Whenever I'm asked to write a brief autobiographical statement; I tend to ponder on what and how much to share. Briefly, I've been married for 47 yrs and the mother of 3 adult daughters. For over 27 yrs., I've been a helping professional with a graduate degree in social work and experience as a medical social worker and mental health therapist. I'm retired. My history as a civil rights/human rights activist during the mid 60's to early 70's fuels my ongoing interests in the social/political arenas. I am an unapologetic progressive, Independent, and a bibliophile. I've been one to voice my opinions on different political and cultural blogs for some time and two years ago decided to create one of my own. "Perspectives-Another Way To View" is the premise of my blog and I truly believe that there are many different perspectives on issues facing us today and some may have merit and some should really be discarded. As Pearl Cleage, one of my favorite authors cites "discomfort is a necessary part of enlightenment". Over the years I've tried to work on my tendency to be rigid in some areas; those are the non-negotiable tenets, however, I've learned as the poet, Elizabeth Alexander suggests--is that "many things are true at once". A part of my philosophy remains true and steadfast and that is a good debate and the sharing of ideas can bring intrigue as well as challenges. It also forces us to think critically about our perceptions, ideologies, and behaviors. This will hopefully effect change that will enhance the best parts of our humanity. As a pragmatist; I also recognize that humankind will always find ways to divide and conquer. With that said; the struggle continues as it has for centuries and I plan to be a part of it until I exist no more!