Category Archives: Lessons

The creature most interesting to a dog is another dog. The being most interesting to a child is another child. The people most interesting to people are other people. Our favorite disability is blindness, because we think we can stare … Continue reading →

Of course I’m naturally conservative. Most people are. That doesn’t mean we’re Republicans. It means we resist change, at least a bit, at least at first. People are almost as ready as dogs to make a tradition. Do something once … Continue reading →

If I’m ever going to be bilingual, and it’s a semi-goal, my second language will be Spanish. I spent formative years in Chula Vista, where my exposure was so consistent that I could read it at an elementary level, and … Continue reading →

I’ve mentioned it recently, but I really must insist: No. We can’t let this one get by us. “Rich” does not equal “job creator.” We all know that the big companies, already enjoying tax subsidies, have cut the number of … Continue reading →

My Berkeley cottage is one of five small homes on the property. We’re legally a condominium development but we’re so small we run it informally. No one pays dues. I guess I’m the “HOA,” because I handle the common bills … Continue reading →

… there may be a smoke machine. I could end this post with that. Or I could wait until a sweet everyday example comes to me, so I can make a small point that reverberates. But I’m feeling declarative this … Continue reading →

There’s a strong strain of indignation in my family. Most of us are quite comfortable proclaiming outraged disapproval, sardonic or stern, about conditions we encounter. If one were speaking negatively, the term “rager” could be used. We’re not physically abusive, … Continue reading →