My wife and I attended a great-nephew's wedding reception this weekend past. It is always wonderful to come together with extended family and friends at such gatherings. Too often in this senior-season of life, we find ourselves hugging relatives at wake-visitations and funerals. A visitor to our dinner table asked my wife and I about our children and grandchildren. At some point the question was offered to me. "Mel, the inquirer asked, if you had only one day remaining in your life what would you want to tell your grandchildren?" That is a great question and I took the address of the person posing the question and told him that I would send a copy of a letter, which I sent to my grandkids a couple of years back; I share that letter with you readers today:
Dear Grandkids:
My emotional investment in each of you causes me to wish for an endless journey observing the unfolding of each potential. I know this cannot be, therefore I wish for you all to remember the following:
Your life will note many technological and social changes. Nevertheless, the keys to happiness will remain constant throughout your lives. (Read on and perhaps re-read). At times you will feel insignificant and thus be tempted to believe that you cannot make a difference. Don't buy into that cynical attitude; you will best serve yourself and others by embracing a spirited attitude and conviction that the world needs everything you have to offer. Adopt the willingness to say, YES...I CAN!
Do not dare fall victim to the meaningless cavity that you have some 'handicap' or disadvantage. Keep your eyes on the goal to serve others; even the self-centered people that you are certain to meet during this journey; these people also need your love, compassion and often times your help. Give without compromising your spirit or personal principles.
Remember that life offers no guarantees. Ever thing you attempt carries the risk of rejection and/or failure. Learn from rejection but be NOT discouraged. Failure need not be a final circumstance; however, living with the 'fear of failure' will cause emotional paralysis and will render you ineffective. Each of you have talents. You must be persistence seeking and developing the courage to apply those talents where they are most needed.
Find out early in life who you are and that which is your purpose. If you fail to attain this mission you lead an empty and nonsensical life. The happiest people I have ever known are those people 'doing' (occupation) that they truly want to do while seeking to fulfill Gods request... "That which you do for the least of My people you do also for Me."
Never stop dreaming and always look to improve the human condition. You matter to others.
God speed; God bless
Finally, memorize these two personal notes: (1) A sunset is best when shared. (2) Get a dog because it will 'think' you are the greatest and on that matter you need no second opinion.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Friday, September 20, 2013
A Humble Champ
Former heavyweight boxing champion, Ken Norton, Sr. died this week. Norton was born, raised and played high school sports in Jacksonville, Illinois. He graduated from JHS after a stellar high school athletic career where he excelled in football, basketball and track. During his senior track season, Norton entered and finished first in eight (8) track & field State Finals events, which prompted the Illinois High School Association to enact a rule limiting athletes to three (3) events in the State Track Meet; 'The Norton Rule.'
My twenty-one year Jacksonville high school coaching career began 14 years after Norton graduated but our paths met on two occasions. The year was 1984, and the JHS Hall-of-Fame inaugural induction ceremony was conducted at a local capacity-filled banquet room in that west-central Illinois community. Norton was amongst the 12- charter-member inductees. We visited briefly that night. I conducted a telephone interview with Norton earlier that day on my WLDS Sports' Spotlight Show. One of Norton's sons, Keith had remained in Jacksonville and was a starting guard on a very good 1984, Crimsons' varsity basketball team. Ken's other son, Ken Jr. was enrolled in Jacksonville high school briefly in the early 1980's before leaving for the West coast where his father lived.
The late, Al Rosenberger was a longtime JHS Track & Field coach. He not only coached Ken Norton, Sr. but Al and his wife remained close (visiting) friends with the Norton's. Rosenberger was Norton's mentor during his youth and that relationship was treasured throughout their adult lives. Al was athletic director at JHS in my early years at that school and he shared this story about Ken, which offers a glimpse of Norton's personality and quick wit as a teenager. In the first half of a JHS 'home' basketball contest, Norton had played poorly and had made some bad decisions on the floor. As the half ended Norton raced to the locker room ahead of what he thought would be a frustrated and mad head coach, John Chapman. Assistant Coach Rosenberger entered the locker room with Coach Chapman and both noticed Norton doing a 'headstand' against the wall. A puzzled and angry Coach Chapman said, "Norton, what the hell are you doing?" Norton's response, "Coach, I know I've made some dumb plays the first half so I'm trying to get more blood in my head so I can think better."
The next time I visited with Norton would be our last visit. Norton returned often to Jacksonville to visit his mother, Ruth and father, John; he cherished his parents as did the entire Jacksonville community; they were kind people with sweet and sincere dispositions.
Ken had nearly died in a fatal car crash in 1986. It was in the early 1990's when my home telephone rang and the soft-distinguishable voice of Ken Norton, Sr. was on the other end. He wanted to know if I could open the JHS Hall-of-Fame room so that he might see the Norton display he had placed on loan; namely his World Championship Boxing Belt. I met Ken at the facility and as he walked slowly towards me, I could see that the auto accident had taken a devastating toll on his once steel-chiseled athletic frame. His gate was slow and a bit uncertain and his words were delivered slowly. We shook hands as he thanked me in that deep-raspy but soft spoken voice. Norton always impressed me as the antithesis to the great and boastful Muhammad Ali.
We spoke at length that afternoon in The Bowl (gymnasium) that must have held a myriad of memories for this great world-renowned athlete. Norton told me a personal story that day, which he seemed to cherish. He said that when he awakened from his post-auto accident coma, he looked around the darkened hospital room to see his long time rival and dear friend...Ali who had spent the night's bedside vigil hoping and praying for a foe turned friend. Norton smiled recalling the story saying, "You understand, Coach, Ali is a kind and good man but he didn't want the press to know that he was there all night." I suppose we all hold (a bit) to our ego-protecting image.
Before Ken Norton Sr. departed from the JHS Bowl and Hall-of-Fame facility that day, he extended his hand and once again thanked me for accommodating his request. We locked eyes during that handshake and Norton said, "Next time I'm in Jacksonville we'll meet and chat again, Coach"
Thanks for the memories, Champ. I hope we can have that chat on the 'other side.'
My twenty-one year Jacksonville high school coaching career began 14 years after Norton graduated but our paths met on two occasions. The year was 1984, and the JHS Hall-of-Fame inaugural induction ceremony was conducted at a local capacity-filled banquet room in that west-central Illinois community. Norton was amongst the 12- charter-member inductees. We visited briefly that night. I conducted a telephone interview with Norton earlier that day on my WLDS Sports' Spotlight Show. One of Norton's sons, Keith had remained in Jacksonville and was a starting guard on a very good 1984, Crimsons' varsity basketball team. Ken's other son, Ken Jr. was enrolled in Jacksonville high school briefly in the early 1980's before leaving for the West coast where his father lived.
The late, Al Rosenberger was a longtime JHS Track & Field coach. He not only coached Ken Norton, Sr. but Al and his wife remained close (visiting) friends with the Norton's. Rosenberger was Norton's mentor during his youth and that relationship was treasured throughout their adult lives. Al was athletic director at JHS in my early years at that school and he shared this story about Ken, which offers a glimpse of Norton's personality and quick wit as a teenager. In the first half of a JHS 'home' basketball contest, Norton had played poorly and had made some bad decisions on the floor. As the half ended Norton raced to the locker room ahead of what he thought would be a frustrated and mad head coach, John Chapman. Assistant Coach Rosenberger entered the locker room with Coach Chapman and both noticed Norton doing a 'headstand' against the wall. A puzzled and angry Coach Chapman said, "Norton, what the hell are you doing?" Norton's response, "Coach, I know I've made some dumb plays the first half so I'm trying to get more blood in my head so I can think better."
The next time I visited with Norton would be our last visit. Norton returned often to Jacksonville to visit his mother, Ruth and father, John; he cherished his parents as did the entire Jacksonville community; they were kind people with sweet and sincere dispositions.
Ken had nearly died in a fatal car crash in 1986. It was in the early 1990's when my home telephone rang and the soft-distinguishable voice of Ken Norton, Sr. was on the other end. He wanted to know if I could open the JHS Hall-of-Fame room so that he might see the Norton display he had placed on loan; namely his World Championship Boxing Belt. I met Ken at the facility and as he walked slowly towards me, I could see that the auto accident had taken a devastating toll on his once steel-chiseled athletic frame. His gate was slow and a bit uncertain and his words were delivered slowly. We shook hands as he thanked me in that deep-raspy but soft spoken voice. Norton always impressed me as the antithesis to the great and boastful Muhammad Ali.
We spoke at length that afternoon in The Bowl (gymnasium) that must have held a myriad of memories for this great world-renowned athlete. Norton told me a personal story that day, which he seemed to cherish. He said that when he awakened from his post-auto accident coma, he looked around the darkened hospital room to see his long time rival and dear friend...Ali who had spent the night's bedside vigil hoping and praying for a foe turned friend. Norton smiled recalling the story saying, "You understand, Coach, Ali is a kind and good man but he didn't want the press to know that he was there all night." I suppose we all hold (a bit) to our ego-protecting image.
Before Ken Norton Sr. departed from the JHS Bowl and Hall-of-Fame facility that day, he extended his hand and once again thanked me for accommodating his request. We locked eyes during that handshake and Norton said, "Next time I'm in Jacksonville we'll meet and chat again, Coach"
Thanks for the memories, Champ. I hope we can have that chat on the 'other side.'
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Know Thyself
I have known for many years that I have 'slightly-above-average intelligence;' this comment should not be viewed as either complaint or boast...it is what it is and I am happy. Let me explain the 'happy part.' I am capable of pondering to the extent that I usually arrive at reasonable understandings.
I understand one most significant aspect of my personal journey and life. I must stay engaged and busy. I have strong emotional feelings. I am sentimental about my past. I am a romantic about life (in general) and relationships specifically. These personal-profile snippets shared, I can assure you that I have a tendency to become melancholy if I have too much time to ponder; you all know about the 'blues.'
In my lifetime, I telephoned many love ones. In their retirement years, I would telephone my father and mother at least three times a week. After my father's death some 19 years ago, I began telephoning my mother every day; sometimes I'd telephone her twice a day just to hear her voice...especially her laugh. I would often telephone a couple of Aunts and Uncles along a brother brother. Of course, I stay 'in-touch' via the phone with my three children and some of the older grandchildren but I realize that these young folks have very hectic schedules and a busy slate to address; I withhold telephoning them as much as I would like.
Within the past three years the number of family deaths escalated as did the number of deaths of close friends and former basketball players that I once coached. I look around and notice 'chunks' of my life are gone. People who truly knew me and could recite historical facts about me are silenced; it leaves a longing if not hurting void in daily thoughts. I find myself 'reaching' for my telephone with intentions to 'call' mother, my Aunt Verla or Aunt Kate. I wish to telephone a friend to share a story or joke and that friend is gone.
I love my backyard swing but I find it can be the 'devil's tool' should I stay too long. Thank God for that 'slightly' above average intelligence that motivates me to get up off the swing and get busy. I must plan something and I need to look for avenues to serve others or I risk becoming lost in self-pity.
I understand one most significant aspect of my personal journey and life. I must stay engaged and busy. I have strong emotional feelings. I am sentimental about my past. I am a romantic about life (in general) and relationships specifically. These personal-profile snippets shared, I can assure you that I have a tendency to become melancholy if I have too much time to ponder; you all know about the 'blues.'
In my lifetime, I telephoned many love ones. In their retirement years, I would telephone my father and mother at least three times a week. After my father's death some 19 years ago, I began telephoning my mother every day; sometimes I'd telephone her twice a day just to hear her voice...especially her laugh. I would often telephone a couple of Aunts and Uncles along a brother brother. Of course, I stay 'in-touch' via the phone with my three children and some of the older grandchildren but I realize that these young folks have very hectic schedules and a busy slate to address; I withhold telephoning them as much as I would like.
Within the past three years the number of family deaths escalated as did the number of deaths of close friends and former basketball players that I once coached. I look around and notice 'chunks' of my life are gone. People who truly knew me and could recite historical facts about me are silenced; it leaves a longing if not hurting void in daily thoughts. I find myself 'reaching' for my telephone with intentions to 'call' mother, my Aunt Verla or Aunt Kate. I wish to telephone a friend to share a story or joke and that friend is gone.
I love my backyard swing but I find it can be the 'devil's tool' should I stay too long. Thank God for that 'slightly' above average intelligence that motivates me to get up off the swing and get busy. I must plan something and I need to look for avenues to serve others or I risk becoming lost in self-pity.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Laws of God and Man Finish Second to Prejudice
Timeline...July 4, 1776, Thirteen American colonies sign the Declaration of Independence which states, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among them are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." The next 87 years 'Black' people were held in servitude "White' slave owners didn't give a rat's ass about Black 's pursuit of happiness; so much for 'unalienable Rights!;
In 1863, President Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation giving Black slaves freedom to pursue that life, liberty and happiness; unalienable Rights...finally. However, as the saying goes; "you shit your friends and I'll shit my friends but let's don't shit one another.' No Nation can legislate appreciation or love.
In 1920, one hundred forty-four years after the Declaration of Independence, which purported all those wonderful freedoms i.e., equality; American women were permitted the 'right' to vote. Today, we still uncover inequality in gender salary-pay.
In 1965, President Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act, which was to address the voting disenfranchising of American minorities. Those (specified) minorities have that voting right this year 2013, however there is a strong movement by one political faction to make that voting right difficult through voter identification cards and travel-distances to polls in many of the economically deprived regions. Many of our Nation's people come together to circumvent; they establish roadblocks to lessen the implementation of some laws, which are contrary to a philosophy or attitude. In this case 'it' is an attitude of prejudice fearing status loss.
September 16, 2013, the new Miss America 2014, was crowned. Her name is Nina Davulure. Miss Davulure is Indian-American, if you please. Of course, she is an American citizen. Within hours of her crowning achievement the American social-media twitters were flying. Thousands of tweets suggested that perhaps Nina Davulure was overstepping her 'unalienable rights.' How dare she claim the title, Miss America. As one tweet so eloquently stated, "How the fu#k does a foreigner win Miss America?" Here's another, "She's an Arab." Many times, I notice today's tweets are an indictment of the American education system and the parenting impact!
Unfortunately, many Americans believe 'equality-rights' should only be bestowed upon those who 'look, worship and think as they.'
Many people really think that Jesus Christ has blue eyes and long flowing light-brown hair. This logic would refute the physical DNA traits of a Middle Easterner.
As suggested by many sociologist, 'people maintain their self-esteem,' in part, by identifying with groups and believing that their group is better than any other group.(ethnocentrism). It becomes necessary to put those 'other groups' down thus elevating their group's status and esteem. Therein lies one of the most significant forces of prejudice, which often times manifests into discrimination and racism.
With regards to time lines addressing the prejudice issues, Christian-Americans can research 'another' old document; The Holy Bible...
Acts 10:34-35--So Peter opened his mouth and said, "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality." This means 'White' folks and Americans are NOT HIS favorite people; no one 'race' is preferred by God over another Race. Matthew 7:1-- Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount..."Judge not that you be judged." A grandiose staple claimed by many religions but actually heeded by few believers.
It appears to be a reasonable conclusion that man will break his own laws and the laws of God and reject his fellow man as he attempts to keep his self-esteem group identity.
In 1863, President Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation giving Black slaves freedom to pursue that life, liberty and happiness; unalienable Rights...finally. However, as the saying goes; "you shit your friends and I'll shit my friends but let's don't shit one another.' No Nation can legislate appreciation or love.
In 1920, one hundred forty-four years after the Declaration of Independence, which purported all those wonderful freedoms i.e., equality; American women were permitted the 'right' to vote. Today, we still uncover inequality in gender salary-pay.
In 1965, President Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act, which was to address the voting disenfranchising of American minorities. Those (specified) minorities have that voting right this year 2013, however there is a strong movement by one political faction to make that voting right difficult through voter identification cards and travel-distances to polls in many of the economically deprived regions. Many of our Nation's people come together to circumvent; they establish roadblocks to lessen the implementation of some laws, which are contrary to a philosophy or attitude. In this case 'it' is an attitude of prejudice fearing status loss.
September 16, 2013, the new Miss America 2014, was crowned. Her name is Nina Davulure. Miss Davulure is Indian-American, if you please. Of course, she is an American citizen. Within hours of her crowning achievement the American social-media twitters were flying. Thousands of tweets suggested that perhaps Nina Davulure was overstepping her 'unalienable rights.' How dare she claim the title, Miss America. As one tweet so eloquently stated, "How the fu#k does a foreigner win Miss America?" Here's another, "She's an Arab." Many times, I notice today's tweets are an indictment of the American education system and the parenting impact!
Unfortunately, many Americans believe 'equality-rights' should only be bestowed upon those who 'look, worship and think as they.'
Many people really think that Jesus Christ has blue eyes and long flowing light-brown hair. This logic would refute the physical DNA traits of a Middle Easterner.
As suggested by many sociologist, 'people maintain their self-esteem,' in part, by identifying with groups and believing that their group is better than any other group.(ethnocentrism). It becomes necessary to put those 'other groups' down thus elevating their group's status and esteem. Therein lies one of the most significant forces of prejudice, which often times manifests into discrimination and racism.
With regards to time lines addressing the prejudice issues, Christian-Americans can research 'another' old document; The Holy Bible...
Acts 10:34-35--So Peter opened his mouth and said, "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality." This means 'White' folks and Americans are NOT HIS favorite people; no one 'race' is preferred by God over another Race. Matthew 7:1-- Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount..."Judge not that you be judged." A grandiose staple claimed by many religions but actually heeded by few believers.
It appears to be a reasonable conclusion that man will break his own laws and the laws of God and reject his fellow man as he attempts to keep his self-esteem group identity.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Best Cost Less
The legendary Negro League and later Major League Baseball pitcher, Satchel Paige once said, "I never look behind me 'cause somebody could be gainin' on me." I understood that comment. When I was a young boy, I remember adults saying something about 'keeping up with the Joneses." I had no idea what that meant for the longest time. Finally, I understood that the 'Joneses were a mythical family or any family that had more material stuff than our family.' Later, I connected that to 'coveting,' which is addressed in the Ten Commandments: "Thou shall not covet thy neighbor's house,. thou shall not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his maidservant, etc, etc..." Of course, God and Moses had no idea that someday we'd have designer clothing, BMWs and all those computer gadgets.
Seventy-four years into my journey and acknowledging my evaporating energies, I have no inclination to look at or covet any thing. I do frequently 'look behind me anticipating that everybody is 'gainin' on me;' I just wish to know, which side to yield so as not to be 'run-down.' Actually, it is impossible to covet any thing immediately to the 'N o r t h' of my house because there is a huge eighty-foot, ninety-six thousand dollar boat in my neighbor's driveway blocking my view.
When it comes to coveting other things, I married well; my wife has always been one to get by / make do with what she has. I appreciate her attitude regarding 'material stuff.' Oh, once in awhile she mentions (with a slightly envious tone) that one of her neighbor friends just got some thing new. I am quick to remind my wife that those neighbors will soon have a 'garage sale' and she will likely 'make-good-deal' on those secondhand things.
As for this old man, I do admit coveting simple pleasures of life. This afternoon after my grass cutting chores, I'll head for the backyard swing with a 'cold' bottle of Pepsi and a bag of Planter's peanuts. Let me tell you a secret; pour the peanuts into the bottle of Pepsi...it's the best way to eat-drink-swing and enjoy! If you're near Decatur any time soon, stop by; got plenty of Pepsi and peanuts!
Seventy-four years into my journey and acknowledging my evaporating energies, I have no inclination to look at or covet any thing. I do frequently 'look behind me anticipating that everybody is 'gainin' on me;' I just wish to know, which side to yield so as not to be 'run-down.' Actually, it is impossible to covet any thing immediately to the 'N o r t h' of my house because there is a huge eighty-foot, ninety-six thousand dollar boat in my neighbor's driveway blocking my view.
When it comes to coveting other things, I married well; my wife has always been one to get by / make do with what she has. I appreciate her attitude regarding 'material stuff.' Oh, once in awhile she mentions (with a slightly envious tone) that one of her neighbor friends just got some thing new. I am quick to remind my wife that those neighbors will soon have a 'garage sale' and she will likely 'make-good-deal' on those secondhand things.
As for this old man, I do admit coveting simple pleasures of life. This afternoon after my grass cutting chores, I'll head for the backyard swing with a 'cold' bottle of Pepsi and a bag of Planter's peanuts. Let me tell you a secret; pour the peanuts into the bottle of Pepsi...it's the best way to eat-drink-swing and enjoy! If you're near Decatur any time soon, stop by; got plenty of Pepsi and peanuts!
Monday, September 16, 2013
Helpful Words
I am a Christian; a Methodist doctrine follower to some extent. Neither predispositions stop me from admiring other religions. Just last week, I was doing yard work when I noticed two young men in white shirts and neckties approaching my house; I knew immediately that they were Jehovah Witnesses. Had they been 'rap-singers' they would've been wearing their trousers lower and grabbing their 'genitals' while walking with a stiff-leg limp; they were NOT rap singers, they were Jehovah Witnesses!
I stood up from my grass manicuring activity and offered them a friendly handshake and immediately told them that I had a 'plan' for salvation but appreciated them caring and taking the time to think about me; end of greeting and end of conversation. I do admire the missionary commitment demonstrated by that religion and I expressed that as I sat back down to trim more ivy from the walk way.
I admire any group that stops four or five times per day to drop to their knees facing a certain direction and praying to their 'god.' I don't know of any Christian sect that does that 'stop-in-the-name-of belief-and-pray' religion. My goodness, I say 'grace' once a per day and whisper one other daily prayer and I pat myself on the back thinking that I am some kinda glory-bound-believer. Of course, I rationalize to my Christian-ego that I am always in a prayerful attitude; how 'bout you?
While returning from the Metro-East area this past Thursday, I did thank God for allowing a two-day get together with a couple of former high school teammates of mine. We are at that age when we know not when our ranks will suddenly diminish and any brief time we share is worthy of a thank-you, Jesus prayer.
I have a speaking engagement coming up soon which prompted my wife to ask a question. She inquired, "Over the years and the many speaking gigs you have had, which one paid you the most?" I told her that a school district once gave me five hundred dollars to speak for ten minutes and to this day I feel guilty agreeing to the arrangement. I did not tell my wife that my most 'profitable' words ever spoken were those words of praise directed towards her over our fifty-three married years.
I need to book a hotel accommodation for this upcoming speaking engagement but I hesitate doing it via the telephone,. I like to walk into a hotel and check it out before making arrangements. Actually, the best method for me regarding hotel stays is to pull under the hotel canopy, allow my wife to go inside and if she returns to the car smiling, I'm delighted to grab the luggage. I have just one hotel-stay-rule, if a sign appears on a hotel's front entrance, 'Interpreter on Duty,' I don't stay there!
Yes, I do whisper a prayer just before I am introduced as a speaker: 'Dear God, thank you for this humbling moment. Open ears that they may understand my words and filter those words to serve others.'
I stood up from my grass manicuring activity and offered them a friendly handshake and immediately told them that I had a 'plan' for salvation but appreciated them caring and taking the time to think about me; end of greeting and end of conversation. I do admire the missionary commitment demonstrated by that religion and I expressed that as I sat back down to trim more ivy from the walk way.
I admire any group that stops four or five times per day to drop to their knees facing a certain direction and praying to their 'god.' I don't know of any Christian sect that does that 'stop-in-the-name-of belief-and-pray' religion. My goodness, I say 'grace' once a per day and whisper one other daily prayer and I pat myself on the back thinking that I am some kinda glory-bound-believer. Of course, I rationalize to my Christian-ego that I am always in a prayerful attitude; how 'bout you?
While returning from the Metro-East area this past Thursday, I did thank God for allowing a two-day get together with a couple of former high school teammates of mine. We are at that age when we know not when our ranks will suddenly diminish and any brief time we share is worthy of a thank-you, Jesus prayer.
I have a speaking engagement coming up soon which prompted my wife to ask a question. She inquired, "Over the years and the many speaking gigs you have had, which one paid you the most?" I told her that a school district once gave me five hundred dollars to speak for ten minutes and to this day I feel guilty agreeing to the arrangement. I did not tell my wife that my most 'profitable' words ever spoken were those words of praise directed towards her over our fifty-three married years.
I need to book a hotel accommodation for this upcoming speaking engagement but I hesitate doing it via the telephone,. I like to walk into a hotel and check it out before making arrangements. Actually, the best method for me regarding hotel stays is to pull under the hotel canopy, allow my wife to go inside and if she returns to the car smiling, I'm delighted to grab the luggage. I have just one hotel-stay-rule, if a sign appears on a hotel's front entrance, 'Interpreter on Duty,' I don't stay there!
Yes, I do whisper a prayer just before I am introduced as a speaker: 'Dear God, thank you for this humbling moment. Open ears that they may understand my words and filter those words to serve others.'
Friday, September 13, 2013
I Remember it Well...
The mosquitoes have been terrible this summer and consequently, my backyard swing time is diminished. When your time arrives you will understand the many pleasures associated with a yard swing. Aside from the shade, gentle breeze and mesmerizing movement; you embrace nostalgia reminiscing drifting through your brain channels while swinging.
Unfortunately, I am beginning to have memory lapses. I 'forget' things and if that continues, I shall be saying adios to nostalgia moments. This could lead to the day when I'll be swinging and smiling like a blooming idiot and passing neighbors will believe I am happy and this will not necessarily be the circumstance.
Considering this possibility, I made a list of my favorite things just in case this 'forgetfulness' becomes a serious reality. I sent each of my grown children a copy of 'Dad's Nostalgia List' because there is a good chance that I will misplace my list.
Here is my nostalgia memory (cheat) sheet:
Favorite Song: 'Only You' (The Platters); but song hook...'if we could start anew, I wouldn't hesitate, I'd gladly take you back and tempt the hands of fate...' (Little Anthony & The Imperials).
Favorite Romance Flick: 'An Affair to Remember' (Cary Grant & Deborah Kerr)
Top Sport fete I witnessed: Stan Musial's five (5) home runs 1954 vs. Giants; Sportsman's Park (St. Louis)
Best Puppy Love Moment: Stealing kisses from a 14-year old girl named, Gerry at the 'lagoon,' Jones' Park (East St. Louis)
Son (Steve): At 6 years old he had his tonsils removed and insisted on eating a hamburger the same afternoon.
Daughters Dawn & Pamela: At 6 years & four years of age, they were mad at their mother & decided to 'leave' home but returned in 2-minutes because she knew they were not to cross the street.
Softest fingers: My maternal grandmother, Mammy Bennett; put me to sleep rubbing my head.
Most Compassionate Person: (giving): My father
The Best laughter: My mother
I remember that every thing goes better with chocolate. I remember Rush Limbaugh is the most mean spirited soul I ever heard speak.
I once scored thirty points in a high school basketball game and pitched all eleven innings of a high school championship baseball game, which we won. I love my wife calling my name even when she is angry....and finally, my favorite grandchild is uh,...Uh,...oh crap, I knew this damn memory thing was becoming an issue.
Unfortunately, I am beginning to have memory lapses. I 'forget' things and if that continues, I shall be saying adios to nostalgia moments. This could lead to the day when I'll be swinging and smiling like a blooming idiot and passing neighbors will believe I am happy and this will not necessarily be the circumstance.
Considering this possibility, I made a list of my favorite things just in case this 'forgetfulness' becomes a serious reality. I sent each of my grown children a copy of 'Dad's Nostalgia List' because there is a good chance that I will misplace my list.
Here is my nostalgia memory (cheat) sheet:
Favorite Song: 'Only You' (The Platters); but song hook...'if we could start anew, I wouldn't hesitate, I'd gladly take you back and tempt the hands of fate...' (Little Anthony & The Imperials).
Favorite Romance Flick: 'An Affair to Remember' (Cary Grant & Deborah Kerr)
Top Sport fete I witnessed: Stan Musial's five (5) home runs 1954 vs. Giants; Sportsman's Park (St. Louis)
Best Puppy Love Moment: Stealing kisses from a 14-year old girl named, Gerry at the 'lagoon,' Jones' Park (East St. Louis)
Son (Steve): At 6 years old he had his tonsils removed and insisted on eating a hamburger the same afternoon.
Daughters Dawn & Pamela: At 6 years & four years of age, they were mad at their mother & decided to 'leave' home but returned in 2-minutes because she knew they were not to cross the street.
Softest fingers: My maternal grandmother, Mammy Bennett; put me to sleep rubbing my head.
Most Compassionate Person: (giving): My father
The Best laughter: My mother
I remember that every thing goes better with chocolate. I remember Rush Limbaugh is the most mean spirited soul I ever heard speak.
I once scored thirty points in a high school basketball game and pitched all eleven innings of a high school championship baseball game, which we won. I love my wife calling my name even when she is angry....and finally, my favorite grandchild is uh,...Uh,...oh crap, I knew this damn memory thing was becoming an issue.
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