Marietta McCarty
is a New York Times bestselling author, philosopher, and teacher. She defines philosophy as “the art of clear thinking," and invites every one she encounters (or anyone who picks up one of her books) into the good life, marked by simplicity and the fullness of life's greatest treasures.
She asked, “Will you tell me about these mountains.” We sat at a picnic table. I asked, “Have you watched the kites flying from the hillside?” Jean’s thrill almost tangible, her face radiates satisfaction in her new position at Piedmont Virginia Community College. Lacking all pretense, blending expertise with instinct, to me she’s a girl who loves her job and knows exactly how to do it. Though this job’s demands make it far from an easy one, Jean speaks and moves with practiced ease.
Read MoreThe good news is that bigotry that’s been simmering and festering is now on full display. How humbling it should be for all. How about a national injection of charity? A softening gel for hearts? It's up to us, all of us. We will reap what we sow—we are reaping what we’ve sown.
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When Lucille Clifton asks, “won’t you celebrate with me,” we answer yes. What does this Black woman decide when she finds no model for how to create her life? “what did i see but to be myself?” she responds. The poet fastens her hands and makes her life of “starshine and clay.” What does a boy from the staunchly-segregated south long to do before he dies? Jimmy Carter casts his ballot for Kamala Harris. Won’t you celebrate the 39th president with me?