As a community organizer, I learned that time is our greatest ally and challenge. The core of my work lies in the delicate balance between urgency and patience, between the immediate needs of my district and the long-term vision I strive to achieve.
That’s why I choose to live in the now: I believe in the people I serve and in the seeds that we’re planting. In the face of bureaucracy—the red tape—I focus on what I can control: the dedication of my teams, our persistence, and our commitment to justice. I see each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning. We keep going.
This is how we transform our vision for a better world into policies that will get us there. But momentum doesn’t sustain itself. Just like gardening, this work demands care and attention. It requires building trust and cultivating relationships. It takes a deep commitment to mobilizing people and getting them to a place of understanding.
But there are expectations. Balancing demands is like tending a garden with an array of plants. Each one is unique—some need sunlight, some need less water. At times, it feels like I’m keeping hopes alive during a drought. But still, I prioritize, knowing that underneath the surface, our seeds have taken root, and they run deep.
In the end, time is a reflection of our individual journey. I choose to live in the now, and my hope is to share and enjoy the fruits of my labor in the community, no matter how small the wins are.
I have faith in humanity. Governments can meet people where they are. Let’s honor the time we have. The time is now. Let’s get it, fam.
Eunisses Hernandez is an activist and politician, currently serving as a member of the Los Angeles City Council. @cd1losangeles
For Every Jewel There is a Question:
What seeds have you planted in the past year?
One Response
thank you thank you