I’m Speaking Tongues As Though I Mean Something

 After watching this TED Talk (https://www.ted.com/talks/dexter_dias_racism_thrives_on_silence_speak_up), I was reminded of a conversation I had with one of my friends recently. In the aftermath of George Floyd's death with protests all around the country, and even a pretty sizeable one here in Troy, many people felt there was going to be real, systematic change in how society views race. However, even as soon as July, these protests, media coverage, and even posts on social media died off.  Media is integral to how we think and act, what's on our minds, and the conversations we have with friends and family. The reason for the wave of change was largely due to the widespread media coverage of George Floyd's death and the related protests. It forced many white people, myself included, to confront the world of privilege they reside in. Resources were spread about how to be anti-racist, what language to use, and how to use privilege for good.  For a while, I didn't want to...

 Ever since I heard this song over the summer this year, it has meant a lot to me. This is a beautiful song, not only in its lyrics but musically as well. It is well worth a listen. Tired and worn from the patterns I've carved I will do better in the morning I'm afraid of who I'd be without you I will do better in the morning This beginning line is an introduction to Zach's feelings, this sense that he's in a cycle and is too afraid to leave it for the fear of what comes after. "I will do better in the morning" is a mantra he repeats throughout the song, one that I have said to myself time after time, making this a very personal song for me. It tells me that even though it may seem bad now, there's always a new light, a new day for things to be better. Twisting up smokes, I'm in control Til the fire burns out my miniature vacation But I'm always left with the taste in my mouth I will do better in the morning This is in reference to him smoking,...