L3 Catalyst Group

The Time is Now

Written by Dee (Deanna) Rolffs (they/them) | Mar 5, 2025 11:00:00 AM

The Time is Now

Do you ever wonder why you're here? Yes, the existential question.

It's a very human action, to question our existence and search for purpose.

Recently I’ve been drawing inspiration from you, my people. Your courage, growth, and determination remind me daily that every moment is a chance to transform.

I notice you nourishing community - now - in the following ways.

Embracing Growth & Development

Many leaders and teams are pivoting in big ways to focus on their own development. People are bravely pausing to reflect, name patterns of oppression, analyze power dynamics, make meaning together, admit that they don't know "the" answer, dedicating time to build trust within their teams and strengthen their capacity to make challenging decisions together. In this season of change, it’s clear that people are growing and developing. Because now is the time.

Creating Space for Connection

In our busy lives, taking a moment to truly connect is more important than ever. People are setting aside the usual agenda to pause—to ask, “Really, how are you doing?” By naming our thoughts, fears, feelings, and wonderings, we create space for genuine connection. Because now is the time.

Taking Action Finding Joy

Action is an antidote to stagnation and hopelessness. People are exploring what they can do now: writing, creating art, taking walks, preparing meals, and even embracing moments of vulnerability. You're planning, dreaming, supporting one another, and stepping into transformative projects that rejuvenate their organizations. Because now is the time.

Practicing Mindfulness & Self-Care

In our digital age, mindfulness and self-care have become essential. People are curbing endless scrolling, setting boundaries on social media, and finding moments of stillness—whether that’s gazing at a wall, breathings, finding time for an extra therapy visit, cherishing a dream, or caring for family and friends. Because now is the time.

Standing for Justice & Equity

Across communities, there are a million big and small, powerful ways that you are standing against injustice. People are voicing their anger at inequity, clarifying toxic patterns, and showing up for marginalized communities. People are changing their minds, saying "this isn't OK!" and finding a way to resist. People are checking in on queer/trans family members and friends. Allies are finding new ways to not center themselves, chose their safety, and truly risk for liberation. Whether its through supporting small or local businesses, wearing symbols of resistance like rainbow, Black Lives Matter, or Love Wins shirts, or holding leaders accountable, each action is a step toward justice. Because now is the time.

Learning & Unlearning

The journey of education is unending. People are immersing themselves in the works of Audre Lorde, Malcolm X, James Baldwin, bell hooks, Angela Davis, and others to understand the deep roots of white supremacy—and, importantly, how to counteract it. By engaging with their own biases and learning about racism, sexism, and gender inequities, individuals are paving the way for true transformation. Because now is the time.

Supporting & Affirming Identity

Healing begins with acceptance. People are working to overcome internalized cisgender, heteronormativity and trnsphobia, while pastors, parents, and friends are finding ways to support queer and trans youth. Even when understanding is still developing, the commitment to love and affirm one another is unwavering. Because now is the time.

TL;DR (too long, didn't read)

This is not a time to shrink back or act solely out of fear. It is a moment for bold action, deep connection, and unwavering support. We can do this together. Our personal journeys are intertwined with the collective liberation of our communities.

Much love to each of you—our love and our liberation are intertwined. Now is the time to embrace life, to act, to care, and to change the world.

Fellow leaders and learners, I wish you courage, rest, and Beloved Community for the journey. Together we catalyze a brave, bold, and liberatory future.

Peace to you,