I understand that people have of their own reasons for doing so. Why do we change our photos, really? To show solidarity? But what does that even mean and how does a temporary Facebook photo do it? I’m not trying to be provocative, insulting or offensive toward people who have changed their photos. From suffering arises another trendy social media gimmick, another way for us to show the world how “clued in” and “with it” we are.

I feel that just changing my photo, writing a few words and a hashtag on social media minimizes (even cheapens) the tremendous, horrific reality of what is going on all around the world, not just in Paris. In fact, it’s because I find it so absolutely awful that I’ve chosen not to engage in this way. It is not because I don’t care, or that I don’t feel the profound shock and sadness for what has happened. I’m also not writing condolence and prayer messages on my Facebook feed, tagged with #PrayforParis.

I won’t be adding the French flag filter to my Facebook profile photo. It’s not bad, it can mean something, but if it’s just a speedy quick social media tip of the hat, well, better to slow down and feel this tragedy and walk in kindness more fully after doing so. The point is to be mindful of why you’re doing it. I understand some people have their reasons for it and it is meaningful to them. Elephant has received so many bigoted comments from hateful people with their photos in red, white and blue today. We need to actually walk our talk, not just post colored pictures. Waylon: I haven’t changed my profile for the same reason, more or less. We then had the ensuing conversation, which I think underlines her point: there’s nothing wrong with changing your profile picture, of course…but: I read Jamie’s letter, below, earlier today, and asked Jamie if I might share it with you dear elephant readers. See Jamie’s article below to see what she’s actually urging, as well as the video. There’s nothing wrong with them, as a symbol of unity and grief and love. Some of the most hateful and bigoted comments we’ve received today have been from folks, understandably angry, with red-white-blue profile pics. The author is urging, merely, that we can slow down. Symbols and unity are beautiful, elephriends.

For more: Show *this* to all those saying “Muslims are the problem.”

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