Something to Think About

Spiritual Leadership in Government

I finished watching “This Week with George Stephanopoulis” and “Meet the Press” on this week’s DVR program list.  Not watching, actually, but listening while I sat here with the computer, wondering what I’m going to write next.

While I was half watching, the thought came.  These are the people who are leading our country?  People who engage in personal attack, disrespectful behavior, and congressmen who insult others to their face?  Politicians who work to instill fear of the future into the hearts and minds of it’s citizens, as they search for a political advantage?  Speaking for myself, this behavior is far more discouraging than the individual policies they may represent.

Our problems are too big, and too complex to be playing a game of political football.   Read more »

November 22, 2009 Posted by | Government, Leadership, Love, Media, Politics, Religion, Spirituality | , , , , , , | 2 Comments

The Best Statistics You’ve Ever Seen?

Are you ready for the best statistics you’ve ever seen?  Are you ready to be blown away by great data?  Get ready, because Hans Rosling will make that happen for you, AND he will also put those tools into your hands, so you can perform your own research.  Hans studies world trends in disease, life expectancy, wealth, poverty, urbanization, population growth, and much, much more.

Hans has worked to collect quantifiable statistics from data banks across the world, and he has now made those databanks and statistical tools available to us at www.gapminder.org.  Once there, you can create your own statistical analysis of the world over time.

Here, you can watch Hans at work, demonstrating his passion.  You can recreate the graphical work you see him do, and much more, at www.gapminder.org. Enjoy.

November 14, 2009 Posted by | Statistics, Video | | 1 Comment

Charter for Compassion

“I say that religion isn’t about believing things. It’s ethical alchemy. It’s about behaving in a way that changes you, that gives you intimations of holiness and sacredness.” – Karen Armstrong

As a former Roman Catholic Nun and a prolific religious writer, Karen Armstrong has studied the religions of the world at length.  From her perspective, there is an underlying commonality amongst the world’s major religions. That commonality was expressed in her wish for a formal world-wide Charter For Compassion.  In the video that follows, Karen makes her case for the Charter For Compassion.  She won one of the 2008 TED prizes to help her actualize that dream.  Today, her dream is being executed.  For information on the execution of that dream, click here.  

November 13, 2009 Posted by | Inspiration, Spirituality, Video | , | Leave a Comment

Jill Bolte Taylor’s stroke of insight

Jill Bolte Taylor got a research opportunity few brain scientists would wish for: She had a massive stroke, and watched as her brain functions — motion, speech, self-awareness — shut down one by one. What she learned as a result of that experience has implications for all of us. An astonishing story.

Enjoy.

http://www.ted.com/talks/view/lang/eng//id/229

November 10, 2009 Posted by | Awe, Video | | 1 Comment

We all have something to give

The next time you feel down or depressed, watch this video, then consider taking time to re-evaluate the gifts you have to give to your loved ones, and your world.  If we were to all apply the same amounts of Effort, Love, and Optimism, we could quickly change our world.

Nick has travelled the world, has spoken to over 2 million people, has inspired many, and continues to make an impact.  For additional information on Nick’s life, click here.  What gifts do you have to give today?

Something to think about…..

November 8, 2009 Posted by | Leadership, Love, Video | , | Leave a Comment

Make a difference in someone’s life – An example

Making a positive difference in the life of another(s) is arguably the most important thing we can do while on this planet. This video provides an example of how one person can do just that, with just a bit of love and perseverance.  To me, it’s an example of leading a meaningful life.  Enjoy.

My life is my message  -  Mahatma Ghandi

Something to think about…..

November 7, 2009 Posted by | Love, Values, Video | , | Leave a Comment

Links of the Month – November 2009

Below you will find the links that I found inspiring, interesting, or just plain fun this month. I hope you enjoy.

Beautiful, and Sometimes Amazing
Great Temples

Comedy
Everything’s Amazing and No One’s Happy?

Learning
The New York Times Knowledge Network

Political
Political Philosophy Map

Inspirational
Ideas Worth Spreading
Show the World What’s Possible
Unexpected

Medical
18 Tricks to Teach Your Body

November 3, 2009 Posted by | Links | | Leave a Comment

   

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.