The Convocation Unscripted Patterns from the Past, Lessons for our Future
Sep 26, 2025
Explore how historical patterns can inform our present and future. Diana shares insights from her experience with Northern Ireland's peace process, emphasizing the importance of shared goals over mere depolarization. The discussion includes the role of secret negotiations and disarmament in fostering political inclusion. Historical contingency is highlighted as a source of hope, suggesting that the future is open to change. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on navigating deep divisions and protecting democracy.
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Flight Diversion Became Unexpected Community
- Diana Butler Bass described a transatlantic flight diversion after an engine problem and the calm behavior of passengers and crew.
- EU passenger-rights forced United to house and feed them, turning a crisis into an unexpected mini-tour and conversations with fellow travelers.
Walking Belfast Revealed Layers Of Conflict
- Diana recounted visiting Belfast and hearing stories about the Troubles in both East and West Belfast neighborhoods.
- She described learning the geography of conflict and how those places embody decades of religious and political violence.
Secret Clergy Meetings Seeded Peace
- She told the story of a secret peace process where Catholic priests and Protestant clergy met quietly for years at risk.
- Those secret conversations seeded broader change as participants returned to their communities and preached different futures.
