Allyson Flake Matsoso

I am an military-brat, world traveler, reader of Russian literature and non-fiction, and a stay-at-home mom of five young children. I have a degree in Environmental/African Studies and have done published research in Social Work.

A Fool Seeking Wisdom

There are really two ways to interact with the world. As a fool seeking Beauty or as a victim seeking Justice.

April 02, 2022

Raising Rebels

It is crucial that our youth expect that difficulty will come when they diverge from the majority. This path won’t help them be the “cool kid”, but their shining example could bring hope to the hopeless. They may not march in the crowd – but in attempting to model a virtuous and moral life they will bring back an Ideal lost to many.

Allyson Flake Matsoso

December 06, 2021

A Difficult Childhood

We can find precious memories even in a “bad home”. We can turn pain into triumph. We should avoid catastrophizing the imperfections of our parents or allowing a difficult childhood to define us. Human history is full of suffering, full of parents who made a mess of things.

Allyson Flake Matsoso

November 06, 2021

Who is to Blame?

When we are stuck in blame – when we seek someone to accuse for every difficulty of life – we start to see our fellow man as opponents, rather than fellow-travelers in this difficult life.

Allyson Flake Matsoso

September 11, 2021

Exploration: Know The Place For The First Time

For the world to become “real” to us, we must encounter it. Young people are full of hope, idealism, and a desire to make the world a better place. How wonderful are these instincts! Yet, often these instincts are ill used. Without accompanying experience, knowledge, and empathy, an idealistic young person can damage more than repair.

Allyson Flake Matsoso

July 17, 2021

Our Highest Identity

Is our culture moving backwards? In the last hundred years we have seen a tremendous change in society. In the West, rights and privileges have expanded and there is relative peace and prosperity. Until recently, it looked as if Martin Luther King’s dream for his children, “not to be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character,” was a real possibility.

Allyson Flake Matsoso

March 04, 2021