We had a lovely Christmas with Ron, Ira Kaye, Tara, Mike, Paige, and Tyler. My spirit is always uplifted by the inherent joy they bring to any gathering. Although we live a bit apart we had the good fortune of seeing each other twice in less than a week and were the better for it. It was a rainy and warm Christmas. 

Individualism is a positive character trait that is too often ignored or misunderstood. I vividly recall my friend Jo Ann telling me years ago that she appreciated my support and I responded that if I did not believe in her and what she was attempting to do I would not support her. She answered that was why she valued my efforts. We seek those who will agree with us or will at least not rock the boat. Those who keep their own counsel are the canaries in the coal mine and warn us of danger ahead.

Whether… it be at work church or any social organization the dissenters should be valued. The courage to not be bullied or influenced to go the way of the Lead Lemming should be held with some esteem. Heaven help us if we do not develop some critical thinking in our politics. 2024 will demand our best efforts. Fealty to what the group thinks will not extricate us from serious issues that face us. 

Christ has come to us. We are feeling the peace of the Season. We are certain that we must change and that we can be better. We know that doing the same thing over and over gives us the same results that do not work…and that is a model that diminishes us. Jesus was truly his own thinker and worried not what the group-think was. He brought a radical faith that went against many of the recognized religions of the day. Jesus rocked the boat…and we are all the better for it.

Why is it all right for homelessness and hunger to be rampant in the richest country in the world?

Why does killing bring peace?

Why is Christ’s message and the movement grown from that message used by many as a massive cudgel to beat those who do not submissively follow into bloodied submission?