Perspective

“No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” Those were the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., as he reflected on the value of labor, its impact and meaning in America. As we pause this week to remember the work and legacy of Dr. King, we also must keep in mind to teach and … [Read more...] about Passing the torch

By Paul Schmitz, CEO, Public Allies Dr. Martin Luther King was a transformational leader who inspired our nation and bent the arc of history toward justice. When we remember Dr. King only by his greatest victories and quotations, however, we do a disservice to him and ourselves. The iconic King teaches us incomplete lessons about leadership and the struggle for social … [Read more...] about Honoring Dr. King the man, not the icon

Among the many places I visited in Burkina Faso, the most impressive one was a Christian Pastoral Training School built by Pastor Jacques Nignan, located about 'a twenty minutes’ drive south of the capitol city Ouagadougou near Sabtoana. Pastor Jack, as he was called, spoke very good English. He told me that God had given him a vision that he was supposed to build an … [Read more...] about Building churches through pastoral schools of agriculture

“We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.” Those were the words of Nelson Mandela, (1918-2013), who became the first black South African to become president of South Africa. His journey to the presidency and his life long struggle for equality for all South Africans is truly noteworthy and is a standard to live by. His work … [Read more...] about Standing Tall – Nelson Mandela

Many people often wonder how those who are in the positions of leadership in public service and private business take the news when reports come to light that things are not getting better and that some outcomes are having a negative effect upon others and the community at large. It is assumed that people in leadership will do the right thing, act ethically, make positive … [Read more...] about The things we do

While many American families gather around the Thanksgiving table this week, some of us combining this year’s traditional dinners with Hanukkah feasts, a too quiet group will be left out of the national celebration. The nearly 49 million Americans—including nearly 16 million children—living in food insecure households will be struggling to afford the food they need. These … [Read more...] about Preventable hunger in our land of plenty

“Begin with the end in mind” Those were the words of Stephen Covey in his book “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.” In fact this is the second habit. This habit speaks to the need for self-discovery; to clarify deeply important character values, and to set life goals. It is to envision the ideal characteristics for each of one’s various roles and relationships in … [Read more...] about Setting a new agenda