It was a mere 365-days ago when we book-marked a time period as 2019. In a blink of an eye we repeat our celebratory moment as we reflect on yesterday and embrace hope in tomorrow. As life continues to long for itself, we suspected interlopers tend to define this journey in self-serving terms. How did 2019 treat 'me' and what can 'I' hope for in 2020? In spite of our tendency towards self-desires it is obvious to most that our hopes, fears and experiences are similar.
This past year's journey undoubtedly exposed our human vulnerabilities, lifted our spirits, created anxiety, placed us in times of both joyous celebration and deep sorrow. We likely got caught up in current events and those debates that separate us in political philosophy and personal faith. I'm sure toleration and consideration for others was tested.
A new beginning perhaps will help us to re-shape our manner of engagement with those who share these times. I am reminded this final day of 2019: 'If it's machinery it will break; if it's animal it will die; everything else will change.' And...Only Father Time goes Undefeated.
Happy New Beginning...once again. I wish you peace of spirit.
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Sunday, December 29, 2019
Midnight Musings
During those thirty-seven high school basketball coaching seasons, I often woke up in the after mid-night hours thinking of some coaching strategy or if after a game the night before, my first awakened thought was 'Did we win or lose last night?' I don't do that any longer and it stands to reason for I no longer have a team and that remains the greatest thing I miss from my coaching years...I don't have a team.
I still wake up occasionally at those 'wee hours' but my thoughts are often on an array of other matters. Just last night, I woke up at 2:00 AM and could not get back to sleep. I wondered two things: 1) Who decided which Presidents' busts would be sculptured on Mount Rushmore and 2) If that decision was to be made today, which four busts would be chosen for The Black Hills of South Dakota?
Not to casually dismiss this thought process, I got out of bed and did some research. I discovered that President Calvin Coolidge signed off on Congress' funding of the Mount Rushmore project and the four Presidents chosen were done so at the discretion of sculpture Gutzon Borglum. George Washington, Borglum reasoned was the father of this new democracy. Borglum believed Thomas Jefferson penned the Declaration of Independence that would serve as a democracy model for all nations. The talented stone carver believed Theodore Roosevelt represented America's development and Abraham Lincoln preserved the Union.
When my Wikipedia reading was complete, I settled back and gave personal thought to a re-design of Mount Rushmore. Since the time of Sculpture Borglum's decision there have been 15-additional American Presidents. I carefully considered those 15- Presidents since Coolidge wondering should any displace current Rushmore Honorees. My answer? Yes.
I would keep George, Abe and Thomas but replace Teddy with fifth cousin FDR. Honorable Mention went to Dwight Eisenhower and Harry Truman. I'd offer my reasoning but you need to do your own research...or you can wait until somebody tells you how and what to think on the Internet. I'm going back to bed.
Who's on YOU'RE Mount Rushmore?
I still wake up occasionally at those 'wee hours' but my thoughts are often on an array of other matters. Just last night, I woke up at 2:00 AM and could not get back to sleep. I wondered two things: 1) Who decided which Presidents' busts would be sculptured on Mount Rushmore and 2) If that decision was to be made today, which four busts would be chosen for The Black Hills of South Dakota?
Not to casually dismiss this thought process, I got out of bed and did some research. I discovered that President Calvin Coolidge signed off on Congress' funding of the Mount Rushmore project and the four Presidents chosen were done so at the discretion of sculpture Gutzon Borglum. George Washington, Borglum reasoned was the father of this new democracy. Borglum believed Thomas Jefferson penned the Declaration of Independence that would serve as a democracy model for all nations. The talented stone carver believed Theodore Roosevelt represented America's development and Abraham Lincoln preserved the Union.
When my Wikipedia reading was complete, I settled back and gave personal thought to a re-design of Mount Rushmore. Since the time of Sculpture Borglum's decision there have been 15-additional American Presidents. I carefully considered those 15- Presidents since Coolidge wondering should any displace current Rushmore Honorees. My answer? Yes.
I would keep George, Abe and Thomas but replace Teddy with fifth cousin FDR. Honorable Mention went to Dwight Eisenhower and Harry Truman. I'd offer my reasoning but you need to do your own research...or you can wait until somebody tells you how and what to think on the Internet. I'm going back to bed.
Who's on YOU'RE Mount Rushmore?
Sunday, December 22, 2019
A Spirit Bruised but Not Broken
I pen these thoughts with two-fold reasoning: First, as an opportunity to cleanse my mind entering the New Year as I admit that I have guilt; secondly, I share the thoughts for your judgment of this writer or your personal examination, as you wish.
Each day, I read the news, listen to the national discourse and consider the pundints' analysis only to be left in a fog of societal divisiveness, bitter finger pointing and a greater separation from human decency and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
I am a product of a youth that feared an imaginary boogieman. Today, my grandchildren face real evil at every turn. Youngsters cannot ride bicycles across town and spend endless hours with friends. Their school fire drills may be familiar to years ago as they practice orderly escape routes but these drills are not to be confused with 'active shooter' drills, which are more likely to be used. Too often mass shooting stories lead the evening news. I am saddened.
Many days find us watching television and praying for those in the path of some natural disaster, i.e. Floods, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes or earthquakes. Often times, our people lose sight of rescue assistance for the needy but instead become entangled in some angry attack of a government leaders. I personally feel frustration attempting to process and apply my professed Christian principles against the secular debate for action. I carry guilt regarding the landscape that will be inherited by my grandchildren and great grandchildren.
I have fallen victim to more close-mindedness and the self-serving desire to 'be right' rather than 'getting it right.' I often wonder if that comes with senior-intolerance or perhaps my allowing immature blaming of others to invade my once anchored Christian beliefs in goodness towards all at all times, in all circumstances.
I must re-think. I must remind myself at the dawn of each new day that I can stand for something without vilifying those who stand against me and go forth each day and live in a manner to exemplify that goodness, which I seemingly have ignored. My spirit is bruised but my resolve must keep it unbroken.
Each day, I read the news, listen to the national discourse and consider the pundints' analysis only to be left in a fog of societal divisiveness, bitter finger pointing and a greater separation from human decency and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
I am a product of a youth that feared an imaginary boogieman. Today, my grandchildren face real evil at every turn. Youngsters cannot ride bicycles across town and spend endless hours with friends. Their school fire drills may be familiar to years ago as they practice orderly escape routes but these drills are not to be confused with 'active shooter' drills, which are more likely to be used. Too often mass shooting stories lead the evening news. I am saddened.
Many days find us watching television and praying for those in the path of some natural disaster, i.e. Floods, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes or earthquakes. Often times, our people lose sight of rescue assistance for the needy but instead become entangled in some angry attack of a government leaders. I personally feel frustration attempting to process and apply my professed Christian principles against the secular debate for action. I carry guilt regarding the landscape that will be inherited by my grandchildren and great grandchildren.
I have fallen victim to more close-mindedness and the self-serving desire to 'be right' rather than 'getting it right.' I often wonder if that comes with senior-intolerance or perhaps my allowing immature blaming of others to invade my once anchored Christian beliefs in goodness towards all at all times, in all circumstances.
I must re-think. I must remind myself at the dawn of each new day that I can stand for something without vilifying those who stand against me and go forth each day and live in a manner to exemplify that goodness, which I seemingly have ignored. My spirit is bruised but my resolve must keep it unbroken.
Thursday, December 19, 2019
Random..."moments to remember."
In 1955, the Four Lads singing group released what would become a top hit song laced with nostalgia
recollections. The song lyrics enumerated a list of happy times labeled as "Moments to Remember." I suppose most adults can harken back to those high school days, which indeed render the sweet and perhaps bitter-sweet times of carefree teenage years.
I believe "moments to remember" don't end with our teen journey but continue throughout our lives. Many stapled-moments certainly continued for this writer and I gladly share some with you today as I offer each as a perceived blessing. Please know that my 'moments to remember' are both sweet and tender as well as sad and heart wrenching. Nonetheless, these moments have gripped my heart, shaped my journey and strengthened my walk with Christ. Speaking of Christ, I remember the revival meeting and the preacher the night I answered an alter call and committed my life to God; I was 12-years old.
I remember that sweet shared kiss after exchanged "I Do's," which culminated a seven year courtship with my now wife of 59-years. That remembered-moment is a springboard to a plethora of many cherished moments-to-remember... The birth of three children remain vivid as my anxiousness evaporated knowing a healthy child entered my world of responsibilities. There is no moment that offers a keener sense of a Creator/God than that midnight hour moment while pressing a crying baby against my chest while rocking it to sleep.
Oh my, I recall that moment my wife and I left a child on a college campus and drove away with tears. I was torn inside with mixed emotions with the knowledge that the parent-child relationship journey in that moment changed forever. As life continues to long for itself, I recall many moments of joy in the accomplishments of my children, their moments of wedding celebrations and the joys of grand-children and great grand-children and their experiences.
I remember heart-gripping family death-vigil moments as my wife and I held the hands of parents and grandparents who slowly slipped away from their respective earthly journeys. Those were perhaps the most reflective hours in my personal journey. Those quiet and sober moments conjured up endless joys, blueprints for living and the reality loss.
I have a post it at my bedside, which I read every morning. It reads: 'Today offers a chance to make ouch a life and make a memory.' You also have the same daily offer.
recollections. The song lyrics enumerated a list of happy times labeled as "Moments to Remember." I suppose most adults can harken back to those high school days, which indeed render the sweet and perhaps bitter-sweet times of carefree teenage years.
I believe "moments to remember" don't end with our teen journey but continue throughout our lives. Many stapled-moments certainly continued for this writer and I gladly share some with you today as I offer each as a perceived blessing. Please know that my 'moments to remember' are both sweet and tender as well as sad and heart wrenching. Nonetheless, these moments have gripped my heart, shaped my journey and strengthened my walk with Christ. Speaking of Christ, I remember the revival meeting and the preacher the night I answered an alter call and committed my life to God; I was 12-years old.
I remember that sweet shared kiss after exchanged "I Do's," which culminated a seven year courtship with my now wife of 59-years. That remembered-moment is a springboard to a plethora of many cherished moments-to-remember... The birth of three children remain vivid as my anxiousness evaporated knowing a healthy child entered my world of responsibilities. There is no moment that offers a keener sense of a Creator/God than that midnight hour moment while pressing a crying baby against my chest while rocking it to sleep.
Oh my, I recall that moment my wife and I left a child on a college campus and drove away with tears. I was torn inside with mixed emotions with the knowledge that the parent-child relationship journey in that moment changed forever. As life continues to long for itself, I recall many moments of joy in the accomplishments of my children, their moments of wedding celebrations and the joys of grand-children and great grand-children and their experiences.
I remember heart-gripping family death-vigil moments as my wife and I held the hands of parents and grandparents who slowly slipped away from their respective earthly journeys. Those were perhaps the most reflective hours in my personal journey. Those quiet and sober moments conjured up endless joys, blueprints for living and the reality loss.
I have a post it at my bedside, which I read every morning. It reads: 'Today offers a chance to make ouch a life and make a memory.' You also have the same daily offer.
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
That's My Take
The recently completed House of Representatives impeachment hearings saw numerous witnesses called to testify. The preponderance of their testimony was an indictment of President Trump, which caused the House Democrats to settle on two articles of impeachment, which they will likely pass along to the Senate for a trial.
Finally, the GOP Senators who have constantly pointed out how the House process was flawed and noted that Trump was handicapped by not being able to 'call' witnesses, will be is a position of control and thus can exercise a proper process allowing Trump to call in witnesses to exonerate him of all bogus claims of wrong-doing.
I just can't wait to see this right-way process implemented and a constitutionally fair trial with witnesses.
Finally, the GOP Senators who have constantly pointed out how the House process was flawed and noted that Trump was handicapped by not being able to 'call' witnesses, will be is a position of control and thus can exercise a proper process allowing Trump to call in witnesses to exonerate him of all bogus claims of wrong-doing.
I just can't wait to see this right-way process implemented and a constitutionally fair trial with witnesses.
Monday, December 16, 2019
"A New Commandment I Give You..."
I suppose my wife is like millions of American women who enjoys the Hallmark Channel, which airs endless television Christmas love stories. She can lock into a marathon of those back-to-back chick-flicks. Occasionally, I watch the first three minutes of a Hallmark Channel Christmas movie just to irritate her with my sarcastic tongue-in check comments, i.e., "Oh boy, lots of snow, bet there's gunna be a snowball fight." Or "The brunette is my pick for the girl the fella's gunna choose." At some point, my wife quickly suggests (among other things) that I leave the room.
My wife is unlike many viewers who threatened to boycott Hallmark over the Zola wedding planner ad recently aired on the Hallmark Channel, which depicted two lesbians kissing after their wedding.
Go figure, eh? These far right conservative-Evangelical folks are the same people who fail to connect the dots of two parents named (Joseph and Mary) who fled their village with son, Jesus seeking refuge from violence to the (foreign) parents seeking refuge and safety at our Southwest borders. Personally, as a grandparent, I'm not bothered one iota by my grandkids seeing two lesbians or two gay men kissing. Nope, not as much as I am by the reality that my grandkids and great-grandkids must practice 'active-shooter-drills' periodically because it may save their lives between recess and lunch at their elementary school. Yet the same conservative-Evangelicals who get in a dither about sex don't give two-hoots about children in harms way in a society, which is permissive with automatic weapons ownership.
Seems anymore if you're not 'white and straight, you're subject to hate.'
..."Love one another as I have loved you." And..."Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me."
My wife is unlike many viewers who threatened to boycott Hallmark over the Zola wedding planner ad recently aired on the Hallmark Channel, which depicted two lesbians kissing after their wedding.
Go figure, eh? These far right conservative-Evangelical folks are the same people who fail to connect the dots of two parents named (Joseph and Mary) who fled their village with son, Jesus seeking refuge from violence to the (foreign) parents seeking refuge and safety at our Southwest borders. Personally, as a grandparent, I'm not bothered one iota by my grandkids seeing two lesbians or two gay men kissing. Nope, not as much as I am by the reality that my grandkids and great-grandkids must practice 'active-shooter-drills' periodically because it may save their lives between recess and lunch at their elementary school. Yet the same conservative-Evangelicals who get in a dither about sex don't give two-hoots about children in harms way in a society, which is permissive with automatic weapons ownership.
Seems anymore if you're not 'white and straight, you're subject to hate.'
..."Love one another as I have loved you." And..."Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me."
Thursday, December 12, 2019
Keeping My List to Groceries
I have never been one to seriously focus on New Year's Resolutions. I believe my reluctance to itemize such thoughts is anchored in two realities: first, I likely won't keep these grandiose pledges and secondly, this time of year already holds enough pressure without producing a document that confirms my weaknesses and failures of the past 365 days.
Look, I've been under the gun to complete a coordination-responsibility of a sports' tournament, meet numerous year-end medical appointments for both my wife and me, when I no sooner return from tossing that gross Thanksgiving turkey carcass and I hear my wife's voice telling me to get the Christmas decorations from the attic and blah, blah...
After putting up far too many decorations, which few people notice, I must have enough energy to be a pleasant host to our family gathering of 25+, watch an endless number of college football games and then put away all those decorations before heading South for a couple of months. I don't have time to give serious thinking to a New Year's resolution list...but should I, the list would resemble something like this...with a rationale:
1) Reduce my weight from 200-to-195...because most people put weight reduction on this list.
2) Stop dissing on Republicans who support President Trump...because it makes no difference.
3) Think calming thoughts when a baseball analyst mentions 'launch angle'...my blood pressure!
4) Look for a morning coffee group to join because my wife says I need some buddies.
5) Remember to take the dog for morning walks...therefore avoiding resolution #4.
6) Watch more movies on television...thus avoid depressing news.
7) Do more cooking...it's a fun passion trying new recipes.
8) Reshape backyard landscaping...because it's barren after removal of two 85-year old Ash trees.
9) *Try to figure out the following statements:
February 17, 2016..."I think he (Trump) is a kook. I think he's crazy. I think he's unfit for
Office." Lindsey Graham
November 30, 2017..."The media tries to paint Trump as a kook and unfit for office."
Lindsey Graham
*Note: Do you see the futility in this New Years resolution list? I've already broken #2
Look, I've been under the gun to complete a coordination-responsibility of a sports' tournament, meet numerous year-end medical appointments for both my wife and me, when I no sooner return from tossing that gross Thanksgiving turkey carcass and I hear my wife's voice telling me to get the Christmas decorations from the attic and blah, blah...
After putting up far too many decorations, which few people notice, I must have enough energy to be a pleasant host to our family gathering of 25+, watch an endless number of college football games and then put away all those decorations before heading South for a couple of months. I don't have time to give serious thinking to a New Year's resolution list...but should I, the list would resemble something like this...with a rationale:
1) Reduce my weight from 200-to-195...because most people put weight reduction on this list.
2) Stop dissing on Republicans who support President Trump...because it makes no difference.
3) Think calming thoughts when a baseball analyst mentions 'launch angle'...my blood pressure!
4) Look for a morning coffee group to join because my wife says I need some buddies.
5) Remember to take the dog for morning walks...therefore avoiding resolution #4.
6) Watch more movies on television...thus avoid depressing news.
7) Do more cooking...it's a fun passion trying new recipes.
8) Reshape backyard landscaping...because it's barren after removal of two 85-year old Ash trees.
9) *Try to figure out the following statements:
February 17, 2016..."I think he (Trump) is a kook. I think he's crazy. I think he's unfit for
Office." Lindsey Graham
November 30, 2017..."The media tries to paint Trump as a kook and unfit for office."
Lindsey Graham
*Note: Do you see the futility in this New Years resolution list? I've already broken #2
Friday, December 6, 2019
Well, That's My Three Picks
Sure you do. As do I. Once in awhile you think in terms of like-lists. Somebody may ask you what is you favorite pie or candy or movie, etc. We have all experienced a variety of things and consequently, we begin to categorize favorite things and a list is born. So here goes with some of my 'listed' favorites: (I'll keep it to a 3-pick list).
Movie (drama): To Kill a Mockingbird / Godfather / Gone With The Wind
Movie (comedy): Christmas Vacation / Blazing Saddles / No Time For Sergeants
Movie (suspense): Rear Window / Silence of the Lamb / Psycho
Movie (Western): Tombstone / Rio Bravo / Unforgiven
Movie Actresses: Meryl Streep / Katherine Hepburn / Elizabeth Taylor
Movie Actors: Tom Hanks / Marlon Brando / Jack Nicholson
Baseball Position Players: Ozzie Smith / Brooks Robinson / Willie Mays
Baseball Hitters: Ted Williams / Stan Musial / Pete Rose
Baseball Pitchers: Sandy Koufax / Bob Gibson / Warren Spahn
Basketball Players: Michael Jordan / Wilt Chamberlain / Pete Maravich
Football Quarterbacks: Johnny Unitas / Joe Montana / Tom Brady
Football Running Backs: Barry Sanders / Walter Payton / Jim Brown
Football Linebackers: Dick Butkus / Lawrence Taylor / Ray Lewis
Best Presidents: Abe Lincoln / FDR / George Washington
Best TV Dramas: The Sopranos/ ER / St. Elsewhere
Best TV Variety Shows: Ed Sullivan / Show of Shows / Carol Burnett
Best TV Comedy Sitcom: All In The Family / Big Bang Theory / Friends
Best Male Vocalist: Frank Sinatra / Ray Charles / Elvis
Best Female Vocalist: Rosemary Clooney / Etta James / Celine Dion
Best Male Group Singers: Temptations/ Four Seasons / Platters
Best Female Group Singers: McGuire Sisters / Supremes / The Shirelles
Saddest Scenarios: Trump pretending to be Presidential / Evangelicals pretending to be Christian and
Rudy Giuliani pretending to be a Statesman.
Movie (drama): To Kill a Mockingbird / Godfather / Gone With The Wind
Movie (comedy): Christmas Vacation / Blazing Saddles / No Time For Sergeants
Movie (suspense): Rear Window / Silence of the Lamb / Psycho
Movie (Western): Tombstone / Rio Bravo / Unforgiven
Movie Actresses: Meryl Streep / Katherine Hepburn / Elizabeth Taylor
Movie Actors: Tom Hanks / Marlon Brando / Jack Nicholson
Baseball Position Players: Ozzie Smith / Brooks Robinson / Willie Mays
Baseball Hitters: Ted Williams / Stan Musial / Pete Rose
Baseball Pitchers: Sandy Koufax / Bob Gibson / Warren Spahn
Basketball Players: Michael Jordan / Wilt Chamberlain / Pete Maravich
Football Quarterbacks: Johnny Unitas / Joe Montana / Tom Brady
Football Running Backs: Barry Sanders / Walter Payton / Jim Brown
Football Linebackers: Dick Butkus / Lawrence Taylor / Ray Lewis
Best Presidents: Abe Lincoln / FDR / George Washington
Best TV Dramas: The Sopranos/ ER / St. Elsewhere
Best TV Variety Shows: Ed Sullivan / Show of Shows / Carol Burnett
Best TV Comedy Sitcom: All In The Family / Big Bang Theory / Friends
Best Male Vocalist: Frank Sinatra / Ray Charles / Elvis
Best Female Vocalist: Rosemary Clooney / Etta James / Celine Dion
Best Male Group Singers: Temptations/ Four Seasons / Platters
Best Female Group Singers: McGuire Sisters / Supremes / The Shirelles
Saddest Scenarios: Trump pretending to be Presidential / Evangelicals pretending to be Christian and
Rudy Giuliani pretending to be a Statesman.
Monday, December 2, 2019
Can't Help The Anticipation
Frequently there are settings, circumstances and scenarios that cause us to have some additional expectations. When I go to a religious church service, I expect there will be an offering calling.
When I hear the trumpet sound, Dada, dada, da dot da dah!...I expect sports fans will yell, "Charge!"
If I walk into my favorite bakery, I anticipate the inviting aroma of baking dough.
Recently, I have viewed several television interviews with United States Senator, John Kennedy from Louisiana. Now Kennedy is a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump. Kennedy, like his President wants others to believe that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 American election...not just Russia as reported by our various intelligence agencies.
When the marshy bayou-mush-mouth Senator speaks in his high-pitched tone, I cannot help but to expect at any moment that bib-coveralls-wearing, Junior Samples will pop-up behind Kennedy and yell out, "HEE HAW!"
When I hear the trumpet sound, Dada, dada, da dot da dah!...I expect sports fans will yell, "Charge!"
If I walk into my favorite bakery, I anticipate the inviting aroma of baking dough.
Recently, I have viewed several television interviews with United States Senator, John Kennedy from Louisiana. Now Kennedy is a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump. Kennedy, like his President wants others to believe that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 American election...not just Russia as reported by our various intelligence agencies.
When the marshy bayou-mush-mouth Senator speaks in his high-pitched tone, I cannot help but to expect at any moment that bib-coveralls-wearing, Junior Samples will pop-up behind Kennedy and yell out, "HEE HAW!"
Saturday, November 23, 2019
Recent Random Reflections
I suspect many others reading these words have also had such thoughts. Nevertheless for what it's worth>
1. The death of the second parent is the most difficult as it signals closure of the parent-child relationship.
2. You know you're in the right profession when somebody says, "I don't think that can be done," and you relish the challenge.
3. Only child of one family married to only child of another family is a bigger crap-shoot and than baby of one family married to baby of another family.
4. You'll be happier at the holidays if you place zero expectations on your children...and they'll be happier also.
5. I'd rather 'see' a sermon than 'hear' a sermon.
6. I recall in youth when Grandpa E.V. Bennett said to my Mammy, "Mary, that telephone is the Devil's tool; it surely begs for gossip." I cannot imagine what E. V. would say about Internet Facebook.
7. The one time I do believe God would accept a lie is when people ask you, "How you doing?"
8. If you marry the right person then unexpected water in your basement today becomes a bonding memory tomorrow.
9. If a young couple can, they should have more than one child...it ensures family-conduit-love.
10. If you can't verify it, don't repeat it. If it's not yours, walk on by. If it's your error own it.
11. Keep it mind, stormy rains and wind come to an end as sure as night gives way to dawn.
1. The death of the second parent is the most difficult as it signals closure of the parent-child relationship.
2. You know you're in the right profession when somebody says, "I don't think that can be done," and you relish the challenge.
3. Only child of one family married to only child of another family is a bigger crap-shoot and than baby of one family married to baby of another family.
4. You'll be happier at the holidays if you place zero expectations on your children...and they'll be happier also.
5. I'd rather 'see' a sermon than 'hear' a sermon.
6. I recall in youth when Grandpa E.V. Bennett said to my Mammy, "Mary, that telephone is the Devil's tool; it surely begs for gossip." I cannot imagine what E. V. would say about Internet Facebook.
7. The one time I do believe God would accept a lie is when people ask you, "How you doing?"
8. If you marry the right person then unexpected water in your basement today becomes a bonding memory tomorrow.
9. If a young couple can, they should have more than one child...it ensures family-conduit-love.
10. If you can't verify it, don't repeat it. If it's not yours, walk on by. If it's your error own it.
11. Keep it mind, stormy rains and wind come to an end as sure as night gives way to dawn.
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
It's a Goose &'Gander Story
In 2008, Illinois Governor, Rod Blagojevich was charged with corruption. He conspired to commit several 'pay-to-play' schemes. Blagojevich had the authority to appoint someone to fill the vacated
U. S. Senate seat by Barrack Obama when Obama was elected President. Blagojevich was sentenced to 14-years in federal,prison.
President Donald J. Trump withheld tax payers monies approved by the United States Congress for Ukraine's defense and security. Trump, like Blagojevich used his authority to offer a bribe to the Ukrainian government. Trump told Ukraine's President that he would release the monies if the Ukrainian President publicly announced that they were investigating the 2016 election interference by Ukraine, which has been debunked and investigate Joe Biden and his son, Hunter.
Obviously, Trump should be impeached and removed from office but furthermore, he should go to prison. Now we know why Trump is considering a Presidential pardon for Blagojevich.
U. S. Senate seat by Barrack Obama when Obama was elected President. Blagojevich was sentenced to 14-years in federal,prison.
President Donald J. Trump withheld tax payers monies approved by the United States Congress for Ukraine's defense and security. Trump, like Blagojevich used his authority to offer a bribe to the Ukrainian government. Trump told Ukraine's President that he would release the monies if the Ukrainian President publicly announced that they were investigating the 2016 election interference by Ukraine, which has been debunked and investigate Joe Biden and his son, Hunter.
Obviously, Trump should be impeached and removed from office but furthermore, he should go to prison. Now we know why Trump is considering a Presidential pardon for Blagojevich.
Trump IS The MOST Transparent President Ever!
Transparent is defined as: 'Easy to perceive or detect.' 'Open to Public Scrutiny.' That said, one can 'see' right through Trump and the GOP lawmakers who defend him.
Consider...
1. Trump and others claim that Donald Trump was athletic with great physical abilities and prowess.
2. 1968...22-year old Donald Trump received a medical deferment for 'heel spurs,' which kept him out of military combat.
3. 2015...At an Ames, Iowa 'Leadership Summit,' Trump says, "Senator John McCain (former prisoner of war) was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who don't get captured."
4. 2016...Candidate Trump belittles Gold Star (Muslim) family whose son was killed in Iraq (2004)
5. 2019...Trump shows his love and patriotism for the USA as he hugs the American flag while appearing at CPAC. (Note: He loves the country but dodges the draft and disparages those military vets who were captured defending THAT flag).
6. 2019...President Trump diverts 3.8 billion dollars from the military to building a Mexico border wall.
At yesterday's impeachment hearing, Republican House Representatives ruthlessly attacked LT. Col. Alexander Vindman, a decorated soldier who received the Purple Heart in Iraq for coming forth and testifying about President 'Bone Spurs' desire to have Ukraine investigate Joe and Hunter Biden while withholding military aid from Ukraine. Now, that's really Transparent!
Personally, I believe President Trump and his Republican supporters are the most transparent group of politicians this Nation has ever known...their motives are obvious and you can 'SEE' right through them. And to think this clown has the audacity to chastise a Black NFL player who expresses social protest by kneeling during the National Anthem. What crap!
Consider...
1. Trump and others claim that Donald Trump was athletic with great physical abilities and prowess.
2. 1968...22-year old Donald Trump received a medical deferment for 'heel spurs,' which kept him out of military combat.
3. 2015...At an Ames, Iowa 'Leadership Summit,' Trump says, "Senator John McCain (former prisoner of war) was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who don't get captured."
4. 2016...Candidate Trump belittles Gold Star (Muslim) family whose son was killed in Iraq (2004)
5. 2019...Trump shows his love and patriotism for the USA as he hugs the American flag while appearing at CPAC. (Note: He loves the country but dodges the draft and disparages those military vets who were captured defending THAT flag).
6. 2019...President Trump diverts 3.8 billion dollars from the military to building a Mexico border wall.
At yesterday's impeachment hearing, Republican House Representatives ruthlessly attacked LT. Col. Alexander Vindman, a decorated soldier who received the Purple Heart in Iraq for coming forth and testifying about President 'Bone Spurs' desire to have Ukraine investigate Joe and Hunter Biden while withholding military aid from Ukraine. Now, that's really Transparent!
Personally, I believe President Trump and his Republican supporters are the most transparent group of politicians this Nation has ever known...their motives are obvious and you can 'SEE' right through them. And to think this clown has the audacity to chastise a Black NFL player who expresses social protest by kneeling during the National Anthem. What crap!
Sunday, November 17, 2019
Mental Refreshing Exercises
For several years running, I have taken 10-minutes every day to find a quiet secluded dark place, close my eyes and try to refresh my mind with various thoughts. I may think of past events or experiences, which were particularly pleasing, memorable or exciting. Perhaps I focus on humor or family or maybe I simply recall Song verses from yesteryear. I can affirm that the time spent is relaxing and causes me to practice both recall and imagination.
I particularly enjoy 'thinking' of humor and what might be. Just two days ago, I hit on a mental refresher exercise moment that caused my head to 'swim.' You know that feeling. You have an incredible time trying to 'get your head around something' and it's damn near impossible.
I was thinking of the number of people in President Trump's administration who have been indicted for criminality, found guilty or pleaded guilty and have gone to prison or will be going to prison. Hot damn that's a long list: It appears that nearly three dozen people in and around Trump's Presidency have been indicted. Okay, here comes the humorous part: In your wildest thoughts can you possibly imagine if these criminal indictments had happened during Obama's presidency what the response would be from the likes of Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Tucker Carlson and Congressman 'Coatless' Jim Jordan. The only certainty is Limbaugh would have had a stroke by now. And OMG, the Internet Trumpers would be going berserk...folks that's funny and that's true!
I particularly enjoy 'thinking' of humor and what might be. Just two days ago, I hit on a mental refresher exercise moment that caused my head to 'swim.' You know that feeling. You have an incredible time trying to 'get your head around something' and it's damn near impossible.
I was thinking of the number of people in President Trump's administration who have been indicted for criminality, found guilty or pleaded guilty and have gone to prison or will be going to prison. Hot damn that's a long list: It appears that nearly three dozen people in and around Trump's Presidency have been indicted. Okay, here comes the humorous part: In your wildest thoughts can you possibly imagine if these criminal indictments had happened during Obama's presidency what the response would be from the likes of Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Tucker Carlson and Congressman 'Coatless' Jim Jordan. The only certainty is Limbaugh would have had a stroke by now. And OMG, the Internet Trumpers would be going berserk...folks that's funny and that's true!
Friday, November 15, 2019
A Family Story: A Sad Story
"I don't want religious bigotry in any form. It would disturb me if there was a wedding between the religious fundamentalists and the political right. The far right has no interest in religion except to manipulate it."
Rev. Billy Graham...Parade Magazine...1981
And once again, Franklin dismisses fatherly advice and continues to tarnish the Evangelical movement, which found great impetus during the Billy Graham Crusades. That's the sad part!
Rev. Billy Graham...Parade Magazine...1981
And once again, Franklin dismisses fatherly advice and continues to tarnish the Evangelical movement, which found great impetus during the Billy Graham Crusades. That's the sad part!
Wednesday, November 13, 2019
The Messages Changed Over Time
When I was in elementary school and junior high, I don't recall getting letters...I'm talking mailings. Near the end of my junior year in high school, I began getting a few letters from colleges about attending their school. Most of those letters were 'form letters;' which I gave little attention. During my senior year, I did receive more letters but the telephone calls from coaches were more impressive and when one coach just shows up on your front steps that's a 'Deal Maker.'
While I was in college, my girlfriend, who later became my wife sent me at least two letters a week. I really enjoyed those letters. After I graduated and married, I got letters from auto and life insurance agents and even retirement investments peddles. I never did get a letter from Uncle Sam about the military. I simply missed those draft windows.
During my birthday journey counting the 30's, 40's, 50's and early sixties, I received the most letters ever. Letters about vacation spots, time share purchases, cruises, float trips, amusement parks, church tithing, automobile dealerships, health insurance companies, investment companies, entertainment offerings, ie., Six Flags, Disney World and nearby University concerts. I would like to give a shout out to AARP who began faithful letter writing on my 55th birthday and still write 25-years later.
It was about the time I hit my early sixties when I noticed drastic communication changes. I was now getting invitations to senior retirement communities, reverse mortgage lender seminars and Independent / Assisted Living facilities. Today the letters forthcoming cut to the doom and gloom end-game reality of the journey. The communication topics now offer info on nursing homes and pitches Funeral and Internment Plans.' I've made many of those arrangements but I should leave a few things for the kids to do...just to get their attention, if you get my drift! Meanwhile.
I throw all letters away these days. I don't have time to read all that stuff and still answer the telephone. Rachael calls once a week about my credit card. The police never let a week pass that they don't telephone plus any number of other callers asking for my money!
PS. I do bring in the mail most days and I've noticed my wife gets letters from, St. Jude's, Boys Town, Alzheimer's Association, Heart Association, Cancer Society, State Police, American Native Mission, Shriner's Hospital, several security systems companies and three Casinos. I need to remind her that we can run out of money before good causes disappear.
While I was in college, my girlfriend, who later became my wife sent me at least two letters a week. I really enjoyed those letters. After I graduated and married, I got letters from auto and life insurance agents and even retirement investments peddles. I never did get a letter from Uncle Sam about the military. I simply missed those draft windows.
During my birthday journey counting the 30's, 40's, 50's and early sixties, I received the most letters ever. Letters about vacation spots, time share purchases, cruises, float trips, amusement parks, church tithing, automobile dealerships, health insurance companies, investment companies, entertainment offerings, ie., Six Flags, Disney World and nearby University concerts. I would like to give a shout out to AARP who began faithful letter writing on my 55th birthday and still write 25-years later.
It was about the time I hit my early sixties when I noticed drastic communication changes. I was now getting invitations to senior retirement communities, reverse mortgage lender seminars and Independent / Assisted Living facilities. Today the letters forthcoming cut to the doom and gloom end-game reality of the journey. The communication topics now offer info on nursing homes and pitches Funeral and Internment Plans.' I've made many of those arrangements but I should leave a few things for the kids to do...just to get their attention, if you get my drift! Meanwhile.
I throw all letters away these days. I don't have time to read all that stuff and still answer the telephone. Rachael calls once a week about my credit card. The police never let a week pass that they don't telephone plus any number of other callers asking for my money!
PS. I do bring in the mail most days and I've noticed my wife gets letters from, St. Jude's, Boys Town, Alzheimer's Association, Heart Association, Cancer Society, State Police, American Native Mission, Shriner's Hospital, several security systems companies and three Casinos. I need to remind her that we can run out of money before good causes disappear.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Fools Abound!
In January 1973, The United States Supreme Court voted to make abortion legal. That Supreme Court was made up of six Republican appointed Justices and three Democrat appointed Justices and the final vote was 7-2 to give women control over their bodies with the abortion choice. Personally, I oppose abortion but fully understand that such a law will exist in a 'free' society.
2019, Five (current) Supreme Court Justices were appointed by Republican Presidents, which indicates a conservative leaning court yet after President Donald Trump picked up the endorsement of the moral Evangelicals (who want Roe v. Wade overturned), we have NOTHING brought before the Court. That said, we continue to hear the pathetic cry from right-wingers, "Democrats are baby killers." You folks on the right are easily duped and seem to enjoy the boogieman stories. Hey, Franklin Graham, What-up??
Actually, with a 'conservative' President in office, a Republican Senate majority and a conservative Supreme Court majority it would appear that the Republicans wish to be complicit in this so-called 'baby killing.'
2019, Five (current) Supreme Court Justices were appointed by Republican Presidents, which indicates a conservative leaning court yet after President Donald Trump picked up the endorsement of the moral Evangelicals (who want Roe v. Wade overturned), we have NOTHING brought before the Court. That said, we continue to hear the pathetic cry from right-wingers, "Democrats are baby killers." You folks on the right are easily duped and seem to enjoy the boogieman stories. Hey, Franklin Graham, What-up??
Actually, with a 'conservative' President in office, a Republican Senate majority and a conservative Supreme Court majority it would appear that the Republicans wish to be complicit in this so-called 'baby killing.'
Monday, November 11, 2019
Could She Be a Man Eater?
Why this Nikki Haley, former Governor of South Carolina and more recently Ambassador to the United Nations is so sneaky and clever, you'd think she was a sleazy liberal but by golly she is surely one of those patriotic, moral majority and judgmental Republican Evangelicals.
Nikki just threw General John Kelly (former White House Chief of Staff) and Rex Tillerson (former Secretary of State) under the Greyhound Bus as she quotes from her recently published book that these evil doers, "Wished to undermine Trump's Presidency." Trump, upon hearing these comments from a Haley interview, tweeted immediately that people should "Buy Haley's book."
I'm thinking two people over at the White House should be warned... First Mike Pence and the second one...? Umm, slips my mind.
Nikki just threw General John Kelly (former White House Chief of Staff) and Rex Tillerson (former Secretary of State) under the Greyhound Bus as she quotes from her recently published book that these evil doers, "Wished to undermine Trump's Presidency." Trump, upon hearing these comments from a Haley interview, tweeted immediately that people should "Buy Haley's book."
I'm thinking two people over at the White House should be warned... First Mike Pence and the second one...? Umm, slips my mind.
Sunday, November 10, 2019
What Deals for the Oldsters!
In my younger days, I wondered what it meant when folks would speak of the 'Golden Years.' I've finally figured it out. These retirement-senior years are referenced as 'Golden' because of the plethora of 'senior citizen discounts.'
Why, I often hit the road early morning on some errand and the first place I stop is McDonald's for my .64 cents 'senior coffee.' Those Golden Arch folks give me a coupon that entices me to return for lunch when I can get a 'two-for-one' sandwich deal. There are numerous other restaurants, which offer a variety of early bird specials along with drink discounts during Happy Hours. If I took them up on all happy hour specials, I'd be attending a weekly AA meeting.
My Sports Clips' gals have a 'Senior discount' and often times upgrade haircuts to their MVP deal. And mercy, where do I begin to tell you how Kohl's Department Store entices me to shop their crowded aisles? Honestly, my wife and I shopped the local Hickory Point Mall just a few days ago and purchased several clothing and household items at Kohl's using a 30% off discount coupon. Driving home, my wife was reading the receipt and discovered we spent $91.00... the good news? We saved $147.00! AND...on top of that we got a $20.00 Monopoly money cash back coupon. I'm thinking if we shopped Kohl's more often, we could 'make' money.
These senior discounts and coupon perks are going to have a financial trickle-down effect on our children...our kids are going to inherit more bucks and besides that, their mother recently purchased backyard garden decorations, which our kids will cherish. It was one of those AARP discounted 'buy two get a third free.' She bought three sets of Pink Flamingo statuettes. Her logic? "When we die the kids will each have inherited a Flamingo.
Gotta go...McDonald's coffee time!
Why, I often hit the road early morning on some errand and the first place I stop is McDonald's for my .64 cents 'senior coffee.' Those Golden Arch folks give me a coupon that entices me to return for lunch when I can get a 'two-for-one' sandwich deal. There are numerous other restaurants, which offer a variety of early bird specials along with drink discounts during Happy Hours. If I took them up on all happy hour specials, I'd be attending a weekly AA meeting.
My Sports Clips' gals have a 'Senior discount' and often times upgrade haircuts to their MVP deal. And mercy, where do I begin to tell you how Kohl's Department Store entices me to shop their crowded aisles? Honestly, my wife and I shopped the local Hickory Point Mall just a few days ago and purchased several clothing and household items at Kohl's using a 30% off discount coupon. Driving home, my wife was reading the receipt and discovered we spent $91.00... the good news? We saved $147.00! AND...on top of that we got a $20.00 Monopoly money cash back coupon. I'm thinking if we shopped Kohl's more often, we could 'make' money.
These senior discounts and coupon perks are going to have a financial trickle-down effect on our children...our kids are going to inherit more bucks and besides that, their mother recently purchased backyard garden decorations, which our kids will cherish. It was one of those AARP discounted 'buy two get a third free.' She bought three sets of Pink Flamingo statuettes. Her logic? "When we die the kids will each have inherited a Flamingo.
Gotta go...McDonald's coffee time!
Friday, November 8, 2019
Hope Your Holidays Are Joyful
The 2019, Holiday Seasons are fast approaching. As I ponder my 80th Thanksgiving and Christmas, I cannot help but think of the many changes, which have occurred around those 'seasons.'
As a child, I was tethered to that famous trek to grandmother's house for a grand Thanksgiving feast after attending the traditional football game between my East St. Louis Flyers and those Maroons of Belleville Township High. A few years later I would be attending the post game Football Dance with the girl,who would one day be my wife. During adult coaching years, my Thanksgiving celebrations would become second to basketball tournament demands.
The Christmas gatherings were always locked-in around the Old Folks at home. We were expected to make the effort and trip to 'go home' to the Metro East area. We never failed to answer the call and consequently our grown children have precious memories of grandparents. Again, the basketball coaching dictated time spent.
These retirement years find role changes. I can say with certainty that my wife and I do not place expectations on our married children to "come home." Oh, we love having children and grandchildren sharing anytime and all the time, yet we let each family set their own agendas.
It's interesting and noteworthy that our kids and grandkids MAKE It HOME for one or both seasons. Perhaps it's learn behavior.
We are blessed and we are Thankful in every season.
As a child, I was tethered to that famous trek to grandmother's house for a grand Thanksgiving feast after attending the traditional football game between my East St. Louis Flyers and those Maroons of Belleville Township High. A few years later I would be attending the post game Football Dance with the girl,who would one day be my wife. During adult coaching years, my Thanksgiving celebrations would become second to basketball tournament demands.
The Christmas gatherings were always locked-in around the Old Folks at home. We were expected to make the effort and trip to 'go home' to the Metro East area. We never failed to answer the call and consequently our grown children have precious memories of grandparents. Again, the basketball coaching dictated time spent.
These retirement years find role changes. I can say with certainty that my wife and I do not place expectations on our married children to "come home." Oh, we love having children and grandchildren sharing anytime and all the time, yet we let each family set their own agendas.
It's interesting and noteworthy that our kids and grandkids MAKE It HOME for one or both seasons. Perhaps it's learn behavior.
We are blessed and we are Thankful in every season.
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Old Man With Growing Addictions
As a young boy immersed in sports' activities, I was cautious regarding following rules. I did what I needed to do academically to remain in good stead and I rebuked all temptations of alcohol and drugs. I didn't want to get in trouble with parents or coaches and to be honest the alcohol and drugs scared me.
I never thought that one day I would be dependent on drugs to the extent that I meet a drug dealer at least two times a week seeking a fix. My addiction is costing me significantly and I find myself buying more and more drugs for not only me but also supplying my wife. It saddens me.
My drug dealer has me on speed dial and periodically telephones to tell me he has fresh stuff. These days, the only person I 'see' more frequently than my drug dealer is my wife. I suspect that this drug addiction in America is escalating rapidly based on the number of drug pushers I see on nearly every city corner. My guy can be found at the intersection of Mound Road and Water Street, Decatur, Illinois...he's located in the Target Store at the CVS counter.
I never thought that one day I would be dependent on drugs to the extent that I meet a drug dealer at least two times a week seeking a fix. My addiction is costing me significantly and I find myself buying more and more drugs for not only me but also supplying my wife. It saddens me.
My drug dealer has me on speed dial and periodically telephones to tell me he has fresh stuff. These days, the only person I 'see' more frequently than my drug dealer is my wife. I suspect that this drug addiction in America is escalating rapidly based on the number of drug pushers I see on nearly every city corner. My guy can be found at the intersection of Mound Road and Water Street, Decatur, Illinois...he's located in the Target Store at the CVS counter.
Saturday, November 2, 2019
If You Could Be Me; If I Could Be You
I took my wife to the local mall last week and while she shopped, I sat in the center court area at Von Maur and listened to the piano music, which is always good. It wasn't long before my calm, peaceful and tranquil moment was interrupted by two women gibber jabbering about panhandlers they see around the Decatur city. The two well-dressed ladies were unhappy with what they believe is a "disgusting sight." Two thoughts came to mind immediately and then two more on the heels of the first two. Sure, I'll unwrap them for you.
First, I thought it's that time a year when homeless folks will scramble for warm places to bed down. Then I wondered just how many of those local corner beggars are homeless vets. I read recently where military veterans only make up about eleven percent of our population but twenty-five percent of our homelessness. By now my thought-machine has kicked into high gear. Having spent nearly forty years in high school hallways, I recall observing military recruiters periodically hawking young boys in those hallways offering "pie-in-the-sky" promises to them. Many of those recruit targets were marginal (academic) students and from families, which were incapable of providing a college education. Now, I couldn't help but wonder just how many of those Corner panhandlers are vets who left high school to fight corporate America's war. This brought me to my next thought: I wonder what percent of CEO's sons will sleep under a viaduct this Thanksgiving night compared to military veterans. My final thought was focused on the two old biddies and their unsubstantiated reasoning for judgment.
(Touch)
If You Could Be Me; If I Could Be You
First, I thought it's that time a year when homeless folks will scramble for warm places to bed down. Then I wondered just how many of those local corner beggars are homeless vets. I read recently where military veterans only make up about eleven percent of our population but twenty-five percent of our homelessness. By now my thought-machine has kicked into high gear. Having spent nearly forty years in high school hallways, I recall observing military recruiters periodically hawking young boys in those hallways offering "pie-in-the-sky" promises to them. Many of those recruit targets were marginal (academic) students and from families, which were incapable of providing a college education. Now, I couldn't help but wonder just how many of those Corner panhandlers are vets who left high school to fight corporate America's war. This brought me to my next thought: I wonder what percent of CEO's sons will sleep under a viaduct this Thanksgiving night compared to military veterans. My final thought was focused on the two old biddies and their unsubstantiated reasoning for judgment.
(Touch)
If You Could Be Me; If I Could Be You
Why?
President Trump is crude and his comments are placing Americans at greater risk. Let me elaborate. Trump enjoys embellishing the unsubstantiated behavior of Al-Baghdadi during his final moments of life. Trump lies about Baghdadi's whimpering, screaming and crying before his death. Trump continues to exaggerate his description of Baghdadi's death at political rallies and stokes the fire with his name-calling.
This braggadocio rhetoric is typical from a mouthy bully who never threw-down with anybody. Sadly, as President his words are far-reaching and will cause our enemies to re-kindle hatred towards America and embolden activities to do our military men and women harm.
Why is there this need to taunt? How does it help? It is not the behavior of Christians.
This braggadocio rhetoric is typical from a mouthy bully who never threw-down with anybody. Sadly, as President his words are far-reaching and will cause our enemies to re-kindle hatred towards America and embolden activities to do our military men and women harm.
Why is there this need to taunt? How does it help? It is not the behavior of Christians.
Friday, November 1, 2019
Trump Tribe @ Fireside
President Donald Trump is not getting enough ego stroking with his Helicopter-Side Chats. He is now floating the idea of beginning to conduct 'Fireside Chats,' i.e., the 32nd President, Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Trump wishes to go on television and address the nation reading his telephone transcript conversation with Ukraine President Zielinski. He wants to show once and for all that his conversation with the Ukranian leader was "perfect." Perhaps if that Fireside Chat goes well he could re-capture those glory days of high television ratings enjoyed with 'The Apprentice.'
Personally, I think there is a comedy sitcom potential in this scenario. As the episode opens, we see The Commander-in-Chief and the entire Trump family circled around the Fireside. The cozy setting notices the Trump girls playing 'Twister' while the older boys are seriously engaged playing 'Monopoly. Melania is roasting marshmallows and methodically assembling together delicious looking S'mores. The camera finally brings into view the President demonstrating to son, Barron the proper way to eat S'mores with a knife and fork much like Donald and Sarah Palin showed the world how to eat pizza.
(Touch)
The Shady Bunch
Trump wishes to go on television and address the nation reading his telephone transcript conversation with Ukraine President Zielinski. He wants to show once and for all that his conversation with the Ukranian leader was "perfect." Perhaps if that Fireside Chat goes well he could re-capture those glory days of high television ratings enjoyed with 'The Apprentice.'
Personally, I think there is a comedy sitcom potential in this scenario. As the episode opens, we see The Commander-in-Chief and the entire Trump family circled around the Fireside. The cozy setting notices the Trump girls playing 'Twister' while the older boys are seriously engaged playing 'Monopoly. Melania is roasting marshmallows and methodically assembling together delicious looking S'mores. The camera finally brings into view the President demonstrating to son, Barron the proper way to eat S'mores with a knife and fork much like Donald and Sarah Palin showed the world how to eat pizza.
(Touch)
The Shady Bunch
America's Democracy Awaits
As this Presidential impeachment process and investigation into perceived abuse of power by President Donald Trump and possible criminal activities within his administration unfolds and exposed to public view for digestion, a Democracy hangs in the balance.
Questions lurk; Will there be a growing wave of public opinion and pressure causing some Republican congresspeople to eventually break ranks and respond to their better Angels rather than their worst instincts? Will there be an awakening of enough Republicans to the realization that they took an oath to support and uphold the United States Constitution and not kowtow in fear of a negative tweet from Donald Trump? Or will the public opinion cause American lawmakers to embrace the notion that it's time to burn down a system of government?
Watch closely the testing of our American democracy. A democracy that was first demonstrated in 1797, when the first President of the United States peacefully vacated his office to his successor.
Questions lurk; Will there be a growing wave of public opinion and pressure causing some Republican congresspeople to eventually break ranks and respond to their better Angels rather than their worst instincts? Will there be an awakening of enough Republicans to the realization that they took an oath to support and uphold the United States Constitution and not kowtow in fear of a negative tweet from Donald Trump? Or will the public opinion cause American lawmakers to embrace the notion that it's time to burn down a system of government?
Watch closely the testing of our American democracy. A democracy that was first demonstrated in 1797, when the first President of the United States peacefully vacated his office to his successor.
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
He'll Have Company
Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell's wife, Elaine Chao was seen recently taking all her husband's pants-trousers to a seamstress in Washington D.C. She is having zippers put in the seat of all Mitch's trousers.
You understand her concern...sure you do.
You understand her concern...sure you do.
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
Probably Sould Consider Sleep AIDS
Sunday past, I rolled out of bed earlier than usual...couldn't sleep. Perhaps I have too much on my mind and then perhaps old people simply can't wait to put their feet on the floor and praise the Lord for another breakfast.
After reading several newspaper stories, I turned on the television. The big TV in the family room. We subscribe to cable offered by Comcast. We get a plethora of channels. Of course, multiple cable channels with Comcast is 'smoke & mirrors.' Lots of repeats!! We pay excess if $200.00 monthly for cable and Internet services.
If you have not seen early Sunday morning cable television offerings, you're not missing anything. Let me tell you that even the major big three networks have sold their souls for the advertising dollar.
Surfing channels, I came across the following exciting programming: A vacuum sweeper sales pitch-loop that was endless and mundane. Then there was that fella with the dark moustache who sells those over-priced pillows; this guy is a tad creepy. Another channel sported two women selling jewelry, handbags and perfumes. Several programs had hawking preachers pitching books, DVD's and trinkets...once in awhile they'd talk about Jesus. One preacher fella said if I sent him $1,000.00 'seed-money,' I would be richly blessed within a short period of time. Actually, I was more spell-bound by one preacher-man named Kenneth who resembles the late, Charles Manson. Suddenly my surfing landed on a channel televising one of those professional European soccer matches, which was like watching a bunch of temperamental private school kids playing a recess kickball game. Finally, I settled for Larry King talking about his prostate. It was either Larry or another program with a couple sporting phony smiles bragging about some men's sex product called Extenze.
I can't understand how stupid we Americans can become. The Saturday before, I paid Sam's Club $45.00 to re-new my yearly right to spend money in their store. Dadgumit, I recall those television days of old when my choices were three black and white 'free' television channels with interesting programs and nobody telling me how to interpret the news or sports analyst fella trying to convince me that some baseball player who hits 30-home runs while striking out 190 times is worth 17-million dollars.
Sometime today, I'm picking up some Melatonin Sleep Aid Supplements at CVS.
After reading several newspaper stories, I turned on the television. The big TV in the family room. We subscribe to cable offered by Comcast. We get a plethora of channels. Of course, multiple cable channels with Comcast is 'smoke & mirrors.' Lots of repeats!! We pay excess if $200.00 monthly for cable and Internet services.
If you have not seen early Sunday morning cable television offerings, you're not missing anything. Let me tell you that even the major big three networks have sold their souls for the advertising dollar.
Surfing channels, I came across the following exciting programming: A vacuum sweeper sales pitch-loop that was endless and mundane. Then there was that fella with the dark moustache who sells those over-priced pillows; this guy is a tad creepy. Another channel sported two women selling jewelry, handbags and perfumes. Several programs had hawking preachers pitching books, DVD's and trinkets...once in awhile they'd talk about Jesus. One preacher fella said if I sent him $1,000.00 'seed-money,' I would be richly blessed within a short period of time. Actually, I was more spell-bound by one preacher-man named Kenneth who resembles the late, Charles Manson. Suddenly my surfing landed on a channel televising one of those professional European soccer matches, which was like watching a bunch of temperamental private school kids playing a recess kickball game. Finally, I settled for Larry King talking about his prostate. It was either Larry or another program with a couple sporting phony smiles bragging about some men's sex product called Extenze.
I can't understand how stupid we Americans can become. The Saturday before, I paid Sam's Club $45.00 to re-new my yearly right to spend money in their store. Dadgumit, I recall those television days of old when my choices were three black and white 'free' television channels with interesting programs and nobody telling me how to interpret the news or sports analyst fella trying to convince me that some baseball player who hits 30-home runs while striking out 190 times is worth 17-million dollars.
Sometime today, I'm picking up some Melatonin Sleep Aid Supplements at CVS.
Monday, October 28, 2019
Not Every Case, But Too Many Cases
My parents provided me and my two brothers with a 'blueprint.' Consider: We attended church. We bathed every day and presented ourselves properly in public. We were 'seen' and not heard in adult company. We respected our neighbors. We were not reckless with money. We had curfews. We ate our evening meal together as a family as we shared events of the day. Our family ate out occasionally on Sunday or on a special occasion. We lived with 'moderation' as a guideline.
Today, I notice many differences in the American family. It is apparent from observing the nightly parking lots of restaraunts few families are eating at home and families rarely eat together. That said, most families seem to be undisciplined when it comes to eating in 'moderation.' Let me cut to the plain truth...we're a fat society, generally speaking. Oh I know, my use of the word 'fat' is politically incorrect but you, too have observed obesity abounds!
I am certain that as our appetites and bellies grow our self-discipline proportionately declines. We need not angst over the self-discipline erosion because there is a fix. For many years, some adults with weight issues have opted for bariatric surgery. I understand that some people must pursue weight surgical control efforts for uncontrollable health issues, however many such gastric-bypass surgeries to reduce stomach size has become a risky exercise driven by mental weakness. Recently, pediatric physicians have 'signed-off' on adolescent bariatric surgery. Therefore, the medical field keeps pace with the current parenting philosophy of NOT telling children NO for fear of damaging their self-esteem and thus we now risk unknown physical problems for our young in both the short and long-term.
Today, I notice many differences in the American family. It is apparent from observing the nightly parking lots of restaraunts few families are eating at home and families rarely eat together. That said, most families seem to be undisciplined when it comes to eating in 'moderation.' Let me cut to the plain truth...we're a fat society, generally speaking. Oh I know, my use of the word 'fat' is politically incorrect but you, too have observed obesity abounds!
I am certain that as our appetites and bellies grow our self-discipline proportionately declines. We need not angst over the self-discipline erosion because there is a fix. For many years, some adults with weight issues have opted for bariatric surgery. I understand that some people must pursue weight surgical control efforts for uncontrollable health issues, however many such gastric-bypass surgeries to reduce stomach size has become a risky exercise driven by mental weakness. Recently, pediatric physicians have 'signed-off' on adolescent bariatric surgery. Therefore, the medical field keeps pace with the current parenting philosophy of NOT telling children NO for fear of damaging their self-esteem and thus we now risk unknown physical problems for our young in both the short and long-term.
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Boooooooooooooo!!!!!!!
If Major League Baseball (World Series) fans are wondering why President Trump is not accepting the traditional invitation for a President to 'throw-out' the first pitch before a game, which one would think is a natural considering three of the World Series games will be played in the Nation's Capitol, well Trump explained. Evidently, he feels he'd 'look' to bulky in his bullet proof vest. I don't doubt one moment that the guy would look fatter than usual but I don't think for a second that explanation covers the true reason for bowing out. Trump knows very well that the chorus of boos upon his introduction at Nationals' Park would be deafening.
Good call, Mr. President, Good call.
Good call, Mr. President, Good call.
Let's Do The Right Thing
Our son, Steve who teaches high school has approximately 200-students in his combined classes this school year. His school district evidently keeps track of total behavior-referrals during every student's tenure in the school district. Steve posed this question: How many total referrals do you think these (200) high school students have amassed? I thought for a moment and offered the guess, 5,500. He responded, "How did you get so close? The actual total is 5,210." This scenario is found in all public schools.
The circumstance is all about 'discipline.' Taught discipline, which is NOT BEING TAUGHT. The do-right behavior erosion begins in the home with impotent parenting and it gains momentum with many teachers electing the easy way out from confrontational-mentoring. (Let's clarify the phrase 'confrontational mentoring.') As a parent and a teacher, I felt a responsibility to confront wrong doing and or behavior that could be harmful to my child or the student at my charge. In plain words, I refused to ignore bad behavior and most often chose to handle discipline problems myself rather than refer it to an administrator who had no relationship with my student and would likely suspend a marginal-student who could not afford to miss school. This refusal by teachers to engage and truly attempt mentoring and counseling is a profoundly missed opportunity.
In defense of teachers, I will contend that most parents deal the teachers a bad 'playing-hand.' During my elementary school days, my father always told me the first day of the new school year, "Boy, don't do anything at school that would cause me to miss work and have to come up there to talk with your teacher." It resonated because I remember once as a young boy sassing mother and when my father got home from work he gave me three whacks on the ass with his belt. I never forgot that and never got a referral. My parents made life easier for my teachers.
Those parenting lessons continued in my sports life. My father told me that teammates don't like a goldbrick; a teammate who shirks responsibility. He also told me, "Don't complain. If you don't like your situation then do something to change it." I guess that's why, as my son's basketball coach, I threw him out of practice one night for not 'doing right. It got his attention and his teammates' attention.
The circumstance is all about 'discipline.' Taught discipline, which is NOT BEING TAUGHT. The do-right behavior erosion begins in the home with impotent parenting and it gains momentum with many teachers electing the easy way out from confrontational-mentoring. (Let's clarify the phrase 'confrontational mentoring.') As a parent and a teacher, I felt a responsibility to confront wrong doing and or behavior that could be harmful to my child or the student at my charge. In plain words, I refused to ignore bad behavior and most often chose to handle discipline problems myself rather than refer it to an administrator who had no relationship with my student and would likely suspend a marginal-student who could not afford to miss school. This refusal by teachers to engage and truly attempt mentoring and counseling is a profoundly missed opportunity.
In defense of teachers, I will contend that most parents deal the teachers a bad 'playing-hand.' During my elementary school days, my father always told me the first day of the new school year, "Boy, don't do anything at school that would cause me to miss work and have to come up there to talk with your teacher." It resonated because I remember once as a young boy sassing mother and when my father got home from work he gave me three whacks on the ass with his belt. I never forgot that and never got a referral. My parents made life easier for my teachers.
Those parenting lessons continued in my sports life. My father told me that teammates don't like a goldbrick; a teammate who shirks responsibility. He also told me, "Don't complain. If you don't like your situation then do something to change it." I guess that's why, as my son's basketball coach, I threw him out of practice one night for not 'doing right. It got his attention and his teammates' attention.
Friday, October 25, 2019
A Song for You & Me.
Most Major League Baseball players have a 'walk up' song. It is usually a popular tune they like or a song of choice that perhaps makes a statement. I suppose the origin of the MLB 'walk up' songs is traced back to 1970 when Chicago White Sox organist, Nancy Faust began playing the State song of every baseball hitter on the Sox as they walked to the batter's box.
This past year, Cardinals' shortstop, Paul DeJong's 'walk up' song was "You've Got Another Thing Comin'." By-Judas Priest. Back in 2018, Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs 'walked' to the plate to the tune "The Stroke," by Billy Squire.
I would suspect that nobody reading these words have a 'walk-in' song as the cross the threshold of their respective work places. That said, I propose that we might ALL agree to having a 'WALK-OUT song each morning as we leave our house.
Okay, here's my suggested 'walk-out' song>>
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Don't Let The Devil Ride
This past year, Cardinals' shortstop, Paul DeJong's 'walk up' song was "You've Got Another Thing Comin'." By-Judas Priest. Back in 2018, Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs 'walked' to the plate to the tune "The Stroke," by Billy Squire.
I would suspect that nobody reading these words have a 'walk-in' song as the cross the threshold of their respective work places. That said, I propose that we might ALL agree to having a 'WALK-OUT song each morning as we leave our house.
Okay, here's my suggested 'walk-out' song>>
(Touch)
Don't Let The Devil Ride
He Awakens The Little Boy
A long-time friend of mine recently commented that he noted our three grown children and some of our grandchildren are dog owners. He went on to surmise that 'dog loving' must be a family-learned behavior. I agreed with him sighting the obvious as I suggested that children often times follow parents in many pursuits and behavior patterns. I've seen fathers and sons bond over fishing, golf, work choices and pro team fandom. Likewise, mother's and daughters many times share life long interests. That said, I do believe the adult child must find sustaining joy or they will eventually move away from those youthful exposures.
Speaking for myself and my relationship with my many dogs over my lifetime, I find it no secret what it was and is that solidifies my love for the dog. Oh sure, I enjoy those games of fetch, chase, tug-of-toys and walks. However, I came to realize many years ago that the 'deal-sealer' for me with the dog is found in those quiet times spent together laying together across the bed or on the floor when stroking the head of a sleeping dog and this old man is suddenly 'in touch' with that little boy inside.
I always viewed my pups as 'God Winks.'
Speaking for myself and my relationship with my many dogs over my lifetime, I find it no secret what it was and is that solidifies my love for the dog. Oh sure, I enjoy those games of fetch, chase, tug-of-toys and walks. However, I came to realize many years ago that the 'deal-sealer' for me with the dog is found in those quiet times spent together laying together across the bed or on the floor when stroking the head of a sleeping dog and this old man is suddenly 'in touch' with that little boy inside.
I always viewed my pups as 'God Winks.'
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Words From a Man of God?
Rick Wiles is a self-proclaimed Evangelical Senior Pastor of the non-denominational 'Flowing Streams Church' in Vero Beach, Florida. Pastor Wiles also hosts a right-wing radio program.
Just yesterday, Pastor Wiles stated, "If Donald Trump is removed from office, Veterans, Cowboys and mountain men who know how to fight will hunt down those causing Trump's removal and there will be violence." Saying such things become subliminal messages for a call to action.
God save us from false prophets.
Just yesterday, Pastor Wiles stated, "If Donald Trump is removed from office, Veterans, Cowboys and mountain men who know how to fight will hunt down those causing Trump's removal and there will be violence." Saying such things become subliminal messages for a call to action.
God save us from false prophets.
American Dignity Slippage
Striking protesters have the right to walk with picket signs in front of the institution or business they are striking as long as they remain on public grounds. Those strikers will be arrested should they enter the property, which they are picketing. Demonstrators at public buildings might enter the building with their chanting demonstration but they will be hauled away by police.
People cannot enter restricted areas, i.e. Hospital rooms, school classrooms, private business meetings in some willy-nilly fashion without consequences.
Yesterday, elected congresspeople entered a stated government security meeting area chanting protest slogans against an investigative process and wielding electronic devises, which are specifically prohibited. The actions were law-breaking but went without arrests. Those protesters not only interrupted the business of government but trashed the meeting room leaving leftover foods and boxes as would irresponsible drunken college fraternity members.
America's 'rule of law' is becoming more of a myth and yet we will want our children to follow rules.
Folks, the only proud performances happening in our Nation's Capitol these days is not in the halls of Congress but on a baseball field.
People cannot enter restricted areas, i.e. Hospital rooms, school classrooms, private business meetings in some willy-nilly fashion without consequences.
Yesterday, elected congresspeople entered a stated government security meeting area chanting protest slogans against an investigative process and wielding electronic devises, which are specifically prohibited. The actions were law-breaking but went without arrests. Those protesters not only interrupted the business of government but trashed the meeting room leaving leftover foods and boxes as would irresponsible drunken college fraternity members.
America's 'rule of law' is becoming more of a myth and yet we will want our children to follow rules.
Folks, the only proud performances happening in our Nation's Capitol these days is not in the halls of Congress but on a baseball field.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Games My Friends Played
These days, I notice that those little tabs are found on top of most soft drink cans and beer cans. On plastic bottles, I see the plastic screw tops...very few tin bottle caps these days. More on that later.
When I was a 1950's, teenager living on Rosemont Avenue (Washington Park) East St. Louis, Illinois, we did not have air-conditioning. Our bedroom windows were open at night begging for a breeze to ease the oppressive Mississippi River Valley summer heat and humidity. Many nights while waiting sleep, I'd hear the 'clanking' noise of iron striking. I knew that three doors to the east, neighbor 'Red' Miller was honing his already masterful skills of Horseshoe Pitching.
Recalling those years, I remember how most people (families) were always playing backyard games. In our neighborhood you'd find croquet, badminton, horseshoe pits and basketball goals. Many local taverns had horseshoe pits. Some of those pubs offered another long-standing St. Louis 'born' game dating back to the late 1800's...'Corkball.' Those taverns had Corkball cages to confine the batted ball. The Corkball is a 'mini' baseball 1.6 ounces and the bat is long and narrow at 1.5 inches in diameter. The game has a pitcher, catcher and outfielder. Balls in flight caught by fielders are outs. A ball hit over the outfielder's head is a home run; all other batted balls falling safely to the ground are singles.
There was another game played by kids similar to Corkball but less expensive. The game was played in alleys. It was 'Bottle Caps Baseball.' The bat was a broom handle, which had its whisk end cut off. Kids would go to drug stores and local taverns to solicit bottle caps from beer and soda bottles. The game rules were the same as Corkball. The unique thing about 'Bottle Caps Ball' was the many different ways a pitcher could release a bottle cap causing it to dart in every imaginable direction unlike any baseball, softball or corkball pitch. I believe that learning to hit a darting-slashing bottle cap caused hitters to eye-track with intensity, wait until the cap was deep upon the hitter and then take a very short swing. Let me say this: Today's major league home run hitters with those long looping swings would certainly strike out even more often back in the alley behind Rosemont Avenue in East St. Louis.
When I was a 1950's, teenager living on Rosemont Avenue (Washington Park) East St. Louis, Illinois, we did not have air-conditioning. Our bedroom windows were open at night begging for a breeze to ease the oppressive Mississippi River Valley summer heat and humidity. Many nights while waiting sleep, I'd hear the 'clanking' noise of iron striking. I knew that three doors to the east, neighbor 'Red' Miller was honing his already masterful skills of Horseshoe Pitching.
Recalling those years, I remember how most people (families) were always playing backyard games. In our neighborhood you'd find croquet, badminton, horseshoe pits and basketball goals. Many local taverns had horseshoe pits. Some of those pubs offered another long-standing St. Louis 'born' game dating back to the late 1800's...'Corkball.' Those taverns had Corkball cages to confine the batted ball. The Corkball is a 'mini' baseball 1.6 ounces and the bat is long and narrow at 1.5 inches in diameter. The game has a pitcher, catcher and outfielder. Balls in flight caught by fielders are outs. A ball hit over the outfielder's head is a home run; all other batted balls falling safely to the ground are singles.
There was another game played by kids similar to Corkball but less expensive. The game was played in alleys. It was 'Bottle Caps Baseball.' The bat was a broom handle, which had its whisk end cut off. Kids would go to drug stores and local taverns to solicit bottle caps from beer and soda bottles. The game rules were the same as Corkball. The unique thing about 'Bottle Caps Ball' was the many different ways a pitcher could release a bottle cap causing it to dart in every imaginable direction unlike any baseball, softball or corkball pitch. I believe that learning to hit a darting-slashing bottle cap caused hitters to eye-track with intensity, wait until the cap was deep upon the hitter and then take a very short swing. Let me say this: Today's major league home run hitters with those long looping swings would certainly strike out even more often back in the alley behind Rosemont Avenue in East St. Louis.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Currency Humor
Perhaps you've heard the story...nonetheless, here goes>
A well worn twenty dollar bill and an equally distressed one dollar bill met on the conveyor belt at the National Reserve Bank as the headed towards the burning bin. They struck up a conversation and each began to share stories of their respective journey's in society.
The twenty dollar bill boasted about the glamours life he experienced. Trips around Las Vegas, Atlantic City, swank hotels on the East coast and incredible restaurants across America. The one dollar bill spoke of his experiences from hand-to-collection-plates at Baptist Churches, Methodist Churches, Lutheran Churches and a number of other Churches. A bit puzzled, the twenty dollar bill asked, "What's a Church?"
A well worn twenty dollar bill and an equally distressed one dollar bill met on the conveyor belt at the National Reserve Bank as the headed towards the burning bin. They struck up a conversation and each began to share stories of their respective journey's in society.
The twenty dollar bill boasted about the glamours life he experienced. Trips around Las Vegas, Atlantic City, swank hotels on the East coast and incredible restaurants across America. The one dollar bill spoke of his experiences from hand-to-collection-plates at Baptist Churches, Methodist Churches, Lutheran Churches and a number of other Churches. A bit puzzled, the twenty dollar bill asked, "What's a Church?"
Praying for Our Military Troops
I never miss a day to be in prayer for our military; those men and women who are in harms way protecting human life, freedoms and our own Democracy. I pray for success in their missions. I pray for their safe return to loved ones. I pray that any physical and / or mental scars will heal.
This day, I shall add another prayer dimension. I will pray that those American soldiers who have been ordered to leave Syria and the Kurdish military with whom they fought side by side. The emotional trauma must be heart-wrenching for American soldiers as they witness hundreds of Kurds holding signs with pleading messages not to leave, which would ultimately allow them and their families to be slaughtered by Turkey. Those Kurdish faces begging our soldiers not to leave will no doubt haunt our soldiers forever. I suppose Union General William Teumesh Sherman was correct when he wrote the Mayor and Councilmen of Atlanta, "War is Hell." However, I believe some war missions can glorify the Grace of Our Lord and at this moment it appears we are turning our backs on the 'least of His people' who are in great peril.
Dear God: Please be with those in need.
This day, I shall add another prayer dimension. I will pray that those American soldiers who have been ordered to leave Syria and the Kurdish military with whom they fought side by side. The emotional trauma must be heart-wrenching for American soldiers as they witness hundreds of Kurds holding signs with pleading messages not to leave, which would ultimately allow them and their families to be slaughtered by Turkey. Those Kurdish faces begging our soldiers not to leave will no doubt haunt our soldiers forever. I suppose Union General William Teumesh Sherman was correct when he wrote the Mayor and Councilmen of Atlanta, "War is Hell." However, I believe some war missions can glorify the Grace of Our Lord and at this moment it appears we are turning our backs on the 'least of His people' who are in great peril.
Dear God: Please be with those in need.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Con Man or Shyster: Take Your Pick!
If I was to state that the 89-year old Reverend Pat Robertson is a 'blooming idiot,' I would be standing in judgment of the man, which is unchristian and ignoring Jesus Christ's admonishment to "Judge not that ye be judged." Therefore, I will NOT state that Reverend Pat Robertson is a 'blooming idiot.'
On October 11, 2019, Reverend Robertson, on his 700 Club 'fund raising' television program was asked a few questions regarding the death penalty, here are just a few exchanges:
Question: Why is it that the Christian stance seems to support the death penalty?
Robertson: "Are you kidding? Read the Old Testament. I tell you if a son is unforgivable and will not listen to his parents, the parents can bring him before the authorities and the son will be executed."
Question: But what about the New Testament, where Jesus prevented the woman from being stoned to death for adultery?
Robertson: "Yeah, but that, is non-scriptural." (Note: John 7:53-8:11)
Robertson: "We spent millions of dollars on Prison care for Charles Manson. He should have been put to death."
Robertson cites communication with God when making his predictions. In 1980, 'Ears' Robertson predicted that there would be a judgment on the World in 1982. Thanks be to God that didn't happen because my Cardinals won the '82 World Series. The good man of God advocated the assassination of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez...imagine that suggestion coming from our Lord. Pat also believes Trump has a mandate from God. Wonder who told Pat that nonsense?
So, what shall be done with this lunatic who invokes the Lord's name with crazy predictions. Well, let's not judge; let Scripture speak as Robertson seems to like to do. Deuteronomy 18:20 "But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods , is to be put to death." Now, this scripture should square with Robertson since he promotes Deuteronomy 21:18-21 "If parents have an unruly, stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his parents then his parents shall bring the son to the elders of the city and have him stoned to death."
Some might say that Robertson is unscrupulous, fraudulent and deceptive. I won't say that because it would be judging him.
I hope my kids read this blog today because a thought just came to me. Had I been one of Pat Robertson's mindless followers back in the day while parenting, there might be fewer Christmas gifts bought by Mom and Pop Roustio.
On October 11, 2019, Reverend Robertson, on his 700 Club 'fund raising' television program was asked a few questions regarding the death penalty, here are just a few exchanges:
Question: Why is it that the Christian stance seems to support the death penalty?
Robertson: "Are you kidding? Read the Old Testament. I tell you if a son is unforgivable and will not listen to his parents, the parents can bring him before the authorities and the son will be executed."
Question: But what about the New Testament, where Jesus prevented the woman from being stoned to death for adultery?
Robertson: "Yeah, but that, is non-scriptural." (Note: John 7:53-8:11)
Robertson: "We spent millions of dollars on Prison care for Charles Manson. He should have been put to death."
Robertson cites communication with God when making his predictions. In 1980, 'Ears' Robertson predicted that there would be a judgment on the World in 1982. Thanks be to God that didn't happen because my Cardinals won the '82 World Series. The good man of God advocated the assassination of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez...imagine that suggestion coming from our Lord. Pat also believes Trump has a mandate from God. Wonder who told Pat that nonsense?
So, what shall be done with this lunatic who invokes the Lord's name with crazy predictions. Well, let's not judge; let Scripture speak as Robertson seems to like to do. Deuteronomy 18:20 "But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods , is to be put to death." Now, this scripture should square with Robertson since he promotes Deuteronomy 21:18-21 "If parents have an unruly, stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his parents then his parents shall bring the son to the elders of the city and have him stoned to death."
Some might say that Robertson is unscrupulous, fraudulent and deceptive. I won't say that because it would be judging him.
I hope my kids read this blog today because a thought just came to me. Had I been one of Pat Robertson's mindless followers back in the day while parenting, there might be fewer Christmas gifts bought by Mom and Pop Roustio.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Gone But Not Forgotten
I like oldies movies and with today's endless political garbage on television, I find myself channel surfing for movies often. A few night past, I came across one of those classic gangster flicks recalling those prohibition bootlegging stories. My goodness, it doesn't get any better than watching the likes of George Raft, Peter Lorre and Edward G. Robinson playing tough-guy characters.
While watching the Tommy-gun shoot'em-up movie, I couldn't help but notice the number of 'things,' particularly fashions, which have disappeared from our lives. Even this writer at age eighty cannot recall seeing men wearing SPATS. Spats were those contrasting color cloth coverings men wore over their shoes in the 1910-to-late 1930's, to keep the mud and dirt from their socks and shoes. Then there is the FEDORA. Now, I can recall the men's Fedora hats, which gave way to the more causal men's look in the late 1950's. (Personal note: I purchased a white Stetson Fedora with a black ban back in 1955... I thought it complimented my White Buck shoes and blue pin-strip cord pegged pants). You don't see any those fashion items today except perhaps the Stetsons worn by country western singers.
One scene in the movie I watched depicted a shootout in an alley behind a Speak Easy. Both the alley and speak easy have long disappeared from our neighborhoods.
A few years ago, I purchased two new pairs of leather dress shoes. One pair was reasonable in cost while the second pair was listed at $235.00. I likely reminded the young female sales clerk of her grandfather because she looked about and then leaned towards me and said, "If you really want these shoes, I'll hold them for you because next week they are coming on sale." The following week, I bought the Johnston & Murphy, Gino Vitale two-tone brown leather shoes for $75.00. Now the only thing I cannot find is a 'Shoe Shine Boy' outside the Von Maur Store...but it seems they've disappeared, also.
(Touch)
Shoe Shine Boy
While watching the Tommy-gun shoot'em-up movie, I couldn't help but notice the number of 'things,' particularly fashions, which have disappeared from our lives. Even this writer at age eighty cannot recall seeing men wearing SPATS. Spats were those contrasting color cloth coverings men wore over their shoes in the 1910-to-late 1930's, to keep the mud and dirt from their socks and shoes. Then there is the FEDORA. Now, I can recall the men's Fedora hats, which gave way to the more causal men's look in the late 1950's. (Personal note: I purchased a white Stetson Fedora with a black ban back in 1955... I thought it complimented my White Buck shoes and blue pin-strip cord pegged pants). You don't see any those fashion items today except perhaps the Stetsons worn by country western singers.
One scene in the movie I watched depicted a shootout in an alley behind a Speak Easy. Both the alley and speak easy have long disappeared from our neighborhoods.
A few years ago, I purchased two new pairs of leather dress shoes. One pair was reasonable in cost while the second pair was listed at $235.00. I likely reminded the young female sales clerk of her grandfather because she looked about and then leaned towards me and said, "If you really want these shoes, I'll hold them for you because next week they are coming on sale." The following week, I bought the Johnston & Murphy, Gino Vitale two-tone brown leather shoes for $75.00. Now the only thing I cannot find is a 'Shoe Shine Boy' outside the Von Maur Store...but it seems they've disappeared, also.
(Touch)
Shoe Shine Boy
Saturday, October 12, 2019
One Who Speaks With Forked-Tongue
Recently, Ellen DeGeneres and George W. Bush were seen seated next to each other at the Green Bay 'Packers' & Dallas 'Cowboys' football game. Of course it was noted that they shared some conversation and laughter, which ultimately created a twitter-storm from both sides of the political spectrum. It appears that 'civility' and tolerance for different views precludes American brothers and sisters befriending one another. Ellen caught most of the crap because those on the left seemed to feel that she should have given the Former President a piece of her mind or at least a cold shoulder because he did not support 'Gay Rights.' Ellen seized the event to speak eloquently and decisively about having friends and acquaintances who have different political views from her and continued to make a point when she encouraged her viewers to "be kind to each other," and she does not mean be kind to ONLY those who think like you.
The aftermath of this encounter caused many people to weigh-in suggesting Ellen is 'right-on.' Let's see, I wonder if this message fell on the ears of Donald Trump who once said: "Rosie O'Donnell is a fat pig." "In the old days, we'd take that guy out on a stretcher...punch him in the face." "Knock the crap out of him." "Many of those Mexicans are drug dealers and rapist." "She was bleeding from her eyes or bleeding from somewhere." "No-neck, Adam Schiff." "Lying Ted Cruz." "Little Marco." "Joe Biden was good at kissing Barrack Obama's ass."
My advice to the twitter crowd, who wishes to lecture their fellow Americans about civility and calling upon them to embrace their better Angels is to say something or do something about our discourteous, impolite, foul-mouth and divisive-speaking President. After all, he has torn apart any semblance of kindness towards our fellow man while giving license to that which you twitters seeming disdain.
Go ahead, speak with your forked-tongue. Lecture others but give this vulgar President a pass!
The aftermath of this encounter caused many people to weigh-in suggesting Ellen is 'right-on.' Let's see, I wonder if this message fell on the ears of Donald Trump who once said: "Rosie O'Donnell is a fat pig." "In the old days, we'd take that guy out on a stretcher...punch him in the face." "Knock the crap out of him." "Many of those Mexicans are drug dealers and rapist." "She was bleeding from her eyes or bleeding from somewhere." "No-neck, Adam Schiff." "Lying Ted Cruz." "Little Marco." "Joe Biden was good at kissing Barrack Obama's ass."
My advice to the twitter crowd, who wishes to lecture their fellow Americans about civility and calling upon them to embrace their better Angels is to say something or do something about our discourteous, impolite, foul-mouth and divisive-speaking President. After all, he has torn apart any semblance of kindness towards our fellow man while giving license to that which you twitters seeming disdain.
Go ahead, speak with your forked-tongue. Lecture others but give this vulgar President a pass!
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Bad Taste on a Good Day
Unquestionably, the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals have one of major league baseball's most storied historys. The city on the west bank's of the mighty Mississippi River is noted for great baseball fans who have an understanding and appreciation for the games intricacies and skills needed to perform at the highest level. Those fans readily applaud great plays from opponents as well as their own. The Cardinals organization also distinguishes itself with charity efforts through the Cardinals' Care Program. Suffice to say, St. Louis Cardinals Baseball has been a class show.
There has been thousands of players who have worn the Birds-on-the-Bat uniforms throughout the team's history and sixty-four men have sat in the managers' seat. Since the beginning of Cardinals' baseball in 1892, the team has won 11- World Series ( second most in baseball), 19-League Pennants
(third most in MLB) and 14-Division Titles. A rich history most assuredly.
The Cardinals have done omens work promoting the game. Major League Baseball works hard at promoting its brand. All of baseball suffers when cheating occurs and all of baseball suffers when obnoxious and or vulgar behavior happens around the game. The latter was the case after the Cardinals 13-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves, which propels St. Louis into the National League pennant chase with the winner advancing to the World Series. Cardinals' manager, Mike Schildt who has done an outstanding job in his brief tenure at the helm, was live-streamed on Intagram by a Carindals' player in the post-Atlanta game locker room comments during which time Manager Schildt used the most disgusting language as he down-graded opponents and bragged boorishly about his ball team. The moment is a low point in Cardinals history and Mike Schildt's baseball career. His remarks give fodder to future opponents and creates a fan attitude of hate towards the team and city. Schildt's post game comments are as troubling as those of former Chicago Cubs' Manager, Lee Elia's vulgar post game tirade in 1983.
What should be a glorious moment for the Cardinals players, manager, coaches, ownership and fans has been tarnished by Mike Schildt's most unfortunate comments. Too bad!
There has been thousands of players who have worn the Birds-on-the-Bat uniforms throughout the team's history and sixty-four men have sat in the managers' seat. Since the beginning of Cardinals' baseball in 1892, the team has won 11- World Series ( second most in baseball), 19-League Pennants
(third most in MLB) and 14-Division Titles. A rich history most assuredly.
The Cardinals have done omens work promoting the game. Major League Baseball works hard at promoting its brand. All of baseball suffers when cheating occurs and all of baseball suffers when obnoxious and or vulgar behavior happens around the game. The latter was the case after the Cardinals 13-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves, which propels St. Louis into the National League pennant chase with the winner advancing to the World Series. Cardinals' manager, Mike Schildt who has done an outstanding job in his brief tenure at the helm, was live-streamed on Intagram by a Carindals' player in the post-Atlanta game locker room comments during which time Manager Schildt used the most disgusting language as he down-graded opponents and bragged boorishly about his ball team. The moment is a low point in Cardinals history and Mike Schildt's baseball career. His remarks give fodder to future opponents and creates a fan attitude of hate towards the team and city. Schildt's post game comments are as troubling as those of former Chicago Cubs' Manager, Lee Elia's vulgar post game tirade in 1983.
What should be a glorious moment for the Cardinals players, manager, coaches, ownership and fans has been tarnished by Mike Schildt's most unfortunate comments. Too bad!
Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Idiots & Criminals Abound!
Up until the year 2016, most Presidential historians and scholars generally agree that Warren G. Harding's Administration was the most corrupt. Harding occupied the Oval Office from 1921 until 1923, when the 29th President died of a massive heart attack.
If Harding could only be aware of what's going on in the 45th President's Administration, he (Harding) would be doing back flips knowing that the dubious distinction of being America's boss during the most scandalous Administration was soon going to be erased from his biography.
Whereas Harding suddenly died early in his first term, his Republican Party friends were spared the embarrassments of foolishly attempting to defend him. Not so lucky are the GOP buddies of President Trump. Take for example how foolish and lame-brained Florida Republican Congressman, Matt Gates sounded recently defending his President by attacking Democrat Congressman, Adam Schiff who is leading the House of Representatives' impeachment inquiry. Gates said, "The investigation is nothing more than a 'Kangaroo Court' and Chairman Schiff is acting like Captain Kangaroo." Folks, Captain Kangaroo is a fictitious person developed by actor Robert James Keeshan and was the main character in the longest running daytime children's program, 'Captain Kangaroo.'
Speaking of television shows; Surely there is a television theme with 'Trump, Giuliani and Gates' starring as the central characters. We've already had 'The Three Stooges' and 'The Three Amigos.' Perhaps...'The Unstable Genius & His Clowns.'
If Harding could only be aware of what's going on in the 45th President's Administration, he (Harding) would be doing back flips knowing that the dubious distinction of being America's boss during the most scandalous Administration was soon going to be erased from his biography.
Whereas Harding suddenly died early in his first term, his Republican Party friends were spared the embarrassments of foolishly attempting to defend him. Not so lucky are the GOP buddies of President Trump. Take for example how foolish and lame-brained Florida Republican Congressman, Matt Gates sounded recently defending his President by attacking Democrat Congressman, Adam Schiff who is leading the House of Representatives' impeachment inquiry. Gates said, "The investigation is nothing more than a 'Kangaroo Court' and Chairman Schiff is acting like Captain Kangaroo." Folks, Captain Kangaroo is a fictitious person developed by actor Robert James Keeshan and was the main character in the longest running daytime children's program, 'Captain Kangaroo.'
Speaking of television shows; Surely there is a television theme with 'Trump, Giuliani and Gates' starring as the central characters. We've already had 'The Three Stooges' and 'The Three Amigos.' Perhaps...'The Unstable Genius & His Clowns.'
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Don't Tell My Kids
It's imperative that you honor my theme plea...do not to tell my kids. They seldom read my blogs or rants for fear I'm embarrassing the family with my periodic meltdowns. That said, your agreement not to share this writing is appreciated.
My wife and I left the Pet Clinic with Poodle, Yodie and headed to Pet Smart and grocery store to pick up dog food and various food staples plus an assortment of greeting cards. (My wife sends out cards to an endless list of folks for every imaginable reason and occasion).
On our way home, I said to the better-half that I'd make a lunch familiar to us in 1960-61. Back-in-the-day this dish was a common evening meal for the newlyweds while, I was completing my senior year at Illinois State University. My wife was working as a dental technician for a meager income and I was making little to nothing with a 'jock job' doing little to nothing. Back then a meatloaf supper saw a hamburger roll the size of a baseball or three wiener-franks cut up with a can of Campbell's Pork-n'-Beans. My lunch on this 2019 day would be the latter delicacy. The 1960, three wieners cost .15 cents and the can of beans about .23 cents. We survived and have enjoyed married life for 59+ post wieners' years!
Interesting how we are less frugal in 2019. Yodie's Pet Clinic checkup cost $190.00, his Pet Smart grooming rings up at $51.00, his special diet dog food lists at sixteen bucks-a-bag and his annual vaccinations hammer out at $230.00. Did I tell you his teeth extractions of a year ago was $1,100.00?
Just don't tell our kids what we spend on Yodie. They are under this bizarre impression that we treat the Pup better than them!
My wife and I left the Pet Clinic with Poodle, Yodie and headed to Pet Smart and grocery store to pick up dog food and various food staples plus an assortment of greeting cards. (My wife sends out cards to an endless list of folks for every imaginable reason and occasion).
On our way home, I said to the better-half that I'd make a lunch familiar to us in 1960-61. Back-in-the-day this dish was a common evening meal for the newlyweds while, I was completing my senior year at Illinois State University. My wife was working as a dental technician for a meager income and I was making little to nothing with a 'jock job' doing little to nothing. Back then a meatloaf supper saw a hamburger roll the size of a baseball or three wiener-franks cut up with a can of Campbell's Pork-n'-Beans. My lunch on this 2019 day would be the latter delicacy. The 1960, three wieners cost .15 cents and the can of beans about .23 cents. We survived and have enjoyed married life for 59+ post wieners' years!
Interesting how we are less frugal in 2019. Yodie's Pet Clinic checkup cost $190.00, his Pet Smart grooming rings up at $51.00, his special diet dog food lists at sixteen bucks-a-bag and his annual vaccinations hammer out at $230.00. Did I tell you his teeth extractions of a year ago was $1,100.00?
Just don't tell our kids what we spend on Yodie. They are under this bizarre impression that we treat the Pup better than them!
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
Time To Sell
I think it's time to 'sell.' Things are what they are and we have little control over outcome, therefore let's sell the country. No, I have not lost my mind. It's the smart thing to do.
It was a terrific run starting with the Pilgrims, the westward expansion, industrialization and high end technology; we did ourselves proud, nonetheless let's face reality, as Archie Bunker would say, "Things are goin' down the turlet." Let's make a deal.
I trace the beginning of our demise back to those Bob Hope, Bing Crosby 'Road Movies.' Those two made fun of the Arab nations and those folks got their nose out of joint and started targeting America with terrorists tactics. Then we have the Mexicans who are mad about losing that war to us and today, Santa Ana descendants keep sneaking across our borders to take our jobs, rape women and get all our good freebies. And don't forget China who is poisoning our children with chemical-laced toys and screwing up our economy by manufacturing cheaper goods. China has also been on an America real estate buying spree for years. Do you realize that foreign owned farmland in America exceeds the size of Tennessee. Add to this downward spiral, some States have sold 6-Tollways to foreign countries. The notion to sell America should not offend anybody; it's already happening and we seemingly don't care plus we're not getting top dollar.
Folks, things in the U.S. of A. are going to hell in a hand basket. Those left-wing crazies want to confiscate people's guns and have us become a socialist nation. Any good Trump supporter knows that we can't say Merry Christmas anymore and the lack of prayer in schools is the fault of liberal atheist. Ask any good Evangelical like Rev. Robert Jeffress who talks of a civil war should Trump be impeached and removed from office. Now that's a wonderful witness and testimony for love!
Let's sell America. Just make sure we get a good deal like the American Natives...you remember those 'Red Skin Savages,' who were nothing like our civilized European Anglo-Saxon founders. Most American men today simply need a comfortable recliner, High Definition cable TV and enough beer for tailgating. Oh, you ask what do the women want? Come on, we're never gunna Make America Great Again since women put on shoes and left the kitchen and 'dark folks ' forgot 'their place.'
Time to sell!
It was a terrific run starting with the Pilgrims, the westward expansion, industrialization and high end technology; we did ourselves proud, nonetheless let's face reality, as Archie Bunker would say, "Things are goin' down the turlet." Let's make a deal.
I trace the beginning of our demise back to those Bob Hope, Bing Crosby 'Road Movies.' Those two made fun of the Arab nations and those folks got their nose out of joint and started targeting America with terrorists tactics. Then we have the Mexicans who are mad about losing that war to us and today, Santa Ana descendants keep sneaking across our borders to take our jobs, rape women and get all our good freebies. And don't forget China who is poisoning our children with chemical-laced toys and screwing up our economy by manufacturing cheaper goods. China has also been on an America real estate buying spree for years. Do you realize that foreign owned farmland in America exceeds the size of Tennessee. Add to this downward spiral, some States have sold 6-Tollways to foreign countries. The notion to sell America should not offend anybody; it's already happening and we seemingly don't care plus we're not getting top dollar.
Folks, things in the U.S. of A. are going to hell in a hand basket. Those left-wing crazies want to confiscate people's guns and have us become a socialist nation. Any good Trump supporter knows that we can't say Merry Christmas anymore and the lack of prayer in schools is the fault of liberal atheist. Ask any good Evangelical like Rev. Robert Jeffress who talks of a civil war should Trump be impeached and removed from office. Now that's a wonderful witness and testimony for love!
Let's sell America. Just make sure we get a good deal like the American Natives...you remember those 'Red Skin Savages,' who were nothing like our civilized European Anglo-Saxon founders. Most American men today simply need a comfortable recliner, High Definition cable TV and enough beer for tailgating. Oh, you ask what do the women want? Come on, we're never gunna Make America Great Again since women put on shoes and left the kitchen and 'dark folks ' forgot 'their place.'
Time to sell!
Tuesday, October 1, 2019
Perhaps?
Is it possible that years from now American Historians will view the 'whistle blower', who disclosed President Trump's invitation to a foreign government to interfere in America's election process, as a greater American patriot than the American Generals who served in Trump's cabinet: Michael Flynn, John Kelly, James Mattis and H. R. McMasters.
OMG! It also appears that Vice President Pence was in the room when his boss (Trump) committed the crime of inviting a foreign country to interfere with our Democracy...Holy Cow! This situation just may end up becoming Republicans' greatest nightmare>>President Nancy Pelosi.
Everybody's got their own opinion and you know...
(Touch)
What Say You?
OMG! It also appears that Vice President Pence was in the room when his boss (Trump) committed the crime of inviting a foreign country to interfere with our Democracy...Holy Cow! This situation just may end up becoming Republicans' greatest nightmare>>President Nancy Pelosi.
Everybody's got their own opinion and you know...
(Touch)
What Say You?
Sense of Humor Varies
A few weeks ago, I had a couple of medical test one of which was a Cat Scan. When the young female technician guided me into a room and had me lay down, I pointed to the large Cat Scan apparatus and said, "I've got one of these in my basement. I bought it at a yard sale several years ago but every time I plug it in it blows a fuse." The young female tech said absolutely nothing but looked at me as if she didn't want to be in the room alone with me.
Different strokes for different folks, eh?
Different strokes for different folks, eh?
Sunday, September 29, 2019
Makes No Sense
I suspect others reading these words relate to my puzzlement.
1). A baseball pitcher throws a pitch and the baseball hits the ground in front of the catcher and the umpire insists that the 'baseball' is no longer worthy of game usage. The ball is tossed from the game. The next batter hits a baseball extremely hard and the baseball caroms off two walls in the outfield skips off the dirt and skids across the outfield grass. The baseball is thrown into an infielder who tosses it to the pitcher for the next pitch...'that' baseball is NOT disqualified. Makes no sense.
2) I have computer router problems and telephone a designated number to get assistance. A recording comes on and asks me if I wish to speak English or Spanish; I say 'English.' The telephone call is then transferred to somebody in India who cannot speak English. Makes no sense.
3) The correct pronunciation of the letter 'W' is Double-U; not Doubya. But actually, it should be
Double-'V.' Makes no sense.
4) People say, "You can't have your cake and eat it too." I say you can't eat cake if you don't have it!
Makes no sense.
5) I've seen chicken claws but never chicken fingers, yet you find chicken fingers on restaurant
menus but never chicken claws. Makes no sense.
6) My delivered pizza is round but comes in a square box and cut in triangle pieces. Can't they
make up their mind? Makes no sense.
7) Why do I press harder on my remote control when I no it needs batteries? Makes no sense.
8) Why does the grocery clerk asks me if I want to check out at the self service line when she
knows that I don't work there? Makes no sense.
9) Academic grades should be E=Excellent; A= Average; I= Inferior. Instead we have A,B,C,D & F
only the 'F' makes sense.
10) People who say, "I hate to say..." should NOT! That would make sense.
1). A baseball pitcher throws a pitch and the baseball hits the ground in front of the catcher and the umpire insists that the 'baseball' is no longer worthy of game usage. The ball is tossed from the game. The next batter hits a baseball extremely hard and the baseball caroms off two walls in the outfield skips off the dirt and skids across the outfield grass. The baseball is thrown into an infielder who tosses it to the pitcher for the next pitch...'that' baseball is NOT disqualified. Makes no sense.
2) I have computer router problems and telephone a designated number to get assistance. A recording comes on and asks me if I wish to speak English or Spanish; I say 'English.' The telephone call is then transferred to somebody in India who cannot speak English. Makes no sense.
3) The correct pronunciation of the letter 'W' is Double-U; not Doubya. But actually, it should be
Double-'V.' Makes no sense.
4) People say, "You can't have your cake and eat it too." I say you can't eat cake if you don't have it!
Makes no sense.
5) I've seen chicken claws but never chicken fingers, yet you find chicken fingers on restaurant
menus but never chicken claws. Makes no sense.
6) My delivered pizza is round but comes in a square box and cut in triangle pieces. Can't they
make up their mind? Makes no sense.
7) Why do I press harder on my remote control when I no it needs batteries? Makes no sense.
8) Why does the grocery clerk asks me if I want to check out at the self service line when she
knows that I don't work there? Makes no sense.
9) Academic grades should be E=Excellent; A= Average; I= Inferior. Instead we have A,B,C,D & F
only the 'F' makes sense.
10) People who say, "I hate to say..." should NOT! That would make sense.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Hypocrisy
I notice more and more of these casino parlors. Some are 'stand-alone' mini gambling joints while many convenient stores and eateries stick a few machines in their establishments to shore up revenue. Our Methodist Church has a social get-together once each month at a local restaurant. The guideline we follow is to avoid restaurants that serve alcohol or offer games of chance.
This reminds me of personal observations back in the mid-1970's, when my father owned a steak house in Collinsville, Illinois. My parents did not drink alcohol and had to address the matter of serving alcoholic beverages in their restaurant. They came to a middle ground in their resolve. The restaurant would have no bar where patrons could just sit and drink but there would be liquor on the menu so patrons could order alcoholic drinks with meals.
My parents were active in their church and my father belonged to the Gideons International and supported local church organizations by offering his establishment for church meetings without charge and discounting meals at near cost prices. The 'church folks' took advantage of my father's generosity for years. The Gideon's decided that they could no longer meet at the restaurant if it sold alcohol.
What was hypocritical about this was the fact that I personally observed other Gideon's dine at the restaurant on individual outings who would order alcohol. The reality irritated me but did not surprise me. I always knew there was truth to the following: 'Never take a Baptist fishing because he'll drink all your beer; take TWO Baptists fishing and they won't drink any of your beer.'
.
This reminds me of personal observations back in the mid-1970's, when my father owned a steak house in Collinsville, Illinois. My parents did not drink alcohol and had to address the matter of serving alcoholic beverages in their restaurant. They came to a middle ground in their resolve. The restaurant would have no bar where patrons could just sit and drink but there would be liquor on the menu so patrons could order alcoholic drinks with meals.
My parents were active in their church and my father belonged to the Gideons International and supported local church organizations by offering his establishment for church meetings without charge and discounting meals at near cost prices. The 'church folks' took advantage of my father's generosity for years. The Gideon's decided that they could no longer meet at the restaurant if it sold alcohol.
What was hypocritical about this was the fact that I personally observed other Gideon's dine at the restaurant on individual outings who would order alcohol. The reality irritated me but did not surprise me. I always knew there was truth to the following: 'Never take a Baptist fishing because he'll drink all your beer; take TWO Baptists fishing and they won't drink any of your beer.'
.
Thursday, September 26, 2019
No Invitation, Yet
The only explanation I can advance is at age 80+, my social filter is completely clogged. Okay, I need to clarify. Approximately, three weeks ago, I was waiting in a nearby McDonald's for a person to join me for morning coffee and discuss some events around this year's 50th Annual Boys' Thanksgiving Basketball Tournament, which I coordinate for the Decatur School District. I had arrived early to make some notes and collect thoughts.
Three gentlemen seated in a booth nearby distracted my thinking with their over-the-top defense of President Donald Trump. Occasionally, I'd hear the name Obama mentioned in very condescending tones. I quickly jotted my own thoughts on a legal pad.
After my brief meeting, I stood to leave and stopped at the aforementioned table. I dropped my legal paper notes on the table with three of my 'contact' business cards. I said nothing. The note held these random comments: Obama would have NEVER been elected President had he> 1) had four bankruptcies, 2) admitted and bragged to sexual assaults upon women, 3) successfully sued for racial discrimination, 4) guilty of a University scam, 5) state that he could shoot somebody and still have support, 6) alleged marital rape, 7) using undocumented workers on building projects and then 'stiffing' them financially, 8) charged with anti-trust violations, 9) alleged mafia ties, 10) beauty pageant scandal and 11) using Foundation money to purchase his portrait.
My phone number appears on those business cards but as yet, I've not been invited for coffee.
Three gentlemen seated in a booth nearby distracted my thinking with their over-the-top defense of President Donald Trump. Occasionally, I'd hear the name Obama mentioned in very condescending tones. I quickly jotted my own thoughts on a legal pad.
After my brief meeting, I stood to leave and stopped at the aforementioned table. I dropped my legal paper notes on the table with three of my 'contact' business cards. I said nothing. The note held these random comments: Obama would have NEVER been elected President had he> 1) had four bankruptcies, 2) admitted and bragged to sexual assaults upon women, 3) successfully sued for racial discrimination, 4) guilty of a University scam, 5) state that he could shoot somebody and still have support, 6) alleged marital rape, 7) using undocumented workers on building projects and then 'stiffing' them financially, 8) charged with anti-trust violations, 9) alleged mafia ties, 10) beauty pageant scandal and 11) using Foundation money to purchase his portrait.
My phone number appears on those business cards but as yet, I've not been invited for coffee.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Beauty Truly is...Skin Deep.
Usually my annual visit with the dermatologist amounts to her walking a complete circle around my body and zapping areas that show suspected pre-cancer blemishes. During ths year's visit the routine changed. The good doctor found two facial spots that had to be surgically removed. My wife also had the scalpel put to her nose and neck. Just reference us, Mr. & Mrs. Basil.
While in the skin parlor, I asked the dermatologist to checkout the top of my forehead where my kids are always pointing to and asking, "Dad, why is your skin so wrinkly up there?" Well, I got the answer now. The doctor carefully examined the area in question and responded, "Nothing to worry about on the top of your forehead. Your children are just noticing some FATTY DEPOSITS. I've noticed you have 'fatty deposits' on your butt also," continued the good medical lady. Seems as we age the skin develops these fatty deposits. I thought on this malady enough and realized that my face will soon look like my butt, if not already. This means if my wife walks into the bathroom and I'm naked, she'll need to take a second look to determine if I'm getting 'in' or 'out' of the shower.
(Touch
SkinSkin
While in the skin parlor, I asked the dermatologist to checkout the top of my forehead where my kids are always pointing to and asking, "Dad, why is your skin so wrinkly up there?" Well, I got the answer now. The doctor carefully examined the area in question and responded, "Nothing to worry about on the top of your forehead. Your children are just noticing some FATTY DEPOSITS. I've noticed you have 'fatty deposits' on your butt also," continued the good medical lady. Seems as we age the skin develops these fatty deposits. I thought on this malady enough and realized that my face will soon look like my butt, if not already. This means if my wife walks into the bathroom and I'm naked, she'll need to take a second look to determine if I'm getting 'in' or 'out' of the shower.
(Touch
SkinSkin
Monday, September 23, 2019
A Winter Wonderland For All Ages
The past several winters, my wife and I have been blessed with the opportunity to spend two-plus months at Miramar Beach in the Sunshine State. The way the calendar works out, the last two weeks we are there is the beginning of the college spring-breakers' invasion. Now, those two weeks make for an interesting generational observation and contrast.
First the fellas: We oldsters are up at the crack of dawn just delighted to awaken to a new day. We take our arthritis meds or CBD oil, take the dog for a potty-walk and then begin thinking about serious matters facing us...what foods shall we eat throughout the day. The young male spring-breakers have likely only been in bed perhaps two hours before the old timers roll out and depending on just how much they 'hammered-home' the night before those college lads will look at the day's sunlight with mixed emotions.
The greatest contrast between the female snowbirds and their younger snow-chicks counterpart is observed in wearing attire. The younger set grabs an early tan and then goes all-out attempting to showcase the tan with light-colored tight-fitting T-shirts emphasizing points of interest. The mature girls are usually wearing very lose hanging tops covering lower points of interest and to be sure sweatshirts with printing comments about how much they are loved by grand-children.
We old folks head out to eateries around 4:30pm looking for those early bird specials, which usually gets us back to the rental about the time the spring-breakers are heading to the bars. Life is good!
First the fellas: We oldsters are up at the crack of dawn just delighted to awaken to a new day. We take our arthritis meds or CBD oil, take the dog for a potty-walk and then begin thinking about serious matters facing us...what foods shall we eat throughout the day. The young male spring-breakers have likely only been in bed perhaps two hours before the old timers roll out and depending on just how much they 'hammered-home' the night before those college lads will look at the day's sunlight with mixed emotions.
The greatest contrast between the female snowbirds and their younger snow-chicks counterpart is observed in wearing attire. The younger set grabs an early tan and then goes all-out attempting to showcase the tan with light-colored tight-fitting T-shirts emphasizing points of interest. The mature girls are usually wearing very lose hanging tops covering lower points of interest and to be sure sweatshirts with printing comments about how much they are loved by grand-children.
We old folks head out to eateries around 4:30pm looking for those early bird specials, which usually gets us back to the rental about the time the spring-breakers are heading to the bars. Life is good!
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Look In The Mirror Doofus
I never cease to be amazed by the simple-mindedness, which is rampant in our American society. It is rapidly spreading like a out-of-controlled case of poison ivy. This mental malady is frequently demonstrated in the naive and unsophisticated comments and claims that most of America's problems could and should be solved by having prayer in public schools. I suspect most folks who take this posture feel as though they've embraced a moral high ground and thus place thyself in a more pleasing light with our Lord. These nincompoops don't have the foggiest understanding of our Constitutional rights nor the importance of separation of Church and State by not establishing a religion.
This past Friday as my wife and I headed to dinner at the Beach House on Lake Decatur, we were delayed by heavy traffic; apparently dinner on the Lake and a nearby concert was a huge attraction for hungry people anticipating nourishment and entertainment. This 8:30 Sunday morning when we engaged the very same traffic route headed to Church service those roads appeared as a scene in Twilight Zone television episode depicting the eerie atmosphere of a vacated ghost town. Seems folks ain't hungry for spiritual nourishment. Of course, we all can rest assured that good parents taking a pass on Church attendance will have their children gather together in their home on this Sabbath day to share scripture readings and prayer.
Nah, Sunday is not a good day for that in American homes as illustrated by some 14%-18% of professing Christians actually 'in' church...hey, it's a golf morning and NFL TV afternoon; anyway that 'stuff' along with educating my kids and teaching them discipline should be done in the schools right after the Pledge of Allegiance and classroom prayer.
This past Friday as my wife and I headed to dinner at the Beach House on Lake Decatur, we were delayed by heavy traffic; apparently dinner on the Lake and a nearby concert was a huge attraction for hungry people anticipating nourishment and entertainment. This 8:30 Sunday morning when we engaged the very same traffic route headed to Church service those roads appeared as a scene in Twilight Zone television episode depicting the eerie atmosphere of a vacated ghost town. Seems folks ain't hungry for spiritual nourishment. Of course, we all can rest assured that good parents taking a pass on Church attendance will have their children gather together in their home on this Sabbath day to share scripture readings and prayer.
Nah, Sunday is not a good day for that in American homes as illustrated by some 14%-18% of professing Christians actually 'in' church...hey, it's a golf morning and NFL TV afternoon; anyway that 'stuff' along with educating my kids and teaching them discipline should be done in the schools right after the Pledge of Allegiance and classroom prayer.
Friday, September 20, 2019
'Splain It, Please
On the long-running popular sitcom, 'I Love Lucy,' husband Ricky when perplexed with some antics of wife Lucy, he would often say, "Splain it, Lucy!" Well, I'm frequently confused with events and antics of others and wish somebody would 'Splain it!'
1. How can retail stores keep allowing profits to be compromised by online Amazon purchasing and yet those stores don't have near the 'on-the-floor employee assistance?' Sooner rather than later the buying public gets tired of waiting in long lines or looking for somebody to assist them.
2. How can my African-American brothers & sisters get upset hearing that somebody once costumed-dressed in 'black-face' and yet embrace a rap music performer who spews lyrics with the 'N-Word?'
3. Sports' officials have often been quoted as saying they don't want 'their call' late in the game to impact the game's outcome. Let that soak-in before splanin'.
4. Why do Christians keep judging people when their LEADER tells them repeatedly in the Bible not to do that but He will sort it all out when He returns?
5. Before graduating high school, a student must pass the United States' Constitution test and a State Constitution test; why are there no tests to pass to become a parent or Congressperson?
6. I often hear men of 'The Cloth' tell their audiences that God spoke to them. Many times they go on to explain in detail why I should be interested in that bit of information. Usually, I'm required to respond. Once the late Pastor Oral Roberts told people that God spoke to him and if he did not raise a certain amount of money he (Roberts)!would die. I suppose that information was to motivate me to send Oral some money. Oral would have had a better chance getting some of my money had God spoke to me instead of Oral. Somebody shoulda 'splained that to the good Pastor.
7. If Webster defines 'fact' as 'truth' about events as opposed to interpretation then can there really be 'alternative facts?'
8. What kind of rationale is behind a retired person voting against a local school referendum based on the logic that their kids are no longer 'in' school?
9. Why are there so many different religions following the same Savior's teachings?
10. Do those people making their livelihood 'in the city' but live in the suburbs have any clue of their hypocrisy when they are critical of the city?
1. How can retail stores keep allowing profits to be compromised by online Amazon purchasing and yet those stores don't have near the 'on-the-floor employee assistance?' Sooner rather than later the buying public gets tired of waiting in long lines or looking for somebody to assist them.
2. How can my African-American brothers & sisters get upset hearing that somebody once costumed-dressed in 'black-face' and yet embrace a rap music performer who spews lyrics with the 'N-Word?'
3. Sports' officials have often been quoted as saying they don't want 'their call' late in the game to impact the game's outcome. Let that soak-in before splanin'.
4. Why do Christians keep judging people when their LEADER tells them repeatedly in the Bible not to do that but He will sort it all out when He returns?
5. Before graduating high school, a student must pass the United States' Constitution test and a State Constitution test; why are there no tests to pass to become a parent or Congressperson?
6. I often hear men of 'The Cloth' tell their audiences that God spoke to them. Many times they go on to explain in detail why I should be interested in that bit of information. Usually, I'm required to respond. Once the late Pastor Oral Roberts told people that God spoke to him and if he did not raise a certain amount of money he (Roberts)!would die. I suppose that information was to motivate me to send Oral some money. Oral would have had a better chance getting some of my money had God spoke to me instead of Oral. Somebody shoulda 'splained that to the good Pastor.
7. If Webster defines 'fact' as 'truth' about events as opposed to interpretation then can there really be 'alternative facts?'
8. What kind of rationale is behind a retired person voting against a local school referendum based on the logic that their kids are no longer 'in' school?
9. Why are there so many different religions following the same Savior's teachings?
10. Do those people making their livelihood 'in the city' but live in the suburbs have any clue of their hypocrisy when they are critical of the city?
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Words Recalled
I have always enjoyed and embraced the meaningful quote; that comment that stirs introspect or engenders a chuckle. Perhaps you also share the joy found in others' words of wisdom and humorous offerings. Here are a few of my favorites:
Casey Stengel (Baseball Manager) "There comes a time in every man's life and I've had many of them."
Lewis Gizzard (Author) "Chili Dogs always bark at night."
Terry Roosevelt (President) "Talk softly and carry a big stick."
Socrates (Philosopher) "Know Thyself"
Yogi Berra (Baseball player) "People don't go there no more because it's too crowded." "If you don't go to peoples' funerals, they won't come to yours."
Patrick Henry (Statesman) "I know not what others choose but, as for me, give me liberty or give me death."
G. W. Bush (President) "It's going to take time to restore chaos."
Bob Hope (Entertainer) " If you haven't Charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble."
Plato (Philosopher) "Opinions are the medium between knowledge and ignorance."
JFK (President) "Let us not seek to fix blame for the past but accept responsibility for the future."
Will Rogers (Humorist) "There are three kinds of men: those who learn by readin', those who learn by observation and those who have to pee on the electric fence themselves."
Abe Lincoln (President) "The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time."
Donald Trump (President) "One of the wettest...from the standpoint of water." I'm a stable genius."
FDR (President) "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."
Christ (Savior) "A new command I give you, Love one another as I have loved you."
Perhaps you have a favorite quote...
Casey Stengel (Baseball Manager) "There comes a time in every man's life and I've had many of them."
Lewis Gizzard (Author) "Chili Dogs always bark at night."
Terry Roosevelt (President) "Talk softly and carry a big stick."
Socrates (Philosopher) "Know Thyself"
Yogi Berra (Baseball player) "People don't go there no more because it's too crowded." "If you don't go to peoples' funerals, they won't come to yours."
Patrick Henry (Statesman) "I know not what others choose but, as for me, give me liberty or give me death."
G. W. Bush (President) "It's going to take time to restore chaos."
Bob Hope (Entertainer) " If you haven't Charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble."
Plato (Philosopher) "Opinions are the medium between knowledge and ignorance."
JFK (President) "Let us not seek to fix blame for the past but accept responsibility for the future."
Will Rogers (Humorist) "There are three kinds of men: those who learn by readin', those who learn by observation and those who have to pee on the electric fence themselves."
Abe Lincoln (President) "The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time."
Donald Trump (President) "One of the wettest...from the standpoint of water." I'm a stable genius."
FDR (President) "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."
Christ (Savior) "A new command I give you, Love one another as I have loved you."
Perhaps you have a favorite quote...
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Money
Unless you live under a rock, you know by now that America's biggest automaker, General Motors saw 50,000 employees walk off the job last week and declare a workers' strike. These are the times that I wish I fully understood economics. I shall admit, I don't. However, like most of my fellow Americans, I still have an opinion and subsequently pick a side to support. It's easy for me when I understand that a journeyman assembly-line worker is making $38.00 per hour ($123,000.00 per year) compared to the General Motors CEO who makes 295-times that amount for a whopping 22 million dollars a year salary. On a personal note my first 'new' auto purchase was a 1962 Chevy II, with a $2,200.00 price tag...my wife and I purchased a 2019 Toyota Avalon last year with a sticker price of $41,000.00. As Forrest Gump would opine, "And that's all I have to say about that."
I will tell you that there remains two events in my youth that turned me off on economics: First, it was the fifth grade at Woodrow Wilson Grade School when the teacher posed this arithmetic word problem> 'Bobby's dad bought 10-gallons of gasoline at .30 cents per gallon. He drives his next door neighbor to and from work very day, which totals 34-miles round trip. If the two men are to split cost, how much should Bobby's dad charge his neighbor weekly?' I immediately thought, how sad. I would not ask my neighbor for a nickel for gas but develop such a friendship that he'd offer to fill up my car once in awhile. I suppose that's one reason I majored in sociology in college.
Secondly, it was about the same time when the Coca-Cola Company discontinued a seventy-year tradition. For 70-years a bottle of Coke was a nickel. Coke increased from .5 cents to .6 cents. Why just two days ago, I walked passed a vending machine and noticed a bottle of Coke was $1.75.
(Touch)
Money--That's What They Need
I will tell you that there remains two events in my youth that turned me off on economics: First, it was the fifth grade at Woodrow Wilson Grade School when the teacher posed this arithmetic word problem> 'Bobby's dad bought 10-gallons of gasoline at .30 cents per gallon. He drives his next door neighbor to and from work very day, which totals 34-miles round trip. If the two men are to split cost, how much should Bobby's dad charge his neighbor weekly?' I immediately thought, how sad. I would not ask my neighbor for a nickel for gas but develop such a friendship that he'd offer to fill up my car once in awhile. I suppose that's one reason I majored in sociology in college.
Secondly, it was about the same time when the Coca-Cola Company discontinued a seventy-year tradition. For 70-years a bottle of Coke was a nickel. Coke increased from .5 cents to .6 cents. Why just two days ago, I walked passed a vending machine and noticed a bottle of Coke was $1.75.
(Touch)
Money--That's What They Need
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Decision Was for Me!
A few months ago, I had a healthy and interesting debate with fellow Christian friends about reactions to the 'Street-Corner-Panhandlers.' One individual was adamant suggesting that these handout-seekers are organized by, I suppose a 'money pimp.' I have a difficult time imaging that proposed sophistication. I simply don't give much thought to the whys behind the beggar. I suspect some are vets, many are homeless and many likely in the grips of addiction. I simply don't know and I have not the time nor inclination to investigate each individuals' personal motivation. I remember my youth when homeless, questionable-looking fellas showed up at the back door wanting a handout or offering to do chores for food or money. Back in that day, we called those guys 'Hobos.' My family often gave them a little work project and then a couple of dollars and sent them on their way. Of course, my maternal grandmother, Mammy Bennett found some food and perhaps old shoes, socks or a shirt for them.
Personally, I sometimes give a few bucks to those Street-Corner beggars. I would likely give more often but obviously I have financial limits. No, I'm not concerned with the thought>'will this person purchase alcohol?' I give because I am moved at the moment to do so and I have a dollar I don't need just then.
I know some of the taxes I pay goes to government programs for the needy as I understand some monies I tithe to my church does likewise. In both those instances somebody else has the audacity to make the giveaway decision in my behalf. So be it. I scratch my head with amazement how people in control of monies rationalize their giving. President Trump recently gave a big tax break that benefited the more affluent citizenry while his 2019 budget called for many cuts in programs for the poverty stricken. He also gave a 16-billion dollar bailout to farmers adversely affected by his tariffs. Trump can do that because he's President and I can give my money to the corner panhandler because...
"If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion--how can God's love be in that person?" 1-John 3:17
Personally, I sometimes give a few bucks to those Street-Corner beggars. I would likely give more often but obviously I have financial limits. No, I'm not concerned with the thought>'will this person purchase alcohol?' I give because I am moved at the moment to do so and I have a dollar I don't need just then.
I know some of the taxes I pay goes to government programs for the needy as I understand some monies I tithe to my church does likewise. In both those instances somebody else has the audacity to make the giveaway decision in my behalf. So be it. I scratch my head with amazement how people in control of monies rationalize their giving. President Trump recently gave a big tax break that benefited the more affluent citizenry while his 2019 budget called for many cuts in programs for the poverty stricken. He also gave a 16-billion dollar bailout to farmers adversely affected by his tariffs. Trump can do that because he's President and I can give my money to the corner panhandler because...
"If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion--how can God's love be in that person?" 1-John 3:17
Monday, September 16, 2019
Two Masterful Communicators
Many Ronald Reagan 'lovers' championed the late president as 'The Great Communicator.' Personally, I never bought that line. Any person who begins most responses to questions with, "Well..." does not suggest to me that a great communicator is about to speak! Without question both former President Franklin D. Roosevelt and current President Donald J. Trump outshine Reagan when it comes to 'communicating.'
FDR served as president from 1933-until his death in-1945. Consider, if you will that he was at the leadership helm coming out of a Great Depression and during World War II. His challenges were great and in an effort to lift the hopes and spirits of a downtrodden nation, President Roosevelt see the relatively new media tool called 'radio' and established his famous 'Fireside Chats.' Thirty-one times over a 13-year period, Roosevelt 'talked' to Americans as he connected a government for the people with the people.
Today, President Trump has essentially eliminated the long-standing White House Press Conference, which traditionally offered insight into our governments 'thinking' and policy intentions. Instead, Trump uses two modern-day media tools to communicate: He tweets over the Internet continuously and before leaving the White House on Presidential trips, he stands nearby a helicopter on the White House grounds and shouts opinions, insults and answers to a press corps as a nation of confused and divided people's watches via television. Once finished with his 'Chopperside Chats,' Trump heads to a political rally where he continues his insults and personally denigrates anybody opposing his views.
FDR was a master with his words, which called upon our better angels; Trump is equally masterful at tapping the hateful evilness in our midst. Whereas FDR lifted the 'WE' spirit of a nation, Trump gives impetus to disagreements and hostilities thus creating a greater chasm between people, which perpetuates 'Us vs. Them' attitudes.
Actually, one might make a strong case that Trump is a better communicator than was FDR. And then perhaps, today's America simply has an insatiable appetite for hate, racial bigotry and religious intolerance.
FDR served as president from 1933-until his death in-1945. Consider, if you will that he was at the leadership helm coming out of a Great Depression and during World War II. His challenges were great and in an effort to lift the hopes and spirits of a downtrodden nation, President Roosevelt see the relatively new media tool called 'radio' and established his famous 'Fireside Chats.' Thirty-one times over a 13-year period, Roosevelt 'talked' to Americans as he connected a government for the people with the people.
Today, President Trump has essentially eliminated the long-standing White House Press Conference, which traditionally offered insight into our governments 'thinking' and policy intentions. Instead, Trump uses two modern-day media tools to communicate: He tweets over the Internet continuously and before leaving the White House on Presidential trips, he stands nearby a helicopter on the White House grounds and shouts opinions, insults and answers to a press corps as a nation of confused and divided people's watches via television. Once finished with his 'Chopperside Chats,' Trump heads to a political rally where he continues his insults and personally denigrates anybody opposing his views.
FDR was a master with his words, which called upon our better angels; Trump is equally masterful at tapping the hateful evilness in our midst. Whereas FDR lifted the 'WE' spirit of a nation, Trump gives impetus to disagreements and hostilities thus creating a greater chasm between people, which perpetuates 'Us vs. Them' attitudes.
Actually, one might make a strong case that Trump is a better communicator than was FDR. And then perhaps, today's America simply has an insatiable appetite for hate, racial bigotry and religious intolerance.
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Dismantling Democray
Soon American President, Donald Trump will name his fourth National Security Advisor in less than three years. One of the previous three had to resign because he is a criminal, another quit because he could not function in Trump's administration and the third NSA left having either been fired or quitting. Currently that fella (John Bolton) and Trump are engaging in a peeing contest regarding the truth.
Just recently, at a 'Chopper--Side Chat' Trump said there was 15-people who wanted the NSA job because "It's enjoyable working with Donald Trump because the job is easy since I (Trump) make all the decisions." Americans should not casually dismiss that latter comment. "I make all the decisions."
From my world history studies, I recall other leaders who 'made all their country's decisions:'
Adolf Hitler (Germany), Benito Mussolini (Italy), Fidel Castro (Cuba), Saddam Hussein (Iraq), Joseph Stalin (Russia) and Kim Jong Un ( North Korea).
Say nothing, do nothing and your children and grandchildren will not have YOUR choice of apathy.
(Touch)
Sooner or Later
Just recently, at a 'Chopper--Side Chat' Trump said there was 15-people who wanted the NSA job because "It's enjoyable working with Donald Trump because the job is easy since I (Trump) make all the decisions." Americans should not casually dismiss that latter comment. "I make all the decisions."
From my world history studies, I recall other leaders who 'made all their country's decisions:'
Adolf Hitler (Germany), Benito Mussolini (Italy), Fidel Castro (Cuba), Saddam Hussein (Iraq), Joseph Stalin (Russia) and Kim Jong Un ( North Korea).
Say nothing, do nothing and your children and grandchildren will not have YOUR choice of apathy.
(Touch)
Sooner or Later
Doing It The Right Way
My youngest daughter, mother of two adult children telephoned last evening and cut immediately to the chase with a question she posed seeking an urgent answer. My interest quickly peaked due to the tone of her voice...I listened carefully as the inquiry resonated, "Dad, she started, when you blow your nose do you blow one nostril side and then the other or do you blow with both nostril sides open?"
Immediately, all kinds of thoughts began running through my mind. My goodness, this daughter is 51-years old and somewhere in her early training I missed a parenting teaching responsibility. How did this happen? I began going through a mental check list>I remember impressing upon her to look both ways crossing streets, explaining proper table manners, how to budget study time and to respect reasoning behind teenage curfews. Oh, for sure I gave that 'Birds & Bees' lesson. But how did I overlook the nose-blowing lesson?! I set my shame aside and answered her question: "You should blow one nostril-side and then the other nostril-side." My daughter laughed with delight as she yelled at her husband standing nearby listening on the speaker-phone, "See, I told you that you were blowing your nose wrong," she told him. I breathed a sigh of relief knowing my son in-law's parents screwed up...not me. But then perhaps I am guilty of not thoroughly vetting my son in-law when he was dating my daughter.
Soon, I'm going to muster the nerve to ask my daughter another critical question: "Does your toilet-paper come off the roll the proper way, which is over-the-top?" Meanwhile, I need to make a list of things' to share with the grandkids. Oh my, when does this parenting guilt end?
Immediately, all kinds of thoughts began running through my mind. My goodness, this daughter is 51-years old and somewhere in her early training I missed a parenting teaching responsibility. How did this happen? I began going through a mental check list>I remember impressing upon her to look both ways crossing streets, explaining proper table manners, how to budget study time and to respect reasoning behind teenage curfews. Oh, for sure I gave that 'Birds & Bees' lesson. But how did I overlook the nose-blowing lesson?! I set my shame aside and answered her question: "You should blow one nostril-side and then the other nostril-side." My daughter laughed with delight as she yelled at her husband standing nearby listening on the speaker-phone, "See, I told you that you were blowing your nose wrong," she told him. I breathed a sigh of relief knowing my son in-law's parents screwed up...not me. But then perhaps I am guilty of not thoroughly vetting my son in-law when he was dating my daughter.
Soon, I'm going to muster the nerve to ask my daughter another critical question: "Does your toilet-paper come off the roll the proper way, which is over-the-top?" Meanwhile, I need to make a list of things' to share with the grandkids. Oh my, when does this parenting guilt end?
Friday, September 13, 2019
Parents Going It Alone
The 1959 Illinois State University sociology professor was quoting a 'Family Relationship' research study when he said, "It's likely healthier for a married couple to visit their respective parents no more than twice a year." His comment seemed to fly in the face of the long-standing African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child." And if you please, how about Biblical scripture, which suggests the same in Ecclesiastes 4:9, "Two are better than one....if either of them falls down one can help the other up."
On a personal note, I am without question a product from 'a village.' That said, through the years increased family mobility became a game changer along with the more permissive parenting attitude perpetuated by Dr. Spock. I grew up wanting to please my parents; not sure the youngsters today embrace that mission. In fact, I sense the pleasing-thing has flipped; parents bust their butts trying to make things smooth, easy and enjoyable for their children.
Parents and preachers of my youth spoke of ' Hell-to-Pay' consequences. Youth today are less concerned about a result or effect from their actions or behavior. And nobody goes to a church to hear a pastor preach hell-fire-and-damnation when you can stay home, kick back in your easy chair and listen to 'feel good' fella, Joel Olsteen.
Ah, I'll stop there, I'm beginning to sound like a grumpy old eighty year old fart. I am glad I see my kids more than twice a year!
On a personal note, I am without question a product from 'a village.' That said, through the years increased family mobility became a game changer along with the more permissive parenting attitude perpetuated by Dr. Spock. I grew up wanting to please my parents; not sure the youngsters today embrace that mission. In fact, I sense the pleasing-thing has flipped; parents bust their butts trying to make things smooth, easy and enjoyable for their children.
Parents and preachers of my youth spoke of ' Hell-to-Pay' consequences. Youth today are less concerned about a result or effect from their actions or behavior. And nobody goes to a church to hear a pastor preach hell-fire-and-damnation when you can stay home, kick back in your easy chair and listen to 'feel good' fella, Joel Olsteen.
Ah, I'll stop there, I'm beginning to sound like a grumpy old eighty year old fart. I am glad I see my kids more than twice a year!
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
Separation of Church and State
"Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." So reads the actual words of the First Amendment of the Constitution.
I personally confess Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. As coach, I said a basketball pre-game prayer before every game. I could have been called on the carpet for that activity but I never was.
I understand that organized prayer moments in our public schools presents monumental issues. Whose prayer book shall be embraced, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, etc. Each of the aforementioned religious groups are likely made up of tax paying citizens supporting the public schools, therefore why not 'their' prayer?
I am always amused by nincompoops who make such shortsighted proclamations, i.e., "We need to bring back prayer in our schools." First, I find it rather lame to expect our public 'schools' to do so many parenting responsibilities and secondly, I'd wish somebody would explain to me why only 14-to-18 percent of professed American Christians attend church on a weekly basis and it's these folks wanting prayer in schools.
As for prayer in public schools. Let's do it. Let's aside15-minutes daily for student prayer sessions. We just need to establish many room locations offering prayer from every organized American religion plus a room for non-believers to stare out the windows.
I personally confess Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. As coach, I said a basketball pre-game prayer before every game. I could have been called on the carpet for that activity but I never was.
I understand that organized prayer moments in our public schools presents monumental issues. Whose prayer book shall be embraced, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, etc. Each of the aforementioned religious groups are likely made up of tax paying citizens supporting the public schools, therefore why not 'their' prayer?
I am always amused by nincompoops who make such shortsighted proclamations, i.e., "We need to bring back prayer in our schools." First, I find it rather lame to expect our public 'schools' to do so many parenting responsibilities and secondly, I'd wish somebody would explain to me why only 14-to-18 percent of professed American Christians attend church on a weekly basis and it's these folks wanting prayer in schools.
As for prayer in public schools. Let's do it. Let's aside15-minutes daily for student prayer sessions. We just need to establish many room locations offering prayer from every organized American religion plus a room for non-believers to stare out the windows.
Monday, September 9, 2019
Let Freedom Ring?
America, the land of freedom...hardly! Now that two Republicans have announced candidacy for the Republican Party's 2020 presidential primaries, we note several states make declarations suggesting their state WILL NOT conduct primaries in the obvious effort to protect President Trump's nomination.
These munipulations coupled with 'Moscow' Mitch McConnell's refusal to protect the integrity of the 2020 Presidential election underscores a reality that American democracy is a myth...a fairy tale!
These munipulations coupled with 'Moscow' Mitch McConnell's refusal to protect the integrity of the 2020 Presidential election underscores a reality that American democracy is a myth...a fairy tale!
Sunday, September 8, 2019
America's Declining Dignity
Swearing has always been part of the American folkways. Even our politicians of yesterday did their fair amount of 'cursing' or as we said in my neighborhood, 'cussing.' We must make the point, however that most politicians in days gone by did their cussing in private moments not before a campaign crowd. Well, that behavior appears in jeopardy for this 2020 presidential campaign trail.
President Trump's public potty-mouth is well documented and for the sake of decency, I shall not list all of Donald's vulgar mouthing moments. I also will point to Joe Biden who thought he was off-microphone when he made his infamous 'f'..ing' remark to Obama regarding the passing of the Affordable Care Act. With the aforementioned underscored, please note that dropping the 'f-bomb' and other nasty language is becoming more the norm on this 2020 presidential run. Now, some who dislike Trump will lay the blame at his feet but I think that's far too easy and untrue. I think the reason we hear this vulgarity slipping into the political arena is simply because it's become common place in the general public. That's right. And it's likely to get worse because as a society we no longer hold folks accountable and if we should the person we chastised for foul language is likely 'carrying.'
The thought occurs to me that if we begin giving a potty-mouth pass to our elected officials why not teachers, television commentators and celebrities? I know how high school kids spew vulgarities so let the teachers' rip on the student, eh? Boy, can you imagine how some on-the-scene reporters could give 'colorful' wording to fires, tornadoes and hurricanes. And just think how wonderfully descriptive our sports' heroes could explain a spectacular play.
Call me a fool (and some do), I still call out young or old who bark out a vulgarity in my presence especially if my wife or other women are nearby.
(Touch)
My World
President Trump's public potty-mouth is well documented and for the sake of decency, I shall not list all of Donald's vulgar mouthing moments. I also will point to Joe Biden who thought he was off-microphone when he made his infamous 'f'..ing' remark to Obama regarding the passing of the Affordable Care Act. With the aforementioned underscored, please note that dropping the 'f-bomb' and other nasty language is becoming more the norm on this 2020 presidential run. Now, some who dislike Trump will lay the blame at his feet but I think that's far too easy and untrue. I think the reason we hear this vulgarity slipping into the political arena is simply because it's become common place in the general public. That's right. And it's likely to get worse because as a society we no longer hold folks accountable and if we should the person we chastised for foul language is likely 'carrying.'
The thought occurs to me that if we begin giving a potty-mouth pass to our elected officials why not teachers, television commentators and celebrities? I know how high school kids spew vulgarities so let the teachers' rip on the student, eh? Boy, can you imagine how some on-the-scene reporters could give 'colorful' wording to fires, tornadoes and hurricanes. And just think how wonderfully descriptive our sports' heroes could explain a spectacular play.
Call me a fool (and some do), I still call out young or old who bark out a vulgarity in my presence especially if my wife or other women are nearby.
(Touch)
My World
Saturday, September 7, 2019
A Smart Coach Won't Ignore
The thirty-seven years coaching high school basketball, I embraced two major objectives, which if successfully addressed rendered the main outcome goal. First, I wanted to develop a year-to-year all-level program focus protecting its integrity and secondly, develop and sustain a basketball family atmosphere. If I could accomplish those two objectives then the day I would leave that coaching position, I would leave a basketball program in better shape than I inherited.
In today's blog, I wish to address one growing factor regarding the second objective; developing and sustaining a basketball family. We must acknowledge that the relationship dynamics in high school sports can be most difficult to harness and move in a positive direction. That relationship between player-parents-coach. That said, it is paramount that parents and players have a constructive format, which they agree to follow when concerned about their child's participation in basketball. Our programs developed and insisted on following a specific communication process.
In recent times, I note the potential for program destruction coming via the Facebook-Internet interaction. As a coach, I could not control what those outside our program said or did. As the coach, I was totally responsible for protecting the program and I did. Regarding the Facebook-Internet factor, a smart coach would have parents and players sign a pledge, i.e. Athletic code-pledge that they would NOT engage in those Facebook Internet exchanges while participating in the basketball program. This would be an acknowledgment that 'the program's' integrity is our central obligation.
This agreement is not some sort of an indictment of free speech. It is an agreement that as a committed member of a group with a mission, we must 'circle the wagons' and protect 'The Family.'
In today's blog, I wish to address one growing factor regarding the second objective; developing and sustaining a basketball family. We must acknowledge that the relationship dynamics in high school sports can be most difficult to harness and move in a positive direction. That relationship between player-parents-coach. That said, it is paramount that parents and players have a constructive format, which they agree to follow when concerned about their child's participation in basketball. Our programs developed and insisted on following a specific communication process.
In recent times, I note the potential for program destruction coming via the Facebook-Internet interaction. As a coach, I could not control what those outside our program said or did. As the coach, I was totally responsible for protecting the program and I did. Regarding the Facebook-Internet factor, a smart coach would have parents and players sign a pledge, i.e. Athletic code-pledge that they would NOT engage in those Facebook Internet exchanges while participating in the basketball program. This would be an acknowledgment that 'the program's' integrity is our central obligation.
This agreement is not some sort of an indictment of free speech. It is an agreement that as a committed member of a group with a mission, we must 'circle the wagons' and protect 'The Family.'
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