Democracy demands fierce defense and sustainable engagement. My mission for 2025 reflects this dual imperative to continue the work I started in 2024.
“I cultivate the courage, wisdom, and stamina needed to defend democratic values while nurturing my own well-being. I seek to understand diverse perspectives with discernment, engaging where bridges can be built while firmly rejecting hatred and authoritarianism. I choose to find and create joy even as I do serious work, knowing that my resilience strengthens my ability to stand up for what matters.”
This vision emerged from recognizing that effective democracy requires both commitment and renewal. We cannot sustain the long-term effort required if we burn ourselves out, yet we also cannot retreat when democratic institutions face serious challenges.
The path forward lies in approaching this work with both determination and wisdom. This means setting clear boundaries while remaining open to dialogue, protecting our well-being while staying engaged, and finding joy even as we tackle serious issues.
In practice, this requires developing discernment about where and how to engage. Not every conversation builds understanding, and not every disagreement signals a democratic crisis. By cultivating wisdom about when to lean in and when to step back, we can direct our energy where it matters most while maintaining our capacity for sustained engagement.
As we enter 2025, I invite my colleagues to consider their own vision for sustainable democracy work. How will you balance engagement with renewal? What boundaries will you set? Where will you find your joy? Democracy needs defenders who can stay in this work for the long haul. Let’s commit to doing this work sustainably, together.
My Mission is an ongoing series of blog posts for ROI Solutions staff, clients, and partners to reflect on their professional or personal missions. Have a story to tell? Email [email protected].
