No escape hatch

   The words freedom and commitment appear to be opposites when viewed through the lens of human nature.  Yet look closer at their definitions: Commitment means anchoring yourself soyou can explore more deeply; freedom means finding joy in the path you’ve chosen.  Something surprising emerges.

"Last week’s repeat of flooding unbelievable" by: Mike Reddell

   I was going to put my thoughts about the Hill Country flooding last week, but my high school friend and the Sentinel’s current stock market writer has his thought on the matter further down this page.   In addition, I ran the Texas Tribune’s in-depth article on the subject that appears on Page 7.

"The quest for purple hair continues after latest disappointment" by: Jessica Shepard

   After last week’s miniature rant, I tried to distance myself from those feelings and focus on something else.   I’d just finished waiting the allotted two weeks before moving forward with a more vibrant and exciting hair dye adventure.

"Another year, another long drive back to devastation" by: John Sample

   When things happen more than once you get the feeling that someone is trying to tell you something.   Last year, I was in New Mexico at my cabin getting some work done and came home the evening of July 3.   I was awakened by a call from my daughter at 6 in the morning.

PSA: Debunking 5 common Social Security myths

   Social Security is often a cornerstone of retirement income, but it’s often misunderstood, leading to confusion, worry, and poor planning decisions.   Here’s the truth behind five of the most common misconceptions.

"Reel Reviews: ‘Toy Story 5’ reinforces importance of imagination, playing" by: Jessica Shepard

   I’m adding ‘Toy Story 5’ to my personal list of movies that no one asked to be created.  That aside, the whole production team hinged the flick on the importance of a child’s imagination and ability to play creatively.

The lens we don’t know we’re wearing

   We like to believe we see the world as it is.  Objective. Clear-eyed. Reasonable.  We trust our assessments of people and circumstances the way we trust a mirror - assuming it shows us an accurate reflection.  But what if the mirror is warped?

"Avoid the rush seems a likely approach to threatening machines" by: Mike Reddell

   I hope Commissioners Court works through the pain exhibited at Monday’s regular meeting.

"More things grinding my gears besides the July heat" by: Jessica Shepard

   I really try not to use this space to rant or air out things that grind my gears very often.  But, this week there are three main things weighing on my chest that I just have to share in some way.

" Summer is in full swing and it couldn’t be any more fun, who am I kidding, myself, I am sure" by: John Sample

   We are moving our way through the summer and it is just one news story after another.    Military action has not taken a day off.    Whether it is Ukraine, Lebanon or Iran.    It is amazing to me how this market seems to move forward.