Mighty Writers

The power of the pen. How can we use our voices to speak truth to power, to protect the defenseless?

This is something I think about often. So many times, I envy people who can take more active action, who can march or perform or run for office. My only "weapon"--and I use that word carefully--consists of words.

I know from thirty-plus years writing about German and White Rose resistance that words sometimes do not suffice. Sometimes, it's necessary to actively resist injustices occurring in front of our faces.

Susanne Hirzel noted that the NSDAP was able to ascend to power because three specific groups did not take action timely: First, the judiciary and legislature. Second, the clergy. Third, military brass. Without exception, any of those groups could have fought Hitler's rise with words, had they chosen to do so.

Pastors could have refused to display The Portrait and ended the liturgy with a normal prayer. Words. The judiciary and legislature could have enforced the short-term effect of the Enabling Act and declared additional acts unconstitutional. Words. Military brass could have continued swearing the constitutional oath. Words.

I therefore wish to encourage readers to write your passion. Be Mighty Writers. WORDS.

Steps to ensure lasting change. Our words should be YES to justice. YES to human and civil rights. YES to peace. YES to freedom. YES to the rule of law. YES to reason and rational thought. YES to education. YES to health. YES to democracy. YES to due process. YES to good government.

This is your brain on fiction. This is your brain. These are dreams. This is your brain on dreams. Any questions?

Writing the Great American Novel.

I took the above photograph at Longwood Gardens in 2023. Every year, their Christmas trees display ornaments that support the work of local (Greater Philadelphia) charities. Mighty Writers caught my attention. I would be remiss if I did not promote their work here. Check them out! They do incredibly good work.