Freedom in Lent - Day 43

There were two and a half years between the declaration of Emancipation of 1863 (as remembered in the US as 'Juneteenth') and the freeing of the last slaves in Texas. In that time those still enslaved had no idea that their 'owners' were breaking the law, and no idea of the freedom they were meant to have. 

When we stand for justice, equity, equality, inclusion, we must do so with a sense of urgency - for as long as those values are not held, those who do not enjoy the freedoms that the majority hold remain 'enslaved'. Though we who are allies and advocates may feel we are doing the right thing, until that which we seek actually happens, then all of our words and ideals mean little to those who are in bondage to oppression, poverty, persecution, and exclusion. 

Harlem

What happens to a dream deferred?

      Does it dry up
      like a raisin in the sun?
      Or fester like a sore—
      And then run?
      Does it stink like rotten meat?
      Or crust and sugar over—
      like a syrupy sweet?

      Maybe it just sags
      like a heavy load.

      Or does it explode?

Langston Hughes

God has told you, O mortal, what is good;
    and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
    and to walk humbly with your God

Micah 6.8