Uncle Thor's Lessons, Anecdotes and Humor

This week, the Russian invaded the neighboring state of Georgia. This Georgia is a nation in the Caucausus, not the state visited by General Sherman. Russia did what Russians usually do. They take a heavyhanded and poorly-thought-out approach that will have consequences. This time, the consequences will be from other nations. They will not be [...]

When Japan usurped Manchuria in 1931, it found itself sharing a border with its old enemy, Russia. Border skirmishes flared for years. It came to a head in 1939 on the Mongolian border. Japan and its Manchurian allies took on Mongolia and the Russians. The battle took place at Nomonhan in the deserts of Mongolia. [...]

Meditation is simple. All it takes is for you to sit, relax, and breathe slowly and naturally. Breathe the way you do when sleeping. When relaxed, think about that for which you are meditating. If you catch other thoughts intruding, just focus back on the original subject I have learned many meditation tricks over the [...]

When someone must conceal their actions, it is cause for questions. Things that are acceptable are done openly. That is the norm, although there can be exceptions. Generally, secrecy is reserved for things that may be unacceptable, or at the very least questionable. If you are dealing with someone who insists on concealing his actions, [...]

One of the most important skills is the ability to find and use alternatives. There are situations where planned actions must change. It may be due to an oversight, circumstances, or an unexpected activity of opponents. Faced with an event that makes the original plan untenable, a person has two choices. The lesser is to [...]

For some people, there is one major thing they feel must be done in their lives. It can be an award, a diploma, or other accomplishment. On the other hand, it might be having a child, buying a home or learning a skill. It is as if life itself must be put on hold until [...]

How does the jester relate to the sage? I knew a fellow named Al many years ago. He was in his early 50s. Al looked like Don Amech, but the resemblance stopped there. He was the kind of fellow who wore a mock turtle neck shirt with the medallion when he was going out on [...]

A person can develop courage, fairness, honesty and the will to do right. No matter how low he may have fallen, he can work to develop a higher standard. It will take time, strenuous effort and persistence, but it can be done. I have seen many people decide to become better, and do so. Ideals [...]

There is a small striped cat whose morning routine includes our yard. She is part of a “cat crew.” Her usual accomplice is an orange cat with white rings on his tail. More recently, her three kittens have been with her. The striped cat is the “designated beggar.” She waits for Audrey, and then rushes [...]

Desire is stronger than willpower. The way to achieve something is to want it so badly that you will go to almost any lengths to get it. Willpower is not enough. Willpower can hold you for the short haul. Desire can take you through the long journey. I have heard desire described as “want power.” [...]