How do we remember the human being beneath the label?

In Part 2 of A Collage of War, my uncle Dan Strawn and I talk about one of the simplest ways we can stay human in divided times: noticing the names we give each other, and choosing not to let those names replace the person.

This conversation begins with the language of war, but it keeps returning to ordinary life — families, politics, neighbors, and the small acts of care that remind us who we are.

Dan brings the long and historically-informed view of an elder, and also the simple wisdom of a neighbor: hold the door, help with the garbage can, remember the person.

This episode is about language, humanity, and the potent practice of choosing connection over contempt.

If you’d like a place to continue reflecting wit ...