allyjayne HOFFMANN

Dear Friends,

Let me tell you how much you mean to me.

I’ve always heard, something about “choosing sides.”

More and more I realize that I am indeed on your side.
and your side.
and your side.
and her side.
and his side.

Most of all, I am on OUR side.

A man in a metal band, with a shaved head and tight black jeans told me once, “You are a Mama Bear, arent you?” Such a cozy, warm metaphor coming from a raspy, riff shredding person.

I am.

And to be honest, I do not care who are. I WILL stand up for you when you have been wronged. I will also call you out when I have to stand up for someone you have wronged.

I am learning, and trying, to separate myself from those less considerate and unkind.
This does not make me any less considerate though. Oh, and damn how I might try! My heart is tied to people. I care more about the world than myself sometimes. I know this a weakness. But I believe I can make is a strength. Because if one cares for the world, should they not care for themselves too? An entity of this world?

Solidarity is one of my favorite words. The strongest bond of human sympathy outside the family relation should be one uniting working people of all nations and tongues and kindreds.

Many leaders, politicians, congressman, will tell you how they “ROSE FROM THE RANKS!” to leadership. Let me tell you, when I rise, I will rise WITH my ranks. And we will lead together.

Family, friends, and the world. This is what matters to me.

Love unconditionally,

Ally.