I have been conducting scholarly research for the last two years, seeking answers to the profound issues affecting my beautiful island of Puerto Rico. We, as hardworking people, cherish our culture in indescribable ways, possibly contributing to the challenge of resolving the political status of the island. My primary focus is on the topic of … Continue reading 1582
Author: Edward Ortiz
Christian Faith and Democratic America
There are many discussions about Christian Nationalism in the news and on social media, especially now that we are about ten months away from the U.S. general elections. There is an outstanding article in Christianity Today that explains this topic and provides some insightful definitions. I recommend reading the article here. Here is how the … Continue reading Christian Faith and Democratic America
Book Review: Poverty, By America
“Poverty, by America" written by Matthew Desmond, was a fascinating read. The author, also known for his work in "Evicted," with many considering it his best book. "Poverty by America" delves into the causes of poverty in the United States, primarily attributing it to actions by Americans themselves. The book not only explores the roots … Continue reading Book Review: Poverty, By America
Home Sweet Home
Finally made it back from a fantastic vacation, but I think I need another vacation to recover from this one. Maybe it was the 13-hour drive since our flights got delayed, and we didn’t want to miss the cruise. Anyways, we enjoyed our vacation. We spent New Year in New Orleans, and it was fantastic. … Continue reading Home Sweet Home
80’s Party
We’ve started our vacation and are enjoying the warm weather so far. This trip will take us to Mexico, Honduras, and Belize. Here are a couple of short videos from last night’s 80s party. https://videopress.com/v/ziceJo5t?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true https://videopress.com/v/ForLziSv?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true The ’80s was the best decade, so enjoy!
Combating Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking
A friend of mine is the director of El Paso CARES, a non-profit dedicated to combating sexual exploitation, abuse, and human trafficking through community education and assistance to those engaged in sex work, and yesterday, I received an email from her with a brief and wonderful message highlighting some of the significant accomplishments of the … Continue reading Combating Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking
Reflecting on 2023
Looking back at 2023, I can say without a doubt that it was a great year. Here is why. I finally retired this summer from the U.S. Army after serving for 31 years, the majority of which were spent leading Soldiers as an officer. Four combat tours, three to Iraq and one to Afghanistan, were … Continue reading Reflecting on 2023
Ethics and Social Responsibility
This morning, I was reading Jane Fritz's blog, 'Robby Robin’s Journey,' and I learned that today is International Human Solidarity Day. On the United Nations website, I found that the day is1: A day to celebrate our unity in diversity. A day to remind governments to respect their commitments to international agreements. A day to … Continue reading Ethics and Social Responsibility
Book Review: Love & Respect
This year, I read one of the worst books about marriage, and it was extremely painful. The book, “Love & Respect” by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs was given to me by a Chaplain, and I read it because I like to study all aspects affecting current social issues. I’m a Christian, and it bothers me when … Continue reading Book Review: Love & Respect
Community Requires Forgiveness
"What is forgiveness? Forgiveness means that I continually am willing to forgive the other person for not fulfilling all my needs and desires. Forgiveness says, "I know you love me, but you don’t have to love me unconditionally, because only God can do that." I too must ask forgiveness for not being able to fulfill … Continue reading Community Requires Forgiveness