Ray Brimble
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A new year, 2026, is upon us. We are almost all in the business of predicting the future, but just what IS the allure of prediction? Do we think that if we can know the future, we can control the future?
Generosity is all around us, powered by traditional channels for giving back to our communities — but can legacy philanthropy keep pace with the 20-45 year old next-generation of givers?
“In string theory, all particles are vibrations on a tiny rubber band: physics is the harmonies on the string; chemistry is the melodies we play on vibrating strings; the universe is a symphony of strings, and the “Mind of God” is cosmic music resonating in 11 dimensional hyperspace.”
It's called the "American Riviera", and not for nothing. After all, like its namesake in the south of France, it’s got the perfect blend of great weather, outstanding ocean views from every angle, palm trees and beaches for miles, great restaurants and bars, unique architecture, and more than a little bit of glamor.
I’m not going to lie to you.
It’s been a long, wild year. Macro, micro, and everything in between. During the sailing ship times, sailors would resort to tying themselves to the mast in heavy weather to avoid being washed overboard. Yet another example of the utility of "strings", at least in theory. My own "strings" with which I tied myself to the mast in 2024 were sixteen essays posted on the blog.
A new year, 2026, is upon us. We are almost all in the business of predicting the future, but just what IS the allure of prediction? Do we think that if we can know the future, we can control the future?
There’s a famous sign on top of a hangar at ATL (Atlanta Hartsfield Int’l Airport) which reads simply “Fly Delta Jets”. I’m pretty sure no one thinks about it much, but if they did they might ask, “What the hell does that mean? Does any airline NOT fly jets?” The apocryphal nature of that vintage sign got me to asking myself, what is my own equivalent sign or rule? What am I still doing that I started doing 60 years ago, back when it was a brilliant, new idea?
This is about Shark Tank- the TV show. Lots of people equate starting and investing in businesses to Shark Tank. It's the gold standard. The north star. The bee's knees. Any other superlatives you can think of.
The first leg of what would become a life of many wonderful journeys, both mentally and physically, started here. Right where you are now: The University of Texas at Austin.
Last week, I was on a business trip visiting one of my old haunts—the Marylebone district of London. It was a place that became the center of my business operations for a while. It’s also where I learned that there’s an art to failing.
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