On the one hand, yesterday’s court ruling regarding the murder of George Floyd brought some peace to those most impacted by the disturbing state of systemic violence against our black sisters and brothers. On the other hand, as I heard reflected on the news that I watched last night, true justice only would have beenContinue reading ““Here’s the truth about racial injustice. It’s not just a Black America problem or a people of color problem. It is a problem for every American. It is keeping us from fulfilling the promise of liberty and justice for all.” – Kamala Harris”
Author Archives: drmikedaniels
“Sharing silence is, in fact, a political act. When we can stand aside from the usual and perceive the fundamental, change begins to happen. Our lives align with deeper values and the lives of others are touched and influenced.” -Gunilla Norris
This week marks the 279th anniversary of the premiere of Handel’s “Messiah.” I love this classical tune, which was composed in just 23 days! On April 13, 142, Handel debuted it at a charitable event in Dublin, Ireland, to free 142 men from debtor’s prison there. (Source: The Little White Book) Throughout the duration ofContinue reading ““Sharing silence is, in fact, a political act. When we can stand aside from the usual and perceive the fundamental, change begins to happen. Our lives align with deeper values and the lives of others are touched and influenced.” -Gunilla Norris”
“Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” Dolores Huerta
President Biden declared today national César Chávez Day. When I first moved to California over twenty years ago, on the first March 31st that I lived in the Golden State, my future wife organized an event to honor and celebrate César’s legacy. I learned then of a man I have come to ever more deeplyContinue reading ““Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” Dolores Huerta”
“There are many things that can only be seen through eyes that have cried.” — Oscar Romero
Today marks the feast of Saint Oscar Romero, the former Archbishop of San Salvador. Saint Romero was martyred on this day in 1980 for his advocacy on behalf of the poor of El Salvador. A decades-long civil war of that time period has left a permanent imprint upon that country. In 2004 I visited Romero’sContinue reading ““There are many things that can only be seen through eyes that have cried.” — Oscar Romero”
“Rabbi, it is good that we are here!” -Apostles Peter, James and John
The Gospel reading from the weekend before last, regarding the Transfiguration of Jesus, has compelled me to think deeply about the power of presence. In recent weeks, from my time with my kids, to my time on Zooms, to my many discussions with my wife about education, family, learning and growth….these conversations and experiences haveContinue reading ““Rabbi, it is good that we are here!” -Apostles Peter, James and John”
Young people have a deep need for familiar connection amid a society glued together with impersonal, transactional exchanges. -Springtide Research Institute
This morning I have been thinking about how grateful I am for several recent parent experiences I have shared with my kids. My oldest said to me today, “Dad, I can hear you on your Zooms sometimes, and it sounds like you’re really helping a lot of schools.” His recognition and understanding means the worldContinue reading “Young people have a deep need for familiar connection amid a society glued together with impersonal, transactional exchanges. -Springtide Research Institute”
The Beatitudes are no spiritual “to do list” to be attempted by eager, rule-keeping disciples. It is a spiritual “done” list of the qualities God brings to bear in …people. Ronnie McBrayer
Yesterday in fourth grade religion I explained the Beatitudes to my son as “be” attitudes taught by Jesus. In his Sermon on the Mount, I believe that Jesus gave a clear indication of how we – as People of God – can care for our earth and for one another. Compassion, positive intention and actionContinue reading “The Beatitudes are no spiritual “to do list” to be attempted by eager, rule-keeping disciples. It is a spiritual “done” list of the qualities God brings to bear in …people. Ronnie McBrayer”
While we might feel small, separate, and all alone, our people have never been more closely tethered. The question isn’t if we will weather this unknown, but how we will weather this unknown together. Amanda Gorman
Last night I enjoyed playing a tech support role for my daughter’s Zoom Tinkering Club. She built this great machine-like structure, and was happy to e-connect with her friends for this monthly group activity. In the concluding appreciations reflection exercise, she stated: “Tonight I am grateful for my family, all of you, and our dog.”Continue reading “While we might feel small, separate, and all alone, our people have never been more closely tethered. The question isn’t if we will weather this unknown, but how we will weather this unknown together. Amanda Gorman”
“Understand the movement. Be patient. Be persistent.” -Steve Stine
Last night I heard this above quote in an on-line guitar lesson. While the words were intended for application to the instrument and the learner, this quote struck me as excellent advice to consider during this Black History Month. On Monday I had the privilege of virtually speaking with hundreds of educators from our NorthernContinue reading ““Understand the movement. Be patient. Be persistent.” -Steve Stine”
“You can’t see the whole path ahead, but there is usually enough light to take the next step. And then…trust God’s guidance in the moment.”- Henri Nouwen
Yesterday during 3rd grade religion I was fortunate to be able to teach my daughter about Saint Louise de Marillac, the namesake for my former school. My middle son’s face lit up so brightly once he mastered the concept of rounding in Math class. And my oldest son exuded sheer joy when explaining the legoContinue reading ““You can’t see the whole path ahead, but there is usually enough light to take the next step. And then…trust God’s guidance in the moment.”- Henri Nouwen”
Keeping the Faith 