Like many people of her generation, Janet was raised with little religious instruction, due to her parents’ desire to be American. After some exploration into other faiths, she decided in her 20s to learn about the Judaism of her roots. It has been a long journey. She considers herself a JewBu – incorporating elements of both Judaism and Buddhism, generally the ritual and holidays of the former and philosophy of the latter, along with some meditation practice when faced with a challenging situation. Besides her personal journey, Janet spent years developing and leading programs and dialogues bridging religious and other differences. Youth LEAD and the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom are two she speaks of. 

Highlights:
·       The three Cs of dialogue: Curiosity, Courage, and Compassion.

·       Even after years of training and experience, we make mistakes and react instinctively.

·       Speaking with people who are different is challenging. Using a structure all agree to is critical. 

·       Dialogue is the foundation, letting us see each other’s humanity, but action is then necessary to improve the world.  

·       Jewish values of tikkun olam, repairing the world, and tzedakah, charity, inform her social justice work.

References:
Prof. Diana Eck, Harvard University, Pluralism Project – https://pluralism.org
Eboo Patel, Interfaith America – https://www.interfaithamerica.org/people/eboo-patel/
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom – https://sosspeace.org
Roots – https://www.friendsofroots.net
Combatants for Peace – https://cfpeace.org

Social Media links for Méli:
Talking with God Project –  https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271

Transcript: 
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/12730345-38-janet-penn-dialogue-is-the-foundation/edit


Follow the podcast!
The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise:  Is your way similar or different?  Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore?  Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. 

Comments or questions?  Email  Méli -
         [email protected]

The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/