I believe there are so many of us who struggle with what you are talking about. Thank you for articulating it so eloquently. My hope is that this only strengthens our resolve in the end. We are playing a long game. There are no saviors who will rescue us. Thank you for staying in the fight.
So so many. Everyone I've talked to recently has asked me some version of WHAT IS HAPPENING?! It's okay to be disappointed, and it's okay to keep pushing forward. "There are no saviors who will rescue us" is so true. Our dedication will deliver the victory... eventually.
It's a tough spot to be in. Obviously the mission still matters greatly. How do you think we push forward most effectively? I don't have the answers, but happy to crowdsource :-)
I believe the powers that be want us to be demoralized and move onto the next shiny object. They are banking on our fatigue and desire to accept and give up. That’s why it’s important for us to find others who can support us and help us have the endurance. We need to persist. It reminds me of something. My dad told me about getting a PhD. He told me that it’s not necessarily that you need to be the brightest person, but that you need to be persistent and after a while, they will grow tired of torturing you and invite you into the club. We need to continue to be a thorn in their side and show the collectively we have the power to affect elections and will persist in attacking their power. That we are an obstacle to them being able to achieve the power they so desperately crave.
What amazing advice. Your father is a smart man! Most change isn’t actually sexy when you get down to it. Getting the big stuff accomplished requires obsession, persistence and a lot of unsexy/boring work.
Ugh thank you so much Katy. I’m not sure that I’ve ever worked so hard on any piece of writing before - EVER! I was absolutely paralyzed with feelings. Appreciate the support!
Well, I’m proud of you. They drank the Kool Aid. You know…the one with the Red 40 in it. Keep standing up for what you believe in. Just because they lack the courage of their convictions doesn’t mean the story ends. Stay on it like a rabid dog if it is what you believe in. Or, turn the tide. Start something completely new, and totally you. I love you kiddo! 🥰
Ha! Ba dum tsss! Thank you so much :-). It's tough to watch shadowy forces push back on the things and people you care about, but I just can't pretend everything is going perfectly, but also can't find it in myself to totally give in either. I guess I'll enjoy some new territory!
Thanks for your service to we the people -- you're the kind of person we need as leaders! I'm disgusted but not surprised by what's happening to MAHA & the exemplary doctors, scientists & health professionals tangling with the criminally-managed FDA. We're facing forces entrenched for over 100 years, but crumbling away with every passing day. (Even if in their narcissistic arrogance they don't know it). Improved health for our nation is taking longer than I want, but it is going to happen.
KB appreciate your kind words so much! The ability to critically think and speak honestly and transparently aren't really traits that are tolerated at FDA or government it seems! I share your disgust for the tragedy that was the ousting of FDA leadership and I also share your optimism that change WILL happen - with or without FDA, with or without government reform. Covid proved that industry is willing to overplay their hand, and as a result we the people are finally waking up. It's only a matter of time.
Taking a second to regroup and collect your thoughts after the blows you (and the movement) have been dealt is to be expected. I appreciate your honesty regarding the toll it has taken on you.
Rachel - thank you so much. Publishing this honest confession/status update has brought me so much peace in the midst of turmoil. Grateful to be moving forward.
What a great piece! I can relate to all of it. (And hey, I probably saw you there at the rally. I was there too and have long-standing ties with TM.)
Everything you write here I've seen as a long-time participant in the "health and food freedom movements."
And yes, that resignation is so real and pervasive. I could share some horror stories with you on what happened way before MAHA with the food freedom stuff. 🙄
Perhaps earlier fractures is part of why this is so fractured today.
Angela commented "they drank the kool aid."
That matches my experience of what happens and why people who did not drink the kool aid walk away silently.
I like your ending and appreciate your transparency. I might come to a different conclusion than you about "criticism from inside a movement is how it corrects course." That hasn't been my experience. I don't think most folks want to operate on inconvenient principles, even those principles that promise a brighter future for more people.
Perhaps I'm jaded from too much of what you describe eloquently in this post... But I, too, remain mostly optimistic.
Anyway, it's nice to see what you've written here. I'll look forward to your next post.
Wow Liz. This comment resonates deeply. Would love to talk more about this... "I might come to a different conclusion than you about "criticism from inside a movement is how it corrects course." That hasn't been my experience. I don't think most folks want to operate on inconvenient principles, even those principles that promise a brighter future for more people." Being jaded seems like an appropriate and natural consequence of fighting an uphill battle for many many years. Do you have thoughts on how we might break through and see more progress, quicker? Going to try to DM you. :-)
It's an excellent question that unbelievably even Tracy Beth Hoeg doesn't know the answer to! Here's her direct quote, "To all of those ask who fired me and why, you are asking the right questions and so far I know who denies doing it or being aware it was going to happen. While I am aware of a number of things I’m not saying just yet, trust me if I say you are not alone in asking 'Who is pulling the strings here?'" Who indeed?
I’m right there with you, Tiffany, trying to maintain some optimism. But also sensing that the ‘enemy’ is really powerful. I admit to being susceptible to thinking the battle is against men and institutions. And then I’m reminded we wrestle against spiritual powers.
I look forward to seeing where your reflections take you.
Doug - yes! This is exactly where I find myself. I get frustrated with FDA and Pharma and gov officials and then… a subtle reminder shows up that says, “this is a spiritual battle and doesn’t actually follow the rules that you are playing by…”. Today you were that reminder. Thank you. 🙏
Moorea - you have trained me to smile from just the sight of your name and profile picture :-). You are so full of light and optimism. Regarding your comment though... I just don't know what to make of everything but given that I'm tied up in my emotions over it and unable to think clearly or critically, it's probably not good to keep writing about gov affairs temporarily. Looking forward to a slight shift!
There ARE opportunities I've discovered along the way. I'd recommend just cold outreach to the outlets that interest you (Email/ Linkedin DM/ SS DMs). You've got plenty of writing samples to share!
Have been missing u yet I relate to the stikes to the heart on the matters lately, lie$ have bcome big business and soul$ 4sale now 2b the neighbors sum invited/allowed/encouraged~ truly not sure that's 2b God's intention & mayb certainly unXrist like as we 2bcome the bad steward$ more creating heaven &hell hear here the communist way eh
I believe there are so many of us who struggle with what you are talking about. Thank you for articulating it so eloquently. My hope is that this only strengthens our resolve in the end. We are playing a long game. There are no saviors who will rescue us. Thank you for staying in the fight.
So so many. Everyone I've talked to recently has asked me some version of WHAT IS HAPPENING?! It's okay to be disappointed, and it's okay to keep pushing forward. "There are no saviors who will rescue us" is so true. Our dedication will deliver the victory... eventually.
Already decided to sit the next one out, seems I won’t be the only one
It's a tough spot to be in. Obviously the mission still matters greatly. How do you think we push forward most effectively? I don't have the answers, but happy to crowdsource :-)
I believe the powers that be want us to be demoralized and move onto the next shiny object. They are banking on our fatigue and desire to accept and give up. That’s why it’s important for us to find others who can support us and help us have the endurance. We need to persist. It reminds me of something. My dad told me about getting a PhD. He told me that it’s not necessarily that you need to be the brightest person, but that you need to be persistent and after a while, they will grow tired of torturing you and invite you into the club. We need to continue to be a thorn in their side and show the collectively we have the power to affect elections and will persist in attacking their power. That we are an obstacle to them being able to achieve the power they so desperately crave.
What amazing advice. Your father is a smart man! Most change isn’t actually sexy when you get down to it. Getting the big stuff accomplished requires obsession, persistence and a lot of unsexy/boring work.
Can’t disagree with a single thing here.
Ugh thank you so much Katy. I’m not sure that I’ve ever worked so hard on any piece of writing before - EVER! I was absolutely paralyzed with feelings. Appreciate the support!
Well, I’m proud of you. They drank the Kool Aid. You know…the one with the Red 40 in it. Keep standing up for what you believe in. Just because they lack the courage of their convictions doesn’t mean the story ends. Stay on it like a rabid dog if it is what you believe in. Or, turn the tide. Start something completely new, and totally you. I love you kiddo! 🥰
Ha! Ba dum tsss! Thank you so much :-). It's tough to watch shadowy forces push back on the things and people you care about, but I just can't pretend everything is going perfectly, but also can't find it in myself to totally give in either. I guess I'll enjoy some new territory!
I have every faith in you that you will 🥰
Love you!
Thanks for your service to we the people -- you're the kind of person we need as leaders! I'm disgusted but not surprised by what's happening to MAHA & the exemplary doctors, scientists & health professionals tangling with the criminally-managed FDA. We're facing forces entrenched for over 100 years, but crumbling away with every passing day. (Even if in their narcissistic arrogance they don't know it). Improved health for our nation is taking longer than I want, but it is going to happen.
KB appreciate your kind words so much! The ability to critically think and speak honestly and transparently aren't really traits that are tolerated at FDA or government it seems! I share your disgust for the tragedy that was the ousting of FDA leadership and I also share your optimism that change WILL happen - with or without FDA, with or without government reform. Covid proved that industry is willing to overplay their hand, and as a result we the people are finally waking up. It's only a matter of time.
Taking a second to regroup and collect your thoughts after the blows you (and the movement) have been dealt is to be expected. I appreciate your honesty regarding the toll it has taken on you.
Rachel - thank you so much. Publishing this honest confession/status update has brought me so much peace in the midst of turmoil. Grateful to be moving forward.
What a great piece! I can relate to all of it. (And hey, I probably saw you there at the rally. I was there too and have long-standing ties with TM.)
Everything you write here I've seen as a long-time participant in the "health and food freedom movements."
And yes, that resignation is so real and pervasive. I could share some horror stories with you on what happened way before MAHA with the food freedom stuff. 🙄
Perhaps earlier fractures is part of why this is so fractured today.
Angela commented "they drank the kool aid."
That matches my experience of what happens and why people who did not drink the kool aid walk away silently.
I like your ending and appreciate your transparency. I might come to a different conclusion than you about "criticism from inside a movement is how it corrects course." That hasn't been my experience. I don't think most folks want to operate on inconvenient principles, even those principles that promise a brighter future for more people.
Perhaps I'm jaded from too much of what you describe eloquently in this post... But I, too, remain mostly optimistic.
Anyway, it's nice to see what you've written here. I'll look forward to your next post.
Wow Liz. This comment resonates deeply. Would love to talk more about this... "I might come to a different conclusion than you about "criticism from inside a movement is how it corrects course." That hasn't been my experience. I don't think most folks want to operate on inconvenient principles, even those principles that promise a brighter future for more people." Being jaded seems like an appropriate and natural consequence of fighting an uphill battle for many many years. Do you have thoughts on how we might break through and see more progress, quicker? Going to try to DM you. :-)
Who was it on our side that forced these people out?
It's an excellent question that unbelievably even Tracy Beth Hoeg doesn't know the answer to! Here's her direct quote, "To all of those ask who fired me and why, you are asking the right questions and so far I know who denies doing it or being aware it was going to happen. While I am aware of a number of things I’m not saying just yet, trust me if I say you are not alone in asking 'Who is pulling the strings here?'" Who indeed?
Link to the full article: https://tracybethhoegmdphd.substack.com/p/grateful-to-have-been-part-of-meaningful
“better, as fast as we can get there.” - thank you for your pragmatic optimism in the face of such disappointment.
Thanks Richard. We do what we can with what we’re given!
Thanks so much for your honesty.
Thank you for reading Jill!
I’m right there with you, Tiffany, trying to maintain some optimism. But also sensing that the ‘enemy’ is really powerful. I admit to being susceptible to thinking the battle is against men and institutions. And then I’m reminded we wrestle against spiritual powers.
I look forward to seeing where your reflections take you.
Doug - yes! This is exactly where I find myself. I get frustrated with FDA and Pharma and gov officials and then… a subtle reminder shows up that says, “this is a spiritual battle and doesn’t actually follow the rules that you are playing by…”. Today you were that reminder. Thank you. 🙏
So appreciate your thoughtfulness and honesty, Tiffany. Listened to this multiple times.
I wonder what he was thinking. I wonder what went on behind the scenes.
Look forward to whatever you decide to write about.
Moorea - you have trained me to smile from just the sight of your name and profile picture :-). You are so full of light and optimism. Regarding your comment though... I just don't know what to make of everything but given that I'm tied up in my emotions over it and unable to think clearly or critically, it's probably not good to keep writing about gov affairs temporarily. Looking forward to a slight shift!
I think you’re the first person to call me full of light and optimism, Tiffany. 😆 Thanks. :)
There will be plenty of time later to write about govt affairs in hindsight. I’ll read whatever you write about because I know it’ll be good.
Ha! That surprises me. You always bring joy to my day.
You’re the first to say that! 😆
Your essays always bring joy to mine.
If there's anything i can do to help, please let me know.
I'd be more than happy to have a go at being a reporter.
There ARE opportunities I've discovered along the way. I'd recommend just cold outreach to the outlets that interest you (Email/ Linkedin DM/ SS DMs). You've got plenty of writing samples to share!
Yes.
A recommendation from someone who has already publishing would go a long, long way.
Have been missing u yet I relate to the stikes to the heart on the matters lately, lie$ have bcome big business and soul$ 4sale now 2b the neighbors sum invited/allowed/encouraged~ truly not sure that's 2b God's intention & mayb certainly unXrist like as we 2bcome the bad steward$ more creating heaven &hell hear here the communist way eh
I've never heard of the Delphi Principle. I'll have to look it up!