I’ve given up maintenance for more time. The decision to retire someplace without snow and ice was made when I was flat on my back on the sidewalk in Minnesota. The black ice was invisible, and I had stepped off … Read More
Why happiness is the sum of our lives at the end One of the lessons I remember from my Intro to Philosophy class lo these fifty years hence is that Aristotle thought happiness cannot be fully known until old age. When … Read More
Unless you need critical care, opt for hospital-at-home The Great Human Flood, I thought, as I leaned back in the chair of the emergency department waiting room. I probably looked like them — disheveled, dressed in sweats or thrown-together clothes, … Read More
Power and aging, vulnerability and wisdom I liked power. I still like it, I just don’t have many venues. When I was working, I managed small health and human service organizations (under 50 employees), and then I managed up to 250 … Read More
For any nattering nabobs of negativity… The public reading was unrelentingly grim. Very good writing, perhaps, but the two readers’ subject matters were child abuse, death, and an apocalyptic view of global warming. They should have served cyanide-laced Kool-Aid at … Read More
The spiral of time My grandmother was born in the 19th century, 1889. My granddaughter was born in the 21st century, 2020, and may live into the 22nd century. That’s a long span of time. It is difficult to project … Read More
Fuzzy robe, fuzzy slippers, lazy days I am in my favorite fuzzy robe with a hood. I am in my favorite recliner. My blankie, which should have been thrown out years ago, is near at hand. I sound like my … Read More
And a special shoutout to subscribers Writing on a blog started in earnest in January 2022 for me. I discovered Medium, a blog site, and moved relevant blogs to this site on Common Sage. I have been gifted with new … Read More
Where scenery or time or companions or mentors motivate My writer’s retreat cabin was perched on the edge of a large pond in the high desert. We were a small group, and joined twice daily in meetings in the lodge, … Read More
His wife is now fashion-plate and paparazzi quest I feel sorry for Camilla, Queen Consort. She is 75, and the object of photographers and fashion writers. She has to dress up, wear good shoes, and have her hair done. During … Read More