Skip to main content

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 9/11/22

3 Up

1. September 11th - A forever "Up" to those we lost, to those we ended up losing to the after effects, and to the loved ones who endure every year. It doesn't get any easier. Of course, I'll never forget that day in NYC. 

2. Uvalde Community - All of the schools in Uvalde, Texas returned to school today. I can't even imagine the thoughts, courage, and heartache of parents, kids, and everyone in that community for the start of the school year. Especially at the Elementary School. 

2. Meghan Markle - After everything that has gone down, and the way she is seen (and treated) by those within the Royal family (and those who are loyal supporters), Markle showed up. And she didn't have to. That takes some serious guts, some confidence, and ultimately, massive integrity. 

3 Down

1. Queen Elizabeth II - I'll just say it....I don't get the hype around the Royal Family. It's just not my thing. And considering the world history there from that bloodline, I have a hard time doing so. However, the death of a historical figure is tough, especially for a nation that respects the crown. I do expect this to affect countries going forward in leaving British rule. 

2. New York's Hasidic Leaders - This was some investigation piece in the New York Times. A review needs to be done in holding private institutions that receive tax dollars accountable. 

3. War in Ukraine - It's almost like we forgot about this. More land fell to Russia. More unspeakable actions continue to occur. 

1 Interesting

1. "Special Master" - The former President continues to help Americans learn new sectors of our law. I've never heard of a "special master", ever. Not in reading. Not on TV. Not in the movies. 

Cover Photo

Fire retardant is dropped on the Fairview Fire, near Hemet, California, on September 6, 2022. 

David Swanson / Reuters

Labels:

Recently Read

Dear Son, Big Fan of the Kid Turning Seven

---7 Years Old --- Dear Son,  It’s been a while since I’ve dropped a few thoughts. Forgive me, I’ve just been watching. Just observing. Taking it all in. Trying to be a good dad. I’m punching the keys today from one of your martial arts practices. It’s your second with “the big kids” and also the second time I’ve found myself watching from the sidelines with anxiety, with pride, and with likely my biggest fandom for you yet in this space. My feelings are much more than you playing baseball or coaching you in basketball. Your disposition is different. Your excellence is different in this space. With martial arts, you stay diligent with the process. Respectful. Working hard. Getting better. In competition with and respecting the older kids you are training with. That’s what I’ve enjoyed. It encapsulates everything you’ve grown into thus far. Still empathetic as ever, but adding an element of self-ambition and drive - something I’ve prided myself on - and to see you mature into this m...
Read more

Working in Higher Ed, Lately

"Working in higher education must be interesting these days, huh?" That question was posed to me by several people who recently learned that I worked in higher education. The recent discourse around the industry and field has certainly shifted in narrative and the overall feel within it. I recently wrapped up my fourteenth (!!) academic year. It's remarkable to think that I've been serving students and following a passion for this long. This is especially the case considering the rising turnover, the documented yearly burnout, and the increasing exodus from the field.  And, yup, there is that whole enrollment cliff combined with the politics that are more present than ever on college campuses.  So yeah, higher education is weird right now. Very weird.  Some quick thoughts : IS IT TIME?  Yes, I have thought about leaving the field several times. Especially, over the last few years. COVID didn't really bother me, but it's safe to say that the world of higher edu...
Read more

Still...American

O say, can you see? first generation dream-chasing foundation  maybe it wasn’t for me? But still, an opportunity. socio-mobility Hey kid, “Be the best you can be” For you, and a future be  Or two or three Don’t mind the history. It’s broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight Within by class, age, political party Or the mere color of skin. Embrace those (societal) ramparts so gallantly streaming over-Patriotic expression,  Ever redeeming I’ll use my boot straps, for sure! “We got money for wars, but can’t feed the poor?!” Keep ya head up… Straps up, too! Yet, still the bombs burst in air where democracy can be unfair Legacy pipelines everywhere School shootings here…and there, No care. Why is this us? just us? ‘Merica!!!  Send up thoughts and a prayer. But don’t tread on me… Whatever, our flag is still there. Praise God! For I still rather be here It’s Dr. King. Freedom to pursue. unappreciated blessings My pledge of allegiance is internally fiery, Tho...
Read more