A Response to a Friend: Some Thoughts on Immigration

[This was written in response to a friend's challenges regarding an article about the local churches responding to a new anti-immigrant law in Alabama. Article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/07/14/alabama-immigration-law-churches_n_898025.html ]

[AP Photo]



I agree that people with principles usually love others -- so true, thank goodness.

I disagree with "no one is forced to break laws in order to enter another country," though I may not completely understand what you meant. If I was a father or mother abandoned by her husband in Guatemala, who could not provide food for the family because major corporations had displaced me on my farm or because current labor conditions were keeping me in extreme poverty for various reasons, I would definitely be forced to head to another place where I'd have a better chance of providing basics of life for my family, even if it included breaking the law.

I am so grateful because of where I was randomly born that my parents did not have to make that choice...to leave everything behind for the chance to be able to feed me or to keep the law. Perhaps if everyone could sponsor children in other countries through World Vision or Compassion, this would be another creative solution that would decrease border crossing.

Regarding California and the nation, the economic contribution from immigrants is significant. Perhaps that is another reason not much is changing very fast. As far as social problems, I am cautious about blaming certain people groups. Makes me very nervous. However, with so many losing their homes through the housing crisis, I cannot even begin to imagine the social problems stemming that, loss of property tax and more, from what many blame greedy banks for doing. Perhaps, some insurance companies are even causing social problems, but I better be quiet because I don't have statistics to back that up.

I have seen and read statistics very well stated and very inaccurate that create more fear and hate of undocumented people. I think if most people would become familiar with Comprehensive Compassionate Immigration Reform, they would really approve. I think a lot of what some people might like to see regarding getting citizenship is in that program.

Thank you for your debate. You speak your perspective kindly and you seem to have a clear perspective. We've both stated these comments before, so I know we are not trying to convince each other of anything or change each other's minds. I just want to be heard. I have heard you, too. Thanks.

From Christians for Comprehensive Immigration Reform:

Our shared principles include the following:

· We believe all people, regardless of national origin or citizenship status, are made in the "image of God" and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect (Genesis 1:26-27, 9:6).
· We believe there is an undeniable responsibility to love and show compassion for the stranger among us (Deuteronomy 10:18-19, Leviticus 19:33-34, Matthew 25:31-46).
· We believe that immigrants are our neighbors, both literally and figuratively, and we are to love our neighbors as ourselves and show mercy to neighbors in need (Leviticus 19:18, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:25-37).
· We believe in the rule of law, but we also believe that we are to oppose unjust laws and systems that harm and oppress people made in God's image, especially the vulnerable (Isaiah 10:1-4, Jeremiah 7:1-7, Acts 5:29, Romans 13:1-7).

We recognize that the current U.S. immigration system is broken and reform is necessary.

The biblical principles above compel us to support immigration reform legislation that includes the following elements:

· Enforcement initiatives that are consistent with humanitarian values;
· Reforms in our family-based immigration system that reduce waiting times for separated families to be reunited;
· A process for all immigrant workers and their families already in the U.S. to earn citizenship upon satisfaction of specific criteria;
· An expansion of legal avenues for workers and families to enter our country and work in a safe and legal manner with their rights and due process fully protected;
· Examining solutions to address the root causes of migration, such as economic disparities between sending and receiving nations.
Source: http://faithandimmigration.org/

Small Group Grace

A good small group is my sacred safe place. I am grateful for such a gift throughout my life. Changes me in ways a sermon never will.

Pro-Cycling: Crashes, Crushed Dreams, & Character

This has been a tough week for the Tour de France. Too many accidents, injuries, and mishaps. Many of my favorites are out of the Tour already. I am disappointed and sad for the injuries. I am confused by the frequency of trouble. I've watched the event many years and do not remember anything like this before. This has been troubling for me.

Today, Stage 9, was possibly the worst. A media car sideswiped Juan Antonio Flecha, one of my favorites, and obviously sent him to the ground which knocked another young cyclist from the Netherlands, Johnny Hoogerland, into the air. He landed on a barbed wire fence. They both survived and finished the race. It was heartbreaking and I was angry and sick-to-my-stomach.

Image source: http://sports.yahoo.com/sc/gallery/im:urn:newsml:sports….

Image source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/3687190/TV-car-wipes-out-Tour-de-France-cyclists-Juan-Antonio-Flecha-and-Johnny-Hoogerland.html.

I got the following information of the official Tour web site. I was impressed with Hoogerland's grace in such a painful situation. The character of this young cyclist is inspiring.

Johnny Hoogerland – “We can still be happy that we’re alive...”

Forgiveness is a wonderful trait. It’s hard to understand how, only moments after weeping on the podium after receiving the polka-dot jersey for his efforts in stage nine, Johnny Hoogerland refused to lay blame on anyone for an accident that sent him flying off the road and into a barbed wire fence… but the Dutchman has a remarkable attitude even when his future in the race is uncertain.

“We can still be happy that we’re alive. It’s horrible. I can blame everyone but I don’t think anyone does this sort of thing on purpose. I think the people in the car will have a very big guilty feeling and they will surely apologize to me and Flecha.
“Juan Antonio came to me an he apologized.
“It should not happen but it’s always possible that this sort of thing happens.
“Nobody can be blamed for this. It’s a horrible accident and I was in it. But I said to Flecha, ‘We’re still alive and Wouter Weylandt died in a crash.
“Cycling is getting more and more hectic which is also nice because more and more people are watching but, for sure, some people will say that it may be like this because… well, I can’t explain it – but I think most people feel very, very bad about this sort of thing.
“I have three cuts that are about seven centimeters long and quite deep too. I’ll go to the hospital now and I think I’ll need about 30 stitches at least…
“I did what felt like a few somersaults. I don’t know where the car came from. Before I knew it, Flecha was on the ground and there was nothing I could do. I landed on the fence and I looked at my legs and thought, ‘Is this what cycling is about?’ “I have the polka-dot jersey but I’m going to spend the rest day in a lot of pain.” Source: http://www.letour.fr/2011/TDF/LIVE/us/900/journal_etape.html

Another crushing blow came to Chris Horner yesterday. It seemed he did not even know how bad he'd hit his head and face. He broke his nose and finished the stage, asking over and over if he'd finished, clearly dazed. He is a really great cyclist, 40-years old, and has a great attitude every time they interview him. Sad to see him go. Here is a great photo after his visit to the hospital.

Zabriskie is out, too. He is one cool, very funny, talented rider. Ugh! Bradley Wiggins had a tough spill. He's gone. Sad, sad, sad. I can't even think of everyone who has crashed out.

Frederik Willems of Belgium, left, and David Zabriskie of the US, right, are being treated by Tour de France doctors after crashing during the 9th stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 208 kilometers (129 miles) starting in Issoire and finishing in Saint Flour, central France, Sunday July 10, 2011. Photo: Christophe Ena / AP

Read more: http://www.ctpost.com/sports/article/Tour-rest-day-welcome-after-crash-carnage-1459824.php#ixzz1RleaqYzZ

Cindi World - An Amusement Park?

I've discovered that Cindi's World is perfect. Unfortunately, I don't live there. Thus the tension between expectations and reality. If only tension was weight-bearing exercise. Sometimes it feels like it should count.

COMMUNITY

I was recently given this quote originally credited to Bono, of U2 and one.org:

“The hardest thing to do is to stick together…mates, family, marriage, business, bands. It’s like resisting gravity. Its like King Canute sitting in his chair trying to talk back the tide…but you can, and we have, and we will, turn the waves around…the alternative is too predictable…you rid the room of argument…you empty your life of the people you need the most.” – Bono 2004

It challenged my concept of relationships. Then I also came across this writing during the same week. It brought my concept of community in relationships in the Church to focus again.

COMMUNITY
I am learning. Learning from you.
I am watching you. What do I see?

Do you know me?
I am community.

I am changing.
I am growing.
Step-by-step.
My way.
God’s timing.

I need a safe place. To ask questions. To seek Christ. To feel accepted.
Not judged.
To be watered by encouragement.
Not scorched by criticism.

You are my example. You are the Christ I know. You are my church family.
Can you show me how to love?

Do you know me?
I am community.

Single. Married. Divorced. Remarried. Widowed.
Lonely. Content.
Young. Old.
Struggling. Thriving.
Many walks.
Many ways.
Is there room for me here?

What do I hear?
Do I hear bones of contention snapping in spiritual osteoporosis?
Do I hear hearts hardened by familiarity and comfortable?

Do you know me?
I am community.

Have I grown up in church? Maybe. Maybe not.
Do my parents attend here? Maybe. Maybe not.
Yet I try to find family here.
In Christ. In friendship. In community.
I’m learning.
What am I learning? What am I learning from you?

Do you know me?
I am community.

Are you sincere in your interest in me?
What if I grew up Catholic?
I am here now.
What if I was not born in this country?
I am here now.
What if I make choices that concern you?
I am here now.
Do I learn understanding?
Do I see Christ’s call to follow, to love, in you?
Or would you be more comfortable if I go?

Am I just like you? In many ways.
But not all.
I may dress for worship differently from you.
I may respond in worship louder than you.
I may have opinions different from yours.
I am not you.

Do you know me?
I am community.

Thank you for caring
With a smile and a warm greeting.
Thank you for caring
By looking in my eyes and not at the packaging.
Thank you for caring
With openness in your heart.
Thank you for caring
By volunteering to help with my child’s programs
Thank you for caring
By letting me grieve or rejoice with you in this life’s events

You are my example.
Show me who you are.
Show me your heart, not your hostility.
Show me your hand, not your hate or fear.
I don’t need all the answers.
I don’t need everyone to agree.
I need to belong.
I am watching. You are my family.
We are here.
Together.
I need you.

Do you know me?
I am community.
----------------------
I recently found this in a box of papers. I wrote it originally in August 1995 on the back of a church bulletin. I revised it a bit and revived it today.

A Better Life...Movie Review

I saw "A Better Life" yesterday. I wrote a review and it was posted to another blog. I'll provide the link below. Good movie. I recommend it, if you dare to brave the drama. I hope it wins some awards when the time draws near.

http://lovingthestranger.blogspot.com/2011/06/guest-post-better-life-movie-review.html

Undocumented for a Day

I accidentally went undocumented for a day. I left home for my day's appointments, drove over 33 miles to my destination, and realized I was without my purse and my cell phone. No driver's license or any ID. I was undocumented by default. I decided to make it my undocumented day. I felt some panic and fear.

I drove carefully to avoid being pulled over. I drive carefully normally, but I was way more alert and cautious this day. I had packed my lunch and went to a park to eat it. I felt relieved that I did not have to buy food, since I'd left my money at home in my wallet.

Again, the day felt odd. I felt like I was hiding and avoiding contact with people to escape suspicion, questions, or trouble. I was nervous.

I called on my three clients, drove Los Angeles freeways to get to various destinations, and got home without incident. Then I exhaled and relaxed.

I am white and in my 50's. Those two things gave me some benefit of the doubt, which spoiled a truly undocumented role play experience. People assume I'm here legally because of my appearance, which taught me more about the power of stereotyping, either for prestige or prejudice. It did expand my experience to realize that in a more personal, tangible way. The whole experience broadened my understanding and empathy for the immigrant and continued my advocacy for the issues of compassionate immigration reform.

Agreed! Thanks, Scot McKnight (Regarding Rob Bell)

From http://www.patheos.com/community/jesuscreed/2011/03/02/waiting-for-rob-bell/

Scot McKnight said:
I’m grateful to God that Rob Bell is opening this after-life door and, from what I’m hearing, he’s only looking inside the door to see the prospects of universalism, asking you and me to realize both that we have some thoroughly unbiblical ideas and that we need to rethink this stuff all over again. I don’t expect Rob Bell to say one thing new, though I expect him to say what he says well enough to grab our attention.

Friends, this is an old discussion, and there are some great studies out there. Rob Bell is almost certainly not adding something new, but he’s pushing the door open and saying, “Folks, this vast and massive room of universalism and what’s awaiting us when we die are things we must take much more seriously. The next generation of Christians are pressing upon this door and we better stop and listen and think it through one more time.”

My contention is this: the approach to this generation is not to denounce their questions, which often enough are rooted in a heightened sensitivity to divine justice and compassion, but to probe their questions from the inside and to probe thoughtful and biblically-responsible resolutions. We need to show that their questions about justice and God’s gracious love are not bad questions but good questions that deserve to be explored.
----------------------
Cindi's comment: Well said! I so agree. I want to remember this perspective, as this discussion still pops up now and then. So I'm posting it here for my reference and your, reader, information. Thanks to Craig Wright for drawing it to my attention. Responsible theology is definitely a team sport.

I Will Not Celebrate

I felt sad after reading some Facebook comments about the death of Osama Bin Laden, though I understand the evil dimension. I found wisdom in some friends' comments as well. I felt troubled by the TV views of people celebrating the violent end of a human life, though allegedly responsible for tragic events. Many responded to it in a way similar to when the USA hockey team had just won an unlikely game in the Olympics. I am grieving the murder of Bin Laden, though I see the purpose. These circumstances conflict with what I understand from Christ's example. I feel sad that it happened in front of his loved ones, from what I've heard.

I am not sure this is justice. It seems to be retaliation. It probably does not bring closure. It promotes hatred. It could unleash more of what we all want to end. In my ideal little world, I'd prefer a respectful conversation about why America is so hated. That is naive of me.

Bin Laden was evidently responsible for many evil deeds. Yet, I am forgiven. I am called to forgive and love my enemies. That is not empire mentality. I feel I should apologize for my response. I do not pretend to understand how this translated into military obligations, and I'm glad I'm not the President.

I do believe Christ died for Bin Laden. I acknowledge he was created in God's image. That complicates my choice in responding. Popular reactions do not line up with those truths. That is sincere. Not holier than thou. Not moral high ground.

This happened a week after my Easter. My Savior was violently put to death by a government. I want to respond respectfully, and be considerate to those who followed Bin Laden. They do not see him as the top wanted criminal. I want to model dignity in my response, even if I do not support Bin Laden's leadership in any way. Therefore, I remain quiet and will not celebrate this death.

What the H---?...Don't Blame Bell!

Didn't quite have the guts to spell it out. I did look up the meaning of the phrase. One internet source suggested it means "So, who cares?" or "What do you mean?" That might apply to this post. Never-the-less, it might have grabbed your attention. Or shocked you into reading more.

Anyway, a bunch of folks who identify themselves as Christians are throwing their energy towards a new book from Rob Bell, Love Wins. Me included, until today. There is some heat and controversy about hell and escaping it through Christ, either now or later. A fascinating discussion, and not new to the church, though Bell is taking the bashing this round. Truthfully, in my case, he's just written a book that asks many questions I've already had myself on some of the very same passages of the ancient text, I call the Bible. I know. Some of you may have just gasped in near horror.

Here is today's irony for me. I just finished Chapter 12 in another book, The Hole In the Gospel, by Richard Stearns. The closing paragraph grabbed my petty little heart and threw it violently against some sort of spiritual wall:

"Three diseases alone -- malaria, TB, and AIDS -- result in more than five million deaths per year and half a billion new infections, virtually all in the world's poorest countries. The poor are routinely exposed to situations and conditions that attack their health -- disease, malnutrition, parasites, and bad water. Poor health, in turn, saps their energy, limits their capacity, and kills their children. They live in places where doctors and medicines are largely unavailable, and even if such health care were available, they lack the money to pay for it. In short, poverty leads to poor health, which in turn leads to greater poverty--one more strand in the web that traps the poor."

So I'm wondering, along with others, where is the church's outrage toward these heart-breaking, inhumane, global needs? Doesn't this deserve just as much of a holy offense and outcry?

Jeremiah 22:16 reads "'He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me?' declares the Lord." The verse does not read "He defended against Rob Bell's latest book with passion, so all went well." I may have crossed a courtesy line there. Let me back up, and be more genteel. I realize as I read Stearns book, that some things are easier to passionately debate. Other things need passionate action. I have limited energy and resources. I must prioritize better.

So here is the deal for me. Some of the church is outraged by Bell's book and many in that camp have not yet read it, nor do they intend to do so. Perhaps this is a distraction from what might truly be breaking God's heart. Perhaps this is a diversion to drain our resources in time and energy. Perhaps our concentration is more on speculation than on the realization of people dying and orphans wandering at risk.

If so, then shame on me for continuing my part in the Bell's book discussion any further. Yes, some believe it is a life or death issue of truth. But I tell you what I'm thinking. Malaria, TB, and AIDS are the life or death issues. And the truth is I'll be glad to chat about Love Wins, using the tools of compassionate conversation and respect, but only while working side-by-side with anyone on issues of caring for the poor.

I need to do more for the poor, who probably don't give much thought to hell after death, because they are living in hell today. I can make a difference. So, if you wish to set the record straight on exactly when and how to avoid hell, let's talk, while we work side-by-side. Let's argue point-by-point on Bell's book while we campaign for clean drinking water. Hit me with your theological sledge-hammer, while we encourage others to sponsor AIDS orphans around the world. Challenge my views while we sign-up people to send malaria nets to other parts of the world. Let's impact the world for the Kingdom of God here and now, care for the poor, and talk about Bell's book while our hands and feet move together on common ground for justice in His name.

When I do get to Heaven or help bring the Kingdom to earth, and I meet Jesus, and he says, "So, how did it go?" I'll say, "I helped out." I don't think where I line up on Love Wins will really matter that much, though I did enjoy it.

The Kitchen Is Key...A Tribute to Ina Garten

Been a fan of the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten, for years. Haven't even tired of watching shows I've already seen. I love the full views of her kitchen my friend, Katharine, provided in a recent blog post.

What an amazing kitchen, and I now, too, suffer kitchen envy. Or CKS (Coveting Kitchen Syndrome), for which there is no known remedy.

I agree that we could all cook easily to the delight of loved ones if we had the right space.

And, my-o-my! A soak in that tub would make all the troubles of the day bubble away.

Note: Thanks to Katharine Carlson at http://withywindle.wordpress.com/2011/04/08/my-best-friend-ina/

Political "Humor" -- Personal Struggle

Disclaimer: Funny is different to different people. I laugh hysterically at stuff that others just can't see that way. In the words that follow, I attempt to voice simply my opinion. I know it does not reflect all voices. I will continue to seek to understand and accept that as I learn to love my neighbor.


Anyway, with that said, I recently watched a video clip of Nancy Pelosi passing the gavel to the new Speaker of the House, John B., and I had a negative reaction. John B., in the doctored video clip, pounded Nancy P. on the head with the gavel, and knocked her to the floor. A friend asked me why it wasn't funny to me. Perhaps on another day, I'd be more lighthearted about it. However, it touched a couple of hot buttons for me.

1. It smacked of bullying behavior, something I battled constantly as a classroom educator and administrator, on behalf of children and adults. So I have low tolerance.
2. I have HUGE respect for our government, especially in times of peaceful transfer of leadership and power, such as this passing of the gavel. So different compared to many other nations. This little video clip bothered me because I felt the process had been disrespected, as well as one of the hard-working leaders.
3. I understand there are many people who do not like Nancy Pelosi. I get it. But I felt to behave like the "Three Stooges" in response seemed inappropriate and a cheap shot for the sake of humor.
4. I read the Gospels and follow Christ, sometimes close behind, sometimes at a distance. I read "Love your neighbor as yourself," "love your enemy," and "love one another." I also read many non-violent responses in a turn-the-other-cheek, walk the extra mile, and other examples of getting along. This gavel video seemed to be a response opposed to getting along in a way that promotes the worth of individuals created in God's image.

Perhaps I overreact. Perhaps I do need to lighten up and taken it in good spirits. I just find myself in a stage of exhaustion with the cruel things spoken and posted and broadcast back and forth on all sides that model destructive behavior, not positive regard for moving forward together, for building on common ground. Maybe I'm a Pollyanna. Maybe I just think of how the young ones learn from adult behavior.


Cruel behavior in words and images, not to mention intentional acts of violence, complicate getting along. It is mainstream and I am troubled by that. I have been shocked and chagrined by many faithful folks as we malign, sometimes viciously and without truth, the leaders we do not support. I have learned and pledged to be more gracious in how I communicate my disagreement with leaders whose views I do not support. I am working on my own choices, to behave towards leaders I do not support, to behave in ways that are kind, loving, patient....often it is not easy, but it is the right thing.


And if for no other reason, I believe all leaders have families who are hurt by hurtful treatment. I don't want to be a part of that ripple effect. I want to be more fair and kind in political heat. That is a struggle. There are times for humor, but I must be considerate. That is a fine line. I remain a big fan of political satire. Perhaps that is more damaging than I realize, too. I'll have to think about that.


I appreciate Nancy Pelosi and Hilary Clinton. I have many friends who don't feel that way. Still, I know I can learn good things from both of these women who have dealt with struggles I can't even imagine. They are valued. They have made major contributions. I'd have lunch with them and benefit from the conversation.


Going for the higher ground? Maybe that's a choice for all of us. Maybe I'm just defensive. Time will tell.

DREAM Act Response

The DREAM Act is 10 years OLD. It was not rammed through Congress. Everything the opposition requested of it was met, and they kept coming up with roadblocks. Finally, time ran out for this round.

Some of the points made on Saturday, by some of the senators in disagreement, were not true. It appeared they had not read the bill or were very politically motivated. Some appeared ignorant of the data, the research, the numerous studies, and the bill itself before the Senate.

It appears that some friends disagree with me. I am an advocate for the DREAM Act and Compassionate Comprehensive Immigration Reform. I believe the DREAM Act to be essential to America as a compassionate nation and a growing economy. I was very proud that the Senators committed to the DREAM Act got it to be acted on in the Lame Duck session. I was so hopeful that the Congress would end the year having passed this bill of wonderful opportunity for so many students and communities.

Many educators, including myself, invest in these responsible students along the way, only to see them stuck in limbo at the end of it. To not pass the DREAM Act, is to disrespect the teachers as well. The ways of legally immigrating to this country are painfully broken systems that break up families, destroy community, breed fear on all sides of the issue. Reform is essential. The students brought here as children with their parents, having only known this country, have no other country than the USA, yet are without a reasonable pathway to citizenship. 

I feel very strongly about this in light of what I know of Scripture, sociology, psychology, & education. I have learned and studied the issues. I have dug deep into a variety of perspectives. I know students in this situation, and my heart breaks for them. I will continue to support this. I will continue to be an advocate.


I understand my many valued friends whom I truly enjoy, and they simply disagree with me on this one. I would love it if we all saw eye-to-eye, but I am learning to learn more about the perspective of others, to stay open, and to value friendships the permit the differences in love. These are complicated times and multi-layered issues. There is common ground. That will be my focus.

M. Daniel Carroll R. writes in the Denver Seminary blog post ""The Advent Season & Rethinking Immigration":
"God’s gracious welcome characterized the ministry of Jesus. He engaged sinners, the sick, women, and non-Jews—Samaritans and even military commanders of the enemy, the Romans. Jesus’ parable of the final banquet underscores how wide are the concerns of God, and how narrow ours often are.

How should these Christmas realities impact our attitude toward immigrants, in particular those who are undocumented? Are they not society’s marginalized and the lowly, who work difficult jobs for long hours? Can we limit the extension of God’s grace through us and still call ourselves his followers? This is not to minimize the complications of today’s legal situation and all of the other pragmatic issues that demand solutions, but these spiritual truths should shape our attitudes toward the strangers among us." http://www.denverseminary.edu/m-daniel-carroll-r-immigration-and-other-matters/the-advent-season-and-rethinking-immigration/

Thanksgiving Eve Service

For several years now, we've driven about 45 minutes to another community to attend the Thanksgiving Eve Service at an Episcopal church. Traditionally, I've not been a fan of adding yet another church service to life, but for many reasons, this has become quite a meaningful evening for me. I attend a local community church of over 2500 with five weekend services, so this is quite an alternate event. Why do I seek out this somewhat inconvenient Episcopal experience once a year? Upon reflection, here's what happens for me. This experience...

...quiets me to be in a beautiful church building...like a cathedral.
...enriches me to listen to high church choir music that may or may not appeal to me, but is worshipful and interesting all the same.
...engages me to watch the procession down the center aisle at the beginning of the service, announcing something special is taking place to honor the Lord and King.
...stretches me to worship in unity with a diversity individuals and families, various generations and orientations, reminding me that “God so loved the world.”
...comforts me to participate in the liturgy and perhaps communion, even though I am an outsider to this group. The printed worship program guides me to simply read and follow along, to be gently included.
...invites me to feel awkward in the standing and sitting and greeting and all the Episcopal things so traditional to many, so awkward to me — yet a good experience to remind me of worship that may or may not look like the way I do things, and that is OK. Plus, I am more sensitive to visitors to my church.
...permits me to honor others as I think about the message — or homily, I think it is called. It may or may not be lined up with the way I think, yet it still intentionally invites humanity to reach back to God in some fashion, and that is lovely.
...connects me to the world of believers and expands my understanding of THE church.

A Prayer for Compassionate Immigration Reform

Lord, we cry out on behalf
Of immigrants throughout our land.
Dispel the myths. Squelch the lies.
Move in the hearts of Americans.
Open eyes to the complexity.
Turn hearts to compassion.

Lord, I pray for progress.
We depend on you for change.
You, the creator of all mankind,
the author of dignity,
the source of love,
help us encourage others to truly see
the neighbor, the stranger,
the power of love over law.

Protect the activists and advocates.
Give them wisdom and strength.
Grant them access to decision makers.
Bless them with love for those who disagree,
Yet quiet the organizations
that divide and destroy.

Help us be patient in the waiting,
Focused on the value,
Kind in our approach,
As we make others aware,
Challenge others to change,
And invite the country to
A renewed perspective, an
American foundational truth.

Please bring reform that keeps families together,
Provides a reasonable path to citizenship,
Grant grace to the good workers,
And most of all, Lord,
Please push the Dream Act
Into action on behalf of our
Immigrant students.

We do not know how you will act.
We come expectantly.
This is the day.
This is the time.
We, the church, must walk on
seeking You
To move mightily for justice.

"Who Am I" Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Poem

(written from a Nazi Prison cell prior to his execution)

Who am I? They often tell me

I stepped from my cell’s confinement

Calmly, cheerfully, firmly,

Like a squire from his country-house.

Who am I? They often tell me

I used to speak to my warders

Freely and friendly and clearly,

As though it were mine to command.

Who am I? They also tell me

I bore the days of misfortune

Equally, smilingly, proudly,

Like one accustomed to win.



Am I then really all that which other men tell of?

Or am I only what I myself know of myself?

Restless and longing and sick, like a bird in a cage,

Struggling for breath, as though hands were

compressing my throat,

Yearning for colors, for flowers, for the voices of birds,

Thirsting for words of kindness, for neighborliness,

Tossing in expectation of great events,

Powerlessly trembling for friends at an infinite distance,

Weary and empty at praying, at thinking, at making,

Faint, and ready to say farewell to it all?



Who am I? This or the other?

Am I one person today and tomorrow another?

Am I both at once? A hypocrite before others,

And before myself a contemptibly woebegone weakling?

Or is something within me still like a beaten army,

Fleeing in disorder from victory already achieved?

Who am I? They mock me, these lonely questions of mine.

Whoever I am, Thou knowest, 0 God, I am Thine!



March 4, 1946

Mayo Mystery

So, there was a big new jar of mayonnaise in the back seat of my car today. Someone gave it to me, since their family could not use it after all, but that doesn't count for this little story.

It was in the 90's today -- as in temperature, not as in a flashback to the 1990's when we were just trying to recover from the bad hairstyles of the 80's. Anyway, it was HOT. So, the mayonnaise, sealed, new, sat safely in the back seat of my car for the afternoon.

Is it safe to consume? I assume, since it was not opened, that it will be fine. However, opened and on a sandwich, unrefrigerated for a period of time -- now, that has its risks.

So, I puzzled ever so briefly about the mystery of mayonnaise. Sealed on a shelf...safe. Opened. Warming up. Danger. What a fine line between good and bad! Just a twist of a lid.

The moral and parallel for my own life is deep. Oh, not really. It is simply that I live cautiously around mayonnaise.

Glad to Be Gone

Driving home from an appointment with my job this afternoon, the news station reported a lock down at a local middle school. I felt a sense of relief that I'm no longer serving in the traditional classroom. Although it was a bomb scare in a building close to the school, and not in the school, I still remember lock downs, the stress, the annoyance, the mystery of safety for the students and myself. I am grateful to have a gig as an educator that is out of the traditional classroom for many reasons, and this was one reminder.

Two Men Approach in the Dark

[Borrowing from Amy's & Seth's segment on Saturday Night Live, "Really?"]


About 7:30, already dark outside, and I'm settling in for the evening. Only one home out of four adults and one darling 7-month old. Dog, faithful Sam, lets out a horrific set of big barks that sound like he is saying in dog talk, "Something is NOT right." I have rarely heard that type of bark. I rounded through the dining room into the living room and he is facing the door, a heavy wooden door. The front door. I look around gingerly through a window and sure enough, not one but two guys whom I do not know are standing on the steps.


Really? Really? After dark? As if??


So, I follow rule #1: Never ever open the door for anyone you do not know.


They are in ADT shirts and have those little ADT stop sign logo like things in their hands on little sticks, reminiscent of songs taught to kids in Bible school back in the day prior to projectors. And man #1 says, "We aren't trying to sell you anything."


Really? Really? Then what are you doing on my front steps after dark knocking on my door with all that logo gear and a white notebook? Could this be Meals on Wheels and they moonlight during the day for ADT Security Systems.


Me: "I don't open the door for anyone I do not know."


Them: "We really are not going to try to sell you anything. Can we talk through the window?"

Rule #2: Strangers appearing after dark are not to be given opportunities to linger (and don't you be quoting me a "angles unaware" verse at this point.)

Me: "Not interested. I don't talk to strangers after dark," or something lame like that. I should have walked away with a "thank-you" at that point. My current and very effective security system is still barking...I mean BARKING at my side, perhaps why the gentlemen are standing back a bit.


Really? Really? After dark? Cold calling? Perhaps one finds more people at home. Does anyone really open the door for strangers still? And after dark?


Really? Really? Doesn't ADT's Better-Ideas-For-Sales committee watch the news and realize this is a bad idea?

Them: "You can try ADT security for free."

This ended shortly after that. I continued to explain my policy on strangers after dark immediately being stereotyped as predators. They continued to wedge words my way to turn a cold call, and getting colder, into a warm one.

I did not get the chance to say the only thing I need to say, "No thank you. Not interested." It would be so much easier and less aggravating to stick to my little script. It just bugs me: 1) Every part of life seems to be violated with sales pitches. Please buy. Our economy will stay crumbled if you don't spend; and 2) The door-to-door pitch people and especially the after-dark group. We all need work, but I can't help you if this is your choice. I don't want to buy more, own more, and I find what I want without a random visit with a random idea. Though I do know people, usually men, who do open doors and buy. You know who you are.

Night, Noise, & Neighbors: Coping with Late Night Loud in the Hood

Last night, again, as has been the case for much of the week, people had late night verbal encounters in front of their homes, in the street, by their cars, or by our home. Last night featured at least three separate groups and occasions. These interactions often continue up to and beyond midnight.

It has been a hot week, and we have had our windows open, which doesn't help block out the audio portion of the evening. Our windows are on the street side. Our sleep has been postponed and disrupted by the volume of the outside interactions, and it went beyond tolerable last night. We were treated to some young female in distress speaking phrases like "open the f---ing door," "are you f---ing serious?," "so it is my f---ing fault again?" Probably an argument/break-up, wouldn't you guess? And possibly the same couple due to the similar conversation we heard a week or so ago. Without the benefit of the bleeping out profanity.

There were women sitting outside a home talking and giggling. Two car alarms went off for way too long. Always someone running, which seems to be loud in the still of the night. Always cars coming and going, headlights, and different speeds with which they depart.

This is an annoying part of urban living and the challenge in "loving your neighbor." My loving YOUR neighbor might be easier. Mine? Not so much. And not after 11:00pm at least.

It is amazing to me how voices travel here at night, and how much we now know about the private lives of strangers. I’m tempted. I might buy in to the “If I can’t beat them, join them” philosophy to make a point in my frustration. I'll sleep in my clothes, have a plastic chair handy, head on out when disrupted, chair in hand, sit down with the late-night talk show neighbors, and join in. To make a point. Tempting.