What do you suggest should be modalities for applying a universal prescription to the real world? ‘Promoting the worth and dignity of every person’ offers a fairly clear idea of what we should not be doing: discriminating against or excluding others, on any grounds. On the positive side we are being asked to speak up … Continue reading How to apply the First Principle?

Some Relevant History: The cry of ‘Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité of the French Revolution in 1789, and the Declaration of Independence sent to the King of England from 13 trivial new world colonies in 1776, arose in a world where for roughly 1200 years, clan ties and war had defined hierarchical social orders, and where huge … Continue reading The First Principle

Today, we begin another year of celebrating our lives together, sharing our thoughts and feelings, our joys and sorrows. I have chosen this morning to celebrate the life and words of an inspiring Afro-American poet, Maya Angelou. I’ll start with a thumbnail portrait.  She was born in 1928 as Marguerite Johnson. When her parents’ marriage … Continue reading Caged Bird