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 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 moreOUR BEST GIFT...A GRANDSON "SAVED BY THE DELL." And GRACE...
The times prompt me to frequently post civic engagement and political observations, because my conscience compels me to lift my voice as a constructive catalyst where possible. However, as I enter the holiday season, I’m moved to recognize significant examples of Grace and gratitude that far surpass the daily foibles of the political arena. I almost lost my grandson to Leukemia, but he was saved by the miracle workers at Austin’s Dell Children’s Hospital. That’s my greatest gift in 2018. I’d love you to share this gift in the pictures that highlight a wonderful story. Come join me.
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 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.
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