From the General Presbyter

What did John Lewis mean when he said “Get in trouble…good trouble…necessary trouble”?

Those inspiring words are a call to action for those who are absolutely sure what “trouble” is. But what if you don’t know? And what if your definition of “trouble” clashes with other people’s definition, as we are witnessing in our world today?

The first answer is easy: I’m right and they are wrong!

When I lived in Delaware there was a woman who was always calling the police on every little thing she thought was out of place: a person she didn’t recognize walking at night, a trash can out of place, a person she feared was using dangerous chemicals on their lawn. We called her “the crazy lady,” because her back yard looked like a hot mess! Someone could have easily called the police on her. This was a perfect example of how “she” was right and everyone else was wrong.

The second answer is not so easy: Trouble is in the eye of the beholder, it seems.

Perhaps the rest of Rep. Lewis’ thoughts may provide direction.

“Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won. Choose confrontation wisely, but when it is your time don’t be afraid to stand up, speak up, and speak out against injustice.”

For me it comes down to this: love – doing to others as you would have them do unto you; peace – a Higher power is in charge; and wisely – pray, be thoughtful, be centered. There will be disagreement and conflict and people will be arrogant and hateful. How you conduct yourself in the face of it makes the difference under heaven and earth.

– Jackie