Finding grounded ways to act for justice in our communities and world
We live in a time unlike any before, a moment when people everywhere are waking up to realities that were once ignored or hidden. In neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and online forums, conversations about fairness, justice, and equality have moved from the margins to the center. Issues that used to be whispered about are now spoken with clarity and urgency. It is a period of profound awakening, where many of us feel a call to be part of something bigger—a movement toward a world that is more just, more beautiful, and more whole.
But as this awakening spreads, so does a sense of confusion. The desire for change is strong, but the path forward is often unclear. With so many voices, opinions, and emotions swirling around us, it’s easy to feel lost or overwhelmed. There are questions that echo through the minds of those who feel called to this work: How do we move forward faithfully? What wisdom can guide our longing for justice? How do we ground our actions in something deeper than outrage or ideology?
Recognizing the Awakening
Let’s start by understanding what this awakening actually means. In plain terms, people are waking up to the fact that things are not always fair. Some folks have advantages that others do not. Some voices get heard more than others. Some have to work much harder just to be treated with respect. These aren’t just personal problems—they are patterns that show up in the rules, traditions, and structures of our societies.
This recognition is spreading because people are sharing their stories, and others are listening. Social media, documentaries, books, and conversations around dinner tables are helping everyone see that injustices—whether based on race, gender, wealth, or background—have deep roots. When enough people notice and care, it can spark change.
The Urge to Act—and the Challenge of How
It’s completely natural to feel fired up when we learn about injustice. Anger, sadness, and frustration can push us to want to do something, anything, to make things better. But acting out of pure outrage or following whatever ideology is trending isn’t always effective, and sometimes it can cause more harm than good. So, how do we make sure our actions actually help, instead of just adding to the noise?
Step one: Slow down and reflect. Before rushing into action, take a moment to sit with what you’re feeling and learning. Ask yourself: What is really going on here? What are the facts? Whose voices are being heard—and whose are missing? Sometimes, just listening can be a powerful act.
Step two: Seek wisdom. Wisdom doesn’t mean knowing everything. Rather, it means looking for guidance from those who have walked this path before. That might mean learning from elders, studying history, reading thoughtful books or articles, or talking with people who have experience working for justice. Wisdom helps us see the bigger picture and learn from both the successes and mistakes of others.
Step three: Connect with others. No one can change the world alone. Find like-minded people who care about justice, kindness, and fairness. Ask questions. Share ideas. Build relationships. When we work together, we amplify our impact and keep each other grounded.
Grounding Our Actions
It’s easy to get swept up in the latest headlines or social media trends about what is “right” or “wrong.” But to truly help build a better world, our actions need to be rooted in something deeper than passing outrage or political ideology. Here are a few ways to ground your work for justice:
· Compassion: Remember that every person is complex. People make mistakes, have different backgrounds, and see things differently. Approach others with empathy and try to understand where they’re coming from.
· Humility: Nobody has all the answers. Be open to learning and changing your mind. Admit when you don’t know something, and be willing to listen to others—even those you disagree with.
· Patience: Real change takes time. The problems we face have deep roots, and solutions may not come quickly. Keep showing up, even when progress is slow.
· Honesty: Speak the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Seek out facts and question rumors. Don’t be afraid to revise your views if new information comes to light.
· Collaboration: Work with others, not just for others. Invite those most affected by injustice to lead the way. Share resources, ideas, and decision-making power.
Letting Wisdom Guide Us
So what kind of wisdom do we need to guide our longing for justice? Sometimes, we can look to the teachings of people who have advocated for justice in the past—thinkers, writers, activists, and everyday folks who have done the hard work of making things better. Their words and actions remind us that justice isn’t just about winning debates or proving a point. It’s about building relationships, understanding one another, and finding creative solutions to tough problems.
Wisdom also means learning from history. When we look back, we see that real progress usually comes not from anger alone, but from persistent, thoughtful effort. Movements that last—whether for civil rights, environmental protection, or economic fairness—rely on people who care deeply, act with integrity, and keep going even when it’s tough.
Faithfulness in Moving Forward
“Moving forward faithfully” is about staying true to your values, even when it’s hard. It means not cutting corners or compromising on what’s right just because it’s easy or popular. Faithfulness can look like showing up, even when you’re tired. Listening, when you’d rather talk. Standing up for someone, even when you’re afraid. Faithfulness isn’t flashy—it’s steady, patient, and strong.
Practical Steps You Can Take
If you feel called to help build a more just and beautiful world, here are some actions you can take—no special training required:
· Educate yourself: Read, watch, and listen to stories from different perspectives. Learn about the issues that matter to you.
· Speak up: Use your voice to call out injustice when you see it. Don’t be silent, but do speak with care and respect.
· Support change-makers: Donate, volunteer, or otherwise help organizations and people who are making a difference.
· Build bridges: Talk to people outside your usual circle. Try to understand their experiences and viewpoints.
· Vote and participate: Engage with your community. Attend meetings, vote in elections, and stay informed about what’s happening.
· Practice kindness: Small acts of compassion matter. Smile at a neighbor, help a friend, reach out to someone who’s struggling.
Staying Hopeful
Finally, remember that change is possible—and you have a role to play. Even when the problems seem overwhelming, remember that every step counts. When we act with wisdom, compassion, and faithfulness, we help build the kind of world we can all be proud of.
This moment of awakening is a chance not just to notice what’s wrong, but to dream about what could be right. So let’s move forward together, guided by wisdom and grounded in love—toward a future where justice and beauty are within reach for everyone.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 