As a father and grandfather, I’m often thinking about children. However, my sensitivities have been heightened recently by other influences. By the Anna Deveare Smith play, Notes From The Field, based on her interviews with a diversity of folks relative to community experiences of bigotry, racism and various forms of discrimination. By the expanded nightmare on our Southern border, and it’s impact on children and families. By the shameful college admissions scandal and what it says about abuse of privilege. And by the anniversary of the loss of my younger son, whose dreams were cut short by cancer at age 12. Join me as I reflect on our challenges and opportunities with ALL children.
Read moreTIME FOR AN INTERVENTION...THE CULPRITS AND HEROES ARE US!
We’ve Marched, Protested, Resisted and Voted. We’re now challenged with considering the most effective ways to capitalize on this momentum and move ahead. I think it’s time for a Civic Intervention. Time to choose community heroes and be one ourselves. Come join me as we consider these possibilities. This is an amazing time of transition. An exciting time for constructive civic engagement. Let’s do this. TOGETHER.
Read moreMOMENTS OF TRUTH...LET'S CHOOSE TO LEAP TO ADVOCACY...
We know the story of the frog that dies of complacency and confusion when lulled into the false security of the simmering pan. But the frog that’s tossed into a boiling pan quickly comes to its senses and executes a prompt escape. What a great metaphor for the moment. Too many of us have been simmering, when we should be making our escape. The New Year gives us a great opportunity to do better for ourselves and our communities. We’re called to reconcile moments of truth with opportunities and responsibilities. Come join me as we consider energizing our civic engagement commitment. Let’s Do This! Together…
Read moreSCROOGE, PIGLET AND ME...WE'RE READY FOR CHANGE!
Piglet speaks for me, too. Temporarily.
What a turbulent year 2018 has been! In business, politics and most all aspects of society. And it’s so easy to get swept up in the negative conversations in many forms. I’ve found myself chiming in on too many negative threads of political criticism, when I had little to add. The only consistent measurable result has been with blood pressure and stress levels. Most certainly not worth the efforts. Like Michael Jackson, I’m “looking to that Man in the Mirror…to make that change.” I’m going to refrain from most National political commentary, showcase outstanding national pundits where appropriate, and shift my emphasis to local civic engagement, where I can cheerlead outstanding civic program models that can be emulated anywhere. Come join me to better understand my New Year’s rationale. You can still count on fun, irreverence and occasional surprises. HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Read more"CLEAN UP ON AISLE AMERICA" We've Got Work To Do...
I happened on this beautiful broom as I was walking past it to photograph other scenes. It stopped me in my tracks, and I was taken with the metaphor. It could be used for good or bad, as in sweeping things (or issues) under the rug. The purpose of the broom depends on the care and intent of the guiding hands. As it is with our extended experiment in self-government. Join me in this Mosey Commentary to see why I’m encouraged.
Read moreTIME TO PATCH THE HOLE...IN OURSELVES, FOR OUR COUNTRY...
My timeworn mining pan is a great metaphor for the circumstances in which we find ourselves at the mid-term elections of 2018. Our National character and values are being tested, and we need to patch some significant holes if we’re to honor the sacrifices of our heritage and the stewardship of our children’s future. I’m seeing some renewed civic energy that encourages me as to our potential to reclaim this Country for/with our Better Angels. Come join me. LET’S MOSEY!
Read moreLET'S ALL BE "FIRST RESPONDERS!" OUR COMMUNITIES NEED US.
Former Austin Chief of Police, now Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo
The term “First Responders” came into indelible relevance after the 9-11 tragedies, as we watched the media saturation of EMS, Fire, Police and other community heroes who served in time of great need. And now, after Hurricane Harvey and the considerable current East Coast challenges, we’re again focused on the importance of our First Responders. I’ve found this to be a great metaphor for our broader challenge of rebuilding our frayed community infrastructure, frayed due to governmental neglect at many levels. It seems that we can give our communities a boost if more of us adopt a “First Responder” mindset and practice. Come join me and see what you think.
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