Since I was about fifteen years old, I’ve been an employee somewhere. Every job taught me something, but the biggest lesson wasn’t how to flip burgers, stock shelves, or answer calls. It was how to work. More importantly, it was how to be a teammate. I was taught two simple rules early on: Never let … Continue reading What Makes a Great Employee?
The White House Is Not a Theme Park
There was a time when the White House represented something. It wasn't about Republicans or Democrats. It wasn't about who won the last election or who was running in the next one. It represented the highest office in the country and, whether you agreed with the person occupying it or not, there was a certain … Continue reading The White House Is Not a Theme Park
Welcome to Common Sense University
If I had unlimited money, I wouldn’t build another sports stadium or luxury resort. I’d build a school. Not a school for children. A school for adults. I’d call it Common Sense University, or CSU for short! The admissions requirements would be simple: be over eighteen years old and be willing to admit that maybe, … Continue reading Welcome to Common Sense University
Stop Feeding Bread to Birds
During my daily walks with my dog, I often pass yards where birds seem to be enjoying a feast. More often than not, the “buffet” consists of bread crumbs scattered throughout the grass. While many people believe they’re helping wildlife by feeding birds old bread, the reality is quite different. Bread is not a healthy … Continue reading Stop Feeding Bread to Birds
Traffic Etiquette: Common Sense Under Construction
Construction Barrels, Brake Lights, and Bad Decisions If you live in the Ohio Valley, you’re already painfully aware of the traffic nightmare caused by road construction on the only bridge connecting the two largest cities in the valley. Once again, we’re treated to miles of brake lights, bumper-to-bumper traffic, and drivers testing the limits of … Continue reading Traffic Etiquette: Common Sense Under Construction
The Roofing Crew
The other day, I looked out the window and noticed a roofing crew pulling into my neighbor’s driveway. The job wasn’t small either, a house and a detached garage. What happened over the next few hours was something most people would barely notice, but it ended up being a lesson in business, teamwork, and work … Continue reading The Roofing Crew
When Did Common Sense Become Controversial?
Maybe I'm getting old. Maybe this is what every generation says when they look around and realize the world no longer resembles the one they grew up in. But I can't help wondering: when did common sense become controversial? I was born in 1972. Growing up, there were plenty of things Americans disagreed about. Politics, … Continue reading When Did Common Sense Become Controversial?
The Sober Paradox: Healthier, Happier… and Bored Out of My Mind
Work a full week. Rinse and repeat. Wake up. Follow the same routine. Put in the long hours. Count down the days until the weekend finally arrives. Then comes what should be the best part of the week: two precious days off. But then what? A while back, I made the decision to become alcohol-free. … Continue reading The Sober Paradox: Healthier, Happier… and Bored Out of My Mind
Vampires and Lesbians: Has Anyone Ever Seen Them in the Same Room?
Throughout history, two groups have been accused of possessing mysterious powers capable of changing lives forever: vampires… and lesbians. Now before anyone sharpens a wooden stake or starts an angry Facebook post, hear me out. Vampires are legendary creatures who lure attractive people into their orbit with charm, confidence, and an uncanny ability to look … Continue reading Vampires and Lesbians: Has Anyone Ever Seen Them in the Same Room?
One Flag. One Country.
Take a walk around your neighborhood. Take a drive through your town. You’ll notice something that still unites Americans more than social media, cable news, or politicians ever could: the American flag. You’ll see it flying proudly in front of modest homes and expensive homes. You’ll see it displayed by Democrats, Republicans, Independents, veterans, teachers, … Continue reading One Flag. One Country.
