From my friend, Don Nelson: On this eve of Independence Day I can not help but reflect on the days events. Texas has once again shown the world the not so attractive image of regressive policy making. The States of North Carolina, Tennessee and Mississippi and others that march to "Dixie", continue to move to the rearward part of history. On this the Eve of Independence Day – what is it that we are celebrating? Is it that we have progressed beyond the small mindedness that feeds on fear and suspicion? Is it that we have moved and can now celebrate the new age of equality for each and every citizen – regardless of ethnicity, economic status or gender? I do not see that much has been accomplished in that regard. What we have is a call to engage the powers that desire to stifle the principle that all “men” and “women” – humankind have been given an opportunity in this Country that has not and does not, in many cases exist elsewhere. Our full attention is required if we are to truly have what Independence Day beckons us to remember. Read with me from Joyce Sequichie Hifler – A Cherokee Feast of Days: “Our full attention is like a powerful camera that focuses with such lighting and automatic adjustments as to be most potent for accomplishment. Inattention is sleeping on the job and the camera produces a fuzzy image. Stop and think – what do you want? To do the job right? Or to hope you can outrun the competition? Yes, many are running, but only on personality. The right look, the right smile, the right lingo may work for a time – and then comes the substance. Make it real. Make it work. Give it your full attention.” “I must give something of real value to show that my whole being goes with the lesser gift.” Chased-By-Bear, Santee Yanktonao Sioux – 1867 Stop and think – what do you want? What do you really want? How strong do you want it? Do we really want a country where no person must overcome artificial barriers – placed by those who desire to have more? If our desire is to continue the journey toward a more perfect union – it requires our full attention. G’Nite Y’All. Rest Well. Have a safe Independence Day. Celebrate and enjoy.
Posted on: Thu, 04 Jul 2013 04:06:36 +0000