Prejudice against dual nationality is a stance against value pluralism. Yet, value pluralism is an essential need for the long-term stability of an open democratic society.
28
Jun
2020
Family
27
Jun
2020
5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #3
Pressuring or forcing dual nationals to renounce one of their citizenships is analogous to creating a brick-less Berlin Wall. It locks in the citizen by making defection more difficult such that poor governance need not result in loss of subjects.
17
Jun
2020
A Letter From My Son
So I asked my son to write a letter today about any topic and addressed to anyone. Here’s what he chose to write below: “Dear God, thank you for food, water, and health. Help us humans help people. Even, the people we don’t like. Amen.” He is 7 years old and gives me hope for the future. What letter would you write today and to whom?
09
Jun
2020
Rocking Burkinabe Masks in Response to COVID
What better way to promote health, diversity, and creative arts than making custom masks. We used fabric we bought in Burkina Faso, West Africa to make masks for the family. So far the family loves wearing them. What custom masks are you wearing/making these days? Would love to see what unique and creative designs are out there.
01
May
2020
Modesty in Nature and in Life – Happy Weekend
Sharing some words of wisdom to stay grounded and humble and open along with a beautiful picture of wild flowers.
Very little grows on jagged rock. Be ground. Be crumbled, so wild flowers will come up where you are. — Rumi
30
Apr
2020
Happy Ramadan
During this period of Ramadan I wanted to reflect on the importance of faith, family, and respect for one another. We are all, after all, brothers and sisters in this journey of life. Happy Ramadan! Sharing a quote we like and a family photo. Stay blessed and healthy.
When the world pushes you to your knees, you’re in the perfect position to pray. – Rumi
07
Mar
2020
Wonderful Discussion in San Francisco on U.S.-Japan Future: Multiculturalism is the Way Forward!
San Francisco at the Pier Water Front. Thanks for hosting me University of San Francisco and Japan Society of Northern California to discuss the impact of Japan’s first diplomatic mission to the U.S.!!
25
Dec
2019
Reflecting on 2019 – Lots to be Grateful
Christmas and Hanukkah remind us to cherish life, family, and our faith. There is much to reflect on this December as we near the New Year. What are you most grateful for? For me it is my family, my health, my friends, and God. Material things are far from my list of wishes. I am blessed to have a roof over my head, clean water, food, and access to books and libraries. Most of all, I am incredibly fortunate to have the support of a loving family. I lack nothing. I pray for peace and tolerance. I am incredibly thankful to everyone who allowed me to share my story and realize a dream of mine – becoming a published author. Thank you for your support and readership.
I wish you and your loved ones the blessings of faith, family, and health and much joy knowing you are loved. From our family to yours, stay blessed!
25
Dec
2019
Saint Nicholas and Holiday Cheer
The tradition of Santa Claus comes from Saint Nicholas an early Christian Bishop from Turkey during the Roman Empire. His legendary habit of secret gift-giving, particularly to poor children gave rise to our modern day Santa Claus. Wherever you may be, our family wishes you a merry Christmas and happy holidays!
24
Dec
2019
Family and Friends: Faith and Gratitude
We often say happy holidays. The word “holiday” implies a vacation. In fact, we are not celebrating time off, but holy days for many people. Why do we not simply say happy holy days? Commercialization has replaced the true meaning of the holy days of Christmas and Hanukkah. The gift of a God has been replaced by the gift of goods. Happiness is fleeting. The flesh constantly wants more to be happy. If I buy more or indulge more in pleasure I will be happy. Happiness is therefore contingent upon fueling and refueling fleshly desires. Holiness, however, is not about satisfying the flesh but about satisfying our spirit. The spirit that leads to greater peace and love. We can find no true comfort nor rest without it. May we fuel our spirits through prayer and acts of charity this holy season, remember our friends and family, but also those less fortunate than us. Have faith in the coming year and say thanks for all the countless blessings and miracles you and I have enjoyed this year.
