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Photo from Elephant Nature Foundation
"I hadn't been out to the hives before, so to start off she gave me a lesson in what she called 'bee yard etiquette'. She reminded me that the world was really one bee yard, and the same rules work fine in both places. Don't be afraid, as no life-loving bee wants to sting you. Still, don't be an idiot; wear long sleeves and pants. Don't swat. Don't even think about swatting. If you feel angry, whistle. Anger agitates while whistling melts a bee's temper. Act like you know what you're doing, even if you don't. Above all, send the bees love. Every little thing wants to be loved."
Sue Monk Kidd
“You see, at the very heart of service we understand that
the act of caring is always mutually beneficial. We
understand that in nurturing others we are always caring
for ourselves, and this understanding fundamentally shifts
the way we provide care. .."Compassion," when literally translated means "suffering with others" and "with'" is the most important word, because it implies
belonging. "Companion” is "one who travels with another."
So in this relationship there is no guide, there is no healer
and no one healed; we simply accompany one another.
And as my friend Reb
walking through birth and death holding hands."
If we are paying attention as we walk into the room of
someone dying, we immediately understand, in a visceral
way, just how precarious this life is. As we understand
that, we also come to see how precious it is. When we
keep death close at hand, we become less compulsive
about our desires, we take ourselves and our ideas a little
less seriously, and we let go more easily. We become
more open to generosity and to love. Paradoxically,
working with the dying will make us kinder to one
another. In the face of death everything we normally
identify with ourselves will either be stripped away by
illness or given up gracefully – but it all goes. "I'm a
father, I'm a mother, I'm a hospice worker" – whatever our
notion about our identity, it will go.
Helping incurs debt. When you help someone, they owe
you. But service is mutual. When I help I have a feeling of
satisfaction, but when I serve I have a feeling of gratitude.
Serving is also different to fixing. We fix broken pipes,
we don't fix people. When I set about fixing another
person, it's because I see them as broken. Fixing is a form
of judgment that separates us from one another; it creates
a distance. So fundamentally, helping, fixing and serving are ways of
seeing life. When you help, you see life as weak; when
you fix, you see life as broken; and when you serve, you
see life as whole. When we serve in this way, we
understand that this person's suffering is also my
suffering, that their joy is also my joy and then the
impulse to serve arises naturally -- our natural wisdom and
compassion presents itself quite simply. A server knows
that they're being used and has the willingness to be …When we serve, we are always in the service of wholeness. Caring for those who are suffering, whether or not they are dying, wakes us up. It opens up our hearts and our
minds. It opens us up to the experience of this wholeness
that I speak of. More often than not, though, we are caught
in the habitual roles and ideas that keep us separate from
each other. Lost in some reactive mind state, busy trying
to protect our self-image, we cut ourselves off and isolate
ourselves from that which would really serve and inform
our work. To be people who heal, we have to be willing to
bring our passion to the bedside; our own wounds, our
fear, our full selves. Yes, it is the exploration of our own
suffering that forms a bridge to the person we're serving.”
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead
Today, several of my colleagues left the U.S. to visit Kenya, to support the Foundations for Sub Saharan Africa and their partner VIAGENCO. They will bring medical supplies, equipment, medical expertise, and compassion to the worthy and noble.
May we all continue to reach out to humanity and the world at large with generosity and open hearts' and minds.'
“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom…
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.
What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. Those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our founding fathers ... our found fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all the other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave
For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship.
This is the source of our confidence — the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent Mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath…
Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the
President Barack Obama
January 20, 2009
"Let freedom ring. On this spot where we're standing, 46 years ago, Dr King had a dream. On Tuesday, that dream comes to pass"
BONO
Lincoln Memorial Celebration
"We are One"
January 2009
“I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.”
Leonardo da Vinci
On the rarest of occasions, there is opportunity to be a legal "coyote."
Today, with tremendous support and effort from Congresswoman Lois Capps' staff, and compassionate dedication from several Santa Barbara medical physicians', a dying gentleman was granted his dearest and final wish.
This gentleman, a legal and documented citizen of the U.S., has two children residing in another country where they are receiving their University educations.' As this gentleman is facing the final stages of his terminal illness, he has remained alert and determined to stay alive, with the sole hope that his children will be able to gain legal entrance into the U.S. and visit him one last time.
After 7 days of waiting at multiple border crossings, meeting with various consulate officials, and two refusals for entry to the U.S., finally, tonight, the dying gentleman's children were granted humanitarian visa entries.As I write this blog entry, they are on the road and on their way to see their father at the hospice home that is caring for him.
I had the greatest honor tonight, as I went to the hospice home and delivered the miraculous news to the dying gentleman. I have never been so moved or touched...as the tears streamed down his face, he simultaneously had the most beautiful and shining smile I have ever seen.
"Coyotes," were not needed to make this dream happen, rather a committed and determined group of people who believed in "doing." Like dogs with a bone, they maintained their stamina, doing the doing, and pushing forth with action. It wasn't just this gentleman's story that guided and inspired vigor, rather the resonation and connection to a story that is part of all of us...
-grassrootsmsw-
“Year's end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.”
Hal Borland
2008 has been an extraordinary year...
The most significant high light for me being that we, as a country, chose to believe in transformation and revolution. We chose humanity...we chose to believe the impossible was possible. We as a country and people, chose to create a better world through our actions and beliefs as American voters.'
We had the courage and wisdom to choose CHANGE, and to choose HOPE.
We have initiated new future pathways' for our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren...
May 2009 bring about the beginnings of long awaited change and rebirth. May we hold close the knowledge and lessons learned over time and maintain endurance as we rebuild and recreate the honor, integrity, and humanity of our nation.
The budding blossoms of hope and change are waiting to burst...Let's not only watch, but nurture and participate in their growth and strength...
-grassrootsmsw-
“A grand adventure is about to begin.”
Winnie the Pooh
With the pose of the hand, we can already recognize the character and theatrics soon to take the stage!
Congratulations and love to all three of you...
“Making a decision to have a child--it's momentous.
It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.”
Elizabeth Stone
GMR
“We need more everyday heroes. Heroes are ordinary people who take a stand for what is right.
These heroes act with integrity, look fear in the face, go the distance, stand against oppression and endure the cost of disappointment, betrayal and sometimes, pain.
These everyday heroes experience immeasurable rewards for their journey. We all have the opportunity to be everyday heroes. Certain ones,' show us it is possible.”
photo by grassrootsmsw
"Your victory has demonstrated that no person anywhere in the world should not dare to dream of wanting to change the world for a better place."
Nelson Mandela,
"This is the fall of the
Rama Yade, France's black junior minister for human rights.
"Your election marks a new chapter in the remarkable history of the
Manmohan Singh, Indian Prime Minister
"Your extraordinary journey to the White House will inspire people not only in your country but also around the world."
Ali-Al Sadig, Sudanese Foreign Ministry
"With the world in turmoil and doubt, the American people, faithful to the values that have always defined America's identity, have expressed with force their faith in progress and the future. At a time when we must face huge challenges together, your election has raised enormous hope in
Hamid Karzai, Afghan President
"What we have seen in talks with him, I met with him in person and in a small group, is a man who understands, who listens and who thinks. I estimate that the basis of our common interests will bring to a continuation of a policy of listening and cooperation to deal with the important challenges for us and the
Ehud Barak, Israeli Defense Minister
Cahnman,
Thinking of you today and knowing how proud you would have been!
"Not the least hard thing to bear when they go from us, these quiet friends, is that they carry away with them so many years of our own lives."
John Galsworthy
“We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope. But in the unlikely story that is
Barack Obama,
President Elect
"The country is in deep trouble. We've forgotten that a rich life consists fundamentally of serving others, trying to leave the world a little better than you found it. We need the courage to question the powers that be, the courage to be impatient with evil and patient with people, the courage to fight for social justice. In many instances we will be stepping out on nothing, and just hoping to land on something. But that's the struggle. To live is to wrestle with despair, yet never allow despair to have the last word."
Cornel West
“Some people do not have to search -
they find their niche early in life and rest there, seemingly contented and resigned.
They do not seem to ask much of life,
sometimes they do not seem to take it seriously.
At times I envy them,
but usually I do not understand them -
seldom do they understand me.
I am one of the searchers.
There are, I believe, millions of us.
We are not unhappy, but neither are we really content. We continue to explore life,
hoping to uncover its ultimate secret.
We continue to explore ourselves,
hoping to understand.
We like to walk along the beach -
we are drawn by the ocean,
taken by its power, its unceasing motion, its mystery and unspeakable beauty.
We like forests and mountains, deserts and hidden rivers, and the lonely cities as well.
Our sadness is as much a part of our lives as is our laughter.
To share our sadness with the one we love is perhaps as great a joy as we can know -
unless it is to share our laughter.
We searchers are ambitious only for life itself,
for everything beautiful it can provide.
Most of all we want to love and be loved.
We want to live in a relationship that will not impede
our wandering, nor prevent our search, nor lock us in prison walls.
We do not want to prove ourselves to another or compete for love.
We are wanderers, dreamers and lovers,
lonely souls who dare ask of life everything good and
beautiful.”
James Kavanaugh
“October is a symphony of permanence and change.”
Bonaro W. Overstreet
