In my home state of Texas, many of my readers surely participated in the Super Tuesday elections casting their votes for hopeful presidential, state and local candidates. While it should be a time to rejoice in the spirit of free and fair elections, the participation in a functioning democracy is often overshadowed by the negative, hyperbolic and extreme nature of our political climate. In America, we’ve always had a divided political two-party system. But this modern age of fervor is the … [Read more...]
Thinking of Families Affected by Hurricane Dorian
For most of my life, the Bahamas have been an idyllic island paradise known for their rich Caribbean beauty and culture of relaxation. I recall vividly many years ago as part of my honeymoon cruise, our ship stopped in the Bahamas, where my husband and I disembarked to enjoy hiking and taking in the beauty of a place surrounded by beautiful azure water sparkling like a glorious crown jewel. Now, these island treasures face an uncertain future in the wake of the destruction wrought by Hurricane … [Read more...]
My Favorite 4th of July Celebration
With the 4th of July on the horizon, I took some time to reflect on some of my favorite Independence Day memories. The 4th of July is truly one of my favorite holidays of the year, and it’s a special time to reunite with family, friends and members of the community. Earlier this week, I read this Washington Post article about the unique and peculiar 4th of July celebrations across the country. Every American region, state and town has their own stamp on celebrating our nation’s independence. … [Read more...]
A Refreshing Perspective
They say that all politics is local, but I’ve been thinking lately that perhaps it’s more than that. Maybe the true beating heart of America can only be truly discerned through the lens of small towns; those off-the-beaten path places where our great experiment of a country plays out day after day, and where communities are continuously tinkering with their reality in response to a world transforming around them. I say this after learning about a new book written by Atlantic writer James … [Read more...]