What do you mean the barrel scene from Peter Jackson’s film adaptation of The Hobbit isn’t anything like what’s portrayed in the book? This was one of many points of entertaining conversation between me and Lori during our evening walks as I read through Tolkien’s 1937 adventure, along with the Kansas City Tolkien Society over … Continue reading Beware the Unassuming Characters: A Quiet Hobbit and Language Professor Dominate in War
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The Empty Seat Across from Me: A Reminisce on Ghosting
It was toward the end of the afternoon. The couch was comfortable, and the lobby silent as I waited to meet with a man I once served with in the Army over coffee. We had run into each the previous month, and he stated that it would be good if we could connect. Since leaving … Continue reading The Empty Seat Across from Me: A Reminisce on Ghosting
“You knew what you signed up for.”
On Sunday Unbekoming kindly shared a lengthy interview about what drew me to the Army, how I observed the military’s political nature, and how bad-faith revolutionaries took control in the final years of my career. I post the introduction here so those following my blog can be aware. I hope you’ll take the time to … Continue reading “You knew what you signed up for.”
Who Polices the Press?
The national, mainstream, American press tends to see itself culturally as the 4th branch of government, an institutional body of cobelligerents who hold government and power accountable. That’s a noble calling, as humans have a natural tendency to consolidate and abuse power. But who holds the press accountable when its agents abuse their influence and … Continue reading Who Polices the Press?
That Email of Dismissal
“Dear Chase, get lost.” The email didn’t say exactly those words, but the message was clear enough. I enjoy teaching from time to time. It’s a part of my gifting and offers a great deal of personal fulfillment. The reason I completed a doctorate is because I once had a dream of being a full-time … Continue reading That Email of Dismissal
The Building Courage of Bilbo Baggins—and Us
The courageous often do not find their time. It is usually the time of need that finds and awakens the courageous. I’m finishing a read through of The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. A veteran of the First World War, Tolkien experienced things that were not part of his life plan at a young age. Much … Continue reading The Building Courage of Bilbo Baggins—and Us
Correcting a Mistake from 2019: Re-Establishing my Blog on Chasespears.com
Over the weekend, my brother-in-law texted, saying he had received five emails from my blog and wanted to make sure I was aware. The answer is both yes and no. I recently re-enabled the blog section of my website—a part of the site I hid back in 2019. It was a decision I have long … Continue reading Correcting a Mistake from 2019: Re-Establishing my Blog on Chasespears.com
Strategery: the Strategy of going Strategic
The term strategic is officially reserved for echelons that few in government will work in without winning an election or political appointment. Most military public affairs officers (PAOs) technically work at tactical and operational levels, not strategic. Echelon naming conventions aside, the best communicators think and operate strategically. “Strategic” is one of those seemingly professional … Continue reading Strategery: the Strategy of going Strategic
Dr. Chase Spears 