I appreciate the opinion of those who don't like dogs; I just don't understand it. I acknowledge the possibility that some people may have allergies to animals but that aside, I 'scratch' (no pun intended) my head wondering why it is that many people simply don't like dogs. Okay, I imagine some could fear the larger-menacing dog or perhaps suffered a youth-biting experience, which causes reluctance embracing any pooch.
Personally, I had a family dog most of my youth and only a few brief periods in our 54-married years have my wife I not had a pup. I readily recall my adolescent years when parental-discipline or peer relationship issues would cause one of those pout sit-on-the--front-steps moments and talk aloud to self as a little boy attempted to sort-things-out...always nearby was 'my' best friend, my dog. He would cock his head from side-to-side as I went on and on with my gibber-jabber. He seemed to sense my companionship need and patiently waited for my next move or beckoning.
I have read many studies about the health benefits coming with a dog. I never needed a medical study or a physician to convince me of those dog-ownership health advantages; some things you just get a 'feeling' and know without doubt: THIS IS RIGHT; THIS IS GOOD.
Today our four bedroom home is occupied by two seniors in their seventh decade and a seven pound toy poodle named, 'Yodie.' Without a doubt, we are a 'pack.' Yodie usually goes with us anytime we get in the auto. On those occasions when left behind, he comes 'unglued' with tale-wagging, uncontrollable hind-end wiggling upon our return home. Within minutes, Yodie is at my feet with his rubber duck enticing me to get down on the floor and wrestle for control of the squeak-toy. There are those times sitting in my easy chair with lap top positioned when I feel a distinct scratching of a small paw against my leg. As I move the portable computer to side, the pup quickly seizes the opening to jump up and stake out a piece of the chair next to his buddy.
I suppose the greatest joy this little dog brings occurs with the start of each day. You see, Yodie sleeps on our bed near the foot. Every morning I wake up with this 'God Wink' rubbing his head against mine and find him wagging tale and wiggling body with the excitement of overwhelming joy. He appears to be surprised and overjoyed that we have another day to share and at that moment, my wife's fibromyalgia eases while my arthritis from three back surgeries disappears...perhaps those medical studies about 'Fido' are right on!
It is said, "If you wake up to a good start, your days holds potential for joy and miracles." I have a seven-pound fluffy friend that is a day-breaking joy-producing enabler.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Proud To Be An East St. Louis-American!
A few years ago, my wife and I were vacationing in Florida and met up with East St. Louis high school classmates from 1956-57. While lunching with our friends, a conversation with a couple at a nearby table ensued and when asked where we were 'from,' I quickly said, "East St. Louis, Illinois. Later, my friends told me that they NEVER tell strangers that they are from East St. Louis. This is not the only time I have experienced the denouncing of my hometown by others who shared that time. I am not ashamed of East St. Louis but rather feel a sadness for my dear friends who suffer from a sic smugness and would throw the history of their parents and good East St. Louis neighbors under the proverbial bus; not to mention the personal insult to me.
The East St. Louis in which I grew up was a wonderful city and its people displayed an unprecedented toughness, determination, will and working pride. We left front doors un-locked and played under-the-street-light games such as kick the can and hide-and-seek. I remember second generation immigrants who 'melted' in the work place and cared for family. These were people who would never think of sending an elderly family member to a nursing home or 'assisted-living' homes; our aging relatives 'came-to-live-with-us...it was part of life's journey expectations.
Teens worked part-time jobs at corner grocery stores, drug store fountains, 'filling' (gas) stations and news stand/delivery paper boys. Those teens gathered around juke boxes to 'fast-dance', acted silly and played kissing games at the drive-in theater. We cruised (harmlessly) about our city's streets showing off our 'whitewall' tires and fender skirts as we loudly played one of Chuck Berry's latest hit songs.
We were not oblivious to the organized crime about our city. We drove past those known gambling joints, cigar/bookie/numbers establishments and the infamous Third Street prostitute houses. It would be many years later that we would come to understand the sad reality of the weak economic anchors of East St. Louis. East Coast business investments in our neighbors to the immediate West across that muddy Mississippi River deemed East St. Louis to be that dirty town that provided the great railway terminals, stockyards and entertainment vices for the more affluent folks from other nearby pristine communities.
The streets of my hometown are no longer safe to take those 'memory-lane' walks...thus in my mid-night hours I do my memory-lane 'walking' and in every waking occasion, I tell folks, "I'm from East St. Louis, Illinois."
The East St. Louis in which I grew up was a wonderful city and its people displayed an unprecedented toughness, determination, will and working pride. We left front doors un-locked and played under-the-street-light games such as kick the can and hide-and-seek. I remember second generation immigrants who 'melted' in the work place and cared for family. These were people who would never think of sending an elderly family member to a nursing home or 'assisted-living' homes; our aging relatives 'came-to-live-with-us...it was part of life's journey expectations.
Teens worked part-time jobs at corner grocery stores, drug store fountains, 'filling' (gas) stations and news stand/delivery paper boys. Those teens gathered around juke boxes to 'fast-dance', acted silly and played kissing games at the drive-in theater. We cruised (harmlessly) about our city's streets showing off our 'whitewall' tires and fender skirts as we loudly played one of Chuck Berry's latest hit songs.
We were not oblivious to the organized crime about our city. We drove past those known gambling joints, cigar/bookie/numbers establishments and the infamous Third Street prostitute houses. It would be many years later that we would come to understand the sad reality of the weak economic anchors of East St. Louis. East Coast business investments in our neighbors to the immediate West across that muddy Mississippi River deemed East St. Louis to be that dirty town that provided the great railway terminals, stockyards and entertainment vices for the more affluent folks from other nearby pristine communities.
The streets of my hometown are no longer safe to take those 'memory-lane' walks...thus in my mid-night hours I do my memory-lane 'walking' and in every waking occasion, I tell folks, "I'm from East St. Louis, Illinois."
Monday, April 7, 2014
Right or Wrong, I'll MAKE The Call
President Harry S. Truman had a sign on his desk in the Oval Office that read, "The Buck Stops Here." He even suggested a coaching scenario to explain what it meant. I paraphrase: 'It is easy for the Monday morning quarterback to say what he thinks the coach should have done the previous game but it is the coach in the heat of the game who must make his decision without benefit of hindsight.'
Keep this preface in mind as I share the following. Recently, I was made aware of two public school stories.
First, a fourth grade (elementary) school teacher expressed concerns to her administration that a 10-year old female student in her classroom had personal hygiene issues, i.e., dirty hands, elbows and unclean clothes. The teacher is troubled by other students who are beginning to make teasing comments 'openly' about the girl's uncleanliness. The teacher envisions the problem escalating, over time, from teasing to taunting, then rejection and perhaps by the time the child in in middle school she will be a truant with failing grades. The teacher reported this scenario to her building Principal requesting some type intervention by the administration, health services and social workers. The instructor was told by the Principal that little could be done and she should NOT 'make it' a bigger issue by calling it 'bullying.' Somewhat like that sign: "Racism? Not In Our Town." Bullying? Not In My School."Don't put that dollar bill on this Principal's desk!
Secondly, a coaching candidate is interviewed for a high school vacancy. The interview process finds a building Principal, athletics director and three other adults, some with no educational credentials to evaluate or interview. The candidate is told, "If you are called for a follow up interview, some student-athletes will also sit-in that interview session." How about THOSE (interview) qualifications joining in?
In the first story, we notice a public school teacher acting on a moral obligation to assist a child with potential health and social issues and an administration inept in leadership skills suggesting to downplay the issue. The second story is all about 'hiding' from and 'avoiding' the BUCK from stopping on MY desk. Superintendents, Principals and athletic directors have the State certification to make recommendations and evaluations of staff and those administrators' salaries reflect such expertise and duty. However, if a committee is formed to do 'interviews' then all individuals avoid accountability. If the hire works out, individuals and committee can take credit. Conversely, if the hire is a bust all individual committee members can and will hide behind anonymity in numbers.
Androgenic hair (body hair) begins growing over the human body after puberty; unfortunately some humans have little hair on their posterior!
Keep this preface in mind as I share the following. Recently, I was made aware of two public school stories.
First, a fourth grade (elementary) school teacher expressed concerns to her administration that a 10-year old female student in her classroom had personal hygiene issues, i.e., dirty hands, elbows and unclean clothes. The teacher is troubled by other students who are beginning to make teasing comments 'openly' about the girl's uncleanliness. The teacher envisions the problem escalating, over time, from teasing to taunting, then rejection and perhaps by the time the child in in middle school she will be a truant with failing grades. The teacher reported this scenario to her building Principal requesting some type intervention by the administration, health services and social workers. The instructor was told by the Principal that little could be done and she should NOT 'make it' a bigger issue by calling it 'bullying.' Somewhat like that sign: "Racism? Not In Our Town." Bullying? Not In My School."Don't put that dollar bill on this Principal's desk!
Secondly, a coaching candidate is interviewed for a high school vacancy. The interview process finds a building Principal, athletics director and three other adults, some with no educational credentials to evaluate or interview. The candidate is told, "If you are called for a follow up interview, some student-athletes will also sit-in that interview session." How about THOSE (interview) qualifications joining in?
In the first story, we notice a public school teacher acting on a moral obligation to assist a child with potential health and social issues and an administration inept in leadership skills suggesting to downplay the issue. The second story is all about 'hiding' from and 'avoiding' the BUCK from stopping on MY desk. Superintendents, Principals and athletic directors have the State certification to make recommendations and evaluations of staff and those administrators' salaries reflect such expertise and duty. However, if a committee is formed to do 'interviews' then all individuals avoid accountability. If the hire works out, individuals and committee can take credit. Conversely, if the hire is a bust all individual committee members can and will hide behind anonymity in numbers.
Androgenic hair (body hair) begins growing over the human body after puberty; unfortunately some humans have little hair on their posterior!
Friday, April 4, 2014
Think About It
I am certain that many blog readers believe that I imitate a Terrier pup refusing to relinquish a squeak toy when it comes to the topic of generational change. Nevertheless, I wish to approach this issue from a different angle.
Questions: Have we, as a society, experienced some moral slippage? If so, what specific factors drive this change? Perhaps a sketchy five decade comparison of the following might shed light: (1) Entertainment (2) Professions (3) Family (4) Church (5) Education.
Mid-1950's, entertainment found us laughing at television comics, Red Skelton talking like 'seagulls, Lucille Ball stomping on grapes and Jackie Gleason's 'Ralph Kramden threatening to 'send' wife, 'Alice' to the moon. Today, we laugh at Tosh.O on comedy central as they lace together one 'big' 'F' and 'Motherfu#*^# after another and we find humor in Howie Mandel's produced, 'Deal With It,' which videos daring-obnoxious behavior for money.The voice of Rosemary Clooney singing 'Hey There' gives way to meat-dress- wearing, lady Gaga. Today, we have teen idol, Miley Cyrus rubbing Robin Thicke's crotch during their MTV Awards Show duet, 2013.
The movies have made a fifty-year journey from 'An Affair to Remember' in which movie stars Cary Grant and Debra Kerr had a passionate romance aboard a cruise ship, yet never kissing each other on screen, to the recent over-the-top on screen raw-sex display of Patrick Bateman (played by Christian Bale) in 'American Psycho.'
The professionals ( Doctors & Attorneys) of the 1950's did not advertise services in such an open manner as those today. Pharmaceuticals now 'push' their wonder drugs, medical doctors prescribe them oft times 'willy-nilly' and lawyers chase potential damaging suits caused by 'bad' drugs and malpractice; we have indeed lost our innocence.
\Families no longer eat meals together, most traditional churches have lost numbers and public education is a target-lightning rod for blaming others as politicians and parents avoid all responsibilities.
It's a mess out there! Connect the dots!!!
Questions: Have we, as a society, experienced some moral slippage? If so, what specific factors drive this change? Perhaps a sketchy five decade comparison of the following might shed light: (1) Entertainment (2) Professions (3) Family (4) Church (5) Education.
Mid-1950's, entertainment found us laughing at television comics, Red Skelton talking like 'seagulls, Lucille Ball stomping on grapes and Jackie Gleason's 'Ralph Kramden threatening to 'send' wife, 'Alice' to the moon. Today, we laugh at Tosh.O on comedy central as they lace together one 'big' 'F' and 'Motherfu#*^# after another and we find humor in Howie Mandel's produced, 'Deal With It,' which videos daring-obnoxious behavior for money.The voice of Rosemary Clooney singing 'Hey There' gives way to meat-dress- wearing, lady Gaga. Today, we have teen idol, Miley Cyrus rubbing Robin Thicke's crotch during their MTV Awards Show duet, 2013.
The movies have made a fifty-year journey from 'An Affair to Remember' in which movie stars Cary Grant and Debra Kerr had a passionate romance aboard a cruise ship, yet never kissing each other on screen, to the recent over-the-top on screen raw-sex display of Patrick Bateman (played by Christian Bale) in 'American Psycho.'
The professionals ( Doctors & Attorneys) of the 1950's did not advertise services in such an open manner as those today. Pharmaceuticals now 'push' their wonder drugs, medical doctors prescribe them oft times 'willy-nilly' and lawyers chase potential damaging suits caused by 'bad' drugs and malpractice; we have indeed lost our innocence.
\Families no longer eat meals together, most traditional churches have lost numbers and public education is a target-lightning rod for blaming others as politicians and parents avoid all responsibilities.
It's a mess out there! Connect the dots!!!
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Best I Not 'DO' Facebook
When I read the return address on the large envelop, I knew immediately that my 'special' gift from a dear friend had arrived. I carefully opened the package and read the enclosed note card, "Dear Coach: Pretty darn fancy, I say." It was signed "Enjoy, Anna." Anna was my Edwardsville high school basketball statistician during the State Team Tigers of 1976. We have stayed in touch over the years.
Several months ago, Anna sent some tie dye handkerchiefs for a gift. Most recently, my 10-year old granddaughter Alexa saw those tie dye hankies and made a tie dye bracelet for Anna. A few blogs ago, I made some off the cuff comment (difficult to believe, eh) about tie dye men's underwear to camouflage various stains...and now you know how Coach Mel got his tie dye skivvies!
The art of tie dye can be traced back to around 500-800 AD when people used the pigments from berries, flowers and leaves. Although, I am certain my friend does not use such primitive methods, I dare say, she would take a back seat to nobody, including modern techniques.
Of course, I immediately took off the underwear I was wearing and put on one of my 'new' tie dye undies. I moved quickly through our large home in search of my wife. As soon as she saw me she asked the question, "Will Anna bail you out of jail because I envision you showing off one day at the Mall and being arrested for indecent exposure?"
She may have a valid fear...these sure are neat Boy's Ventilated Drawers..
Several months ago, Anna sent some tie dye handkerchiefs for a gift. Most recently, my 10-year old granddaughter Alexa saw those tie dye hankies and made a tie dye bracelet for Anna. A few blogs ago, I made some off the cuff comment (difficult to believe, eh) about tie dye men's underwear to camouflage various stains...and now you know how Coach Mel got his tie dye skivvies!
The art of tie dye can be traced back to around 500-800 AD when people used the pigments from berries, flowers and leaves. Although, I am certain my friend does not use such primitive methods, I dare say, she would take a back seat to nobody, including modern techniques.
Of course, I immediately took off the underwear I was wearing and put on one of my 'new' tie dye undies. I moved quickly through our large home in search of my wife. As soon as she saw me she asked the question, "Will Anna bail you out of jail because I envision you showing off one day at the Mall and being arrested for indecent exposure?"
She may have a valid fear...these sure are neat Boy's Ventilated Drawers..
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Tell Me What To Believe
The late wise-cracking and lovable humorist of the early 1900's, Will Rogers often said, "All I know is what I read in the newspapers." Poor old Will, he and others of his era were not nearly as well-informed as we folks of this twenty-first century.
I not only read a couple of newspapers every day, I also have 24/7 cable television news to bring breaking stories' and re-hash old stories in endless program 'loops.' Also, most of these cable news networks realize that I am only slightly above average intelligence, therefore the story-telling political pundit sitting at the desk looking into the camera helps me to understand the news. This newscaster fella is also most helpful assisting me when 'choosing sides' on issues. In simple terms, the cable news pundit points out 'good-guys' / 'bad-guys.'
I must stop now. I need to head to the news stand for the morning papers; old habits die slowly.
I not only read a couple of newspapers every day, I also have 24/7 cable television news to bring breaking stories' and re-hash old stories in endless program 'loops.' Also, most of these cable news networks realize that I am only slightly above average intelligence, therefore the story-telling political pundit sitting at the desk looking into the camera helps me to understand the news. This newscaster fella is also most helpful assisting me when 'choosing sides' on issues. In simple terms, the cable news pundit points out 'good-guys' / 'bad-guys.'
I must stop now. I need to head to the news stand for the morning papers; old habits die slowly.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
A Great Lady with a Wonderful Message
My maternal grandmother, Mary 'Mammy' Bennett instilled in me a tolerance for all God's people. From the time I can remember, I sat at Mammy's knee listening to her Biblical based teachings. Her philosophical Christian indoctrination was anchored in all words spoken by Jesus Christ. Therefore, I embrace all people of color, ethnic origin and religious persuasions.
Because of Mammy's indoctrination-teachings, I refuse to purport that my religion (Christian-Methodist-faith) is the best way to eternal life. I do believe that my own salvation requires me to acknowledge Jesus as the Son-of-God who died for my sins; I STOP right there and simply plug along trying to keep rust from forming on ME! I refuse to find fault with other religions even when Pastors such as Pat Robertson and others suggest that some disasters befalling people is caused by homosexual behavior. I do not hold anger towards the Roman Catholic faith because some priests have sick minds.
I know that Jews are His chosen people and yet their faith denounces Christ as the Savior. I understand that Muslims, Buddhists, etc., are following other religious tenants other than Christianity. Nevertheless, Jesus said, "I have other sheep not of this fold; them also I must bring and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd." Please note: Jesus said 'I' meaning Jesus-Christ must bring these sheep into the fold. Christ DID NOT say or suggest that some television pundit with a particular political agenda would decide the 'sheep' issue.
Mammy told me often that I should 'love others as Jesus loves me.' I think that I am best embracing all the folks and let the rounding up into one fold to the Lord. For my money...Christians would do well if they would truly 'listen' to the words of the song: "They Will Know We are Christians By Our LOVE." I owe my Mammy my 'peace of mind.'
Because of Mammy's indoctrination-teachings, I refuse to purport that my religion (Christian-Methodist-faith) is the best way to eternal life. I do believe that my own salvation requires me to acknowledge Jesus as the Son-of-God who died for my sins; I STOP right there and simply plug along trying to keep rust from forming on ME! I refuse to find fault with other religions even when Pastors such as Pat Robertson and others suggest that some disasters befalling people is caused by homosexual behavior. I do not hold anger towards the Roman Catholic faith because some priests have sick minds.
I know that Jews are His chosen people and yet their faith denounces Christ as the Savior. I understand that Muslims, Buddhists, etc., are following other religious tenants other than Christianity. Nevertheless, Jesus said, "I have other sheep not of this fold; them also I must bring and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd." Please note: Jesus said 'I' meaning Jesus-Christ must bring these sheep into the fold. Christ DID NOT say or suggest that some television pundit with a particular political agenda would decide the 'sheep' issue.
Mammy told me often that I should 'love others as Jesus loves me.' I think that I am best embracing all the folks and let the rounding up into one fold to the Lord. For my money...Christians would do well if they would truly 'listen' to the words of the song: "They Will Know We are Christians By Our LOVE." I owe my Mammy my 'peace of mind.'
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