Ann Petry’s The Street

Ever since Barbra Streisand introduced me to the pleasures of listening to audiobooks, I’ve been hooked. Generally, I seek out and borrow specific books, like my comprehensive read through/listen to all available books by Barbara Kingsolver or my recent focus upon Ann Patchett’s work. Sometimes, though, my searches are more broad. I set the filters … Continue reading Ann Petry’s The Street

“Lost time is never found again” – Benjamin Franklin

If you could have anything, what would you want? Since making the decision to retire I’ve had some intense moments of panic. How do I walk away from a career that brought me much professional satisfaction and a strong sense of belonging to a community? Will the absence of students and colleagues from my everyday … Continue reading “Lost time is never found again” – Benjamin Franklin

Things to remember on Memorial Day

Holidays inspired by wars and military service don’t always sit well with me. Why don’t we honor the people who risked their lives for this country 365 days a year? If they survived their service and returned home to lives of their choosing, shouldn’t they be taken care of as well as elected representatives are, … Continue reading Things to remember on Memorial Day

Au revoir, France

I can’t believe it’s only been a month since we visited the south of France. Time takes on a different feel when your country is falling into the depths of authoritarianism, Je pense. After some time mentally escaping reflecting on the quick week we spent in Marseille and Nice, I’ve found myself repeatedly returning to … Continue reading Au revoir, France

All that you have is your soul

You know I appreciate all the wonderful, amazing things the world has to offer, but today, I’m feeling deep concern over the state of the country where I was born. Collectively, we have lost our way. This straying from the path of kindness and compassion is endemic, although it seems to be prompted by disparate … Continue reading All that you have is your soul