What’s Wrong with Plumbing?

For some reason, American youth think that the only route to success is college—the problem is, many aren’t cut out for it and, once they get through, there aren’t a bunch of jobs waiting for them.

On the other hand, there are openings and demand in the skilled trades arena: plumbers, welders, electricians, manufacturing maintenance, etc.

If people think they are “too good” for these jobs, I suggest you take a look at the salaries they are making, the job security they enjoy, and the opportunity to work with your hands and actually see what you’ve done.

Thank You, Senator Shumer

Finally, someone in Washington has gotten their priorities right. Instead of all this concern over Pakistan, North Korean missiles, and the economy, Senator Charles Shumer (Democrat, NY) has determined to introduce legislation banning the resale of concert tickets. That’s right, music fans. The US government plans, if Shumer has his way, to regulate Springsteen tickets. Tell me, can you impeach someone for being stupid and egotistical and totally out of touch with reality?????

Leadership and Humility

As a 7-year-old, Richard Bernstein admired Jackie Robinson’s athletic ability and courage as the first African-American man to play Major League baseball in the modern era. A few years later, while working at a small-town golf course, Bernstein was astonished to find himself carrying the bag of his hero, Jackie Robinson. When rain postponed the game, Robinson held an umbrella over the two of them and shared his chocolate bar with the young caddy. Writing in The International Herald Tribune, Bernstein cited that humble act of kindness as a mark of greatness he has never forgotten.

The Times Belong to the Courageous

While “men’s hearts fail them for fear” there are those who look up and seize the opportunities in front of them. The creative and courageous will win the day. They always have. Challenging times are nothing new. Most people turn victim and let fear rule their hearts and minds. The few that keep their heads and hearts will see what to do and do it.

We Elected A Car Salesman

I’m amazed. After forcing Wagoner of GM out of the CEO role, our President is now asking us to buy GM cars and promising that the US Government will stand behind the warranty and repairs. Am I dreaming? Somebody wake me up!

Business with Meaning

I’m speaking this weekend at a Business as Mission conference in Philadelphia. From a faith perspective, the short version is learning to deliberately connect our businesses to what God is doing around the world. Even for those who don’t necessarily share a Christian worldview it is still a great idea to ask what the purpose of your business is and what good it’s doing in the world. Trying to answer these questions is a difficult but healthy struggle.

Is the Splurge Working Yet?

President Bush had the surge—the media asked if it was working. President Obama has the splurge of seemingly unlimited federal spending, borrowing, buying, spending, taxing, did I mention spending?, etc. Is it working yet?