Soaking it all in

Today, we went to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. One thing that was really on my mind throughout our visit was the idea of being something I'd like to refer to as an "emotional sponge." When I read about the members of SNCC and all the people who had participated in nonviolent protests, I thought about how much each person had to endure. They had to take in hatred, but never spew it back out to those who were against them. They soaked up negativity, and probably had a hard time finding space to release it. It's saddening, but I think this is also a testament to the dedication and strength demonstrated by protesters. In spite of all the hatred, they pushed onward. So, today made me think about how dangerous yet powerful it can be to take things in, and use restraint to prevent one from sending it out to others.

-Anonymous