While “reckoning” can refer to the avenging or punishing of past mistakes or misdeeds, its primary meaning simply refers to the process or action of calculating or estimating something, a process of making sense of something.
Another great essay, Phyllis. Thanks. So, I think the day of accounting, of reckoning is here, at least for me. Bishop Budde has taught us “How We Learn To Be Brave,” so I’m ready. What do I do now to join you?
Your readiness made me smile, Ann! I hope others leave this reflection the same way. I think each persons role will fit them, and the challenge is to know your role. I have found part of mine is to keep "bringing it up", acknowledging what is true, and then working to stay open when a conversation emerges....maybe you can share what you come up with as it emerges...
I suspect that for many, they fear that "reckoning" means "retribution". The idea that people who have experienced the worst of the "American experiment" would wish that on others tells me something of the mindset of those fighting to suppress a reckoning. These are likely people who need others to be worse off than them.
Phyllis, it is so good to hear your voice. I have forwarded this on to my children who have had these conversations with me over the years. I have hope that their generation might move us forward to address the past.
I probably take an even stronger stance about the next generations; they are my primary source of hope. I am pondering a post about exactly that topic. They are "experts" in what is "wrong" at a very human level and I think we "elders" need to listen...and support their efforts at fixing what is broken. Hurrah for your children!!
The 'whitewashing' of our country is very distressing to me. I wish those not willing to accept our past would feel less distress at acknowledging and recognizing it than in denying it. From someone who has worked towards anti racism and anti othering I am ashamed at our country's 'whitewashing' and denial of the cruel history of our forefathers.
Linda, I think the deep distress you feel is the first step we all need to take to grapple with this history, so congratulations on taking that step. I think many find the distress too much so drift into denial. While we own our shame, we can also embrace our hope that there are many in our country willing to face this history. It will take time for more reckoning but I think it might be part of our recovery from the current disaster drill we are enduring.
Another great essay, Phyllis. Thanks. So, I think the day of accounting, of reckoning is here, at least for me. Bishop Budde has taught us “How We Learn To Be Brave,” so I’m ready. What do I do now to join you?
Your readiness made me smile, Ann! I hope others leave this reflection the same way. I think each persons role will fit them, and the challenge is to know your role. I have found part of mine is to keep "bringing it up", acknowledging what is true, and then working to stay open when a conversation emerges....maybe you can share what you come up with as it emerges...
I suspect that for many, they fear that "reckoning" means "retribution". The idea that people who have experienced the worst of the "American experiment" would wish that on others tells me something of the mindset of those fighting to suppress a reckoning. These are likely people who need others to be worse off than them.
I agree, and hence hope that those in that mental loop not serve as key influencers as we consider grappling...
Hi, Phyllis!
I’m pleased I made you smile!
And that’s some of what I am doing…..pushing back the darkness and letting Hope in, joyfully!
I’ll keep you posted.
Have a great day!!
Ann
Phyllis, it is so good to hear your voice. I have forwarded this on to my children who have had these conversations with me over the years. I have hope that their generation might move us forward to address the past.
I probably take an even stronger stance about the next generations; they are my primary source of hope. I am pondering a post about exactly that topic. They are "experts" in what is "wrong" at a very human level and I think we "elders" need to listen...and support their efforts at fixing what is broken. Hurrah for your children!!
I think we agree. Would love to have a long talk. Be well, my friend.
The 'whitewashing' of our country is very distressing to me. I wish those not willing to accept our past would feel less distress at acknowledging and recognizing it than in denying it. From someone who has worked towards anti racism and anti othering I am ashamed at our country's 'whitewashing' and denial of the cruel history of our forefathers.
Linda, I think the deep distress you feel is the first step we all need to take to grapple with this history, so congratulations on taking that step. I think many find the distress too much so drift into denial. While we own our shame, we can also embrace our hope that there are many in our country willing to face this history. It will take time for more reckoning but I think it might be part of our recovery from the current disaster drill we are enduring.
Thank you, Phyllis. This provokes deep and critical reflection.
Thanks, Karen! That is my intent! Flourish!!