Author: Edward Ortiz

The Questions We Don’t Ask—And Why They Matter

Last Thursday, I mentioned a little project I’ve taken on, inspired by a post from Dr. Gerald Stein titled “The Questions We Don’t Ask.” Sometimes we’re quick to judge others, or place expectations on them that we don’t even meet ourselves. Dr. Stein’s questions are uncomfortable, but I believe taking the time to reflect on … Continue reading The Questions We Don’t Ask—And Why They Matter →

Should We Give an Entrance Exam to People Running for President or Congress?

An entrance exam would be nice. Nothing difficult, maybe solving a handful of math problems, answering a few U.S. and World History questions, and even responding to some philosophical ones, just to gauge their level of knowledge before they occupy positions of power. To run for President, the requirements are: "No Person except a natural … Continue reading Should We Give an Entrance Exam to People Running for President or Congress? →

Keeping the Brain Sharp

The brain weighs about three pounds, and it’s a complex organ. It controls thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, breathing, temperature, hunger, and every process that regulates our body.1 We often hear that we need to keep the brain sharp and healthy so it can support our functions throughout the years. Suggestions such as … Continue reading Keeping the Brain Sharp →

What Great Leaders Do Differently: A Personal Reflection on Leadership

A little over two months ago, I wrote a post about toxic leadership, sharing a definition and some of the destructive behaviors under that leadership style. After reading it, Brian from Writing from the Heart suggested that I write about the great leaders I’ve known—and how they stood apart from the toxic ones. Today, I … Continue reading What Great Leaders Do Differently: A Personal Reflection on Leadership →

Book Review: Democracy In America

Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville was a heavy read, to put it mildly.  Tocqueville visited the United States in 1831 to study the country. Initially, his focus was the prison system, but his study expanded to include the government structure and the socio-economic conditions of the country. Once he completed his research, he … Continue reading Book Review: Democracy In America →

52 Summers

On AgingWhen you see me sitting quietly,Like a sack left on the shelf,Don’t think I need your chattering.I’m listening to myself.Hold! Stop! Don’t pity me!Hold! Stop your sympathy!Understanding if you got it,Otherwise I’ll do without it!When my bones are stiff and aching,And my feet won’t climb the stair,I will only ask one favor:Don’t bring me … Continue reading 52 Summers →