A Tribute to Sam Walter Foss: The Poet of the Everyday Man

I’ve always loved poetry that feels like a friend—words that don’t loom over you with grandiosity but sit beside you, warm and familiar. The Fireside Poets—Longfellow with his storytelling, Whittier with his quiet truths—first lit that spark for me. But it was Sam Walter Foss who turned it into a fire. His verses taught me that the everyday—grass underfoot, a kind word, a Monday morning—could sing. That discovery fueled my hobby of writing lyrics and pairing them with AI-generated music, leading me to a song I’m proud to share: “Weekdays with Foss.”

Who Was Sam Walter Foss?

Born in 1858 in New Hampshire, Foss was a librarian by trade and a poet by heart. He didn’t write for ivory towers; he wrote for the “everyday man,” the folks passing by what he called “the house by the side of the road.” His most famous poem, The House by the Side of the Road, is a gentle plea to “be a friend to man,” a call for kindness that feels as urgent now as it did then. Another gem, The Coming American, dreams of “men who are strong and sincere”—honest souls who dare to aspire. Across hundreds of poems, often tucked into newspapers and magazines, Foss built a library of ordinary wonders.


What I love most about Foss is his knack for turning the mundane into music. Take The Calf-Path, where he chuckles at our stubborn habits with a wink and a grin. Or his lines that bubble with laughter and play, reminding us to find joy in the small stuff. That’s what inspired “Weekdays with Foss.” I imagined cracking open his pages each Monday, letting his words break the cage of routine and ignite my soul’s inner fire. His poetry feels like a companion—one who knows how it goes and still finds a reason to smile.

If you look at how I have written lyrics and music- it has the inspiration of Foss all over it. It may not be popular among the masses... but I like it.... LOL.

In a world that’s loud and tangled, Foss’s focus on kindness and simplicity feels like a balm. His “house by the side of the road” and many other moods, humor, and even BAD poems still stands, welcoming us to pause and connect. 

Multigenre- if you want a 'style' find collections under playlists and albums

Come connect with me on SoundCloud- it's all free..... Jayopsis on SoundCloud

Reclaiming Truth: Blending Metacognition and Epistemology in a World of Deception

Over the past few years, I’ve watched disinformation flood our feeds, worldliness lull the church to sleep, and a generation drift in a sea of nonsense. It’s a crisis of truth—urgent, pervasive, and personal. I’ve written about this on jayopsis.com, from my 2022 epistemology series to my recent dive into metacognitive tools. 

Today, I want to pull these threads together: we need to re-teach epistemology—how to justify belief with logic—and pair it with practical metacognition—how to think about our thinking—to equip this generation to find truth amid deception.

Social media amplifies catchy lies over quiet facts. Political seasons sway voters with emotion, not reason. Echo chambers—algorithmic and cultural—trap us in what seems true, not what is true. I wrote in 2022 about the electorate’s struggle to make wise choices, arguing that education, especially Christian education, must teach how we know, not just what we know. 

But it’s bigger than politics. As I explored this summer, inspired by Os Guinness, the church is losing the messaging war to worldliness—a “Sandman Effect” that normalizes sin and redefines belief as plausibility, not reality. Beyond our borders, I see a global shift eroding Christian roots, a deception we ignore at our peril.

We’re not just drowning in bad information; we lack the tools to process any of it. Post-modern moods prize feelings over logic. Kids judge truth by slick TED talks (is that a thing anymore?) or podcasts, not Scripture. Even we believers fall into infighting or nostalgia instead of forging ahead. The stakes? A generation that can’t discern truth from nonsense—and a church too sleepy to lead them.

Epistemology: The Foundation

Epistemology—“the theory of justified belief”—is our anchor. In my series, Developing and Implementing a System of Justified Belief Within the Context of Biblical Education, I called for teaching students to evaluate sources, spot fallacies, and ground their beliefs in logic and God’s Word. It’s not enough to know facts; we must know why they’re true. This counters disinformation with classical skepticism—probing, testing, reasoning—not cynicism. It demands free speech and civilized debate, spaces where ideas clash and truth emerges. Without this, we’re prey to every viral lie or sleek half-truth.

Guinness showed me the church’s blind spot: we lean on history and culture but neglect epistemology—the justification of knowledge. In a world of shallow tweets and relativism, we must demand logical footing. Why do you believe that? How do you know? These questions cut through the fog, rooting us in reality when feelings falter.

Metacognition: The Tools

But knowing how we know needs a partner: knowing how we think. That’s where my 11 metacognitive tools come in—practical steps from Scripture and cognitive science to sharpen our minds. Here’s how they blend with epistemology:

The Mind Mirror (2 Corinthians 13:5) and Clarity Lens (John 8:32) push us to reflect honestly—do my beliefs hold up?—pairing self-awareness with truth-seeking.

The Bias Barometer (Proverbs 18:17) and Echo Filter (Proverbs 15:22) expose distortions and echo chambers, demanding we justify beliefs beyond bias or groupthink.

The Cognitive Compass (Proverbs 3:5-6) and Thinking Map (Philippians 4:8) align our reasoning with God’s unchanging Word, not cultural whims.

The Confidence Scale (Romans 12:3) and Mind Checkpoint (Psalm 46:10) balance certainty with humility, pausing to test our logic against reality.


These tools aren’t about perfect thinking—they’re about refining it. They help us slow down (Crisis Mode, James 1:19), shift perspectives (Perception Pivot, Matthew 5–7), and analyze our own distortions (Metacog Matrix, Proverbs 4:7). Together, they equip us to navigate deception with wisdom.


Here’s my idea: weave epistemology and metacognition into education and discipleship. Teach kids to question how they know with logic, not just accept what’s plausible. Train them to monitor their thoughts, rooting out nonsense with tools like these. For the church, it’s time to wake up—stay salt and light (Matthew 5:13) by grounding in Scripture, loving sinners, and confronting falsehood boldly. This isn’t theory; it’s survival.

A strange twist to this is that I'm not necessarily calling for formal training in logic- I'm trying to find high level of thinking skills to ask great questions and through civil collaboration find practical, applicable common sense.

We are losing it in theology as well. We have a gulf of difference between those who want nothing to do with theology and others who get lost in a maze of 'new discoveries' that has little to do with Scriptural authority or application.

An underlying philosophical foundation of this exploration resonates with me are the principles of Scottish Common Sense Realism, a theological and philosophical movement that emerged in the 18th century. Thinkers like Thomas Reid argued that our perceptions, though not infallible, generally correspond to reality and can be trusted unless proven otherwise. This perspective influenced much of Protestant theology, especially in the United States, by emphasizing that ordinary human reasoning—rooted in common sense—is capable of grasping fundamental truths about God, morality, and reality. This framework complements the goal of metacognitive tools, encouraging us to rely on reason, experience, and Scripture to discern truth while remaining vigilant against distortions and biases.

In a world of deception, truth still stands—objective, unshaken, Christ-centered. As we await His return, let’s disciple a generation that thinks clearly, believes justly, and hears the Shepherd’s voice. Turn off the screens, open the Bible, and start asking: How do I know? How am I thinking? The answers might just change everything.

Sharpening Our Thinking: The Final Five Tools

 

Since I had a full President's Day weekend to write a little- I decided to close out the Feb Series- way ahead of the original plan. I'm not sure what I want to study next.... may take a little time off.

The purpose of this series on Metacognition was to challenge us to explore a more coherent epistemology and examine our own faulty thinking. 

As I read posts on social media... there is a lot of toxic thunking going on and many people can get hurt by bad ideas..... here is the last post:

Over the past few posts, we've been building a toolkit to help us think clearly, seek truth, and navigate life with wisdom. Today, we wrap up with the last five tools, each designed to refine our perception, decision-making, and response to challenges.

These tools help us cut through mental fog, test our assumptions, and stay grounded in truth. Let’s explore them.

 The Clarity Lens: Removing Mental Fog

Distorted thinking can obscure our perception of reality. The Clarity Lens helps us strip away false assumptions, emotional distortions, and biases so we can see things as they truly are.

Jesus declared:

"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." — John 8:32

Seeing clearly requires us to:

• Check for distortions – Are we assuming the worst? Overgeneralizing? Letting emotions skew the facts?
• Compare with Scripture – God's truth is the ultimate clarity lens.
• Seek outside perspective – Others can help us see what we may be missing.

When we remove the fog, we gain wisdom, peace, and freedom.

The Confidence Scale: Aligning Confidence with Reality

We often either overestimate or underestimate our knowledge and abilities. The Confidence Scale asks: Is my confidence level accurate?

Romans 12:3 warns us:

"Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment."

Practical steps to use this tool:

• Self-check: Am I assuming I know more than I do? Or am I doubting what I do know?
• Test assumptions: What evidence supports my belief? What contradicts it?
• Embrace humility: The wisest people acknowledge what they don’t know.

Right-sizing our confidence leads to better decision-making and deeper learning.

The Mind Checkpoint: Stopping for a Thought Inspection

Just as a security checkpoint forces travelers to stop and be inspected, The Mind Checkpoint helps us pause and assess our thoughts before moving forward.

Psalm 46:10 reminds us:

"Be still, and know that I am God."

This tool encourages us to:

• Pause before reacting – Is this thought rational, true, and helpful?
• Examine emotions – Is fear, anger, or pride driving my response?
• Replace lies with truth – Align thoughts with Scripture and reality.

In a fast-moving world, intentional thought checkpoints lead to wiser choices.

 The Echo Filter: Breaking Free from Echo Chambers

Many people only hear reinforcing voices that confirm what they already believe. The Echo Filter helps us break out of these loops and seek a fuller understanding of truth.

Proverbs 15:22 teaches:

"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."

How to use the Echo Filter:

• Expose yourself to different perspectives – Read, listen, and talk with people outside your bubble.
• Seek truth, not just agreement – Are you open to being wrong? It's ok to admit AND SAY!
• Test ideas against Scripture – God’s truth remains the final filter.

Breaking out of an echo chamber sharpens discernment and deepens wisdom.

The Crisis Mode: Thinking Clearly Under Pressure

When faced with urgent situations, our emotions can hijack our thinking. The Crisis Mode tool helps us slow down, seek wisdom, and respond rather than react.

It takes practice and forethought to survive a crisis. It takes character and resilience. I also think that people who have a deep and authentic faith handle pressure well because they know God is ultimately in control.

I have heard it said- in a crisis we don't rise to the occasion, we fall back on our training!

James 1:19 reminds us:

"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

When in crisis:

• Pause and breathe – A rushed decision is often a poor one.
• Seek wisdom – Pray, reflect, and get wise counsel.
• Respond with clarity, not panic – Fear clouds judgment; faith brings peace.

Wise thinking in crisis prevents regret and leads to better outcomes.

The Complete Toolkit

We now have 11 powerful thinking tools:

1. The Mind Mirror → Self-awareness in thought
2. The Cognitive Compass → Seeking truth beyond emotions
3. The Bias Barometer → Detecting distortions
4. The Perception Pivot → Challenging assumptions
5. The Thinking Map → Charting thought patterns
6. The Metacog Matrix → Evaluating mental processes
7. The Clarity Lens → Removing mental fog
8. The Confidence Scale → Aligning confidence with reality
9. The Mind Checkpoint → Stopping for a thought inspection
10. The Echo Filter → Breaking free from echo chambers
11. The Crisis Mode → Thinking clearly under pressure

Each tool equips us to think wisely, navigate life’s challenges, and align our minds with truth.

Echoes in the Mist- A Short Story

Another aspect of metacognition is the strange passage of time where memory fades. We often think of conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s, but there is also the memory we lose at the very beginning of life. Infantile amnesia—the phenomenon where people cannot recall experiences from their early years, typically before the age of three or four—occurs because the brain, still developing key structures for long-term memory, processes and stores information differently during infancy. Though these moments shape who we become, they often dissolve into the subconscious, leaving only fragments or impressions rather than clear recollections.

The boy walked slowly up the cracked concrete path, hands shoved deep in his jacket pockets. The crisp scent of early autumn filled the air—woodsmoke, damp leaves, the faint bite of cold that hinted at winter’s approach. Red and gold leaves spiraled from the trees, drifting lazily toward the ground.

He wished he could enjoy it.

Instead, a knot tightened in his chest as he reached the small white house, its sagging porch lined with flower pots long since abandoned. His grandfather’s house. His grandfather, who barely knew him now.

Inside, the air was thick with the scent of medicine and old books. A clock ticked softly from the wall, its steady rhythm the only thing bridging past and present.

There he was.

Propped up in bed, his once-proud grandfather gazed out the window, silent, eyes fixed on the fluttering leaves outside. His face, once strong and commanding, had softened into something fragile. A man unmoored from time.

“Hey, Pop,” the boy said, shifting awkwardly in the doorway.

No response.

He stepped closer. “It’s me, Danny.”

Still, nothing. Just that distant, empty stare.

Frustration swelled in his chest. He wanted—needed—something from the old man. Recognition, a flicker of the sharp wit that had once guided him through childhood, a moment where he wasn’t just a stranger standing in this dimly lit room.

“You used to take me to the lake,” Danny tried. “Remember? We’d fish all morning, and you’d laugh at me when I got my line tangled.”

The silence pressed against him.

His throat tightened.

“This isn’t fair,” he muttered.

He turned away, eyes landing on the nightstand beside the bed. There, half-hidden beneath a pair of reading glasses, was an old photograph.

Danny picked it up.

It was worn, edges curled, the colors faded with time. But he knew the moment it captured. A young boy—him, barely three—perched on his grandfather’s knee. The old man’s face was full of life, his laugh frozen in time as the child in his arms giggled, tiny hands clinging to his suspenders.

Danny frowned. He didn’t remember this.

The thought hit him like a gust of cold wind. 

He too had many moments that he didn’t remember!

That child in the picture—the one his grandfather had held, had loved with his whole heart—was him. But that moment, that happiness, had been erased by the strange void of early childhood.

Yet here was proof. Proof of love that had once burned bright, even though time had stolen its details.

Danny swallowed hard and turned back to the bed.

“Pop,” he said softly, easing down into the chair beside him. His voice wavered. “I’m angry because you don’t remember me.”

His grandfather didn’t react, still staring at the window.

Danny took a deep breath, glancing at the photo again.

“But… here’s a beautiful moment I don’t remember.” His fingers traced the curled edge. “You, full of love and energy. Me, innocent and happy.” He paused, the weight of the realization settling deep in his bones. “Look how much you loved me!”

A tear slipped down his cheek.

“Is it too much for me to love you now?”

For the first time since he had entered the room, his grandfather’s gaze shifted.

Slowly, those aged, clouded eyes met his.

And in them—faint, flickering, but real—was something deep. Something unspoken. A connection beyond memory, beyond time.

Danny reached forward and took his grandfather’s hand. The grip was weak, but warm.

Love was deeper than either of them would ever fully know.

And some things, even time could not take away.

click on title to hear

Echoes in the Mist

Verse 1 You look at me with vacant eyes, A face you know but can’t recognize. You search for names like scattered leaves, Drifting away on an autumn breeze. Pre-Chorus I whisper stories from long ago, But do they reach you? I don’t know. Chorus Though the years have blurred the past, Love was real, and love will last. Though memories fade, love persists— Like echoes in the mist. Verse 2 Then I see a photo, me on your knee, A boy so small—was that really me? Laughing, running, held so tight, But those days are lost to time’s dim light. Pre-Chorus I don’t recall the games we played, Yet proof of love still fills the frame. Chorus Though the years have blurred the past, Love was real, and love will last. Though memories fade, love persists— Like echoes in the mist. Bridge A touch, a laugh, a fleeting song, Even when memory is gone, Love is stronger, love exists— A whisper deep within the mist. Outro I may forget, and so will you, But love remains in all we do. Though time may slip and moments twist, We’re still echoes in the mist.

Movie Review: The Butler

 Last night, I watched The Butler, and I was captivated from start to finish. It is a beautifully crafted film, both in storytelling and execution. The acting is superb, with Forest Whitaker delivering a masterful performance as Cecil Gaines, the White House butler who serves through multiple presidencies. Oprah Winfrey, as his wife Gloria, brings incredible depth to her role, and the entire ensemble cast, from Cuba Gooding Jr. to Alan Rickman, adds to the film’s powerful impact.

Beyond the performances, the imagery in the movie is striking. The film seamlessly weaves together the grandeur of the White House with the turbulent reality of the civil rights movement, using powerful visuals to contrast these two worlds. The moments of historical reenactment—from the Woolworth’s lunch counter protests to the Freedom Riders—are intense and moving. Director Lee Daniels does an incredible job of balancing intimate family struggles with the broader societal upheavals of the time.

After watching, I was intrigued to learn more about the real-life inspiration behind the story, Eugene Allen. It turns out the film takes significant liberties with his life, particularly in its portrayal of his family and personal struggles. However, I understand why such changes were made. The filmmakers were not simply telling one man’s story; they were using his experience as a lens to explore the broader themes of race, identity, and social change in America. Sometimes, historical fiction needs to bend details in order to illuminate the deeper truths of a complex history.

One scene that particularly struck me was when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speaks to Louis Gaines, Cecil’s son, about the role of Black service workers. In the film, King explains that the butler’s role is not subservience but rather a subtle form of resistance. By serving with dignity and excellence, Black workers shattered racial stereotypes and helped advance the cause of equality in their own way. While this specific speech is not an actual King quote, it closely reflects his philosophy. King believed that dignity could be found in all work, and that excellence in service was a means of breaking down racial barriers and proving the worth of all people.

Dr. King often spoke about the dignity of labor, encouraging people to do their work with excellence. One of his most famous quotes states:

"If it falls your lot to be a street sweeper, sweep streets like Michelangelo painted pictures, like Shakespeare wrote poetry, like Beethoven composed music. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, ‘Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.’"

Another powerful statement from King reinforces this idea:

"All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence."

This principle is a lesson for all of us, no matter our profession or station in life. It reminds me of the biblical encouragement in Ecclesiastes 9:10: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." As believers, we are called to do everything to the glory of God, whether we are leading a nation, working in a kitchen, or serving in any capacity. True greatness is found in faithfulness, humility, and excellence in whatever task we undertake.

Watching The Butler was not just an emotional journey through history, but a reminder of the power of steadfast, honorable work. The film, despite its dramatic liberties, reinforces a timeless truth: integrity and dedication in our daily tasks can have a profound impact on the world around us. And that is a message worth holding onto.

We all can find situations where we are excluded, ignored, doubted, and laughed at. Use that as fuel for success!

Here are some songs that capture these feelings and concepts:

Prove You Wrong

Weaponize the Noise

Resilient Love

Excluded, Unheard, and Devalued

Navigating the Mind: The Thinking Map and the Metacog Matrix

As we continue refining the way we think, we now turn to two more essential tools: The Thinking Map and The Metacog Matrix. These tools help us become more aware of our mental pathways and how we process our thoughts.

So far, we’ve explored the Mind Mirror (introspection), the Cognitive Compass (seeking truth over emotion), the Bias Barometer (identifying mental distortions), and the Perception Pivot (shifting perspective). Now, we focus on where our thoughts habitually take us and how we examine them for growth.

5. The Thinking Map: Charting Your Mental Terrain

Like a physical map helps us navigate terrain, a Thinking Map helps us track where our minds tend to go. Do we have well-worn paths leading to gratitude, truth, and humility, or do we frequently wander into anxiety, pride, or deception?

Philippians 4:8 provides a clear directive for healthy thought patterns:

"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

This passage encourages us to actively choose our mental pathways. If our Thinking Map repeatedly leads to fear, anger, or self-doubt, it may be time to redraw the map toward healthier perspectives.

Practical Steps for Using the Thinking Map:

• Journal Your Thought Patterns: Notice where your thoughts naturally drift in moments of stress or quiet.
• Identify Mental Ruts: Do you default to negative assumptions? Are your mental pathways leading you toward wisdom or worry?
• Create New Pathways: If your thinking leans toward anxiety, deliberately redirect it with truth. Scripture memorization and affirmations help reinforce new patterns.
• Limit Mental Pollutants: Just as we avoid hazardous roads, be mindful of what influences your thoughts—media, conversations, or habits that fuel negativity.

If you follow my reading, I suggest a February Fast- one thing to consider is a month away from social media or eliminating cable news.... you would be surprised how those 'mental pollutants' impact us! 

6. The Metacog Matrix: Thinking About Thinking

Metacognition—the ability to think about our thinking—is an essential skill for personal and intellectual growth. The Metacog Matrix helps us examine whether our thoughts are grounded in reality or distorted by cognitive traps.

Proverbs 4:7 declares:

"Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."

Understanding how we think allows us to grow beyond cognitive distortions like:

• Black-and-White Thinking: Seeing situations as all good or all bad.
• Catastrophizing: Expecting the worst possible outcome.
• Emotional Reasoning: Believing something is true just because we feel it strongly.

Practical Steps for Using the Metacog Matrix:

• Pause and Reflect: Before reacting, ask: Why do I think this way? Is this conclusion based on facts or assumptions?
• Label the Distortion: Name the cognitive bias at play (e.g., "This is black-and-white thinking. Reality is more nuanced").
• Cross-Examine Your Thoughts: What evidence supports or contradicts this belief?
• Seek Wisdom: Proverbs encourages gaining understanding. Discuss your thoughts with a trusted mentor or friend who can offer perspective.

By integrating the Thinking Map and Metacog Matrix, we develop greater awareness of where our minds tend to go and how to correct faulty thinking. Next, we will explore two final tools: The Narrative Navigator and The Logic Lens, which help us shape our internal stories and reason more effectively.

Stay tuned as we continue refining the way we think!

Thinking About Thinking: The Bias Barometer and the Perception Pivot

As we continue refining our thinking tools, we move from recognizing the need for direction (The Cognitive Compass) to measuring the distortions in our judgment. Our minds, much like the weather, are subject to unseen forces—pressures, shifts, and unseen biases that influence how we perceive reality.

In this post, let's explore two more crucial tools:

• The Bias Barometer – Helping us detect mental distortions and measure their impact.
• The Perception Pivot – Training us to shift perspectives and see with fresh clarity.
• 
  

The Bias Barometer: Detecting Mental Distortions

Just as a barometer measures atmospheric pressure to predict storms, the Bias Barometer helps us recognize cognitive biases—those subtle yet powerful distortions that shape our thinking, often without us realizing it.

Proverbs 18:17 offers a critical warning: "The first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines." This verse highlights a key problem with bias: we tend to accept information at face value when it aligns with our assumptions, but a deeper look often reveals missing context or flawed reasoning.

Some common cognitive biases include:

• Confirmation Bias – Seeking out information that confirms what we already believe while ignoring contradictory evidence.
• Negativity Bias – Focusing more on negative experiences than positive ones, even when the good outweighs the bad.
• Hindsight Bias – Believing that past events were more predictable than they actually were (“I knew that would happen!”).
• Anchoring Bias – Relying too heavily on the first piece of information encountered, even if better data emerges later.

Unchecked bias can lead to poor decisions, unnecessary conflicts, and even self-deception. If we want to think wisely, we must train ourselves to recognize when bias is at work.

Practical Steps to Using the Bias Barometer:

• Pause and Reflect: Ask, “Am I reacting emotionally, or am I genuinely evaluating the evidence?”
• Seek Diverse Perspectives: Intentionally expose yourself to viewpoints that challenge your assumptions.
• Use the ‘Flip the Script’ Test: If the situation were reversed, would you still hold the same opinion?
• Invite Accountability: Allow trusted friends or mentors to challenge your thought process.

Recognizing our biases is not about erasing opinions, but about ensuring they are grounded in truth rather than mental shortcuts.

The Perception Pivot: Seeing from a New Angle

Once we become aware of biases, the next step is learning how to shift perspectives when necessary. This is where the Perception Pivot comes in—a tool that helps us step back, reconsider, and approach a situation with fresh eyes.

Jesus exemplified the power of the Perception Pivot in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). He challenged conventional wisdom and invited people to see righteousness, love, and justice through God’s lens rather than human expectations.

• "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." – Strength is found in humility, not domination.
• "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." – True love extends beyond those who treat us well.
• "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." – Our priorities reveal our true values.

Jesus flipped the script on human thinking, revealing deeper truths that many had overlooked. He calls us to do the same—to be willing to reexamine our assumptions in light of divine wisdom.

Practical Steps to Applying the Perception Pivot:

• Step Outside Yourself: Ask, “How would someone with a completely different background see this situation?”
• Examine Your Assumptions: Identify what you’ve always taken for granted and research alternative viewpoints.
• Apply Biblical Wisdom: Instead of relying only on cultural norms, measure ideas against God’s truth.
• Embrace Humility: Be willing to admit when you’ve been wrong and adjust accordingly.

Role Play Example- The Debate Over Remote Work

• Jake – A traditional manager who believes employees are only productive in the office.
• Lisa – A team leader who supports remote work as a viable option.

Jake: "I just don’t think remote work is effective. Every time we’ve tried it, productivity has dropped. People slack off when they’re not in the office."

Lisa: "That’s an interesting perspective, Jake. But let’s check our Bias Barometers here. Could it be that we’re both leaning on selective evidence? Have we looked at a full range of data?"

Jake: "I don’t need data—I’ve seen it with my own eyes. When people are in the office, I know they’re working. When they’re at home, I can’t see them, so how do I know?"

Lisa: "That sounds like an Anchoring Bias. You’re relying on visibility as your main measure of productivity, but studies show that many employees actually get more done at home with fewer distractions."

Jake: "Maybe, but I just don’t trust it. There’s no way people are as focused at home as they are in a structured office environment."

Lisa: "Let’s try a Perception Pivot. What if instead of focusing on where work happens, we focus on the results? What if you couldn’t see your employees at all—would you judge productivity based on output instead of location?"

Jake (pausing): "Huh. I guess if we looked strictly at results, it might not matter as much where they work."

Lisa: "Exactly! Instead of assuming remote work equals slacking off, what if we tested different productivity measures? Maybe the issue isn’t location, but the way we track success."

Jake: (smiling) "Alright, Lisa, you’ve got me thinking. I guess I’ve been letting my own biases cloud my judgment. Maybe we should experiment with this rather than just assuming it won’t work."

Lisa: (laughing) "Now that’s a real Perception Pivot! Let’s see where the data takes us."

Moving Forward

The Bias Barometer and the Perception Pivot work hand in hand. First, we must detect when biases are distorting our thinking. Then, we must be willing to shift our perspective when truth demands it.

Next, we’ll explore The Thinking Map, a tool that helps us trace the pathways of our thoughts and understand how our mental habits shape our decisions. Stay tuned!

Tired of Being Cheated? Thinking About Thinking

I wanted to pause briefly in listing through the tools of metacognition  to write on a great point brought out by my wife reading out of Colossians 2. As Elon Musk is revealing this week all of the corrupt ways our tax dollars have been wasted- your money and my money- taken.... but what if there is a deeper scam going on... right in our minds?!

Nobody likes being cheated. Whether it’s a scam, a rigged game, or an empty promise, we instinctively recoil at the thought of being deceived. That’s why Paul’s warning in Colossians 2:8 is so striking:

"See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ."

Paul isn’t merely warning against bad ideas—he’s exposing a spiritual scam. The danger isn’t just that false philosophies exist, but that they are persuasive and empty. They look substantial but leave people robbed of what truly matters. This passage invites us not just to believe, but to think—to train our minds so we don’t fall for the counterfeits.

If we’re going to avoid being cheated, we need to develop habits of clear thinking. Let’s consider three tools: The Feynman Technique, Occam’s Razor, and Hanlon’s Razor. Each offers a way to sharpen our minds and apply the wisdom of Colossians 2 in daily life.

The Feynman Technique: Do You Really Understand?

Physicist Richard Feynman believed that if you can’t explain something simply, you don’t really understand it. His method is straightforward:

1. Choose a concept and try to explain it as if to a child.
2. Identify gaps in your explanation.
3. Simplify and refine until it makes sense.

Paul’s words challenge us to apply this to our faith. Could you explain the gospel to a 10-year-old? Could you walk someone through why Christ is better than worldly philosophy without slipping into vague, religious jargon? If not, it’s worth going deeper, filling in the gaps, and building a faith that isn’t just felt but understood.

Occam’s Razor: Is It Overcomplicated?

Occam’s Razor is the idea that the simplest explanation is usually the best. When faced with competing ideas, we should prefer the one that requires the fewest assumptions.

Many false teachings throughout history have been overly complicated—layers of rituals, secret knowledge, or convoluted reasoning. But what does Paul say in Colossians? The treasure of wisdom and knowledge is in Christ himself (Col. 2:3). The simplest truth—the one requiring the fewest leaps of logic—is that Jesus is enough. If a philosophy says you need something more than Christ, it’s likely a scam.

Hanlon’s Razor: Is It Really Malice?

Hanlon’s Razor suggests we shouldn’t attribute to malice what can be explained by ignorance or misunderstanding. In other words, not every deception is intentional.

Many people who spread bad ideas genuinely believe them. False teachers often start as the falsely taught. This doesn’t excuse the damage they cause, but it does change how we respond. Paul warns against deception, but in the same letter, he tells us to let our conversations be “full of grace” (Col. 4:6). Clear thinking isn’t about arrogance—it’s about discernment wrapped in love.

Thinking to Avoid Being Cheated

Colossians 2 shows us that deception isn’t just an intellectual issue—it’s a spiritual one. We are either being built up in Christ (Col. 2:7) or taken captive by empty philosophies (Col. 2:8). And the difference often comes down to whether we think clearly.

• Are we settling for slogans or pressing for deeper understanding? (Feynman)
• Are we caught up in overcomplicated religious systems when Christ is enough? (Occam)
• Are we assuming malice in others when we should respond with wisdom and grace? (Hanlon)

Thinking well is an act of faithfulness. It protects us from being cheated, and it keeps us anchored in the truth that is worth more than any counterfeit.

related song: Cheated by Fools Gold

Thinking About Thinking: The Cognitive Compass and the Bias Barometer

As we continue our exploration of thinking patterns, we move from the first tool—the Mind Mirror—to two more crucial instruments for cognitive clarity: the Cognitive Compass and the Bias Barometer. These tools help us navigate mental landscapes, avoid pitfalls of bias, and align our thoughts with wisdom and truth.

Where We've Been and Where We're Going

In the first post, I introduced the idea that faulty thinking can have serious consequences, much like a navigational or mechanical failure in aviation. Introspection, guided by the Mind Mirror, is our first step in diagnosing these errors. Now, we turn to the importance of direction and measurement in our thinking.

2. The Cognitive Compass: Finding True North in Thought

Since ancient times, travelers have relied on the North Star as a fixed point of reference. A compass helps navigate the journey by consistently pointing north, offering a steady guide amidst shifting surroundings. Likewise, we need an internal cognitive compass to keep our thinking aligned with truth and wisdom.

Proverbs 3:5-6 provides a guiding principle: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." When we rely solely on our emotions, fleeting cultural trends, or personal desires, we risk drifting off course. Our compass must be calibrated to something unchanging—God’s wisdom.

Practical Steps to Aligning the Cognitive Compass:

• Establish Your North Star: Regularly immerse yourself in Scripture and seek wisdom from trusted sources.

• Check for Drift: Ask yourself, “Am I being led by truth or by my emotions?”

• Seek Wise Counsel: Proverbs 11:14 reminds us that “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

• Adjust as Needed: Just as a sailor corrects course when noticing a deviation, we must be willing to change our thinking when confronted with truth.

3. The Bias Barometer: Measuring Mental Distortions

 Meteorologists use barometers to measure atmospheric pressure and anticipate storms, we must develop the ability to recognize biases that distort our thinking. Biases are subtle, deeply ingrained tendencies that affect our judgment, often without us realizing it.

Proverbs 18:17 warns, "The first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines." This highlights how easily we can be convinced by our own perspective, especially when we fail to challenge our assumptions.

Some common biases include:

• Confirmation Bias: Favoring information that supports our preexisting beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.

• Negativity Bias: Giving more weight to negative experiences than positive ones.

• Hindsight Bias: Believing past events were more predictable than they actually were.

• Anchoring Bias: Relying too heavily on the first piece of information encountered.

Remember- the algorithms used in your social media are designed to feed your bias, it is a way to make sure you keep clicking...... 

Practical Steps to Using the Bias Barometer:

• Identify Your Biases: Regularly examine whether your assumptions are based on evidence or preference.

• Seek Opposing Views: Intentionally read or listen to perspectives that challenge your own.

• Ask the Right Questions: Instead of asking, “How am I right?” ask, “What might I be missing?”

• Invite Constructive Criticism: Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Let others challenge your views.

Sometimes you can create 'scenarios' where you can role play these situations as a practice test- here is an example:

Role-Play: Recognizing Confirmation Bias

Characters:

• Alex: A history student working on a research paper.
• Jordan: A friend and fellow student with a different perspective.

Scene:
Alex is sitting in the library, sifting through articles on their laptop, when Jordan walks in and joins them.

Jordan: Hey, how’s the research going?

Alex: Pretty good! I’m writing about the causes of the economic crisis in the 1930s, and I found some great sources that support my argument.

Jordan: Nice. What’s your argument?

Alex: I think government policies were mostly to blame. I’ve found a bunch of articles and economists who agree.

Jordan: Did you look at any sources that suggest other factors, like global trade issues or banking failures?

Alex: Not really. I mean, I already know government policies played the biggest role, so I focused on that.

Jordan: That sounds a bit like confirmation bias.

Alex: What do you mean?

Jordan: Well, you’re mainly looking for evidence that supports what you already believe, instead of considering all possible causes. What if there’s a bigger picture?

Alex: Huh. I guess I’ve been filtering out opposing viewpoints without realizing it. Maybe I should check out other perspectives to get a fuller understanding.

Jordan: Exactly! Even if you still believe your original argument, at least you’ll know you’ve considered all the angles.

Alex: Good point. I’ll find some counterarguments and see how they compare. Thanks for the nudge!

I like these two tools! We have to have true north but we also need to 'listen' to opposing viewpoints.....

By using the Cognitive Compass and the Bias Barometer, we develop a more disciplined, truth-oriented approach to thinking. These tools help us avoid being swept away by misleading ideas and ensure that our mental navigation remains steady and grounded in wisdom.

For the next post, I will explore the Perception Pivot and the Thinking Map—two tools that help us reframe our perspectives and understand the pathways our thoughts travel. Stay tuned as we continue refining the way we think!

The Mind Mirror: Seeing Ourselves Clearly

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. [24] For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. ( James 1:23–24 ESV)

Introspection is a powerful yet often neglected habit. Our minds are constantly processing information, forming judgments, and making decisions, but how often do we pause to examine our own thought patterns? The Mind Mirror is a tool for self-reflection—a way to assess how we think, where we might be deceiving ourselves, and how we can cultivate clearer, more truthful thinking.

The Problem: Why We Avoid the Mirror

Many people avoid deep introspection because it can be uncomfortable. Seeing ourselves clearly means acknowledging biases, faulty reasoning, and even moral failings. Instead of looking into the mirror of our own minds, we rationalize, justify, or distract ourselves. Yet, failing to examine our thinking can lead to repeated mistakes, unnecessary conflicts, and a skewed perception of reality.

Consider these common ways we resist self-examination:

• Defensive Thinking: Instead of considering whether we might be wrong, we immediately justify our actions or beliefs.

• Selective Reflection: We only think about our successes, avoiding painful or humbling self-evaluation.

• Echo Chamber Thinking: We surround ourselves with like-minded opinions, never challenging our assumptions.

Psalm 139:23-24 provides a powerful invitation to self-examination:

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

Diagnosing Faulty Thinking

Using the Mind Mirror requires honesty and courage. Here are some questions to help diagnose unhelpful thinking patterns:

1. What are my default reactions?

   • When I face criticism, do I become defensive, or do I consider if there's truth in it?

   • When something goes wrong, do I look for someone else to blame?

2. Where do I rationalize rather than seek truth?

   • Do I excuse my own bad habits while judging others harshly?

   • Do I convince myself that I have no choice in situations where I actually do?

3. Am I open to changing my mind?

   • When presented with new information, do I consider it, or do I cling to my current beliefs out of pride?

   • Have I ever admitted I was wrong and adjusted my thinking accordingly?

Steps to Improve Self-Reflection

1. Daily Thought Review

   • Take five minutes each evening to reflect on your thoughts, reactions, and decisions from the day. Where did you think clearly? Where might you have been biased or irrational?

2. Invite Honest Feedback

   • Ask trusted friends or mentors if they see any blind spots in your thinking. Be prepared to listen without defensiveness.

3. Engage with Scripture

   • The Bible is a powerful mirror for the mind. Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture helps align our thinking with truth. James 1:23-25 compares the Word of God to a mirror that reveals who we truly are.

4. Practice Intellectual Humility

   • Accept that you don’t know everything and that your perspective is limited. Be willing to learn and grow.

5. Pray for Clarity

   • Ask God to reveal areas where your thinking is off course and to guide you toward wisdom and understanding.

Final Thoughts- Keep the Gospel Nearby

Looking into the Mind Mirror is not about guilt or shame—it’s about growth. True wisdom begins with seeing ourselves honestly and seeking transformation. As we embark on this journey of "Thinking About Thinking," let’s commit to developing habits of self-examination, humility, and truth-seeking. The clearer we see, the better we can navigate life with wisdom and grace.

Thinking About Thinking: A February Blog Series

This past weekend, we witnessed a horrible tragedy when the a medi-vac plane that crashed in Philadelphia. The small plane, a Learjet 55, had just departed Northeast Philadelphia Airport bound for Springfield, Missouri, when it went down, according to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration.

We don’t yet know what went wrong, but there was some catastrophic failure that led to disaster. This serves as a sobering analogy: just as mechanical or navigational failures can bring down an aircraft, faulty thinking can cause great heartache and personal crashes if we don’t identify our cognitive missteps and develop techniques to counter them. It takes practice and intentional effort to think well and avoid the pitfalls of distorted reasoning. 

For the month of February, I want to explore the ways we think—the patterns, biases, and habits that shape our understanding of the world. The way we process information, draw conclusions, and make decisions has a profound impact on our lives, and faulty thinking can lead us into confusion, frustration, and even deception.

As with everything, I want to approach this from both a practical and biblical perspective. Scripture frequently calls us to examine our thoughts:

• "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2).

• "We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5).

• "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9).

To structure these reflections, I hope to introduce a set of tools—metaphors for different aspects of cognition. These will help us navigate our thought life, diagnose errors, and realign our thinking with truth.

1. The Mind Mirror

Introspection is a powerful yet often neglected habit. This tool encourages us to look honestly at our own cognitive patterns. What are our default reactions? Where do we rationalize rather than seek truth? Psalm 139:23-24 provides a fitting prayer: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

2. The Cognitive Compass

Just as a compass helps travelers find their way, a cognitive compass helps us navigate our mental landscape. Are our thoughts leading us toward wisdom or folly? Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us not to lean solely on our own understanding but to trust in God to direct our paths.

3. The Bias Barometer

Our thinking is often clouded by biases—confirmation bias, negativity bias, hindsight bias, and many more. The Bias Barometer helps us detect these tendencies and measure their impact on our judgment. Proverbs 18:17 warns, "The first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines."

4. Perception Pivot

Sometimes, we need a shift in perspective. The Perception Pivot challenges us to reevaluate assumptions and look at things differently. There is no greater passage in Scripture to do this, than the Sermon on the Mount-  where Jesus challenged perceptions, as seen in Matthew 5-7, where He redefined righteousness, love, and justice.

5. The Thinking Map

Like a physical map, a thinking map guides us through our mental terrain. Where do our thoughts frequently go? Are they leading us into anxiety, pride, or deception? Philippians 4:8 provides a clear directive: "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right... think about such things."

6. Metacog Matrix

Metacognition—thinking about thinking—is essential for growth. This tool helps us analyze where we are caught in cognitive distortions. Proverbs 4:7 states, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."

7. The Clarity Lens

Distorted thinking can fog our perception of reality. The Clarity Lens helps us remove these distortions and see clearly. Jesus declared in John 8:32, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

8. The Confidence Scale

We often overestimate or underestimate our knowledge. The Confidence Scale asks: Is our confidence aligned with reality? Romans 12:3 warns, "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment."

9. Mind Checkpoint

Just as a road checkpoint forces travelers to stop, a Mind Checkpoint prompts us to pause and assess whether our thoughts are rational and true. Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God."

10. The Echo Filter

Many people live in echo chambers, reinforcing their own views without exposure to differing perspectives. The Echo Filter helps us distinguish truth from self-reinforcing loops. Proverbs 15:22 advises, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."

11. The Crisis Mode

When faced with urgent situations, our thinking can become reactive, emotional, and fear-driven. The Crisis Mode tool helps us slow down, seek wisdom, and respond rather than react. James 1:19 reminds us, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Moving Forward

Each week in February, I will explore one or two of these concepts, looking at how they affect our thinking and how Scripture can help us reshape our mental habits. My hope is that this series will encourage deeper reflection, more critical thinking, and ultimately, a transformation of the mind that leads to greater wisdom and clarity.

Coach Bryant Documentary- Ain't Nothing But a Winner

Here is my annual post to remember Coach Bryant.

In January 2022, I received permission from Tom Brakefield to have access and use his extensive private collection of Bear Bryant videos inside the Bryant Museum and Gorgas Library in order to produce original coaching training content and curriculum specifically for BWD athletics.

It took me over a year to pour through almost 20 hours of old video footage- some of which had never been digitized before I made the request.


One of the videos I uncovered was the documentary, "Ain't Nothing But a Winner" and it brought such great memories. The clip I am sharing today was put together by a sports psychologist in the early 80's that used the occasion of the historic 315th win vs Auburn as a microcosm of Bryant's philosophy and program.

I edited it down so you can watch it in one sitting- and will from time to time share clips for you to enjoy.


Coach Bryant's famous mumble is sometimes hard to understand, but there is some great wisdom in team building here.

Enjoy!

Ain't Nothing But a Winner

Of Thorns, Splinters, and Pebbles

Been reading some interesting articles on the Psychology of 'thinking', especially how to discover, discern, and re-orient faulty thinking... the smarter a person is actually makes this more difficult. Recently, I ran across an interesting discussion about how 'slight suffering' (is there such a thing LOL) may help us become more humble and interrupt cycles of bad thought patterns.

Life has a way of shaping us through persistent, often small, struggles. The challenges that don't seem grand or significant at first, yet they find a way to linger, quietly chiseling at our hearts and minds. In Muhammad Ali's famous words, "It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebble in your shoe." The weight of life's difficulties often isn't found in the overwhelming trials we can see coming, but in the subtle, sharp irritations—like a splinter or a small stone—that we carry with us, sometimes without even realizing it. These seemingly insignificant burdens, while not enough to crush us, have the power to subtly influence the direction of our lives, shaping us in ways we might never fully understand.

The ancient Greek myth of Lethe and Nepenthe offers a poignant lens through which to view our internal struggles. In mythology, Lethe is the river of forgetfulness, whose waters cause those who drink from it to forget their past, while Nepenthe, a magical substance, offers a kind of relief from sorrow and pain. If we could simply drink from Lethe, many of us might wish to erase the painful memories that cling to us—the mistakes, the regrets, the moments of weakness that feel like splinters in our hearts. And yet, Nepenthe, the balm that soothes our sorrow, often eludes us, leaving us with memories that persist despite our desire to forget. These elements of myth remind us that while the temptation to forget or erase painful memories is strong, there is often wisdom and grace in facing them head-on.

The figure of the raven, with its shadow of unrelenting darkness, offers a similar metaphor. In Edgar Allan Poe's The Raven, the speaker is haunted by the bird's repeated utterance of "Nevermore." This relentless refrain becomes a symbol of the past’s power to intrude, no matter how much one longs for peace or closure. The raven is like a thorn embedded in the mind, a symbol of the weight of memories, loss, and regret that refuse to be shaken off. Even as the speaker seeks respite, the raven forces him to confront the inescapable truth that some wounds may never fully heal, and some memories may never be erased.

For the Apostle Paul, in the New Testament, the concept of a "thorn in the flesh" represents yet another way of understanding persistent struggles. Paul speaks of a "thorn" that he begged God to remove, but instead of erasing it, God replied, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Like the pebbles, thorns, and splinters in our own lives, Paul's thorn becomes not only a source of pain but also a means by which God's strength is made more apparent. Paul's experience teaches us that our struggles—whether small irritations or deep wounds—are not without purpose. They have the potential to refine and shape us in ways we may never understand, drawing us closer to God and to a deeper understanding of grace.

Perhaps it is the very persistence of these small struggles—like thorns, splinters, or pebbles—that teaches us the most. They remind us that we are not alone in our pain, and that, despite the weariness they bring, there is grace to be found in the journey. It is through these challenges, not the grand summits, that we find the depths of our strength, our humanity, and our need for grace.

I plan to spend the month of February, digging into some of these 'faulty thinking patterns' and I hope you will join me on this journey. It isn't just for others sake... it is also for ourselves. In some ways, we all battle different forms of mental illness.... and we need the Lord, His Word, and others to keep us afloat.

Here is what I hope to explore:

Metacognitive Tools: Navigating Faulty Thinking Patterns

In the journey of self-awareness and cognitive growth, having tools that challenge and guide us through the maze of our own thought processes is invaluable. These tools help illuminate biases, overconfidence, and areas of self-doubt, encouraging us to better understand where we stand in relation to faulty thinking syndromes. Below are ten potential names for such a tool, each designed to inspire reflection and foster clarity:

The Mirror of Mind

Suggests introspection and self-reflection, emphasizing looking into one's own cognitive patterns.


Cognitive Compass

A tool designed to help users navigate their mental landscape and locate where they might be off course.


The Bias Barometer

Encourages users to measure and detect their own cognitive biases or faulty thinking tendencies.


Perception Pivot

A tool that prompts users to reevaluate their assumptions and shift perspectives.


The Thinking Map

Guides users to explore the terrain of their thought processes and identify where errors or distortions might lie.


Metacog Matrix

Highlights the interplay of metacognitive awareness and decision-making, challenging users to place themselves in the matrix of cognitive fallacies.


The Clarity Lens

A reflective tool aimed at clearing away distortions in perception and thought.


The Confidence Scale

Encourages users to evaluate whether their confidence aligns with their actual knowledge or competence.


Mind Checkpoint

A stopping point for users to pause and assess the accuracy and rationality of their thinking.


The Echo Filter

Designed to help users sift through their thoughts and identify when they are trapped in echo chambers or self-reinforcing loops.

Crisis Mode

This is the fight or flight adrenaline rush and how we 'think through' these situations without a paralysis of analysis.

And yes (sorry) I did come up with a song (and I am actually developing a game as well TBD)

Song: Of Thorns, Splinters, and Pebbles

The Modest Masters Convention - A Parable

In the quiet town of Measuredville, tucked between the Cautious Hills and the Valley of Second Guesses, there existed a peculiar organization known as the Society of Modest Masters. This esteemed group was composed of individuals renowned for their unparalleled humility. Their motto was proudly etched on their banner: "What little we know, we know we hardly know at all."

Every year, the Society held an annual convention where members gathered to share their latest findings, carefully prefaced with disclaimers such as, "This is merely a hypothesis," or, "I may be entirely wrong." However, attendance had dwindled over the years. The members' reluctance to assert themselves even in their own areas of expertise had left the program with gaping holes.

At a heated planning meeting, the Society’s president, Dr. Prudence Hindsight, proposed an unconventional idea:

"Our members are so painfully humble that we struggle to fill our panels. Perhaps we should invite someone with... the opposite problem for contrast."

After much debate (and an uncomfortable amount of second-guessing), they decided to extend an invitation to Professor Boldwin Bluff, the self-proclaimed founder of the Institute of Supreme Confidence. Bluff was a man whose reputation was as colorful as his wardrobe and whose name seemed to precede him—usually by about ten paces.

DAYS OF MEETINGS THAT COULD HAVE BEEN EMAILS (ALSO CALLED CONVENTIONS)

When the day of the convention arrived, Professor Bluff swept into the hall with a flourish, dressed in an oversized suit festooned with medals of dubious origin. He strode to the podium, beaming with the self-assurance of a man who had never once doubted himself.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Modest Masters, I stand before you today as the epitome of excellence—proof that you needn’t burden yourself with self-doubt or, for that matter, facts."

His keynote address, titled "Mastering Mastery Without the Hassle of Learning," began with a bold claim:

"My friends, I have achieved greatness in every field I’ve graced. I invented Wi-Fi as a child. I cured a disease—the name of which escapes me—and I once outran a cheetah, barefoot."

The audience—accustomed to meticulously analyzing even their own grocery lists—sat in stunned silence. Professor Bluff’s presentation was a whirlwind of anecdotes, none of which had a shred of evidence but all delivered with unwavering certainty. He concluded with a flourish:

"Remember, doubt is for the weak. Confidence conquers all. Now, who has questions for a man of my caliber?"

THE GROUP MODERATOR ASKS FOR QUESTIONS AND THE GROANS WERE HEARD FROM THE BACK

The members of the Society, true to form, phrased their questions with such caution that Bluff mistook their politeness for admiration:

Dr. Delia Underfoot hesitantly asked: "Could you elaborate on your assertion that gravity might, in fact, be optional?"

Bluff replied: "Absolutely. I’m living proof of that—look how grounded I am!"

Another member ventured: "What’s your view on the limits of human knowledge?"

Bluff confidently answered: "There are none, provided you don’t waste time learning!"

As the Q&A continued, Bluff basked in what he believed to be adoration. Meanwhile, the audience exchanged bewildered glances.

There was a small group who had been texting each other furiously for the entire convention.

At the end, one text popped up-

"Do you think he’s joking?"

The reply came back:

"I think we’re the joke."

After the keynote, the Society held an emergency meeting to process what they had just experienced. Dr. Hindsight opened the discussion:

"Well, that was... educational?"

Dr. Underfoot replied:

"Educational? It was like watching a goose teach flight to eagles!"

Some members argued that Bluff’s confidence had, ironically, highlighted their own crippling self-doubt.

 A younger member chimed in:

"Maybe we’re too cautious. If he can stride in here and claim mastery over gravity, surely we can afford to assert ourselves just a little."

Others were less charitable. One elder member lamented:

"I fear his audacity has corrupted the youth. Did you see them scribbling notes during his talk? They’ll be quoting him next!"

As they debated, a letter arrived from Bluff himself, congratulating the Society for their "wisdom" in inviting him. Enclosed was an invoice for "intellectual enrichment services" totaling $25,000. The members—true to their nature—debated for hours whether the invoice was serious or satirical.

The Moral

"The truly wise doubt their wisdom, while the truly foolish charge a premium for theirs."

as well as:

'The expert is the fool who thinks he knows everything"

"The first million years of hell will be meetings"

NOTICE: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

No Time for Rumination

Here are some initial thoughts I have had reading a very interesting book- The Frontiersman by Allan W. Eckert.

 Life on the frontier was a relentless test of endurance. The early pioneers didn’t just live; they fought to survive in ways that feel almost unimaginable today. The Frontiersman brings this vividly to life, offering glimpses into the staggering toughness required to carve out an existence in untamed wilderness. One passage that stuck with me described the sheer challenge of navigating rivers in large dugout canoes. These vessels, hewn from massive tree trunks, were essential for travel and trade, but controlling them on fast, unpredictable rivers like the Ohio or the Scioto was a battle of grit and ingenuity.

Eckert describes how these pioneers had to contend with strong currents, hidden rocks, and fallen trees that could capsize a canoe in an instant. The men wielded long poles and paddles to guide the unwieldy vessels, straining against the power of the river while soaked to the bone and chilled by the wind. A single misstep or moment of inattention could mean disaster—losing not only the goods they carried but possibly their lives. And yet, they persevered. Day after day, they endured these dangers because they had no choice. Survival demanded it.

There are gruesome images in the book as well as the men fought Indians and each day provided dangers of life and death.

What strikes me most is how these pioneers seemed to endure these physical and mental challenges without being consumed by despair. They buried loved ones, braved the elements, and pressed on, even when the odds seemed impossible. It wasn’t because they didn’t feel fear or sadness—of course, they did.

 But their lives didn’t allow for the kind of mental paralysis that comes from overthinking. When something was taken away, when disaster struck, they simply had to keep moving forward because there was no alternative.

In contrast, our modern lives often provide more comfort and safety but leave us more vulnerable to what psychologists call rumination. Rumination, at its core, is the habit of turning the same thought over and over in your mind—regret, fear, failure—without reaching a resolution. It’s the mental equivalent of being stuck in an eddy, unable to paddle free. Unlike the pioneers who had no time to dwell on past mistakes while navigating dangerous waters, we often find ourselves with too much time and too little action.

Eckert’s descriptions of frontier life stand in stark contrast to this modern struggle. Those men and women had no illusions about life being easy. Hardship wasn’t seen as a failure or an obstacle—it was simply life. That perspective alone can be transformative. Today, many of us live with the unspoken expectation that life should be comfortable and smooth, and when it’s not, we spiral into overthinking. But the pioneers accepted struggle as a given and focused instead on what they could control: building, repairing, moving forward.

The lesson here is not to romanticize suffering but to recognize that action and purpose are powerful antidotes to the loops of rumination. When we’re stuck in our heads, replaying mistakes or imagining worst-case scenarios, perhaps the best thing we can do is take a page from the pioneers' book. They didn’t pause to dwell on what was lost; they picked up their paddles and faced the river ahead.

The dugout canoes of Eckert’s The Frontiersman are more than just tools for navigating rivers—they’re metaphors for resilience. Each obstacle in the water required immediate action, not endless analysis. Each push of the pole or stroke of the paddle was a reminder that progress comes from doing, not dwelling.

The pioneers didn’t know the luxury of rumination, but they didn’t need it. Their lives were rooted in purpose, and that purpose gave them the strength to endure. Perhaps in reconnecting with action and meaning, we can rediscover some of that same resilience for the quieter but no less challenging battles of the modern mind.