Lead with Love- 2017 Women's March

Before today, I’d only walked in two protest marches in my life – Seattle, May 1970 - the National Guard had just shot four students protesting the Vietnam war at Kent State– and 1981-ish when Pacific Gas & Electric built a nuclear reactor  at Diablo Canyon directly on top of San Andreas Fault about 7 miles away from our home.

The recent election with all if it’s disrespect, fake news and outrageous results seems to have inspired outrage and a wave of activism all over the world. The minute I heard about it I knew I was going to join. The question was where – Washington D.C. was very tempting, Seattle was a sure bet, but at the last minute I opted to stay in my own community.

It was drizzling when we parked and started walking towards the Capitol grounds. We could hear cheers and drumming as we got closer. Then, gradually the sun broke through the clouds and waves of marchers and signs poured through the streets. There was joy and happiness and empowerment flowing through the streets of Olympia. 

Also a little bit of humor: 

Our theme song was – “Lead with Love” by Melanie DeMore who’s chorus rings with freedom and justice:  

You gotta put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.

Put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.

Don’t give up hope.

You’re not alone

Don’t you give up.

Geep movin’ on. 

You gotta put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.
Put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.
 Lift up your eyes
Don’t you despair.
Look up ahead
The path is there.
 You gotta put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.
Put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.
 I know you’re scared.
And I’m scared too
But here I am.
Right next to you.
 You gotta put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.
Put one foot in front of the other and lead with love.
 Lead with love.