When every day is a holiday.


How do you celebrate holidays? It is tough when every day is a holiday. How do I remember how lucky I am and not take my good fortune for granted. After all, “familiarity breeds contempt”, is the wise saying. I start every day by asking, what needs to be done, not just for me, butContinue reading “When every day is a holiday.”

Learning


Describe one habit that brings you joy. During covid I began polishing my French, which was my favourite subject 60 years ago, at school. Progress was disappointing and after 2 online courses that were OK, I discovered a new, artificial intelligence generated course, straight out of California. Firstly, I’m thrilled about the smart men andContinue reading “Learning”

Learn to say ‘no!’


What strategies do you use to maintain your health and well-being? Say it every time someone wants you to do something that they present, as being for your benefit, but actually is for theirs. Examples. The extra beer you don’t want to drink, or helping you don’t want to eat, or film that goes onContinue reading “Learn to say ‘no!’”

Classical music defines western culture


What is your favorite genre of music? Four chords. Dot dot dot dash in morse code. The famous V for victory. An unprepossessing start to a piece of music, but 20 minutes later Beethoven has us in a defining moment in Western civilisation. It defined the revolutionary forces sweeping away the defunct aristocratic rulers. ItContinue reading “Classical music defines western culture”

Blue-sky thinking always has a cloud


Where would you go on a shopping spree? The word, ‘spree,’ says to me, shopping therapy, buying things you wouldn’t normally, maybe don’t need. So don’t do it! Such purchases become unsatisfying, almost before you have reached home and ignore the plight of people unable to afford essentials. I have just done a shopping spree,Continue reading “Blue-sky thinking always has a cloud”

Today’s actions are tomorrow’s outcomes


Do you believe in fate/destiny? Whatever I do today, will determine tomorrow. If I go to bed early, it will influence when I get up tomorrow, which will influence my day – my destiny. On this basis, history must be predetermined. A kidnap in Israel has sealed the fate of 30000 dead and millions displacedContinue reading “Today’s actions are tomorrow’s outcomes”

Be brave and true to yourself.


What advice would you give to your teenage self? I was a teenager in the 60s. I’ve written extensively about it. Angst and the Beatles Generation is a set of short stories about being a teenager, just before we were released from the slavery of being clones of our mums and dads. Be a person,Continue reading “Be brave and true to yourself.”

Fashion


What bores you? Wear clothes – kinda makes sense, but then sensible clothing, which puts high heels and slit jeans in the dustbin. Drive a car – if you have to, then a car commensurate to your needs. A farmer might need an SUV but not normal folks to do the shopping or visit mumContinue reading “Fashion”

Only the worst.


The author explores the complexity of patriotism, questioning its impact on our perceptions. By reevaluating historical events and showcasing a neglected hero, the narrative challenges patriotic narratives. The book “Weasel Words – Ausflüchte” exemplifies how patriotism can obscure truths, paralleling it with other divisive activities.