Comments for What Matters Most

Comment on Pandemic Scenario Expected by TR

TR — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:17:37 +0000

I think part of the problem right now is that there have been several times in the last 10 years when the words “pandemic” or crisis have been overused. Killer Bees invading North America never happened, and what about the infamous Bird Flu? It makes it that much harder for people to take the threat of pandemic seriously.

My youngest daughter came down with the flu last Thursday. As soon as we realized she had a fever, the decision was made to keep her home. Out came the disinfecting wipes and the hand sanitizer. Although her fever was gone last night, we’re following the guidelines and keeping her home an extra day to help keep others from getting this virus. I am more concerned about the schools closing down with only a handful of sick children — do they think that school is the only place were the virus can be spread? Those kids will be hanging out at the local fast food place, the theater, the mall, or home with their sick siblings instead of at school where teachers can remind them to use the sanitizers and desks can be wiped down in between classes. Preventing flu is a serious business, but I think we need to work hard to use common sense as well.

Comment on Pandemic Scenario Expected by CJ

CJ — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 14:34:34 +0000

Your article hit home with us. When our kids came down with the flu, each of them missed two weeks of school, which included missing their scheduled sports events, too. Of course, we kept them home. But, we missed work to attend to their needs so we took turns being absent from work, which affected our productivity in the workplace. Now, the entire family is working extra hard to play catch-up when we probably should be taking a breather, slowing down and thinking about a better way to handle any future time away from school and work when the next bout of flu hits us.

Comment on H1N1: The Human Impact by Jake

Jake — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:09:02 +0000

I appreciate this even-tempered report on the flu virus story. While so many others are listening to media hype that often causes overreaction, it’s refreshing to hear the good news rather than the bad news, especially when the bad news is often based on fear rather than fact. Thanks!

Comment on Midnight At The Movies by Angie

Angie — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:18:58 +0000

In September 2009, Justin Townes Earle received an Americana Music Award for Emerging Artist of the Year. He also received nominations for album of the year (Midnight at the Movies) and for artist of the year. Most definitely, he is a talented musician and destined to become an American classic.

Comment on Voice for the Voiceless by Angie

Angie — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:48:42 +0000

It’s interesting to hear Jack’s story, his personal transformation from high school to college into public service. His commitment to action is commendable. My college days were filled with ideas, facts and theories. I envy his vision and passion for life. He’s made a difference and it inspires me to do the same.

Comment on Four Generations of Women by DS

DS — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 20:33:47 +0000

What a lovely sharing and so true about the need for feminine energy to solve today’s challenges in our world! Such an inspiration!

Comment on Importance of Play by Nancy K

Nancy K — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:10:35 +0000

Playtime is truly a necessary part of out lives — whether we’re 2 or 82. Barbara through her “creations” while designed for children, reminds me how important play and freedom to play without a lot of supervision helps us all to be happier and more rounded.

Comment on Importance of Play by Carrie

Carrie — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 19:55:50 +0000

In addition to the importance of play, this piece says a lot about who Barbara is. Good for her that she was able to develop who she is and have such an awareness of what she is interested in and likes to do. How impressive that she continued, through a variety of opportunities that came about, to persevere to get to the point she is now. She seems very happy doing something that is very beneficial to, and important for, children. Good thing she followed her dream and not that of others!

Comment on Importance of Play by Anonymous

Anonymous — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:49:37 +0000

I am so impressed by people who make a living out of their passion. Butler really gets me thinking about what is my passion, how do I play, if I could have any job in the world- one that incorporated all of the things that I truly bring me deep joy, what would it be? I’m not sure. But I like the value she places on play and fun, in a society that is oh so serious. Often times the joy of living gets forgotten and lost under responsibilities and achievement-oriented goals. I agree that there is great value in playing hard and getting dirty!

Comment on Importance of Play by Pam

Pam — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:23:40 +0000

Kids always need playtime – they need to have playtime so they can learn all those life lessons one learns when playing – especially with other kids! Sharing and caring and figuring out how to be a leader AND a follower.
Individual creativity starts with playing and pretending. Just the physical activity is valuable! Academics are important as well. Allowing our kids the freedom to play is just as important.
That an person can follow their own passion in creating play structures for kids (and adults) is awesome!