I was so rattled by the news of the tariffs – not because of the money, the financial cost that will be felt by the most vulnerable, but because of the human connection part of it. I saw so many reactions to the news that reflected the same. Unrest accompanied me, as I turned in for the night. I was torn between sharing a light in the darkness of it all – and sharing my voice in standing up to the injustice. I fell asleep to a message that encouraged me to use my voice.
I found myself in a room of elder women, some unknown relatives, and none that I was familiar with, with the exception of my mother. They were all filled with anguish, heartbreak, sadness, and anger. We all had that in common.
I did not know why I was there, or even how I got there. But I felt the need to do something, say something, but I was too overwhelmed to do anything. My mother looked over at me and smiled with a pride I’ve not been familiar with. She pulled out a paper and handed it to me. I had the knowing that I had written it as a child of around 10 to 12 years old. (Weird because I started my writing passion in second grade, so it would fit.) I had written my life’s mission on it, and I needed it now. “I will use my voice and gift of writing for the good of others”. I smiled a knowing, that it’s true today. Were they my ancestors there to stand behind me? Perhaps they were. For the words must be said that draw our souls together, even when the pain is being felt. And although I awakened to find it was a dream, I realized the message that came from it was loud and clear.
So here it is to you …
Canada, Mexico, and China – we’re so sorry! President Trump does not speak for me and countless others. We see you as incredible neighbors, friends and family. You do matter to us.
Canada, the products are not even our biggest wound right now. It’s your wound from us. I know many of you from your good works and light you share with the world. Dorothyann Graham O’Dell – I cannot begin to tell you how much I admire you! You’re a woman of action, care and true compassion. You are a true Beacon of Light and it’s an honor to know you. Peter Clarke – there is no better example of kindness than yours. People matter is your biggest message (along with “Just be kind out there!”) and you have played a significant part in my growth and ultimately my healing. I am grateful for the gift of knowing you. These are just 2 examples of the many incredible Canadians who saw us as allies, there for each other. There are so many more who brighten the world.
Mexico, I have tasted the sweetest of fruit from my favorite grocery store, with labels that tells us it comes from you. But it’s more than just that. Perhaps someday soon, we will be ready to learn from you about your beliefs like we could from Dia de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). I didn’t know it, but I had created my own Ofrendas in reverence to those I cared about who have passed. Someday I will hold a celebration for it in honor of your tradition.
China, yes, I have bought your products, and your clothes. I’ve bought them in places I didn’t expect them to be. Beautiful pottery that becomes favorite treasures have your name on the bottom. It doesn’t make them cheap, it makes them affordable. Many pieces of my professional attire comes from you, whether I buy them online or at local stores. You never know where your labels will pop up. But it’s more than just that. I’ve learned about Qi Gong, herbals, Reiki and meditation practices. I will never be able to learn all the ancient wisdoms your culture holds. I’ve always been drawn to it, and it was what I learned that saved my life. Where profits are concerned, our country exploited yours when they moved businesses there for cheaper labor and bigger profits. But the truth is, you have way more value than we credit you for.
Human Connection for our countries
Sometimes we need to talk to each other in raw honesty for true connection. Words from the heart with reverence and respect.
Please forgive us for the pain this may cause you. And we understand your need to respond with boundaries. Tariffs are not what’s at stake here – dignity and respect are. So do what you feel in your soul is the right thing but please don’t leave out compassion in your decisions.
Prayers for peace and connection, with the healing energy of Love, Light & Hope.
Written by Melody Belliveau
The Social-Commentary.Com 