Over the last several years, we have faced a radically changing world. The pandemic, divisive elections and economic and global strife seem to be pushing us toward a breaking point. With polarization ramping up, I want to make a difference, but I don’t know how. I am afraid my good intentions will only add to the chaotic chatter and never-ending rage bubbling around me.

A mural dedication called Art for the Spirit, which represents the core, progressive values of the Community Congregational United Church of Christ in Pullman, will be celebrated Friday. 

Every time our children (and others) are sacrificed to the gun, as they were in the March 27 shooting at Nashville’s Covenant School, we afterward hear that it was a “senseless tragedy.” Far from it. Given our gun worship and their wide availability, deaths through gun violence unfortunately make perfect sense.

April is Sikh Heritage Month in Canada and a great opportunity to get to know this unique religious group only a short drive across the border. The Sikh faith dates back to the early 16th century and is strongest in India’s Punjab region (in the northwestern part of the country). The religion — fifth largest in the world — is about 500 years old with some 26 million followers.

When the world takes that unexpected right turn that changes the course of history, they run to the danger. We expect that of the best known, most respected first responders — police, firefighters, EMTs, the military. But journalists are first responders, too.

On April 13 at 4 p.m., Smith will visit Gonzaga to share his vision for Cotopaxi, the brand recognizable across the country for its brightly colored patterns on backpacks, jackets and more, all predominantly made using recycled, repurposed or responsibly sourced materials.