If only...

this archivist had found Eliza Gurney's letter that was supposedly in Lincoln's pocket at the time of his death. Wishful thinking on my part (related to my grad school project), but either way, it's encouraging that such a pivotal primary document related to the Civil War was discovered at all. The letter's contents highlight this period after Gettysburg as a turning point in the war, which Lincoln recognized and tried to convey to his generals. And yet, although less than 20 miles away, Lee and the rebels slipped through the union army's fingers, and 2 more years of bloodshed followed. As one of the articles suggested, at least this proves that history is still 'dynamic.'

Some think that since we already knew of the information in this document through other sources, that the discovery of this document is secondary. I can see how historians might think otherwise. Sometimes, it's nice to have documentary/visual proof even if it's of what you already knew.

McJob?

Do I have a McJob? The current definition according to the OED is "an unstimulating, low-paid job with few prospects, especially one created by the expansion of the service sector." While this could apply to many temporary positions as well as burger-flinging positions, I guess I am disqualified because I am not necessarily working in the service sector. The rest of the definition pretty much applies.

McDonald's quest to get the term "McJob" erased from the dictionary demonstrates its continued arrogance. If a word is taken out of the dictionary, does it mean that it won't be used? Won't it simply find a new home in a slang dictionary if the OED bends to McDonald's wishes? Even simply changing the nuances of the definition wouldn't do much to change the way people understand the word. Everyone knows that a McJob is a job that goes nowhere and pays very little. If only McDonald's spent its time and money on more beneficial enterprises - like actually changing the conditions of the job so that the word and its definition are no longer accurate. Wouldn't it be nice to see the definition of McJob become "a well-paid union job in the fast food service sector that guarantees pay at least 20% above minimum wage with employee benefits including health care plans and opportunities for career advancement and continuing education." Unlikely.

"Time Wasted, Perhaps It's Well Spent"

Even though all I do at work is waste time (since I have next to nothing to do), this article might be interesting for people who actually have some productive tasks to do during the day: