For Our Nation's 250 Birthday Thinking of Family History Reaching All The Way Back to the Massachusetts Bay Colony 1638

Betsey Ross Flag
representing the initial 13 colonies.

Circle of Stars: Equality among colonies.
Red: Justice
White: Purity

History of the Betsey Ross Flag

As we prepare to celebrate the 250th birthday of our country, it’s a fitting time to reflect on our history and how it has evolved. Over generations, we’ve adapted and refined the core values that define us—principles enshrined in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, such as freedom of speech and freedom of religion. Each era has interpreted these freedoms in its own way, shaping the nation we know today. There is much to be proud of, and still more to work on.

This country was founded on the idea of freedom, and many have served to protect and uphold these central values across generations, always striving toward a more perfect union. Exploring your own family history can deepen your understanding of these shared legacies. You may rediscover familiar stories with new clarity and meaning, making it a worthwhile and rewarding journey.

This year, as America marks its 250th anniversary, I’m reflecting on a personal connection that stretches back 388 years—137 years before the Revolutionary War began, when Puritans first settled in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. These are stories of generational sacrifice that helped spark a new nation, perceptions of freedom and further lay the foundations for what we are today. 

I’ve been researching my family history on both sides, and one discovery stands out. My grandmother, Ida Butterfield, is a direct descendant of Benjamin Butterfield, who immigrated from Yorkshire, England, to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1638. He arrived as an indentured servant for five years and later became a prominent member of his community.

Indentured servants lived in conditions that could resemble a form of temporary servitude, with both White and Black individuals bound by contracts for a set period. After completing their term, they were often granted land and provisions, though the system could be harsh and punitive. Over time, this system gave way to legalized racial slavery, including laws in Massachusetts in the mid-17th century that helped formalize a deeply unjust and dehumanizing institution, creating divisions that have had lasting effects today. Indentured Servitude 

(As a side note: Slavery should never have taken root in our history, and modern-day bigotry should not be tolerated. Some of my relatives later fought to end this injustice and move the nation toward a higher moral conscous {I'm sure some struggled with their values as well.}. In many ways, those efforts continue today, as people work to ensure that all are treated with equal dignity and inherent worth. To protect those social contracts many of our ancestors lost their lives for. A few other ancestors later fought against Jewish genocide in Germany. If you go back far enough we have Christian, Muslim and Jewish lines that intersect. In part, why I studied many different religions througout my life, learned to take what is good in them. Also why I am a touch offended and continue that legacy of challenge when people openly discriminate between religions/races, use positions of authority to force hate, or mistreat others because of their false sense of entitlement.💁 The generational striving for liberty- freedom of religion, speech, race, etc.-continues because our future is what we make it nearly 4 centuries later. Is Europe One Big DNA Strand?)

As an interesting historical note, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was established under a charter from King Charles I on March 4, 1629. My ancestor arrived just nine years later, meaning he would have been among the early settlers walking its first dirt roads and buildings (Some lines may predate even that but more research is needed). As one of the original 13 colonies, people like me are considered descendants of these early settlers and are sometimes referred to as “Old Stock Americans.” Massachusetts Bay Colony.

The Revolutionary War did not begin until 1775 but the seeds were set in the colonies prior. Another relative, Captain John Butterfield, served as a minuteman in a snowshoe company at the start of the war (snowshoes and rifles), and his home—built before the Revolution—may still stand today. Think of that for a moment and its implications (If one ever wants to give it back to relatives let me know.). 

My roots in this country extend through both sides of my family, reaching back to the 1600s in one maternal line that eventually move in the early 1800s to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. So when people this or that don't belong I scratch my head. Our sacrafices are a shared one.☝

(Illustrative Only)
Family Roots
run deep.

Kissing the Ring of Bias: A Survey of Judge Opinions

(Illustrative Only)

Judges should always
focus on the highest moral
conscious and order
in alignment with
our artifacts, oaths,
and moral values.

Bias, politics, and PACs 
should not influence our
commitments. We have 
fundamental laws that should
not be undermined nor
foster the return of sins of
the past. Hate and 
corruption are two pathways
to societal harm that
share very similar roots.
Honor the majority
of good judges who
understand the important
purpose of their roles.

 Justice is not only a foundational institution of good governance; it is deeply rooted in the earliest forms of human society. It creates order, fairness, and trust—elements that every economic and social system depends on. History shows, however, that societies have often strayed from these principles. Hate, racism, corruption, and religious bigotry have repeatedly caused harm, even when those responsible believed their actions were justified (Our brains can sometimes justify anything). Viewed through a modern lens, many of these actions are clearly immoral and deeply flawed.

In the past, some judges and leaders rationalized injustice by convincing themselves they were serving a higher moral purpose. For example, there were those who believed they could “save” others souls while simultaneously dehumanizing them—justifying practices like slavery based on distorted cultural or religious views. Who saved their souls? Today, similar risks remain. Bias—whether racial, religious, or political—can still influence decision-making, sometimes unintentionally, and lead to unequal treatment under the law. Fundamental violations that lead to a decline of trust. Encouraging true north values and foundational beliefs in positions of authority supports the foundations of a healthy society (Lists or no lists).

To be clear, most individuals within the justice system aim to do the right thing. They work to support their communities and uphold fairness. However, when failures sometimes occur, the damage caused by a minority of bad actors can be significant. In some cases, oversight mechanisms appear weak, and accountability can be slow or inconsistent. This creates conditions where misconduct may persist longer than it should. Sometimes for years and years of blind eye encouragement.

Consider a hypothetical philosophical thought experiment learning scenario: a closed judicial system influenced by a group driven by racial, religious and in some cases political bias. In such a system, constitutional rights are ignored, misconduct is shielded, and vulnerable individuals are targeted or neglected. When challenged by those seeking fairness and accountability, retaliation follows—through intimidation, threats, or inaction. Coordinated reputational harm and enrichment from corruption and hate. While allegorical, this kind of scenario reflects patterns that have appeared in different forms throughout history. It highlights how easily systems can be distorted when bias and corruption go unchecked. Encouraging us to think more independently and thoughtfully about the legacy we leave behind.

The key lesson is that individuals often operate within cognitive frameworks, shaped by bias and belief. Fostered by groups, politics, and political monies. Without strong safeguards, even harmful systems can be rationalized by those within them. This is why protections—constitutional rights, checks and balances, and accountability structures—must not only exist but function effectively for everyone. It is a duty to improve where improvement is needed when aligning to these shared values.

Despite these challenges, in this example there is reason for optimism. Most people genuinely want to do what is right, and societies can learn from past defaults. Social movements and the frequency of upheavals have demonstrated the consequences of injustice, reinforcing the need for reform. For example, a survey by the National Judicial College found that 65% of judges believe racism still exists within the justice system, and many support continued reform. While not a scientific study, it reflects an awareness within the judiciary that improvements are still needed and there is a lot who want to do the right thing (Always support the people doing the right thing. If you don't support them those with darker souls move in to fill the void.). 

Moving forward, the goal should be to strengthen justice systems so they can better identify misconduct without mislabeling individuals based on race, religion, or political belief. Core rights—such as those protected by constitutions and bills of rights—must be upheld consistently, not selectively. Reform should focus on building transparent, accountable, and resilient institutions that serve all members of society fairly. We want them to be effective in catching the "bad guys" even if they find them in the mirror (There is a mirror theory based on choices and how people selectively take in information to make choices in this thought experiment).

Ultimately, this is not about political parties, special interest groups, or competing narratives. It is about shared values—how people choose to live, govern, and treat one another. A sense of indivisibility over the the value of life and liberty. Those who honor their responsibilities, feel a sense of responsibility to foster the gains from generational striving, and uphold justice contribute to stronger, more effective systems. Everything else is secondary. Or at least it should be. 🤷 Good people are good people no matter their position within society. Vote your conscious wisely. It is a party neutral statement. If you are not sure of who to vote for then cast a vote for an independent to change up the kinds of decisions being made. 🙇

Survey of Judges Indicates Majority Believe Criminal Justice System Suffers from Racism

Non-scientific but still in alignment with other studies.

• A survey conducted by the National Judicial College found that 65% of 634 responding judges believe systemic racism exists in the U.S. criminal justice system.
• The survey was informal and based on a single question sent to judicial alumni, meaning results are not considered conclusive scientific research.
• Many judges indicated that racism within the system is often implicit or unconscious, rather than overt or intentional.
• Over 200 judges provided written comments, frequently pointing to implicit bias as influencing decision-making and contributing to disparities.
• Some judges linked systemic racism to higher incarceration rates among Black Americans and other minorities compared to white individuals.
• A minority of judges disagreed, arguing that while individual bias may exist, the system itself is not inherently racist.
• The findings highlight ongoing discussions within the judiciary about bias, fairness, and potential reforms in the justice system.

National Judicial College. (2020, July 20). Survey of judges says the majority believe the criminal justice system suffers from racism. https://www.judges.org/news-and-info/survey-of-judges-says-the-majority-believe-the-criminal-justice-system-suffers-from-racism/

Supporting the Arts Ballet en L’air-City Ballet Fundraiser

(Illustrative)

The fine arts—such as dance, ballet, and contemporary movement—play an important role in society. They tell stories, encourage people to engage with their bodies, improve fitness and coordination, and offer powerful forms of artistic expression often associated with thriving, developed communities.

Despite these benefits, the arts are frequently underfunded, especially when more immediate needs take priority. It’s worth taking a moment to reflect on what we choose to support financially—and what we overlook. The arts contribute broadly to society by revealing beauty in the midst of our busy daily routines: working, caring for families, and keeping up with life’s demands. They offer an outlet that enriches both the mind and the spirit.

There are also meaningful physical and mental benefits tied to artistic engagement. If you have the time, consider exploring this research—and consider supporting the arts by attending an event or purchasing a ticket. 

The Physiological and Psychological Benefits of Dance and its Effects on Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

The event.....

Join us for an inspiring afternoon as we celebrate the close of our 33rd season and welcome the 34th! The event will take place at the beautifully remodeled KPBS Conrad Prebys Media Complex at the Copley Center on the SDSU campus. Enjoy the opportunity to meet City Ballet dance artists, explore the art of ballet through engaging demonstrations, and experience an intimate, breathtaking performance up close.

Sunday, June 7, 2026
2:00–5:00 PM

KPBS Conrad Prebys Media Complex at Copley Center
San Diego State University
5200 Campanile Dr, San Diego

Purchase your tickets by Thursday, June 4, 2026.

https://cityballet.org/events/fundraiser/

Support Veterans Through the Wounded Warrior Project

(Illustrative Only)

Support your veterans.

Veterans put themselves at risk in service to others, and many return home with lasting injuries. The Wounded Warrior Project has supported over one million warriors, caregivers, and family members, helping ensure they are not forgotten. 

These men and women took on great risk to protect our freedoms, and the impact of their service often continues long after they return—sometimes for years or even decades. Injuries may be visible or unseen, but all deserve recognition and care. 

If you want to support veterans, consider contributing to this cause through a one-time donation or a monthly gift of any amount.

Wounded Warrior Project Main

The other day I met a veteran rowing and he was a supporter and volunteer of this organization. I indicated I would post something about them. 

Wounded Warrior Project San Diego

New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: Mediocre Labor Market Conditions (Jack Starts His Own Business)

(Illustrative Only)

Labor market is mediocre
so this person
started to think of options.

Jack works as a carpenter
and realized while hiking 
the Bay de Noc Grand Island
National Trail that
he could make custom cups 
for people and restraurants. 
The best ideas often come
in nature. He is thinking of
partnering with a shop
on Ludington Street to
sell his products because
he is a small operator,
doesn't want a store, but
wants to provide a commission
sale for stores. A win for
them who don't have to
pay for inventory. 

Labor market expectations appear moderate—neither strong nor weak—mirroring trends seen in other economic indicators. Many businesses are taking a cautious, wait-and-see approach, which may slow hiring and workforce development. Ongoing geopolitical uncertainties could also influence future employment decisions, though the full impact remains unclear.

Current data suggest that about 45–46% of individuals believe they could find a new job if they lost one, while the perceived risk of job loss is around 14.4%. This indicates a level of underlying concern about job security. 

At the same time, household financial outlooks have weakened slightly, with more people expecting this year to be less favorable than the last. Confidence in career advancement is also limited, reflecting a relatively stagnant environment where both workers and employers are hesitant to make major moves.

Overall, this uncertainty affects decision-making at both the individual and organizational levels. As conditions remain unclear, it will be important to monitor additional economic indicators to better understand where the labor market is headed. Movement on strategic initiaves and hiring may be slower than usual over the mid term. 

Let us wait and see....

New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: Labor Market Experiences and Transitions Summary

• The Survey of Consumer Expectations (SCE) follows about 1,300 U.S. households over time to track job experiences, employment transitions, and expectations about the labor market.
• Data indicate mixed labor market sentiment, with the probability of finding a job after losing one around 45.9%, while the perceived likelihood of job loss is about 14.4%.
• Expected earnings growth remains relatively modest, typically in the range of about 2.5% to 2.7%, with differences across income levels.
• Confidence in job mobility has fluctuated, including declines in voluntary quitting and changes in expectations about finding new employment.
• Household financial outlooks have weakened, with more individuals expecting their financial situation to worsen compared to the previous year.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York. (2026). Survey of Consumer Expectations: Labor market experiences and transitions. https://www.newyorkfed.org/microeconomics/sce/labor#/experiences-transitions1

Advanced Monthly Retail and Food Services March 2026 (Business Can Raise Value)

(Illustrative Only)

A few business
owners in Delta 
County consider
meeting once a month
to explore
ways in which 
they can pair their
products and services
to raise value, 
increase sales/purchases,
and export that value
 regionally
and internationally. 

Consumer purchases and behaviors impact the overall economy. The advance report indicates a 3.7% increase that appears to be a reasonable upward trend. It indicates the economy is not particularly that weak nor is it particularly that strong in relation to other market markers. 

Advance Monthly Retail and Food Services Sales (MARTS) March 2026 Report Summary with Key Statistics

• The Advance Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MARTS), produced by the U.S. Census Bureau, provides early monthly estimates of retail and food service sales across the United States.
• The survey is based on a probability sample of about 4,700–4,800 firms, representing more than 3 million retail and food service businesses nationwide.
• February 2026 retail and food service sales totaled approximately $738.4 billion, reflecting a 0.6% increase from January 2026 and a 3.7% increase year-over-year.
• Over the period December 2025 through February 2026, total sales increased 3.1% compared to the same period one year earlier.
• Retail trade sales alone rose 0.6% month-over-month and 3.5% year-over-year, showing steady growth in core retail sectors.
• Nonstore (online) retailers increased about 7.5% year-over-year, while food services and drinking places increased about 5.2%, indicating continued strength in e-commerce and dining.
• Monthly estimates are calculated using a link relative estimator and are seasonally adjusted to account for holidays and trading-day differences.
• Advance estimates are preliminary and typically revised by about 0.2 percentage points as more complete data become available through the Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MRTS).

U.S. Census Bureau. (2026). Advance monthly retail and food services sales (MARTS) report. https://www.census.gov/retail/marts/www/marts_current.pdf

Entitlement in Hate: An example of language and hate (The Story of the Clan)

(Illustrative Only)

Just because you are not
consciously aware of
your language patterns, or 
the broader patterns of your 
environment doesn't mean
they don't exist. Subconsciously
many of us understand the
expectations of hate and
their social roots. 

Do you promote a higher 
moral order? What is
the impact on society if 
we do not?

True Feelings and Patterns

Hate acts like a disease in society, dividing people and weakening shared values and institutions. It is often used to elevate one group by putting others down, eroding trust, respect, and unity. Those who spread hate often ignore the broader impact on the community, focusing only on their own beliefs while benefiting—sometimes significantly—from division, especially where there are few checks and balances. Worse, weak alignment to true north values that damages long-term health for short-term gain. Such hate can be uncovered through patterned language.

Consider a sometimes common scenario: someone enters a social setting meant for recreation and begins loudly expressing strong political views (Not normal in this situation). Their tone is angry, and their language dehumanizes others. They show little awareness—or concern—for the group’s purpose or the discomfort they create. Even if others remain polite, their behavior can alienate people (A partial purpose of such behaviors.). Eyes look away, conversations quiet, and tension builds, while the speaker may take a sense of satisfaction in dominating the space (Also related to how they view their importance in relation to others.). In groups where diverse perspectives exist and politics was never the focus, this kind of disruption stands out. It often reflects deeper patterns—entitlement, a belief that only one perspective matters above others, the prior social support for such distorted beliefs and a tendency to project those views onto others. Everyone should be inconvenienced so they can vent their bigotries openly and foster their dark cause. 

Language can reveal what people truly believe, even when it is not stated directly. Without awareness or experience, these patterns can be easy to miss, but they often point to a narrow worldview shaped by like-minded circles rather than diverse perspectives (As a side note if you are aware of your patterns you can change your pattern and your thinking). In some cases, the tone and rhetoric suggest a willingness to justify harm toward those they have discarded as having value. An indication they would be open to collectivize hate in this society (Some think that is impossible. However, there are sometimes a minority of judges, politicians and people in authority that clearly make decisions to foster and reward collective hate that undermine our central rights and sacrafices. There are few to no checks or balances for their bad behaviors. It may be illegal but that becomes subjective on who is helped and who is harmed. They feel little to no responsbility for others outside their circles. Such people were never qualified for leadership positions nor do they respect the purpose of the institution. They damage us from the inside.). The patterns seem to encourage violations of rights, oaths, and purpose. Others may stay silent—not out of agreement, but to avoid conflict or intentional discomfort—allowing harmful ideas to go unchallenged (By design and often a rejection of foundational beliefs. We can call these people 'sell outs' to our societal cause and values. They actively undermine generational striving.). In contrast there are polite ways to question, change the subject or reorient toward group purpose.

As a society, we should reflect on who we elevate into positions of influence: those who unite and respect others, or those who divide and dehumanize. Foundational values rooted in fairness, dignity, and mutual respect stand in direct contrast to hate, which pulls us backward. the more those who support collectivize hate move to the top the foundations begin to crack and the entire system gets weaker. Leadership and character should be measured not just by social connection, tough talk, special interest, or political parties but by the ability to foster respect, uphold shared values, and bring people together. If they don't believe in what makes us unique as a people then they have a parasitic relationship to our society by gaining for themselves. Think beyond the limited dynamics and narratives presented that seem to rub against a higher moral conscious. The wrong choices often harm society because distorted patterns of thinking more times then not lead to erroneous decisions that impact people as a whole. Sometimes whole societies. History has shown the long-term outcomes of warping sytems to protect hate and failing to correct the wrongdoing of such hate. The natural system indicates that when you seek to harm others you also harm yourself (Same for individuals or groups). 

The future depends on thoughtful choices—how we select leaders, how money shapes influence, and how silence can enable harm. When hate becomes normalized in somes language and actions, it signals a drift away from core principles (A rejection of what is sacred). Words matter. They reflect values, shape behavior, and ultimately influence the kind of society we create. If you listen to most people they care about their society and the future but a few clearly have their own interests in mind. Read history to understand the acceptance of the unacceptable and its long-term impact on society (It is almost always negative and we may see trust declining.). Economic and social health interrelate. That starts with walking the talk in our beliefs that foster proof in pudding outcomes. Time will answer all questions. 

"Day by day, what you choose, what you think and what you do is who you become"

Heraclitus

*The Story of the Clan is a philosophical thought experiment designed to explore a default in justice and hate. Take with a grain of salt, mix up the elements, and come to any conclusion you desire. It is only that you thought about it that counts. 

Exploring Hate Speech Dynamics: Emotional, Linguistic, and Psycholinguistic Characteristics

• The article examines how hate speech on social media is shaped by emotional tone, linguistic patterns, and underlying psycholinguistic processes.
• It finds that hate speech often relies on strong negative emotions (e.g., anger, fear) to amplify engagement and spread more rapidly online.
• Linguistic features such as derogatory language, simplification, and repetition are commonly used to reinforce group divisions and stereotypes.
• Psycholinguistic analysis shows that hate speech can influence perception and cognition, shaping how individuals interpret social groups and information.
• The study highlights the broader societal impact, noting that unchecked hate speech contributes to polarization, conflict, and risks to democratic stability.

Exploring hate speech dynamics: The emotional, linguistic, and psycholinguistic characteristics. (2025). Journal of Communication, 75(1), 123–145. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306457325000214