Overview
In these writings I have tried to place everything in its historical, cultural, and personal context, as opposed to news of the day. I passed my earlier life in the practice and teaching of medicine and in scientific research; later years were in the executive management of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies; and, finally, investment ventures in biotechnology. All of this has provided some insight on medicine, science, business, and on life itself.
We have created the Anthropocene Age that is degrading our national and global societies and the planet itself. The essays in Stewardship of Our Environment explore and provide perspective on environmental and climate issues. There is particular emphasis on fossil fuels, plastics, water use, and renewable energy. The section on Personal Health and Well Being examines what we are doing to ourselves in this process and how to reconsider our own well-being. The writings in Stories and Reflections consider life events, personal interactions, history, recent science, and health.
These global and personal issues, unsurprisingly, are linked. They affect the well-being of all things, living and not, and the future of the globe itself. Read on.
Mizu no Kokoro - Mind Like Water
My experiences include a long sojourn in the study of martial arts. Those who have studied these arts know that they are not so much about fighting as about introspection and self control. There is a Zen saying in karate-do: mizu no kokoro, which translates as “mind like water.” There is more than one way to think about it, but the meaningful view is to think of the ideal mind as always still and quiet. It can recognize the slightest disturbance, respond in a controlled and appropriate manner, and then return to its quiet and watchful normalcy. Like water, it can conform to any space or situation, and is capable of rapid and vigorous action. But its natural state is to be calm and waiting. The best adepts are completely calm during a sparring match and can read the opponent’s mind and anticipate movements. I have used a similar focus in business and board meetings to the same good effect. This calming perspective applies to everyday life. Keep quiet the water that is your mind - limit the input. Listen to the news there is in silence. See everything, but look at nothing. You must be detached from the present to be aware of it - like the lake that responds to everything and then returns to a calm basal state.
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The Stewardship of Our Environment
We can employ good public health and economic principles to protect our society and maintain our planet.
We have brought about the Anthropocene era, and are the first species to evolve that has the capacity to destroy the planet on which it lives.
Photograph taken at Ghost Ranch, Abiquiu, NM
Personal Health and Well Being
You have more control over life expectancy and life style than you think, even if you are managing a chronic illness.
Take a holistic approach to maintaining health and fitness. It is difficult to stay in good physical condition if one does not have good mental health and psychological balance.
Painting by William Heaton that belonged to my Grandparents.
Stories and Reflections
A life fully lived teaches much but extracts a price paid in time. In younger years, we willingly exchange our time for money; in later years, if luck permits, we trade back our money for time.
Some of my experiences and literary creations are collected here. Perhaps you have written of your experiences as well. Please let me hear from you.