Resistance

To journey this life is to know the presence of resistance in a multitude of ways. It begins from infancy and accompanies us throughout the remainder of our lives in some form or another. While navigating the vicissitudes of life, it is virtually impossible to deny the challenges they present to our mental and emotional well-being. Barring any physical or mental challenges, few are immune to its impact. It cannot be avoided. Resistance is commonly associated with something bad that may bring harm. It’s safe to say that the word itself is likely to result in instant anxiety depending on the degree of anticipated impact.

Whether you’re an only child or one with siblings, resistance begins in the family environment, where the challenge of interacting with others has its own set of circumstances, some of which are not necessarily ideal economically, educationally, or emotionally.  If we’re not understanding or even feeling what we’re being asked or told to do, resistance rears its head. In this setting, the experience of resistance begins as we adapt to the awareness of consequences, compromise, and cooperation.

Recognizing the healthy side of resistance is to identify humanity, which requires that you treat others as you would like to be treated, even if you disagree with their viewpoint. As human beings, it is incumbent upon us to engage in civil discourse respectfully using our intellect. Derogatory remarks, slandering, and the like are counterproductive to peace, prosperity and decency. Unfortunately, the times in which we live have deteriorated to self-interest driven by an insatiable lust for money and power to the detriment of fellow human beings. “The only time we should look down on someone is when we’re reaching down to help them up.”

The African American experience early on speaks to every conceivable brutality and horror known to mankind. The physical, mental, and emotional impact from being brought to this land in chains under deplorable conditions and being told you are “less than” gave birth to a resistance movement that remains entrenched in the struggle for equality and respect to this day. The recent derogatory posting of President and Mrs. Obama attests to this diseased way of thinking for all the world to see. The January 6th insurrection is another perfect example of the type of mentality we Black people have been dealing with all our lives, and unfortunately, will continue to have to do so. In addition to Latinos and other Brown people being subjected to hostile and, in some cases, deadly treatment, the White working class is no longer safe, as recently evidenced.

To choose to do all the good you can, whenever, wherever possible, is to be a part of positivity. Even if you do not believe in the One who initially delivered the message of, “Love thy neighbor as thyself” and “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”, the significant benefits of its meaning remains on solid ground in support of humanity which is gratifying and yields so many benefits. As I reflect on the saying,  “In a world where you can be anything, be kind”, I wonder why would anyone not see the value in that? The gratification of being a positive presence is so rewarding, even euphoric. Surely, it does require courage and understanding to do the right thing. When you pause from self-interest to meet the needs of others or extend your presence in the face of controversy, Resistance, is an honorable choice.

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Marcia is a third generation New Yorker. Her career has spanned the corporate sector, music, community outreach, and the wife of an American Diplomat. She has taught drama, personal development in the US and abroad, served in Christian ministry and as a champion for Jazz education, and is an active participant in Portland's prolific Jazz community. A Jazz Radio Host for over 20 years, she is currently on KBOO Community Radio 90.7 FM with Jazz Lives! on alternate Wednesdays from 12:08-2 PM. Her widely recognized contributions have garnered multiple awards including Oregon Public Broadcasting's (OPB) highest volunteer honor for radio and television combined, and the Jan Henderson Award for Leadership. For further information: marciakhocker.com

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