To Those Who Couldn’t Be There

I didn’t go to the No Kings protest. I wanted to, but I couldn’t. My body and spirit needed rest more than anything else. I’ve carried guilt about that—wondering if I let the movement down, wondering if my absence mattered in the crucial fight for what we know is right.

Maybe you know that feeling. There are those who had work obligations, or your family needed you. Maybe stress has been so heavy that showing up felt impossible. And, like me, you simply needed to pause and breathe. Not being there doesn’t mean you don’t care—sustained activism requires sustained people.

Here’s What I’m Doing

I’m resting so I can show up tomorrow with strength. Rest is not failure; it is preparation. When I show up rested, my voice is clearer, my resolve stronger, and I can better support those around me.

I’m also having honest conversations with friends and family, keeping the vision alive in my own circles. This means I’m reading, learning, and listening so that when I do speak out, my words are informed and powerful. I’m holding space in prayer and intention because energy matters too.

Even when we can’t march, our care, attention, and love carry the movement forward. There are concrete ways to contribute from home right now: I just took five minutes to share a trusted article from the organizers I believe in on social media and checked in on a friend who did attend to offer support.

Every small act—speaking truth, checking in on someone, taking care of ourselves—ripples outward in ways we often can’t see. Movements are not only made in the streets; they are made in the quiet, daily choices that keep us whole and connected.

You Are Seen and Needed

If you couldn’t be there, you are not alone. You are still part of this. Your voice still matters. Your presence, even from home, is still needed. Rest is part of sustaining the journey. Stepping back when necessary does not mean stepping away forever.

Give yourself permission to release guilt. Give yourself grace to care for yourself, your family, and your spirit. Show up in ways that honor your capacity, and trust that these contributions matter just as much as a sign or a chant in the streets.

The river of change keeps flowing, fed by all of us in every way we can contribute. Together, even when apart, we keep moving forward. Together, our love, care, and intention continue to shape the world we are working to create.