Diwali, also called Deepavali or Deepawali, is the Hindu festival of lights, with variations celebrated in other Indian religions such as Jainism and Sikhism. It symbolizes the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas holiday is to Christians.
To all celebrating, may you lead us all into the light and to celebrate light over darkness in these times in which we live.
We pray for peace that isn’t just the absence of gunfire but the presence of dignity and for justice that doesn’t wait for the next election cycle.
Rev. Nadia Bolz-Weber
Today is the Autumnal Equinox or the beginning of Fall. This is traditionally my favorite season because the weather is cooler and the leaves change colors where I live. These days the temperatures aren’t as cool as they once were. Still, I like this time of year for its vibes. Have a cozy Fall season good people.
I make a good effort to be kind online. However, some things people say need to be challenged, but that can be done without being a total jerk. Some of the comments I see online are really inappropriately cruel. It’s the security of an always on connection to the Internet and a keyboard that makes being mean possible. It’s important that we are all human beings. Be kind to one another, but remember to focus on justice and peace for everyone above all. Love and grace to us all.
There is a ‘sanctity’ involved with bringing a child into this world: it is better than bombing one out of it.
James Baldwin
First off, the Iran-Israel conflict is between them and them alone. They have to work out their issues. The United States has no business in this, full stop! After what seems to have been endless war with Iraq and Afghanistan, getting into this regional conflict is something no one should have the stomach for.
There should have been some congressional approval and accountability here. Iran does not pose a direct threat to the United States. Our economic treatment of other countries has compromised our moral standing in the world in many ways. In many places, America is no longer is seen as the “good guys”.
The president said he would take two weeks to decide, which makes this decision to bomb questionable. Expect some sort of retaliation, and it won’t be safe for American’s to travel in the area.
America is an ally of Israel, but the current version of Israel isn’t what I support. While I support Jewish people, their government is something that isn’t worthy of getting behind. The people of Israel as described in scripture is something I have linkage too. Sure they weren’t perfect, but the hard life they endured is something more in tune with my own existence.
Iran has its vast problems with human rights since the Iranian Revolution. They aren’t to be let off the hook. A revolution seems to be cooking and that will be something if it happens. There is a lot to keep an eye on. Let’s hope for the best.
In any situation, peace must prevail. Peace through diplomacy is always best.
The Tony Burgess Blog 