This is just what I think, not what I have been successfully able to live up to. Even in ourselves, there is a struggle worth having. I just wanted to put it out there to you.
- React to people hating on the movement with love
- Most of those people are part of the 99%.
- There has been a lot of misleading lies in the press. That is not people’s fault. Most of them will be having their first contact with the movement when they are being hateful towards you. Let them know the truth about us, and surprise them with love.
- It may help to remember that change is REALLY scary, even for people who desperately want a change.
- Honey catches more flies then vinegar.
- Belligerent, disrespecful people will turn onlookers off. Our reactions of love will turn onlookers on.
- Because I want to be a part of a movement that is about love, freedom, and true democracy. And what does a movement like that look like? It responds to hate with love.
- Remain mindful that your identity may give you power over other individuals because of institutionalized oppression/s.
- Even when they aren’t around, you can be hateful towards people, or you can treat haters with love!
- Because it will make Cornell West happy (okay, this isn't a real reason...).
- Treat other people at the occupation with love, even when you REALLY, REALLY disagree.
- Differences of opinion are sometimes scary because the ideas of others can hurt you. That is only because people have power over you. At the occupation, no one should have power over you, and so you do not need to be afraid of differences of opinion.
- What you think and what that person you disagree with thinks can interact in amazing ways now that a truly democratic dialogue is possible. Will their mind change? Will your mind change? Will something new and important be created instead? Embodying love and patience is the only way to find out what that amazing interaction might be!
- Passionate, powerful dialogue with one another is an expression of LOVE. But name calling, condescension, or denying the humanity and human rights of others is not.
- Be mindful that your identity may give you power over other individuals because of institutionalized oppression/s.
- Even when they are not around, you can treat those at the occupation you happen to disagree with hatefully, or you can treat them with love! One way of loving people at the occupation is to not speak on their behalf when you do not have their permission.
