John Edwards, who cheated on his dying wife, was the most openly and avowedly socialist of the presidential candidates this year. He emphasized collective responsibility, relentlessly denigrated the self, and openly expressed his hatred for businesses that make lots of … Continue reading
Ultimately reason, facts and logic are more powerful than fear. The fear only seems powerful, but it isn’t, and once you start to ‘get’ this, it becomes easier. Fear is an indicator that you are in danger—not necessarily physical danger, … Continue reading
I realize that a rational person does not want to waste time. But wasting time implies knowingly squandering time. If you honestly believe you can accomplish something, and you seriously endeavor to do it, then you are not wasting time. … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd, My sister is a Catholic. Several years ago she married a wonderful man who happens to be Jewish. I don’t think I’ve ever known a happier couple—until now. She is pregnant, and they’ve started to argue constantly … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd: One thing you said specifically was “The next four years are going to be a time of enormous education for the American people.” Dr. Hurd, with all due respect–the American people didn’t learn under Andrew Jackson, they … Continue reading
Self-esteem without critical thinking is nothing more than bravado, or arrogance. Barack Obama’s defenders claim that he’s “confident, not arrogant.” They’re correct that there’s such a distinction. They’re wrong that Obama is confident. He shows no indication of critical thinking. … Continue reading
H.L. Mencken: “The state — or, to make matters more concrete, the government — consists of a gang of men exactly like you and me. They have, taking one with another, no special talent for the business of government; they … Continue reading
Discipline is the art of merging motivation with organization. You aren’t disciplined unless you’re dedicated to something. And you cannot be dedicated to something unless you WANT it. Before you strive to “learn discipline”, first figure out what you want.
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I read a book some years ago called The Hamlet Syndrome. The book has some major flaws and I don’t necessarily recommend it, but one good point the book made had to do with the perils of thinking without action—i.e. … Continue reading
I’d like to take a moment to thank those readers who email, call or write with comments and questions. As an example, every summer season I receive a significant number of requests from local readers to reprint this particular column … Continue reading
Bullying is the act of a moral coward who lacks both self-esteem and a sense of reality. (Remember O.J. Simpson? Classic example.) A bully believes and feels as if his will overrides not only the rights of others, but also … Continue reading