The United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) turns seventy this year, which ought to be cause for celebration. Unfortunately, things aren’t as straightforward as the anniversary slogan, “#STANDUP4HUMANRIGHTS,” would have you believe. The declaration states that “recognition” of … Continue reading #STANDUP4WHAT?
The two most perplexing decisions I have to make every day are how much facial hair to keep and which hat to wear. Since these are fundamental decisions that touch the core of one’s being, I do not make them … Continue reading A Chapeau To Go
I discovered something not long ago that I find incredible. It’s been on my mind ever since. However, judging from the reaction of most people, they either already know about it, or aren’t as impressed as I am. So, I’ve … Continue reading Teaching Zebras
It hasn’t happened in 73 years (1945): Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday all in one. What more is there to say? Ashes will be distributed in the shape of a heart. Cue the banjo. You want more? Go to Robert Brancatelli. Feature … Continue reading Mittwoch Matinee
Wednesday of this week is going to be very special for me. It is not only Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, but Valentine’s Day, which I find appropriate. Sackcloth, ashes, and hearts are perfect images to reflect my … Continue reading A Year of Living Dangerously
In 1922, Albert Einstein was on a lecture tour in Japan. While staying at Tokyo’s Imperial Hotel, a bellhop delivered a message to his room. Einstein, not having any cash, wrote a note on hotel stationery in lieu of a … Continue reading Einstein’s Note
It has been a fascinating week in Brazil. The conviction of ex-president and founding member of the Workers Party, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (“Lula”), for money laundering and corruption was upheld by three appellate court judges in the southern … Continue reading A Lullaby For Lula
