Personally, I appreciate your ability to talk about a range of topics and how they’re linked together and how we should expand our thinking on a daily basis.
John, I appreciate your willingness to wade into dangerous political waters. What is dangerous is not being a bit wrong, but the emotions that result from the appearance of being right. Some people hate having the truth pointed out to them and will resist it ferociously!!
A few thoughts regarding what's you've stated . . .
Please don't hold back. Everything you write about affects everything of concern.
I could not agree more with F. Scott Fitzgerald's definition of intelligence. It's the epitome of finding peace while living with uncertainty.
So please, I do hope that you'll continue doing what comes naturally to you, which is to explore and expand on a range of topics that are joined at the hip. Isn't this what we refer to as a Renaissance man?
Although I admire the writings of Scott Fitzgerald, it should be noted that in real life, he was addicted to alcohol, and fought it most of his adult life.
The alcohol produced temper rages and violence toward the woman he was living with, which prompted her to leave him. He repented, and stopped drinking, and then died from an alcohol induced heart attack.
F. Scott Fitzgerald's story reminds me of people written about in the bible - deeply flawed humans at times doing extraordinary things. It seems to be a feature of being human.
I have to wonder if F. Scott Fitzgerald's compulsion to escape through alcohol might've had something to do with the challenge of holding opposing ideas at once in his mind. Maybe he wasn't at peace with such ambiguity.
I feel that this is not what he was talking about. Just because the man had a drinking problem doesnt affect what he wrote does it?? Some of the best music was written when people were heavily under the influence or alcohol & drugs. This comment took what he was saying into a negative field losing energy along with it. I feel anyways
My understanding was that F. Scott Fitzgerald only wrote when he was sober. He was not actually able to write when he was under the influence--he turned into a different person (when you drink spirits, demonic spirits come in).
I may not always agree with your point of view, but it's good to see different sides. How do we learn, after all? If someone only wants to read 'their' self believed narrative, there is no intellectual growth. Keep doing what you do!
I heartily agree with this perspective! I also find John hilarious when he lets loose on some ridiculous situation/person. It’s vicariously therapeutic!
Hi John, I like your comments whether I agree with you or not. And, it is those times that I have no opinion that it is good to consider both sides of the topic. I enjoy the historic examples you provide, and the examples from literature too. Thank you, John!
This is true journalism when you can spark people to question what the main narrative is on all fronts. This makes some people very uncomfortable and they can’t handle it. I like to know other viewpoints and sometimes I change my mind if sound facts are presented. I wish more people could not get so emotionally invested in the presented narratives and more would just ask the question “why” more often. I’m not a fan of being spoon fed and appreciate having to think about issues deeper than shallow thoughts that are mostly presented. Thanks for all your hard work. Many blessings to you.
I find that at times I don’t appreciate what you have to say. It now prompts me to pay closer attention. I’m realizing that being a life long learner is not an easy task at this time of life. Learning new things doesn’t always play nicely with what I think I already know. Thank you for continuing to share a larger picture of possibility
I am striving to become a more well-rounded person in my knowledge and understanding overall. The variety that I receive from you, Dr. McCullough and Mr. Hulscher via Focal Points COURAGEOUS Discourse is one of my FAVE sources. Keep up the EXEMPLARY work!
The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.
I agree.
Often, hard to retain that level of flexibility, but well worth it as it allows you to "hear" the other side and someday be intelligent enough to change your mind before it is too late.
There is a Difference between Being Wrong and Being Made Wrong
Just like the difference between giving offense and taking offense: the first requires an apology because of ignorance; the second is a declaration of war. So too, when fighting with your parents siblings or partners, you are defending your turf and feel honor-bound to escalate conflict so as to “win” the argument.
We live in a time of social and cultural malaise. Instant gratification and communication has amplified pathology in our global herd of humans. From immature dependency, to lack of responsibility, to isolation, to failure to thrive, post-modern people constantly make each other wrong. Taken to the extreme, these characteristics populate psychopathology: rigid thinking, paranoia, grandiosity, delusion, hallucination, all involve making others wrong. There is no more dangerous person than a schizophrenic who is convinced they are right (and in their world they have to power to make you wrong).
John, the humanity (humility=vulnerability) you communicate with everything I’ve read from you is beyond reproach. You are a real human being speaking truth to power. OF COURSE vested interests will frame your sincere attempts at connection as illegitimate, provocative and beyond the pale. That is fighting, intended to subjugate. These are symptoms of hubris, of arrogance and the least attractive of human expression.
You offer the opposite: a third point of view, beyond the two hemispheres of brain matter each of us (and our ancestors) uses to navigate the world. In you sincerity, you may be wrong (advocating ‘that which does not work’) but an appeal to consensus demands a counter-argument, not cancellation. This is the path to community: while others may take the easy road of denial, I applaud and have grown from your courage to speak your truth. You do make a difference, although it may not seem that way to you.
I may disagree with you, but appreciate you challenging the bubbles we all live in and operate from. If you challenged anyone and they upset you but you expand your bubble for their idea or their idea by yours; then you are still doing the right thing.
Shame on the people who just want to hear their bubbles regurgitated. Do better & Best wishes!
I have no problem with reading provocative stuff. I don’t always agree with you, but isn’t that called ‘life’? Wouldn’t it be boring if everyone agreed on everything? The art of debate, discussion, and ‘agreeing to disagree’ has definitely gone by the wayside, unfortunately. The internet has made this much worse, of course, as folks devolve into ad hominem attacks and other rudenesses that they’d never do face to face. Folks: keep in mind that we are being manipulated in an intentional way, in order to keep us distracted and divided - this is not by chance. If you remember that, you may find it easier to consider differing viewpoints. Just my two cents.
Personally, I appreciate your ability to talk about a range of topics and how they’re linked together and how we should expand our thinking on a daily basis.
Agree. And it is HIS newsletter after all.
John, I appreciate your willingness to wade into dangerous political waters. What is dangerous is not being a bit wrong, but the emotions that result from the appearance of being right. Some people hate having the truth pointed out to them and will resist it ferociously!!
Dear John Leake,
A few thoughts regarding what's you've stated . . .
Please don't hold back. Everything you write about affects everything of concern.
I could not agree more with F. Scott Fitzgerald's definition of intelligence. It's the epitome of finding peace while living with uncertainty.
So please, I do hope that you'll continue doing what comes naturally to you, which is to explore and expand on a range of topics that are joined at the hip. Isn't this what we refer to as a Renaissance man?
Sincerely,
Tami Bone
from deep in the heart of Texas
Very kind!
I’m stating what is true. Appreciate you and what you do!
Although I admire the writings of Scott Fitzgerald, it should be noted that in real life, he was addicted to alcohol, and fought it most of his adult life.
The alcohol produced temper rages and violence toward the woman he was living with, which prompted her to leave him. He repented, and stopped drinking, and then died from an alcohol induced heart attack.
Few of us are able to practice what we preach.
F. Scott Fitzgerald's story reminds me of people written about in the bible - deeply flawed humans at times doing extraordinary things. It seems to be a feature of being human.
I have to wonder if F. Scott Fitzgerald's compulsion to escape through alcohol might've had something to do with the challenge of holding opposing ideas at once in his mind. Maybe he wasn't at peace with such ambiguity.
I don't know, of course, but wondering.
I feel that this is not what he was talking about. Just because the man had a drinking problem doesnt affect what he wrote does it?? Some of the best music was written when people were heavily under the influence or alcohol & drugs. This comment took what he was saying into a negative field losing energy along with it. I feel anyways
My understanding was that F. Scott Fitzgerald only wrote when he was sober. He was not actually able to write when he was under the influence--he turned into a different person (when you drink spirits, demonic spirits come in).
Hear! Hear!!!!
I may not always agree with your point of view, but it's good to see different sides. How do we learn, after all? If someone only wants to read 'their' self believed narrative, there is no intellectual growth. Keep doing what you do!
Love everything you write
Whether I agree or not on any given day, it's a rare pleasure when a classically-educated, erudite individual shares his knowledge without lecturing.
Leake's manner of expression and historical perspective enhance his work and distinguish him from others on this platform.
Thank you!
My pleasure!
I will second that one!
I heartily agree with this perspective! I also find John hilarious when he lets loose on some ridiculous situation/person. It’s vicariously therapeutic!
Thanks for the choice, but I like to watch your informed intellect struggle with the public issues of the day.
Hi John, I like your comments whether I agree with you or not. And, it is those times that I have no opinion that it is good to consider both sides of the topic. I enjoy the historic examples you provide, and the examples from literature too. Thank you, John!
OK.
I will have to also second THIS one.
Good ones Rosa.
I completely agree, all commentary, any subjects Peter feels of import or expertise in, are of interest, at least!
Includes John of course.
This is true journalism when you can spark people to question what the main narrative is on all fronts. This makes some people very uncomfortable and they can’t handle it. I like to know other viewpoints and sometimes I change my mind if sound facts are presented. I wish more people could not get so emotionally invested in the presented narratives and more would just ask the question “why” more often. I’m not a fan of being spoon fed and appreciate having to think about issues deeper than shallow thoughts that are mostly presented. Thanks for all your hard work. Many blessings to you.
I find that at times I don’t appreciate what you have to say. It now prompts me to pay closer attention. I’m realizing that being a life long learner is not an easy task at this time of life. Learning new things doesn’t always play nicely with what I think I already know. Thank you for continuing to share a larger picture of possibility
And a broader concept of history. It’s helpful.
Dear Mr. Leake,
I am striving to become a more well-rounded person in my knowledge and understanding overall. The variety that I receive from you, Dr. McCullough and Mr. Hulscher via Focal Points COURAGEOUS Discourse is one of my FAVE sources. Keep up the EXEMPLARY work!
Thank you!
The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.
I agree.
Often, hard to retain that level of flexibility, but well worth it as it allows you to "hear" the other side and someday be intelligent enough to change your mind before it is too late.
Consider Scott Adams as my example.
Love your writing! Next time your on Maui look me up. I love Breakwall but surf Puumana to Launiopoko way more often.
Will do!
There is a Difference between Being Wrong and Being Made Wrong
Just like the difference between giving offense and taking offense: the first requires an apology because of ignorance; the second is a declaration of war. So too, when fighting with your parents siblings or partners, you are defending your turf and feel honor-bound to escalate conflict so as to “win” the argument.
We live in a time of social and cultural malaise. Instant gratification and communication has amplified pathology in our global herd of humans. From immature dependency, to lack of responsibility, to isolation, to failure to thrive, post-modern people constantly make each other wrong. Taken to the extreme, these characteristics populate psychopathology: rigid thinking, paranoia, grandiosity, delusion, hallucination, all involve making others wrong. There is no more dangerous person than a schizophrenic who is convinced they are right (and in their world they have to power to make you wrong).
John, the humanity (humility=vulnerability) you communicate with everything I’ve read from you is beyond reproach. You are a real human being speaking truth to power. OF COURSE vested interests will frame your sincere attempts at connection as illegitimate, provocative and beyond the pale. That is fighting, intended to subjugate. These are symptoms of hubris, of arrogance and the least attractive of human expression.
You offer the opposite: a third point of view, beyond the two hemispheres of brain matter each of us (and our ancestors) uses to navigate the world. In you sincerity, you may be wrong (advocating ‘that which does not work’) but an appeal to consensus demands a counter-argument, not cancellation. This is the path to community: while others may take the easy road of denial, I applaud and have grown from your courage to speak your truth. You do make a difference, although it may not seem that way to you.
Very kind and thoughtful, thank you!
I may disagree with you, but appreciate you challenging the bubbles we all live in and operate from. If you challenged anyone and they upset you but you expand your bubble for their idea or their idea by yours; then you are still doing the right thing.
Shame on the people who just want to hear their bubbles regurgitated. Do better & Best wishes!
I have no problem with reading provocative stuff. I don’t always agree with you, but isn’t that called ‘life’? Wouldn’t it be boring if everyone agreed on everything? The art of debate, discussion, and ‘agreeing to disagree’ has definitely gone by the wayside, unfortunately. The internet has made this much worse, of course, as folks devolve into ad hominem attacks and other rudenesses that they’d never do face to face. Folks: keep in mind that we are being manipulated in an intentional way, in order to keep us distracted and divided - this is not by chance. If you remember that, you may find it easier to consider differing viewpoints. Just my two cents.