Look Backward to Connect Your Dots

Look Backward to Connect Your Dots

Many people are familiar with the phrase ‘connecting the dots.’ It refers to a game, but it is also used to describe the linking of events, people, and outcomes in life. Steve Jobs, in his Stanford University commencement speech, Connecting the Dots, said, “You cannot...
Do You Have Questions about Asking Questions?

Do You Have Questions about Asking Questions?

As a new Florida state prison volunteer, I had questions. The volunteer training, however, taught me not to ask an incarcerated man questions about the crime (s) he committed. This raised another question for me. Why am I not supposed to ask an incarcerated man those...
Just Say, “I’m Sorry!”

Just Say, “I’m Sorry!”

When did you last say, “I’m sorry?” I did to my wife earlier this week. The apology did not concern a serious marital matter but was called for. What does it take to say, “I’m sorry?” Let’s find out. On July 7, 2016, I traveled with the Arlington Lamar High School 7...
Black History: Mexico, NY and the Underground Railroad

Black History: Mexico, NY and the Underground Railroad

During my research for my biography of Rev. George E. Stone, A Modest But Crucial Hero,[i] I learned about Mexico, New York’s stop on the Underground Railroad. Mexico is located near the southeastern shore of Lake Ontario. It served as a convenient stop near Oswego to...
My One Word for 2024

My One Word for 2024

Are you a member of the One Word movement? It replaces New Year’s resolutions with a thoughtfully chosen word for the new year. I have used this approach for several years. Last year my one word was Listen. This year, I picked Chosen and I’ll tell you why. My morning...