Today marks the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. I remember that exciting time. I was glued to the TV. Yet as I anticipate that anniversary, I wonder why this nation that could send men to the moon cannot create a humane and just immigration system. Just as I am wanting to celebrate the lunar landing, I despair about the situation at the border: the inhumane treatment of men, women and children. I am wanting to wallow in sadness and anger rather than celebrate.
However, I glean hope from all of the men and women who are volunteering for the refugees. I get hope from those who set up water stations and provide food and comfort; even if it might mean arrest. I gain hope from the immigration lawyers who are volunteering to move the legal process forward and the organizations offering to train others to assist with the legal issues. Hope shines from the street corners, parks and other gathering places where Lights for Liberty shone. I garnered hope from women, men and children who stood for justice and compassion. Hope shines from those journalists who tell us the stories of the conditions in the detention centers that must be remedied. Hope seeps from every person who stands for compassion and humane care.
And so as I celebrate the lunar landing, I see the faces of those who take steps to force us to leap for justice. That is a giant step.