Have you ever dreamed of doing something that no one else has ever done? What drives a man (or woman) to accomplish something new? Is it fame that is sought, or fortune, or something else? Perhaps we will never know what drives some people to certain accomplishments, but in many instances we do know what […]
This Day in History: The Pledge of Allegiance
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America; and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Those 31 words are well-known by most Americans. It seems as though I have always known the Pledge of Allegiance. I memorized those words […]
This Day in History: Ambiguity and coincidence in the Oregon Treaty
It is interesting how much trouble can be created when people or documents are not precise. I remember reviewing a loan once that called for bi-annual payments, when clearly the intention was to have semi-annual payments. A couple of years ago I wrote about a dispute that hinged on the difference between permanent and in […]
This Day in History: The Hanging of Mary Dyer
I am an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Marshall, Texas. I have repeatedly stated that I respect everyone’s right to practice their own religion as long as that religion does not engage in or espouse violence toward another religion or individuals who are members of that religion. I would hold this […]
This Day in History: The Scopes Monkey Trial
If I was charged with a crime, I would hope that I would be able to get off, whether I was guilty or innocent, even if it were on a technicality. Certainly a not guilty verdict would be the best outcome, but a technicality is better than being found guilty. Or is it? Sometimes people […]