#IAmWoke: A Rally Cry

A Rock & an Octopus: Context Means Everything

Context is everything. I have a deep appreciation for both octopuses and rocks, and strangely enough, they share a common thread as companions of the Creator. Octopuses, in particular, showcase their remarkable ability to mimic rocks for camouflage, a feat that never fails to astound. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that despite their similarities, they are not the same.

Before we delve further into this discussion, I want to clarify my intentions for this musing. My aim is (hopefully) to inspire and rally rather than rant. While both can be valid expressions, the former is designed to motivate and guide us toward finding hope by disconnecting from the digital realm and taking meaningful action. In contrast, the latter can reinforce stereotypes, perpetuate echo chambers, and ultimately leave us complacent with an unwarranted sense of self-righteousness.

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter. I find myself writing within a context where cultural conflicts from beyond Canada are infiltrating our public discourse. These disputes encompass various issues, such as LGBTQIA2S+ rights and protections and women’s right to autonomy and have reached the halls and walkways of government.

While it might be tempting to engage in these discussions, doing so would likely transform this blog into a rant and contribute to the unfortunate trend of not truly listening to one another or taking meaningful action. Instead, I choose to reflect briefly on a fundamental Christian principle encapsulated by the wisdom of Jesus:

#WeAreWoke

I believe this is the expansive foundational perspective from which all discussions regarding the Christian tradition should commence. While delving into the depths of history, tradition, context, and variations (such as this interpretation of the Greatest Commandments) can yield valuable insights, it is imperative to recognize that, as a Christian, my concern is often that the touchstones of the culture war tend to misconstrue the essence of this spiritual millennial journey. When the application of Christian principles leads to the marginalisation and oppression of another cherished individual, whom we are called upon to regard as our neighbour, we stray from the core principles embodied in these two commandments. Everything else, therefore, amounts to mere commentary.

Now, you might wonder about the significance of a blog that usually adheres to an 800-word limit. Well, should this veer into a rant, I could potentially refer to those cultural flashpoints that are employed to harm the LGBTQIA2S+ community. One place could be to discuss white privilege. Another could be when Paul’s writings are invoked regarding natural law and his commentary on same-sex relations as contrary to the teachings of Jesus. The truth is, they are partially correct but contextually incorrect, think octopus and rock …

This prohibition is specifically linked to the misuse of patriarchal authority to indoctrinate young men into an empire where marginalisation and subservience were instrumental in maintaining control. This initiation, therefore, does not pertain to same-sex relationships aimed at fostering life but rather represents an aspect of heterosexual dominance, where an elder male exploits a younger one as a means of cultural conditioning.

Returning to the original point, avoiding a rant, where does this expanded understanding of the Greatest Commandments lead us? If these commandments, which urge us to practice radical love, resonate with the intersection of our minds, hearts, bodies, and soul spark, then it should embolden us beyond the confines of this digital illusion that can easily trap us in an echo chamber of our own preferences.

I may not know what this revelation means to you, but there are avenues for further exploration. If you are part of a faith community, consider their actions. Where are people congregating in person to engage in action and contemplation? Here are some resources that may be of interest:

• affirming connections
• Affirm United (The United Church of Canada)
• Egale
• Reconciling Ministries Network

These are just a few examples of organisations who are actively rallying for change. Are there others who inspire you?

I encourage you to share their stories in the comments below. It’s one thing to perceive the world’s challenges through the safety of the digital realm, but it’s another to be empowered by the knowledge gained here and take action in the real world. Stepping beyond the confines of a blinking cursor is the possibility to extend our healing hands to those in need. In some small way, I hope this blog inspires you to step into a world that is crying out for individuals who embody the essence of the Great Commandments.

#WeAreWoke