Discussion of self-care in social justice movements has become a regular topic of social media feeds, blog posts, and workshops. And my response is: FINALLY! I don’t raise this issue to dismiss it. Data shows that those who work on social justice and human rights issues face high levels of burn-out. Ministers and Read more…
On Ash Wednesday, I was serving as the choir parent volunteer. The parent brings the snack, serves as the second adult in the room, and helps out as needed. With 10 minutes left in practice, the Junior Choir Director stops and informs the children (3rd – 8th grade) that they Read more…
I love giving and getting presents. I am the person who wears or uses a gift immediately after receiving it. I put time and effort into choosing gifts for close friends and family. That said, I am uncomfortable with a Christmas season that inspires economic excess. As a parent, this Read more…
As a white parent, I struggle with how to talk about the racialized history of our society with my white children. From the history of Thanksgiving to the events in Ferguson (and so many other cities), I wonder what I can say to my children that won’t be yet another Read more…
Reposted from www.fsrinc.org/blog Valentine’s Day has been civilized and capitalized, hallmarked and disneyfied, all in an attempt to clean up love and signify sexuality into a compartmentalized relationship standard, tied nicely with an over romanticized bow. As a cradle Catholic, the veneration of saints has been part of my religious Read more…
As yet another Mother’s day is upon us, I am reminded that even Hallmark Holidays can be a moment to reflect gratitude. In our house, we probably don’t celebrate in a traditional mother’s day manner. What I mean by that is, it isn’t a day for me, “the mom” to Read more…