We the People are beginning to ask probing questions about the direction of our country. In this week’s newsletter, I address the need for us to ask more questions. We need answers. When we ask and keep on asking, one of the benefits is that we keep a free press, not a government controlled press. […]
Pandemic Life in Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia
Wonder what the atmosphere is really like in Washington, DC, and Philadelphia lately? It was an interesting trip I took to those two historically American cities recently. I have a few personal observations for those who might be curious. The usual hustle and bustle of visitors during spring break in Washington was noticeably absent. This […]
How Would You Define Freedom?
What would you guess the definition of the word “freedom” was at the time of America’s founding? What do you think the meaning of freedom is today? Let’s consult the “American Dictionary of the English Language,” aka Webster’s Dictionary 1828. After all, it was the source of definitions de rigueur. The noun had about eight […]
Welcome New Subscribers!
Thank you for subscribing to the weekly updates. Each week I will include the latest articles I have written. An occasional personal note from me will also arrive in the weekly email. Today is one of those days. More and more, people are questioning our viability as a lasting society. This week, I address those […]
Could We Lose Our American Identity?
You could lose your identity as: an employee an owner an individual a countryside dweller an outspoken critic an inventor a sports enthusiast an American Wait. Could we lose our identity as Americans? Not “American in Name Only.” I mean the traditions and values that make us uniquely American. I believe we could lose our […]
Common Sense Applied
One of the goals of this page is to encourage wise and responsible citizenship. I hope that we find value in practicing common sense citizenship as a part of everyday life. We look around and wonder if that goal has “left the station.” Let’s look at a few items that Americans are dealing with and […]
Justice Clarence Thomas’ Dissent-a learning opportunity
So many voices, and for me, so little clarity. Let’s do some discovery. Justice Clarence Thomas issued a dissenting opinion on the Pennsylvania election case, specifically, the denial of a writ of certiorari. (What is that? See below) His writing presents a learning opportunity for us. The opinion is short, readable, understandable, and gives us […]
Are America’s Best Days Over?
I get notes these days from people who want to give up on America. They say its best days are over. So, I got to thinking about this. Having traveled a fair amount, I’ve seen how other parts of the world live in Eastern and Western Europe, the Middle East, South America, New Zealand, and […]
Civics and Citizenship Issues: Emergency Preparedness
Have you been watching the Texas weather-related energy crisis? Who could have anticipated what happened there? What if something similar occurred within the entire United States? (Electromagnetic Pulse aka EMP)? It’s a civics and citizenship issue that requires a common-sense discussion and application. When I observed what is happening in Texas, I thought it might […]
Presidents Day
Read their words. If you have the time, find a photo and look into their eyes. After all, the eye is a window to the soul, they say. I was looking for words of wisdom from past U.S. presidents in honor of President’s Day. In particular, I was looking for comments from past Chief Executives […]
Have We Taken Our Freedoms for Granted?
Have we taken our freedoms for granted? Have we, as a nation, become dependent on others to keep the fires of liberty burning? According to the Declaration of Independence, our government gets its power from you and me by our consent. We agree to place people in our national government that will represent our concerns […]
Your Words Have Power
Have words gotten you into trouble lately? It happens. As a family member, neighbor, and as a citizen, my “applecart” has been turned over a few times recently. Let’s take a brief look at the power of words. Words are born in our thoughts. Raw, even wrong words usually stem from thoughts that have been […]
Note from Candace
Welcome! Thank you for subscribing to this weekly newsletter. At Common Sense Civics and Citizenship, we look to find what we have in common- our founding American documents, and all that America aspires to be. Our country is going through a tumultuous time. Our freedoms are at risk on certain fronts. It’s not time to […]
What a Challenging Week!
Welcome to Common Sense Civics and Citizenship! Thank you for being here. It’s been a very challenging week as I try to get my articles posted on social media. My mind has been on the basics of our founding, as is reflected by the article below. Posts that I have written on social media have […]
Remembering Martin Luther King
Do you have a favorite quote or remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King? I have several, one being Amos 5:24, which is in the photo that accompanies this post. I recall the peaceful protests that Dr. King led. His mission in life became the headlines on the nightly news. His pastoral demeanor, his resolute posture, […]
