We now return you to our regularly scheduled program, more or less in progress.

For the past 10 days, I have been writing an article for a denominational publication. Wrestling is more like it: sometimes the ideas and connections simply do not flow, and this was one such case. Regrettably, that has drawn me away from communicating directly with you.

For this week, you may want to look over my new article at A Civil Tongue, a website advancing the cause of civility in public life. It deals with three phrases whose consistent practice can turn them into attitudes of the heart—and turn us into more civil people. Have a look, and feel free to comment, either here or at A Civil Tongue.

Thanks so much for your patience.