Here I honor the courage of people who stand up to authorities with dignity.
They show us that nobody can take our power away, unless we are willing to give it away.
Our power is not in giving in or in rebelling – our power is in upholding human dignity at all times.
Especially when confronted with violent behaviour.
These people inspire me and I feel grateful for that.
People often pay dearly for their courage, with material loss, physical harm or with life.
But sometimes those who are destitute feel richer than those who sit in big houses.
But sometimes those in prison feel more free than those outside.
But sometimes those who died feel more alive than those who are legally alive.
May their sacrifice strenghten our clarity and resolve when our time to decide and stand firm comes.
John Gather, 2024