When I was a boy, one of my favorite destinations was my Grandmom Parker’s house in southern New Jersey. You could never step foot into Grandmom’s house without being asked: “Would you like something to eat?” At that point the answer was superfluous, and the question of whether or not you were hungry was not … Continue reading The Wisdom of Grandmom’s Dinner Table
COVID-19
Pandemic shows need for broader view of national security
They say the sun never sets on the U.S. military. Our military remains vigilant around the globe, at all times, to respond to any and every threat before it reaches American shores. That has long been and remains an important mission. But, while the sun may never set on our military might, the United States … Continue reading Pandemic shows need for broader view of national security
Mental health experts point to meditation to reduce stress of pandemic
ENID, Okla. — With the coronavirus keeping many Americans cooped up at home, and stress and anxiety soaring amid the pandemic, some experts are pointing to the practice of meditation as a means to improve mental health. The Oklahoma chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recently published an online flier promoting the … Continue reading Mental health experts point to meditation to reduce stress of pandemic
Let us continue to see the unseen after this pandemic passes
Who do we see? This question has taken on new meaning, as the upending of society and its norms by the coronavirus has fundamentally changed who we see, and how we see them. I’m talking about more than just who we lay eyes on. I mean: Who do we really see? Who do we see … Continue reading Let us continue to see the unseen after this pandemic passes
Inequality — The Achilles heel of American pandemic response
There always have been two Americas — the America of the “haves” and the America of the “have-nots.” These two Americas look nothing alike, and systemic structures have been built, reshaped and rebuilt to make sure the “haves” are not negatively impacted, inconvenienced or made uncomfortable by the hunger, oppression, poverty and suffering of the … Continue reading Inequality — The Achilles heel of American pandemic response
James R. Neal 