In our latest episode of A Couple Thinks, we revisit some of the themes we’ve explored before—resistance, action, and joy—but frame them through new inspiration.
Lisa came across a TikTok from Elizabeth H, which opened with an introduction to a video of activist and author Glennon Doyle. Doyle starts with a parable:
An anti-war activist stood outside the White House with a candle, night after night. A reporter asked, “Do you really think you’ll change this country by standing here alone?” The activist replied, “Oh, I don’t do this to change the country. I do this so the country won’t change me.”
The reminder that our actions not only aim to create change, but also keep us aligned with our own values, set the tone for our conversation.
We also explored Doyle’s metaphor of the river of justice, which draws on Michelle Alexander’s insight that progress itself is the river, and those who try to stop it are the true “resistors.” The river keeps moving, but it needs boats—boats filled with people who care about reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ equality, the environment, racial justice, democracy, and more.
Our job, as Doyle frames it, is to:
* Find the boat that matters most to us.
* Support the leaders who are already steering.
* Welcome new people aboard with encouragement, not criticism.
* Resist the urge to tear down other boats rowing toward the same horizon.
* And perhaps most importantly, dance, sing, and find joy on the boat, making it irresistible for others to join.
This vision deeply resonates with us. It’s about resisting despair as much as resisting injustice. It’s about channeling skills, passions, and creativity into action—and remembering that joy is not frivolous but essential fuel for progress.
We close the episode, as always, with our “Joyful Moments.” This week’s was extra special: we welcomed a new kitten, Tucci, into our family. Listen in to get the scoop on how we picked her and gave her her name!
Here are some of the resources we mentioned for taking action:
Mobilize.us for September 1st actions
California Redistricting Donation
👉 Tune in to hear the full conversation and join us as we light candles, climb into boats, and keep the river of justice moving.
