Selma Rising: like the Phoenix, rising from the ashes…the ashes of blight and poverty; of demolition by neglect; of systemic racial strife; of multigenerational welfare; of inability to qualify for good paying jobs; of classism, and other ails. These things quell Selma’s growth.

That which rises creates expectations, provides comfort and hope, and can be shared - the smell of bread baking in the oven, watching the sun come up the morning after a storm, spotting the first flower after a long, dreary winter. Selma has all the ingredients, both from nature, from history, and from members of her community that, when brought together, will raise expectations of what can be accomplished when we come together like so many unique ingredients. When we provide comfort to one another, share what we have to offer, and most importantly do it together, Selma Will Rise.

this is what Selma Rising means to me:

The other day, I was at the car wash and gentleman yelled to one of the workers, “Hey! You King of the Car Wash?!” The man seemed a little timid. The gentleman said, “if you start something, you are the king of that something.”

Here it is… Selma has a rising up support team. We are truly a community of folks who all want the same thing… to rise up. Until then we hold each other up. We are courageous and kind and the saying is Selma Strong! 💪

Phoenix!!!!

Friendships across the lines. Unity starts with the heart.

Safety. Picnics by the river, walking trails, bike lanes, Cafe's so all can "gather at the table" in peace & we can once again unlock the doors to our churches.

I think of Selma Rising as each individual taking time in the day to help someone else besides themself.

"If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito." -- Dalai Lama.

Another African Proverb -

"If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together."

When I think of Selma Rising, I think about the African word “Unbuntu”, which means,

“I am because you are”.

“Ubuntu is a foreign concept meaning “I am because you are.” It embraces the idea that humans cannot exist in isolation. We depend on connection, community, and caring — simply, we cannot be without each other. This philosophy requires a conscious shift in how we think about ourselves and others, especially at a time when our nation is more divided than ever.” https://medium.com/thrive-global/ubuntu-i-am-because-you-are-66efa03f2682

Selma Rising...be kind to all and through each other's support we are better together and can overcome our struggles to rebuild a great place to live.