All previous democracies have eventually failed. Many have drifted into authoritarianism. Since its founding, America has countenanced subjugation of ethnic and racial minorities. Strides have been made, but the nation remains divided. Both by politics and by race. Can it finally become that shining city on a hill?
Archives
The Climate Crisis
It’s no longer climate change–it’s now a crisis. That means the change is serious—and getting worse. We need to deal with it NOW. Why? Because of the accelerating change and the trend line. You probably already believe it’s happening. This article will help you inform friends, family and others of the facts–and what needs doing.
Perspectives on the Eternity of Life–and a Remembrance
We all will die someday–that’s a certainty. How we live our lives will make a difference on what happens thereafter. Heaven, hell, rebirth–your faith and your choice. If nothing else, a life lived well offers an easier death and good memories of you by others. Read on for perspectives on a different view of eternity.
Vietnam and Waiting for Westmoreland–two anniversaries
Most people, I suspect, celebrate anniversaries as special occasions. These are different. They’re reference points in the tapestry of life. Signposts of events that have significantly affected the trajectory of my existence or describe it. Arriving in Vietnam 50 years ago. Writing a book about what transpired and how it changed me for the better.
The Global Solidarity of Youth: Ushering in a New Era of Hope
Franco-American writer and professor Michele de Gastyne offers her views and agreement on SGI leader Ikeda’s proposal to put youth in the forefront of dealing with the problems of nuclear proliferation, refugees, xenophobia and more. It’s a long and densely worded article, reflecting both the thoughts of Daisaku Ikeda and de Gastyne’s consideration of them.
A Buddhist Perspective on Peaceful Political Change
Not surprisingly, discord persists after the 2016 U.S. elections. This item is not about politics or the election. Rather, it’s a Buddhist perspective for going forward in troubling times. Clearly, there are many complex and contentious issues and challenges facing our country. With an enlightened view of our interconnectedness, compassion and dialogue we can overcome them.
Politics, Policies and Pragmatism—Part 3
Public vs charter vs private schools. School choice. Quality of education. How do neighborhood schools affect the value of your home, your taxes, etc. Which kind of school offers the best education? Is it OK to use taxpayer funds to send kids to private schools? Are public schools failing or succeeding. Lots of questions that you should consider competing answers to. This is our wrap up of politics, policies and pragmatism.
Politics, Policies and Pragmatism–Part 2
In June we introduced this topic with a discussion of the TSA, as an example of the pragmatic considerations of airline passenger safety. This time, let’s look at infrastructure. The effects of aging on concrete and metal are well known. As the ad goes for oil changes, “pay me now or pay me later.” The cost of repairs only increase over time. The consequences of catastrophic failure are real and devastating.
The Dream House
The wonderful thing about a custom built home is that you can have everything exactly as you want. The terrible thing about a custom built home is that you can have everything exactly as you want. Huh? Yes, they’re both true. You actually have to decide what you want. Well, isn’t that the whole point? Yes, but the decisions never stop until all the furnishings are in their final place. For some, it all may be simple enough. For others, it may be so daunting they wouldn’t even consider it. Of course, for many it’s not an option due to the expense or the time it takes to completion.
The Momentary Man
An essay on time and self. “Who am I then, as I change in time? The smarta** that still resurfaces from time to time, occasionally causing myself problems as a result? The doper who once smoked it if he had it, escaping the day or the night for the high time? The seeker of a”