Those playing divisive, race-card politics in Australia will keep getting the headlines. But the real story should not be forgotten. The people impacted most by fear-based, populist, political decisions and policies are usually the most vulnerable and those with the least voice. Let’s not let their real stories and needs be overshadowed amid cheap political … Continue reading Compassion amid misinformation
Culture
Lingering in story
Between appointments today I had the opportunity to meet John and chat over a coffee. He told me he a few times as we spoke that he didn’t want to hold me up! He wasn’t, as I reminded myself that in this moment there was no where else I needed to be. So we lingered … Continue reading Lingering in story
A healing collective
Across the nation we're seeing the beauty of collective grief, compassion, empathy and respect; a quartet that that supports healing and fosters unity. And sadly, but predictably, we also see the ugliness of collective blame, which fuels division and fosters fear and often, more violence. It helps no one at all! We will see more of … Continue reading A healing collective
Refusing to be silent!
Robert Reich highlights that in a world of chaos, conflict, fear and injustice it’s understandable, that in our humanness, we may choose denial, despair or silence. Reich writes: “When most of us believe that nothing can be done, or assume nothing will be done, or think that silence is the only practical choice, we fuel … Continue reading Refusing to be silent!
Disagreeing in love
I’m an election tragic. I’ve watched many up close over my life. This time round, I’ve been deeply concerned by the vitriol, hatred and lies - dressed up as political comment by people who claim to identify with the ways of Jesus. I’m astounded by the certainty some hold to in their extreme, opinions, claims … Continue reading Disagreeing in love
Thankful tracks
This was my local lockdown track. I walked it so many times. I still do! It’s become a therapeutic place. As I travel the world in my role I love to walk and explore places I’ve never seen before. I love adventure and change. I enjoy new experiences! But in the world as it is … Continue reading Thankful tracks
Declaring sabbaticals!
It had been a long and busy work day. I was back in my hotel room on the NSW north coast working on emails. The “to do” list was long. I was feeling weary. I needed to declare a “momentary sabbatical”. I walked out onto the balcony and suddenly I was struck by the most … Continue reading Declaring sabbaticals!
“Not one of us!”
Some of you may have seen the post doing the rounds that suggests to be a true Australian means you celebrate the following six days: Christmas Day, Easter, Anzac Day, Australia Day, Fathers Day and Mothers Day. It’s a short list isn’t it? It’s intentionally exclusive. People who I have spoken with, who suggest lists … Continue reading “Not one of us!”
The difference default
When you get more than 400 people from 65 countries in a room - and throw in that they’re Baptists - you are amid a very diverse bunch. Difference is all around you - be it language, skin colour, dress, equity, cuisine, theology, worship style or preferred football code. And given we were meeting in … Continue reading The difference default
Be inspired!
We all love stories, and I am finding that my appreciation of First Nations history, perspectives and cultures continues to grows as I intentionally read, listen to and watch stories made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Be it the disturbing truth-telling of watching The Australian Wars on SBS, or the beauty and heartache … Continue reading Be inspired!
apilgrimpens 