have friends and allies when things are rough. 

11. 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. 

I'd like to build on this list and have it become a resource for folks who remain engaged and hopeful, but who can hardly stand what they see each day in our culture.   

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