Swimming Upstream:
Navigating a Woke World as a Christian Conservative Woman
Preface: Navigating the Waters of Difference
Have you ever felt like a fish out of water? Maybe you're a star-gazing city dweller in the heart of the Appalachian wilderness. Or perhaps you're a minimalist in a maximalist world. Or a silent observer in a room full of chatterboxes. In these instances, there's a glaring difference between what the world around you seems to be and who you are.
In this article, we explore the journey of a young, Christian conservative woman maneuvering the currents of a progressively "woke" world. But don't let the specifics deter you; even if you aren't one, the lessons and insights gleaned here are universal. This is not just about navigating the rapids of sociopolitical ideologies; it's about finding your voice, sticking to your principles, and extending understanding amidst divergence.
This piece is a roadmap for anyone who's ever been a proverbial fish out of water, floundering and gasping in a habitat that feels alien. It's a survival guide for not just surviving but thriving in an environment that might be, at best, unfamiliar and, at worst, hostile.
It's an exploration of the very essence of what it means to be different and still connect, to be yourself and still belong, to be a fish out of water and still make waves. So, dive in no matter your context, faith, or ideology. The water's just fine.
~Calista
Take a look around you. Whether it's on your Twitter feed or your college campus, the world seems to be buzzing with the term "Wokeness." Like bees to honey or teenagers to the latest viral dance trend, people are flocking to this state of heightened awareness of social and political injustices. But this is more than just any old awareness. It's a particular brand, often steeped in progressive ideals that may seem at odds with your deeply held Christian conservative values.
Suppose you're a young, Christian conservative woman trying to make sense of all this. In that case, you might feel like you've walked into a party where you don't know anyone, and they're all speaking a language that sounds like English but feels just a bit off. Like they're talking about justice, but in a way that doesn't leave room for the justice you believe in.
This feeling of not belonging, of being an outsider in a "Woke" world, is real and tough. You may even feel unwelcome, like you're trying to find your place at a dinner table where the seats seem already taken.
However, take heart. As challenging as it may seem, navigating this landscape is not impossible. It's like crossing a river - you might get a little wet and have to dodge a few rocks, but you can make it to the other side with the right approach and tools.
This article offers you a life jacket, a paddle, and a compass as you traverse these choppy waters. It will provide guidance on maintaining your Christian faith and conservative beliefs in a world that might feel unwelcoming. Remember, it's not about conforming or compromising your beliefs but about learning to navigate an environment that may seem foreign and a little intimidating.
So, tie your shoelaces, fasten your life jacket, and prepare to embark on a journey of understanding, perseverance, and faith. The world may seem swept up in the currents of "Wokeness," but with faith as your compass, you can navigate any storm. As it says in John 16:33, "In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." And so, dear reader, can you?
Understanding the Terminology: Is Wokeness Asleep at the Wheel?
Diving headfirst into the turbulent waters of "Wokeness," you might feel like you're in over your head. The term, as vast and nebulous as the Milky Way, is bandied about like a hot potato, often leaving conservative Christian folks feeling like they're lost in translation. Theoretically, "Wokeness" is the cool kid on the block, touting awareness of social and political injustices like a shiny, new badge. In practice, though, things might look a tad different, and it's time we chatted about it.
The term "Wokeness" has been tied to the mast of the ship that is progressive thought, sailing forth on a sea of heightened awareness around social and political inequalities. Its name hints at being "awake" to these issues, like a sudden epiphany, a realization of the systems perpetuating discrimination and injustice.
This seems perfectly harmonious with Christian values of love, empathy, and justice, right? After all, Jesus was always there for the marginalized, the forgotten, the oppressed. He championed love for one's neighbor, irrespective of societal status or how many camels they owned.
However, as you navigate these waters, you may notice a subtle irony in this nomenclature. Despite its name, "Wokeness" sometimes seems to be in a deep slumber, a hibernation mode, if you will, when it comes to acknowledging and respecting the diversity of thought and viewpoint. If you've ever felt like voicing your Christian conservative beliefs in a "Woke" environment was akin to being a soloist at a mime convention, then you're not alone.
In its quest to rectify systemic injustices, "Wokeness" often seems to adopt a "my way or the highway" approach, leaving little room for discussion or disagreement. As a young Christian conservative woman, this can make you feel like you're on a one-way street with no U-turns allowed.
The real deal is this: If "Wokeness" is about awakening to injustices and giving voice to the marginalized, shouldn't it also include openness to diverse perspectives, even if they don't strictly align with progressive thinking? Shouldn't it be about creating a dialogue, a conversation, rather than simply amplifying one side of the argument?
So, here's the plot twist: while "Wokeness" purports to promote equality and justice, its practice often leans towards intolerance of dissenting views, leading to a one-sided discourse that feels more like a lecture than a conversation. As a Christian conservative woman, it's essential to understand this disconnect and navigate this landscape while staying true to your values.
While there's no denying the good intentions that birthed the "Woke" movement, it's also crucial to shine a light on the shadows where it falls short, especially when embracing differing viewpoints. In other words, while "Wokeness" might seem like the ultimate wake-up call, it's also important to question: who is it waking up, and who is it keeping in the dark?
Engage with Empathy: Wearing the Shoes of Others
Picture this: you're at a social gathering (remember those?), and the topic of "Wokeness" pops up. Suddenly, everyone is sharing their thoughts, passionately debating ideas, and you're standing there, clutching your cup of punch, feeling like you've walked onto the set of a foreign film without subtitles.
As a young Christian conservative woman, this scenario might seem as comfortable as wearing a wool sweater in a heatwave. The language, ideas, and perspectives can feel foreign, even challenging to your core beliefs. But this is where the heart of your faith—the teachings of empathy and compassion—comes into play.
Think of empathy as the superpower tucked up your sleeve, the secret ingredient in your grandma's famous pie, or the cheat code in your favorite video game. It's a tool that can transform your interactions and conversations, bridging the gap between wildly divergent views.
Remember the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-42)? In those days, Jews and Samaritans were like oil and water—they didn't mix. Yet, Jesus spoke to her and engaged her in a deep conversation, breaking the social norms of the time.
Why? Because he demonstrated empathy and compassion, understanding her as a human being rather than a label. He exemplified the command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31) and did it with a flair that would have made any modern social justice warrior green with envy.
So, remember this story the next time you find yourself in a discussion that makes you feel like a penguin in a tropical rainforest—out of place and a little overheated. Recall the teachings of your faith. Your Christian values aren't a barrier in these conversations; they're a gateway to understanding.
Listen to others' experiences and perspectives with the same intensity that you would listen to your favorite song. Seek to understand, not necessarily to agree. Approach each conversation with the intention of learning, of walking a mile in someone else's shoes, even if they are a size too big or a style too flashy for your liking.
Does this mean you must compromise your values, beliefs, or standpoints? Not at all. Engaging with empathy is not about changing your dance but about understanding the rhythm of others'. It's about showing love and respect, even in disagreement. After all, you can appreciate a masterpiece without wanting to hang it in your living room, right?
Navigating a "Woke" world as a Christian conservative woman is a bit like being a violinist in a jazz band—it might seem like a mismatch at first. Still, with empathy as your bow, you can make music that resonates with everyone. Just remember to keep your chin up, your heart open, and your faith strong. As it turns out, the key to being heard in an unwelcoming world might just be learning how to listen.
Embrace Shared Values: Finding the PB&J in a World of Ham Sandwiches
Picture this: You're in a café (they've made a comeback, by the way), and you're trying to find something on the menu that suits your taste. The chef, however, seems to have an inexplicable obsession with ham. Ham sandwiches, ham salads, ham on a stick—you name it. But you, my friend, are more of a PB&J kind of gal. Now what?
This might feel like your situation when navigating the bustling cityscape of "Wokeness." The world is serving you dish after dish of ideologies that might seem as appetizing as a bowl of Brussels sprouts to a five-year-old. But here's the secret ingredient that's often overlooked: shared values.
Like a kitchen with a diverse menu, there's more to conservative and woke ideologies than meets the eye. Sure, on the surface, they seem like two ends of a very long and occasionally frayed rope. But if you look closer, you'll see they both value justice, fairness, and equality. The methods might be different—like using a blender versus a hand whisk—but the end goal is the same: a delicious dish.
Think of these shared values as the PB&J in a world full of ham. They're your safe bet, your comfort zone, the familiarity in a menu full of exotic dishes. You can use this shared understanding as a starting point to engage with issues from a place of commonality rather than division.
For instance, both sides of the aisle agree that justice is crucial to society. Your Christian faith emphasizes this, too, with Micah 6:8 saying, "And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God."
The same goes for equality and fairness. Yes, the approaches to achieving these may differ vastly between woke and conservative circles—like cooking an egg sunny-side-up versus scrambled—but the underlying values remain.
So, the next time you're trying to navigate a conversation or situation steeped in "Wokeness," look for the PB&J. Look for the shared values, the common goals, the similar visions. They may not be obvious, but remember, even the biggest oak tree starts as a tiny acorn.
Navigating the "Woke" world as a Christian conservative woman isn't about changing your order but finding the shared items on the menu. Use this common ground to engage, understand, and communicate. After all, PB&J can hold its own in a world of ham.
Educate Yourself and Others: Be the Bridge, Not the Barrier
Let's face it: as a Christian conservative woman navigating the bustling cityscape of "Wokeness," you might sometimes feel like you're from Venus while everyone else is from Mars. Or, more fittingly, like you're a calm pastoral landscape in a world craving avant-garde abstraction.
But here's the plot twist: that very difference in perspective is your golden ticket. It's an opportunity for education, not just for you but for everyone you engage with.
Picture this: you're back at that party where the term "Wokeness" dropped like a rogue ice cube in a tropical punch. Instead of just nodding to the conversations or retreating to the snack table, you see an opportunity to learn, grow, and share.
In your toolbox of Christian faith, you've got some powerful tools. One of them is a love for wisdom and knowledge, and let's not forget the biblical proverb that says, "Wisdom is more precious than rubies" (Proverbs 3:15). So, let's put those rubies to work.
The unique perspective you bring is the beauty of being a Christian conservative woman in a "Woke" world. It's a view shaped by faith, tradition and an unwavering belief in certain values and principles. It's like you're a librarian in a library where everyone has only been reading books from one shelf. You can introduce them to new sections, different genres, and perhaps even their new favorite book.
Educate others about your beliefs, not in an aggressive "my book is better than your book" way, but in a sharing, enriching manner. Narrate the stories that have shaped you, the teachings that guide you, and the faith that sustains you. You never know; you might leave someone thinking, "Hmm, I've never seen it that way before."
At the same time, be open to what others teach you. Understand their stories, their struggles, and their viewpoints. It is an exchange of ideas that could lead to a better understanding and mutual respect for each other's perspectives. It's not about scoring debate points or converting them to your beliefs; it's about building bridges of understanding.
Navigating the world of "Wokeness" as a Christian conservative woman isn't about becoming a different character in the story. It's about understanding the different characters in the story and helping them understand yours. Remember, your faith cherishes wisdom and knowledge, so don't shy away from this chance to grow. Be the bridge, not the barrier, and watch how the landscape changes. As Proverbs 4:7 says, "The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." You've got the rubies; now it's time to shine.
Establish Boundaries: When to Say No in a Yes-Man's World
Alright, let's take a moment here. You've entered the party, learned the lingo, danced with diplomacy, and found your favorite spot by the food table. But now, someone wants you to try the extra spicy habanero salsa, even though your taste buds run about as hot as an ice cream sundae.
This is where the rubber meets the road in your journey through the "Woke" world. The music might be groovy and the company entertaining, but that doesn't mean you need to dip your chips in salsa that makes your eyes water.
As a Christian conservative woman, you carry a treasure chest of values and principles shaped by your faith and personal experiences. These are as much a part of you as your love for PB&J in a world that's serving ham or your preference for mild salsa at a spicy party. So, as you journey through this landscape of different tastes and flavors, remember: it's okay to establish boundaries.
Think of it this way: your beliefs and principles are like your own personal dance floor. You know the steps, the rhythm, the beat. And while inviting others to dance with you is perfectly fine, it's also okay to hang a polite "Do Not Disturb" sign when the music doesn't match your tempo.
Engaging with the world doesn't mean you have to trade your soft melody for a heavy metal riff. It doesn't mean you have to compromise your values or downgrade your faith to fit into the narrative. You can express your thoughts, perspectives, and beliefs while remaining true to who you are.
When conversations or situations start edging towards the uncomfortable, or begin to clash with your principles, don't be afraid to draw a line. This isn't about being combative or unyielding; it's about respect—respect for your values and respect for the values of others.
You might be thinking, "But isn't that contradictory? How can I engage with empathy, educate with openness, and converse respectfully if I'm also setting boundaries?" Well, it's about balance. Like a well-cooked meal, it's all about the right ingredients in the proper proportions.
Setting boundaries doesn't mean shutting down dialogue; it means directing it in a constructive way for all parties involved. It's about saying, "I value your perspective, but I also value my principles."
Establishing boundaries can feel like swimming upstream in a world that often pressures us to go with the flow. But remember, your faith gives you the strength to swim, and your values are the compass guiding your way. So, dive in, but know your limits. Swim, but stay true to your course. Engage with the world, but never at the cost of your faith and beliefs. Because in a world of yes-men, a thoughtful "no" can be a breath of fresh air.
Speak Up: Finding Your Voice in the Orchestra of Opinions
Imagine being in an orchestra where every instrument plays its own tune, and you've got the triangle. Not the most glamorous instrument, right? Amidst the violins' robust roar and the piano's grandeur, your tiny triangle might seem like it's out of its league. But, lo and behold, when the crescendo wanes, and the symphony reaches that delicate part where only the clear 'ting' of the triangle fits, suddenly it's not so small after all.
Navigating the "Woke" world as a Christian conservative woman can often feel like being that triangle in a full-blown orchestra. The louder, bolder instruments of different ideologies and perspectives might make your voice seem like a whisper in a thunderstorm. But let me tell you, my friend, whispers have a funny way of cutting through the noise, and your triangle has a part to play in this concert of life.
Your voice is important. It carries the melody of your faith, the rhythm of your conservative values, and the harmony of your unique perspective. Amidst the cacophony of voices, your tune brings something different to the table. It's the pinch of salt in a too-sweet dessert, the unexpected plot twist in a movie, or the cozy corner in a bustling party. It's vital, and it's needed.
However, speaking up is often easier said than done, especially in a world where backlash can be as swift as a summer storm. But remember, as a woman of faith, you have an arsenal of grace and truth that empowers you to express your beliefs with the quiet strength of a daisy standing tall amidst the weeds.
Speak your truth, not with the intention to provoke or argue but to illuminate. Let your words be the gentle 'ting' of the triangle amidst the orchestra—clear, firm, and melodic. Stand firm in your faith and let your conservative values echo in your words.
And as you play your part, remember, you're not just hitting a piece of metal with a tiny rod but inspiring others. You're showing that the symphony of social discourse needs all its instruments, not just the loudest ones. Your voice might give others the courage to join the melody, to add their unique notes to the composition.
So, straighten your crown, clear your throat, and let your voice be heard. Speak your truth with grace and courage. Because, my dear, in this vast orchestra, your triangle is waiting, and its 'ting' can ring louder than you think.
Pray and Reflect: Your Compass in the Woke Wilderness
Picture this: You're on an adventurous trek through an uncharted jungle, the terrain unfamiliar and the path uncertain. You're armed with a backpack, a pair of sturdy boots, and a compass. Despite the diversity of flora and fauna, despite the unknown, you navigate through because you have that trusty compass guiding you toward your goal.
Living in a "Woke" world as a Christian conservative woman is much like trekking through that jungle. Your backpack is filled with the values you hold dear, your sturdy boots represent your willingness to journey onward, and your compass—well, that's your faith, prayer, and constant reflection.
As you journey through the underbrush of differing opinions, use prayer as your tool for strength and guidance. Your GPS always connects you to the one signal that doesn't waver - God's guidance. In the moments of doubt, when you might feel like you're standing against a tide, let prayer be your stronghold.
In addition to prayer, cultivate the habit of reflection—consider it the routine maintenance of your compass. Regularly take time to pause, to quiet the noise of the world, and to reflect on your beliefs and actions. This is not about self-judgment but about self-awareness. Are you aligning with your Christian values and conservative ideals? Are your words and actions reflecting the faith you profess? If your compass seems off, recalibration is just a reflection away.
As you take each step in this world, remember that your journey isn't just about surviving in the "Woke" jungle. It's about learning from the terrain, understanding the language of the trees and the whispers of the wind, and leaving a trail that others like you can follow.
So, keep your compass close and your boots ready. Extend grace, engage with empathy, educate, and stay true to your values. This isn't a call to create divisions but to build bridges of understanding, empathy, and collaboration in a world bursting with the vibrant colors of diversity.
Your role as a Christian conservative woman in this landscape isn't just about surviving or fitting in; it's about thriving and carving out a space where your voice, faith, and ideals can coexist and interact with others. It's a challenge, but remember, every great adventure is. So rise up, step forward, and let your voice echo through the jungle. After all, the world needs more compass-bearers like you.
Educating the Woke is like expecting a seed to turn into a 6' stalk of corn overnight. There is no point in engaging those whose minds have been poisoned. The best thing to do is to avoid these monsters. They have become less than human and they cannot think for themselves.