American Hope

17. On the Road -- New York City, pt. 2

We're hearing from Carlo from Italy, a college student descended from Columbian immigrants, and Gordon from Croatia. The world comes to New York, and they're bringing their hope with them!

16. On the Road -- New York City

New York City: it is one of the world’s most famous plots of land, and I was blessed to be able to pretend I lived there for a few days. It’s impossible to sum up the sensory overload in one moment, and the mysterious calm in another. The strangeness and familiarity – visiting New York is like meeting a celebrity: someone you’ve seen a thousand times in the two-dimensions of magazines and screens, only to discover it actually exists in 3D. Here is the first round of a few voices reflecting on Hope in the city that never sleeps.

15. To Exist is To Be Loved (Philadelphia, PA with Dr. Ed Hastings)

Dr. Ed Hastings is a professor of theology and spirituality at Villanova University. He tells his story of growing up Catholic, entering the priesthood, and many years later feeling called away from the priesthood. His story is an inspiration in so many ways: choosing faithfulness, navigating midlife change, and finding hope by noticing and experiencing the love of God in ordinary life.

14. Yes, and...Hope (Philadelphia, PA with Andrew)

All too often, when someone throws out a new idea, someone responds "No." How would things change if our response was more like Andrew's? To say "Yes and..." or even "This could be even better if..." Andrew and I discuss hope in improv, Jewish American history, and being peacemakers in our local neighborhoods.

13. Seizing the Good, Every Day (Philadelphia, PA with Connor, Patrick and Ace)

Two more Villanova seniors, Patrick and Connor, reflect on Hope along with their buddy Ace, in their new season of post-college life. Connor and Patrick also offer unique perspective as members of ROTC, and their willingness to serve in the defense of the US as they start their careers in the Army and Navy. They give some advice to their younger selves, reflect on hope in the present, and encourage their elders to be optimistic about the future.