Yesterday and today.

Yesterday I installed a cabinet I made on a railing outside the Clear Spring School so parents can pick up work for their kids and that materials can be passed between home and school. It's very sad that the pandemic was allowed to advance this far into the school year. Even with the vaccine on the horizon, we all are at greater risk here now than at any previous time. Had there been a coherent federal response from the outset, led by science and not by ineptitude and purposeful politicalization, we would be far safer at this time with far fewer deaths nationally and in our own county. In-person attendance at the Clear Spring School is delayed while we hope the pandemic will be brought under better control.

At the Clear Spring School, as teachers attempt greater reliance on distance learning, I plan a supportive role consistent with my watch word for the year, "useful." To be useful implies giving over something of oneself in the service of others. Last week I met with the director of a wellness program where they hope to use crafts. This week I meet via zoom with the co-founder of the Big Picture Schools to discuss some kind of collaborative venture that he has in mind.

The world is deeply concerned as we learn more about the hostile takeover of the US Capitol. I read this morning that some of those claiming to oppose the certification of the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were doing so out of fear for the safety of their families... fearing that right wing trumpian extremists would take revenge on their families for disobedience to their insurrection . It's much more likely that they were concerned about their re-elections and the toll loss of elections will take on their family finances. Any excuse will do when you're caught with your pants down. 

Being raised knowing that it was legitimate to oppose government policies, but but that all must uphold the rule of law, I've found myself taking what some would think to be the wrong view. For instance, I was a conscientious objector during the Vietnam war. I was deeply opposed to Bush's invasion of Iraq. I've been a persistent critic of Donald J. Trump and knew exactly how seriously and dangerously his narcissism would play out.

So where are we going with all this? One step at a time. When danger persists, step cautiously. Pray for sanity and peace. There's a saying from the iChing that provides clarity in times like these. When confronted by evil, proceed to do the good. Doing the good puts oneself at peace. In my own case, the "good" is to awaken folks to the glories of the instruments through which we build better families, communities and culture... our own hands.

Today I'm shipping boxes to a gallery in Little Rock.

Make, fix and create. Assist others in learning lifewise.