Relying on Old Strengths

by May Fisher

Dear Friends,

As I opened the mail to read the latest edition of ALTE, I was filled with expectations. After reading the writing, I was dismayed at the tone of much of the material.

The writers must be pretty comfortable when they describe the “hardships” they are going through. Did anyone think about what real hardships people are going through today?

I’m 87 and have been a leftwing activist since the age of 14. No red—diaper baby for me. So many Knew “shed the red” and went to the summer homes on Cape Cod, etc.

These trying times have led me to draw on my underlying left philosophy to help where I can. I’m disabled so cannot go to demonstrations and the like. But I reach out to my neighbors, who think differently than I do, but who listen, and some move forward. I sign petitions. I give money when I can.

I have a TV program on the closed circuit TV we have in our community (a very comfortable one) and on each show I try to bring a lesson re: fasciksm, human rights, racial injustice, etc. I am able to couch it in terms that don’t seem threatening. I pull on the strength of the generation that served in World War II (a dwindling number).

We also have here survivors of fight camps, people who left their countries in Europe and China after the war, including a number of Germans who lived as children through the Nazi days.

We’ve been in self-isolation here since March 3. Fortunately, the staff has been so wonderful in protecting us (1900 seniors in twelve residential buildings), our Covid-19 rate has been tiny.

I don’t feel at a loss. There is so much to do via phone, computer, and old-fashioned snail mail. I am energized by the need to find new ways to do my small bit in moving forward.

I am so thankful for my old left training and what I learned from my cadre (I haven’t heard or used that word in a long time).

Much to be done — keeps me young.

Don‘t be Alte kockers.

Peace,

May Fisher