I Am THANKFUL

Joyful, Joyful --- God I adore you.

This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. My mother and my grandmother--both gone--said this often. They loved God and not just because they believed they, too, were loved by God, but that they laid joy at God's feet. God was who they thanked and God's love was what they both rejoiced in.
     I stop this morning as we prepare for Thanksgiving gatherings. There will be more than one as I attempt the impossible--seeing everyone while I'm in Houston for a short period. I may not get to everyone, but I will give it the ol' college try. My friends, my family are all so important to me and when I think of what I am thankful for, I am definitely thankful about them--each one of them. It is an awesome gift when someone loves you, warts and all, and accepts you for who you are, and sees you as you are. When I doubt myself, I look into a loved one's eyes and see all of my possibilities. I feel the love, I know that I am forgiven (like when I don't get to everyone) and know that love will never be denied.
     I am also thankful for the gifts of my ancestors, which include my parents and even my granddaughter. They have gone before me and have entered the realm of my past, but also my present and future. Today they remind me to be vigilant and to keep moving toward the stars. They let me know that my dreams are my possibilities and to never stop dreaming. They remind me to take time to just be with God and gain my strength in God's presence. The remind me that they love me still and that love doesn't cease upon death.
     I am thankful for my children. I guess I didn't do such a bad job, but I know that they came through me, but not from me. I see their dreams being fulfilled, their adulthood representing my commitment and am thankful that we got here. Right here, where my grandchildren are thriving and the hope that I lived with while nurturing and caring for them has been realized.
     I am thankful for the bad times. The lessons are still coming and while my goal is to pass the tests presented to me, my mission is to be ready for the next and the next. What constitutes bad times? Bad times come when I doubt, resist, need to learn, or need to understand. Someone called the bad times 'lessons.' Those lessons are not always easy and sometimes quite painful, but I am thankful for them. Would I know what joy is had I not tasted sorrow? Would I be able to forgive, had I not been forgiven? Some call the bad times the rain, "It rains on the just and unjust." I call the bad times simply another day.
     Today, I have the opportunity to care and to love. Today, I have the opportunity to serve. Today, I have yet another opportunity to live with the fruits of God's gifts--God's people, And for this, I am so thankful. Be thankful with me. God bless.

Let's Make Some Magic ...

To love one another enough ...

Dear Friends,

Yesterday, someone said "the people have spoken!" I disagree. The reality is that "Some people have spoken!" It is still the same. When the Presidential election took place in 2008--"we" wanted change. Change didn't come from electing a black president, no more than it did last night with a plethora of Republicans taking seats in the House. It has always been a teeter totter where  sometimes one group is on the ground and sometimes one group is in the air.

Look, I'm just going to be honest here. We're still putting our faith in the politicians and not in each other. Friends that I have had for years are so angry that they forget they have friends of difference background, people that are their friends. They are so angry that they forget to be sensitive and have gone back to "black and white" issues, which don't exist folks. Too many gray areas.

I have had conversations that weren't conversations. People defending where they are and putting up the walls of discord without a second thought of who is on the other side of that wall now. Your friend. Once there was the conversation I had with someone about the "Wanted Poster" for Obama. I've known her since she was a little girl and all of a sudden, we aren't talking anymore. The lines are black and white.

There's the time I had a conversation with a friend about Islam. At least we still talk, but we don't talk anymore about this. I sent him a book. But, I think it was the wrong book because it was defending my idea and not the idea of that magical thing of life. I love him. I know he loves me. Will this "one" thing separate us. He's a good man. I'm a good woman. But, the bricks are at our feet. Will we build that wall?

Guys, let's stop and think. We are not always going to agree, but relationships are investments and our investments are more important than the issues that are being touted as more important that we are. Look, if those of us who are conservative would talk with those who are liberal and EVOLVE.

The time has come to do something different and I can tell you that it won't be easy, but it will be DOABLE because we invested in something more than money or "tea". We've invested in each other. Let's talk and see what kind of conversations we could have. The answers are with us. They are. Call that friend that you disagree with and see what kind of talk could bring us. Let's talk! Because of the magic. Dare you! P.K.

Burning Books?

Burning is not purging.

On September 11 of this year, members of a church named Dove World Outreach Center plan on burning the Qur'an as a protest against the religion of Islam, but also to convert Muslims to Christianity. Recently coming from the Middle East where I met Muslims as well as people of other religions, and while living in the home of a dear friend who also happens to be Muslim, I cannot remain silent on this issue of either burning the sacred text of others or converting another to my religion. In addition, since I am Christian, the idea that other Christians would think that this is right saddens me. But, why? Am I not a Christian that believes in the light of Jesus, His message to us as one that is to all? By defending Islam, does it negate my strong faith in Jesus?

     First, my faith is not up for debate except with God. Currently, I am not winning any of the debates I have with God, but then God and I don't debate about whether one religion is better than another. We do, however, debate other things, especially about how to respond to issues that I take exception to. God still tells me, "Can't kill 'em." I argue for maiming or insulting, but well--I get the "gotta love 'em" response every time. Truthfully, I'm thankful for the call to Christianity, one from birth in all probability. I remember that call didn't come from a church or minister. No one laid hands on me and urged me to Christ. That call came one day after a drenching rain when I stood in a pool of water and saw my reflection with the clouds. I then asked my mother if I could be baptized. I had flown the air with God without ever leaving this earth. I knew it was real and once baptized, I committed. I was almost seven. At eight, I taught my first Sunday school lesson that Jesus loves the little children--all the children of the world. I've looked the world over, met people of faith and you know what? It has strengthened my faith in Christ. My faith remains unshakable, but it also makes me understand the unshakable faith of others. I understand the love of one's faith, but also understand that unshakable faith means unshakable compassion and grace. Faith does not hurt another and the more unshakable the faith, the more reason to reach out and share the faith, not the dogma, with others.

     My friend and I recently talked about grace. She's Wiccan. If God's grace is sufficient why does it seem as if we have made grace a Christian-only concept? That's not exactly how she put it, but it is a point. Why the judging and feuding? If God's grace is sufficient, why do we need to burn books or denigrate another?
     Some people see people who are Muslim as terrorists. Others may know that Islam is not synonymous with terrorism, knowing that there is conflict in many of the world about this particular people and that particular faith. The "others" include my own relationship with Islam and its people and loving them as part of God's own. Still, I know that not everyone agrees with me. Since 9/11, we have made the face of terror a Middle Eastern one, which is scary as some of my relatives look Middle Eastern (but I digress with this point). We have made people who are faithful, loving and giving people into villains. I don't like it. It bothers me and I won't stand for it. But, you know that debate thing that I have with God--can't kill them either, P.K. Grace. Given time, given grace and what it is, will we ever understand?
     The idea of a world that is all Christian does not appeal to me anymore than a world of only black people or Democrats (especially not that). Somehow, like that moment when I stood and saw myself riding the clouds, I know that God's plan is simply awesome and that somehow, we've got to get in step with a hope that people of different faiths, cultures and races can live in this world together. 

     United Religions Initiative, an interfaith organization whose preamble, purpose and principles (the “PPPs”) guide the organization’s structure and work, is a decade old (officially) and more than 15 years in the making. There are many who have embraced URI’s work and have involved themselves wholeheartedly. Then there are those who have walked away and said simply, “I don’t get it.” There are probably as many in-between reasons why people involve themselves in URI, however. Those stories are missing and those stories are the ones that may be the most important. 

     When I think back on my first foray into interfaith, I’m amazed and full of wonder—still. I sat with Muslim, Jews and Christians to talk about the first five books of the Bible. As a storyteller, these stories are the ones I told the most. There was so much for me in these stories, but they were influenced by my Christian teachings. And then there was a door, no, two doors that opened my world and these stories took on new and greater meanings. I have never been the same. 

     Everyone has a question in their head that needs answering. I know. I also understand that there are hundreds of other questions, too, but that one question burns in each of us and must be answered, but sometimes never is. The question? What is the meaning of it all? The question may not be said exactly this way, “it” being the operative word, but the overall meaning is there. But, no matter how the question is asked, when the question is answered, life changes—for the good. 

     What draws me to URI? What keeps me here? What makes me want to leave sometimes and what makes me come back? What is URI? Those are part of the other questions that rise and fall, but the question that has been answered for me has to do with meaning. It means something, it answers the question in my heart and the rest—the struggle—is doable because I have the question answered. 

     I said that there were two doors I walked through that day as sat in the chairs of the studio taping the PBS special Genesis. I walked through the door of Islam and Judaism. That was 1995. Since then I have walked through many doors and continue to find the answer to my burning question. The answer? Love.

“God does LOVE  the whole world—no exceptions”

Special note: Look for a new broadcast from the Think Peace Media and Communications Network called The Witch and The Preacher's Kid with Rachael Watcher and P.K. McCary. For more information email us at office@thinkpeaceradio.net.

Who Are the Faces of URI?

Yoland Trevino Speaking at the 10th Anniversary Celebration in Amman, Jordan

The first time I heard about this idea called United Religions Initiative, I had my doubts. Still, I couldn't help myself. I had to go and find out more. One of the reasons I had to go was simply because the door had been opened when I sat with men and women, Muslims and Jews (and yes, other Christians), who told me stories that captivated my spirit. The PBS Special Genesis was the door that opened my heart to the wealth of faiths not one's own. When you hear a story that touches your heart and soul, well--believing or not, you are caught up with the spirit of the story and the storyteller. You can't walk away. I had to go. I'm glad I did.
     I won't say that the doubts didn't stand just outside the door that was opening, however. As a child, my grandmother would warn me of the shadow maker, the deceiver and urge my caution. The question becomes just who is the deceiver telling stories (lies)--and--which one of these stories is not from the deceiver leading to the truth? A quandry, to be sure. In addition, I found out that fear will trick you as well. So, I decided not to be afraid, but there were always those moments that cast both shadows of fear and doubts. I can tell you now and even looking back, those of you who know me, know that those moments are now cause for celebration because they erased the shadows and cast out all doubts.
     Of course, those doubts were erased over time by the people I had been taught to fear (non-Christians) with a simple effort of getting to know them. In many ways, I've come a long way from that stalwart Christian with fears to a stalwart Christian of knowing. Knowing that together we can make this world better. That is the just one of the reasons I am a part of the United Religions Initiative ("URI").
     URI just celebrated 10 years of existence, but having come before we were "official" I know that we have to count more than these 10 years. We have to count the years the vision came into existence and we have to count the years of our lives and years, millenniums, before we even existed. In this clip, I take some of Yoland Trevino's welcome to share the journey of URI. Still, in all of my hopes and dreaming of a future where the URI is more than a face and a vision, but a reality--well, there is still much work to do.
     The Bad News
     There is bad news. This is hard work. This work sometimes leaves me drained and frustrated. And sometimes we don't get very far. I don't want to mislead anyone in thinking that we have all of the answers, but then I'm not a proponent of just finding answers. In truth, I believe that we should not be so focused on answers, but making sure that we're asking the right questions. As Richard Bach has often said, there is no problem without a gift in its hands for you. The bad news is that we carry remnants of that fear of "the other." We seem to have difficulties with acknowledging that God loves us all. After all, aren't some of us "bad people"--"Evil"? Evil exists. Right?
     The other bad news is that we're still trying to figure out how to solve our problems without vilifying whole groups of people. We aren't succeeding (as much as I think we should or even close to what I would like). We wrestle with conversations that happen in different circles, linked by that degree of separation that comes when we walk in more than one world. We still focus on our dogma(s) that we feel are hurdles that cannot--should not--be crossed. And we have a lack of trust that is deeply rooted from varied cultures and beliefs. So, how can we respect one another? The elephants in the room are numerous and sometime we feel trampled by the isms that just don't want to go away.
     Is there good news?
     Oh, Yeah! The Good News
     There are those who have to see it to believe it. They wait, often times impatiently for someone to solve these problems that plague the world so that they can join in the efforts once they can believe it will work out. But, they often run at the first wrinkle. They also stand on the sidelines. Well, sometimes they are backseat drivers, but that's okay. Because the good news is this. There are those who believe. Just that simple. We can see it no other way. It helps us accept the frustrations and moments of exhaustion. It helps us sit down and write a missive that says, "We'll hold the light" and "We'll keep the faith." It took four years to write a Preamble, Purpose and Principles for URI. The words "We Unite ..." usher in a new era of believers. I am stronger than I've been and am able to recharge the batteries of my soul with the aid of those who also believe. So, when you hear the bad news, don't ignore it. Check it out and remember that the light casts out darkness. Just sometimes you have to work through a storm to get to the other side.
     Peace.

Can the World Vouch for You?

Mussie Hailu, URI Ambassador for Peace

The Golden Rule--A Gift to the World!
Anyone who has ever met my friend Mussie Hailu knows him to be a man of grace and compassion. Oh, yes and passion. Mussie Hailu is from Ethiopia. I met him years ago, a young man who I wanted to be part of my family. He is, but I thought--since I didn't birth him, perhaps he could marry my daughter. We both laugh at this. I consider myself somewhat a mother to him, I love him that much. But I am also a sister to him, an older sister--mind you--but someone who cares for him, prays for him and supports his endeavors in building a better world. Last month (May), I had the honor of accepting an award from the Wilhelm Schole International, a school in Houston run by guardian Marilyn Wilhelm. As I came to the podium to read Mussie's words, I thought of a story that I like telling to young people. Do you know your spot?
     The story goes something like this. A man climbs a mountain in a foreign land, seeking the wisdom of the sage who resides at the top. Upon reaching the top of the mountain he finds the wise man.
    "Why are you here?" the old man says.
     The old man's hands are gnarled and a rich caramel color. The eyes are a rich brown and the man feels as if they can see through him. Discomforted somewhat, yet strangely exhilerated, the man tells him. "I've come to learn from you. I want to be wise so that I can make the world better."
     At this the old man scoffs. "Hmmmph! You want to be wise?"
     "Yes. Wise. Not for selfish reasons, I promise. I want to help the world."
      With a quick turn about the younger man, the old man contemplates his presence. "Hmmmph!" he says again. Placing a hand under his chin, the old man comes back around the gazes unflinchingly into the young man's eyes.
     "Very well, then," he tells him. The young man sighs with relief. The old man starts to walk off calling over his shoulders, "I will teach you when you find your spot."
     If wishes were horses, beggers would ride a wise man once said. Good thing I don't believe in wishes. I simply believe. In trying to figure out what the old man thinks of as his spot, the young exhausts himself trying to find a place on the top of the mountain that he can call his own. Finally weary, he sits down, exhaustion taking over. The old man returns and looking the young man over, he states (and here is the rest of the story) ...

  

     As both Mussie and I are committed to promoting daily interfaith cooperation, ending religiously motivated violence and creating cultures of peace, justice and healing for the Earth, the stories of the different faiths we meet along the way gives credence to the fact that we are all God's children. It also adds that we should "do no harm" as we journey through life. That's what the Golden Rules does. It also vouches for you as a human being. No matter how you say it. Do no harm. By valuing the life of another, you vouch for the other human being that he or she is valued above anything else.
     This next two weeks, I will stand with those from my URI family to look at where we are and where we are going. I can truthfully say that I believe ...
     I believe that the world can end violence.
     I believe that love will unite us.
     I believe that we all have a place in this world--our spot.
     I believe in you.
     Red and yellow, black and white. I believe that we are ALL precious in God's sight. Christian, Muslim, Jew ... the world's indigenous, the pagans and the not-so pagans. I vouch for you.
     Peace.