John McCain’s passing gives us a great opportunity to re-set our thinking about effective civic engagement. McCain was passionate about getting things done, moving debates to solutions. Our governmental paralysis requires that WE THE PEOPLE rethink our roles as voters, volunteers and political supporters. We talk issues to death without creating/implementing solutions. Incorporating “What Do We Do Monday?” into our deliberations may change the civic momentum. Come join me and consider how McCain might influence our progress.
Read moreTHIS IS OUR OCCASION...LET'S RISE TO IT!
Our communities need a boost. Too many folks have been left out of the workforce pipeline, students are discouraged as to job opportunities, and we’re focusing too much energy on Washington and our state capitols to bring us solutions. Community health is directly related to education and economic opportunity. We all have a vested interest in boosting more citizens up the ladder of independence and success. Come join me as I pose some suggestions to help with this challenge.
Read moreA FORMIDABLE DYNAMIC...WOMEN, MINORITIES and STUDENTS...
The governmental chaos and incompetence of the past 19 months is a catalyst for a major increase in civic activism. Especially with Women, Minorities and Students. There are issue concerns for all of us, and emerging organizations to address them. Volunteer energy, collaborative structures and creative philanthropy complement these efforts. We’ll all win in the process. WE are the “they.” TOGETHER…
Read moreSUICIDE...Culprits: Mental Health, Devices & Congress...Remedy: Community
Suicides are uncomfortable topics, with which we all have to deal from time to time. The recent high-profile suicides of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain force us to pay attention to the causes and effects of suicide on us and our various communities. Suicides are as complex as life itself. Join me as I pose some considerations for our families, friends and communities. Help is on the way. We can be the They.
Read moreEEYORE'S SAD, BUT I'M NOT. IT'S SO BAD--THAT I'M ENCOURAGED!
Our perpetually sad friend Eeyore, on my leather hippie hat...circa early '70s
Today is Eeyore’s Birthday. He’s perpetually sad and downtrodden, as many of us have felt politically over the past several months. However, things got so bad over the past few months that the resistance backlash is positive and undeniable, and I’m encouraged about the potential to turn this mess around. There are many substantive and powerful signs of constructive civic engagement. Come join me as I outline a few. You’ll have many of your own. LET’S MOSEY!
Read moreOn Gus, Obama, Mueller, Trump and Us
In "Lonesome Dove," Gus McCrae, Robert Duvall's character earned his Texas Ranger spurs with spurs, guns, a sense of humor and fresh-made biscuits. He could be tough or gentle, as circumstances warranted. This Country is in desperate need of strong, high-integrity, compassionate and collaborative leaders. We might consider "Gus" as we ask our friend in the mirror, "Are you effective, or just busy?" Our communities need us. LET'S MOSEY!
Read moreON GUILT, GRATITUDE AND GRACE...WHAT NOW?
We won't know the magnitude of the tragic Texas Coastal damage for weeks and months, but the media images bring an immediate flood of emotions to most of us. Those of us out of harm's way are grateful to our core, and wish Grace to those directly impacted. However, many of us can't escape a sense of guilt that we ought to be more involved with those recovery efforts. Ought to be driving that direction with supplies and our willing volunteer selves. But logistical and practical realities preclude most of those impulses. So, what can/should we do? This Mosey Commentary might help. Read on. LET'S MOSEY!
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