Restoring Institutional Trust and the Cleansing of the Augean Stables

From time to time, institutions sway and even collapse, and it is only then that we recognize their value and significance. At the family level, Thanksgiving at grandma’s house becomes an institution that holds a family together. Institutions are like that: little centers of gravity for social cohesion. Their absence results in a dissolution that … Continue reading Restoring Institutional Trust and the Cleansing of the Augean Stables

Choosing Christmas Presents for the Kids

Thanksgiving dinner is still digesting but Black Friday deals wait for no man. Although, TBH, my inclination towards any Black Friday purchases is pretty low this year, partially because finances are tight and partially because living space is tight during some housing transitions we are working through. But gift giving is a part of our … Continue reading Choosing Christmas Presents for the Kids

Why I didn’t vote for Donald Trump, then I did vote for Trump, and Who I am Voting for Now. If you care.

2016 was the first election in which I did not walk into the voting booth knowing what I would do. As it turns out, I could not bring myself to vote for Donald Trump. Every time we vote, we are holding two things in balance. The first is the character of the nominee, and the … Continue reading Why I didn’t vote for Donald Trump, then I did vote for Trump, and Who I am Voting for Now. If you care.