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family

A collection of 8 issues

⋰ Forward, Back, Left, Right...Diagonal

Last night, I raised a glass with a friend. Catching odd inspiration, I ordered a Sazerac. I must say, it felt cool to order. Sure, "I'll have a beer" is fine, but "Hmm, how's your Sazerac?" Sublime. And it tasted darn good,

📖 21 Lessons From My Father

When I was 21, my father called me. "Listen, Ryan," he began, using his signature line to transition from small talk to the real reason for any given conversation. "Enjoy this period of life. You'll never have another like it." I heard him, at

🔋 Memorials & Purpose

I am here because others are not. I must move forward because others cannot. This swirled through my mind during the minute of silence on Memorial Day, while I listened to the wind whipping through the flags around me. This reality gives me purpose. It gives me strength. It gives

How the End Gives Life to the Means

Note: This post is heavy, but I'm not writing from a negative headspace. It may be triggering for folks who are processing the passing of a loved one or who suffer from depression. Decades ago, I came across a Kafka quote: "The meaning of life is that

2023 Productivity Year in Review

In December 2022, I wrote my first annual productivity review. As I started drafting the 2023 version, I hesitated about framing it like this again. Life is about so much more than being productive, right? One of my professional foci is productivity. I love learning about productivity tools, trying out

If My Kids Ask About Joining the Military

It’s the day after July 4th (aka July 5th). Amidst yesterday’s fireworks and cookout, I found myself pondering: how would I feel if my kids consider joining the military? I have a few days off work, allowing me precious time with family and a chance to do things

Think.

Think. This is what my father taught me. When I faced a challenge, made a poor decision, or tried to figure out what to do with my life, he would give this simple yet profound advice: think. In Our Declaration, political philosopher Danielle Allen titles her second chapter “Patrimony,” which

The 5 AM Flight (and other questionable decisions)

So, here's the dilemma. Travel is an ever present part of my job, and I love it. I'm actually hard-pressed to think of a work trip within the last few years that I haven't been excited about for one reason or another. I'