Historically, this issue was titled Men vs. Women, but since we have learned more about gender fluidity and diversity, we decided to modify and improve our choice of words. Once we chose “Humans of JC,” the content was inspired by humans of all kinds that, in my mind, spoke about diversity and inclusion. 

Unlike digital content, print must be planned far in advance, which is something I’ve had to get used to. But I always save writing this note to you until the tail-end of production. Our past two issues have seemingly fallen right into place with the conversation the world is having. 

The common thread in this issue is about humanity: The way we connect, the good we do for the world around us, and all the people it takes to be able to feel safe and empowered in our community. 

HUMANS OF JC

The humans on our cover landed there for many reasons. Whether it be their leadership, their ability to spark curiosity by dancing on the street, or having the courage to speak publicly about their mental health struggles. This group not only represents many parts of our city; they also inspire us to be better. 

You don’t have to be famous, or even well-known, to inspire or make a change in our community. You can be of any race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation to make decisions that improve your life and pave the way for others around you. Even the smallest stone can create a ripple in the lake.

LISTEN

It’s a word I’ve been thinking a lot about lately and something I’m trying to do myself. I’ve heard conversations where people are focused only on speaking their perspective rather than responding meaningfully. I’ve heard the helplessness in people’s voices and people asking big questions that need time to be thoughtfully answered. I’ve heard objectivity, anger, dismissal, frustration, but also love, acceptance, and kindness. It’s led me to understand how wildly impossible it is for me to believe I can see the entire picture. Sometimes, I simply don’t know what I don’t know, you know?

RADICAL ACCEPTANCE

It’s a term my therapist and I recently talked about. It means fully accepting people for the way they communicate, their preferred lifestyle, and their beliefs based on their life experiences and reality. That’s one incredible thing humans are capable of: changing our opinions and controlling our minds. It’s not easy, but when we practice radical acceptance, we suffer less. 

As you read through this issue, I hope it encourages you to find common ground with people who are different from you. Focus on the positive, and remember we are all human.

Missy Creed McFerron, Publisher (she/her/hers)