Where to Now?

Phil Davis shares much of the intent of this website. As a result, I have invited him provide weekly blogs. Entered below is his first:

I just watched the movie "Syriana" and I've just listened to your new Audio version of Animal Kingdom - all in a two-day period. Having both messages juxtaposed in my mind at the same time has given me a lot to think about these past few days.

Syriana is a message about power, greed and dominion over people and nations. The movie drew a direct correlation between the decisions the "powers," (or maybe the "lions") made and the decisions the terrorists made. The two actions are directly related; cause and effect. The message was powerful.

In Animal Kingdom, the message is about becoming humble, seeing the world from each others' eyes, learning to adapt and learning how to live compatibly with each other.

Lately I've been thinking about the "American Way" and "What is the soul of America." If the "American Way" is dominating foreign countries through military force, imposing our values on societies, controlling the oil supply, etc. then I fear for the soul of America.

If, on the other hand, the "American Way" is reaching out to victims of natural disaster, not just at home but abroad, of promoting democracy through education and by example and by assisting those countries seeking democracy, if the "American Way" is being a true melting pot where people can live compatibly with each, then I think there is hope for the soul of America.

The soul of America lies in each of us. We are still a democracy and each of us can help elect officials who are committed to advancing the true soul of America. If we care enough to do so.

70% of Iraqis voted last week. The people there care about the soul of Iraq right now. I think we can learn from their example.