Uncategorized

Battling climate change

Our climate is changing due to human activity. Accepting this truth means that we have to do something about it. We are told that human behaviors that release carbon into the atmosphere are the chief cause of climate change. What can we do to reduce our carbon footprint (release of carbon per person)? Every able person should think about what you can do; fewer trips, hybrid cars, electric cars, public transportation, solar panels, efficient insulation …the list of is long. Communicate, learn, and share what you can about caring for our environment. Our lives and future depend on it.

Uncategorized

California burning

The great state of California is on the front line of fighting Global Warming in more ways than one. Fires are an on-going threat to this beautiful state due to. Il are change. California also leads the efforts In this country to develop technologies and policies to mitigate the damage of climate change. We should all root for the brave fire-fighters, and the progressive leaders in business and government confronting man-made climate change.

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Wins and Losses

To everyone who voted this past Tuesday I say congratulations for fulfilling your duty as a citizen and thank you. No one got everything they wanted, but we made a difference. Now we move forward to our other duties as citizens which include staying up on societal issues, helping out in the community, and communicating to others about things that are important. Everyday is a fresh opportunity to make a difference- let’s seize the day and not cede it to bullies, or those who undermine dignity and respect.

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I agree with Oprah

As an African-American who has read a lot of history; I know Oprah is right. Anyone who fails to vote dishonors the struggles of their ancestors no matter what your origins. Humanity has moved to increasing levels of democracy (in certain countries). The progress towards greater access to the vote has come through pain and sacrifice. Now all you have to do is get registered and vote. Do your part.

Opinion, Self improvement

Words make Meaning; and Matter

Words have impact on lives. We must all be mindful of the words that we speak, because we are putting our thoughts into the awareness of others. Our words represent us and are an attempt to influence others about our shared environment and experience. All of us should be intentional about spreading the truth and building a better world and helping others.

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Three cheers for Law Enforcement

We live in a time where many people seem to be okay with selfishness and disrespect for others. Our diverse society demands that we practice civility, and have equal status under the law. Groups are constantly pushing for super-citizen status; where some have more rights or get the benefit of the doubt when others don’t. We have to resist the urge to claim, or expect more than our fellow citizens in the public square. We must support and demand that our legal system and law enforcement treat all citizens fairly, and protect the rule of law.

Opinion, Self improvement

Words and Thoughts Precede Action

Words and thoughts have meaning and weight in our world.  Behavior is a result of thinking; we communicate our thinking through words.  Words create an environment and tone among people.  The Bible tells us that our words show what is in our hearts in abundance.  We all need to use our words to build up, and not tear down the people and institutions that are important.  We all need to remember that everyone is important, and should be treated with dignity and respect whenever possible.

Opinion, Self improvement

What is a Norm?

There is a lot of discussion about norms in today’s media.  it is important for every citizen to make a decision about what is acceptable behavior and words in public.  We do not respect behavior from adults telling others to act in one way and then model different behavior.  Norms are behaviors that are typical and expected in a society.  We are all responsible to model what we expect, and to treat others the way that we expect to be treated.  Part of a citizen’s responsibility is to create societal conditions (and select leadership) that affirm the values and behaviors that we expect and want to pass on.