I Can't Stop a War. But Here's What I Can Do.

I can write a book, hug my neighbor, and remind you that collective humanity is how we get through this.

Apr 08, 2026

Yesterday, while I was celebrating my nephew’s birthday at Disneyland, the president of my country publicly threatened killing a whole civilization.

My heart hurts.

I can't stop a war.
But I’m tired of feeling useless. So I’m making a list of what I can do.

I can write a book that expands empathy.
I can encourage you to use your voice.
I can hug my neighbor and feed her a meal when she gets home from a long shift at the hospital.
I can learn the names of the homeless people living in the park by my house.
I can buy a drink from the queer and immigrant owned coffee shops in my neighborhood.
I can host a two-hour picnic in the park with friends.
I can call my representatives.
I can remind friends to vote.
I can invite friends over to paint.
I can adamantly and vocally oppose the policies of this regime.
I can have conversations with people from the other side of the aisle helping us see the humanity in each other.
I can walk into a bathroom with a trans friend.
I can tell the queer and trans people I know in my life that I love and value them.
I can support immigrant organizations and give to GoFundMe's.
I can go to film festivals and cheer on local artists.

And I can take a moment, in the darkest of times, to remind you all that collective humanity is how we stop wars.

I can encourage you to tap into your creativity, participate in your communities, and interact with other people and cultures.

Because when we do, we don't sit by and let a president call for the full annihilation of a civilization.

If you need support figuring out what steps you can take, comment below or reply to this email and I'll help you find one that feels doable to you.