I spent last week in Cincinnati for the Heartland-Delta conference. This conference takes place every three years to allow the Jesuit universities from the region to come together to discuss Ignatian values and Jesuit education. Overall, it was a great experience. The conference was the perfect blend of information-sharing and reflection. I was able to meet people (from administrative staff to university presidents) from many quality, premiere institutions from around the country.

On my way to the conference, I read a book called "Sarah's Key" about a young Jewish child and her experiences throughout the holocaust. I was already in a reflective state of mind regarding the history of our country and our world. While at the conference, we were able to visit the Underground Railroad Freedom Center. I saw pictures of families who were separated while seeking freedom. I read stories of men and women who would rather die than remain in slavery. I saw pictures of lynchings and gasped at the atrocities of early-America.

It made me think...what will we be gasping at in 30, 40, 50 years? What appalling things are we doing in today's society that will make my future children shake their heads?

Whether we are talking about gay/lesbian rights, a country that takes care of our sick/poor before exhausting our resources on other countries, or equal pay and respect for men and women in the workplace, I pray that my children have the opportunity to someday appreciate how far we have come. It would be a travesty if the next generation still has to fight for these freedoms and rights.

I grew up in a diverse area and I've always embraced diversity in others. I realize that some have not had the opportunity to enjoy the multitude of experiences that I was exposed to as a child. Many people come from small towns with very little exposure to others who were "different" from them. Although I do not believe this is an excuse for ignorance, it helps me to be more patient with those who may take longer to see what is right and what is good.

It is my prayer that our country will continue to work toward increased rights and freedoms for all people.