Category: Philosophy

Stewardship: The First Step Toward the Change We Seek

We talk often about change—changing our politics, our economy, our institutions, even the world itself. Yet lasting change almost always begins closer to home. It begins with stewardship—putting the resources we already have to their highest uses.

Stewardship is an old word, one we tend to associate with church giving or financial responsibility. But it’s far deeper and broader than that. Stewardship means caring well for what has been entrusted to us—our bodies, our families, our communities, and yes, our finances. It’s the practice of aligning our daily choices with our highest values.

My personal struggle with stewardship has been longstanding. My oldest son was born when I was twenty one. I spent way too much time at the bar and not nearly enough time in the library. For years, my wife and I struggled with finances. There just never seemed to be enough money, even though we were on an upward trend. The economy was in the midst of the Great Recession. Every job I took seemed to ask everyone to “do more with less”. I was frustrated beyond measure.

And yet, the prevenient grace of the universe led me forward. I started reading more and implemented small changes. I took control of what I could. I started exercising. I opened a college savings account and put in $20 a month. I went back to church.

Little by little, those changes added up. A couch-to-5k plan led to a marathon. That small initial investment led to the development of a plan to fully fund my son’s college before he graduates. Going to that worship service led to a new career path.

At the start of a journey, we do not know all the turns we will take. But taking those first steps toward a disciplined and accountable life lead to the path your heart desires. Stewardship exists in numerous areas that create virtuous cycles if exercised over the long term.

Taking Care of Your Body

We cannot serve others or ourselves well if we neglect the vessel through which we serve. Our bodies are sacred trusts— instruments of creativity, compassion, and connection. Before our finances matter, our bodies need to be in good working order.

There is an affordability crisis in American healthcare. We are all looking for a solution. The reality is this: the only path to sustainable and affordable healthcare is for us as individuals to take ownership of our own health. No amount of corporate entrepreneurship, pharmacology, university research or governmental intervention can save us if we choose to eat junk food, spend unlimited hours on screen time, fail to move our bodies and mentally stress ourselves with our employment.

When we choose rest over relentless work, nourishment over convenience, movement over stagnation, we’re not just improving our health; we’re practicing gratitude for the gift of being alive. Physical stewardship grounds us in reality and gives us the energy to show up as the best version of ourselves.

Showing Up for Your Family

Our families—biological or chosen—are the first communities we are called to nurture. Stewardship here means being present, forgiving, and generous with both time and attention. Too many of us, myself included, devote the best of our mental and emotional resources to our work and do not leave enough in the tank for our household.

It’s easy to advocate for justice in the abstract while neglecting the small injustices we perpetuate in our homes: impatience, neglect, criticism, or unspoken resentment. How often have you spoken to your spouse, parents or children in a way you would never dream of speaking professionally? What would your life look like if you breathed grace into your household with every conversation? How would your relationships grow if you replaced complaints about small matters with gratitude for the people in your life?

Healthy societies are built on healthy families. The way we love and lead within our own circles becomes the template for how we engage the world.

The Beloved Community

Beyond our families lies the broader community—our neighborhoods, congregations, schools, and workplaces. It also means the digital communities we engage in.

Stewardship here calls us to ask: What am I doing to strengthen the fabric of belonging where I live? Do I support local businesses? Volunteer my skills? Listen before judging? Share positive online content?

Studies for years have been showing a decline in community membership. From the local church, to the Elks and American Legion, to your neighborhood bowling alley, we are spending more and more time alone and engaging far less with the people in our surrounding area. We have replaced this with impersonal digital interactions that seem to drive us further and further apart.

Last year, the Surgeon General issued a warning on the epidemic of loneliness in America. Ironically and unfortunately, if you feel alone, please know that you are not the only one who feels this way. I have also struggled with this as digital interactions seem to push us into silos where we feel unheard and misunderstood. You are not alone. People in your community are willing to respond when you engage with them in person.

Communities thrive not because a few people do big things, but because many people do small things faithfully. The simple act of shutting off the screen and joining a local group makes a major impact, not only for yourself, but for those around you. The small acts each of us make compound to create the communities we want to live in.

Stewardship of Finances

Money is not the goal of life, but it is a tool to pursue those goals—a reflection of our priorities and our trust. When we budget, save, give, and invest with purpose, we align our resources with our values.

Financial stewardship isn’t about scarcity; it’s about responsibility. It’s recognizing that money can serve as a multiplier of love, justice, and opportunity when used wisely.

The last forty years have seen ever declining real wages for the average American worker. And yet, our houses are 1,000 square feet larger than our grandparents. We have access to information and networks that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Although inflation and automation put pressure on us financially, we still have the ability to carve out a sustainable financial strategy.

Simple steps like creating and following a budget, saving and investing small amounts, and continuously pursuing higher incomes lead to financial stability, and better yet, flourishment.

In my network, many of us are beyond the realm of getting by. We are at the point where we need to declare we have enough. The perpetual pursuit of more has become a disease among the successful professional class. Once you have financial security, it’s time to think hard about how much you are giving back compared to an endless pursuit of financial growth.

The Gap Between Desire and Discipline

We live in an age of activism and awareness. Many people deeply desire systemic change—they want fairer economies, cleaner environments, healthier communities. Yet many of us are unwilling to make the personal changes that would make those systems possible.

We demand integrity from institutions while living distracted, overextended, and disconnected lives. We protest greed in corporations but rarely examine our own consumer habits. We lament polarization while refusing to have patient, humble conversations with our neighbors.

This gap between desire and discipline—between vision and stewardship—is where our collective potential stalls.

Stewardship as the Seed of Systemic Change

Every great movement for renewal begins with individuals who first transformed themselves. Before the world changes, people change—their hearts, habits, and priorities.

Imagine what might happen if more of us practiced stewardship in the full sense of the word:

  • Caring for our health so we have strength to serve.
  • Leading our families with compassion and example.
  • Investing our time and money in ways that reflect justice and generosity.
  • Engaging our communities with empathy instead of apathy.

That is how systems shift—from the inside out. Stewardship is not small work; it is foundational and life changing work.

A Well-Lived Life

The goal of stewardship isn’t perfection or control; it’s faithfulness. It’s showing up, again and again, with gratitude and intentionality.

When we tend to what has been entrusted to us—body, family, community, and resources—we live a life that ripples outward. We become, in our own quiet way, the very change we’ve been asking for.

“To whom much is given, much will be required.” – Luke 12:48
Stewardship reminds us that we’ve all been given something.
And the world is waiting to see what we’ll do with it.

Related Reading:

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Fear, Violence, and the Power of Radical Nonviolence

As I reflect on the military being deployed to Los Angeles this week, I question why we are so afraid. The escalating use of violence by citizens, police, and military units is not new. Wars have been fought, won and lost through the use of violence, but the average person is never better off at the end of a war than at the beginning. We have a tendency as humans to allow our fears to justify violence, but this is always a short sighted response. Escalations continue until someone moves past the willingness to “fight back” and demonstrates true courage through radical nonviolence.

Violence is often misunderstood as a show of strength. But at its core, violence is rooted in fear—fear of loss, fear of vulnerability, fear of the other. When individuals, groups, or nations resort to violence, they often do so out of a desperate need to control what feels uncontrollable. But while violence might offer a temporary illusion of power, history has shown time and again that the most enduring transformations come not from domination, but from the courageous demonstration of those unwilling to back down, but also unwilling to allow fear to overcome reason.

Violence: A Reaction Born from Fear

Fear is primal. It’s the survival instinct that kicks in when we feel threatened. But when left unchecked, fear can lead us down a destructive path. Violence is the knee-jerk reaction that seeks to extinguish perceived threats through force. Whether it’s the fear of losing power, identity, territory, or dignity, violence promises a swift answer. But it rarely brings peace—only more fear, more wounds, and more cycles of retaliation.

Responding to violence with violence may feel justified, even necessary, in the moment. But it often reinforces the very structures of oppression and conflict it seeks to dismantle. It escalates harm, fractures communities, and perpetuates trauma across generations.

The Transformative Power of Nonviolence

Radical nonviolence, on the other hand, requires immense courage and discipline. It is not passivity or weakness—it is the deliberate and strategic refusal to meet hatred with hatred. It seeks to disarm not just weapons, but the dehumanizing ideologies that fuel violence in the first place.

History offers us remarkable examples of leaders who chose nonviolence as a powerful tool for justice and change:

Mahatma Gandhi

Facing the brutal oppression of British colonialism in India, Gandhi pioneered satyagraha—the philosophy of nonviolent resistance rooted in truth and love. Through massive civil disobedience campaigns like the Salt March and the Quit India Movement, Gandhi mobilized millions. Despite violent crackdowns, he insisted on peaceful protest. The result: the eventual withdrawal of British forces and the birth of an independent India. His approach not only broke the chains of colonial rule but inspired a global movement for nonviolent resistance.

Martin Luther King Jr.

In the segregated American South, Dr. King picked up the torch of nonviolence. Drawing from both Christian teachings and Gandhian principles, he led marches, boycotts, and sit-ins that exposed the cruelty of Jim Crow laws. He understood that responding with violence would play into the hands of oppressors. Instead, he chose love, even in the face of bombs, dogs, and jail cells. His leadership helped pass landmark civil rights legislation and reshaped the conscience of a nation.

The Dalai Lama

After China invaded Tibet, the Dalai Lama could have called for armed resistance. Instead, he became the living symbol of compassion and forgiveness. Exiled from his homeland, he has tirelessly advocated for Tibetan autonomy through peaceful means. Even after decades of cultural repression and personal exile, he continues to preach understanding, inner peace, and nonviolence as the only viable path to freedom.

Other Voices of Peace

Nelson Mandela, though initially aligned with armed resistance, eventually chose reconciliation over revenge, guiding South Africa through the end of apartheid with remarkable grace.

César Chávez, founder of the United Farm Workers, used fasting and nonviolent protest to bring attention to the exploitation of agricultural workers.

Malala Yousafzai, who was shot for advocating girls’ education in Pakistan, responded not with vengeance, but with a global campaign for education and empowerment.

Why Nonviolence Works

Radical nonviolence works not because it avoids conflict, but because it reframes it. It refuses to accept the terms of oppression, yet also refuses to dehumanize the oppressor. It creates moral tension, revealing the cruelty of unjust systems while inviting change rooted in dignity.

Nonviolence appeals to the conscience, not just the power dynamics. It builds coalitions, not walls. And most importantly, it breaks cycles. Instead of sowing the seeds of the next war, it plants the foundations of lasting peace.

A Call for Courage

In a world still brimming with injustice, inequality, and conflict, the path of nonviolence remains as vital—and as challenging—as ever. It demands that we confront our fears, reimagine strength, and practice the kind of love that risks everything but hates no one.

Violence may seem like the faster path to change. But if we want peace that lasts beyond the battlefield, we must choose the slower, deeper, and infinitely more courageous path of nonviolence.

Let us not underestimate the quiet power of those who choose peace in the face of violence. They are not reacting to their fears—they are transforming it. And in doing so, they can change the world.

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From Constantine to Christian Nationalism: Faith as a Tool of Power

As I reflect on our current state of affairs, I can’t help but recognize we have a deep spiritual crisis in America. It seems religion is increasingly the enemy of spirituality rather than its ally. We are struggling to connect with the divine. There is so much noise in our world that there is hardly time to hear the universe whisper.

I was born into the United Methodist Church. A large portion of my values and beliefs were formed through my understanding of the Gospel framed through John Wesley’s way of preaching it. At the same time, I have broadly studied philosophy and history. It is not new that religion and politics have been co-opted by less than righteous individuals, causing the faithful to distrust their institutions.

When Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity in the early 4th century, it sent shockwaves through the Roman Empire and reshaped the course of Western civilization. But Constantine’s sudden embrace of the Christian faith wasn’t just a spiritual awakening—it was a masterclass in political strategy. Seventeen centuries later, echoes of that strategy can be heard in the rhetoric and tactics of modern right-wing Christian Nationalism.

Constantine: The Cross and the Crown

Constantine’s conversion is often portrayed as a divine revelation. The story goes that before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, Constantine saw a vision—a cross of light in the sky with the words “In this sign, conquer.” He adopted the Christian symbol for his army, won the battle, and soon after became the sole ruler of the Roman Empire. He then issued the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, legalizing Christianity and ending centuries of persecution. It is absurd to me that Christians adopt this tale of an Emperor winning a battle with the cross in front of it, as Jesus’s life clearly demonstrates his commitment to non-violence.

But this wasn’t about religion—it was about unifying a fractured empire. The Roman world was riddled with internal strife, and Constantine recognized that Christianity, with its growing numbers and organizational strength, could serve as a cohesive force. His “conversion” allowed him to consolidate power, align himself with an increasingly influential group, and gain legitimacy as a divinely favored ruler. In effect, he weaponized religion to cement political dominance.

Christian Nationalism and the GOP

Fast forward to 21st-century America, and a similar pattern emerges. Within the Republican Party, particularly its right-wing faction, Christianity—specifically conservative Evangelical Christianity—has become a central pillar of political identity. It’s not uncommon to hear calls for the United States to be declared a “Christian nation,” or for policies to be framed as extensions of biblical values. Flags bearing crosses fly next to MAGA banners. Political rallies often resemble revival meetings.

Like Constantine’s strategic conversion, the modern use of Christianity in politics is less about personal faith and more about power. Christian Nationalism seeks to fuse national identity with a narrow interpretation of Christianity, positioning one religious worldview as synonymous with patriotism and moral authority. It often marginalizes those who fall outside that worldview—Muslims, Jews, atheists, LGBTQ+ individuals, and progressive Christians alike.

The Politics of Piety

For both Constantine and today’s Christian Nationalists, the strategy is clear: use religion as a tool to legitimize authority and create an “us vs. them” framework that rallies the faithful while excluding dissenters. Constantine turned Christianity into a state religion, blending the cross with the sword. Today’s Christian Nationalists echo this by advocating for policies that blur the line between church and state, from school prayer mandates to abortion bans rooted in religious doctrine.

But just as Constantine’s alliance with the Church transformed Christianity—making it a powerful institution tied to empire—modern political Christianity risks turning faith into a partisan weapon. The result? A version of religion more concerned with control than compassion, more about votes than virtue.

Lessons from History

History teaches us that when religion becomes too entangled with political ambition, it can lose its moral compass. Constantine’s legacy is complex—he helped spread Christianity, but also laid the groundwork for centuries of religious coercion and crusades. He also laid the ground work for the demise of the Roman Empire. Today, as some Republican leaders invoke Christian symbols to consolidate power, we’re faced with the same fundamental question: is this about genuine faith, or is it about using faith to gain and keep power?

The danger lies not in the presence of faith in public life, but in the distortion of faith for political ends. As history shows, when power and piety become indistinguishable, both can be corrupted. We need a spiritual revival in the country, but it needs to be based on love, mercy, humility and justice. This is what is missing in our lives and our politics.

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Nostalgia vs. Reality: What progress have we made in the new millennia?

Think back to the year 1999. Do you recall how well we were doing? The internet was booming. Google and Amazon were taking off. Unemployment was at a thirty year low. America was at the peak of its power and the world was at peace.

Is this the world you remember?

Let me tell you a different, yet equally true, story.

In 1999, we faced a false technological panic in the “Y2K” computer glitch. The sitting President was impeached for improper sexual conduct with an intern. He seemed to serially harass women throughout his career. NATO attacked Serbia due to an ongoing authoritarian genocide. A little known group called Al Qaeda bombed US Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania a year prior and were plotting the 9/11 attacks. Half of Africa’s population lived in abject poverty. The US stock market was in a bubble that it would not fully recover from for another twelve years.

Do you remember this as well?

If you are like most people, you likely think of the first description when you recall the 1990’s, but you also remember the events from the second description when they are pointed out. We have a pervasive nostalgia bias that puts rose colored glasses on the past, and paints our current situation worse than it truly is.

As the quarter-century mark draws near, I find it necessary pause and reflect on the progress we’ve made over the last twenty five years. Global discourse skews toward negativity for the purpose of grabbing your attention, with narratives of decline dominating headlines and social media.

Yet, when we look beyond the noise, the data and lived experiences tell a different story: one of remarkable advancements in healthcare, technology, economics, and equality. These achievements paint a hopeful picture of a world that, despite its challenges, continues to move forward.

Let’s take a look at where we have made significant advancement.

Healthcare: Saving Lives at Unprecedented Rates

Since the year 2000, healthcare has witnessed extraordinary breakthroughs. Global life expectancy has risen by over six years, thanks in large part to innovations in medicine, expanded access to care, and public health initiatives. Diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS, once major killers, are increasingly under control due to effective treatments and global cooperation.

For instance, the global death rate from malaria has been cut nearly in half since 2000, while mother and child mortality rates have plummeted due to improved healthcare access in developing nations. The rapid development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines exemplify how far we’ve come in leveraging science and technology to address health crises at scale.

Yet, many lament that healthcare systems are overwhelmed or unequal. While these concerns are valid, they should not overshadow the undeniable progress we’ve made in saving lives and improving quality of life.

Technology: Empowering Billions

In the year 2000, the internet was a luxury for the few, and smartphones were yet to revolutionize our lives. Fast forward to today: over 5 billion people are connected online, with access to information, education, and opportunities that were once unimaginable. Artificial intelligence, renewable energy technologies, and advancements in space exploration are not just buzzwords—they’re shaping a better future for humanity.

Technology has democratized access to tools that once belonged to the elite. From farmers using AI-driven apps to predict crop yields to students in remote areas attending virtual classes, the reach of innovation is profound. Critics often point to the downsides of technology—addiction, misinformation, privacy concerns and the looming uncertainties of AI. While these are challenges that need addressed, they should not obscure the transformative potential and positive impact technology has had on billions of people across the globe.

Standard of Living: A Quiet Revolution

The world has made significant strides in reducing extreme poverty. According to the World Bank, the global extreme poverty rate fell from 36% in 1990 to about 9% in 2021—a staggering achievement. Electricity, clean water, and sanitation are now accessible to millions more people, significantly improving their quality of life.

While the gap between rich and poor remains a pressing issue, the overall trend is one of continuous upward progress. Even in developing nations, more people have access to better housing, education, and health services than ever before. This quiet revolution in standard of living often goes unnoticed amidst the noise of pessimism.

Economics: Resilience and Growth

Global economic growth has lifted billions out of poverty and into the middle class. Emerging markets like China, India, and parts of Africa have transformed the global economic landscape. Trade, innovation, and technology have fueled productivity, creating wealth on an unprecedented scale.

Critics may point to economic crises, inequality, or inflation as signs of a failing system. However, these are not new phenomena—they are challenges that have been managed repeatedly throughout history. The resilience of economies in rebounding from global shocks, including the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, showcases humanity’s ability to adapt and thrive. While changes are needed to address inequalities, we do not need to throw out the entire system to accomplish the progress we seek.

Equality: The Long Journey Forward

While slower and more uneven than we would like, progress in equality is undeniable. Since 2000, gender parity in education has improved, with more girls attending school globally than ever before. Legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals have expanded, and movements advocating for racial and social justice have gained momentum.

Of course, much work remains. Systemic inequalities still exist, and cultural resistance can slow change. But progress is not linear—it’s a gradual, often contested journey. The growing global awareness and activism around equality signal that the arc of history continues to bend toward justice.

Dispelling the Perception of Decline

Why, then, do so many feel as though the world is getting worse? The answer lies in human psychology and the nature of information consumption. Negative news captures our attention more than positive stories—a phenomenon known as “negativity bias.” Social media amplifies this effect, creating echo chambers that distort reality.

When viewed through the lens of data and historical context, the evidence is clear: we are healthier, wealthier, and more connected than at any other time in human history. While it’s essential to acknowledge and address the challenges we face, focusing solely on them risks overlooking the immense progress humanity has made.

A Call to Optimism

The world has come a long way since 2000. Despite what you hear on the news, from our politicians, or your favorite influencer, we are better off today than we were twenty-five years ago. Recognizing this progress doesn’t mean ignoring the problems that remain—it means drawing hope and inspiration from our achievements as we tackle future challenges.

Progress is not inevitable. The developments that have been made are due to the hard work and determination of people who worked together to create a better life for themselves, their communities, their countries and the world as a whole. We are ultimately a social species. Our prosperity is created through communication, collaboration, listening and understanding.

Our perception today creates the reality of tomorrow. If we believe in a world that continues to make progress, that is the world we will create. We must seek out ways we have overcome obstacles in the past and build upon those methods to create a brighter tomorrow. The progress we have made was not mandated from political leaders. It was the collective result of billions of people doing the right thing on a daily basis.

My challenge to you is to actively foster a mindset of informed optimism that cultivates your actions into the life you want to lead. That is what will make 2050 an even better year than 2025.

I look forward to our continued collective progress.

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The Birth of Jesus: A Christmas Immigration Story

The story of Christmas, celebrated worldwide as the birth of Jesus Christ, carries profound themes of hope, resilience, and inclusion. It is also a narrative deeply rooted in the experiences of migration and displacement. Mary and Joseph, as key figures in the Nativity story, faced daunting obstacles, including a government-ordered journey and the inability to find shelter. Their experience resonates with the struggles of countless migrants throughout history, including those impacted by restrictive policies in modern times. In a profound irony, it seems unlikely there would be room for Jesus in a country run by christian nationalists.

If America is for Americans only, then a middle eastern Jew name Jesus has no place here.

The Nativity as a Tale of Migration

The journey to Bethlehem, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke, begins with a government mandate. Emperor Augustus issued a decree requiring all citizens to register for a census, compelling Mary and Joseph to leave their home in Nazareth and travel to Bethlehem. Mary, pregnant and near term, undertook this arduous journey under circumstances of duress—a journey mirrored in the lives of refugees fleeing war, famine, or persecution in search of safety and stability.

Upon reaching Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph faced rejection and exclusion, as “there was no room in the inn.” This moment highlights the vulnerability of migrants who, despite their urgent need for shelter, are often met with indifference or hostility. Jesus, born in a stable among animals, entered the world as a figure of humility, solidarity, and resilience—qualities that resonate with the experiences of those forced to navigate the margins of society.

The narrative does not end there. After Jesus’ birth, King Herod’s violent decree to kill all male children under two years old forced the Holy Family to flee to Egypt. This act of political persecution transformed them into refugees, seeking asylum in a foreign land to escape violence. Their flight to Egypt mirrors the modern plight of asylum seekers fleeing oppressive regimes, seeking sanctuary in countries where they hope for safety and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Immigration Policies in the Trump Era

Fast forward to contemporary times, and the themes of the Nativity story take on new significance in the context of modern immigration policy. Under Donald Trump’s administration, a series of restrictive measures profoundly impacted migrants and refugees. The “zero-tolerance” policy led to the separation of thousands of families at the U.S.-Mexico border, creating a humanitarian crisis that drew widespread condemnation. The travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim-majority countries further restricted the movement of vulnerable populations, including refugees fleeing conflict zones.

These policies often invoked the language of national security and economic preservation, yet they also revealed a troubling lack of empathy for the human stories behind migration. The separation of families echoes the rejection and vulnerability faced by Mary and Joseph when seeking shelter. Refugees turned away from borders evoke the plight of the Holy Family fleeing Herod’s tyranny.

The Trump administration’s policies also stand in stark contrast to the central message of the Christmas story: a call to embrace the marginalized and provide refuge to those in need. The story of Jesus’ birth challenges societies to extend compassion to strangers, reflecting the biblical mandate to “welcome the stranger” (Matthew 25:35).

It seems the MAGA movement was not paying attention in Sunday school and do not recall the injustices of his first term. True Christ followers will treat any immigrant as their neighbor, because it is literally commanded by God in the Bible:

“Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” – Exodus 22:21

“Cursed is anyone who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow.” – Deuteronomy 21:19

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers.” – Hebrews 13:2

And dozens more. It is ultimately clear that Christianity requires us to accept the immigrant, as there are no illegals in the eyes of God.

Bridging the Divide: Lessons from the Nativity

The Christmas story serves as a powerful reminder that migration is not a new phenomenon but a recurring theme in human history. It calls for empathy and an acknowledgment of shared humanity. Mary, Joseph, and Jesus were migrants seeking safety and shelter, much like today’s refugees and asylum seekers. The political barriers and hostile attitudes they faced are still evident in contemporary debates about immigration.

To reconcile these lessons with current policies, we must prioritize compassion and inclusion over fear and exclusion. Immigration systems should focus on protecting the dignity and rights of migrants, providing them with opportunities to thrive rather than barriers that perpetuate suffering.

The birth of Jesus and the story of Christmas offer profound lessons about migration, resilience, and hope. By drawing parallels between the experiences of the Holy Family and modern migrants, we are reminded of the moral imperative to treat all people with dignity and compassion. We are all the descendants of immigrants.

The Nativity story challenges us to envision a more just and inclusive world—one that honors the fundamental humanity of all, regardless of borders or circumstances.

I challenge all of us, particularly evangelical christians, to reflect over the holidays on how we can make room in our country for a young pregnant couple doing their best to make their way through life.

We need to make room in the inn. Or we need to stop pretending this holiday has any true meaning.

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Where do we go from here?

I started this blog eight years ago after the first election of Donald Trump. It was (and is) an introspective reflection of what I aspire to be and the good I see in the world. The lead up to the 2016 election was filled with vitriol and hate. My first blog post was about how we need reconciliation as a country. It pains me to say we find ourselves in an even deeper hole eight years later. 

After Trump’s first election, I took a step back. I could not wrap my head around why conservative Christians would elect a person who so blatantly disregards the principles they stand for. I took a deep dive into meta-cognition, asking myself: how do I know what I know? I read the classics, from Plato and Aristotle to Descartes and Kant. I researched psychology from William James to Martin Seligman to Philip Zambardo. I studied history from Caesar, to Lincoln, to George Marshall. Along with readings in business, economics and leadership, I have read over 400 books since Trump’s first election. 

Below are the timeless takeaways I have found:

  1. In our hearts, people deeply desire to love and be loved. To do good and be good. To connect and be connected.
  2. People fear losses more than they appreciate gains. The fear of loss is the most powerful motivator and is genesis of hate between people.
  3. Individuals take logical actions based on their frame of reference. The clearer your frame is, the better outcome you will receive. 
  4. There is more information available than any individual’s ability to understand it. Thus, we all have incomplete frames of reference. 
  5. Individuals, communities, and nations prosper when they collaborate with their neighbors. 
  6. The suffering of individuals, the failing of communities, and the collapse of nations is not caused by the presence of enemies. It is caused by the apathy of friends.
  7. The arc of history bends toward justice. We are living in better times today than at any point in history. 
  8. There are powerful forces working to misinform you because they are afraid of losing their own power. 

I find these takeaways to be most relevant, because I truly believe we need to re-ground ourselves in fundamental truths before we can address the current state of global and national geopolitics. Our problems are rooted in the tension created by the above truths. However, I believe the majority of Americans believe in a better future and are willing to work toward it. We want a better form of leadership. 

I also believe their is overwhelming agreement on the below principles, even if their is disagreement upon the policy solution:

  1. Working middle class people have been left behind by globalism. Although the total economy has expanded, the majority of the benefit has gone to the elite. 
  2. The two party system has been corrupted by finances and is not serving average Americans. Politicians have to spend too much time raising money and not enough time solving problems. 
  3. Concentration of power in the Federal government and mega-corporations is an inherent problem, because it concentrates power in the hands of very few people. As noted, no one has a perfect frame of reference, so concentrated power will ALWAYS result in distorted outcomes. 
  4. We believe in both individual freedom AND collective action. We want laws that work and are enforced. We want leaders who inspire us to build better communities. 
  5. We are terrified by the path we have been headed down for the past eight years. It seems that no matter who is in office, the problems we face are amplified rather than resolved. 

I am writing these things because I need to bring back the best version of myself. The person who believes we can work together for a brighter future. Make no mistake, I remain and will remain a staunch opponent of Donald Trump, and any follower of his who uses fear mongering to divide us. But I remain open to any conservative idea that reflects love, peace, rationality and prosperity. 

I believe it is incumbent upon you and me, the average citizens of America, to discard the divisiveness currently defining American politics. We need to throw out the labels of Republican and Democrat. We need to tune out Fox News and MSNBC. We need to turn off our phones and head to the library. We need to talk to our neighbors with the intent to understand their struggle, not to convince them of our own righteousness. 

I will admit, it has been difficult to maintain a positive outlook recently, for personal, professional and political reasons. At times, I have not showed up as the person I aspire to be. And yet, alert and healthy natures realize that the sun rose clear. It is never too late to give up our prejudices. 

In the coming weeks, months and years, I hope to continue sharing with you, both to gain understanding of our world and to inspire myself and others in becoming the people we aspire to be, to build the communities we want to live in and to continue writing a uniquely human story, where good people stand together in the face of adversity to create a better world for us all. 

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The World is Less Volatile Than Ever Before

Last week, I attended the Securities Industry Institute hosted by the University of Pennsylvania. The faculty and speakers were outstanding. The week was filled with thought provoking content about the current and future state of business and financial services. A recurring theme was the need for strategic agility and adaptability in a rapidly changing environment. The term VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) was consistently called out as a challenge to modern leaders. In fact, today’s business executives believe decision making is harder now than it was thirty years ago.

While I am in full agreement that adaptability is critical for success, I am a wholehearted skeptic that today’s world is more volatile than it has been before. Recency bias and a lack of historical perspective may be clouding our view of what life was like thirty, one hundred, or one thousand years ago. In an era often characterized by rapid change and uncertainty, it is essential to recognize the significant strides humanity has made towards stability and peace. Despite ongoing challenges, the world today is less volatile than at any other point in history. We need to recognize how far we have come so that we can continue the journey through our ambiguous and complex times.

An Accurate Perspective Requires Broad Historical Context

Let’s take a look at some current events which lead us to believe we live in exceptionally volatile times.

COVID vs Pre-Modern Pandemics

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our lives in ways none of us previously experienced. It was a time of great ambiguity, as no one knew the appropriate course of action. Many of us lost loved ones to the virus, which is an absolute tragedy. There have been around 7 million global COVID related deaths at the time of this writing.

At the same time, this represents only 0.1% of the global population. Compare this to the Spanish flu 100 years ago, where nearly 50 million people died, or about one out of every three people. The Black Death was even more devastating, killing half of Europe in 14th and 15th centuries. And likely the most egregious case of them all, when disease caused a near complete genocide of indigenous Americans, killing nearly 95% of all inhabitants of the Americas after 1492.

COVID was a tragedy, but collective action, information sharing and modern medicine mitigated the devastating losses humanity has experienced in the past.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded the Ukraine on an unprovoked basis. It was shocking to most of us to see a modern invasion of this magnitude. There has been incredible suffering by the Ukrainian people that cannot be overlooked. The free world should stand behind Ukraine and against the oppressive rule of authoritarianism.

And yet, the current suffering of the Ukrainian people pales in comparison to the past. In the 1930’s, Joseph Stalin created a famine in the Ukraine to suppress its people, creating a genocide, known as the Holodomor, of nearly 4 million Ukrainians. Compare this against just over 10,000 civilian deaths since the most recent instance of Ukraine’s invasion. Lest we forget, the Soviet Union was an initial collaborator of the Nazi’s invasion of Poland in 1939. Compare this against the near unanimous European solidarity against Russia today, which includes the conversion of a historically neutral Sweden into a NATO ally.

The lessons learned after WWII have been applied to the war in Ukraine. While it was a surprise when war actually came, diplomatic channels had already made NATO allies aware of Putin’s intentions, and the Biden administration publicly predicted the invasion weeks before it occurred. Ukrainian resistance and international cooperation thwarted Russia’s march toward Kiev. A united front against a totalitarian can bend the arc of history toward freedom.

War in the Holy Land

The attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023 was a shocking and horrific attack. The ensuing Israeli invasion has been equally and even more disturbing. And while each war has its own unique causes and atrocities, this is the ninth war Israel has fought since it became an independent nation in 1948.

The unfortunate truth is that war in the Holy land is as normal as peace. This is a land occupied by the Assyrians, Babylonians, Hebrews, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans, British and Palestinians prior to the formation of modern Israel. War should always outrage us when it occurs, but this war is not a sign of the times becoming more volatile. It’s a sign volatility is part of human existence.

Gender and Racial Inequality

Recent events have highlighted the persistent and intersecting inequality women and people of color face. From George Floyd, to the Supreme Court Dobbs decision, to the ongoing border crisis, America still falls short of living up to the creeds written in the Declaration of Independence and inscribed on the Statue of Liberty.

And yet…black unemployment is at an all time low. The gender pay gap is as narrow as it ever has been. The incarceration rate has been falling over the last decade. The 118th Congress is the most diverse in history, both by gender and race. We are not yet where we need to be, but on the long march to equality, there is more road behind us than there is left to travel.

Our Progress Depends on Connection, Understanding, Democracy and Rule of Law

The ideas of the Enlightenment have created global prosperity unknown to previous generations. As leaders and individuals, we must continue to advocate for the ideas that support progress:

  1. Global Connectivity: The interconnectedness facilitated by technology and globalization has created a web of economic, social, and political ties that incentivize cooperation over conflict. Nations are more reliant on each other’s stability, fostering diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes peacefully.
  2. Diplomatic Channels: The proliferation of diplomatic channels and institutions, such as the United Nations and regional organizations, provides platforms for dialogue and conflict resolution. Diplomatic efforts have prevented many potential conflicts from escalating into full-scale wars.
  3. Democratization: The spread of democracy around the world has led to more accountable and responsive governance structures. Democratically elected leaders are often constrained by institutions and public opinion, reducing the likelihood of authoritarian abuses and internal strife.
  4. International Law and Norms: The establishment and enforcement of international laws and norms have created a framework for resolving disputes and holding aggressors accountable. Treaties and conventions on issues like human rights and armed conflict provide a common standard for behavior.
  5. Economic Interdependence: The deepening economic ties between nations have created mutual interests in maintaining stability and avoiding conflict. War disrupts trade and investment, making it an unattractive option for most countries.
  6. Advancements in Conflict Resolution: Innovations in conflict resolution techniques, such as mediation, arbitration, and peacekeeping operations, have been instrumental in preventing and resolving conflicts. These mechanisms provide non-violent alternatives for addressing grievances.
  7. Technological Advancements: Technological advancements have improved communication, surveillance, and military capabilities, making it easier to detect and deter potential threats. Additionally, technological innovations in agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure have lifted millions out of poverty, reducing social instability.
  8. Global Governance Initiatives: Collaborative initiatives to address global challenges, such as climate change, pandemics, and terrorism, demonstrate the willingness of nations to work together for the common good. Multilateral agreements and partnerships strengthen collective security and resilience.
  9. Cultural Exchange and Understanding: Increased cultural exchange and understanding have fostered empathy and tolerance among diverse communities. People are more inclined to resolve differences peacefully when they recognize shared humanity and common aspirations.
  10. Youth Empowerment and Education: Greater access to education and opportunities for young people empower them to participate in shaping their societies positively. Educated and engaged youth are less susceptible to extremist ideologies and more likely to advocate for peace and progress.

These concepts have created and will continue to develop a prosperous world, as long as we stay committed to listening to each other and standing up for progress.

Perhaps the greatest threat to our current state are demagogues who manipulate facts to obscure reality for their own benefit.

We are Supremely Capable of Facing the Obstacles in Front of Us

I do not mean to minimize the challenges we face today as individuals, leaders, organizations or as a society. The threat of disruption is real. We have a long bridge to build to reduce national and international political divisiveness. The wars in Ukraine and Gaza are appalling. Global warming threatens to change the face of the planet. America is still not the land of opportunity and equality it aspires to be. We cannot ignore the challenges we face and we must recognize our ability to overcome them.

We must acknowledge how far we have come so we can take courage, hope and inspiration from the people who have faced and defeated even greater obstacles than these in the past. We have more tools at our disposal, more people we can call on for assistance, more resources we can deploy and more love we can share.

There are forces that actively seek to make you afraid for the purpose of preserving old power dynamics that no longer serve us. We need to proactively counter this narrative with the voices of all the prophets, sages, stoics and activists who came before, and who through their words and actions delivered this message:

Do not be afraid. Boldly take action toward improving yourself, your situation, your organization and your community. Do not be overcome by fear, but overcome evil with good. The world is changed through the small actions individuals take. Plant trees under which whose shade you will never sit under. Build a community whose results you may never reap the rewards of. Lift up the people around you, because the highest calling we have is to care for the people we live with.

These are the actions of a life well lived. I hope you live it to the fullest.

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Courageous Leadership: Giving Voice to the Unpopular Truth

Today is Martin Luther King Day, a day celebrating a giant of a leader, who in retrospect is viewed as one of the greatest Americans who ever lived. Children are taught in school about his “I Have a Dream” speech, where people will be judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. What we don’t talk about is that most Americans disapproved of Dr. King at the time of his death. We popularize his dream, but ignore the societal criticisms in his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail”.

“I must confess that over the past few years I have been gravely disappointed with the white moderate.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

It is probable Dr. King would still be disappointed in the white moderate today. In fact, I am concerned he would be disappointed in all moderates who continue to allow injustice to flourish through inaction and silence. Many people are willing to make noise in safe places and behind computer screens, but few are willing to makes waves within their own sphere of influence.

There exists a delicate dance around difficult truths – the kind that elicit discomfort, challenge the status quo, and often remain unspoken. People tend to shy away from uttering these truths, whether out of fear of confrontation, a desire to maintain harmony, or simply to shield themselves from potential backlash. This avoidance, however, has consequences not only on an individual level, but also permeates into the fabric of societies and organizations.

The Anatomy of Avoidance

One primary reason people sidestep difficult truths is the fear of conflict. The human psyche tends to gravitate towards comfort and stability, making the prospect of unsettling conversations unappealing. Unpopular truths often disrupt established norms, challenge ingrained beliefs and force individuals to confront uncomfortable realities.

Moreover, the fear of social repercussions plays a significant role in this avoidance. People fear being ostracized, criticized, or even facing professional consequences for voicing opinions that deviate from the mainstream. This fear-driven silence creates a culture where superficial agreement takes precedence over authentic discourse.

The Ripple Effect on Societal Dynamics

When we collectively avoid difficult truths, our society is left grappling with unaddressed issues. Societal norms and systemic problems persist because genuine conversations about them are stifled. This reluctance to confront uncomfortable truths can lead to the perpetuation of inequality, injustice, and other deep-seated issues. This is the state we find ourselves in today.

In the absence of open dialogue about difficult truths, our society risks stagnation. Progress becomes elusive as challenges remain unacknowledged and unaddressed. The collective unwillingness to confront reality hampers societal growth and evolution. Indeed, it has been decades since we have achieved anything that amounts to real progress. We need more open conversation and direct action.

The Organizational Impact

In the organizational sphere, the consequences of avoiding difficult truths are equally profound. Teams and companies that discourage open communication about challenges or failures foster a culture of silence. This silence impedes innovation, problem-solving, and ultimately inhibits the organization’s ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Employees who fear reprisals for highlighting inconvenient truths may disengage or become passive participants in the workplace. This stifles creativity and hampers the organization’s ability to navigate complex challenges. In contrast, organizations that encourage transparent communication, even when it involves uncomfortable truths, create an environment conducive to growth and improvement. The only path to sustainable success lies in confronting the difficult truth about your business.

The Courageous Leadership Paradigm

Enter the courageous leader – the catalyst for change in a landscape dominated by evasion. Leaders who possess the courage to articulate difficult and unpopular truths exhibit a rare but indispensable quality. Such leaders are not driven solely by the pursuit of popularity or short-term gains; instead, they prioritize the long-term health and success of their communities and organizations.

Courageous leaders understand that short-term discomfort is a small price to pay for the long-term benefit of transparency and growth. They recognize that avoiding difficult truths may offer temporary relief, but comes at the cost of perpetuating systemic issues and hindering progress.

Benefits of Courageous Leadership

1. Building Trust: Leaders who openly address difficult truths build trust within their teams or communities. Transparency fosters an environment where individuals feel heard and respected, creating a foundation for collaboration and innovation.

2. Encouraging Innovation: Acknowledging uncomfortable realities is the first step towards finding innovative solutions. Courageous leaders create a culture that values creativity and problem-solving, unencumbered by the fear of reprisals.

3. Adaptability: Organizations led by individuals willing to confront difficult truths are inherently more adaptable. They can respond effectively to challenges, navigate change, and steer the course toward long-term success.

4. Crisis Management: In times of crisis, leaders who embrace difficult truths can provide clear, honest communication. This transparency is crucial for guiding teams through challenging circumstances and maintaining confidence in leadership.

5. Catalyzing Cultural Change: Courageous leaders have the power to transform organizational cultures. By normalizing open conversations about difficult truths, they set the stage for positive cultural shifts that endure over time.

Courageous Leadership Requires Our Direct Action

Dr. King’s Letter has one primary premise: The time for action is now. We must directly confront the challenges we face with courage. The reluctance to voice difficult truths is a pervasive challenge in our individual lives and broader societal contexts. However, the benefit of being a leader who embraces these truths far outweighs the discomfort of the moment. Courageous leadership, marked by a willingness to confront unpopular realities, is the linchpin for fostering trust, promoting innovation, and steering communities and organizations toward a resilient and sustainable future.

Perhaps the most provocative part about difficult truths is to whom they need addressed. It is not a difficult truth when a Republican lectures a Democrat about the size of government. A difficult truth is a critique of your own social group and your own way of life. It’s a truth that will get you in trouble because no one wants to hear it. It’s criticizing the supporters who can get you out of jail while you are unjustly sitting in a cell.

Existentially, the most difficult truths to confront are the lies we tell ourselves. It’s confronting your own bias. It’s researching the truths told by the other side of the political aisle. It’s acknowledging your business decisions do not meet your ethical standards. Maybe we all need to reflect deeply on the content of our own character.

The world is in desperate need of courageous leadership. We need to tell each other the hard truths that are getting in the way. Maybe we need the silence of a Birmingham jail cell to have a moment of clarity. Or maybe we can follow in the footsteps of the giants who came before us that paved the way.

I am thankful for the courageous leadership of Dr. King.

What is one courageous action you can take that speaks truth into a world increasingly filled with falsehood?

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Harnessing Negative Emotions for Transformation

Positivity has become a fad in American business and social media circles. I often find myself caught in the hype. Popular authors and scientific research can point to the benefits of optimism, joy and hope. But I frequently find myself feeling anxious, angry and upset. If positive emotions are optimal for flourishing, why did we evolve feelings of frustration, melancholy and loneliness?

Negative emotions are often misunderstood and undervalued. They serve as internal indicators, signaling when we’re encountering situations that challenge us, provoke discomfort, or indicate unmet needs. Their immediate impact is distressing, but these emotions can be invaluable guides for personal growth and positive change.

The Purpose of Negative Emotions

  1. Signaling Discomfort: Negative emotions—such as anger, sadness, fear, and frustration—are signals from our inner self, highlighting situations or circumstances that clash with our desires, values, or expectations. These emotions are messages, urging us to pay attention to what needs addressing in our lives. Without this discomfort, we would be apathetic and accepting of poor outcomes. Pain is a signal that action is necessary.
  2. Identifying Unmet Needs: Negative emotions can reveal unmet needs or unresolved issues. For instance, feeling anxious might indicate a need for security, while frustration could signal a need for change or progress. Most of us were not taught to label emotions and causes accurately, so revealing the unmet need may take time to discover.
  3. Catalysts for Change: Negativity, when acknowledged and understood, can be a catalyst for growth. It prompts introspection, encourages learning, and fosters resilience. These emotions can force us to face challenges we otherwise would have left unchecked.

Transforming Negativity into Purposeful Action

  1. Acknowledge and Accept: Instead of suppressing or avoiding negative emotions, acknowledge and accept them. Recognize their presence and allow yourself to experience them fully. This acknowledgment is the first step toward understanding their source and purpose. A negative emotion cannot properly function unless you embrace it and welcome it for what it is, without judging yourself or the feeling.
  2. Reflect and Learn: Dive deeper into the root cause of the feeling. What triggered it? What does it reveal about your values, needs, or boundaries? Use this insight as a learning opportunity for self-discovery.
  3. Channel Energy into Action: Rather than letting negativity consume you, channel its energy into action. For instance, use frustration as a driving force for change, turn fear into a motivator for preparedness, or harness anger to advocate for necessary boundaries. We too often get consumed in our negativity without transforming it, or worse, suppress the emotion and try to ignore it. The power of negative emotions lies in their ability to inspire initiative.
  4. Practice Emotional Regulation: Develop healthy coping mechanisms and emotional regulation techniques. Mindfulness, meditation, exercise, journaling, or seeking support from a trusted friend or professional can help manage and process negative emotions effectively. Distractive and destructive forces such as endless social media scrolls and alcohol will prevent you from effectively using negative emotions to your advantage.

Embracing Emotional Balance

Remember, a life devoid of negative emotions is not feasible nor healthy. Embracing a spectrum of emotions, both positive and negative, cultivates emotional resilience and balance. By acknowledging and utilizing negative emotions as catalysts for growth, we empower ourselves to lead more fulfilling lives.

Negative emotions, while uncomfortable in the moment, are an integral part of your human experience. Ignoring the negative emotions in yourself and in others can overlook important aspects needed for development. Embracing them, learning from them, and leveraging their power to propel yourself forward enables you to use the full spectrum of human experience to transform yourself and the situations you find yourself in toward positive outcomes.

The most challenging part for me of this advice is remembering it in the moment. It is easy to intellectualize the benefits of negative emotions, but much harder to implement it. I know that’s an area I need to work on the next time I’m in the middle of a negativity streak.

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Wisdom Across Time and Faiths


Throughout history, profound thinkers and spiritual leaders have emerged from diverse corners of the world, each offering unique insights into the human experience and the nature of existence. We focus too often on the differences between philosophies and religions, while ignoring the commonalities. By examining these shared themes, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the universal wisdom that transcends time and faiths.

  1. The Importance of Love and Compassion
    Jesus: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
    Muhammad: “None of you will believe until you love for your brother what you love for yourself.” (Hadith, Bukhari)
    Buddha: “Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal rule.” (Dhammapada)
    Socrates: “Be as you wish to seem.” (Plato’s “The Republic”) – Socrates emphasized the importance of cultivating virtuous qualities like love and compassion to reflect one’s inner nature.
  2. The Pursuit of Inner Peace and Self-Realization
    Jesus: “The kingdom of God is within you.” (Luke 17:21)
    Muhammad: “Whoever knows himself knows his Lord.” (Hadith, Bukhari)
    Buddha: “Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” (Dhammapada)
    Socrates: “The unexamined life is not worth living.” (Plato’s “Apology”) – Socrates stressed the need for self-awareness and introspection as a path to finding inner peace and understanding.
  3. Humility and the Nature of Knowledge
    Jesus: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5)
    Muhammad: “He who has a speck of arrogance in his heart will not enter Paradise.” (Hadith, Muslim)
    Buddha: “When one has the feeling of dislike for evil, when one feels tranquil, one finds pleasure in listening to good teachings; when one has these feelings and appreciates them, one is free of fear.” (Dhammapada)
    Socrates: “I am the wisest man alive, for I know one thing, and that is that I know nothing.” – (Plato’s “Apology”) – All four figures emphasized the value of humility and acknowledged the limits of human understanding.
  4. Ethics and Moral Guidance
    Jesus: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” (Matthew 7:12)
    Muhammad: “The most complete believer in faith is the one with the best character.” (Hadith, Tirmidhi)
    Buddha: “In five ways should a clansman minister to his friends and familiars: by generosity, courtesy, and benevolence; by treating them as he treats himself; and by being as good as his word.” (Sigalovada Sutta)
    Socrates: “No one knowingly does evil.” – (Plato’s “Protagoras”) – Each of these figures emphasized the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and integrity.

While Jesus, Muhammad, Buddha, and Socrates lived in different times and cultures, their teachings reveal remarkable parallels in their approach to love, compassion, inner peace, humility, ethics, and self-realization. These shared principles underscore the timeless nature of human wisdom and the universal quest for understanding the human condition. By recognizing these similarities, we can foster greater appreciation for the diversity of thought and belief, while also highlighting the common values that bind humanity across faiths and eras.

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