Category Archives: Lessons

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 →

When you’re caught in a catastrophe but not pressed by injury or urgency (me, Loma Prieta), the biggest problem is the lack of information. Rumors fly. Cell networks fail. Even the emergency responders have trouble communicating. It’s dreadful. But understandable. … Continue reading →

When you become a grownup at five, your big questions are different than the issues interesting to chronological adults. You wonder why the 30 other kids in your kindergarten class listen to the one teacher. (And as you age and … Continue reading →

I met with a tough-talking attorney some years ago. He interviewed me to determine whether he wanted my little firm to handle his retirement plan. We sat in his conference room and discussed where I’d been and my approach and … Continue reading →