Strength with Friends in the Fight by Kelley Barton
“There is strength in numbers” an expression that has ancient origins and is rooted in the idea that a group is more influential or powerful than a single individual.
“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NLT
We often walk, hike, surf, fish, travel, dine etc… in pairs or larger groups (most of the time). We do it for safety, relationship building and fun. But there are times it also gives us strength. Strength to resist wrong, to stand up for others, to fight our fears.
That is how I roll, when attending a protest. I have never ventured out to one alone. I am that if I went alone, I would find camaraderie, and a neighbor or acquaintance there. But I prefer to go with someone else.
A friend will cheer me on, tell me my sign is great or what I am wearing “nails it”. And I will do the same. Once we get there, strangers give us encouragement, and we return the favor – whether it is our fellow protestors or honking horns as cars pass by.
One time I walked home from a protest on my own, because I had something timely to be done. I was harassed by a group of teenage boys on e-bikes, who circled me while spewing opposition phrases. I kept my composure, spoke out a bit but continued walking. I didn’t feel danger, but I wonder if they would have been so bold if I had been with my friend.
There are so many other areas in your life where you may be tempted to go it alone, but could really benefit from including a friend or two. It may be risky to ask, but maybe they are waiting to be asked. Give it a try.
(my latest protest below, I am the Unicorn)
