In the 1991 film Defending Your Life, Albert Brooks plays a man named Daniel Miller. Daniel dies in a car accident and finds himself in Judgement City, a way-station for the recently departed. It is here that souls are assigned a defender and, through a series of interviews, must demonstrate they have overcome the fears … Continue reading What Are You Afraid Of?
Fighting the Future
Tuesday was Election Day. Did you vote? All across the country, men and women took to the polls in order to make sure their voice was heard. Officials were elected or re-elected to a variety of federal, state, and local positions. Voting is considered an important right in the United States. Once a privilege available … Continue reading Fighting the Future
Up, Up, and Away
Larry Walters had always wanted to fly. As a boy, he became fascinated with airplanes and dreamed of soaring among the clouds. Once he reached adulthood, he joined the Air Force – intent on becoming a pilot. However, his poor eyesight disqualified him from his dream job. He served his time and, after his discharge, … Continue reading Up, Up, and Away
Climbing Into the Wheelbarrow
In 1859, Jean Francois Blondin became the first man to walk across Niagara Falls on a tightrope. As the crowd watched, he stopped halfway, sat down, and pulled up a bottle from the water below. After refreshing himself with a drink he stood and executed a back somersault before walking the rest of the way … Continue reading Climbing Into the Wheelbarrow
Pressed to Death
Three hundred and twenty years ago, Giles Corey was accused of being a wizard, or warlock, during the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Among the accusations were that he had been seen serving sacrament at a gathering of witches and his “spectre” had been witnessed harassing supposedly innocent citizens. Corey refused to admit guilt or proclaim … Continue reading Pressed to Death
Olympic-sized Inspiration
The Olympic games are always a big deal in the Voland household. We each have our favorite sports and we love learning the back stories on each of the athletes. And while we cheer heartily for the American competitors, we have such a multicultural household that it's easy to appreciate any outcome. The Olympics may … Continue reading Olympic-sized Inspiration
Smooth Sailing or Time to Batten Down the Hatches?
“Anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm.” – Publilius Syrus Every summer, I dedicate some of my vacation time to helping out our local Boy Scout troop with their Summer Camp. While I’ve taught a number of classes over the years, my favorite is always Advanced Sailing. It’s not a merit badge … Continue reading Smooth Sailing or Time to Batten Down the Hatches?
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