Planting Trees

I had the opportunity to attend a lecture by Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Leonard Pitts today. He spoke at a church in Sebring after being invited by "Peace of Highlands County," a local group dedicated to world peace, racial harmony, etc.

It was a refreshing, inspiring and thought-provoking hour.

Pitts' talent as a columnist is indisputable. His level-headed commentary is such a rarity these days, in an era of endless "gotcha," demonizing, counterproductive banter. His lecture was no different.

Pitts touched on many topics, from race to poverty to politics and everything in between, but his main focus was changing the world for the better, one "tree" at a time. He shared a quote about an old man planting a tree whose shade he'd never enjoy, a metaphor for acts and deeds done in life that leave a legacy for the future. He said he rested in the shade of those who labored in the civil rights moment, for instance. He'd talk about an issue, talk about a solution and come back to "And so I'll plant a tree."

His main point was to do something, anything, to help improve someone else's situation. It's the best and only thing a single person can do.

I've been immersing myself in politics lately, listening to the relentless back-and-forth between Hillary, Obama and McCain. It was so nice to hear someone discuss major issues without being a pandering politician. For the first time in months, I listened to ideas that were expressed for their merit, not their electability.