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As I was taking my morning walk and thinking about the days ahead and to the 4th of July or so called Independence Day here in the states, the realization of days of fireworks being shot off and boomed all around hit me and I sank a little bit. When I was younger it was innocent fun to be had, with supervision because it is dangerous, but it was fun and exciting. Now I have a bit of pessimism for several reason and not the least of which is the loud noises that bother me and animals, wild and domesticated, all around. It also bothers me that these fireworks are representative of bombs and gunfire and warfare that is expected to be celebrated with fun and joy. It is fun to gather around with family and friends and have a barbeque and catch up. And I might stir the shit pot a little by showing my disapproval of celebrating war as a pastime. That said, I am thankful for the peaceful life I have here, and I am thankful for the fact that I don’t live in a war zone. 160 years ago the land I am living on was a war zone during the civil war. And before that a war zone between my ancestors and the indigenous peoples of this land. So these thoughts and feelings I have about this topic are meaningful to me and I write about them because I care, a lot, about the land and the animals and the air, and you all. Much love and peace to everyone in the NOW and the all of Earth. 🌍 🌎 🌏

In the tapestry of existence, the theme of fatherhood weaves a powerful narrative, one that resonates with the echoes of our ancestors and projects into a future we have yet to fully grasp. As we gather as adults, we find ourselves at a crossroads, confronting not just political realities but the very essence of our responsibilities as caretakers of the earth and stewards of the future. Throughout history, fathers have been revered as figures of strength, wisdom, and guidance. They stand as pillars for their families, cultivating values and teaching lessons that transcend time. In this moment, we must embrace that same spirit of fatherhood. To protest against tyranny is to embody the role of the father who does not shy away from the difficult conversations, who leads by example, and who instills in the next generation the principles of justice, compassion, and integrity. It is easy to overlook our duty, believing that we can pass the burden of our failures onto the shoulders of our children. However, spiritually speaking, this is a false notion. The ancient wisdom teaches us that the actions of one generation profoundly impact the next. To leave our children to "clean up our messes" is to deny them the inheritance of a just world, to burden them with the weight of our neglect. In the face of societal tyranny, particularly in the context of political figures who may embody oppression and divisiveness, we must rise up—not just for ourselves, but for our children and their children to come. By standing together, we honor the lineage of fathers who have fought for liberation and justice throughout history. We reject complacency and instead summon the courage to face the challenges that threaten our collective future. This protest is not merely an act of defiance; it is an expression of love for the future, a declaration that we will not stand idly by while the bonds of community, equality, and freedom are strained. By taking action now, we can clear a path for generations to walk into a brighter, more harmonious existence.

Live calls are sacred space. They are where we show up with presence, respect, and integrity. To keep that space safe, strong, and real, we follow a few simple agreements: Come on time. Be in a place where you can be fully present. Keep your mic muted unless invited to speak. Speak from your own experience, not in advice. No side chatter in the chat box. Hold confidentiality. And most of all, be here with an open heart. These calls are not just content. They are connection. Let’s protect the space so it can keep doing what it was designed to do, to help us grow, together.

NOW Mission Statement N.O.W. Academy is a space for people to slow down, reconnect, and lead their lives with presence. Through weekly calls, guided practices, and real conversations, we support individuals in aligning with their values, regulating their nervous systems, and building meaningful relationships. Our work is rooted in ancestral wisdom, community accountability, and the belief that healing happens in connection, not in isolation. NOW Vision Statement We envision a world where people live in rhythm with themselves, their families, their communities, and the Earth. A world where presence is more valued than productivity, where leadership begins with emotional maturity, stewardship is a commitment and where healing is a shared responsibility. N.O.W. Academy exists to help rebuild village-minded culture- one breath, one choice, and one conversation at a time.