Print edition: 
Thinking small is a big change
The debate over extending the temporary payroll tax cut and long-term unemployment benefits is interesting.
Surprisingly, everyone agrees these benefits must be “paid for” rather than just borrowing more from China or from the Federal Reserve. This is a big change in attitude from when these benefits were last considered. At that time, Congress approved “temporary” measures to extend the Bush tax cuts, extend unemployment benefits and cut payroll taxes with virtually no concern about the swelling federal debt.
The debate has now become one of a “small” increase in taxes on the rich versus a “small” reduction in other federal expenses. In either case, we are starting to think small, which is a good thing after years of Washington thinking (and borrowing) big.
As we start to think small and pay attention to details, we still need perspective. Which funding source will provide America with permanent benefits as opposed to temporary relief? In other words, we should extend our small thinking to 2013 and beyond, because it is going to take a long time to get out of the hole we are in. Should Washington be encouraged to raise taxes (just a little) and increase its existing level of control over us? Or should Washington be encouraged to cut spending (just a little) and return some control of and responsibility for our lives to us and to cities and states?
BOB LOVE
Wichita
Amazing faiths
Editor’s note: Global Faith in Action organized Wichita’s second-annual Amazing Faiths Dinner Dialogue on Nov. 17. More than 130 people from the greater Wichita area participated in dinners hosted in 13 homes. Here are reflections on the event by four people of different faiths:
Muslim
I feel so fortunate to have been able to participate in the Amazing Faiths Dinner Dialogue. This was my first year hosting a dinner at my home and my second year attending. It is so educational and rewarding to be able to hear the experiences and traditions of people of a variety of faiths. I think that many of us came away feeling like we are much more alike than different, and the opportunity to share our thoughts allowed us to break down some common misconceptions and stereotypes. I look forward to next year’s dinner and continuing the tradition of making new friends.
Donna Sibaai, American Muslim Women’s Association
Judaism
I have been taught, once again, how to communicate. This is a lesson we all need to relearn periodically.
I was fortunate enough to participate in the Amazing Faiths Dinner Dialogue. The seven or eight of us assigned to this particular home arrived at the host’s place to share a meal. Besides myself, a Jew, there were Christians, Muslims and Hindus. We all sat down with name tags clumsily stuck to our clothes and a bowl of vegetable soup and a salad in front of us. Then, one by one, we answered questions that had been printed on cards.
They were interesting and somewhat difficult questions; difficult to answer honestly and sincerely. It is not easy to speak from the heart with a table full of strangers, but there was something even more difficult that evening. As hard as it was to share our innermost thoughts, I think it was even more difficult to sit quietly and listen. We could not interrupt, question the person speaking or add our own 2 cents.
There was a debriefing and a social time later, but sitting through those questions and stories required a stillness that is tough for many to find, much less maintain. That stillness, however, is so valuable in learning how truly to listen to another. And once we learn to listen, that is the beginning of true communication. I am grateful to those with whom I shared that evening for this valuable lesson.
Rabbi Michael Davis
Atheist/human secular
I had heard of the event the previous year and was excited to participate. The evening was well-organized, and everyone was very friendly. Though initially people were a bit guarded, the level of comfort and rapport settled in quickly. Listening to and sharing personal stories about faith and reason occurred without judgment. That was important to me being an atheist/humanist. As people shared their stories, they were met with open minds and camaraderie, all topped off by a gracious host, a wonderful facilitator and delicious food. I truly look forward to next year.
Michael Alldaffer
Christian
Our thanks go to Sam and Ellan Muyskens for the Amazing Faiths Dinner Dialogue. The kosher food was enjoyed by all. There was diversity around the table — Jews, a Muslim and a variety of Christians. Sam’s sensitive leadership made people feel comfortable to share their beliefs about some tough issues. They spoke from their hearts about what they had learned in their faith journeys. The mystery of God was acknowledged. Differences were respected and accepted. By the end of the evening, it seemed clear that everyone had learned the same lessons from life. God is present to us, and it is up to each of us to trust God and do the best that we can with the understandings that we have.
Bob Eades, chaplain, United Methodist
