Treyvon Martin and what we don’t know

I’ve been thinking of writing about the Treyvon Martin tragedy. Then I realized that no one cares what I say.

No one cares because everyone has already made up his mind. This is exactly what many accuse George Zimmerman of – of being judge, jury, and executioner of Martin. It reveals the level of mistrust that still exists in America, and how everyone’s prejudices are brought out without those that harbor them even realizing. It’s a huge wound that has once again been ripped open.

I may one day write more about this sad incident but for now I choose to remain unswayed by the emotion raging on all sides. I want to see the facts first – to get as close to the truth as I can – before I make up my mind.

That’s supposed to be how justice in America works.

Doggone and back

Nyla, a.k.a "Chimmy"

We were circled around the chimnea in the driveway last night, mesmerized by its flames and enjoying the chat with our neighbors. A man walked down the street with a dog on a leash, which is certainly nothing new as it happens all the time in my neighborhood. When he walked up our driveway, though, our curiosity was raised.

“Anybody know where this dog lives?” he cheerfully asked.
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Young Americans not driving? Why would they?

I was mulling over the last post about young Americans not feeling the need for cars and I think I have one idea why.

It used to be that if you were a kid curious about the world we live in, you’d have go out and explore it. This usually required a car of some sort. Things are radically different now. Through the magic of the Internet (and 500+ channel cable/satellite TV), the world now comes to the kids! Kids nowadays can find out far more information on places and people than I ever could as a kid growing up. Outdated, dead-tree encyclopedias and magazines only take one so far.

While there’s still no substitute for actually being there, technology today can get one pretty close. With so much exploring available at their fingertips, kids can take their time deciding where they want to go.