Privilege is a loaded word in 2020. We could present a dictionary definition but let’s be honest: dictionary definitions don’t always align with everyday meaning as neatly as we’d like them to. When people nowadays talk about “privilege” they don’t necessarily mean “honor” or “great responsibility” like those in the past. They oftentimes mean that …
I’ll be frank and honest. I’m used to being in slightly awkward situations. Being a naturally quiet and reserved person, I’ve had my fair share of uncomfortable silences, wallflower moments, and awkward conversations. Often we feel awkward when caught between two extremes and we’re unsure of where we should stand. Striking a balance can be …
It takes about .05 seconds of looking at our world to realize it’s broken. The physical world is broken by illness and destructive forces of nature. Humanity is broken with wars, violence, poverty, injustice, and corruption. If we’re honest with ourselves, we have to admit our own souls are also broken. We are driven by …
It’s Saturday, November 7, 2020. Today, Joseph Biden has been projected as the President-elect of the United States. I foresee much more drama between now and January’s inauguration day but the chances of a Biden presidency are certainly high, if not inevitable. In the current American political climate, victory for either candidate would produce the …
Justice has replaced public health and pandemics as the foremost concern in the minds of many Americans. In the wake of the death of George Floyd the nation has wrestled with the complex problems of racism, policing, and “privilege”*. Riots happened, cities burned, people scoffed, people listened and challenged their perceptions and perspectives, and questions …
As we careen towards the 2020 Presidential election, let’s all keep James 3:13-18 in mind: Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the …
Have you ever been aware of a serious issue that you ignored or underestimated? Maybe it was a weird sound coming from the car engine or a strange change in health. You may have acknowledged that there was a problem but it seemed that time was on your side. Often times, those issues come to …
What impact could stories have? You’ve heard it said, “the pen is mightier than the sword”. Is a story so incendiary to ignite deep and long-lasting social change? The evidence certainly seems to indicate so. The power of storytelling has been harnessed with great effectiveness in numerous cases through the past. Some cases inspire us. …
Is quiet leadership an oxymoron? Can a quiet, reserved person lead? In our current culture, leadership is often associated with a commanding personality and an extroverted aura of authority. This perspective can be seen in how we view politics, business, and even romance. There are doubts that a quiet man can lead his family properly. …
