He is foremost among those I would hear praised.
I know that Jeff is one of the most honest, hard-working people I know. He loafs and lazes with a will (and generally with lots of help from me), but when he’s set himself to a task he’s committed, dedicated, focused and determined to get results. He will hold his tongue rather than tell a lie; he’s aware of his cognitive biases and doesn’t pretend to be perfect in his pursuit of truth, justice and being let the fuck alone.
I understand that the world is made of in-groups, and that it doesn’t matter what you can do, or how smart or logical or disciplined or calm you are, if you’re not a member of that in-group you will not be trusted and your motives will always be suspect. I am upset to be watching my brother, whom I trust with my life, who wouldn’t pick up a nickel that wasn’t his whether or not somebody was watching, whose ethics and personal standards are of the highest calibre, get treated like he’s untrustworthy. I’m prejudiced – but of course! – but that doesn’t make me wrong.
