We’ve taken an intentional pause in posting over the past week, to give more focus to people trying to end racial injustice in this country and around the world. It was a week of seeing the worst in humanity and the best. On one hand, we heard the heartbreaking stories of black people being killed or brutalized because systemic racism allows it. On the other hand, we saw hundreds of thousands of people rising in solidarity for justice. People of all races and backgrounds are chanting the names of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and other victims as they march in streets across this country, an act all the more poignant and powerful in light of the fact that there are countless victims over hundreds of years whose names we will never know. Violence that targets specific racial groups is an affront, not just to black people or other people of color, but to all decent human beings everywhere.

The events of the past week have reawakened a social conscience and a sense of duty to speak out and act against these injustices. Tearing down ancient, systemic oppression can seem like a daunting task— almost impossible, perhaps. But it’s not. There are real, concrete steps to make sure our fellow human beings are treated with dignity. Speak up when you hear a casually racist comment because your silence normalizes it. Volunteer your time, talent, and treasure to help people who are at social and economic disadvantages just because of the color of their skin. Patronize the businesses of black entrepreneurs who are trying to make a living for their families. Vote for local, state, and national leaders who are willing to take a stand against injustice.

The crimes against humanity that were spotlighted this week are nothing new. They’re a shameful and pervasive part of our history, but together, we can work to make sure they’re not part of our future.

This daily blog post series is our way of sharing our experience with you, our readers. We’ll talk about our daily routines, adjustments to working from home, recipes based on limited ingredients and any other topic that comes to mind. It’s our way of connecting with the “outside” world, while also giving us the opportunity to look within and reflect on what we’re experiencing and how we’re feeling. Thanks for your interest in sharing this journey with us. Stay tuned and be well.