Loading the Boats

Friday was a marathon day of plenary business. Many reports, many votes. Deliberations over issues of who is controlling what. Mission and peace/justice programs were generally funded and approved with alacrity- these are still the core of what we are about. And, oh yeah- the demonstration by Soulforce that brought its own cameras and "reporters" from the local TV channels. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that their action was the best move to forward their cause.  Most commissioners, including me, were just plain annoyed and it was the first time in the whole week that forbearance was almost overridden. We just didn't need that right then. Follow up on the local media confirmed my disgust with the prevailing entertainment news programs- inaccuracy, create controversy when there is none or increase the tensions if there are some, pull us into non-thinking, reactive tribal behavior.  After working hard in committee and on the assembly floor all week, my first reaction was "Don't mess up what's been accomplished. You're not doing anyone any favors."
This is part of the diversity, too.  There are extremes at all ends of a spectrum that is more web-like than linear.

Last items of business this morning, some worship and departure. The boats are packed, the paddles are at the ready. The rivers will be full.

See you back in NY.  I'll post more photos on airport layovers if they give us free wi-fi.

Thanks for the text messages and FB posts this week.