“What shall I do with these hands of mine?” It’s a universal question each one of us must answer. Some hands have held the world togetherSome hands have fought wars foreverTell me what shall I do with these hands of mine Some hands have blessed a million peopleSome hands have helped free the world from evilSo … More “What Shall I Do With These Hands Of Mine?”
November 10, 2016. It’s graduation day. Graduation day for the inaugural class of Hartford Public Library‘s Immigrant Career Pathways introductory food service program, a collaboration with Hartford Public Schools‘ Food & Child Nutrition Services. Nine Hartford immigrants celebrated completion of sixty hours of ESL (English as a Second Language) classes and thirty-six hours of a hands-on internship in … More A Pathway Opens
Reading Ana Marie Cox’s interview of actor, comedian and writer Aasif Mandvi (October 9, 2016 New York Times Magazine) reminded me of Wes Moore’s comments at The Connecticut Forum about wanting a post-racist, not a post-racial America. There is a difference. A big difference. Mandvi argued in his Cox interview that “We’re not postracial [sic]. Years ago, people would … More Post-Racist vs. Post-Racial America: A Big Difference
In celebration of President Jimmy Carter’s 92nd birthday on October 1, 2016, Peggy and I, and Tom and Dougie Trumble, share our heartfelt thoughts about the impact he and Rosalynn have made on our lives, and the lives of millions of people around the world. They are inspiring stonecatchers! The following is an updated version … More Happy Birthday to President Carter, an Inspiring Stonecatcher!
After a two year absence, a Monarch Butterfly set down to feed in our backyard! We watched as it entertained us throughout the afternoon. “In the spring, summer and early fall, they can be found wherever there are milkweeds. Monarchs lay their eggs on milkweeds and they’re always searching for them in fields, meadows and … More Plant More Milkweed!
In recent years I’ve been fortunate to work with many refugees and immigrants in Hartford through my work with the South Marshall Interfaith Coalition and the Asylum Hill Neighborhood Association’s Welcoming Committee. Want to help address refugee and immigrant assimilation and civic engagement? Here’s a great opportunity. The City of Hartford is looking for eight to nine volunteers to serve on its … More Welcoming Refugees and Immigrants
The Connecticut Forum’s Religion in America 2016 on September 29, 2016 kicks off the Forum’s 2016-2017 season. I’m looking forward to a lively discussion on “The changing role [of religion] in our culture, politics and lives.” It’s great opportunity to listen, learn and grow.Follow the link above to the Forum’s website for more information about the panelists, and to … More The Connecticut Forum’s Religion in America 2016
A scarlet, key-laden lanyard hung around Khadija Mohamud’s neck. The gold lettering was unmistakable: United States Marine Corps. My question obvious; her answer emotional. Khadija’s story quickly unfolded. “Two Marines were forgotten, left behind. I had to do what I had to do,” Khadija said recounting her unhesitatingly selfless call to action in saving two U.S. Marines in war torn … More Saving Children and Marines in Mogadishu
On July 16, on an expertly prepared site ready for volunteers, hammers were in full swing building walls for a brand new Habitat for Humanity raised ranch under construction in Granby, CT. On Habitat site supervisor Stan’s count, — “One. Two. Three. LIFT!” — and undaunted by the stifling heat and humidity, a volunteer crew of … More “One. Two. Three. LIFT!”
Indifference is dangerous. Elie Wiesel’s comments on the danger of indifference are timeless. His words are a powerful reminder of the evil of indifference. His words challenge our conscience to move from indifference to awareness and action, to take a stand. You can hear them in The Connecticut Forum’s July 8, 2016, Video of the Week. … More Indifference is Dangerous
