The Science of Generosity and Orphans

Planting futures.

The Science of Generosity

Giving back helps move society forward by uplifting as many people as possible. While long-term problems can be difficult to solve, each of us can make a meaningful difference in individual lives. The world isn’t always fair—that’s one reason why many people choose to give.

The manuscript below explores why people are willing to share even a small portion of their resources. It’s an engaging read that delves into the many motivations behind generosity. The Science of Generosity

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I’ve had this orphan fundraising page for a while now, and I used to visit the kids in person. I’d like to become more involved again. Even as someone working remotely, I can help raise awareness and contribute to fundraising efforts.

It may not always be a lot, but every bit makes a difference. Small actions add up. If you're inspired, feel free to share the page.

[My Orphan Fundraising Page] 

Teamwork Techniques in Firefighter Nozzle Use

The Importance of Firefighting and Teamwork

Firefighting plays a vital role in protecting our communities—many of which are challenged by tight budgets, expensive training requirements, and a shortage of volunteers. Public service, including firefighting, is a meaningful way to give back while gaining valuable skills.

Below is a quick overview of a key hose-handling technique involving both the nozzle operator and the backup firefighter. Watching and practicing different techniques is essential for safety and effectiveness.

Nozzle Operation Technique:

• Maintain contact points: elbow, armpit, and thigh/knee.

• The backup firefighter should be similar in size and strength to the nozzle operator.

• Communicate clearly—call out actions to ensure coordinated movement.

*If your interesting in donating to a fire department in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for training, equipment, etc. send me a message to the right. Corporate or individual donations welcome. Tax free!

1st Annual Veterans Fundraiser: September 6th, 2025 (UP Honor Flight)

 Our veterans have served our nation and good people and organizations often give back to them. The following fundraiser may be of interest to you. 

The Story of the Clan: The Role of Intellectuals: A Sociological and Historical Reflection(Hypothetical Thought Experiment)

Society must continuously evolve and adapt in order to thrive in a changing world. Societies that embrace change are often strengthened, becoming more resilient and high-performing. In contrast, those that resist adaptation risk stagnation and marginalization. Intellectuals and philosophers play a key role in this process by equipping leaders and administrators with the tools to make thoughtful, high-level decisions that improve lives.

The Story of the Clan is a hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment designed to explore what happens when corruption and hate undermine local systems—specifically, the justice system. In this scenario, a network of interconnected individuals conspire to target whistleblowers, witnesses, minorities, and victims. Their goal is to benefit their in-group while encouraging out-group members to leave if they don't like something about them—essentially, a form of social cleansing. Goal directed.

Supporting what is moral, just, beneficial
and good leads to a healthier society.
Finding mechanisms to fix glaring problems
at their root improves trust and adaptability.
Systems should be run for the needs of 
all of society.

What makes this story so horrendous was it was well known they were engaged in these extreme behaviors, some officials knew about it, and those who would normally be willing to stand against such behaviors silenced through a culture of corruption. The many choices rooted and anchored in hate and social segregation based on the cultic perceptions of a clan. In essence, a whole chain of decisions that failed to see the fundamentally flawed and at their core illegal behaviors constituting a long term risk. Initially, they just didn't care about fixing it even though they were well aware of the crimes indicating what direction they are headed and how the needs of society may not be at the forefront of thought. (We are going to write in a positive ending because it is just a learning story. It is hard to imagine the damage a closed clan system could do to victims. Yikes!).

Yet, this is ultimately a story of triumph. Community members who recognized similar abuses began to challenge the protective shield surrounding corruption. Their efforts led to a revitalized society: trust increased, the economy improved, competent officials rose through the ranks, and vulnerable populations found better opportunities. Even judges, once influenced by unchecked bias, began to recognize the flawed foundations of some decisions (We have seen this before in historical stories of moral conscious and we revisit in society because we have not yet learned to overcome such issues.). By reassessing their assumptions and improving their decision-making processes, they contributed to a more just system. Who wins in this case? The People. (Docket: The People vs. The Clan.)

Philosophers and intellectuals—those who advocate for a higher moral order—are often targeted when their perspectives challenge the status quo. The greater the ideological distance, the stronger the backlash. One may want freedom and liberties and the other may want control and power (This has been going on since the beginning of mankind). Yet history consistently shows that intellectuals often work to address foundational issues that benefit society as a whole. When philosophy is paired with science and strategy, it creates a powerful framework for positive change.

Even when unappreciated, such individuals continue to contribute meaningfully to democratic systems by helping identify ways to improve them—particularly by fostering inclusive, principle-based engagement. People often make poor decisions when they fail to critically examine information or question underlying assumptions. Encouraging more thoughtful analysis at the local level enables the broader system to continuously adjust and improve in both effectiveness and efficiency.

This piece reflects on the role of intellectuals from a sociological and historical perspective. One does not endorse or oppose specific examples but invites the reader to consider the importance of intellectual work in shaping and strengthening society. Look for the broad principles versus the actual examples. The Role of Intellectuals

*This a hypothetical philosophical theoretical thought experiment for learning purposes so take with a grain of salt. Feel free to share an alternative perspective because we are learning.

Ocean Beach Pier Canvas Print

 OB Pier Canvas Print with different sizes available. This pier will eventually be torn down. No one is allowed to walk it any more due to weather damage. 

OB Canvas Print
The Walking Path Gallery

Human Capital as an Important Innovative Factor for Business and Society

Human capital will play an increasingly important role in the future as both technology and our capacity to use it evolve. Achieving goals and maintaining a competitive advantage requires a thoughtful integration of the human element within broader strategic systems. As a key input in economic models and outcomes, human capital cannot be overlooked—organizations that do so risk weakening their long-term prospects.

Innovation and the ability to harness it are critical in today’s fast-changing environment. As technology evolves, employers need a workforce capable of understanding and adapting to these changes. The generation of new business ideas and the effective use of organizational resources will increasingly depend on the intellectual capacity of human capital.

Developing human capital involves multiple pathways, including higher education, vocational training, skilled trades, and personal development. Higher education tends to focus on abstract thinking and systems-level understanding, while advanced degrees help bridge theory and practice. Training programs can target specific skill gaps, trades education develops industry-specific competencies, and self-directed learning allows individuals to grow on their own terms.

(Side Noted. Been working on a model measuring competencies to ensure better industry-education alignment.)

The saying "people are our greatest asset" reflects a growing recognition of the value of human capital. Research supports this, showing that investing in people benefits not just organizations but entire societies and nations. While often discussed at a macroeconomic level, the report below offers a detailed and practical look at the importance of human capital.

Human capital management research: how people are our greatest asset

Economic Well-being of Households in 2024-Federal Reserve

Home ownership rises as
incomes rise.

The Federal Reserve regularly analyzes and reviews the state of the U.S. economy. If you're not familiar, the Federal Reserve’s mission is to promote economic well-being and stability so they are a source of economic data. Understanding what people are experiencing economically to make decisions is an important part of that mission.

Below are some highlights from a recent report. Overall, the findings suggest that, from the perspective of the average household, the economy is doing reasonably well. However, it's important to remember that no single report captures every aspect of the economy or how people feel about it. Each report has limitations based on what it’s designed to measure. This give s a broad overview.

Household Economic Wellbeing Federal Reserve May 2025

Price of household essentials like
food still a concern.

Key Findings: I pulled a full but there are more. 

• 73% of Americans say they are doing okay financially or living comfortably.

• 29% of respondents rate the economy as "good" or "excellent," an increase from the previous year.

• 60% report that rising prices are causing financial strain.

• The median rent is $1,200 and continues to rise.

• 22% of people earn income through gig work or by selling goods and services.

• 41% of workers say they work from home at least some of the time.

• 10% have variable or unpredictable work schedules.

• 39% report annual incomes over $100,000.

• 32% said their income increased over the past year.

• 19% said their spending exceeded their income, while 30% said the two were about equal.

• 7% reported not having enough to eat at least some of the time.

• 85% have some type of retirement savings plan.

Again, while these findings provide a snapshot of current economic conditions, they don't tell the whole story. Broader context and additional data sources are needed to understand the full picture.