Thursday, March 31, 2011

The Pete Morin Editorial Review--Issue #84

Thought of St. Michael's

I was saddened to read in the local paper, recently, the passing of a fellow St. Michael's graduate, Timothy McCarthy.

It's not a commonplace occurrence for me to think about my contemporaries from high school, but in this case it merits mentioning.

Apparently, Tim had a successful life. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts and received an MSW from another university. I would attribute this success to the kind of student he was in high school. His demeanor was one of quiet leadership, a judicious student not interested in the petty qualities of fad and fashion. Those of us who remember those years would recognize a pecking order with Tim at the top, not because he strove to be there, but because this is where he belonged. He understood there were those of us who occupied the lower rungs of this ladder, but he never took advantage of our station. He treated all with respect and kindness that engendered respect in return.

These reminiscences are not just about Tim, but about youth, life and aging. We remember these times because they are valuable to our growth as a person. We remember those people who gave us a positive experience, who gave us a reason to believe in the goodness of people. Tim gave us that experience by acting in a manner that was worthwhile to remember; an example to honor and to follow.

It has been said that time heals all wounds, but it also brings to mind the good instances of lives well lived. It brings to my mind the character of a Tim McCarthy and others who, as youth and beyond, try to live a life forged in truth, dignity and honor. We may not always succeed, but we will never fail if we recognize this basic goodness in people like Tim.

R.I.P. Tim, St. Michael's class of 65'.

Thursday, March 3, 2011

The Pete Morin Editorial Review--Issue # 83

Questions


A few questions you might want to ask yourself---

The headline in today's Springfield Republican read, "Payroll error overpays teachers." Why is it that, apparently, no teacher went to their administration to mention that their pay was not correct? Perhaps someone did, but the paper doesn't give any indication that this happened. Click here for an explanation of why the teachers WERE guilty of something.

The headline in today's Boston Herald read, "Out Of the Blue." Apparently, the former CEO of Blue Cross/Blue Shield got a severance package of $11 million dollars. Why is it that a CEO of a healthcare organization, that lost $150 million dollars in the previous year, should get such a magnanimous 'kiss-off' from the Board of Directors? Healthcare is not cheap in the Peoples Republic of Massachusetts. What's up with this board?

The GAO(Government Accounting Office) has determined that there are multiple programs in the Federal Government that have duplicative functions. WOW! What a surprise! Go back and read my blog, Issue #80. Martin Gross knew about this TWO YEARS ago. Want to bet that NOTHING changes?

Will anything change because of the above revelations? NAH!