I don’t talk about myself much, to others in conversation, or on this blog in writing. I’m happy to talk about Old Money values, or discuss culture, history, philosophy, or current events. I have a keen interest in style–I would not call it fashion–and a passion for public policy–which I would not call politics. As … More Motive and Opportunity
The moment one enters a dining establishment is the moment the person dining there accepts that he or she will always be ‘wrong’ that evening. What do I mean by this? I mean that you, as the customer, are going to accept responsibility for any misunderstandings that occur with the restaurant staff that evening. The … More Old Money: In Their Own Words
Most of the time, my life here in the City of Light is a steady but varied melange (French word) of writing, reading, phone calls, emails, meetings, long walks, and casual conversations. But every once in awhile, the routine’s sidewalk-cafe dreaminess is jolted, and I get cranky. The most recent occasion was marked by a … More The Limits of Belief
I recently attended a wedding reception here in Paris. A friend had tied the knot with his new love at the 4th arrondissement’s mayor’s office in a simple, charming civil ceremony. The reception was held at a local art gallery, owned by another friend. It was a joyful, fun afternoon filled with laughter, tears, joy, … More The Steering Committee
When Genius strides out to take a bow, and the audience stands and cheers, Unseen behind the curtain, kneels Effort, trembling in sweat and tears. BGT
I recently had coffee here in Paris with “David”, a long time Member of the Tribe and contributor of frequent, eloquent comments here on the blog. This conversation, like our previous ones, ran rampant from subject to subject: current events, culture, our respective work projects, the privileges (and pains) of flying on Air France (too) … More Old Money: In Their Own Words
Later in life, after his presidency, Thomas Jefferson was asked to counsel a young man who’d been named after him on how to live a virtuous life. Not having me there to assist in drafting the response, he did the best he could, poor fellow. Here is part of his reply: Never put off till … More Sound Advice from Thomas Jefferson
