We can't heal what we ignore.
I want to start the podcast today with a quote from James Henry Gooding, an African-American man who served as a Union soldier in the Civil War. In a letter from the front, Gooding wrote: “The American people, as a nation, knew not what they were fighting for till recently, and many have different opinions now as to the ends and results of the contest. But there is but two results possible: one is slavery and poverty, and the other is liberty and prosperity.”
Today is Juneteenth, the oldest national holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. The celebration dates back to 1865 when African-Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed they were free — a full two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation and two months after Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered.
It’s 155 years later, but we are still so far from achieving racial justice and equality in this country. And at this moment, Juneteenth isn’t just a commemoration — it’s a call to action. I’ve learned so much in the past few weeks about the history of Black Americans and the systemic racism that is still pervasive today, and educating myself about the significance of June 19th has been just a small part.
But I know that my words on this subject can only go so far. For this 5-Minute Friday, I’d love to bring you a clip from my recent interview with Reverend Michael Beckwith, who came on The School of Greatness just after the George Floyd protests began.
Reverend Michael Beckwith is a sought after meditation teacher, conference speaker, and seminar leader on the Life Visioning Process. He’s also the founder and spiritual director of the Agape International Spiritual Center, and one of LA’s foremost black leaders.
Micahel is the author of several books, including Life Visioning, Spiritual Liberation, and The Answer Is You. Michael has also appeared on several TV shows, including Oprah Winfrey’s SuperSoul Sunday, Dr. Oz, CNN, and Larry King Live. Every Friday at 1 pm Pacific Time, thousands of people tune into his radio show, The Sound of Transformation, which is all about recognizing the deep potential in all of us to create positive change.
Michael is an old friend of mine, and I was honored that he had this conversation with me. I had him on The School of Greatness back on Episode 748, and you should definitely check that out to learn more about the power of pain and his struggle with racism.
Friends, this is but the tip of the iceberg, and if you haven’t listened to the full interview with Reverend Beckwith, it’s included in the show notes, along with a resource to learn more about Juneteenth.
I am committed to amplifying the voices that matter. The world cannot heal if we continue to deny the issue.
Join me on Episode 969 to learn about Juneteenth and systemic racism with my dear friend, Reverend Michael Beckwith.
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Next Galaxy by Extan
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