On the presidential debate stage in September of 2020, Donald Trump was asked by Fox News anchor Chris Wallace to categorically denounce white supremacy. Trump at first deflected the question with a condemnation of left-wing Antifa and challenged Chris Wallace to name the so-called supremacists. When the debate moderator offered the Proud Boys as one … Continue reading “Stand Back and Stand By” Redux?
Stormy Times
As I write this post, Hurricane Ian is threatening Florida with 150 mph winds, torrential rains, and a devastating storm surge. While, of course, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Florida in these days, and while we should respond generously to subsequent requests for financial assistance in the recovery period, this event … Continue reading Stormy Times
Reinforcing the Lone Wolves
Yet again, here we are. Events in Buffalo over the weekend are all too familiar: a young white man spouting violence-strewn racial hatred—both in-person and on-line—buys a gun, travels to a distant community where he apparently knows no one and starts shooting, killing ten black people shopping at a local supermarket. While researching his past, … Continue reading Reinforcing the Lone Wolves
A Study in Contrast
On Sunday night, the annual Grammy awards aired on network television. The ceremony was punctured by real life, as a gritty videotaped message was broadcast to attendees at the glitzy ceremony from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. His words were directed to artists and musicians in the music industry who continued to write and compose in … Continue reading A Study in Contrast
The Power of Music
As the war in Ukraine grinds on and the horror increases, the world is inspired by Ukrainian resolve. As I watch endless media accounts of intentional (it can no longer be described as “indiscriminate”) bombardment of civilian targets—including schools and hospitals—by Russian troops, the eyes of my soul continue to seek a place of refuge. … Continue reading The Power of Music