Blog.
How Is Progress Defined?
Everything is cyclical. Habits change slowly, and most humans are not early adopters, not ready to embrace new realities until there is often significant discomfort or even pain. Thankfully, we humans are somewhat rational in our behavior and will hear the drum roll of progress if things seem cheaper, better or more convenient.
When Should I Retire?
My definition of retirement is working when you want, how you want, if you want, and where you want.
Bitcoin and FOMO
Paul Sutherland responds to the question: are cryptocurrencies a good thing or a bad thing? He addresses bitcoin and the “fear of missing out.”
Utopia Foundation Has Helped Distribute Paul's Books in Eastern DRC Congo
Paul's books are being distributed at a Peace Conference called AMANI in Eastern DRC Congo.
Why Emmanuel Can’t Read
“What age group is the book for?” a former Parliamentarian asked, as he looked into my eyes for an answer.
“Age 0 to age 88,” I answered.
He continued looking at me, and clarified, “I mean, is it for P2? P3? P4? What classes would use it?”
“Any class,” I replied.
The reason we were chatting is because this former MP had been involved in education at the ministry level and shared my passion for education.
As if I had not heard him, he asked again, “Paul, what classes would we buy this book for?”
I responded, “We create books that tell great stories. Each page is well-illustrated. We use high-quality paper and then think about every word, every illustration, and how each page is put together. We don’t consider 'age.' We only ask ourselves, 'Is this book one that kids and even adults will love?’”
Paul Sutherland Speaks at Northern Uganda Peace Conference
Paul spoke at the Northern Uganda Peace Conference 2017, at Gulu University. The event presentation team included religious leaders, peace advocates, Peace Studies instructors, teachers, media specialists and journalists from Northern Uganda.
A Family Is a Family by Choice
My dad, Dale Sutherland, was born during the American Great Depression. In fact, my grand-mother said about my dad’s birth, “When I went to the bank to get the money for the hospital, the bank was closed.” I still remember that particular sentence from my grandmother, who spoke it directly to me. I remember because I had little one-on-one time with her since I had to share her with a few dozen grandkids all wanting another molasses cookie. It seemed to me Grandma was “A-Okay” with the bank closing—like that was the least of the trouble at that time. I did not find out until later that I was right.
The Commons: How Can I Love You Better?
After the Haiti earthquake, I toured the Port-au-Prince hospital with my wife, Amy, to see a few of the organizations we have supported over the years to make sure we were helping them in ways that foster resilience, self-sufficiency, and non-dependence. The administrator showed us rooms filled with donated supplies, most still boxed or covered in dusty plastic.
Pay for Preschool or Save for College?
Question: I get paid little but love my work, and my partner and I get by. Now we suddenly have become parents to two children under the age of four. (It’s a long story...) The children came with a modest school trust fund, and I want to spend the trust fund over the next few years on early childhood education, better equipping my home for the children, and allowing me to slow down my work schedule and have more time with them.
I Don’t Want to Own “America” Right Now
Question: I don’t want to own “America” right now. I don’t want to profit from killing people, destroying jobs in other countries, and ruining lives through a system that places profits over people and the planet. I have a 401(k) and an IRA filled with mutual funds. I really don’t even care if I make less money by being conscientious. My advisor says he has other clients who are “that way.” I don’t think he gets me. Any advice?