From the ruins of ancient Greece to the rubble of modern wars, the hubris–nemesis complex still haunts us. When pride hardens into certainty and power silences doubt, downfall follows. This essay explores how arrogance becomes pathology—and why humility remains humanity’s last defense against self-destruction.

https://jmichaelmcgee.substack.com/p/franklins-bennies-installment-1

Why does your brain cling to bad news? Why do worries feel so real—even when nothing's happening? This new post explains how our minds evolved to protect us, but sometimes go into overdrive. Understanding this is the first step toward peace.

David McCullough He squeezed through the line and said with a gentle smile, “Excuse me,” sterling blues looking up an inch or so at me....

U.S. leaders are doubling down on secrecy after war plans were leaked via a Signal chat. A look at the fallout, denial, and blurred lines of power.

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A mystery writer reflects on lost flags, a cryptic bird sighting, and the thrill of chasing clues—both in fiction and real life.

My friend Jimmy was fond of saying when asked about his week,“I’m still extracting a living out of the ground.”  Most days after my duty...

A wise mentor’s bicycle wheel analogy reveals how core values anchor us amid life’s chaos, offering profound insights and unexpected clarity

A mother can have a great impact on what makes a young man tick. Hannah Spenner, a mental health writer, says a mother influences a...

Mark Halperin, the creator of the political streaming show, ‘Two Way’ didn’t predict the outcome of this country’s 60th quadrennial...

The essay examines anti-Trump sentiment, political division, and the psychological impact of Trump's bold, unconventional leadership style.

My Uncle Bill stretched back in his recliner, eyes closed, a Budda smile, headphones were slightly askew over his full head of gray hair....

Donald J. Trump embodies a modern cowboy spirit with resilience and determination. Will America embrace this ethos in their leader again?

I was at a party decades ago with my then girlfriend to welcome home a friend upon his return to town.  I’d introduced the crowd to my...

My friend’s older sister died. I rang him up at his Connecticut home.  Rich, melodic, ”Hello.”   “It’s McGee,” I said.  “Hey.” I got to...

“Of course you have heard of Pascal’s Wager?” my friend asked.  “Uh, remind me,” I said, knowing where his question was headed. Our...

We are given two ears and one mouth to listen more than we talk,  Epictetus, the Stoic philosopher, said. “When people talk, listen...