A few months ago, I posted a meme I made about ICE, anticipating that I would probably lose some followers. Unsurprisingly, I did. Although I gained a few new supporters I lost many more. It’s a bit of a disappointment given that I’ve worked hard on both my page and blog with the goal of creating community. The bigger disappointment though, is that some folks are not moved by compassion and empathy in the face of some horrific things going on around us.
There are those that think politics has no place in a chicken group. Fair enough, and I wish that were true. But online groups (regardless of the subject) are rife with political viewpoints (i.e. conspiracy theories that the government doesn’t want us to have backyard chickens so they can control the food supply; that Avian Influenza isn’t a big deal; rules are made to be broken when it comes to bylaws and wildlife; that we should be able to do whatever we want on our property regardless of how it might impact our neighbours, etc).
We live in a world in which we are interconnected. We can choose to strengthen those bonds, weaken, or even cut them entirely. My memes are a reflection of the former. I have attempted to see our commonalities and work towards greater understanding, compassion and empathy for folks who aren’t just like me.
Speaking of ‘current affairs’ doesn’t mean my site is going to turn into an overtly political forum, but given that all that is happening in the world at this moment I feel compelled to say something. The last few months have shaken up the world as we knew it. Talk of invading sovereign countries, violating civil rights of citizens, trampling over established human rights, the killing of innocent citizens, and the creep toward WW3.
My memes aren’t going to change the world but they are a statement of solidarity with those that are struggling. Once we know, we can’t claim ignorance. And once we know, we need to take a stand.
I’m hoping that this appeal for justice is not met with more unfollows. I don’t require supporters but it’s always heartening to know that one is not alone. If you know someone who would appreciate my site please share my link. Please leave a like or comment to get my work out there. Much appreciation for your continuing support.
“Don’t let the name fool you.”
Bitchin' Chickens 
I get it! I use my little chicken videos on Facebook and YouTube, #ChickenWisdom, #LindaJenningsWilk to teach a little about peace, getting along and why chickens have a pecking order. We can learn a lot by watching how our girls get along, keep space, have instincts, and how we think differently, make choices, have the ability to practice random kindness if we so choose. And the world needs more conscious kindness, we all know that! Thanks!
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Don’t be discouraged. You have just encountered resistance to ideas that challenge, fear of seeing and hearing. They were personally affronted. People can be stubbornly afraid to be wrong. Know that some people read you recent memes found that at least one got through to them and now they will think, despite their desire not to. They may have left, but if they share the love of chickens they will notice the loss of community they had here. Invite them back. Maybe sprinkle the memes in so that they can still enjoy the happy parts.
I put five of the ones that really touched me into my phone and I will send them on to friends the same way I do the hillarious ones.
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Your support is much appreciated!
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Remember so many of us are doing the same, but to “the other side”. I’ve had to un-follow people who I had previously enjoyed learning from (non-chicken related) after they revealed their lack of humanity and empathy in their posts. It’s no longer about politics, it’s about standing up for our fellow humans and animals and the home we call Earth. I have faith that standing up and not tolerating the abuse will make a difference. Keep up the good work!
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“Silence is complicity”
We must voice morality and decency despite those who would silence us.
Keep calm and carry on.
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