Where to begin? First, I appreciate Martinez’ desire to be strong enough to stand for what he believes and even more that he took powerful action to get there. What concerns me is the polarization that seems to motivate him.

I invite him to consider another perspective: just be strong.

Not “strong so I can destroy the evil other side”.

Just strong; knowing that if the need arises, he’ll be able to help someone… ANYONE… in need.

I realize that it may be inconceivable to some, but if the bully picking on the gay teen was wearing a “Feel the Bern” t-shirt, it still would have been the right thing to step in. Focus is powerful. If you’re looking for “what’s not working?”, you’ll find plenty. If you make the subtle shift to “where can I contribute?”, you’ll see a very different world.