Charlie Kirk’s work with Turning Point USA is nothing short of inspirational. He launched a movement that has touched millions. However, as we watch his memorial, I sincerely hope that his greatest legacy, given by his death, is to inspire all of us to speak up and engage as he did.
Charlie walked fearlessly into enclaves of thought amongst the most hostile to conservative values. He didn’t come as a conqueror or a firebrand. He came to speak, to engage, and to share. He welcomed all to engage with him, and welcomed those who disagreed with him to the front of the line. He didn’t feel the need to posture to gain the cheers of his supporters. He shared his views respectfully and openly, and shared his love of Christ and humanity without personal judgment.
We are all Charlie, whether or not we show it or live it. We all have opinions and beliefs, and want to share–to persuade–others to our way of thinking. We may only feel comfortable sharing with those we trust most in the world, and even then, maybe only a little bit. Charlie shared with all, on college campuses everywhere. He was hated, ridiculed, protested, and ultimately assassinated. Still he shared. Still he engaged, and still he invited. We should all have such courage, and to do it as he did, not hurling insults but discussing ideas.
That’s foundational to all a free society stands for.
The very best way we can honor Charlie’s legacy in death is by emulating his life. I hope each of us speaks a little louder, a little more fearlessly, while engaging respectfully as Charlie did. I hope each of us steps forward, whether we’re braving jeers or bullets, because those who hate liberty thrive on fear. Show no fear. Show that we won’t be intimidated; we won’t be cowed. Whatever we believe, we’ll promote it as Charlie did.
We are Charlie.
