How well does it work when someone points out something you have done wrong, only to have you turn around and point out a way in which they have failed? Does it help resolve the dispute, or does it inflame the grievances that stand between you? If it helps to answer this question, think back […]

Frustrated, confused, and misled by simplistic copy-paste “Us-Them” political labels like Left-vs.-Right, Conservative-vs.-Progressive, or even Libertarian-vs.-Liberal? Me too. After throwing up my hands for years, a thought occurred to me, yielding the 3D diagram below. I could spend many words explaining it. Instead, I’ll let you ponder it and, after careful consideration, let me know […]

In response to much of the political debate about jobs being lost to China and Mexico—and other global punching bags—a meek, oft-ignored retort posits: “But… automation.” Indeed, automation has played as much if not a bigger role in job loss as wage disparities and protectionist (a.k.a., tariff-based) policies. Tinkering with market equality and retaliatory measures […]

Two days ago, I wrote to condemn the Trump-Sessions policy that splits families at border crossings, referencing in passing the distressed world that has led us to this juncture. This messiness deserves a follow-up discussion. As some have (through conflation) pointed out, the housing of children is not a new practice. It happened, however, under […]

As I hear the stories of immigrant parents separated from their children at the US-Mexico border, I can’t help but be torn. On the one hand I want laws enforced, the integrity of our border protected, and humane, well-controlled immigration. The Rule of Law, foundational to this nation and essential to its continued survival and […]

One hundred people stand at the base of one of the world’s tallest mountains. They have all been given equal access to the trail heads. No one is getting blocked. Yet, even before the climb begins, more than a few of them suspect they will never reach the peak. Some folks are simply better suited […]

Many of us giggled and grinned as, on our way into a marathon expo, we passed an exhibit above which a banner dared one and all to “Run Like an Ethiopian.” Under that banner, one fit city dweller stood on a treadmill, at the ready, his waist fitted with a belt attached to a sling […]