playin around

just played for a dozen Kucinich folks in a conversation called “what does america mean to me?” The progressives are a funny lot. For the most part, they’re not polished at all. They sometimes come across as frumpy and disheveled, but I don’t think I’ve ever met a more passionate bunch of people. And they are passionate about some pretty basic values – peace, justice and freedom. Somehow these words have become something to avoid in politics. But ultimately, these really mean a lot to me. Yes, there are some vocal, even “shrill” activists in the progressive movement. But in a world where the voices advocating peace, justice and freedom are drowned out by multi-million dollar media campaigns, character assassins and corporate influence, it seems natural that those voices would try to rise above the fray. I have to respect the progressives, too, for “being the change”. There are certainly examples of radical activists acting in aggressive ways. But for the most part, the Kucinich people have been remarkable in their efforts to be mindful of their actions and their impact on their surroundings.

The sore throat and lightheadedness persist. I’m a bit feverish and have been doing a pretty good job of sleeping a lot and drinking lots of water. I’m counting on my body to heal itself. I just gotta do my part and not put it under too much stress. Which is kind of a drag, because I’m inclined to do a lot – to get around and flier, to pass out my cd, etc. But I have to take it easy, especially since it’s looking more and more like I’m gonna be on for Thursday’s gala.

Someone in today’s performance said something like “this could easily be the progressive anthem”. I think she might have something there. Certainly this song speaks to the progressives. Funny – I never considered myself “progressive” before, prefering “independent” as a political affiliation. But the more I dig beyond the news of the day as presented by USA Today, Fox, etc (I tuned out of that stuff long ago) the more I find affinity with the progressives, polish or not.

Indeed, as my own expectations/values around fashion, wealth and lifestyle have changed over the last few years (opting for more simple way of living), it’s not that I find I have more in common with these folks. I just think they’re among the few advocating for fairness, equality and justice.

I’m off to rest.