Why This Exists

You've stumbled upon my little corner of the internet. Welcome! I'm Bradley Wargo, and this site exists for one simple reason: so you can trust that when I speak, I'm not just another faceless voice shouting into the digital void. I believe ideas matter, sources matter, and yes—the person behind those ideas matters too.

The Foundation: Faith First

First and foremost, I am a Catholic. Not the "Christmas and Easter" variety, but the "how does this shape every moment of my existence" kind. My faith isn't compartmentalized—it's the lens through which I view everything else. Here you'll find reflections on Catholic doctrine, commentary on writings from Church teachers and saints, and how these ancient wisdoms speak directly to our modern chaos. I serve as an OCIA teacher, Encounter youth leader, festival chairperson, and gladly take on various "oddball jobs" around my parish. The Church isn't just something I do—it's who I am.

The Fascination: Japan

If Catholicism is my spiritual home, Japan is my second heart. My love for this nation goes far beyond the typical Western fascination with anime or sushi. I lived there while completing my MBA, speak the language (though that N1 certification is still on my to-do list), and am endlessly captivated by its beautiful contradictions.

What fascinates me most? The juxtaposition between Japan and Catholicism—two worlds that seem incompatible yet desperately need each other. As Chesterton would appreciate, it's at this intersection of paradox where the most profound truths often emerge. Japan represents one of the great evangelization challenges of our time, and exploring that tension energizes me.

The Practical: Business & Beyond

By day, I'm a financial analyst at Phillips 66, primarily handling accounting work for our plants. Numbers tell stories if you know how to listen to them. My business background isn't just theoretical—it's been lived through successes, failures, and the daily grind of putting ideas into practice. I believe good business principles, properly ordered, can serve human flourishing.

What You'll Find Here

This site is my attempt at what the Japanese call "kokorozashi"—my life purpose and mission. I'm a bridge-builder by nature, connecting seemingly disparate ideas and finding meaning in their collision. You'll find commentary on texts I'm reading, reflections on where we stand in history (especially regarding AI and technological change), and thoughts on how we might live faithfully in rapidly evolving times.

My favorite writing approach involves taking source materials and adding commentary—not simply summarizing, but creating new connections and making complex ideas accessible. Think of it as intellectual matchmaking: introducing ideas that should meet but haven't been properly introduced yet.

When I'm not working or serving at church, you'll find me lifting weights (longevity matters!), reading voraciously, questioning our relationship with technology, or pondering how we as Catholics should spend our time in a world that's constantly pulling us in a thousand directions.

The Invitation

This site isn't a monologue—it's an invitation to conversation. I don't have all the answers, but I'm fascinated by the questions. If you're interested in the intersection of faith and culture, tradition and innovation, East and West—pull up a chair. We have much to discuss.

As Chesterton reminds us, the cross itself is a powerful symbol of paradox—the vertical and horizontal meeting in perfect tension. It's at these crossroads where I've found the most meaning, and I hope you'll join me there.