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OK: Onto tonight’s post!
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I was sitting on my best friend’s fire escape last night around 8pm. It’s one of the things that we like to do: enjoy some conversation and cocktails while watching the sunset over Manhattan. A scene that, sitting with my bestie-since-birth, feels like a scene out of a movie — an early 2000s rom-com starring Kate Hudson or Katherine Heigl.
But last night, that movie scene was different.
You see, my friend’s apartment overlooks one of the main Avenues in Greenwich Village, and last evening — around 8pm — thousands and thousands of protestors marched down that Avenue. They were shouting, “I can’t breathe.” They were chanting “George Floyd.” There were chanting “NYPD Suck My ****.” ((Footage available on my Instagram stories))
They were angry. And rightfully so.
My friend and I watched in silence for close to ten minutes as they marched on. Floods of people – young, old, black, white, people carrying signs, people wearing masks.
At one point, my friend and I started clapping – much like the notorious “7pm Cheer” for the health workers. It was as though we knew that we were witnessing something historic. Something important. Something that mattered.
But there was a small part of me that was uneasy.
Because I knew that sadly, this peaceful demonstration now, would most probably turn violent, once the sun went down. And it did.
I don’t need to spell out for you the degree of violence exploding across the country right now. Cities up in flames. Looting, rioting, burning cop cars and police precints and garbage cans.
New York City is particularly combustive right now.
Living just a block or two away from Union Square — the epicenter of the violent demonstrations — I spent the night tossing and turning to the constant drone of helicopters overhead, to sirens wailing throughout the night, to the sound of unrest — clanging, shouting. I watched on the news of live pictures of my neighborhood, up in flames. My grocery store, my subway station. My walking route — now breaking news on every cable news network across the country.
Soho is completely ransacked. Chanel and other luxury stores with busted store fronts, and empty shelves. And my neighborhood is bracing itself for tonight. I was walking through the Meatpacking District today, and 90% of the store fronts were constructing ply-wood protective coverings for their storefronts. The Apple store was completely shuttered. And rumors have been circulating about whether or not the National Guard will be called in.
This is what my father warned me about.
I always thought he was exaggerating to spook me into coming home — but here we are, and it’s happening.
There is a difference between peaceful protest: — demonstrating for justice, speaking out against racism — and the criminal activity we’ve witnessed in the past several days from rioters torching businesses, looting storefronts, partaking in violence, defacing property. I mean, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC — covered in graffiti.
There is a difference between the two. The former is a justified response to the horrific and gut wrenching murder of George Floyd. It is a warranted expression of anger. A cry for justice. For reform. For change. And is part of our First Amendment rights.
The latter, is taking advantage of George Floyd’s death, and capitalizing on a tinderbox situation to steal, break the law, vandalize and destroy the livelihoods of so many through the destruction of property and businesses, and frankly cities at large. And that criminal activity has no place in our society.
I spent a lot of time this weekend researching and reading up on how to be an ally during this time of intense hurt and anger.
And after sifting through resource after resource calling for extreme resistance, I found myself truly resonating with the words of Martin Luther King, Jr.
His movement was one of non-violence, and I pray that in the coming days, or weeks, or however long this lasts, that the movement follows MLK’s initiative, rather than the looting and burning of cities we have seen.
“Nonviolence is not sterile passivity, but a powerful moral force which makes for social transformation.” – MLK. ‘Nonviolence acts. Nonviolence resists. Nonviolence challenges and speaks truth to power. Nonviolence is love-centered, justice-pursuing, strategic noncooperation with evil.’ – The King Center.
What a powerful truth. These protests began as demonstrations for justice for George Floyd. For standing against evil. And the greatest antidote for those such things — and the most simple solution in all of this — is love.
Love for neighbor. Love for those facing oppression, hardship, persecution.
Love. And the greatest example we’ve ever seen of love, is Jesus: Love Incarnate.
“We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force.” MLK
Soul force.
There it is.
I pray for all those demonstrating for justice for George Floyd. I pray that their actions be peaceful, nonviolent, and be a response born from an overflow of love for their fellow man. Love for their brothers and sisters who are hurting right now. Who have been hurting for generations. Who are tired of hurting.
May we all rise with soul force to demand change, so we all can live free from fear and oppression.
And in the spirit of nonviolent action for change, I want to share a few resources that I found really helpful and articulate.
First, Benjamin Watson. He’s a former NFL player who has written a book called: Under Our Skin: Getting Real about Race. I just ordered it today, and look forward to learning from such an inspiring man. He is able to articulate difficult realities in an inviting way that foster honest conversation, while not shying away from hard truths. (This article was also really powerful.)
Next, The King Center – is a nonprofit organization that offers insightful resources about MLK and his movement for nonviolence. Plus, they have a really great Instagram.
This was a really powerful interview with Bishop TD Jakes that opened my eyes to an unfamiliar reality – in a calm, articulate and passionate way.
Finally, though this video is full of profane language, it candidly captured the raw emotion and plight caused by the looting in NYC, and the toll the destruction is taking on inhabitants.
And for more resources, check out my own Instagram, where I’m reposting enlightening articles and posts.
What are some resources you’ve found helpful? Please leave them in the comments section!
“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5
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197 responses to “NYC: Streets on Fire”
You have encapsulated what needs to happen. I’m glad you’re safe. I’m sorry about your beautiful city. I’ve been listening to the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir for months as well as Eric Metaxas bunker radio show. In an ironical sense New Yorkers have been my source of comfort. I read your posts and it seems you’ve managed to eke out a little oasis of peace and goodwill in your apartment.
Praying for you, for us all. Keep the good words coming. I’m so glad you have a best friend nearby!
Hi Amy, thank you for your prayers and kind words. Gosh – I am truly touched by that. Yes – even in darkness we must always seek out the light – His light 💛 and yes! I’m so grateful to have her just down the block! Stay well!! Hugs and love xox
We all, 12 families, received totally illicit 7-day eviction notices. A friend just drove up, collected us and brought us into his home, where we have a larger bedroom en suite, plus kitchen and a lovely living room. Very private and bordering a nature reserve with small antelope, jackals, owls and other birds. Tranquil, rural, yet brand new and with sophistication. The Lord did something huge here.
And thanks for reading and stopping by. Then that socially distant hug-across-the-pond.
oh my gosh, i am so sorry to hear that, but i’m glad you have such a great friend. The Lord really did! praying for you all!! Hugs and love xox
Being a freelance missionary has its moments. Surely, regular folks need theme parks for adventure, we just have to be. It can get interesting sometimes. Bighug
wow – what a powerful line of work/ministry!! praying for you!!
Been doing it since 1985, we had been kidnapped a few times, lived among criminals, can and should write a book. It had taken a huge sacrifice and I am suddenly not keen to experience any more discomfort. Imagine doing it without anyone’s support for so many years, we paid our way the hard way.
oh my goodness!!! that’s terrifying! i would definitely read your book!!!
😊😇
🥰
Trying times, Carolyn
Yes they really are. Thanks Tony for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
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Thanks Renee. Yes big time prayers for this country. Hugs and love xox
Please stay safe Caralyn! Praying for NYC and our nation as a whole. You are right. We cannot fight hatred with more hatred. Only love truly wins.
Thank you Emily. Yes – I am definitely staying holed up and safe. You’re so right – we must end hate with love and a willingness to listen and learn. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
please stay safe – I am praying for you.
Thank you so much for your prayers. They mean the absolute world. Stay safe! Hugs and love xox
there’s not much room for me to get myself in trouble down here in NZ! One remaining case of Covid, fairly peaceful protests yesterday, work + kids – I’m too busy.
Well that’s good to hear! Stay busy!!
Out of curiosity, did you see the news about the three teens in the UK who “reenacted” the murder of Mr. Floyd as a joke and posted the image online in the last day or two? They were subsequently arrested, but it’s mind blowing to me that there are still people out there who think this phenomenon of extra-judicial murder is just “funny.”
Sad part is, according to the version I read, those teens can’t understand what they did wrong here . . .
Hi Doc, no i didn’t! But wow that is just awful. absolutely horrible. wow. thank you for sharing that. stay well my friend. Hugs and love xox
Oh my goodness! I’m from the u.k., but must have missed this. That makes me so terribly ashamed that those from my country would behave in such a despicable manner. I don’t understand it either. I’m so sorry.
I know that “The Mirror” is not considered the best news source, but of the handful of accounts I read, this one was probably the most organized: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/uk-teens-who-mocked-george-22122018?int_source=taboola&int_medium=display&int_campaign=organic&fbclid=IwAR2EDiREsvaRiBJ9x6yZK9phxNkrReK4k0nSoGBxr7E0F0Bv4Kk53RrW4h8
Thank you for the link. Words fail me. 🙁
Thank you for the link. I will check that out
I am old enough to remember when Reverend Martin Luther King led marches – though I was a small girl at the time. I remember the sit-ins, the marches against the war in Vietnam, the civil rights movement and although there were times these marches turned violent it didn’t seem to happen on this scale.
I am so very sorry for all the hurt and pain people are going through, even after all these years. And I am sorry to see the destruction of towns and cities.
I am praying for the U.S.A. and for positive and peaceful change
He was such a hero. We owe so much to that brave man. I so agree – and will join you in that important prayer! thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
My pleasure!
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Stay healthy and stay safe – the world needs you. 🙂
Thank you again. World needs you too! World needs everyone of us! 🙂
Yes it does, wish some of our so-called world leaders would recognize that fact and help their people. God bless and keep you safe.
God bless you too! xox
Thank you xo <3
xoxo 🙂
You are so right Caralyn. Protesting is justified and the right thing to do to stand for what is right. But turning it into violence steals from the message the protesting is trying to convey and gives leverage for others to point blame and rob them of the argument and statement they are trying to make.
Stay safe 💙
you’re so right – it dilutes and steals from the the message and what’s truly important, and that’s justice for Mr. Floyd. thank you for sharing your heart on this. Hugs and love xox
I’m sad to read of the violence going on. I hope it settles very soon. Stay safe, Caralyn!
Hi Lesley, thank you for sharing your heart – I am right there with you. it makes me so so sad. you too – stay safe and well! Hugs and love xox
Thanks for sharing! Yes, there is a huge difference between civil disobedience and criminal activity. 🙂 This morning, my pastor’s daily devotional reminded us that only true reconciliation is found in Christ.
“For he [Christ ] himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” – Ephesians 2:14-18
Thank you for sharing that powerful verse. Reconcile both to God through the cross. There it is as plain as day! Stay well my friend! Hugs and love xox
We have only had small protests here in Chattanooga. Last night things got a little tense, but the police squelched it. As I watch what is going on in NYC and in large cities across the country, I am so heartbroken. A friend who is a chef and owns a restaurant in Detroit, today went to his restaurant to see the damage. It was much worse than he thought it would be. The bar he had shipped in from Ireland and other things within the restaurant were ruined. His lifelong dream has been crushed. He said the most hurtful thing were the racist words towards him (Cracker, etc) spray painted on the walls. He said he has hired the neighborhood kids that no one else would and given donations to their sports teams, and this is what he receives in return. I think he has given up on Detroit and may leave the state to begin again. I pray for your safety and all others who are having to deal with all of this. I am hopeful we aren’t seeing the beginnings of another civil war. I am praying God will help us to get this under control. Stay safe and love to all.
Thanks for sharing that Monteelou. I am right there with ya – so incredibly heart breaking. Oh gosh I’m so sorry to hear that about your friends restaurant. Ugh just makes me sick. It’s not right. I’m praying with you. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
Have seen what’s going on in NYC and I think the latest I heard on one of the UK news channels was Donald Trump had locked himself in the Whitehouse. God is looking down on you he will keep you safe. As the hymn by Danny Crosby says ‘Safe in the arms of Jesus’.😃
Thank you Kenneth. Yeah it is wild what it going on. The sun just went down so the city is just holding its breath to see what night brings. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
Fanny Crosby
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I have two daughters who are US citizens so naturally I fear for the directions the country is heading. What is needed is some person who can step in to bring healing and credibly address the issues that have set up such a mass protest including both whites and blacks. There are a number of issues that have been festering and people are desperate for messages of hope. Fortunately the brother of George Floyd has made a public statement that violence only detracts from the message being communicated by peaceful marchers. There are sinister elements from both the right and the left who are behind the violence. Both need be be bought to account.
Thank you Ian, yes I am fearful too. But I have hope that goodness will rise from the ashes of our burned cities. Yes-that’s message of nonviolence is so Needed. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
Your post resonates with me, I have been seeing a lot of the same with peaceful protests turning into violent riots once the sunsets and the curfew going into effect here in Portland, Oregon. Friday night, the first night saw looting as well, and our main downtown core area where the mall is, was utterly ransacked, and it now looks like a war zone with boarded up windows, broken glass, graffiti, and so much more. It’s sad when peaceful protests turn violent and destructive.
Thank you friend. It makes me so sad. I hope the curfew stops it. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
It is always a pity when a protest is hijacked by hooligans who want to rain death and destruction on society and not be held responsible. Most times, the perpetrators are only in the group to maintain anonymity as they commit their crimes. Meanwhile the message of the protestors is lost. Strange world for sure.
It really is being hijacked. Makes me so sad. Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
Hi Caralyn! How sad that this protest has turned into criminal behavior. These, that do such evil activities are just finding an excuse to go crazy and do their evil deeds-they don’t really care much for the African American man that was killed by police officer . What gets me angry is how the secular media and certain state leaders support the evil activists more than the first responders-and that I mean policemen. The same way that not all African Americans are involved in crime, not all policemen are black men killers. People, white or black who kill, loot, or destroy are all evil. But the liberal media likes to present another scenario which in my opinion is inflammatory and supports the disrespect of our police forces and leaders. I believe there is a liberal agenda focused on the destruction of this country, and it’s aim is to totally take away its Christian roots. I feel that the majority of this country is not racist at all, but that’s not what the media likes to portray. African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians celebrities are some of the most loved and admired people in this country. As well as all Americans who work in high profile jobs/ careers and ministries and are making a difference in this world, don’t waste time in anti-racial discussions and arguments-they just serve and inspire others. Those
of corrupt characters and evil behaviors should not be tolerated whether they’re black, white, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American. The only thing that the liberal media focuses on is on bad deeds done by certain individuals not the beautiful and loving multiracial friendships, marriages , business partnerships, and the multiracial collaboration that is going on in this country. Bottom line is… we don’t have a racist society; we have a Godless one. And that’s the truth! I feel Jesus wound approve of these thoughts. ❤️
Thank you for sharing your heart on this. It makes me just so sad. I agree – those behaviors should not be tolerated at all. And you’re right – our society needs Jesus big time. Society has push God out of the picture and you can really tell. Stay well! Hugs and love xox
Oops “would” approve! 😄
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Thank you for sharing this. Please stay safe and be well.
Thank you Ab, I appreciate your kind words. The sun just went down and our city is bracing itself. I’m safe inside. You too stay safe! Hi
*hugs
Thank you for the post. The protests have started in my town but it hasn’t gotten violent yet. It’s good to hear from someone in the middle and a post that’s worded well. I hope you stay safe.
Thank you friend. I will be praying for your community. It is such a sad turn of events. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
I’ll be praying for your community as well. Hopefully it stays peaceful and gets back to peaceful in your community.
I greatly appreciate your prayers. Amen to that
Continued prayers for our country. So glad you are safe 🙏🏼❤️
Thank you Lisa, yes I will join you in those important prayers. Our country desperately needs it. Stay safe!! Hugs and love xox
Loved the woman giving them a dressing down. The Atlanta mayor(?) was just as angry.
I just pray things get under control fast. Yeah you could really feel her passion.
Thanks for the snapshot Caralyn. Much of the same here in midwest OH. I too thought of Dr. MLK during this time and recognized the differences in demonstrations. Empathy overwhelms me so much so that I yearn for all sides to come together to bring positive change.
Thank you Al, yeah the differences in demonstrations is astounding. Amen – I’m praying for that positive change too! Stay well! Hugs and love xox
A man was shot and killed two blocks from my house in Atlanta last night, but law and order have been restored tonight, thank God.
Oh Jack, that is just so sad. I’m so sorry to hear that. Glad things are looking better tonight. Hugs and love xox
I appreciate your heartfelt observations and compassion. Stay safe!
Thank you friend. You too, please be safe!! Hugs and love xox
This violence and destruction does nothing to help the cause, it only stalls it. However, I saw a bright light today. We had a good after the mayhem story today, here in San Diego. One area that suffered greatly leveling two banks and destroying small businesses on Saturday. That night strangers showed up with boards to block access to their business. The next day, Sunday, people came to clean up, repair and help these poor folks get their businesses back together. And, they came back today. Businesses, in some case, whose owners had spent their life savings to start. It was inspiring to see people of all colors working side by side. It was a beautiful scene.
Thanks Jolie – oh wow what a beautiful and hopeful story!! I appreciate your sharing that. Very inspiring. Hugs and love xox
“May we all rise with soul force to demand change, so we all can live free from fear and oppression.” Beautiful, perfect truth!!
Yes! Thanks friend – I have hope that we will get through this difficult time and heal forward. Stay well. Hugs and love xox
Just been listening to T. D. Jakes talk about intergenerational trauma. Intergenerational trauma is a particular interest of mine. In the lecture I looked at by Dr Judith Landau, she demonstrates how Holocaust survivors have been affected. It seems to take three or four generations for alcoholism levels to normalise. I watched a beautiful You Tube video, where another doctor/psychologist. I wrote about hr but cannot remember her name tells a very moving story about birds on her verandah, who were building a nest. There was a terrible incident in the neighborhood. The birds nest was somehow destroyed. They rebuilt the nest but it was no good and the eggs fell out. This happened repeatedly. The doctor gave the birds a stern talking to and took their nest apart herself.She had told them to build their nest properly or she would take it apart again. It had worked. She has photos.The birds were traumatised and needed help.
Isn’t he a powerful speaker? I was so loved by his words. I’ll have to look up Dr Landau’s lecture. Thanks for stopping by and sharing that. Hugs and love xox
I had to turn the tv off, stay safe my friend
Thanks Alice, yeah it is a heartbreaking scene. Stay safe! Hugs and love xox
Praying for all Americans.
God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. [17] Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
Thank you friend. I will join you in that important prayer. America’s hurting right now. Amen to that. Hugs and love xox
The peaceful protests are important and needed. The destruction and violence has nothing to do with protesting. It is criminal.
That is the absolute truth. It is not protesting. It’s criminal. Amen. Thanks for stopping by! Stay well. Hugs and love xox
Caralyn, I’ve been worried about you. Tonight my heart aches for you as I’m sure your father’s does. The line between being safe and not is very fine.
In high school I was out driving with my best friend on a Friday night. We saw a huge crowd in a parking lot in the Westgate shopping area. Instead of checking it out, we got the hell out of there. We both attended the same racially-charged high school and knew that crowds are good for nothing. The next morning’s news was about a shooting there shortly after we had driven by.
Watching the crowd from a distance? Out in the open on a fire escape? Do you know how far a bullet can travel and how fast? One stray shot from that crowd could really…ruin your evening.
I’d been mugged multiple times, saved a girl from being raped, saved another from a mugging all in high school. One of my classmates played in the NFL…and was stabbed to death by his girlfriend. I’ve been in some pretty dicey places, so I know first hand how quickly things can go bad.
Keep praying and keeping the faith. Sorry to go into dad mode, but if anything would happen to you, it would tear me apart. PLEASE be safe. See a peaceful protest? Stay away and out of line of sight. All said with nothing but love.
Hi Jeff, thank you so much – you’re right. It’s a fine line indeed. Oh my gosh how scary! I’m glad you got out of there. Yeah – that’s very true about the fire escape. Point taken. I will not be out there again. And gosh – what life changing experiences. You’re right – the phrase “in the blink of an eye” is a phrase for a reason. Yes – there is power — and comfort — in prayer. I’m clinging to that big time tonight. Thank you for your care and concern, it truly means a lot. And yes – I am staying far far far away. Praying for you too! Stay safe! Hugs and love xox
Thank you. I feel better knowing you’ll be more careful!!
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My prayer for peace. Stay safe
Thank you friend. Means a lot!! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for the links. I spent most of Friday evening and Saturday morning chatting with my nieces, one of whom decided (thankfully) not to go into Detroit that night. (A man was shot in a drive-by.)
But there were peaceful protests, too. I don’t know if you heard about it, but the sheriff and his deputies joined in the Flint, Michigan, march. https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2020/05/31/lets-walk-flint-sheriff-joins-protesters-show-solidarity/5299264002/
Oh my gosh that’s so scary. I’m glad you and your nieces are okay! I had not heard! Thanks for sharing that article! Hugs and love xox
I’m glad you’re safe. As soon as I heard about what was happening in NYC I thought about you. There are so many people who don’t feel safe, every single day.
Well said, the thoughts that many people share 🙏🏼 God bless you and keep you safe 💛
I totally agree girl.
#wannabethat
The Target nearby where I work (a town near Chicago) was ransacked by looters. But Chicago is also a mess which is why I’m glad I live in the suburbs. I was working on my older car when this was happening. Didnt hear about it until this morning.
I never understood why people have to act foolish, destroying their city, the place where they regularly would shop at. This is not ok. In fact this is more so the reason these acts of violence continue on. This isnt constructive at all.
Personally, I think the best way to get justice for George Floyd is to talk to your state rep, talk to the police chief in your area and discuss preventing such inhumane practices by the police. Most officers I’ve talked to are pretty cool and really that’s the kind of people we want to serve and protect.
I’m not really sure what protesting really does anymore other than spinning wheels getting nowhere. At some point people had protested the constant violence and shootings in the bad parts of Chicago but that hasn’t solved much of anything. That one I dont have an answer to fix other than its a problem in the community that needs a ton of work.
Rioting and looting however, the destruction of property that’s just making matters worse and it hurts more people than it helps. It doesn’t even make any sense! Well hope your safe up on your balcony. I’m just glad I live in the suburbs and in a residential neighborhood. One more reason to get that cabin up in the mountains somewhere so I can avoid the crazies!
*best friends fire escape
(reading this while kind of sleepy and I thought you were on your balcony 😄)
Haha no worries!!
I’m sleepy too!
Yeah I actually fell asleep, 😄
Haha sleep is always welcomed here! 🙂
Oh my gosh that’s so sad, I’m sorry to hear that. Yeah everything that’s happening is so tragic. It’s not okay. They’re destroying people’s jobs. Their livelihoods. Not to mention the spread of covid. Makes me sick. Stay well. Thanks for sharing your heart! Hugs and love xox
Yeah, the covid situation doesn’t help this either. Its crazy because that Target is still closed, even the factory I work at didn’t have anyone come in Sunday night. Didn’t know why until it was mentioned that Target was hit by looters.
Doesn’t make sense. Its just crazy that many people from different areas would consider doing any of this…
You’re so right – covid makes this so much worse. It makes me so sad. Thank you for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. Hi
**hugs
Amen
Thanks friend. Please stay safe! Hugs and love xox
Yes, soul forces are banning g together all over our country. This is a needed change. We all are one. The power of that one coming together to form a wave, an ocean of change. Sending you so much love and safety. Take care of yourself my dear❤
A needed change indeed. Thank you for your care and concern. It means the world. Please stay safe! Hugs and love xox
Nobody has the right to take a life.
Nobody has the right or reason to burn, break, destroy, loot, assault, intimidate or kill yet more.
Neither is a fruit of God’s Spirit of self-control, nor of His love. Anger may be justified but anarchy never is.
Thank you Pete. I so feel you. Anger is justified but anarchy never is. That so powerfully sums it up. Hugs and love xox
My thoughts are with you all. I watched with horror of what has happened from the other side of the world-it is truly heartbreaking. I even had tears streaming watching James Corden’s Show tonight: Its Time for Change in the US (() and his coloured guest broke down. I’ve never felt more heart-broken. Love, hugs and Blessings, Leina in NZ.
Thank you Leina, so much for your compassion. It really is so heartbreaking. I’ll have to watch the James Corden show – I appreciate you stopping by. Hugs and love xox
I think the peaceful protestors have to come off the streets, something could be done online. Because sadly the violent people are using them as their frontline.
Everyone comes off the streets will expose the small group of people that are going to stop the true message being heard.
The world is in such a bad state at the moment. We need leaders and there doesn’t seem to be any. Stay safe and maybe getting out of NewYork for a couple of weeks could be a very good idea. 🙂
That’s a really interesting thought re: online. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. It makes me very sad to see the state of things. Hugs and love xox
Very sad yes, such an uncertain time at the moment. New York looks a very scary place to be. Please take care of yourself. 🙂
It really is so sad – and yes – scary. Thank you for your kindness. Hugs and love xox
Your words capture well what is going on; stealing and destroying property is not what MLK had in mind when he led protests. We need someone to rise above this and take on such a leadership role; my vote would be for Cory Booker…
Thank you so much Jim – you’re right – this was not what he would have wanted to see. Makes me so sad. Hugs and love xox
I am glad that your are fine. It is hard watching this senseless garbage.
Thank you Jb – yeah it is heartbreaking for sure. Hugs and love xox
You are welcome BBB. Hugs and love to you!!!
xoxo 🙂
xoxo 🙂xoxo 🙂xoxo 🙂
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🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂Me like your smiley face.
Haha thanks
Haha. You are very graciously welcome.
xox 🙂
xox 🙂xox 🙂xox 🙂
Prayers lifted for your protection. Love must drive out hate. Praying for our eyes to be opened to the pain of our brothers and sisters. Hugs.
Thank you Leah for your prayers. I will join you in prayer for the pain of our brothers and sisters. Amen. Hugs and love xox
I didn’t have time to read your post in its entirety, I am sure you were as eloquent and thoughtful as usual, I just want to make sure that you are aware that what start out as peaceful protests are being driven off the rails by white supremacist infiltrators trying to start a civil war in this country, trying to get decent people like you and me to see the African American community as violent and dangerous. I have to go to a meeting, maybe you mentioned it somewhere in your post, I’ll try to come back later and see. Good on you for spreading love and light. Stay well.
Thank you friend – yes – that is the whole point of my post: that the peaceful protestors and the violence instigators that are looting are different groups. It is so sad, and it is another injustice to Mr. Floyd. Hugs and love xox
Thank you for sharing! Stay safe!❤️🙏
thanks so much Ali! 🙂 I appreciate you stopping by! please stay safe! Hugs and love xox
Peace be with you and for you. A prayer of safety to surround you.
thank you so much for your prayers and kind words – they truly mean a lot. praying for you as well! and for our hurting nation!!! Hugs and love xox
Pete!? Where has this happened?
Actually attending a protest is a misdemeanor based on probable cause. That, all may become violent at some point. I looked at your areas data there’s only 85 crimes reported which seems kind of low. Considering you know, all the “everything’s on fire” photos. Also compared that to the same time last year as well as previous riots. It’s actually, less violent. I was kind of surprised myself.
yeah, especially in nyc, it is a tinderbox situation right now, so even the peaceful protests offer a huge danger factor. one false move can lead to teargar, fights, etc. Well – maybe the research is saying one thing, but I can tell you as a witness that things are scary, things are burning, and it is a lawless existence right now. Just last night, there was a huge explosion at the gas station on my block. Stores being broken into, trashcans burning, storefronts on my street defaced with graffiti. I was personally harassed by a man with a camera in my face making me kneel down to him on camera, otherwise he would have shouted that I was a racist. This is what I have experienced. They’re not reporting the crimes because our problematic mayor has told police to “go easy” and basically stand down. But it’s happening. I get alerts on my crime app about every five minutes of another instance of violence – a knife fight, a burning trash can, police backup being requested, stores being looted — and I live in a low-crime area.
I’ve been reading. Gas stations don’t explode. I’m sorry someone harassed you. Lawlessness I disagree. The buildings and property are where the cops are more than enforcement of violations. The theatre district has always had more crime. I used to sleep on park benches in Central Park and felt safer. It does make sense though, there is a larger income inequality in Manhattan in general. Much like LA. They are both hot spots when social divides such as race and opportunity erupt like this. Appreciate the ability to just stand around and drink wine above it all. That ability will probably never exist for most of those angered by current events.
I pray that there is an end to the violence. I pray that justice be reached for George and for the end of oppression and racism in this country. And I pray for the healing of this nation, coming together in love as brothers and sisters part of one human race
Is that why, you couldn’t understand Colin Kaepernick’s protest of police brutality three years ago? My people have been through a lot what’s this new shift in your thinking?
I’ll pray you’ll have another glass of wine and reconsider about Kaepernick. I pray for people not grand ideas. There is no measure to what was taken to create America. 99% of my people, are gone. Think of your 30 closest family members. 29.5 of them disappear. Even Manhattan was taken from us. I should have so much hate in my heart. I do not, have another drink. On me. I’ll be in the fray.
Thanks for sharing the resources. I’ll check out some of what you listed -trying to learn. Currently reading “How to Be An Antiracist ” by Ibram K. Kendi….can’t imagine what some people are going through.
Thank you Teresa, I’ll ahve to check out that book – thanks for passing it along. Please stay safe! Hugs and love xox
It’s raining here in India
I think that’s The Heavens weeping due to Mr. Floyd’s demise and what’s happening in the USA
🙏
I think youre right about that. I certainly believe that’s not a coincidence! stay well! and thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Having read Black Like Me in the late-60s last century, it still resonates today. As the African-Americans I know are mostly upper-middle class or higher, they would not experience many of Howard Griffin’s reasons for outrage; being dissed by a white woman to whom you tried to offer your bus seat; finding a men’s bathroom that is not segregated; waiting in an unadorned separate Waiting Room in a doctor’s office.
BUT even upper-class blacks, as soon as they drop the trappings of their economic advantage, are victims of the “hate stare” sometimes called the “white stare.” Only Jesus can change the heart from hate to love. It must come from inside as we submit to Him.
See https://capost2k.wordpress.com/2020/05/31/what-is-it-like-to-be-black-in-the-time-of-the-wuhan-virus/ and https://wordpress.com/block-editor/post/capost2k.wordpress.com/16825 for how to love even the vandals.
Praying for you, Carolyn, as you live in the epicenter of such racial tension.
Thank you for your prayers and for sharing your heart. Gosh that just makes me so sad. I will have to check out that book, and read your posts. i appreciate you sharing. Hugs and love xox
In our world today so many things we thought could never be is happening before our eyes. We as believer must pray as it can reach more people and places than we humanly can. Also we must get involved as God leads us to be involved.
It really is surreal, and is so heartbreaking. Amen to that – those prayers are powerful and hit God’s ears, we can be sure of that. stay well my friend. Hugs and love xox
Haven’t been here for a while. Been writing a lot. You’ve been on my mind, though, first with Covid-19 then this. Andy Stanley said recently, “Never underestimate the power of a measured response” (as opposed to an unmeasured reaction). Thank you for your measured response to what must have been a disturbing thing to see in your own neighborhood. When white people talk about Martin Luther King’s nonviolence, so often it sounds self-serving. I don’t feel that here. I feel your compassion George Floyd and black victims of injustice, so big tip of the hat for that. These are great resources you point to at the end.
A couple of things I think people should know. First, I’ve seen reports that say looting and rioting are being instigated by people coming from outside the community. So if anyone is wondering why protesters are tearing apart their own community, it’s because it’s literally being imported. I don’t know who’s doing it, but would love to know who they are and what their agenda is.
Second, it’s tempting to say, “look at those black people rioting.” Just google white people riot, and you will find many examples. We can’t turn this into an excuse for more prejudice than already exists.
So you’ve done a marvelous job again. And of course, I pray you stay safe through all this.
Hi David, so great to hear from you!! Thank you so much for your prayers and thoughtful response. Yes – you’ve brought up really important points. The looters are coming from outside the city – they’re plants to instigate violence and it makes me so angry. They’re taking advantage of George Floyd’s death, and it is yet another injustice to Mr. Floyd. And you’re right – all people are rioting, may we not forget that. thank you so much for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
We see a lot of such unruly behavior in my country here in Africa, but it’s very sad and unfortunate that this is happening in a developed country, super power, more so New With all the development people can’t behave?
I hope the violence will end soon and everyone will be treated the right and accepted way.
It really is so sad, Stella. I pray the violence ends soon and that justice and peace may prevail. Sending big hugs to you, thank you for stopping by! xoxo
Big hugs to you too dear ❤️💗💗
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Well said my friend! Well said. And I love your quotes from Dr. King!
Thank you so much. His position of nonviolence really struck a chord with me. Praying for our country and hurting brothers and sisters! Hugs and love xox
Yes, amen!
xoxo
I hope we can get through this. My doubt come from so many people don’t know the heart of the matter. God “said if my people who is call by my name will turn from the evil, wicked ways and pray, then I will hear from heaven and heal their land”. The world need a heart change, It needs Jesus Christ- the Messiah.
I do too – it makes me so sad. Amen to that – It needs Jesus!! thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
first off be safe, I actually thought of this when I read your post:
https://nypost.com/2020/06/02/worse-than-war-my-night-besieged-by-looters-and-thugs-in-nyc/
Union Square… one of the nicest, cleanest places in NYC for anyone who knows (and busiest)…. I am surprised nothing has happened around park/23rd in grammercy, hopefully since tonight seems better maybe we are on the other side of this.
We should show the great things happening in many places, but we should also show the wrong, truth is truth. NJ has been very calm, Newark has had big protests but no violence, I wish people would see the history of Newark (1969) and realize that riots like this can set cities back decades
Thank you so much David! I’ll have to read that article – things are definitely dire. I pray we are on the otherside. i pray with all my heart. you’re so right. stay well and thanks for stoppin gby. Hugs and love xox
Thank you for this! I’m so sorry you’re witnessing your world fall apart around you and pray that you are able to find peace and stay safe during this crazy and sad time. ❤️
thank you so much Jess for your kind words and prayers. Yes! i will join oyu in that prayer — may our country find peace, and may the violence come to an end! stay safe friend. Hugs and love xox
The protest is justified, but the looting and acts of vandalism are not. I pray the latter does not becloud the spirit of the former.
You’re so absolutely correct Victor. I will join you in that very important prayer. We need peace. We need Jesus’ mantle of healing. stay safe my friend. Hugs and love xox
[…] via NYC: Streets on Fire — BeautyBeyondBones […]
Thank you for the link up! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for your uplifting, enlightening and encouraging thoughts, Caralyn. And thank you for the good and helpful resources. This is what we need – encouragement to step out positively and peaceably, creating change in ways that actually work. Violence never solves anything, instead, only creates more pain, anger and violence. However, who is brave enough to lay down their bricks and step up peaceably, to speak with a soft voice, but deliver a loud and clear message? Who is willing to peaceably give from their own hearts whatever it takes to finally pierce this American darkness, revealing uncensored truth to the American heart? And who is willing to step into the war room for as long as it takes to wisely but peaceably brainstorm, create and affect the change needed to eradicate this darkness once and for all? Who? May God bring them forward and anoint them now!
Hi MIndy, thank you so much for your thoughtful response. you’re right! we need peacemakers and we need to support those working for peace. The world is so broken right now, and I pray that God heal this deeply hurting nation, and heal the hearts of our hurting brothers and sisters. Jesus is weeping. stay well! Hugs and love xox
Yes, and I join you in that prayer. Hugs and love back to you 💗
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An excellent commentary on the nature of peaceful vs. violence. You have taken us to the very heart of 2020, the pandemic as well as George Floyd in New York city. Many years ago I lived in a city neighborhood that was where George Floyd’s life was taken in Minneapolis. I grieved for him and the neighborhood and Minneapolis and over a hundred other cities that took the scourge of racism out of the neighborhoods and to the country. Your eloquence is admired and your post will move the hearts of all your readers. Good Going, Kid. me
Hi Dennis, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this. Oh wow — yes, my heart is grieving for our hurting nation too. And my heart is grieving for our hurting brothers and sisters. Thank you for stopping by, and stay safe! Hugs and love xox
Oh God!
I know, it’s so incredibly sad. thanks for stopping by, Sommy. Hugs and love xox
Thank you so much for this post. You said exactly what needed to be said.
Thank you Kristen for taking the time to read it. Praying for our nation! Hugs and love xox
Living in Columbus, Ohio, I have witnessed similar images as seen in NYC. There is a rightful place for peaceful demonstrations. We are guaranteed peaceful assembly as one of our First Amendment rights. At the same time, there is no place for out of control anger and outright violence to overshadow the significance of peaceful protests. Thankfully, peace is overcoming violence on the streets of Columbus. At the same time, city government and law enforcement are beginning a worthy dialogue. Let’s pray these small steps lead to giant leaps in our this city faces its future.
Amen – small steps to giant leaps. I should have guessed from your name you were an Ohioan! I am too!! Cincinnati represent!! Stay safe my dear friend. Hugs and love xox
It was so wonderful to read your post – to know that you are safe and not only from the coronavirus now – and to get a true insight and perspective on what is happening. Too many tweets out there, and I’ve read that not all of them are ‘genuine’ (in the sense of reposting stuff from way back as if it’s current).
As you rightly say, love is the only way – to act with love, to speak with love, to listen with love. At our marriage service 47!!! years ago we chose the hymn Gracious Spirit Holy Ghost – ‘love is kind and suffers long, love is meek and thinks no wrong, love than death itself more strong …’; your words brought that to mind.
From over the pond in North Wales we think of you all, sending our love and prayers for a mindful and meaningful resolution. The time for mere rhetoric is way past.
Lots of air hugs to you and yours. X
Hi Marilyn, thank you so much for your prayers — you’re absolutely right – love is the only way! sending big big hugs xox
Big hugs. Please stay safe.
xoxox thank you xoxo
You are so wise and so right. May God bless you and keep you safe and send His healing wave across the land.
thank you so much Stephanie, I am humbled by your kind words. very grateful for your prayers, know that you’re in mine too! Hugs and love xox
Stay safe friend! Your blogs are inspirational! 👏🏻♥️
Thank you 🙂 that means a lot! Hugs and love xox