See the privilege.
Philippians 2:3, “….in humility, value others above yourselves.”
I have had a hard time trying to figure out what to share with you during the past few days. First, let me say, I am a woman who comes from privilege. I have never feared a threat to my life due to the color of my skin. I was brought up in a predominantly white town. When I say mostly, I mean at least 98%. Where I spend my vacations are again, predominantly white. I had opportunities many people did not. So for me to say, I have no understanding of what people of color face daily is an understatement.
Second, I have been reflecting over the past few days on how I may have contributed to the situation we all find ourselves: the horrific injustice, the frustration, the despair of people. I cannot even find words to articulate the depth of I feel. But you know what, it’s not about me, at least it’s not my emotions I should be focusing on; instead it should be those who have faced discrimination and injustice because of the color of their skin.
As I continue to think through what my words and actions can be to make a difference, a particular circumstance continues to come to mind. My family has a vacation home at the Jersey shore (see privilege). My dad always testifies that God’s blessings are made to be shared. Our home has been used by many. There have been work retreats, respites for caregivers, ministry leader conferences, and of course, many friends and family members have come through the doors and found rest and good times, making many memories.
One time a friend of mine asked if he might be able to use the house for a week. I had no problem with him using the house. I was glad he asked. But as I stated earlier, my vacations were spent in predominately white areas, and I had this “need” to let my neighbors know my friend, who is black, would be using the house for a week. There was never a time, with all the different groups of people that came in and out of my house, did I ever feel the need to inform the neighbors. This time, I did.
What does this say about me? It says I know there is discrimination in the hearts of many, maybe even my own. I hope not. But can I say without certainty there is never a time I do not judge a person based on their skin or origin? I don’t have an answer. But this I KNOW, there is systemic racism in our world, country, state, towns, and streets. It is my responsibility not to add to it. It is my responsibility to stand up, speak out, and act against it.
As a woman of faith, I am commanded to be of sober mind and judgment. I need to see things for what they really are. I cannot go around encouraging grace, mercy, and justice; if I do not do all I can to live out a life of respect, inclusion, and advocacy. I can no longer just be friends with people who are different than me. I have to face the reality of the challenges my brothers and sisters face in this world. I have to stop looking through the lens of my privilege, seeing myself as a potential savior. Instead, I have to see diversity as the privilege and do everything I can to make it a reality.
Not only am I commanded to love, but I am called to value others above myself. If I do not put commands into action, I am no better than those who judge and discriminate. I cannot stay silent; I will not stay silent any longer.