Saturday, May 1, 2021
05/03/2021
Joyce Antilla Phipps
The 2020 Census results puts New Jersey at 9,288,994 in the state and 5499 military personnel and their families outside of the state but holding their residence here. So our total is 9,294,493. These numbers mean we do not lose any Congressional seats, unlike New York State, just 89 short of maintaining their full Congressional complement.
Questions regarding a possible undercount of black, Hispanic, and other racial or ethnic minorities linger, however, especially in light of the fact of the threats against people who may not be citizens. The Constitution states “persons,” not citizens, are to be the basis of representation.
The fallout from the low increase may just be beginning. As a Nation we had the lowest growth rate since the Great Depression 90 years ago. That does not bode well for our future. Our population is aging and we need an infusion of younger people in order to make our economy and society grow.
Prayer for the Day
Searching for certainty in an uncertain world, we are an anxious people,
For we have more doubts than faith and fear than love;
Wanting answers before knowing the questions, we are unpersuaded
For we are so caught up in trivia that we miss your presence in our lives.
Break down the walls we build to protect ourselves against your demands,
And burst open our hearts to listen to your voice.
In the name of him who shared your voice with us,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
A single day is enough to make us a little larger or, another time, a little smaller
Paul Klee, Swiss artist (1879-1940)
I suppose sooner or later in the life of everyone comes a moment of trial. We all of us have our particular devil who rides us and torments us, and we must give battle in the end.
Daphe DuMaurier, English novelist (1907-1989)
Answer me when I call, O God of my right! You gave me room when I was in distress.
Be gracious to me and hear my prayer.
Psalm 4: 1
