I got back to Eugene after briefing Virginia legislators on the IOM report and prevention. After three flights, United Airlines had lost my luggage. As I waited in vain for it, I saw a Dad and his two young sons pull a soft bag off the conveyer that had been ripped open in several places. There was a small stuffed animal hanging out of it.

After a little more waiting I went to the United counter to give them my claim check.  (Believe me I know the routine.)  The Dad and his two sons were there ahead of me. The youngest son–maybe four–was holding his stuffed owl and crying quietly. It had been damaged–not too badly to my adult eye–but I suspect that to him–his dear friend had been hurt. (more…)

The world will become more nurturing when many many people begin to look at every situation in terms of whether or not it is nurturing.

University of Oregon running back LaGarette Blount punched a Boise State player after the their game on Thursday night after the player apparently taunted Blount about his pre-game statement that Boise State needed an “ass whoopin.”  So far no nurturing in this. (more…)