After my talk at the Bristol, ME library. I received a wonderful email: “People were saying how hopeless/helpless we have been feeling. You left us feeling motivated.” Julia Lane from Castlebay played her harp and sang a special song: “When you open your heart, it's a brand new day.” Also, our book is in a new time capsule to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary.
Read MoreMy book partner Beth Malow inspired me to co-author this article in the Journal of Public Heath: “Cross-Partisanship in Public Health in the Age of Polarization: Why It Is Important and How to Achieve It.” And Happy Birthday on September 9 to Beyond the Politics of Contempt. We have more than 1500 books in the world and 1400 subscribers to our free newsletter.
Read MoreChange is fundamental for growing as a person, but sometimes it isn’t easy. Health issues are one example for me, and another is family who are moving overseas. I believe that everyone should have a therapist and find it unfortunate that there is so much stigma related to mental health. During some sad moments this summer, I am grateful for mine suggesting to give myself grace.
Read MoreIf you are confused by this title, I am talking about two different things! First off, I attended the Braver Angels convention in Philadelphia, PA at the end of June and gave a workshop on “Creative Writing and Conversations on Courageous Citizenship.” Second, I was honored to be called a “Peacebuilder” in the National Peace Corps Association’s WorldView magazine.
Read MoreWe are witnessing a big Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that brings back memories from 2014, when I was Peace Corps country director in Guinea during that Ebola pandemic. My staff used our deep community connections to educate citizens about the disease and the precautions required. We trained respected community members about common rumors and how to overcome fear and resistance.
Read MoreWhile there are many challenges in our country, I believe the most fundamental is the decline in kindness, respect, humility, and decency in how we treat others. Much of it is related to politics, but not exclusively. Expressing hatred toward others has become increasingly acceptable, threatening the well-being of Americans and the future of our special country.
Read MoreShould we totally avoid disagreement and conflict? Of course not! But we need to distinguish between conflict that is necessary and constructive as opposed to conflict that is unhealthy and destructive. In healthy conflict, we value others and believe they are worthy despite differences of opinion on politics or other issues.
Read MoreLoving your enemies (or at least treating them with dignity and respect) seems quaint in these challenging times. I worry that we are teaching our children that hate is perfectly OK. I wonder how this will filter down to the future generations who will lead our special country. We all need to do better as leaders and role models.
Read MoreI was asked that question by my therapist Kristen who added, “I wonder if you realize the importance your own simple presence serves in the lives of others.” She went on: “As you encounter change and uncertainty in the coming weeks and months, perhaps you can lead with the question, what would need to change to embrace or lean into my vulnerability?” Since my October stroke, I know I have been thinking more about my own vulnerability.
Read MoreOn New Year’s Day, I received an unexpected phone call asking me to share a few words at the celebration of life for Rev. Bob Brown, one of the most incredible and gracious people I have known, a truly amazing human being and model for my life. Who are people that touched your life in a positive, meaningful way? Take some time to reflect on what you learned and consider what maybe you could do better.
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