Fightin

My life has gone in odd directions.  How did I become this little mini-radical?  And when will I have time and energy to devote toward my causes again? 

I had no idea what was a brewin two years ago.  I'd spend my quiet lonely Saturdays watching Netflix now and then.  I'd frequently watch some anger-inducing political film.  I remember one night in particular.  It was someting about Montana.  I can't remember what the film was about, but it had me in an uproar.  I literally got so angry I threw a jacket on over my jammies, grabbed a suitcase, and flew out into the living room and announced to Blaine I was moving to Canada.  I pointed my quivering finger and was unable to speak further, such was my rage.  Part of me was being overly-dramatic on purpose.  But part of me was really that angry.

A few months later I got "Why We Fight" and watched that.  Again, I was appalled and outraged and disgusted.  Exactly why is matter for another post.  Watch it and I guarantee you won't be disappointed. 

Not long after that I was surfing the web when I came across a Prayer for America on youtube.  Here was someone who spoke the words I'd utter if I had the courage or eloquence.  And, he was a presidential candidate.  I could vote for this guy in theory.  I was totally on board.  This was July 2007. 

Just about from then on my Saturdays were no longer quiet or lonely.  They were often spent working on getting this man's ideas out.  I actually got out and met with folks and organized and was some sort of leader.  It felt incredible.  But, this was my first time and I was horrible at it.  No matter.  I found a cause and something tangible to work on.  I got to partake in a post-debate conference call and I can only say I'm very surprised how thrilling it was.  I wrote press releases.  I went on a protest march through the streets of Houston.

But then, just as quickly as it began, he dropped out of the race.  I was crushed.  I had hopes of meeting him when he inevitably came to Houston to campaign, or maybe Austin.  That, too, is for another post.

A few days later I lost my job.  Wasn't long before I found another one, but one that zapped me of all of my energy to do pretty much anything.  I have no more strength for fighting.  And even if I did, my thing to focus on is gone, at least for now.

Right now I'm focused on the small fight here within the walls of my home.  Don't you dare bring a cleaning product near me that isn't vinegar, baking soda, or Dr. Bronner's (Has anyone ever actually read an entire Dr. Bronner's label?).  My newest fight is against agri-business and I'm seriously considering becoming vegetarian again.  I've given up red meat for the most part.  I want my husband to take me to see Food, Inc. for my anniversary.  It feels good.  Maybe I'm getting back a bit of what I miss so much.  But, 2012 isn't that far off.