Dr. James Whitfield

Weekly With Whitfield

Weekly With Whitfield – Joy

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In about a month you’ll turn 22. It’s so hard to believe that much time has passed since I was blessed with your presence. It feels like only yesterday we were bringing you home from the hospital. You gave a new, unique perspective to my life. Your presence made me officially a “girl dad”.  As I looked into your beautiful brown eyes you strengthened me and made me weak in the knees at the same time.

Elements of Joy

You’ve brought me so many joyous memories throughout the years…

The “but daddy” eyes. 

The shoulder rides. 

The faces you made when I tossed you in the air. 

The roller-coaster, holding you in my arms, whirling around the room, up and down, round and round. 

The endless horsey rides. 

The performances on the “stage” that was Ma’s fireplace. 

The little blue car rides. 

The swings – “higher daddy, higher” to the point of flipping out of the swing and landing on your back – me, freaking out momentarily, only for you to jump up and say “AGAIN Daddy” – ummm, no ma’am. 

The Barbies. 

The American Girl dolls.

The bedtime stories, sweet goodnight kisses, and “love you, daddy”. 

Trying my best to do something halfway decent with your hair.

Hannah Montana. 

The softball tournaments that lasted all weekend in the Texas sun. Those softball chants, tho, Lo. 

One Direction. 

Makeup enters the party.

Being able to go to the same middle school together (how lucky were you to have your dad as an assistant principal all three years of middle school). 

Harry Styles mania.

Throughout the years, your unmatched self-motivation to go above and beyond in all you endeavored (athletics, academics, etc).

The banquets.

The birthday parties (which planning for the next party was to always begin before the current party was even over).

The daddy-daughter lunches/coffees.

Your dedication and commitment.

Your resolve.

Your vulnerability.

Your creativity.

Your brilliance.

Your beauty.

Your heart.

Your passion for life.

Your joy.

This list could go on and on. So many beautiful memories, leaving deep and lasting imprints on my heart. And I am a better man today because I was chosen to be your father. The long and the short of it is this – you’re one of my greatest joys, baby girl.

Karaoke Queen

As I watched you get up there and belt out karaoke this weekend in Music City (Nashville, TN) I may have shed a tear or two. You didn’t see it. It was very discreet…but it happened. You, my love, exude a joyous energy that fills every room you enter. You turned a slow night at the karaoke joint into a bustling movement in a matter of minutes with your unique ability to let loose, have fun, encourage others, and draw people in. You are JOY!

College Grad

Today, as I watched you accept that college diploma I couldn’t help but tear up again. College graduate added to the list of awesome things I’ve been able to witness along this journey of being your father. It’s so surreal.  I am so proud of you, Lo. And I have no doubt that Ma is smiling down with pride as her great granddaughter joins her as an alumni of UNT – Go Mean Green.

The Nest Episode

And now begins another step in your journey. Beautiful opportunities will surely present themselves in short order. And as you venture into this next chapter there will be days that will seek to strip you of your joy – to diminish your light. Such is life. In these moments, I hope that you always give yourself the space to be still. I wish you the discernment and awareness to recognize when your joy is being threatened. And the strength and fortitude to reclaim that joy quickly and keep shining your brilliance into the world.

To be along for this ride is truly one of God’s greatest gifts. You’ve filled my heart with joy. I am so very proud of you. And I wish you all the joy in the world as you navigate future days. You have so much to offer the world, my love. I’m excited to watch your journey unfold.

Keep singin’ loud, dancin’ wild, and dreamin’ big, sweet girl! I love you!

Weekly With Whitfield – Resilience

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Resilience is a tricky term. The trait often draws high praise, and rightly so. Resilience can nudge individuals to persevere and thrive in the face of great adversity. However, far too often I’ve seen resilience used as a tool to perpetuate the inherently challenging and, sometimes oppressive, systems. When resilience is continually required, it can create a society that normalizes and even encourages overwork, burnout, and mental health issues.

I grapple with this word quite a bit. On one hand, I’m a firm believer in the power of resilience. Over the course of my life I’ve seen that power play out like a broken record. Without question, the adversities I’ve faced have taught me valuable lessons. These challenging times forced me to strengthen those resilient muscles that may have otherwise atrophied.

Resilience as a Tool 

I’ve served in schools where talks of resilience were used as tools to inspire hope. Posters and weekly themes on things such as resilience, grit, and the likes litter hallways and classrooms. School-wide assemblies are held to address this trait of resilience, highlighting its power to help students overcome obstacles.

In every space I’ve been in, I truly feel as though these efforts have been well intentioned. And I do believe there is a space for students to understand how to flex their resilient muscles. But, far too often, it doesn’t get to the root of why students (or communities) have to be so damn resilient.

And, in schools, we take a deep look into the root causes of these very real concerns that crop up. They didn’t just arrive out of nowhere. There’s a deeply embedded root to uncover through a process of analysis and discovery. Sometimes it’s glaring. Other times it’s not. But all the time, it’s there. Staring back at you like “I was wondering when you’d find me?” But school is just a microcosm of our societal infatuation with resilience.

Forced Resilience

The harsh reality is this is – there are many systems in our society that perpetuate inequality, discrimination, and harm. From economic systems that prioritize profit over people, to social systems that dismiss certain groups of people, to environmental systems that prioritize exploitation over preservation. Far too often, people are forced to be incredibly resilient just to survive these systems, much less, thrive.

Telling someone to “be resilient” is not a compassionate solution to the roots of these concerns. It can definitely serve as a tool or a strategy to help us get there. But we cannot simply pass it off to individual strength and perseverance to overcome systemic challenges. Largely, it wasn’t individual acts that brought us to this point, it was systems. And we must take a strategic approach to help achieve just, equitable, and sustainable systems for each other.

I know it sounds daunting. It will require hard work, collaboration, and a commitment to confronting difficult truths. And coming together isn’t necessarily something we’ve shown to be very good at, lately. But it’s a moral imperative. It will also require a willingness for each of us to acknowledge the ways in which we may have contributed to these systems, either directly or indirectly. As much as we may think that our own hands are clean, we all got a mess to address.

Call me crazy, but I believe we can do this and end our hyper-reliance on resilience. To achieve these goals, we must recognize the interconnectedness of the challenges we face. And then we must get to work. So how do we go about making this shift? I’m glad you asked…

Root Cause Analysis

One sure-fire way of addressing the negative implications of over reliance on resilience is to challenge the systemic inequalities that cause it. We must be firm, vocal advocates for policies that promote things such as affordable housing, access to healthcare, and equal opportunities in education and the workplace. Yes, in 2023 glaring inequalities still exist in all of these spaces – across race, gender, and socioeconomic status. While some have been more negatively impacted through systemic discrimination, in the end, what affects one, affects all – this is a team game.

We are in this together. By addressing the root causes of the problem, we can help to reduce the need for resilience and make society more just and equitable.

Mental Health

It’s also important for us to embrace and uplift the critical need for mental health awareness and resources. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are often triggered or worsened by the need to constantly show resilience in the face of adversity. We need to ensure folks have access to mental health resources, counseling, and therapy, so they have the support they need to overcome the mental and emotional challenges that can often accompany systemic impediments.

Safety

We must create safe environments and support systems where people can be vulnerable to share their struggles. This can come in many forms, such as community groups, mentorship programs, and professional organizations that provide resources and support. When people have access to these resources and feel supported, they are better equipped to cope with the challenges they face and develop the resilience they need to overcome them.

Reflections

Without a doubt, resilience is an essential and powerful quality to have, but it is not a substitute for systemic change. I encourage us all to think about the systems that shape our lives and the lives of those around us. Look for opportunities to work together to create systems that don’t require an overreliance on resilience. Let’s commit to digging into these roots and creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Weekly With Whitfield – Stories

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As humans, we are drawn to stories. We crave the emotional connection, understanding, and inspiration that a good story offers. Sharing our own stories holds the power to provide these benefits and so more. In fact, storytelling can have positive effects on mental health, social connections, and even physical health.

Recognizing the beauty in, and sharing of, our stories is crucial to personal and collective growth. As James Baldwin once said, “You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read. It was books that taught me that the things that tormented me most were the very things that connected me with all the people who were alive or who had ever been alive.” There is a dynamic power in our ability to recognize and share our stories.

Over the past week, I’ve had the chance to listen to a wide range of people’s stories and experiences. The diversity of these tales has been truly fascinating, highlighting the complexity of the human experience. Each story is like a thread in a rich tapestry, weaving together to create a beautiful and intricate pattern of life.

Human Connection

As social beings, humans have an innate desire for connection and belonging. By sharing our stories, we can find common ground and bridge the gaps between individuals from different backgrounds. The power of personal storytelling lies in its ability to create a sense of empathy and understanding, deepening our relationships with others.

Furthermore, when we embrace and celebrate our differences, we can work towards a more unified and collaborative world. Our stories offer a unique perspective and can inspire new ways of thinking, leading to greater innovation and progress.

In today’s increasingly diverse and interconnected world, it is more important than ever to recognize the value of personal storytelling. Our stories have the power to break down barriers, build bridges, and foster a sense of community among all people. Through sharing our experiences and listening to others, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Healing

Sharing our stories of trauma, grief, or loss can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and personal growth. When we open up about our experiences, we allow ourselves to release the emotional pain that we carry inside. Vocalizing our emotions and thoughts can help us process our feelings, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our experiences.

Sharing our stories can also help us feel validated and heard, giving us a sense of comfort and support. Hearing the stories of others can be just as impactful in the healing process, providing a sense of shared experience and understanding. By sharing our vulnerabilities, we create a space for empathy and compassion, and encourage others to be open and honest about their own struggles.

Moreover, the act of sharing our stories can help reduce feelings of isolation and shame. By speaking out about our experiences, we show others that they are not alone in their struggles, and that there is no shame in seeking help or support. Ultimately, sharing our stories can be a transformative experience, helping us heal and grow as individuals, while also fostering deeper connections and understanding within our communities.

Inspiration

When we share our stories, we open up a window into our lives, providing a glimpse of our personal struggles, experiences, and triumphs. These stories have the power to inspire and motivate others, igniting a spark of hope that can lead to positive change. By shining a light on important issues and challenges, we can start important conversations and mobilize efforts towards change.

Additionally, our stories can serve as a source of inspiration for those facing similar challenges. Seeing others overcome adversity can provide a sense of hope and encouragement, showing that success is possible even in the face of adversity. Our stories can also provide valuable insights and lessons learned, helping others navigate their own struggles with greater understanding and resilience.

Power

Our stories are powerful tools that hold the capacity to connect us to others, promote healing and growth, and inspire positive change. These stories serve as a testament to the resilience and diversity of the human experience, holding the potential to create a more compassionate world. 

As we embrace each others’ stories, we begin to break down barriers. And on that foundation we can begin to build bridges, fostering deeper connections and understanding. I want to encourage you –  tell your stories with courage, vulnerability, and authenticity. And listen to the stories of others with empathy, compassion, and an open mind and heart. We’re in this together. I can’t wait to hear your story.

Weekly With Whitfield – Advocacy

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Here we stand in yet another very pivotal moment in our nation’s history. Decades to come will look back on our journey, and hold us to account for that which we’ve allowed. It’s been encouraging to see so many dedicated public school advocates march to Austin, TX this week to speak on behalf of students, educators, and families.

Our public schools are truly the bedrock of our society. And our commitment to supporting these institutions will be critical to our ability to create a better world for us all. 

The past couple years have presented a fair share of challenges. But built within those challenges have been opportunities to grow and strengthen our resolve. My journey has been filled with unimaginable lows and incredible highs. Through it all I’ve learned that, no matter which state one may be in for the given moment, it is just that – a moment, a season – so never allow yourself to get too high, never allow yourself to get too low – just keep pushing forward.

These days I’m often asked for guidance on advocacy efforts. While I’ve always been an advocate for youth and educators within the public education space, I’ve gleaned broader insights from where I sit today. 

So here are 5 things to consider when you sign up to engage in advocacy work: 

With advocacy comes risks.

Your cause is worth it. But you have to know, and deeply understand, that your advocacy for such a cause comes with risks. It’s hard work. 

Ask yourself: What are you willing to risk? 

Consider this question at a very deep level. Think about your job, friends, family, emotional, psychological, etc. I’m not trying to scare you, just want you to be real with yourself about the costs that may be associated with your willingness to be an advocate. 

Also, understand that within those given contexts (family,job, friends, etc.) there will be disappointment. People you considered trusted colleagues and friends will show their true colors. Your workplace may prove to be a very different space than you experienced when you just chose to remain silent about things and just “stay in your place”. This may bring about some very difficult decisions for you to make. 

What are you willing to risk to have your voice heard and advocate for the causes you believe in?

Start with a realistic goal. 

Get real with yourself with regard to how much you have to give to the cause.

Ask yourself: How hard are you willing to work at this and how much bandwidth can you afford to give? 

Is that 2 hours a week, 1 day a week…what is the minimum you can commit to? Be careful. When we find something that fits our purpose, something that we want to push for,  we have a tendency to GO HARD early, then fade. Remember, this work is a marathon, not a sprint. Start small and build healthy advocacy habits.

You’ll be surprised at what incremental, strategic goals can help you accomplish (Note: Atomic Habits by James Clear is a phenomenal resource if you need help here). Whatever it is you choose to do, be consistent and persistent so create a cadence of what that looks like for you. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Do not let the work consume you. Take care of yourself and that will allow you to help take care of others. 

Stand in your truth. 

Determine what drives you most and allows you to walk in your purpose.

Ask yourself: What is it that I see that conflicts with my beliefs/values? What gap do I see in my community that desperately needs to be filled? 

Being laser-focused here is absolutely critical. Don’t jump into something because it’s a fad or because you see “all the cool kids doing it”. Pour your energy into things that align with your North Star. That’s not to say that other things don’t matter, but engaging in something you deeply care about is going to allow you to be more effective than something you marginally have your heart in. Protect your energy and spend it where it matters most.

And know that resistance will come. As James Baldwin said “you must understand that in the attempt to correct so many generations of bad faith and cruelty…you will meet the most fantastic, the most brutal, and the most determined resistance. There is no point in pretending that this won’t happen.”

Once you accept this, attempts to quell your voice will no longer be a surprise.

Your awareness protects you from the distractions of those who stand against you.

Communication is key. 

What we say and how we say it impacts the reception of our message.

Ask yourself: What message do I want to convey to others anytime I’m asked or afforded an opportunity to speak on these issues? 

I strongly urge you to write this down, keep your talking points succinct and put them to memory. Being able to do this helps build authenticity which leads to trust. When you say something, say it with your WHOLE chest! People can feel how genuine you are about your cause which is another reason to be sure this is something you’re willing to “go for broke” on. 

Additionally, you must understand that not everyone will understand some of the more cause-specific terminology. One of the most sure-fire ways to lose people is to talk in acronyms, assuming everyone knows what they mean. Break it down into consumable chunks. Clear, informative messaging is paramount to educating and obtaining allies.

Don’t ride solo. 

Being in community with other dedicated people makes a world of difference.

Advocacy work can feel very defeating and isolating at times. Do not do this work in silos. 

Ask yourself: Which organizations in my community are engaged in efforts to support my cause?

Once you identify them, get involved. Contact members of their board or other representatives and acquaint yourself ASAP. Advocacy work is hard and not meant to be done alone. 

Isolation is an enemy to progress. Find your tribe and you’ll be energized in ways you can’t imagine. 

Keep Going

I just want to encourage you. I know that the days seem long and the work can be exhausting and downright frustrating, at times. You won’t always feel valued or appreciated but I pray that, along the way, you’re able to see, feel, and hear the impact of your noble deeds.

Understand that, for so many that came before us, they did not live to see the fruits of their advocacy efforts. Those would come long after they left this world. May we lean on those examples. Refusing to bow to apathy and despair – leaning in to the advocacy meaningful work that comes with planting trees we may never see bloom.

Weekly With Whitfield – Why

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Quite often I get the opportunity to speak to educators. I love discussing how to create dynamic, engaging learning environments for the kids they serve each day. I’ve had the honor of speaking to district leaders, campus administrators, classroom teachers and support staff, and everyone in between who help create these spaces for our youth. It is truly one of my favorite things to do. It ignites a fire deep within my soul. 

The Palpable Force of Education: The Unique Power of Schools to Transform Lives and Communities

Every time I leave the presence of one of these audiences I’m left feeling a bit better about the state of the world. I’m reminded of the unique power that lies within the walls of our schools each day:

The power of the chance we get each day to help shift the trajectory of student’s lives in positive ways.

The power to create an environment where young people feel seen, heard, valued, and loved. 

The power to draw out the unique genius that lies within each child. 

The power to change communities for the better. 

The power to facilitate learning that fosters critical thinking, inquiry, respectful dialogue, and a growth mindset.

The power to take the most broken and make them feel more whole. 

The force that exists in our schools is palpable. And that force changed the course of my life. It’s why I do what I do. Each time I’m blessed with the opportunity to address educators I try to take a moment to draw back to their why. 

Balancing Realism and Inspiration: The Role of “Remembering Your Why” in Navigating the Challenges of Education

I’ll stop here and say that I’m not a big fan of toxic positivity. Just telling educators to “remember their why” in the face of so much of the nonsense they face without taking meaningful action to address said nonsense, or providing practical tools to combat it, is not helpful. Quite the contrary. But I do believe that there are moments throughout our journey through this multifaceted profession that our ability to press pause and remember our why can be quite helpful in the moment. They sustain us through some of the passing challenges that come with walking through the schoolhouse doors each day.

This week I was reminded of my why in some very subtle ways.

The Importance of Mentors in Education: Reflections on Career Growth and Staying Hyper-Focused on Your Why

I had lunch with one of my amazing mentors, whose served as a district-level administrator in the area for some time. This is the same person who had a hand in encouraging me to pursue a doctorate in educational leadership nearly a decade ago when I was just beginning my administrative career. She saw something in me, then. And now, after all these years, here we are still discussing how on earth we’re going to solve the challenges facing public education. 

It was great to hear her speak of her why that carried her through her career, to retirement, and continued advocacy post-retirement. Ultimately, it was her local public school that changed the course of her life. And that prompted her to dedicate her life to the service of young people. It’s great to have people you can call on to reset your focus. Especially at the speed at which life is coming at us these days. We need people to help us slow down, breathe, consider things that we may not have, otherwise, and remind us that, beyond the noise, lies your why – the reason you care so much about what you do. 

The Power of Personal Connection: Building Relational Capacity with Students and Colleagues

Additionally, sometimes the reminders come directly from those you’ve been called to serve. For me, there is no greater gift than an affirmation from a former student or colleague who, in some way, I may have made the slightest difference. I live in the community that I’ve served for the last two decades and, rarely, does a week pass that I don’t have an encounter with an individual who falls into one of these categories.

It’s really quite amazing. It could be a student that I had in my first 9th grade World Geography class back in 2005 and I’ll still remember their name. That’s always been a critical component to building relational capacity with those I serve. I don’t just want to know everyone’s name by the end of the year or first semester. I want to know them in the first weeks of school. And I put intentional time and energy into that task. And not just knowing their name, but understanding how to pronounce their name; understanding unique things about the person beyond their name.

They May Forget What You Said, But They’ll Never Forget the Way You Made Them Feel

Every so often a meme goes around on social media about educators who’ve made an impact in students’ lives and I’ll have a former student tag me in it. This week, there was one that had a sticky not that read:

“Every Adult Remembers Their Favorite Teacher” 

I felt honored that someone out there thought enough of me. I responded with my gratitude and expressed how proud I was of this particular student. And this was her response:

Similarly, another student chimed in:

Again, I expressed my gratitude for such kind thoughts, let her how honored I was to have been her teacher, and affirmed the light that she shined then, and now, as an adult.

 – Yes, I’m at that age where I’m beginning to see that I could be in a school with children of former students – WOW! – 

As I read these beautiful reflections I paused. I reflected on the thousands of students I’ve had the opportunity to serve over the course of the last two decades. My goal coming into the world of education was to help guide young people through some of the most difficult moments of their life, equipping them with skills, tools, and resources to learn and grow into the best versions of themselves. In a nutshell, that’s what a handful of teachers did for me. And that’s largely why I chose the profession.

Talk about watery eyes as I received those verbal flowers. It’s been years since I’ve crossed paths with these students, but I can remember their light, as well. Unquestionably, the feeling is reciprocated. My life has been so greatly enriched by the students I’ve served through the years. Although I was the “adult” in the space and had my own lived experiences, I learned so much from them. And I’m forever grateful for each of them. 

Nurturing Your Passion: The Importance of Reconnecting with Your Why in Teaching

Teaching is, for me, one of the most noble professions. Educators play such a multifaceted and crucial role in shaping the future of our society. One must not underestimate the pressures that accompany this unique role. The constant demands and weighty responsibilities can easily lead to exhaustion, burnout, and despair. Thus, educators must frequently take the necessary measures to safeguard their mental and emotional health.

In such a scenario, remembering your purpose, the reason that compelled you to pursue this calling, serves as a guiding light. Reflection upon your why enables you to remain attuned to the aspects of the profession that offer contentment and gratification. By doing so, this helps stave off burnout and sustain your drive and passion for teaching throughout your journey.

Beyond these chance encounters, One way I reconnect with my why from time to time is to go through one of my “smile boxes”.  If a student has ever taken the time to write me a kind note, draw me a picture, etc, it’s in one of these boxes. Every so often, when I may be feeling a bit down, I pull out one of these boxes. Each represents a different point along my career journey from teacher to administrator to educational consultant. While I may have opened that box feeling down, it doesn’t take long for those feelings of goodness to wash over me in a wave of positive emotions. If you don’t have a “smilebox”, I’d highly recommend having one. This small action will uplift your spirits and remind you of the difference you make each day. The why shines through crystal clear as you turn the pages.

Still A Ways to Go – But You Got This

By no means do I write this to say that I’m the world’s best educator. That’s a far stretch. I’m far from perfect. But one thing that has always been perfect and pure is my love for young people – my desire to make them feel seen, heard, valued, and loved, my desire to create spaces where they are free to be themselves…where they can learn, grow, and discover opportunities that they may have never known. And in a moment, this week, I was reminded by the people who matter most in this profession – the students.

In the end, it’s important to remember that teaching is a challenging profession. And it’s okay to feel burnt out or overwhelmed at times. It’s natural. And, really, that goes for any profession. However, reconnecting with your why can help you stay motivated and inspired, even during the darkest of days.

 

Weekly With Whitfield – Fear

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Fear paralyzes us. Its jagged edges pierce deep into our soul, shredding the delicate threads of empathy, compassion, and kindness that bind us. As it plunges deeper and deeper, it deposits layer upon layer of hatred, suspicion, and division. It’s easy to think that fear is doing something new in our current climate. But over the course of history, fear has been used to justify so many atrocities. From war, to oppression, to subjugation – our propensity to buy into false narratives – stoked by fear leaves us wounded, paralyzed, and divided.

Fear and The Brain

Those who deal in fear know exactly what they’re doing. Fear sells. It motivates (albeit so many times for the wrong reasons). Fear raises money. Our brains are ripe to be played over and over again by swindlers willing to play the hand of fear. 

Our amygdala is a small, almond-shaped structure in the brain that plays a critical role in how we process fear and emotion. It’s responsible for activating our body’s fight-or-flight response when there’s a perceived threat. While this can, most definitely, be beneficial in certain situations, like avoiding danger, it can also hamper our ability to learn or think rationally. 

When the amygdala is activated, it can override the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for our decision-making and rational thinking. Once the amygdala is hijacked, impulsivity and irrational behavior are soon to follow. And this hinders our ability to think critically, learn, and make informed decisions. We literally have a bunch of folks walking around each day with hijacked amygdalas – and those who wield the power of fear love it!

Many politicians understand this, all too well. They hope to keep people afraid of something. At every turn, they bring forth another bogeyman to fear. And, all the while, they offer no real solutions to those who are afraid. An endless cycle – craft a monster, repeat how dangerous the monster is, argue, grandstand, divide, do nothing, and laugh all the way to the bank. It’s exhausting and I know it can lead to apathy and hopelessness. 

However, I encourage us all to lean into the understanding that while these may seem like the darkest, most divisive of days – all hope is not lost. As with most things that plague our society, we must understand the historical context of fear and learn from past moments where we allowed it to consume our values, morals, and ideals for our great country.

Those Who Don’t Know Their History

Throughout our history, fear has been used as a tool to divide people and maintain control. From the earliest days of colonization, fear was used to subjugate and brutalize Indigenous Peoples, justifying the violent conquest of their lands and resources. Enslavers also recognized the power of fear in maintaining their control over enslaved people, relying on brutal punishments and the threat of violence to instill fear and prevent rebellion. Fear was also used to divide and conquer the enslaved population, creating a climate of mistrust and suspicion that lasted for generations.

In the 20th century, fear was used to strip Japanese Americans of their rights and force them into internment camps, based solely on the bigotry and fear-mongering of those in power. Similarly, fear of communism was used to justify McCarthyism and the persecution of anyone suspected of being a communist sympathizer, creating a culture of suspicion and paranoia that tore families and communities apart. Throughout history, fear has been weaponized to justify some of the most heinous violations of civil liberties, betraying the very principles of freedom and justice that America is supposed to stand for.

Fear-Based Politics Today

The power of fear is an insidious force that has the ability to divide even the most united of people. Today, politicians and special interest groups have wielded this weapon with ruthless efficiency, using it to turn us against each other and create animosity and distrust.

Politicians demonize their opponents, painting them as enemies of the people or threats to national security. This tactic has become all too common, with both sides of the political aisle resorting to it in an attempt to maintain power. The result has been an ever- widening gulf in American politics. As people become more entrenched in their beliefs they become less willing to listen to opposing viewpoints.

Similarly, interest groups employ this tactic, often by exploiting hot-button issues such as gun control, abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and red-herrings about public schools. By stoking the embers of fear while demonizing those who hold opposing views, these groups are able to create a rift between people who may have otherwise found common ground.

The consequences for falling for these tactics are dire. It breeds a poisonous environment that devalues cooperation, negotiation, and consensus as weaknesses, instead of recognizing them as necessary tools for us to move forward. This mentality fuels a divisive culture that sees individuals on opposite ends of the political spectrum as adversaries, rather than fellow citizens with diverse and valuable perspectives. Additionally, this approach undermines the bedrock foundations of our democracy, which hinges on the capacity of individuals with differing opinions to unite and develop effective solutions for the challenges confronting our nation.

Overcoming Fear

 Here are a few thoughts to help overcome the destructive power of fear-mongering:

  • Education: Education is a powerful tool that can help combat fear. By educating ourselves about different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles, we can overcome our fears, biases, and prejudices. 
  • Dialogue: Open and honest dialogue is essential for overcoming fear. If we just yell back-and-forth at each other, no one is listening. When we engage in constructive conversations with those who hold different viewpoints, we can build bridges of empathy and understanding. 
  • Critical consumption of media: The media plays a critical role in shaping public opinion. I urge you to consider the bias of the information you receive. Every piece of information has it. Just consider it. Ask yourself? What is the goal of the person writing or reporting this? 
  • Leadership: It is essential for leaders in our society to lead by example. Leaders should promote unity and cooperation, rather than division and fear-mongering. This is not as easy as it sounds. It’s actually quite difficult. You must understand that a push for unity and cooperation does not mean you sacrifice your values, integrity, or beliefs. But rather, it means that you’re willing to lead with empathy, realizing that our unique differences actually make us stronger.
  • Accountability: We must hold those elected to serve us accountable for creating meaningful change. If they’re simply fearmongering and not putting forth meaningful work to make our lives better we must demand better. Action over rhetoric.

Where Do We Go From Here?

It is time to reject fear-based politics and embrace a more constructive approach. This will not be easy, as evidenced by our troubled history of utilizing fear to create enemies amongst fellow men. But we must endeavor to wade into the troubled waters of our past to learn how to overcome such times. 

Disagreement does not make us enemies. Quite the contrary. Disagreement can be a healthy conduit to help us recognize blindspots we may not have once considered. With this enhanced vision perspective we can actively identify and solve societal concerns with each other instead of aimless bickering. 

In my heart of hearts, I believe we all want a good life for ourselves, our families, and others. We won’t solve these issues tomorrow or the next day. In all likelihood, we’ll likely never remove fear’s residency in our daily lives. But we can surely reduce it to create a more welcoming and more unified country for us all to live.

 

Weekly With Whitfield – Puzzles

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Life keeps us on our toes. One week you write about hope and the next week you encounter something that makes you feel hopeless. Sometimes those feelings change day to day. Sometimes hour to hour. But here’s what you know – this feeling won’t last forever. It’s just part of the process as we pull together the puzzle pieces of our lives.

Doris Sumner – My Ma

My Grandmother, affectionately known as “Ma”, loved puzzles. My little brother and I moved in with my Grandmother shortly after our Mother passed away in 1997. In her home we found hope and consistency. This place held so much love and comfort. The home encapsulated all of whom Ma was. 

We lost Ma in 2021, but I think of her often. Almost daily, I feel slight nudges from her. The nudges come strongest when I find myself feeling down. I can almost sense her soft, frail, hand pushing my chin up, ever so slightly, directing me to look forward.

Her presence prompted the very words that flow here. The past couple years have been chaotic, to say the least. I won’t delve into all the chaos – there’s plenty out there to read. But what I want to share, here, is a note about life and one of the many lessons Mrs. Doris Sumner, my Ma, taught me – likely without even knowing it.

Ma’s Place

Ma lived in a small, brick, three bedroom, two bath home in Itasca, TX. Rarely did anyone enter through the front door. Instead, we entered through the garage door that led through a breezeway, then through her bedroom, to a hallway that would take you to the living room and kitchen that were on the other end of the house. 

I can see every inch of it as clearly today as the last day I entered years ago. I smell the pot roast cooking. And I can still see Ma, sitting at her little card table, pressed against the back of the couch. Instantly, she turns around and says “hey there, kiddo!” with a huge grin on her face. She takes a quick break from her task at-hand – the puzzle spread across the table – to give me the greatest hug.

Ma loved puzzles. Like, huge puzzles with thousands of pieces. She’d sit for hours working on them. And when I found her at that table I didn’t miss an opportunity to join her. We had some deep conversations while working on those puzzles. As I reflect on those moments I realize that all those beautiful puzzles serve as a metaphor for life.

The Complex Puzzle of Life

Life is a massive puzzle. Only, there is no box with a picture of what the outcome should be. As we begin the journey, pieces are scattered about. There is no rhyme, reason, or identified purpose. Random parts, with hopes of coming together.

Corner Pieces

Then, slowly, our foundations form. We sleep through the night – a corner piece in place. We graduate to solid foods – another corner piece locked in. Our first words come dribbling out – boom, third corner piece secured. Before you know it, we graduate from making a mess of ourselves – we’re potty trained – locking in that last, and ever-so-critical, corner piece. Those corner pieces are foundational to launching us into life. 

The Edges

As we venture out into this new world we play with the edges – the boundaries within which the rest of the puzzle must come together. And, while this can be a bit of a challenge, the boundaries tend to make themselves readily evident. These edges serve as our values. Their clean, sharp edges provide guidance, but we’re left to sort the rest out along our way. Who we are, and who we’ll become, is impacted by the edges.

The Center

Now we start to play with the pieces in the center and things get more complex. Like a puzzle, life can be complicated and challenging. Each piece, a different experience, lesson, or opportunity along the way. And how we put these pieces together determines the outcomes.

Puzzles can be frustrating. We struggle to find the right piece that may have slid off the table, hiding under our shoe. Sometimes it appears as though a piece should fit, then when you try to force it in, it doesn’t. We become overwhelmed with the sheer number of pieces strewn across the table – it may appear that several critical ones may be missing. But as we keep after it, the bigger picture slowly comes into focus, and each piece slides into place.

Life can be downright frustrating. Adversity, setbacks, and various obstacles crop up along our journey. Oftentimes, these challenges seem insurmountable at the moment. That feeling that something’s “off” wells up inside of us and we often freeze. Each time we try to get going again we seemingly don’t know where to start. But as we push through, the bigger picture of our lives becomes more clear. Each experience serves as an essential element to make sense of it all.

Team Game

Working those puzzles with Ma was always a team game. And such is life. One of the best parts of puzzles and life is that we don’t have to do them alone. We can always get a fresh set of eyes on an issue when we’re stuck. We just need to ask. A new perspective can help us envision brighter possibilities. And we can work together to create something beautiful.

As you navigate the puzzles of life I hope that you’ll pause every so often to find the joy in the process. While it can be messy and frustrating, when it starts to come together you’ll be amazed at what you are able to see at that point. 

And as quickly as amazement appears, along will come another piece to that puzzle that will likely leave you bewildered. And that’s ok. Remember, you are not alone. Grab a friend or loved one. Sit them at your table. And work together to create something more beautiful than you ever imagined. 

– Dedication – 

Ma, thank you for always having a seat at your puzzle table ready for me. Thank you for pouring into my life in the way that you did. Thank you for helping me piece together some very broken pieces to my life’s puzzle. Those frayed edges serve as valuable lessons. I’m thankful for every one of them. And I have no doubt that the picture of my life at this moment would look very different without your love, support, and guidance along the way. I miss you and love you dearly, my forever puzzle partner.

Weekly With Whitfield – Hope

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I find myself enthralled in wonder more these days. Since starting this weekly reflective blog in January it’s sparked a deeper sense of wonder. I’ve found myself more dialed-in on things that would typically be the most miniscule. I’ve learned and grown along this introspective journey. 

This is week 11 of 52 of 2023. If this is your first visit to the blog, I’m glad you’re here. I encourage you to scroll back through the weeks that came before to see what’s been going on. It’s been quite an adventure. If I’m honest, there have been weeks where I’ve found it quite difficult to nail down a particular word that’s different or more unique than the one before. But here we are. Thanks for following along. Your feedback, reflections, and support mean more than you’ll ever know.

Now, to the word that resonated most with me this week – HOPE

Disappointment

Dang, James, I thought we were talking about HOPE, then you throw out “DISAPPOINTMENT”?

I hear you. Roll with me…

Over the last couple years my thoughts have been all over the place with regard to what a future in the education space would look like. While I haven’t been able to work for another Texas public school district (until August 16, 2023 under current settlement agreement) I’ve been approached for several roles with a number of education adjacent non-profits.

Without fail, when it comes time to sign on the dotted line it’s been the same old song:

“Let’s just wait til things cool down, politically.”

“We’d love to bring you on right now, but we’re afraid of the political consequences.”

“Actually, we’ve thought about it and you’re way overqualified for this role. You’d get bored with this.” 

“We can bring you on…you just need to (insert statement of sacrificing my authentic self and who I’ve been as an educational leader over the last decade).”

There have even been organizations who’ve gone out of their way to say they’d create a role just to bring me on board. But when it came down to it – radio silence. Message received.

This, coupled with the mounting legal expense of ongoing litigation has been a downright exhaustive process. I’ve had moments of anger, disgust, angst, depression, and frustration. There have been days where I did not want to get out of bed. There have been days where I haven’t wanted to talk to anyone outside of my home. No response to any calls or texts. Just alone with my thoughts and my keyboard. Writing has been such a very therapeutic tool during this time.

This hasn’t been the first moment of despair throughout the course of my life – and I know it won’t be the last. Actually, I feel like my journey to this point has been somewhat of a training ground for when these moments arise. My mother always told me “son, no matter how bad things seem, they could always be worse. Similarly, no matter how good things seem to be going, they can change in a heartbeat. Don’t allow yourself to get too high or too low based on life’s circumstances. Be present in the moment. Live!” These words have been etched in my heart and carried me through the fire.

While I can’t openly share yet what I’ll be up to in August, I’m pretty excited! Believe me, when I can share, I will. For now, I’ll just say that what I learned early this week gave me a great sense of hope! There is light at the end of the tunnel! In due time I will be back to living out my purpose of partnering with educators and families to create excellent, dynamic, nurturing, and equitable learning environments for youth. 

Disappointment has been a steady resident in my mind. It takes up space in my soul. I felt it’s sharp sting. But through it I’ve learned so much. Though it has been challenging, I refuse to discount its place in my growth. Through the lessons learned in the most disappointing of situations I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by true friends and an amazing family. They helped me reframe these disappointments and point me towards hope for a brighter future.

The Playground

Under a bright blue sky kids bounced across the landscape. If you haven’t been to Grand Prairie’s PlayGrand Adventures, I’d highly recommend it. It’s phenomenal and very intentionally built to be inclusive of all children. Kids and families everywhere, as far as the eyes could see. There is so much for us to learn from kids at play.

My 10 year old, Landon, is a live wire when it comes to playgrounds. The dude is everywhere – jumpin’, runnin’, climbin’ things he probably shouldn’t be climbin’, swingin’, and slidin’. He gets it honest. I still have a hard time not partaking in the fun of a playground that I’m far too big for, so I just followed him around the park and observed.

Various structures with a wide degree of complexity lay intentionally placed across the area. And there was a beautiful display of diversity around the park. This space serves as a microcosm of our society. A great sense of hope welled up inside as I watched children from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences come together and, despite their differences, find common ground in play. They work together, communicate, and respect each other’s differences. Lessons that we, as adults, can learn from to create a world where everyone is included and valued.

I find hope in the empathy on display. On this playground, I watched children recognize and respond to the emotions of their playmates. They helped each other up when one fell down. They looked out for the person below them, so as to not crush the hands of those below them. And, as the swings were limited to only a handful, no one sat and bogarted the swings. They acknowledged that others were waiting and made their way to the next thing so someone else could feel the wind rush against their face. 

As adults, we should cultivate this same empathy to create a more compassionate world. We need to listen to each other, seek to understand each other’s experiences, and work to create a world where everyone can thrive. We tend to do these things when crises arise, but what if we did it each day as we co-exist on the playgrounds of life?

No one was concerned about the nature of each other’s politics. There was no swing-side discussion on where one went to church, or if they attended church at all. No boundary lines were drawn with regard to who could play on this structure or that – or who was not allowed to play at all. They just found common humanity in playing.

These kids were not all carbon copies, cut from the same social strata, gender, race, or any other factor, but they found a way to make it work – to co-exist for a wonderful shared experience. Their free, loving, compassionate spirits gave me hope for brighter tomorrows. I hope they never forget those playground experiences. And I hope we, as the adults in their lives, can find a way to tap back into the times that we were those kids who found ways to co-exist without all being the same. 

Hope as a Tool

Hope is a powerful force. It has the capacity to help us navigate life’s ups and downs. It provides optimism in the face of great challenges. Hope pushes us forward when we feel like giving in. But hope, alone, is not a strategy for overcoming obstacles. Hope cannot be a passive state. It is critical that we take action and have a plan for what we hope to achieve and become.

Through it all, a sense of hope has existed deep down in my soul. With every shaky excuse given by an organization as to why they couldn’t move forward. Every time I was ghosted by an organization I thought was an ally. Each thought of the tens of thousands of dollars in mounting legal fees. I remained hopeful that the right organization would come along and that God would provide as it relates to covering legal financial obligations. And I remained focused on the actions I must take to move forward.

While much remains to be seen as it relates to how litigation and the next step in my career will play out, I’m hopeful. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” Hope allows us to persevere in the face of adversity and remain steadfast in our pursuit of our dreams.

As you set out on the days ahead I pray you will hold fast to hope. Remember that it’s not just an emotion, but a force that can transform fear into courage, doubt into faith, and despair into optimism. It is the bridge that connects the present with the future, reminding us that tomorrow can be brighter than today. Embrace hope’s place in your life as a tool to unlock doors to new opportunities, new beginnings, and a new life. I have high hopes for you!