- OE - lists.wedgeblade.net

Re: [Oe List ...] Parker J Palmer's Standing in the Tragic Gap
by zbarley＠earthlink.net 17 Feb '25

17 Feb '25

Sent using myEarthLink On Mon Feb 17 05:28:52 MST 2025 Randy Williams via OE wrote: Over the years I have read everything Parker Palmer has written that I was aware of, and have found all of it to be enlightening. His insights are clear and have practical relevance. I’m always glad to know when others have read and appreciated him as well. Randy > > On Feb 17, 2025, at 6:56 AM, James Wiegel via OE < > > > (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> wrote: > > > > Thanks, Kevin. A great start for my morning. > Jim Wiegel > > “…the long work > of turning their lives > into a celebration > is not easy. Come and let us talk“. > > > The Sunflowers. Mary Oliver > > > > > > > > On Feb 16, 2025, at 11:58 PM, Kevin Balm via OE < > > > > > > (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Colleagues, > > > > > > This past week I facilitated the annual Senior Leadership Team retreat (a planning session in reality) for the UN Economic Commission for Africa. I have been facilitating and training various teams in this institution for 7-8 years now and finally got the opportunity to facilitate the senior most team. Unlike with the counterpart commission for Asia Pacific where I started with the senior team, I had to build up to this opportunity. My equivalent of the Ronin story from the old LENS programs is Parker J Palmer’s writings (and short videos), particularly his piece (attached) on “Finding your Soul” from his book “ Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation”. I especially like his Quaker metaphor for a Power Point – the Mobius Strip. I pause reading and demonstrate at this point. As with previous groups, individuals in this senior leadership group wanted to have copies of the reading. > > > > > > > > > > > > His “Courage to Teach” curriculum reminds me of our “Courage to Lead”. In fact much of Parker J Palmer’s work resonates strongly for me with OE/ICA teachings. The link below is his take on the Trans-establishment Stance. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (https://couragerenewal.org/library/hhd-standing-and-acting-in-the-tragic-ga…)> > https://couragerenewal.org/library/hhd-standing-and-acting-in-the-tragic-ga… > > > > > > > > > > > > Kevin Balm > > > > > > From: > > > > > > OE < > > > > > > (mailto:oe-bounces@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > oe-bounces(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe-bounces@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > > On Behalf Of Bill Parker via OE > > Sent: Monday, 10 February 2025 2:44 PM > > To: > > > > Order Ecumenical Community < > > > > > > (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > > > > Cc: > > > > Bill Parker < > > > > > > (mailto:bparker1251963@gmail.com)> > bparker1251963(a)gmail.com (mailto:bparker1251963@gmail.com)>; Richard and Maria Maguire < > > > > > > (mailto:richardandmaria@unfoldingfutures.net)> > richardandmaria(a)unfoldingfutures.net (mailto:richardandmaria@unfoldingfutures.net)> > > > > > > Subject: Re: [Oe List ...] 1. Re: [Dialogue] Masha Gessen article on the dangers of "anticipatory obedience" > > > > > > > > > > We need a session on “a path forward”. Our specific experience, context, and process understanding is exactly what is needed now. > > > > > > Bill Parker > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > On Feb 9, 2025, at 6:59 PM, Richard and Maria Maguire via OE < > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Hi > > > > > > > > > I agree with what Randy, Ken and Dharmalingam say to a great extent, and would like to add something. I believe that most if not all of the people on this list are in great pain about what is going on now and what has been going on for past many decades and even centuries that have led up to the current situation. I know for sure that we have been working for decades to support and entirely new approach to society, but in spite of our efforts and those of millions of others, the powerful close ranks and push forward. We are not alone in having done a lot and also not alone in feeling the pain. > > > > > > > > > To my mind the Trump clique, both the American and international one, would like to distract their citizens from the attacks on democracy that they and others have been carrying out for a long time. At the same time it seems to me that they would like to push the colonial project on further against the will and wishes of most people. They have grabbed the positions of power in the media, education, productive industry, government and so much more, and would love to go further. > > > > > > > > > That so many American citizens remain so ignorant of the rest of the world and even most of the rest of their own nation is another great pain, and this continues despite our and many others' significant efforts for many decades. It's so hard to know what do to that will really change the direction. > > > > > > > > > Yes it is so painful that even though the consequences of "anticipatory obedience" are well known, not least though the events around the Nazi government, that many tend to still do the same probably out of fear of consequences for themselves as well as the pain of having to face up to what's going on and all this again in spite of the dedicated efforts of our selves and so many. > > > > > > > > > Maria and I have been quite grateful to have discovered and using the insights and meditations of Self-Compassion as developed by Kristin Neff and many others. As I listen to what she says, it is really a practical application of what we have said about the Christ Word, especially, You are accepted, the past is approved, the future is open. This is not about retreat into yourself, but empowering and supporting yourself and others. If this approach is new to you as it was to us, you can learn more at > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (http://www.self-compassion.org)> > > www.self-compassion.org (http://www.self-compassion.org) > > > > > > . > > > > > > To get a view into the long term international anti-democratic strategies of the international political and economic elites, I highly recommend The Crisis of Democracy a research project of the TriLateral commission in the late 60's. The "crisis" for them was the rising expectation of people for a more democratic society and they outlined a strategy that you will easily recognize has been going on since the early 70's to shut it down. Reading it is like reading the battle plan of the powerful and privileged to keep the world safe for themselves. It is even available for free online on the Internet Archive > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (https://ia801308.us.archive.org/23/items/TheCrisisOfDemocracy-TrilateralCom…)> > > https://ia801308.us.archive.org/23/items/TheCrisisOfDemocracy-TrilateralCom… > > > > > > > > > On a contemporary note, we have become aware of the Atlas Network, a collaboration of anti-democratic organisations funded largely by fossil fuel billionaires, is also useful. Their strategy is to fund think-tanks around the world, such as the Cato Institute, Heartland Institute in the US and the Institute of Public Affairs in Australia. Their website claims to now have 500 affiliates in over 100 countries. > > > > > > > > > Adam Smith described these efforts over 200 years ago with a concise phrase in "The Wealth of Nations" , "Whenever these people get together, even for sport or amusement, the public is worse off. The talk is about how to reduce wages and raise prices." > > > > > > > > > Finally Maria I would like to thank everyone on this list for what you have done for peace and justice in the world, and catalysing awareness and action for so many, in our world, and we have all made a great difference against great odds. > > > > > > > > > Grace and Peace > > > > > > > > > Richard > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > On 10/02/2025 8:01 am, > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:oe-request@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > oe-request(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe-request@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > wrote: > > > > Send OE mailing list submissions to > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/oe-wedgeblade.net)> > > > http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/oe-wedgeblade.net > > > > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:oe-request@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > oe-request(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe-request@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > You can reach the person managing the list at > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:oe-owner@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > oe-owner(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe-owner@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > > > > than "Re: Contents of OE digest..." > > > > > > > > > > > > Today's Topics: > > > > > > > > 1. Re: [Dialogue] Masha Gessen article on the dangers of > > > > "anticipatory obedience" (Dharmalingam Vinasithamby) > > > > 2. West condones genocide (Ken Fisher) > > > > 3. Re: Masha Gessen article on the dangers of "anticipatory > > > > obedience" (RICHARD HOWIE) > > > > 4. Re: West condones genocide (Randy Williams) > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > > > > > > > Message: 1 > > > > Date: Sun, 9 Feb 2025 01:46:26 +0000 (UTC) > > > > From: Dharmalingam Vinasithamby > > > > < (mailto:dvinasithamby@yahoo.com) > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:dvinasithamby@yahoo.com)> > > > dvinasithamby(a)yahoo.com (mailto:dvinasithamby@yahoo.com)> > > > > To: Colleague Dialogue > > > > < (mailto:dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > dialogue(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net)>, Order > > > > Ecumenical Community > > > > < (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:oe@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > > Subject: Re: [Oe List ...] [Dialogue] Masha Gessen article on the > > > > dangers of "anticipatory obedience" > > > > Message-ID: > > > > < (mailto:2068938938.10282361.1739065586212@mail.yahoo.com) > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:2068938938.10282361.1739065586212@mail.yahoo.com)> > > > 2068938938.10282361.1739065586212(a)mail.yahoo.com (mailto:2068938938.10282361.1739065586212@mail.yahoo.com)> > > > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" > > > > > > > > In his op-ed on the dangers of "anticipatory obedience", Masha Gessen presents ?The Chilling Consequences of Going Along With Trump? as a looming threat. Some may see this article as timely and relevant but I see it as part of Western media?s continuing effort to keep Americans in their bubble. From my possibly recalcitrant point of view from the other side of the world, the Americans are no strangers to anticipatory obedience. Most of them have confronted ?The Chilling Consequences of Going Along With Biden? without a cringe. After electing a warmonger as President who conspired with Netanyahu to make the US a partner in genocide, how much more trying would MAGA be? As long as Americans wail about Trump leading them without acknowledging what has been done in their name over the last four years, they will remain in their bubble while the world looks on with horror.? > > > > > > > > On Sunday, 9 February 2025 at 07:31:33 am MYT, Ellie Stock via Dialogue > > > > < (mailto:dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > dialogue(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net)> wrote: > > > > > > > > Hi Folks,Masha Gessen article on the dangers of "anticipatory obedience". . > > > > .Ellie? (mailto:.Ellie?elliestock@aol.com) > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:elliestock@aol.com)> > > > elliestock(a)aol.com (mailto:elliestock@aol.com)? > > > > This op-ed in The NY Times calls on us not to obey in advance:? > > > > > > > > > > > > (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/08/opinion/trump-power-surrender.html?unloc…)> > > > https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/08/opinion/trump-power-surrender.html?unloc… > > > > _______________________________________________ > > > > Dialogue mailing list > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (mailto:Dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net)> > > > Dialogue(a)lists.wedgeblade.net (mailto:Dialogue@lists.wedgeblade.net) > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > (http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/dialogue-wedgeblade.net)> > > > http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/dialogue-wedgeblade.net > > > > > > > >

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HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
by Ellie Stock 15 Feb '25

15 Feb '25

Hi Folks, Below are the words and a link to a beautiful choral arrangement of the traditional Shaker song, "Love Is Little." We thought it was a poignant, affirming, and calming song for living in these turbulent times. Happy Valentine's Day! Carleton and Ellie elliestock(a)aol.com Love Is Little | | | | | | | | | | | Love Is Little | | | LOVE IS LITTLE Love is little, love is low, Love will make our spirits grow,Grow in peace, grow in light,Love will do the thing that’s right. Love is gentle, love is small,Love will find the best of all,Find the peace, find the light,Love will do the thing that’s right. Love is silent, love is strong,Love will sing a quiet song,Sing of peace, sing of light,Love will do the thing that’s right. Love is wonder, love is grace,Love will bind all in its place,Bind the peace, bind the light,Love will do the thing that’s right. ~traditionalShaker hymn BE GENTLE, BE STRONG, BE PEACE, BE GRACE, BE LIGHT, AND BE LOVE TO THOSE AROUND YOU, TO EARTH AND ALL THAT IS IN IT. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

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Re: [Oe List ...] the dangers of "anticipatory obedience"
by Ken Fisher 14 Feb '25

14 Feb '25

"We may discover that the first 16 months of the war were only a starter, the first 50,000 deaths only a prelude." Colleagues, Thank-you, Dharma & Randy for starting this thread. So much of what we are experiencing invites paralysis. Looking forward to joining our conversation on … anticipatory obedience … Palestinian genocide … self-compassion … a path forward James (aka Jim), are you our preferred facilitator? Yes, from me. For those participating, I wish to add the following article to our convo. In awe of our species …. Ken Haaretz (Hebrew: הָאָרֶץ, lit. 'The Land [of Israel]' is an Israeli newspaper. It was founded in 1918, making it the longest running newspaper currently in print in Israel. Haaretz is Israel's newspaper of record. It is known for its left-wing and liberal stances on domestic and foreign issues. As of 2022, Haaretz has the third-largest circulation in Israel. It is widely read by international observers, especially in its English edition, and discussed in the international press. According to the Center for Research Libraries, among Israel's daily newspapers, "Haaretz is considered the most influential and respected for both its news coverage and its commentary." Gideon Levy, born 2 June 1953 is an Israeli journalist and author. Levy writes opinion pieces and a weekly column for the newspaper Haaretz that often focus on the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. Levy has won prizes for his articles on human rights in the Israeli-occupied territories. In 2021, he won Israel's top award for journalism, the Sokolov Award Wikipedia HOW WOULD ISRAEL RESPOND IF TRUMP CALLED FOR DEATH CAMPS IN GAZA? Gideon Levy - Haaretz, Feb 12, 2025 And what if U.S. President Donald Trump suggested setting up death camps for the inhabitants of the Gaza Strip? What would happen then? Israel would respond exactly as it did to his transfer ideas, with ecstasy on the right and indifference in the centrist camp. Yair Lapid would announce that he would go to Washington to present a "complementary plan," like he offered to do with regard to the transfer plan. Benny Gantz would say that the plan shows "creative thinking, is original and interesting." Bezalel Smotrich, with his messianic frame of mind, would say, "God has done wonders for us and we rejoice." Benjamin Netanyahu would rise in public opinion polls. The issue is no longer a hypothetical one. Trump will not explicitly suggest death camps, but he has already consented to Israel's continuing a war that is not a war but rather a barbaric assault on a desolate stretch of land. From there, the road to annihilation is short, and Israel will not bat an eye. Trump approved it. After all, no one In Israel rose up to tell the president of the United States "thank you for your ideas, but Israel will never support the expulsion of the Gaza Strip's Palestinians.” Hence, why be confident that if Trump suggested annihilating anyone refusing to evacuate Gaza, Israel would not cooperate with him? Just as Trump exposed the transfer sentiment beating in the heart of almost every Israeli, aimed at solving the problem "once and for all," he may yet expose a darker element, the sentiment of "it's us or them.” It's no coincidence that a shady character like Trump has become a guide for Israel. He is exactly what we wanted and dreamed about: a whitewasher of crimes. He may well turn out to be the American president who caused the most damage ever inflicted on Israel. There were presidents who were tight-fisted with aid, others who were sour on Israel, who even threatening it. There has never been a president who has set out to destroy the last vestiges of Israel's morality. From here on, anything Trump approves will become Israel's gold standard. Trump is now pushing Israel into resuming its attacks on the Gaza Strip, setting impossible terms for Hamas: All the hostages must be returned before Saturday noon, not a minute later, like the mafia does. And if only three hostages are returned, as was agreed upon? The gates of hell will open. They won't open only in Gaza, which has already been transformed into hell. They will open in Israel too. Israel will lose its last restraints. Trump gave his permission. But Trump will be gone one day. He may lose interest before that, and Israel will be left with the damage he wrought, damage inflicted by a criminal, leper state. No public diplomacy or friends will be able to save it if it follows the path of its new ethical oracle. No accusations of antisemitism will silence the world's shock if Israel embarks on another round of combat in the enclave. One cannot overstate the intensity of the damage. The renewal of attacks on Gaza, with the permission and under the authority of the American administration, must be blocked in Israel. Along with the desperate campaign for returning the hostages, a new campaign must begin, against Trump and his outlandish ideas. However, not only is there no one who can lead such a campaign, there is also no one who could initiate it. The only battles being waged here now, for the hostages and for the removal of Netanyahu, are important, but they cannot remain the only ones. The resumption of the "war" is the greatest disaster now facing us, heralding genocide, with no more argument about definitions. After all, what would a "war" look like now, other than an assault on tens of thousands of refugees who have nothing left? What will the halting of humanitarian aid, fuel and medicine and water mean if not genocide? We may discover that the first 16 months of the war were only a starter, the first 50,000 deaths only a prelude. Ask almost any Israeli and he will say that Trump is a friend of Israel, but Trump is actually Israel's most dangerous enemy now. Hamas and Hezbollah will never destroy it like he will.

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I Thought I Would Share Some Thoughts
by Milan Hamilton 10 Feb '25

10 Feb '25

First, I want to say a big heartfelt thank you to those of you, my colleagues and friends, who responded to my earlier GoFundMe request on behalf of our local Neighborhood Climate Action Redlands (ANCA Redlands) efforts. Second, I want to say thank you to all of you, who are now members of my collegial council as we try to navigate the turbulent and heating-up waters of the 21st century. We have done marvelous things as a body. I just remembered the night Lyn Mathews invited Dave McClesky, Frank Knutson and I to her little retirement community apartment and said those words or something like them. And our good friend and mentor Georgianna McBurney was constantly expressing similar sentiments. I am thankful for all we have done as a people, trying to keep alive the dream MLK spoke of so eloquently just before he was struck down. Third, I am thankful for all you as the Order dispersed have accomplished and been able to share in vicariously through the gift of the internet and social media, with all its flaws and pitfalls. Fourth, I am attaching a copy of the vision and goals our ANCA Redlands crew have been operating out of and implementing for these past two and a half years. If anything we are doing at the local level looks like it might be of value in your piece of the globe, we are happy to share it. It was the work of our colleagues in Denver who started this ANCA thing that inspired us to give it a go here in Redlands. You can Google ANCA Redlands or click the link <https://redlands-anca.hub.arcgis.com/> if anyone you know might be interested. And just in case anyone missed my GoFundMe appeal, I am happy to share that here as well—Click Here! <https://gofund.me/58b7b70b> Fifth, and last, I am sharing a couple of poems. The first one was written and read to my writing group on the occasion of the mass pardoning of the January 6th insurrectionists. The second was in response to Linda asking me if I had written my birthday poem yet. (Our gang here was in the habit of composing birthday songs for milestone birthdays and sadly, as the gang has dwindled, so has our practice). So the poem I wrote seemed to be more fitting for a song. The reason for sharing is that we all have a story to tell. I don’t want any of yours to be lost. The inspiration for the song is the great Merle Travis immortal hit “Sixteen Tons.” I have included an attached MP3 file to the version I chose with a little help from AI. *A Very Personal Poem* (on the occasion of the pardon and release of 1500 January 6th Insurrectionists) I woke up this morning. Does that mean I’m woke? I’m approaching number 88, Grateful that I ain’t broke. I may be badly bent. I feel like something’s missing. I can’t tell where it went. If you know, don’t tell me. Maybe I’ll give it up for Lent. Can’t find my rose-colored glasses. Maybe I’ll borrow yours. I watched them all get passes. They just walked out the door, To join the huddled masses Still yearning to know the score. Milan Hamilton January 23, 2025 *Eighty-Eight Years* 1. I – was born one mornin’ in the Great Depression, Raised on the plains on a reservation, Got an education but I’m still not done, My life rolls on ‘til the setting sun. Chorus: Ya live eighty-eight years and whatta ya get? Another year older and ya ain’t dead yet. St. Peter’s still a-waitin’ for the dice to be rolled. But I’m not goin’ ‘til my story’s been told. 2. It’s 2025 and where have I been. The years flew by – It’s beyond my ken. I better get a-writin’ ‘fore I’m too damn old, Before they lay me down – stiff and cold. Chorus: Ya live eighty-eight years and whatta ya get? Another year older and ya ain’t dead yet. St. Peter’s still a-waitin’ for the dice to be rolled. But I’m not goin’ ‘til my story’s been told. 3. My life is a song – hasn’t been sung yet, No one to sing it but there’s no regret. I’ll sing it myself when the darkness comes, And go out dancin’ on the grim reaper’s drum. Chorus: Ya live eighty-eight years and whatta ya get? Another year older and ya ain’t dead yet. St. Peter’s still a-waitin’ for the dice to be rolled. But I’m not goin’ ‘til my story’s been told. *Milan Hamilton, January 25, 2025, Thank you Merle Travis* - Mellow Milan Hamilton 80 North Center Street Redlands, CA 92373 Phone: (909) 943-1667 email: mellowmilan2(a)gmail.com

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West condones genocide
by Ken Fisher 09 Feb '25

09 Feb '25

https://open.substack.com/pub/charlieangus/p/trump-and-the-destruction-of-g… Jesus wept.

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Masha Gessen article on the dangers of "anticipatory obedience"
by Ellie Stock 09 Feb '25

09 Feb '25

Hi Folks,Masha Gessen article on the dangers of "anticipatory obedience". . .Ellie elliestock(a)aol.com This op-ed in The NY Times calls on us not to obey in advance: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/08/opinion/trump-power-surrender.html?unloc…

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Words to a song
by Judi White 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

Can anyone remember the words to the song with the tune, "If I were a rich man?" and the words "Oneness of all creation wholly engulfed..." , or the title and directions to find it? I have four songbooks here and can't find it in any of them. this does not mean they are not therre, actually, but my eyes did not see them. Judi White

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FW: How to disagree with curiosity instead of hate
by Lynda C 04 Feb '25

04 Feb '25

Lots of good news in this Reason to beCheerful. In addition to the lead article about our times and crossing the polical divide, I want to call your attention to the article at the bottom about the Revival of India’s Step Wells. This reminded me of JWM’s walking through Maliwada and asking the elders about water distribution in former days. As I remember it, there was a series of “bunds” or little hills that held the water in place long enough for it to sink into the ground instead of washing away into floods. Amazing architecture in these wells which are in New Delhi and typically in sacred places or wealthy areas. I'm also remembering that Water is Life and thinking of colleagues as well as tribes gathered in similar weather to demonstrate their determination to save the water. Thankful for warmth and housing and water! Lynda From: Reasons to be Cheerful <info(a)reasonstobecheerful.world> Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 2:10 PM To: lynda860(a)outlook.com <lynda860(a)outlook.com> Subject: How to disagree with curiosity instead of hate As the White House changes hands, a few tips for engaging with the opposite side. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ View this email in your browser<https://mailchi.mp/reasonstobecheerful.world/the-indian-state-that-went-100…> [https://gallery.mailchimp.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/5272eaf5-9a0…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> Tonic for tumultuous times. A liberal whose Mexican immigrant parents have voted for Donald Trump three times, journalist Mónica Guzmán has personal experience talking to the “other side” with respect. In a candid interview, the author of I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times explains how engaging with those we disagree with helps build lasting social movements. How to Reach Across a Divide With Curiosity Instead of Hate<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> By: Hannah Wallace [https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/227e4ad6-227d-f3…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> In a Q&A, journalist Mónica Guzmán explores how people with opposing beliefs can connect and find common ground<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…>, even in polarizing times. Barcelona’s Five ‘Superblocks’ Are Buoyant Hubs of Urban Health<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> By: Kaja Šeruga [https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/fb8ecb32-9d50-12…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> An idea first proposed two centuries ago is finally creating space for exuberant, car-free life.<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> [https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/ad1057aa-c939-82…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> Green Microgrids Are Powering a More Resilient Future<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> By: Eric Krebs [https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/2bc74f17-028d-f4…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> Across the U.S., thousands of homes and businesses are now running on locally distributed green power<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> in a radical reimagining of the grid. New York’s First Guaranteed Income Program Is a Lifeline for Homeless Moms<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> By: Eliza Fawcett [https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/73eeff97-90e8-13…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> The simple act of cash distribution can alleviate poverty and improve health<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> — including families’ health and early childhood development. 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[https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/aea0afeb-a3e4-42…]<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> [https://mcusercontent.com/7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5/images/8bcd1ffa-e18d-8b…] <https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> The Revival of India’s Stunning Stepwells<https://world.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7b8d347b73462de6956ba29c5&i…> By: Charukesi Ramadurai Long abandoned, these deep, intricately designed wells are once again quenching water needs across India. 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Gene Marshall, Joyce Marshall and Alan Richard – Say “Goodbye”
by Ken Fisher 23 Jan '25

23 Jan '25

Realistic Living – Journal of Religion & Ethics / 1984 - 2024 With Gene turning 93 on January 3rd, and Joyce turning 91 on February 19th, Gene Marshall, Joyce Marshall and Alan Richard – Say “Goodbye” Dear RL, With the reading of the last issue of RL, I am deeply moved. On the map of the Other World - Land of Mystery, I am immersed in state #1, “It just cannot be that way.” With love, loyalty, and admiration, Ken To the O:E Listserv: From Issue #82, the final issue, Gene writes about meeting JWM in ’53 and getting involved with the Christian Faith and Life Community. In ’62, after Army Chaplaincy, he, Ruth and children 8, 6, and 4, joined the Order Ecumenical to be part of its public face, The Ecumenical Institute: Chicago. Realistic Living Theologizing is the cover article of this last issue. https://realisticliving.org/PDF/WholeJournal82.pdf WholeJournal82 PDF Document · 2.1 MB Here, he shares his 70+ year journey with the five luminaries, the ‘hand of god’ that became the giants of the New Reformation, the theologizers of the NEW, New Testament. Thumb – Søren Kierkegaard, moving European philosophy and Lutheranism into existentialism. Finger #1 – Rudolf Bultmann, pointing to each word and metaphor in the New Testament existentially. Experiencing our limits as luminescent. Finger #2 – Paul Tillich, restoring a non-moralistic, non-dogmatic, existential sharing of the experience of sin & grace, estrangement (SK’s despair) and healing. Finger #3 – Dietrich Bonhoeffer, gifting us with the communion of saints as “life together"; and the Holy Spirit as second-by-second living and creatively responding to the tension of indescribable obligation & freedom. Finger #4 – H. Richard Niebuhr, illuminating the inherited visible church and the phenomena of ‘those who care’, the invisible church. Incorporated in 1984, the Realistic Living Journal has been a wonderful source of Joyce Marshall’s book and movie reviews. She has been a strong proponent of Eco-Theater. Over the past 15 years, resident scholar Alan Richard Ph.D. has been responsible for all aspects of RL. Built on the work of the five luminaries, Gene has published 10 books - the context of which now includes feminism, ecology and climate change, (Gene invented the word, 'eco-democracy') electoral politics, the enigma of consciousness, and Christian life and practices. His latest is “Approximate Knowing – The End of our Dogmatic View of Religion. His commentary on Mark is a profound journey into original Christian consciousness. https://realisticliving.org/blog/mark-commentary/ Believe me or not, I also found excitement in the July ’24, issue #81. May Gene’s genius never end. https://www.realisticliving.org/PDF/WholeJournal81.pdf WholeJournal81 PDF Document · 2.7 MB Gene maps “All that is.” In the upper left, using the latest descriptors, he gives words to The Inanimate, the stuff through which all being is expressed. Happy to find ourselves in The Animate, with Survival and Sensuality in Layers of Aliveness. In ’74-’75, I spent six months with Gene in The Academy. In August of 2011 and 2012, I attended RL’s Leadership Training and Symposium event. Forever inspired, Ken

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Obituary, Suzanne Parker, and service info
by Terry Bergdall 10 Jan '25

10 Jan '25

Below is Suzanne's obituary. A service celebrating her life will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City at 1pm CDT on Saturday, January 25, 2025. It will also be streamed live on Facebook at "weselychurchokc". Terry Bergdall for Bill Parker ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Suzanne Sachse Wallace Parker was born on February 13, 1943, in Chickasha, OK to Garnet Evelyn (Hill) Wallace and the late James Sachse Wallace, who passed away while serving in WWII just three short months before Suzanne's birth. Her mother then re-married John T. (Jake) Cobble and Suzanne was blessed with younger brother Tom and little sister Mary Jane. The family settled in Minco, OK where Suzanne attended school and graduated in 1961. She continued her education at Oklahoma City University where she earned her Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. While at OCU, she stumbled upon a young man named Billy G. Parker and before they finished school, they were united in marriage on January 25, 1963 at the First United Methodist Church in Minco; what would be the beginning of a beautiful 61year life together. Suzanne & Bill immediately knew they shared a driving passion for the human community and this motivated them to join the faculty of the Ecumenical Institute and the Institute of Cultural Affairs, working in human development at every level of society from Oklahoma City to Dallas, Miami, Chicago, Indianapolis, then to Paris, France and finally to Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire before returning to Oklahoma City in 1985. Throughout the years of that journey Suzanne taught elementary school, and used all of her earnings to provide funding for a local staff to get running water and other basic essentials to areas in need in local communities. While serving, they were blessed with two children, Andrew Kennedy Parker and Angela Marie Parker, into their family. As the years passed, the young family decided to relocate back to the states and settled in Oklahoma City where Suzanne then began a rewarding 21year teaching career at Westminster School. Suzanne had such a deep appreciation for education and inclusion, resulting in many of her students forming a lifelong connection with "Mrs. Parker." Following her retirement in 2010, Suzanne and Bill enjoyed traveling to Gander, Newfoundland in exploration of answers regarding her father's MIA WWII death and returning to Paris, relishing in the changes since they'd lived there. They spent years cultivating a butterfly garden in their yard and Suzanne found great joy and solace in admiring the multitude of wildlife that creation offered. She spent hours knitting afghan blankets & scarves, winning 1st place and Best of Show in the Oklahoma State Fair in 2023 for one of her beloved pieces; which will be forever cherished. Suzanne and others helped found the non-profit organization PambeGhana in Oklahoma City, which is a partnership for bi-lingual, Montessori-based education for children in remote communities in Northeastern Ghana. She was a volunteer for Pambe Ghana’s fair- trade Global Market, open in November and December in Oklahoma City, in which all earnings funds about 1/3 of the budget of the model school in Ghana. She was continuing her life's work to help provide aide for those children until her passing. She was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church and supported the Wesley Montessori School for neighborhood children. Suzanne would often be found enjoying her books, classic music, a cup of tea or good glass of wine and good conversation. No one however, received more love and generosity from her than her family. She would do anything for her family. The legacy of her life will carry on to future generations. Suzanne passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on Friday, December 27, 2024 at the age of 81; just days after hosting a wonderful family Christmas. Survivors include her husband, Bill Parker of Oklahoma City, OK; son, Andrew Parker; daughter, Angela Parker, all of Oklahoma City, OK; two grandchildren, Kennedy Parker of Oxford, MS and Greyson Parker of Edmond, OK; brother, Tom Cobble & wife Lela of the Oklahoma City area; brother-in-law, Gary Crosby of Newcastle, OK; sister-in-law, Charlotte Betche of Cordell, OK; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and an abundant amount of friends, past students, colleagues in the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Library Sort Site, the Library for the Blind, and many other people and places. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sachse Wallace, Jake & Garnet Cobble; sister, Mary Jane Crosby; and brother & sister-in-law, Dewayne and Maxine Parker. Services will be at the Wesley United Methodist Church, 1401 NW 25th and Classen Saturday at 1:00pm with reception following to celebrate the wonder of her life. The celebration will be streamed on Facebook at wesleychurchokc. We ask that those who wish to make donations in Suzanne’s memory can give to: Pambe Ghana, PO Box 18813, Oklahoma City OK 73154-88103, or to the Wesley Montessori Preschool at Wesley United Methodist Church. The family appreciates the many prayers, gestures and kind words offered during this difficult time. Bill Parker

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