Mike Pilewski writes about life, politics and culture in the United States
One of the best things about waking up early is the lack of activity around you. The world is yours. Lie in bed and just listen to the silence; it’s so relaxing! Nothing but an occasional gust of wind caressing the trees outside, a lone bird calling to his friends, or the gentle sound of rain on the patio. This … >>
Just about every job I’ve ever had has involved handling a certain amount of correspondence. Learning the semantic difference between Herzliche Grüße, Beste Grüße, Freundliche Grüße and Mit freundlichen Grüßen was a big and very necessary step in my first office job in Germany. In the same way, we know that a lot of you are confused by what seem … >>
Back when I was a newsreader for my college radio station, I was shown one of the thickest books I’d ever seen: a binder containing, I guess, about 500 pages. Those were all the rules an American radio station had to follow, as laid down by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). While I found the book daunting, my contemporaries found … >>
Haufenwolke, a reader of this column, says I don’t deserve to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. So I’ve decided to step up my efforts. Like most people, I wish for peace on Earth on December 24. But wishing alone won’t stop the inconsiderate behavior of others. Actions must follow. So here are 20 simple suggestions that could be … >>
“Hi,” said the man as he walked up to me. I didn’t think I knew him, but I said hello back. “I just wanted to let you know how I’m doing,” he said. Well, that’s considerate, I thought. The Philadelphia airport, where we were standing, is the epitome of discomfort and inconvenience, so the passengers often try to be friendly … >>