A Different July 4th, Antiracism, Spiritual Confusion & More!

What 4^thof July?

I don’t think any of us could have imagined a 4^thof July like the one we are celebrating, or not celebrating, this year.  No family gatherings, picnics or fireworks except for those who are ignoring social distancing.  For Blacks the 4th is not a holiday to be celebrated, since, unlike the early white settlers who rejoiced over their freedom, Blacks remained enslaved.

July 4, 2020

How To Be An Antiracist

In my efforts to educate myself about the history of racism in our country, I’m reading the popular book, How To Be An Antiracist, by Ibram X. Kendi.  I’m learning a lot, but am not a huge fan of his writing, which feels a little disjointed. That said, I admire Kendi’s scholarship and his honesty in confessing to his youthful arrogance and his own prejudices.

Spiritual Struggles

I suspect I’m not alone in the time I’ve spent in isolation contemplating my spiritual beliefs or lack of. This coming week I will join a Zoom group entitled, “Spiritual Journeys.”  I’ve also been invited to participate in a women’s spiritual Zoom gathering.  Frequently I feel like the poster woman for spiritual confusion. I find solace in the Buddhist saying,  “Confusion is the first state of knowledge.”  I eagerly await the lifting of my spiritual confusion.

Country Beauty

I’ve relishing in the simplicity of country living through my retreat space in midcoast Maine.  I feel blessed to have this option. Simple pleasures like the season’s first strawberries and bouquets of sunflowers brighten my day.

Angela Davis

This morning I watched an interview with Angela Davis on “Democracy Now,” where she spoke of the need not so much for reform but for a reimagining of our country where equality and humane social programs are front and center.  She encourages progressives to vote for Biden, but not to stop there, but to push him in a progressive direction once he takes office.

Gloria Steinem (background) and Angela Davis (speaking) at a recent Black Lives Matter Protest

LET’S ALL STAY SAFE AND BE RESOLUTE IN WORKING FOR A KINDER, EQUAL, PEACEFUL NATION!