Ever since “liberal” became a bad word in America, there has been a growing tendency to pass judgment on other people by using this four-word zinger: “Everybody has a choice.” This is to say that no matter what situation one finds oneself in, there is always a right or wrong response, and if one chooses […]
Choice and the Complexity of Human Nature Read More »
For the average person, engaging in some light conversion is enjoyable. For me, it’s akin to torture. That might seem like a gross exaggeration, but it’s the truth. I know that it will not get easier if I simply avoid it, so I force myself into conversation several times each day. Whether I’m asking a
Why Introverts Should Write Read More »
I’m Gary, and I’m an introvert. It’s no big deal, really, but there it is. If you know me casually, you might be surprised. Close friends, on the other hand, will probably get it. They know I can hold my own in social situations, but every now and then I have to disappear to recharge
Hanging on the Periphery: The Life of an Introvert Read More »
My editor has written me the following: “College is now irrelevant to anyone with a good mind who knows what he wants from life. Higher Education is now just a place for group socialization or for those who need to be given discipline and direction. Digital platforms have democratized knowledge.” It seemed to me I’d
Johnny’s Wonton Shopping Trip: A Letter to My Editor Read More »
“Widespread frost expected,” warns the forecaster. It’s past sunset. We’ve already had a morning of shimmering windshields. Hauling containers full of fragile plants into shelter for the night takes a lot of effort, and for what few days until the next crystalline visit. So, I decide to take my chances by draping everything in old
I’m about to commit a sacrilege. Read on out of sheer, audacious curiosity, or safely avert your eyes. It’s all the same to me. Friends in Alaska, Puget Sound, the Midwest, and the East Coast brace yourselves. Here goes: The winter sun in Colorado stares everyone in the eyes. It’s a cheer monger. A brilliant
Celebrating in the Dark Read More »