I started blogging in September of 2016 as a light pursuit, mainly as a method to engage my cyber-tuned boys. I ended up writing 60 blogs in the 12 months that followed, mainly about politics, and primarily as a method to help me digest the news of the day in a productive manner. As frustrating as it is to read the news these days, it is even more frustrating if it all becomes overwhelming or blurs together. Blogging helps avoid the blur.
For the last two months I’ve been on hiatus from blogging (my apologies to loyal followers). Not because I’m losing interest, but rather because blogging is blossoming into a fuller pursuit. I have been busy lining up ducks to write a book about what America really is, and really could be, in the context of our history and dearest dreams. Think of it as a guideposts for the American citizen. My man-on-the-street interviews are taking on a new meaning in this context. Also, I have been spending more time reading and researching about past civilizations, American history, economics, and citizenry.
I will also get back to blogging about news of the day, though. Someone has specifically asked me to write about the tax plans pending in Congress (check out Eric Zorn’s 9 reasons not to be thankful for the GOP’s tax plans , and a quick summary of why they are ridiculous, and how taxes will likely increase). Also someone asked me to write a “catch-me-up” piece so it is easy for them to understand the most important things that happened last year in national politics. The genesis of this request is that they finally feel ready to start getting involved now (yay!), and do not want to feel ignorant entering the political sphere. For starters, let’s consider if democracy has been holding up. So some thoughtful blogs on these topics are forthcoming.
Meanwhile, if you have any interest in hearing more about my book project, please contact me. I am collaborating with a dear friend on this project and we welcome more input and voices. The topics we plan to cover so far include: economic inequality and concentration of wealth; how we talk to each other in a civil society (freedom of speech, civility, truth, and misinformation); education and healthy communities; racism and other-isms; gender equality; rule of law and social justice; models of self-governance;. These topics will help us triangulate on what a successful America looks like.
We are especially interested in interviewing regular Americans (not just experts) from across the country who represent a variety political positions and philosophies. So if you care to be interviewed yourself, or nominate someone, just let me know.
Also, in case you are interested, here are some books that are currently fascinating me:
- Guns, Germs and Steel
- How to be Alive: A Guide to the Kind of Happiness that Helps the World
- Impeachment: A Citizen’s Guide
citizenstacy.com 