Nothing is ever really simple, but I am convinced there are two primary factors driving this mess. One is the incredible income inequality that none of our politicians on either side are willing to seriously address. The other is the destruction of our education system, resulting in people without the critical thinking skills needed to realize that their “enemies” are not each other.

I’ve tried a great many different black and green teas, but my favorite is Constant Comment. I realize that makes me a barbarian low-life, but I genuinely enjoy the flavor.

I have thought for years that we needed more political parties in this countries, but the current system makes it almost impossible for them to hold any real power.

What’s needed is a takeover of the Democratic party. The Republicans did it, for evil. We could do it for good.

The practical problem is that Citizens United gives the super-rich most of the power. It would take a very large-scale populist movement to push them out and take back control.

Bernie is a national treasure. And no one who hears him speak will wonder about whether his mind is still sharp.

I like the design, but it seems expensive for the materials. Sometimes odd mechanisms are complicated and expensive to machine. I don’t see that being the case here.

That aside, it is a clever design and a surprisingly elegant looking knife.

The perfect quote from “The Newsroom”:

Will : “The only reason I seem liberal is because I believe hurricanes are caused by high barometric pressure not gay marriage.”

My first presidential election was in 1980. I waited almost six hours to vote for Jimmy Carter in Iowa City, Iowa, USA (a medium-sized college town).

It was surprisingly festive. There were people walking the line handing out water and snacks. There were several musicians performing at various points along the line.

This may be the most brilliant get-out-the-vote tactic I’ve ever seen.

You can’t go wrong with ESEE. They’re tough, practical, and reasonably priced, although not cheap.

These days, my bushcraft knife is a Guardian 5.5 in Magnacut from Bradford Knives. Their designs, materials, and production quality are all top notch. I don’t always carry a fixed blade around town, but when I do it’s a Guardian 3.5.

If you can get relatives to help, do that. If not, contact a local women’s shelter or other abuse-related non-profit. They may or may not be able to help directly, but they will most likely know what other resources are available.

I wish you the best.