Sometimes you need a dose of inspiration. I was moved when I saw that Bruce Springsteen had written a song to honor the lives of Michelle Good and Alex Pretti and to commemorate all the Minnesotans who stood up to ICE last winter. When I saw that he was launching a tour to amplify a message of national unity and appeal to our better angels, I said, “I’m in!”

I don’t go to many rock concerts, but I’ve been a fan of Bruce’s songs since high school (“Thunder Road,” anyone?). I’m an even bigger fan of his willingness to speak up and speak out about the dangers our democracy is facing right now.

I was fortunate to attend his concert in Boston over Memorial Day weekend, and it was powerful: the energy he and his band delivered, the sold-out crowd, and the repeated messages of hope. He called on all of us to come together and work for an America that chooses hope over fear, unity over division, integrity over corruption, democracy over autocracy, and peace over violence — an America we can be proud of.

What did he suggest? It was simple: do what you love, something you’re good at. Speak out from that place, whether as a singer, writer, or convener. And if you can’t speak out — if doing so risks your job or your safety — then try to model kindness, civility, and integrity in your community.

You can also make quiet contributions. Donations always help. This week, I’m focusing on the NAACP, which is bravely fighting back against the gutting of the Voting Rights Act following the recent Supreme Court decision. There are other organizations and options I’ve shared as well.

The point is to do something — at least one thing. Don’t give up. The solidarity I felt at the concert, alongside thousands of other people, was powerful. (It was like a “No Kings” rally on steroids!) And there are millions more of us yearning to feel that same solidarity.

Don’t give up. Find some inspiration and keep going. The midterm elections are just five months away.

Onward!