On Small Acts of Defiance, a wee 🧵
I grew up in an abusive environment, but I still have to go back there once in a while. Now that we’re all faced with an abuser in power, I thought I’d share something that’s helped me in my personal situation, in case it helps anyone else.
(YMMV, obvi) 1/10
I grew up in an abusive environment, but I still have to go back there once in a while. Now that we’re all faced with an abuser in power, I thought I’d share something that’s helped me in my personal situation, in case it helps anyone else.
(YMMV, obvi) 1/10
Comments
My therapist a couple years ago suggested that when I went back I should do something small, something safe, that expressed my defiance, that reaffirmed my identity and my values. 2/10
First comment I received getting off the plane? After YEARS of not being back?
“Your shoes don’t match.”
Yes. I know. 🙄 3/10
I also bought a roll of progress pride heart stickers and hid several in my wallet. Whenever it was safe to do so I stuck one up, a tiny candle in the night.
Maybe it’ll help someone to see.
Did it fix anything big? No.
Did it help anyone living there? I’ll never know.
Did it help me survive? Hell yes.
Will it work for everyone? No clue.
But… 5/10
Maybe it’ll help to buy and wear rainbow laces. Or to print sticker supporting 🏳️🌈 or 🍉 or 🏳️⚧️ or another important cause/fight to slip up when no one is watching.
If even that is dangerous, pick an innocent symbol that’s important to you. Know what it means to you. Have that safety
Let yourself feel joy. Let yourself laugh.
Living well in the face of hatred and oppression is an act of rebellion.
Yes, there is big work too… 7/10