Author Archives: John Swinburn

The rules of the game purposely befuddle, and they do, with the aim of parting the fool and his money. But when the fool has a mind like a razor and an eponymous implement, the rule maker rightfully trembles.

Imagine yourself in a wet, cold forest. The only green you can see are the few pine trees scattered among the leafless hardwoods.  Everything else around you are shades of brown and muted greys. Naked and alone, you shiver as … Continue reading →

Remember who laughed at you. Only then should you write your will.

Everything is important to somebody. Once that realization sinks it, it’s hard to seriously consider anything trivial. But, still, we do it.  I got word from a friend yesterday that her uncle died, a hard blow, especially for her father. … Continue reading →

If you are willing to learn, you will always be wiser in the next moment than you are now.

Anger weighs more than joy, but if you drop both of them from a tall building, they’ll hit the ground at the same time.

Grass and grain and vegetables get their nutrients from the soil. The plants and animals we eat get their nutrients from grass and grain and vegetables and soil. We get our nutrients from cows and vegetables.  And, ultimately, the soil gets … Continue reading →

There are too many stars to count, but that hasn’t stopped us from trying, has it?

Every day is a struggle, but it’s better than the alternative.