The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines empathy in plain language. The word empathy is a noun. It means “the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another.” Let me bring this … Continue reading “50 Shades of Black (an Empathic Journey)”
As the media is constantly bombarding viewers with the growing debate around the subjects of colorblind and critical race theory, I often think about my childhood and what my parents taught us about racism and how to deal with it. … Continue reading A Season of Recognition and Reconciliation
I was sitting in a writing workshop with a group of writers, and our assignment was to make a family tree. We could employ some creative license in making our trees. I set out putting together my creation, complete with … Continue reading When Your Roots Are Severed
The best question is, “If I have the ability to help heal a wound or make something right that is wrong (whether because of my ancestors or not), shouldn’t I?” Continue reading Racist Roots & White Privilege
My father took me to the eye doctor not long ago. The pressure in my eyes has been slightly elevated. After a thorough examination and waiting for the eye drops to finally kick in, the doctor told me I’m doing … Continue reading Ignorant Beliefs of Cultural Roots have Damaged Life in my community
On June 19th, America observes the newest National Holiday, Juneteenth. That day we commemorated when Texas’ enslaved people received the news that they were set free two years after the fact. Today many Americas don’t want to acknowledge the wrong … Continue reading The June Issue: When “I’m Sorry” just won’t do. Real Talk About Reparations
I have to admit that I’m not a fan of the notion of reparations as it is discussed in conversations about racial redress. This is not because I don’t think that African-Americans deserve to be restored for 404 years of … Continue reading The Problem with Reparations: Why I am Seeking Shalom
Written by the Reverend Arthur L. Jones, III – Elmira, NY – May 7, 2023.Are you familiar with the Walmart paradox? You may recognize it by another phraseology, but the principle is as universal as it is simple. Imagine that … Continue reading “Reparations in America – the Walmart Paradox Remains”
My heart fell in despair when I heard the news. Two African American legislators were expelled from the Tennessee State Capitol. They wanted to pass sensible legislation to ban assault weapons in their state. Thankfully, these two individuals were reinstated … Continue reading A Simple Apology will Never Solve Racism in America Today
Three-Fifths 