religion – From the Desk of Pennwell Gray

United we stand. Divided we fall.

If my memory serves me well, which sometimes isn’t the case these days, I crafted either a blog post or an article with this same title. It was about politics, I believe, while this post is simply about approaching our daily interactions thoughtfully and respectfully.

Yet what proves true is that this title is a timeless and multidimensional statement.

There are countless topics that divide us in today’s world – religion, politics, sex and gender, to name just a few. Add on illegal immigration, crime, and climate change then we create an even more robust stage of controversy. Frankly, people argue about the weather, take pride in treating people rudely, and find it humorous when they belittle others for peer appreciation that must be fueling some ridiculously low sense of self-esteem – or overinflated ego.

Seek to learn and understand, not judge or ridicule.

On this evening at sundown, Yom Kippur began.

Yom Kippur is a day of atonement, the most serious and holy holiday on the Jewish calendar. As I reflected upon the faith of my Jewish friends and acquaintances, wishing them a good holiday, I was reminded of how little time we spend learning about other religions.

Continue reading “Seek to learn and understand, not judge or ridicule.”

It’s International Peace Day.

How ironic that this day falls during a time when I’ve been solemnly and wholeheartedly considering a cessation of any discussion on politics and religion. No contributions. No participation. Just opting out.

As a writer and a passionate person, that would be hard to do. I live to offer views and perspectives from all sides. I love to engage in lively debates where others don’t see eye to eye (it’s how we learn and grow). I want to hold my values and beliefs, while remaining non-partisan (even when I do need to make a declaration in the primaries, reclaiming my Independent identity immediately after). I want to dive head-first into the difficult, troubling and controversial subjects – yet people are growing increasingly ugly by the second. Continue reading “It’s International Peace Day.”