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IS AMERICA STILL GREAT? - May 9th An M.B. of New York wrote... "You have described our situation to perfection. I am very worried about the direction of the country. I think what you stated relative to our identify is right on. Many folks don't have a clue about what our country was or is becoming. They are too busy texting and tweetng about nothing." A B.E. of Massachusetts wrote...
"To answer that question, you would need to ask: 'Are Americans Still Great?'
An A.E. of St. Petersburg, Florida wrote... "Excellent, so very true. We as a country need to change our ways. Wake up people!" An S.G. of Illinois wrote... "I think that our becoming a nation of consumers has much to do with the situation. We thrived when we were producers and had factories all across the nation. The countries currently thriving are producers not merely consumers. We did great with technology for a time but even that function was outsourced to save some bucks. Had we kept both here in America, we would have many well paying jobs. The service sector only provides crappy jobs which pay very poorly. The financial sector is great for condensing the wealth but we need our money in circulation, not salted away. The lousy political situation is more a result of our decline." A D.K. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote...
"Hi Tim, Very good info. How about next week hitting our healthcare program hard. It is a train wreck!
But it looks like some people out there have a solution. See http://theanswer.callmdplus.net/
A K.B. of New York, New York wrote... "I really like this one. Great points." An S.C. of Florida wrote... "I could not have said it better. I have been here through many Presidents. I have been here after WW2 when Americans became proud to be called Americans and women began getting out of the kitchen and being a large part of the earning power that helped to build America to what it is. I was proud to stand up in the auditorium and pledge to the Flag. I was proud to sing our National Anthem and knew every word. I do not think that most of the kids today even know who wrote or the words to it. I believe it is still sung at Ballparks and not at schools. I was happy to share a Christmas holiday and still keep my own beliefs. I enjoyed seeing a decorated Christmas Tree inside our school. It certainly did not make me think less of my own religion. I never gave it a thought and never complained. My teachers in school took over their class and taught us without worrying about kids bringing guns to school. Teachers knew how to punish unruly kids without having to call in the Police. We all wore the same white blouses and blue skirts or pants. We learned respect.... Nothing is the same today. Nothing at all. I wanted to help out in school, but was afraid because of all the lockdowns that occur these days, and guns the kids take from their houses and shoot or burn to death their student friends. America is not as it was. I can vouch for it so ask me. I lock my doors at night or when I am in the house. When I was growing up we slept out on the firescape, windows all open throughout the house. America has less schools, less kids who want to learn, less teachers who have no fear of teaching. I see America as it was, becoming weak and that is sad when they raise loans to kids who want to go to college so they cannot afford to lear. How then is America to grow? The worse part is our Politicians fighting with each other like spoiled brats. If they cannot all agree of creating a better America than it seems to be now, then how can anyone else respect this country as they once did. All I can think about today is ROME......." A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "The first step towards dealing with the situation is to recognize it exists and clearly defining it. This you have done, and in detail and as an American speaking primarily to your fellow citizens. The fact you, as an American, can see this and speak thusly to your fellow citizens is, itself, a true sign of hope for the future. Not all America's problems are internal, and the fact that vast millions all over the planet have 'woken from the deep sleep of ages,' and are now openly competing for resources, markets and industrial resources is probably something that could not have been prevented by anyone, anywhere. In many ways, the United States seems to have lost its way in this brave new world of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. The world of 1945-1985 is gone forever but I believe, looking in from the outside, that the USA can re-invent itself successfully and continue for a long time to come to give its own people an advanced standard of living and the more subtle gifts of hope and joy without surrendering the really great principles of its foundation. There remains yet in the United States vast reservoirs of talent, inventiveness, courage and wealth, if only these can be managed and deployed with a sense of national purposes and for the greater good of all. Without going all the way down the road of radical isolationism, it might be better if the USA was to concentrate more of its human and material resources within its own borders and recognize that Imperial America is not the best model for this or succeeding centuries. It is probably important for the United States to recognize and work closely with its historical friends - cherished frienships within the larger family of the English speaking peoples. Pay attention to your Canadian friends and neighbours. They share so many of your own deepest political, social and cultural values. Canada should never be taken for granted. Also, value and cherish the Australians and New Zealanders, your family outposts in the Pacific. Pay especially close attention to your long and honoured ties to the United Kingdom. Here is a nation, once imperial, that also shares your best history and your highest ideals. That special relationship with the British matters deeply to the USA in the coming years. Look deeply into why other great nations and empires failed, so that your great nation shall not make the same errors.
- Mercenary armies instead of solid, citizen soldiers.
But, speaking from the outside I would not count America out - not yet, and not by a long shot. That being said, time matters in getting things turned around." An H.S. of Las Vegas, Nevada wrote... "I have nothing to add, Tim. You said it all. Amen." A K.E. of Sacramento, California wrote... "I agree. Great job telling it the way it is." A K.S. of Oklahoma wrote... "I think that America is on the edge of a precipice. We could go over the edge at any moment and if current trends in American societal continue in their current direction. Look at history. EVERY culture who was the leader at their time (i.e., Romans, Greeks, Turkish, etc) fell due to their own internal issues. Why would America feel that are any different than any of the other leading cultures of history?" An L.M. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania wrote... "Not quite sure if it was Thomas Aquinas that stated: 'A man is most powerful when he learns to rule himself and his own inclinations!' I think this can also be applied to nations. The horse is out of the barn and is galloping down the road!"
THE POWER OF 'GOOD MORNING' - May 7th An S.F. of London, United Kingdome wrote... "I have thought the same thing 'exactly' myself before about the power of good morning - when I go jogging I say good morning as I pass - I wanted to do a newspaper campaign about saying good morning." A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "Good one, Tim! So often it is the so-called 'little things' that are so important...." A T.H. of El Segundo, California wrote... "Great article Tim!" An L.M. of Chicago, Illinois wrote... "Great audio article. Gives me something to strive for, everyday." A K.E. of Sacramento, California wrote... "Good Morning to you! I so agree that moods are contagious!" :) A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "That postman was a ray of sunshine for a lot of unhappy people. Smiles and cheerfulness usually get answered in kind...but not always. It's a bit of a hot button for me right now. Having spent a fair amount of time in waiting rooms in recent months, I can relate to this. On my last visit, I made a point of smiling at and trying to make eye contact with every person I passed. None of them smiled back and most avoided looking at me. I'm not that bad looking, really. I like to watch people rather than the talk show or cooking show on the TV. One elderly lady was called in and as she struggled to rise from her chair, her cane dropped. Neither the man sitting across from her nor his 12 year old son even looked up from their hand held games. I could have gotten to the cane by stepping over those knuckleheads' feet, but I can't get up fast. I wanted to smack both of them and ask if they were raised by wolves. The poor lady got her cane and carefully stepped over the feet of the slackers. After seeing that, I lost interest in my smiling campaign." A K.S. of Oklahoma wrote... "Not only will a cheerful 'Good morning' do wonders for those being greeted, it it also creates an internal chain reaction within ourselves that can last all day."
FOR THE LOVE OF THE KENTUCKY DERBY - May 4th A P.M. of Marksville, Louisiana wrote... "One day I hope to go, not so much to gamble but to watch the races and wear a big fancy hat." A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "Good for you! Enjoy this great classic!" An E.C. of St. Petersburg, Florida wrote... "Great article." A K.E. of Sacramento, California wrote... "My dad used to take me to the horse races! I fell in love with the excitement of it all! Great write Tim!" :) A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I love the Derby, too. My family always had a Derby pool, drawing horses' names from a basket. It was small change prizes, but having a chance to win a few bucks made the race even more exciting. I'd like to see it live at least once!"
UNDERSTANDING POLITICAL BRAINWASHING - May 2nd An L.M. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania wrote... "The twisting and subverting of language used to manipulate and control attitudes in order to impose draconian ideology on society better known as semantic engineering. Advanced by Adolph Hitler in his book 'Mein Kampf,' where he said if words are repeated enough and loud enough by prestigious people according to an ideology, most people will embrace it. The lie becomes the new truth, that is what is happening today! What generation have been led to believe about the unborn, Hitler said about the Jews, that they were not human. TIM's COMMENT: Actually it was Joseph Goebbels who came up with the propaganda techniques for the Third Reich. He wrote, 'That propaganda is good which leads to success, and that is bad which fails to achieve the desired result.' Also. 'It is not propaganda’s task to be intelligent, its task is to lead to success'." A D.R. of Washington, DC wrote... "Do you think that the daily bombardment of public opinion polls is just subliminal brain washing? For example, a candidate is ahead in the poll so he will win, right? No point for you the voter to vote for any opposition candidate. Everyone is buying this product. So, you should too. Do you agree?" TIM's REPLY: Yes, it is a matter of subliminal suggestion. Most people do not want to disrupt the status quo, which is why they follow the popularity poll." A B.K. of Pennsylvania wrote... "This is a very thoughtful piece. I appreciate your range in your ability comment on mowing lawns all the way to addressing truths such as is written here. I am always hear myself say 'it’s the media'. We all know it is also mental laziness by us all not to drill down far enough to find the truth. With so many choices even those of us who pride ourselves on our ability to sift enough to find the truth. As a financial advisor I often present myself as a financial news/concept/strategy aggregator. Keep the good stuff the good stuff coming." An S.C. of Holiday, Florida wrote... "A great writeup as usual." A P.M. of Marksville, Louisiana wrote... "This was a great article that I hope a lot of people read so they are not so easily taken." A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... Part of our strength, and also a problem, is the increasing need for specialization, which increases as societies become both larger and more complex. In our own time, we are forced to rely on an army of specialists. My neighbor was complaining the other day, for example, that he no longer understands how half the things in his own home actually work - be it the new high efficiency electronic furnace, the actual electro-chemical processes of his modern water filtration and softening system, or even the apparently complex programing of the dishwasher. Long ago he gave up ever being able to raise the hood of his car and do even minor repairs, discovering the modern automobile is a high-tech computer that happens to have wheels attached. All of these things, it seems, require external experts to repair, replace or even evaluate. Even buying and selling in the marketplace has become increasingly populated by experts - the real estate professional, the food analyst-nutritionist (who can actually understand the content and food value labels on the packages), and the interior design consultant when purchasing new drapes! It seems right, somehow, to rely on experts in the legal, medical and engineering fields, and it is then but a small step to accepting the necessity of reliance on experts in the political life of the nation as well. In fact, and Tim you may encounter this all the time in your own business, there is frequently conflict in organizations between the technical experts and the managerial officers. I am reminded on the old joke that made the rounds decades ago when sex education was being introduced in our Ontario Grade 7, 8 and 9 education system. Dear old dad, viewing his son's development one day, decides it is time to have the necessary but awkward discussion, between father and son, about sex. In approaching his thirteen year old son, father begins with 'Tom, I think you and I need to have a talk together about men and women, and about human reproduction.' To which, the expert replies full of confidence, 'Sure thing, Dad, what is it you need to know?'" A P.M. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote... "Excellent article, Tim.. We need to brainwash the masses with the 'truth' concerning capitalism and our constitution. I am tired of hearing about how the wealthy are 'greedy'. This is the biggest brainwashing of all times; when it is the wealthy that provide the jobs for many and yet many who choose not to work but to live off of the fruits of everyone else's labors are not considered to be 'greedy'? What a travesty!"
WHY JAPAN DROPPED THEIR CORPORATE TAX RATE - April 30th A J.L. of Tennessee wrote... "When you consider taxes like this, don't forget all the loop holes that have allowed some companies to get away with paying NOTHING. I don't see this adding job growth. Historically, our country has prospered when the rich pay their fair share. Instead of hiring more workers, corporation leaders have given themselves pay raises and the economy has suffered as a result." TIM's REPLY: According to the statistics as pointed out in the article, the lion’s share of “loopholes” is for research and development and expanding facilities (or rebuilding). Regardless, after all these “loopholes” have been spent we are still paying more in taxes than everyone else." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "Amen to this: 'Only when the populace realizes the emperor has no clothes will they be willing to abandon the leader and follow someone else.' I have to wonder what it will take to open people's eyes. Your example of Sarah Palin/Tina Fey is right on target, too. SNL did a great disservice to the candidate and the American people, although the skits were funny. It's kind of scary to realize that people trust SNL more than Fox News."
A TRIBUTE TO TYPEWRITERS - April 27th A K.E. of Sacramento, California wrote... "Still have my old typewriter, but wonder if I can ever find another ribbon." TIM'S REPLY: Here is where I go for ribbons: http://www.myinkpro.com/ A P.M. of Marksville, Louisiana wrote... "I loved my typewriter." A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "I, too, remember my Grade 9 typing and penmanship class! I manually typed all my high school and university essays, including Graduate School papers, on manual typrewiters. Oh, what I would have given for word processing technology then, could I even have imagined it!" An S.T. of Long Island, New York wrote... "I have a post I need to write about typwriters too -- my boys pulled out my old one from the attic. How novel of them! They were fascinated by how it actually works; don't get to see the inside of a computer! And yes, I miss mine too. Did all my early stories on the typewriter. And I have to say to type an address on an envelope is much easier than on a computer. I'm always printing it out the wrong damn size or something...great post." An M.S. of Illinois wrote... "They did have a distict smell to them. I had forgotten about that. Thanks for the link to the museum too. He's got some oldies for sure." An S.S. of Idaho wrote... "Wow, that brings back memories. I hated typing at the time, who knew we would later spend so much time keyboarding. Thanks for the great article." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I had an electric Olivetti with changeable font wheels and on board correction tape! It was a big step up from my IBM Selectric which sounded like an automatic weapon when I typed really fast. I also learned on a manual. For term papers, I'd white out the mistake, then type the correct letter over it. For a professional look, I'd make a photocopy to submit. My daughter and her friends were recently talking about the old Apple computers they learned on in grade school, playing matching games and Oregon Trail. It was high tech for its time, but for them, it's the good old days." :) An L.M. of San Bernardino, California wrote... "That's a great treatise on the subject. I started typing in the early '50s and had to use a lot of pressure on those keys." A D.C. of Kansas wrote... "Computers have helped in so many ways ... but with a typewriter, the user needs to know how to spell. I miss that. A side benefit ... strong fingers." An L.M. of Chicago, Illinois wrote... "Does anybody still remember Ernie Pyle? It's hard to find someone who ever used a manual typewriter. I still have my IBM Selectric with an Elite and a Courier element. Indispensible for those forms that the government insists you fill out." A K.S. of Oklahoma "It is funny. We just found my wife's father's old typewriter. It is in perfect condition & I also love the tickety tack of the typing." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "Excellent, Tim. It seems like such a simple, logical concept, but apparently not everyone can accept it."
THE FOUR STEPS FOR AMERICAN SUBVERSION - April 25th A Z.M. of Dunedin, Florida wrote... "Wow, thats eerily accurate to current events. Enlightening article." An L.M. of Pennsylvania wrote... "I have always said, if you would control the world tomorrow than control today's chldren!" A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "Too long to work. It also assumes a homogenous response by vast millions in a definable direction, which is not a valid assumption. It also fails to take into account novelty. Look at how the rise of Hitler and Nazism in Germany derailed and 'blew away' this theory of slow subversion between only 1930 and 1940! If this kind of program is all that threatens our mature, western democracies, I think we can all sleep well at night." An M.H. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote... "Wow! I remember learning this from my dad and him telling all of us to stay diligent. Again, well done. Let's hope we can put this in front of many Americans so they will keep their eyes and mouths open. Our president is very scary. Too much of what you say is happening. We are the US; we can stop it!!! I will share. By the way, my daughter just read the Hunger Games. She is 23 and very scared for our country because the book made her see many similariites." An M.F. of Houston, Texas wrote... "This is scary stuff, especially when you see how easily it's implemented. Communism is hardly the most subversive entity struggling for dominance, however. Something I've long looked at with alarm came into sharp focus when I picked up a book called 'Confessions of an Economic Hit Man' by John Perkins. Greed. It already rules. The four steps outlined above have been greatly streamlined in the service of corporate empire building. I then remembered some long-ago e-mail from an uncle about Maj. Gen. Smedley Butler (War is a Racket) and looked him up. Yep, these same machinations were in full swing from the first world war. Or maybe since ancient Rome." An L.S. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote... "Bingo! Saw this coming in 1964." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I can remember learning this is grade school. The teacher and class agreed unanimously that this could never happen in the USA. Now, I wonder...." An L.M. of Chicago, Illinois wrote... "You're starting to get scary!"
WHY WE NEED POLICY MANUALS - April 23rd A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "When I was teaching for a large, urban Board, the Policy Manual was enormous - it looked and read something like the national tax code! Once it had to interact with the Collective Agreement, itself an enormous document of imposing detail, each written with only partially congruent agendas and each a legal document capable of external interpretation and enforcement (happily that rarely happened), the whole business became terribly difficult. Still. no one ever outright denied either document was anything less than essential. I wonder if a policy manual would help the average marriage......" An H.S. of Las Vegas, Nevada wrote... "Great advice. It's sad that a company has to develop these manuals and work to enforce them, but then again, employee loyalty has gone the way of the Dodo bird because most companies now treat the employees like numbers on a report." An M.A. of Karachi, Pakistan wrote... "Fantastic writer and article. Please keep sending me your blogs." A K.S. of Oklahoma wrote... "One CRITICAL aspect of developing a Policy Manual is to ensure that everything is not in stone. As companies grow and mature and when our society and business environments change, we need to be able to change with them. If we are unchanging in some areas, we may soon find antiquated policies that are holding back growth." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I think your outline for a policy manual is excellent. Some of the categories seem pretty standard, but others are circumstances that might not occur to anyone until the situation happens. At that time, it would be a Godsend to have something in writing to satisfy everyone. I've been given a policy manual on the first day of employment and also the time to read it. When I've read it, I've signed a statement to the effect that I understand it and agree to abide by it. I can remember keeping the manual handy to refer to when something came up, usually unexpectedly, such as a death in the family or a need to know the policy for maternity leave." A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "It is amazing the ground you need to cover for an employee handbook. I've had the pleasure of writing a few."
WHY WE STILL DO NOT TRUST THE MEDIA - April 20th A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... Tim, this is sad but true. The media has earned its reputation for slanted reporting and tabloid style stories. They seem to be unconcerned with truth and facts, trying for sensationalism and selling papers or boosting ratings. I recently read that Obama believes that those who feel negatively about his presidency have been influenced by Fox News' conservative reporting. He seems to believe he's doing a stellar job, but blames the reporters for presenting him in a bad light. With the exception of Fox, the media eats out of his hand and prints what he wants. Delusional president and tabloid media - what has happened to our great country?" A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "It's a problem for sure. I am just old enough to remember the dead-pan, no emphasis reporting of the old BBC: 'Mrs. Murphy has lost her prize cat on Hammersmith road. Mr. Mao Tse-Sung declared communist victory in Peking this morning, local time. Mr. Attlee's government announced it will proceed with nationalization of the major British coal mines.' All in an even tone of voice with a studied non-inflection and, of course, the most cultivated of 'Oxcam' English. The idea that the reporter or 'news reader' should himself become 'part of the show,' or that the news should itself be dressed up, packaged and sold as a form of actual 'entertainment' would have been anathema in those days and with that organization. Even today, if one watches the modern BBC, say their World News show, persons being interviewed are actually given a reasonable amount of time to answer a question in several sentences, or more, and are rarely interupted in mid-thought or mid-sentence by the rather polite host. Stil, even conservative British reporting culture is being dragged in the American direction. Much of the problem is actually rooted in the private profit nature of news organizations. Everything depends on revenue to the company, and that depends on the size of the audience the organization can sell to sponsors at any given time, and that is measured by audience ratings. Thus, in a competitive news reporting environment, the ratings are everything. In turn, what creates a mass audience is largely defined by the interest and attention span of that audience. This is why the personality of the reporter or of the "host" has become more important than the story supposedly being reported. This is why complex issues are reduced to the "lowest common denominator" of time and essence. If the 'reporter' cannot impress his or her devoted audience with his or her brilliant insights and no-nonsense, 'cut to the essence' aggresiveness, and do so in one minute, perhaps less, then we never do get to see or hear any depth concerning the national economy, the roots of social problems, or the subtle differences in emphasis as between two candidates for leadership of the same political party." A B.H. of Boulder, Colorado wrote... "I find it extremely interesting, and at the same time somewhat disturbing, that my liberal democrat friends think a given news program is 'too conservative' while my conservative friends view the same show as too liberal. And, of course, the media personalities who are obviously linked with one side or the other are vilified by the opposition to their views. Civility, honesty, and integrity are watchwords of the past, unfortunately. Today, it’s how you slant the information to make the point you want to make. No such thing as mutual respect for the other side’s positions because both sides are preoccupied with taking potshots at each other. Old military maxim: if the enemy (opposition) is 'in range' – so are you." A D.T. of Miami, Florida wrote... "Because they have genially earned our distrust. They are for sale to the biggest advertiser." An O.B. of Macon, Georgia wrote... "At one time in this country we had more folks that cared about each other too, Today we are in essence too affluent. We no longer need to bond together for entertainment. We use to know every neighbor for blocks, today we are fortunate if we know even those next door. As bad as I would hate to live through it, we need tougher times. Folks need to re-find the true values of human life. Today we place more stock in celebrity figures than the soldiers who fight to keep our freedoms and the battle away from our front doors. We watch the court battles on TV with our eyes glued to the set, while we turn blind sided to the acts of politicians (unless of course they commit a crime or have extra-maritial affairs). The name of the game is 'How are you going to entertain me?' Sadly it eventually gets to the point the media is controlled by a few power hungry folks who would like nothing better than to see the US crumble. Trust the media...not I." A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "I have given up 'watching' the news, and for the most part 'listening' to the news, and I stick solely to reading the news. Here is why. I feel that the media (conservative stations and liberal stations alike) take to telling the public what to think, as opposed to presenting the facts and allowing us to draw our own conclusions. I see this on every media outlet I watch, with the exception of possibly CSpan (they don't usually give commentary). The issue I had was the ability to separate their spin on the news from fact in a short time they presented it, leading me to feel misinformed when I later would research what it was I had heard. So from now on I stick to reading the news. It alleviates such things as tone and emphasis on certain parts of a story--and I can quickly decipher fact from spin and added commentary. I can also cross reference those facts quickly via the Internet and determine what is taken a few steps beyond the truth. And from that--I can form my own opinions, draw my own conclusions based on the facts and disregard the rest of the garbage they try to put out there. It is funny to read the news, and do my own research, then later overhear a news station spin it. I shake my head almost every time!"
THE LONG HOT SUMMER OF 2012 - April 18th An M.M. of Orlando, Florida wrote... "You're spot on here Tim and my prediction will be that much of the violence will erupt right here in sunny/hot Central Florida between the Republican National Convention in Tampa and the Trayvon Martin trial in Sanford! There is no telling which way the Trayvon Martin case will go after Casey Anthony was acquitted, but either way lots of people will be angry!" An O.B. of Macon, Georgia wrote... "The scenario as I see it as of today: The OWS is funded by and fueled by George Soros. This group will be non-violent until mid-August/late September, then the violence will start, first small skirmishes that can be put down by local law enforcement, then more violent until the Guard has to be called in and it will have it hands full as the battle will erupt on many fronts at once. Martial Law will be declared and the election set aside. The Florida shooting incident is part of the plan. From Tampa the group called service workers of America (the New Black Panthers) openly stated for CNN that they are suiting up and booting up to kill whitey. At Camp Blanding in Florida, near Stark, FEMA personel are being trained by the 100s to become law enforcement officers. The Executive order signed by the president gives him the right to declare a state of emergency in which he can draft ordinary citizens into a militia without pay. It also has provision for the 'czars' appointed by the current president, to take over almost every resource in the nation. Dr. Watson, there is something afoot. All this is not happening by accident. I see civil war before the end of the year. And I believe you won't see an election for pres, for many years. Like you, I pray everyday that my findings are incorrect, but more and more I see the chess peices being put into place. The game is about to commence in full public view and it will not be a pretty sight. That's my take on it." A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "Unfortunately, I believe your concerns are more likely to take place than not. The general situation strongly suggests a troublesome summer." TIM'S REPLY: "The young people call me an alarmist, but I like to be prepared for any contingency. Unlike the young people, we're both students of history and remember the 60's well. The young people do not." A C.H. of Tampa, Florida wrote... "A very well written article. The possibility for violence in the streets is approaching the flashpoint and may very well erupt into the scenarios you accurately depicted. We must all pray that cooler heads will prevail or our country is doomed and many "innocent bystanders"will be inevetibly caught in the maelstrom. I expect you'll get many responses to this article. Keep spreading the word (even if it's ominous)." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "In 1967, Detroit experienced a race riot that was the beginning of a steady decline for that city. I'm not sure that kind of violence would be handled as well now. I was 15 years old then and not really afraid, but now I think of my children and grandchildren and hope this can be avoided. I agree that there is a tinderbox waiting for a spark to be fanned into flame by the media. Let us pray for peace." A D.T. of Miami, Florida wrote... "I totally agree: 'If the 60's taught us anything, violence can easily erupt despite the best intentions for peaceful and nonviolent protests'. You also will not hear any mention of why America in 2012 looks a lot like America in 1776 in reference to the many being lorded over by the few. Obama may be the biggest scam every pulled on the American people, he should make Bernie Madoff proud. We must get back to a Federal government that simply protects America and Americans and turn everything else back over to the states, so politics can return to being local once more." An A.O. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote... "I have a feeling the Summer of '68 political conventions will pale in comparison to the upheavel in store for this summer's events. I TOO hope you're wrong, Tim.... but I have a feeling you're right on the money." A C.G. of Cincinnati, Ohio wrote... "I just re-read this and it makes even more sense the second time. Let's hope cooler heads prevail." A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "Praying for a cool summer. Since when are weather forecasters right anyway??? LOL."
"MAD" MANAGEMENT - April 16th A D.M of Montana wrote... "Good article. Just what I needed today." An H.S. of Las Vegas, Nevada wrote... "As usual, I agree with you completely, Tim. How cool to have that old manual! I think you're right about the supervisor vs. manager part. A supervisor should be working right by their employees, available for questions, reviewing work, and gathering data for the manager. to use for bigger decisions." A K.S. of Oklahoma wrote... "Some of our problems is that we think there are new solutions to age old problems." TIM's REPLY: Yea, it's called the 'Reinventing the Wheel' phenomenon. A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "Sound advice that hasn't changed over time."
THE HEALTH NAZIS - "NO SOUP KITCHENS FOR YOU!" - April 13th A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "As if the government doesn't have their hands in ENOUGH areas of our lives--I guess they'd rather see a homeless person starve than get something to eat? It is appalling. Makes you wonder when people will wake up and realize government should be limited, severely limited!! Why make it any harder for a person who is homeless or in need to find a decent meal? I volunteer at the shelters here-- I haven't seen this where I am--but if I do--I will be saying something to those who represent me. Don't they realize that by passing these crazy laws they are not only limiting access to something vital (food) but they are also taking away our freedom to choose salty, sugary, foods?? Okay--feathers officially ruffled!" A G.L. of Tampa, Florida wrote... "This one is a real zinger. I cannot believe we have stooped to this level. Big brother is certainly doing his very BEST to try and keep us under his thumb. Sad thing is it is working, we are loosing more and more of our rights. You would think they would be thrilled that volunteers are doing such a praise worthy job without the help of Big Brother instead of trying to close them down. I won't even comment on no best friend. That is totally stupid, and insane. Who in the UK thought that one up?" A J.P. of Toronto, Ontario wrote... "Yes. To actually prohibit donations of this or that kind of food is going too far. I am left-wing, but not that far left!" A W.C. of Milwaukee, Wisconsin wrote... "This is another situation that seems surreal.......people need to wake up!" A K.B. of New York City wrote... "Interesting... I can't believe they're doing that...so stupid." A J.S. of Arizona wrote... "I can't believe some of the stories I've read regarding this issue, and most of it makes no sense to me at all." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "Ridiculous. I used to work for a vending service company whose unsold products were picked up weekly by a local soup kitchen. Products included pastries, snack crackers and cheese, sandwiches, gelatin, candy, and fruit. There was a very large amount, it was in clean packages and it was feeding people who needed it. If it were thrown away, homeless people would probably be fishing it out of the dumpster, so it would be much less clean and healthy." A K.S. of Oklahoma wrote... "I guess charitable work to help fee the homeless will need to go under ground." A A.O. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote... "Oh Jesus...... sometimes I just shake my head at these comments and the justification for making them. People! If you love for the government exceeds your concept of common sense you're screwed if, God-forbid, there is ever a MAJOR, MAJOR disaster and you have to fend for yourselves. On a side note - Tim, I love this line - 'Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.' Sounds like half our employees that try and milk their 8 hour day by expanding menial tasks instead of tackling new ones and personally expanding their horizons. (But then again, we are becoming a dependent society that just 'fills the available time' playing the game avoiding getting caught - instead of just doing the right thing.)"
JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS - April 11th An L.G. of Missouri wrote... "I wanted to express how much I enjoyed your absolutely objective (and eye opening) post. I think you really emphasized clearly how much of a role the media and public has created a perception of bias in this case and has elevated this to a serious matter of racism (including the Black Panthers). This story has received so much air time and support (many 'hoodie rallies' were held in memory of Trayvon Martin), however, it seems obvious there is a force behind this media insurgency making us as readers and consumers feel bad for the handsome Martin and hate the 'perpetrator' and the 'racist' George Zimmerman. Martin's death was over seven weeks ago and the investigation has not furthered, unless you count the announcement of the intentional absence of grand jury in the case. I truly expect to the see the same amount (if not much more) backlash with the media as with Casey Anthony. Martin's case has reopened and poured salt into racism wounds that I thought was healed. With death threats coming from every angle for Zimmerman and the complementary coverage online, it seems easy to jump to his guilt. It is time that will bring true evidence and eventual justice and I hope the media sticks along long enough to report that. Your opinion on media bias and overall objectivity in this case has been an appreciated breathe of fresh air as a studying journalism student and close observer on this case. I wanted to share with you a video about the Trayvon Martin case that I think you will find relevant and supplemental to your coverage. I hope you enjoy it, as I included the link below.
'No Grand Jury in Trayvon Martin Case'
A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "I have to agree Tim. The way of arguing today is not really debate style arguing. It is a Sherman's March to the Sea--and I love that analogy you use. There is no respect for an opposing opinion...if you don't agree with the masses you are part of the problem. And that mentality, in my opinion is creating a closed mindedness from the very people who claim to be open-minded.. I guess the younger generation will do what they are taught. Go to a political rally, watch the analysis shows on cable news stations--they all do this--and it is irritating as heck. I have since kept my nose out of Internet debates on politics for this reason. I won't be baited." A P.M. of Palm Harbor, Florida wrote... "Good article, Tim. Dropping the argument before you find yourself slugging it out in the gutter is what I have to do with one of my daughters who is too liberal to separate fact from fiction. I cannot discuss politics with her; not even the KeystoneXL pipeline. DUHHH." An M.B. of Clearwater, Florida wrote... "This essay REALLY hit my hot buttons. This total lack of concern for others and insistance on getting what they want is exactly what I am dealing with now, since we have two-digit IQ, immature, low-life neighbors all around us. I was brought up with very high ethical standards and a social conscience, taught to be decent and never get angry and lower myself to their level, no matter how you are treated, and grew up in a highly intellectual family, full of reasonable people who could argue without taking it personally or ever personally attacking. One thing I have now learned. THAT DOES NOT WORK WITH THESE TYPES OF PEOPLE. My husband has lived here all his life and thinks all people are like this. He has refused to move, even when we had enough extra money to do so, because he believes all neighborhoods are like this, despite never having lived anywhere else since he was three years old. I've lived in eight states and in six areas of Pinellas County, and only here have I encountered this. After reading your essay, I am now wondering if my husband is right. I have no idea how to deal with these people who can't even think, let alone think logically, and who blame others for things they have done themselves. Letting it go and walking away is not an option here, as you mention, because these people regard it as weakness and only increase the bullying, and the constant noise. I have found the one and only way to get them to back off is to be even louder, meaner and scarier than they are. I hate having to do that, but it is all they understand, having grown up in trashy homes where that was normal behavior. You don't have people like this in your affluent neighborhood, do you? God help us if this is everywhere. The moral rot alone will destroy us, even without the political/financial efforts being made to do so. This is my biggest problem in life, far, far worse than my physical illness, our financial insecurity, and being so far from my closest friends, who are keeping me going through all this by phone and e-mail." A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I have also noticed that lack of solid information does not deter some people from forming and expressing opinions. The media is at fault for spinning, slanting and spiking information, but we should all be smart enough to wait for facts if we cannot find them by research. Showing a shooting victim's baby picture next to one of the shooter, for example, tilts the truth and fans the flames of indignation. Freedom of speech allows us to express ourselves, but with it comes the responsibility to listen to the other person's words with respect. While we may not agree on the issue discussed, we need to respect each other's right to hold an opposing opinion." An R.M. of Dunedin, Florida wrote... "I liked your article. Critical thinking - it's the other national deficit! Sadly, opinion commentary on blogs, social and broadcast media have become misinterpreted as objective news by a growing number in our society. Like your 'way of arguing,' I fear civility in general is becoming 'old school'."
HIGH TECH PICKPOCKETS - April 9th An M.B. of Clearwater, Florida wrote... "If you have the time, you might want to Google government plans for RFID chips. What you are complaining about is just the tip of the United Nations Agenda 21 iceberg. Hint: Avoid flu shots at all cost. Then, go read your Bible and refresh yourself re: the consequences of refusing 'the mark of the beast'. Just sayin'...... I was surprised you didn't already know all this." A B.H. of Boulder, Colorado wrote... "Of course, this is all predicated on the assumption that the data is in readable format, unencrypted. At some point, I suspect the companies will have to implement a rather secure encryption schema to protect themselves from financial liability in the event of a data loss. Right now, when a customer uses a computer to purchase on line, the assumption is that the data breach was THEIR fault, and then the financial consequence of identity theft is borne by the individual. However, with RFID, that’s not the case. It will only take ONE serious case of financial loss by a customer and a lawsuit for damages before the credit card companies either revisit their RFID policies OR decide to encrypt the chip data itself." A K.E. of Sacramento, California wrote... "Wow! I had no idea! Thanks!" A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "This chip has potential for many uses...some not so good. I love your low-tech solutions to this knotty problem! Percussive maintenance strikes again - hit it with a hammer!"
THE CLASS OF 1954 - April 6th A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I enjoy my class reunions. Some people have really surprised me. Maybe I'm not what they expected, either. Some of the quietest students became very dynamic, productive people in their respective fields of work. Some of the wunderkind burned out early. Very few have not experienced some kind of change. Since my high school was all girls, our reunions now look like a red hat ladies' gathering. We're way past needing to prove ourselves and enjoy reminiscing and poring over photos of our kids and grandkids. It's a really comfortable feeling to reunite with women I grew up with and take a sentimental journey."
DATA MINING VOTES - April 4th A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "Very scary, and very interesting. Glad you are up on all these things!" A J.U. of Tampa, Florida wrote... "Good Article! Who can you Trust? Perhaps we need to go back to the Tin Cans and String!" A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I agree, Tim. This doesn't surprise me at all. I think we all need to be very careful about the information we put on social networking sites. I am not looking forward to the political phone calls that will be coming in later this year. Too bad phones can't have a spam filter."
INTUITIVENESS, THE SIXTH SENSE - April 2nd A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "Finding an intuitive applicant is a challenge for any HR person because it is something they either have or don't have, but it is hard to pick out in that short of time. When I managed people in a busy logistics firm, we had a few really good people with that so called intuition, and as I sit here and think, their names come to mind before the others do. Kinda funny, now that I think about it." An A.E. of Clearwater, Florida wrote... "Very good article; to the point. Hit the nail on the head." A K.S. of Oklahoma wrote... "I totally agree with this Tim. The question is this, 'Why do such high performers not make it up to totem pole rather than remain in the shadows making sure that the wheels turn efficiently?' Maybe there needs to be a switching of roles, eh?" TIM's REPLAY: "Such people occasionally do move up the corporate hierarchy, but most simply know their niche and limitations and are happy where they are." A K.E. of Sacramento, California wrote... "Being a good teacher, one must be very intuitive. Great article Tim!" A J.S. of Skidway Lake, Michigan wrote... "I've seen people like this in many settings. They seem to comprehend all aspects of a situation and swing into action to do what needs to be done. They don't get flustered; they "git 'er done" and do it right. It does appear to come naturally to the most effective people. I believe that employers are wise to consider an applicant's volunteer activities. Although some will discount the importance of unpaid work, others realize that those people who give of their time and talent are more likely to go the extra mile willingly and without complaint to achieve a desired outcome." A J.D. of Columbus, Ohio wrote... "As kids for many years we didn’t even have cable. So outside we went from sun up til sun down. The first half of the day was always spent doing our outside chores. Then we had lunch and refreshed and got to play the rest of the day. I grew up on the Gulf Coast of Florida and I never found it boring until we had to go inside!! LOL. Times have sure changed!" A K.G. of Pennsylvania wrote... "I've often referred to this quality as 'mindful awareness.' It might well be a branch of emotional intelligence too. Good read, thank you!"
Thanks for your comments. Keep those cards and letters coming!
Palm Harbor, Florida, USA. Copyright © 2007- by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved. |