I suppose your annual medical physical examination is much like mine insofar as filling out and answering that two-page questionnaire. My doctor wants to know every pill I might take and then for the fourteenth time I fill out a family medical-history-profile and disclose if anybody has threatened me, harassed me or talked 'down' to me recently, which made me feel unworthy. (Note: All those many years that I coached, I could have answered that last question in the affirmative but nobody asked me back then.) Finally, the doctor or nurse or insurance company (not sure who) wants to know if I still engage in sex.
Later rather than sooner, the nurse called my name and I gave her my completed questionnaire as she escorted me to a scale for weight and height measurements. The good news? I'm maintaining my weight, which is important for a diabetic but my height once again has shrunk. Now shrinking is a reality of aging as is senile tremors and your toenails turning the color of Halloween candy corn. While some things do shrink a man's prostate does not! Also at my age, my hair grows but not on my head but instead out of my ears, nose and from the eyebrows. Speaking of eyes, they are not as good as they once were and my hearing-aids tell 'that' story. All that stated, when the blood work numbers come back good and it did, I'll accept all the above.
I recall once when Johnny Carson, The Tonight Show host told the story of his program director, Fred de Cordova. It seems de Cordova, who was educated at the prestigious Northwestern University refused to go to medical doctors for a physical exam. His reasoning? "They are looking for something wrong with you." Not sold on that concept thinking!
(Touch)
Sooner or Later God's Gunna Cut You Down
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Monday, July 30, 2018
Keep Listening
I have read biblical scripture accounts where God actually spoke to people. I suppose my favorite bible story of such Divine communication is when God told Noah to build that boat. I pray daily and I must tell you that I have never 'heard' God's voice speaking to me. Let me quickly say, I do believe God has spoken to me in subliminal ways through orchestrating events, moments and opportunity choices to act. Still, I think I'd like to hear God's voice instructing me to do something. Wouldn't it be great if every morning after praying, God told you exactly what to do that day? I get all kinds of daily mail from all sorts of charity organization and each tell me what to do...givevthem money!
I have read that some people claim they have spoken in tongues. Speaking in tongues as defined in
I Corinthians 4-10 states that speaking in tongues is a "gift from the Holy Spirit." Personally, I have never heard anybody speak in tongues and I don't particularly give much thought to that desire given today's inclination for Americans to frown on foreigners not speaking English.
Actually, I need to be careful what I say without thinking. Just the other day a younger neighbor greeted me this way: "Coach Mel, how's it going?" I responded, "Not bad at all considering the clock is in the red." Obviously, he had no response but did show an expression of bewilderment. The young man, who grew up in the digital age never saw those old gymnasium wall clocks of the 1940's and '50's, that had the sweeping second hand and minute hand. When that clock ticked into the final minute the clock's face turned RED. Currently, God has blessed me with overtime.
I need to stop my typing right now! I just heard a voice from above. My wife yelled from upstairs, "Take the dog outside, he needs to potty." A different master has spoken...with specific instructions.
I have read that some people claim they have spoken in tongues. Speaking in tongues as defined in
I Corinthians 4-10 states that speaking in tongues is a "gift from the Holy Spirit." Personally, I have never heard anybody speak in tongues and I don't particularly give much thought to that desire given today's inclination for Americans to frown on foreigners not speaking English.
Actually, I need to be careful what I say without thinking. Just the other day a younger neighbor greeted me this way: "Coach Mel, how's it going?" I responded, "Not bad at all considering the clock is in the red." Obviously, he had no response but did show an expression of bewilderment. The young man, who grew up in the digital age never saw those old gymnasium wall clocks of the 1940's and '50's, that had the sweeping second hand and minute hand. When that clock ticked into the final minute the clock's face turned RED. Currently, God has blessed me with overtime.
I need to stop my typing right now! I just heard a voice from above. My wife yelled from upstairs, "Take the dog outside, he needs to potty." A different master has spoken...with specific instructions.
Friday, July 27, 2018
Only On The Sandlot
Soon we shall turn the calendar page to August, suddenly those kids will be back in school and another summer will give way to fall colors. I've lost track of the number of consecutive summers where I did not 'see' boys engaged in informal pick-up sandlot baseball games or even a young boy with a baseball glove strung onto his bicycle's handlebars. Oh, I've attended a few little league and high school organized games but those games are totally controlled by adults. Now let me State up front that I commend adults who devote time and energies to youth sports, especially those adults who have no children in the programs. That said, let me spin and make the case for the sandlot baseball experience.
Sandlot games will place youth in roles responsible for organization and management, which offers immeasurable benefits. In the absence of adults, youth will be required to embrace leadership skills. Sandlot evaluations will not be so subtle as teams are chosen. Some names will be called out before others. Players are expected to follow 'calls' made on the field. The contestants WILL keep score...they will process and handle those outcomes. The sandlot experience is perhaps the purest form of play and competition.
As a coach for 39-years, I can state without reservations that I never developed a 'shooter' in the organized basketball practice setting. I may have made a technique suggestion but the credit for honing the skill goes to the player who spent endless hours on the blacktop and speaking from a personal experience, it was my summers on the sandlot that did more to develop my baseball abilities than any league team.
Sandlot games will place youth in roles responsible for organization and management, which offers immeasurable benefits. In the absence of adults, youth will be required to embrace leadership skills. Sandlot evaluations will not be so subtle as teams are chosen. Some names will be called out before others. Players are expected to follow 'calls' made on the field. The contestants WILL keep score...they will process and handle those outcomes. The sandlot experience is perhaps the purest form of play and competition.
As a coach for 39-years, I can state without reservations that I never developed a 'shooter' in the organized basketball practice setting. I may have made a technique suggestion but the credit for honing the skill goes to the player who spent endless hours on the blacktop and speaking from a personal experience, it was my summers on the sandlot that did more to develop my baseball abilities than any league team.
Thursday, July 26, 2018
Perhaps She Knew Back Then
Same old song...what's in it for me?...how will it affect me? It's the nature of the beast, we are selfish.
In the summer and fall months leading up to the 2016 presidential election, I noticed the rural country side overwhelmed with 'TRUMP FOR PRESIDENT' signs. No doubt about it the American farmers wanted Trump. Well, they got what they wanted and now that trade tariffs have been imposed by their guy, they ain't happy. Still Trump keeps telling folks "Tariffs are the BEST."
One of Trump's common themes is targeting China.
All this gibber-jabber causes me to think about my paternal grandmother, Rosedelle Laudermilk-Roustio. Rosedelle was a large framed woman with nary on ounce of fat on her body. She was a strong but quiet and shy woman. She knew work well. If you went by Rosedelle's house she might be under the auto changing oil or perhaps carrying concrete blocks to a building project. Then again, she may be at a nearby neighbor's home wall-papering.
Grandma Rosedelle was not one to impose her beliefs on others with strong attitudes and comments, except, that's right except if she discovered you had purchased an product from a foreign country as opposed to paying a little more for the same product 'Made in the USA.' In the1950's, Rosedelle warned everybody who would listen, "America's gunna be sorry some day not buying American made things." I don't have time or space to write about Rosedelle's feelings about the Trade Unions.
I suppose you can sum up Rosedelle's belief this way: 'It ain't China's fault for the trade imbalances but instead the American consumer's appetite for wanting it NOW and wanting it CHEAP.
In the summer and fall months leading up to the 2016 presidential election, I noticed the rural country side overwhelmed with 'TRUMP FOR PRESIDENT' signs. No doubt about it the American farmers wanted Trump. Well, they got what they wanted and now that trade tariffs have been imposed by their guy, they ain't happy. Still Trump keeps telling folks "Tariffs are the BEST."
One of Trump's common themes is targeting China.
All this gibber-jabber causes me to think about my paternal grandmother, Rosedelle Laudermilk-Roustio. Rosedelle was a large framed woman with nary on ounce of fat on her body. She was a strong but quiet and shy woman. She knew work well. If you went by Rosedelle's house she might be under the auto changing oil or perhaps carrying concrete blocks to a building project. Then again, she may be at a nearby neighbor's home wall-papering.
Grandma Rosedelle was not one to impose her beliefs on others with strong attitudes and comments, except, that's right except if she discovered you had purchased an product from a foreign country as opposed to paying a little more for the same product 'Made in the USA.' In the1950's, Rosedelle warned everybody who would listen, "America's gunna be sorry some day not buying American made things." I don't have time or space to write about Rosedelle's feelings about the Trade Unions.
I suppose you can sum up Rosedelle's belief this way: 'It ain't China's fault for the trade imbalances but instead the American consumer's appetite for wanting it NOW and wanting it CHEAP.
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Got a Sandwich Favorite?
Those foods placed 'on' or 'between' slices of various breads has arguably been man's eating staple dating back to the 18th Century. I cringe thinking about meats Prussian King Fredrick 'The Great' may have slipped between his bread wraps back in 1740. How about an 'open fired tongue wrap?'
I have a great appetite for 'the sandwich' but unfortunately, I must concern myself these days with carbohydrate numbers, which elevate blood sugars. The one sandwich that has survived the decades is the peanut butter and jelly offering. Personally, I have other choices equally desirable: An all meat Bologna sandwich with mayo floats my lunch-boat as does a thinly-sliced Spam sandwich complimented by honey mustard. My wife prefers to fry her Bologna in ketchup. After a dinner meal of ham and beans nothing surpasses a late night 'cold bean' sandwich with a glass of milk.
When eating out, my wife always searches the menu for a Reuben Sandwich and she tells everybody that McGuire's Restaurant (Destin, FL.) has the best! If I'm in Destin, I order a Grouper sandwich any day and everyday. I can also handle a butter-fly pork chop sandwich or the Philly Cheese or a Corky's barbecued pulled-pork sandwich. Speaking of barbecue, the best barbecue sandwich I have ever eaten was made at Nichol's Bar BQ at the foot of the MacArthur Bridge, which spanned the Mississippi River on the banks of my hometown, East Boogie, Illinois.
Both the bridge and the barbecue joint are long gone...I'll bet that sauce recipe lives somewhere!
Finally, this: I began attending public schools in 1945 and stopped my 'formal' school education after Illinois State in 1968. For the first twelve years, I did NOT attend schools with air conditioning. Those first twelve years and I Brown bagged my lunch. I ate sandwich, i.e., Bologna, Spam, Cheese, Braunschweiger, Tuna Fish, Ham salad, chicken salad, egg salad and peanut butter & jelly. I arrived at those non-air conditioned buildings around 8 AM, put my brown bag lunch in a hot metal locker and retrieved it some four hours later for lunch. I try not to think about that much.
(Touch)
Bread = Sandwich
I have a great appetite for 'the sandwich' but unfortunately, I must concern myself these days with carbohydrate numbers, which elevate blood sugars. The one sandwich that has survived the decades is the peanut butter and jelly offering. Personally, I have other choices equally desirable: An all meat Bologna sandwich with mayo floats my lunch-boat as does a thinly-sliced Spam sandwich complimented by honey mustard. My wife prefers to fry her Bologna in ketchup. After a dinner meal of ham and beans nothing surpasses a late night 'cold bean' sandwich with a glass of milk.
When eating out, my wife always searches the menu for a Reuben Sandwich and she tells everybody that McGuire's Restaurant (Destin, FL.) has the best! If I'm in Destin, I order a Grouper sandwich any day and everyday. I can also handle a butter-fly pork chop sandwich or the Philly Cheese or a Corky's barbecued pulled-pork sandwich. Speaking of barbecue, the best barbecue sandwich I have ever eaten was made at Nichol's Bar BQ at the foot of the MacArthur Bridge, which spanned the Mississippi River on the banks of my hometown, East Boogie, Illinois.
Both the bridge and the barbecue joint are long gone...I'll bet that sauce recipe lives somewhere!
Finally, this: I began attending public schools in 1945 and stopped my 'formal' school education after Illinois State in 1968. For the first twelve years, I did NOT attend schools with air conditioning. Those first twelve years and I Brown bagged my lunch. I ate sandwich, i.e., Bologna, Spam, Cheese, Braunschweiger, Tuna Fish, Ham salad, chicken salad, egg salad and peanut butter & jelly. I arrived at those non-air conditioned buildings around 8 AM, put my brown bag lunch in a hot metal locker and retrieved it some four hours later for lunch. I try not to think about that much.
(Touch)
Bread = Sandwich
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Motivation to Write 'Angels on My Journey.'
As I recall the events in my personal journey an endless collage of times perceived as wonderful successes aided by great support entwine with other rear-view mirror images of struggles and negativity. During the green light 'go Times,' I often became emboldened and perhaps a bit self-aggrandizing. When facing seemingly unimaginable hurdles, I often questioned, Why me? Why must I endure this opposition? At all times and in very moment my God was leading a way. I no doubt was oblivious to His presence while being absorbed with self-praise or self-pity.
As my st people, I have experienced both good fortune and troubling difficulties. With careful examination it all appears to have been part of a plan. Not my plan but the Master's Plan. At age five, I fell into a park lagoon and could not swim.I could have died but a nearby older boy rescued me. My father, who had a major impact on my life could have been killed in WWII but he returned home. My family circumstance suggested that I would graduate high school and enter the blue collar work force instead several coaching mentors entered my journey and created situations, which redirected my journey towards a professional educator's career.
The past events and experiences did not always make sense in the moment but now it is exposed with great clarity. I was blessed by God. He nurtured me with personal growth and accomplishments to keep striving yet he placed roadblocks that would prepare me for later talent application to serve others in ways, which in time would be revealed to me.
These reflections cause me to pause, examine and connect the dots. My writing attempts to show and share the Master's Plan. I offer these words as a personal acknowledgement and with the hope that each reader might take their own pause and reflect on God's love and plan for their journey.
You may order your book, 'Angels On My Journey' by calling Mel @217/877-2089 or send check payable to TEPCA Publishing to Mel Roustio @ 3991 Greenridge Drive Decatur, Illinois 62526
Thanks for ordering 'Angels On My Journey'
As my st people, I have experienced both good fortune and troubling difficulties. With careful examination it all appears to have been part of a plan. Not my plan but the Master's Plan. At age five, I fell into a park lagoon and could not swim.I could have died but a nearby older boy rescued me. My father, who had a major impact on my life could have been killed in WWII but he returned home. My family circumstance suggested that I would graduate high school and enter the blue collar work force instead several coaching mentors entered my journey and created situations, which redirected my journey towards a professional educator's career.
The past events and experiences did not always make sense in the moment but now it is exposed with great clarity. I was blessed by God. He nurtured me with personal growth and accomplishments to keep striving yet he placed roadblocks that would prepare me for later talent application to serve others in ways, which in time would be revealed to me.
These reflections cause me to pause, examine and connect the dots. My writing attempts to show and share the Master's Plan. I offer these words as a personal acknowledgement and with the hope that each reader might take their own pause and reflect on God's love and plan for their journey.
You may order your book, 'Angels On My Journey' by calling Mel @217/877-2089 or send check payable to TEPCA Publishing to Mel Roustio @ 3991 Greenridge Drive Decatur, Illinois 62526
Thanks for ordering 'Angels On My Journey'
Monday, July 23, 2018
The Female Voice Must Get Louder
Minnesota Republican congressman, Jason Lewis is facing a 2018 mid-term challenge. Recently, Lewis defended earlier bigoted remarks he made about women. Let me explain: In 2012, radio talk show host, Rush Limbaugh called Sandra Fluke a "slut" because the young woman (a Georgetown University student at the time) advocated for the Affordable Care Act to require companies to cover insurance costs for contraceptives. Limbaugh's reasoning for calling the young woman a 'slut' was anchored in Rush's theory that Ms. Fluke wanted her contraceptives paid for because she 'used' them frequently and that frequency made her a 'slut.'
Jason Lewis defended Limbaugh's statement with his own stated logic: "Can we call anybody a slut? It used to be that women were held to a higher standard. We required modesty from women. Now are we beyond those days where a woman can behave like a slut but we can't call her a slut?"
Your 'take-away' from Congressman Lewis' remarks should be>>(1) if you have a daughter raise her in fear of men. (2) Explain to your daughter that she should expect lower pay than men in the same jobs. (3) Impress upon your daughter that she is never to have a political opinion or any opinion in the public arena. In other words, (4) make sure your daughter knows her place in society...but tell her not to be dismayed because her position in our society is slightly above the place of 'brown-skin' folks but substantially lower than 'old white men' whose erectile dysfunction drugs is covered by most insurances with a diagnostic sign-off by a doctor. Finally, we can Make America Great Again if some folks would simply re-learn 'their place.'
(Touch)
I Am Woman
Jason Lewis defended Limbaugh's statement with his own stated logic: "Can we call anybody a slut? It used to be that women were held to a higher standard. We required modesty from women. Now are we beyond those days where a woman can behave like a slut but we can't call her a slut?"
Your 'take-away' from Congressman Lewis' remarks should be>>(1) if you have a daughter raise her in fear of men. (2) Explain to your daughter that she should expect lower pay than men in the same jobs. (3) Impress upon your daughter that she is never to have a political opinion or any opinion in the public arena. In other words, (4) make sure your daughter knows her place in society...but tell her not to be dismayed because her position in our society is slightly above the place of 'brown-skin' folks but substantially lower than 'old white men' whose erectile dysfunction drugs is covered by most insurances with a diagnostic sign-off by a doctor. Finally, we can Make America Great Again if some folks would simply re-learn 'their place.'
(Touch)
I Am Woman
Friday, July 20, 2018
I See The Light
We have a huge Hobby Lobby store in the Decatur-Forsyth area. Hobby Lobby is a fun store in which to shop. They have neat items and do a fabulous job in their custom-frame department.
My wife, youngest daughter, Pam and I were in the store earlier this week where we purchased a couple of end-table lamps. The two lamps cost $110.00. When we checked out the cashier asked me to hold the lamps at an angle so she could reach in between the shade and unscrew the light bulbs. You heard me correct, Hobby Lobby, the Evangelical owned chain store that won a Supreme Court lawsuit (5-4) to avoid paying for their 1300 nationwide employees' contraceptives also refuses to allow $1.20 worth of light bulbs to leave with a customer whose sales ticket exceeded $110.00.
PS. As the cashier was unscrewing the first light bulb, she dropped it and it shattered into dozens of pieces. It was conceivable that the glass could have cut nearby customers; fortunately, it did not. This financial philosophy from a company with a net worth of $7.7 billion. I know, saving those light bulbs helped amass $7.7 billion.
My wife, youngest daughter, Pam and I were in the store earlier this week where we purchased a couple of end-table lamps. The two lamps cost $110.00. When we checked out the cashier asked me to hold the lamps at an angle so she could reach in between the shade and unscrew the light bulbs. You heard me correct, Hobby Lobby, the Evangelical owned chain store that won a Supreme Court lawsuit (5-4) to avoid paying for their 1300 nationwide employees' contraceptives also refuses to allow $1.20 worth of light bulbs to leave with a customer whose sales ticket exceeded $110.00.
PS. As the cashier was unscrewing the first light bulb, she dropped it and it shattered into dozens of pieces. It was conceivable that the glass could have cut nearby customers; fortunately, it did not. This financial philosophy from a company with a net worth of $7.7 billion. I know, saving those light bulbs helped amass $7.7 billion.
Thursday, July 19, 2018
Make Americans PROUD Again
I stand for the National Anthem. I gladly pledge my allegiance. I financially support some veterans' programs, therefore after reading this blog, please feel free to comment but don't say something foolish, i.e., 'Love It Or Leave It.' That's a lame response.
Lee Greenwood is a singer best know for his rendition of "Proud To Be An American." Let me tell you straight up, the events of the past two weeks made it difficult for me to be a proud American.
First, I watched Congressional hearings where our elected lawmakers behaved in a disgusting and childish manner. Later, my President went abroad and showed his all familiar obnoxious-bullying personality, then stand next to our nation's greatest adversary (Vladimir Putin) and supported that dictator over our very own men and women who risk their lives daily attempting to protect our people. Twenty-seven hours later, after stepping in his own doo-doo, the President then made a feeble-lying statement attempting to 'walk-back' his unpatriotic comments. And this President calls black NFL players who kneel during the National Anthem, SOB's? Trump has the most imprudent behavior that I have ever observed in a person not institutionalized.
Interesting, this less than proud American can become truly depressed watching either Fox News or MSNBC, which are two diametrically opposed political viewpoints. From what I can gather, the only thing these two cable news outlets agree on is a need to address erectile dysfunction...both run Viagra commercial frequently.
I got my Proud to be an American groove back watching a re-run of the movie 'Private Ryan.'
Lee Greenwood is a singer best know for his rendition of "Proud To Be An American." Let me tell you straight up, the events of the past two weeks made it difficult for me to be a proud American.
First, I watched Congressional hearings where our elected lawmakers behaved in a disgusting and childish manner. Later, my President went abroad and showed his all familiar obnoxious-bullying personality, then stand next to our nation's greatest adversary (Vladimir Putin) and supported that dictator over our very own men and women who risk their lives daily attempting to protect our people. Twenty-seven hours later, after stepping in his own doo-doo, the President then made a feeble-lying statement attempting to 'walk-back' his unpatriotic comments. And this President calls black NFL players who kneel during the National Anthem, SOB's? Trump has the most imprudent behavior that I have ever observed in a person not institutionalized.
Interesting, this less than proud American can become truly depressed watching either Fox News or MSNBC, which are two diametrically opposed political viewpoints. From what I can gather, the only thing these two cable news outlets agree on is a need to address erectile dysfunction...both run Viagra commercial frequently.
I got my Proud to be an American groove back watching a re-run of the movie 'Private Ryan.'
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Okay, Let's Move On
I just can't help myself today but it ain't easy remembering to include that suffixed- (n't) on those English words. I feel so badly when I could've, shoul've but didn't.
It is terribly unfortunate that President Trump forgot his 'n't' the other day. As an American, I truly appreciate him clarifying his mis-spoken moment. I would surely believe that all Americans would accept the good man's explanation. And...for those who are having issues with Mr. Trump just rememember: Obama, Obama or Hillary, Hillary.
Have a good day and let's believe President Trump is wellon his way to making America Great Again. Can't you just imagine how much great our country will be after his second Term?
It is terribly unfortunate that President Trump forgot his 'n't' the other day. As an American, I truly appreciate him clarifying his mis-spoken moment. I would surely believe that all Americans would accept the good man's explanation. And...for those who are having issues with Mr. Trump just rememember: Obama, Obama or Hillary, Hillary.
Have a good day and let's believe President Trump is wellon his way to making America Great Again. Can't you just imagine how much great our country will be after his second Term?
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
The Way It Is!
The wisecracking lovable humorist of the early 1900's, Will Rogers once said, "All I know is what I read in the newspaper." I am so much luckier than Will Rogers in my 21st Century America.
Consider please, I read three (online) newspapers daily. After my reading exercise, I can then surf cable-television channels the remainder of the day and have one pundit after another explain what I read earlier, break things down and finally tell me what I should believe, what is 'fake news' and how I should vote in the next election.
I cannot wait to tune-in to Rush Limbaugh's radio show today so he can straighten out this recent attack on our President. Some folks are suggesting that Pres Trump sided with Russian dictator, Vladimir Putin on the question 'Did Russia interfere with America's 2016 presidential election. Why you can be sure Rush will have the answer. One of Rush's first best selling books, "The Way Things Ought To Be" is a manual for 'right' thinking people.
Sorry Will, you we're born too soon.
Consider please, I read three (online) newspapers daily. After my reading exercise, I can then surf cable-television channels the remainder of the day and have one pundit after another explain what I read earlier, break things down and finally tell me what I should believe, what is 'fake news' and how I should vote in the next election.
I cannot wait to tune-in to Rush Limbaugh's radio show today so he can straighten out this recent attack on our President. Some folks are suggesting that Pres Trump sided with Russian dictator, Vladimir Putin on the question 'Did Russia interfere with America's 2016 presidential election. Why you can be sure Rush will have the answer. One of Rush's first best selling books, "The Way Things Ought To Be" is a manual for 'right' thinking people.
Sorry Will, you we're born too soon.
Monday, July 16, 2018
True or False
How does that happen? How can that happen? How does that which is true or in accordance with facts become nebulous?
There appears a profound difference between people and their viewpoints in this 21st Century America. These deepening political and social chasms are greater today than at any other time in our nation's history. There has evolved a greater need for individuals to have their attitudes underpinned and supported by even the most questionable beliefs, narratives and alternative facts rather than embracing investigative efforts with open-mindedness attempting to uncover realities and truth.
I notice two elements driving this phenomenon. First, the entrenched ethnocentric traits held by all peoples. The attitude that 'mine is the best.' The 'race' to which I belong, the religious doctrine to which I subscribe and the political persuasion I embrace are superior to others. Secondly, for my profile to be better than yours, I must from time to time point out where you go awry and where 'my' attitudes are sustained. If I cannot accomplish this with 'real facts' then I must generate alternative facts. If I cannot accomplish this with a set of beliefs held, I must search for other beliefs to protect my positions and if necessary, should civil discourse fail to advance my cause then a more intolerant aggressive engagement will be adopted.
The unfortunate and negative fall out from this phenomenon is a society of antagonism, divisions, intolerance and separation. No longer do we seek 'the truth to set us free' but instead we seek word-manipulation and lies to support our deeply ingrained and insecure attitudes! Today, one's belief is one's reality...therefore it is my 'truth.'
We need to celebrate our similarities found in the human experience. We need to accentuate the positive and eliminate the negatives...and that's the TRUTH of our brief journey if it is to be glorious.
There appears a profound difference between people and their viewpoints in this 21st Century America. These deepening political and social chasms are greater today than at any other time in our nation's history. There has evolved a greater need for individuals to have their attitudes underpinned and supported by even the most questionable beliefs, narratives and alternative facts rather than embracing investigative efforts with open-mindedness attempting to uncover realities and truth.
I notice two elements driving this phenomenon. First, the entrenched ethnocentric traits held by all peoples. The attitude that 'mine is the best.' The 'race' to which I belong, the religious doctrine to which I subscribe and the political persuasion I embrace are superior to others. Secondly, for my profile to be better than yours, I must from time to time point out where you go awry and where 'my' attitudes are sustained. If I cannot accomplish this with 'real facts' then I must generate alternative facts. If I cannot accomplish this with a set of beliefs held, I must search for other beliefs to protect my positions and if necessary, should civil discourse fail to advance my cause then a more intolerant aggressive engagement will be adopted.
The unfortunate and negative fall out from this phenomenon is a society of antagonism, divisions, intolerance and separation. No longer do we seek 'the truth to set us free' but instead we seek word-manipulation and lies to support our deeply ingrained and insecure attitudes! Today, one's belief is one's reality...therefore it is my 'truth.'
We need to celebrate our similarities found in the human experience. We need to accentuate the positive and eliminate the negatives...and that's the TRUTH of our brief journey if it is to be glorious.
Friday, July 13, 2018
Happy Days Are On The Way
I recall some years ago, I read a study about the escalation of American corruption. As I remember back eight years ago, General corruption was up fifty percent while corporate corruption was up eighty percent. I have no reason to believe that hose figures are lessened today. That sturdy gave no statistics regarding government corruption but I'd guess perhaps it's up 300 percent. The take away for me back then and today is a simple notation: Who cares? The American people have become numb to corruption, gun violence and fraud.
We have arrived at a point in time where blame for these national blemishes created political finger-pointing that vents in the most divisive discourse known in American history. But....there's good news, especially for those of us who are 'seniors.'
Another study I came across gives me hope in light of these ugly mean-spirited times. It is reported in this study that "the older we become the happier we become." Once a person reaches age sixty-five they begin enjoying life more fully and the study concludes that this euphoric happiness increases with each five-year increment. In seven months, I hit the eighty-year old plateau, which marks another increment...looking forward to happier days and should I make ninety, I'll need a straight-jacket!
(Touch)
Happy Days
We have arrived at a point in time where blame for these national blemishes created political finger-pointing that vents in the most divisive discourse known in American history. But....there's good news, especially for those of us who are 'seniors.'
Another study I came across gives me hope in light of these ugly mean-spirited times. It is reported in this study that "the older we become the happier we become." Once a person reaches age sixty-five they begin enjoying life more fully and the study concludes that this euphoric happiness increases with each five-year increment. In seven months, I hit the eighty-year old plateau, which marks another increment...looking forward to happier days and should I make ninety, I'll need a straight-jacket!
(Touch)
Happy Days
Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Roadway Reading Material
Last week, I was positioned behind another automobile at several stop lights. It was one of those times when you seemingly get stopped by every light. It was not that frustrating because the auto in front of me was loaded with bumper and rear window stickers. As I read sticker after sticker a thought occurred; there appears on the part of some folks a strong desire to let others know much about their life.
The family in front of me voted for Trump, have a daughter on the middle school honor roll, own guns, didn't like Obama but do love the Cubs. They also appear to be dog lovers> Pit Bulls their breed choice. One sticker stated 'Tailgating is Deadly so Back Off.' The fella's wife is apparently not well...one sticker indicated 'Crazy B^*#h On Board.'
Mm
Their son plays football for a local high school and he is not a skill-player because his uniform number is 78. They wanted me to honk if I loved Jesus but since they loved guns, I passed on the invitation for fear of misinterpretation of the 'honk.' They financially supported the Sheriff's Association and they were very explicit about 'Love America or F*#~k Off.' ....Some stickers seemed to contradict other stickers.
The family in front of me voted for Trump, have a daughter on the middle school honor roll, own guns, didn't like Obama but do love the Cubs. They also appear to be dog lovers> Pit Bulls their breed choice. One sticker stated 'Tailgating is Deadly so Back Off.' The fella's wife is apparently not well...one sticker indicated 'Crazy B^*#h On Board.'
Mm
Their son plays football for a local high school and he is not a skill-player because his uniform number is 78. They wanted me to honk if I loved Jesus but since they loved guns, I passed on the invitation for fear of misinterpretation of the 'honk.' They financially supported the Sheriff's Association and they were very explicit about 'Love America or F*#~k Off.' ....Some stickers seemed to contradict other stickers.
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Keeping the Moment Light
For the past week, I have been dealing with an eye issue. More floaters than normal caused me to see
my ophthalmologist who dilated my eyes to examine retina stability. Seeing no tears of the retina, I was told to keep awareness to visual changes. My wife was my driver since dilation compromises vision.
Two days later, I began to notice some peripheral light flashing and returned to my eye doctor for another dilation and retina examination. Again, the doctor did not observe any retina abnormality.
Once again, my eye doctor told me that for two or three weeks I remain a high risk for retina tears and thus should not jump out of planes or go to Six Flags. I shall lay low and pray for the best.
On our second return-home trip from the doctor's office, my wife was driving and said, "If this eye problem does not clear up soon, you may need to see a 'rectal' specialist." I did not laugh assuming that she miss-spoke but instead considered the possibility that she was suggesting my head is in my derrière.
my ophthalmologist who dilated my eyes to examine retina stability. Seeing no tears of the retina, I was told to keep awareness to visual changes. My wife was my driver since dilation compromises vision.
Two days later, I began to notice some peripheral light flashing and returned to my eye doctor for another dilation and retina examination. Again, the doctor did not observe any retina abnormality.
Once again, my eye doctor told me that for two or three weeks I remain a high risk for retina tears and thus should not jump out of planes or go to Six Flags. I shall lay low and pray for the best.
On our second return-home trip from the doctor's office, my wife was driving and said, "If this eye problem does not clear up soon, you may need to see a 'rectal' specialist." I did not laugh assuming that she miss-spoke but instead considered the possibility that she was suggesting my head is in my derrière.
Monday, July 9, 2018
To Snoop or Not To Snoop
Last week while waiting for a Panera's luncheon companion, I overheard four women conversing in a nearby booth. They were debating their respective attitudes and philosophies regarding 'snooping' around their teen children's rooms. It was a pretty good debate since the opinions were split 50-50. Two mothers were adamant about respecting privacy rights of heir children while the other two moms felt an obligation to 'snoop' as a way to head off potential teenage problems should there be indicators.
I recalled my teen years under my parents roof. That totaled eighteen years and the experience had great clarity. I never once felt insecure, unwelcome or unloved. No sir! To the contrary, I sensed great love and support. Why, I never paid rent, insurance or bought food. I used the family automobile and never put gosoline in the vehicle. Come to think, I had a great financial gig going as a teenager. That noted, I never once thought that any part of our home was my exclusive territory. I assumed since my mother laundered my clothes, ironed them and put them away, she could examine anything in that house she darn well pleased!
Eventually, I went my own way, married, had children and 'snooped' on those kids. Today, I hope my grown children are 'snooping' on my grandchildren...'snooping' should be a family expectation and tradition if not a down-right family legacy.
I recalled my teen years under my parents roof. That totaled eighteen years and the experience had great clarity. I never once felt insecure, unwelcome or unloved. No sir! To the contrary, I sensed great love and support. Why, I never paid rent, insurance or bought food. I used the family automobile and never put gosoline in the vehicle. Come to think, I had a great financial gig going as a teenager. That noted, I never once thought that any part of our home was my exclusive territory. I assumed since my mother laundered my clothes, ironed them and put them away, she could examine anything in that house she darn well pleased!
Eventually, I went my own way, married, had children and 'snooped' on those kids. Today, I hope my grown children are 'snooping' on my grandchildren...'snooping' should be a family expectation and tradition if not a down-right family legacy.
Friday, July 6, 2018
My How Times Have Changed
The great sociologist/anthropologist, Margaret Mead died in 1978 at age 77. Mead once stated that she believed that the only American 'sexual revolution' occurred in the 1920's..those so called 'Roaring Twenties.' For goodness sakes she lived during he 1960's and the infamous 'Flower Child' and 'Woodstock' generation.
Over thirty percent of American teens are sexually active today. The age group 15-to-24 have fifty percent of all STD's. Twenty-five percent of women will move in with a romantic partner before age twenty. I think it's safe to say that Americans' have lost the type of innocence embraced in the 1940's-'50's.
May I offer a generational perception conflict. Simply put, how my mother saw things when I was a teen versus my viewpoint today? My mother told me back in the day and she would proclaim the same today, "Young kids can avoid unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases if they placed God in charge of their lives. I don't disagree with that concept, however I just accept the fact that fewer parents have kids in a religious setting, therefore the teen has nothing to 'counter,' (if you please), the normal biological urges gripping the young. My mother would oppose the practice of making condoms available; she would propose abstinence for the young and unmarried. Since many cannot control such urges, I say offer condoms to avoid compounding society's problems.
Earlier I mentioned the matter of living together before marriage. That percentage has seen drastic change. Credit or blame (whatever your perspective) goes to the feminist movement. Again, it was the decade of the '60's, which gave the greatest impetus to that feminist movement. Before that movement the parents' warning to the daughter was simple: 'You may lose him if it's free.' I suppose 'gender equity' blurs many previously well-define folkways and mores.'
The United States divorce rate is the highest of any industrialized country. A few years ago, it was estimated that nearly forty percent of marriages would end in divorce. That statistic is coming down...perhaps due to fewer young people getting married versus 'living together.'
Don't understand how Margaret Mead missed the biggest sexual revolution event. That said, I am not compelled to make judgments on either Mead or the 'movement' she missed.
Over thirty percent of American teens are sexually active today. The age group 15-to-24 have fifty percent of all STD's. Twenty-five percent of women will move in with a romantic partner before age twenty. I think it's safe to say that Americans' have lost the type of innocence embraced in the 1940's-'50's.
May I offer a generational perception conflict. Simply put, how my mother saw things when I was a teen versus my viewpoint today? My mother told me back in the day and she would proclaim the same today, "Young kids can avoid unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases if they placed God in charge of their lives. I don't disagree with that concept, however I just accept the fact that fewer parents have kids in a religious setting, therefore the teen has nothing to 'counter,' (if you please), the normal biological urges gripping the young. My mother would oppose the practice of making condoms available; she would propose abstinence for the young and unmarried. Since many cannot control such urges, I say offer condoms to avoid compounding society's problems.
Earlier I mentioned the matter of living together before marriage. That percentage has seen drastic change. Credit or blame (whatever your perspective) goes to the feminist movement. Again, it was the decade of the '60's, which gave the greatest impetus to that feminist movement. Before that movement the parents' warning to the daughter was simple: 'You may lose him if it's free.' I suppose 'gender equity' blurs many previously well-define folkways and mores.'
The United States divorce rate is the highest of any industrialized country. A few years ago, it was estimated that nearly forty percent of marriages would end in divorce. That statistic is coming down...perhaps due to fewer young people getting married versus 'living together.'
Don't understand how Margaret Mead missed the biggest sexual revolution event. That said, I am not compelled to make judgments on either Mead or the 'movement' she missed.
Thursday, July 5, 2018
Illogical? Absolutely! More likely Goofy.
There's a friend of mine in Southwestern Illinois who actually believes that God chose Donald Trump to be America's President. He's not alone. Many evangelical Christians, i.e., convicted felon, Jim Bakker, regardless of the obvious fact that Trump has few Christian traits, was chosen by God. I explained to my friend that I could come closer to proving Putin not God put Donald Trump in the White House.
Another bizarre perspective advanced by 'Trumpeteers' is the claim that President Trump has been treated worse than any other USA president in history. This type of erroneous belief underscores the rampant stupidity regarding American History. I offer the following names to those believing such poppycock: Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley and Kennedy.
Beyond goofy!
I think about a year after I was told that Santa Claus was an imaginary figure, I overheard a family friend, who was a professional wrestler explain to my parents 'how' every action in a pro wrestling match is orchestrated with a predetermined outcome before the combatants enter the ring. Regardless, millions of folks just enjoy deception even at the expense of their own victimization and it ain't just in professional wrestling arenas.
Another bizarre perspective advanced by 'Trumpeteers' is the claim that President Trump has been treated worse than any other USA president in history. This type of erroneous belief underscores the rampant stupidity regarding American History. I offer the following names to those believing such poppycock: Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley and Kennedy.
Beyond goofy!
I think about a year after I was told that Santa Claus was an imaginary figure, I overheard a family friend, who was a professional wrestler explain to my parents 'how' every action in a pro wrestling match is orchestrated with a predetermined outcome before the combatants enter the ring. Regardless, millions of folks just enjoy deception even at the expense of their own victimization and it ain't just in professional wrestling arenas.
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
A Thought for America
MEASURING UP TO SONG LYRICS...
"...America, America, God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control, thy liberty in law.
..And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea."
This writer's opinion> Perhaps our biggest 'flaw' is our inability to truly embrace 'brotherhood.'
(Touch)
America
"...America, America, God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control, thy liberty in law.
..And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea."
This writer's opinion> Perhaps our biggest 'flaw' is our inability to truly embrace 'brotherhood.'
(Touch)
America
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
A Rant WARNING
This emergency alert goes out to all married men especially those over the age of 55. The Hallmark Movie Channel has recently announced that it will once again be offering a steady diet of 'Christmas In July Movies.'
The following are reminders and tips for the men to grasp Hallmark Christmas Movie concepts, themes and 'matchups:'
1. All actors are handsome, all actresses are beautiful. The Hallmark Movie directors reject any notion of 'ordinary looking' folks. Even parents and grandparents of principal characters are 'lookers.'
2. The basic theme is always centered on the love-triangle concept...I said Always!
3. Regarding a rivalry between two men seeking the affection of a woman or two women shaking their tail-feathers for some fella, you can anticipate those two vying for winner's rights have totally different personalities. One is kind and caring while the other is a tad bit self-centered. This obvious casting concept reduces anxiety for the stress-vulnerable senior-set, which makes up the larger portion of Hallmark Movie viewers.
4. It's a Christmas movie folks! Expect a snowball fight near the end.
5. Occasionally, their is a child involved in the plot. A widow or widower will eventually 'see clearly' the correct romantic choice through the eyes of the kid.
Finally, Hallmark Movies are a relaxing entertainment experience. One does not feel frustration waiting for some devious plot to unfold over a two-hour showing. Nope! You will have it all figured out within the first seven minutes. This allows you to easily multi-task, i.e., knit or nap.
The following are reminders and tips for the men to grasp Hallmark Christmas Movie concepts, themes and 'matchups:'
1. All actors are handsome, all actresses are beautiful. The Hallmark Movie directors reject any notion of 'ordinary looking' folks. Even parents and grandparents of principal characters are 'lookers.'
2. The basic theme is always centered on the love-triangle concept...I said Always!
3. Regarding a rivalry between two men seeking the affection of a woman or two women shaking their tail-feathers for some fella, you can anticipate those two vying for winner's rights have totally different personalities. One is kind and caring while the other is a tad bit self-centered. This obvious casting concept reduces anxiety for the stress-vulnerable senior-set, which makes up the larger portion of Hallmark Movie viewers.
4. It's a Christmas movie folks! Expect a snowball fight near the end.
5. Occasionally, their is a child involved in the plot. A widow or widower will eventually 'see clearly' the correct romantic choice through the eyes of the kid.
Finally, Hallmark Movies are a relaxing entertainment experience. One does not feel frustration waiting for some devious plot to unfold over a two-hour showing. Nope! You will have it all figured out within the first seven minutes. This allows you to easily multi-task, i.e., knit or nap.
Monday, July 2, 2018
Lasting Friends
I suppose there are several ways to depict and define a true friendship. Immediately coming to mind is the last line delivered by actor Richard Dryfus in the classic movie, Stand By Me>"I never had any friends later on in life like the ones I had when I was 12 Jesus, does anyone?" Perhaps the great truth in that premise is anchored in the obvious; our childhood friendships are unvarnished with no pretense for we all know from whence we all came.
Some would argue and make a good case that a true friend is evident when a person embraces and comes to aid or defense of another who is alone or chastised. Of course we all have those 'friends' we seek to be with because of common interests and like-minded thoughts and interests.
I shall offer still another definition of a sincere and real friendship. It is that relationship, which sustains through the years even though miles separate the one-time intense association. You know the one of which I speak. It's those individuals or couples who were once in close proximity in a work environment or a common cause and after long periods of separation they reunite in conversation and laughter as though they have seen one another daily throughout the years. Gerry and I reunited with such friends this past Saturday for a long lunch.
It was likely fifty years ago that the Roustio's had such an enjoyable sharing with Jerry and Marianne Sullivan. The ties that bind us are rooted in Mason City basketball. Jerry had been an assistant basketball coach for the 'Huskies' one season before I arrived in 1964. He remained my assistant during my three year Mason City tenure. When I left Mason City for the Washington High School basketball position, I was delighted to recommend Jerry for the head 'Huskies' job and the school board made the right decision. Jerry completed an outstanding 22-years mentoring those teams.
As we embraced our long ago friends in restaurant setting and began our conversational exchanges, time was easily erased as if it had stood still. So blessed that our paths crossed and we reconnected.
Those who read these words also have such friends. I hope you can re-unite. I thank Marianne Sullivan for making our reunion happen.
Some would argue and make a good case that a true friend is evident when a person embraces and comes to aid or defense of another who is alone or chastised. Of course we all have those 'friends' we seek to be with because of common interests and like-minded thoughts and interests.
I shall offer still another definition of a sincere and real friendship. It is that relationship, which sustains through the years even though miles separate the one-time intense association. You know the one of which I speak. It's those individuals or couples who were once in close proximity in a work environment or a common cause and after long periods of separation they reunite in conversation and laughter as though they have seen one another daily throughout the years. Gerry and I reunited with such friends this past Saturday for a long lunch.
It was likely fifty years ago that the Roustio's had such an enjoyable sharing with Jerry and Marianne Sullivan. The ties that bind us are rooted in Mason City basketball. Jerry had been an assistant basketball coach for the 'Huskies' one season before I arrived in 1964. He remained my assistant during my three year Mason City tenure. When I left Mason City for the Washington High School basketball position, I was delighted to recommend Jerry for the head 'Huskies' job and the school board made the right decision. Jerry completed an outstanding 22-years mentoring those teams.
As we embraced our long ago friends in restaurant setting and began our conversational exchanges, time was easily erased as if it had stood still. So blessed that our paths crossed and we reconnected.
Those who read these words also have such friends. I hope you can re-unite. I thank Marianne Sullivan for making our reunion happen.
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