Oh my...

"In reflecting on my friendships with people who are vastly different than me, I often wonder how I keep those connections and why I do. Audre Lorde speaks to the importance of recognizing differences amongst people and in recognizing rather than ignoring difference, we can create new ways to exist outside of what’s institutionally ordinary. In my relationships, there is often tremendous tension so much so it makes me want to run away, but I’m only complicit in creating cultural divisions in othering myself and my friend by running away, as the oppressor wants me to do. That tension is there for a reason. As bell hooks says, “When we face pain in relationships our first response is often to sever bonds rather than to maintain commitment.” I must maintain commitment as long as it is safe to do so and especially when it’s uncomfortable."