Don’t Complain. Do Something.

On last night’s news, Michelle Obama was delivering a speech to Democrats in Chicago. The words that particularly resonated with me were words that she quoted from Kamala Harris’ mother: ‘Don’t sit around and complain about things. Do something.’

‘Do Something’ became a repeated refrain for her audience…

The principle isn’t about US – or UK – party politics. In Michelle Obama’s words: ‘It’s up us to be the solution that we seek… to be the antidote to the darkness and division… to stand up for what we know in our hearts is right…’

‘Do something?’ I reflected on people I’d met, chatted to through yesterday…

Bill’s been involved in local politics for many years. I don’t agree with all of his politics, but he’s served his local community, giving his time, experience and energy in seeking solutions to local concerns. He’s currently setting up ‘Free Books’, available for all, from a vacant shop in our town centre.

Sixteen-year-old Josh was helping with our church ‘Family Fun Day’. Many families enjoyed the craft activities, games, bouncy castle. Josh was spending his summer holidays volunteering, serving refreshments. He’s gentle and kind with the children, respectful, helpful, considerate, a valuable part of the team.  

Sammy works for ‘Victim Support’, a national charity that supports the victims, witnesses and survivors of crime. Sammy works particularly with children and young people who’ve suffered with domestic abuse. Sammy listens with compassion, validates their experiences and helps them move forward…

Bill, Josh and Sammy… don’t complain, they do something!  

Musing on Jesus words:

…‘Blessed are the peacemakers’ – not the peace lovers, but those who are proactively involved in creating peace.

…’Love your neighbour as yourself’ – illustrated by ‘the Good Samaritan’ who didn’t campaign for better health care, but responded practically to needs of the injured man.

…’Follow my example’ – was in the context of the unpleasant, humble service of foot-washing.   

‘Don’t just sit around and complain about things. Do something.’ Are these words that Jesus could have said? How do I respond?