We’ve been living through this pandemic for several months now, doing our very best to make it through while also dealing with the recent challenges of a divisive election season.  For many of us, crisis feels like the “new normal” everyone keeps talking about, and while times are certainly tough, folks across the country are rising above hate and division to weave a new future, together. Many of you know this because you are the Weavers working tirelessly to connect your community through the building of thick relationships.

Our recent newsletter focuses on stories of Weavers rising above division during this election season. Check out a few excerpts from community member and Weave’s Communications Director, Michael Skoler. Click here to give it a read, and let us know how you’re committing to weaving during and after the election.

“Some things just can’t happen over Zoom.

Video chats can be powerful and even intimate, but are never spontaneous. Yet some of the most meaningful conversations in my life have happened unexpectedly, at times through a chance meeting. That’s what is going on in Arizona in the overheated, final days before this US election.

Connections are igniting as canvassers wearing masks and face shields knock on doors to register voters or promote issues and candidates. As often as not, the conversations don’t touch on the election. The two people end up talking about life, sharing challenges and just being there for each other.

…..While there’s a choice on the ballot, we also have a choice in our hearts. This election’s painful chasm can break us apart, or it can break us open. Community spreads when we define ourselves by what we share - a place, history, culture, beliefs, passions and compassion. Division spreads when we define ourselves by those we are against. In and after this election, we need to choose weaving community.

……Passion, tension and fear are high as we face election strife, the continuing pandemic, racial reckoning, recession, hurricanes and fires. But hope and compassion are also alive in many places and people are coming together. The rest of this newsletter shows you that face of America and invites you to be part of it.”

So how are you committing to weaving during and after this election? Share with us in the comments below.