Mending Divides

Autumn is here, and with it come plenty of starts and a constant barrage of asks to give, volunteer, and show up for meaningful causes. In this episode, Osheta and Jer explore the reality of compassion fatigue and how to discern ‘what’s mine to do.’ With personal anecdotes, they discuss the pulls on our empathy, managing the feeling of being stretched like Gumby, and the importance of grounding oneself spiritually to make wise decisions. From reflective daily practices to the Ignatian Examen, this conversation provides practical insights on maintaining peace and showing up authentically during this busy season.02:10 Osheta’s compassion fatigue05:29 Jer feels like Gumby08:55 Osheta burns out10:33 Doing the deeper work14:38 Three things to look for18:10 Mentorship19:56 Socialized as a woman21:35 Practice: Three questions23:11 What’s mine to do?25:33 Osheta does the examen30:32 ClosingSign up for the cohort interest list or RSVP for an info session at globalimmerse.org/cohortPick up some Pro-Human apparel: bonfire.com/store/global-immersion/Learn more about us: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

10-08

32:35

In this episode, hosts Osheta Moore and Jer Swigart delve into the realities of failure and mistakes as crucial elements of our growth as peacemakers. They explore the anxiety around mistakes, the societal pressure to avoid them, and the importance of embracing mistakes as pathways to improvement rather than perfection. The discussion includes insights from poet Zedeka Poindexter and emphasizes the need for courage, humility, teachability, and generosity in both making and receiving mistakes. This liberating conversation invites listeners to reframe their approach to failure as a way to engage more deeply in the journey of peacemaking.01:45 Spark from Zedeka’s Poetry03:35 Navigating Divides and Fear of Mistakes07:39 Learning Through Trial and Error10:52 Insights from Ted Lasso13:13 Infrastructure of self-reflection13:49 Creating space for mistakes18:47 Courage, Humility, and Teachability24:43 How to receive an apology27:08 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement  Zedeka Poindexter www.zedekapoindexter.comHear her Peach Cobbler piece - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwYFMtUD70wBrenda Salter McNeil’s new book, Empowered to Repair: https://www.saltermcneil.com/empowered-to-repairPhoto by Pawel Janiak on UnsplashLearn more about the Leadership Cohort at globalimmerse.org/cohortSign up for the cohort interest list or RSVP for an info session at globalimmerse.org/cohortLearn more about us: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

09-04

29:31

In this episode, Osheta and Jer reflect candidly on the common experience of loneliness, recognizing that it’s always a part of the path of peacemaking. Reflecting on their recent Deep South immersion with the 2024 Leadership Cohort, they share their journey from isolation to discovering a sense of companionship and learning how to be lonely together.Through theological reflections and personal stories, they explore the significance of befriending loneliness, prioritizing companionship over community, and finding comfort in prayer practices. They encourage us all to acknowledge our own loneliness without anxiety, while seeking a way forward together with others on this journey. 01:44 shared experience of loneliness04:38 befriending loneliness11:08 finding your prayer practice13:50 being lonely together19:09 companionship more than community22:02 gentle invitations Learn more about the Leadership Cohort at globalimmerse.org/cohortSign up for the cohort interest list or RSVP for an info session at globalimmerse.org/cohortLearn more about us: globalimmerse.orgPhoto by hanya kumuh on UnsplashSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

08-15

29:44

This episode was a spontaneous conversation between hosts Osheta Moore and Jer Swigart reflecting on the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump. They discuss their immediate reactions, the importance of maintaining a peaceable presence, and how to navigate violent political climates as peacemakers. The conversation emphasizes the need for creating safe spaces, fostering sacrificial relationships, and building communities committed to repair. Diving deep into personal anecdotes, theological reflections, and practical advice, this episode offers a specific call to action to move beyond social media posts and instead, to gather around tables and lead through these tumultuous times. 00:41 Reacting to the Assassination Attempt04:52 Personal Reflections and Boundaries09:06 The Role of Peacemakers in Turbulent Times16:50 Political violence19:41 Embracing Fear and Love20:07 Starfish vs. Spider Leadership21:12 The Illusion of Eliminating Ideologies24:17 Building Communities of PeacemakersLearn more: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

07-22

32:51

In this episode, Osheta and Jer delve into the intersection of parenting and peacemaking. They grapple with the temptation of fixing vs. being, naming the lure of project-oriented parenting and peacemaking. The high stakes of Christian parenting in particular are addressed, opening up a discussion about when we might need to reparent ourselves rather than focusing solely on the needs of our children. Unique practices in each of their households are shared, culminating in an invitation to parents to find their own authentic style of peacemaking as the greatest gift they can give their children. The conversation offers valuable insights for parents and peacemakers alike, exploring how to nurture children in a way that allows them to grow into the everyday peacemakers our divided world so badly needs. 02:42 Fixing vs being06:03 How do you want to be remembered by your kids?07:31 The problem with project-oriented peacemaking14:19 The stakes of Christian parenting18:18 Lowering the stakes20:35 Reparenting ourselves vs. Parenting our kids22:43 Household practices23:55 Impatience with our own formation25:50 Bringing kids into a story28:06 Shielding kids from mistakes and failure30:19 Integrity in our own style of peacemaking33:17 closing   Learn more: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

07-02

34:38

Jer kicks off the episode with a story about a recent encounter with his own stereotypes at a Guns to Gardens event in Bend, Oregon. This experience led him to question the fables he’s fabricated about “those people.” They wrestle with stereotypes as organized lies that shape the way we see others, and explore how to balance this awareness with genuine caution or wisdom in potentially unsafe situations. The conversation delves into broader themes of confronting stereotypes, the importance of proximity, and the interior transformation needed to see others as beloved. Listen for insights on disarming both physical weapons and the stereotypes that arm our imaginations.02:38 Guns to Garden event context05:15 Becoming a gun decommissioning site10:07 The chopped up SUV16:15 The interior work17:33 How do we discern?21:31 The Man or the Bear24:31 Stereotypes28:53 Practical ideas to get into proximity34:30 announcements and creditsLearn more: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

06-04

35:59

In this episode, Osheta processes a challenging experience of racism and her struggle to respond as a peacemaker when she was already depleted. The conversation explores the importance of self-care, acknowledging our triggers, and building an ‘infrastructure of support’ to remain grounded amidst everyday conflicts and tension. They emphasize the persistent presence of the Holy Spirit with us, the need for proactive preparation for difficult spaces, listening to our bodies, and how community is foundational to everyday peacemaking.01:04 Osheta’s Shares an Encounter with Racism07:46 Discerning when to walk away10:06 Protecting the “other’s” belovedness14:45 infrastructure of support17:03 Preparing for difficult spaces18:36 listening to our bodies22:30 Resilience through the Spirit of God in us27:18 A Gentle Invitation Learn more: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

05-09

31:13

In this episode, Osheta and Jer explore hope and its paramount importance in Everyday Peacemaking, inspired by this season of Eastertide. They delve into how hope, seen as both a skill and a practice, is essential in looking for and participating in ‘little resurrections’ amidst life’s challenges and divisions. Through personal stories, they illustrate the power of adopting a ‘Yes, and...’ posture, which acknowledges difficulties while remaining open to the ever-present possibility of resurrection breaking forth in daily life. The conversation culminates with a call to embrace the ‘resurrection impulse’ as Everyday Peacemakers, seeking out and nurturing moments of new life and hope in both the mundane and the monumental.00:40 Reflecting on Eastertide08:04 Little resurrections09:57 Story of counter-protestors22:04 Community and interior formation27:03 Moving closer31:11 Low stakes moments32:55 Closing Invitation Learn more: globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliance www.thebrilliancemusic.com

04-10

34:37

Our next Virtual Immersion conversation into the Israel/Gaza war wrestles with what to do as peacemakers when we drift into despair, give in to fear, or move in our anger from righteous indignation to dehumanizing rage. Jer Swigart is joined by Mercy Aiken and Bruce Fisk from the Network of Evangelicals for the Middle East (NEME), who are navigating these realities while fighting like peacemakers for an end to this suffering. The discussion is anchored in their personal stories of awakening to the injustices and complexities of the crisis, centered on the transition from being pro-Israel or pro-Palestinian to adopting a pro-human perspective. The conversation delves into the costs of taking such a stance, highlighting the personal, professional, and emotional tolls and the importance of solidarity and relationship-building in pursuing peace. The dialogue shifts to confronting feelings of despair, the challenges of maintaining hope, and the complexities of managing anger without dehumanizing the other, all towards growing our resilience and deepening our souls for sustained practice.00:00 Opening Context06:53 Mercy and Bruce Introductions09:57 Waking up to a Larger Story20:29 Pro-human is not neutral22:39 The high cost of leaving a Pro-Israel Christianity32:18 Despair, Fear, and Anger40:58 What to do with despair46:10 AngerThe Virtual Immersion is a series of conversations to platform and amplify the experiences and insights of our Palestinian and Israeli friends and peacemaking partners. The live conversations first take place on Instagram Live @globalimmerse, and are then made available as podcast episodes. These are vulnerable, challenging conversations with peacemakers embedded within this war's trenches.Support our work at globalimmerse.org/donateLearn more about NEME's work: neme.network

04-03

53:28

This powerful next conversation in our Virtual Immersion series is with Mahmoud Subuh, a Palestinian Muslim Peacemaker waging peace in the midst of the Balata refugee camp in the West Bank, currently under complete siege. Mahmoud shares openly about the immense challenges of both raising his own kids as well as working with Palestinian youth amidst the heightened tensions and trauma caused by living in one of the most densely populated and heavily fortified refugee camps. He discusses his efforts to guide them toward healing, advocating for reconciliation over revenge. This conversation grapples candidly with the question: Is it possible to cultivate the next generation of peacemakers in an environment overshadowed by violence?The Virtual Immersion is a series of conversations to platform and amplify the experiences and insights of our Palestinian and Israeli friends and peacemaking partners. The live conversations first take place on Instagram Live @globalimmerse, and are then made available as podcast episodes. These are vulnerable, challenging conversations with peacemakers embedded within this war's trenches.Support our work at globalimmerse.org/donate

03-27

59:17

Jer and Osheta discuss the table as a vital tool in mending divides. Osheta sets the stage with a poignant tale of gumbo-making that fostered connection, empathy, and a sense of belonging to one another. The duo unpacks practical strategies, emphasizing the essence of simplicity in hosting, the significance of thoughtful recipe choices, and the role of pacing for restorative conversations. They extend an invitation for listeners to participate in Maundy Thursday by hosting an intentional meal and proposing a meaningful red beans and rice recipe out of solidarity with our global kin.03:34 Osheta’s Story10:18 Maundy Thursday11:33 Jer Responds14:27 The Pace at the table20:45 Recipes22:59 Red beans and rice24:58 Jer’s comfort food28:38 Sending guests out into the world34:39 Closing Osheta's Red Beans and Rice Recipe: https://bit.ly/oshetasredbeansandriceListen to the first episode about the power of the table in everyday peacemaking: globalimmerse.org/blog/powerofthetable/Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage: globalimmerse.org/blog/gazaceasefirepilgrimages/CCDA Holy Week Devotional: bit.ly/CCDAGIholyweekdevotionalLearn more about us at globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliancewww.thebrilliancemusic.com

03-19

36:36

Theologian and peacemaker Alejandra Ortiz joins Osheta and Jer for a profound discussion on the practice of lament as central to our formation as Everyday Peacemakers. They explore how lament gives space to grieve the brokenness of the world. Alejandra shares a rich theological perspective illustrated with stories from her personal practice of lament. The conversation illuminates how lament fosters honesty before God, cultivates hope, and deepens our participation in community. The trio delves into lament’s biblical roots, its significance in personal and communal healing, and practical ways to integrate it into everyday life, even amid challenges like maintaining mental health.  Ultimately, this episode encourages you to embrace lament as a transformational practice that brings you closer to God, deepens your compassion, and equips you for the realities of Everyday Peacemaking. This episode was recorded live on March 6.05:54 Define Lament07:43 How to cultivate space for lament11:53 Lament as a community practice16:03 Ideas for practices20:07 Not a quick fix, but a way to sit in the pain23:21 Lament and mental health27:11 Having someone walk with you through lament30:52 How to start31:31 If you’re exhaustedLearn more about us at globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliancewww.thebrilliancemusic.com

03-12

37:31

In this episode of the Everyday Peacemaking Podcast, hosts Osheta Moore and Jer Swigart discuss the centrality of the table as the most important furniture used in the work of peacemaking. Jer shares an incredible story from his recent trip to the front lines of the conflict in Burma, where a shared meal revealed the belovedness of former enemies. Osheta helps apply Jer’s story to the everyday tables we are a part of, encouraging us to use what we have, lower our expectations, embrace a slower pace, and make room for one another. They also reflect on the role of the interpreter at the table, the person helping heart-level communication happen. The conversation culminates with an invitation to consider what our “other” might need to hear that disarms their walls and makes space for our shared humanity to come forward.Learn more about us at globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliancewww.thebrilliancemusic.com 

02-29

37:07

As we step into 2024, Osheta and Jer invite us beyond New Year’s resolutions into a journey of intentional self-reflection. In a year already marked by “anti” sentiments, they aim to shift their focus towards what they aspire to be “for”. Embracing the belovedness of each person, they discuss loving their enemies and the necessary shifts in their lives to better love their neighbors. They emphasize the importance of remaining curious about others and acknowledge the challenge of letting go of relationships and spaces that no longer serve their formation as peacemakers. Join us as we embark on making peacemaking a habit in 2024.Learn more and participate in the Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimages this Lent at gazaceasefirepilgrimage.comLearn more about us at globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliancewww.thebrilliancemusic.com

Peacemaker Ben McBride joins Jer for this soul-stirring conversation about the interior formation of peacemakers in 2024. With the humanity and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. as a springboard, they grapple with the idea that the social transformation we’re dreaming of will not be realized in our lifetime. They wrestle with the stark contrast of peacemaking work fueled by anger versus animated by love and candidly consider who our “enemy” really is. Finally, Ben gives a prophetic invitation to us all in response to the question: What kind of peacemaker do you want to be in 2024?Ben's website: benmcbride.comPurchase Troubling the Water: benmcbride.com/the-bookFollow Ben on Facebook: facebook.com/benjmcbrideFollow Ben on Instagram: instagram.com/officialbenmcbride/Learn more about us at globalimmerse.orgSupport our work: globalimmerse.org/donateTurning Over Tables theme music courtesy of The Brilliancewww.thebrilliancemusic.com