Over at Eclectablog, I’ve been writing a lot about the Affordable Care Act and Michigan Medicaid expansion, in an effort to educate and engage people.
But I’m working on number of new posts — including a series of stories about Detroit and Michigan, focusing on the things that make us great. You can watch for those, coming soon. In the meantime, here’s a post I wrote not long ago about the Detroit Institute of Arts, defending one of the jewels of the city.
Dear world: Keep your greedy hands off the Detroit Institute of Arts’ collection
Read for yourself why I believe keeping the collection here is part of rebuilding the city and protecting the interests of people who have invested decades in serving Detroit.
New beginnings are around us everywhere, every day. Even when we think all hope is lost, we’re reminded there’s always a chance to find something new, something to inspire and reinvigorate us.
In recent weeks, I’ve watched two people I love start their new life together, a bride and groom confident in their partnership and their future. I celebrated a friend’s first pregnancy — one that did not come easily, and is all the more appreciated for it.
By contrast, I saw our country’s divides grow deeper over issues like race, choice and equality. My heart ached as Detroit declared bankruptcy, proof that a city holding a lifetime of memories for me is struggling to survive.
But I choose hope. I choose to reflect on the new beginnings I’ve witnessed. I choose to do my part to contribute to a better future for those just starting out — new couples, new babies, new businesses, new dreams.
Can America overcome what divides us, to stand united for the good of our country and each other? I believe we can, if enough people want it and work for it. Can Detroit rebuild itself and become a great city once again? I have no doubt. In fact, the seeds of that rebirth are already there, in the businesses and residents moving into the city. They’re choosing hope, too.
No one’s saying it will be easy. Even the most joyous of new beginnings — a wedding, a baby — has its challenges. Emerging from bankruptcy or overcoming decades of division are tasks that will be years in the making, but absolutely worth the effort.
Sometimes, it can start with the smallest of seeds, A kind gesture, a purchase at a local business, a thought of forgiveness for someone who doesn’t share your views.
Hope can even lie dormant but it’s always there, like the lily that blossomed in my house after two years without flowering.
Hope is always there. You just have to believe in it.
Is there anyone who likes speaking in front of an audience or on camera? I actually do, but despite kudos I’ve received for it I’ve often feared I must sound just like that teacher in the Charlie Brown TV specials. We all think that way. It’s human nature.
But, really, I’ve had no reason to feel ill at ease. I’ve been a professional communicator my entire career. I also spent 20 years performing onstage and directing theatre, which requires an understanding of how to put your best foot forward and, in the case of directing, teaching the skill to others.
At Netroots Nation 2013, a conference largely devoted to using technology to amplify voices and influence public debate, I attended a training session on how to be a “media star.” It was led by Joel Silberman, who brings years of theatrical experience to his work as a media strategist and trainer for organizations, online activists and candidates.
Even if he hadn’t uttered a word about how to be authentic and put forth a presence while in the eye of the media, his own skills would have illustrated it perfectly. The advice and guidance he shared was invaluable, whether I’ll be on camera or coaching someone who will be. And I had the exhilarating, enlightening experience of being selected to receive one-on-one coaching in a mock on-camera interview.
I’ve never felt more self-assured and articulate on camera. I feel like I’m ready for anything now. Including my close-up.
