Unity that isolates. That might sound like an oxymoron to some, but those doing the work will easily understand.
I coach and train a group of Black leaders who are all involved in different aspects of racial unity work. This week, we are in Los Angeles at a conference specifically geared toward pastors and other Christian leaders engaged in meeting the spiritual and tangible needs of underserved Black and Brown communities. And we all just get it. The reasons we do what we do, along with the frustrations that accompany them, don’t need to be explained.
This shared understanding speaks directly to the concept of “isolating unity”—the feeling of being drained and alone while constantly leading others toward togetherness. Leadership is taxing in and of itself, but the task becomes herculean when the added weight of racial conflict comes into play (especially given the brazen rhetoric from the highest offices of our land). Furthermore, working with—wait, actually loving—people whose daily lives are impacted by racism and poverty is deeply exhausting, even when we recognize the profound rewards.
If we aren’t careful, we can easily get caught up in thinking that no one else understands the struggle, or that our work is fruitless. But truth drives out the lies of isolation. During a dinner on the first evening of the Crete Collective family gathering, we were encouraged to share our burdens and joys with one another. It was healing to be reminded that leaders from all across the United States are in the trenches with us.
Take some time this week to share your heart with a dear brother or sister who truly gets it. Anti-racism work can be daunting, but it doesn’t always have to be lonely.
“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” -1 Peter 3:8
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