Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Signs It Is Christmas Time...or It's On Its Way!
Just got my schedule for tech volunteer for Christmas Eve services, Dec. 23 and 24. Yahoo! I love helping at Christmas Eve church! Now I'm excited for Christmas. Evidently, my enthusiasm for that time of year is only slightly behind every retail establishment in America, judging from commercials and store displays. Oh, the irony of perspectives around the advent and celebration of the birth of Jesus, God's invitation to relationship. The spectrum between joy and delight in the sacred and cultural traditions all the way to the other end -- the dread, exhaustion, and pressure of expectations and fear of or realized disappointment on the other end. Truly an emotionally complicated time of year for us, unless we center ourselves in what matters most and embrace our own limits of time, money, and presence (not presents).
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Are You A Liberal or Conservative?
I was interested to watch this Prager University video (below). Some of my friends really appreciate Prager, and I want to be more familiar with his program and views to understand more about him and honor my friends. So I watched this video. I thought, "This could be really cool! A liberal or conservative test. Perfect. So simple. And he's trusted by so many people I value."
http://www.prageruniversity.com/Political-Science/Are-You-a-Liberal.html#.Uh4WTrwZ97c
After watching the nicely done video, I decided not to take the Liberal or Conservative test. Since, I do very poorly on multiple choice tests in general, I knew I would only be frustrated by being asked to "yes" or "no" the questions posed. I tend to be one of those test-takers who see various levels of reasoning, tend to complicate things by analyzing each answer, and I can usually see why each answer could be right. I was once told that I am more of a social worker than a cop, and I think I understood that comment at the time. I live in the gray area.
It was interesting how Prager listed awesome adjectives to describe his opinion of how liberals would describe themselves and disparaging character blows to show a liberal's way to describe those others, the conservatives. There is major truth in that, but it is true for all sorts of groups of people, how they view themselves and their particular "others." Good guys and bad guys. Liberals can't claim that all to themselves.
As I considered each of Mr. Prager's questions, I felt trapped by the choices being simply yes or no. That trapped feeling with some resentment happens to me when an issue is boiled down to a yes or no position, and I cannot choose. That's a personal problem I need to work through. That drives me crazy. You, too, right?
Did you notice how the words chosen, the framing of the questions and the logical explanations that follow put a person on the wrong side of the tracks, if they'd answer no to the question? Those felt to me a little like loaded questions. A loaded question a logical fallacy technique defined as "asking a question that has a presumption built into it so that it can't be answered without appearing guilty."
More than that, these were "black or white" questions. That is another logical fallacy technique, too, defined as "two alternatives stated as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist."
Figuratively speaking, I live in Gray Heights. Not a real location, yet a neighborhood where I am most comfortable. And in that neighborhood, we do not have cul-de-sacs where you cannot drive through. So don't go all "yes or no" on me. Some things just cannot be black and white. We all know that. I even dislike that phrase, black and white, for its subtle racist tone to communicate wrong and right. Ugh. And don't load the questions, either. So, I will just take my toys and go home. But not yet.
It is difficult for me to answer any of Mr. Prager's liberal test questions, if my choices are only yes or no or agree or disagree. These issues are NEVER that simple for me. I heard his reasons. That prompted more questions for me. And I wasn't a difficult child.
Let me give you an example. Take the college and fire fighter admissions standards question. Should we change the standards on hiring and admissions for minorities? What was that? The answer is obviously no, in a perfect world when everyone has equitable educational opportunities, like so many in the race of power and privilege. Then, to me, that would be a legit question that implies honoring all who have worked hard. Until then, we have to watch these gatekeeper questions and make opportunities and on-ramps, as I like to call them, more accessible to all children who then have met the qualifications. Right now, minorities are often under served in the K-12 educational system, even when it comes to just simply getting to school safely, and those limits demand reform and even a resurrection. So, I guess I am not conservative on that one.
Another example: Murderers should never be put to death. I love the use of the word "never." Complicated word. Muddies the question. If I was convinced the person sentenced to death was guilty and got a fair trail, I'd still struggle with capital punishment. But to answer yes to that question makes me sound like a bad guy, myself, when I am recognize other research and statistics on this issue.
These questions are all cans of worms for me, and I don't like fishing.
And did I mention I'm trying to live my life in accordance with that old text commonly called the Sermon on the Mount? That doesn't smooth the issues road out for me at all. But it gives me a compass.
According to Mr. Prager's assessment, I am not conservative. But that cannot automatically make me part of the "other," the liberals. Facebook has a relationship category where an option was "It's complicated." That should be my relationship to politics, too. If you were wondering.
I don't have a label for my positions on political issues, I guess. I cannot pick a team. I cannot wear a fan jersey for either side, according to the line drawn by Mr. Prager. I'll have to go sit in the sky box, watch the game from above with a broad view of what's happening, watch the entire game and perhaps the season to see how more information helps my views evolve.
That might make me the monkey-in-the middle. That might make me too chicken to choose. That might make me the dove of peace. Or just the ostrich with my head in the sand. And so often this labeling creates an elephant in the room where conversations become awkward and even non-existent.
But I like the view from the sky box. I like the big picture. And I'll admit bias. I also like letting my hair go naturally gray, and perhaps that is symbolic for my views on many political issues. Or just a result of the madness of conscientious citizenship.
So, if you or I can't answer simply "yes" or "no" to my title question, what category on the issues are we? So then what?
And, yes, I mixed metaphors all over the place in this post because I wanted to create a feeling of how muddled this topic of conservative or liberal can get. Did you feel it? Yes or no, please. Or perhaps, in my case, yes AND no.
To learn more about recognizing logical fallacy, I recommend this website: https://yourlogicalfallacyis.com/home
http://www.prageruniversity.com/Political-Science/Are-You-a-Liberal.html#.Uh4WTrwZ97c
After watching the nicely done video, I decided not to take the Liberal or Conservative test. Since, I do very poorly on multiple choice tests in general, I knew I would only be frustrated by being asked to "yes" or "no" the questions posed. I tend to be one of those test-takers who see various levels of reasoning, tend to complicate things by analyzing each answer, and I can usually see why each answer could be right. I was once told that I am more of a social worker than a cop, and I think I understood that comment at the time. I live in the gray area.
It was interesting how Prager listed awesome adjectives to describe his opinion of how liberals would describe themselves and disparaging character blows to show a liberal's way to describe those others, the conservatives. There is major truth in that, but it is true for all sorts of groups of people, how they view themselves and their particular "others." Good guys and bad guys. Liberals can't claim that all to themselves.
As I considered each of Mr. Prager's questions, I felt trapped by the choices being simply yes or no. That trapped feeling with some resentment happens to me when an issue is boiled down to a yes or no position, and I cannot choose. That's a personal problem I need to work through. That drives me crazy. You, too, right?
Did you notice how the words chosen, the framing of the questions and the logical explanations that follow put a person on the wrong side of the tracks, if they'd answer no to the question? Those felt to me a little like loaded questions. A loaded question a logical fallacy technique defined as "asking a question that has a presumption built into it so that it can't be answered without appearing guilty."
More than that, these were "black or white" questions. That is another logical fallacy technique, too, defined as "two alternatives stated as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist."
Figuratively speaking, I live in Gray Heights. Not a real location, yet a neighborhood where I am most comfortable. And in that neighborhood, we do not have cul-de-sacs where you cannot drive through. So don't go all "yes or no" on me. Some things just cannot be black and white. We all know that. I even dislike that phrase, black and white, for its subtle racist tone to communicate wrong and right. Ugh. And don't load the questions, either. So, I will just take my toys and go home. But not yet.
It is difficult for me to answer any of Mr. Prager's liberal test questions, if my choices are only yes or no or agree or disagree. These issues are NEVER that simple for me. I heard his reasons. That prompted more questions for me. And I wasn't a difficult child.
Let me give you an example. Take the college and fire fighter admissions standards question. Should we change the standards on hiring and admissions for minorities? What was that? The answer is obviously no, in a perfect world when everyone has equitable educational opportunities, like so many in the race of power and privilege. Then, to me, that would be a legit question that implies honoring all who have worked hard. Until then, we have to watch these gatekeeper questions and make opportunities and on-ramps, as I like to call them, more accessible to all children who then have met the qualifications. Right now, minorities are often under served in the K-12 educational system, even when it comes to just simply getting to school safely, and those limits demand reform and even a resurrection. So, I guess I am not conservative on that one.
Another example: Murderers should never be put to death. I love the use of the word "never." Complicated word. Muddies the question. If I was convinced the person sentenced to death was guilty and got a fair trail, I'd still struggle with capital punishment. But to answer yes to that question makes me sound like a bad guy, myself, when I am recognize other research and statistics on this issue.
These questions are all cans of worms for me, and I don't like fishing.
 |
| Credit: condenaststore.com |
And did I mention I'm trying to live my life in accordance with that old text commonly called the Sermon on the Mount? That doesn't smooth the issues road out for me at all. But it gives me a compass.
According to Mr. Prager's assessment, I am not conservative. But that cannot automatically make me part of the "other," the liberals. Facebook has a relationship category where an option was "It's complicated." That should be my relationship to politics, too. If you were wondering.
I don't have a label for my positions on political issues, I guess. I cannot pick a team. I cannot wear a fan jersey for either side, according to the line drawn by Mr. Prager. I'll have to go sit in the sky box, watch the game from above with a broad view of what's happening, watch the entire game and perhaps the season to see how more information helps my views evolve.
That might make me the monkey-in-the middle. That might make me too chicken to choose. That might make me the dove of peace. Or just the ostrich with my head in the sand. And so often this labeling creates an elephant in the room where conversations become awkward and even non-existent.
But I like the view from the sky box. I like the big picture. And I'll admit bias. I also like letting my hair go naturally gray, and perhaps that is symbolic for my views on many political issues. Or just a result of the madness of conscientious citizenship.
So, if you or I can't answer simply "yes" or "no" to my title question, what category on the issues are we? So then what?
And, yes, I mixed metaphors all over the place in this post because I wanted to create a feeling of how muddled this topic of conservative or liberal can get. Did you feel it? Yes or no, please. Or perhaps, in my case, yes AND no.
To learn more about recognizing logical fallacy, I recommend this website: https://yourlogicalfallacyis.com/home
Friday, July 12, 2013
Banking Profits in a Tough Economic Time
Today I read an article online from the New York Times. The headline read JPMorgan Chase Quarterly Earnings Surge 31 Percent. The article goes on to say that the credit (pun intended) goes to "strong gains in the bank's investment banking business, its credit card operations and its mortgage lending division, which is benefiting from steady improvements in the nation's housing markets." So, naturally, I have questions.
The article also stated (my comments are in parentheses):
I have more questions bubbling through my brain, but this is it for now. My gray matter is stretching out its supply and demand lessons and everything surrounding that. My mental capacities are dusting off some old knowledge to filter through my questions. I have watched It's A Wonderful Life many times (wink - as if that is a movie all about loans and banks), had an economics
minor in college, and I'm certified to teach economics at the high
school level. I should be stronger at quickly dissecting the ins and outs and
ups and downs of how a large bank makes this happen. However, that is a
slow bumpy road, and I'll need some time to think through and analyze
cause, effect, impact, and inspiration.
Unfortunately, I may or may not get a chance to come back and expand this post. I may or may not give it much more thought. That is my biggest question of all. When so many of us haven't got the time to analyze and fight for accountability, and business moves at the speed of light on a grand scale, how can the consumer or citizen protect the common good? The New York Times article made me suspicious, though it appears to be such grand news. It is always good to ask questions. I just wish it didn't take so much time to reason through the complicated world of banking. I will read some other opinions and articles on the banking industry to expand my understanding.
The article also stated (my comments are in parentheses):
- Net earnings for second-quarter (three months): $6.5 billion.
- Wall Street analysts expectations (a.k.a. crystal ball predictions): $5.47 billion
- That is "on revenue of $24.84 billion."
- Revenue was actually "$25 billion compared to $22 billion in the period a year earlier."
Where are my macroeconomics and microeconomics professors when I need them? All I have at this point is big questions, which include:
- The bank earned $6.5 billion in three-months. Wow! How did they do that? Where does that kind of money come from and where does it go and why are there any poverty issues in the world?, said the girl with the heart for justice. The article does go on with further explanation, but I'm not completely clear on the banking business. It is tricky for me to interpret what is hocus-pocus (my term) and what is legit. Thankfully, I have heroes like Elizabeth Warren and others watching with a strong grasp of the inner-workings.
- Banks make money through lending well and interest. That is obviously the short version of this story. So has JPMorgan Chase built their house upon the shifting sand or on solid ground? Is that even a fair question? How does this impact our national economy and Gross Domestic Product? To quote one of the comments that followed the article, "I'd submit, the percent of GDP made up of "financial services" is a much more ominous symptom of an unbalanced, vulnerable economy."
- There are many people in our country still struggling to meet debt obligations for credit, mortgages, student loans, etc. Many of us are still on a short financial leash. So what does $6.5 billion in earnings really mean? There is a disconnect there for me. How does the bank do so well from customers paying mortgages and credit card bills on time, which it states in the article? Is that all due to their mega-bank status? Is greed in operation? Another comment following the article mentioned her Chase account $35 monthly fee if she doesn't meet their requirements for a free account, and also stated there is a fee to transfer funds. [I did not substantiate these comments.]
- The bank is down-sizing. So that kind of unfathomable earnings is not enough to sustain current costs of banking. Why not?
- Interests rates are rising, so the banks earn more from that, but doesn't that mainly impact the consumer in the long run? How do bankers explain such grand profits?
- They credit momentum in housing sales. Foreclosures still clutter the real estate market. Real estates agents are frequently paid in cash. Foreign money is moving through our economy, which is thought to be a good thing, and might be. What is the tipping point with that? What are the risks and benefits? Who is the big player in purchasing property? Where's the action -- commercial or residential?
Unfortunately, I may or may not get a chance to come back and expand this post. I may or may not give it much more thought. That is my biggest question of all. When so many of us haven't got the time to analyze and fight for accountability, and business moves at the speed of light on a grand scale, how can the consumer or citizen protect the common good? The New York Times article made me suspicious, though it appears to be such grand news. It is always good to ask questions. I just wish it didn't take so much time to reason through the complicated world of banking. I will read some other opinions and articles on the banking industry to expand my understanding.
Link to the article and (the best part) people's comments: http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2013/07/12/jpmorgan-quarterly-earnings-surge-31-percent/
And, by the way, "Wells Fargo, the nation's biggest mortgage lender and the #4 bank overall, is expected to see profits climb 12%," according to http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/07/11/second-quarter-bank-earnings/2509117/
And, by the way, "Wells Fargo, the nation's biggest mortgage lender and the #4 bank overall, is expected to see profits climb 12%," according to http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/07/11/second-quarter-bank-earnings/2509117/
Are you comfortable with those kinds of earnings from a major bank? Do you understand how that works in an economy that is struggling? Is there any mystery or misunderstanding in your opinion?
Monday, July 08, 2013
A Prayer for Congress & Compassionate Immigration Reform
I originally wrote this prayer in November 2010, as my heart cried out to our active, benevolent God on behalf of the Dream act and immigrant students. I refreshed it a bit today and decided to post it once again. My heart aches as we wait on the Lord and on Congress. The House is currently tasked with moving forward, after the Senate passed S744. The House leaders are talking about steps they want to take that seem to miss the point, or at least potentially, intentionally slow down the process. I pray that the Lord will continue to move in the process and the people involved in this time. Let good immigrants come out from the shadows and continue to contribute in ways that make our country a better place. I pray for the pathway to citizenship that works on behalf of those who want to comply.
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,
And calm those
who 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 lead Congress
To take action on behalf of our
Immigrants and our country.
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.
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,
And calm those
who 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 lead Congress
To take action on behalf of our
Immigrants and our country.
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.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
We Wait...Immigration Reform
This morning in my local community gathering, more formally called church, we sang a song, made popular by Hillsong, called "You'll Come." I paused to close my eyes and pray again for compassionate immigration reform which is closer than ever before, yet so complicated. The words of the song hit me harder than usual. The lyrics became my prayer, my pleading for our broken immigration system of laws and practices to leap forward on behalf of dignity for all, our economy, and protecting what we stand for as a country. I will not use this post to be more specific. I simply wanted to log the lyrics as my heart's cry as the Congress considers legislation on this issue. So, we wait upon the Lord. And we call and write Congress.
Chains be broken
Lives be healed
Eyes be opened
Christ is revealed
I have decided
I have resolved
To wait upon You, Lord
My rock and redeemer
Shield and reward
I'll wait upon You, Lord
As surely as the sun will rise
You'll come to us
Certain as the dawn appears
You'll come
Let Your glory fall as You respond to us
Spirit rain
Flood into our thirsty hearts again
You'll come, You'll come
We are not shaken
We are not moved
We wait upon You, Lord
Mighty deliverer
Triumph and truth
We wait upon You, Lord
As surely as the sun will rise
You'll come to us
Certain as Your word endures
You'll come
Let Your glory fall as You respond to us
Spirit rain
Flood into our thirsty hearts again
You'll come, You'll come
Chains be broken
Lives be healed
Eyes be opened
Christ is revealed
Chains be broken
Lives be healed
Eyes be opened
Christ is revealed
I have decided
I have resolved
To wait upon You, Lord
My rock and redeemer
Shield and reward
I'll wait upon You, Lord
As surely as the sun will rise
You'll come to us
Certain as the dawn appears
You'll come
Let Your glory fall as You respond to us
Spirit rain
Flood into our thirsty hearts again
You'll come, You'll come
We are not shaken
We are not moved
We wait upon You, Lord
Mighty deliverer
Triumph and truth
We wait upon You, Lord
As surely as the sun will rise
You'll come to us
Certain as Your word endures
You'll come
Let Your glory fall as You respond to us
Spirit rain
Flood into our thirsty hearts again
You'll come, You'll come
Chains be broken
Lives be healed
Eyes be opened
Christ is revealed
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Leaders, Criticism, Respect, and Perspective
I am learning to speak respectfully of leaders. I am learning to understand that I don't know all the facts and behind-the-scenes political power plays in any social organization (government, churches, schools, etc.), circumstances, and counsel in a leader's decision. I am learning to withhold criticizing leaders publicly, but choose to think critically and be outspoken about issues and policy. I am learning that I rarely have the background perspective, insight, nor full picture to impugn leaders with motives for what they do. So often, quiet compromise must direct decisions, consensus, in matters at higher levels. A leader perhaps may have been coerced, forced, or simply chosen to take a certain action to prevent another that was more bleak.
I served a year as an administrator at a local middle school. I learned in that year how prideful I'd been in years prior, as a teacher, in judging and criticizing leaders from my limited perspective foxhole or opinion fort. I rarely understood the full ramifications of a situation, yet spoke as if I was wiser. It makes me think of when a child criticizes a parent's parenting skills, as if they have the full view on life. Innocent arrogance.
I'm learning to hold back on negative comments towards a person in an electronic or published format, and practice speech and writing that honors the human dignity of leaders. Or I can simply remain quiet. Yet I still retain the right to disagree on decisions, and value accountability. I release my unrealistic demands on them to include me in every situation to help me completely understand motives and process, and I continue to practice patience. There is a fine line.
As a believer, I am accountable for my words regarding leaders and all people before the Lord. If I truly desire to honor Him and those created in His image, I feel strongly that speaking in a way that contributes to vilification of leaders, though their actions may be detestable, rips a hole in my theology that God is all-powerful and seeks to redeem and restore all humans and human systems.
I am reminded that I don't know everything, and often I don't know much. I can continue to learn, create conversations and inquiry, find friends that hold other views, and stick to tasks where I can influence change, without looking back with regret on things I said about people in print and in public. Is there anyone who doesn't realize there are at least two sides to every story? Why are we so quick to blast a leader as if he or she made the choice in isolation with our harm as the goal? That seems like naive small-minded thinking.
How do you speak of others when they make decisions you do not agree with?
I served a year as an administrator at a local middle school. I learned in that year how prideful I'd been in years prior, as a teacher, in judging and criticizing leaders from my limited perspective foxhole or opinion fort. I rarely understood the full ramifications of a situation, yet spoke as if I was wiser. It makes me think of when a child criticizes a parent's parenting skills, as if they have the full view on life. Innocent arrogance.
I'm learning to hold back on negative comments towards a person in an electronic or published format, and practice speech and writing that honors the human dignity of leaders. Or I can simply remain quiet. Yet I still retain the right to disagree on decisions, and value accountability. I release my unrealistic demands on them to include me in every situation to help me completely understand motives and process, and I continue to practice patience. There is a fine line.
As a believer, I am accountable for my words regarding leaders and all people before the Lord. If I truly desire to honor Him and those created in His image, I feel strongly that speaking in a way that contributes to vilification of leaders, though their actions may be detestable, rips a hole in my theology that God is all-powerful and seeks to redeem and restore all humans and human systems.
I am reminded that I don't know everything, and often I don't know much. I can continue to learn, create conversations and inquiry, find friends that hold other views, and stick to tasks where I can influence change, without looking back with regret on things I said about people in print and in public. Is there anyone who doesn't realize there are at least two sides to every story? Why are we so quick to blast a leader as if he or she made the choice in isolation with our harm as the goal? That seems like naive small-minded thinking.
How do you speak of others when they make decisions you do not agree with?
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Rufina Amaya Continues to Inspire, a Role She Did Not Choose
 | |
| Photo Credit: Tim's El Salvador Blog |
Last night, I heard a portion of a story. As we know, story is powerful, and each of us has at least one to share that will impact listeners. Rufina Amaya, of El Salvador, was a survivor of an unfathomable tragedy during a civil war. Her one voice later bravely brought truth and redemption. I am deeply moved and so curious about her and the hours that ripped her life to pieces, only to be stitched back together in a way that over time brought light to a dark time. Somehow. Courage, almost crushed, inspires.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Gund Control Pun Fun
I'd
like to say I'm against Gund control. I think I should be able to own
as many Gunds as I want. I think the right to bear arms is awesome.
Nothing is cuter than bear arms. Except the whole bear.
I "gotta get a Gund." Where do I start my background check? And what about a nice background plaid? http://shop.gund.com/c/
I "gotta get a Gund." Where do I start my background check? And what about a nice background plaid? http://shop.gund.com/c/
Monday, October 22, 2012
Taxes, Trust, Generosity, & Simplicity
Taxes. These California props we have to vote on in a few weeks that will result in having to pitch in via more taxes from a variety of directions are challenging, when so many really have nothing to spare. Do I have enough? Yes, in the simplest sense. Are my needs met? Day by day. Can I spare more to help out for the greater good? Probably, and I do want to be generous as I follow Christ.
Then there is the other side...can we as a state and a country get to a place where trust is restored in our leaders and the choices they make with our limited financial and natural resources? The citizen's well is running dry. We cannot keep digging deeper into our empty pockets. My health care went up $100 a month this year, so we've already been pinched. Our local school district needs a bond approved to borrow $55 million, which will impact property tax for how many years? We don't have kids, so we did not take advantage of the tax-funded local schools. But I am happy to say the kids in my neighborhood did get an education, for which I am happy to have contributed. But what do we do when they need money the next time?
If we refuse to pay more in taxes with our votes because we don't trust leaders or just because we cannot make ends meet now, what are the consequences of that? Do our roads and bridges and school buildings collapse or does government spending slow down and we struggle to get to where we can live within our means -- and do with less as a state? All that to say, I'm a little short on insight and answers right now. God help us. Tough lessons ahead. More of them.
Besides all that, balancing a government budget at the state level or the federal level cannot be truly paralleled to balancing a family budget. So that leaves me out of pretending to understand the intricacies of it all at those levels. Well, I guess I'll just go shopping, and support our consumer economy. Ha! That's the big problem, too.
With a consumer based economy, if we live within our means and back off on shopping/consuming, our economy will be hurt. Consumer debt is a huge burden in the US. Living within my means is a great, practical, and rewarding idea. But not for the US economy. Neither candidate has directly spelled that out for me as they talk about the economy and jobs. If we have to buy to survive or thrive as a national economy, then what? I'd love to hear more about shifting the economy to a more stable foundation, but I don't know what that would be. Someone would have to sell me on the ideas. Ha. Sell. There's that consumer concept again.
So the tensions...taxes and trust...generosity with others and living within your means...living simply in a consumer-driven economy. These are a balancing act. Learning to live without this or that keeps me learning to live within my means. Generous simplicity looks so different from the inside. Again, I don't know what to do when asked to pay more in various taxes to support critical needs in a time of obvious waste. Sigh. Time to go make a cup of tea and relax. Tea...reminds me of the Boston Tea Party, another historic moment in non-compliance with taxation. I guess these problems are not original to us.
Then there is the other side...can we as a state and a country get to a place where trust is restored in our leaders and the choices they make with our limited financial and natural resources? The citizen's well is running dry. We cannot keep digging deeper into our empty pockets. My health care went up $100 a month this year, so we've already been pinched. Our local school district needs a bond approved to borrow $55 million, which will impact property tax for how many years? We don't have kids, so we did not take advantage of the tax-funded local schools. But I am happy to say the kids in my neighborhood did get an education, for which I am happy to have contributed. But what do we do when they need money the next time?
If we refuse to pay more in taxes with our votes because we don't trust leaders or just because we cannot make ends meet now, what are the consequences of that? Do our roads and bridges and school buildings collapse or does government spending slow down and we struggle to get to where we can live within our means -- and do with less as a state? All that to say, I'm a little short on insight and answers right now. God help us. Tough lessons ahead. More of them.
Besides all that, balancing a government budget at the state level or the federal level cannot be truly paralleled to balancing a family budget. So that leaves me out of pretending to understand the intricacies of it all at those levels. Well, I guess I'll just go shopping, and support our consumer economy. Ha! That's the big problem, too.
With a consumer based economy, if we live within our means and back off on shopping/consuming, our economy will be hurt. Consumer debt is a huge burden in the US. Living within my means is a great, practical, and rewarding idea. But not for the US economy. Neither candidate has directly spelled that out for me as they talk about the economy and jobs. If we have to buy to survive or thrive as a national economy, then what? I'd love to hear more about shifting the economy to a more stable foundation, but I don't know what that would be. Someone would have to sell me on the ideas. Ha. Sell. There's that consumer concept again.
So the tensions...taxes and trust...generosity with others and living within your means...living simply in a consumer-driven economy. These are a balancing act. Learning to live without this or that keeps me learning to live within my means. Generous simplicity looks so different from the inside. Again, I don't know what to do when asked to pay more in various taxes to support critical needs in a time of obvious waste. Sigh. Time to go make a cup of tea and relax. Tea...reminds me of the Boston Tea Party, another historic moment in non-compliance with taxation. I guess these problems are not original to us.
Monday, October 08, 2012
A Curious Resource
Time is a curious resource.
Someone I know is wishing for time to pass quickly so she can be married.
Someone is wishing for the baby to arrive on time.
Someone is wishing for the election to be over.
Someone is wishing for time to go slowly so friends can be together longer.
Someone is wishing for time to go slowly so her babies' childhoods linger.
Someone needs more time with a loved one.
Someone needs more time to study for a test.
Someone just needs more time to think about something.
We each have 24 hours.
Sometimes it drags.
Sometimes it moves too fast.
Time is a curious resource.
Sometimes I waste it.
Sometimes I spend it.
Sometimes I just try to be present in the moment.
Time flies.
Time seems to stand still.
Time is a curious resource.
Someone I know is wishing for time to pass quickly so she can be married.
Someone is wishing for the baby to arrive on time.
Someone is wishing for the election to be over.
Someone is wishing for time to go slowly so friends can be together longer.
Someone is wishing for time to go slowly so her babies' childhoods linger.
Someone needs more time with a loved one.
Someone needs more time to study for a test.
Someone just needs more time to think about something.
We each have 24 hours.
Sometimes it drags.
Sometimes it moves too fast.
Time is a curious resource.
Sometimes I waste it.
Sometimes I spend it.
Sometimes I just try to be present in the moment.
Time flies.
Time seems to stand still.
Time is a curious resource.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Fear and Grace
A quote posted on Facebook by friend Robert Chao Romero stated, "
I experienced fear in bold font the past several years, off and on, possibly due to financial struggle or just a stage of life. That statement is so true for me.
To go further, the feelings of fear are real and must be acknowledged, a place to begin a scavenger hunt to search for and become more alert to God's grace. Disguised in life's difficult circumstances, God remains true. His strength, support, and goodness may be whispered or at times shouted, hidden in ways only noticed upon looking back, or shining in details that provide a way, so one can make it through the moment, the day...living in an awareness that God is enough. And awareness I never really was enough, never really had the control I thought I had, and that is OK.
I experienced fear in bold font the past several years, off and on, possibly due to financial struggle or just a stage of life. That statement is so true for me.
To go further, the feelings of fear are real and must be acknowledged, a place to begin a scavenger hunt to search for and become more alert to God's grace. Disguised in life's difficult circumstances, God remains true. His strength, support, and goodness may be whispered or at times shouted, hidden in ways only noticed upon looking back, or shining in details that provide a way, so one can make it through the moment, the day...living in an awareness that God is enough. And awareness I never really was enough, never really had the control I thought I had, and that is OK.
Note: I've been learning these lessons on God's grace, and the book One Thousand Gifts helped crystallize it this past year.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Election Thoughts and a NYTimes Opinion Essay
I recently read an opinion in the New York Times titled Do As I Do, Not As I Say. It starts like this: "
http://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/do-as-i-do-not-as-i-say/?goback=.gde_96472_member_113383334
IT’S election season, and once again Democrats are flummoxed by evangelical voters. They think that 'those people' vote against their own self-interest. They cannot believe that same-sex marriage matters so much to so many people. They don’t get why Obamacare is controversial. To them, evangelicals don’t make sense. That’s because evangelicals and secular liberals (the most puzzled Democrats) think about life — and therefore politics — in such utterly different ways."
Here is my response:
I enjoyed this view and it was well expressed. I am an evangelical, a "white" female, and in my late 50's. I am also a registered voter as an Independent.
I appreciate it when others do not generalize evangelicals. I've noticed more often than not evangelicals are spoken of as in one political camp. There is another group of us, as evidenced by your statement "back in 2008, a quarter of white evangelicals voted for Mr. Obama." Not all evangelicals rally in predictable ways. Thank you for noting that here.
It would have also been interesting to compare your observations of evangelicals by urban and suburban/rural subgroups. That may have brought a more interesting perspective. I have found city evangelicals tend to lean towards a candidate that is a Democrat. I would also enjoy your evangelical observations for different levels of education. That is another subgroup split where evangelicals might be divided on presidential choice.
I appreciated your paragraph that begins "If Democrats want to reach more evangelical voters...." Those statements are part of why I voted for a Dem president in recent elections. I think you make a good point. I do hear some of the language you suggest.
I do think deeply about issues and the role of government within my worldview. I find a better fit usually with the Democratic platform on election day. However, that being said, I realize no candidate can truly deliver on promises because of how the system functions (or not).
http://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/do-as-i-do-not-as-i-say/?goback=.gde_96472_member_113383334
IT’S election season, and once again Democrats are flummoxed by evangelical voters. They think that 'those people' vote against their own self-interest. They cannot believe that same-sex marriage matters so much to so many people. They don’t get why Obamacare is controversial. To them, evangelicals don’t make sense. That’s because evangelicals and secular liberals (the most puzzled Democrats) think about life — and therefore politics — in such utterly different ways."
Here is my response:
I enjoyed this view and it was well expressed. I am an evangelical, a "white" female, and in my late 50's. I am also a registered voter as an Independent.
I appreciate it when others do not generalize evangelicals. I've noticed more often than not evangelicals are spoken of as in one political camp. There is another group of us, as evidenced by your statement "back in 2008, a quarter of white evangelicals voted for Mr. Obama." Not all evangelicals rally in predictable ways. Thank you for noting that here.
It would have also been interesting to compare your observations of evangelicals by urban and suburban/rural subgroups. That may have brought a more interesting perspective. I have found city evangelicals tend to lean towards a candidate that is a Democrat. I would also enjoy your evangelical observations for different levels of education. That is another subgroup split where evangelicals might be divided on presidential choice.
I appreciated your paragraph that begins "If Democrats want to reach more evangelical voters...." Those statements are part of why I voted for a Dem president in recent elections. I think you make a good point. I do hear some of the language you suggest.
I do think deeply about issues and the role of government within my worldview. I find a better fit usually with the Democratic platform on election day. However, that being said, I realize no candidate can truly deliver on promises because of how the system functions (or not).
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
Monday, February 20, 2012
Disagreement or Character Attack?
Political disagreement can be just that...disagreement. A difference of views, invitation to discussion and conversation, and an opportunity to gather more information to evaluate positions and inform views. Political disagreement does not need to automatically trigger judgment of character and faith.
When someone makes comments in public about someone's faith and or character based on the fact that there is a disagreement, that can result in judging without full insight, also known as prejudice, can feed arrogance, and builds walls between "us and them." This in not a life giving situation. It is not an invitation to grace.
We can and will disagree, and we can still find a way love our neighbor with whom we may disagree. We can model respect and offer dignity to the person. People do this all the time, but it tends to be quieter. We find common ground and move forward.
It's when in disagreement, I take power and speak badly about someone's character or faith that I believe I dis-grace God's call on my life. God values all life on the journey of redemption.
Character and faith jabs for political gain are just cruel tools in a shallow and manipulative campaign tool box. I do disagree with some of the positions of current politicians and the current president. I will not brand the character or faith. However, I will use the positions to determine who I will side with. You can still be a good person with a strong faith and line up opposite me on many issues. Many do. One does not discount the other. Do not discount me. I will not discount you in this context. I will learn about you and from you.
When someone makes comments in public about someone's faith and or character based on the fact that there is a disagreement, that can result in judging without full insight, also known as prejudice, can feed arrogance, and builds walls between "us and them." This in not a life giving situation. It is not an invitation to grace.
We can and will disagree, and we can still find a way love our neighbor with whom we may disagree. We can model respect and offer dignity to the person. People do this all the time, but it tends to be quieter. We find common ground and move forward.
It's when in disagreement, I take power and speak badly about someone's character or faith that I believe I dis-grace God's call on my life. God values all life on the journey of redemption.
Character and faith jabs for political gain are just cruel tools in a shallow and manipulative campaign tool box. I do disagree with some of the positions of current politicians and the current president. I will not brand the character or faith. However, I will use the positions to determine who I will side with. You can still be a good person with a strong faith and line up opposite me on many issues. Many do. One does not discount the other. Do not discount me. I will not discount you in this context. I will learn about you and from you.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Wisdom Worth Noting - Abandon & Abide
Abandon the worries… and Abide in the Word.
Abandon the fears… and Abide in the Father.
Abandon the hurts… and Abide in His heart.
Abandon the cares… because Christ will never abandon you.
It’s what I self-preach again and again to the fearful sinner who is me: Abandon and Abide.
From a favorite blog's post: A Holy Experience
The blogger, Ann Voskamp, also included this song:
http://youtu.be/54ALmQZ_NiA
Abandon the fears… and Abide in the Father.
Abandon the hurts… and Abide in His heart.
Abandon the cares… because Christ will never abandon you.
It’s what I self-preach again and again to the fearful sinner who is me: Abandon and Abide.
From a favorite blog's post: A Holy Experience
The blogger, Ann Voskamp, also included this song:
http://youtu.be/54ALmQZ_NiA
Friday, February 10, 2012
That Lovely Slippery Slope
My friend on my faith journey recommended this blog post to me. He thought I might like it. I did. Very much.
"They Were Right About the Slippery Slop (and Wrong)"
http://rachelheldevans.com/they-were-right-about-slippery-slope?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RachelHeldEvans+%28Rachel+Held+Evans+-+Blog%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
"They Were Right About the Slippery Slop (and Wrong)"
http://rachelheldevans.com/they-were-right-about-slippery-slope?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RachelHeldEvans+%28Rachel+Held+Evans+-+Blog%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Sunday, February 05, 2012
Jesus Is a Liberal Democrat Video
Food for thought...find the truth in the comedy from December 2010. And then how will I live differently in response to truth?
The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
Violent Loss & Suffering/Sticky, Stinky Endurance
My friend is in the one-year anniversary of a tragedy involving the reckless homicide of a friend/colleague. As I think of her and talk with her, some new reflections of my own experience with a tragic loss oozed through and spilled into my mind. On any given day, if you have survived a violent loss, images and thoughts and emotions collide to create chaos or new strength. Heart break is not pretty, but it can become the art of the honest heart.
There is the immediate crisis that follows the actual event and managing to get through that minute-by-minute, but often the pain lingers and the bruises to our souls get bumped with the calendar...a birthday, a year after, and so on. We wish for some relief and work toward acceptance and a return to normal. But normal is now very different. Sometimes the goal is just to hang in there and remember we are not alone, though our personal journey to healing will be our own.
I heard myself say just the other day in an appropriate context, "One of my students was murdered in 1996...." People gasped. I paused and tried to connect to the violence of it all, the bruise that still lingers to each of our souls that knew her. Still felt surreal and my mind tells me I must have made it up. Awkward.
After all these years. Still no acceptance. I think that is the way it is and I think there is actually some wholeness in that ugly. If I were to truly accept it, I'd be giving up on a world the way it should be, with people treating each other safely. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done.
What happened to my student and my friend's colleague is NOT OK. It never will be. We live in that tension. That is what I must learn to accept. Like we are tuned between radio stations, sometimes totally annoying, sometimes I can block it out, sometimes I can accommodate the tension, and sometimes I am able to tune in to the beauty that is still with us.
I realize now that violent crime rips a hole in the peace of mind of any who witness and/or cared about the victims. An act against community. Do we forgive? Do we forget? Who has answers to these questions? I think there are moments of both that flash by and become stronger, like clapping for Tinkerbell to grow stronger. But the broader questions for me are always, "What now?" and since life will never be what I knew to be normal, "What good will come out of the darkness that includes me?"
And it will come. Good will come from this. We will be different, just like seeds die in the ground before forcing their way back into the sunshine to bloom in a new place after they were pooped out by some bird. God is at work. Love wins. God loves us. God is here. God is enough. I truly believe those concepts to be true and broader than I can conceive. I cling. Hope invites. Again.
Three resources that immensely continue to impact my journey in difficult, painful times of loss include:
Drops Like Stars -- a book and a DVD (I was blessed to see this in person):
"We plot, we plan, we assume things are going to go a certain way and then they don't and we find ourselves ..."
http://www.amazon.com/Drops-Like-Stars-Creativity-Suffering/dp/0310275032
And another book, One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
http://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913
And a movie, Lars and the Real Girl, quirky, odd, and uncomfortable at times. It portrays loving community responding to a tragic loss for the main character. I found it simple, profound, and inspiring in leading me to just be with friends who have experienced suffering and/or loss.
In closing, we are in this together. If you are in a time of pain, suffering, grief, and/or loss, I pray you are well connected with a loving community like a small group at the local church or dear, committed friends and/or family. I also pray you watch carefully for hope to light the way a moment at a time, like a flickering candle in a dark room. And I pray that through this, through finding your "new normal," you will bring more to this world than was taken out.
Overall, knowing that Jesus died and rose again took on new meaning in all this for me. What is the eternal force in the world that is major evidence that God is? Love. What breaks the heart of love? Death. The separation from those we love. The love for those lost continues, but the separation breaks us. Jesus brought victory over death making it possible that love is not lost, and death is, well...in the brilliant words of Rossiter Worthington Raymond (1840-1918):
"Life is eternal; and love is immortal; and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight."
Dear reader, I do not know what suffering has crushed you. Perhaps even disappointment because expectations of how life was to look for you does not match your current reality, like your shoes, purse, and outfit so easily do. Hold on. Be patient. Grief does not follow my rules. Bummer.
I am learning to go hide in my "grace space." I run there to wait for help from God. Maybe you recognize your need for a time-out in your grace space place. I'm learning to recognize the symptoms of when I need to go sit in that emotional room and be quiet, which for me include when I'm feeling anger at others, fear of the future, guilt over the past, and anxiety. All related to my myth that I can control my life's circumstances in full, my "myth of control."
Dear reader, I do not know where you stand on who you trust to save you. Beyond circumstances, it is spiritual. We all believe in something. I could not survive without my faith in Christ and trust in God to be with me now and in the days to come. I hope you are with me in that journey. I hope you can find comfort today and recognize blessings that come in spite of suffering. Perhaps you can even find energy to go serve others on behalf of Christ's work and/or on behalf of the loved one lost. Generosity, if you can get to that point, brings good out of pain. And on days when that is just not possible, I pray that you sense an intangible God in those moments through tangible others around you, and the remaining beauty in life and nature.
Photo credit: http://spitshinedsoul.wordpress.com/tag/dream-2/
There is the immediate crisis that follows the actual event and managing to get through that minute-by-minute, but often the pain lingers and the bruises to our souls get bumped with the calendar...a birthday, a year after, and so on. We wish for some relief and work toward acceptance and a return to normal. But normal is now very different. Sometimes the goal is just to hang in there and remember we are not alone, though our personal journey to healing will be our own.
I heard myself say just the other day in an appropriate context, "One of my students was murdered in 1996...." People gasped. I paused and tried to connect to the violence of it all, the bruise that still lingers to each of our souls that knew her. Still felt surreal and my mind tells me I must have made it up. Awkward.
After all these years. Still no acceptance. I think that is the way it is and I think there is actually some wholeness in that ugly. If I were to truly accept it, I'd be giving up on a world the way it should be, with people treating each other safely. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done.
What happened to my student and my friend's colleague is NOT OK. It never will be. We live in that tension. That is what I must learn to accept. Like we are tuned between radio stations, sometimes totally annoying, sometimes I can block it out, sometimes I can accommodate the tension, and sometimes I am able to tune in to the beauty that is still with us.
I realize now that violent crime rips a hole in the peace of mind of any who witness and/or cared about the victims. An act against community. Do we forgive? Do we forget? Who has answers to these questions? I think there are moments of both that flash by and become stronger, like clapping for Tinkerbell to grow stronger. But the broader questions for me are always, "What now?" and since life will never be what I knew to be normal, "What good will come out of the darkness that includes me?"
And it will come. Good will come from this. We will be different, just like seeds die in the ground before forcing their way back into the sunshine to bloom in a new place after they were pooped out by some bird. God is at work. Love wins. God loves us. God is here. God is enough. I truly believe those concepts to be true and broader than I can conceive. I cling. Hope invites. Again.
Three resources that immensely continue to impact my journey in difficult, painful times of loss include:
Drops Like Stars -- a book and a DVD (I was blessed to see this in person):
"We plot, we plan, we assume things are going to go a certain way and then they don't and we find ourselves ..."
http://www.amazon.com/Drops-Like-Stars-Creativity-Suffering/dp/0310275032
And another book, One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
http://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913
And a movie, Lars and the Real Girl, quirky, odd, and uncomfortable at times. It portrays loving community responding to a tragic loss for the main character. I found it simple, profound, and inspiring in leading me to just be with friends who have experienced suffering and/or loss.
In closing, we are in this together. If you are in a time of pain, suffering, grief, and/or loss, I pray you are well connected with a loving community like a small group at the local church or dear, committed friends and/or family. I also pray you watch carefully for hope to light the way a moment at a time, like a flickering candle in a dark room. And I pray that through this, through finding your "new normal," you will bring more to this world than was taken out.
Overall, knowing that Jesus died and rose again took on new meaning in all this for me. What is the eternal force in the world that is major evidence that God is? Love. What breaks the heart of love? Death. The separation from those we love. The love for those lost continues, but the separation breaks us. Jesus brought victory over death making it possible that love is not lost, and death is, well...in the brilliant words of Rossiter Worthington Raymond (1840-1918):
"Life is eternal; and love is immortal; and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight."
Dear reader, I do not know what suffering has crushed you. Perhaps even disappointment because expectations of how life was to look for you does not match your current reality, like your shoes, purse, and outfit so easily do. Hold on. Be patient. Grief does not follow my rules. Bummer.
I am learning to go hide in my "grace space." I run there to wait for help from God. Maybe you recognize your need for a time-out in your grace space place. I'm learning to recognize the symptoms of when I need to go sit in that emotional room and be quiet, which for me include when I'm feeling anger at others, fear of the future, guilt over the past, and anxiety. All related to my myth that I can control my life's circumstances in full, my "myth of control."
Dear reader, I do not know where you stand on who you trust to save you. Beyond circumstances, it is spiritual. We all believe in something. I could not survive without my faith in Christ and trust in God to be with me now and in the days to come. I hope you are with me in that journey. I hope you can find comfort today and recognize blessings that come in spite of suffering. Perhaps you can even find energy to go serve others on behalf of Christ's work and/or on behalf of the loved one lost. Generosity, if you can get to that point, brings good out of pain. And on days when that is just not possible, I pray that you sense an intangible God in those moments through tangible others around you, and the remaining beauty in life and nature.
Friday, November 18, 2011
A Holiday, the Homeless, & Hope
Friday, November 11 - Veteran's Day and a day off from work...a great day. I woke at 4:00am to go five blocks from home. I'd volunteered with a city project to identify the homeless for possibly later accessing services and housing for the more vulnerable. It was part of a nationwide effort taking place in cities throughout the United States. One of our leaders mentioned how impressed he was with the diversity of our group: church groups, college students, high school students, social workers, business people, and neighbors. I felt glad to be part of that.
We went in teams of five, into the pre-dawn darkness, searched quietly through alleys and a park, in little coves tucked into buildings, and on benches, looking for our homeless neighbors. I was nervous at first, concerned about what I might encounter, both the heartache and the question of safety. We learned to spot earthly belongings hidden in bushes nearby, and find human-shaped lumps under blankets. We practiced a deeper dimension of respect for the least of these in our town.
We obeyed our training to never touch anyone to wake them, to never shine our flashlights in their faces, and to squat down to their level for conversation. We used our lights to illuminate our path, read our paperwork, and identify our faces to others. We would call out to the person to gently wake them, and ask if we could have their permission to take a survey and take their photo.
We sat on the cement together in several situations. We interviewed six people -- two couples and two singles, three women and three men. One refused to let us take her photo. That was OK. At times we laughed together because some had such humor in their circumstances. It was an odd, yet powerful moment to hear the laughter of a group of people newly connected and from such diverse circumstances. I felt happy. I learned about these people in my community.
We asked all the questions on this survey: social security number, height, weight, victim of violence on the streets, health condition and details, been to jail and/or prison, pets, how long they'd been homeless, how they make money, etc. It was very interesting. The data we collect will be dded to a national study and used to access services and possibly housing for the most vulnerable. The people we visited were articulate, sober, and engaging. Some of my stereotypes were shattered that day. We were back to volunteer central in two hours.
I felt connected to these six folks, though we'd just met. It was strange yet so humane. I walked away wishing I could come visit again from time to time and bring breakfast or pizza or wash their blankets, but I felt that ambition would probably fade once I returned to my routine. But I now drive through my city with different eyes and a bigger heart. I look carefully for the unseen living just beyond my view in this area. It felt like a dream to have time to hear a little of the stories of these fellow human beings.
That morning, it was my priority to shake the hand of each person we'd interviewed, look them in the eyes, and say their name as I said, "Nice to meet you." And I meant it. It was important to me because I think appropriate human touch is healing, no matter how insignificant. It was healing to me. I can't speak for the others. It was healing because I overcame my fear of these strangers, one at a time, after listening to their stories, and crafting some time in my life to care for them, even for just a moment. I will remember them. God bless you, Shawn & Tricia, Manual & Corrine, Bonnie, and Ector, a Vietnam vet.
On Veteran's Day, I served with others in my community to reach out to hidden people. In our current economic crisis, anyone can be homeless with a change in events and circumstances. I did not need to figure out if these folks were trouble to society, or evaluate if they deserved a break or not. I needed to figure out that they are human, too. I was moved. I am changed. These efforts in my life keep me aware of what really matters and keep my heart tender. These efforts keep the gospel fresh in my faith. All this, and it was barely 8:00am. Time for a nap and time to pause to reflect on the meaningful experience.
We went in teams of five, into the pre-dawn darkness, searched quietly through alleys and a park, in little coves tucked into buildings, and on benches, looking for our homeless neighbors. I was nervous at first, concerned about what I might encounter, both the heartache and the question of safety. We learned to spot earthly belongings hidden in bushes nearby, and find human-shaped lumps under blankets. We practiced a deeper dimension of respect for the least of these in our town.
We obeyed our training to never touch anyone to wake them, to never shine our flashlights in their faces, and to squat down to their level for conversation. We used our lights to illuminate our path, read our paperwork, and identify our faces to others. We would call out to the person to gently wake them, and ask if we could have their permission to take a survey and take their photo.
We sat on the cement together in several situations. We interviewed six people -- two couples and two singles, three women and three men. One refused to let us take her photo. That was OK. At times we laughed together because some had such humor in their circumstances. It was an odd, yet powerful moment to hear the laughter of a group of people newly connected and from such diverse circumstances. I felt happy. I learned about these people in my community.
We asked all the questions on this survey: social security number, height, weight, victim of violence on the streets, health condition and details, been to jail and/or prison, pets, how long they'd been homeless, how they make money, etc. It was very interesting. The data we collect will be dded to a national study and used to access services and possibly housing for the most vulnerable. The people we visited were articulate, sober, and engaging. Some of my stereotypes were shattered that day. We were back to volunteer central in two hours.
I felt connected to these six folks, though we'd just met. It was strange yet so humane. I walked away wishing I could come visit again from time to time and bring breakfast or pizza or wash their blankets, but I felt that ambition would probably fade once I returned to my routine. But I now drive through my city with different eyes and a bigger heart. I look carefully for the unseen living just beyond my view in this area. It felt like a dream to have time to hear a little of the stories of these fellow human beings.
That morning, it was my priority to shake the hand of each person we'd interviewed, look them in the eyes, and say their name as I said, "Nice to meet you." And I meant it. It was important to me because I think appropriate human touch is healing, no matter how insignificant. It was healing to me. I can't speak for the others. It was healing because I overcame my fear of these strangers, one at a time, after listening to their stories, and crafting some time in my life to care for them, even for just a moment. I will remember them. God bless you, Shawn & Tricia, Manual & Corrine, Bonnie, and Ector, a Vietnam vet.
On Veteran's Day, I served with others in my community to reach out to hidden people. In our current economic crisis, anyone can be homeless with a change in events and circumstances. I did not need to figure out if these folks were trouble to society, or evaluate if they deserved a break or not. I needed to figure out that they are human, too. I was moved. I am changed. These efforts in my life keep me aware of what really matters and keep my heart tender. These efforts keep the gospel fresh in my faith. All this, and it was barely 8:00am. Time for a nap and time to pause to reflect on the meaningful experience.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Practicing This Perspective
This is my current reference point. This is my motto for engaging others to consider my point of view on anything that may be different from theirs. I return the same respect to them. I've summed it up this way:
This is a quiet and peaceful way to get along. Or at least worth a try. In these days of campaigning and issues that impact life in this great nation, as well as in all things spiritual, this is my focus in respecting my fellow man...and woman, of course. Hoping for the same in return.
"Simple conversation. Gentle invitation. Sincere consideration."
- Cindi Peterson
This is a quiet and peaceful way to get along. Or at least worth a try. In these days of campaigning and issues that impact life in this great nation, as well as in all things spiritual, this is my focus in respecting my fellow man...and woman, of course. Hoping for the same in return.
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