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Ken Reed's avatar

Nice column David. This is indeed a tough and important challenge. That said, it's especially tough when you are a columnist required to write opinions, as I have been for a good chunk of my career😀!

David Gerken's avatar

I hear you, Ken!

Jackie M. Stebbins's avatar

Oh man … when I saw this land in my inbox, all I could of is: Does Dave have a list of Jackie’s subpar behavior or is she just afflicted by nearly everything he writes on, which means that she has SO MUCH mindfulness work to do!?! Good news, I saw how judgmental I was and how much it led me to (unfairly) make (terrible) and totally incorrect first impressions on others long before I got sick. I’ve been working at this for a while and can say practice makes better! And yes, I feel much lighter when I give it a “meh,” they’re doing their best and there’s a lot I don’t know. I’ll accept the person as is and try to not pass judgment! And I can only hope others give me that same grace and pass.

David Gerken's avatar

Oh, no!!! Sorry, Jackie, for pressing your buttons. But you seem to be kicking butt in dealing with them. Keep it up!

And hope all is well is sunny, warm North Dakota! At the risk of you hating me and canceling your subscription, today’s weather report in Newport Beach is a high of 79 and clear skies. Beach day!!!

Jackie M. Stebbins's avatar

As my newest, and one of my most favorite, spiritual leaders, I should feel bad about saying to you - *%**#*%!!! Haha! You got to go to the beach on Friday. I shoveled 5+ in of snow on Saturday … Clearly, we’re the same!!

David Gerken's avatar

If it makes you feel any better, the weather "party" is over down here. Today's high only 66. BRRRRR!!!!

Jackie M. Stebbins's avatar

Today in Bismarck, ND: Snow this morning, chance of afternoon thunderstorm, 65 mph winds are headed this way this evening … so yes, I’m still mad at you!! 😂