The last word - maybe

I have added my thoughts to the end of the last blog -- again, thanks to everyone who participated in the entries on this blog. You have provided rich, thoughtful insights. Not only that, but your writing has improved, immensely. I hope you have a wonderful summer. If you care to respond to this entry or share anything else on your mind, I will continue to check the blog for awhile and I will respond.

The last posting: Truth and Reconciliation

This is our last question to consider, for this course. You are welcome to respond several times, if you like. For those of you who would like to take some time to respond, you will have until June 19 to submit a response. I value your input and wise words. Thank you for the privilege of sharing your journey for a short while.
Our readings, for this week, have been focusing on justice and reconciliation. What does truth and reconciliation mean to you?

Crime and society's solution

We had a visit on Friday night from a salesperson representing ADT. She had an offer 'she' thought we couldn't refuse ... a 'free' home security system with only a mere $199.00 installation fee and $30.00 monthly fee. Although there hasn't been reported break-ins in this area, she tried to convince us that it would be best to be prepared (our two dogs were highly insulted, I must say... they take their jobs as watch dogs very seriously). Tragically, home invasions have become a way for some people to fund their destructive life-styles. I remember when our youngest son, who chose a life of crime in his teens, broke into his grandfather's house just after his wife had passed away. He stole her check book, along with numerous small electronic devices, and then he proceeded to cash forged checks in various places in the city. I watched as my father-in-law grappled with his feelings of violation and betrayal. Later, we learned that our son had also been responsible for numerous break-ins in the city. I was in court when he was sentenced. He was whisked away to jail without having to face his grandfather or us, for that matter. I have often wondered, since, what would have happened if we could have participated in a "Circle of Justice." Would the outcome have been different? I realize that extreme crimes demand extreme measures. But ... where does society draw the line? Can alternative measures restore effectively? What do you think??

Natural Disasters

I've been to Moncton, twice, in the past few days. Driving along beside the beautiful Saint John River and seeing the remnants of the flood left me feeling in awe of the mighty force of this river that once, just a few short weeks ago, moved houses and trees and forced people out of their beloved homes. Today, this magnificent river looks so harmless ... so gentle and calm. However, echoes of destruction remain. In some places, the shoulders of the road are washed away. In other places, huge piles of garbage and debris have been gathered, standing as a testament to once was. Not so readily visible are the people who are still recovering and perhaps some who may never. Now, the land is draining and the farmers are preparing to plant their crops on one of the most fertile pieces of land in New Brunswick. Once again something good is coming from disaster. Can you think of a time when you've experienced something good from something awful?

THURDAY'S CLASS CANCELLED

Well folks, I guess technology has taken time out tonight, and consequently we're not able to meet. However, continue on with the assignment for this week. You should be able to complete it without the benefit of tonight's class. Feel free to contact me should you have any questions or concerns. We'll catch up next class -- no worries. Enjoy your evening!

"Family Negative" poem p. 28

After reading this poem again, I was just wondering ... can something positive or good come out of the "family negatives"?

Class #3 reflections

Hi folks,
I really enjoyed last night's discussions; hope they were profitable for you. I've been thinking about the comments and discussion around 'words' and helping children negotiate through the racism they will experience. Although words are just that ... words ... they have tremendous potential for healing or hurt, for understanding or undermining, for delight or destruction. So my question is ... How can we use our words to bring healing and wholeness to this world and in particular to the people with whom we live and work?