When they say you aren't doing "real work"

I was feeling pretty down this morning, overwhelmed by the world, and stuck in a rut about the value of my writing and other work.

This led to a conversation with an AI trained with the works of Marx and Lenin who reminded me that "real work" is often used to make us question and undervalue the contributions we make to our own and others' survival.

Mutual aid is real work. Caring for others is real work. Sharing resources and building networks is real work. Creating and sharing content for liberation is real work.

You don't need official validation to be doing real work.

Our unique skills and contributions will be essential to dismantling a violent world and building one that's livable for all – and we can do this anywhere, anytime, independently.

I've become wary of the idea of leftist martyrdom – portraying community builders or organizers as exceptional – as if we aren't all part of the people trying to be free and live fulfilling lives.

Whose struggle is it supposed to be if it doesn't include us and our struggles?

If we can't keep up with formal organizations, are we not still doing the shared work of keeping ourselves and others alive?

Are we supposed to believe that this isn't worthwhile?

If someone's idea of "real work" or "revolution" doesn't make room for you to be honest about your needs, abilities, and capacity – are they truly invested in your survival and liberation?