Author Archives: The Narrator

A Scene at the Intersection: Thoughts on Free Speech in America

These days, saying anything remotely political feels like tiptoeing through a minefield while wearing clown shoes. The act of simply acknowledging a political event — any political event — seems enough to draw cheers from one side and pitchforks from … Continue reading

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May Day: An American Original and the Spirit of the Working Class

When most people hear the words “May Day”, they might picture red flags, clenched fists and parades marching through Red Square in Moscow. It’s often painted in broad strokes as a Communist holiday — an international celebration of socialism and … Continue reading

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A Leader for the People: A Reflection on Pope Francis and the Power of Servant Leadership

I should begin by saying that I’m not Catholic. Religion doesn’t define my day-to-day life, nor do I wear faith as a banner. But there is room for belief in something greater, in goodness, in compassion and I think that … Continue reading

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Technologically Impaired

Gravity, Still Undefeated I wrote yesterday about my phone’s interaction with gravity on April 6.  Gravity is a harsh mistress.  Unyielding, unforgiving, likely the inspiration for Murphy and his single documented law. What I thought was going to be a … Continue reading

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“Shatterproof”, My Glass!

When Gorilla Glass Meets the Rock of Reality It was a day like any other, if your “any other” involves crawling through tight spaces in service of search and rescue. (Yes, that again. It’s kind of my thing.) On April … Continue reading

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Crossing the Edge

In addition to my day job, I also volunteer on search and rescue.  Generally, that means I don’t sleep during the day or during the night, but chronic insomnia aside, search and rescue can be very demanding (and rewarding) when … Continue reading

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Tariffs and the Tightrope: How Small Businesses Are Struggling to Stay Afloat

I had lunch this week with a friend who’s been running a retail store for over two decades. Two decades. That’s a big deal in any industry, but especially in retail, where the landscape changes as often as the seasons … Continue reading

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The Dire Wolf’s Return

If you’ve watched Game of Thrones, you probably picture dire wolves as majestic, massive canine companions with a supernatural sense of loyalty.  As much as this version of the dire wolf is compelling, real dire wolves (Aenocyon dirus) don’t quite … Continue reading

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When Intent Goes Astray

The Unspoken Perils of Misunderstood Graphics We’ve all heard the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words”, but sometimes, the wrong picture can leave you wishing for just a few words of clarification.  Graphics are a powerful tool, able … Continue reading

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On Opinions, Laughter and Observing Life

Sometimes, there’s an urge to comment on the world around us.  I’ll say it up front, my goal is never to offend.  I understand that people have different sensitivities, and no matter where I land on the opinion spectrum, someone … Continue reading

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