An Open Letter to Delia Melody:
Delia (@somethingaboutdelia),
I don’t think we’ve ever communicated directly, but I’ve been following your work a while now. I saw earlier today, here on tumblr and also on Facebook, that you’re feeling defeated, as if you are not making a difference. I was reminded of this post. I know the situation described in the link is different from yours, but the core message still applies. I’m writing this in an open, public format because I think many people will benefit from seeing it.
Change made from the bottom up cannot be done by an individual; it must be done by a movement.
It’s easy to get caught up in the myth of celebrity, of heroism, that to make a difference one must be famous, well known, or that our actions must have massive, immediate result to be considered effective. But it’s not true.
Change is made in little bursts and spurts. It is painful and it doesn’t pay off when we think it should. It’s not perfect. It can take a long, long time, like generations or decades. Change is made by small people like us, existing and refusing to be swept aside.
You are an inspiration. I read what you write and I listen to what you say and it gives me hope. Your example has helped me through some very difficult times in my life.
In Solidarity,
Jessica Lynn Shine