For more than six decades, Noel “Paul” Stookey—musician, songwriter, and one-third of the legendary folk group Peter, Paul, and Mary—has stood as a beacon of change In the world of social activism. He has devoted his life to the belief that love—not fear or division—is the most potent force for change. 

Despite what could be described as glacially slow progress on many important issues—like racism, poverty, climate change, and countless other inequities—Stookey hasn’t lost faith in humanity’s potential to transform. In fact, through his music, his outreach, and his philosophy of “Big Love,” he continues to inspire people to look beyond headlines, and see the enduring goodness in the world.

This conversation with Noel gives us a unique look into his journey, and underpins his belief that, though progress may be slow, the long arc of time always bends toward justice. 

The Power of ‘Big Love’ in Divided Times

One of the greatest lessons Noel Stookey shares is the importance of patience and a long-term commitment to one’s values. True change doesn’t happen overnight; it requires a consistent belief in one’s cause—even (or perhaps especially) when the world appears resistant to transformation.

“You can’t expect things to shift immediately,” he told us, reflecting on his own career in activism. He reminds us that those who are truly passionate about social change must also become comfortable with the patience it takes to see that change blossom.

This resonates with the central ethos of the Goodness Exchange—that there is a vast reserve of kindness, hope, and goodness, even when we don’t always see it. Noel’s message is clear: change may be slow, but the seeds we plant with our actions today can grow into a brighter future.

Noel’s philosophy of “Big Love” is something he has advocated for throughout his life, particularly in times of societal division. This notion of love transcends simple affection; it’s a commitment to understanding, compassion, and unity. It’s also an ideal we celebrate here at the Goodness Exchange, where we’ve witnessed how small acts of goodness ripple outward into waves of progress.

When asked about how this “Big Love” connects to individual actions, Noel explained that “it’s all about how we approach each other in our day-to-day lives, with open hearts and a willingness to listen.” 

Fostering Social Change with The Power of Music

In his view, love is not passive; it’s an active choice to see others with empathy, and to recognize the humanity that unites us all. Through his music, Noel Stookey has shared this message with the world, and in this conversation, we talk about songs like “Revolution (1X1)” and “Facets of the Jewel,” and how they are just as relevant today as they were when they were written. 

These compositions capture his belief in the power of music. As he explains:

“Music can reach people in ways words sometimes can’t. It has a way of softening the heart, making us more receptive to each other and to change.”

So profound was our conversation about this point that I began to tear up as we discussed the lyrics to “Facets of the Jewel,” simply because they are so true: 

Our lives are connected
Like facets of a jewel
The reluctance of a wise man
The wisdom of a fool
They border on each other
Sometimes kind, sometimes cruel

Our lives are connected
Like patches on a quilt
Sewn by coincidence
Some borders edged in guilt
Every choice we make
Creates a different pattern, still
Our lives are connected…

And who’s to say the universe
Is but a single thought
Contained within the mind of God
And who’s to say it’s not?
If Love is the lesson
Then how’s the teacher taught?

Our lives are connected
Like waves upon a shore
Sometimes with a whisper
Sometimes with a roar
Sometimes we think we leave no trace
But sometimes less is more…

Our lives are connected
Like pages in a book
The past is the present
Through which the future looks
Like leaves on a river
Like ripples on a brook
Our lives are connected
Our lives are connected
Our lives are connected…

These words—this poetry—describes and explains (but does not make an effort to excuse) the turmoil we face in our times.

Beyond performing, Noel Stookey has actively worked to foster social change through initiatives like Music to Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting musicians and activists working to create impactful change. With this initiative, he amplifies the voices of artists who are doing what they can to address some of today’s most pressing social issues—from environmental challenges to racial justice. 

It’s a testament to his enduring belief in the arts as a means of advocacy—even in today’s world, where the noise of division often drowns out messages of unity. Noel’s lifelong dedication to using music as a force of good reminds us of how the arts continue to play a vital role in today’s social movements. As he put it:

“Music has always had this unique ability to transcend boundaries and bring people closer, even when they disagree.” 

Despite the changing times, music still has the power to bring people together. 

Navigating Fear to Build Bridges of Understanding

Noel’s perspective on the nature of fear and its role in division was a particularly insightful part of our conversation. To him, fear—not hate—is the true opposite of love. 

Hate often stems from fear, especially the fear of the unknown or the unfamiliar, and recognizing this distinction is essential for building bridges of understanding. To overcome fear, Noel encourages us to work towards a goal that I also often espouse in my public speaking; to pause and resist reacting based on knee-jerk emotions.

 “We need to take the time to really listen to each other, to see beyond our immediate assumptions.” 

Noel’s words are an important reminder of the power each of us holds to make meaningful change through our own small actions.

A Conspiracy of Goodness: Inspiring Collective Action for a Better World

Noel’s perspective on the “Conspiracy of Goodness”—the idea that people everywhere are quietly working to make the world a better place—aligns beautifully with our mission: Through storytelling, music, and small acts of kindness, we can inspire a global movement of positive change. 

For Noel, this means highlighting unsung heroes, and focusing on solutions rather than problems. He believes that by uplifting these stories, we foster a sense of shared purpose that transcends boundaries.

As we concluded our conversation, Noel left us with one last powerful reminder: 

“‘Big Love’ is more than just a concept; it’s an energy that guides us and fuels the goodness in each of us.” 

For him, and for us at the Goodness Exchange, this love is a beacon of hope—a testament to the enduring goodness in the world.

Thank you, Noel Paul Stookey, for sharing your timeless wisdom and unwavering hope with us. Through your music and your message, you continue to show us what it looks like to believe in humanity and to work tirelessly for a brighter future.

• Website: Music to Life
• Website: Noel Paul Stookey
• Video: Arlo Guthrie/I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You
• Video: How Can I Keep From Singing by Noel Paul Stookey
• Video: Revolution 1X1 by Noel Paul Stookey

• 00:00 – Intro and Welcome
• 02:50 – Reflections on Goodness and Influence
• 05:08 – The 1963 March and Music’s Social Power
• 10:28 – Is Folk Music Evolving?
• 13:34 – Revolution and Making Change One by One
• 16:54 – Serendipity and Connection
• 18:50 – Music to Life: Social Change Through Music
• 23:15 – Concerts and Community
• 30:07 – Break
• 32:23 – The Dimpled White Orb
• 35:00 – Big Love and Compassionate Connection
• 42:40 – Encouraging Optimism and Avoiding Blame
• 50:40 – Fear vs. Hate in a Divisive World
• 55:15 – Final Remarks
• 57:00 – Closing