General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsNo, I'm not 'back,' I'm reading, but most definitely still not able to fully participate here.
Last edited Sun Sep 14, 2014, 10:54 PM - Edit history (6)
However, I'd like to ask for a selfish indulgence from those here who are still interested, still anguished (perhaps) over the continuing crisis of justice and humanity in Ferguson, MO..
As some here may well know, the tragic events there, and the unimaginable, but very real and unsettling response by the officers and officials there to the efforts by that community to exercise their free speech rights to protest and be heard have shaken me to the core and I'm still unable to discuss them, write about them, or even listen to or read about them without weeping uncontrollably.
Those who know me personally understand that it's not only out of character for me to be so traumatized to weep (much less, uncontrolled - I really don't fully understand my reaction, myself), and that it's likely a reflection of a mental illness brought on by the stress of previous experiences, triggered by events in Ferguson which I've engrossed myself in, by choice; by necessity. It's also a reflection and effect of my unsettled view of my personal heritage; my citizenship; and perhaps, my own self-worth; to view the tragic events in Ferguson which residents there are experiencing as integral to all of those in my own relatively secure life.
*I had noticed seriously abnormal reactions from myself to the back and forth between members here in which I had become undeservedly abusive towards posters, and, although it's a cinch to post, I'm not mentally balanced enough for the discussions which are integral to actual participation here. It's really not fair to others more dedicated to discussions for *me to hit and run, but I'm not mentally able to engage fully, so... this post is somewhat of a more detailed explanation for my exit as much as it is cathartic for me. I see that some question this approach, but I'm convinced it won't disrupt them too much or affect them too much - me, on the other hand, I still have some very real mental health issues that I'm receiving care for and working on. I hope DUers can bear this indulgence without too much disdain or resentment.
Anyway, I want to just share this video of what is correctly labeled as, 'A skin-tingling speech which speaks to the heart of #Ferguson -- Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal on Missouri Senate floor Sept. 10, 2014. Chapelle-Nadal delivers a gripping speech calling Gov. Nixon to the carpet for allowing Senators and constituents to be stripped of their 1st Amendment rights while being tear gassed and treated like animals. She details how MO Governor Nixon allowed the state of emergency to escalate while he did nothing. Senator Chapelle-Nadal brings it all into perspective, detailing personal experiences as well as the racist history of #Ferguson which culminated into the aftermath of the Michael Brown shooting when the MO Governor treated Ferguson like foreign enemy territory.'
I'm going to post it here without much comment (and no response) because I believe it will be helpful for some to understand just what this community in Ferguson has been experiencing, and what they're facing right now, and in the future.
Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal has placed herself on the front lines of this important struggle for justice and the rights of her constituency and has served, in her words, as a 'mother, a teacher, and a sister' as she has spent countless hours among the people 'as Jesus would have done' to help citizens cope with the challenges they've faced. Tear-gassed for three days in a row, along with other protesters, while her governor 'sat in his home,' Sen. Chappelle-Nadal has been a tireless advocate and deserves a complete listen to her emotional and powerful address.
Thanks, in advance, for your attention and dedication to this crisis in Ferguson, and I wish everyone the very best of luck in your endeavors and extend the very best regards from me for your friendship and commitment.
-Ron
*I regularly retweet on Ferguson and St. Louis from an extensive network of folks who follow these issues and developments from direct connections to the state and local government and community.
You can follow me here: ron fullwood ?@ronfullwood (be certain to follow the folks I retweet... that's where you'll get connected to up to date events and developments)
Thanks again, y'all. We protest, we share... joy. Love for the people.
*edit
cyberswede
(26,117 posts)I hope you get to a point where you are able to participate here again.
In the meantime, I hope you do at least post the occasional OP, like this one, as your voice is important.
Peace to you; now I'm gonna watch that video...
etherealtruth
(22,165 posts)The St. Louis suburb of Ferguson has been in the news for weeks after the fatal shooting of Michael Brown. His death has ignited a widespread debate regarding civil rights in the United States, as well as heated discussions over police militarization during protest situations. The residents of the small city were thrust into the mainstream media spotlight as they challenged racial discrimination and the ability to freely assemble.
The investigation of the shooting continues. But Ferguson has not just lost Michael Brown; many feel they have also lost their respect and humanity.
it is well worth giving a listen.
On another note ... it is good to know you are well ... hoping, in time, you reconsider participation here.
randome
(34,845 posts)Cool. Now I can say that bigtree is nothing but a...nah. Welcome back. Sort of. I guess? Still don't get it.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]Precision and concision. That's the game.[/center][/font][hr]
panader0
(25,816 posts)I miss bigtree's posts.
randome
(34,845 posts)The clue to that was the sentence 'Welcome back.'
I still don't understand how one can post an OP yet be unable to post. Guess I never read the fine-fine print.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]Precision and concision. That's the game.[/center][/font][hr]
panader0
(25,816 posts)randome
(34,845 posts)One might think I should be banned myself.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]Precision and concision. That's the game.[/center][/font][hr]
tblue37
(65,483 posts)own OP. That seems pretty clear to me.
randome
(34,845 posts)But at least your explanation makes sense. Thanks for that.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]All things in moderation, including moderation.[/center][/font][hr]
Tommymac
(7,263 posts)randome
(34,845 posts)I am not mocking anyone! :grumble:
[hr][font color="blue"][center]'Always' and 'Never' are not kind words.[/center][/font][hr]
ReRe
(10,597 posts)"If you can't say something good about somebody, don't say nothing at all." ~~ Ben Franklin (loosely)
randome
(34,845 posts)I have no idea why bigtree 'went away'. Now he's back but not...back. Color me perplexed. I would be glad to offer empathy if I knew what type/brand/make and model to offer.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]"If you're bored then you're boring." -Harvey Danger[/center][/font][hr]
ReRe
(10,597 posts)... instead of reacting negatively? I just went back and tried to find bigtree's OP when he had to bow out, but couldn't find it. If you had just asked, someone would have told you.
randome
(34,845 posts)[hr][font color="blue"][center]You have to play the game to find out why you're playing the game. -Existenz[/center][/font][hr]
FormerOstrich
(2,703 posts)I think it takes a lot of personal courage to open yourself up to raw emotions that even aren't even fully understood by your own self.
Me...I have an ability to pack things up into the boxes and store them away in the basement. Sometimes an event or something else causes me to trudge down to the basement and drag that sucker upstairs again. Most of the time, the boxes in the basement contain the most difficult things for me to look at and understand.
For me I usually pack that box back up so fast. Add extra tape on the flaps. And I stick it in the basement under the other boxes. It keeps me going for the most part.
It may not be what the mental health experts would advocate. And they might be right because sometimes I get a box it is difficult to put that stuff back in. It confuses me and it hurts me.
You are very fortunate because apparently you don't have any thing in your basement. Hopefully, that is the only place that is empty.
hfojvt
(37,573 posts)Back for this OP, but not going to engage in very much other posting
I've kinda done the same thing myself over the last few weeks. All of the pointless sniping here can be emotionally draining sometimes.
former9thward
(32,066 posts)ReRe
(10,597 posts)... He got on the nerves of the Founding Fathers with these little adages. He would have mopped up these nabobs of negativism around here.
Logical
(22,457 posts)tblue37
(65,483 posts)responding to replies in this thread, nor will he be a regularly participating member as he once was. Instead, he reads here, and occasionally he might feel that some article or video is too important for us to miss, but when that happens, even if he can bring himself to post that piece, he won't hang around to discuss it.
rhett o rick
(55,981 posts)here that are only here to cause trouble and bully people out of DU. At least that's my take.
etherealtruth
(22,165 posts)I am just hopeful that bigtree will reconsider his participation after a little more time elapses (i would like it NOW ... but, understand)
Live and Learn
(12,769 posts)Those that don't understand should probably look deeper in to their own posting habits and try walking in someone else's shoes once in a while.
bobduca
(1,763 posts)I too miss bigtree's posts here.
madokie
(51,076 posts)in my humble opinion is. He is not fully comfortable in participating in discussions at the present time because of the circumstances that made him feel he had to walk away to begin with. I've always enjoyed and treasure his writing and have encouraged him to take it up as a way to make a living, way long ago early on both of our coming on board here.
when I say our Friend I mean those of use who call him our Friend
If you're reading this 'bro, welcome back and take all the time you want or need but do come back and share with us your very unique perspective on the happening of the day. Some of us love you I may not always agree and I'm sure you don't always agree with me but thats what discussions are all about.
ChisolmTrailDem
(9,463 posts)commenting about the poster?
Thanks in advance.
jwirr
(39,215 posts)Last edited Sat Sep 13, 2014, 06:15 PM - Edit history (1)
speech. Thank you for posting.
FreakinDJ
(17,644 posts)please keep posting
Luminous Animal
(27,310 posts)Enthusiast
(50,983 posts)Thank you, bigtree!
malaise
(269,157 posts)SammyWinstonJack
(44,130 posts)greatlaurel
(2,004 posts)Your insights are invaluable to this community. Cannot put in words how great it is to see you post again.
rhett o rick
(55,981 posts)ismnotwasm
(41,998 posts)SidDithers
(44,228 posts)Sid
BrotherIvan
(9,126 posts)Every day I look for news of Ferguson, and without you, it is scattered and arbitrary. Now we just follow the news cycle and let things drop as we move onto the next crisis, such as the Palin dustup. I will watch the video later as this is an issue that should not be forgotten.
Hope you are well.
ScreamingMeemie
(68,918 posts)brer cat
(24,592 posts)but the important thing is to take care of yourself until you are comfortable posting again. Here, take a few hugs with you and come back when you can.
Voice for Peace
(13,141 posts)tblue37
(65,483 posts)to DU as a fully participating member, bigtree.
logosoco
(3,208 posts)With this woman and Claire, there may be hope for this state yet.
I am also glad that, even though we are the same party, that she called out Gov. Nixon on this issue.
It was perfect for her to say that what Michael Brown gave everyone was a gift. He lost his life, but with that, he brought much needed changes, because that is what must happen.
niyad
(113,526 posts)rhett o rick
(55,981 posts)If we all did this, they would be rendered helpless. They are not interested in engaging in honest discussions but only looking to bully others.
kelliekat44
(7,759 posts)has taken many good citizens over the edge.
LuvNewcastle
(16,851 posts)All this awful news can get to be too much after a while, especially those of us who are sensitive and internalize it. We all have our ways of coping with it. Hope you're able to find a way that doesn't interfere too much with your life. Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
stunning ...
onecaliberal
(32,887 posts)Thank you for the video. She should run for national office.
Mira
(22,380 posts)and the rest will follow shortly.
Thanks again!
grasswire
(50,130 posts)mountain grammy
(26,644 posts)when she talks about the loss of first amendment rights and the right to assemble and how it feels to lose these rights by being tear gassed for 3 hours. Not by being "censured" or fired by a private company, as so may right ring whiners claim when they are caught in their idiocy, but by being physically silenced by government officials.
I hope this speech reaches many Americans. Thanks for posting, I will pass it on.
Skittles
(153,174 posts)don't give 'em any power - fight!
tblue37
(65,483 posts)soon, but I would not want him to suffer unbearable stress caused by trying to jump back in before he is ready.
yuiyoshida
(41,835 posts)Faito!!! (fight) ファイト
Sunlei
(22,651 posts)peoples basic freedom. Some neighborhoods here have their own police departments, their own court buildings. Constantly going after people with their ordinance violations, the massive fines. Jail if you can't afford to pay. People don't even want to walk or drive through some of these small areas. The state govs, sit by and let it happen.
LiberalAndProud
(12,799 posts)I've missed your OPs. Thank you for this video. The senator's presentation is compelling.
democrank
(11,100 posts)~PEACE~
raven mad
(4,940 posts)Tuesday Afternoon
(56,912 posts)sketchy
(458 posts)what it was like on the ground in Ferguson, and how that should never happen in America -- if we believe what we say we believe about our rights as citizens.
ReRe
(10,597 posts)... your presence here is sorely missed. I listened to Sen Maria Chapelle-Nadal's words. Thank goodness she has been there since the beginning, on the streets with the people of Ferguson, unafraid to speak truth to power. She was the best spokesperson during the initial crisis, and she's still on the front lines even on the floor of the MO Senate. TPTB in MO did the wrong thing at every turn, no leadership to be found at every juncture. Time and again, Nixon had the power to do the right thing. But he didn't. Same with McCullough. And right on down to the street level with the police. The people were right, the leadership was wrong.
You go on now, and know that even though we don't post about Ferguson as prolifically as you did, Ferguson is on our minds and in our hearts. Nothing but good can come soon for Ferguson. I hope they are continuing to GOTV and that the tables will begin to turn for the people. I think they realize now that their future really IS in their hands and that they CAN do this. And Maria Chapelle-Nadal is going to lead them to that better, more Just future.
Bunches of bear hugs to you!
mahina
(17,693 posts)I hit and run all the time btw, no time for otherwise, didn't realiz e that was not ok. Not sure how much patience I would ha ve otherwise, though I'm hardly known. I feel you, buddy. I cry a out Ferguson etc sometimes too. We'll get there. Its hard to see progress roll so slow. Love and aloha to you brah.
russspeakeasy
(6,539 posts)DonCoquixote
(13,616 posts)That even a stingy, nasty state like Florida granted me disability, I can say this, it take true courage to admit that you suffer enough pain that you cannot approach certain things. The American attitude is suck it up, and to be honest, that is often why we fuck it up so often.
Know that there are people here at DU ready and waiting for when you feel you can come back, and no, it is not just to have decent arguments. We are all people behind this glass.
littlemissmartypants
(22,735 posts)BlueJazz
(25,348 posts)The video is very informative.
Quayblue
(1,045 posts)regardless of how close you are to the situation.
You need not explain yourself; you have a human right to feel and react the way you do. It is very uncomfortable and it participates growth.
I always hate to give unsolicited advice, but you have a big heart, bigtree... ain't a damn thing wrong with that.
Peace to you.
veness
(413 posts)FormerOstrich
(2,703 posts)I was thinking of you so strong tonight I sent you a DU mail. I didn't think there was any chance you would see it!!
Yeah!!!!!
The Traveler
(5,632 posts)I don't track personalities on DU ... don't know you. But I see you have written quite a bit that resonates with me. Of course, I would like more ... but your first priority has to be tending to your own inner landscape. I wish you speedy success and hope you can return to discussion soon. These are difficult, scary, and in a real sense creepy times. Good folk are always missed.
Trav
AuntPatsy
(9,904 posts)At some point in time one needs to take care of themselves before they can help others, the video proves the fight for justice will continue and you can help the demand for justice when you are ready not before, again focus on you, your not alone, you never were...
whereisjustice
(2,941 posts)Clearly not a strategic priority for Governance like rescuing banks, keeping tax breaks for the rich and bombing Syria.
Evergreen Emerald
(13,069 posts)Raffi Ella
(4,465 posts)Be well, and come back soon!
woo me with science
(32,139 posts)Powerful.
BobbyBoring
(1,965 posts)I hope you can work though this and get back here soon. I understand exactly what you said in your OP.
One thing though. Please never doubt your self worth!
calimary
(81,435 posts)We need your voice.
Btw - this state senator is so incredibly impressive! I came to admire here VERY much during the Ferguson coverage. She's a force to be reckoned with, and I hope she climbs higher on the political ziggurat. Would LOVE to see her in a position of greater power, exposure, and clout. We need HER voice too.
UtahLib
(3,179 posts)rhett o rick
(55,981 posts)bigtree
(86,005 posts)I regularly retweet on Ferguson and St. Louis from an extensive network of folks who follow these issues and developments from direct connections to the state and local government and community.
You can follow me here: ron fullwood ?@ronfullwood (be certain to follow the folks I retweet... that's where you'll get connected to up to date events and developments)
Thanks again, y'all. We protest, we share... joy. Love for the people.