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!
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.
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 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.
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