New Year Predictions

It's that time of year when we Americans seem to be preoccupied with what the New Year may hold for us. Many of those religious soothsayers come out of the woodwork to tell us that Jesus spoke to them and then they precede to offer their New a Year's predictions.
I recall a few years back when the Rev. Pat Robertson suggested that the coming year would see worldwide violence, a recession followed by a stock market crash.  Let's be honest, any middle school student could predict worldwide violence as long as there is a 'middle east.'
After most of  these predictions do not materialize, the good reverend suggests that he suspects people prayed for better outcomes and the Lord listened and answered those prayers. If that' s the case, I shall pray that the Lord speak to these preachers and tell them to stop guessing about 'future outcomes' and just serve the Lord's people.
That said, I have my own 2015 predictions, which I conclude without Divine help: Birds will continue to fly into my patio windows, parents of school children will continue to bitch about teachers giving homework and coaches yelling at players. Folks will continue to talk out of both sides of their mouth regarding 'race relations' and the Mexican border issue problems will be resolved as Americans go to ALL AstroTurf lawns.

Some Get A Pass

The local newspaper headline Sunday past heralds 'New Year Brings New Illinois Laws.' After reading carefully, I still cannot find a much needed law. There should be a federal law requiring physicians to be drug-tested.
School bus drivers across the country are drug tested as are 'over-the-road truck drivers,' professional athletes, college athletes and a number of other workplace folks.
I leave you with two thoughts: go figure and best wishes.

The Centerpiece

He entered this world in a lowly stable amongst the filth and stench of sheep; He departed this world on a lonely hillside nailed to a crude cross amongst ridicule and slander.
The thirty-three years between those events, He brought messages of love, forgiveness, tolerance and service to others; a blueprint for a promise of eternal life.
Today, amidst our self-absorbed gift exchange and over-indulgence in food, may we not lose sight of the 'reason for the season' and the greatest gift to behold. Merry Christ mas.

Enjoy The Moment

Ray Charles sings, "Why can't it remain all through the year, each day the same; that 'Spirit' of Christmas..." What a wonderful thought!
I suppose we (people) are just too self-centered with our entrenched ethnocentric attitudes. We are convinced that our (ethnic) heritage trumps all others, our way of worship is the 'right way' and my dad can beat up your dad.
Ethnocentrism is a powerful force, which weakens human relations. However, the reality is there is no inherent difference between Jews and Christians / Blacks and Whites. On December 26, the spirit of Christmas will, unfortunately give way to the spirit of ME & Mine!
Here's the deal: If you truly embrace the Christmas Spirit it will surpass Ray Charles desire for that 'spirit' to last throughout the year but it extends the contract for 'eternity.'
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.

Merry Holidays

This is the week that we receive intense warnings about the 'secular boogieman;' the boogieman who stole Christmas. I am not talking about the Grinch but those evil people who insist on not wishing folks 'Merry Christmas' but say that awful phrase, 'Happy Holidays.'
Be not confused my fellow Christ-followers, the word 'holiday' is many things: a festival, a feast day, a celebration, an anniversary and YES, a Saint's Day and most certainly a Holy Day.
Embrace the birth of the King of Kings; the only thing in your closet is clutter and the only thing under your bed is dust...there is no boogieman but only political pundits with divisive hearts.

A Legacy of Love

Yesterday marked the second anniversary of my mother's passing; she was 93. Strange, it seems as though she has been gone much longer. I surely miss her and the frequent telephone conversations as well as those quick trips from Decatur to the Metro-East area and sharing a lunch.
I had a close and trusting relationship with my mother. I suppose one anchor of that relationship was cemented when a six-year old boy's daddy is called away by his nation to fight in  the Second World War; she served two roles during formative years. It is often said, "Times make the man." I would offer that 'circumstances' forge a relationship.'
I will think of both my mother and father during this Christmas Day. I will feel great blessings as I look around my living room knowing that my children and many of our grandchildren knew so well the people they called: Mamaw and Papaw; this old man's mom and dad.

Come Now Boys; Let's Be Christians

We find out that secret negotiations between the United States and Cuba give hope to normalizing the two nations' relationship. Well. lo' and behold Republican Marco Rubio states that President Obama demonstrates that he is 'ignorant in foreign policy.' Surprise - Surprise! I cannot wait for the anti-Obama southern crowd led by Mitch O'Connell and Lindsay Graham, anchored in regional-bigotry weigh-in on the topic.
I offer three (3) points for consideration: (1) History reminds us every December 7, of the (1941) surprise attack by Japan at Pearl Harbor. Today, Japan is one of America's biggest international trade partners. (2) Communist China, with its questionable record on human rights, exported over 440 million in trade dollars to America in 2013. (3)Imagine you are a 'Black' person in America. The year was 2008, and a 'Black' man has been elected President. You suddenly believe that all the 'dreams' of the late Dr. Martin Luther King are coming true. In the ensuing years however, you witness the most blatant disrespect towards an American president in our nation's history. Obama is targeted by the 'the other' political party leaders as a 'marked man.' The openly stated attitude is 'stop Obama at every turn that he may only serve one term.' Obama is called a liar in the chamber of Congress, which is broadcast nationally. He is accused of being an illegitimate President because he is not a U. S citizen, his faith is questioned and my goodness he and his wife surely belong to some secret terrorist group; they do 'fist-bumps.'


Connect those dots and if you fail to see the disingenuous bullshit regarding renewal of trade with Cuba and the ignorant bigotry of some politicians then be thankful for your shoulders; your head can go no farther.

Think Before You Speak

I have one thing in common with Toy Poodle, Yodie...we both need to avoid liquids after 6PM. When the pup avoids liquid intake he sleeps the night through and if I avoid liquids, I likely only walk my enlarged prostate to the 'John' three times a night instead of six.
My doctor told me that old farts, like me, often exasperate the late night urinating frequency because of anxiety. "  "You should think relaxing thoughts while standing before the commode," said the Doc.
The other night while waiting for things to begin, I found my sleepy-eyed thoughts take word-form while standing before the throne...I spoke saying, "Come little fella do your thing." I have no idea why I said those words aloud. Of course my wife, lying in bed, heard me talking. She yelled, " Who are you talking to?" I said, "An old friend you once knew." She did NOT think the comment was funny.

Surely, HE Made Us Different

I notice some great differences between my wife and I when it comes to clothing-shopping techniques. First, my wife is most 'at-home' in a retail store; I am not. Sales clerks cater to my wife with a lot of gobbledygook chit-chat. Those same clerks know better when approaching me. They usually say, "Those pants are on sale today only."
Sales clerks know that women are perpetual shoppers whereas if a man is in the store HE NEEDS some thing NOW!
My wife will try on item after item and hold other clothing in front of her while looking into a mirror. Me? If it has an elastic waist band and does not 'ride-up-the-crack -of-my-butt,' I'm good to go! There is one other shopping difference:  My wife can produce a receipt from 1976; I often leave the receipt on the store checkout counter.

Never Give In ; Never Give Up !

A couple of days ago, I watched the movie, 'It's  A Wonderful Life,' starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. I suppose I have seen this 1947 film classic more than fifty times. The movie seems to grow in appeal with each passing Christmas / Holiday Season. Why not, given the contemporary societal backdrop of darknesss, sadness and despair? Today we brouse our morning newspaper to read of school shootings, killings in American streets, terrorist attacks and beheadings of innocent people along with reports of a disconnected government. The very people we elect to guide us through perilous times dismiss the idea of compromise and cooperation as they grab for power and personal wealth.
The movie, 'It's a Wonderful Life,' reminds us that life is worth living, we should appreciate our blessings and the importance to marry the right person. Finally, as Clarence, The Angel, said to George Bailey, " No man's a failure who has friends."
May you count many blessings and friends the Christmas Season.

Fixin' To Agree

Yesterday while channel surfing for weekend news, I discovered that CNN, Fox News and MSNBC all held differing views and opinions on immigration reform, foreign policy and the definition of torture. There was one broadcast commonality on all three channels: Each cable news network was 'running' the exact same Viagra commercial; thus it appears that when old timers begin experiencing erectile dysfunction party politics will compromise. And you can bet your sweet ass that the one party, which does not wish to have insurance companies cover birth control costs will fight for insurance company paid 'weenie-lifter-pills.'

Works For Me

Abe said, "You can fool all the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time but you can't fool all the people all the time." Keep in mind that those 'all's & 'some's' can be applied to people 'liking' and 'appreciating' you. Some do some don't and some have their minds set in absolutes!
I learned this very valuable lesson at age eleven and I have never asked a quarter since. This attitude and approach served me well the past sixty-four years in all I have faced. I have a compass for service and wish to please those I love and those in need and I want nothing other than a clear pathway! I need no approval nor any hoorah. Actually, I was fortunate because early in life I understood that to live gloriously was predicated on one major factor: identify your passion to serve some thing other than self.

As Good As It Gets?

Melvin Udall, played by Jack Nicholson in the movie "As Good As It Gets," suffers from obsessive compulsive behavior. One movie scene shows Melvin coming out of his psychiatrist's inner office into a crowded waiting room; Melvin surveys the waiting patients and speaks, "What if THIS is as good as it gets?"
I would pose similar questions regarding current events: Does anyone really believe that ANY of the following will, in deed, 'get better:' 1. Conditions in the Middle East, 2. Prejudicial attitudes in America and religious intolerance around the world, 3. Credit card scams, 4. divisive politics reflected in American government, 5. America's Obesity, 6. Healthcare accessibility, 7. Necessary financial support for America's public schools and 8. General narcissism and greed?
This said, I do believe that the St. Louis Cardinals baseball organization could 'get better' by signing one more frontline pitcher. Hey, let's do what we can!

Lesson? Don't Get Hurt / Don't Get Sick!

Ten weeks ago while out for a morning three-mile 'power-walk,' I stepped from a curb and heard and felt a loud pop in my left knee. The event sent me to the ground. I gained my composure and hobbled four blocks home. I finally went to my health care provider (physician assistant) for an evaluation. She said I could try rehab. I did. I was getting somewhat better but still had some knee pain. I finally had an X-ray a week ago and the PA told me I should get an MRI. Her nurse telephoned to tell me my MRI is scheduled for this coming Friday. One hour later that same nurse telephoned to tell me my health insurer denied the MRI request.
I telephoned United Healthcare and spoke to Jackie who, after my long explanation she said that my problem was not her area of expertise. Jackie transferred me to Chelsea who took all my information and explanation and preceded to tell me she could not help me.  Chelsea transferred me to 'Carl' who listened to about half my story only to interrupt telling me he was NOT associated with any insurance company but was a parts manager for an auto dealership in South Alabama...I would NOT make up this crap. Finally, I got hold of Mary (United Healthcare) and she explained that my provider (Physician Assistant) failed to provide 'consistent published clinical evidence' to have the MRI.
I immediately called my Physician Assistant but she and her nurse took the afternoon off.
I went to the sporting goods store last night to purchase a 'leg-weight' machine...wish me luck!

Dumb Asses Usually Beget Dumb Asses

I read where a recent federal report backs the medical practice of circumcision. There is evidence that the procedure reduces infections, sexually transmitted diseases and some forms of cancer. Therefore, health insurers should pay for the procedure. On another matter, I await the first class action lawsuit against insurance companies and drug manufacturers for melanoma, which is traced back to Viarga and sunshine; I suspect the lawsuit will be filed in Florida given the number of old retired-limp-weenie fellas walking the beach.
I am waiting for the federal government to discover that once they pass a law requiring a vasectomy procedure on newly born males and then "only" reverse the procedure after the (21 year old) male has a steady job, $20,000.00 saved and memorized 12 nursery rhymes; there would be a drastic reduction in KKK membership and no protesters burning and looting businesses!

Keep It Simple / Keep It Real

Every television channel seems to be covering protest-activities across America on the heels of two recent grand jury decisions not to indict police officers who, in the line of duty, caused a black persons' death. It appears some crescendo has arrived begging this country to have that ' national conversation' about race relations in the United States.

Okay, let's have the talk. However, please cut to the chase so we might actually do some thing to address the problems. Problems, which have long been identified by 'Black scholars; let me repeat;
Problems, which have been long identified by 'Blacks' themselves.'
After any national conversation it will be concluded that Black children need to be better educated than they currently are and secondly, Black men need to stay in the home with women they impregnate and thus create the role-model blueprint for family. Black men and women creating a home environment for children can then ban together with other black parents and demand a better education for their kids.
Shall we cut through all the bullshit and agree to put Maury Povich on the streets looking for work?!

Say Goodnight Gracie

My wife has a unique and controlling communication technique. She will ask a question that calls for a direct answer however, if she does not get the answer she wants, she will ask the question again and again some times re-phrasing the question. Examples: two days ago we had cottage cheese and peaches on our supper table as one item but not on my plate and she asked, "Don't you want any cottage cheese and fruit?" I responded, "No, thanks." "I thought you liked cottage cheese," she said. "I do but I don't want any." "Just try a little, it's good for you," she insisted. The next mid morning, she held up some pajama bottoms that I wore one night and asked, "Are these dirty?" I said, "No."  (Now folks, I just made a decision on the cleanliness of my PJ's). My wife had not received her desired response thus she countered, "How many night's have you worn these pajamas?" Just to play with her, I said, "I can't remember how many times I have worn those pajamas." Suddenly, she left the 'laundry' discussion ans said, "I'm going to have some cottage cheese and fruit for lunch; would you like some?"

Not Always About You

A few St Louis Rams' football players, upon introduction last game, raised their hands signaling what has become symbolic in the recent Michael Brown killing; "Don't shoot!" Those players were out-of-order. You heard me; the players were dead ass wrong and if I owned the Rams, I would fine them significantly.
I understand that each of us have the right to express our social, political, religious views and any other opinions...But NOT while representing another entity while 'AT WORK!'
I would not want a gay police officer (in uniform) to walk down the street holding hands with his lover...okay on his day off. I don't want my family physician's office to display his choice of politics or religion...it is a work place where people of all beliefs have been invited and pay a fee for services rendered; I don't want propaganda bullshit!
When I coached, I made it clear to players...there are some things bigger than you. When you put on the uniform you sacrifice self.

Ain't No Comparison

I have always enjoyed song and singing. No doubt, my Methodist Church (old time gospel) upbringing planted the seed even before I can recall. There is never a day that passes that I don't spend 15-to-20 minutes with a hymnal or pop music lyrics singing aloud. Most often my wife and poodle, Yodie are the only ears to hear. There are times when I sing regardless who may be in my home; I just love music.
When our three children were teens traveling down vacation highways, we had an agreement that they could listen to 30-minutes of 'tapes' featuring their musical choices and then mother & I got our 30 minutes. Our son was bitten by the old man's choices and has a liking for them. I cannot say the same for my daughters but I do recall one daughter and husband selecting "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes' for their wedding song.
Some nights when sleep refuse its comfort, I retire to my downstairs den where my musical selections number approximately 1000 LP's, 1500 45's and 300 CD's. I may listen to songs from the '40's-'50's -'60's and a few newer releases. Many nights I will "burn" old 45s onto CD a make composites to send to friends.
I tend to be very critical of many of today's song stylist...in my opinion,  most cannot sing but they are loud, the men are usually unshaven and sloppily attired while the women are dressed 'selling' more than a song. If it sounds as if I believe the music of yesterday (1940-50-60) tops anything today, I confess to being correct. Let me make the case easy for you to understand: This Christmas season make it a point to shop the mall a few times and pay attention to the holiday songs. The greatest number of voices  you will hear are from the '40's '50's & '60's... Nate 'King' Cole, Perry Como, Brenda Lee, Bobby Helms, Elvis, Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Ray Charles and others from the period. I rest my case. I believe when all from those great lyric-singers generation are dead and gone, their decendents will be listening to Bing Crosby singing 'White Christmas.'

I'm Just Sayin'

It is easy for me to identify how I developed my liberal (social) views and tolerance. First, my maternal grandmother (Mammy Bennett) had my audience and was in my head with Jesus' teachings from my earliest recollections. Then obtaining a college degree in sociology sealed the deal. I am who I am.
Knocking aside others' myths and prejudicial beliefs about minorities has been a long passionate journey. This acknowledged, it does little to help the cause when those whom I support self- destruct with bull- head blindness. Case in point: Michael Brown did not deserve to be killed by a police officer that fateful day in Ferguson, Missouri. In the aftermath, Michael Brown should not be made into some saintly martyr. He appeared to be somewhat misguided about retail store economics. He also projected himself as a bully. I suggest Michael Brown should be alive today and perhaps awaiting trial for shopping lifting.
Another thing...when a black NFL player leaves traces of physical force on his young son's body , I don't need a black NBA player coming to that father's defense saying, "That's how black parents discipline." That is an absolute stupid comment. Thank God no one suggested that black men 'keep their women in line' by punching their lights out on public elevators!
My plea is simple: Many black people need to stop making it so damn difficult for a white social-liberal Christian guy to be on the side of minorities; God only knows that there are enough white, so-called Christians, who didn't have a Mammy and believe we sociologist are fools.
Black leaders need to examine 'talking points' or risk becoming akin to Fox News' perception of 'fair and balanced.'

Blah, blah, blah

I was driving down the highway and flipping radio channels when the familiar Rush Limbaugh voice came through the speakers. I have not listened lately to El Rushbo so I endured his narcissism for a few minutes. He was lashing out against CNN reporter, Don Lemon and as he did, of course, Limbaugh made derogatory remarks about Lemon being 'gay.' As expected, Rush soon brought Obama's name into his tirade with suggestions that Obama was waging a war on 'traditional' marriage.
Dadgumit, folks should pay attention to Rush on THIS ONE;  Rush should know something about traditional marriage since he is on his fourth such arrangement.