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 moreCHOOSING TO LIVE OUT LOUD...BY DESIGN...WITH GRATITUDE
Life WILL be tough, but we’ve got choices. And we can choose to make the most of our lives, while adjusting to life’s changes. I love the admonishment to “live out loud,” and that’s a faithful personal practice, knowing that life’s serious challenges will require enough serious attention. In this Mosey Commentary, I’m including some suggestions that work for me. Hope you’ll find them helpful. LET’S MOSEY!
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 moreRAISING OUR VOICES FOR THE GOOD OF/IN OUR COMMUNITIES
We’re hearing lots of raised voices these days, and too many are shrill and negative. Political adversaries, tribalism, partisan extremists and hyper-competitive media pundits. We’ve experienced a marked decline in civility, common courtesy, mutual respect and expressions of generosity and kindness. The causes are debatable, but the negative repercussions are real and regrettable. However, we’ve got choices, and we can choose to do better. This Mosey Commentary may be helpful as you join me in consideration of our challenge. Let’s seek to raise our voices for good.
Read moreON TRUST, TRUTH AND THE "TEXAS TRIBUNE"
Bronze from the old Alamo National Bank in San Antonio
The current Supreme Court nomination process has brought out the worst in our political behavior and societal acceptance of same. We’re ashamed, embarrassed and know we can and must do better. A strong, free democracy is built on Trust, Truth, a free press, an informed citizenry and a respected system of laws. While I join you in this national embarrassment, I’m glad to share the good news about responsible news gathering and the encouragement of same that can help turn this destructive situation around. Read on. Thanks.
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.
Read moreTHE LEGACY AND CHALLENGE OF SEN. JOHN McCAIN
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 more