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The Answer to Chaos Is Community

Ten people putting their hands together in the center of the group

We’re all feeling it. The chaos is building. From the executive orders to the horrible bills in Congress to the ever-present worry of what comes next, we’re living in a time of painful uncertainty. So, how do we handle the waves of chaos that seem to continually crash over us? We get local. We find our community. And we do what we can to make  change from the bottom up.  

When we focus on our communities, we can find winnable causes to work toward, friends who will both listen and inspire, and places where we feel connected and useful. The world may be chaotic, but the closer we get to our communities, the easier it is to deal. Here’s how to do it: 

Find your place 

The first step is finding that community. This could be in your immediate geographic area, but it doesn’t have to be. Maybe your community is a group of environmental activists concerned about the local lake. Maybe it’s an online LGBTQ group fighting for freedom and safety in schools. Maybe it’s a group of friends who get together to play Magic: The Gathering and forget their fears for a few hours. Maybe your community doesn’t exist yet and it’s up to you to create it. That’s okay. Wherever feels right to you is where you belong, and it’s where you can do the most good, for yourself and for others.  

Use your skills 

No matter who you are or what your background is, you have something to offer. If you know how to use Photoshop, make some designs. If you’re good at writing, write up some petitions and other materials. If you like to knit, make some cozy blankets and scarves for your community members. Anything you can contribute helps, and a welcoming community will find use for your set of skills. 

Get in on the action 

Being part of a community often means showing up and taking part. The community has goals, and we work together to complete them. If your community is holding an event, rally, or protest, show up if you’re able. Use your skills to make signs or carry materials, or just be there and participate if possible. If rallies aren’t your thing, helping to set up beforehand or tear down afterwords can be hugely important activities that can be overlooked. In whatever way you’re able, be involved, be available, be engaged, and believe you can make a difference. 

Even if your community isn’t political, find where they’re hanging out and join them. None of us can get through the next four years alone. We all need a sense of belonging, especially when we’re struggling to find one at the national level. 

Hold on to hope 

It can be elusive these days, but hope will help us persevere. Our communities can inspire hope by being there for us when we’re hardest hit and by giving us causes to occupy us when we’re in danger of spiraling. Even having a social community can give us hope by reminding us not everyone is a part of the problem.  

Yes, the world is chaotic right now, and it feels like there’s very little we can do to stop or even slow the onslaught. But that hopeless feeling is exactly what the perpetrators want. We can counter that hopelessness by coming together and working in our communities. Just because we can’t change everything doesn’t mean we can’t make change, in our communities and ourselves. 

And while you’re looking for a community, definitely consider becoming a member of People For the American Way! We want and need you, and there are lots of ways you can help. You’ll receive newsletters on our actions, info on how you can get involved, access to member-only briefings, and more. Join today at www.peoplefor.org/become-member.