Being called a fighter has been bouncing around in my head all morning.

Me? A fighter? Literally how?

I have panic attacks almost every day. Some days I can barely get out of bed. Other days I cry at my desk and barely have the mental strength to send one email.

How am I a fighter? I'm just a gay midwestern with severe anxiety, depression, and imposter syndrome who happens to run digital for the biggest reproductive health organization in Wisconsin.

But then I realized... that's it, isn't it?

It's not about how we show up. It's about showing up.

A fighter brings whatever they have in the tank that day and chooses to keep going. A fighter uses whatever talent and skills they have to make the world better. No matter how insignificant it feels at the time. A fighter chooses the righteous fights not because they are easy but because they are essential.

All of this is to say right now, our country and the world may seem bleak. SCOTUS is ready to turn back the clock on so many inalienable rights and make life harder for millions.

It's hard to have hope. But we need you.

You may not feel it, but you're a fighter too. We need you to show up in whatever way you can. Bring your talents, your skills, and your passions.

It's going to be hard, and some days, you won't be able to get out of bed. But I will.

And when I'm crying at my desk, I know you'll be there giving your all.

Together - with all of us doing our small part - we can create the world we want to see.

SCOTUS doesn't represent the majority. We do. And we sure as hell won't let them have control over our bodies.

It's time for all of us to see ourselves as fighters. In the words of one of the strongest fighters I know:

"Choose to fight only righteous fights, because then when things get tough—and they will—you will know that there is only one option ahead of you: Nevertheless, you must persist." - Elizabeth Warren

So let’s go persist.