Yesterday, I read the news about
- the conservative U.S. Supreme Court’s intent to take away a woman’s right to choose (a right which a huge majority of citizens support),
- how the SCOTUS decision will erode other rights,
- the projected outcome of the U.S. midterm elections, with the Democrats losing the tenuous control they now have,
- the war in Ukraine,
- irreversible global warming,
- greed,
- fear,
- etc…..
… and I felt very pessimistic, helpless, and hopeless. In other words, I felt like I was out on a ledge.
I decided to name those feelings on Twitter, assuming that other people might be feeling the same way. I got a lot of helpful and empathic responses, with some joining me on the ledge and others urging me to get off the ledge and fight for the rights and the future I want.
Are any of my images today out on a ledge?
The Daily Bitch often seems like she is out on a ledge.
When I’m out on a ledge, humor and music can get me off that ledge. Tonight, my son Aaron and I will be seeing “Weird Al” Yankovic in concert and yesterday this song cheered me up immeasurably:
Thanks to all those who help me whenever I’m out on a ledge, including YOU.
I think I was sitting right beside you, Ann. The news these last few days has just pushed me to the brink…🤬
We’re not alone, Lori. 💙
I’m often out there too these days, Ann.
We’re not alone, Mark!
A lot of us feel on the ledge right now. But hardly any of is are going to see Weird Al Yankovic tonight. You and Aaron do the most amazing things! I hope that you have a good time, a little bit farther from the edge for at least a few hours
We were in the balcony but far enough away from the edge to enjoy ourselves thoroughly. Thanks for another amazing comment, Maureen.
I’m very sympathetic and understanding since I feel pretty pessimistic too, but Weird Al will almost certainly help. This might too:
Thanks for always helping, Chris!
Christopher, that Bon Newhart piece is a gem! Thanks for sharing it. He did a great job
looks like Joan is quite balanced and on the edge, both at the same time. perhaps they are not mutually exclusive.
Thank you for another beautifully balanced comment, beth!
When the ledge beckons I remember a Gloria Steinem Tweet I read the day after Trump was elected. All she said was, “Now we get organized.” She more or less reminded me we can’t be effective “from the ledge.” We have work to do!
I agree, Debra!
I love weird al! The news is so depressing! <3
It is! Thanks for commenting, Carol Anne.