Let’s review a few rules many of us used to learn. Most of these are in the tradition of my parents and fellow Pennsylvanians. I’m concerned that the instant gratification and solipsism of our time might have already taken their toll on what was once considered common knowledge. I also worry about what might happen … Continue reading Kids’ Stuff
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Justice
Fear has value. The fight or flight reflex has helped our species survive for millennia. In ancient times, we needed to know what to fear – packs of wolves, lions, tigers, bears – and take up weapons or run away. It’s also to our advantage to know friend from foe, to stop “them” from conquering … Continue reading Justice
Bullies
I was bullied in the ninth grade. Mostly shoving, poking, “colliding” in the hall, taunting, name-calling – typical stuff. My bully did this for months. I kept cool until one morning when we gathered for class. He decided to try one more time. I simply reacted. I admit it wasn’t my finest moment. I literally … Continue reading Bullies
Profit
We have been the parents of two Great Pyrenees dogs. Both were wonderful companions and although they sometimes intimidated people, they were friendly, especially to children. The Great Pyrenees is an offshoot of the Tibetan Mastiff line, traditionally a guardian of livestock and palaces, such as Versailles. They were also employed by the French Resistance … Continue reading Profit
Efficiency 2.0
Efficiency as an area of expertise did not exist until the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The quest for greater efficiency is therefore a product of the industrial revolution. I’m not convinced the concept even applies to anything beyond assembly lines, shipping, and certain types of office work. In my last post, I questioned … Continue reading Efficiency 2.0
Efficiency
I’ve had an earworm for several days. I looked it up, thinking that knowing the title would make it go away. I found that it’s from the march, “King Cotton,” by John Philip Sousa. Once upon a time, I played this march. Contrary to my expectations, the earworm did not go away. It strikes me … Continue reading Efficiency
Ban Me
In the 1980’s, the PMRC (Parents Music Resource Council), led by prominent Washington women, such as Tipper Gore and Susan Baker, sought to require labels on record albums to protect young people from what they considered violent, sexual, or profane content. The PMRC was successful, however their parental advisories meant that many albums were given … Continue reading Ban Me
The Cheese Stands Alone
Everything we do is part of a vast chain of events. Sometimes things work out to our advantage. Sometimes not. There are no guarantees. While we might want to minimize suffering and give our children a better world, the outcome of all our efforts is at best uncertain. We might long for stability, peace, and … Continue reading The Cheese Stands Alone
Greatness
Some say the USA is a “great” country. To be fair, millions of people consider their countries great as well. Some want to make America great “again.” I’m not sure they can define what greatness means, beyond “my country first” or “the way things used to be.” Some in high places seem to believe they … Continue reading Greatness
Ring in the Nose
Mom had a go-to expression for moments when it looked like I was about to go along with the crowd or when I wasn’t thinking for myself. Her go-to phrase was, “Ring in the nose!” The implication was that I was being led around like a compliant bull rather than making my own decisions. I’ve … Continue reading Ring in the Nose
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