Beyond the Movement — BLM

I understand, that I will never understand, however I stand.

Personally, I have struggled to find the words to describe my feelings around current events that have been an ongoing issue in our society for way too long. After a lot of reflection, I’m left with a whirlwind of emotion, a heavy heart, and the urge to hold myself and others accountable and take action.

Growing up I was fortunate. I was raised under the idea that kids were kids and people were people, period. Showing respect, love and compassion to the Black community was part of our family DNA. Diversity was included and welcomed at our dinner table. This still rings true for me as an adult, in my home and my house of business. However, I also now understand that noticing our differences allows us to celebrate them.

I have spent time listening and educating myself since George Floyd’s murder and the protests began. White privilege is real and there is still so much educating that needs to be done to be the best ally possible—myself included.

Nervous about saying the wrong thing is OK, but saying nothing, is not. It’s time to get comfortable with the uncomfortable. Systemic racism is a complex issue. It requires peeling back the layers within ourselves and within our families in order for change to trickle into our communities and our policies. It’s leaning in. It’s listening. It’s learning. It’s sharing a voice. It’s holding ourselves accountable and taking responsibility. It’s having the difficult conversations. It’s having compassion. It’s doing better. It’s taking action. It’s realizing that intent does not outweigh impact.

No amount of empathy, grief or sadness will bring back George Floyd or any of the other countless Black lives that have been lost to an unjust and prejudiced system, but my eyes, ears and heart are wide-open and I am committed to being part of the change for a better future.

It starts with me. It starts with you. It starts at home. Let’s do more to be the change we want to see.

Entwine Living is committed to collaborating with and featuring Black-owned businesses on our blog and in our business ventures. Stay tuned!

-MEGAN ATKIN // ENTWINE FOUNDER + CEO

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” — Nelson Mandela