Opinion

In terms of cosmic mysteries, it ain’t. It’s really not a major mystery at all, unless there is a vast conspiracy behind it. If Mus musculus, the scientific name for the common house mouse, is capable of being in a vast conspiracy, then we have a lot more to worry about than whether or not…

Few experiences are more discouraging than believing a struggle has finally been overcome, only to discover it waiting again around the next corner. A person spends years trying to become more patient, only to lose their temper in a single difficult moment. Someone works hard to overcome insecurity, yet finds old fears resurfacing under pressure.…

Stupid laws A lot of laws on the books today are just stupid. They are left on the books because no one cares, no one enforces them and it is easier to leave the law in place than repeal it. The idea that the County Commission must meet in the “County Seat” is one of…

Most people assume that fear comes from the size of the challenge in front of them. A difficult career move, a risky decision, a daunting project—these things appear large, complicated, and uncertain. It seems natural that hesitation would follow. When the obstacles look enormous, fear feels inevitable. But sometimes fear does not grow from the…

BOAT – N. A hole in the water into which one throws money. Boats are best owned by someone else. Like you. Give me occasional visitation rights and I’m a happy guy. Except I want a boat of my own. I want one big enough to take to the lake and fish for catfish until…

Attention high school graduates! I realize none of you will read this largely because it is written in complete sentences, complete words and appears in a newspaper instead of on a cell phone screen or FaceBooger, Slapsnap, Twithead or a TickyTocky video, I am still compelled to share my wisdom with you. Don’t get run…

Many people carry a quiet hesitation when it comes to influencing others. We tell ourselves we’re not qualified enough to offer guidance, not wise enough to give advice, not accomplished enough to inspire anyone else. Before we can help others grow, we assume we must first become better versions of ourselves. So, we hold back.…

Last week’s column made a simple argument: The Wiregrass Farmer is not just a source of information. It is a form of attention—a way for the community to keep its eyes on itself. This week, the question is simpler. If that’s true, then what follows? Across rural communities, including here in Turner County, local newspapers…

Ask almost anyone why they haven’t started something meaningful—writing the book, changing careers, mending a relationship—and you’ll hear familiar answers. I need more experience. More resources. More confidence. More time. We tell ourselves the same story, over and over: meaningful action requires perfect conditions. Once we feel fully prepared, then we’ll begin. But the perfect…