Baltimore

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Picture from Joy105 blog

I feel removed from the pulse of America while living abroad. Honestly, I rely on facebook posts for current events (one week, all I know that happened at home was debates about the color of a dress) ;), yet I can see a small but recognizable change in the posts about Baltimore compared with Ferguson posts:

there are significantly LESS prejudiced remarks in my newsfeed, fewer quick and harsh judgements, more compassionate people speaking up.

I don't know if that's just my experience??

Perhaps it's because during Ferguson, most of my circle of friends didn't know what to say, so said nothing.

Just.like.me.

Perhaps it's because a large majority of my facebook family truly walks with Jesus,
not "religious rules" people,
but people of deep relationship with the Creator of humanity who compels love for others, and they are now speaking with this sentiment:  

"I still don't know what to say, but I am paying attention; my heart is engaged, and I'm genuinely considering/recognizing/growing." 

Seeing the news posts has saddened me, but seeing your personal posts has encouraged me, because I think, while they be small steps, they are indeed steps. And history tells us that the winds of change for good have usually been prompted by a brave few who have moved society in a different direction.

You have spurred me on to say something as well, instead of just watching. And because I am removed, and can't confidently know the day to day experience there, I am thankful for people like Jen Hatmaker​ who articulate so well, not only the details, but also a compassionate response. See her entire article on The Washington Post.

And I join you in prayer.

photo from Joy105 blog

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