It’s easy to see the things we don’t want in the world. People mistreated, injustices remain, hate seems to rule in too many cases.

And in this time in history, there is a lot of talk of resistance. Of pushing against injustice, of protest and complaint and petition.

Often this has been applied to politics, but I submit that there is more. We resist anything that doesn’t fit our values and ideals. We resist what doesn’t seem right, what doesn’t unite people, what seems dark when we crave light.

Resistance is a vote for the kind of world we want.

Gandhi said to be the change we wish to see in the world. Maybe he’s got something there.

The choices that we make FOR a cause are much more powerful than the choices we make AGAINST something. Every time you contribute to the light, you exponentially resist the darkness. You resist negativity, injustice, hate, division.

Several wise people have pointed out that in the Bible, Jesus says of his church, “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” — in this illustration, the people of light who are living out God’s ways are the advancing army, with power to keep spreading good news in darkness.

Taking positive steps in your community is a powerful form of resistance. Getting into the daily grind of building bridges and righting wrongs and caring for people is not glamorous, but it’s where the work is truly done.

Who can you influence in your world? Where can you contribute, time, money, energy with intention?

Here’s one idea: “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” ~ Marjorie Moore.

What are you resisting? What can you vote FOR with your life?

By Katy Penner, Interim Director/Board PR Chair

Family Promise of Greater Wichita unites hearts and hands to provide compassionate hospitality and empower homeless families with children to achieve sustainable independence. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible.