Dome Pondering

You ever think... about mistakes you’ve made about poor decisions and the butterfly effect that never was? You made it through…so much of it. Do you express gratitude for what never became reality?

Going into July 4th, a day that is meant to celebrate our nation, or at the very least, help us reflect on our relationship to and with it, we get the inevitable passing of the "Big Beautiful Bill Act".  Everyone has thoughts. Many have strong feelings. Few seem to be in favor of the bill.  But here we are.  Just a few quick thoughts and ponderings on the latest big move under the President Trump administration:  There doesn't seem to be much feedback out there that champions this bill. I know we're very divided, and those who align themselves unconditionally with the President will find a way, but the few experts in economics (and many Republicans themselves) aren't crazy about it. That in itself gives me angst.  Weren't we JUST exercising massive cuts, layoffs, and decisions to balance Federal spending?  Now we're adding to it? More tax breaks for the rich continue to be a current trend that...well, doesn't feel like it works.  200K-550K household in...

191. Would you rather have the ability to see minutes into the future or years into the future? This is interesting...I think minutes in the future would be too much at some point. However, years in the future can be really daunting. Especially so for the psyche. I'll go with minutes into the future, especially in moments of angst or danger. Can there be a limit per year? Maybe, like replay challenges in sports?  I'd like to use my challenge, please - can I see what will happen in the next few minutes? 192. Would you rather have telekinesis (the ability to move things with your mind) or telepathy (the ability to read minds)? I want no part of reading other people's minds. Nah uh! Nope! While I often ponder what exactly happens in the minds of others, it's likely one of those thoughts that needs to be left to the imagination.  Moving things with my mind can be pretty cool. The remote control immediately comes to mind.  193. Would you rather be forced to sing along or dan...

Didn't realize how much I missed independent wrestling.

Many, are willing to die for their kids. Few, are committed to live for their kids.

---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...

Trying to... Belong to a Community.  Belong to Someone.  Belong to Some.  Belong.  Be. 

"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...

They're gonna talk.  What if you just. let. them. talk.