This Country and State are in desperate need of responsible leaders, in all areas of civic life. The shameful display of government dysfunction at many levels should be sufficient motivation for us to rise to our occasion. As I pen this, I’ve got several positive leadership images, including Adm. William McRaven, Leadership Austin and some outstanding Austin civic leaders. Washington makes the most noise, but civic problem solving at the local levels will have the most impact. And effective leaders will become our CIVIC HEROES. Let’s join them. Read on…
Read moreOUR MOMENTS OF TRUTH...CAN WE HEAR/SEE US NOW?
The campaign rhetoric, already heating up for an extended period, is a constant reminder of the ignorant, willfully ignorant and those who are just uninformed who make up too much of our electorate. It is critically important that we convert these categories to more knowledgable engaged fellow citizens. That’s where we come in. This Mosey Commentary is designed to give you an FAQ format that addresses current political themes. Hope you’ll find it informative. Thanks for joining me.
Read moreTHIS COUNTRY IS POISED FOR BETTER...FROM US AND OUR BETTER ANGELS...
What a Symbol of Civility, Compassion, Good Humor and Love…The Dalai Lama & Willie Nelson
This Country is poised for better. The great majority of us are sick of the racism, bigotry, fear-mongering, tribalism and incivility that typify too much of our national discourse. We’re challenged with appreciating our diversity, accepting that we are a nation of immigrants, and working together to break down cultural and political barriers. Then, building the bridges that will connect us to our extended community family. These reflections may be helpful as you consider your role in that constructive civic engagement..
Read moreTEACHING OUR CHILDREN WELL...LET'S RISE TO OUR OCCASION
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 moreLET'S "JUST SAY NO" TO HYPOCRISY...AND LYING...IN CHURCH AND STATE
Scandals and significant controversies in churches and government give us a plethora of teachable moments, as we struggle to strengthen and humanize our institutions. Hypocrisy reigns and truth suffers unless We The People rise to our occasion to expect and work for better. Organizational dysfunction limits achievement until there is more thoughtful stewardship. Join me in my latest Mosey Commentary as we address this theme. I always appreciate your time and observations.
Read moreTIME FOR AN INTERVENTION...THE CULPRITS AND HEROES ARE US!
We’ve Marched, Protested, Resisted and Voted. We’re now challenged with considering the most effective ways to capitalize on this momentum and move ahead. I think it’s time for a Civic Intervention. Time to choose community heroes and be one ourselves. Come join me as we consider these possibilities. This is an amazing time of transition. An exciting time for constructive civic engagement. Let’s do this. TOGETHER.
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 more