Seeds of Difference-Making

I forgot about the time I was an activist in Junior High School until I ran across a newspaper clipping while going through some old boxes. There was an article about me in the Shorewood Herald. I had passed a petition among the students to protest the removal of the Christmas manger scene on the Shorewood High School grounds. The creche had been there as long as anyone could remember, nestled among tall pines. 

It was the mid 60s and tensions in our country were rising with war, racism, and talk of enforcing separation of church and state.

My dad put me up to the petition, I’m sure. But I like that he gave me a lesson in how we can make a difference in life by having a voice. Because of the petition, the manger remained that year. 

I don’t know if it still stands. But I do know the climate of our world and nation today feel very similar to the sixties.

Just like that little Christmas petition, a simple petition in a small town could work to change a school board decision, a town hall vote, or even influence a federal legislator. Small seeds. Tiny steps. What can I do today? I pray - and that’s big. I meet with a group called Women of Courage - who are wanting to make a difference together. I also write - mostly to bring healing and hope and love. Maybe that’s enough - or maybe that is only a start.

Thank you for reading. You can find my books on Amazon.