Happy Independence Day, everyone!
I know, I know, publishing two blog pieces in one day is not my usual thing, but I wanted to wish you all a happy strange holiday we’re all experiencing.
Normally, my family would spend this holiday either attending one of the many parades held here in Maine, go out to eat in one of our favorite local mom-and-pop restaurants, or relax by the ocean on one of the dozens of beaches our state has to offer.
But that was before Covid.
This Fourth of July, however, we’ve decided to do things a little differently. Because most parades and firework showings have been cancelled, we felt it would be better, and safer, for us to stay home and putter around the house. Well, Mom had to work today, but Dad and I stayed home.
While he was out in the garage working on fixing the four-wheeler, I was doing my best at staying productive. That included completing a load of laundry, washing dishes, sweeping floors, and vacuuming couches and stair rugs.
But, also while I was cleaning and making sure the house was in good condition, I started thinking about the people who couldn’t celebrate this holiday with their families. I’m not just talking about all of the doctors, nurses, EMT’s, hospital receptionists, and custodians who take care of our family members sick with Covid, though they all should definitely be thought of! Without them, the death count would be through the roof!
I’m also including those who were hurt by others’ ignorance and prejudice. The people who’s lives were taken in excessive force, just because of a factor they have no control of.
I’m talking about Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Atatiana Jefferson, Ahmed Arbery, Elijah McClain, Stephon Clark, Botham Jean, and countless others before them. You can get technical if you so desire, but point blank: these people died because of the pigment of their skin. That very same pigment where I’ve seen tons of white people slather oils and other gross what-not onto their skin, lay themselves under a hot sun so they can look like a baked potato. Potatoes are for eating, not fashion advice.
It’s 2020, folks.
We shouldn’t be screeching slurs at one another, believing one skin tone is better than another. We shouldn’t be hating one another based on prejudices passed down from generation to generation that make absolutely no sense.
If this is what we’re doing, then we need to take a step back an reevaluate ourselves.
There’s a saying I absolutely love from George Santayana: “Those who do not learn from the past are doomed to repeat it.”
And you know what? I’m starting to see reruns happen in real life. Reruns should be happening to quality TV shows, not in the real world.
Thank you for letting me get through my rant. If I’ve lost a couple followers, then please know I understand, but this is how I feel. People are people, regardless of how they look. Treat everyone you meet with kindness. You never know what demons they’re fighting on the inside, or what kind of day they’re having.
I hope you all have a wonderful, safe, and healthy Fourth of July!
L.J. LaBree 