Two very noteworthy events for me this week. First I attended the recognition ceremony of the Idaho State Bar Professionalism and Ethics Section. My good friend Rich Hall was being named as the 2017 Richard C Fields Civility Award recipient. He was introduced by Judge Candy Dale, a long time colleague and exceptional lawyer and person, who helped us understand the ethical, collaborative and professional behavior that is expected of those who earn their Juris Doctorate. Candy went on to give examples from Rich’s career that support his recognition. Mr. Hall then made comments that included his view of civility – in a word “respect”. Respect for the system, the court, the jurors, opposing counsel, the Judge, the bailiff…you get the idea – so simple. As I think about our world today, I see very little civility and appreciate even more those who still hold the principle and demonstrate the character of civility. Congratulations to those who aspire and succeed in following in the footsteps of leaders like Rich Hall, Judge Dale and our departed friend Mr. Fields.
The second highlight is a bit more frivolous. Hank was balking at going home to take his nightly bath. I suggested he could take a bath in our jetted tub with bubbles. We put in what seemed like a reasonable amount of the formula, turned on the jets and arched in amazement as the tub filled with a lot of bubbles. The were well over the top of the tub and flowing onto the floor when I started trying to move the excess to the adjoining shower. Hank loved it and Karen and I found ourselves laughing out loud at the brilliant plan. Try it – I guarantee you will find it refreshing and entertaining. A few nights later we tried again with less bubble formula and Margie joined the fun. She loved the bubbles even when they covered her mouth and nose. Caution, the kids get very slippery and will want to do this again.
It did make me wonder what is unique about bubble bath. It seems that a foaming agent is the most efficient way to make bubbles. surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension between liquids. This cool chemical can act as a detergent, setting agent, emulsifier or foaming agent. According to surfactant science “it is trivially easy to make foam, just mix air and liquid with some energy and bubbles will form.” I believe a jetted tub is a great catalyst for bubble creation.
“So let us begin anew—remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate. Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.” John F Kennedy
Enjoy the week end. Mike