Random Letters: 11-24-20

Healing is Possible

Though our country is divided politically, the San Pedro Faith Consortium stands united in our call for peace, civility and respect. Made up of religious organizations, such as San Pedro Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church of San Pedro, Temple Beth El, The Garden Church and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church,  we are proud to represent a diverse religious group of people of different colors, backgrounds, and beliefs.

For the past several years, we have become increasingly alarmed at the polarizing rhetoric, misunderstandings, and misinformation that has driven a wedge between us. We are troubled by arguments that have pulled friends and family members apart. Our nation is in a moment of painful transition, but we hold hope that healing is possible. After all, we share a great deal in common. We are united in our love for San Pedro, California, and the United States of America. We are all deserving of respect, safety, freedom to pursue our dreams, and the right to be heard. We also have a responsibility to one another.

If we wish to repair the fractures in our community and within our world, we must begin by seeing the humanity even in those with whom we disagree. We must be brave enough to hear one another, courageous enough to admit when we are wrong, and optimistic enough to build a better future. No leader, however talented and inspiring, can heal a nation on his own. It is up to each of us to do our part.

Rabbi Cassi, Temple Beth El, San Pedro

Random Acts of Kindness

I am a disabled veteran of WWII, Korean and Vietnam wars. While shopping at Stater Bros on Oct. 23, at around 3-4 pm, a kind lady shocked this 95-year-old. 

I am so humbled by her kindness, I had to write to you. 

While I was at the checkout, I was going to pay my bill but was told it was taken care of by the lady next in line. I do not know her name. I have lived in Downey for 75 years and never been thanked for my service to our country, like this lady did for me today. 

I hope someone in Downey shows her this message and tells her I will think of her as the Egg Lady every day as I have breakfast.  

May God bless her always. 

George Johnson, Retired U.S. Navy, Downey

The Chicago Honor Initiative

I am excited to share news about the non-profit company that I started and preside over. It is called the Chicago Honor Initiative (C.H.I. Project) in conjunction with Windy City Entertainment, inc.  It addresses the issue of gun violence in Chicago and the senseless killings — this year alone there have been over 3,500 shootings in Chicago, with over 600 of those resulting in death.  Each weekend, the number of shootings and deaths seem to increase, with many victims being innocent bystanders.  This is totally unacceptable. Chicago is in a state of emergency, and one of the goals of the C.H.I. Project is to find solutions to this epidemic. We want to create alternatives for young men and women in gangs to see a future for themselves, to understand the consequences of their actions, and most important, change the narrative for violence being the only viable solution to a problem.

On Feb. 11, 2021 from 5 to 9 p.m. (CST), we are planning to present our first “Chicago Peace Symposium” via Zoom.

Private virtual rooms will provide opportunities for gang members to speak freely, listen intently to one another, and collectively work to end the destruction of gang violence. We want to take a deeper look at the trauma many are facing and initiate a pathway to forgiveness for those who have caused the unspeakable pain that too many have suffered. One of our goals is to provide badly needed services in a variety of areas.  This is where you come in, my friend.  To make something of this magnitude happen we need you! We are seeking tax-deductible sponsorships of $1,000 to $10,000, and contributions beginning at $25. We have made this easy, safe and secure through PayPal on our WCE website, www.WindyCityEntertainment.net  

During my search to find solutions to put an end to the gang related violence in Chicago, I thought of you because I feel you share my sentiments about what is happening.  I am a Chicago native, living in Los Angeles, but my heart is always with our people in Chicago.  With your help, our virtual Chicago Peace Symposium will be the giant step in bringing about positive change.

Richest blessings to you and yours.

Windy Barnes Farrell, President, Windy City Entertainment Inc., Chicago Honor Initiative, San Pedro