One day last week, I was sitting on the backyard swing with Toy Poodle, Yodie after doing some yard clean-up. Let me make it clear, I had done the clean up while Yodie simply followed nearby. I began talking to my companion about the school kid neighbors who were playing and laughing. Yodie studied my face measuring the words. I knew he was unconcerned about the childrens' play but more interested in a 'key word' like 'treat' or 'walk.'
The thought occurred to me that I have had intense conversations with some sixteen dogs in my seventy-eight seasons. Later that evening I found this note that I scribbled in 2003:
PS. I offer today's rant-post in honor of long time friend and family veterinarian , John A. Ebrey .
FRIENDS FUR-EVER
There was Skippy, Zipper, Peggy and Pal,
Some were fellas and some were gals.
This one would fetch and that one would chase,
All would join in a young boy's race.
The bark would warn of impending danger,
Yet the tail would wag upon meeting a stranger.
Oh, the stories to my parents untold,
But whispered to my pooch with a heart of gold.
All are gone, those dogs and the young boy, too,
Ah, but the old man recalls with a pup brand new.
(Touch)
Rufus...Walkin The Dog
Friday, March 31, 2017
Thursday, March 30, 2017
What Next?
A fair question would be: Is there a limit? The word 'limit' in this instance that would define a stopping point or boundary. I am referencing public-media advertising.
Up until 1977, all 50-States prohibited attorneys' from advertising. Two lawyers from Arizona argued successfully that whereas the wealthy had access to legal defense the poor needed to be 'informed' on how to secure legal counsel, therefore attorney advertising. I care not to attack or defend lawyers; I am not versed enough to do either. I simply wish to point out how the money desire keep pushing away any guards against previously perceived polite public conversation.
The constant message from the attorney community is the persistent suggestion that lawsuits pay off. Those being sued WILL settle. Never mind the domino effect of consumer cost impact. A family medical doctor told me several,years ago that 30% of his written prescriptions are patient driven. This only happens due to media drug advertisements.
Yesteryear, we had rules prohibiting scenes of partners 'in bed.' Today, you may be watching television with your eleven year granddaughter when a sultry women wearing lingerie is sprawled across a bed making a pitch for a man's erection pill. Really?
Now there is a squatty-potty advertisement. This is a little footstool apparatus that is placed at the front of your toilet, which you can put your feet atop thus contorting your body to permit 'poop' discharge more easily. The ad appeals more to children than adults since the commercial uses an animated Unicorn to 'show-the-flow.'
(Touch)
Bye Bye Poop
Up until 1977, all 50-States prohibited attorneys' from advertising. Two lawyers from Arizona argued successfully that whereas the wealthy had access to legal defense the poor needed to be 'informed' on how to secure legal counsel, therefore attorney advertising. I care not to attack or defend lawyers; I am not versed enough to do either. I simply wish to point out how the money desire keep pushing away any guards against previously perceived polite public conversation.
The constant message from the attorney community is the persistent suggestion that lawsuits pay off. Those being sued WILL settle. Never mind the domino effect of consumer cost impact. A family medical doctor told me several,years ago that 30% of his written prescriptions are patient driven. This only happens due to media drug advertisements.
Yesteryear, we had rules prohibiting scenes of partners 'in bed.' Today, you may be watching television with your eleven year granddaughter when a sultry women wearing lingerie is sprawled across a bed making a pitch for a man's erection pill. Really?
Now there is a squatty-potty advertisement. This is a little footstool apparatus that is placed at the front of your toilet, which you can put your feet atop thus contorting your body to permit 'poop' discharge more easily. The ad appeals more to children than adults since the commercial uses an animated Unicorn to 'show-the-flow.'
(Touch)
Bye Bye Poop
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
'Dizzy'
I won't speculate what prompted it but I recall my Mammy (maternal grandmother) back in the day might say, "My heads swimming, I best sit-a-spell." I never did press Mammy for an actual description of 'head swimming' but I can say this, I once had a vertigo bout and my head seemed detached from my body...it seemed to be swimming. These days, I more often get 'dizzy' contemplating and processing twenty-first century technology and ways of the world. As Grandpa
E. V. Bennett would say, "You can ponder but that don't mean you decipher."
My wife and I both learned to drive on a 'stick-shift' automobile. I remember when I told my wife that there were new cars with 'automatic' drive. My wife thought that meant she'd no longer have to guide the vehicle. Everybody got a good laugh but it appears she soon will have the last laugh.
If memory serves me right, our first family television set (a Philco) was plug into the outlet in 1950. It received three channels with reception clarity dependent on the angle of the tin-foil wrapped antenna. My cable supplied television set today garners over three hundred channels and if I have modem issues I call a toll free number and a young fella somewhere in Florida does something on his computer that re-sets my T.V. in Decatur, Illinois. That'll make your 'head swim.'
Speaking of the 1950's, there was a guy we called, 'Snuffy,' who negotiated a horse-pulled wagon down our East St. Louis alley picking up our trash. Picture that against a rocket taking another guy named, Neil to the moon. Why it all makes my 'head swim.'
With all this technology these days, I can't for the life of me understand why we still have a baseball umpire behind the plate calling balls & strikes.
(Touch)
'Dizzy'
E. V. Bennett would say, "You can ponder but that don't mean you decipher."
My wife and I both learned to drive on a 'stick-shift' automobile. I remember when I told my wife that there were new cars with 'automatic' drive. My wife thought that meant she'd no longer have to guide the vehicle. Everybody got a good laugh but it appears she soon will have the last laugh.
If memory serves me right, our first family television set (a Philco) was plug into the outlet in 1950. It received three channels with reception clarity dependent on the angle of the tin-foil wrapped antenna. My cable supplied television set today garners over three hundred channels and if I have modem issues I call a toll free number and a young fella somewhere in Florida does something on his computer that re-sets my T.V. in Decatur, Illinois. That'll make your 'head swim.'
Speaking of the 1950's, there was a guy we called, 'Snuffy,' who negotiated a horse-pulled wagon down our East St. Louis alley picking up our trash. Picture that against a rocket taking another guy named, Neil to the moon. Why it all makes my 'head swim.'
With all this technology these days, I can't for the life of me understand why we still have a baseball umpire behind the plate calling balls & strikes.
(Touch)
'Dizzy'
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Random Thoughts
After church this past Sunday, my wife and I did a Cracker Barrel experience and then stopped in at a nearby Dollar Tree Store for some paper products. I lost location of my wife, which is par for every shopping trek. I soon spotted her standing before a vitamin display. Approaching, I asked, "What are you looking for?" She hesitated momentarily and then said, "I saw on a television Doctor show the other day that there is a particular vitamin that helps 'memory retention' but I can't remember, which vitamin. I did not speak my first thought, which was 'You're too late.' Okay, don't be hard on me because upon arriving home, I immediately googled the question and got the information for her...
It's the vitamin 'B' family.
That problem solved, I turned my thoughts to my recent activities. Last week, I spent a good deal of time in my downstairs office rearranging numerous bookshelf and wall displays while 'burning' CD music discs for some Florida friends while having one ear turned to White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer giving his daily explanations of what President 'Ebeneezer' Trump really meant with his most recent 'tweet.'
I mentioned to my wife that evening how I had 'multi-tasked' that day. She dismissed my brag saying that she does multi-tasking frequently. She went on to say that on that very day she had wash going, while ironing and preparing dinner late afternoon. I didn't continue the 'one-upmanship' debate.
Later that evening, I was watching the 'Big Bang Theory.' I coughed while laughing and had several back-to-back sneezes and instantly wet my pants...I wondered if that qualifies as multi-tasking?
(Touch)
TCB
It's the vitamin 'B' family.
That problem solved, I turned my thoughts to my recent activities. Last week, I spent a good deal of time in my downstairs office rearranging numerous bookshelf and wall displays while 'burning' CD music discs for some Florida friends while having one ear turned to White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer giving his daily explanations of what President 'Ebeneezer' Trump really meant with his most recent 'tweet.'
I mentioned to my wife that evening how I had 'multi-tasked' that day. She dismissed my brag saying that she does multi-tasking frequently. She went on to say that on that very day she had wash going, while ironing and preparing dinner late afternoon. I didn't continue the 'one-upmanship' debate.
Later that evening, I was watching the 'Big Bang Theory.' I coughed while laughing and had several back-to-back sneezes and instantly wet my pants...I wondered if that qualifies as multi-tasking?
(Touch)
TCB
Monday, March 27, 2017
I Think I'm Becoming a Prude
I never thought of myself as a prude. Look, I was born in 1939. That was the year the movie, 'Gone With The Wind' was released. I discovered later that many people were uneasy with the line in that movie when Rhett Butler, played by Clark Gable said to Scarlett O'Hara, played by Vivian Leigh, "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn." What was the big deal? Did you hear the language in the more recent movie 'Step Brothers?' Possibly you failed to see the movie, 'Basic Instinct.' Oh, Buddy Boy that pushed the soft-porn envelop.
Much water has passed under the movie-bridge since 1939 and I believe it's fair to say that the water has gotten dirtier if not down right muddy. I am not passing judgment, I am simply being honest in my assessment. Americans have seen profound demise of their once Puritanical innocence.
I recall in the late 1940's when my grandparents took issue with American women wearing 'slacks' in public. During my 1950's teen years, I heard folks complain about young girls wearing those terribly revealing 'short-shorts.' Today, I fight criticizing the younger generation who dress 'down' as a matter of choice, pierce their bodies with rings and jewelry while putting ink tattoo designs on their bodies. I tell myself...I am not a prude...let it go.
The last week in Destin, Florida while sitting in 'Whale's Tale Restaraunt' with our 22-year old granddaughters, Erica and Loren, I noticed several coed spring breakers walk by wearing very skimpy two piece swim wear. When I pointed out their attire, my granddaughters informed me that many college females at today's American beaches are wearing Victoria Secret's lingerie.
OMG...I Just became a PRUDE!
(Touch)
Short Shorts
Much water has passed under the movie-bridge since 1939 and I believe it's fair to say that the water has gotten dirtier if not down right muddy. I am not passing judgment, I am simply being honest in my assessment. Americans have seen profound demise of their once Puritanical innocence.
I recall in the late 1940's when my grandparents took issue with American women wearing 'slacks' in public. During my 1950's teen years, I heard folks complain about young girls wearing those terribly revealing 'short-shorts.' Today, I fight criticizing the younger generation who dress 'down' as a matter of choice, pierce their bodies with rings and jewelry while putting ink tattoo designs on their bodies. I tell myself...I am not a prude...let it go.
The last week in Destin, Florida while sitting in 'Whale's Tale Restaraunt' with our 22-year old granddaughters, Erica and Loren, I noticed several coed spring breakers walk by wearing very skimpy two piece swim wear. When I pointed out their attire, my granddaughters informed me that many college females at today's American beaches are wearing Victoria Secret's lingerie.
OMG...I Just became a PRUDE!
(Touch)
Short Shorts
Saturday, March 25, 2017
This We May Covet
I vacillate with my perception and opinions of my fellow Americans. Now before you latch to the notion that I am posturing myself in some condescending manner let me quickly add that I feel the 'same' about myself. I'm a fool just like you! Consider...
We likely agree that insurance (health, auto and home) is a good idea. We also agree that we likely purchase that which we can afford. Now fast forward to the current political debate regarding 'America's Health Care' insurance options. Going back to Harry Truman's administration there has been a push to have a national health care program and finally under the recent Barrack Obama administration a health care program was established. The Republicans have been on a seven year mission to repeal and replace the 'Obamacare.' The Democrats admit some issues with the program but wish to keep the larger Obamacare concept in tact.
Okay, here is where my frustration with me and you surfaces. We get drawn into the health care debate. We pick 'sound bites' from our favorite party and run off at our mouth as if we are experts on peoples' health care needs. Oh, I'll acknowledge a FEW (very few) folks who are extremely well read on the issues but let's face it most are ignorant about health care when ascertaining needs, provisions and cost factors. None of this will stop us from arguing with each other...because WE KNOW!
Well brothers and sisters of average intelligence let's cut through the crap. All,I want in my health care program is the 'exact' same coverage my Federal and state lawmakers have...after all, you and I financially assist in the premium payments for their health care insurance.
(Touch)
What Kind of Fool
We likely agree that insurance (health, auto and home) is a good idea. We also agree that we likely purchase that which we can afford. Now fast forward to the current political debate regarding 'America's Health Care' insurance options. Going back to Harry Truman's administration there has been a push to have a national health care program and finally under the recent Barrack Obama administration a health care program was established. The Republicans have been on a seven year mission to repeal and replace the 'Obamacare.' The Democrats admit some issues with the program but wish to keep the larger Obamacare concept in tact.
Okay, here is where my frustration with me and you surfaces. We get drawn into the health care debate. We pick 'sound bites' from our favorite party and run off at our mouth as if we are experts on peoples' health care needs. Oh, I'll acknowledge a FEW (very few) folks who are extremely well read on the issues but let's face it most are ignorant about health care when ascertaining needs, provisions and cost factors. None of this will stop us from arguing with each other...because WE KNOW!
Well brothers and sisters of average intelligence let's cut through the crap. All,I want in my health care program is the 'exact' same coverage my Federal and state lawmakers have...after all, you and I financially assist in the premium payments for their health care insurance.
(Touch)
What Kind of Fool
Friday, March 24, 2017
Personal Flashback
On the front page above the fold of the Decatur Herald-Review newspaper the photo was eye-popping. Hundreds of people were gathered around the Northeast Community food pantry truck, which was positioned to dispense fresh food items to needy families. Before one conjures up an erroneous vision of some racial divide they can dismiss the notion because the picture presented 'equal-opportunity hunger.'
As I read more deeply into the article, I was a bit taken back. The blue-collar Decatur city of 76,000 folks located in Macon County's combined population of 107 thousand residents has significant poverty issues. Consider these facts: 1) Macon County has better than 25% of children living below the poverty level and 70% of Decatur's public school students qualify for 'free lunches.' On this latter topic, I find it disgusting to hear anyone wishing to reduce the school lunch program suggesting statistics fail to substantiate that a filled belly relates to improved academics. Give me a break! A hungry growling-empty American stomach is absolutely unacceptable!
As I repeatedly scanned the faces of these Decatur neighbors, fellow Americans, Christian brothers and sisters reaching out to accept these food products, I could not help but study faces and wonder, 'What's your story?' Everybody has that story. That story, which lead to the 'good life' or the 'life in poverty.' I recalled the years I taught in the Jacksonville 'Alternative Education Program.' This was a program that attempted to identify high probability high school drop outs and start their day out on a positive note with classes offering life skills and interpersonal communication techniques. These were students who were personally angry about hidden unspoken daemons plaguing their young lives. These issues created negative behavior attitudes. I remember asking those students at the beginning of each school year: "I want you to write a paragraph telling me what ONE thing you would change in your young life if you could." Oh my, what heartbreaking stories. One female student: "I wished my mom would have believed me when I told her my step dad was sexually abusing me." A male student: "Still today, I have to be home with my mom when dad comes home drunk because he beats on her if I'm not there." Another student: "Every night my parents gets drunk and fight." And yet this: "Ever since my dad left, my mom has one guy after another at our house and they are bums."
Before we judge, before we criticize and before we make generalizations, we should consider 'The Story.'
(Touch)
He Ain't Heavy...He's My Brother
As I read more deeply into the article, I was a bit taken back. The blue-collar Decatur city of 76,000 folks located in Macon County's combined population of 107 thousand residents has significant poverty issues. Consider these facts: 1) Macon County has better than 25% of children living below the poverty level and 70% of Decatur's public school students qualify for 'free lunches.' On this latter topic, I find it disgusting to hear anyone wishing to reduce the school lunch program suggesting statistics fail to substantiate that a filled belly relates to improved academics. Give me a break! A hungry growling-empty American stomach is absolutely unacceptable!
As I repeatedly scanned the faces of these Decatur neighbors, fellow Americans, Christian brothers and sisters reaching out to accept these food products, I could not help but study faces and wonder, 'What's your story?' Everybody has that story. That story, which lead to the 'good life' or the 'life in poverty.' I recalled the years I taught in the Jacksonville 'Alternative Education Program.' This was a program that attempted to identify high probability high school drop outs and start their day out on a positive note with classes offering life skills and interpersonal communication techniques. These were students who were personally angry about hidden unspoken daemons plaguing their young lives. These issues created negative behavior attitudes. I remember asking those students at the beginning of each school year: "I want you to write a paragraph telling me what ONE thing you would change in your young life if you could." Oh my, what heartbreaking stories. One female student: "I wished my mom would have believed me when I told her my step dad was sexually abusing me." A male student: "Still today, I have to be home with my mom when dad comes home drunk because he beats on her if I'm not there." Another student: "Every night my parents gets drunk and fight." And yet this: "Ever since my dad left, my mom has one guy after another at our house and they are bums."
Before we judge, before we criticize and before we make generalizations, we should consider 'The Story.'
(Touch)
He Ain't Heavy...He's My Brother
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Happiness Slip-Sliding Away
To the surprise of few, Americans are becoming more unhappy. That's the conclusion of the World Happiness Report, which placed Norway as the #1 Happy Country on the globe while Americans continue in 'joyless-free-fall' dropping another notch to # 14.
I'm sure there are those folks who would claim that studying happiness seems a frivolous thing to do but I would argue that most Of us seek to accomplish and acquire to ultimately bring us joy.
I rest the case for the human quest for personal gratification, which most folks equate to 'happiness.'
Interestingly the relationship of a nation's wealth ranking and happiness ranking is inconsequential. Ah, but we all knew that. There is no doubt that poverty is a drag on happiness however it does not mean more is better as in money guarantees happiness.
I have believed all my life that true happiness comes to me when I am immersed in employment, a project or a cause for which I have a great passion and along that personal journey I seek and find opportunities to serve others. Bingo! I'm happy!
Perhaps in this nation of great resources, wealth, freedoms and power, we Americans have become too divisive and too intolerant. Perhaps we'd get happier if we cared about and served others.
(Touch)
Don't Worry Be Happy
I'm sure there are those folks who would claim that studying happiness seems a frivolous thing to do but I would argue that most Of us seek to accomplish and acquire to ultimately bring us joy.
I rest the case for the human quest for personal gratification, which most folks equate to 'happiness.'
Interestingly the relationship of a nation's wealth ranking and happiness ranking is inconsequential. Ah, but we all knew that. There is no doubt that poverty is a drag on happiness however it does not mean more is better as in money guarantees happiness.
I have believed all my life that true happiness comes to me when I am immersed in employment, a project or a cause for which I have a great passion and along that personal journey I seek and find opportunities to serve others. Bingo! I'm happy!
Perhaps in this nation of great resources, wealth, freedoms and power, we Americans have become too divisive and too intolerant. Perhaps we'd get happier if we cared about and served others.
(Touch)
Don't Worry Be Happy
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
A Sense of Humor Helps
I don't know with absolute certainty but I suspect everybody passes gas. I imagine we've all been in those 'close-quarter' situations when the biological urge has sent panic through our mind as we just knew we were about to fart.
And then again there are those moments we believe it's 'safe' to let go and oops...somebody steps into proximity. Reminds me of the Avon sales lady who was working a high rise apartment building peddling her products floor to floor. She steps onto the elevator and as the door closes and she began to ascend, the sales lady farts. Quickly, she grabs a 'Pine Scent' spray from her sample bag to attack any unpleasant odor. As the door opens at the next floor, a very inebriated gent staggers onto the elevator. The door closes and the drunk man begins sniffing and speaks, "What the hell is that smell?" The proud Avon product pusher said, "What does it she like, sir?" The drunk begins to stammer and then slurs this comment, "Smells like somebody crapped a Christmas Tree."
A couple of years ago, I read a newspaper report of a man that was pulled over by a policeman because of a faulty brake light. The driver was asked to step from his auto. When he did he let a loud fart and began laughing and fanning the air towards the cop. The officer arrested the man for 'assault.' I think the officer was mad because the driver did not ask the policeman to 'pull his finger.'
(Touch)
Peter, Paul & Mary
And then again there are those moments we believe it's 'safe' to let go and oops...somebody steps into proximity. Reminds me of the Avon sales lady who was working a high rise apartment building peddling her products floor to floor. She steps onto the elevator and as the door closes and she began to ascend, the sales lady farts. Quickly, she grabs a 'Pine Scent' spray from her sample bag to attack any unpleasant odor. As the door opens at the next floor, a very inebriated gent staggers onto the elevator. The door closes and the drunk man begins sniffing and speaks, "What the hell is that smell?" The proud Avon product pusher said, "What does it she like, sir?" The drunk begins to stammer and then slurs this comment, "Smells like somebody crapped a Christmas Tree."
A couple of years ago, I read a newspaper report of a man that was pulled over by a policeman because of a faulty brake light. The driver was asked to step from his auto. When he did he let a loud fart and began laughing and fanning the air towards the cop. The officer arrested the man for 'assault.' I think the officer was mad because the driver did not ask the policeman to 'pull his finger.'
(Touch)
Peter, Paul & Mary
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Which Network Deals in 'Fake News?'
We heard the repeated media-bashing from 'Presidential Candidate,' Donald Trump, which continues with PRESIDENT Donald Trump. He has referred to the news media as horrible, disgusting and dishonest just for starters. Trump's especially angry at CNN. Of course, Trump embraces the Republican-Conservative Cable Spin Show, which operates under the misnomer of Fox 'News.' Those Fox folks love anybody who strokes their on-going conspiracy (bogeyman) theories i.e. those liberals are engaging in a cultural war on Christian values by 'taking' Christ out of Christmas with "Happy Holidays" instead of Merry Christmas. Not to forget removing prayer from public schools and the Ten Commandments from the Courthouse. Damn Democrats!
Fox 'News' parades one person after another on their programs (O'Reilly/Hannity) with bizarre theories. Recently one such 'clown' stated that Great Britain wiretapped Trump Towers on behalf of President Obama. Our illustrious President, who casually dismisses government intelligence reports and briefings but instead 'banks' on Fox News for his knowledge (briefings) and 'ran with the false narrative.' Trump 'tweeted' several disparaging accusations stating that 'sic' guy Obama had Trump Tower 'wiretapped.' When the report was proven erroneous, Trump told all media folks "You need to ask your questions of Fox News not me."
"Irony means using language that normally signifies the opposite."
"Irony also means a state of affairs or events that seems deliberately contrary to what one expects and is often amusing as a result."
The irony therefore is that it's Fox News giving out "FALSE NEWS." They appear to be the despicable fake News Network.
Poor President Donnie. He's a lot like Flip Wilson's Geraldine; "That fella (devil) on Fox News made me do it."
The man is so damn narcissistic that he constantly looks the part of a fool.
Fox 'News' parades one person after another on their programs (O'Reilly/Hannity) with bizarre theories. Recently one such 'clown' stated that Great Britain wiretapped Trump Towers on behalf of President Obama. Our illustrious President, who casually dismisses government intelligence reports and briefings but instead 'banks' on Fox News for his knowledge (briefings) and 'ran with the false narrative.' Trump 'tweeted' several disparaging accusations stating that 'sic' guy Obama had Trump Tower 'wiretapped.' When the report was proven erroneous, Trump told all media folks "You need to ask your questions of Fox News not me."
"Irony means using language that normally signifies the opposite."
"Irony also means a state of affairs or events that seems deliberately contrary to what one expects and is often amusing as a result."
The irony therefore is that it's Fox News giving out "FALSE NEWS." They appear to be the despicable fake News Network.
Poor President Donnie. He's a lot like Flip Wilson's Geraldine; "That fella (devil) on Fox News made me do it."
The man is so damn narcissistic that he constantly looks the part of a fool.
Monday, March 20, 2017
He Used to Play His Guitar Like Ringin' a Bell
Charles Edward Anderson Berry died last week. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri and died in nearby St. Charles, Missouri at age 90. "Chuck" Berry was an original, a trendsetter, a legend who did more to establish 'Rock & Roll' music than any other single artist. He was the first inductee in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
I began listening to Berry's music in 1955. His guitar playing was distinguished with the most recognizable cords and his lyric writing could challenge most poets. I was a 16- year old teen, who like most teens of the day enjoyed music. In the early 1950's, I listened to artists like, Patti Paige, Doris Day, Joni James, Vaughn Monroe, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra just to mention a few. Many of these singers 'cut their teeth' in the Big Band Era. However, there was another sound heard on the peripheral of this traditional pop music. It was music accentuated with the sound of guitars and saxophones and characterized with an uptempo beat...it was Rock & Roll.
The year 1955 saw the release of a popular teen movie entitled, 'Blackboard Jungle.' The movie's theme song was 'Rock Around The Clock' sung by Bill Haley & The Comets. With all due respect to Haley and his Rock Around The Clock classic it was soon obvious to most teens (into Rock music) that many Black singers were recording great songs, which white singers had Billboard Top 40 Hits due to the latter s' access to popular D J Radio Shows across the country. At that time it had not become vogue for those radio stations to play music by Black artists.
I recall once when my father asked me why I was always listening to the black radio stations instead of the more popular and familiar white stations. I told him that I wanted to hear songs like 'Ain't That Ashame' written and first recorded by Fats Domino before Pat Boone had a National best seller hit.
It was that year, 1955, that I first heard 'Chuck' Berry sing. The song was 'Maybellene.' There would be so many to follow. I saw 'Chuck' Berry 'in person twice. The second time he was performing at the 'Duck Room' in St. Louis when Berry was in his seventies. The first time I saw Berry was by happen-chance. I was driving across the Eads Bridge back into East St. Louis (late 1950's) when the auto going the opposite direction at the pay booth was a 'pink' color Cadillac with the name 'Chuck' Berry written in black across the side of the car...the driver was 'Mr. Rock & Roll.'
Rest In Peace, Johnny B. Good.
I began listening to Berry's music in 1955. His guitar playing was distinguished with the most recognizable cords and his lyric writing could challenge most poets. I was a 16- year old teen, who like most teens of the day enjoyed music. In the early 1950's, I listened to artists like, Patti Paige, Doris Day, Joni James, Vaughn Monroe, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra just to mention a few. Many of these singers 'cut their teeth' in the Big Band Era. However, there was another sound heard on the peripheral of this traditional pop music. It was music accentuated with the sound of guitars and saxophones and characterized with an uptempo beat...it was Rock & Roll.
The year 1955 saw the release of a popular teen movie entitled, 'Blackboard Jungle.' The movie's theme song was 'Rock Around The Clock' sung by Bill Haley & The Comets. With all due respect to Haley and his Rock Around The Clock classic it was soon obvious to most teens (into Rock music) that many Black singers were recording great songs, which white singers had Billboard Top 40 Hits due to the latter s' access to popular D J Radio Shows across the country. At that time it had not become vogue for those radio stations to play music by Black artists.
I recall once when my father asked me why I was always listening to the black radio stations instead of the more popular and familiar white stations. I told him that I wanted to hear songs like 'Ain't That Ashame' written and first recorded by Fats Domino before Pat Boone had a National best seller hit.
It was that year, 1955, that I first heard 'Chuck' Berry sing. The song was 'Maybellene.' There would be so many to follow. I saw 'Chuck' Berry 'in person twice. The second time he was performing at the 'Duck Room' in St. Louis when Berry was in his seventies. The first time I saw Berry was by happen-chance. I was driving across the Eads Bridge back into East St. Louis (late 1950's) when the auto going the opposite direction at the pay booth was a 'pink' color Cadillac with the name 'Chuck' Berry written in black across the side of the car...the driver was 'Mr. Rock & Roll.'
Rest In Peace, Johnny B. Good.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
By Our Love
A lonely voice cries out, "Is anybody paying attention?" "Can you not see the openly blatant hypocrisy?"
Only a dumb person would deny the following American political propensities: Democrats favor social programs, i.e. Subsides for the poor while Republicans lean towards greater tax breaks for corporations and strengthening the military. That said, it stands to reason that whatever party controls the Congessional power will 'have its way'
The recently released Federal budget proposal reduces social programs drastically while increasing military expenditures significantly...true to political philosophical form. Under this budget and the proposed health bill replacement bill, America will see millions of poorer people lose health care, while older (fixed income) people will have premiums rise. Public school food support programs will be dismantled and senior citizens Meals on Wheels will disappear. Of course, our government will 'control markets' as it continues to subsides farmers with idle fields.
Okay, I'm good with the concept: "To the winners go the spoils." Just spare me the poppycock malarkey about the Republican Party fighting for the unborn child when it takes food off the 'living' child's plate. Don't talk disengenuously about the need for prayer in school and the Nativity Scene on the Court House lawn while seniors open a can of cat food for a Christmas meal.
Stop with the B S!
(Touch)
One In The Spirit
Only a dumb person would deny the following American political propensities: Democrats favor social programs, i.e. Subsides for the poor while Republicans lean towards greater tax breaks for corporations and strengthening the military. That said, it stands to reason that whatever party controls the Congessional power will 'have its way'
The recently released Federal budget proposal reduces social programs drastically while increasing military expenditures significantly...true to political philosophical form. Under this budget and the proposed health bill replacement bill, America will see millions of poorer people lose health care, while older (fixed income) people will have premiums rise. Public school food support programs will be dismantled and senior citizens Meals on Wheels will disappear. Of course, our government will 'control markets' as it continues to subsides farmers with idle fields.
Okay, I'm good with the concept: "To the winners go the spoils." Just spare me the poppycock malarkey about the Republican Party fighting for the unborn child when it takes food off the 'living' child's plate. Don't talk disengenuously about the need for prayer in school and the Nativity Scene on the Court House lawn while seniors open a can of cat food for a Christmas meal.
Stop with the B S!
(Touch)
One In The Spirit
Friday, March 17, 2017
All Good Things...
The time is upon us...time to leave the more laid back 'fantasy life' and return to reality if not normalcy. My wife and I have spent our fourth consecutive winter in the Florida Panhandle @ Miramar Beach. The nine weeks passed quickly with notable 'changes' the last week when older snowbirds departed givingway to those youthful college spring breakers...WOW, different activities to say the least.
My generation of old timers began stirring at day break and their house-lights faded around 9:00PM. This past week was marked with spooky still-like mid-mornings and increased livelier action at dusk. The traffic got thicker as did the 'salty-language,' which I had no problem addressing occasionally. It used to be my size that garnered respect now it's the grey hair and others thinking I might have a stroke if confronted...whatever works!
This last week was fun for Nana and Boompa. Granddaughters, Erica and Loren joined us on their final college spring break. My wife and I are very blessed with 15-grandkids and two great-grandkids. Most of them truly enjoy hanging out with the old farts. That's not normal but then the grandparents and grandkids are not normal. Those two girls tell us things we probably should not know and we do likewise. One difference is however Nana and Boompa will forget those things whereas they will likely retain.
We've made reservations for a winter 2018 return to the resort area and obviously will do so if it's in HIS WILL...I'm good with that. Maybe some more grandkids will join us or even our adult kids.
Till then...'adios' to the Sunshine State.
My generation of old timers began stirring at day break and their house-lights faded around 9:00PM. This past week was marked with spooky still-like mid-mornings and increased livelier action at dusk. The traffic got thicker as did the 'salty-language,' which I had no problem addressing occasionally. It used to be my size that garnered respect now it's the grey hair and others thinking I might have a stroke if confronted...whatever works!
This last week was fun for Nana and Boompa. Granddaughters, Erica and Loren joined us on their final college spring break. My wife and I are very blessed with 15-grandkids and two great-grandkids. Most of them truly enjoy hanging out with the old farts. That's not normal but then the grandparents and grandkids are not normal. Those two girls tell us things we probably should not know and we do likewise. One difference is however Nana and Boompa will forget those things whereas they will likely retain.
We've made reservations for a winter 2018 return to the resort area and obviously will do so if it's in HIS WILL...I'm good with that. Maybe some more grandkids will join us or even our adult kids.
Till then...'adios' to the Sunshine State.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
If Shoe Fits...Wear It.
What kind of person believes it is okay to accuse another of a terrible crime without evidence? Please stop for a moment and digest this question before answering. I don't care if you're a Democrat, Republican or Independent. Makes no difference the color of your skin or where you worship, IF you worship. What gives a man the right to make horrible claims about another man and large groups accept such behavior as okay.
What would your response be if an individual telephoned your employer and told him that they know you have stolen items from the business or accused you of some sexual improprieties with children? In both instances there is no evidence but the accusation is made public. Perhaps you know of such cases and therefore know the terrible devastation it can bring to the individual or family falsely charged.
President Trump has made these reckless claims about former President Obama. If you are any kind of Christian or a 'fair-minded' morally plugged-in person, surely you SEE the wrong. If not you just may be as sick and morally bankrupt as Trump.
(Touch)
Tell The Truth
What would your response be if an individual telephoned your employer and told him that they know you have stolen items from the business or accused you of some sexual improprieties with children? In both instances there is no evidence but the accusation is made public. Perhaps you know of such cases and therefore know the terrible devastation it can bring to the individual or family falsely charged.
President Trump has made these reckless claims about former President Obama. If you are any kind of Christian or a 'fair-minded' morally plugged-in person, surely you SEE the wrong. If not you just may be as sick and morally bankrupt as Trump.
(Touch)
Tell The Truth
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Sorry for Some Good Friends
Everybody has their own opinion and reasons for believing and responding. I know some 'really' intelligent people who voted for Donald Trump. Most of those people voted with solid reasoning.
Those people, especially THOSE intelligent people, must feel sadly 😩 embarrassed for White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer when he has those daily press conferences and must explain and/or walk back the absolute idiotic 'alternative fact' world of the Trump presidency and administration.
During his campaign, Donald Trump constantly discredited the unemployment figures occurring during Obama's administration as false. During his administration, Trump claims the numbers are now 'fact.' The Spicer scrambles to find angles. The FBI and Wikileaks were terrific with releases of Hillary Clinton's emails...leaks during Trump's administration are "criminal" and the CIA cannot but trusted so says the 'Make-it-up -as-I -Go -Along President.'
This administration praises the Congressional Budget Organization for stating numbers that favor their health care bill while discrediting the same organization that would State negative numbers regarding their proposal. Spicer is required to explain away Trump's claims and does so with the unbelievable comments, i.e. "If the President is not joking he is serious." He said that Obama wiretapped his Trump tower phones but that means Obama did not wiretap but Trump was under surveillance." Now Trump wants his people to 'find' something to support his accusations. Instead of coming clean and simply telling the American people that he watches too much Fox News.
Then you have someone with the audacity of a Kellyanne Conway who would defend the President saying that his administration is "entitled to alternative facts" as opposed to 'real facts.'
Look, even Trump is embarrassed by his tweet claiming Obama wiretapped phones...he's been in hiding for the past Eleven days since making the 'out-of-his-Ass remark.
Those people, especially THOSE intelligent people, must feel sadly 😩 embarrassed for White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer when he has those daily press conferences and must explain and/or walk back the absolute idiotic 'alternative fact' world of the Trump presidency and administration.
During his campaign, Donald Trump constantly discredited the unemployment figures occurring during Obama's administration as false. During his administration, Trump claims the numbers are now 'fact.' The Spicer scrambles to find angles. The FBI and Wikileaks were terrific with releases of Hillary Clinton's emails...leaks during Trump's administration are "criminal" and the CIA cannot but trusted so says the 'Make-it-up -as-I -Go -Along President.'
Then you have someone with the audacity of a Kellyanne Conway who would defend the President saying that his administration is "entitled to alternative facts" as opposed to 'real facts.'
Touch
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
"There but for the grace of God..."
If you happen to be one of those folks who enjoy 'bottom-line' conclusion statements, i.e., "At the end of the day," or "When all is said and done," please note that I relate to the following when speaking of 'Health Care:' "There but for the grace of God go I."
You need not be a real smart person to understand 'how' any insurance program works, serves and survives as a viable business. First it's a free market thing that conservatives champion but fail to accept for what it is, how it works and the fact that it's based on a 'socialist premise.' Works like this...A whole bunch of folks are fearful of unexpected misfortune, i.e. illness and/or accident, which could devastate personal finances. Along comes a business enterprise with a proposition. That business entity says, If you pay us an annual fee (premium), we promise to cover any unforeseen misfortunes you might experience. As a consumer, I say, "Okay, I'll take the bet." I'm betting something is going to befall me, which the insurance company will have to cover financially. The insuring business is going to garner masses to take their bet and they will make huge money because the greater number of 'payers' will go accident free and remain healthy. That MEANS the healthy are paying to cover the sick..
and there my friend, "but for the grace of God go I."...and YOU!
Show me a person who will refuse to help the least of God's people and you've shown me a person who will never see God's promised eternity. Show me a Nation that turns its back on the less fortunate and I'll show you a Nation with moral values equivalent to China, North Korea and Russia.
You need not be a real smart person to understand 'how' any insurance program works, serves and survives as a viable business. First it's a free market thing that conservatives champion but fail to accept for what it is, how it works and the fact that it's based on a 'socialist premise.' Works like this...A whole bunch of folks are fearful of unexpected misfortune, i.e. illness and/or accident, which could devastate personal finances. Along comes a business enterprise with a proposition. That business entity says, If you pay us an annual fee (premium), we promise to cover any unforeseen misfortunes you might experience. As a consumer, I say, "Okay, I'll take the bet." I'm betting something is going to befall me, which the insurance company will have to cover financially. The insuring business is going to garner masses to take their bet and they will make huge money because the greater number of 'payers' will go accident free and remain healthy. That MEANS the healthy are paying to cover the sick..
and there my friend, "but for the grace of God go I."...and YOU!
Show me a person who will refuse to help the least of God's people and you've shown me a person who will never see God's promised eternity. Show me a Nation that turns its back on the less fortunate and I'll show you a Nation with moral values equivalent to China, North Korea and Russia.
Monday, March 13, 2017
"Older Traffic Keep Right"
'Slower Traffic Keep Right.' That warning sign is more and more suited for me. The passage of time creates more of a whirlpool effect similar to the swirling water about to empty from the kitchen sink. I recall walking into a junior high school science class and seeing that 'Periodic Table' for the first time. I knew at that moment things were about to get complicated? I suspect that once the computerized calculator came into our lives those 'slide rules' became straight-edges and door stops.
Once upon a time, I picked up the house phone and 'told' the operator what number to dial for me. I talked to the other party. Today, I need not speak to anybody. I can type a message on my 'smart phone' and the other party can type back to me...we never have to actually speak to each other; how wonderfully sterile! I also save postage stamp cost these days. I can email instead of hard-copy-mail and I can purchase and pay 'online.'
It used to be to travelers' advantage to carry updated road maps. No need for such difficult to fold 'cheat-sheets' these days. We now have Garmin's, GPS's and built-in auto navigation systems, which talk us onto the correct roadways. Should we take a wrong turn, a female voice will explain that she is 're-calculating.'
The extent of my computer knowledge is extremely limited! A friend helped me setup my blog site several years ago. I pretty much remain computer-ignorant. One of my grandkids asked me recently, "Boompa, do you tweet?" I said, "Nope, but I do fart."
"Older Traffic Keep Right."
Once upon a time, I picked up the house phone and 'told' the operator what number to dial for me. I talked to the other party. Today, I need not speak to anybody. I can type a message on my 'smart phone' and the other party can type back to me...we never have to actually speak to each other; how wonderfully sterile! I also save postage stamp cost these days. I can email instead of hard-copy-mail and I can purchase and pay 'online.'
It used to be to travelers' advantage to carry updated road maps. No need for such difficult to fold 'cheat-sheets' these days. We now have Garmin's, GPS's and built-in auto navigation systems, which talk us onto the correct roadways. Should we take a wrong turn, a female voice will explain that she is 're-calculating.'
The extent of my computer knowledge is extremely limited! A friend helped me setup my blog site several years ago. I pretty much remain computer-ignorant. One of my grandkids asked me recently, "Boompa, do you tweet?" I said, "Nope, but I do fart."
"Older Traffic Keep Right."
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Why?
I know we all share a common experience regarding songs from our past. Those tunes conjure up thoughts and recall of exact moments-in-time. Perhaps yesterday's old lyrics cause one to think of the early childhood comforts, maybe those crazy-acting teen moments or that special love song. Songs from our past can bring smiles as we remember joyous-celebratory times while at the tangent's opposite end the song may remind us of loss and heartache.
A few days ago, I heard the song, "Why Can't We Be Friends?" by the group, 'WAR.' It reminded me of the 1970's and my Edwardsville high school coaching days. More specifically, I recalled my relationship with the Harris family. As a teen East St. Louis high school basketball player, I played against the East St. Louis Lincoln (all black high school), which was coached by Earl 'Tree' Harris.
'Tree' was a tall well spoken-gentleman with distinguished charisma. When I later coached at Mason City high school, I brought Tree's Lincoln basketball team to play my Mason City team. I wanted the City black kids to experience competition in the hinterlands and I wanted my rather sheltered white rural kids to play a talented inner-city team. Certainly, I wished also to coach against a man I grew up respecting.
A decade later, 'Tree' and his wife, Hazel would make the personal decision to move to Edwardsville affording Coach Roustio to coach their sons, Dean and Hank. After his senior Edwardsville play, Dean garnered a Kansas State basketball scholarship and started as a freshman. He was tragically killed in an auto accident after that K-State freshman season. Hank would be a starting guard later on the Edwardsville 1976 State Team.
That WAR song, 'What Can't We Be Friends,' brings to my mind bitter-sweet emotions. It also brings to mind two lasting thoughts. First, I have never met a family more sincerely engaging than the Harris family and secondly, 'Why Can't We Be Friends?' WAR asked that question back in 1974. This nation makes all kinds of claims about its greatness and Judea-Christian anchors of love and Constitutional Freedoms, yet there has never been more obvious division and hatred than we see in 2017.
You tell me...'Why Can't We Be Friends?'
A few days ago, I heard the song, "Why Can't We Be Friends?" by the group, 'WAR.' It reminded me of the 1970's and my Edwardsville high school coaching days. More specifically, I recalled my relationship with the Harris family. As a teen East St. Louis high school basketball player, I played against the East St. Louis Lincoln (all black high school), which was coached by Earl 'Tree' Harris.
'Tree' was a tall well spoken-gentleman with distinguished charisma. When I later coached at Mason City high school, I brought Tree's Lincoln basketball team to play my Mason City team. I wanted the City black kids to experience competition in the hinterlands and I wanted my rather sheltered white rural kids to play a talented inner-city team. Certainly, I wished also to coach against a man I grew up respecting.
A decade later, 'Tree' and his wife, Hazel would make the personal decision to move to Edwardsville affording Coach Roustio to coach their sons, Dean and Hank. After his senior Edwardsville play, Dean garnered a Kansas State basketball scholarship and started as a freshman. He was tragically killed in an auto accident after that K-State freshman season. Hank would be a starting guard later on the Edwardsville 1976 State Team.
That WAR song, 'What Can't We Be Friends,' brings to my mind bitter-sweet emotions. It also brings to mind two lasting thoughts. First, I have never met a family more sincerely engaging than the Harris family and secondly, 'Why Can't We Be Friends?' WAR asked that question back in 1974. This nation makes all kinds of claims about its greatness and Judea-Christian anchors of love and Constitutional Freedoms, yet there has never been more obvious division and hatred than we see in 2017.
Friday, March 10, 2017
Sincere Care Missing in Health Care
Remember immediately after Obamacare became the law of the land the GOP began talking about the need to repeal Obamacare and replace it. For nearly seven years all we heard was the same cry from Conservatives. As the 2016 Presidential campaign played out the Republican eventual nominee, Donald Trump spoke as if he had the best health care plan tucked away in his suit coat. All America needed to do was elect this man and he was going to "repeal and replace Obamacare with a new WONDERFUL health care program; likely repeal and replace in the same week maybe even the same day." Trump's rhetoric was nothing more than blowhard poppycock. He had NOTHING!
Well after stating recently that "health care is complicated," Trump's mindless soldiers unveiled their new 'American Health Care Act' proposal. Surprise surprise! Under the new health care plan, we get a glimpse of winners and losers:
Winners:
1. Wealthy folks making over $200,000.00 per year get huge tax breaks.
2. Young healthy adults
3. Fans of health Savings Accounts
4. Those who want bare-bones coverage
Losers:
1. Ten million people (mostly low-income) lose insurance
2. Sick People
3. Older People
4. Those who get insurance from employers
5. Planned Parenthood
Actually, I believe it is correct to state that under the new health care proposal the rich get richer and the poor get sicker. Look, I want the 'same' insurance that Paul Ryan and Nancy Pelosi enjoy.
No More; No Less.
I want the Republicans to demonstrate the same Anti-abortion passion for the total and complete health care coverage for that little black baby born to a single mother in East St. Louis and that little white baby born to that unemployed West Virginia coal miner on food stamps. I'm sick of hearing the Christian talk and failing to see the Christian walk. If we American are going to invoke the name of Jesus, we must do it at EVERY turn.
Well after stating recently that "health care is complicated," Trump's mindless soldiers unveiled their new 'American Health Care Act' proposal. Surprise surprise! Under the new health care plan, we get a glimpse of winners and losers:
Winners:
1. Wealthy folks making over $200,000.00 per year get huge tax breaks.
2. Young healthy adults
3. Fans of health Savings Accounts
4. Those who want bare-bones coverage
Losers:
1. Ten million people (mostly low-income) lose insurance
2. Sick People
3. Older People
4. Those who get insurance from employers
5. Planned Parenthood
Actually, I believe it is correct to state that under the new health care proposal the rich get richer and the poor get sicker. Look, I want the 'same' insurance that Paul Ryan and Nancy Pelosi enjoy.
No More; No Less.
I want the Republicans to demonstrate the same Anti-abortion passion for the total and complete health care coverage for that little black baby born to a single mother in East St. Louis and that little white baby born to that unemployed West Virginia coal miner on food stamps. I'm sick of hearing the Christian talk and failing to see the Christian walk. If we American are going to invoke the name of Jesus, we must do it at EVERY turn.
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Religious Geography
I'm not sure 'why' but it is. I'm talkin' about how The South projects a greater religious profile than does The North. I would hesitate accepting any premise that one region of the country finds its people more religious than another, however I read newspapers and watch television reports from all sections of this nation and there appears no significant difference in criminal activities, domestic violence and transgressions against God's word. That said, I have noticed perhaps five times more television Preacher shows in the South than in the North.
I remember as a youngster how my family anticipated with excitement a week long television broadcast of a Billy Graham Revival. I will acknowledge that I was often spiritually-enriched and moved by Reverend Graham's messages. There is no doubt that his words helped my 'walk with Christ.' Here's the irony, I wouldn't walk across the street to hear Billy's son, Franklin preach a sermon. The reason is simple: Papa Graham told me what I needed to do to gain eternal life while 'sonny-boy' tries to tell me how to vote, which is driven by judging others.
I don't recall more than a low-keyed request to viewers to consider supporting Dr. Graham's television ministries with a contribution. Today, many television preachers want you to send them 'seed' money, which they claim will come back to the giver ten-fold or they wish to sell you mystic healing ointments or pieces of cloth from The Holy Land.
I believe in redemption as demonstrated by the conversation between Christ and the Thief on Calvary's Crosses. The worst of sinners, which could be me, can be forgiven. I note that in the South two very famous Preachers fell from 'grace' and made it all the way back to television preaching fame. You all remember Jim Baker whose fraud in the name of religion got him prison time. And then there was that other Jim, Jimmy Swaggart who had problems getting mixed-up chasing 'Ladies of The Night.' He found his redemption and a new television-ministry contract.
PS. I wish Major League Baseball and its writers would pickup on this 'forgiveness thing' and put Pete Rose in the Hall-of-Fame.
I remember as a youngster how my family anticipated with excitement a week long television broadcast of a Billy Graham Revival. I will acknowledge that I was often spiritually-enriched and moved by Reverend Graham's messages. There is no doubt that his words helped my 'walk with Christ.' Here's the irony, I wouldn't walk across the street to hear Billy's son, Franklin preach a sermon. The reason is simple: Papa Graham told me what I needed to do to gain eternal life while 'sonny-boy' tries to tell me how to vote, which is driven by judging others.
I don't recall more than a low-keyed request to viewers to consider supporting Dr. Graham's television ministries with a contribution. Today, many television preachers want you to send them 'seed' money, which they claim will come back to the giver ten-fold or they wish to sell you mystic healing ointments or pieces of cloth from The Holy Land.
I believe in redemption as demonstrated by the conversation between Christ and the Thief on Calvary's Crosses. The worst of sinners, which could be me, can be forgiven. I note that in the South two very famous Preachers fell from 'grace' and made it all the way back to television preaching fame. You all remember Jim Baker whose fraud in the name of religion got him prison time. And then there was that other Jim, Jimmy Swaggart who had problems getting mixed-up chasing 'Ladies of The Night.' He found his redemption and a new television-ministry contract.
PS. I wish Major League Baseball and its writers would pickup on this 'forgiveness thing' and put Pete Rose in the Hall-of-Fame.
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
"Make Americans Accountable Again!"
I was sitting in the backyard yesterday with Toy Poodle, Yodie. The pup was focused on the actions of a nearby squirrel while I pondered the platform I'd run on if I had been a Presidential candidate...I know, I'm too old to run for office and, in fact too old to 'run.'
My platform would have 'one' plank and yet would eliminate or reduce many American problems:
It would...
1) Eliminate most teen pregnancies.
2) Reduce abortions drastically.
3) Reduce divorce rate.
4) Reduce high school dropout rates.
5) Reduce numbers for many government supported programs.
6) Enhance parenting skills.
7) Improve public school achievement scores and increase graduation rates.
8) Reduce number of single-mothers.
9) Reduce escalating hospital emergency room costs driven by impoverished mothers.
Those are the obvious positive impacts coming from my "one plank" Presidential platform...and here is that 'political platform'>>
"At birth ALL male babies would have a *'vasectomy' paid for by the U. S. Government.
At age 21, the adult male can have his 'vasectomy' reversed at the Government's expense 'IF'
he is gainfully employed, has $10,000.00 in a savings account and has memorized twelve nursery rhymes."
*For those imbeciles who don't know what a vasectomy IS, it is a surgical procedure rendering temporary sterilization, which can be reversed. Under my plan, males that wish to 'Hound Dog' around will no longer bring a child into this world that is profoundly disadvantaged.
PS. Please don't tell me that I sound like Hitler. Hitler wished to sterilize predicated on race my proposal would be 'equal opportunity' application. Hitler wanted a 'superior' race; I wish to reduce poverty and eradicate stupidity.
Okay...I'm joking. But it's causing you to imagine.
My platform would have 'one' plank and yet would eliminate or reduce many American problems:
It would...
1) Eliminate most teen pregnancies.
2) Reduce abortions drastically.
3) Reduce divorce rate.
4) Reduce high school dropout rates.
5) Reduce numbers for many government supported programs.
6) Enhance parenting skills.
7) Improve public school achievement scores and increase graduation rates.
8) Reduce number of single-mothers.
9) Reduce escalating hospital emergency room costs driven by impoverished mothers.
Those are the obvious positive impacts coming from my "one plank" Presidential platform...and here is that 'political platform'>>
"At birth ALL male babies would have a *'vasectomy' paid for by the U. S. Government.
At age 21, the adult male can have his 'vasectomy' reversed at the Government's expense 'IF'
he is gainfully employed, has $10,000.00 in a savings account and has memorized twelve nursery rhymes."
*For those imbeciles who don't know what a vasectomy IS, it is a surgical procedure rendering temporary sterilization, which can be reversed. Under my plan, males that wish to 'Hound Dog' around will no longer bring a child into this world that is profoundly disadvantaged.
PS. Please don't tell me that I sound like Hitler. Hitler wished to sterilize predicated on race my proposal would be 'equal opportunity' application. Hitler wanted a 'superior' race; I wish to reduce poverty and eradicate stupidity.
Okay...I'm joking. But it's causing you to imagine.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Plainly Put
Could we 'cut through the crap?' Donald J. Trump is our President. He campaigned on the slogan,
"Make America Great Again." I'm not sure what that really means but for the sake of argument, let's suppose it is honorable in spirit.
Okay, now that's out of the way. Therefore, Trump can clear the air and eliminate most of the crazy verbal back-and-forth political partisanship by simply doing two things. If Trump truly desires to make our country great THEN...(1) Release his tax returns information and (2) Disclose any and all contacts with Russia. If President Trump would do those two things his approval ratings would sky-rocket and he would likely have more smooth sailing with much bi-partisan support on the road to National Greatness. It's a Slam Dunk!
Let me put it another way. My Grandpa E. V. and Mammy Bennett owned a grocery store back in 1940-50''s East St. Louis. Mammy was a devout practicing Methodist; Grandpa E. V. was not. Although, E. V. was a Godly believing man, he was not knocking the Church doors open to get a favorite pew-spot.
Mammy was always giving away foods to needy and to The Church's needs. One day the Methodist preacher was picking up 'free' food at the store and Mammy asked E. V. to help the preacher load up the freebies. (Note: It was well known that the married Preacher Man was having an affair with a married woman). When finished loading the groceries into the Preacher's automobile the Preacher turned to E. V. and asked, "Mr. Bennett, how is it with your soul?" E.V. answered, "That's None of your Goddamn business!" Now that's what you call, 'cutting through the crap!'
"Make America Great Again." I'm not sure what that really means but for the sake of argument, let's suppose it is honorable in spirit.
Okay, now that's out of the way. Therefore, Trump can clear the air and eliminate most of the crazy verbal back-and-forth political partisanship by simply doing two things. If Trump truly desires to make our country great THEN...(1) Release his tax returns information and (2) Disclose any and all contacts with Russia. If President Trump would do those two things his approval ratings would sky-rocket and he would likely have more smooth sailing with much bi-partisan support on the road to National Greatness. It's a Slam Dunk!
Let me put it another way. My Grandpa E. V. and Mammy Bennett owned a grocery store back in 1940-50''s East St. Louis. Mammy was a devout practicing Methodist; Grandpa E. V. was not. Although, E. V. was a Godly believing man, he was not knocking the Church doors open to get a favorite pew-spot.
Mammy was always giving away foods to needy and to The Church's needs. One day the Methodist preacher was picking up 'free' food at the store and Mammy asked E. V. to help the preacher load up the freebies. (Note: It was well known that the married Preacher Man was having an affair with a married woman). When finished loading the groceries into the Preacher's automobile the Preacher turned to E. V. and asked, "Mr. Bennett, how is it with your soul?" E.V. answered, "That's None of your Goddamn business!" Now that's what you call, 'cutting through the crap!'
Monday, March 6, 2017
Making Good Choices
Sitting at the nearby swimming pool at our Gulf Side Miramar Beach, Florida complex, I had a gent next to me lean towards me and ask, "Whata ya think of President Trump's 'tweets?"
(Note: Please understand three things...(1) I have just slightly above average intelligence, (2) Most old farts sitting around warm weather winter vacation swimming pool sites are Republicans and (3) My wife begged me not to 'go off' on anybody about politics while in Florida.) On the thid-point, I have done good...until that moment. I answered my senior friend straight-forward, "I don't think much of Trump's 'tweets' and I think less of Trump." Dadgumit, I know I talk louder these days due to my own hearing loss therefore my comment was heard by more than the fella making the inquiry. Suddenly, I had four-sun-wrinkled-old-geezers leaning towards me and you could tell that they all were eager to state the conservative case.
Well, I didn't give them what they wanted and Ill tell you why. I learned over time not to argue with my mother because my dad would win. Don't argue with my wife because she always wins. Don't argue with basketball,officials because they usually win and never argue with 'fools' because it saddens you. At that swim-pool moment, I stood and said, "I'll be right back. Those two fellas who pick up our trash every Monday and Thursday just turned onto our culdesac and the Black fella who rides at the end of the truck is Troy. He is the same age as my son. He has seven kids like one of my daughters. He told me last week he was trying to get a home loan. I need to find out if he did. I'll be back.
No, I didn't go back. I took Yodie for a walk. Rather pick up dog crap and keep peace with my wife.
Oh, I'm sorry. 'Big Troy' did get his home loan. He shook my hand (after he took his soiled glove off) and said, "I got the loan man...God is good all the time; all the time Gid is good."
(Note: Please understand three things...(1) I have just slightly above average intelligence, (2) Most old farts sitting around warm weather winter vacation swimming pool sites are Republicans and (3) My wife begged me not to 'go off' on anybody about politics while in Florida.) On the thid-point, I have done good...until that moment. I answered my senior friend straight-forward, "I don't think much of Trump's 'tweets' and I think less of Trump." Dadgumit, I know I talk louder these days due to my own hearing loss therefore my comment was heard by more than the fella making the inquiry. Suddenly, I had four-sun-wrinkled-old-geezers leaning towards me and you could tell that they all were eager to state the conservative case.
Well, I didn't give them what they wanted and Ill tell you why. I learned over time not to argue with my mother because my dad would win. Don't argue with my wife because she always wins. Don't argue with basketball,officials because they usually win and never argue with 'fools' because it saddens you. At that swim-pool moment, I stood and said, "I'll be right back. Those two fellas who pick up our trash every Monday and Thursday just turned onto our culdesac and the Black fella who rides at the end of the truck is Troy. He is the same age as my son. He has seven kids like one of my daughters. He told me last week he was trying to get a home loan. I need to find out if he did. I'll be back.
No, I didn't go back. I took Yodie for a walk. Rather pick up dog crap and keep peace with my wife.
Oh, I'm sorry. 'Big Troy' did get his home loan. He shook my hand (after he took his soiled glove off) and said, "I got the loan man...God is good all the time; all the time Gid is good."
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Radical? Who me? No You!
Words suggest. Actions confirm. Keep that thought.
Much is said recently about 'Radical Islamic Religion.' Should American leaders use the phrase Radical Islamic terrorists causing death in the fulfillment of some 'extreme' Islamic Religious doctrine? Personally, I say go for it! While you are addressing some radical religious groups, you should speak about and point out harm done by some of those Radical Christians as well.
Stop and spare me any lecture on faith, organized religion and any other intrusion on my personal walk with Jesus-Christ. I will not point to individuals who may be in this Radical Christian movement, I allow you to draw such conclusions.
'Radical' means strict adherence of views, which are at odds with cultural norms. The 'radicals' are people who advocate and support those extreme views. Christians once believed that 'human slavery' was okay. That was a 'hot religious' debate back in the 1840's followed by the 1859 evolution vs. creation science theories. Then we had Christians fighting over a woman's rightful position in our society. Back in the day, some 'radical Christians' believed it was God's wishes for a woman NOT to receive anesthesia during childbirth (I'm sure that idea was promoted by men folks). Then some good Christians had to wrestle with a notion that a woman could vote and wear slacks. I remember, during the 1950's my Methodist Church folks believed you were hell-bound if you worked on Sunday or attended entertainment on the sabbath. I suppose that thinking changed when Grandpa choked on a Sunday-dinner chicken bone and the Doctor could not make a house call. Today, Christians now debate birth control and pro-life vs abortion rights.
Just because a group embraces the rooted-fundamentalism it does not make that group radical. It's when that fundamentalist group imposes those rooted beliefs on others that they are radicals.
I hear Republicans telling Americans that the Government should not choose your own health-insurance. Well, how about the Government staying out of my religious beliefs. Oh my goodness, I just imagined what would happen if those 'Radical Amish' gained American government control...we'd all be driving a buggy and stepping in horse-crap in the mall parking lot.
Okay, you can now start naming names...
Much is said recently about 'Radical Islamic Religion.' Should American leaders use the phrase Radical Islamic terrorists causing death in the fulfillment of some 'extreme' Islamic Religious doctrine? Personally, I say go for it! While you are addressing some radical religious groups, you should speak about and point out harm done by some of those Radical Christians as well.
Stop and spare me any lecture on faith, organized religion and any other intrusion on my personal walk with Jesus-Christ. I will not point to individuals who may be in this Radical Christian movement, I allow you to draw such conclusions.
'Radical' means strict adherence of views, which are at odds with cultural norms. The 'radicals' are people who advocate and support those extreme views. Christians once believed that 'human slavery' was okay. That was a 'hot religious' debate back in the 1840's followed by the 1859 evolution vs. creation science theories. Then we had Christians fighting over a woman's rightful position in our society. Back in the day, some 'radical Christians' believed it was God's wishes for a woman NOT to receive anesthesia during childbirth (I'm sure that idea was promoted by men folks). Then some good Christians had to wrestle with a notion that a woman could vote and wear slacks. I remember, during the 1950's my Methodist Church folks believed you were hell-bound if you worked on Sunday or attended entertainment on the sabbath. I suppose that thinking changed when Grandpa choked on a Sunday-dinner chicken bone and the Doctor could not make a house call. Today, Christians now debate birth control and pro-life vs abortion rights.
Just because a group embraces the rooted-fundamentalism it does not make that group radical. It's when that fundamentalist group imposes those rooted beliefs on others that they are radicals.
I hear Republicans telling Americans that the Government should not choose your own health-insurance. Well, how about the Government staying out of my religious beliefs. Oh my goodness, I just imagined what would happen if those 'Radical Amish' gained American government control...we'd all be driving a buggy and stepping in horse-crap in the mall parking lot.
Okay, you can now start naming names...
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Why didn't I think of that?
President Trump's recent comment regarding the questionable success of the Yemen raid in which the United States lost the life of a proud Navy Seal warrior...and the criticism continues toward Trump, "The raid was planned before I got hear and the pentagon chief told me the raid was a success." 😇 So said, President Donald J. Trump
Why didn't I 'think' of that back in the coaching days?
After getting beaten soundly by Chicago King...
Coach Roustio told the media-interviewers, "The former coach, Roger Uhe scheduled Chicago King and Assistant Coach Ken Hickman scouted King and said our defense would work." Roustio continued, "Yes, it's my real hair and nobody loves referees like I do, nobody! Besides, the real enemy tonight was not Chicago King but it's the nasty media, on a mission to blame me for the defeat."
Why didn't I 'think' of that back in the coaching days?
After getting beaten soundly by Chicago King...
Coach Roustio told the media-interviewers, "The former coach, Roger Uhe scheduled Chicago King and Assistant Coach Ken Hickman scouted King and said our defense would work." Roustio continued, "Yes, it's my real hair and nobody loves referees like I do, nobody! Besides, the real enemy tonight was not Chicago King but it's the nasty media, on a mission to blame me for the defeat."
Friday, March 3, 2017
Confused
I am humbled and appreciative for the three hundred-plus daily blog readers...I thank you. That said, I wish for the readers to know that today's blog is 'For Men Only.' I hope the ladies will not be offended but as the younger generation frequently states, "It is what it is." Have a wonderful day ladies, you're excused.
Okay fellas, I need to vent and seek some support on this issue. Perhaps it resonates with you. My wife and I will be married for fifty-seven years come this June. I cannot recall the number of times when traveling on vacation or business that we have stayed in hotels, motels, condos and other housing rentals. No matter that number there remains 'one constant' and that is this: The issue regarding 'which side of the bed' one wishes to sleep on is never discussed! My wife takes the side nearest the bathroom. The last four years, we have rented the same Miramar Beach, Florida winter residence. The king-size bed is in a good size room. The side nearest the bathroom has more room, an end table with multiple drawers and a reading lamp.
This scenario has finally saturated my tolerance-sponge. I got the courage to express my true long-stifled feelings. I said to my wife, "Gerry, why do you always assume the side of the bed nearest the bathroom belongs to you? You do know that as men age they make more frequent night-time trips to the bathroom? You also must realize that here in this Florida rental, you have more room to walk on your bedside area and you have the luxury of a reading lamp and nearby vanity table for personal items?" I then paused with the confidence that I had succinctly and convincingly presented my case.
My wife smiled and spoke matter-of-fact these words, "That's right attack me for thinking about you. When we first rented this house, I saw the bedroom layout. I immediately thought, I need to give you the side of the bed nearest the outside wall so you could hear the Gulf breeze blow the palm tree branches against the deck and I thought you'd like to see the 6AM sunrise coming through the shades. Not only that, I took the side with more room because when you bring my breakfast upstairs each morning, I didn't want you to have to worry about bumping the wall with the tray. You never give me credit for my concerns you!"
Fellas, I 'hey-da-say' but this stuff can make one lose one's mind. I'm thinking that I should apologize to my wife for mentioning this. I'll talk it over with the dog this afternoon and see what he thinks.
Okay fellas, I need to vent and seek some support on this issue. Perhaps it resonates with you. My wife and I will be married for fifty-seven years come this June. I cannot recall the number of times when traveling on vacation or business that we have stayed in hotels, motels, condos and other housing rentals. No matter that number there remains 'one constant' and that is this: The issue regarding 'which side of the bed' one wishes to sleep on is never discussed! My wife takes the side nearest the bathroom. The last four years, we have rented the same Miramar Beach, Florida winter residence. The king-size bed is in a good size room. The side nearest the bathroom has more room, an end table with multiple drawers and a reading lamp.
This scenario has finally saturated my tolerance-sponge. I got the courage to express my true long-stifled feelings. I said to my wife, "Gerry, why do you always assume the side of the bed nearest the bathroom belongs to you? You do know that as men age they make more frequent night-time trips to the bathroom? You also must realize that here in this Florida rental, you have more room to walk on your bedside area and you have the luxury of a reading lamp and nearby vanity table for personal items?" I then paused with the confidence that I had succinctly and convincingly presented my case.
My wife smiled and spoke matter-of-fact these words, "That's right attack me for thinking about you. When we first rented this house, I saw the bedroom layout. I immediately thought, I need to give you the side of the bed nearest the outside wall so you could hear the Gulf breeze blow the palm tree branches against the deck and I thought you'd like to see the 6AM sunrise coming through the shades. Not only that, I took the side with more room because when you bring my breakfast upstairs each morning, I didn't want you to have to worry about bumping the wall with the tray. You never give me credit for my concerns you!"
Fellas, I 'hey-da-say' but this stuff can make one lose one's mind. I'm thinking that I should apologize to my wife for mentioning this. I'll talk it over with the dog this afternoon and see what he thinks.
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Beyond My Comprehension
The Bible-Study Pastor asked some thought provoking questions: "Who is the most famous person that you ever met?" "Did that famous person meet your expectations?" "What are your expectations of Jesus?"
I suppose we can agree that 'famous' is the result of accomplishments, which are known by many people. Famous is usually driven by practice and/or study. Other times, we do note famous-status occurs through happen-chance circumstances.
I began a mental exercise recalling some names of 'famous folks' I've met. Some surpassed my expectations while others disappointed. I quickly dismissed that question when the thought occurred to me that the names of my famous-people were not near as endearing and impacting on my life as the names of people who nurtured and mentored me in life. It was those people who aided in helping me develop expectations...expectations of myself, which helped my personal growth.
Addressing the question of 'expectations of Jesus,' I immediately concluded that I will never be able to answer that question. Here's why: I cannot imagine or wrap my mind around the depth of Christ's forgiving-grace. That human body of Jesus was nailed to a tree with the spikes hammered through bones, tendons and nerves of hands and feet. I recall an abscess tooth pain and a pinched back nerve and thought it was the worst possible pain. Christ forgave those who brutally murdered him. Then after doing that for 'me,' He forgave me yesterday morning when I cursed, beneath my breath, the man who cut me off on the highway. And just think, my 'Holy Bible' was in full vision on my auto's dashboard.
So, there I sat yesterday morning in Bible Study daring to contemplate my 'expectations' of Jesus. I know exactly what you readers are thinking right now. You believe I can 'expect' Christ's everlasting forgiveness if requested. That is not my expectation of Jesus; that's my gift of salvation. I'll see you in Church Sunday. You'll recognize me, I'm that Christian often mistaken as 'The Great Pretender.'
I suppose we can agree that 'famous' is the result of accomplishments, which are known by many people. Famous is usually driven by practice and/or study. Other times, we do note famous-status occurs through happen-chance circumstances.
I began a mental exercise recalling some names of 'famous folks' I've met. Some surpassed my expectations while others disappointed. I quickly dismissed that question when the thought occurred to me that the names of my famous-people were not near as endearing and impacting on my life as the names of people who nurtured and mentored me in life. It was those people who aided in helping me develop expectations...expectations of myself, which helped my personal growth.
Addressing the question of 'expectations of Jesus,' I immediately concluded that I will never be able to answer that question. Here's why: I cannot imagine or wrap my mind around the depth of Christ's forgiving-grace. That human body of Jesus was nailed to a tree with the spikes hammered through bones, tendons and nerves of hands and feet. I recall an abscess tooth pain and a pinched back nerve and thought it was the worst possible pain. Christ forgave those who brutally murdered him. Then after doing that for 'me,' He forgave me yesterday morning when I cursed, beneath my breath, the man who cut me off on the highway. And just think, my 'Holy Bible' was in full vision on my auto's dashboard.
So, there I sat yesterday morning in Bible Study daring to contemplate my 'expectations' of Jesus. I know exactly what you readers are thinking right now. You believe I can 'expect' Christ's everlasting forgiveness if requested. That is not my expectation of Jesus; that's my gift of salvation. I'll see you in Church Sunday. You'll recognize me, I'm that Christian often mistaken as 'The Great Pretender.'
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Relationship Riches
Normally, we'd be packed and poised for our return trip from 'snowbird-land' back to central Illinois. That has been the routine the past three-years but not this year. My wife, Gerry and I extended our stay in the cottage by the Gulf. We learned that our three college-graduating-senior-grandkids have corresponding spring-breaks this March so we spent a few extra coins and invited those 'youngins' to join us for a week. Colin had to 'pass' on the offer due to an academic opportunity abroad. However, Illinois State roommate cousins, Erica and Loren will join us and thus become two of the thousands of college spring-breakers impacting the Destin, Florida beaches. It's that seasonal change time when 'snowbirds' give way to 'snow studs' and 'snow chicks.'
The past two days, Gerry and I have experienced a parade of neighborhood 'cul-de-sac couples' stopping by to bid the Roustio's farewell. I must confess that those goodbye moments are bittersweet. Understand that in the past four-years, we have forged strong friendships with many couples who boarded this 'train' about the same time many years ago. We are aware that various destination arrival times await each of us. We are richly blessed and give thanks to God for our shared moments. We are believers who understand life's longing for itself while we embrace God's Will.
Gerry and I have made our plans to return next winter; the down payment is documented. Meanwhile, in the next few days we will continue our goodbyes to more snowbird-neighbors and pray for their respective journeys. We will hope to renew those relationships again.
Oh, did I mention that our granddaughters, Erica and Loren are coming to spend a week?
The past two days, Gerry and I have experienced a parade of neighborhood 'cul-de-sac couples' stopping by to bid the Roustio's farewell. I must confess that those goodbye moments are bittersweet. Understand that in the past four-years, we have forged strong friendships with many couples who boarded this 'train' about the same time many years ago. We are aware that various destination arrival times await each of us. We are richly blessed and give thanks to God for our shared moments. We are believers who understand life's longing for itself while we embrace God's Will.
Gerry and I have made our plans to return next winter; the down payment is documented. Meanwhile, in the next few days we will continue our goodbyes to more snowbird-neighbors and pray for their respective journeys. We will hope to renew those relationships again.
Oh, did I mention that our granddaughters, Erica and Loren are coming to spend a week?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)