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Grievances Galore?

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Industry Observer CalDRE #01165532

 

Grievances Galore?

Purposeful Pondering

 

Recently, I finished the book, The Age of Grievance, by Frank Bruni.  He is a longtime favorite author.

 

It was a relatively quick read. I admit I am not as enthusiastic about it in the same way as I am about his other books. Or his weekly email newsletter. Nor the thoughts he shares wherever as well as whenever I find them.  He is a real wordsmith.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hopefully, this not-really-a-review will be seen as a difference of opinion and not a grievance. Of course, I can see where confusion can be a part of the thought process.  Generally social media platforms can be places where grumbling, quibbling and moaning are not uncommon.  Maybe like the real world. Yes, I continue to digress.  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Now back to the book, agreeing on some issues may be difficult and perhaps impossible. Finding commonality is important and that's a message I continue to receive. After all, moving in that direction can have incredible results. 

 

As for other books by Frank Bruni, I suggest without hesitation The Beauty of Dusk, Born Round and Where You Go is Not Who You Will Be.  He also wrote a book on the 43rd President, Ambling into History:  The Unlikely History of George W Bush.  Unfortunately, my local library which has been the source of much of my reading material has not carried this particular title although I suggested they acquire it. I admit to having a bit of a grievance about that. However, I continue to look for workarounds. And those kinds of things remain a part of moving forward in the chapters of each of our lives.

 

Some things happen quickly. But definitely not, every thing. Kinda like the pages of a book. If you pick up The Age of Grievance, I hope you gain something from it.  I did.  Perspective is still powerful. And so is looking at the overall picture. I'm grateful for that. And so much more.

 

 

The images in this post are from canstockphoto.com

 

 

 

 

Posted by

Michael Jacobs

 

CalBRE # 01165532

P. O. Box 587

Pasadena, CA 91102

Call/Text:  818.516.4393

mtj916@gmail.com

 

 

Barbara Michaluk
Weichert Realtors | Phone Direct 240-506-2434 | 301-681-0550 office - Silver Spring, MD
Leisure World Specialist / Full Service REALTOR

Hi Michael, thanks for the book suggestion. I'm currently reading 3 books and will put this on my list of future considerations.  

Jul 25, 2024 05:06 AM
Michael Jacobs

Barbara Michaluk - there are times, though not usually, when I am reading multiple books at the same time.  

Jul 25, 2024 06:48 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Michael.  Your not-really-a-review is going to have me adding this author to my reading list. Thanks, sounds like he will offer tidbits to ponder and agree or disagree. Enjoy your day.

Jul 25, 2024 05:09 AM
Michael Jacobs

Wayne Martin - I don't like to make suggestions.  For many reasons.  

Jul 25, 2024 06:49 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Finding commonality is a continuing issue for our national political leadership.

Jul 25, 2024 05:51 AM
Michael Jacobs

Roy Kelley - and starting with the most basic ways of organizing.   Family dynamics, neighbors, work life and so many more.  One of the memorable chapters for me is Chaos, Clicks and Catastrophe.  

Jul 25, 2024 06:55 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Michael- finding commonality rather than seeking differences is something we all could use now. 
I will be seeking more from this author

Jul 25, 2024 05:54 AM
Michael Jacobs

Kathy Streib - finding commonality is useful.  After all, we want to resolve issues, right?  Okay, more to ponder. . .  

Jul 25, 2024 06:57 AM
Jeffrey Richman
Immediate Home Solutions - Myrtle Beach, SC
Creative Real Estate Specialist

Hi Michael Jacobs ,

I look forward to adding him to the list of books for me to read and ponder.  Thank you for the suggestion .

Jul 25, 2024 06:11 AM
Michael Jacobs

Jeffrey Richman - a library or a bookstore can be helpful when opening minds is the objective.  But it can also occur when we listen and exchange ideas with others who may not seem the same.  

Jul 25, 2024 07:00 AM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Michael,

I am going to research this Author as I'm not familiar with him. His books sound intriguing as the book you just read, "The Age of Grievance." The twist and turns of American politics have always been unpredictable but the tone is troubling as we can't seem to have an exchange of ideas and make compromises. Its all about feeling offended, each side is clearly right and wining is everything.  I blame our media for having an agenda that fuels the fires...we need journalists back stating the facts and not their preferences!

Jul 25, 2024 06:12 AM
Michael Jacobs

Dorie Dillard Austin TX - thank you for the comment.  While I have participated in media-bashing at times, I admit to having something of a grievance with the practice.  Its place in history is long.  So is distortion.  Anyway, I continue to ponder. . .  

Jul 25, 2024 07:04 AM
Brian England
Ambrose Realty Management LLC - Gilbert, AZ
MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ

Hmm, I have not heard of Frank Bruni until now, but I am beginning to read a bit more, so perhaps I will come upon one or more of his books in the future.  I love hearing your perspectives!

Jul 25, 2024 06:18 AM
Michael Jacobs

Brian England - I am glad to hear you are reading more.  And I might be frightened that you were doing less of it.  HaHa  👓📚👓

Jul 25, 2024 07:06 AM
Jeffrey DiMuria 321.223.6253 Waves Realty
Waves Realty - Melbourne, FL
Florida Space Coast Homes

For me, it is not about the grievance, it is about how people hide behind social media and say the UGLIEST things. I fear people no longer have the ability to be nice as they disagree. 

Jul 25, 2024 07:07 AM
Michael Jacobs

Jeffrey DiMuria 321.223.6253 Waves Realty - "warriors" of all kinds seem to live among us.  Whether it's social media or texting versus calling (let alone face-to-face conversation) is part of something that perhaps is much bigger.  And more frightening.  Hmm. . .  

Jul 25, 2024 07:12 AM
Sharon Tara
Sharon Tara Transformations - Portsmouth, NH
Retired New Hampshire Home Stager

Grievance is far too popular these days. Oh for the days when we could just disagree...not necessarily cast doubt and blame on every little thing said or done. 

Jul 25, 2024 08:42 AM
Michael Jacobs

Sharon Tara - it seems many have been empowered to speak their minds.  Too bad, they have been self-appointed.   

Although the days when discussions of politics - religion - sex - money were not a part of everyday life, I do remember times when things seemed a bit more civil.  Of course, looking back often doesn't tell the entire truth however it may be perceived.  

Jul 25, 2024 08:48 AM
Sharon Tara

Michael Jacobs  Self appointed empowerment...exactly. Keyboard warriors lacking in self discipline when it comes to responding to others.

Jul 26, 2024 12:34 PM
Michael Jacobs

Sharon Tara - 🎯💯🎯

Jul 26, 2024 02:39 PM
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
HomeSmart Real Estate - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

Hmmm Michael you've now got  me thinking of several different topics....oh my.....which path shall I take? First thanks for introducing this author as he's new to me. Second, finding commonality. I strive to do this and at times it's not so easy with all that's going on around us. And there is a LOT going on! I feel like taking a vacation but if I did, when I got back I'd probably be shocked as to what has occurred.

You know, I think I'll just stick with today and what's happening here in my little world. Ahhhhh now that feels better.

 

Featured in BananaTude

 

Jul 25, 2024 10:24 AM
Michael Jacobs

Anna "Banana" Kruchten - thank you for sharing your thoughts.  Whether it's over the fence with neighbors or more global discussions, I believe much can be learned from finding commonality.  And you're absolutely right, it's not easy - never has been.  As for vacations, respites and breaks --- that sounds like an appealing suggestion.  

 

Along similar thinking, I appreciate the highlight within the BananaTude group.  🍌🙈🙉🙉🍌

Jul 25, 2024 10:34 AM
Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!
Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT
The best agent in Southern Utah!

Mutual respect with open ears often plays a part in differences and expressing separate views or finding common ground, Michael. Just this morning, my brother and I were discussing an issue, where we disagree but heard one another's opinions and then moved on.

Jul 25, 2024 11:25 AM
Michael Jacobs

Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can! - disagreeing is not uncommon, finding resolution may not always follow.  Of course, that does not mean that civility needs to be abandoned.  Good for you for practicing it.  If we can accomplish this within our families, I believe there is much hope beyond those ties.  Good for you!

Jul 25, 2024 12:18 PM
Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

Today's political discourse is radically different from what I learned while participating on my high school debate team.

Jul 25, 2024 04:38 PM
Michael Jacobs

Myrl Jeffcoat - many of the things we have "seen" and continue to experience have been unbelievable.    Politics and beyond.  

Jul 25, 2024 05:00 PM
Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

CONGRATULATIONS Michael, on having this blog FEATURED in the Old Farts Clubgroup!  

Jul 25, 2024 04:40 PM
Michael Jacobs

Myrl Jeffcoat - I appreciate the OFC group feature.  

Jul 25, 2024 05:01 PM
Aura Alex
Seattle, WA
Retired Real Estate Pro

Hello Michael,

I LOVED Frank Bruni's, thanks to you. I have now read most of his books and truly enjoyed them.

'The Beauty of Dusk" was a breathtaking journey through Frank Bruni's where past triumphs illuminate present challenges.

Jul 26, 2024 10:07 AM
Michael Jacobs

Aura Alex - I am glad my previous introduction to you about Frank Bruni met with such a good reception.  Your post about the grit-master made me a fan of Angela Duckworth.  I continue to think of her as a shining example of that g-word.  

Jul 26, 2024 10:38 AM
Aura Alex

Michael Jacobs 

I find solace in humility in a world filled with noise and negativity. I gravitate toward authenticity and shy away from the chaos of the Q&A sections when it comes to hidden-snarky-political comments.

Jul 26, 2024 11:11 AM
Michael Jacobs

Aura Alex - I hear you.  😏

Jul 26, 2024 11:14 AM
Debbie Laity
CinaJones Real Estate - Cedaredge, CO
Your Real Estate Resource for Delta County

When I can't find a book, I look on eBay. So far, I've been lucky in finding the books I want. 

Jul 26, 2024 01:41 PM
Michael Jacobs

Debbie Laity - I have been fortunate to be able to find many books.  My choice to not pursue buying or collecting books is a choice that seems right for me in the last few years.  Less is more satisfying for me.   Thank you for the comment.  

Jul 26, 2024 02:37 PM
Patricia Feager, ABR,CRS,GRI,MRP
DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Selling Homes Changing Lives

Michael Jacobs - From what I hear from authors I know, they are being very careful about what they write and some write because that is what the Editor and/or Publisher wants, unless of course they self-publish. 

I'm not familiar with any of the books or authors you mentioned but I am reading a lot of books and some have been very eye-opening! 

Commonality is subjective and very, very interesting. I was in a class recently. The subject was political science. The lady to my left talked to me before the class began and we had a wonderful conversation. I did not know the woman on her left. But after the Professor finished and asked for questions or thoughts, I raised my hand and shared what I thought. The the other lady sitting to her left raised her hand and completely agreed with what I said. 

The joke was on me in the most interesting way I ever thought possible. The lady in the middle said, do you know that the other lady next to me is a member of the Other Party than you are, and I couldn't look at either of you because I know she hates the Political side you're on. She then laughed and told me, you were both saying the same thing without even knowing your on opposite sides of the aisle.

We agreed, we would keep that secret to ourselves.

Jul 26, 2024 06:23 PM
Michael Jacobs

Patricia Feager, ABR,CRS,GRI,MRP - searching for subjectivity can be challenging.  As can interpreting words, definitions or positions.  It's not easy.  Rarely is anything as simple as some make think it is. 

Face-to-face interaction may help - I hope so.  Sorry to hear you were feeling unwell - here's to good health!

Reading can be good.  I'm in the middle of a book by an author who many might think I have little-to-nothing in common.   He is a best-selling author and on the national stage right now.  And I believe that's a shame.  I can't fix the world - I can only be a bit better than yesterday.   

Jul 26, 2024 06:59 PM
Patricia Feager, ABR,CRS,GRI,MRP

Michael Jacobs - the longer I live, the more it is confirmed that everything we read or write is subject to interpretation. Staying out of trouble with our words is truly a challenge we face, now more than ever. 

Reading is important. Do you remember when Bill Spear wrote a post and illustrated the Venn diagram? Well, a few days later, I was in B&N and found two books about "Ikigai," by authors, Hecktor Garcia and Francesc Miralles. The first book they wrote was short and a quick, but meaningful. It was called "The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life." For me, it was like a blueprint for success written about how the Japanese live their lives, very different from Americans, I thought.

FYI... my daughter lived in Japan (traditional part) not Tokyo for 4 1/2 years, after graduating with a Masters, at University. The book mirrored what I learned during my visits to that country and how my daughter's life changed for the better as a result of Japanese living.

Now I am on the second book, "The Ikigai Journey." When I opend up the cover, inside was a Venn Diagram. In that diagram, I could see how helpful it would have been during my first year in real estate. I recognized quickly, I am in a different place in my life (circle) according to the Venn Diagram. 

I also finished another book last night. A title I dare not mention because it is controversial based on current events between 2017 through today. Without even disclosing the name of the book, you summed up what was written perfectly "And I believe that's a shame. I can't fix the world - I can only be a bit better than yesterday." Right now, the way I see it, THAT is the challenge everyone not in politics is faced with today because it impacts our future. 

Jul 27, 2024 06:36 AM
Michael Jacobs

Patricia Feager, ABR,CRS,GRI,MRP - beyond politics, there are places where discussion and discourse are hopefully still alive.  Although I think anything social media-related is likely not included.  I fail, perhaps far too often, in finding them within myself.  However, I continue along that road.  It's a path with quite a few detours.  We shall see.  

Jul 27, 2024 07:05 AM
Patricia Feager, ABR,CRS,GRI,MRP

Michael Jacobs - Amen! Life was not meant to be stagnant! 

Jul 27, 2024 07:23 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Good Saturday morning, Michael. Have an outstanding weekend.

We have a sunny day in Maryland for outdoor activities.

Jul 27, 2024 07:03 AM
Michael Jacobs

Roy Kelley - may your weekend be filled with photo-capture-worthy-moments.

Jul 27, 2024 07:11 AM
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

Michael, I am not the reader you are, so haven't heard of this author.  There are WAY too many quibbles in and out of social media right now.

Jul 27, 2024 03:55 PM
Michael Jacobs

Joan Cox - I prefer to look beyond but I notice all sorts of %^!+ (aka stuff) being strewn about.  Thankfully, it is not that difficult to avoid it - reading takes up a lot of time as does directing attention in a different direction.  

Jul 27, 2024 05:04 PM
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

Hi Michael,
One of my favorite words is "Perspective".  As you said, perspective is powerful. It can actually change everything. Also, in my travels and general experience with people, we have more in common than not. Sadly, too many people are focusing on the "not" part which is diminishing what we have in common.

Jul 28, 2024 08:27 AM
Michael Jacobs

Carol Williams - although many have distinct feelings of "knotty" as in paneling preferences, I wonder about "not" perspectives as a whole.   

Hmm - yes, such thoughts can prompt pondering.   Even as I agree with you about the very real notion that we truly have more in common with each other rather than the opposite.  

Jul 28, 2024 02:24 PM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Good Wednesday morning, Michael.

I hope all is going well for you this week.

ActiveRain has been a real challenge this week.

Jul 31, 2024 08:05 AM
Michael Jacobs

Roy Kelley - many sorts of challenges are apparent in everyday life.  Such glitches can be annoying.  However, when looking at the bigger picture, it's a minor inconvenience.  

Jul 31, 2024 08:12 AM
Roy Kelley

Thanks for sharing your positive perspective.

Jul 31, 2024 08:23 AM
Michael Jacobs

Roy Kelley - that's very kind of you.  I believe you continue to practice positivity (and beyond that, kindness) throughout ActiveRainLand in many ways.  I appreciate you demonstrate that trait in a place where we see characters of all kinds.  I continue to be a work-in-progress.  Failing far too often.  

Jul 31, 2024 11:25 AM