A Call to Gather: Gratitude, Civic Engagement, and Community Strength

I have many things to be thankful for, some of which, upon reflection, I am guilty of taking for granted.

I am grateful for family, friends, pets, and my warm, comfortable home. I am grateful that I had a

teaching career in the science fields that I loved and that I had opportunities to participate in local and national movements that promoted civic and environmental progress. I’m grateful that I live in the United States, that I have attained the “American Dream,” and that I have rights guaranteed me by the US Constitution.

Sadly, I think that America is moving in a direction that is not for the betterment of ALL people. I see many of our young people and neighbors struggling to achieve the “American Dream”. They, as well as

veterans and elders cannot afford housing, food and health care. Others are targeted because of their skin color, language, sexual orientation, gender identity and /or religion. Many have their Constitutionally-given rights being disregarded and some are disappearing without due-process (remember “innocent until proven guilty”?)

The dilemma I face now is what to do about this? I regularly contact my elected officials to thank them for their hard work in trying to preserve our liberties and freedoms. Secondly, I contribute time, food, and financial donations, when I can, in my community. I am also involved in public stand-outs in many

surrounding towns. At these rallies, community members show their support for a variety of issues that are important to each one of them. I was thrilled to find that Methuen had our own No Kings II Rally in October and am grateful to those who organized it. And, we now have our own Greater Methuen Indivisible Chapter.

It is up to us to raise our voices, persevere, connect and organize. Together we are strong and we do make a positive difference. Please join me on Friday November 28, between 11:30am – 1:00pm at the corner of Jackson and Pleasant Streets for a peaceful, joyous, kid-friendly display of our love and gratitude for Methuen, our country and each other. Bring a sign if you wish that expresses your thoughts and concerns (without profanity). American flags encouraged! Some signs will be available if you can’t make your own. Dress warmly, bring friends, and meet your neighbors.

You can sign up at https://mobilize.us/s/zajtLD

I thank you and look forward to meeting you.