politics and culture: December 2004 Archives

"America's Bishop tells the full story ... You'll also find here the delightful story of how Sheen's celebrated TV show, expected even by network executives to be a short-lived public service broadcast, became a national sensation."

I was listening to the radio on my way in to work this morning, and I was struck by the mention of NPR's ombudsman. I am contemplating asking them why it is that there was no mention at all earlier this week on the 25th anniversary of Bishop Sheen's death, when NPR has done historical and cultural commentary on all sorts of other media and popular culture issues and icons. Don't you think it interesting that the man who managed to out-rate Milton Berle might be something to examine in depth in the mainsteam media?

(from my in-box)

The most destructive habit...................Worry
The greatest joy............................Giving
The greatest loss.............Loss of self-respect
The most satisfying work............Helping others
The ugliest personality trait..........Selfishness
The most endangered species......Dedicated leaders
Our greatest natural resource............Our youth
The greatest "shot in the arm".......Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome..............Fear
The most effective sleeping pill.....Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease.........Excuses
The most powerful force in life...............Love
The most dangerous pariah...............A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer.....The brain
The worst thing to be without.................Hope
The deadliest weapon....................The tongue
The two most power-filled words............"I Can"
The greatest asset...........................Faith
The most worthless emotion...............Self-pity
The most beautiful attire..................A smile
The most prized possession...............Integrity
The most powerful channel of communication..Prayer
The most contagious spirit..............Enthusiasm

a different sort of red-diaper baby
(registration may be required - from the NY Times)

They are having three, four or more kids. Their personal identity is defined by parenthood. They are more spiritually, emotionally and physically invested in their homes than in any other sphere of life, having concluded that parenthood is the most enriching and elevating thing they can do. Very often they have sacrificed pleasures like sophisticated movies, restaurant dining and foreign travel, let alone competitive careers and disposable income, for the sake of their parental calling

However, I did this starting 30 years ago. I've never matched the demographics of my generation.