In a Christmastime piece for Convivium (a Cardus publication) today I explain how my lack of musical talent has lately come to seem a valuable, if peculiar, gift.

In my latest National Post column I argue that the horrifying fate of Aleppo reminds us that things are better in Canada than in most of the world, and that they are better because of our beliefs and habits, a.k.a. our "Canadian values".

"Sow a thought and you reap an act;/ Sow an act and you reap a habit;/ Sow a habit and you reap a character;/ Sow a character and you reap a destiny." "Anonymous" quoted by Michael Novak in Business as a Calling

The audio-only version is available here: [podcast title="Ask the Professor, December 19"]http://www.thejohnrobson.com/podcast/John2016/December/Ask_Professor_69.mp3[/podcast]

"I don’t think necessity is the mother of invention. Invention, in my opinion, arises directly from idleness, possibly also from laziness. To save oneself trouble." Agatha Christie (quoted as Thought du jour in "Social Studies" in Globe and Mail August 6, 2001)

"If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him." Voltaire

"scrambling like a cat on a linoleum floor." MP Peter MacKay in 2002 (re a minister dealing badly with a crisis)

Great news, especially for US and international shoppers: Our True, Strong and Free documentary is now available on Amazon.com.