By Emma Atkinson and Rachel Drake

Hello lovely readers!  We hope your year is going well.  As for us, so far so good. 

There’s change in the air all around us and it might be a good time to check in with loved ones you haven’t spoken with in a while.  Folks like us in traditionally marginalized communities - LGBTQ+, kink-friendly, BIPOC, etc., etc. - are noticing increasing signs of political division, not only at the national level but where they work and where they call home.  

Those of us fortunate enough to live in the Pacific Northwest aren’t seeing as much evidence of unrest as other areas.  We know that folks around here tend to be open and accepting, which is one reason both of us choose to live here.

Not all communities can say the same.  Not all areas seem to be making their neighbors feel wanted.

One of our core tenets at the CSPC is that you’re wanted here.  So long as you’re respectful of others, you’re welcome here.

It’s OK to not be OK right now.  It’s OK to ask for help.  Check in with loved ones, near and far.  Are they OK?  Can I offer a compassionate ear?  Am I OK?  Love and nurture yourself and you’ll find the compassion to love and nurture your loved ones.

There’s a t-shirt we love that reads “Change is good - You go first.” Change is hard and scary.  Even a good change - one you’ve been anticipating - can be challenging.  So, check in with your people.  Please, and thank you.

Want to check in with us? We’re at: info@thecspc.org.