Recently the highly conservative Florida Supreme Court ignored the desires of sixty-six percent of its people who had voted and approved an amendment, which would have allowed ex-cons the right to vote without financial repayments for committed crimes. Evidently it's not enough to 'serve time' for your crime but when you get out of prison the felon, who will have difficulty getting a job must make financial re-payment.
My question is similar to that of William Shakespeare's in his play 'Merchant of Venice.' "Take thou thy pound of flesh," said Portia to Shylock. But later in the play Shakespeare's suggests that the law can establish unreasonable recompense. How vengeful, bloodthirsty and inflexible must society be in seeking the 'pound of flesh?'
In the late 1990's seven Decatur, Illinois African-American boys got into a public altercation at a high school football game. You may have seen video clips of the incident because the story went nationwide due to the school districts implied 'zero tolerance policy,' which resulted in some of the youngsters being suspended from school for two-years and Rev. Jessie Jackson getting involved. By the way, it wasn't a very good fight; mostly running and kicking at one another. East St. Louis fights at Parsons' Field Football Complex were much more memorable.
As a parent and a high school coach, I punished wrong-doing quickly, briefly, sufficiently and got the youngster back on track. I suppose the hard-nosed folks out there are chopping at the bit to toss that 'liberal label' my way. Well, you all have at it but understand the book I read on this subject tells me to execute true judgment showing mercy and compassion to every brother and sister.
I have two questions: How much flesh is too much? And...Are we not happy that Jesus-Christ does not have a 'zero-tolerance' policy?
Footnote: Regarding the Florida Supreme Court's decision to keep 10,000 felons from voting...well, those conservative folks fear that most would be voting for Democrats. Never mind 49% of Florida voters found forgiveness in their hearts for the many immoral and fraudulent indiscretions of Donald J. Trump in 2016.
Friday, January 31, 2020
Thursday, January 30, 2020
The Era of Lunatic Parenting
I have been fortunate in so many ways and one major way was growing up in the 1940's & 1950's under my parents roof. In that home, I knew I was loved but not worshiped. In that home, I developed a a sense of expectations as the result of explanations, perhaps a scolding and if needed a swat on the butt. In that home, I wanted to please and make my parents happy. I was told the rules of engagement for me when Company came calling: "You're to be seen and not heard unless you're asked a question...and don't interrupt people talking."
When I branched out from the homestead during teen years, I had curfews and a list of 'no-no' activities with well-defined consequences. I did not push that envelop...I knew better. I was told my teacher was right and bad behavior resulting in school punishment would cause greater reinforcement punishment at home. I experienced that once in the third grade...never again. I was encouraged in my sport participation but cautioned not to show a poor attitude or complain about anything. If I did not like any situation in my sport world, I was told to do something to change things to my liking.
I pretty-much followed my parents 'parenting blueprint,' when I became a parent, yet my children's generation adopted a whole different set of permissive-parenting rules and the generation after that seemingly have but one rule: 'What can we do to insure Junior & Missy's happiness?!'
A few years ago, I was giving a lecture at an East coast private high school, which had an annual tuition price of $30,000.00. During a post speech social hour a well-spoken couple approached me offering this question: "Should we telephone our son's college football coach and ask him to praise his reserves more when interviewed by the media?" I told them to run that idea by their 20-year old son first. Parents of children involved in sports and other extra-curricular activities live in La-La Land wearing blinders. Most are completely incapable of stepping back and seeing the larger picture of these experiences and the developmental benefits. Instead, many parents want their child to be the team's captain, leading scorer and top award winner...screw everything else!
This week a Southwestern, Illinois high school Superintendent opened her email and read the following: "Last night our school played your school in a boys' basketball tournament. While one of our players was shooting a free throw, your cheerleaders were doing a loud cheer, which likely broke the shooter's consecration. This is not good sportsmanship." I'm going to take an educated guess here:
1) It was the emailer's son, 2) the boy's mother was in daddy's ear about this abuse directed towards her offspring, 3) their team got beat and their son has his own auto, does no chores but gets a nice weekly allowance.
Thanks Mom and Dad...thanks.
Excuse me, I must take a walk.
When I branched out from the homestead during teen years, I had curfews and a list of 'no-no' activities with well-defined consequences. I did not push that envelop...I knew better. I was told my teacher was right and bad behavior resulting in school punishment would cause greater reinforcement punishment at home. I experienced that once in the third grade...never again. I was encouraged in my sport participation but cautioned not to show a poor attitude or complain about anything. If I did not like any situation in my sport world, I was told to do something to change things to my liking.
I pretty-much followed my parents 'parenting blueprint,' when I became a parent, yet my children's generation adopted a whole different set of permissive-parenting rules and the generation after that seemingly have but one rule: 'What can we do to insure Junior & Missy's happiness?!'
A few years ago, I was giving a lecture at an East coast private high school, which had an annual tuition price of $30,000.00. During a post speech social hour a well-spoken couple approached me offering this question: "Should we telephone our son's college football coach and ask him to praise his reserves more when interviewed by the media?" I told them to run that idea by their 20-year old son first. Parents of children involved in sports and other extra-curricular activities live in La-La Land wearing blinders. Most are completely incapable of stepping back and seeing the larger picture of these experiences and the developmental benefits. Instead, many parents want their child to be the team's captain, leading scorer and top award winner...screw everything else!
This week a Southwestern, Illinois high school Superintendent opened her email and read the following: "Last night our school played your school in a boys' basketball tournament. While one of our players was shooting a free throw, your cheerleaders were doing a loud cheer, which likely broke the shooter's consecration. This is not good sportsmanship." I'm going to take an educated guess here:
1) It was the emailer's son, 2) the boy's mother was in daddy's ear about this abuse directed towards her offspring, 3) their team got beat and their son has his own auto, does no chores but gets a nice weekly allowance.
Thanks Mom and Dad...thanks.
Excuse me, I must take a walk.
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
A Tragedy on Many Fronts
"Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. And the scribes and Pharisees brought to him a woman who had committed adultery; and they said to him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what shyest thou? Jesus lifted himself up and said, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast the stone at her."
John Chapter 8
I open with this biblical scripture for my brothers and sisters in Christ but I invite my brothers and sisters who may be non-believers to consider the simple logic advanced in answering the question posed, which obviously speaks to the issue of judging others. I am NOT an authority on scriptures, however I have searched the Bible over looking for the Christ quote that charges his followers to judge one another in His absence and until His second coming.
I offer these opening words on the heels of a recent tragedy that has inspired and promoted the comments of many Americans especially those tethered to sports. I speak of the helicopter crash, which took to lives of former professional basketball great, Kobe Bryant, his 13-year old daughter and seven other young people. A stunned populace is moved to express sorrow in the face of such devastation extols the accomplishments of Kobe Bryant pointing to his glossy basketball career and his humanitarian acts. Balance of opinions always occurs when such events happen and thus we find some voices who quickly point out the 2003 alleged sexual assault of a young woman by Bryant. No criminal charges and no trial resulted but a financial settlement ended the story to the satisfaction of parties involved.
On a personal note, I have given 19-eulogies at family requests. On each occasion, I remind myself of two things: 1) There are people listening to my words who knew the departed individual better than I, therefore be cautions with liberties and 2) Don't make the deceased lager in death than in life.
Kobe Bryant obviously had many extraordinary skills along with a respected work ethic commitment to his profession. That's a fact. We witnessed such. Beyond that we would speculate on other aspects of his life. Safe to say, Kobe Bryant like me, like you was not perfect. He undoubtedly was not without 'sin,' like me, like you.
My grandmother, Mammy Bennett often told me that if I couldn't say something nice about a person say nothing. Of course, I've failed that 'Christian litmus test time and time again.' There is a beautiful Hymn called, "By Or Love," which holds a line, '...they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love..." I say PERHAPS! Why? Because I know some professed Christians by other traits
(Touch)By Our Love
John Chapter 8
I open with this biblical scripture for my brothers and sisters in Christ but I invite my brothers and sisters who may be non-believers to consider the simple logic advanced in answering the question posed, which obviously speaks to the issue of judging others. I am NOT an authority on scriptures, however I have searched the Bible over looking for the Christ quote that charges his followers to judge one another in His absence and until His second coming.
I offer these opening words on the heels of a recent tragedy that has inspired and promoted the comments of many Americans especially those tethered to sports. I speak of the helicopter crash, which took to lives of former professional basketball great, Kobe Bryant, his 13-year old daughter and seven other young people. A stunned populace is moved to express sorrow in the face of such devastation extols the accomplishments of Kobe Bryant pointing to his glossy basketball career and his humanitarian acts. Balance of opinions always occurs when such events happen and thus we find some voices who quickly point out the 2003 alleged sexual assault of a young woman by Bryant. No criminal charges and no trial resulted but a financial settlement ended the story to the satisfaction of parties involved.
On a personal note, I have given 19-eulogies at family requests. On each occasion, I remind myself of two things: 1) There are people listening to my words who knew the departed individual better than I, therefore be cautions with liberties and 2) Don't make the deceased lager in death than in life.
Kobe Bryant obviously had many extraordinary skills along with a respected work ethic commitment to his profession. That's a fact. We witnessed such. Beyond that we would speculate on other aspects of his life. Safe to say, Kobe Bryant like me, like you was not perfect. He undoubtedly was not without 'sin,' like me, like you.
My grandmother, Mammy Bennett often told me that if I couldn't say something nice about a person say nothing. Of course, I've failed that 'Christian litmus test time and time again.' There is a beautiful Hymn called, "By Or Love," which holds a line, '...they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love..." I say PERHAPS! Why? Because I know some professed Christians by other traits
(Touch)By Our Love
Tuesday, January 28, 2020
Truth Denied becomes Truth Died
On February 3, 1959, an airplane crashed in Clear Lake, Iowa. On the ill-fated flight was rising music stars, Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and JP (Big Bopper) Richardson along with the craft's pilot. They were barnstorming through the Mid-west. According to Wikipedia, the tragedy later became known as 'The Day The Music Died,' after song writer, Don McLean referred to it as such in his song "America Pie."
This week the U. S. House of Representatives impeachment articles, which are in the hands of the
U. S. Senate for a trial will find 100 United States Senators voting on the question of witnesses that could either totally exonerate President Trump from any wrong doing or confirm his alleged wrong doing. This question 'to vote or not to vote' is not rocket science! This matter is one begging simple logic void of the political games, i.e., "Who's on first...What's on second..."
Make no mistake, should U.S. Senators vote to deny witnesses, you can mark that date on your calendar as 'The Day Truth Died and Democracy was placed on Life Support.'
This week the U. S. House of Representatives impeachment articles, which are in the hands of the
U. S. Senate for a trial will find 100 United States Senators voting on the question of witnesses that could either totally exonerate President Trump from any wrong doing or confirm his alleged wrong doing. This question 'to vote or not to vote' is not rocket science! This matter is one begging simple logic void of the political games, i.e., "Who's on first...What's on second..."
Make no mistake, should U.S. Senators vote to deny witnesses, you can mark that date on your calendar as 'The Day Truth Died and Democracy was placed on Life Support.'
Monday, January 27, 2020
Taking Stock Of Living
Death touches every life's journey. Death comes to all life. Although we hate to see the aged die, we perhaps accept it as life's longing for renewal and thankful for the departed one's long life. When tragic death occurs, we are troubled in understanding and coping. Tragic sudden death and death of the young can create a myriad of unanswerable questions. We are simply stunned.
All kinds of death happens daily; the expected, the unexpected, the young and the old, the rich and the poor and people of all colors, nationalities and faith. When those notable celebrities die we are inundated with news-outlet stories as was the case in the death of former National Basketball Association great, Kobe Bryant and his daughter. Keep in mind that there were others who died in that helicopter crash and many people who on the same day all around the world died. We are saddened for Kobe's family and likewise saddened for other families who are dealing with similar heartbreak this day.
On the occasion of family deaths, tragic deaths and deaths of the famous, we perhaps pause more reverently with greater reflection as it touches us in a personal manner with the messages of life's frailty and unpredictability. I am reminded frequently of 13-former basketball players I coached who died at very young ages. Some left life's journey plagued with physical maladies, others were tragically taken in unexpected accidents and few lost hope due to various reasons and took their own lives. These many years later, I hurt and pray for those families and cherish my time with each.
With today's uncivil discourse gripping our culture and the ugliness of divisive hateful rhetoric, we become divorced from our appreciation of living and fail to cherish one anothers' journey and struggles. This is sad, however any change begins with me.
Life is precious, my friends.
All kinds of death happens daily; the expected, the unexpected, the young and the old, the rich and the poor and people of all colors, nationalities and faith. When those notable celebrities die we are inundated with news-outlet stories as was the case in the death of former National Basketball Association great, Kobe Bryant and his daughter. Keep in mind that there were others who died in that helicopter crash and many people who on the same day all around the world died. We are saddened for Kobe's family and likewise saddened for other families who are dealing with similar heartbreak this day.
On the occasion of family deaths, tragic deaths and deaths of the famous, we perhaps pause more reverently with greater reflection as it touches us in a personal manner with the messages of life's frailty and unpredictability. I am reminded frequently of 13-former basketball players I coached who died at very young ages. Some left life's journey plagued with physical maladies, others were tragically taken in unexpected accidents and few lost hope due to various reasons and took their own lives. These many years later, I hurt and pray for those families and cherish my time with each.
With today's uncivil discourse gripping our culture and the ugliness of divisive hateful rhetoric, we become divorced from our appreciation of living and fail to cherish one anothers' journey and struggles. This is sad, however any change begins with me.
Life is precious, my friends.
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Avoid Life Slippage
Through the years, I often reminded myself and the basketball teams I coached that we had to be aware of 'game slippage' and work to avoid it. The best way to explain 'game slippage' is that performance differential between practices and games. This differential is a reality, make no mistake; and it should be expected. Why? Consider the certainty that your game-opponent is putting a more talented five players on the floor to compete against than the second-best-five on your squad whom you go against each practice. Secondly, game slippage likely occurs because it is difficult to reach the level of game speed, intensity and atmosphere producing adrenaline in practice that teams face in games. If coaches and players stayed alert to this slippage-reality they have a chance to narrow that slippage gap.
My coaching approach to address game slippage began with three team practice demands: 1) Be on time, which suggests readiness and eagerness, 2) Pay attention with total focus and 3) Play as hard as you can or go home because this coach was not wasting time coaching effort or attitudes.
Many sport enthusiasts purport that sport prepares players for life. I don't think sport in and of its self can prepare the athlete for life but it is certainly one of several learning experiences that can prepare young people for challenges in life's journey. And 'life-slippage' is one challenge.
Life-slippage is realized near the end of one's journey when that individual takes inventory and has woulda-coulda-shoulda angst. The best way to avoid life-slippage is 1) hold no grudges, 2) share your journey's joys and sorrows, 3) embrace the generation on both sides of your tracks, 4) keep seeking to serve others, 5) when asking others, "How are you?", insist on details for it shows sincerity and compassion, which lifts another's feeling of worth, 6) Choose to live in 'hope' rather than 'fear,' and fianally, 7) stay engage with your talent(s) living gloriously in your blessings.
Remember, "Life 'is' a journey and 'not' a destination." Enjoy the moments!
My coaching approach to address game slippage began with three team practice demands: 1) Be on time, which suggests readiness and eagerness, 2) Pay attention with total focus and 3) Play as hard as you can or go home because this coach was not wasting time coaching effort or attitudes.
Many sport enthusiasts purport that sport prepares players for life. I don't think sport in and of its self can prepare the athlete for life but it is certainly one of several learning experiences that can prepare young people for challenges in life's journey. And 'life-slippage' is one challenge.
Life-slippage is realized near the end of one's journey when that individual takes inventory and has woulda-coulda-shoulda angst. The best way to avoid life-slippage is 1) hold no grudges, 2) share your journey's joys and sorrows, 3) embrace the generation on both sides of your tracks, 4) keep seeking to serve others, 5) when asking others, "How are you?", insist on details for it shows sincerity and compassion, which lifts another's feeling of worth, 6) Choose to live in 'hope' rather than 'fear,' and fianally, 7) stay engage with your talent(s) living gloriously in your blessings.
Remember, "Life 'is' a journey and 'not' a destination." Enjoy the moments!
Thursday, January 23, 2020
We Can All Brighten the Corner
This week, my youngest daughter, Pam celebrated her 52nd birthday. Next month, her father blows out 81-candles...with help! Her older brother, Steve (58) didn't miss this chance to dig at the old man as he messaged, "Man, your Baby is 52, you're getting old." I messaged back agreeing with him but suggested getting older was better than the alternative, which prompted his next remark, "You don't know that." He's correct...but.......
I was 12-years old sitting in a tent revival meeting and heard the preacher talk about how everybody is born and blessed with 'talents,' which should be used to serve God's people as the Lord commands. At the time I wondered what my talents were and when would I discover them and will I know how to use them. The only other thing I remember about that revival sermon was a song sung that night called, "Brighten The Corner Where You Are."
Well, over time pursuing my sport playing passion and falling short of grandiose ideas of a professional baseball dream, a pattern had been developed and honed along that journey. The career vision unfolded as the teaching/coaching profession became the obvious choice. I was fortunate to be mentored along the way by outstanding individuals who imparted substantive coaching and teaching knowledge along with nuances suggesting service to others beyond the game and classroom.
My life's mission came into clarity as I embraced the notion that there is a need to lift man's spirit, call out goodness and in doing so establish standards of praise and recognition of excellence as it would motivate those who follow to likewise serve and do good. I'm not naive. Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with many open-door opportunities, which presented me with a stage, a format and leverage to accomplish good outcomes benefiting people.
At age 81, I am still blessed with those opportunities to lift and serve others. May I seize these moments as long as my Lord provides reasons for this journey.
(Touch)
Brighten Your Corner
I was 12-years old sitting in a tent revival meeting and heard the preacher talk about how everybody is born and blessed with 'talents,' which should be used to serve God's people as the Lord commands. At the time I wondered what my talents were and when would I discover them and will I know how to use them. The only other thing I remember about that revival sermon was a song sung that night called, "Brighten The Corner Where You Are."
Well, over time pursuing my sport playing passion and falling short of grandiose ideas of a professional baseball dream, a pattern had been developed and honed along that journey. The career vision unfolded as the teaching/coaching profession became the obvious choice. I was fortunate to be mentored along the way by outstanding individuals who imparted substantive coaching and teaching knowledge along with nuances suggesting service to others beyond the game and classroom.
My life's mission came into clarity as I embraced the notion that there is a need to lift man's spirit, call out goodness and in doing so establish standards of praise and recognition of excellence as it would motivate those who follow to likewise serve and do good. I'm not naive. Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with many open-door opportunities, which presented me with a stage, a format and leverage to accomplish good outcomes benefiting people.
At age 81, I am still blessed with those opportunities to lift and serve others. May I seize these moments as long as my Lord provides reasons for this journey.
(Touch)
Brighten Your Corner
Wednesday, January 22, 2020
A Family False Alarm
My wife and I are blessed with three adult children. Steve was born in 1961, Dawn made her debut in 1965 and our youngest, Pamela began her journey in 1968 on January 22nd. Let me take you back to that winter fifty-two years ago.
After benefiting from outstanding Mason City high school basketball talent from 1964-to-1967, I parlayed a three-year coaching record of 62-14 to secure the Washington Community high school basketball position. I've always maintained that the Mason City opportunity was my biggest break in coaching but I digress from my birth story.
Steve had been born in East St. Louis before my first coaching-teaching job in Assumption, Illinois. Dawn was delivered by Mason City physician, Jack Means at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln, Illinois. Doc Means had the complete trust of my wife, Gerry so I was not surprised that she insisted she keep Doctor Means as her doctor who would see her through and deliver our third child even though we were moving to Washington, which was 50-miles away from Lincoln Hospital. We would ignore the convenience of major Peoria hospitals seven miles from Washington; even with a sure Mid-winter delivery date.
The 1967-68, Washington basketball season was up and down but the anticipation of our child's birth was cast in stone; we had a game plan. Gerry's mother would be with us before the 'due' date and stay as long as needed to assist the coach's wife. The due date arrived and within a few days, Gerry had contractions. Contraction on a cold winter night with her husband sitting on a coaching bench in Normal, Illinois some fifty miles from Washington. As soon as the game ended, I called my wife and she told me, "Get home as soon as you can, I think I'm having contractions." I opted not travel on the team bus back to Washington but have my scorekeeper, Ed Usnik drive me to Washington where I'd get Gerry and head to Lincoln. Meanwhile, Gerry telephoned Doc Means to meet us at Lincoln Hospital.
When Usnik pulled into my driveway, he said, "Get Gerry and I'll keep the car warm." Good hearted Ed wanted to drive us and I was not going to tell him no. We arrived at the hospital and nurses immediately took Gerry to an examining room. Within a short period of time Doctor Means sauntered into the waiting room to give the Coach an update. The good Doc said, "Coach, Gerry's having false contractions, I'm afraid." In the moment, I couldn't tell who was most disappointed, Doc, Ed or me.
As Doctor Means looked puzzled at Mr Usnik, I quickly introduced the two: "Doctor Means, this is my scorekeeper, Ed Usnik." Means and Usnik shook hands then Means turned to me and said, "Mel, you're only going to have one baby, you don't need a scorekeeper."
A disappointing night! Long drives on a winter night, a basketball loss and no Baby. Nineteen days later, Bingo...A healthy baby begins her journey. Happy birthday, 'Ditto.'
After benefiting from outstanding Mason City high school basketball talent from 1964-to-1967, I parlayed a three-year coaching record of 62-14 to secure the Washington Community high school basketball position. I've always maintained that the Mason City opportunity was my biggest break in coaching but I digress from my birth story.
Steve had been born in East St. Louis before my first coaching-teaching job in Assumption, Illinois. Dawn was delivered by Mason City physician, Jack Means at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Lincoln, Illinois. Doc Means had the complete trust of my wife, Gerry so I was not surprised that she insisted she keep Doctor Means as her doctor who would see her through and deliver our third child even though we were moving to Washington, which was 50-miles away from Lincoln Hospital. We would ignore the convenience of major Peoria hospitals seven miles from Washington; even with a sure Mid-winter delivery date.
The 1967-68, Washington basketball season was up and down but the anticipation of our child's birth was cast in stone; we had a game plan. Gerry's mother would be with us before the 'due' date and stay as long as needed to assist the coach's wife. The due date arrived and within a few days, Gerry had contractions. Contraction on a cold winter night with her husband sitting on a coaching bench in Normal, Illinois some fifty miles from Washington. As soon as the game ended, I called my wife and she told me, "Get home as soon as you can, I think I'm having contractions." I opted not travel on the team bus back to Washington but have my scorekeeper, Ed Usnik drive me to Washington where I'd get Gerry and head to Lincoln. Meanwhile, Gerry telephoned Doc Means to meet us at Lincoln Hospital.
When Usnik pulled into my driveway, he said, "Get Gerry and I'll keep the car warm." Good hearted Ed wanted to drive us and I was not going to tell him no. We arrived at the hospital and nurses immediately took Gerry to an examining room. Within a short period of time Doctor Means sauntered into the waiting room to give the Coach an update. The good Doc said, "Coach, Gerry's having false contractions, I'm afraid." In the moment, I couldn't tell who was most disappointed, Doc, Ed or me.
As Doctor Means looked puzzled at Mr Usnik, I quickly introduced the two: "Doctor Means, this is my scorekeeper, Ed Usnik." Means and Usnik shook hands then Means turned to me and said, "Mel, you're only going to have one baby, you don't need a scorekeeper."
A disappointing night! Long drives on a winter night, a basketball loss and no Baby. Nineteen days later, Bingo...A healthy baby begins her journey. Happy birthday, 'Ditto.'
Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Early Success
A few years ago, one of my younger grandchildren was doing a school project and asked me what was the earliest success I could remember. The answer came immediately...'potty-trained.' I actually recall becoming potty trained because of my mother's training technique. She made a game out of the process.
I recall her offering me a a Coke bottle to 'pee' into when she believed I was likely ready for that bodily function. As I reflect on this I'm inclined to believe it had a positive subliminal impact on the development of my competitive spirit. You know, hitting a target and receiving praise much like making a basket or tracking a hitting a baseball. All these years I've given my Dad credit for encouraging my competitiveness and perhaps it was Mom in the beginning.
Once I began filling that Coke bottle, Mother insisted I use the toilet and I'm glad. You see, she could have opted for a larger bottle, i.e., milk bottle. That could have had a real down side. Understand to this day I cannot bring myself to drink Coke.
I recall her offering me a a Coke bottle to 'pee' into when she believed I was likely ready for that bodily function. As I reflect on this I'm inclined to believe it had a positive subliminal impact on the development of my competitive spirit. You know, hitting a target and receiving praise much like making a basket or tracking a hitting a baseball. All these years I've given my Dad credit for encouraging my competitiveness and perhaps it was Mom in the beginning.
Once I began filling that Coke bottle, Mother insisted I use the toilet and I'm glad. You see, she could have opted for a larger bottle, i.e., milk bottle. That could have had a real down side. Understand to this day I cannot bring myself to drink Coke.
Saturday, January 18, 2020
More Ain't Better
There is no doubt that Americans have become more intolerant and impatient. We don't like to wait in lines and we want our waiter to bring our food now. We complain if the movie is too long and many sports fans have ideas to speed up their favorite game be it football, basketball or baseball. I cannot imagine today's college students using the University library's card-catalog system to locate materials, research and write a term paper. The academic instant Internet google search has spoiled us all.
Well, if you want to speed up athletic contests, consider the following: In baseball let's make the home plate umpire to stop squeezing the strike zone to favor hitters. Enforce the rule-book zone.
In football allow one huddle per four downs. In basketball give the team who is fouled the choice of shooting free throws or taking the ball out of bounds as the game clock continues to run.
Okay, now that we've solved the length of sport contests, lets propose we do something about these 'windy' pulpit preachers...their sermons are too long. Process and consider the following Pew Research Center findings: The major Christianity branches in America differ in sermon length. The Roman Catholic sermons on the average last 14-minutes while black Protestant sermons are four-times longer...that's right about 54-minutes. White Protestant preachers will bloviate for some 27-minutes.
(Personal observation: I've attended many black churches over the years and I believe I can add a couple of footnotes regarding white and black protestants: The black congregation is better dressed but the white folks start on time.)
I've done my share of speech-giving around the country over the years and I believe you can talk or preach as as long as you can keep the audiences attention, however I'm reminded that a good speech (sermon) possesses a good beginning and a good ending with little time between the two.
I vote for a Church Service with songs well know by the congregation accompanied by a softly played organ or piano followed by an 18-minute sermon. I can't be sittin' in that Pew longer that 55-total minutes...I have a prostate the size of Nebraska.
How long do you think a sermon should be?
(Touch)Dont Let The Devil Ride
Well, if you want to speed up athletic contests, consider the following: In baseball let's make the home plate umpire to stop squeezing the strike zone to favor hitters. Enforce the rule-book zone.
In football allow one huddle per four downs. In basketball give the team who is fouled the choice of shooting free throws or taking the ball out of bounds as the game clock continues to run.
Okay, now that we've solved the length of sport contests, lets propose we do something about these 'windy' pulpit preachers...their sermons are too long. Process and consider the following Pew Research Center findings: The major Christianity branches in America differ in sermon length. The Roman Catholic sermons on the average last 14-minutes while black Protestant sermons are four-times longer...that's right about 54-minutes. White Protestant preachers will bloviate for some 27-minutes.
(Personal observation: I've attended many black churches over the years and I believe I can add a couple of footnotes regarding white and black protestants: The black congregation is better dressed but the white folks start on time.)
I've done my share of speech-giving around the country over the years and I believe you can talk or preach as as long as you can keep the audiences attention, however I'm reminded that a good speech (sermon) possesses a good beginning and a good ending with little time between the two.
I vote for a Church Service with songs well know by the congregation accompanied by a softly played organ or piano followed by an 18-minute sermon. I can't be sittin' in that Pew longer that 55-total minutes...I have a prostate the size of Nebraska.
How long do you think a sermon should be?
(Touch)Dont Let The Devil Ride
Friday, January 17, 2020
The Emptiness from The Cheat
Acting dishonestly or unfairly to gain an advantage is a trait of man's fabric due to man's passionate desire for personal acclaim and/or monetary gain; thus man's propensity for cheating. Although, we know people circumvent rules and cheat daily, we seem to relish is the celebrity scandalous cheating, which grabs public attention.
Actresses Felicity Huffman and Lori Loughlin were caught in cheating plots either bribing or falsifying academic records to get their daughters into prestigious colleges. Huffman admitted guilt while Loughlin pleads innocent to charges. The 2017, World Series Baseball Champs, Houston Astros now have an asterisk aside that title due to proven 'sign-stealing' cameras, which gave clues to their batters on pitching deliveries. Of course, baseball cheating has a long history dating back to the infamous 1919-Black Sox Scandal to Pete Rose's betting on games and the notorious steroid era, which saw long-standing home tun records falling like autumn leaves.
Baseball is not the only sport with cheating blemishes. The Boston College basketball point-shaving in 1978-79, the football Patriots' Spygate and Deflate cheating, the Olympic and cyclist doping and least we forget the NBA referee, Tim Donaghy who bet on games he officiated, 'How 'bout that sports' fans?'
Well, yours truly is not exempt from that sport cheat history. They say confession is good for the soul...perhaps but realization of wrong and hurt in-that-moment was a lesson never forgotten. A young Coach Roustio in a hotly contested prep basketball game called a late game time out on the heels of one of his players being fouled. The player fouled was perhaps a 60% free throw shooter. Therefore, during the time out, I told a higher percentage shooter to, "Go to the free throw line instead of his teammate." It worked out. The shooter made the free throws and we won. However, when I walked into what I thought would be a celebratory locker room, the players' mood spoke volumes. In that moment, I realized I'd lost my players' respect. Before they departed that night, I apologized to the individual I denied a chance to shoot and I apologized to our team.
Grantland Rice was right, "It's not if you win or lose but how you play the games."
Actresses Felicity Huffman and Lori Loughlin were caught in cheating plots either bribing or falsifying academic records to get their daughters into prestigious colleges. Huffman admitted guilt while Loughlin pleads innocent to charges. The 2017, World Series Baseball Champs, Houston Astros now have an asterisk aside that title due to proven 'sign-stealing' cameras, which gave clues to their batters on pitching deliveries. Of course, baseball cheating has a long history dating back to the infamous 1919-Black Sox Scandal to Pete Rose's betting on games and the notorious steroid era, which saw long-standing home tun records falling like autumn leaves.
Baseball is not the only sport with cheating blemishes. The Boston College basketball point-shaving in 1978-79, the football Patriots' Spygate and Deflate cheating, the Olympic and cyclist doping and least we forget the NBA referee, Tim Donaghy who bet on games he officiated, 'How 'bout that sports' fans?'
Well, yours truly is not exempt from that sport cheat history. They say confession is good for the soul...perhaps but realization of wrong and hurt in-that-moment was a lesson never forgotten. A young Coach Roustio in a hotly contested prep basketball game called a late game time out on the heels of one of his players being fouled. The player fouled was perhaps a 60% free throw shooter. Therefore, during the time out, I told a higher percentage shooter to, "Go to the free throw line instead of his teammate." It worked out. The shooter made the free throws and we won. However, when I walked into what I thought would be a celebratory locker room, the players' mood spoke volumes. In that moment, I realized I'd lost my players' respect. Before they departed that night, I apologized to the individual I denied a chance to shoot and I apologized to our team.
Grantland Rice was right, "It's not if you win or lose but how you play the games."
Thursday, January 16, 2020
Smart Enough to Think for Self?
Definition of ' pragmatic:' Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
It is a shrewd political strategy to hammer away with a particular emotionally-charged message, which overwhelms and motivates the voting public. On a personal note: I loved and adored my mother who was my greatest gift. That said, she was nevertheless a classic example of individuals who easily become fixated on one repeated 'cry' and therefore gravitate to single-issue voting. Now, in fairness I offer two reasons for these single-issue voters: 1) The single-issue voter's passion for 'the issue' can be all consuming or 2) by adopting a single-issue the voter need not examine multiple issues, which requires in-depth research and investigation; it's tiring! Single-issue voting makes the decision-making process easy and expedient with little thinking.
I bring this subject before blog readers because we have witnessed the massive movement of far-right Christian conservatives who have embraced the matter of abortion and made it their 'single-issue upon which to vote. So be it. However, I reject the single-issue voting mentality unconvinced of its intellectual soundness.
A few voting 'issues' to consider...I offer the following: abortion, climate change, education, infrastructure, crime, health care, terrorism, immigration reform, prison reform, mental illness, gun control, medical research, military funding, Food & Drug monitoring and minimum wage. Certainly, one could easily preach relentlessly at one of these aforementioned issues and embrace that 'ONE' single issue to determine their vote even though other issues are obviously of great importance for the good of society. I maintain that the 'single-issue' voting approach is weak-minded and detrimental to a democracy. For goodness sakes our democracy and freedoms are more convoluted and complex than 'turning' on a single issue!
This writer will continue to look at the broad spectrum of issues facing our peoples and do my best to examine pros and cons for each resolve and determine my vote on several issues not just one. My hope is that our societal culture gets my best effort even though I ultimately have but one vote to cast. I am not super smart but I am smart enough to fear the words of false messagegers when I can trust my own examination and investigation into multiple issues.
It is a shrewd political strategy to hammer away with a particular emotionally-charged message, which overwhelms and motivates the voting public. On a personal note: I loved and adored my mother who was my greatest gift. That said, she was nevertheless a classic example of individuals who easily become fixated on one repeated 'cry' and therefore gravitate to single-issue voting. Now, in fairness I offer two reasons for these single-issue voters: 1) The single-issue voter's passion for 'the issue' can be all consuming or 2) by adopting a single-issue the voter need not examine multiple issues, which requires in-depth research and investigation; it's tiring! Single-issue voting makes the decision-making process easy and expedient with little thinking.
I bring this subject before blog readers because we have witnessed the massive movement of far-right Christian conservatives who have embraced the matter of abortion and made it their 'single-issue upon which to vote. So be it. However, I reject the single-issue voting mentality unconvinced of its intellectual soundness.
A few voting 'issues' to consider...I offer the following: abortion, climate change, education, infrastructure, crime, health care, terrorism, immigration reform, prison reform, mental illness, gun control, medical research, military funding, Food & Drug monitoring and minimum wage. Certainly, one could easily preach relentlessly at one of these aforementioned issues and embrace that 'ONE' single issue to determine their vote even though other issues are obviously of great importance for the good of society. I maintain that the 'single-issue' voting approach is weak-minded and detrimental to a democracy. For goodness sakes our democracy and freedoms are more convoluted and complex than 'turning' on a single issue!
This writer will continue to look at the broad spectrum of issues facing our peoples and do my best to examine pros and cons for each resolve and determine my vote on several issues not just one. My hope is that our societal culture gets my best effort even though I ultimately have but one vote to cast. I am not super smart but I am smart enough to fear the words of false messagegers when I can trust my own examination and investigation into multiple issues.
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
Just My View
Recently, a dear friend respectfully asked me for greater clarification of my position on abortion. It was and is a fair question since I've commented on my disappointment in my Evangelical brothers and sisters' support of Donald Trump and their claim that a person with liberal social views somehow cannot be a Christian. My explanation is simple. Perhaps I can explain and may I say, I'm not interested in changing readers opinions. Got it?
Because our founding fathers created a Constitution to govern both the believer and non-believer as guaranteed in a 'free' society, we notice laws that cannot favor religious concepts without consideration of the non-religious view point. I did not make those rules...the founding fathers made them and they remain protected in that document...the United States Constitution.
Therefore, I shall practice my 'faith' (I'm bigger on faith as oppose to man-made religions) and allow laws to govern a secular society. I will follow my relationship with Christ and thus be accountable for 'my' choices and 'my' sins. I shall allow you the same freedoms if you so choose. However, save me from the selective scripture offerings to support your personal belief while ignoring other Jesus Christ teachings. On the one hand there is condemnation of the abortionist while silence about not welcoming the stranger but instead putting his children in cages at our Southern borders.
I believe abortion to be wrong. That said, I believe lust, greed, lying, murder, capital punishment, cheating on taxes are wrong and I think it is immoral to send my military enlisted grandson to Saudi Arabia to possibly fight and die for that country in exchange for Saudi Arabia's monies payment to the American government. I find this potentially equal to the sin of abortion.
I will therefore yield to the law but answer to my Savior. You are free to do likewise.
Because our founding fathers created a Constitution to govern both the believer and non-believer as guaranteed in a 'free' society, we notice laws that cannot favor religious concepts without consideration of the non-religious view point. I did not make those rules...the founding fathers made them and they remain protected in that document...the United States Constitution.
Therefore, I shall practice my 'faith' (I'm bigger on faith as oppose to man-made religions) and allow laws to govern a secular society. I will follow my relationship with Christ and thus be accountable for 'my' choices and 'my' sins. I shall allow you the same freedoms if you so choose. However, save me from the selective scripture offerings to support your personal belief while ignoring other Jesus Christ teachings. On the one hand there is condemnation of the abortionist while silence about not welcoming the stranger but instead putting his children in cages at our Southern borders.
I believe abortion to be wrong. That said, I believe lust, greed, lying, murder, capital punishment, cheating on taxes are wrong and I think it is immoral to send my military enlisted grandson to Saudi Arabia to possibly fight and die for that country in exchange for Saudi Arabia's monies payment to the American government. I find this potentially equal to the sin of abortion.
I will therefore yield to the law but answer to my Savior. You are free to do likewise.
Only When It's Chocolate
I could not tolerate the gibberish jabber sideline foursome commentary during last night's televised National Collegiate Football Championship game. If the dual split screen to the right of the lesser game- screen was not enough of a distraction ESPN had the brilliant idea that four grown men imitating excitable women at a Tupperware Party was a good idea.
Before the second quarter, I turned the sound down and tried to mentally block out the sideline fire drill antics, which often reminded me of scenes from old Keystone Cop movies.
Surely, somebody at ESPN knows that 'More is NOT Better' unless we are talking chocolate!
Before the second quarter, I turned the sound down and tried to mentally block out the sideline fire drill antics, which often reminded me of scenes from old Keystone Cop movies.
Surely, somebody at ESPN knows that 'More is NOT Better' unless we are talking chocolate!
Sunday, January 12, 2020
Stumbling Into Hell
Note to My Conservative Evangelical Friends:
You continue to support President Trump. You support him because you believe he will stack the Supreme Court with enough conservative judges to eventually overturn Roe V. Wade. That may happen and then again it may not happen. You've convinced yourselves that evil liberals support killing the unborn.
You are not bothered, but in fact ignore or support cutting federal programs assisting the poor because most of you wrongly believe that brown skin people are lazy and milking your tax dollars when in fact more whites receive federal aid than minorities. (Note: Be careful jumping on that statement before fact checking all federal subsidies).
Trump appeared on Fox News recently and bragged that he had a business money-making arrangement with Saudi Arabia, which is making billions of dollars for the United States. It works like this: Trump sends American soldiers to Saudi Arabia for protection and support and Saudi Arabia sends America money. Therefore, my grandson, who is serving in the Army is an expendable commodity.
May God have mercy on the soul of Donald Trump and those who would prop up such immoral greed.
You continue to support President Trump. You support him because you believe he will stack the Supreme Court with enough conservative judges to eventually overturn Roe V. Wade. That may happen and then again it may not happen. You've convinced yourselves that evil liberals support killing the unborn.
You are not bothered, but in fact ignore or support cutting federal programs assisting the poor because most of you wrongly believe that brown skin people are lazy and milking your tax dollars when in fact more whites receive federal aid than minorities. (Note: Be careful jumping on that statement before fact checking all federal subsidies).
Trump appeared on Fox News recently and bragged that he had a business money-making arrangement with Saudi Arabia, which is making billions of dollars for the United States. It works like this: Trump sends American soldiers to Saudi Arabia for protection and support and Saudi Arabia sends America money. Therefore, my grandson, who is serving in the Army is an expendable commodity.
May God have mercy on the soul of Donald Trump and those who would prop up such immoral greed.
Saturday, January 11, 2020
Oh My, My! Something's I Need Not Know.
My wife and I are richly blessed with 15-grandchildren and 3-great grandchildren. Naturally, they are spread out in ages and at various stages in their respective journey's. Grandparent joys continue as we observe the individual maturation and developments. Some of the older grandkids telephone and stay in close touch while sharing satellite family goings-on.
Just two days ago, one of our older granddaughters telephoned and updated us on happenings. Before closing, she explained that her father was assisting one of her siblings with automobile-driving before the teen girl takes her test for licensing. Seems that Dad is always telling his daughter to "slow down, you're going to fast." Apparently, this scenario repeated itself and Pop suddenly realized the problem. Dad, once again told the young daughter, "Slow Down!" The youngster responded, "You're always telling me to slow down and I'm going the posted speed limit, 60." Quickly, Dad pointed out, "That's NOT THE SPEED LIMIT, THAT'S ROUTE 60!"
I sure hope my son in-law gets that message across. My goodness, the family lives right near Interstate "90."
Just two days ago, one of our older granddaughters telephoned and updated us on happenings. Before closing, she explained that her father was assisting one of her siblings with automobile-driving before the teen girl takes her test for licensing. Seems that Dad is always telling his daughter to "slow down, you're going to fast." Apparently, this scenario repeated itself and Pop suddenly realized the problem. Dad, once again told the young daughter, "Slow Down!" The youngster responded, "You're always telling me to slow down and I'm going the posted speed limit, 60." Quickly, Dad pointed out, "That's NOT THE SPEED LIMIT, THAT'S ROUTE 60!"
I sure hope my son in-law gets that message across. My goodness, the family lives right near Interstate "90."
Friday, January 10, 2020
Signs of The South
May I be on record saying, "I Love The South." I've been to the four corners of these United States and acknowledging specific and special beauty found in each, I would still chose The South if relocating. Okay, you readers may now stand at ease on the following comments.
This Illinois native traveling South recently could not help but notice geographical changes but also sociological changes when entering Dixie. There are obvious man made geographical difference between Illinois and Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida , which are noticed on interstate roadways. Southern States roadway-pavements are in excellent condition and shoulder areas are maintained at the A+ level. Meanwhile, back in Illini country, we posts a flaming red 'F' grade. This leads to speculation regarding political integrity, eh?
Southern States' landscape become a stark contrast to the Central States rolling plains as the tall pines rise high above reddish clay, which is accentuated with periodic hill side glistening-rock formed ledges. The winding roadways seemed plotted to find the least resistance to the challenging rolling hills. Indeed The South is blessed with a unique beauty supported by the warmer year around climate.
The earthly characteristics are not the only 'signs' of The South; in fact, there are those actual 'Signs' IN The South that seem unparalleled. Those Southern roadway billboards become a most enjoyable and entertaining read. Just a few examples: Two billboards located side-by-side, one reads "Jesus Saves" & the second reads "Rattlesnake Rodeo-March 17." A few more miles and two more signs of The South catch your eyes: "Best Adult Book Store in The South" & "Where do YOU plan to spend Eternity> Heaven or Hell." (That kinda compromises the X-Rated Video Shop).
Periodically, I noticed the Confederate Flag along the Southern highways. I began to daydream a little about that Flag and how it's been abused by none other than Southerners. That's absolutely right! Occasionally, on television, I see the Confederate Flag with KKK marchers and White Nationalists marchers. I cannot not help but wonder if America's military intelligence can hunt down the likes of bin Laden, al Baghdadi and Soleimani, why in God's name can't we hunt down our own homegrown terrorists? (Perhaps our leaders lack the WILL?)
My day dreaming was abruptly stopped as I suddenly came upon the auto in front of me and noticed a bumper sticker, which read: "If you don't understand our billboards you ain't from these parts."
I do declare, I Love The South.
This Illinois native traveling South recently could not help but notice geographical changes but also sociological changes when entering Dixie. There are obvious man made geographical difference between Illinois and Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida , which are noticed on interstate roadways. Southern States roadway-pavements are in excellent condition and shoulder areas are maintained at the A+ level. Meanwhile, back in Illini country, we posts a flaming red 'F' grade. This leads to speculation regarding political integrity, eh?
Southern States' landscape become a stark contrast to the Central States rolling plains as the tall pines rise high above reddish clay, which is accentuated with periodic hill side glistening-rock formed ledges. The winding roadways seemed plotted to find the least resistance to the challenging rolling hills. Indeed The South is blessed with a unique beauty supported by the warmer year around climate.
The earthly characteristics are not the only 'signs' of The South; in fact, there are those actual 'Signs' IN The South that seem unparalleled. Those Southern roadway billboards become a most enjoyable and entertaining read. Just a few examples: Two billboards located side-by-side, one reads "Jesus Saves" & the second reads "Rattlesnake Rodeo-March 17." A few more miles and two more signs of The South catch your eyes: "Best Adult Book Store in The South" & "Where do YOU plan to spend Eternity> Heaven or Hell." (That kinda compromises the X-Rated Video Shop).
Periodically, I noticed the Confederate Flag along the Southern highways. I began to daydream a little about that Flag and how it's been abused by none other than Southerners. That's absolutely right! Occasionally, on television, I see the Confederate Flag with KKK marchers and White Nationalists marchers. I cannot not help but wonder if America's military intelligence can hunt down the likes of bin Laden, al Baghdadi and Soleimani, why in God's name can't we hunt down our own homegrown terrorists? (Perhaps our leaders lack the WILL?)
My day dreaming was abruptly stopped as I suddenly came upon the auto in front of me and noticed a bumper sticker, which read: "If you don't understand our billboards you ain't from these parts."
I do declare, I Love The South.
Monday, January 6, 2020
"Sieg Heil!"
A few days ago, President Trump ordered the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. Immediately afterwards, Trump and Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo hit the airways in lock-step talking points> Both men were adamant about the fact that Soleimani was posing an 'imminent' threat to Americans and American interests. Upon pressure from the media to further explain the 'imminent threat,' Pompeo, a few days later states, "It's irrelevant to know the imminent threat."
This attitude succinctly defines the governing philosophy of President Trump's administration. Consider: (1) "Alternative facts" was a phrase used by White House counselor to the President, Kellyanne Conway on January 22, 2017. This was an attempt to brainwash. Put another way, 'we will tell you what to believe and offer our own facts to support the beliefs. (2) Then there has been Trump's on-going overuse of the term, "Fake News" in his effort to marginalize America's free press. This constant attack on a democracy's Fourth Estate is a characteristic of a dictating bully. (3) Trump on July 25, 2018 said, "What you are seeing and what you're hearing is not really what's happening."
(4) It's been 300 days since the White House has held a 'Press Conference' where the news media could ask questions and thus inform a free public. (Notice: Public, you're losing your freedom of information daily under this administration. It takes an ignorant and angry population to accept such insanity. America qualifies in both categories.
America, under the direction of its President is now assassinating people and telling the world, 'We have our reasons and those reasons are irrelevant to those questioning our reasoning. Americans, Welcome to the farm,' i.e., 'Animal Farm.'
This attitude succinctly defines the governing philosophy of President Trump's administration. Consider: (1) "Alternative facts" was a phrase used by White House counselor to the President, Kellyanne Conway on January 22, 2017. This was an attempt to brainwash. Put another way, 'we will tell you what to believe and offer our own facts to support the beliefs. (2) Then there has been Trump's on-going overuse of the term, "Fake News" in his effort to marginalize America's free press. This constant attack on a democracy's Fourth Estate is a characteristic of a dictating bully. (3) Trump on July 25, 2018 said, "What you are seeing and what you're hearing is not really what's happening."
(4) It's been 300 days since the White House has held a 'Press Conference' where the news media could ask questions and thus inform a free public. (Notice: Public, you're losing your freedom of information daily under this administration. It takes an ignorant and angry population to accept such insanity. America qualifies in both categories.
America, under the direction of its President is now assassinating people and telling the world, 'We have our reasons and those reasons are irrelevant to those questioning our reasoning. Americans, Welcome to the farm,' i.e., 'Animal Farm.'
Saturday, January 4, 2020
From The Bench
In the early 1950's entertainment personality, Art Linkletter established his long running television hit show, "Kids Say The Darndest Things." That show ran well into the 1970's.
Well, I dare not suggest that quips from coaches could rivalry childrens' verbal spontaneity but let's consider these gems just for fun:
"Last Year we couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road. My failure as a coach was that I couldn't think of anyplace else to play." -Harry Neal's, NHL Coach
"I'm working as hard as I can to get my life and my cash to run out at the same time. If I can die next Tuesday after lunch everything will be perfect." -Doug Sanders, Pro Golfer
"My knees look like they lost a knife fight with a Midget." -E.J. Holbrook, NFL linebacker who had 12-knee surgeries.
"When they operated on me, I told them to add a Sandy Koufax fastball. They did but unfortunately it was Mrs. Koufax'." -Tommy John NY Yankees pitcher after his arm surgery.
"We were tipping off our plays. Whenever we broke the huddle, three backs were laughing and one back was pale as a ghost." -Houston Oilers player.
"I have discovered in 20-years of moving around the ball,park, the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the tickets." -Bill Veeck, Chicago White Sox, owner
* "I won't know until my barber tells me on Monday." -Knute Rockne, when asked 'why' Norte Dame
had lost a game.
"The only difference between me and General Custer is that I have to watch the film on Sunday."
-Rick Venturi, Northwester football coach.
* My personal favorite.
Well, I dare not suggest that quips from coaches could rivalry childrens' verbal spontaneity but let's consider these gems just for fun:
"Last Year we couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road. My failure as a coach was that I couldn't think of anyplace else to play." -Harry Neal's, NHL Coach
"I'm working as hard as I can to get my life and my cash to run out at the same time. If I can die next Tuesday after lunch everything will be perfect." -Doug Sanders, Pro Golfer
"My knees look like they lost a knife fight with a Midget." -E.J. Holbrook, NFL linebacker who had 12-knee surgeries.
"When they operated on me, I told them to add a Sandy Koufax fastball. They did but unfortunately it was Mrs. Koufax'." -Tommy John NY Yankees pitcher after his arm surgery.
"We were tipping off our plays. Whenever we broke the huddle, three backs were laughing and one back was pale as a ghost." -Houston Oilers player.
"I have discovered in 20-years of moving around the ball,park, the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the tickets." -Bill Veeck, Chicago White Sox, owner
* "I won't know until my barber tells me on Monday." -Knute Rockne, when asked 'why' Norte Dame
had lost a game.
"The only difference between me and General Custer is that I have to watch the film on Sunday."
-Rick Venturi, Northwester football coach.
* My personal favorite.
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