Getting Back to Center
I’ve changed my mind. I can do that, you know. I can say “no; sorry; something has changed” even after I’ve said, “Sure; I’ll do it.” I don’t do that very often, of course, for each time I run the risk … Read More
We Always Have Choices
In my last post (Tolerance) I compared the trauma of 11/9 with that of 9/11. I also compared the consequences that many are anticipating with post-Reconstruction “Jim Crow” laws in the south. Either is enough to make anyone despair. But, fear not, … Read More
An Apology in Three Steps: A Yom Kippur Story
Repentance Means Having to Say You’re Sorry (with apologies to Eric Segal). That adage made its way into my notes as I prepared for today’s post, but, unfortunately, I’m not sure if it’s original with me. If I stole it … Read More
Now They Are Thirteen
We interrupt my regularly schedule post about doing away with Columbus Day (see this link if you are curious) to bring a celebratory Happy Birthday to two very special grandchildren of mine: Elijah and Isabella. No, my sons … Read More
Blame it on the Oxytocin
This is a post on what is called “The Backfire Effect.” Essentially, it holds that: Confronting a belief with facts to the contrary only strengthens the initial belief. I was discouraged when I sat down to write this post. How could it be, … Read More
The International Day of Friendship
The world is filled with too much hatred, too much fighting and too much mistrust of others. So reads the opening line from a website called Holiday Insights. They were writing about The International Day of Friendship, July 30, calling it “an … Read More
All Politics Is Local
All politics is local. I thought of this aphorism today as I watched the opening scenes of the Republican National Convention out of Cleveland. Don’t worry; that’s the last I’ll mention the RNC. At least for today. Instead, this blog … Read More
What’s Your Bias?
We’re taking a long, slow look at bias — that set of unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that inform our behavior without our being aware — this week. And, given the news we’re surrounded with, it’s timely. My first … Read More
I’m Prejudiced. Are You?
Let’s start here, with a 20-question quiz from understandingprejudice.org to test your understanding of prejudice and discrimination. Just to give you an idea, here’s Question 21 (optional): Imagine you’re having a private, late-night conversation with a new acquaintance about why there are so … Read More