St. Raphael's Liberal Catholic Church of the San Francisco Bay Area

10/09/2024

Do you know what a "conditional ballot" and a "provisional ballot" is? Same Day Voter Registration, known as "Conditional Voter Registration" in state law, is a safety net for Californians who miss the deadline to register to vote or update their voter registration information for an election. Eligible citizens who need to register or re-register to vote within 14 days of an election can complete this process to register and vote at their county elections office, polling place, or vote center. Their ballots will be processed and counted once the county elections office has completed the voter registration verification process.
A "conditional ballot" allows you to register at the polls and vote at the same time. A "provisional ballot" also allows you to vote if your name is not on the registered-voter list. Provisional ballots ensure that voters are not excluded from the voting process due to an administrative error. They provide a fail-safe mechanism for voters who arrive at the polls on Election Day and whose eligibility to vote is uncertain. Provisional ballots, also known as “challenge" or “affidavit” ballots in some states, are required by the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA). When there is uncertainty about a voter’s eligibility—the potential voter’s name is not on the voter rolls, a required identification document isn’t available or another issue arises—the election official is required to offer the voter a provisional ballot instead of a regular ballot. Here are a couple of California Secretary of State links to this information:

https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voter-registration/same-day-reg

https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/provisional-voting

JUST GO TO YOUR POLLING PLACE and VOTE 1) if you're not registered by Election Day, or 2) if you don't think you are registered or find out you're not on the Registration Voter List. There are other reasons that support your efforts to vote. Check out the links. Maybe, too, you know of someone who might be able to vote on Election Day either by conditional or by provisional ballot.

Your provisional ballot will be counted after elections officials have confirmed that you are registered to vote in that county and you did not already vote in that election.

10/04/2024

As is my usual habit, I try to watch the noon news. One segment now showing, is long, long lines of people just like you and me (human beings) who have lost EVERYTHING: home, shelter, self-reliance on a steady self-initiated food source, clothing, water, medicine, etc. They are having to rely on those of us who want to help, who feel sorry that this has happened to them. Our hearts are open and some of the selfless among us, are (and will be) doing our best to make life relatively secure.
But the thought arises: isn't their plight (due to the hurricane and the accompanying destruction and flooding) almost exactly similar to the plight of those who live in homeless poverty in almost every town and city in the country? They, too, have no home, shelter, self-reliance on a steady self-initiated food source because no income, no clothing, water, medicine, etc.
I can't help but think this is one way Nature is trying to awaken us to the need for "familial unity" because we really are ALL part of one family - the human race. We ALL live on this ONE planet; we ALL rely on nature's bounty. Shouldn't we take pity and help those who can't help themselves NO MATTER WHAT THE CAUSE? Experiencing life-changing sudden disasters seem to be occurring throughout the world, not just in our country. Why? Maybe its because we continue to ignore those who need our help simply because we are too self-centered. The forces of Nature may be aligning against us just as we have aligned ourselves in ignorance against the natural concept of universal unity as is supportive of one another. If Nature's balance has been upset through our actions, how would Nature restore that balance? Perhaps by trying to wake us up to all the pain and suffering we've cause; to all the hateful energy we generate; to all the destruction we purposely inflict on our environment and upon ourselves -- because, perhaps, we believe we are separate from one another and from all things. Nature knows better. Will we learn to correct our behavior, will Mother Nature step in and force in us a better perspective...or will we be destroyed one way or another in our selfishness?

10/04/2024

I'm feeling somewhat philosophical lately and quotes seem more significant to where we are in this day and in this age. Here's one that struck me along this line of thought:

"I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that has been given us."
--J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

10/04/2024

The title of this poem by Irene Vella is "A Prayer" but perhaps "Hope for a New World" would have been, perhaps, more appropriate. It was written at the end of the Covid Pandemic and refers to hopeful dreams of a bright future dawning as the results of our isolation during that time. And, now that dream has faded and with it, so it seems, hope.

And the people stayed home. And read books, and listened, and rested, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being and were still.
And listened more deeply.
Some meditated, some prayed, some danced.
Some met their darkest shadows.
And the people began to think differently.
And the people healed.
And, in the absence of people living in ignorant, dangerous, mindless, and heartless ways,
THE EARTH BEGAN TO HEAL.

09/13/2024

Just thinking about our psychological makeup. What is it and how can we put it to better use? I was looking for something to post about that and came up with this. Yes, it is "theosophical" but it it certainly pertinent to our human condition and forever will be. Be gentle and kind.

“LET EVERY MAN PROVE HIS OWN WORK”

Practical Theosophy in the Name of Brotherhood

“HE WHO DOES NOT PRACTICE ALTRUISM; HE WHO IS NOT PREPARED TO SHARE HIS LAST MORSEL WITH A WEAKER OR POORER THAN HIMSELF; HE WHO NEGLECTS TO HELP HIS BROTHER MAN, OF WHATEVER RACE, NATION, OR CREED, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER HE MEETS SUFFERING, AND WHO TURNS A DEAF EAR TO THE CRY OF HUMAN MISERY; HE WHO HEARS AN INNOCENT PERSON SLANDERED, WHETHER A BROTHER THEOSOPHIST OR NOT, AND DOES NOT UNDERTAKE HIS DEFENSE AS HE WOULD UNDERTAKE HIS OWN—IS NO THEOSOPHIST.”

This represents not only an ideal but trying to implement this as best we can is the start of turning the world into a better place - if not an actual paradise.

09/02/2024

Just thinkin’ about our struggles for equality and of the hippie counterculture of my day: it “ain’t dead” and it’s gaining speed tho’ in disguise. In the 1960s, it was THE anti-establishment cultural phenomenon and political movement that continued through the early 1970s. Yes, it is often synonymous with cultural liberalism and with the various social changes of that decade. The effects of “our movement” is ongoing to the present day. Its roots can be found as an integral part of an aggregate movement that gained momentum as the civil rights movement and making significant progress as the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and, with the intensification of the Vietnam War that same year, it became revolutionary to some…as all wars should be, still. As the movement progressed, I remember clearly the widespread social tensions developing concerning other issues; these tended to flow along generational lines regarding respect for the individual, human sexuality, women's rights, traditional modes of authority, rights of people of color, end of racial segregation, experimentation with psychoactive drugs, and differing interpretations of the so-called American Dream. Many key movements related to these issues were born or advanced within the counterculture of the 1960s.
The counterculture unfolded – “blossomed” as I like to think. What emerged were new cultural norms and a dynamic subculture that celebrated experimentation, individuality, modern incarnations of Bohemianism, and the rise of (yes) the hippie and other alternative lifestyles that still exists today. Acceptance of experimentation can easily be seen in the music AND the sub-culture surrounding the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, and Bob Dylan. Many other creative artists, authors, and thinkers helped define the movement and society was forced to change. Everyday fashion changed - the miniskirt was born and how can we ever forget the hair styles for both men and women! And thank goodness, styles based around jeans for both became a fashion movement and still is after 60 years! But oh so much more!
Let us not poo-poo the changes we made within those established norms. Several factors distinguished our movement from the anti-authoritarian movements of past eras. We, the post-World War II baby boomers, generated an unprecedented number of “disaffected youth” as participants in rethinking the direction of the country. Activism was the name of THAT game! Post-war affluence allowed much of our counterculture generation to move beyond material necessities of life that had preoccupied our Depression-era parents and grandparents. We helped to bring about an array of behaviors and "causes" that were adopted by mainstream society, even though we, as counterculture participants, numbered in the clear minority. Let us not denigrate or lessen the role we played in changing our society…not only here but throughout the world. But the fight for equality continues. Activism continues, thgnk Goodness! The struggle to loosen the bonds imposed upon us, not only as Americans but as human beings, by the “establishment” here and around the world, continues and is no longer a battle but a full-blown war. If we as members of the “human kingdom” are going to evolve, it seems we have to struggle. It’s obvious we are fighting amongst ourselves as never before; some of us want things to continue as they have for generations toward maintaining the old-fashioned and outdated “societal norms”. But even more of us want to move forward; to develop a future that is inclusive of all human beings with NO discrimination of any kind anywhere. Why list how we are NOT to discriminate against one another!? We are all human beings and we should treat one another as human beings FIRST AND FOREMOST. Discrimination is discrimination. Call it what it is. Let’s eliminate ALL discrimination simply because it’s the right thing to do if we would advance into a respectful, relatively compassionate future with one another. I believe that’s the name of the game in the greater scheme of things. Don’t you think? Or do you?

08/31/2024

Don't think for a moment this is aimed at you specifically. We pay taxes; let the State invest it in public education. Let the State REDIRECT IT toward our children's future; toward our society's future and, ultimately, toward the good of all of us everywhere. Isn't this just common sense?!

08/31/2024

Just thinkin' about public education: Did you know that no where in the Constitution does it mention public education? Yes, it is inferred because the US Supreme Court (over the decades since slavery was abolished} has supported the idea through various laws including the 14th Amendment. But "public education" as such, is generally left to each State. Many state constitutions explicitly guarantee the right to a free public education. For example, the California Constitution states that "a general diffusion of knowledge and intelligence being essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the people, the Legislature shall encourage by all suitable means the promotion of intellectual, scientific, moral, and agricultural improvement." Many other states have similar provisions that establish public education as a right within their jurisdictions. It would seem, therefore, that as a "right" public education is mandated and if States have mandated it THERE SHOULD BE NO WAY TEACHERS AND PARENTS AND CARING INDIVIDUALS SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR A DIME FOR IT! Though commendable, why are we (you, me, our neighbors, and our neighborhoods) doing it except out of the goodness of our hearts? Why do schools have shortages of the supplies they need to teach? This is a very serious question!! If not the State, is it the local school boards that are taking funding away from their individual school districts through wages that should be going to their teachers and/or their schools? I really don't know - I just woke up this morning and asked WHY IS THIS HAPPENING? It certainly never used to happen. Never once did my parents have to provide basic supplies including a simple pencil for their four children. If teachers did, perhaps it was simply because an individual teacher wanted to jazz up their classroom, to add a personal touch, or because there was so much poverty in their district that they wanted to help the children feel better about themselves. But lack of BASIC supplies? NO! NEVER! This is shameful in our day and age. Let's get back to BASICS, why don't we?! It's our children's (and society's future) right!

08/26/2024

Have you ever really thought about what a wonderful superpower we all have? Imagination. It's innate, you know. We began using it as little children and, as we were progressively conditioned by the society we lived in, we lost the ability to actually experience its power. Of course, we still imagine things but were told as kids "Well, that's just your imagination. Stop dreaming." Geez. How much we've lost over the years. And don't we still tell children to face reality and stop day-dreaming? What a disservice we do to them. Grandparents who love their grandchildren and watch their imaginations blossom in play AND when seeing how they try to understand the world, recognize this wonderful power. The power behind imagination is Will [willpower], and as long as we weaken our imaginations by neglect, just so we dilute what we would otherwise be capable of accomplishing. Let us try not to stifle any child's imagination, but feed it with encouragement and wise guidance toward the common good.

...and
in my
dream
the Angel
shrugged and
said, “If we fail
this time, it will be
a failure of imagination,”
and then she placed
the World
gently
in the palm of my hand.

B. Andreas

08/26/2024

More than a couple of decades ago, I re-read the novel titled "Idyll of the White Lotus". It is said by the author to be "inspired" and reflected truths we will all have to experience sooner or later...for some much, much, much later. I came across the most significant part of the book - what is called "The Three Truths". For me, these are as deeply inspiring as on the day I first read them...and every time since then. I hope there is something in them that stirs your heart and mind, too.
THE THREE TRUTHS
“Hear me, my brother. There are three truths which are absolute, and which cannot be lost, but yet remain silent for lack of speech.

1. The soul of man is immortal, and its future is the future of a thing whose growth and splendor has no limit.

2. The principle which gives life dwells in us and without us, is undying and eternally beneficent, is not heard or seen, or smelt, but is perceived by the man who desires perception.

3. Each man is his own absolute lawgiver, the dispenser of glory or gloom to himself; the decreer of his life, his reward, his punishment.
These truths, which are as great as is life itself, are as simple as the simplest mind of man. Feed the hungry with them.”

— Mabel Collins, The Idyll of the White Lotus

08/08/2024

Just thinkin’ about liberalism since a new word found itself into my thoughts and vocabulary: meliorism. I have Risa Keene to sincerely thank for that and am sharing her post. The following involves a long, thoughtful, meditative process, so grab your coffee, sit back, and ponder.
Meliorism is the philosophical belief that the world can be made better through human effort. This idea holds that progress is possible and that human actions can lead to improvements in society. It is a key underpinning of both liberalism and democracy, as these ideologies emphasize the capacity for social, economic, and political reforms to enhance human welfare. Understand the words “…to enhance human welfare.” This phrase refers to EVERYONE; not just a few of us. There can be no valid argument against this and to do so is a decidedly anti-democratic and yes, anti-humanistic stance – an indication of obvious prejudicial attitudes no matter how its phrased or by whom. We see it everywhere throughout our society. How can we accept this in today’s world? Meliorism aligns with the liberal view that humans are capable of self-improvement and rational decision-making, and fosters faith in democratic processes, education, and the rule of law as means to achieve societal progress. Is there anything better that this? This is “woke-ness” in practice and, yet, seems to generate fear in others to the point of denigration, scorn and vilification. When we see this, do we fully understand that this helps tear down democratic structures from its foundations up, throughout our society, and to the very bowels of our democratic government? Liberalism is inherently melioristic in its belief that through reason, debate, and reforms, societies can advance toward greater justice and equality. Liberals advocate for policies that expand individual rights, promote social welfare, and encourage economic opportunities. Does this sound destructive to democracy or supportive? Do these strengthen our democratic ideals or destroy them? We all must be the judge and choose the side best suited to our personal philosophy. Take note: liberals often push for policies aimed at reducing inequality and protecting the rights of marginalized groups, reflecting a melioristic belief that society can and should improve for all its members. Should we disagree with this? Of course not if our heart’s are in the “right” place, so-to-speak. Democracy embodies meliorism as liberalism by entrusting citizens with the power to influence governance through voting and civic engagement. This reflects a belief in the capacity of people to make informed choices that lead to societal betterment. Democratic systems are designed to adapt and evolve, enabling continuous improvement through reforms and responsive governance. This adaptability is central to the melioristic (liberal) vision of progress and encourages diverse voices and ideas by fostering innovation and solutions that can address complex social issues, thus embodying the belief in human capacity for improvement. Denigration of this is THE sign of opposition. The antithesis of liberalism as democratic governance is dictatorship or authoritarian governance, which can and has let to totalitarianism and fascism with all degrees in between. But let’s try to be fair and take a look at common arguments and distractions posited against liberalism. 1) Antiliberal factions often accuse liberals of being elitist and out of touch with the average American. They argue that liberal policies prioritize urban, coastal elites over rural and working-class citizens. Is this the way you see it? 2) Some critics claim it promotes moral relativism, suggesting that it undermines traditional values and social norms by advocating for issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, secularism, and multiculturalism. Is this the way you see it?
In reply to these criticisms, note that our Society is evolving. It is opening itself up to review and societal course-corrections - its faults are seen more clearly than ever. When this happens, any democratic society MUST make changes and this means changing the way we look at our “traditional values”. Should these remain ever carved in stone? NO. Change must occur or we stagnate and cannot grow into or meet our democratic ideals but worse is the fact that injustices will never be overcome. Is this want we want? For everything to stay the same? As for “being out of touch “with the average American,” doesn’t that fall into the same category? Who are we to say what the “average” citizen believes or not. Let the democratic process speak for ALL Americans and the outcome will be the viewpoint of the “average American” (you and me).
Let’s face it, antiliberals often portray liberalism as synonymous with big government and excessive regulation, arguing that such policies stifle individual freedom and economic growth.
There is some truth in this, I admit. If societal corrections cannot not be made at the local and state levels, the federal government must step in as a reflection of the democratic process boosted, necessarily, to that level. To right the wrongs of the past and those that currently exist in support of our so-called “traditional values” takes money. We all share in righting those wrongs and we all have the power to make changes to governance through our votes if we feel changes are not being made or have gone too far. WE are the judges of our own destiny – never forget.
There is a critique that liberalism excessively focuses on identity politics, leading to division and a perceived prioritization of minority groups over a unified national identity. Of course this is true…and absolutely necessary if we truly want to overcome the injustices of the past and evolve our humanism on into a much fairer and more democratic America. Let us, therefore, be as liberal as possible, let us embrace meliorism as the true thread running through our democratic ideal as Americans. Let us be proud of being liberal, proud of being “woke”, and proud that we all have a say in our democratic governance. Vote your belief in ourselves as caring individuals with an eye to a better future. Because of resistances to change, it won’t happen as quickly as we want, but it will happen if we continue to live as one humanity, and in peace and with justice for all.

08/02/2024

Just thinkin’ about happiness and it’s not what we normally think it is. From a philosophical perspective, happiness is a complex and subjective emotional state; it encompasses a sense of contentment, fulfillment, and well-being. It is not merely the absence of negative emotions, but rather the presence of positive experiences and attitudes. “Huh” you might snort. True happiness often involves appreciating the present moment and finding joy in everyday experiences, regardless of external circumstances. Understand what “regardless of external circumstances” really means. This is tough to do because we often think that we have to remake our lives or at least manipulate an experience or experiences in order to be happy. Nothing could be further from the truth. One of the key elements of happiness is gratitude. Gratitude involves recognizing and appreciating the good things in life, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, but by comparison with those who have way, way more that we do, we are wealthy beyond belief. It is about acknowledging the positive aspects of life and expressing thankfulness for them. Gratitude shifts focus from what is lacking to what is already present, and fosters a sense of abundance and satisfaction. These two, gratitude and happiness, are deeply intertwined. When people practice gratitude, they tend to experience more positive emotions, such as joy and optimism. This practice can lead to greater happiness because it encourages individuals to see their lives through a lens of appreciation and positivity and helps us cultivate resilience by enabling us to find meaning and positivity EVEN IN DIFFICULT SITUATIONS! Being happy does not mean being free from challenges or struggles. Absolutely not! Rather, it means embracing life as it is, with all its imperfections and uncertainties, and finding value and joy in each moment. By cultivating gratitude, we can enhance our capacity to experience happiness, regardless of our circumstances. This mindset allows us to live with a sense of peace and fulfillment, grounded in the knowledge that life, in all its complexity, is worth appreciating and celebrating. THIS IS MERELY A CHANGE IN ATTITUDE – A CHANGE IN HOW WE VIEW OUR LIVES; not necessarily thinking we have to change our lives. Moaning and groaning about this, that, and the other little thing (or even about life’s great personal tragedies) is a tremendous waste of energy. We can transform that negativity into a positive outlook, and happiness will creep into the vacated, negative, spaces of our heart and mind leaving no room for anything but a subtle feeling of joy…and we’ll finally know that happiness was awaiting our change of attitude; was within us all along just waiting for us to be grateful for the lives we live day to day – no matter what.