The first installment in the current series of adult education programs, “Can We Talk?” featured Buie Seawell, a man who brings knowledge and experience to this discussion of what’s happening now. You can look him up on Wikipedia – it would take a whole page to cite his education and accomplishments!

He begins by saying what we’re all thinking:  I’ve never seen anything like this!” It’s a truism but our actions and reactions to the present time will be critically examined by history. 

Pandemics of one kind or another have affected our government, economy, environment, and the structure of our society.   It will take years and decades to restore the structures of our economy and our republic. 

At one time there were 15 different species of “homo” including the remainder, the one we all belong to:  homo sapiens.  And from our vantage point, we have to ask: “How’s that working out for you?”  We now have to concentrate on saving the species.

Our first task, according to Buie, is to show up:  Show up to vote.  Voting is the sacrament of the Republic.  Ask everyone you see: “Have you voted?” 

And then, exercise extraordinary patience, now and in the 30 days following the election.  Remember Nelson Mandela who spent 27 ½ years in jail waiting to finally free his country from apartheid.  None of this, “Move fast and break things.” But instead revive the law of responsibility and desire to care for others.

Join me and the rest of the Montview community on Sunday mornings gathered around to talk about the import and impact of this election.  

– Submitted by Carol Tierney