Second assumption of Appreciative Inquiry
There are lots of loud voices and disturbing images in the media screaming at me to pay attention to certain problems in the world. I understand we must remain vigilant in the 21st century, but as a student of history I also know these are not the end times. The quality of life still depends not by what happens but how one responds to the events. As we greet you during this wonderful holiday season we wish to share some of the things we have been paying attention to.
• Our life together as a couple, our children, and children in law.
• Our five grandchildren, ages 6-16. They are learning math and reading skills, scoring baskets, dancing, singing and teaching their parents and grandparents much about life.
• An Assistance League store raising funds to cloth children and support women and children going through difficult times.
• Vital Conversations every month discussing books, movies, current events with the purpose "not to win an argument, but to win a friend and advance civilization."
• My favorite movie line of the year from "Bridge of Spies" when the Soviet spy is asked several times "Are you worried?" And several times responds "Would it help?"
• My favorite news clip on TV of a little boy the day after the tragic attack on Paris being interviewed and fearing he must lose his house. His father assuring his son that "They may have guns, but we have flowers and candles." The son soon feels better.
• Several groups of men and women who, in retirement, continue to ponder the events of the day and volunteer to take small and big steps to make a positive difference in the community.
• Men in the Life Connections Program at USP Leavenworth who are changing their thinking and behavior and reentering society contributing to the value of their communities.
• A loving kitty rescued from a trash container in back of a fast food restaurant who now adds playfulness, humor and a warm lap when I read the morning newspapers.
• The people of Cuba we visited who drive 1950 American cars, don't carry guns, and have complete health care from cradle to grave.
• Che Guevara who was willing to give his life for a vision that still inspires many of us.
• Books that tell the strange and challenging story of Eva Peron.
• Buenos Aires, Argentina, visited recently, where people from all over the world have come as immigrants and created a city of class, great art and fascinating history.
• Lighting candles in the dark with a community that still believes love is stronger than hate and the powers of creation and the future remain on our side even when it's dark out.
• A story of a poor family forced to stay in a barn the night of delivery giving birth to an infant who would speak words that continue to be proclaimed around the world.
We also enjoy paying attention to you, our friends, as you share the histories of your lives.
May the Holiday season bring joy and hope to you and the whole human family.
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