Before I met then-Bishop Tutu, I knew that I would be meeting a great man, but I didn’t know how lucky I was. I would never be the same. Recently, his passing hit me hard with a gut-punch of sadness. This was quickly followed by an impression of his smiling face. He was glowing with kindness and sending wise words into the air with exuberance.

It was 1984. The snowy Rocky Mountain destination and New Years timing added to my anticipation and excitement. Leaving UCLA behind, our little group joined other creative, inquisitive Episcopalian college students to immerse ourselves in whatever this once-in-a-decade national conference, “A Turning of Time,” presented. Tutu was the keynote speaker. He did not disappoint.

After an inspiring opening talk, Tutu led us in Morning Prayer each day. I was drawn to his brilliant presence: he emanated joy, profound strength and benevolence. I was raised to “be kind to all living things,” to love and respect others but I was still learning how the world works—good and bad. Now, via Tutu’s words and example, my universe expanded: a far away land was illuminated and our shared humanity celebrated.

Near the end of the conference, in one of the workshops, some of us created a simple dance to accompany The Lord’s Prayer. We were invited to share it so we taught it to the others and then led the gathering. We all felt the unity, as the group became one in prayer and graceful movement. Tutu enjoyed it and made mention of it in his closing remarks! A kinetic homage to our gathering, it was thrilling to give joy to one who had given me, and others, so much.

As we say goodbye to luminaries such as Nobel Prize laureate Desmond Tutu, trailblazing artists Betty White and Sidney Poitier, or a beloved politician or relative, we mourn them, sad for our great loss. At the same time, we can find awe at the magic they leave within us. Some luminaries truly are beacons that light the way for transformation. But each of us can shine our light. Peace and kindness are gifts we pass on to one another, moment by moment, in words and actions, as we practice grace and empathy in a turning of time that is too short not to do otherwise.

—Hillary Black, Editor

Home Safe Home

We’ve all felt misplaced at one time or another. If you’re a refugee, that’s more than an understatement. “It is the obligation of every person born in a safer room to open the door when someone in danger knocks,” writes author Dina Nayeri. Although most of us are descendants of refugees, we may not know their struggles and triumphs. Instead, we can offer compassion to those in need today—and hear their stories. The Force For Good team is delighted to highlight two Philadelphia, Pennsylvania organizations that offer refugees support: Welcoming the Stranger and The Welcoming Center. Perhaps there are similar groups in your area that could use help. Sooner or later, each of us may have to count on the kindness and mercy of strangers. Let’s welcome those who seek refuge.

Welcoming the Stranger


From the website: “Welcoming the Stranger is an educational non-profit organization that offers free classes in English as a Second Language (ESL), computer skills, and United States citizenship exam preparation to adult immigrants and refugees in the Philadelphia metro region.

Founded in 1999, Welcoming the Stranger has taught over 4,000 students from 104 different countries. …Using paid teachers and about 100 volunteers each term, we offer about fifteen to twenty classes each trimester. Classes are held both day and evening. Over the past several years, classes have been offered Bucks County, Pennsylvania and Northeast Philadelphia. There is no cost to the student for any of the classes.”

The Welcoming Center

From the website: “The Welcoming Center for New Pennsylvanians is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia. We believe that a steady influx of new customers, workers, and entrepreneurs can reinvigorate Pennsylvania’s aging population, renew its neighborhoods, and re-energize our economy. By making Pennsylvania a magnet for immigrants, we will become a more vibrant, more creative, and more dynamic competitor in today’s global economy. We work closely with government agencies, service providers, employers, business associations, trade unions, and economic development groups.”

— Hillary Black, Editor

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