A Decision to Engage

“I joined the movement because I want to contribute something and restore human dignity. So this is my decision, my choice. I don’t need to feel bitter about anything, or who is involved and who isn’t involved, who has done what… I just need to give myself a pep-talk, not have those negative feelings, and do as much as I can. This is the reality.”

I don't think any podcast guest has expressed a viewpoint that has resonated personally with me at such a depth, as this one. This quote was from the activist known as Little T, said at the end of her interview, a remarkably open, vulnerable, and emotional discussion which I can't encourage listeners to check out strongly enough.

Little T discusses how her early activism turned dark very quickly, and the terror, fear, and danger she soon faced as a result. Towards the end of our talk, she admits the bitterness she sometimes feels when she looks around and realizes that not all of her Burmese peers are engaging to the extent that she is. But this is grounded in an understanding that her decision to engage is something she must own, just as she must own the consequences for doing so.

I think just about every activist for freedom has felt the way Little T has felt, at some time or another. I sure know that I have. And that's why the wisdom she offers is so valuable, as it helps to not get caught on negative emotions, but to rather affirm the advocacy (and risks) that one has chosen, and to move ahead at full strength in making the best decisions going forward.