I know, from my stats, that my readers prefer posts about rural living filtered with light humor. Generally, I respect that–it’s certainly territory that is more fun to write. There’s plenty in the news to make you grind your teeth.

But, if you have an ounce of awareness, you know that things are not normal right now. There’s a lot at stake. “They” would prefer that you just keep scrolling. Here’s a brief list of the things you may miss, once they’re gone (and this is no exaggeration, some of this is happening NOW): the Rule of Law; Due Process; your right to privacy and your data integrity; a livable environment; safe food; the possibility of government assistance in the event of a natural disaster; the availability of affordable fresh food; access to government information on medical and/or epidemic status; assistance for disabled citizens; equal rights under the law if you happen to be female or some other minority; and the promise that you’ll be able to enjoy the social security that you spent your entire working like paying into. This is a short list; if “Promises Made/Promises Kept” is the mantra, there’s a lot more in store for us. One begins to wonder to whom such promises were made.

From time to time, I may stray from my pleasant rural musings to remind you that we’re living in interesting times. My hope is that some of you will respond with meaningful action. Call or write to your elective representatives. Consider donations to those afflicted by the new regime, or to those groups who are on the front lines, fighting for your rights. Work to build community, to help each other if belt tightening becomes necessary. Plant a garden for your summer produce. Do some canning and preserving with your excess produce or donate it to your local food bank. There are more ways to create community, or resist chaos than I can list–but I’m sure you have ideas, too. Act on them. Discuss them. Speak out and step up.

Okay, now I’ll go back to my rural musings. It’s February–time to make garden plans.