67.7 F
San Francisco
Monday, May 11, 2026
Home Blog Page 982

California in Crisis: How Progressive Policies Led to Its Decline

0

Key Takeaways:

  • California faces severe economic and social challenges due to progressive policies.
  • The state has the highest cost-of-living and poverty rates despite its massive GDP.
  • Homelessness, fires, and poor infrastructure plague the state.
  • Businesses and residents are fleeing due to high taxes and regulations.
  • The middle class is shrinking as housing becomes unaffordable.

California’s Golden Dream Fades

Once a beacon of opportunity and innovation, California is now grappling with a crisis. Skyrocketing costs of living, rampant homelessness, and failing policies have turned the state’s golden promise into a fading memory. This article explores how progressive policies have led to this decline.


A State Divided: Rich and Poor

California boasts a huge economy, but wealth doesn’t trickle down. It’s home to many billionaires, yet millions live in poverty. High costs mean even working families struggle. The gap between rich and poor grows, with the middle class squeezed out.


Fires and Failures

Homelessness and fires are symptoms of deeper issues. Half the nation’s homeless live in California, often in unsafe conditions. Fires rage, yet policies focusing on climate change over management worsen the crisis. Officials blame climate change, but experts say poor management is the real culprit.


Driven Out: Businesses and Families

California’s high taxes and strict rules are chasing businesses away. From tech giants to food producers, companies are leaving. Families, especially young ones, are fleeing too. The state’s population growth is stagnant, with many leaving for affordable areas.


The Housing Nightmare

Housing is a middle-class killer. Home prices are 11 times the average income, up from four times in the 90s. Ownership is rare, especially for the young and minorities. Restrictive climate policies limit building, making things worse.


A State in Decline

California’s economy is losing steam. While the tech sector thrives, blue-collar jobs vanish. Public sector jobs grow, but they depend on high taxes that hurt the private sector. The state’s aging population and low birthrates signal a grim future.


Time for Change

California’s problems are clear, but solutions are possible. Instead of fighting federal policies, the state could work with them. Updating infrastructure and smarter management could help. Embracing innovation without chasing businesses away is key.


Conclusion: A New Path

California’s decline isn’t final. With reforms and collaboration, it can regain its status as a land of opportunity. The state’s unique strengths in innovation and location offer hope. Time to steer a new course before it’s too late.

Red Heifers Stoke Mideast Tensions: A Religious Spark

0

Key Takeaways:

  • Five red heifers were brought to Israel, sparking tensions with Hamas and Hezbollah.
  • These heifers are central to a Jewish purification ritual tied to the Third Temple.
  • A new book by Adam Berkowitz explores their significance and debunks myths.
  • The issue is tied to the disputed Temple Mount, a key religious site.

The Red Heifers and Rising Tensions

In a region already simmering with conflict, the arrival of five red heifers in Israel has ignited new tensions. These calves, brought by a group called Boneh Israel—a collaboration between Orthodox Jews and Evangelical Christians—are at the heart of a religious ritual that could pave the way for the Third Temple. This event has drawn the ire of Hamas and Hezbollah, who cite it as a reason for their attacks.

The Ritual’s Significance

The red heifers are crucial for a purification ritual that hasn’t been performed in 2,000 years. The process involves burning the heifers and using their ashes to purify those entering the Temple. Author Adam Berkowitz’s book explains this complex ritual, detailing how the heifers must be flawless and perfectly red, with no more than one non-red hair.

Debunking Misinformation

Despite the heifers’ religious importance, misinformation has spread, with some claiming they’re a provocation. Berkowitz’s book sets the record straight, offering insights into the ritual’s history and significance, while addressing the myths perpetuated by some YouTubers and documentaries.

The Temple Mount: A Flashpoint

The Temple Mount, a site sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims, is central to these tensions. While the red heifer ritual is performed on the Mount of Olives, avoiding direct conflict, it’s a symbolic step towards the Temple’s reconstruction. This has led to fierce debates, with some Muslims fearing it threatens the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Political and Religious Debates

The return of the red heifers has sparked political discussions about religious freedom. Some argue that rebuilding the Temple encroaches on Muslim rights, while others see it as a part of Jewish heritage. Berkowitz highlights how the ritual bypasses some of these issues, as it’s conducted away from the Temple Mount.

A Shared Vision Across Faiths

Interestingly, some Christians support the ritual, seeing it as part of their faith to aid Jews in this endeavor. Berkowitz’s book explores these interfaith connections, offering a nuanced view of the ritual’s significance beyond Jewish tradition.

Conclusion: A Delicate Balance

As the Middle East navigates this volatile situation, the red heifers symbolize the deep-rooted religious and political tensions. Berkowitz’s book provides clarity, urging understanding and respect for differing perspectives. The story of the red heifers is a potent reminder of the complex interplay between faith, history, and conflict in this sacred land.

Shocking Truth: Illegal Immigrants on Gov Programs

0

Key Takeaways:

  • 1.3 million illegal immigrants on Medicaid, growing rapidly.
  • Illegal immigrants misusing Social Security, risking bankruptcy.
  • Thousands illegally voting in U.S. elections.

Introduction:

In a stunning interview on the All In podcast, Antonio Gracias, founder of Valor Equity Partners, revealed alarming findings about illegal immigrants accessing U.S. government programs. These revelations have sparked significant concern about the integrity of our systems and the potential for fraud.

Medicaid Abuse

Antonio Gracias highlighted that 1.3 million illegal immigrants are currently enrolled in Medicaid. This number is growing quickly, raising questions about the program’s sustainability. Medicaid, designed to aid low-income citizens, is facing unexpected strain from ineligible participants, threatening its future.

Social Security Drain

Gracias also exposed that illegal immigrants are improperly receiving Social Security benefits, depleting funds meant for citizens. With Social Security projected to face bankruptcy in a decade, this misuse exacerbates the financial strain, endangering the program for those who rely on it.

Voting Issues

Perhaps most concerning, Gracias revealed that thousands of illegal immigrants are registered to vote and have cast ballots in recent elections. This undermines election integrity and raises questions about the fairness of the democratic process.

Consequences

The financial burden on government programs is significant, but the larger issue is the fairness to legal citizens and the integrity of our systems. These findings highlight vulnerabilities in our current structures and the need for immediate attention.

Solutions

To address these issues, stricter eligibility checks and verifications could help ensure benefits reach only those eligible. Additionally, advocating for policy reforms can strengthen program integrity and protect taxpayer investments.

Conclusion

The revelations from Antonio Gracias underscore critical issues needing urgent action. Protecting government programs’ integrity ensures they serve their intended purpose and maintain public trust. Addressing these challenges is essential for a fair and sustainable future.

California in the Spotlight: Newsom Navigates Transgender Sports Ban and School Policies

0

Key Takeaways:

  • California Governor Gavin Newsom faces pressure over transgender athletes in sports and school policies.
  • Recent podcast comments and federal funding threats intensify the debate.
  • Parents’ rights and state laws clash with federal regulations.
  • National implications emerge as other states take opposing stands.

A Growing Storm Over Sports and Schools

Governor Gavin Newsom of California finds himself at the center of a brewing storm. Recent comments on his podcast about transgender athletes have sparked both support and backlash. Newsom agreed that biological males competing in women’s sports is unfair, aligning himself with conservative views. This stance has drawn attention nationwide, especially as the state faces pressure from federal authorities.

Budget Battles and Federal Funding

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has issued an ultimatum: comply with the federal ban on transgender athletes or risk losing $8 billion in education funds. This threat comes as California grapples with a $46.8 billion budget deficit, making the stakes even higher. McMahon’s letter emphasizes the majority of Americans opposing biological males in women’s sports, urging Newsom to clarify his position.

The Parental Rights Debate

California’s approach to gender transitions in schools adds fuel to the fire. A state law prevents schools from informing parents about students’ gender changes, leading to legal battles. The U.S. Education Department is investigating whether this violates federal privacy laws, highlighting the tension between state autonomy and federal regulations.

A National Divide

While California resists the federal ban, states like New Hampshire have already prohibited transgender athletes in women’s sports. In contrast, Maine stands firm, with Governor Janet Mills vowing to fight the issue in court. This divide reflects broader national disagreements on gender issues, shaping the political landscape.

The Road Ahead

As California’s Assembly prepares for hearings on banning biological males in women’s sports, the debate intensifies. Parents, activists, and policymakers are at odds, with each side adamant about their stance. The outcome could influence not just California but the entire nation, setting a precedent for states navigating similar challenges.

In conclusion, California’s struggles with transgender policies in sports and schools underscore a nation divided. As the legal and legislative battles unfold, Governor Newsom’s decisions will be closely watched, potentially shaping the future of gender rights and parental involvement in education.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy: Unsafe Subways Will Lose Federal Funding

0

Key Takeaways:

  • Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy threatens to cut federal funds to cities with unsafe public transit systems.
  • Duffy singled out New York’s subway system, blaming Governor Kathy Hochul for failing to address safety issues.
  • New York officials claim subway crime has dropped due to increased police presence.
  • Duffy insists cities must prioritize safety and efficiency to receive federal transportation funding.

Federal Funds on the Line: What You Need to Know

Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy recently appeared on Fox News, where he made a bold statement about the future of federal funding for public transportation. Duffy warned that cities with unsafe or poorly managed transit systems could lose out on federal money. He specifically called out New York’s struggling subway system, placing blame on Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul.

Duffy’s comments came after a series of violent incidents in New York’s subway system, including shootings and assaults. He criticized what he sees as a lack of progress in making the subways safer for riders.


Subway Safety in the Spotlight

Duffy argued that while Democratic mayors like Eric Adams encourage people to use public transit, they fail to make it safe. He said, “Transit across America is dangerous. These liberal mayors want everyone out of cars and into trains, but they make the trains unsafe, so no one really wants to ride them.”

He also pointed out that while some people feel safe riding the subway during the day, nighttime trips can feel risky, even for men. “If it’s in the morning or at night, even big men don’t want to ride the subway,” Duffy added.


New York’s Response to Rising Crime

New York officials have tried to address the safety concerns. As of April 2024, the city has increased police presence in the subway system. Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Transit Chief Joseph Gulotta claim these efforts have led to historic lows in subway crime. Adams even invited Duffy to see the improvements firsthand, taking him on a tour of the city’s public transportation system.

Despite these claims, Duffy remains unconvinced. He believes the real problem lies with Governor Hochul’s handling of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). “This is really a failure of the governor of New York,” he said.


The Fight Over Funding and Accountability

Duffy made it clear that federal funding for transit systems will depend on how cities manage their money and prioritize safety. He criticized Hochul for not focusing enough on security and efficiency. “They have homelessness and crazy people that live and reside inside of subways. So it’s unacceptable,” he said.

He also suggested that New York needs to do more to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse in its transit system. “We need to send DOGE into the MTA and actually look at how they spend their money,” Duffy said, referring to a popular cryptocurrency often used as a meme.


Hochul’s Plan to Fix the Subway System

Governor Hochul has proposed new initiatives to protect subway riders and workers. These include stationing 750 NYPD officers throughout the city and adding 300 more in train cars. While these steps aim to address safety concerns, Duffy says they don’t go far enough.

“Our position is, if you don’t clean up your act, we’re not going to invest in you,” Duffy said. “We’ll make those investments as taxpayers if you do it well and have beautiful trains that are on time, that are safe. But if you don’t, we’re going to pull the money and put it somewhere else.”


The Bottom Line: Safety First

For cities like New York, the stakes are high. If they can’t show improvement in safety and efficiency, they risk losing critical federal funding for their transit systems. While New York officials insist they’re making progress, Duffy and others remain skeptical.

Only time will tell if New York can turn its subway system around and secure the federal funds it needs. One thing is certain: the debate over transit safety and funding is far from over. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.

Obama’s Call for Sacrifice Sparks Credibility Questions

0

Key Takeaways:

  • Senior Fellow Victor Davis Hanson claims Obama’s call for personal sacrifice contradicts his lavish lifestyle.
  • Hanson argues that Obama’s message of resistance to President Trump’s policies lacks credibility.
  • The critique highlights a growing divide between Democratic leaders and their supporters.

Obama’s Call for Sacrifice Sparks Credibility Questions

At a recent event at Hamilton College, former President Barack Obama urged young Americans to resist President Donald Trump’s policies, even if it requires personal sacrifice. However, his message has faced criticism from some, with some questioning whether his own lifestyle aligns with the values he’s promoting.

During an appearance on “Jesse Watters Primetime,” Hoover Institution Senior Fellow Victor Davis Hanson accused Obama of hypocrisy. Hanson pointed out the contrast between Obama’s calls for sacrifice and his own affluent lifestyle. “He’s telling young people to give up things when he’s living in mansions and flying on private jets,” Hanson said. “That’s a tough message to sell.”


Obama’s Speech at Hamilton College

Obama’s remarks at Hamilton College were part of a broader push to encourage activism among young people. He said: “When you’re advocating for social justice or free speech, it’s easy to say you’re for something. But now, you might actually have to do something and possibly sacrifice a little bit.”

While Obama’s speech was meant to inspire, critics argue that it rings hollow given his own privileged position. Hanson criticized Obama for lecturing others about sacrifice while enjoying a life of luxury. “Why doesn’t he sell one of his mansions if he’s so serious about this?” Hanson asked.


The Hypocrisy of Elites

Hanson also criticized Obama’s approach to engaging with voters during his recent public appearances. “He flew in from one of his four mansions on a private jet and told young black men they didn’t know what was good for them,” Hanson said. “He told them to listen more to him and Michelle Obama. That’s not a message voters respond to.”

Hanson believes this disconnect has hurt Obama’s public image. “He had a bad campaign. He’s becoming a caricature of himself,” Hanson said. “When he talks about sacrifice, it’s hard to take him seriously.”


The Democratic Party’s Leadership Crisis

Hanson also weighed in on the broader challenges facing the Democratic Party. He suggested that the party lacks direction and is unwilling to embrace centrist policies. “The only one who comes close to a moderate is [Pennsylvania Sen. John] Fetterman, but even he’s not ideologically centrist,” Hanson said.

Hanson’s comments reflect a growing criticism of Democratic leadership. Many believe the party is out of touch with everyday Americans, and figures like Obama are seen as part of the problem rather than the solution.


The New Normal: Sacrifice for Some, Luxury for Others

Obama’s call for resistance and sacrifice has sparked a larger conversation about the role of leadership in times of crisis. While his message may resonate with some, others question whether he and other Democratic leaders are willing to practice what they preach.

For many Americans, the idea of sacrifice is personal. It means making hard choices about jobs, families, and resources. But when leaders like Obama preach sacrifice while enjoying lives of luxury, it erodes trust.


A Party in Search of Direction

The Democratic Party is at a crossroads. With figures like Obama and other prominent leaders struggling to connect with voters, the party is facing an identity crisis. Hanson’s critique of Obama’s hypocrisy is just one example of a larger issue: the gap between the party’s elite and its base.

As the 2024 election approaches, Democrats will need to address these concerns if they hope to rebuild trust with voters. For now, the party’s leadership continues to grapple with the same challenges that cost them support in recent elections.


The Bottom Line

Barack Obama’s call for resistance and sacrifice has reignited debates about leadership, credibility, and the role of elites in politics. While his message may inspire some, it has also raised questions about whether Democratic leaders are willing to lead by example.

For voters, the issue is simple: if leaders like Obama want them to sacrifice, they should be willing to do the same. Until then, many will remain skeptical of their calls to action.

Nationwide Protests Against Trump’s Health Care Cuts Spark Outrage Across America

0

Key Takeaways:

  • Opponents of President Trump are organizing protests in all 50 states on Saturday.
  • The protests, called “Hands Off!,” aim to fight cuts to federal health care programs and government worker rights.
  • Groups like Indivisible and MoveOn are leading the movement.
  • The message is appealing to a wide range of Americans, including people with different political views.

Protests Across America: A Fight for Health Care and Workers’ Rights

This Saturday, people from all 50 states will come together to protest against President Trump’s recent actions. These actions include cutting federal health care programs and targeting government workers. The protests, named “Hands Off!,” are being organized by groups like Indivisible and MoveOn. These groups have led similar movements in the past, fighting for issues like abortion rights, gun control, and racial justice.

The protests are not just about politics. They are about standing up for programs that millions of Americans rely on. Health care cuts could hurt families, seniors, and people with low incomes. Government workers are also feeling the impact, as their jobs and benefits are being threatened.


Why Are People Protesting?

The main goal of the protests is to send a clear message: stop cutting vital programs and services. Many Americans believe these cuts are unfair and will hurt the most vulnerable people. For example, reducing health care funding could make it harder for people to afford doctor visits, medications, and other essential services.

Government workers are also in the spotlight. Many of them work hard to serve the public, but they are facing job losses, reduced pay, and fewer benefits. Protesters argue that these workers deserve respect and fair treatment, not cuts that make their lives harder.

The protests are not just for Democrats or Republicans. Organizers say the message appeals to anyone who cares about fairness and protecting important services. This includes independents, liberals, and even some conservatives who disagree with the president’s approach.


Who Is Behind the Protests?

The “Hands Off!” movement is being led by well-known activist groups. Indivisible and MoveOn have a history of organizing large protests. They were key players in the resistance against President Trump during his first term in office. They also fought for issues like reproductive rights, gun safety, and racial equality.

These groups are good at bringing people together. They use social media, community meetings, and local events to spread their message. They also provide tools and resources to help people organize and participate in protests.


What Do Protesters Want?

Protesters have a simple but powerful message: stop attacking health care and government workers. They want President Trump and lawmakers to focus on solving problems, not creating new ones. For example, instead of cutting health care funding, they want investments in programs that make health care more affordable and accessible.

Protesters also want to protect government workers. They believe these workers are essential to the country’s well-being. From teachers and nurses to scientists and public safety officers, government workers play a critical role in keeping society running smoothly.


How Can You Get Involved?

If you’re concerned about health care cuts or government worker rights, you can join the protests. Events are happening in all 50 states, so there’s likely one near you. You can find more information online by searching for “Hands Off!” protests in your area.

Even if you can’t attend a protest, you can still make your voice heard. Share your thoughts on social media, write to your elected officials, or talk to friends and family about why these issues matter. Every voice counts, and together, people can make a difference.


The Bigger Picture

The “Hands Off!” protests are part of a larger movement. They reflect a growing frustration with policies that hurt everyday Americans. By standing together, protesters hope to send a powerful message to President Trump and lawmakers: prioritize people over politics.

Health care and government workers are not just political issues. They are about real lives and real families. The protests are a reminder that when people come together, they can fight for change and protect what matters most.

Arctic Thaw: How Warming is Reshaping U.S. Military Strategy

0

Key Takeaways:

  • The Arctic is warming faster than any other region on Earth.
  • Operation Ice Camp brings U.S. military and allies to the Arctic every two years.
  • Rising temperatures make the Arctic more accessible, raising concerns about borders and peace.
  • A $37 million sea wall protects the U.S. Naval Academy from rising tides.

As the world grapples with global warming, the Arctic is changing faster than anywhere else. This transformation is not just about melting ice—it’s about how it’s reshaping military strategy and raising questions about security.

What is Operation Ice Camp?

Every other winter, the U.S. military, along with its allies, gathers in the Arctic for a training exercise called Operation Ice Camp. The goal is to prepare for challenges in one of the coldest and most remote regions on Earth. As the Arctic warms, new opportunities—and dangers—are emerging.

The Arctic is becoming more accessible. Melting ice is opening up new shipping routes and revealing resources like oil, gas, and minerals. This has sparked interest from countries like Russia, China, and the United States. However, it also raises concerns about borders and peace. Who controls these new routes and resources? How will nations prevent conflicts?

Operation Ice Camp is a way for the U.S. and its allies to practice working together in this harsh environment. Soldiers train in subzero temperatures, learn to move across ice, and test equipment designed for extreme cold. The exercises also send a message: the Arctic is a region where the U.S. and its partners are ready to act.

Rising Seas and the Naval Academy’s New Sea Wall

While the Arctic is getting attention, rising sea levels are causing problems closer to home. The U.S. Naval Academy in Maryland is a prime example. In recent years, the academy has been flooded 30 to 40 times annually due to higher tides.

To fight back, the academy completed a $37 million sea wall project last year. The wall is designed to protect the base from flooding caused by rising seas. It’s a significant investment, but it’s necessary. The academy is not just a military base—it’s a historic site and a symbol of U.S. defense.

The project shows how climate change is forcing the military to adapt. From building sea walls to training in the Arctic, the U.S. is preparing for a world where the environment is as much a challenge as any enemy.

Why Does This Matter?

The Arctic’s melting ice and rising sea levels are not just environmental issues—they’re security concerns. As the Arctic becomes more accessible, countries are starting to take notice. Russia has already built military bases in the region, and China is exploring new trade routes. The U.S. and its allies are responding to ensure they are not left behind.

At the same time, rising seas threaten military bases and coastal cities.Protecting these areas is crucial for national security and safety. The Naval Academy’s sea wall is one example of how the military is taking action.

What’s Next?

The future of the Arctic—and the U.S. military’s role in it—is uncertain. One thing is clear: the warming Arctic is creating new challenges and opportunities. As the ice melts, the U.S. and its allies will need to balance cooperation with competition.

Meanwhile, rising seas will continue to threaten coastal areas. The Naval Academy’s sea wall is just one step in a long process of adapting to climate change.

In the end, the U.S. military is preparing for a world shaped by warming temperatures. From the Arctic to the coastlines, the changing environment is reshaping how the military trains, operates, and protects its bases. As the planet continues to warm, this trend will only grow more important.

Rep. Jamie Raskin Challenges Elon Musk Over Election Influence During National Protests

0

Introduction: In a powerful speech delivered during the Hands Off protests in Washington, D.C., Rep. Jamie Raskin addressed the growing concern over Elon Musk’s alleged attempts to influence elections. These protests, gaining momentum across the nation, highlight the public’s stance against what they perceive as undue interference in democracy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rep. Jamie Raskin criticized Elon Musk for attempting to sway elections through financial incentives.
  • The Hands Off protests have drawn significant attention, emphasizing public resistance to election interference.
  • Legal actions, including multiple injunctions, are being taken against such practices.
  • The protests underscore a collective demand for election integrity and fairness.

Rep. Raskin’s Speech: Rep. Raskin’s message was clear and direct, targeting Elon Musk’s tactics. He emphasized that democracy should not be for sale, pointing out Musk’s alleged use of financial incentives to influence voters. Raskin applauded the resilience of the American people, particularly in Wisconsin, where collective action defeated what he described as billionaire-backed power grabs.

The Issue with Musk’s Actions: Musk’s strategies, while potentially exploiting legal loopholes, have sparked widespread criticism. Critics argue that offering incentives for voting aligns with efforts to buy influence, undermining democratic integrity. This perception has led to legal challenges, with 39 judges from various administrations issuing injunctions against such practices.

Significance of the Hands Off Protests: The Hands Off protests stand out for their national reach and size, marking a significant moment in the fight for election integrity. They reflect a broader movement against the influence of wealth in politics, highlighting the power of grassroots activism in shaping public discourse.

Conclusion: As the Hands Off protests continue, Rep. Jamie Raskin’s message serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect democracy. The involvement of high-profile figures like Raskin underscores the urgency of addressing election interference. We invite readers to share their thoughts on this critical issue.

Barack Obama Opens Up About His Marriage to Michelle

0

Key Takeaways:

  • Barack Obama shared candid details about his marriage to Michelle Obama.
  • He opened up about relationship challenges during a talk at Hamilton College.
  • The former president emphasized the importance of communication and support in their marriage.
  • He mentioned seeking advice from trusted friends and family.

Barack Obama recently shared personal insights about his marriage to Michelle Obama during a public talk. The former president spoke at Hamilton College, offering a rare glimpse into their relationship.

The Challenges They’ve Faced

Obama revealed that their marriage, like many others, has faced challenges. He shared that there have been times when they went to bed angry. This shows that even one of America’s most admired couples deals with disagreements.

Despite these hurdles, the Obamas have found ways to navigate through tough times. Obama emphasized the importance of communication and not letting issues fester.

The Role of Their Support System

Obama highlighted the importance of friends and family who offer support and advice. He mentioned reaching out to trusted individuals when needed, underscoring the value of a strong support network in maintaining a healthy marriage.

A Lasting Relationship

The Obamas’ ability to communicate openly and seek help has contributed to the strength of their relationship. Their marriage serves as an example of resilience and commitment.

By sharing these personal experiences, Obama continues to be an inspiration, proving that relationships thrive on effort and understanding.