Thank you for this. I'm struggling with the disconnect between the people I know are good-hearted and care vs the politicians they support. So many people don't understand this fear we have on a viseral level, or relate to how lives could change so completely. Like, I can't imagine voting just based on a potential tax cut or whatever these days. The issues are so much more personal.
Rey, I agree. That's the big disconnect a lot of us feel right now. Perhaps it's naive of me to think this way, but I hope that some of those people might stumble across one of my posts and suddenly see the humanity of me and this whole, beautiful community. We are all worth caring about.
Isn't it wonderful how love can move at least as fast as the speed of light? It covers great distances and never diminishes. Much love right back to you, Jan.
Thank you for this post, Robin. I am cautiously optimistic that people will think carefully when they cast their votes today. Meantime, l'll take a walk in the woods, bathe in the energy that flows in the air, and breathe in.
I love you, Robin. Thank you for sharing your fears so vulnerably with us. Yes, I have fear, too. As a queer, Jewish, older woman, I feel fear. But my hope outweighs my fear today. I have to stay in that particular lane today. It makes my heart hurt that there's so much disorder in this world. That people are being killed for absolutely no good reason. Is there ever a good reason? I think not. It's so good to see the presence of people on Substack sharing their hopes and dreams and fear here. We hold each other up, and if we have to continue fighting, we will, right? I just want to stop fighting one day. It doesn't seem like a lot to ask for.
I worry too. My trans family member has never voiced concern over an election until now. I’ve never put up yard signs for an election until this one. I’ve never worried about the aftermath of an election until J6 happened.
Big hug Robin, reading this made me sad terrified and angry. Beneath this mix is deep love I feel for difference
Freedom to choose and my dear ones… there is an ache and an optimism as your voice our voices educate others and show understanding and undefended hearts.
Love and light to you, Robin. I have the same fears and am holding onto cautious hope for you and my trans family members. Sending big hugs while we wait.
Thanks for your courage, always, Robin, and these vital words today. Our hearts and thoughts are with you and all our friends/family in America. We are all hoping for a positive outcome at the polls tonight and a hopeful path forward! Strength and solidarity to you and your wife. xo
Thank you for articulating so eloquently much of what I've been lugging around with me during the build-up to this day. Wishing peace and equity for all, but especially feeling that for my trans and NB kin today. <3
Having done the immigration rigmarole in multiple countries, I often tell people that as abhorrent as a physical wall between countries is, the walls are symbolism while the bureaucracy is the *actual* wall. Particularly when your right to marry is a recently and hard won and still being threatened right.
KSC, yes, that's it exactly. I don't think we tell enough stories about immigration, citizenship, and the families it impacts. So much of this is unknown to everyone. I also think Americans, in particular, are less likely to travel abroad and see other countries, which is heartbreaking. This world we share is so beautiful and full of so many amazing people and places, and I am better every single time I explore further.
Thank you for this. I'm struggling with the disconnect between the people I know are good-hearted and care vs the politicians they support. So many people don't understand this fear we have on a viseral level, or relate to how lives could change so completely. Like, I can't imagine voting just based on a potential tax cut or whatever these days. The issues are so much more personal.
Rey, I agree. That's the big disconnect a lot of us feel right now. Perhaps it's naive of me to think this way, but I hope that some of those people might stumble across one of my posts and suddenly see the humanity of me and this whole, beautiful community. We are all worth caring about.
We are all worth caring about!!! 🧡
Sending love, and good vibes from Maryland!
Thank you, Olivia! Much love right back to you from Washington!
just sending love from a great distance x
Isn't it wonderful how love can move at least as fast as the speed of light? It covers great distances and never diminishes. Much love right back to you, Jan.
Thank you for this post, Robin. I am cautiously optimistic that people will think carefully when they cast their votes today. Meantime, l'll take a walk in the woods, bathe in the energy that flows in the air, and breathe in.
D.C., that's a great self-care plan. It sounds lovely. I'm so grateful for you.
Hugs.
I love hugs. Thanks, Victoria.
I love you, Robin. Thank you for sharing your fears so vulnerably with us. Yes, I have fear, too. As a queer, Jewish, older woman, I feel fear. But my hope outweighs my fear today. I have to stay in that particular lane today. It makes my heart hurt that there's so much disorder in this world. That people are being killed for absolutely no good reason. Is there ever a good reason? I think not. It's so good to see the presence of people on Substack sharing their hopes and dreams and fear here. We hold each other up, and if we have to continue fighting, we will, right? I just want to stop fighting one day. It doesn't seem like a lot to ask for.
I worry too. My trans family member has never voiced concern over an election until now. I’ve never put up yard signs for an election until this one. I’ve never worried about the aftermath of an election until J6 happened.
Surreal is an apt description.
Yep. Surreal. This is probably one of those days we will think about many years into the future. I wonder how my kids will remember it.
I think about this, too.
Robin, you must be hurting in the wake of what’s happened. I’m so sorry. Your neighbours here in Canada feel for the American LGBTQ community.
Your Substack was recommended to me from someone who connected with my essay about my trans child. Glad I found you! Stay strong. 💪
Amy, I am so glad we found each other! Thank you for caring so deeply. We're in this together.
Big hug Robin, reading this made me sad terrified and angry. Beneath this mix is deep love I feel for difference
Freedom to choose and my dear ones… there is an ache and an optimism as your voice our voices educate others and show understanding and undefended hearts.
Thank you 💕
Love and light to you, Robin. I have the same fears and am holding onto cautious hope for you and my trans family members. Sending big hugs while we wait.
Thanks for your courage, always, Robin, and these vital words today. Our hearts and thoughts are with you and all our friends/family in America. We are all hoping for a positive outcome at the polls tonight and a hopeful path forward! Strength and solidarity to you and your wife. xo
Holding my breath right along with you. For you and your family and all others directly impacted. So much is at stake. 💙
Thank you for articulating so eloquently much of what I've been lugging around with me during the build-up to this day. Wishing peace and equity for all, but especially feeling that for my trans and NB kin today. <3
How sad it is that you and so many others have to feel this way. I will have you and yours in my thoughts today.
Having done the immigration rigmarole in multiple countries, I often tell people that as abhorrent as a physical wall between countries is, the walls are symbolism while the bureaucracy is the *actual* wall. Particularly when your right to marry is a recently and hard won and still being threatened right.
KSC, yes, that's it exactly. I don't think we tell enough stories about immigration, citizenship, and the families it impacts. So much of this is unknown to everyone. I also think Americans, in particular, are less likely to travel abroad and see other countries, which is heartbreaking. This world we share is so beautiful and full of so many amazing people and places, and I am better every single time I explore further.
For what it is worth Robin, I am right there with you - and I am sending hugs and love!
That is worth more than you know. Thank you, friend. Your hugs make all the difference.