The following is a submission to THINK ACT CONNECT, a platform to share action, inspiration, work, resilience, and justice

I wrote this article as a class paper for spring quarter of 1968. It was a time of experimentation and rebellion as the starry–eyed “Flower Generation” emerged from the doldrums of 50s culture conformity. As society transforms through the catalyst of pandemic, I share my perspective on economic justice, capitalism and socialism, questioning the beliefs and values that have formed the foundation of mainstream America. 

I studied philosophy and majored in Design, graduating as Rochelle Aileen Block in June of 1968. My experience at Antioch has shaped how I see the world. Learning in an environment of freedom of inquiry, I became an independent thinker and found the inner strength to stand up for what I believe in. During my college days, I never imagined I would become an author, healer, and channeler. I have published five books, as well as articles, artwork, and poetry. My newest book, Cat on a Mission, is the third of a trilogy called “Cats Can Save the World.” I see cats as wisdom-teachers for humanity, living examples of the joy of being free.

It was not until October of 2004 that I met Avram for the first time. He has lovingly offered his support as a dear friend and as editor of my writings for over a decade. We were surprised to discover that we were Antioch graduates; he studied psychology as Alan Sacks and graduated in 1976.

We were introduced through a referral from the Gangaji Foundation when I was seeking a spiritual counselor. He has helped me open to the timeless truth beyond the mind. Since 1995 he has studied with his spiritual teachers Gangaji and Ei Jaxon-Bear. As a spiritual counselor he works with individuals and couples at his home in Ashland, OR, and over the Internet.

Avram Sacks ’76

Avram remembers, “In the 16 years I have known Tarra, I have seen her overcome countless challenges and obstacles. She remains steadfast in her dedication to truth and to being of service to all of humanity.” I asked him how Antioch has influenced how he lives his life. He shared: “My time at Antioch in the late 60s and early 70s was a very powerful and formative time in my life. I was very involved with SDS, supporting unions, working to stop the war in Viet Nam, etc. Fifty years later, I am still an activist; I work with the homeless, and I am active with Jewish Voice for Peace. Fifty years have gone by, but the seeds that were planted then are still sprouting.”

Read Tarra’s article about searching for herself in a time of change here.