Here's to your health, friend!

We've recognized for a long time now the power and the benefit of social networks, social capital, collective efficacy and strong community connections among people. Social bonding contributes to quality of life wherever it is found. Creating such bonds among low-income neighbors is a crucial part of what we attempt to do here at Central Dallas Ministries.

A recent report ("WELL; What Are Friends For? A Longer Life," April 21, 2009) by Tara Parker-Pope in The New York Times, provided more evidence of this powerful reality.

Here's what she says:

In the quest for better health, many people turn to doctors, self-help books or herbal supplements. But they overlook a powerful weapon that could help them fight illness and depression, speed recovery, slow aging and prolong life: their friends.

Researchers are only now starting to pay attention to the importance of friendship and social networks in overall health. A 10-year Australian study found that older people with a large circle of friends were 22 percent less likely to die during the study period than those with fewer friends. A large 2007 study showed an increase of nearly 60 percent in the risk for obesity among people whose friends gained weight. And last year, Harvard researchers reported that strong social ties could promote brain health as we age.

Read Parker-Pope's entire report here.

Any stories of the healing reality of friendship and community that you'd like to share?

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More on Joseph Lowery

For more insight on Rev. Joseph Lowery's benediction at the close of the Inauguration last Tuesday, check out Gerald Britt's post here.

Gerald's so right.

So much to remember of which most of us have never been aware.

Those who do remember, those who were there, those who felt the pain, and were touched by the hate and the death, those are the people to whom I will give my undivided attention for as long as they will allow me to be taught.

Certainly, these teachers must not be dismissed in haste as if all is forgotten and well.

Thanks, Gerald.



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Surgery for my dad

Today will be spent at The Heart Hospital--Baylor, Plano.

My 87-year-old father will undergo carotid artery surgery early this morning.

The care he is receiving here is nothing short of amazing. His doctors, nurses and all of the others attending him are the very best. We are most grateful for having access to such high quality care delivered by such caring people.

My experience here lines up with the experience we've had while working with the entire Baylor Health Care System in providing community-based health and wellness services in inner city Dallas to thousands of patients who do not enjoy the benefit of health insurance coverage.

Class and caring people, these Baylor folks!

Please remember my dad today.