I saw the Image of God in an “old white man” today!
Forgive me, but this radically liberal feminist, anti-racist, ridiculous young (white) woman is a little angry at the traditionally white-male institution (not white-men themselves). Therefore, I would like to tell you more about the striking situation in which I clearly saw the loving, liberating, truth-telling image of God in a white-man-older-than-50.
Beyond just drumming and receiving positive affirmations from those who walked past, we received a beautiful spirit of love within and without the conference throughout the drum circle. Late in the evening (10:30pm-ish?) when the counter protesters showed up, one of our own called the local cops to ensure the encounter would remain peaceful. They showed up around 11 and let us know they would sadly have to enforce a 10pm park curfew, although they wished they didn’t ‘cause protection was easier in the park. However, they and the conference staff agreed so long as we were “within 10 feet of the curb” we were on public property and ok (although we were playing drums, I guess we were violating any noise ordinances)… only about 30 minutes after we(they) moved, the sprinklers began – our drums (and selves) would have been soaked had we remained (Thank God!!!)
So… I showed up at 4am and there were 8 people, drumming (just quarter notes) – it was a beautiful site. And one of those men, Steve, was banging away with his stick on a bucket. It was about 40 degrees (Fahrenheit) and he was wrapped up in a sleeping bag, sitting on a (hard, uncomfortable) bucket… and he never gave up. He hadn’t slept that night, except for an hour of napping in his van, but he never stopped, continuing to beat on that bucket to ensure our vigil would never cease. I have rarely seen such dedication in an energetic young person, but to know that this brother of ours would not-sleep, cold and hungry for the ridiculous drum vigil of a group of young adults… THAT IS THE LOVING IMAGE OF GOD.
He listened to our needs
He spoke words of truth and encouragement
He never ceased loving
He never gave up
He challenged our assumptions (by being there and reminding us that older folks DO want Young People leadership)
He did not want to take charge, but wanted to empower us.
That is Godly.

Thank you, Steve, I only pray that the white-men, those-who-trust-the-institution, the conservatives, will see God in you too and will follow your beautiful lead.

Categories: General Post