Welcome to my professional page. I’m Stephen McDonald. I am, in no order of consequence: a writer, a photographer, an explorer, an Americanist cultural and historical scholar, a Progressive Christian and a devoted father a much beloved daughter. (Maybe the best for last!) This page will include my thoughts, queries, musings and links to my … Continue reading Introduction to My Latest
A New Hobby
https://youtu.be/G9laQ5E5kSw I recently bought a drone, more specifically, a DJI Mavic Air. I love it! Today, I needed a "mental health" day and spent a cold, quiet but joyous day at the park. Enjoy!
Social Media Overload
https://youtu.be/t7Xr3AsBEK4 I remember watching this powerful TED Talk by Sherry Turkle while I was taking a religion class one summer and, lately, I have been thinking of this talk again. I am wondering if I am "done" with social media. Recently, this started with a follow I made on my Instagram account--I know! I followed … Continue reading Social Media Overload
“The New Colossus” in the Age of “Shithole Countries”
Jimmy Carter was President when I was born. He was the Sunday School teacher who wore sweaters when it was chilly, carried his own bags and had no real discernible ideology other than a commitment to peace. As a child, I don't ever remember hearing, "That might be how President [George H.W.] Bush talks but … Continue reading “The New Colossus” in the Age of “Shithole Countries”
It’s Really Happening.
Good day, all! I'm celebrating another small victory, or perhaps large victory. A little more than one year ago, I set out to return to school and complete my degree with the ambition of continuing onwards to law school. Last weekend, I took my Law School Admission Test, or LSATs. Three hours of problem solving … Continue reading It’s Really Happening.
Las Vegas and “The Mindless Menace of Violence”
https://youtu.be/hhANTymDIYk When I saw this on the news, I was as stunned and speechless as many of you. And before the smoke even clears, the political debate begins with wild accusations and even crazier conspiracies. I was a freshman in college when the Columbine shooting happened. When the Sandy Hook shooting happened, and, yes, … Continue reading Las Vegas and “The Mindless Menace of Violence”
Welcome!
This is the post excerpt.
Back to School!
Another school year begins! I'm excited and glad to be back this term. Work-life balance has kept me pretty busy over the summer; that and studying for my LSATs, which are now only a few weeks away. Im sitting here in a campus dining hall, in my mid-thirties, and remembering just how depressed, sad and … Continue reading Back to School!
A Great Semester … Summer time!!!
Why do I keep the Serenity Prayer on my blog? The Serenity Prayer is a constant reminder of the three things the God can provide: Peace, Strength and Wisdom. That through the Lord Jesus Christ - through the strength, serenity and wisdom that His teaching provides - are all things possible. I have returned to … Continue reading A Great Semester … Summer time!!!
Introduction: About Me and My Blog
Welcome to my blog! I am Stephen, also known as "Bear", or here as "The Non Trad Dad", and here is where I chronicle my journey as a working professional, a father, a writer, an ordained minister and a returning non-traditional adult student. I have re-matriculated at a local college where I first began my … Continue reading Introduction: About Me and My Blog
The Study 