As I have
been spending my time on renewal leave, I have contemplated a number of things
about myself and about what is happening in the world. I spent last week with
Nancy on a tour of Western Nebraska which is rich with history and tragedies. I
tried to not spend time thinking about work though found that not as easy to
do. When I was at Fort Robinson, I had a dream of what I want to share with
those who will take time to read it.
This was
dated 9/23/17.
What
does it mean—
When
opinions become facts and facts are just opinions
When
fake news means anything that does not support or agree with my opinions
When
critical thinking is limited to 140 characters
When
critical thinking only means criticizing the other When
reality is perception and perception is reality
When
all we believe is found in social media
When
alt prefix is becoming the driving force of defining who we are
When
friends are only virtual
When
Newspeak* and Doublethink* are the norm
When one professes
to love God, but hates their neighbor
When
inclusion means those who look like us, speaks like us, acts like us
*George
Orwell, 1984
I am
sure that there are many other what does it mean ideas. I would encourage
people to add to the list their thoughts. I was struck with all that is
happening around us and the continuing concern about not just our leaders but
for each of us as we face the issues and concerns of the world. I am reminded
of the gospels and the message of Jesus regarding loving others even those who
we may not agree with. (Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5-7).
