Sticking up

~ for something or someone; balanced, or not; action or restraint

Standing up for others is a noble pursuit - not cheering from the stands when everyone is cheering too …

It’s cheering when others are booing, it’s speaking up for those without a voice - it’s our passion for justice and sense or outrage at injustice.

However, knowing when to speak up, when to take a stand, and when to quietly support from the sidelines is a delicate balance that requires wisdom and discernment - but I rarely think it through softly - ‘stepping in it‘ too often I think.

That sounds so nice in theory, but it’s not something that results in good results consistently - there is no guarantee of anything. And not every situation calls for the same response, and understanding nuances can make support more effective, or more meaningful, or not …

Who gets that right?

There are times when keeping our mouths shut is the most considerate action. In situations where intervening might exacerbate the problem or strip someone of their agency, silence can be a form of respect. It allows individuals the space to navigate their challenges, make their own decisions, and grow from the experience. Our silent support, paired with positive thoughts and intentions, can provide a subtle yet profound encouragement.

Conversely, there are moments when we must stomp our feet — when injustice is evident, and our voice can make a difference.

Taking a stand against wrongdoing, advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves, and challenging unfair systems are instances where our active participation is crucial.

Or sometimes we just have to yell, bullshit. This form of support demonstrates solidarity and can inspire others to join the cause, amplifying the impact, by saying THAT’S BULLSHIT when it is.

Then there are situations that call for us to yell from the rooftops.

When silence equals complicity, and the stakes are high, raising our voices loudly and publicly becomes a moral imperative.

Bringing attention to critical issues can mobilize communities, influence change, and bring about resolutions that private efforts cannot achieve.

Understanding when to employ each approach hinges on our ability to assess the context and the needs of those we're supporting.

It requires us to set aside egos and focus on what truly benefits someone - not us, but them.

But how?

Sometimes, stepping aside and allowing events to unfold naturally is the most caring action we can take.

By sending positive thoughts and trusting in their strength, we empower them without sticking Pinocchio’s nose into what is not our business.

Sticking up for others - or sticking up for ourselves, isn't a one-size-fits-all act; it's a spectrum of responses. Whether we choose silence, a firm stand, or a loud proclamation (I mean stomping our feet and urging everyone else to stomp along too).

Intentions aren’t always to uplift - sometimes they are to save the say, solve a problem or to lend our hand when an extra hand is needed.

Sometime it’s not a hand that we need - it’s a foot inside a boot, not so gently applied to someone’s backside.

I publish this Musings column daily and post poems, short stories and other ‘plus/+’ content weekly. Many of you enjoy this content for free, and I truly appreciate your readership. Paid subscriptions are modest: $8 monthly (26¢ a day), $72 annually (20¢ a day), or you can donate any amount. Paid subscribers get extra content, but everyone is welcome - your presence matters. But if you haven't yet become a paid subscriber, I'd be grateful if you'd consider it. Thank you for reading Musings, and thanks to Substack for supporting writers like me. Warm regards, Mark

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This week’s bonus [Musings+] postings for PAID subscribers:

SHORT STORY: END OF THE LINE ~ POEM: BIG PANTS

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