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Jul 11, 2020Liked by Chris La Tray

All those years ago when I first read "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People", one of the things that struck me was focusing on your sphere of influence. You see, we have a huge sphere of concern, but those things that we can actually impact are much smaller. And, when we focus where we can be effective, our are of influence expands.

Mr. Covey did a much better job explaining that, I'm sure.

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Jul 11, 2020Liked by Chris La Tray

I really like the way you think. I’ve been feeling along the same lines; not rich enough to donate much, and where does one start? A friend (I’ve yet to meet in person), contacted me about starting a book club along the BLM issues. I’m going to do that. It’s a place to start. With me. I need to learn. And it’s why I so appreciate you. The Other Slavery sounds like a great addition to our reading list. Thank you.

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Jul 17, 2020Liked by Chris La Tray

I think the number one thing is to take care of numero uno: you. If you are the best version of yourself, you will be the best thing this world needs. So you give when you can, how you can. There is much worth in simply not being part of the problem. I don't think there needs to be such pressure felt to always be part of the solution in an important or heroic way. You are a kind, compassionate, and thoughtful person. That alone, is incredibly valuable.

And as usual, I resonate completely with what you are saying. I'm stoked to share with you that I'm moving back to Missoula, and I really would love to walk and/or hike with you if you are ever interested. I'll be there by early September. Cheers, my friend!

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"it seems like something landmark is happening every hour."

Yup. And we seemed to be designed for preservation.

This feels like a collective moment. When inaction may also be useful. Not as silence vs. clear statements. I don't want that to be the choice. Voices shouting and over one another.

The argument for committed action is strong. It's necessary. But holding the space for others is too. Listening. Knowing but not knowing so much that your voice silenced others. A white flaw.

I hear you. Being a criminal justice system advocate for reform, I'm struggling with what it is I can do while those locked inside are dropping like flies from Covid with little to no connection to the outside and our governor in CA is talking about child kidnappers in his press conference.

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founding

Something I learned in a course class on Thurday was to monitor for stressors adding up individually to the point that stress [in and of itself] becomes too much for my body and my mind to handle. So then, today, I find myself so drained I cannot even give a fuck about anything....nothing....zero. I spent most of the day on the deck, watching the rain come a'pouring down, sending prayers to those who I *do* give a fuck about. It's a paradox I don't know how to deal with, this figuring out where to focus my concerns.

I don't want to see you burn out, Chris, but it's bound to happen to you, to us all. I guess we THEN take a day to decompress and do some micro-recovery, and jump back in again.

Thinking about you....READING you....

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Tom Ryan's recommendation on Twitter sent me here tonight and I love what im reading. I'm feeling the burnout....I cannot keep up with all the details but then I feel embarrassed that I dont know everything about BLM or which party is saying what. I want to speak up but again, I worry about being able to hold my own when questioned, which will happen. So I think you're wise to identify what you really feel you CAN get deeply involved with.

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founding

This is an important discussion to have. Right now, I’m focused on supporting our attorneys as judges decide to reopen court even as the numbers spike. It’s the fire that needs my attention, but it’s fed by fuel from BLM and racism against Natives. I have contributed more financially than in the past but that’s sustainable. I’m buying more locally but I’m burned out, too. Thank you broaching the topic. Try to take care of yourself.

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