Author Archives: fearlessanalyst

Grammar, authoritarianism and me…

In my life, “Grammar” has been very much related to authoritarianism.  I’m currently enjoying Eats, Shoots and Leaves, and it has brought back memories of my  relationship to grammar. Growing up in a relatively authoritarian society meant that we had … Continue reading

Posted in authoritarian, grammar, reflections, relativism, values | Tagged , , , , | 10 Comments

Embracing the ‘opposition’

A conference I’m attending in May* that revolves around the increasing urbanization of the world and related issues, asks the question “How can citizens most effectively be involved in this massive re-shaping of the urban environment?” As it happens, this … Continue reading

Posted in change, communication, community, NIMBY, urban planning, urbanism | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Classical Revolution + Measha – Really!

Sometimes, you’re just in the right place, at the right time.  And last night was one of those times. The place was Toronto’s Tranzac Club, and not ten feet from me was  soprano Measha  Brueggergosman, transforming the room, entertaining, teasing … Continue reading

Posted in Classical Revolution, James Galligan, Measha Brueggergosman, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Tranzac Club, urban | Tagged , , , , , | 7 Comments

Walkability + Livability

I think a lot about the question of what might make my neighbourhood livable and thriving long term.  And how does that relate to affordability?  And the environment?  I’ve been trying to get my mind around some of Jane Jacobs’ … Continue reading

Posted in affordability, gentrification, neighbourhood, Roncesvalles Village, Toronto, uban planning, urbanism, Vancouver | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

Rachel + Jane

Two important  books  seem to be meeting each other in my mind these days.   Almost as though the two authors began with a conversation in my head about the environment vs. urban planning, and they’ve gradually come to embrace each … Continue reading

Posted in densification, envronment, Jane Jacobs, Rachel Carson, urban development | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Thinking about ‘critical-judgmental’…

I posted this on Facebook recently*: “Ploughing through the shock-value, mud and bugs in the swamp of this gentleman’s lifestyle/behaviour, I was rewarded by the Precious inside him…. Smells like integrity to me – a quality I profoundly respect and … Continue reading

Posted in awareness, beliefs, consciousness, criticism, judgment, personal growth, psychology, reflections | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

That Cat…

Are you The fabled “tiger burning bright In the forests of the night?” You hint at ‘soul’ Through matted fur; your stripes. I reach to stroke, You growl; Yet I would swear It ended with a purr. Almost imperceptible; But … Continue reading

Posted in animals, body language, commercial, consciousness, empathy, Feelings, intimacy | Tagged , , , , , | 5 Comments

Sisters laughing….

The other night,  in Sarasota,  my sister and I laughed under the stars,  just like we often did in our childhood.  That night we were in the Jacuzzi, after a lovely evening out with our spouses, a memorable dinner, and … Continue reading

Posted in laughter, Memories, mother, reflections, relationships, remembering childhood, sisters | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

One war souvenir with blue eyes…

The guy sitting in the underground path to the Manulife Center, just after our lovely lunch, had obviously been in a horrifying accident – perhaps something like an  “IED”* in Afghanistan, I imagined; or a car accident that involved a … Continue reading

Posted in accountability, anti-war, compassion, consequences, injustice, war | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments

How do I recognize a friend?

Well first, I love his company. I look forward To seeing him anon. I am enriched By spending time with him. And when confused, I wonder what he’d say. When happy, With him I share my joy. When he’s in … Continue reading

Posted in communication, friendship, open, Poetry, reflections, relationships, values | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments