Do You Have Questions about Asking Questions?

Do You Have Questions about Asking Questions?

As a new Florida state prison volunteer, I had questions. The volunteer training, however, taught me not to ask an incarcerated man questions about the crime (s) he committed. This raised another question for me. Why am I not supposed to ask an incarcerated man those...
Just Say, “I’m Sorry!”

Just Say, “I’m Sorry!”

When did you last say, “I’m sorry?” I did to my wife earlier this week. The apology did not concern a serious marital matter but was called for. What does it take to say, “I’m sorry?” Let’s find out. On July 7, 2016, I traveled with the Arlington Lamar High School 7...
Black History: Mexico, NY and the Underground Railroad

Black History: Mexico, NY and the Underground Railroad

During my research for my biography of Rev. George E. Stone, A Modest But Crucial Hero,[i] I learned about Mexico, New York’s stop on the Underground Railroad. Mexico is located near the southeastern shore of Lake Ontario. It served as a convenient stop near Oswego to...
My One Word for 2024

My One Word for 2024

Are you a member of the One Word movement? It replaces New Year’s resolutions with a thoughtfully chosen word for the new year. I have used this approach for several years. Last year my one word was Listen. This year, I picked Chosen and I’ll tell you why. My morning...
Diversity’s Bandwagon Hit a Serious Obstacle

Diversity’s Bandwagon Hit a Serious Obstacle

The bandwagon on Diversity’s highway hit a serious obstacle in its forward progress following the outbreak of war. The climate changed immediately in Diversity’s meeting hall. Blinding smoke hid the light of Diversity’s sun. All is not well, and this is not new in the...
Three Strikes and God’s Beautiful Way

Three Strikes and God’s Beautiful Way

‘Three strikes and you’re out’ is a phrase for baseball players and criminals in several states. But it can also refer to failing to get your dream job. Let me explain. Jojo Villa loves basketball. He grew up in the Philippines and played on the high school and...