Community matters more than ever. 

As more institutions capitulate or fall under the pressure of consolidated government power, daily uncertainty and chaos continue. Personal accountability and the systems responsible for checks and balances have been declining for years. Today, they are nearing their breaking point.

With a simple social media post, news conference, or “leaked” rumor, the President can manipulate the minds and behaviors of markets and global leaders through the power of his voice. That is a dangerous place for any society to find themselves, regardless of their political affiliation. It’s also a helpless state for those caught downstream of any whim or decision.

In these times, localized community support and advocacy is where we rediscover our agency and safety. Solving national and global disruption is well outside the scope of individual contributions, especially when decision-making sits with one person or office. Hope is rediscovered in the context of personal relationships with neighbors and community members with whom change and progress are possible.

Division keeps us from working together to solve the everyday challenges we face. The longer we stay segregated by beliefs, political affiliations, distrust, fear, or prejudice, the easier those in positions of authority will consolidate and abuse their power. The solution is to become more engaged with our local communities.

Engagement can take on near-endless forms. Hosting a neighborhood cookout, volunteering at your child’s school, attending regular meet-ups at your community park or local coffee shop, or becoming a member of a local faith community are ways we discover how to be a functional and healthy society again. Through these interactions, we gain the valuable the skills of listening, sharing, collaborating, celebrating, and grieving together—the very skills that make us compassionate and wise human beings.

In the context of our local communities, we become better informed, learn to address our biases, and make better decisions. In these times where we feel most divided, alone, or overwhelmed, we need community more than ever. Finding a safe community can bring healing to our souls, each other, and our world. This is the way of hope and change.

Hope and Justice For All

If you’re like me, you’re looking for compassionate hearts and rational minds in our chaotic world. Hope, change, and justice for everyone, everywhere require thoughtfulness, dedication, and courage to values-based living and leading. I believe that for myself—and for you. Will you join me in this consequential cause? You won’t find ads, paywalls, partner links, or random emails from me. I’m not for sale, and neither are you. However, this work does require support, and with your help, can remain accessible and uninterrupted. Please consider making a donation to keep weekly insights for hope and change available to you and others. Thank you!