In today’s continuation of the A-Z Challenge, I give you:

Q is for Quests

Life is comprised of quests–the search for who we are & where we’re going in the world, the search for companionship and connections, and the search for peace and comfort. For me, these quests are part of my life, along with the quest for equality, knowledge, and diversity.

Underneath it all, we’re the same, you and I.

The image above pretty much sums up my opinion on diversity and equality. I’ve made it a point in my life to gain knowledge and use it to fight for equality, be it for LGBTQIA folks, people of color, those other-gendered, or those of any religion (or lack thereof).

As much as I loved my grandmother, she was incredibly racist. Most of my family is. I grew up seeing & hearing religion used as an excuse for horrific hatred of those who are different. That’s not a jab at my family, but only a point I make because it’s only hardened my resolve to speak up and step up when I see prejudice and hatred in the world around me. Nor is it a jab at religion. I’ve seen many folks–Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Atheists, and Wiccans who were beautiful people, rich in culture, life, and love. If nothing else, it should prove that we are capable of a greater love than many show these days.

I’ve been accused of being too blunt, of needing to keep my mouth shut, by folks made uncomfortable by my words, but when I see people (people who bleed and feel just like I do) oppressed because of the color of their skin, the person they chose to love, the gender they identify with, or their chosen religion, I will not remain silent.

I’m quite happy to have found an amazing group of friends, writers, and readers who also fight alongside me in the battle for equal rights. Diversity is an amazingly beautiful thing and to me, it’s a worthy quest. I think writers have not just the power, but an obligation to speak for those who can’t.

“I write for those women who do not speak, for those who do not have a voice because we are taught to respect fear more than ourselves. We’ve been taught that silence would save us, but it won’t.” –Audrey Lorde

This post is part of the A-Z Challenge. Every day (except Sundays) in the month of May, I’ll be posting about people, places, books, games, and other things that influence me as a writer or add a certain magic to my life. Join me in April as we explore a Hodge-Podge of Influences & Wayward Treks through the Fantastical.

Read more of my A-Z Challenge posts here.