Strange Divisions

 

Many years ago, I learned that the worst companies are the least-inclined to seek outside advice whereas the best-run companies seek fresh perspectives on a regular basis.

The same goes for individuals.

But let's broaden that scope.

The older and more experienced people have the resources and habit of getting outside opinions in order to make sound decisions.

But many of the most important decisions occur early in life and are made by the young.

And those innocents have few, if any, sound advisors. 

But they have a lifetime to review their performance.

If they are wise, they'll learn the lessons and exile the regrets.

First Paragraph

On Saturday evening, March 23,1996, eighteen-year-old apprentice airman Steven Nary went looking for his regular carousing buddies on the USS Carl Vinson, then berthed at the Alameda Naval Air Station across the bay from San Francisco. Two of his fellow sailors were on vacation, however, and two were on leave, so Nary decided to go in alone, the first time he had done so. Bad move. 

- From What's the Matter with California: Cultural Rumbles from the Golden State and Why the Rest of Us Should Be Shaking by Jack Cashill

Fashion Tips: The Music

 

Find Something Beautiful Today

[Photo by David Kanigan at Live & Learn]

First Paragraph

The office of the university president looked like the front parlor of a successful Victorian whorehouse. It was paneled in big squares of dark walnut, with ornately figured maroon drapes at the long windows. There was maroon carpeting and the furniture was black leather with brass studs. The office was much nicer than the classrooms; maybe I should have worn a tie.

- From The Godwulf Manuscript by Robert B. Parker

The Man Never Sleeps

 

On My List

 

Buses and Light-Rail Trains Should Not Be Billboards

My Substack column: Get Government Out of the Graffiti Business!

[Photo by Getty Images for Unsplash+]

Films About Totalitarianism: A Series

 

Cassette Deck Vader