Decisions and Consequences

(And Three Rabbit Holes)

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Raising Discerning Adults

I learned about decisions and consequences in graduate school. Human Resources courses in the MBA program provided a plethora of evolving theories on how to manage employees. I won’t drag you through the list from the 1970s to the start of the 21st century; they all boil down to the fact that decisions result in consequences. Employing a “loose/tight” relationship with subordinates allows people to learn by doing while keeping guardrails in place to minimize disasters. It’s also an excellent way to raise responsible children.

Since both my children were born in April, I have been thinking about how they and other adult children have turned out. It makes me wish for more adults my age to have learned that poor decisions can result in disastrous outcomes with global consequences. (Names need not be mentioned.) We are the ones who must now make our decisions based on the consequences caused by others.

Help from AI

My Substack Village has provided thoughtful responses to the nightmare we can’t seem to wake up from. Rather than repeat or echo their work, I turned to AI and asked, “How do we deal with consequences of world leaders’ actions?” Gemini provided an apolitical response that helps us navigate the fallout without getting lost in the noise:

• Shape the Narrative: Use public communication to steer discussions toward constructive outcomes early.

• Manage Political Stress: Constant consumption of political content fuels anxiety. Set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and find productive outlets for activism rather than passive consumption.

• Foster Dialogue: Engage in nonpartisan community dialogue to combat the intense polarization that often follows bad leadership decisions.

Psychological and Social Management from the Pulpit

In addition to my MBA, I earned a Certificate in Advanced Counseling Services from the University of NH. Back in the day, it was the first two years of a PhD in Psychology. Before moving back to Baltimore, I had a private practice in Psychotherapy.

I have the good fortune of attending a church where our Pastor is a PhD and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. His talk today reminded me of my final paper for Psychological Stress and Adaptation.

Back in my undergraduate Biology Major days, I learned cell theory, and I’ve often used it as a model for the human spirit. The cell has a semi-permeable membrane:

1. It closes in toxic environments for protection.

2. It must open in safe environments to let toxins out and nutrients in.

If the cell remains closed indefinitely, it will poison itself and die.

The sermon today offered three points: Spread joy, have a purpose, and stay open. The purpose I share with my Substack Villagers is to create a space for reflection. We participate in each other’s comments, staying open to views and spreading joy.

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Three April Rabbit Holes

Curated links for your entertainment.

Going Down the Rabbit Hole

• Renewal Amidst Turmoil — Jeanette Lewis reflects on finding peace when the world feels like a scary place.

• The Constant of Growth — A reminder that Spring is nature’s way of proving that fresh starts are always possible.

• What Gives Teenagers Hope in 2026 — You must click on this one. While many see a “country of cynics,” the overwhelming majority of our youth refuse to despair. From “The Great Meme Reset” to a renewed focus on community care, these kids have some great parenting behind them!

I would love to read your comments and insights.