The world keeps closing in. It has before. It will again. A voice beyond the wind says we must go beyond the end. So, follow beyond the end.
- Jimmy Buffett, Beyond the End
Unlike his usual carefree tunes, Jimmy Buffett's "Beyond the End" offers a thoughtful reflection on life's journey. The lyrics hold a universal truth that speaks to the challenges we all face. It is a mainstay on my playlist.
The political winds in the United States are strong and often shifting. A strong wind opposing queer people’s equal rights and acceptance is prominent in many locales. Its in-your-face message is demeaning to queer people. The world does seem to be closing in and threatening the progress won over the years.
Progress does not move in a straight line. The forward movement of queer rights had its ups and downs over time, especially in the decades post-Stonewall. There have been times when public opinion and elections aligned to positively impact queer people’s lives.
The winds of change haven't always blown in the same direction. It has shifted in both directions over the past two decades. There has been a significant shift in recent years, with public opinion and elections driving the progress of queer equality and acceptance.
Our history is marked by periods of oppression and exclusion for queer people. Through these challenging times, they persevered alongside their allies, pushing the cause for progress when the path seemed bleak. Their unwavering spirit went beyond the end understanding that justice requires weathering the wind to emerge stronger.
The upcoming election's outcome is uncertain. It could usher in favorable winds for progress, or we may face resistance that slows our momentum. Regardless, the queer community must maintain a long-term perspective looking beyond the end.
To my queer siblings, stay united and resilient in the coming months. No matter the outcome of the election, our march for equality continues. Even during challenges, progress has always found a way, even if it's slower. Remember, most people in our society stand with us for equal rights. We'll face any headwinds together.
Every Wednesday, I select a quote from my thoughts-to-keep journal. I tune out the outside world for ten minutes to reflect and write about that tidbit of wisdom.