wjjh

[wjjh]

Musing: In this reflective piece, an octogenarian explores the duality of aging, noting both improvements and declines. With age comes wisdom, acceptance, and a deeper understanding of self, even as physical decline occurs. Emphasizing the importance of character in shaping happiness and critiques societal changes, advocating for balance in life’s perspectives.

[wjjh]

Opinion: This reflection analyzes the Dutch liberal party D66, discussing its shift from core European values towards electoral pragmatism, especially regarding migration and foreign policy. While appreciating its advocacy for civil liberties and climate change, I have concerns over D66's evolving identity and critical questions must be asked about its future direction in light of increasing populism.

[wjjh]

Reflection: on three significant vacations to Switzerland, South Africa, and Japan, each shaping their memory and understanding over time. The journeys evoke childhood joy, confrontations with political injustice, and reflections on historical tragedies, emphasizing that the essence of travel lies not in destinations but in the moments that linger and deepen one’s insights.

[wjjh]

Reflection on my political journey with Dutch liberal parties VVD and D66, expressing disillusionment with their shift towards pragmatism over principles. The evolution from principled liberalism to populism raises concerns about identity, compromising essential values for broader appeal, particularly in areas like migration and asylum policies.

[wjjh]

Critique on Europe’s flattery of Donald Trump, arguing it perpetuates a dangerous normalization of political intimidation reminiscent of historical appeasement. The sacrificing of democratic principles for pragmatism undermines Europe’s values. Silence in the face of Trump’s behavior fosters complicity, compromising both dignity and the foundational ideals of democratic unity.

[wjjh]

Reflecting on the changing perception of the United States, transitioning from idealism in the 1960s to skepticism today influenced by political events, particularly the rise of Donald Trump. There is the loss of admiration for a country once seen as a beacon of hope, now viewed as a cautionary tale of decay and disillusionment.

[wjjh]

Critique: on Europe’s defense policy, emphasizing its growing subservience to the U.S. amid inflated security rhetoric. Recent NATO-EU summits mask deeper issues like democratic erosion and strategic incoherence. Urgent questions about enlargement and fiscal sustainability arise, highlighting the need for realistic, cohesive strategies rather than fear-driven decisions.

[wjjh]

Reflection: The essay explores the complex interplay between moral imperatives and pragmatic realities in international politics, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict. It emphasizes the tension between ideals of justice and the harshness of historical power dynamics. Ultimately, it calls for a reflection on ethical realism and the necessity of diplomatic prudence amid competing national interests.

[wjjh]

An Octogenarian’s Farewell to a Lost Friend

An Octogenarian’s Farewell to a Lost Friend: Reflections on the International Herald Tribune Authors Note: This piece is part of Reflections from the Eighth Decade, where I take stock of the world we are leaving behind — and the strange new one emerging before our eyes. In an age of instant communication, superficial news, and restless scrolling, I still long for a time when reflection, nuance,…