IMHO, political polarization is profitable. That may sound strange, but it’s true. The more divided people become, the more money certain groups make. News companies know that anger keeps people watching. Social media platforms know that outrage gets clicks, shares, and comments. Politicians know that strong emotions bring donations and loyal voters. Calm, balanced conversations don’t spread as fast. But arguments do. The louder and more extreme the message, the more attention it gets. And attention means money.
Claustrophobia is defined as an intense, irrational fear of enclosed or confined spaces, often triggering anxiety, or panic attack attacks, which can occur in places like elevators, tunnels, or crowded areas. I must admit that I am a sufferer of claustrophobia and recently I had reason to undergo a PET scan.
We tried to get a reservation for Valentine’s Day’s dinner at one of our favorite “special occasions” restaurants only to learn that others had the same idea and we were placed on the waiting list. So we made a backup reservation at its sister restaurant — which we had never tried.As we waited in vain for a spot off the waitlist, apprehension grew over our destiny for dinner. Would it be special for a special occasion?Casting fate to the winds, we resigned ourselves to our second choice — hoping for the best.
For those that know me, you are aware that my practice lies solely in Social Security Disability claims. Many people confuse Social Security Retirement funds with the Social Security Disability funds programs. They are mainly distinct. For those of you have heard the news lately of a shortcoming in benefits in the coming years, here is some good news for the disabled benefits program: SSDI Fund Update 2025-2026: The Unexpected Stability in a Shaky System
Regardless of what "it" is, I enjoy the challenge of figuring it out. Complicated twists and turns grab my attention and just smolder in my brain until I can start seeing around the corners. With full candor, it does not always work. But I always enjoy the challenge.
I was listening to a podcast where the podcaster was reviewing the new Star Trek show, “Star Trek: Star Fleet Academy.” At the beginning of the review the podcaster made a point of saying that he enjoyed science fiction and, therefore, was a nerd. I wondered why there had to be an association between enjoying science fiction and being a nerd?
Not too long ago, if you had an opinion, you talked to friends or family. Now you can post it for thousands of people in seconds.That sounds good. More voices, right?But here’s what really happens. The loudest voices usually win, not the smartest ones, and the most extreme posts spread fastest, not the most helpful ones.If a post makes you angry, you’re more likely to share it. That’s not an accident. Platforms are built that way.So now people don’t just disagree. They attack.