Editor’s Note: This is an easy reading book considering it is written by an economist. It’s also one that I find myself saying “that’s simply not true” when absorbing certain of Galbraith’s theories. But I recommend it highly for anyone trying (as I am) to figure out exactly what is going on in the American and world economy as it gives real clarity to a less-publicized view of what we are experiencing. That is that our most accepted economic premise – that growth is inevitable and eternal – is flawed. Galbraith attempts to underpin his thoughts with history before going onto recommending four actions that could help stabilize our future. But more than anything, I agree and appreciate his premise: that the American economy simply is not on an eternal growth trajectory, as most economists and politicians would like us to believe and that until we accept and address that fact, we are inviting further disaster.
Editor’s note: I heard this the other day at the café and it made me think of so many things. One, I’ve a very close friend who is really struggling right now with his partner. As always, the number one issue is communication, which this song is all about. Two, I loved when Joni wrote and sang stuff like this one and Chelsea Morning both of which uniquely combine lilt and meaning. And finally, it reminded me that Mitchell is a music game-changer. I re-read her career highlights on Wikipedia and am reminded that her classics such as Both Sides Now, Clouds and Woodstock are only part of her story. Mitchell is so revered musically that all-time jazz greats Jaco Pastorius, Herbie Hancock and Charles Mingus sought her out and collaborated with her over time. And her album, Blue, I found is rated 30th all-time by Rolling Stone magazine. Enjoy a listen and maybe look up and get more of her music back onto your playlist. I am.
Editor's Note: I'm not much for parables and the story in this book is no exception. But the learning, the very idea of Question Thinking is very powerful for me. When my friend gave me this book I thought, "I'm a curious guy, do I really need this?." I did and I do. Most people do. Ms. Adams' most important teachings for me were A.) every thought is a question, B.) each question invites me to "choose" or "react" and C.) when I react, I become a "judger" which is not healthy for me or anyone I'm engaged with.
Editor’s Note: My sister married an Irish lad, Sean Murphy, in 1970 and has lived most of her life since then in Dublin and Galway. Sean passed suddenly of a heart attack in 1996 the day after Christmas playing golf with his brother in Bandon, the town near Cork where they grew up. At his memorial service, this traditional gathering song was played in his memory and its lyrics haunt me, especially while hearing the amazing tenor voice of Ed Sheeran and remembering my dear brother-in-law.
Editor's Note: The Paradox of Generosity is a compelling and well-researched book that argues that the regular practice of being generous with our money, time, and relationships enhances happiness.
Editor’s note: I know, I’m addicted to these guys. But the songs I’m unearthing now – this from their very first album – arejust so full of meaning. I’m doing a seminar for a friend’s school where she wants her teachers to learn to share their vulnerability so that the young people can feel more comfortable with theirs. And as a result of seeing their darkness, can break into their light. I will likely either open or close the afternoon’s work with this song.
Editor’s note: In this thoughtful book, we’re reminded that like any new “phenomenon” much is done to little effect in the social media business. Dr. Jonah Berger starts with a fundamental fact: that word of mouth is still the most effective way toget the word out about yourself or your business. Then he gives us six lessons (STEPPS he calls them) for gaining digital attention. His research is extensive and sound but what I like best is that Jonah uses plenty of examples and case histories for every point he makes.
Editor’s comment: Nice to see this video of two guys I enjoyed in college when I needed a lightener from Cream, Hendrix, Zeppelin and the like. This appears to be from just two years ago at a venue in their hometown of Santa Barbara. The harmonies and the mandolin that were their trademark then are apparently still intact. Favorite verse: “If you’ve been thinking you’re all that you’ve got, don’t feel alone anymore Cause when we’re together you’ve got a lot, as you are the river and I am the shore.”
Editor’s comment: In celebration of graduation season, here are nine graduation addresses collected and published by Vonnegut friend, Dan Wakefield. Reader be reminded that Vonnegut was an outrageous figure, a satirist even in speaking who can wrench your gut. But I marveled at this short read remembering that the great writers and teachers most of all make us think. At least once during each speech I laughed out loud and other times I set down the book to consider what he had just said.
Editor’s Note: Good memories flooded back to me when I saw that Cat Stevens, now Yusuf Islam, had been named to this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class. Many of the songs from his seminal album “Tea for the Tillerman” (Wild World, Father and Son and Moon Shadow) are still known to me by heart and played often. But considering KaBOOM’s work in child health and exercise, it seems appropriate to choose this song from his “Teaser and the Firecat” album.
