Lenten Reflection: Monday in the Third Week of Lent

One of the required readings in the Sacred Ground Curriculum was Waking Up White by Debbie Irving. This book was particularly meaningful to me as her upbringing was so close to mine. In fact, her cousin grew up across the street from me. In Section 2, Chapter 6, there is a quotation: “Education is learning what you didn’t even know you didn’t know” from Daniel J. Boorstin

Being a teacher, I have always told my children and students to be life-long learners. I have tried to do the same and when the Sacred Ground curriculum was offered, I decided to take the leap even though the time commitment to study, reflect and broach the topic of race and racism was scary and challenging. After 10 weeks of powerful PBS documentaries, articles, and books on these topics, I realized how much more education I need. Our group tackled the material each week and all of us seemed to have this sense that we DID not even know most of the facts we learned about systemic racism not just with citizens in this country that are black but Native Americans, Latinos and Asian Americans. Personally, this awareness will move me to use my vote and voice to make others aware as well.

The Sacred Ground curriculum and the time spent with my Sacred Ground group was an experience I will not forget and am so thankful for having taken part.

-Tina Thomas

O Great Spirit, help me always to speak the truth quietly, to listen with an open mind when others speak and to remember the peace that may be found in silence. – Cherokee Prayer