Peace Conference: Day 3

Today has changed me.

Today I spoke with Bonnie Tinker, and learned her system of engaging controversy with nonviolence, called by an acronym LARA. I shook hands with Rev. C. T. Vivian, and Marshall Rosenberg. I was hugged by Julia Butterfly Hill, and witnessed her warmth, love, and charisma.

I cried tears of gratitude for these people who have come before me, who have made such profound change in our world.

Without them, the green movement would be a shadow of its might.

Without them, Mr. Obama would not be candidate for president.

Without them, my own transition would be a field of harassment and trauma, and not the beautiful, supportive experience it has been.

Without them, my relationships with my children and Kristin would be rife with alienation and pain.

I could not ask them for anything. I didn't even feel fit to kneel at their feet and ask for crumbs of wisdom. They have written books, and I have read their words. Their wisdom is not hidden, nor is their love. They have given enough. It is my turn.

Later, I'll blog on a few of the insights I've received over the last two days, but for now, I'd like to give something back. But I have nothing to give them. Nothing except – two words, from the very bottom and depth of my soul.

Thank you.