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This is what Yahweh asks of you: this only, to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

If you want peace, work for justice. Pope Paul VI World Day of Peace Message, January 1, 1972

The United States is polarized on many levels. Politically the Republicans and Democrats are not just on different sides of the aisle in Congress but not speaking to each other. This shows up in ordinary society where some people claim to be right and everyone else is wrong. This is especially pronounced in matters of religion. Christians ought to be “loving one another” but instead throw barbs at each in the name of God. Some even preach hatred. The same is true in Islam. Fundamentalists have become a strong vocal minority in both of these great religions.

This site is dedicated to overcoming that polarization and division in several ways. There are columns on various social and political issues. While some are written with passion on a particular point, they are intended to spark dialogue rather than confrontation. I invite feedback.

My January column is The United States in 2010.

On April 16-18, I will facilitate a retreat on Awareness: Key to Spiritual Growth. I am offering another retreat on Discovering the Sources of Your Values and Beliefs on September 24-26. These are available at your location as a one day retreat as well. Call Norbert at 989 835-2832 or email him.

“Your retreat gave me much more than I expected. The insights, challenges, camaraderie, and bonding of our small group added much richness to my life. Your sharing added much to my understanding of how we live life, each in his/her special way. I am refreshed and invigorated by having been at the retreat.” – JT

I have published two books with this goal in mind. I am available to give talks on various subjects that are focused on peace and justice as well as other topics relating to Catholic Church, values, and more.

Issues has a general introduction to what is ailing our country and fomenting polarization. This section tells the difference between debate and dialog, an essay on violence as part of our American heritage with references to helpful sites, links to government leaders, and a guide to writing a letter to the editor with emails for several newspapers.