Worldwide Stew

When Algorithms Go Wrong

My phone’s keyboard consistently turns “and” into “abs” when I swipe-type, an algorithm error that happens dozens of times weekly. Despite how frequently I use “and” versus how rarely anyone types “abs,” the code refuses to learn my patterns.

We operate on similar faulty algorithms. When our partner raises a concern, our mental predictive text instantly jumps to defensiveness, hearing criticism when they’re offering connection. Like my stubborn keyboard, we’ve been programmed by past experiences to misinterpret what’s actually being said.

What matters to me?

Asking Why am I here? is probably wasting time. It’s like a termite trying to eat a sequoia. It’s too big and carries little action.

You’re probably better off asking two other questions:

• What things matter to me?
• What things matter to the people I care about?

There’s a host of other questions you can (and should) ask. But these are awesome places to start or reset. Begin with either one, then tackle the other one.

Being conscientious isn't a moral virtue.

Working hard - being conscientious - is not a moral virtue. It’s not enough.

The grade on your assignment has nothing to do with how hard you worked on it. You get a grade dependent on your answers being correct. If we didn’t answer the questions, show our work, or do the work, the teacher won’t care. The point wasn’t to work hard. The point of the assignment is to get the correct answer and show your work.

Deputized on Ash Wednesday

It’s Ash Wednesday. I feel a little sad about that. Why? When I think of Ash Wednesday, here’s the thing I remember most.

I was a chaplain at Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital in Dallas. Even though I wasn’t Catholic, each Ash Wednesday I was deputized to impose Ashes on the foreheads of anyone who wanted them. I received Ashes and then was deputized to impose them on others. I would visit every unit at the hospital to make sure people could get Ashes if they wanted them. There were always lots of questions:

Finding Wisdom Beyond Desperation

When we lead from wisdom, we must first recognize when desire transforms into craving.

My vision for creating meaningful mindfulness opportunities keeps me motivated, but I’ve noticed how easily genuine passion can transform into an anxious urgency—a shift that rarely allows for clear discernment or thoughtful decision-making.

Operating from desperation narrows our vision. It tempts us toward shortcuts, clouds our understanding, and blinds us to others’ authentic motives and needs.