Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Gotta Laugh Every Day
I figured out how to post a video with music. It's really simple. You can't use iTunes music. Boo! Just buy the music from Amazon or obtain MP3 tracks from somewhere. itunes used to let you change tunes from MP4 to MP3 but not anymore!
I am a true NPR fanatic but lately the news is so dismal that we listen to satellite radio on the drive to school. This morning the kids tolerated my choice of stations and I was really excited when Classic Vinyl played Van Morrison's Into The Mystic, one of my all time favorite songs. As soon as I heard the first few bars I exclaimed, "Oh, I love this song," and as soon as those words were out of my mouth JW groaned, "I detest Van Morrisson. He is really baaaad oldies." Rolling my eyes I retorted, "JW I love this song so much I want it played at my funeral." Totally deadpan he replied, "Well I guess that means I won't be going."
So the news makes me woozy, my dad calls me at 1:50 in the morning and upsets me so much I loose two hours of sleep, my remodel is a financial nightmare and I try to take solace that my real estate value is no worse than my stock portfolio but really that does not make me feel any better but.........there is always something that makes me laugh. Today it was JW.
At least I hope he was kidding.
How can you not like this song? It is perfect for my pictures of Crissy Field and Fort Point. If you are reading this on FB follow this link to see pictures of the Golden Gate. I am a rank amateur with only an iPhone but you really can't go wrong with pictures of San Francisco Bay and, no matter what JW says, Van Morrisson.
http://www.acivilizationworthyofthename.blogspot.com/
Sunday, March 8, 2009
It's Not Morning In America Anymore
I learned my lesson- never, ever blog from my iPhone. Yesterday I was writing in 'stream of conscious', meaning to go back and edit this morning. I did edit and post a decent revision of my thoughts on my dad's decline and the implosion of the conservative movement (see below) but after posting I realized that my unedited mess had already appeared on my FB profile. YIKES!
So however rambling and messy my thoughts it was affirming to hear them articulated today by David Brooks on the ABC Sunday morning show with Cokie Roberts and then to read David Frum (former columnist for NRO). Here is the take away quote from Frum:
Here is the video of Brooks on the ABC Sunday Morning Show saying that a spending freeze now would be "insane".
So however rambling and messy my thoughts it was affirming to hear them articulated today by David Brooks on the ABC Sunday morning show with Cokie Roberts and then to read David Frum (former columnist for NRO). Here is the take away quote from Frum:
The conservatism we know evolved in the 1970s to meet a very specific set of dangers and challenges: inflation, slow growth, energy shortages, unemployment, rising welfare dependency. In every one of those problems, big government was the direct and immediate culprit. Roll back government, and you solved the problem.
Government is implicated in many of today's top domestic concerns as well … But the connection between big government and today's most pressing problems is not as close or as pressing as it was 27 years ago
Here is the video of Brooks on the ABC Sunday Morning Show saying that a spending freeze now would be "insane".
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Homer, The GOP, My Dad and Microsoft's Steve Ballmer
I love to find myself in literature. It is why I never tire of reading. Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about epic journeys, the fall of heros and tragic flaws. Literature is full of smart people who do really stupid things. I am a reasonably smart person and I have certainly been guilty of some real bonehead moves. Eventually though I stop hitting my head against brick walls, own my failures and move on, able to laugh at my meltdowns, dead-ends and idiocies. But now I am having a hard time accepting my failure to rescue my dad. Long ago I accepted that Daddy was not the hero in my story and now I am struggling to accept that I am not the hero in his. I make progress and even find peace with the difficult and final truth but then a phone call lassoes me back into the drama of Daddy’s dumb choices......
He refuses to live in my home or to let me manage his small income. Every month he runs out of money, doesn’t buy enough medicine, verges on homelessness, falls so ill that he lands in the hospital where he gets better and is discharged just in time to collect the next social security check which he quickly spends and the whole cycle starts again.
I’m not making this up. In less than twenty years he has gone from living in one of Tulsa’s most prestigious neighborhoods, Southern Hills, to getting evicted from the Motel Six.
Why does this remind me of the Republican Party and the collapse of the markets? Because the implosion of the party, the markets and my dad’s integrity are all rooted in the same sick soil- hubris, denial and reliance on short term rescues that don’t work because they don't make fundamental changes.
Hubris is more than pride or arrogance; it is an unquestioning confidence in one’s own ability and a distortion of reality. Hubris is a tragic flaw in many characters from literature. In one of my favorite epics, The Odyssey , Odysseus led his men in a brave battle and clever escape from the cyclops. Full of hubris and sure he was out of danger, the hero mocked the wounded giant who predictably become enraged and doomed Odysseus to twenty years of misery during which all of his men all perished.
My dad is at the end of his odyssey, incontinent, can’t drive or find his wallet but his is full of hubris. He was a great geologist who made a lot of money, had some interesting life adventures and did many generous and wonderful things for other people. But things have changed. Despite twenty-five years of loosing battles with the IRS and only intermittent drilling success my eighty-year old dad has unwavering confidence that the next big deal is just around the corner, within his grasp. When he slams the door on my offers to help he is like Odysseus shouting to gods. It is a foolish attempt to bolster his courage.
Americans have been blessed with wealth and freedom and my father was blessed with talent and health. Now my dad is a self indulgent old man who refuses to clean up his act and live responsibly. I fear that too many Americans will refuse to accept that our planet is in peril and that, with the retirement of the baby-boomers, health-care and entitlements will collapse unless we change course. We can't hide from the harsh realities and we can't continue short term fixes.
I don’t really have an ending for this post. I don't have any answers or inspiration from literature. I think I will always be sad about my dad who was a good man with tragic flaws he refused to address. Our country must address serious problems and I am excited about the economic and cultural adventure our generation has been forced to begin at midlife. I am excited to see and be a part of the changes that will result from this economic reset.
(I detest Microsoft but this Ballmer speech is really great!)
He refuses to live in my home or to let me manage his small income. Every month he runs out of money, doesn’t buy enough medicine, verges on homelessness, falls so ill that he lands in the hospital where he gets better and is discharged just in time to collect the next social security check which he quickly spends and the whole cycle starts again.
I’m not making this up. In less than twenty years he has gone from living in one of Tulsa’s most prestigious neighborhoods, Southern Hills, to getting evicted from the Motel Six.
Why does this remind me of the Republican Party and the collapse of the markets? Because the implosion of the party, the markets and my dad’s integrity are all rooted in the same sick soil- hubris, denial and reliance on short term rescues that don’t work because they don't make fundamental changes.
Hubris is more than pride or arrogance; it is an unquestioning confidence in one’s own ability and a distortion of reality. Hubris is a tragic flaw in many characters from literature. In one of my favorite epics, The Odyssey , Odysseus led his men in a brave battle and clever escape from the cyclops. Full of hubris and sure he was out of danger, the hero mocked the wounded giant who predictably become enraged and doomed Odysseus to twenty years of misery during which all of his men all perished.
My dad is at the end of his odyssey, incontinent, can’t drive or find his wallet but his is full of hubris. He was a great geologist who made a lot of money, had some interesting life adventures and did many generous and wonderful things for other people. But things have changed. Despite twenty-five years of loosing battles with the IRS and only intermittent drilling success my eighty-year old dad has unwavering confidence that the next big deal is just around the corner, within his grasp. When he slams the door on my offers to help he is like Odysseus shouting to gods. It is a foolish attempt to bolster his courage.
His hubris is coupled with denial. He refuses to accept his extreme physical challenges and the abysmally low price of oil. He cannot acknowledge the fundamental changes of his life and his actions are harmful not only to himself but to lifelong friends who have helped him. He has lost their trust and respect as Odysseus lost his men.
Like my dad the Republican party has enjoyed many authentic successes. Like Odysseus, the conservatives preformed heroics. Inspired by Ronald Reagan, they vanquished high interest rates, inflation and bloated government spending. But like Odysseus they lost their way and, in the last eight years, gave us huge deficits (despite inheriting a balanced budget) and a war that is probably the worst foreign policy move in the history of the U.S. While getting us into deep do-do at home and abroad they turned a blind-eye to serious attacks on the rights and freedoms that are this country’s foundational elements. Andrew Sullivan description of the Republican legacy is much better than mine:
Based on their recent history it requires lethal amounts of hubris for the Republicans to assert they have any moral authority or wisdom to lead. Their tax cuts and big spending brought us the depressing headlines and the destruction of our investments. Now, having no real ideas or plans to debate, they cannot admit the failure of their ideology. The country needs engaged problem solving and fresh ideas but the Republican leadership (if there is any leadership in the GOP) clings to the past of culture wars and Reaganomics. Once upon a time the party responded to challenging times with vision and hard work but now, like my decrepit and stubborn father, they refuse to make fundamental changes in response to hard realities.
In my dad's life and in the current national crisis the short-term fix is worse than no solution because it will fuel more lethal hubris and denial. My father thinks he is maintaining his independence but in truth he must be rescued every day by friends who have taken care of his daily needs at great cost to themselves. Now, having exhausted their good will for short term rescues, he faces life in the shelter or public housing. The short term rescues have only delayed the inevitable.
Like my dad the Republican party has enjoyed many authentic successes. Like Odysseus, the conservatives preformed heroics. Inspired by Ronald Reagan, they vanquished high interest rates, inflation and bloated government spending. But like Odysseus they lost their way and, in the last eight years, gave us huge deficits (despite inheriting a balanced budget) and a war that is probably the worst foreign policy move in the history of the U.S. While getting us into deep do-do at home and abroad they turned a blind-eye to serious attacks on the rights and freedoms that are this country’s foundational elements. Andrew Sullivan description of the Republican legacy is much better than mine:
.....invoked the power to suspend the First and Fourth Amendments for seven years, authorized the seizure and torture of American citizens, launched two decade-long wars of attrition, doubled the national debt, presided over the worst financial bubble since the 1930s, provided the weakest level of economic growth in decades, and left the US in the grip of the steepest depression since the 1930s.
Based on their recent history it requires lethal amounts of hubris for the Republicans to assert they have any moral authority or wisdom to lead. Their tax cuts and big spending brought us the depressing headlines and the destruction of our investments. Now, having no real ideas or plans to debate, they cannot admit the failure of their ideology. The country needs engaged problem solving and fresh ideas but the Republican leadership (if there is any leadership in the GOP) clings to the past of culture wars and Reaganomics. Once upon a time the party responded to challenging times with vision and hard work but now, like my decrepit and stubborn father, they refuse to make fundamental changes in response to hard realities.
In my dad's life and in the current national crisis the short-term fix is worse than no solution because it will fuel more lethal hubris and denial. My father thinks he is maintaining his independence but in truth he must be rescued every day by friends who have taken care of his daily needs at great cost to themselves. Now, having exhausted their good will for short term rescues, he faces life in the shelter or public housing. The short term rescues have only delayed the inevitable.
The Republicans claim that they are fighting for free markets and our children's financial security but low taxes and for the rich and a spending freeze will leave millions unemployed and our children will inherit massive entitlement debt and a country with third rate infrastructure. Another bubble will not prevent the collapse that is inevitable if we do not make fundamental changes in the way we consume, spend, invest, save and pay taxes.
Americans have been blessed with wealth and freedom and my father was blessed with talent and health. Now my dad is a self indulgent old man who refuses to clean up his act and live responsibly. I fear that too many Americans will refuse to accept that our planet is in peril and that, with the retirement of the baby-boomers, health-care and entitlements will collapse unless we change course. We can't hide from the harsh realities and we can't continue short term fixes.
I don’t really have an ending for this post. I don't have any answers or inspiration from literature. I think I will always be sad about my dad who was a good man with tragic flaws he refused to address. Our country must address serious problems and I am excited about the economic and cultural adventure our generation has been forced to begin at midlife. I am excited to see and be a part of the changes that will result from this economic reset.
(I detest Microsoft but this Ballmer speech is really great!)
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Why I Won't Shut Up - Blogging About My Values
I grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as an active member of a Southern Baptist church. I gained much lasting value from many years in Sunday School, Training Union, Sunbeams, Girl’s Auxiliary and Youth Group. From that association I learned many positive lessons that have formed the foundation of my life. I learned that we are called to love and care for one another, not just those who resemble us in appearance, religious preference or political stance, but to respectfully love and care for all of God’s creation.
Through the example of my grandmothers, loving adults at church, parents of some of my friends and a few wonderful teachers I learned that our highest calling is to help those who are in need and to be compassionate and kind toward those who are faced with difficult challenges. I learned to reject hatred, prejudice, and meanness toward others in favor of love, inclusiveness, and kindness.
Those are the fundamental moral messages from my Oklahoma childhood that inform my beliefs and actions today.
I learned other things growing up in Oklahoma: I was taught that gays and lesbians--they were called “homosexuals” in those days--were inferior people. I wasn’t exactly sure what it meant to be “homosexual” but I saw that it was common for many people to use derogatory terms like “homo,” “queer,” or “faggot” to torment those who were different. I observed that teachers and parents never objected to cruel teasing and harassment of effeminate boys or masculine girls.
As an adult I have enjoyed my close friendships with gay and lesbian people. I owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude for their patience with my initial discomfort, born out of ignorance. Through conversation and occasional heated debates I have learned to liberate myself from the fear and rejection of sexuality which differs from my own. My life is enriched because I became aware of my own bigotry and I learned to let go of the need to make distinctions based on sexual orientation.
Ten years ago I was confronted with my own youthful moral failings. As my lifelong friend Eric lay dying in his beautiful home I, and several of his close friends, sat by his side. During his last week I would crawl in bed with Eric and hold him as we listened to music or whispered remembrances of sailing, Mrs. Miller’s third grade class, wonderful meals and hilarious adventures and misadventures. As Eric slept more and more I browsed the book shelves which lined his bedroom. The day before he died I found our ninth grade yearbook. Smiling I quickly took it from the shelf but as I read the messages to Eric from our classmates my smile vanished and my stomach churned. The vast majority of inscriptions on the pages devoted to autographs were hateful; some suggested that Eric wear a dress, a couple opined that he should live in the zoo and more than one used the word “fag”. My cheeks were burning as I searched for my message to Eric. Hoping that I had written a warm, supportive message to my friend I finally found my girlish handwriting. “It has been interesting being your friend, even though you have changed A LOT!” Have fun at Holland Hall. I hope you fit in better there.”
Those words still make me sick. Why in the world had Eric forgiven me for abandoning him in junior high? How I wanted to apologize for my callous indifference to his youthful pain. I wanted to kneel at his beside and beg for forgiveness but thankfully I knew my desire was self indulgent. Eric did not regain consciousness until the last moment of his life so we never had the opportunity to discuss the cruelty of Nimitz Junior High. I promised myself that day that I would never again turn away from hatred and injustice. That is why I no longer worship in churches that practice bigotry. That is why this week I devoted my FB status to Freedom To Marry week. That is why I am writing about my support for gay marriage.
Here is a quick review of my reasons for supporting gay marriage:
1. I believe the Constitution already grants the right to marry to gays. In Loving vs. Virginia the Supreme Court stated:
2. I agree with Stanford law professor Lawrence Lessig who says it is wrong to deny to some what the state gives to many.
3. I reject the notion that gay marriage is a threat to hetero-sexual marriage. As Lessig points out divorce is threatening to the institution of marriage. Gay marriage, an example of people dedicating themselves to one another, is a celebration not an attack on a sacred institution.
4. Sexual orientation is not a choice and it is morally wrong to deny people the right to love and happiness because for their inborn sexuality.
Through my work and in my life I try to help create a world where there is greater love, better understanding, dignity and respect toward all, regardless of race, faith or lack of faith, and regardless of sexual orientation. That is the definition of A Civilization Worthy of the Name.
Through the example of my grandmothers, loving adults at church, parents of some of my friends and a few wonderful teachers I learned that our highest calling is to help those who are in need and to be compassionate and kind toward those who are faced with difficult challenges. I learned to reject hatred, prejudice, and meanness toward others in favor of love, inclusiveness, and kindness.
Those are the fundamental moral messages from my Oklahoma childhood that inform my beliefs and actions today.
I learned other things growing up in Oklahoma: I was taught that gays and lesbians--they were called “homosexuals” in those days--were inferior people. I wasn’t exactly sure what it meant to be “homosexual” but I saw that it was common for many people to use derogatory terms like “homo,” “queer,” or “faggot” to torment those who were different. I observed that teachers and parents never objected to cruel teasing and harassment of effeminate boys or masculine girls.
As an adult I have enjoyed my close friendships with gay and lesbian people. I owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude for their patience with my initial discomfort, born out of ignorance. Through conversation and occasional heated debates I have learned to liberate myself from the fear and rejection of sexuality which differs from my own. My life is enriched because I became aware of my own bigotry and I learned to let go of the need to make distinctions based on sexual orientation.
Ten years ago I was confronted with my own youthful moral failings. As my lifelong friend Eric lay dying in his beautiful home I, and several of his close friends, sat by his side. During his last week I would crawl in bed with Eric and hold him as we listened to music or whispered remembrances of sailing, Mrs. Miller’s third grade class, wonderful meals and hilarious adventures and misadventures. As Eric slept more and more I browsed the book shelves which lined his bedroom. The day before he died I found our ninth grade yearbook. Smiling I quickly took it from the shelf but as I read the messages to Eric from our classmates my smile vanished and my stomach churned. The vast majority of inscriptions on the pages devoted to autographs were hateful; some suggested that Eric wear a dress, a couple opined that he should live in the zoo and more than one used the word “fag”. My cheeks were burning as I searched for my message to Eric. Hoping that I had written a warm, supportive message to my friend I finally found my girlish handwriting. “It has been interesting being your friend, even though you have changed A LOT!” Have fun at Holland Hall. I hope you fit in better there.”
Those words still make me sick. Why in the world had Eric forgiven me for abandoning him in junior high? How I wanted to apologize for my callous indifference to his youthful pain. I wanted to kneel at his beside and beg for forgiveness but thankfully I knew my desire was self indulgent. Eric did not regain consciousness until the last moment of his life so we never had the opportunity to discuss the cruelty of Nimitz Junior High. I promised myself that day that I would never again turn away from hatred and injustice. That is why I no longer worship in churches that practice bigotry. That is why this week I devoted my FB status to Freedom To Marry week. That is why I am writing about my support for gay marriage.
Here is a quick review of my reasons for supporting gay marriage:
1. I believe the Constitution already grants the right to marry to gays. In Loving vs. Virginia the Supreme Court stated:
"The freedom to marry has long been recognized as one of the vital personal rights essential to the orderly pursuit of happiness by free men. ... Marriage is one of the 'basic civil rights of man,' fundamental to our very existence and survival,"and the ruling in Griswold vs. Connecticut says,
"We deal with a right ... older than the Bill of Rights--older than our political parties, older than our school system."
2. I agree with Stanford law professor Lawrence Lessig who says it is wrong to deny to some what the state gives to many.
3. I reject the notion that gay marriage is a threat to hetero-sexual marriage. As Lessig points out divorce is threatening to the institution of marriage. Gay marriage, an example of people dedicating themselves to one another, is a celebration not an attack on a sacred institution.
4. Sexual orientation is not a choice and it is morally wrong to deny people the right to love and happiness because for their inborn sexuality.
Through my work and in my life I try to help create a world where there is greater love, better understanding, dignity and respect toward all, regardless of race, faith or lack of faith, and regardless of sexual orientation. That is the definition of A Civilization Worthy of the Name.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Photoblogging My Birthday
Gorgeous day in my city by the bay so I blogged my birthday, starting with the walk to school through lunch.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Reviewing My Mid-Century Mark
Last year at this time I thought the best thing about being 50 was that it was better than being dead. I know- disgustingly negative. Shame on me!
So I am happy to report that my mid-century year has been great- even though I have never upped my daily mileage (3), significantly increased my speed. (4 miles an hour- pathetic) or discovered a magic wrinkle remover.
Simply put I have made time for what is really important.
A friend of mine participated in a Facebook project that asked people to list the 10 most significant things in their personal lives during 08. Reading her list prompted me to make my own. Making the list turned into a joyful task. There is much to be thankful for.
1. I accepted a job that I love because it reflects my values. I also treasure the people with whom I work. I took a huge salary cut and this is not a step up on a career ladder but I have no regrets. Indeed I am ecstatic!
2. I began researching the lives of woman who started progressive schools. This has reawakened my love of history and helped to strengthen my progressive philosophy.
3. I stopped worrying about my son's extreme dyslexia. I put together an individualized learning program for him and engaged instructors who are highly gifted in their fields even tho they are not "official" teachers. He is much happier although managing his time and persisting with difficult tasks are still growth areas for him. He has plenty of friends, is physically fit and is figuring out his strengths and passions.
4. My daughter was accepted to a wonderful high school and is extremely happy. I did not make this happen but it is going on the list because her happiness brings me great joy.
5. I allow my son to take risks and make mistakes. He has come home drunk (once) and high.(at least twice) We talk and impose consequences but I do not go crazy with rage, worry or disappointment. He will make mistakes. We will survive. He is learning and making better choices.
6. I have stopped attending a Lutheran church - even on holidays. I have been a Lutheran for 18 years because I wanted to keep the family together at church. I never attended on a regular basis because I have never agreed with much of the religious and political dogma embedded in the Lutheran denomination. I have never, ever accepted the social conservatism of the Lutheran church which is demonstrated in policies and statements that endorse discrimination against women and homophobia. The promotion of of the Republican party does not belong in church. I am also deeply upset by anti-scientific thought. Life is too short to keep silent about important things like human rights and rigorous scientific thought. God is not a Republican or a Democrat. Rejecting dogma is not the same as rejecting faith.
7. I worked in my first presidential election. I made over 600 phone calls for Obama and articulated my thoughts in personal essays. We celebrated Obama's victory with friends and enjoyed several spontaneous dancing in the streets celebrations throughout the city. I almost cried when I saw a runner waving the flag as he dashed down Castro and when I heard the crowd on Fillmore break out into a spontaneous chorus of God Bless America.
8. I reconnected with old friends through email and Facebook. This is lots of fun and prompts reflection and laughter.
9. I started giving money to panhandlers. I have let go of the need to control what they do with the money. It isn't really giving if I have to control how it is spent. I still carefully research donations to charities to make sure their goals and means are aligned with my values but giving on the street is a whole new way of giving.
10. During the last three days of the year I became the legal, financial and health guardian for my father who is incapable of caring for himself. I have no idea how this is going to work out- I don't see a happy ending. I could not do this without Bill, Joel, JW and Claire.
So I am happy to report that my mid-century year has been great- even though I have never upped my daily mileage (3), significantly increased my speed. (4 miles an hour- pathetic) or discovered a magic wrinkle remover.
Simply put I have made time for what is really important.
A friend of mine participated in a Facebook project that asked people to list the 10 most significant things in their personal lives during 08. Reading her list prompted me to make my own. Making the list turned into a joyful task. There is much to be thankful for.
1. I accepted a job that I love because it reflects my values. I also treasure the people with whom I work. I took a huge salary cut and this is not a step up on a career ladder but I have no regrets. Indeed I am ecstatic!
2. I began researching the lives of woman who started progressive schools. This has reawakened my love of history and helped to strengthen my progressive philosophy.
3. I stopped worrying about my son's extreme dyslexia. I put together an individualized learning program for him and engaged instructors who are highly gifted in their fields even tho they are not "official" teachers. He is much happier although managing his time and persisting with difficult tasks are still growth areas for him. He has plenty of friends, is physically fit and is figuring out his strengths and passions.
4. My daughter was accepted to a wonderful high school and is extremely happy. I did not make this happen but it is going on the list because her happiness brings me great joy.
5. I allow my son to take risks and make mistakes. He has come home drunk (once) and high.(at least twice) We talk and impose consequences but I do not go crazy with rage, worry or disappointment. He will make mistakes. We will survive. He is learning and making better choices.
6. I have stopped attending a Lutheran church - even on holidays. I have been a Lutheran for 18 years because I wanted to keep the family together at church. I never attended on a regular basis because I have never agreed with much of the religious and political dogma embedded in the Lutheran denomination. I have never, ever accepted the social conservatism of the Lutheran church which is demonstrated in policies and statements that endorse discrimination against women and homophobia. The promotion of of the Republican party does not belong in church. I am also deeply upset by anti-scientific thought. Life is too short to keep silent about important things like human rights and rigorous scientific thought. God is not a Republican or a Democrat. Rejecting dogma is not the same as rejecting faith.
7. I worked in my first presidential election. I made over 600 phone calls for Obama and articulated my thoughts in personal essays. We celebrated Obama's victory with friends and enjoyed several spontaneous dancing in the streets celebrations throughout the city. I almost cried when I saw a runner waving the flag as he dashed down Castro and when I heard the crowd on Fillmore break out into a spontaneous chorus of God Bless America.
8. I reconnected with old friends through email and Facebook. This is lots of fun and prompts reflection and laughter.
9. I started giving money to panhandlers. I have let go of the need to control what they do with the money. It isn't really giving if I have to control how it is spent. I still carefully research donations to charities to make sure their goals and means are aligned with my values but giving on the street is a whole new way of giving.
10. During the last three days of the year I became the legal, financial and health guardian for my father who is incapable of caring for himself. I have no idea how this is going to work out- I don't see a happy ending. I could not do this without Bill, Joel, JW and Claire.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
A Progressive's View of Violence
The past few months have been wonderful because I love my job, I am overjoyed with my daughter's happiness in school and of course delighted by the results of the presidential election. The past few months have also been very difficult due to family matters related to a remodel gone sour, my father's health and financial situation and now the death of my step-sister's son. My blessings and challenges have prompted me to re-read a favorite book by Ira Sandperl, A Little Kinder. It is no longer in print but it should be.
Here is a quote which is inspires my work with children and families.
I don't think we can expect politicians and governments to substantially change long standing conflicts. We can expect them to rise above torture and to act thoughtfully but in the end politics will never end war and bombs will never bring peace.
The only way to change the world is to change the way that people think about and treat one another. A school community is an opportunity to teach and practice fairness, self-reflection, compassion and non-violence. We need more schools who are authentically dedicated to transformation of civilization. I am lucky to be affiliated with such a school.
Ira's statement is a simple spiritual truth.
You can read more about Ira here.
Here is a quote which is inspires my work with children and families.
We get what we do; not what we intend, dream or desire. We simply get what we do. Recognizing this and applying it would, in a generation, bring about the transformation that alone can put an end to the fear, suspicion, and misery which at present holds such terrible sway over all our lives.
I don't think we can expect politicians and governments to substantially change long standing conflicts. We can expect them to rise above torture and to act thoughtfully but in the end politics will never end war and bombs will never bring peace.
The only way to change the world is to change the way that people think about and treat one another. A school community is an opportunity to teach and practice fairness, self-reflection, compassion and non-violence. We need more schools who are authentically dedicated to transformation of civilization. I am lucky to be affiliated with such a school.
Ira's statement is a simple spiritual truth.
You can read more about Ira here.
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