Rebecca Kay Bright, Author

Breaking the Mold: Rethinking Education Beyond Standardized Testing Ah, the word "school" – for many, it evokes a sense of dread, while for others, it's a beacon of excitement. But why such a stark contrast? It's time we delve into the heart of the matter. There's a troubling notion out there, one that suggests education is not meant for everyone. It's a mindset that relegates certain individuals to low-paying jobs and tells them to be content with their lot in life. This mindset, rooted in the Industrial Revolution's socioeconomic disparities, seemed to fade with the rise of the middle class in the mid-20th century. Alas, it appears to be making a comeback among today's affluent and can be seen in certain state's public school curricula once again. In far too many states, standardized tests have become the be-all and end-all of education. They dictate whether a student progresses to the next grade, graduates, or even receives proper attention in

Price Gouging When Nature Strikes When natural disaster strikes you expect neighbors to help neighbors, communities to help communities, and businesses to not screw people over. Here in Texas after Harvey blew in we had multiple reports of hotels, RV parts, gas stations, retail stores, etc price gouging evacuees. Granted we also had lots of hotels, RV parks, retail stores, gas stations, etc slashing prices or not charging at all the number ripping off the good business owners, franchise owners, or managers was staggering. I worked at a hotel at the time that bumped their room prices up $20 the day before Hurricane Harvey made landfall with the full intent to screw evacuees. It made me absolutely sick and I was thrilled I was just waiting for the paperwork for my new and better job with an ethical company to finish up so I could leave this unethical employer. Price gouging people after a natural disaster is not only illegal, and immoral, but also beyond unethical. As consumers,

Remembering Rockport: The Forgotten Victims of Hurricane Harvey In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, much of the nation's attention has rightfully been on the devastation in Houston. However, amid the widespread coverage of flooded streets and displaced families, there's a quieter tragedy unfolding in the coastal town of Rockport, Texas. Rockport, much like Biloxi, Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina, has been all but forgotten in the media frenzy surrounding Harvey. Yet, the destruction it has suffered is nothing short of catastrophic. Homes have been reduced to rubble, streets are impassable, and basic necessities like water, electricity, and groceries are in critically short supply. While Houston has seen an outpouring of support and assistance, the same cannot be said for Rockport and its surrounding areas. Relief efforts are struggling to reach these communities, as resources are diverted to larger, more visible cities. Here's where we can make a difference. If you o

Standing Up Against Price Gouging During Hurricane Harvey As Hurricane Harvey barrels towards the Texas coast, thousands of residents are evacuating their homes in anticipation of the storm's impact. However, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, evacuees are facing another challenge: price gouging. It's a harsh reality that no one should have to confront during a crisis. From gas stations to grocery stores, businesses are taking advantage of the situation by inflating prices and preying on the vulnerability of those seeking shelter and safety. But there's one group of individuals bearing the brunt of this exploitation: pet owners . As families flee the storm with their beloved four-legged companions, they're met with closed doors at hotels and shelters that typically don't accommodate pets. It's a heartbreaking situation that forces families to choose between their own safety and the well-being of their furry family members. In times like these, compassion and empa

                                    The Compassionate Outsider “ Fill your mind with compassion” – Buddha     Sometimes being compassionate is the hardest thing that one can do. I was raised in a family that is like most American families…rather negative. I was not raised to be compassionate to others or even animals. I used to long for an older brother. I have no siblings at all, but now in my thirties when I look back at it I am glad I don’t have any siblings. Not that I got what I wanted or all the attention, the opposite really, but that I don’t know how likely a boy would have been able to turn out as opposite of my parents as I did. I was born in a small town in Texas and lived there until I was about seven when we moved to the Austin area. When I was in elementary in Austin my parents had me in religious private schools until fifth grade when I finally went back to public schools. The little private schools I went to were nice enough; I did like how small the class