Opinion, Self improvement, Words to ponder

The importance of expressing love

We live in a world where people seem very comfortable with hatred and intolerance for others. It seems like the poisonous logic of bigotry is on the rise around the planet sometimes. It is more important than ever for all of us to balance ourselves with expressions of love, selflessness, and courtesy. The truth is that our species owes it’s success to people working together. All of our major religions ask that we show love and respect for others. This Valentines Day lets use our love, empathy, and resources to move our society towards more balance and beauty.

Opinion

Is America a great country because it is hard to build walls?

Today we are witnessing a President fighting hard to build a wall. Does the fact that the President have to fight so hard in his effort to build a wall mean that we are a thoughtful country? Many question what a wall would do, what it would represent, and ho much it would cost. Our republic with it’s passionate and engaged citizens is a case study for the world. I believe we make mistakes, but also show that we develop some of the best solutions to the challenges of human civilization.

Opinion

Leadership starts with us

We live in a time where people are stepping up to identify those who are unworthy of trust due to previous misdeeds. I appreciate the freedom hat we have in our country to stand up and speak truth to power. Thank goodness that there are fewer and fewer taboo subjects where people are supposed to feel too ashamed to speak up. I hope that the press and social media continue to be tools of accountability, and justice as we strive for a more perfect union.

Self improvement

Leadership starts with us

We live in a time where people are stepping up to identify those who are unworthy of trust due to previous misdeeds. I appreciate the freedom hat we have in our country to stand up and speak truth to power. Thank goodness that there are fewer and fewer taboo subjects where people are supposed to feel too ashamed to speak up. I hope that the press and social media continue to be tools of accountability, and justice as we strive for a more perfect union.

Opinion

Odd moment

When the president stated that the legislative branch could not investigate him if they wanted to maintain prosperity and a functioning government (I paraphrase); he shared a frightening thought. Is the president above the law, or was he just being hyperbolic? There is never a dull day with him in office if you follow politics. I hope his mindset does not spread. We have a governor who one day apologized for being in a photograph with racist issues (klu klux klan person next to one in blackface), and the next day said it was not him. It is important for politicians to respect the voters and our constitutional system of government. As voters we must stay vigilant and demand that the truth is the cornerstone of our institutions and debates over policy.

Opinion

Wild weather swings

Many people have noticed the massive weather changes that struck Cities in the USA this week. One city saw a temperature change of over 90 degrees in a span of 2 days. I am sure that many people were pleased that temperatures warmed dramatically from sub zero levels, but what crops, pests, plants and animals? Major climate change is happening in front of our eyes. We must all do everything we can to socially, politically, and personally to limit the impact of climate disruption caused by human actions.

Self improvement, Words to ponder

A Quote

” Let go of certainty. The opposite isn’t uncertainty. It’s openness, curiosity and a willingness to embrace paradox, rather than choose up sides. The ultimate challenge is to accept ourselves exactly as we are, but never stop trying to learn and grow.” ― Tony Schwartz
Questions to ponder: Is this a description of what we call balance? What causes us to want to take a side before thoughtful consideration? Does fear, or ego (or both) cause us to act hastily?

Self improvement

A great American, and a great lady

The Speaker of the House led the way in the effort to bring sanity to the American government. Putting civil servants back to work protecting our health and safety was badly needed for them, and for us. I am hopeful that the worst is over because the Speaker made a point of not mocking or ridiculing the President (when he was an easy target after caving on his meaningless shutdown). I hope the Speaker will continue to give lessons on civility, and mature governance. We are fortunate to have Nancy Pelosi’s leadership and balance at this time in our history.