Editing

As we settle in from life on the road, the editing process has begun. It’s a big job. I interviewed more than 125 people over the past two years. Found them, got to them and sat with them. It was a whirlwind of thoughtful conversations, eye-opening revelations and deep human connections. And as the body of work grew, I knew there would be a day … Continue reading Editing

Civil Discourse

We spent a week in residence with the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse at Grand Valley State University and their community partner Seeds of Promise in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was election week and a good time to ask the question, “What is one hope you have for our country during these divided times?” If I were to have answered the question, it would have … Continue reading Civil Discourse

Lauren W. Reliford

Lauren Reliford is the political director for Sojourners in Washington, DC. Her work is centered on applying social theory, spirituality, research, and practice to the political policy that guides our nation.  We talked about her political theory, her efforts to influence policy makers to legislate for the common good, and her inclination to care deeply. “I want to be a lifeboat, a safety blanket for … Continue reading Lauren W. Reliford

Mitchell Atencio

Mitchell Atencio is the associate news editor at Sojourners. Born in Atlanta, he now works out of the Sojourners D.C. offices on Capitol Hill.  I interviewed Mitchell three days before the Supreme Court released its ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. We spoke about his work in media, his ongoing process of challenging his own assumptions, and his decision to be discalced out … Continue reading Mitchell Atencio

Derek Thompson

Derek Thompson is an activist in Portland, Oregon and the founder and Executive Director of Voices4Justice, an organization dedicated to bringing together concerned community members…clergy, law enforcement and elected officials…to engage in meaningful conversation that can change the relationship dynamic between opposing parties and factions. “Even if we don’t get along, if I saw you fall in the street, should I laugh at you? Or … Continue reading Derek Thompson

One year in

It’s raining tonight.  It’s a sound that I love, the drops falling on the camper roof, a thin veil between inside and out. The skies have been filled with heavy, autumn clouds all day, and now as daylight edges toward dusk, they are releasing the frequent rains that keep the pacific northwest so green. It’s warm and cozy in the trailer. The fireplace is on. … Continue reading One year in