The Joy and Wisdom of Grandparenting
BY JACK LEVINE As we look forward to the July 4th Independence Day celebration, let’s think for a few minutes about the words that were principally drafted by 33-year-old Thomas Jefferson between June 11 and June 28, 1776, which resulted in the Declaration of Independence – our nation’s most cherished symbol of liberty. Here, in so … Read more
Monday, May 25th is Memorial Day BY JACK LEVINE Monday, May 25th, is Memorial Day, our nation’s commemoration of the sacrifices of those who lost their lives for the freedoms we hold sacred. Whether our veterans survived their military service or were killed on the field of battle, our country owes each of them, and … Read more
What is Love? 20 Answers From The Mouths Of Babes BY JACK LEVINE Wishing you and your loved ones well. As Valentine’s Day approaches, I’m pleased to share this heartfelt message with you. As busy as we are, let’s never be too busy to make time to enjoy the connection with someone we love. And despite being … Read more
Honoring the Dream of Dr. Martin Luther King BY JACK LEVINE It was late August 1963. I was 12. I remember my father calling me into his room. The radio was on, and I heard cheering. It was not a baseball-game kind of cheer… it seemed louder and longer. It was a sustained roar. My … Read more
My Thanksgiving Message BY JACK LEVINE Wishing you and loved ones well and a Happy Thanksgiving! While we have many challenges, let’s resolve to face them with faith and fortitude…and a healthy dose of optimism! Whether you received this letter before, during, or just after this week’s Thanksgiving celebration, I’m pleased to send you this … Read more
Top Ten Reasons To Vote And Not Be A Cave Person BT JACK LEVINE Now that I’m in my 45th year of advocacy for family policies that prevent problems and promote programs that ensure safety, health, and educational success, you can confidently assume I’ve been around the block a few times…and have learned a lesson … Read more
BY JACK LEVINE “Humanitarians standing up and speaking out against not only antisemitism but against all forms of hate.” Over the past few weeks, I have been soul-searching for a theme to compose an essay that conveys the deep fear and anxiety so many of us are experiencing in the wake of the horrific conflict … Read more
BY JACK LEVINE I remember 9/11… Early that brilliant sunny morning, I was on a train from Baltimore heading to an early childhood policy conference in Newark. As we approached the station, a man just a few seats behind me said loudly “A plane just hit the World Trade Center in Manhattan, but no details … Read more
A Lady I Admire – An Essay on Advocating Justice BY JACK LEVINE There’s a lady I’ve known for my entire life. I’ve grown to love and respect her. Even though, like all of us, she has her flaws, I believe deeply that her attributes far outweigh her deficiencies. Many who know her history have come … Read more
You’ve Got to be Taught… CONTRIBUTED BY JACK LEVINE In Rogers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific, we are given this lesson in song… You’ve got to be taught to hate and fear You’ve got to be taught from year to year It’s got to be drummed in your dear little ear You’ve got to be carefully … Read more
BY JACK LEVINE As Father’s Day approaches, I’m motivated to share these personal essays profiling men whose lives span over a century: my father, Chaim, my sons, Aaron and Josh, and one of our nation’s iconic public servants for children, Lawton Chiles. I know these three personal essays ask for your time and attention. Please bear with me. I hope … Read more
How to Enhance Your Thanksgiving BY JACK LEVINE As we enter the holiday season, let’s realize that there are neighbors, young and elder, whose weeks ahead are not brimming with joy. For whatever reason, in whatever circumstance, we know that people in need can be helped if we choose to do so. As the Talmud asks of us….If … Read more
Our Vote Is Our Voice BY JACK LEVINE In my world of ardent advocacy, not voting is an offense to our status as free citizens. Please do not fall into the trap of complacency. Let’s take every opportunity to accept the obligation to be dedicated citizens of this nation. Our vote is our voice…and we … Read more
A Grandfather’s Thoughts for Peace – Paving a Positive Path Forward BY JACK LEVINE Now that I’m a grandfather (AKA Pop Pop Jack), I’m all the more dedicated to pave a positive path for peace for future generations. I’m sure many grandparents feel similar emotions when looking into the eyes of their newest family members. … Read more
