Should I put every issue I care about on one sign? What if I leave something out? What order should they be in? Should I focus on just one?
So I took a step back because, at the core, there are some fundamental things about this country and what I thought it stood for that are under attack in ways I didn't even understand. There are things that I believe that I need to take fuller ownership of, and keep marching for.
I believe that our differences are what make us interesting. That our blending of cultures, heritages, languages and religions are what weave the beautiful tapestry that is America. That our connections across neighborhoods, states and countries make us stronger. That we, as a people, can only truly get ahead when we lift each other up. That none of us can truly be free until all have equal access to opportunity.
My forward-facing sign was a personal expression of my beliefs. The act of stitching it was an opportunity to reflect on what matters to me and a tangible reminder for the days ahead.