I Won't Back Down

My mind has really been consumed with events of this past week and perhaps just the year in general. I've been angry, upset, overwhelmed, and stressed about this world and in particular our country.

Im pissed we have an oaf for president who doesn't seem to understand that the word equality doesn't just apply to certain groups, it applies to everyone.

Im upset that yet again peoples lives have been lost due to a heinous act of violence. Frankly, just overall, I feel confused and tired of trying to understand why we don't seem to learn from the past.

I grew up listening to Tom Petty in my dad's Ford Bronco. He would blast his music for us on cassette for my brother and I. We'd sing along to Free Fallin but say Tree Fallin cause, well thats what we thought he was saying. He was truly an amazing musician and while he is gone now, his voice and his words live on.

I am reminded today and this week that forces such as hate, and violence are powerful and evil forces, that love, empathy, and human kindness can conquer it all. When I listen Tom Petty's track "I Won't Back Down" I am reminded not to give up hope. To stand true and push forward.

"You can stand me up at the gates of hell. But I won't back down"