We are all one. The Declaration of Independence is in reality a Declaration of Interdependence based on human equality, the foundation of democracy whereby we have our inalienable rights. The way to destroy a democracy is to practice rampant inequality. Appreciating and celebrating our interdependence enables us to honor equality and preserve our democracy. Part I - includes 16 "real Life" stories about personal experiences of inequality (racial, gender, religious, ethnic, social and financial prejudices). Each story is followed by comments and questions from a rearview mirror. What are the causes of inequality? What could bring better outcomes? What must we do to prevent divisiveness and future squandering of human talents? Part II - is about manifesting equality, using four basic principles identified by Professor Walter Capps from the Danish philosopher N.F.S: Grundtvig, founder of folk schools. The principles are accessible to people of all ethnic and religious backgrounds. Following these principles leads to empowerment, living more fully, freely and happily as illustrated in folk schools throughout the world, including major contributions to civil rights in the United States. Part III - A new approach, Prose Poetry, explores equality, interdependence, independence and truth. The Declarations of Interdependence sounds like a deeply reflective and thought-provoking book. It seems to explore the core values of equality and interdependence, connecting them to the fundamental principles that support democracy. The structure of the book, divided into three parts, suggests a balanced approach to understanding and addressing inequality. The real-life stories in Part I provide personal narratives that could offer an emotional connection to the concept of inequality, helping readers engage with the material on a human level. These personal stories followed by reflections and questions seem like they would spark introspection and dialogue, inviting readers to consider not just the symptoms of inequality, but also its root causes and potential solutions. This reflective element is particularly powerful because it encourages action rather than simply lamenting the status quo. In Part II, the exploration of the principles outlined by N.F.S. Grundtvig and Professor Walter Capps sounds fascinating, especially as they apply to fostering empowerment and promoting equality. Folk schools, which emphasize education for all regardless of background, could serve as a compelling model for how education and shared learning can combat inequality and support democracy. Finally, the inclusion of prose poetry in Part III offers a unique, artistic approach to addressing these themes. Prose poetry can often convey complex ideas in a way that's more emotional and evocative, which might provide a deeper, more resonant exploration of interdependence, independence, and truth. Overall, this book seems like it could be a compelling resource for anyone looking to better understand the importance of interdependence and the social structures that enable or hinder equality. It seems to encourage both personal and societal change, making it a potentially transformative read. Would you say the book draws primarily from historical and philosophical concepts, or does it also engage with current events and modern perspectives on inequality? -Source (Joel Elliott)/Tennessee Joy Marie Ibsen now lives in Lisle, Illinois, where she moved in 2024. Previously she lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico; the Upper Peninsula (Silver City and Trout Creek, Michigan); Evanston and Oak Park, Illinois; and Davenport, Iowa. She has three children, two stepchildren, and five grandchildren. Her husband passed away in November 2022.Ibsen has published several other books: Unafraid I and Unafraid II with 12 new chapters that takes place during the pandemic in 2020-2021. Her other books are: Here and Hereafter, the Eternity Connection; Songs of Denmark, Songs to Live By; and Poetry in the Porkies.