Keep Listening

It’s a gorgeous day in Orange, New South Wales, my last in Oz until the band returns in April, and I’m reflecting on conversations I’ve had over the course of my stay.

On how changing broken systems takes work. Conversations about sexism, racism, and privilege are all related, and they’re complex issues that stir up emotions. But discomfort is an important sign that there’s something new to learn.

On how when discomfort arises around these topics, we should accept the feeling and keep the discussion going. Don’t change the subject. Don’t make your own feelings the center of the conversation. Sincerely try to understand other group’s experiences.

On how we must apologize for mistakes, and be willing to change.

And, above all, we must keep listening. It's hard. It’s important