The Art of the Entrance: Costumes, Headdresses, and Galveston Creativity

Focus Your Inner Bitch: Episode 15 Mary Buys Her Own House

In Episode 15 of Focus Your Inner Bitch — The Mary Bratton Story, Mary tells the story of buying her first house in Houston's Eastwood area in 1978 — with a $5,000 401(k) payout, a brick bungalow, a fireplace, a garage, and barely enough money left to eat. From hand-planting grass in the front yard to working part-time at Lord & Taylor, Mary built a life on her own terms. And then, through a neighborhood civic association meeting, she met Jim. This is where Mary's story begins turning into their story. https://youtu.be/5Rdayp14AZg [https://youtu.be/5Rdayp14AZg]

JIM BRATTON STOIC MINUTE 10 — PERSPECTIVE

In this episode of Stoic Minute, Jim Bratton reflects on the Stoic practice of stepping back and seeing life from a wider view. Much of what troubles us grows larger because we stand too close to it. Perspective does not erase difficulty, but it can restore proportion. From a greater distance, anger, worry, pride, and fear often lose some of their power. A short Stoic reflection on perspective, proportion, and the discipline of seeing clearly.

JIM BRATTON STOIC MINUTE 09 — MORTALITY

In this episode of Stoic Minute, Jim Bratton reflects on the Stoic reminder that mortality is not meant to frighten us, but to wake us up. Marcus Aurelius returns again and again to the shortness of life. Not as gloom, but as clarity. When we remember that time is limited, small irritations shrink, priorities sharpen, and the present becomes more valuable. A short Stoic reflection on mortality, perspective, and living with greater attention while we still have time.

JIM BRATTON STOIC MINUTE 08 — ANGER

In this episode of Stoic Minute, Jim Bratton reflects on Marcus Aurelius' warning that "the best revenge is not to be like your enemy." Anger can feel powerful, but it often gives away control. In reacting, we may become the very thing we oppose. A short Stoic reflection on anger, restraint, and the discipline of choosing who we become in the moment of provocation.

JIM BRATTON STOIC MINUTE 07 — THE PRESENT

In this episode of Stoic Minute, Jim Bratton reflects on Marcus Aurelius' reminder to "confine yourself to the present." The mind often drifts backward into memory or forward into anticipation. But when attention returns to what is directly in front of us, the day becomes manageable again. A short reflection on presence, attention, and the Stoic practice of staying with what is actually happening.