12Sep 2013 by CJ

Why would anyone NOT want to be part of a union?

Information & Education, Life & Living
For many of us who aren’t public/government employees, we have little understanding of what it means to be a part of an organized union – which first started appearing in the mid-19th century in response to the industrial revolution. I’d venture to say if you asked anyone in America what their thoughts were on unions, they’d probably have something negative to say. Who could blame them when politicians have painted such an unflattering picture. Admittedly I knew very little about unions until I met my wife – a dedicated teacher for the last 17 years. It was only then that I began to understand the fundamental difference between organized unions and its popular replacement known as the human resources department. It led me to ask myself the question, “why would…
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09Sep 2013 by CJ

Changing the world is great – but being cherished by someone is better

Life & Living
The other day my wife and I were sharing a fond memory of my grandmother – who passed away several months ago now. It was during this conversation that she said, “I’m so glad I have so many memories of her.” My wife, God bless her, spent a lot of time with my grandmother during her summer vacations from teaching. She was her companion and chauffer on doctor’s appointments, window shopping, lunch outings or just sitting on her deck enjoying a cup of tea and conversation. It was during those times that she formed invaluable memories we still talk about today. My grandmother really loved and appreciated my wife. It often makes me smile to know that she had the opportunity, for over a decade, to have a relationship with…
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05Sep 2013 by CJ

Leadership means more than simply bossing people around

Life & Living
Each and every day, we all encounter individuals who refer to themselves as “leaders”. It’s unavoidable really - politicians, parents, managers, teachers - even our friends. But few of those who’ve chosen to brand themselves as such, truly have any idea what it actually means to lead. By definition, “to lead” means to “show the way by going in advance; to guide or direct in a course.” But far too often leading is confused with “bossing people around” – using power and dominance to show one’s superiority in stature. Such a practice increases bitterness and frustration, while decreasing the morale and self-esteem of those who often deserve better from their so-called “leader”. Leadership is not easy – which might explain why so many people fail at it. It involves relinquishing…
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03Sep 2013 by CJ

As a new school year begins, show children the importance of an education

Information & Education, Life & Living, Youth
As a new school year begins, so does the evolution of how we educate our children and measure its effectiveness. As the business world looks to evaluations and statistics to measure production, quality and even employees, our schools are now turning to many of the same practices - utilizing standardized testing to rate the performance of teachers, curricula’s and students. While some might argue the biased nature of such testing, the results weigh heavy on the minds of school administrations around the country. But as this new school year begins, I’m reminded of something President Obama said during one of his State of the Union addresses several years back. Take a look… “That responsibility begins not in our classrooms, but in our homes and communities. It's family that first instills…
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29Aug 2013 by CJ

Do you really have any problems, or are they just an inconvenience?

Life & Living
Problem (noun): a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome. Inconvenience (noun): trouble or difficulty caused to one’s personal requirements or comfort. (From oxforddictionaries.com) The human race is notorious for magnifying what essentially is nothing more than an “inconvenience” and identifying it as a “problem”. Classifying them as such allows us, many times subconsciously, to overdramatize a situation – creating undo stress for ourselves, while often driving those around us crazy with our obsessive worrying. Here’s a prime example of what I’m talking about. My wife and I recently decided it was time to start looking for a new home – and in doing so accept the burden that often comes along with such a life-changing decision. It’s been 11 years…
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