Perhaps the most important gleaning I got from this piece is the sense of energy and time to do these extra activities to help move the world forward. Those of us who care seem to be low on both of these commodities.

Because of an illness, I have to guard my energy carefully. And I can’t take on too much “management” stuff.

My son got cut from his school’s two basketball teams. Basketball is a big reason why he likes school — and hopefully some reading and math will sink in. So I went to ask some questions. The answer: If we had a coach, we will put a third team together. So I am now a basketball coach. And I’m paying a price. But only two more months!

Yesterday, my son and I and son’s friend did some male bonding to watch the Super Bowl. All I could see were thousands and thousands and thousands of hours, currently dedicated to being entertained, that could be put to better uses.

I have an in-law who has a Master’s Degree. She has been teaching entry level psych and sociology courses at a local college for 15 years. Mostly out of her briefcase. But a couple of years ago, they gave her a desk and shared office. I think there should be a time limit on how long an academic can be abused like that. After 5 years or so as an academic peon, they should be elevated to a more respectable status.