This and That

Good morning, Ravi! I went to the 8:15 church service this morning. You will be happy to know that Joy preached, and I was sitting in the back of the church surrounded by autistic kids, young adults, and supportive parents. There were lots of fidgets and stim toys. The young adult across from read the prayers of the people and did a lovely job. I think you would really like her. After the service, I chatted with the parents in front of me and their two sons. They had been at the Sensory Friendly Christmas Eve service, and I was happy to welcome them back. Joy joined us and we all geeked out for a very happy ten minutes. Following this, as you know, I visited with you in the chapel. As soon as I saw your niche in the columbarium, the tears came thick and fast. Ravi, my love, I miss you so deeply. I hope your soul is at peace and roams free and strong.

During her sermon Joy quoted Oscar Romero, my hero and favorite saint. He was martyred while speaking truth to power. He fought for the poor, the exiled, and those who have no voice. On another note, Leonard Peltier is returning to his tribal home and those who love him this coming Tuesday, February 18, 2025. He has wrongly been imprisoned for nearly 50 years for a crime he did not commit. For nearly 3 decades, I have prayed, petitioned, and written to our representatives in Congress for his release. Tuesday is his homecoming and I and many others rejoice.

Ravi, these are scary times, but we must keep showing up. On February 28, it is buy nothing day. The idea is not to spend a penny on oil, gas, Amazon, or big business. If one must buy essentials, one is encouraged to make their purchases from small businesses. From March 14th to 17th, I will join others in boycotting Amazon. I have already divested from them months ago, but now I am encouraging others to do the same. It is time to support brick and mortar small businesses. It is time to show the oligarchy that our voices will not be silenced. There may be people who will tell me to stay in my own lane and only talk about autism advocacy. This is not the time to stay small and silent. This is the time to speak up, even if our voices tremble. The IEP and 504 that supported you and your sibling are at risk. Our human rights are at risk. The cancer research and trials that are lifesaving are in grave danger. I cannot remain silent.

Ravi, if I could wave a magic wand, I would bring you back, whole and healthy. I would establish a true democracy, a land where you and all other citizens could flourish. Alas, I lost my magic wand in Diagon Alley. But, I will continue to fight. On President’s Day, there are rallies at all 50 capitals of this nation. If you cannot make it to your capital, call your senators and congress people. Call the White House switchboard. It is open 24 hours a day. Tell them to fire Musk and bring back jobs and benefits which were unfairly taken. Speak up, stand up, and be a good humans. Peace, Harriet.