Alright, folks, get ready for Part 2 of my powerful conversation with the brilliant historian, Dr. Selika Ducksworth-Lawton. We're not just talking about history here; we're grappling with where we're headed in 2025, examining the entire "circumnavigation" of history. Selika lays out her deep concerns about violence and the tough truth about non-violence in the face of authoritarianism. You know, history doesn't just repeat itself; it rhymes, and we're seeing those echoes right now.

We ain't holding back as we dive into the corruption that can creep into institutions, from our police forces to even our churches. Selika reminds us that these are human-made, and if we're honest, they can get twisted. I'm with her when she challenges us to look at the Bible through a historian's eyes, stripping away the comfort that makes us twist truth. You'll hear how even Paul used rhetorical devices, and why getting to the real meaning of ancient texts is crucial for our faith today.

My goodness, this conversation gets real as we confront the enduring patterns of prejudice and that deep "psychological tug of war" that shapes our society. Selika shares some truly poignant personal stories, from seeing Jim Crow signs as a child to facing stereotypes as a Black Catholic. She pulls back the curtain on how anti-immigrant rhetoric from generations past is the "exact same rhetoric we see today." It's a stark reminder of why we must see individuals beyond stereotypes and embrace the non-violent call to understand even those who cause pain.

So, how do we bring it home in a world that's so polarized? We discuss the importance of "adult conversations" and how to provide genuine, constructive feedback rather than merely playing "gotcha." Selika and I stress the critical importance of being discerning about the media we consume and, most importantly, our ongoing obligation to "bend the arc of the universe towards justice," just like Dr. King taught us. This episode is a challenge to get uncomfortable, seek genuine connection, and actively push for a more just and loving world. You don't want to miss this.