Second in a series. Want to publish your essay in this series?
So I asked my besties, the ones I’ve hunkered down with through pandemic, elections and tawdry-beyond-belief politics: “What do I believe?”
I figured they would know, and we were in a restaurant, where great perceptions always break out over bruschetta or puttanesca. “L,” next to me, started singing: “I believe with every drop of rain that falls …”
“N,” next to her, continued: “A flower grows…”
Others continued with warm humming. Old farts at other tables continued with lyrics: “I believe that somewhere in the darkest night …” Someone had to google. The rest of us soldiered on: “A candle glows …”
It wasn’t stuff that I particularly believe, but I like the tune.
I do believe in communal singing. I believe in enthusiastic feasting whenever you can. I believe in speaking up to make the world a better place. I believe in equality, women’s rights, cherishing the poorest among us, and righteous activism.
And get your damn vaccine already.
I believe I’ll hang out in restaurants, wearing a big mask and snarling, until you do.
Cuz I’m a believer.
More in this series
WHAT I BELIEVE: Jeff Gauger
WHAT I BELIEVE: Thomas Gunning
WHAT I BELIEVE: Donna Yelverton
WHAT I BELIEVE: Ten more writers on what they believe
