Possibilities for Social Change Part 7; This Present Moment
Matt and I have come a long way in our conversation about the nature and dynamics of meaningful social change. We’re now at the point in this process where I can address our present moment in history, how to understand the world in which we live, here and now, in order to consider next steps forward: How we can take part in the transformation of our communities — from the conflict and division which characterizes present-day society and advance toward the unity, prosperity, and peace that lies on the horizon. How can we, together, understand this present moment? I have always been fascinated by what human beings do, and never have I stopped in my efforts to better understand the world in which we live. Here, in this interview segment, I share this fascination with you….
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Possibilities for Social Change Part 6; The Guiding Principle
Well, Matt and I have come a long way in our conversation! How far? Far enough to begin discussing the principle of integration, that principle which must guide meaningful and lasting social transformation, change that, gradually, over time, will move the whole of humanity forward toward the state and condition of global unity. Wow! In this interview, too, you may want to look for a cameo appearance from Matt's daughter, Joey, as well as a nervous tick I seem to have developed (in order to remain calm and composed) when I begin to get emotional. As always, my hope is that you'll take time out of your busy day (thank you!) to watch, listen, and, ultimately, accompanied by community, actively participate in the true processes of social change. Yes, I'm here for you as, together, we seek to serve the human family in ways that, inevitably, will also add energy, creativity, purpose, and meaning to our own lives.
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Possibilities for Social Change Part 5; The Big Picture
Until now Matt and I have focused on how we, as individuals, must prepare if we are to participate, creatively and constructively, in society's progress from division to unity. Now, our discussion moves beyond the individual, and we begin to consider the larger context within which our efforts at social change must take place. What are the social forces that serve to bring about progress at the level of society? How do we, as individuals, align our efforts with these forces in order that we may become positive forces in the unification of humanity? As a former history teacher, the "big picture" is a subject that's near and dear to my heart, one that, at various points in this interview, pulls to the surface my passion for better understanding the concepts that underlie collective transformation and progress for the whole of humanity, indeed, the entire world... Yes, this is big!
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Possibilites for Social Change Part 4; The Question of Who
In this segment I discuss with Matt the question of "who" ... that is, who will take part in the transformation of society, and what role they will play in the unification of humankind. Will we continue to rely on those who presently lead -- political, economic, academic -- as we continue to comply with the orders of these "experts"? Will we continue to exhaust ourselves in protest after protest against all the injustices of the present social order? Or, might there be another way to think about social change, and, if so, what will be my role -- and yours -- in this process? Here, I outline an approach to social transformation based upon the fundamental truth of our time, that the whole of humanity is in fact one people, one race, one extended family. And, yes, understanding this reality changes everything, including our approach to social transformation, who will be involved in the building of a new social order, and the roles that each of us must play in this creative process. Please, if you care about the future of this world, our children and our children's children, please watch and listen with an open heart...
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Possibilities for Social Change Part 3; Community
Matt and Bob carry on the conversation...The whole of civilization is grounded in relationship. Our capacity to relate to each other, person to person, in ways that truly have meaning. The process of civilization-building then, begins with the cultivation of our innate capabilities to engage in meaningful and uplifting conversation. Today, fewer and fewer people appear to have developed the capacity for genuine dialogue. People today seem, literally, to run from each and every opportunity for genuine and authentic conversation, withdrawing and isolating themselves from anyone who does not already agree with whatever they might think, feel, or believe. Plus, when people do speak openly with one another such interactions appear to be reduced to "plot", the exchange of stories - about the weather, what they did yesterday, doing today, or planning for tomorrow - avoiding real dialogue, which, if approached otherwise, might become a source of growth, intellectual and spiritual, for themselves and society. The rebuilding of society under these circumstances must begin with learning how to cultivate our God-given abilities to engage in conversation that qualifies as meaningful and uplifting.
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Possibilities for Social Change Part 2; Individual Transformation
This is the second interview I provided on the subject of social change. In this interview, I focus on the individual transformation, the foundation of all change in society. We simply cannot give what we ourselves do not possess, and so, until we learn how to cultivate the qualities that exist, within ourselves, it will be impossible to contribute in any meaningful or lasting way to the progress of our relationships, families, neighborhoods, communities, and societies. This interview really turned out well, and I recommend that, if the process of social change is of interest, you give it a chance... Thanks for listening!
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Possibilities for Social Change Part 1; Individual Transformation
In this introduction Educators Matthew Janecek and Bob Blecher discuss the dynamics of individual transformation. Our most fundamental identity is spiritual, not material. In this life we are each, at our core, spiritual beings who happen to be living in a material world. This knowledge is foundational in our development of a clear and secure sense of personal identity. Someone with a clear enough identity will, in turn, develop a sense of certainty in the ability to discern what is TRUE from what is FALSE, and, with this ability, the capacity to stand up for what is right and take action positively... in ways that have the potential to help family, neighborhoods, and communities progress toward a state of true unity.
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Possibilities for Social Change Part 8; Envisioning the Future
Matt and I have finally gotten to the end -- or, shall I say, beginning -- of our discussion on the nature and dynamics of meaningful and lasting social transformation. Together we've examined the concept of social change, what genuine transformation actually looks like, who must be involved for this process for it to bear fruit, how to actively participate in this process, where this social action fits within the context of history and society today, and more... Phew! That's a lot!! And yet, still ... there's more: We now need to consult on the future, the vision of a future in which humanity will gradually come to live as one, one people, a single human family, one world civilization, unified, in material prosperity and spiritual peace. Yes, this interview will end this series on transformation. And no, this will not so much be an ending but a new beginning, the start of our efforts to translate this elevated vision of oneness, of unity, into the reality of our lives and the lives our families, our communities, society, and the world.
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History of Banking in the US
Just a quick overview of several very important financial historical puzzle pieces most Americans are completely illiterate about. This will help explain some of the big ideas to people who are just getting their feet wet on what they have not been taught by our education system.
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Pursuit of Truth Variables
To begin unpacking the real History that has been hidden from people these questions and variables will all need to be considered and there are many more as well. All I am sure of is all I still don't know. This is "Humility" and the fastest way to spiritual peace. God Bless you all in your journey... Mr. J
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The Games of Life
Flashback to the days of youth for some of us and yet a lifetime of universal truths in messages through song...
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There Comes a Time
Thank you to all the truck driving cowboys reminding everyone what freedom looks like.
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Public Education "Perception & Reality"
An honest inquiry into the issues with public education and the teaching of History.
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Matthew Janecek & the Western Sage - Changing Lanes
Original music for those that appreciate American History the good and the bad so we can all learn to love better.
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