Fallacy of Averages

Nov 17, 2021–I’ve stumbled on a phenomenon I call the Fallacy of Averages. Humans like to measure everything by talking about “averages.” The term has become part of our language: -Grade Point Average -Average Daily Requirement -Field Goal Average There’s even a Law...

Joy or distraction?

Nov 10, 2021–Years ago, when I interviewed the late composer and pianist Mark Hierholzer, one of his tenets was that we need to differentiate between art that is authentic, versus entertainment that is derivative. The former brings joy; the latter delivers...

Plateauing

Nov 3, 2021–Plateau is a great word. But it’s a frustrating place to find yourself. I’ve gotten stuck on plateaus in many journeys of my life. The most recent is physical, as I recover from several weeks of involuntary immobility. For a guy who has worked out in some...

Be different

Oct 27, 2021–Here’s an idea: For one day, don’t be predictable. Say something different. Better stated: say the same things in a different way. Let’s start with the universal greeting: “How are you?” The next time you are asked that, say anything but “I am fine.” Give...

Weddings v. Funerals

Oct 13, 2021–As we enter fall wedding season, I have a message for all future brides: no one really wants to go to your wedding. Sorry to be so blunt. But it’s true. No one. Not your friends. Not your family. Not your bridesmaids. To tell you the truth, even the groom...

Free range parenting

Oct 6, 2021–A generation ago, we kept chickens in cages and let kids “free range.” Today they’ve swapped places. Kids today are over managed. A lot of it revolves around school. Starting in Kindergarten, you got on the bus while it was still dark. You rode the bus for...