What Does it Cost To Become One Family In America?

On a warm evening, a diverse group of individuals gathered virtually for an unusual family reunion. This wasn't a typical family get-together, but rather a meeting of minds united by a common goal: to promote peace and healing in a divided America. The discussion, centered around an election peace pledge, quickly evolved into a rich exchange of ideas and experiences on community building and national unity.

Peter, the host, opened by introducing the concept of the peace pledge. "We want people to pledge not to be involved in political violence," he explained, setting the tone for a conversation about practical ways to foster harmony in communities across the nation.

Cheryl, one of the attendees, captured the essence of the gathering: "I always say that ripples don't flow in, they flow out. And if we really want to see change out in our world, it's going to start with our own homes, with our own families, first and foremost." This sentiment resonated throughout the discussion, as participants shared their grassroots efforts to make a difference.

Syron Smith (National Block Club University), a Navy veteran, spoke about his innovative approach to community organization. Drawing from his military experience, he explained, "I served in the U.S. Navy. I was on the ship of 3000 people and work directly for the captain. And what I saw was that every single person had a role to play." Inspired by this model, Syron developed a program for the Black community. "Where are the retirees so we can make sure that their knowledge and experiences pass down? And where are the young people so we can give them some leadership and some support to grow into that position?" His approach aims to create a structured, intergenerational support system within communities.

Janine Ingram (Love Journey), a motivational speaker and author, shared her hands-on approach to community building through her organization, The Love Journey. "We have love ambassadors that take over each block and they pray over that block. They bring peace to that block. What do the children on that particular block need?" she explained. Janine illustrated the impact of this approach with a touching story about helping a homeless man get a job, in her community, emphasizing the importance of listening and taking action.

"I believe rioting violence is also the language of the unheard because I don't know how to articulate the words I need to say for you to hear me," Janine added, highlighting the need for genuine communication and understanding in communities.

Peter shared his own initiative, a "man up" program in Louisville, which, similar to Syron's approach, brings together older and younger generations. "If you have four grandparents, two parents and a child, that child's going to have a lot of love and support," Peter noted, underlining the importance of intergenerational connections in community building.

The discussion touched on various other aspects of community healing, from block watch programs to the role of spirituality in fostering unity. Syron provided a thought-provoking perspective on peace: "Peace isn't just nonviolence. If I'm starving and I'm hungry, I'm not at peace." This statement sparked a conversation about the need for comprehensive approaches to community well-being.

As the conversation progressed, a sense of hope emerged. John, who had traveled in 90 countries, saw America as "a beacon of hope to significant numbers of people all over the world." He encouraged everyone to sign the peace pledge as a symbol of America's potential.

The evening concluded with Mama Joy's powerful words: "We are preparing to walk in our divine authority." Her message resonated with the group, reminding them of their shared humanity and the power of love to transform communities.

As the virtual family reunion ended, participants left with renewed hope and a commitment to be the change they wish to see in America. The diverse array of grassroots initiatives shared during the meeting - from Syron's community organization model to Janine's Love Journey and Peter's intergenerational program - demonstrated that positive change is possible when individuals take action in their own communities. This unusual family reunion served not only as a platform for discussion but as a catalyst for continued action towards a more unified and peaceful America.

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