August Theme: Reconstruction: What We Build After the Storm
After every great upheaval—whether personal, political, cultural, or spiritual—comes a defining question: What now? Following our exploration of Afterlife, which examined what remains long after systems, institutions, and injustices are presumed dead, and Backlash, which confronts the forces that resist … Continue reading August Theme: Reconstruction: What We Build After the Storm
Democracy Under Reconstruction, Again
Recovering America’s Democratic Memory “Be true to what you said on paper.”— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Most Americans know that the Civil War ended slavery. Far fewer know what came next.After four years of war, the United States faced … Continue reading Democracy Under Reconstruction, Again
The Game
Bernie Madoff became a sacrificial lamb because he violated the rules and took advantage of the untouchables: wealthy, “white,” male, landowners. Every now and then, they may drop one into the system to give the appearance of justice and no … Continue reading The Game
August 2026 Theme: Now What?!?
I never dreamed that vacationing out of the country is not only a luxury, but a necessary mental health break to reset my mind from the dark and depressing political state that our country is in right now. It appears … Continue reading August 2026 Theme: Now What?!?
Reconstruction: What We Build After the Storm
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary (2026), a storm is a catastrophic event usually marked by nature or life circumstances. Starting over after a storm is no simple task. It requires faith, patience, support, strength, and willingness to achieve your desired … Continue reading Reconstruction: What We Build After the Storm
July 2026 Theme: In the shadows of Lady Liberty
During a recent trip to New York City to celebrate a friend’s milestone birthday, we toured the iconic Ellis Island, home of the Statue of Liberty. As we gazed upon this gift from France, dedicated in 1886, I thought about … Continue reading July 2026 Theme: In the shadows of Lady Liberty
Pharaoh In The Outfield
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, many will be sitting in the stands, eating hot dogs or brats and sipping their favorite beverage. The scene will be set, and the smiles will be bright. Seventh-inning melodies of “Take Me Out … Continue reading Pharaoh In The Outfield
Under the Leadership of Abusers and Bullies
One thinks of the leadership approach of some as being consistent with the abusive behavior of bullies and those who commit various forms of assault. In general, abusers and bullies only violate, hurt and take from those who cannot stop … Continue reading Under the Leadership of Abusers and Bullies
What, to America, Is the 250th Anniversary?
In 1852, Frederick Douglass stood before an audience in Rochester, New York, and posed a question that continues to echo through American history: “What, to the American slave, is your Fourth of July?” Douglass understood something that remains true today. … Continue reading What, to America, Is the 250th Anniversary?
Three-Fifths 