Recently in a Facebook group I was messaged by a participant that I was “part of the problem”.  This person and I agreed on the topic but not the solution to the issue (more to come on that 10/21!). Here’s the thing:

I want to be a part of the problem.

If I’m not then I cannot be part of the solution. 

When I think of all the causes I have immersed myself in, whether it is how I ended up on a school committee or an advocate for my child, I have willingly signed up to be a part of the problem. I want change. I want my child to be accepted and integrated. I want to work with our school to make them the best in the State, if not the country. I want to end homelessness, stem the stigma of mental illness and make sure every child goes to bed with a full stomach.  I want my daughters to be valued, respected and have the earning potential of their male counterpart.

I cannot, of course, do it all. I can just do my part. I can offer my ideas. I can collaborate, discuss and debate.  Debate is a wonderful tool. I have a friend that I rarely agree with when it comes to social issues. Without our discussions I never would be able to understand his reasoning or thought process.  I am a better person when I am able to have a healthy dialogue. I have never understood why we must always agree.

As many of you know, math is not a favored subject at our kitchen table. Yet this formula holds true:

Problem + discussion = solution

The next time someone says you are “part of the problem” reply with: Of course, I am. I am working towards a solution. Why aren’t you?