Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The review this week focuses on this president’s attempts to create enough chaos to declare martial law. The only way this administration can do what it really wants to do (prevent future elections) is to sow enough chaos to take control of the US. Whether that be through chaos in the economy, on campuses, or at the border. Let’s not be distracted; he (they) wants to declare martial law.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 11 (261 total reports)
16.04.20245-22.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The review this week focuses on this president’s attempts to create enough chaos to declare martial law. The only way this administration can do what it really wants to do (prevent future elections) is to sow enough chaos to take control of the US. Whether that be through chaos in the economy, on campuses, or at the border. Let’s not be distracted; he (they) wants to declare martial law.
Visual Stories!
This administration is intent on bypassing the civil rights of US Citizens and ignoring the court. Their latest action is a step towards incarceration-at-will. Jailing anyone who disagrees with this president and making them “Disappear.”
Top Links of the Week
22.04.2025
Hundreds of scholars say U.S. is swiftly heading toward authoritarianism
Widespread opinion among political scientists finds that the US is heading towards authoritarianism—swiftly. Not in a measured, paced manner, but rapidly, chaotically, each day’s varied actions by this administration compile upon the previous day’s efforts like a snowball gaining momentum as it barrels downhill. President 47 is an arsonist; he is busy starting as many fires as possible to see which one will ignite the US so that he can finally declare martial law. Only by declaring this crisis scenario can his administration justify disregarding the courts and, eventually, the electorate. This is how an arsonist starts a house on fire. Not with one large flame, but many small blazes in multiple places until it all becomes an inferno. President 47 and his handlers want to see which flame will actually cause the whole house to explode; the economy, universities, immigration, civil rights, all of these embers are designed towards one purpose: to end the rule of law in the United States. These scholars say he (they) are getting closer daily to their ultimate goal.
21.04.2025
Why Democrats should keep talking about immigration
Keep in mind, in order to enact the full range of powers sought by this administration (Project 2025, Musk, and President 47), the current president has to create enough chaos to declare martial law. Whether that be via an economic crisis, a university crisis, or a crisis at the border. We must not become distracted. This current president serves one purpose for the clandestine agencies that truly own him: to be the face that draws the hate that will justify martial law. Once he has done that, they will be done with him and ready to move onto their next patsy: J.D. Vance. The current president is merely a front man; he is the “Apprentice” television carny who is their lightning rod, but not their long-term choice. He merely is serving a purpose to their true ends: that of undermining democracy at home and abroad. Democrats should not fall into his traps, distracted daily by the chaos and smokescreens of this administration. It’s the long run we should keep our eye on: their desire to use martial laws to create an emergency that will justify preventing the next election.
20.04.2025
A conservative judge makes the case: Time is running out on American democracy
The opinion from this judge is all the more important because it comes from J. Harvie Wilkinson, a well-respected and deeply conservative judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. This judge was appointed by Ronald Reagan in 1983. If this opinion doesn’t make conservatives wake up to the constitutional crisis, nothing will, and sadly… probably nothing will. Ignoring the Supreme Court and refusing to return Kilmar Garcia from an El Salvador prison camp is in defiance of the most fundamental laws of the U.S. democracy. Yesterday was the 250th anniversary of the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World,” and Paul Revere’s Midnight ride. All around the world, people gathered for 50501 (50 States, 50 protests, 1 day). Mass demonstrations against this administration declared, “Hands Off” to Project 2025, Elon Musk, and their patsy, President 47. Last night, in Merida, Mexico, my wife and I attended a rally organized by Democrats Abroad, Yucatan. I learned of ways that we—people who have immigrated to other countries but still want our voices heard—can participate in furthering the cause of ending this despicable oligarchy. One way to make your voice heard, no matter where you live, is to join the site, Five Calls. This app allows you to find your legislators, pick a cause important to you (a total of 55 contemporary issues, updating constantly), and send five recorded phone messages to people you want to encourage to learn more about these causes. They provide a script and guidance on making your calls. Over 8 million calls have been made. Will you be part of the next 8 million?
19.04.2025
NPR obtained documents showing major upcoming changes that could limit human rights
It would be foolish to think that the State Department under this administration wouldn’t try to dummy down Human Rights reports around the world. Especially in countries where they want to partner for prison camps, like El Salvador. The report in this document provides clarity into a practice this Administration would rather you didn’t know. Along with many other of President 47’s policy changes, it is despicable and another way to whitewash the abuses he is committing at home and abroad. Thank you, NPR, for bringing this to the public. Fine reporting at its best. Not opinion news, like many other sources, but uncovering truth and revealing it.
18.04.2025
Don't believe fake Trump post saying 'most ladies' don't want to vote
President 47, in his vast understanding of women, wants us to know why it’s okay to take the vote away from them (i.e. the SAVE Act recently passed by Congress). In his “genius” reasoning, it’s because women don’t really want to vote. I’m sure, from his perspective, it’s an imposition on their feminine duties and what they were really put on Earth to do (serve him). The horror is that it is not just 47 who supports this thinking, but the GOP MAGA cult he has established around him. Congress passed this act! They should not be able to scurry away like rats hiding in a pantry on the Titanic. Seek out your Congressperson and place the blame squarely where it belongs. Across the nation, GOP Representatives are being harassed at town hall meetings. Marjorie Taylor Greene responded by having voters in her district knocked down by stun guns. We should all be offended by this bill—not just women—but men as well.
17.04.2025
The Emergency Is Here
This article is a dire warning about the constitutional crisis the US is NOW facing. Not someday, but TOday! This administration is “disappearing” people without due process and sending them to a prison camp in a country that has stated, “the only way out is death…” This is what the Trump Administration wants, and they are coming for you next. Do not pass this off as hyperbole; President 47 has stated publicly that he wants to begin sending US Citizens to this prison camp if they offend him. He wants to prevent people from entering the US if they have disagreed with him. He is acting… in all practical ways as a dictator, supported by his administration and uncontested by Congress. Saturday, April 19, are the next “Hands Off” rallies across the US. Please find one near you and show up. This tells those in power that a significant percentage of the US is against these actions and the direction of this administration. Show up! There’s still time.
16.04.2025
"Disappear without recourse": Trump's defiance of a court order means "any American" could be next
He told people that his administration would do this… yet millions, tens of millions, voted him in. He told people he would be a dictator, yet millions, tens of millions stayed at home and let him have his way with the country. This administration is ignoring the Supreme Court—when it suits them—and running to it for protection—when it suits them. They not only want it both ways, but Chief Justice Roberts is only too eager to attend to his whims. All in the name of taking permanent control of US democracy. April 19 is a huge day! An opportunity to show this administration—and its lackeys—that there is strong opposition to what this administration is doing. Remember, it only takes three point five percent to make a difference!
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week’s news review focuses on the “extraordinary danger” President 47 and his cabinet pose to the United States and looks at those forming opposition to him.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 10 (260 total reports)
09.04.20245-15.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week’s news review focuses on the “extraordinary danger” President 47 and his cabinet pose to the United States and looks at those forming opposition to him. Will you be among the resistors? Remember, all it takes is three point five percent to cause significant change, and this week’s “Hands Off” rally is your chance to participate.
Visual Stories!
In support of those resisting the oligarchy this week, please check out the new visual story, Three Point Five, we don’t need everyone, we just need YOU!
And, if you want to pass on information about the man who brought tariffs to military bases and islands of penguins, enjoy this song, “Trump the Biggly Tariff Maker.” Please take a moment to like, subscribe, and/or share.
Top Links of the Week
15.04.2025
Over 24 hours, Trump makes his authoritarian-style vision plain
I still find it hard to fathom that so many people did not take Project 2025 and the now-President 47 at his word when they revealed their agenda for undermining democracy in the United States. Now, we are living the nightmare; this continues to be evident in the actions of the president and his cabinet, but the 24 hours between April 13 and 14 was a real doozy. Is this what the US voters wanted—or didn’t want badly enough to prevent? He’s not done; if anything, he is spurred on by a Congress that won’t confront him and seems impotent in his presence. All the more reason for people to prepare to show up at the nearest “Hands Off” rally this weekend. Remember, all we need is 3.5% of the population, and the movement will solidify. The last Hands Off rally was close to that percentage, and this one can go over the top. Three Point FIVE! How can you be a part?
14.04.2025
Bernie Sanders warns of 'extraordinary danger' facing U.S. under Trump at LA rally
The octogenarian, who has served his country with clarity for decades, is now speaking loudly about the extraordinary danger we currently face under this authoritarian regime. In Sanders’ own words, he says, "We are living in a moment of extraordinary danger," he said, "and how we respond to this moment will not only impact our lives but will impact the lives of our kids and future generations." There are times when I review what I am writing and how far I’ve strayed from focusing on purely adolescent issues, but speeches like this remind me, “This is the battle we must fight for future generations.”
13.04.2025
The Economist
This behind-the-scenes article tells us that the major decider behind the tariff chaos is President 47 himself. There does not seem to be an overall picture, although the videos of 47 with his billionaire cronies talking about how much they made in the last market collapse are pretty telling. Like everything related to this president, it’s all about the money and how manipulating others enriches him and the puppet-masters who put him on his throne.
12.04.2025
A Perfect Case for Congressional Action
There’s a whacko at the wheel. Folks, it’s time to tell Congress to do its job. They could be checking this administration on the constant whims and wackiness of their madman President. As this article points out… no one person (especially a mentally unstable one) should be allowed to control the global economy. It IS within the power of Congress to prevent this. But apparently, they don’t think it’s pressing enough to respond even though scores of people are seeing their retirement income and life savings threatened. Call your Congressperson—especially if you have a spineless Republican lackey of Mike Johnson and President 47. Tell them to do their job and hem in this whacko at the wheel.
11.04.2025
Ketanji Brown Jackson is not holding back against Trump or her fellow justices
The majority of the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Roberts may be tidily in President 47’s back pocket (or him in theirs—it’s hard to tell who owns whom these days), but Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is boldly speaking truth to power and giving other justices like Sotomayor, Kagan, and even Coney-Barrett the courage to stand behind her. She might eventually replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg as the leading liberal justice voice. Her last dissent about sending people from the US to prison camps abroad compares the actions of the Conservative court to those who voted to intern Japanese Americans during World War II. Only she says, this Supreme Court is far more nefarious in its desire to hide their opinions behind legalese. Apparently, they do not want their opinions to see the light of day in the future if the US does return to some form of normality. Shame on them. Shame on the GOP, and shame on those people who voted for this termination of people’s civil rights and those who stayed home or declared they were Independents at a time when Project 2025 and President 47 (then 45) declared their intention to be a dictatorship! No excuses, none!
10.04.2025
America, the Isolated
https://www.theindex.media/america-the-isolated/?utm_source=flipbJoaoard&utm_content=other
This writer, Joan Westenberg, should be noted not only for her insight but also for her lilting style. She unmasks this administration’s chaos with eloquence. Not only does the emperor have no clothes, but he is appalling indeed to behold. He’s the exhibitionist everyone wishes they had not seen. This administration (and its global cohorts) are intent on dismantling cooperative trade globally and moving the world back to a medieval age of feudalism; revenge economics or… (as she points out, cultural revanchism). They will only be satisfied with the destruction of global cooperation and current alliances all over the democratic world, all bowing down to one authoritarian regime (assumably Russia). We must keep our eye on the long game and the deviousness behind the apparent chaos. Prepare for the next “Hands Off” rallies and support DEI stores. Use your voice and your pocketbook to undermine this far-right radical regime.
09.04.2025
Robert Reich: The Real Reason We’re In A National Emergency – OpEd
This administration has declared an national emergency and is using those powers to undermine democracy. Reich looks at the varied ways that President 47 and his puppet-masters (we must remind ourselves that 47 isn’t smart enough to act alone, he is a front man for multiple nefarious agencies like Project 2025, Elon Musk, John Roberts, Mike Johnson, and Vladimir Putin). They have to continually concoct new emergencies to continue undermining global democracy. Remember, their primary goal is to use chaos and smokescreens to overwhelm you. Don’t give in to it. The next “Hands Off” rally is April 19, find a way to attend and show that citizens of the US hate this president and his regime.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
In this week’s news review, President 47 is losing influence, and Congress is beginning to pay attention to the number of people protesting. Keep up the resistance!
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 09 (251 total reports)
02.04.20245-08.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
In this week’s news review, President 47 is losing influence, and Congress is beginning to pay attention to the number of people protesting. Keep up the resistance! Examine the Harvard Rule saying, “If a movement can mobilize 3.5% of the population to participate, there are likely much larger proportions of the population that sympathize with and support the movement.” Republicans are beginning to get nervous at town halls and watching the response to those who hate this administration.
Visual Stories!
One blogger stated, “My kitchen cabinets have more intelligence than the cabinet this presidency has compiled.” This miscarriage of an administration was not assembled for their knowledge or ability; they were chosen for their fealty, their allegiance to “King-You-Know-Who.” Enjoy this tongue-in-cheek examination of President 47’s inept appointees in this visual story, “Fraudulent Sycophants.” And, if you want to pass on information about the man who brought tariffs to military bases and islands of penguins, enjoy this song, “Trump the Biggly Tariff Maker.” Please take a moment to like, subscribe, and/or share.
Top Links of the Week
08.04.2025
Freedom of speech is shifting under the Trump administration. We're exploring how
This administration has an interesting new direction for US students: “How do you raise a generation of idiot racists that are clueless about world history—especially US history?” Teachers are becoming afraid of teaching actual history because of new policies from this administration that encourage parents to report educators that make children feel uncomfortable about what is taught in class. What??!!! Let’s say that again, “narc on teachers that make their child feel uncomfortable!!!” It’s not just teachers who are nervous either; across the US, students are afraid of showing up for protests for fear they will be deported. Scientists fear research that will make them appear they support diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI). In fact, many researchers are already leaving the US for foreign countries where they can openly study (for example) climate issues or vaccines. This is the US that citizens voted for; this is the president they wanted. If you don’t want to raise a generation of idiot racists and fascists, then perhaps you will join those who are marching in the streets in the “Hands Off” rallies across the nation. Remember folks (as mentioned two days ago), we only need 3.5% to make the politicians take heed. Let them know you disagree! Let them hear you. Do what you can now to make a difference by speaking truth to power.
07.04.2025
I Should Have Seen This Coming
I admit to being a pretty die-hard fan of David Brooks. He’s one of the very few conservatives I will bend an ear to. So when he examines the rise of MAGAism and the Far Right nihilists, I want to digest every word. I think you will too. This article is filled with historical context and balanced by contemporary insight. It is a longer read, but worth the time. Please review it and share it. Discuss it with those around you who want to understand this reactionary administration and their power base. It will be worth your time. I guarantee it.
06.04.2025
Photos: Nationwide Protests Against Trump and Musk
I took great pleasure in looking at all the photos of the marches against authoritarianism yesterday. Remember people, it only takes 3.5 percent of a population—with a common vision—to overthrow a government. Or, as the Harvard Rule says, “If a movement can mobilize 3.5% of the population to participate, there are likely much larger proportions of the population that sympathize with and support the movement.” The current U.S. population is 235 million, so 11% would be around 8,225,000. The “Hands Off” protests yesterday were estimated at a total of 3.3 to 4.6 million people. The next marches will be on April 19th, so please mark your calendars and dust off your walking shoes!
05.04.2025
We just declared a trade war with the world
Don’t ask why, and certainly don’t look for a well-thought-out strategy, but this administration just started a trade war with the rest of the world. The U.S. has already lost; at least the working people of the United States. The stock market lost, penguins lost, and a little island that is home to no one except U.S. military personnel lost. These are the crazy workings of the inner mind of the madman that the U.S. elected president. However, be assured, Congress could stop this—but the GOP still lacks the spine to stand up to their Orange Demigod in diapers.
04.04.2025
There Is Only One Way to Make Sense of the Tariffs
Back in the days of sanity, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) used to run commercials that ended with the tagline, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste…” The slogan for these days of President 47 should be “A wasted mind is a terrible thing.” This article, by The Atlantic magazine, and written by Derek Thomson, tries to explain the tariffs being thrown about the world as insights into the demented mind of this administration’s President. Including tariffs against some islands that are more inhabited by penguins than people and Africa’s smallest nation, Lesotho, which seemed to own special anger by this administration, drawing the highest tariffs in the world. With no checks and balances to speak of and a Congress run by spineless MAGA Cult followers (be assured, a united Congress could stop 47’s manic tariff madness), we are left with a viewpoint into one of the sickest, most decrepit minds in the world. It is indeed a terrible thing.
03.04.2025
Wisconsin’s Message for Trump
Despite flying in at the last minute, wearing a cheese-head hat, and offering a $1 million bribe to anyone who voted for the Republican Supreme Court candidate, Elon Musk lost “biggly” in Wisconsin. As the author of this article, Charles Sykes, points out, “In a state where many elections are decided by razor-thin margins and where Trump won only narrowly in November, Musk’s conservative candidate was shellacked.” As Sykes points out, what is most apparent is that Musk has become a “political boat anchor.” Rumors are that the self-styled “Kingmaker” may be seeing the door at the end of his agreed-upon term of 130 days. Apparently, many voters—especially in Wisconsin—agree that it cannot come soon enough.
02.04.2025
Cory Booker Reminds Democrats What Fighting Back Looks Like
As this article notes, Cory Booker showed us “how it’s done.” Booker has never shied away from a fight, and he took on—not just this administration—but a previous speech record held by racist Strom Thurmond. Senator Booker stood, without any breaks, for 25 hours and read into official congressional history the story of the US’s struggle against racism and now, this administration’s fascism. It was a shot in the arm that Democrats needed in their stand against the authoritarian policies of Project 2025, Putin, Musk, and the other people who own this president. Let’s hope this is just the start and that the bravery continues. Simultaneously, congratulations to Susan Crawford—and all of Wisconsin—who stood up to Musk’s bribery attempts to buy votes in the state election for their supreme court. It was a major setback for Musk and President 47 in a deeply seated Republican state.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week we focus on the works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who bravely confronted the Hitler regime and was imprisoned and executed for his efforts. He determined that the underlying cause of Hitler’s support was not malice but stupidity. Indeed, one of my favorite Bonhoeffer quotes is: “The power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.”
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 08 (250 total reports)
25.03.20245-01.04.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
This week we focus on the works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who bravely confronted the Hitler regime and was imprisoned and executed for his efforts. He determined that the underlying cause of Hitler’s support was not malice but stupidity. Indeed, one of my favorite Bonhoeffer quotes is: “The power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.”
Bonhoeffer also told us, "The ultimate question for a responsible man to ask is not how he is to extricate himself from this whole affair, but how the coming generation shall continue to survive and live for Truth." The focus of this blog is help the coming generation to continue to survive and live for truth.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Two new releases this week focus on the works of Bonhoeffer, “Bonhoeffer; We Must Ask,” and the ineptitude of this administration, “Fraudulent Sycophants.” Please take a moment to listen, subscribe, and share…
Top Links of the Week
01.04.2025
This Is Not An April Fools' Day Joke
The point of this well-written article is: “Who needs April Fools Day this year?”Just an overview of the first 72 days of this Administration is enough to make our heads swirl; but that was always the intent, always the plan. Steve Bannon and other White House deceivers made this clear even before he was released from prison. Their intent was to “flood the zone,” create “shock and awe,” do so much damage in such a short period of time that the press, Congress, and the courts could not keep up. Truly, the major things we need to focus on are: 1) the intent to undermine global democracy, and 2) the intent to create enough havoc to implement Martial Law (so they can undermine democracy).
31.03.2025
SNL Has Entered the Chat
We need more articles like this from Megan Garber of The Atlantic. And more skits like this from the comedic minds of SNL. “The Chat” referred to here is, of course, Signalgate. The use of an unprotected chat platform to discuss attack plans and state secrets by the incompetent sycophants of President 47’s administration. All the while again revealing that they have no experience and little knowledge of the work they are doing. Their only true qualification for their jobs—they hate who 47 hates. The arts; drama, comedy, and music, may be the best way we can resist in the midst of this administration’s cacophony. While you read up on this article, take a moment to enjoy my new video song, Fraudulent Sycophants.
30.03.2035
Don’t think ‘it can’t happen here’ — it’s already happening
For those of you who voted for this administration (or were too apathetic to turn out…), here’s the regime you asked for. US representatives (ICE) are now arresting people and sending them to prison camps and foreign countries with no due process. This act, now known as “Disappearing,” is a flagrant violation of civil rights and human rights. It is directly from the playbook of fascists everywhere. And, as Robert Reich points out; “If they can ‘disappear’ them, they can disappear you.” This administration has reached a point where they are ignoring the courts, and the Constitution doesn’t matter anymore. Well done, supporters of 47 and his regime. This is exactly what you signed up for.
29.03.2025
America's academic brain drain has begun
As Project 2025 and their President begin closing down science and academics in the US, irreparable damage is being done to the education and research structure. Highly qualified professors and scientists are a hot commodity globally, and they are beginning to leave the US for countries that will allow them to do open research; especially in areas like disease control and climate change. The intent of this administration is clear: thinking people will not vote for an oligarchy, or, as our friend Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “the power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.” This administration intentionally wants to substitute education with indoctrination. It doesn’t want a generation of young people who have the critical ability to think for themselves. It wants a generation of sycophants that will do what they’re told. If that means destroying the intelligence bank of the US forever—they will please them to no end. Keep resisting—they have not won yet!
28.03.2025
The Biggest Scandal of the Second Trump Term Isn’t “Signalgate”
This administration is all about Chaos and Smokescreens. They hope to “flood the zone” with so many catastrophic decisions that people will miss the essence of what they are attempting to do. This article calls that behavior out. This administration is violating constitutional rights and acting like the gestapo, abducting (literally kidnapping) people off the streets for illegal reasons and deporting them without due process. Nothing could be more “Hitler-esque.” Folks, we are witnessing the demise of democracy. Project 2025 and their patsy, President 47, said they were going to do it, and the American people voted for it anyway. Once again, I return to Bonhoeffer’s important words: “How the coming generation shall continue to survive and live for truth.” Will we be among those who say, “I did everything within my means to resist these authoritarians…”
27.03.2025
The SAVE Act’s Impact on Women Voters Isn’t a Coincidence. It’s Voter Suppression.
This critically important article by Beth Lynk, of Ms. Magazine, lays out the hypocrisy and duplicity of this administration (and its patsies, like Speaker Mike Johnson) in seeking to prevent women—and especially impoverished women— from voting. In true Orwellian fashion, they are even calling their bill, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. Lynk points out that the result of this bill (if fast-tracked through Congress this week) would be to prevent “as many as 69 million married women and 3.3 million trans voters from being able to vote because they lack a birth certificate that matches their legal name and another 140 million American citizens who do not have a passport,” including, as Lynk states, “56 percent of Black Americans”. We must keep our eye on the ball; the aim of this administration is to undermine global democracy beginning with the US. They do not want you to vote. They are doing everything they can to prevent you from voting. Picking up from the article about Dietrich Bonhoeffer yesterday, I leave you with this quote: "the ultimate question for a responsible man (person) to ask is not how he is to extricate himself from this whole affair, but how the coming generation shall continue to survive and live for Truth."
26.03.2025
When Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German Pastor, Theorized How Stupidity Enabled the Rise of the Nazis (1942)
Bonhoeffer was a theologian, activist, and dissenter during the rise and reign of Hitler. For his beliefs, he was imprisoned and eventually executed, but his words have perhaps never been clearer as indicated in this concise, but critical article about Bonhoeffer’s studies on “stupidity.” An enemy that he said was greater than evil. To understand this regime (the administration of President 47), we must understand stupidity. Perhaps the pivotal quotes in this article by Colin Marshall are, ““Every strong upsurge of power in the public sphere, be it of a political or of a religious nature, infects a large part of humankind with stupidity,” and, “Since such phenomena could hardly arise without blindly obedient masses, it seems that “the power of the one needs the stupidity of the other.” How insightfully true of today’s political situation in the United States.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The cruelty of this administration was predictable. One could also have suggested incompetence based on the lack of knowledge and experience in picking members of this administration, but the level of incompetence is frightening.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 07 (249 total reports)
19.03.20245-24.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
The cruelty of this administration was predictable. One could also have suggested incompetence based on the lack of knowledge and experience in picking members of this administration, but the level of incompetence is frightening.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
For those who are determined to resist the efforts of this administration, I’m posting a number of visual stories (original songs with videos) to hopefully provide inspiration and motivation. This week’s newly released songs include “Resistance, Resilience,” and a tribute to civil rights justice, Ruth Bader-Ginsberg. “The Notorious RBG.”
Top Links of the Week
25.03.2025
The Hollow Men
This article takes the incompetency of Pete Hegseth and other 47 administrators (including the Vice President) one step deeper and looks at the empty suits with whom this president has surrounded himself. They were not just picked for the reasons of fealty to 47 and a commitment to his platform of revenge, but they are dangerously incompetent. The leaked top-secret war plan was posted on a platform (Signal) that could be later deleted and hidden (unlike federal e-mails and texts) and was accidentally sent to a journalist at The Atlantic (Jeffrey Goldberg). How do you “accidentally” send state secrets to a journalist? We already knew that cruelty was the point of this administration; now we can justifiably add incompetence as a second level of frightening qualities.
24.03.2045
Educators raise alarm about childhood hunger
Apparently, this is the US that many people wanted. A US that alienates its best global friends and, in particular, other democracies, a US that ranks as one of the unhappiest countries in the world, a US that is identified as an abuser of civil rights, and a US where children can’t focus in school because of hunger. To all you 47 supporters out there, this is what you wanted. To all you who stayed home and elected 47 by your indifference, this is what you wanted.
23.04.2025
A Constitutional Redline
This panel of constitutional scholars (18 legal experts) is giving us dire warnings that President 47 and his administration are flagrantly breaking the law established by the Constitution of the United States when it comes to the Administration Branch following the rulings of the Judicial Branch. This is a constitutional crisis. This is an administration determining itself to be above the law. Congress must respond with impeachment proceedings. Anything less is not an option! This is the showdown that Project 2025 wants, and it would be derelict not to respond.
22.03.2025
Musk Comes for the ‘Third Rail of American Politics’
In order to fund himself, Musk needs to cut Social Security and Medicare. 47 promised not to do it, but his owner, Musk, did not make that promise. Remember, that’s because Musk never ran for election; he’s not elected; he just bought a president. This article looks at the alarming moves that Musk is making to make Social Security increasingly difficult to receive. It is not new in the Republican playbook; G.W. Bush tried it and lost the election because of it. The GOP fears little—outside of pleasing their demigod— but they do fear losing their seats, and town halls are erupting all over the US shouting down Republican congressional officials for kowtowing to Musk and this administration. It’s become so bad that the RNC is telling its members to quit showing up at town halls (just like they told them to quit debating opponents). This article looks at what happened to Republicans in the past when they tried to tamper with Social Security. But the money put away by workers of the US is just too enticing for these greedy monsters. In more positive news, 34,000 people attended a rally yesterday in Colorado for Bernie Sanders and AOC—record-breaking. The resistance is working, folks, keep showing up!
21.03.2025
‘The Second Coming’: The Dismantling of Six Decades of U.S. Foreign Assistance Investments by Trump and His Vandals
Whenever you desire a perspective on how bad things are for women’s rights and families in the US or world, Ms. Magazine is the best source. This article examines the illegality of DOGE and Musk’s special appointment by President 47, as well as the potentially illegal disassembling of USAID around the world. It is normally the first step of every GOP administration to turn back the clock on women’s rights, but, of course, this administration has taken dismantling to a whole new level of cruelty. Women and families are under attack by this administration and its shadow board of directors, Project 2025. Barbarism is their new byword, and there is a certain sadistic enjoyment being displayed by this administration’s attempts to turn the clock back to the dark ages and rivaling the Taliban in its actions. Thank you to Ms. Magazine for keeping us informed. The damage done already may be irreparable, but we must continue resisting nonetheless.
20.03.2025
U.S. falls to lowest-ever ranking on 2025 World Happiness Report
Looks like US Voters got what they wanted, but it didn’t make them happy. The meanness of 47’s character is having ripples around the globe. People are unleashing their anger as they watch it made acceptable by their fake orange cult leader. But there is no cathartic effect. Research has indicated that releasing our anger doesn’t make us feel better, it just affirms the pattern of a juvenile response to aggravating stimuli. The US now has the pitiful, small-minded, icon it desired, but is realizing it isn’t the ticket to happiness it thought it would experience. To become happy, focus on curiosity and the habits of joy. Seek to validate others daily, not tear them down. The first step to resisting this administration of revenge is to build personal resilience. What can you do today to grow stronger internally and encourage those around you?
19.03.2025
Trump Admin Continues To Defy Judge After Sending Migrants To Salvadoran Prison
El Salvador is 47’s Poland. This is where he is beginning to build his illegal gulag. This is the presidency that his MAGA-Cult followers wanted and now have. Defying judges and creating his own laws. Deporting people because they dared to practice free speech on US campuses. Fait accompli. King 47 has taken office. The resistance must dig in and stay strong. What can you do to resist today?
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel
We’re in a long-term fight for democracy, and we need to find strategies to sustain our energy to continue resisting. Hopefully, this news review will provide you with insights into what is happening this week.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 06 (248 total reports)
12.03.20245-18.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel
We’re in a long-term fight for democracy, and we need to find strategies to sustain our energy to continue resisting. Hopefully, this news review will provide you with insights into what is happening this week.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
This week I introduced two songs about American legends that stood for civil rights. RBG broke through glass ceilings as one of the major voices for civil rights (and especially women’s rights) in US history. Please pass her story to others through this original song and presentation: “The Notorious RBG.” The second song features Congressman John Lewis, whose famous words, “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble,” are remembered in this visual story: “Good Trouble.”
Top Links of the Week
18.03.2024
The Political Fight of the Century
This article gives insightful glimpses into the reasons the current administration won the last election, the disillusionment of voters over the economy, and the inability of Democrats to capitalize on those feelings and offer a stirring response. It also gives a way forward if the Dems want to fight their way out of the basement and reasons why the current administration is failing the very people who put it into office. This truly is… the Political Fight of the Century and a deciding battle for global democracy.
17.03.2025
One Word of Truth Shall Outweigh the Whole World
This well-timed, reprinted op-ed piece by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is desperately needed at this time. Very few people understand oligarchies—and, in particular, Russian oligarchies—better than Solzhenitsyn. The Nobel Prize-winning laureate spent nearly a decade in the Russian gulag under Joseph Stalin. Peter Wehner, who reprinted this reflection, reminds us that the courage needed in Russia then is needed in the US today. Quoting Solzhenitsyn, he reminds us: “The world is being inundated by the brazen conviction that power can do anything, justice nothing. The price of cowardice will only be evil; we shall reap courage and victory only when we dare to make sacrifices.” It is time to shake off any complacency or sense that this administration will ever seek to negotiate a halfway point with its opposition. Democrats like Chuck Schumer are wrong if they think they can deal with President 47, his oligarchic regime, Putin, and Musk. It is time for full-on resistance!
16.03.2025
The Kind of Thing Dictators Do
Remember the famous poem by Pastor Martin Niemöller?
First they came for the Communists,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the Socialists,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews,
And I did not speak out,
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me,
And there was no one left
To speak out for me.
This case of Mahmoud Khalil is exactly that kind of situation. As stated in this “The Atlantic” article by Graeme Wood, “Finding someone whose politics you don’t like and using some flimsy excuse to put him in handcuffs is the kind of thing dictators do.” Khalil is a Syrian Palestinian graduate student with U.S. permanent residency, and 47’s administration plans to eject him from the country for protesting at Columbia University. There’s been no case filed against him by 47’s administration. This is straight out of the books of Hitler, and it can’t be overlooked. It is a radical departure from the civil rights that are afforded by our Constitution for free speech. Since it seems apparent that Congress will not act to rein in President 47, it is up to courts and demonstrators. As the Notorious RGB once said, “When injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty.”
15.03.2025
How Worried Should We Be About the Economy?
In this interview, Nobel Prize Winner and Professor, Paul Krugman, interviews someone he respects for balanced and non-reactive views on the economy; macroeconomist, Neil Dutta. To date, Dutta has been cautiously bullish about the economy slipping into a recession. Dutta is a real insider, deeply researching the halls of Congress and the inner workings of Wall Street financial corporations. Both Krugman and Dutta examine the housing market and remark that it has stayed south for an extended period of time. (A personal note here… Republicans—including this administration—have consistently sold off the national treasure of our forests to fund building.) Dutta cites layoffs at companies like Starbucks and Southwest Airlines, not to mention the drastic attempted cuts by Musk at DOGE, leading to jobs being cut “downstream” from the Federal government and then suggests the impact of Higher Education layoffs. To quote Krugman, “…consumers are unhappy, businesses are maybe fading out. Elon Musk is chopping up the government with a chainsaw…” The pair examine this administration for someone, “with the chops” to oversee all these economic levers and the best thing they can say about the only person they come up with, “Scott Beeson,” is, “at least he’s not an idiot…” That’s pretty telling to readers. The best thing these world-famous economists can say about the “main brain” behind Project 2025 (and soon to be released, Project 2026) is, “at least he’s not an idiot…? Just think, what does that imply about the rest of the administration tinkering with our economic future? Idiots? No doubt…
14.03.2025
EA-Times Radio VideoCast: "Trump Is Biggest Threat to US Constitution Since 1865" - EA WorldView
This article (podcast) is from Ireland, another country that used to be an ally of the US and now being shafted by President 47 and his rulers: Musk and Putin. Scott Lucas, the interviewer, explains why 47 is the biggest threat to the Constitution since Andrew Johnson’s presidency in 1865. 47 has said that Johnson is the president that he admires the most. Johnson, a Southern Democrat, took over from Lincoln when the President was assassinated. Like 47, Johnson was impeached (in 1868) for trying to usurp Congress. Eleven articles were filed against him. And like 47, he did not agree that African Americans were equal to Anglo-Americans. 47 has the record for being impeached (twice, in 2019 and 2021), yet the people of the United States voted him back into office anyway. Over 90 million people did not vote (which was more than those who voted for both 47 and Kamala Harris). 47 and his Radical Republican think tank did not disguise their intent to undermine the Constitution; in fact, at first, they bragged about it (until they began to see that it was costing them at the polls, whereupon they tried to hide their intentions). Now, thanks to the MAGA cult and those too apathetic to vote, the US faces a constitutional crisis. This is THE ISSUE, everything else 47 is doing is a distraction to keep people from understanding the true intent of this administration. If the US is going to save its democracy, it needs to wake up and resist at every level, personally and corporately, possible.
13.03.2025
U.S. Added to Global Human Rights Watchlist Over Declining Civil Liberties
Congratulations, Trump voters, your guy just added a new notch to his gun. The second-worst president (second only to himself during his first term) and the US economy’s leader in stock market declines, has now made a global list that includes other favorites like Serbia, Pakistan, and Sudan. The author of this Time Magazine article, Solcré Burga, points out, “the US was added Sunday to the CIVICUS Monitor Watchlist, a research tool that publicizes the status of freedoms and threats to civil liberties worldwide.” In the words of Mandeep Tiwana, Interim Co-Secretary General of CIVICUS, “The Trump Administration seems hellbent on dismantling the system of checks and balances which are the pillars of a democratic society.” The man who represents you, 47 voters (and stay-at-home ignoramuses), is fulfilling your inner fantasies of bullying and taking away the rights—and living standards—of the poorest of the poor in the world. This is what you wanted, this is what you now have.
12.03.2025
Why Psychopathic People Need So Much Power
The Canadian Beer Company, Molson Canadian, just released a brilliant marketing scheme, a “Presidential Pack” of beer. 1,461 beers, amounting to one a day for President 47’s term. Are they being optimistic or pessimistic? Do they really think that this administration is going to turn over power at the end of this term if 47 (or whomever holds the reins at that point) is still in power? That is certainly not their plan. President 47 is not only psychopathic, but he has surrounded himself with psychopaths and cult worshippers who are there solely to do his bidding (or the bidding of whomever paid him to win the election; let’s see… Putin? Musk? Project 2025? Just how many people does he owe his position to)? This article is timely—and important—for giving us insights into the nature of power and psychopathology.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
In this week’s news review, we examine who profits from the dismantling of the US’s economy, global influence, and democracy globally.Civil
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 05 (247 total reports)
04.03.20245-11.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
In this week’s news review, we examine who profits from the dismantling of the US’s economy, global influence, and democracy globally.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
This week, I released two new original songs in visual form. Both are designed to inform about the motivations and machinations of President 47’s administration. “Chaos and Smokescreens” as well as “Rulers, Not Leaders.” If you know people who are trying to understand the “shock and awe” of the administration of President 47, these videos will be informative.
Top Links of the Week
11.03.2025
How reliable is the government's economic data? Under Trump, there are real concerns
Bruce Colville, once stated, “Withholding information is the essence of tyranny.” Control of the flow of information is the tool of dictatorship.” President 47 and his puppet masters (Putin, Project 2025, the “Crony Capitalists”) do not see information as a tool to inform; they see it as a tool to rule. If we look at how desperately this administration has tried to control information, we begin to see key elements into its machinations. It’s little wonder that 47 so easily succumbed to allowing Musk to actually be in charge of his agenda—even taking over White House briefings. The power of manipulating information is not new to this administration, but its use is especially nefarious. Once we understand who benefits from ruining the US economy, the US’s relationship with the world, as well as global democracy, we begin to get a hint at who is working to control the information we see on a daily basis? Where do you get your news, and how do you confirm its legitimacy?
10.03.2025
The Tragic Success of Global Putinism
Yesterday and today we are examining “who wins” by destroying democracy—not just in the US, but globally. Yesterday we examined “Crony Capitalism,” and today we study “Global Putinism.” Thank you again, to “The Atlantic” for such in-depth reporting and analysis. There are still people out there protecting President 47 and the decisions he is making to “Drain the Swamp.” In truth, he is filling it with self-serving slimy carnivores that only want to satiate themselves. Putin ranks at the top of the list, but he is headed for a world power playoff with Musk… Unlimited military power vs. unlimited capital. Which one will collect the most obscene influence and dominate the world? How does President 47 play into all this? The carny showman selling lunches at Mar-a-Lago for a million or more a pop. Stand firm and resist… Do what you can to support others as they resist too. Tell the truth to power through whatever means you have available to yourself and… build your own resilience in the process. We’re no use to anyone if we are burned out too.
09.03.2025
Move Fast and Destroy Democracy
Who makes money by destroying democracy? Not just Elon Musk, but all the tech billionaires that bought and sold this administration according to Kara Swisher, in a fait accompli she calls, “Crony Capitalism.” This is an excellent, well-researched article (in the tradition of “The Atlantic”) about the efforts of the major tech billionaires since hiring President 47 to do their bidding. Whenever there are major problems in the world, particularly problems involving global inequality, it is imperative we ask, “Who makes the money off this injustice?” The analysis by Swisher lays out the culprits in clear fashion: the Crony Capitalists are making billions off of Project 2025 and the administration of this president.
07.03.2025
The House censures Democratic Rep. Al Green for disrupting Trump's joint address to Congress
In what is one of the many egregious acts of disrespect this week, House Cretin Mike Johnson led his GOP patsies in censuring a true patriot, Rep. Al Green, for speaking truth to power when—during President 47’s lie-laced diatribe to Congress, Green rose up and shouted, “You have no mandate!” Immediately, the spineless members of the GOP started chanting, “USA, USA!!!” which is an obscene joke since they have been selling out the USA to 47 and the oligarchs that control him/them. Apparently, Johnson and his minions forgot when another Greene (Marjorie Taylor Greene) called President Biden a “Liar” during his State of the Union address. I’m sure this is but a beginning to the many indignities the American people will have to witness as President 47 and his worshippers take us down a path of indecency and embarrassment as they dismantle the Constitution and bully foreign leaders on behalf of their true leader, Vladimir Putin.
06.03.2025
Donald Trump is emboldening bad behavior from every day Americans. But we can counteract this. - LGBTQ Nation
The author of this article, Dr. Warren J. Blumenfield, is a well-established author, also having written, "The What, The So What, and The Now What of Social Justice Education" and co-editor of "Readings for Diversity and Social Justice." Dr. Blumenfield chronicles the actions of the current administration and also the previous 45 administrations, going beyond labeling the President as a bully; the author calls the President a sadist; “Trump enjoys the hurt he causes. This is the very definition of a sadist.” Blumenfeld reminds us of the book, “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump: 27 Psychiatrists and Mental Health Experts Assess a President,” and their conclusions regarding the President’s, “narcissistic sociopathic personality.” One of the dangers we all are seeing—on airplanes, in our neighborhoods, and on our roads—Blumenfeld cites are the people who, “see the president’s behavior as justification for their own mean-spirited and uncivil actions.” I live in Mexico and moved here after living and working in Canada for twelve years, but I can’t help but also notice the increase in behaviors that foster claims about the “ugly” North American. People walking away from restaurants without paying their bills, people making ugly scenes in the streets because of minor parking infractions, dangerous and angry driving on local roads, as well as just being oblivious to local customs and language courtesies. In an age of social media, these discourteous events are all too public, creating a tension among locals in a beautiful community. I invite you to respond by going out of your way—wherever you are—to be increasingly courteous, go out of your way to be considerate, and allow someone to go in front of you. Constantly look for ways to increase kindness in your community.
05.03.2023
Trump Official Tells Americans to Buy Chickens to Deal With Egg Pricing Crisis
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollin has told US citizens that the increase of 25% on egg prices since 47 took office is actually a “silver lining,” and that citizens should start “buying chickens.” This is 47’s response to the economic hardships most middle and lower-income Americans are facing. Basically, “You’re on your own.” 47 and his administration have no interest in helping lower or middle America; he has no plan to reduce prices; he doesn’t even know what a trip to a grocery store costs. All 47 wants are tax cuts for the rich billionaires who got him elected. Meanwhile, 47 has been the overseer of the greatest five stock market crashes in the last forty years. No other president can make that claim! 47 is apparently running the US economy like his other business endeavors: into the ground.
04.03.2025
Linda McMahon has been confirmed as Trump's secretary of education
When administrators are appointed by cultic politicos, that’s not education, that’s indoctrination. McMahon has limited experience in education, no knowledge of educational theory, or curriculum development. What does she have? Fealty to her masters; President 47, Project 2025, and Elon Musk. What does that mean for the rest of us who truly advocate for the education of children? Prepare to resist. Education is about to become blatant indoctrination; into religious myths instead of science, whitewashed history (and I emphasize the “White”), adoration of the GOP leader, President 47, and pro-Russian propaganda. Our children will not learn real history, they will learn fundamental Christian theology that supports the principles of MAGA. I’m including a link to a new tongue-in-cheek song of mine with this post; “Indoctrination, not Education. Prepare to organize small group communities for helping your children learn the principles and a curriculum that will help them thrive in the world that is not MAGA-brainwashed.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
There is no other way to label this administration than the “Enemy Within.” Project 2025, Elon Musk, and President 47 are committed to destroying democracy in the United States and doing as much damage as possible abroad.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 04 (246 total reports)
26.02.20245-04.03.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
There is no other way to label this administration than the “Enemy Within.” Project 2025, Elon Musk, and President 47 are committed to destroying democracy in the United States and doing as much damage as possible abroad.
https://www.communitiesoftrust-jerrygoebel.com/youthadvocacy
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories is my YouTube account, which shares presentations based on original music and designed to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. You can find it by going to YouTube and searching for “Jerry Goebel.” Please subscribe while you’re there. This week’s feature is “Chaos and Smokescreens,” about the two primary goals of this administration.
Top Links of the Week
04.03.2025
Linda McMahon has been confirmed as Trump's secretary of education
When administrators are appointed by cultic politicos, that’s not education, that’s indoctrination. McMahon has limited experience in education, no knowledge of educational theory, or curriculum development. What does she have? Fealty to her masters; President 47, Project 2025, and Elon Musk. What does that mean for the rest of us who truly advocate for the education of children? Prepare to resist. Education is about to become blatant indoctrination; into religious myths instead of science, whitewashed history (and I emphasize the “White”), adoration of the GOP leader, President 47, and pro-Russian propaganda. Our children will not learn real history, they will learn fundamental Christian theology that supports the principles of MAGA. I’m including a link to a new tongue-in-cheek song of mine with this post; “Indoctrination, not Education. Prepare to organize small group communities for helping your children learn the principles and a curriculum that will help them thrive in the world that is not MAGA-brainwashed.
03.03.2025
There's really only one way to refer to Trump now. "The Enemy Within"
Someone with no less stature than Susan Rice, former National Security Advisor and UN Ambassador, tells us that we have reached “Code Red” with this administration’s dealings with foreign governments, that this administration needs to be labeled as “The Enemy Within.” Our only hope, according to Rice, is to use this label constantly and widely. Broadcast it from the mountaintops and in all of your social media posts. Our nation is being dismantled and sold to the highest bidder from within. What can you do today to issue a “Code Red” warning to the people you know?
02.03.2025
Trumpism Isn’t Working
This article points out in very direct terms how the administration of 47, bolstered up by Putin, Musk, and Project 2025, is flailing and likely to get worse. All signs are pointing to a floundering economy, a deeply divided administration, and a drowning geo-political strategy. Those of us who did NOT vote for this felon/rapist to become President cannot afford to just say, “I told you so,” and turn away. We must use our voices and our talents to resist the further inept actions of this sophomoric administration. We must be prepared to resist long-term with economic boycotts or supporting demonstrations whenever possible. Keep informed and keep resisting.
01.03.2025
It Was an Ambush
Never has the office of the president been so disgraced as yesterday, when a democratically elected leader of a country struggling for its freedom against an authoritarian regime (Russia) was yelled at and lied to by two miscreants who hold the office of President and Vice-President. The only one who can be proud of yesterday’s meeting is Vladimir Putin. 47 was his mouthpiece and serviced the dictator well. It was sickening to watch and will, undoubtedly, serve to continue turning the rest of the free world (the sane world) against the US and this administration. Can this goodwill ever be recovered? Probably not. Europe and other allies like Canada and Mexico are better served remembering it was the vote of the American people (and the choice of others to stay home) that put these buffoons in office. Many are already making new alliances that don’t include the US, and abroad—where 60-year-old USAID has been crippled—China is stepping in to replace our dysfunctional absence. To those who elected this abhorrent creature to office, to Musk, and to Putin, you got what you paid for…
28.02.2025
1 thing that upended years of U.S. foreign policy — and other big Trump developments
President 47 is beholden (owned) by numerous donors, not the least of whom are Elon Musk and Vladimir Putin. They paid for the media machine that elected him, and they have expectations. Those expectations are becoming clearer that this despicable, rapist/felon is in office. It was clear before the election that 47 was neither energetic nor intelligent enough to create the flurry of actions his administration is enacting. He is little more than a bought-and-paid-for pawn of foreign interests. Those interests are becoming even clearer as 47 operates as a stooge for Putin on a global stage and a stooge for Musk on the national stage. The actions of this administration are undermining the government internally and the US/NATO internationally. Even some Republicans are beginning to grumble about the depths of deceit and the President is now displaying. It matters little; they caved into him; he is their plant now. They can’t run away from the toddler/monster they have empowered. Today is Economic Blackout Day (Feb. 28) in the United States. I truly hope that people will vote with their pocketbooks, realizing how little their votes have mattered. Hopefully, you also read the article below about “The Rhythm of Resistance.” We’re in this for the long term, but it is working. Perhaps today’s blackout will reveal the local power even more. Hang in there…
27.02.2025
The Rhythm Of Resistance: How Can I Play A Part In This Movement?
The resistance is working, but it’s going to be a long haul. A favorite and primary tactic of the administrations of 45 and now 47 has been to break the law and wait for the public (and the courts) to catch up. As MLK said, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This article does a good job of teaching how to resist long-term. It reminds us about the importance of self-care and relationships that will prevent our burnout and foster our energy for the “arc of the moral universe” to catch up to the immorality and illegality of the Putin/Musk, Project 2025, 47 administration. It was in their design plan (according to Stephen Bannon) to throw so much at the press and public that people would not be able to keep up. That is exactly what they are doing. Creating Chaos and Smokescreens is a highlight of this administration. They will continue this strategy in the hopes that the press, the law, and the public can’t keep up. This strategy obviously worked well in getting 47 reelected. But, it too, is not a long-term strategy and the cracks are already showing at the seams of this administration. They don’t have the capacity to lead, only to rule. They are Rulers, not Leaders. Let’s make sure our strategy is long-term and not one that will burn out in a couple of months.
26.02.2025
The Adolescent Style in American Politics
This article by Paul Spella in The Atlantic truly spells out who adores President 47 and his rulership elite: People stuck in their adolescence. People who still think that getting front-row seats at UFC fights, having a yacht, and a third wife are prime examples of the lifestyles of the rich and famous. People who see themselves as being privy to that lifestyle someday without realizing that the exclusive 0.01% will put up all barriers possible for them to make it there. These people may spend like they are tycoons, but they are living on debt or the edge of bankruptcy—if not financially, then morally. They want to return to the days pictured in the misogynist television series about pseudo-wealth, Madmen. This article can be summed up in Spella’s statement, “at his core, Trump is an adolescent president, surrounded by adolescent flunkies, cheered into office by adolescent men.” Level-headed people do not vote for a convicted felon and rapist to lead them. Mature people have no desire to gain a fortune through the manipulation of others. Breaking the law (or pushing it to its ethical edge) is not the way they want to get ahead. Mature people want steady leadership, they want people who honor their allies, whose personal values are not up for sale to the rich and powerful. Mature people see through the smokescreens and chaos of a liar bent on solely making himself richer. If it perplexes you that this type of person is now President of the United States, if you wonder why anyone would vote for an administration so obviously driven by greed, misogyny, and racism, then you probably did not vote for 47 and do not support what the GOP has become under him. If this is not the type of government that you want to pass on to your children, do not feel you are alone. Resistance is on the rise, and you can be an active part. Join the boycotts, support the demonstrations, lend your voice. Raise an alternative vision. Because this administration is an adolescent administration, it is driven by the adolescent motivations of immediate gratification and continual self-pleasure. It is not destined to lead; it can only rule. Rulership is not sustainable; controlling people by bullying is not sustainable. The costs of such behavior are already showing up as cracks in this administration. Resist; don’t succumb. Hold on to your mature beliefs and keep your eye on the real agenda of Project 2025 and the puppet president, undermining democracy in the United States of America.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Continue resisting the patrimonial government of Project 2025, President 47, and his evil Rasputin henchman, Elon Musk. Signs show it’s working.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 03 (245 total reports)
19.02.20245-25.12.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Continue resisting the patrimonial government of Project 2025, President 47, and his evil Rasputin henchman, Elon Musk. Signs show it’s working.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories is my YouTube account which shares presentations based on original music and designed to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. You can find it by going to YouTube and searching for “Jerry Goebel.” Please subscribe while you’re there. These presentation/slide shows are perfect for continuing education but also for assisting individuals dealing with online bullying, grief, or striving to be more resilient.
Top Links of the Week
25.02.2025
Uncle Sam Goes Rogue
The US, under President 47 and his authoritarian advisors, has just voted to side with authoritarian countries around the world or, as the Council on Foreign Relations states, they just “went rogue.” Under this administration, the US no longer stands for democracy or supports democratic efforts around the world. This is sickening to watch, but not unexpected. Project 2025, President 47, and his very own “Rasputin,” Elon Musk, are not believers in democracy. Their plan is to undermine it in the US and apparently, globally, as well. The sacrifices of Ukraine—even the truth of the narrative—mean nothing to them. It was embarrassing, but also enjoyable, to watch 47 be fact-checked live yesterday in a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, when 47 attempted to say that Ukraine initiated the war with Russia and that the US is footing the bill while France and other countries only supply loans. Good job, Macron. We can all stand up for truth by supporting economic blackouts like the one this Friday: no purchases on Friday across the US. The resistance is taking hold, and 47’s administration is starting to crack. Keep it up.
24.02.205
One Word Describes Trump
This article by Jonathon Rausch, senior fellow in the Governance Studies program at the Brookings Institution, was well worth the time it took to read it. In it, he reminds us of the concept introduced by Max Weber (1864-1920), German sociologist, of patrimonialism. Patrimonialists claim to be the symbolic father and protector of the people. This was exemplified in 47’s statement of Feb. 15th declaration on Truth Social, “He who saves his Country does not violate any Law.” Of course, the too-lazy president (who apparently can’t be bothered by legality) has broken many laws, some of which are already backfiring on him. But patrimonialists see those who follow the law or support the bureaucracy as enemies because they are loyal to the law (the constitution) which might conflict with their loyalty to him. This is behind the purge undertaken by—what another publication/podcast, “Who, What, Why,” refers to as 47’s “very own Rasputin,” Elon Musk. Musk, like classic patrimonialists, wraps himself in democratic rhetoric by declaring himself and the purpose of his extralegal actions as, the “unelected fourth unconstitutional branch of government” so as to be “responsive to the people.” Rausch goes on to challenge Democrats to confront this administration’s actions by borrowing from the playbook of Newt Gingrich and pursuing a “relentless, strategic, and thematic campaign branding Trump as America’s most corrupt president.” Gingrich is, of course, a despicable character, responsible for much of what is wrong with today’s GOP, the rise of Project 2025, and their puppet, President 47. But there can be no doubt that his relentless attacks on Democratic House Speaker, Jim Wright, were sadly effective. Rausch points out that Democrats are too punch-drunk in response mode to congeal themselves around a central plan, but they will need to do it—and soon—if they are going to prevent this administration from solidifying their patrimony.
23.02.2025
How to teach hope when democracy is retreating
Astra Taylor, who wrote, “The People’s Platform,” winning the American Book Award, says we are living in a time of the “deliberate manufacturing of insecurity.” In this article, democracy and education professor, Joel Westheimer of the University of Ottawa, reminds us what we need to teach to young people in order for them to remain committed to democracy. Manufacturing fear is done primarily by organizations (like Project 2025) and authoritarians, like Putin and Trump, for the purpose of sowing chaos to frighten people into wanting autocratic rule. It has worked in many countries—including the United States—and if we have an interest in seeing the demise of dictatorships, then teaching civics, history, and democracy is critical for our children. As education in the US becomes less about facts and more about ideology, this role will fall less to schools and more to small communities of parents who believe it is important for their young people to learn. Home-based learning may have to become home-based resilience, even, home-based resistance.
22.02.2025
The DOGE Project Will Backfire
As with everything else he does, 47’s quest to gut federal agencies is not based upon research or facts. In fact, if you read this important article (please do), it will illustrate the truths that President Musk and self-claimed King 47 are ignoring, like: the federal workforce has actually been decreasing in recent years, and putting USAID workers on leave does not decrease expenditures; it just means the government is still paying them while they do not work. There are many more important notes in this examination. For example, an organization that focuses on using terror for motivation never thrives, and any government actually needs a viable workforce to function. These would seem obvious truths to anyone who has run a successful business, but isn’t that the point? King 47 certainly has never run a functional business, and the owner of X certainly doesn’t have high marks either. The sad part for all of us is how long do we have before the government finally comes to a grinding and complete halt? This administration is doing irreparable damage to the workings and reputation of the US government. People like Putin couldn’t be more gleeful than to watch this administration do to undermine the US what he would be unable to do from the outside. Our role is to keep resisting; there are signs that the plan we read about from Senator Elizabeth Warren yesterday is working. What can you do this week to increase your resilience?
21.02.2025
Sen. Elizabeth Warren: Here’s the Plan to Fight Back
Senator Warren has been a consistent and clear voice opposing government by billionaires for years. Her own campaigns reflect her commitment to public funding, rather than the dark money funding that has cursed the US since the passing of the so-called “Citizens United” (certainly an Orwellian name given the power it gives to behind-the-scenes billionaires like Musk, Zuckerberg, and Bezos). In this article, Warren lays out a multi-tiered, multi-year plan to stall 47 and his cronies while Democrats rebuild trust with the American people. The plan begins—as it should—with what went wrong in the last election and how the Democrats lost the trust of the working class. This is an important article for those who want to retain a democracy in the United States of America and not just hand over the country to authoritarians like 47 or oligarchs like Musk.
20.02.2025
Trump’s Latest Executive Order Is a Big Step Toward Authoritarian Control
We must not lose focus with all the distractions. The primary aim of Project 2025 and their puppet President 47 is to prevent future elections so they can retain their power and solidify it. Tariffs, border protection, all of it is in support of one aim: remaining in power. The hardest part for the press (and those of us not enraptured by his constant stream of lies) is keeping up with whom 47 owes his allegiance. Putin? Musk? Project 2025? The list goes on. President 47 is their front man. They needed him to win the election, but they would just as soon ditch him if he got in the way of what they wanted. Don’t take your eye off the ball. It’s power they want, and they want it permanently.
19.02.2025
It’s Going to Take Years to Train Another Generation of Federal Workers
I watched with bated breath this morning to see if my Social Security check would arrive. I put money into that account every month for decades; it does not belong to the government—and certainly not to Elon Musk. However, the GOP has been trying to tell Americans for years that the account they paid into is really a government handout and could be used for other purposes. The truth is that they have been seeking ways to take those funds and destroy the solvency of Social Security for years. They want to spend it just as they’ve spent so many other taxpayer dollars, on tax cuts for themselves and rich supporters, as well as defense contracts—now going to people like Elon Musk. Many of us, including federal workers who are being illegally fired, feel we must find ways to protect ourselves against our own government. How did that come to pass? Quite simply, the US voted for an oligarchy. Musk and other oligarchs bought and paid for 47’s election, and now they want a return on investment. They want to turn off the spigot to those who have diligently poured their lives into the jobs and into their savings. They want to abuse allies that have built a relationship with the US over decades since WWII. They are passionate about turning that spigot into their own pockets so they will have unrequited power and money. Federal workers and others are rising up all around the United States, and a lot of their protests are focused on Tesla plants. Yesterday’s President’s Day protests were just a start. As those who voted for this administration begin to see how 47 crassly lied about what he would deliver, they will see their funding cutoffs, their favorite programs overseen by Musk’s incompetent technicians (like those who absentmindedly fired the staff overseeing the country’s nuclear codes), they will see their Medicare cut off, and the price of drugs skyrocket. Eggs won’t be the only item whose price becomes unaffordable. The US won’t be Great Again; it will be the Depression again, leading to eventual national confrontation. My advice to you: keep resisting, show up at posted events, and participate in the blackouts that are being scheduled. I will post them on here regularly. Someday your children will ask what you did to stop fascism in the US; have something positive to share with them.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Are yo the kind of person that wants to share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube Page and find multiple videos to empower, calm down, and educate those around you. Go to You Tube and type Jerry Goebel in your search. Thank you.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 02 (244 total reports)
13.02.20245-18.12.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Are you the kind of person that wants to share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube page and find multiple videos to empower, relax, and educate those around you.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories is my YouTube account which shares presentations based on original music and designed to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. Topics vary from dealing with grief to songs about historic female resistors. Songs can be customized to fit your group. Tell me the details of what you’d like, and share pre-approved pictures with me, and I’ll create a custom-made presentation for your group from the songs in my compilations.
Top Links of the Week
18.02.2025
Presidents Day protests: See photos from demonstrations across the nation
People are taking action all across the United States, turning out for demonstrations at a level that rivals the protests during the Vietnam War. There is nothing this administration would like more than for you to remain isolated in your home, thumbing through the daily disasters and feeling helpless. In fact, that was the plan as crafted by Steve Bannon and Project 2025 long before the election. Their playbook was to take so many egregious actions as rapidly as possible that the press and the public would feel unable to respond. But always remember, even a small response is empowering. Read about the boycotts of oligarch products and commit to them; read about the protests and join them. Don’t let their strategy of “shock and awe” keep you from being involved.
17.02.2025
The Death of Government Expertise
There is a difference between being an expert and having expertise. Someone who has expertise is likely the first one to tell you they are not an expert; they may have studied an area—perhaps even for a lifetime—but they still explore life with curiosity and are open to learning more. An expert believes they have already garnered as much information as possible and no one else can match their knowledge. President Musk and his 47th minion both believe they are experts and do not want to be surrounded by expertise because their “expert” opinions are often false and based on misinformation that they want to be true (as opposed to actually being true). This administration is making a conscious effort to surround themselves with people who will not disagree with them. That type of hubris is part of what makes them so dangerous. In our modeling of knowledge with young people, let us make sure that we always reveal our expertise and shun the title “expert.”
16.02.2025
European leaders set to hold emergency summit on Ukraine
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c04nw1pg3k2o?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=other
President 47 has a full agenda to achieve for the ones who pull his strings (almost too many people to mention at this point; Putin, Musk, Project 2025, the list is almost overwhelming regarding who he owes favors to), but the primary two goals of his campaign remain the same—sow chaos, seek revenge. Those are the bookends of 47’s life. His whole being is fueled by four insatiable motivations: hatred, greed, lust, and revenge. Many of us are seeking ways to protect ourselves from our own government (federal employees or those like me, dependent on the money I put into Social Security over decades of hard work), and now those abroad are gathering to ask, “How do we defend ourselves against the American people and the idiots they continue to elect? It would be convenient to blame this disaster solely on 47 and his actions, but we must never forget how many people voted for this horrible person and the others who didn’t even show up to cast their vote.
15.02.2025
Robert Reich: Profiles In Courage – OpEd
I have respected Robert Reich since he first worked for Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, long before he became the Secretary of Labor under Clinton. His insights into who has been a Profile in Courage during the first terrible days of 47’s reign of chaos are a good read. It helps set a standard for what courage looks like today. And—he can’t help himself—he also points out a few profiles in cowardice.
14.02.2025
60 years of progress in expanding rights is being rolled back by Trump − a pattern that’s all too familiar in US history
The plethora of policies dumped on the US by Project 2025, Elon Musk, and their orange-haired buffoon is designed to roll back the rights of Americans, not just certain Americans, but all Americans. Because indeed, when the rights of anyone in a democracy are rolled back, the rights of all are rolled back, and if these three entities have their way, democracy itself will be rolled back. This historic look at America’s pursuit of “Liberty, Justice, and Freedom for all” compares the latest attempts by 47’s administration to the rollback of rights during the Jim Crow era. It is evident that 47 is NOT in charge, that his strings are being pulled by a myriad of backstage players, but the intent is singular: tear down democracy and replace it with authoritarian rule.
13.02.2025
America Is Its Own Worst Enemy
This historical perspective into powerful countries undermining themselves is so apropos while watching the implosion of the Elon Musk and Project 2025 government under the amateurish figurehead of 47. Comparisons to Mao Zedong in the late 1950s and Nikita Khrushchev (also in the 1950s) are intriguing and accurate. So are the comparisons to Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, rapacious autocrats who ruined their economies and caused the death (and emigration) of thousands. Will America survive this oligarchy as a democratic government? I think the jury is still out. It certainly won’t be the America promised by George H.W. W. Bush, as a “ kinder and gentler nation.” What nation we leave future generations will largely depend on our daily acts of “good trouble” and “civil disobedience.” How can you use your one, small voice (Carole King in her 1982 song, based on the Hans Christian Andersen story, “The Emperor’s New Clothes”) to alert others of the danger we are facing?
Youth Advocacy
Are you the kind of person that wants toRacism share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube page and find multiple videos to empower, relax, and educate those around you.
Youth Advocacy
Year 4, Week 01 (243 total reports)
05.01.20245-04.12.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Are you the kind of person that wants to share a message of hope and resilience with others? Subscribe to my YouTube page and find multiple videos to empower, relax, and educate those around you.
NEW FEATURE: Visual Stories!
Visual Stories shared in presentations to inspire parents, foster parents, educators, and youth workers. Topics vary from dealing with grief to learning to be quiet. Songs can be customized to fit your group. Tell me the details of what you’d like, and share pre-approved pictures with me, and I’ll create a custom-made presentation for your group from the songs in my compilations.
Top Links of the Week
12.02.2025
Women This Week: Trump Administration Restricts Scientific Research Aimed at Improving Lives of Women and Minorities
Grants to scientific organizations and universities from the US Government are being screened and removed from funding if they carry any words like, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion.” But also words like, “Women,” and “Race.” Meanwhile, DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency)—the unilaterally appointed empire of non-elected Elon Musk—moved its Sauron-like eye to start cutting the DOE (Department of Education), while simultaneously walking away with a $38.8 million contract from NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration). Is there any doubt left that Musk’s $277 million dollar “campaign package” to buy 47’s election was a minor investment compared to what he is going to reap from this administration? Who owns the presidency? It is certainly not the voters of the United States. Many of them were willing to sell the democracy of their country for a decrease in the price of eggs (that they will, of course, never see; egg prices are now the “worst they’ve ever been in history,” and expected to increase). Judges are slowly reacting to the more radical actions of Musk and his puppet, 47, but the two have already begun hinting that they will just ignore the judges that don’t back their programs. If the democracy makes it to 2026, mid-terms might provide an opportunity to impair some of the most reviling changes caused by this unholy duo, but only if people show up to vote. It’s never too early to start rallying the troops.
11.02.2025
What the judicial branch can do when a president refuses to comply with a court order
Should we really be surprised when President Elon Musk and his minions, 47, start making noises about ignoring court rulings when the rulings aren’t in their favor? Why not just avoid those laws too? They’ve avoided so many others. The hallmark of this administration is picking and choosing: picking and choosing what laws they will follow, picking and choosing what the public wants, picking and choosing what people (and especially women) tell them is acceptable to do with their bodies. Apparently, this is what the majority of US citizens have chosen as their authentic government. What a disgrace. Is this really the leadership we want to pass on to our children?
10.02.2025
Legal experts warn of 'constitutional crisis' as JD Vance and Elon Musk question judges' authority over Trump
Those of us who did NOT vote for President 47 and did NOT stay home during the voting process knew this day was coming. Like anything else, this administration (and all its proprietors) believe in the rule of law until… Until it affects them… Until it confronts their plans… Until it finds them guilty of the crimes they are committing. This administration is not an administration of values; it is an administration of convenience. Whatever is convenient for them, they will most assuredly do. Is this the type of government we really want for our children and grandchildren? Whatever you can do to resist it, do it. And if you voted for them—or didn’t show up to vote, don’t act surprised that this is occurring; these are the people and the policies you voted for, and this is what they promised they would do.
09.02.2025
Remember What Audre Lorde Told Us: The Oppressor Doesn’t Determine What’s True
Project 2025, President Elon Musk, and their rag doll carnie-man, T-Rump, are trying to dismantle any references to the richness of diversity in US history. An insightful article I read this week suggested asking MAGA-cult followers: “Exactly, which part of D.E.I. are you against? Are you against diversity? Are you against equality? Are you against including others?” In the writings of Audre Lorde—especially now during Black History Month—this administration would find a reason to be against all that she has said. Lorde defined herself as, “Black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet.” This interview is a longer, but engaging read on a voice that is essential today. So please, take a moment to put down other things and learn from the article. Lorde’s words are important to history, her words are important to our future. These are the very words that Project 2025 and their cult following long to erase. Which is exactly why we should read them and pass them on.
08.02.2025
Trump and Musk Are Destroying the Basics of a Healthy Democracy
Tom Nichols, of The Atlantic, tells us about the high achievement accomplished when a government is able to staff itself with thousands of highly trained and educated employees. Such a feat takes years to attain and—apparently—weeks to undermine. This despicable dismantling is being done (mostly illegally) by President 47 and someone not even elected to the government. Elon Musk’s sole legitimacy in the US Government was granted because he paid for President 47’s election, in short, he bought the election and he bought the president. As Nichols states, “The president has a solipsistic and binary view of the world in which everything revolves around him, and other people either support him or oppose him.” In short, 47 doesn’t trust what he doesn’t know and he doesn’t know a LOT, nor is he interested in learning. He’s only interested in a vengeful purging. What Musk, 47, and Project 2025, are tearing down may never be rebuilt in our lifetime. High quality employees are difficult to hire and retain (especially in an environment of distrust). This is the case as well with the international friendships that 47 and his cult are disassembling. Former close friends are distancing themselves from the US and international governments are seeking out China to fill the voids left by the ruination of USAID. The government of the next generation will not be a government of fair-minded, intelligent, people hired for their expertise. The US Government will experience a brain drain staffed by cultic loyalists and relatives.
07.02.2025
The Cost of the Trump Administration’s Foreign Aid Debacle
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is well-positioned to examine the tragic cost of 47’s massacre of aid to other countries through the USAID (United States Agency for International Development). First, I must write a disclaimer because my father worked for USAID in multiple countries around the world. His expertise and scholarship aided in the long term development of countries in dire need of reversing desertification and preventing erosion. 47’s dismantling of the critical international aid and knowledge sharing system will be devastating, it will also be another opportunity for China to fill the gap his administration leaves in international development. This will not be a short-term crisis; reducing a workforce from more than 10,000 to less than 300 in a two-week span is ludicrous and the kind of idiocy we have grown to expect from 47, Musk, and Project 2025 in this raging wildfire of his first 100 days.
06.02.2025
The MAGA Coalition Provisional Authority Has Plunged The Country Into A Constitutional Crisis
It was J.D. Vance himself that created the concept that he now tries to conceal (but Vance has never had a value that couldn’t be swayed by the promise of power), he was the one originally calling for the De-Ba’athification of the Federal Government (referring to purges by the Saddam Hussein’s Ba’ath Party in post-Iraq war). Now, he is the heir apparent to the same type of Saddam Authoritarianism government in the form of President 47 and his non-elected patron, Elon Musk. While pretending to start a trade war with Canada, Mexico, and China (and then immediately backing down in the face of US’s neighbors) 47 is creating constitutional crises after crises while Vance, MAGA, and the spineless GOP giddily play along. This is nothing short of a coup d’etat and the undermining of the US constitution. Protests are finally springing up in cities all across America; some even in Red States. As people begin to understand that consequences of the dictates developed by Project 2025 and enacted by their presidential stooge, the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago. What kind of government will be left for our children? Unless congress takes urgent action now, it will certainly not be a democracy.
05.02.3035
Protests against Trump and Project 2025 are planned in cities across the US
If you’re tiring of the mindless insanity and outright cruelty of 47’s chaos, this is a good website to review. There are demonstrations and protests being scheduled all across the US to protest, not just 47, but one of his puppet-masters, (he has many) Project 2025. Most protests are scheduled at State Capitals, but the list is comprehensive with links to additional information. Find out where you can stand up, speak out, and join the resistance.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The Bluffs-at-the-Borders are smokescreens for the real damage that is being inflicted by Elon Musk and Project 2025. Don’t be distracted. If we don’t want our children to grow up in an oligarchy, we need to stay focused.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 52 (242 total reports)
25.01.20245-04.02.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The Bluffs-at-the-Borders are smokescreens for the real damage that is being inflicted by Elon Musk and Project 2025. Don’t be distracted. If we don’t want our children to grow up in an oligarchy, we need to stay focused.
Song of the Week
Songs with inspiring, true, stories about people, like Harriett Tubman, Louis Riehl, and Congressman John Lewis, who have risen to defend human rights at pivotal times.
Top Links of the Week
04.02.2025
Elon Musk Is President
If anything should be clear following 47’s Bluffs-at-the-Borders escapades, it is that this administration is using a smokescreen to block the real agenda as defined by Project 2025 and Elon Musk. 47 is simply a tool to pursue their real agendas, the agenda of Project 2025 has been—for decades—the dismantling of the Federal Government and the US Constitution, the agenda of Elon Musk is to use his immense fortune to take over governments around the world (beginning with his purchase of the US government and using his all-too-compliant carnie, the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago). The “department” that Musk oversees (DOGE), is not federally approved, he has no governmental authority except what T-Rump grants and the sycophants in the GOP allow him. Musk and Project 2025 want to divert our attention elsewhere so we cannot see the real catastrophe the US has in store if congress does not check Musk’s growing power.
03.02.2025
It’s Easier to Destroy
This is an administration of smokescreens, and we should always ask what 47 and his cronies are trying to hide. They play a global shell game with economies and human beings as their pieces coldly oblivious to the suffering they are causing while golfing weekends at Mar-a-Lago. While distracting us with the most insane economic policies of this century, there is a more insidious agenda being pursued. This is the dark underbelly of a long-term conservative strategy designed by Project 2025 many Republican administrations ago. Their true goal is to sow chaos while they dismantle the Federal Government. Many long term political watchdogs, like Robert Reich, tell us to keep our eye on the ball. 47 and his oligarch friends want to undermine the constitution. While the president is distracting us on one hand, his unelected puppet-masters (Putin and Musk) are dismantling the government with the other. Most of the Executive Actions that 47 is rapidly passing, will be easy to repeal—if there is a constitutional process to do so, but don’t be deceived, Candidate 47 made it clear in his campaigning, he does not want US Citizens to “ever have to” vote again.
02.02.2025
Trump Unveils Ingenious Plan to Raise Prices, Harm American Consumers
A sane person would listen to experts on issues they obviously didn’t understand. A sane person would not attempt to start trade wars with consistent, time-honored allies. A sane person would not seek to undermine the government of those his/her electorate. But President 47 is none of those things, because he is not tied to sanity. He is tied to self, what will promote him, and what will curry favor with the oligarchs who give into his self-pleasuring. This president has gone out of his way to harm American consumers. This president has gone out of his way to undermine the constitution. This president has gone out of his way to tear the very fabric of his own nation. This President is not sane, this president is a malignant narcissist, an indicted felon, a twice-impeached incompetent leader responsible for the deaths of 100’s of thousands. And yet, he is America’s choice. We shall see how long that lasts as almost every action he takes undermines the well-being of the very people who ignorantly supported him (or allowed him to be elected by caring so little that they wouldn’t even get off their couches to vote). The theme of this administration should not be MAGA (Make America Great Again), but MCGA (Make China Great Again) as his policies are driving former allies of the United States into the welcoming economic and (by comparison) stable arms of that Asian Global Super-Power.
01.02.2025
How to Cultivate Meaning When Life Feels Absurd
Life seems extremely chaotic and many people are feeling both hopeless and helpless. Enter Professor Steven Heine professor of social and cultural psychology at the University of British Columbia. Heine has written a book, “Start Making Sense: How Existential Psychology Can Help Us Build Meaningful Lives in Absurd Times,” that seems perfectly suited to the current situation. He presents us with a roadmap, including many useful exercises, for regaining homeostasis when our sense of meaning has lost equilibrium. Reflecting on many existential thought leaders such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, and others, Professor Heine offers sound advice to help you build (or rebuild) a meaningful life and to coach others to do the same. If you are a thought-leader in your own community, at home, or at work, this book can help you and those around you. We could all use a sense of meaning and purpose right now and the outer chaos is only going to increase (that is 47’s trademark; sow confusion and fear to maintain power). Grow your own inner meaning to help build resilience to maintain balance with the outer pandemonium.
31.01.2025
Alabama teachers seek to halt state law limiting lessons on Black history and civil rights
Good Trouble (as John Lewis would say) always seems to start in the most oppressed places, and few places are more oppressive to quality education these days than Red States like Alabama. These teachers are seeking “Good Trouble” as they seek to prevent education from becoming GOP Indoctrination. As mentioned yesterday, it is the goal of 47 and Project 2025 to whitewash history in education, to fabricate stories and hide difficult truths from students. What good is education if it can’t stand the test of time, or be useful in the world? Thank you to these educators, let’s hope they become a source of hope to others who seek truth in education and not the racist lies of this administration and it’s racist, fascist, biases.
30.01.2025
Trump signs sweeping executive orders that overhaul U.S. education system
What is the difference between indoctrination and education? We are about to find out. If you are involved in the lives of young people and children in the United States (or other autocratic countries), the sweeping changes brought by the Executive Action of 47 yesterday and designed (of course) by Project 2025, will soon sanction such policies as tax-payer funding of Private Education, fundamental Christian proselytization in classrooms, the rewriting of history (to exalt the role of white colonialism and diminish the impact of women, minorities, and the complete eradication of any contributions made by non-heterosexual persons. It will feature a new “patriotic admiration” (no doubt admiring the administration of the 45th and 47th president and justifying the January 6th insurrection. In short, these changes will not seek to educate children; but to brainwash them into the Project 2025 cult. How will this help make young people competitive in the world? In short, that’s no longer the goal for Project 2025’s education platform. There is going to have to be a growing emphasis on home-based learning and instruction in small community collectives. How will you prepare for this with the children you impact? What will you do to ensure our children will have accurate access to history and an education that will make them competitive in the job market of the future?
29.01.2025
‘Elections Have Consequences’: Trump and Rubio’s Foreign Aid Halt Will Hit the World’s Most Vulnerable
Heartless and cruel, these are the words I would use to describe the kickoff of the presidency designed by Project 2025, Elon Musk, and 47. As oligarchs garner more money than they could ever possibly spend, the most vulnerable in both the United States—and the world—are immediately suffering the consequences. People who voted for a reduction in the “price of eggs” are seeing the opposite occur; there is no agenda for lowering the cost of living for either the poor or the middle class. Acting surprised and feigning ignorance while watching the vulnerable around the world starve, disease increase, and education diminish, and immigrants were the first-to-blame (the whipping post) for all the political injustices, doesn’t work anymore. The people of the US have spoken, they wanted a racist, rapist, felon president who would promise to return America to a day when whites didn’t have to share public spaces with those of color, when women were silenced and kept at home. The tepid apathetic who stayed home rather than voting bear the brunt of this as well—if not more so. There is nothing worse than lukewarm. If you’re into scripture, remember this one, “So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you out of My mouth [Rev. 3:16].” This is what they voted for, now these are the consequences you are reaping. The cost in human lives will be staggering, especially if there is another pandemic on 47’s watch. This time, it will be far worse as he has already dismantled the agencies designed to keep the public informed about disease.
28.01.2025
Public schools try to protect undocumented students from Trump immigration raids
Under 47 and with direction from Project 2025 and tech oligarchs, ICE has become the new Gestapo. As the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago attempts to militarize immigration, he is now sending ICE to raid public schools. But some schools are standing firm against their agenda, declaring that, “education is for every child regardless of their immigration status.” Only valueless, vile, adults would attempt to prevent a child from being educated; any child, anywhere. Yet, that is exactly what this administration is attempting to do. This is the same administration that made it a policy to separate children from their parents without keeping an account of what prison camp either party was forced into. This is criminal, and those accepting, supporting, or enacting these policies will one day have to stand up to the raw lens of history as surely as the Nazi supporters (and deniers) of Hitler’s Germany. I’m so very grateful for these brave educators willing to put their livelihoods and careers on the line for the children they have sworn to teach. Another reason why, in a future time, we must remember that teaching is a sacred profession and deserves to be rewarded with the highest respect and recompense.
27.01.2025
How The US Became So Dysfunctional, Oligarchic, And Corrupt – OpEd
It should be noted, prior to reading this article, that the author, Finn Andreen, is a Swedish libertarian living in France. With that understanding, Mr. Andreen provides an engaging historic summary of the rise of Federalism in the US, particularly since President Lincoln. The continued power of the Federal Government over the States has—in Andreen’s opinion, led to the issues we have today with the centralized oligarchy of 47’s government under the direction of Elon Musk and Project 2025. This has become increasingly evident this week with the President’s blustery blowup (and backdown) of sending Colombian migrants to Colombia handcuffed in military planes. It is also apparent in the bellicose rants of the President about Greenland, Panama, and Canada. Despite the will of the American people, this President is recklessly pursuing a course that alienates long-time global allies. Thankfully, as we have seen in the terse showdown with President Gustavo Petro, the Colombian President, 47 is unable to sustain any whim longer than a day and has to back down when it comes to actually pursuing a policy that takes more focus than an afternoon. Apparently, no one is also around to help the President spell-check his tariff announcements as he even misspelled the name of the country he was addressing. Let’s hope this lack of focus continues.
26.01.2025
The Ungovernable Economy
This brilliant review by Trevor Jackson, of the Martin Wolf’s book, “The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism,” is perfectly timed to the political situation in which we currently find ourselves under 47’s, Project 2025-mandated economy. Jackson points out that economies that have historically led to collapse included; “policies (that) have privatized gains and socialized losses,” in which those running the government, “remove themselves from communities of obligation,” then blame immigrants, women, and minorities for the distress experienced by the economic “losers.” Besides being insightful about current economic issues from a historic perspective, Wolf goes on to present creative solutions that have stabilized countries and led to economic fairness in the past. As I read this article, additional alarm bells went off for me about the policies that 47 is trying to execute as he proceeds—through presidential fiat—the rapacious mandates of Project 2025 and the shadow president, Elon Musk. This is well-worth the read, though not exactly an easy piece.
25.01.2025
One Analysis to Rule Them All
This is a very important reminder of basic psychological principles; we become what gets rewarded or what doesn’t get punished. As the article points out, in 1957, famed Behavioral psychologist, B.F. Skinner said, “Men act upon the world, and change it, and are changed in turn by the consequences of their action.” It’s obvious why this remains important today when we look at the monster that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago has become. He has been emboldened in his racist and fascist views by both his supporters and the apathy of others who don’t seem to care about the policies he is enacting. With the release of seditious criminals who tried to take over the capital at his direction, their criminal behavior will be reinforced and will become criterion for future criminal behavior as courts rally to cite this as a precedent. On a personal/educational/fundamental level, how will we explain to young people that consequences matter when they obviously don’t if you are rich and powerful?
24.01.2025
Noam Chomsky Defines What It Means to Be a Truly Educated Person
Professor Chomsky would not be appreciated in most school board discussions today, especially in the Red States—seats of MAGA cult thinking. The MIT scholar has pointed to an all-out attack on public institutions by corporations for years now. Those who support oligarchies would not want his ideas repeated in their boardrooms or public school gatherings. In this article, the author points to what Chomsky would define as the goal of education. Not the retention of knowledge, and certainly not the repetition of political propaganda, but (in his own words); “to be truly educated means to be resourceful, to be able to ‘formulate serious questions’ and ‘question standard doctrine, if that’s appropriate’… It means to ‘find your own way.’”
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
As 47 sends his Gestapo to raid schools and prevent children from being educated. It is a time for all of us to ask, “Which side of history will we be on?”
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 51 (241 total reports)
24.01.20245-28.01.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
As 47 sends his Gestapo to raid schools and prevent children from being educated. It is a time for all of us to ask, “Which side of history will we be on?”
Song of the Week
Songs with inspiring, true, stories about people who have risen to defend human rights at pivotal times.
Top Links of the Week
28.01.2025
Public schools try to protect undocumented students from Trump immigration raids
Under 47 and with direction from Project 2025 and tech oligarchs, ICE has become the new Gestapo. As the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago attempts to militarize immigration, he is now sending ICE to raid public schools. But some schools are standing firm against their agenda, declaring that, “education is for every child regardless of their immigration status.” Only valueless, vile, adults would attempt to prevent a child from being educated; any child, anywhere. Yet, that is exactly what this administration is attempting to do. This is the same administration that made it a policy to separate children from their parents without keeping an account of what prison camp either party was forced into. This is criminal, and those accepting, supporting, or enacting these policies will one day have to stand up to the raw lens of history as surely as the Nazi supporters (and deniers) of Hitler’s Germany. I’m so very grateful for these brave educators willing to put their livelihoods and careers on the line for the children they have sworn to teach. Another reason why, in a future time, we must remember that teaching is a sacred profession and deserves to be rewarded with the highest respect and recompense.
27.01.2025
How The US Became So Dysfunctional, Oligarchic, And Corrupt – OpEd
It should be noted, prior to reading this article, that the author, Finn Andreen, is a Swedish libertarian living in France. With that understanding, Mr. Andreen provides an engaging historic summary of the rise of Federalism in the US, particularly since President Lincoln. The continued power of the Federal Government over the States has—in Andreen’s opinion, led to the issues we have today with the centralized oligarchy of 47’s government under the direction of Elon Musk and Project 2025. This has become increasingly evident this week with the President’s blustery blowup (and backdown) of sending Colombian migrants to Colombia handcuffed in military planes. It is also apparent in the bellicose rants of the President about Greenland, Panama, and Canada. Despite the will of the American people, this President is recklessly pursuing a course that alienates long-time global allies. Thankfully, as we have seen in the terse showdown with President Gustavo Petro, the Colombian President, 47 is unable to sustain any whim longer than a day and has to back down when it comes to actually pursuing a policy that takes more focus than an afternoon. Apparently, no one is also around to help the President spell-check his tariff announcements as he even misspelled the name of the country he was addressing. Let’s hope this lack of focus continues.
26.01.2025
The Ungovernable Economy
This brilliant review by Trevor Jackson, of the Martin Wolf’s book, “The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism,” is perfectly timed to the political situation in which we currently find ourselves under 47’s, Project 2025-mandated economy. Jackson points out that economies that have historically led to collapse included; “policies (that) have privatized gains and socialized losses,” in which those running the government, “remove themselves from communities of obligation,” then blame immigrants, women, and minorities for the distress experienced by the economic “losers.” Besides being insightful about current economic issues from a historic perspective, Wolf goes on to present creative solutions that have stabilized countries and led to economic fairness in the past. As I read this article, additional alarm bells went off for me about the policies that 47 is trying to execute as he proceeds—through presidential fiat—the rapacious mandates of Project 2025 and the shadow president, Elon Musk. This is well-worth the read, though not exactly an easy piece.
25.01.2025
One Analysis to Rule Them All
This is a very important reminder of basic psychological principles; we become what gets rewarded or what doesn’t get punished. As the article points out, in 1957, famed Behavioral psychologist, B.F. Skinner said, “Men act upon the world, and change it, and are changed in turn by the consequences of their action.” It’s obvious why this remains important today when we look at the monster that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago has become. He has been emboldened in his racist and fascist views by both his supporters and the apathy of others who don’t seem to care about the policies he is enacting. With the release of seditious criminals who tried to take over the capital at his direction, their criminal behavior will be reinforced and will become criterion for future criminal behavior as courts rally to cite this as a precedent. On a personal/educational/fundamental level, how will we explain to young people that consequences matter when they obviously don’t if you are rich and powerful?
24.01.2025
Noam Chomsky Defines What It Means to Be a Truly Educated Person
Professor Chomsky would not be appreciated in most school board discussions today, especially in the Red States—seats of MAGA cult thinking. The MIT scholar has pointed to an all-out attack on public institutions by corporations for years now. Those who support oligarchies would not want his ideas repeated in their boardrooms or public school gatherings. In this article, the author points to what Chomsky would define as the goal of education. Not the retention of knowledge, and certainly not the repetition of political propaganda, but (in his own words); “to be truly educated means to be resourceful, to be able to ‘formulate serious questions’ and ‘question standard doctrine, if that’s appropriate’… It means to ‘find your own way.’”
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
There is no doubt that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago has started an authoritarian regime, but he is surrounded by sycophants, not advisors. Though the policies he has already decreed are damaging, he probably has no ability to sustain the plan (or concept of a plan) he promised.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 50 (240 total reports)
15.01.20245-23.01.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
There is no doubt that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago has started an authoritarian regime, but he is surrounded by sycophants, not advisors. Though the policies he has already decreed are damaging, he probably has no ability to sustain the plan (or concept of a plan) he promised.
Song of the Week
This compilation is filled with songs about dissenters like MLK, Rosa Parks, John Lewis and others. Please take a moment to listen to the 10 songs that are biopics of human rights activists.
Top Links of the Week
23.01.2025
Trump’s Second Term Might Have Already Peaked
This is an excellent article in the tradition of Atlantic’s excellence in journalism. The Atlantic is a news source I trust and subscribe to and find it worth the investment almost daily. In this article, the author, Jonathon Chait, points out that 47 has not surrounded himself with expertise, but with sycophants, so yes, there are many short-term, executive actions that 47 can take that will be damaging, but governance by Executive Action can be easily reversed. Also, Chait points out, the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago came to power—not with plans—but “concepts” of plans. He has no real idea how to carry out the long-term commitments he made to voters and he—especially—has no advisors to turn to help him achieve true policy change. The GOP will do whatever he says, but there is no one to tell him what to do or how to do it. For that reason, Chait suggests that 47’s administration may have already peaked.
20.01.2025
How the US is destroying young people's future
I love TED Talks and this one is exceptional. For those of us who work with young people (or have them in your family), this talk is very important. Also, I think it applies beyond the border of the US, to other consumerist countries that see success from the perspective of a financial litmus test. There are many alternatives to measures of success including, happiness, purpose, kindness, and service. What could you do to help fortify young people’s futures so they don’t get trapped into degrading consumerist viewpoints that measure a person’s value by how much they have or what they do?
19.01.2025
What MLK knew that today’s progressives keep forgetting
Nonviolent Resistance, or satyagraha, comes from the Sanskrit words satya, meaning "truth", and āgraha, meaning "insistence" or "holding firmly to.” MLK studied this technique and philosophy as applied by Gandhi both in South Africa and then in India. Over the next years, understanding the methods and techniques of MLK and Gandhi will become increasingly important. This week especially, let us focus our thoughts on MLK’s birthday (actually on January 15, but celebrated in US on January 20) rather than the inauguration of the Orange Felon and the current victory lap of Project 2025.
18.01.2025
Focus Your Attention On These 11 Things People Can't Take Away From You
With the inauguration of the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago about to occur, I can’t think of a more appropriate article to help us through the next “whatever” years. As we battle government-by-oligarchy, it’s important to remember there are battles we don’t have to fight—and that we can already claim. The traits in this article are critical for healthy thinking. Please read them through and pass them on.
17.01.2025
Soaring wealth inequality has remade the map of American prosperity
Biden said it and Bernie Sanders agrees, “An oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power, and influence that threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms.” This will undoubtedly be the primary issue—not just in the US—but in the world, for this decade (and perhaps longer). It is not just redefining the map of American prosperity, but indeed, global prosperity. This WILL affect our children and grandchildren’s generation and we must equip ourselves—and them—to resist.
16.01.2025
US barrels ahead with school smartphone bans — despite weak evidence that they help
Nothing prompts a faster knee-jerk response among North American educators than students being distracted in their classroom. Rather than address the deeper issue (lack of student engagement. The US is seeking a total back. In Finland, teachers and students learn how to incorporate Smartphones into daily life. The problem with banning smartphones is that they are rapidly becoming a part of all of our everyday lives—positive or negative. Banning is guaranteed to be negative if our young people graduate with no concept of how to use AI (read Augmented Intelligence, nor Artificial Intelligence) or how to recognize fake news and disinformation.
15.01.2025
Pete Hegseth Declines to Answer
This is how it starts, folks. The razzle-dazzle, spin-em-fast demise of democracy brought to you by Project 2025 and the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago. Nominees for some of the most powerful positions in the world, filled by people who support the Orange Man and his revenge-focused agenda. Being qualified—doesn’t matter, leadership experience, —doesn’t matter, national security—doesn’t matter, character—doesn’t matter, so what does matter? Kissing the Orange Clown shoes… The GOP, in their continued dereliction of duty, refused to ask any difficult or job-related questions of Hegseth for fear of being “taken behind the wood shed,” by the cult following. But this is just how it starts. Way to go, supporters of MAGA cult, you now have a front-row seat watching our country be sold to the highest builders and most acquiescent.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
John Lewis, the former congressman from Georgia, who was badly injured on Bloody Sunday, tells us to get in “Good Trouble, Necessary Trouble. As the Felon from Mar-A-Lago prepares to take office, we each need to examine what kind of “Good Trouble,” will be necessary to uphold our fragile democracy.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 49 (239 total reports)
09.01.20245-14.01.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
John Lewis, the former congressman from Georgia, who was badly injured on Bloody Sunday, tells us to get in “Good Trouble, Necessary Trouble. As the Felon from Mar-A-Lago prepares to take office, we each need to examine what kind of “Good Trouble,” will be necessary to uphold our fragile democracy.
Song of the Week
This compilation is filled with songs about dissenters like John Lewis. Please take a moment to listen to the 10 songs that are biopics of human rights activists.
Top Links of the Week
14.01.2025
Jack Smith in Jan. 6 report says Trump would have been convicted if he hadn't won in November
The First Felon to serve as President got his wish. He didn’t really run FOR office as much as he ran FROM prosecution. Jack Smith’s report, that was held in court for years by a Trump-appointed Judge in Florida, was released in part today and it is damning. So this is the US now? I side with Adam Cohen, who said in his Bluesky account this morning, ““The sorrow I feel is that not only did Donald Trump attempt a violent coup, wherein 140 police officers were injured and 5 died as a result, but millions of people ignored it for the chance to save a buck or two on eggs and gas-even as prices on consumer goods were starting to fall.”
13.01.2025
Why the Christian Right Demonizes Discourse
The surest sign that a parent lacks confidence in themselves is that they attempt to prevent their children from asking, “Why?” It is not different from paternalistic organizations like religion. The Christian Right is similar to the Taliban and wants to justify their misogyny, rather than have people question their injustices. Like the Taliban, the Religious Right seeks control over women and their bodies. They objectify women instead of honor them. Also like the Taliban, the Religious Right wants to control the government and use them towards their own ends. They would be overjoyed to undermine the constitutional separation of Church and State by becoming a theocracy. With little insight, they are not seeing that—when the pendulum swings back to sanity—people are finally going to tax churches as crass lobbyists and political organizations.
12.01.2025
Brooks and Capehart on Trump’s sentencing and what’s coming in his 2nd term
The balanced reporting of the actually “sane” conservative, David Brooks, and the liberal counterpoint of Jonathon Capehart, always engages me. In this rational look at the irrational President-Elect, we are reminded that so many of the completely brainless meanderings of the First Felon of Mar-A-Lago are a total distraction to keep us from focusing on the real actions that Project 2025 and he are taking to undermine the US democracy and constitution. The Far Right loves it when they get under the skin of Liberals, but we mustn’t let our guard down and should continually ask, “What is the deception?” “What are they trying to keep us from seeing?”
11.01.2025
Malala Yousafzai Honored for Her Efforts to Combat Gender Apartheid Ten Years After Receiving the Noble Peace Prize
Religious fundamentalists in Pakistan tried to silence Malala Yousafzai by shooting her in the face. As the religious right fundamentalists try to establish their own Christian Taliban in the United States in relationship with the GOP and their Orange Leader, it is important to remember Molala’s story and her consistent resistance to undermining women’s rights around the globe. Please take a moment to read about the history of her struggle and immense courage. I think you will find it inspiring and a platform for your own resilience. I have dedicated a song to Malala on my upcoming compilation, “Say Her Name,” you can find it at this link: Malala Yousafzai; Tell Her Story.
10.01.2025
Emperor Trump Has No Train of Thought
Be prepared for an era of promises unkept, projects unfinished, and alliances destroyed. This will be the legacy of the next President and the egomaniacal Oligarchs with whom he has surrounded himself. Promises will be unkept, because they were never based upon honest commitments to begin with and because it takes truly strong resilience and values to push an agenda through the government system today. 47 has neither of those values and has surrounded himself with egocentric children who are more proficient at throwing tantrums than leading teams, delegation, or actual governance. Unfortunately, Project 2025 has the stamina that the Orange Felon of Mar-A-Lago lacks and are patiently waiting for him to either die or be replaced through the 25th Amendment.
09.01.2025
Why Poor American Kids Are So Likely to Become Poor Adults
Poor children in America are more likely to become poor adults than a similar grouping of children in other wealthy countries. This well-researched article points out that this is largely due to how we treat impoverished adults in America rather than how we treat impoverished children. Despite what the GOP will tell you, this is not a genealogical issue (people aren’t born lazy and less desirous of meaningful employment), it is a matter of wealth distribution and taxes. As the US increasingly becomes an oligarchy, governed by an extremely wealthy small minority, poverty will increase over the years of the GOP’s budgetary decision-making. The Expanded Child Tax Credit (which ended in 2022) significantly decreased poverty in the US. We are unlikely to see it—or any similar policy—return while E. Musk and his cronies direct the government of 45 and his GOP puppets.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
In the midst of the obvious cacophony that 45 and his minions are going to introduce into the world, we are all going to need strategies for sustaining our own sanity. This week’s blog focuses on creating resistance strategies.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 48 (238 total reports)
01.01.20245-08.01.2025
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
In the midst of the obvious cacophony that 45 and his minions are going to introduce into the world, we are all going to need strategies for sustaining our own sanity. This week’s blog focuses on creating resistance strategies.
Song of the Week
Rosa Parks was no stranger to the Civil Rights movement when she was asked to move to the back of the bus in Montgomery, Alabama, to make room for white passengers. Her refusal to move led to her arrest, and her arrest led to the Montgomery Bus Strike from December 5, 1955 to December 20, 1956. 381 days! Why didn’t she move? She was tired; tired of being pushed around. Her “stand” for justice by sitting down, is one example of non-accommodation. I feature Rosa in my new compilation of people who have not cooperated with injustice and were known as dissidents. If you’re interested in this new compilation, click here: Good Trouble.
Top Links of the Week
08.01.2025
The Surgeon General just wrote you a prescription for happiness. Here's what it says
There are so many things I’m going to miss about the Biden administration, but a primary one will certainly be the professionalism and knowledge of its public servants. Biden did not appoint political hacks or billionaires to his cabinet and one example is his Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy. Murthy has been a leader in confronting the epidemic of loneliness in the US. In his closing recommendation, he gives a prescription for happiness. Something we’re all going to need to make it through the upcoming years of political shenanigans and outright lunacy. Murthy’s formula is simple, yet profound. He suggests three characteristics of happiness that include: 1) Relationships, 2) Service, and 3) Purpose. These are not three qualities he pulled from the air, they’re heavily supported by research. People who grow these habits (and indeed, they can be grown), are proven to be happier and have a higher sense of well-being. What can you do to begin to grow these habits in your life and the lives of those around you? How can you incorporate them in your dealings with others, your teaching, or raising of young people?
07.01.2025
Did Maslow Get Self-Actualization Wrong?
The points made in this article are enlightening, but I think it is based on incomplete information. Maslow scholars know that Maslow spent time in his latter years doing research with the Blackfoot Peoples in Northern Alberta (six weeks with the Skisika Nation, in 1938) and was in the process of amending some of his own work given what he learned about their concepts of self-actualization. However, he didn’t live long enough to publish these findings. In his latter (unpublished) papers, Maslow spoke of a stage beyond Self-Actualization, that of Self-Transcendence, meaning the final stage of our growth is not focused on self, but ultimately, on community. This is in keeping with the findings the author draws out in her article. This article is well worth the read for its many points about how the Blackfoot Tribe differed in their concept of “flourishing.” Please take time to look over it. I’m sure we can all use more hints on flourishing and perhaps we can help mentor others. Given yesterday’s article about, “The Decade of Discontent,” is there a more important time to teach people to flourish and embrace self-transcendence?
06.01.2025
Welcome to the Decade of Discontent.
This article reviews the data showing the deep unrest in our social structure today. It shows the result of super-elites hoarding resources to themselves while increasingly larger classes of people are unable to even start their life. Already indications of the next administration show that these super-elites are going to do more to use power to secure their own fortunes and take resources from the middle and lower classes. Our own contemporary history shows that we have not reached the “pain point” where people realize they are being lied to and their meager resources are being stripped away. The USA just fired the administration that focused on infrastructure and building the middle class while voting in a huckster who is already saying he “won’t be able to deliver” on some of his most basis promises. This article points to the hard evidence of an economic and societal collapse that is just beginning, leading to what the author is calling a “decade of discontent.”
05.01.2025
As Trump's election is certified, Americans should declare war on stupidity | Opinion
As the results of this last election become clear, one of the things becoming apparent is that 45 (and his handlers) have normalized public stupidity. Whether it’s the attempted appointment of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General or the development of a new department of Government Efficiency headed by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, the elevation of the non-intelligent in favor of those with an agenda to complete 45’s revenge is in plain view. The dumbing down of American politics seems to be apparent everywhere in the world—except the United States itself—where being stupid is being elevated to an elite class.
04.01.2025
“There is no morality right now”: Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger on Donald Trump's GOP
I admire former Republican Representative Kinzinger deeply (despite being a supply-side, Reaganomics believer). His track record and commitment to honesty speak for itself. If you are unaware of this man’s bona fides, take a moment to read through this article. I believe he captures the lost respect of the GOP and their 45 leader in this article. His argument is our argument if you see the election of a criminal, rapist, authoritarian to the White House as a disgrace to this nation and its values. If you don’t, maybe some of Kinzinger’s insights will spur you to examine your own beliefs.
03.01.2025
In 2025 and beyond, schools need to teach more than just ‘the basics’
Schools that focus on teaching the “basics” are basing their “basics” on a Prussian model that is hundreds of years old. Imagine if we allowed other sectors of society to follow this standard; we’d have no airplanes, certainly no technology, and medicine would still involve no anesthetics. While such archaic guidelines would be unthinkable in the rest of our economy, we seem to accommodate such thinking in education and religion (even worse when they combine). Even our definition of “the Basics” must change. The idea that only teaching readin’, ‘ritin’, and ‘rithmetic or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can adequately prepare young people to live in our world today is unsustainable. As this article points out, schools need to be prepared to teach cognitive skills and—what the author calls—non-cognitive skills. Emotional Quotient is one such skill and a far better indicator of how well one will do in their career. This will only become increasingly true as AI (think “Augmented Intelligence”, not, “Artificial Intelligence”) becomes increasing incorporated into our lives (outside of dysfunctional school divisions). In yesterday’s review, we saw how the advanced school system of Finland is teaching students how to spot Disinformation. Such knowledge will become increasingly important in our world as authoritarians take over education. Will we demand that this becomes part of the “Basics” that schools teach or will it also be thrown into the Project 2025 dung heap along with DEI (learning about people’s difference) and “Being Woke (learning compassion and kindness)?”
02.01.2025
How Finnish Youth Learn To Spot Disinformation
The education system of Finland ranks among the top in the world. One of the primary reasons is that they focus on educating as opposed to indoctrinating. They even teach young people how to spot disinformation in their schools. This will definitely NOT be a part of GOP’s agenda for education during the era of 45 and Project 2025. In fact, if our children are going to be able to recognize disinformation, they are going to need to learn these critical skills at home or in small community-based schools. This article highlights the importance of this curriculum and what it has provided to the youth who have participated in these classes. Perhaps you have a way to influence the information young people will be receiving in an era of intentional government deceit. Or, perhaps you know adults who could benefit from this information. Either way, this article is a great primer for accumulating some of the basic necessities for arming yourself against mass, global, disinformation.
01.01.2025
Gratitude, a Road to Lasting Happiness
Our resilience will be more important than ever in this coming year and the best path to resilience is the habit of gratitude. This article looks at building a habit of gratitude into your daily life and the long-term effects on you and yours. How will you grow gratitude this year and how can you teach it to others?
Youth Advocacy
The death of Jimmy Carter is significant to the world. A man of quiet action and dignity, consistent service and dignity.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 347 (237 total reports)
25.12.2024-31.12.2024
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The death of Jimmy Carter is significant to the world. A man of quiet action and compassion, consistent service and dignity.
Song of the Week
Jimmy Carter; The Measure of This Man
The newest compilation that I am completing is about people who have consistently stood for human rights around the world. Please take a moment to listen to this song about President Jimmy Carter and reflect upon what we are missing in politics today; the quiet actions that led towards peace, human voting rights, global health, and environmental awareness. There was no braggadocio in this man of quiet action. Unlike many politicians today, President Carter showed that, “if you have to tell people you are the leader—you are not!”
Top Links of the Week
31.12.2024
A timeline of former President Jimmy Carter’s life and career
Yes he was a President, a Governor, and won the Nobel Peace Prize, but Jimmy Carter will probably be most remembered for his life of humble service after his presidency.
30.12.2024
Resolve to resist
This pro-LGBTQ+ magazine discusses the trials all of us will face in an administration more concerned about gender-specific bathrooms than about children’s deaths in schools. It points out ten things we can all do to resist the Christian Taliban’s efforts to undermine human rights in the US and elsewhere.
29.12.2024
Historian Reveals The 3 Signs A Political Revolution Is About To Happen — And The Ones We’ve Already Seen In America
This is a history lesson the Far Right is definitely NOT going to want you to see. An excellent examination at what—historically—leads to a revolution and if the “Rebumblecons” don’t come to their senses, this is what they will usher in. Please take a moment to look at the three primary precursors to a revolution that this historian highlights and her explanations why the USofA is so ripe for one.
28.12.2024
The Power of Resilience
Resilience is a learned trait and (as this article points out) it is the result of failure turned into growth. Resilience is a learned response—not an automatic response. Do you know someone who is good at turning failure into resilience? Ask them to coach you… and, if this is something you are adept at, coach and mentor others. Young people, especially, need to know that making mistakes does not equal failure, we only fail when we cease to learn and draw knowledge from our shortcomings. It is natural to want to quit when you’ve fallen down, to withdraw, or cease striving. But, it is at those moments of disappointment in our lives that we are also at the point of optimal growth. Creating a practice of growing from defeat is self-perpetuating.
27.12.2024
60 Comics Exaggerating Modern-Day Issues That Highlight Their Absurdity By Domien Delforge (New Pics)
Many of these comics nail the contemporary situation in which we all live, they are worth scrolling through for a smile and some serious reflection.
26.12.2024
The California Job-Killer That Wasn’t
As a number of States look at raising the minimum wage this coming year and the GOP continues its war on economic fairness. It is important to look at the numbers of what results a higher minimum wage actually has on a State’s economy. Conservative economists predicted the rise in wages in California would result in a loss of businesses and jobs, in reality, the opposite was true. Higher minimum wages resulted in a broad-based rise in worker retention, which lowered hiring and training costs for companies allowing them to put money elsewhere and increase profit margins. Actual reviews of numbers like this needs to be shouted from the rooftops because, be assured, conservatives are shouting their non-research based theories as loudly as they can. Fairness in the workplace is an economic springboard and economic policy should be based on fact, not opinion and conjecture.
25.12.2024
The New Ugly American
This article gives a succinct history into the term, “Ugly American,” and the changes the term is experiencing as the blowhard Regime of 45 and his minions start laying out their plans for taking over Greenland, Panama, Canada, and Mexico. As an ex-pat who lived in Canada and now in Mexico, I’m very aware of the bad reputation the people from the US have abroad. I’m concerned how this will only worsen with the mindless words of the “Rebumblecons” and the authoritarian they blissfully adore (45 or Musk—you pick which one you want to insert there).
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The puppet government E. Musk bought is revealing the chaos it plans to inflict on the US over the next four years. What is your strategy for resistance and resilience?
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 346 (236 total reports)
18.12.2024-24.12.2024
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
The puppet government E. Musk bought is revealing the chaos it plans to inflict on the US over the next four years. What is your strategy for resistance and resilience?
Song of the Week
Who makes money when the world doesn’t work? Who becomes rich off poverty, guns, and war? If we follow the money, we will begin the see the Oligarchs who are the source of most of the world’s “unsolvable” issues.
Compilation: Resistance, Resilience
Top Links of the Week
24.12,2024
American Idiots
This week’s near-collapse of the House is but a harbinger of things to come under the GOP and 45’s administration. Nearly 100 last minute posts by E. Musk (many outright lies) stirred up the GOP faithful and nearly brought the House to a standstill that would have undermined multiple government functions over the holidays. Only a last minute effort between Hakeem Jeffries and Mike Johnson temporarily averted the crisis. This article focuses on what to expect under the shadow presidency of Musk and 45.
23.12.2024
Revolutionizing Education: Exploring the Latest Trends in Learning
A revolution in learning is long past needed and rather than fear the use of technology (or only using technology for the administration of education), the people at Google Labs are looking for vibrant ways technology can complement educators and students in classrooms and at home. The suggestions in this article are a great guide to anyone who is working in the field of education or human development. These are exciting suggestions and could lead to huge leaps in student development. I hope that if you are involved in the development of children you will read and share this article. It’s well worth it. These ideas will be especially important in light of the onset of global authoritarianism where schools will be seen by oligarchs, religions, and political leaders as opportunities for indoctrination instead of instruction. Increasingly, vital aspects of education will need to be supplemented at home, or in small learning communities, these suggestions will assist in making that possible.
22.12.2024
If We Hate, Trump Wins
MLK’s sermon on hate is a primer for those who lost the presidential election (which, essentially, is all of us—unless you’re a multi-millionaire of billionaire) this year. This article examines some of King’s most well-known sermons for practical applications today. I’m also including a past by King’s daughter with suggestions for responding to those of us grieving the decline of the American democracy.
21.12.2024
Why the ERA Needs Congressional Action—And How We Can Win
Equality needs to be enshrined in our constitution and it needs to be done before the Rebumblecons have consolidated their power under 45 and his puppet-master, Elon Musk. This is not a fight for President Biden or, as the author points out, the Archivist of the US. We cannot underestimate the anti-female focus of the Republican Congress and their leadership. This article has many technical subtleties in it, but it’s worth reading and remembering what is at stake in this groundswell movement needing state ratification.
20.12.2024
Paul Krugman on the government shutdown: "The Chaos Monkeys Have Already Taken Over the Zoo"
Krugman is already calling this “The Musk Administration,” after the billionaire bought his way as close as he can possibly get (as an immigrant) to the presidency. 45 is merely a puppet that does Musk’s bidding and Vance is nowhere to be seen. Behind this week’s budget freeze crises were major changes Musk wanted to push through that Congress (not just the Democrats—Mike Johnson could not even get a majority to approve his budget shenanigans—the response was not just a “Hard No!” but a “Hell No!”). 45 and his Republican patsies are already revealing they are going to be the “Chaos Congress” once again. Krugman is not surprised the “Chaos Monkeys” have taken over the zoo, he is merely alerting us as to how quickly it has happened. This is just a start as 45 is not even president yet and Musk is already taking over the Republican Party he bought and paid for.
19.12.2024
Scientists Tracked 1,000 Kids for 40 Years. This Was the No. 1 Predictor of Financial Success
This groundbreaking study from Dunedin, New Zealand, is a treasure trove of critical information for those who work with human beings (isn’t that all of us). It tells us such things as children generally grow out of delinquency and—as in the case of this article—the importance of Emotional Intelligence in raising healthy, balanced, young people with thriving lives. There is plenty of information in this short article that highlights Emotional Intelligence, what it is, who is credited with “popularizing” it (Psychologist Daniel Goleman), and an important fact that—unlike intelligence quotient (IQ)—Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is a learned trait. We can raise our EQ at any age in a supportive environment. If we want mentally and emotionally healthy children, teach them kindness and empathy. I’m including a link to a song about teaching kindness for those of you interested in passing on this information in a musical fashion. Teach Them Anyway.
18.12.2024
150 Years Ago, Thomas Edison Discovered the Secret to Exceptional Creativity. It Still Works Today
Thomas Edison is known as one of the most prolific inventors in the history of the North America, his “Edison Labs” (in West Orange, New Jersey) were famous for sometimes producing over 1,000 patents a year. However, when we think of Edison’s “Labs,” we should not picture sterile, working environments with all the experimenters isolated at individual work sites. Instead, we are told in this article, that his labs were more like playgrounds than high school or college laboratories. This writer also tells us that the primary quality promoted at the labs was, “fun.” Edison apparently believed that fun was the root of creativity. It was not unusual for the experimenters to take breaks and go to a local stream for a group swim or use other extended breaks to play group games. In an atmosphere of fun, the brain is far more open to learning than in an environment of fear and control. Indeed, in controlling environments, the creative functions of the brain shut down. What does that mean for our classrooms and family gathering times? How can we add fun to our learning environments and increase the development of creativity over the retention (or memorization) of knowledge. Creativity is not the accumulation of existing knowledge, it is using existing knowledge to create novel connections and innovative possibilities. Is your classroom fun? Is your workplace fun? Is your home fun? If you want to increase creativity, ask how you can make time together more enjoyable.
Youth Advocacy
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Keeping your moral compass and becoming a dissident
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 345 (235 total reports)
11.12.2024-17.12.2024
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Keeping your moral compass and becoming a dissident
https://www.communitiesoftrust-jerrygoebel.com/youthadvocacy
Song of the Week
The article below this week, “How To Keep Your Moral Compass,” takes a look at the people called “Dissidents.” The qualities listed there are important to review. Dissidents don’t seek the title, they don’t seek leadership, they just live true to their “moral compass.” Another important aspect of Dissidents is that they often speak through the language of the arts: Music, poetry (spoken word) the physical arts.
Compilation 01: Resistance, Resilience
Top Links of the Week
17.12.2024
How to Keep Your Moral Compass
Dissidents; this article examines them from across the world, pointing out that—with a rise of global authoritarianism—we also need a rise in dissidents. As this article, points out, dissidents don’t necessarily start out looking for the title; they wind up with the title for being themselves. Small acts of dissent tied to uncompromising values are the central key to their lives—even when it costs them external freedom such as being jailed for their actions. Do you have any small acts of dissent that you can commit to or do you know anyone whose values result in them being called a dissident? How can you support them?
16.12.2024
The Commons: Washington’s Nightmare
This article is really a compilation of responses to a previous article written by Tom Nichols about George Washington and how Nichols thinks the General/President/“Man-Who-Could’ve-Been-King” would view Trump and his presidency. Three words sum up Nichols’s thoughts on Washington: “He Went Home.” As Nichols points out in his article, DonOLD is the president that was indeed “Washington’s Nightmare.” It is worth taking time to read these responses and link to the article (which was originally written in November).
15.12.2024
It’s Remarkably Hard to Catch the Master Manipulator
Now that T-Rump is admitting that lowering the price of eggs may be hard; are the people who voted for him acting amazed and revealing themselves as thoroughly gullible (aka “suckers”)? The President-Elect is not just a liar and felon, he is a Master Manipulator. This article does a great job of revealing the personality traits of a Master Manipulator or (as some would confirm) a Machiavellian. Traits of Machiavellianism include a “Dark Triad” of personalities which, in addition to being a Machiavellian, also include psychopathy and narcissism, some believe that cynicism should also be included in these traits. All told, they create a framework for many of the billionaires that are now running the global economy. Some might go as far as to say that a Machiavellian, Dark Triad, personality is a key ingredient to being a billionaire.
14.12.2024
Why Losing Sight Of The ‘Learning Value’ Of Work Has Been A Disaster For Students
This insightful analysis into the inherent problems of the US Education system is spot-on. Similar to allowing Airline CEO’s to evaluate their own safety, the US has allowed Academics to design their own metrics. What metrics should we expect from academics who have excelled in their own world, but that to be outstanding in academics, one must also be an academic. What has been missing from education metrics for decades is real-world work experiences. In many circles, I have heard these things, “poo-pooed” for measuring a students ability to fit into the world of business and global economics/community development. It is past time for “outsiders” to be brought into the metric measuring equation. What makes a graduate a “good citizen?” A “contributing member of a business team?” A “good citizen?” Certainly, not that they can individually stand out on an achievement test like the SAT or even the current ACT (designed largely by Iowa professor of education, Everett Franklin Lindquist, in 1959).
13.12.2024
4 Surprising Benefits of Curiosity
This article examines why we all need to foster curiosity in our lives and make it a fundamental component of those we are helping to mature. Imagine raising a generation that saw curiosity and exploration as a greater strength in their leadership than pat answers and intellectual bravado. Take time to review this short article and ask “How many of these benefits can I use? How about the young people in my life?” The four “surprising” benefits noted in this article are an absolute necessity in raising a generation that will be concerned about and caring towards others.
12.12.2024
The Crisis Neither Party Is Equipped to Handle
Trump’s cabinet pick has already shown that he has a singular objective regarding for US Schools and that is to close the Department of Education (which requires support from congress). Congress will likely not support his goal, even though they obviously have no alternative plan for improving education. The sole aim of the GOP is to use education to fight culture wars. While the country is in deep need of addressing multiple S.T.E.A.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) issues, the GOP has largely focused on making sure congressional bathrooms are not transgender and yet almost all congresspersons fly to DC in planes that have transgender bathrooms. This article looks at the historic decline of US Education pre and post COVID and attempts in the past to fix a system that remains obstinately broken because lawmakers focus largely on tinkering with test scores while the real issue lies in the terrible underfunding of educators.
11.12.2024
You Did A Good Job Raising Your Kids If They Have These 11 Skills As Adults
This is an excellent article about raising young people to be healthy adults. It is filled with goals to keep in mind as you watch your children grow. My suggestion would be to post these goals on a wall to remind yourself (and either those you with whom you parent or work with) what is important to focus upon while raising young people.
Youth Advocacy
Adversity does NOT equal trauma, this week focuses on overcoming the negative in our lives to grow more resilient.
Youth Advocacy
Year 3, Week 344 (234 total reports)
06.12.2024-10.12.2024
REVIEW and ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dr. Jerry Goebel, MBA, D.Min.
Adversity does NOT equal trauma, this week focuses on overcoming the negative in our lives to grow more resilient.
Song of the Week
What words did you learn to use inside your head? Are they uplifting? Do they encourage you? Or did you come from a home where mistakes were punished with harsh words and now you use them on yourself? This song examines the messages we have been given AND the messages we can grow.
Link to the entire Compilation: Resistance, Resilience:
Top Links of the Week
10.12.2024
Breaking the Cycle of Adverse Childhood Experiences
Not all childhood adversity leads to trauma, people who have someone in their lives that can help identify the source of adversity, name it, and replace it, are able to live fuller and more meaningful lives. The key here is that Adversity does NOT = Trauma. The cycle can be broken and doesn’t need to be passed on to a new generation.
09.12.2024
Mom teaches son to pick up the 'invisible load' at home and it's something every parent should do
I’ve been saving this article for a week because I knew I would eventually want to share it with you. This mother’s brilliant parenting tip could be applied to all relationships; in the workplace, with a partner, in our communities, as well as in parenting. What is the “invisible load” that often slips through the cracks in our lives? How do we train ourselves to look for it and seek to complete it without being asked or prompted? Are you a person who seeks out the ‘invisible load’ in your relationships and responds, without pressure, without praise, and without prompting?
08.12.2024
4 Ways to Free Your Child From Crushing Self-Doubt
We become the words we hear as children, if we hear harsh words, our own internal message becomes harsh as well. Self-Doubt, the product of harsh words, undermines children’s (our) resiliency. It reminds us again, the way we parent ourselves (internally), is often the way we parent our children. One of the most important tasks of adulthood is to examine the inner conversations passed on to us and that we use when we make mistakes or run into obstacles in our lives. This article speaks deeply to examining how we speak to our children, but definitely can also be applied to how we speak to our inner child. The next time you are angry with yourself, write down some of the words or phrases you use in your own inner conversations. See if those words are helpful, like, “It’s okay to fail when you’re trying to grow,” or, “making mistakes means I am trying new things.” It is fairly certain that if you use these phrases for yourself, you will use them with others around you.
07.12.2024
If You Have These 11 Things, You're Better Off Than An Average Person
Many people I know are struggling to find things to be grateful for following the election of an autocrat to the presidency of the United States. If you are someone (or know someone), that fits that definition, this is a great list to start with—and those things on the list that you do NOT have are things that you can focus on growing. As you read through the list keep in mind the phrase, “Have It or Grow It.” Because gratitude is the most important attribute you can have to improve your well-being, health, and relationships.
06.12.2024
Supercharging Human Curiosity
Listen to some of the exciting phrases in this article; “Augmented Intelligence,” “Return the Joy to Learning,” “Increase Engagement.” These are a few of the goals leaders like Ben Gomes, the SVP (Senior Vice President of Learning & Sustainability at Google are using as guidelines for developing tools to combine AI and learning. While most approaches to AI and Education are between the dichotomy of (as The Atlantic puts it) “uncritical optimism or dystopian fear.” The reasoned approaches by Gomes and people like Sal Khan, of The Khan Academy and Khanmigo, are dedicated to a future where AI (‘Augmented Intelligence’ as differentiated from ‘Artificial Intelligence’) helps foster the creativity of teachers and students alike.
05.12.2024
Complaining Won't Change the World, But Your Actions Can
Michelle Obama, addressing the DNC in August said, "Don't just sit around and complain. Do something!” This article highlights that exhortation. Complaining makes you feel less resilient, doing something increases your strength and positivity. It doesn’t have to be earth-shattering action, simple acts of kindness and courtesy are often all that’s needed are often all that’s needed to bolster your sense of hope and positivity. If this note rings true for you, perhaps you’ll also like my new song, “Act!” Please click the link and have a listen.