The Myth of Redemptive Violence
I had a veteran friend once tell me, “The biggest lie I have ever been told is that violence is evil, except in war.” He went on, “My government told me that. My Church told me that. My family told me t...
See you on the other side Chuck Colson (VIDEO)
Chuck Colson died on April 21. Colson worked with Nixon and went to jail over an obstruction of justice charge (interestingly enough, for attempting to defame the Pentagon Papers). But more fondly, Colson wil...
Oh Yeah! Connecticut Abolished the Death Penalty
THIS JUST IN… Big news. Connecticut abolished the death penalty yesterday. Only 33 more states to go.
It’s time we stop killing people who kill people to show that killing people is wrong.
In a histori...
Practicing Resurrection: Turning Vacant Lots Into Gardens in Philadelphia
"What's that?" one of the kids asked, with big gleaming eyes.
"That's a firefly" I said, with a smile, realizing it was his first firefly-sighting.
"Why does it glow like that?"
I thought for a minute. "...
It's (Almost) Illegal to Feed Those without Homes in Philadelphia
On March 14, 2012 Mayor Michael Nutter announced a plan to ban “outdoor feeding” in the City of Philadelphia. In effect this would make it illegal to share or distribute food in public places without a p...
An Unholy Wall in the Holy Land
I just returned from Bethlehem, and brought this nativity scene back as a gift. It’s a beautifully hand-carved nativity made from the olive wood distinct to the region. But you can also see something else...
Occupy Nonviolence: Not Flesh and Blood
Amid the recent police violence in Oakland and the sure temptation of some protestors to resort to violence, I wrote this little reflection inviting all Occupiers to a renewed commitment to nonviolence.
There...
Is There Such Thing as a Good CEO? (VIDEO)
Check out this story about Haruka Nishimatsu, President and CEO of Japan Airlines, one of the biggest airlines in the world.
He takes public transportation, shares an office with co-workers, stands in line...
Exorcise Wall Street
There was an occasion in the 60s where a bunch of hippies surrounded the Pentagon and tried to exorcise the demons. It didn’t work. Despite their valiant effort, not much happened that day.
Nevertheless, I...
I Apologize for Inaccurate Statistics on US Gov't War Spending
I APOLOGIZE FOR INACCURATELY QUOTING HOW MUCH THE US GOVERNMENT SPENDS ON WAR. For several years, I have been using a statistic that is grossly understated.
I often say that the US spends over 200, 000 dollar...