Need Some Inspiration?

Given the sorry state of American politics, it's easy for us to feel disillusioned, maybe even cynical  about the "system" these days.

But while some people in public life disappoint, there are plenty of others, in government and elsewhere, whose behavior is inspiring.  

One of these is Mukesh Kapila, who spoke at NCC this week about a disturbing topic: the genocide that began in Darfur, part of the Sudan, in 2003 and that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.  As the United Nations' Resident Humanitarian Coordinator for the Sudan, Kapila put his own life and career on the line to alert the world to the Darfur crisis and to bring to justice those responsible for mass killings. His message to his NCC audience: all of us must speak out against injustice and work to end it.

Kapila's talk was the first of several inspiring and thought-provoking presentations happening at NCC this semester. Another will take place this Monday, when Tim Wise, a nationally known anti-racism educator, will speak about the subject of race in America.  Wise's talk, scheduled for 11 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. in the College Center, is titled "Can We Talk About Race?"

The author of several books, including "White Like me: Reflections on Race From a Privileged Son," Wise will involve audiences in a frank conversation about racial inequality and the need for everyone, without exception, to address it.  An often no-holds barred speaker, Wise is above all else inspirational, someone sure to leave audiences with a lot to think about. 

                                                      

 

Following Wise, on Nov. 4, will be another speaker with an inspiring message--Eric Greitens, author of "The Warrior's Heart," NCC's common reading for 2013-2014.  A Rhodes scholar, a former Navy SEAL, and the founder of an organization (The Mission Continues) that helps military veterans continue to serve their communities, Greitens will share his experiences bringing humanitarian relief to people in war-torn parts of the world. 

His talk, scheduled for 9:30 a.m, 11 a.m., and 2 p.m. in the College Center, will stress compassion, courage and commitment as the basis for a worthwhile life.  His emphasis on service and selflessness should clearly resonate with many in his audience, especially those realizing the importance of connecting to the larger world.

  

Different speakers, different styles, different topics--yet each encouraging audiences to get outside themselves and touch the world and make things better.  If you're weary of cynicism and could use a little inspiration and maybe even a wake-up call right now, come on over to the College Center and listen to what these speakers have to say.  The experience could be a life-changing moment.