Why “I’ve Been Thinking…”

For quite a while, I’ve used Facebook to share things that catch my attention and get me thinking. Sometimes it’s government or veterans issues. Other times it’s history, travel, retirement, current events, or simply something I’ve experienced that makes me stop and wonder about it a little more.

I enjoy the conversations those posts sometimes create, but Facebook isn’t always the best place for a longer thought. Posts disappear down the timeline, discussions get scattered, and sometimes I want a little more room to explain what I’m thinking and, just as importantly, why.

That’s where I’ve Been Thinking… comes from.

This isn’t intended to be a political blog, a travel blog, a veterans blog, or really any one kind of blog. It’s simply a place for me to explore the things that interest me and share what I learn along the way.

When I write about government or politics, I want to make a real effort to look beyond red and blue. I’ve spent much of my adult life connected to both the military and federal government, and those experiences have certainly shaped how I look at things. But having a viewpoint doesn’t mean there isn’t another side worth considering. I want to look at the facts, understand different perspectives, and then tell you what I think.

Sometimes I may start with one opinion and end up somewhere different after looking into it. I’m perfectly okay with that.

I’ll also write about things that have nothing to do with government or politics. History fascinates me. Travel often leaves me with stories and questions. Veterans issues are obviously important to me. Retirement has brought its own experiences. And sometimes something completely ordinary gets me thinking.

I do use AI tools to help with research, fact-checking, organizing my thoughts, and editing. I think it’s worth being upfront about that. But the experiences, ideas, opinions, and conclusions you read here are mine. AI is a tool. It doesn’t decide what I think.

You certainly don’t have to agree with me. In fact, some of the best conversations happen when we don’t. All I ask is that we keep those conversations thoughtful and respectful.

So that’s the idea behind I’ve Been Thinking…

I’m not entirely sure where it will take me yet.

I guess we’ll see what gets me thinking next.