Memories and Reminders

Not being the domestic type I rarely dust the various items in my home. The little knick knacks, photos and other mementos scattered about. Sitting on shelves, hiding in the corners, or hanging from the walls. Each one is special and unique. Each with its' own tale to tell.
Yesterday I decided to join my wife in doing the dusting. Perhaps it was a blue moon, or maybe I had done something wrong, whatever the case, that is unimportant, I joined in. As I picked the items up to gently remove the dust I began to notice all the little details. The small nuances in construction and design that you don't notice at first. A careful inspection shows the item in a whole new light. The things that I had purchased, I became reminded of what had drawn me to it. Other items came to me either as gifts or treasured heirlooms. I studied each item, cleaned it off and placed it back in it's place.
I began to get in touch with my feminine side. I thought of the character played by Maureen O'Hara (Kate) in the movie, The Quiet Man. I remembered her love for her things. Her dowery,as she called it. I thought of the struggle she had to make John Wayne (Sean Thronton) understand the importance of those items. I too, "want my things about me !" Then I got a little nervous and quit dusting. Surely their is some mans work to do around here. I'll get the tools.
I do understand how someone could become a hoarder. Each item does have significance, In my case, and the case of all normal people, the significance of each holds a different value. The most treasured of mine, I haven't purchased for myself. They are either family pieces or gifts to me. It would be difficult to dispose of some things, but impossible to dispose of others. I believe we keep these items as reminders. Reminders of the past and the places we have been. Singular moments in time captured in an article. I did enjoy revisiting those memories. They had been sitting on the shelf just waiting for me. It'll be a while before I visit again but that is what keeps it special. Don't want to do that too often or the magic disappears. Guess that is why men don't dust !

Memories and Reminders

Noteworthy

How many times do we say something is, noteworthy ? How often do we actually write a note about it ? Unless you are a journalist or reporter you probably don't. I know I do not. I may make a list of things I want, or things to do, but never make a note of things I did or witnessed. Even after I say, that was noteworthy. I suppose if one kept a diary or journal, one might do that. I write these little pieces of mine almost every day but would not classify them as a journal. They most certainly are not a diary. A diary is much more personal. There are times when I find it difficult to find something to write about; would be helpful if I had notes. Maybe I should start carrying a note book. I wonder ? Do they make an electronic version of a notebook ? One you can just jot notes into ? I don't think they do.
There are different degrees of noteworthiness. Some things you remember forever and others just fade away. Both may have been noteworthy at the time. Me, I love reading little notes. Either ones I've written, or notes written by others. I even like notes that I don't know what the subject matter is about. A mini mystery. I find lots of shopping lists at the store. People either leave them in the carts , put them on a shelf somewhere or just throw them on the floor. Most are boring, with just food items listed. Sometimes they have other little notes though. Personal reminders. I have never found a note in a bottle, but have sent them out. Never got a response back though.
When I was in grade school we would pass notes. Got caught at that a few times. The notes could be embarrassing. One teacher I had would make you " share " the note with the whole class. She would probably get sued for that today ! I'll still like to sue her, but I think the statute of limitations has expired. I should have made a note of that. Notes are reminders. I always did best on a test when you could use your notes. I knew the material alright, but those reminders were a big help.
And just what does it take to become a person " of note " ? Do you have to have your name "noted" somewhere ? In the big notebook ? Our names are recorded from birth, we are noted then. Whether or not we become someone of note, is left open for fate to decide. Should you not reach that level of acclaim, there is another possibility. You could become a " footnote". Now, footnotes support the data in the note. Couldn't you then say the footnotes are more important ? Notes without any supporting facts are just stories. A work of fiction. Footnotes lend credence to the story. If I wrote a book of notes, would it require footnotes ? Hmm.

Waiting on Change

I find myself waiting again. Don't know what it is I'm waiting for, but I'm waiting. I've written about this feeling before and it is a feeling that revisits me very so often. I wonder if others feel the same way ? St. Patrick's day is just ahead. And following that Easter. St Patrick's day is no big deal to me and Easter is a time of celebration, but a different type of celebration. I'm not waiting on either of those holidays. I haven't mailed anything out and waiting on a response. No irons in the fire. Just this unsettled feeling.
I don't like it. I feel like I don't want to start something new because of this nagging uncertainty. Could it be stress ? Don't think so. I'm not pulling my hair out, it is doing that all by itself. My job is secure. My health is good and my wife is faithful and true. Got a roof over my head, food on the table and a couple bucks in my pocket. Life is good. Still I'm waiting. Definitely not procrastinating, just waiting.
I am not one to look to cycles of the moon or planetary alignments for answers. No seers or fortune tellers for me. Things do happen for a reason and the reason doesn't always involve me. I do get this sense that I should wait though. This time of waiting may last for a few hours,days and rarely, but sometimes, weeks. I have yet to formulate a hypothesis as to it's origin. One of the great mysteries of the universe. Or you could say, " it happens. "
Perhaps it is no more than the first stirring of cabin fever. I have seen the crocus popping up next to the steps. A hint of green returning to the grass. Signs of renewed life. Could be that is what I'm waiting for ? Spring ? It is just around the corner. I've always thought of the world as round, so the seasons should come in a circular motion, hence no corners. Spring is just over the horizon may be a better description. I digress.
Yeah, I think I may go with that. Spring, the reaffirmation of life. That is what I'm waiting on. The anticipation of rebirth and new life. Not throwing out the old, but embracing the new. Or as Annie put it, Tomorrow is only a day away ! In the meantime I'll just wait.
  

All grown up

I had a nice conversation with my sister yesterday. I'm not sure when it happened exactly, but we began having adult conversations. No, not about that ! I mean conversations about real grown up issues. The health and well being of our mother. A real concern for the health of our oldest brother and general topics like that. You know, the kind old people have. I guess time really has moved on. Strange how when talking to your siblings you don't see them as grandparents. They don't see you in that light either. It is just one day you start talking to each other and sounding like your parents. You start talking about life insurance, medical insurance and where you want to be buried. Good grief.
Mom is getting on in years. Lately she has expressed some desire to be closer to her family. Like many native New Yorkers she moved to Florida a number of years ago. She lives on the west coast of Florida and my sister lives on the east coast. A three and one half hour drive separates them. It is a common dilemma. She ,of course, doesn't want to sell her home and move. None of us children have homes big enough for her and her husband to come live. And none of us are going there either. The whole deal makes you think about the old days when families all lived together in one house. Like the Waltons. Well, at least they did on the Hallmark channel. I gave that some thought. I have heard it said, " the kids don't want to take in the parents anymore." I think the reality was, the kids never moved out ! Big difference.
Once we started leaving the farms for the cities, the need for separate housing increased. We moved out to pursue our own interests. It became a mantra, grow up and move out of Mom and Dads house. Be independent. Stand on your own two feet. Now its a joke if you still live home with your parents. And if you do, your worth is questioned. Must be something wrong with you.
It is the American dream. To own your own home. To be your own person. Unfortunately, Mom and Dad are getting lost in the shuffle. A by product of our desire to achieve that American dream. Really, it is all about economics. The size of the home required, the availability of suitable employment in the immediate area, someone to stay at home and care for them if necessary. All those things are factors in the equation. All that and then the interpersonal relationship. That can be a big issue all by itself ! It may be true that birds of a feather flock together, but opposites attract. And for most of us, whether you want to admit it or not, you become a great deal like your parents. Like poles repel one other !
I have determined to not wind up in that situation. The kids have moved out and have homes of their own. One has escaped me to upstate New York, but another is still here in Greensboro. I'm not leaving here. I'll stick to them like a shadow. I'll always be just around the corner.
It has been said as we age we become children again. There is truth in that statement. As for me, I'll start sticking closer to home, the way I did as a child. Gives you that secure feeling. We have many roles to play during our lifetime. I can see the beginning of another. The wise old Grandfather dispensing advice and encouragement. Beloved by family and friends. Sounds like a wonderful role. I had best start rehearsing, it takes a long time to develop character. A lifetime, in fact. I've got a pretty good start on it. The character just needs a little tweeking.

Whats' that mean ?

Why didn't e-mail get called ec ? Electronic correspondence, ec, for short. Would have been shorter and it is all about being brief these days. Watch someone send a text message, that's like e-mail, except sent from a phone. The amount of abbreviations make it indecipherable to the uninformed. I expect you can purchase texting for dummies and get an explanation. Curious though, they call that a text. A text used to be a book. Now it is a message and it is not even written on paper,let alone in a book. If I ask a younger person today if they bought a text, they will give you a curious look. I know, I've tried it. The usual response is, I have a plan. Plan used to mean to plan on doing something, but now plan means prepaid. You could plan on getting a new plan. Then there is WiFi. Do you know what it stands for ? I didn't and had to look it up. It stands for Wireless Fidelity. Fidelity means being faithful, usually to your wife or significant other. Wireless ? I guess that means no strings attached. LOL  An interesting choice of words for a new technology though. Very clever. WiFi is a dedicated service faithful to one unit. The way people are attached to their cell phones and mobile devices it is an apt description. You can cheat though by hijacking another's WiFi if they don't have it properly secured. I'm still happy with High Fidelity. My old stereo sounds great.
There so many new terms we banter about that, that not long ago would have meant little to the common man. A router, for instance. A carpenter or cabinet maker would have been familiar with that. I can see why that was chosen because it does route the signal.( a little play on words from the techies). A homonym.  In the old days we would have used a bus. A bus runs a route. In electronics multiple devices can be connected to a bus. I do wonder why bus was not used. Too slow I guess.
Another term thrown around these days is digital. How many of us know what that is ? Again, I had to do some reading to understand that. Digital, based upon using our fingers (digits) to count uses a discrete signal compared to analog which does not. Mostly used in electronics and photography these days. It's digital. You can count on your fingers mostly in the binary system. Remember that from high school ? I didn't understand why I would need to know that back then, but now it is perfectly clear. Digital.
The American Indians used digital signals to communicate. We call it smoke signals. By modulating the analog signal (smoke) using a blanket a digital signal was produced. One of two states existed. Smoke, no smoke. Like turning a lamp on and off, another digital signal. They probably learned that from the aliens. That is pure speculation however.
And so, what is old is new again. A continuous cycle of life and rebirth, discovery and realizing the potential of that discovery. A redefining of values. It is only in the definition of those values that real knowledge exists. It has been there all the time. 

Far Out Man

I didn't hear this on the local television news and it has not been widely reported. On Thursday last, a delegate to the Maryland house of delegates, Mr. Curt Anderson introduced a bill to legalize the sale of marijuana in the state of Maryland. This in and of itself does not surprise me. I can see the growing trend to allow this throughout the country. Irregardless of how you stand on this issue I'm quite sure it will become  legal at some point and time. At first the trend was to use it only for medicinal purposes. Much like the snake oil salesmen, it promises great things. Much of it's magic powers come from masking the symptoms rather than curing the cause. Now it is being proposed for recreational use. What is fascinating is the reasoning behind this legalization of a known mood altering drug.
Delegate Anderson has proposed what I would consider the most ridiculous, inane, and just plain stupid reasoning yet heard. This duly elected official, a delegate to the house and leader of men proposes this; regulate the sale of marijuana much like we do alcohol and tobacco. Put a fifty dollar per ounce tax on its' sale. And now here is the kicker, the revenue generated by the sale of marijuana would fund Voluntary Programs preventing substance abuse as well as clinical research into the efficacy of Marijuana.
Yes, you read that correctly. Tax pot to fund drug use prevention programs. And yes, we will study the efficacy of this substance. I looked that last one up. Efficacy is a measure of the drugs ability to reproduce a desired effect in clinical trials under ideal conditions. Effectiveness is determined in field trials.
How many years have we been told that using marijuana leads to drug abuse ? So now we want to sell that to fund substance abuse programs ? Let me correct that, Voluntary substance abuse programs. Are we going to teach people how to just smoke pot ? Can we teach people how to use marijuana responsibly ? We haven't done well in that regard with Alcohol, if that is any indicator. And if we fail there will we not have more substance abuse requiring more funding for centers ? More funding means either an increase in tax or an increase in use. All the while we will be studying the efficacy of the drug. The field trials do not require funding, they are generating a portion of the funds for the efficacy.
Let me see if I understand that correctly. Efficacy measures the ability of a drug to consistently produce a desired effect (in a medical setting) but its' effectiveness is studied in field trials. In other words, will everyone smoking pot get the same result ?  I'm not sure. I know, lets sell pot and find out. If we tax and control it, it won't cost us a thing. We will fund voluntary substance abuse centers just in case it does cause a problem though.
I think Delegate Anderson has already started field trials of his own. What he wants is the efficacy of the product. Maybe he does not get the desired effect every time he uses it.  Just Sayin'
  

To view or not to view

I live across the street from the funeral home. From my window I often see the mourners coming and going. Weather permitting many will gather outside to have a cigarette. I have commented in the past about the dress of some of these mourners. I do not doubt the sincerity or grief at their loss but there choice of attire is questionable in my opinion. Hard to tell if they are going to a viewing, or a nightclub sometimes. The outfits certainly run the gamut. To each their own I suppose and whatever brings them comfort. But enough about that.
While at work yesterday a co-worker told me she had been to a viewing the previous evening. She related how a four year child had come up to her and asked, when will pop-pop be better ? She didn't share her response with me. I did state I felt like you should not take a small child like that to a viewing. She explained the woman had no babysitter. I can understand that, but it is my feeling the adults present should have kept that child entertained in another room at the parlor. They do have a separate area where you can go for quiet reflection or prayer.
My response stems from a personal experience. I was not four years old but had just turned thirteen. At that point in my life I had not lost anyone. Then my Great Grandfather passed away. I was taken to the funeral, not the viewing. We arrived at the funeral home and entered. I walked to the front of the room and saw that gray steel box with my Great Grandfather lying inside. It was a traumatic experience for me. Shock. I knew he was gone on a mental level, but emotionally I did not. I left the service and went outside. My sister in law took me home. I didn't attended another funeral for at least twenty years, and then it was someone I didn't know personally.
At what age should you take a child ? I think four is way too young. I don't think they can comprehend all the emotion at that time. Should they ever be taken ? The next funeral I attended, I attended as an adult. I was given the choice and declined attending my Grandmothers. Her, I still visualize in her kitchen at home, whereas my Great Grandfather, the first vision I get is one of him in the casket. As an adult I don't have that problem, I still see the person as they were in life.
There are those that say you should expose your child to these things. They are the realities in this world. I understand that sentiment, but feel a child deserves some sheltering as well. The finality of death will be revealed to them when they no longer see the person in everyday life. I carry an emotional scar from that. It is not debilitating and I don't need counseling. It is just an awareness I have. I believe each of us will reconcile our feelings about loss in our own time and fashion.
Taking a small child to the graveside service may be appropriate. I wouldn't take issue with that. Teaching them to show proper respect is always a good thing. It is just the exposing of them to viewing the deceased I take issue with. Especially so in a crowded room with strangers about. Many will be strangers to that little one.
What are your feelings ? What do you think ? Your comments and thoughts are always welcomed.

Candy,Clothes and Christ.

My sister and I

This picture is from 1961. My sister and I are getting ready to go to church for Easter Sunday services. Easter was on April 2 of that year. ( thanks Google ) The picture is dated May, but that is when it was developed. Remember in the old days when you sent it out to get developed ? Mom wasn't very prompt in doing that so as a result the dates on the pictures can be misleading. I was eight at the time but still remember the tie. It was a clip on. My sister had a new dress. She always got a new dress for Easter.

New clothes for Easter was a tradition. I don't think that tradition is followed as much these days. A few years back we bought the grand kids new outfits for Easter. We enjoyed doing that more than they enjoyed receiving them. I suppose you could say I tried to relive a piece of my past. I have pictures of them and I hope they at least keep that memory. 

I do remember going to church and everyone in their Easter finery. The ladies with their hats and gloves. The gentlemen with a new suit or perhaps just a new shirt and tie: suits are expensive. The colors were always so bright,a homage to spring. The sermon about the resurrection is embedded in my mind. After services we stopped to visit the aunts. The Easter bunny had left stuff for us there as well. Being a smart rabbit, he left those things along the way to lighten his load, knowing we would get them. Mom usually cooked a ham for dinner.

Easter was a holiday of clothes and candy. We dyed eggs of course, but those Easter baskets didn't appear until Easter morning.We got up early and were allowed to eat some of the candy and eggs. We didn't receive toys for Easter, just candy. Then it was time to get dressed for church. Mom would be fussing over our appearance. You had to look just right for this occasion. Pictures would be taken ! It was an event. I always enjoyed Easter and have many fond memories of celebrating it. He is risen ! As a child I never questioned why a bunny brought candy, was just happy that he did. Maybe the lesson here is, don't question everything, just believe. 

What is fair ?

Writing these blogs has become a journey not only of self expression, but of self learning. I was reminded of that just yesterday. I read a posting about a group of Wicca that felt they had been insulted by Fox news. Seems as though a college in Missouri agreed to not schedule exams on what they considered a holiday. The Wiccans that is. Fox news did a piece on it and made an unfavorable commentary. My initial reaction was, " Whatever. " Shortly there after I did realize that, that attitude was wrong of me. I had dismissed their beliefs out of hand. Wicca, (witches and warlocks) deserve the same respect as any other group in their religious practices. Just because I do not subscribe to their practice doesn't make it irrelevant.
I will say I defend their right to be whatever they want to be, and practice their faith accordingly.  Being a Christian, I am firm in that faith system. I can understand their anger, I would be as well. I can also see this becoming somewhat of a problem. If we start recognizing, by giving time off or special consideration to every fringe religious group there is, the scheduling of life may become very complicated indeed. I would then have to say, it is going to be all or nothing. That is the only fair and equitable response.
It is my contention, and always will be, that we are a Christian nation. I have participated in many heated debates on this topic. The primary argument against this is the separation of Church and State. In my estimation that just means the State ( Government) can not force me to practice any one religion or persecute me for my religious beliefs in any way. We can only observe ( officially that is ) a certain number of holidays. The choice of those holidays should be the choice of the majority. To adhere to that policy is not to disparage any other group. To put it simply, you cannot please all the people all the time. But to say we will only officially observe Christian holidays is somewhat bigoted. A quandary. I can only say a government without any moral or ethical guidelines IE: a faith based system is doomed to failure. We all require structure and guidance in our lives.
This incident is just a speck in the news. An opportunity for a group to bring their ideas to the forefront. Possible litigation may follow. A lawyer has been contacted to take the case. But can you sue for recognition and/or validity ? Apparently so. So sue me, I don't think stating my opinion is a basis for a lawsuit. Was it politically incorrect ? Probably. Criminal ? No. Get over it, you got your holiday didn't you ? That doesn't mean I have to observe it or your religion any more than you have to observe mine.

Fate or Chance

I have written about this subject on several occasions but wished to revisit it one more time. The subject is your roots and the establishing of those roots. I have talked about the loss of my own home town to time and economics. It was my choice to leave that place and also my choice to not return. The reasons are not that important. I have now lived in Greensboro for a number of years. I'm not certain just how many, but somewhere close to twenty five would be my guess. I wonder if that would qualify me as having established roots here ? My boys graduated from high school here. Two of my grandchildren were born in the local hospital. One son is a town commissioner.
In one sense I would have to say yes. I am established here. In another, no roots here. In order to have roots you must first be planted. It is a rather crude analogy, but I do not have any blood relatives buried here. No ancestral ties or roots if you will. Is that the defining factor ? Can one be called a native of the area or as having roots here without having that stipulation met ? It could be said, I have surface roots here, that would be a fair assessment.
With my interest in genealogy, and the tracing of my own family tree, I have discovered roots everywhere. I have relatives buried in several states that I am aware of. None in Maryland so far. I know I have roots in Sweden and Germany as well. Unless you are a pure Native American that would be true of us all. And I'm quite sure their ancestry would include some foreign blood as well. And so it follows that I am doing nothing more than spreading the root system out. Has not man sought to do that since the beginning ? Maybe not on a conscious level but the minute he began to roam that became the case. A well established root system is the basis of a healthy plant, is it not ? Each of us must do our part. The choice as to where we sink the roots  are not always within our control. Driven by fate or chance ?

Treasures

You hear people complaining about products all the time. How nothing seems to last anymore. Poor quality construction and materials. Back in the old days things lasted. I'm guilty of that as much as anyone. Things today do seem to be more fragile. Or maybe delicate is a better description. There are also far more complicated. That adds to the problem. I do think the vast majority of these failures are caused more by mishandling and lack of maintenance, than poor design or materials. Even us baby boomers grew up in a throw it away society. That attitude has only increased over the years. As a whole we have become "too busy " to take care of our things. Also, I think we tend not to form an emotional attachment to our possessions as much as our ancestors did. Is that because they had to work so much harder to gain those things ? I'm not convinced that is the case. I think it may have been more of an expectation. You were expected to take care of your things. Also the things you had were more basic necessities than luxury items.
I have bemoaned the fact many times that many things today cannot be repaired. At least not repaired economically. It is cheaper to just buy another. Gone are the days of the fix it shop. That's a shame too. Now we have restoration experts. Fix it men that charge huge sums to repair something. It is this cost of labor that was a driver in this throw away attitude. We needed a way to make things faster and cheaper. Machines designed for specific functions replaced manual labor. Synthetic materials were devised to replaced natural materials. The number and variety of available products precludes having repair parts available. The complexity of the machines make it difficult for your average man to fix.
All the technology we have available to us today will be outdated in the near future. We all see that everyday. Cell phones are so blase today. Computer tech is way out there now. I see the ads for " touch " screens and all sorts of innovation. The games we play are on the computer or gaming systems. Will any of these devices be available to us twenty years from now ? Would they even work ? I'm thinking they will not. The technology required to utilize them will no longer be in use. Like an analog television set, a thing of the past. Telephones with a cord on them ? Repairmen will be a thing of the past as well. Technicians have replaced them all. The only ones " fixing " anything are crafters or restorers. Knowledge of the old ways will become subject of lore. Mans inventiveness will continue however. I do think the old things will be a bit boring to look at though. If the item no longer works or performs its original function it is boring ! A black and white television, analog, isn't much to see today. Just a box with a funny looking screen. A look at the internals would be fascinating to an electronics tech I suppose.
How many of today's things will survive into tomorrow is anyone's guess. I'm convinced not many will. The toys,tools and artifacts of our forefathers were treasured in their time and treasured in ours. Can we say the same for todays' products ? 

It would be fine

Every now and again I like to just sit and listen to some music. You tube has become a favorite. I can listen to all my old standards and favorites, as well as doing some exploring. I think it is great that I can sample all these artists past and present. Music is a wonderful highway taking you wherever you want to go, and sometimes where you don't.
I spent a little time last evening visiting with Carole King. I was listening to her Tapestry album. Funny how, even after all these years, I remember the words to the songs. That album was released in 1971. It is the only album of hers that I am familiar with. My infatuation with her was short lived. A piano playing hippie chick was just the ticket back then.
When it comes to celebrities I have never been one to be star struck. At least not the fervent  fan that some become. I admire their talents but just don't elevate them to hero status. That being said there are some I would like to spend some time with. Carole King is one of those people. I think she would be a fascinating person to talk with. She has written so many songs that others have recorded and taken to the top of the charts. I would like to know how she feels about that. Which is the more satisfying ? Doing it yourself, or just writing the song ? A couple that she wrote I can relate too intimately. Isn't that the goal of the songwriter ? Well for me she certainly succeeded. I am aware that she still writes and performs. I don't listen to her " new " material. I have browsed it and it did not catch my interest. I think I just want Carole King to stay Carole King. The one in 1971. I wish Bob Dylan had stayed unplugged but that is another story.
Music truly does capture moments in time. It has the ability to transport you instantly, like magic. For a short time last evening I was back in my bedroom, a senior in high school and dreaming big dreams. Carole was singing her songs and I was looking for love. I hadn't gone anywhere and no one I knew had left me, yet one song was stuck in my mind, So far away. Carole was singing " so far away,doesn't anybody stay in one place anymore,it would be so fine to see your face at my door " a harbinger of things to come ? On some level it was and has been. Music as a time machine.

Handle It

I'm no different than anyone else. I have been known to spend some time dreaming about winning the lottery. Thinking about what life would be like with all that money. It would certainly simplify things in some regards. The beginning of the month bill writing ritual for instance, done. No problem, no creative accounting tricks necessary. Just a simple straightforward deal. Wouldn't that be something ? And of course your material needs fulfilled instantly. New car,house,boat or whatever. The hardest decision being, which one. Or maybe just buying two. Beyond all of that though, life would get interesting. First off you are going to have a lot more friends. Then everyone else. Oh, the stress of it all. I'd risk it.
I do wonder if having a lot of money would really make a difference though. A difference in material things for sure, but what about a difference in you. Would you change ? I'm sure it has to change you in some ways. The thing would be to remain true to yourself. What would you do with that new found wealth ? Attempt to secure your legacy ? Or would you use it to secure the financial future of your children or grandchildren ? Give generously to those causes dear to your heart ? Would you flaunt that wealth or stay low key ? These are the questions I ponder.
As for me I'm not much on political correctness and/or following the current trends. I know that much about me would not change. The reality is I would use my wealth to get my way. That is truth, plain and simple. If a person is confident in their views and opinions that is what they do. Having funds to forward your causes is a definite plus. It is also true that wealthy people get listened too more than the poor. Not that wealth increases intelligence, sometimes quite the opposite, but they do get the ear. Given enough cash there are certain people that would get an earful from me. You can believe that.
I do believe in the end money makes little difference in the big scheme of things. Take a walk through the cemetery. Go to the largest stone or mausoleum. Do you recognize the name ? Are they relevant today ? They were obviously someone of wealth. Did their wealth make a difference ? Perhaps, perhaps not. There may be a town or street named after them. Maybe a park in their honor. In my estimation wealth follows accomplishment. It is a by product. Now, winning  the lottery would upset that natural balance. Maybe that is why so many that win these prizes wind up broke and forgotten. Still I think I could handle it.  

Economics 101

I never took a formal class in economics. The closest I came was business math in the ninth grade. I do understand the concept of money and making a profit. I'll admit to being woefully uninformed in the world of high finance. With all this talk of the national debt, the United States possibly defaulting on its' loans and raising the debt ceiling I have been giving this stuff some thought. I would like the Secretary of the Treasury to explain a few things to me. Really just one major point would do. If we, ( The United States of  America ) , need to borrow money, why are giving it away ? Call me simple minded if you will but I just feel like it is a foolish thing for me to borrow ten dollars so I can give away five of it. Now I'm all for charity and helping out my fellow man but this is just plain bad economics.
I didn't listen to the State of the Union address. I'm sorry, just couldn't bring myself to endure that. I did hear the next day the President is talking about raising the minimum wage to 9.25. I fail to see how that will improve anything. All the other costs are not going to remain the same as they are today. If Obamacare stays in place as the law of the land an increase in the minimum wage will just force more employers to either not hire or go to more part time help. Not being an economist I can still understand that much. We would be better served to lower the cost of services and products. Increasing the cost of doing business helps no one. Well except for the government would see an increase in tax revenues. Another of those mysteries in high finance. The government providing the cash, taxing the same cash, and then telling me how much better off I am.
The increase in the minimum wage is just a bunch of smoke and mirrors. Providing the lower class with the false image of more buying power. It is an illusion. The disparity in wage between the skilled and unskilled laborers will still exist. The government can mandate a minimum wage standard but those with skills can demand more. An increase in the minimum will ultimately result in a rise for the skilled as well. The only way this raising of wages will work is if we went to a Communist plan. Everyone gets the same.
Just my view of the situation but I don't posses a degree in economics. Maybe I'll figure it out one day. If I borrow enough money I can be rich ! Sounds like a plan.  

Valentine

Happy Valentines Day.
How big a deal is St. Valentines day to you and/or your significant other ? There could be a big difference. The wife and I are on the same page with that. We acknowledge the fact that we love one another and that cards and gifts are not that important. They are nice to receive, but not necessary to maintain the relationship.
You could say,we are secure in our affection for one another.
I was talking with my Grandson Mark. He is twelve. I asked him about Valentines. He then explained to me that Valentines were fun for kids to about age ten, but not after that. He then told me Valentines were very important after you got married. After you get married you have to buy Valentines or you will be in trouble. Sounded like a good assessment to me. The boy is learning fast.
Traditions change over the years and St. Valentines day is no exception. In school for example, some classes outright ban the giving of Valentines,while others stipulate you must give to all. When I was in school you just gave to whomever you wanted to. Today I see more advertising for Victoria's Secret than giving a more romantic type gift. 1-800 flowers is popular too. My Mom wanted the Whitman's sampler, the big box. That was Valentines to her. And of course, the cards from us kids.
It is interesting to note that St. Valentine is a Catholic saint. Well I guess all saints are, aren't they ? The interesting part being everyone celebrates St Valentine in the United States,yet we are not all Catholic. By one account this is the day St. Valentine died, on a road headed to Rome. Other accounts have him being killed. Some tie him to a pagan festival. Whatever the truth, today is a day to celebrate love. Romantic love.
Might start a few fights in some households but not in mine. We are beyond that.
Have to run now, need a card,flowers,candy and a romantic song or two. Not that I need any of those things you understand.

Controlling healthcare

Here is a random thought I had yesterday while at work. I think what we really need are five hour energy donuts. I haven't tried any of the energy drinks myself, but from all accounts they taste terrible. So a chocolate frosted energy donut sounds about right. Wouldn't have to worry about gaining weight either because with all that energy you could just work it off. The perfect combination. If we can put a man on the moon surely we could make those.
That thought came to me as I watched some of our customers at the grocery store. Bent over almost double,sprawled across the handle of the shopping cart, feet shuffling along barely making forward progress. They are either very tired, or future zombies. Now I don't want to sound critical or condescending but a good portion of them looked like they really enjoyed their donuts. If you know what I mean. At least it appears that way judging by the contents of those carts. And so, an idea is born. I'll have to submit that idea to Hostess. Oh wait, they went out of business. I'm too late to save them but Little Debbie is still going strong.
With the growing crisis in the cost of health care we all need to do our part. Trying to stay healthy is a patriotic duty. In a lot of schools they can't pray or say the pledge of allegiance every morning, so how about doing jumping jacks instead ! How about making parking lots that are at least 1000 feet away from the stores. You have to walk to get there. No more drive up windows at fast food places. Drive up service is only allowed at health food stores ! Soda and other sugary drinks are only sold in eight ounce servings, individually. These are just a few ideas. I'm sure we could all think up some more and get this health care stuff under control. 

A Historic Event

I turned on the news yesterday morning and heard the most extraordinary thing. The Pope is resigning ! Not a practitioner of the Catholic faith my first question was, can he do that ? Must be, but I've never heard of that before. A quick trip to Google for a little reading. Seems as though the last Pope to resign did so nearly six hundred years ago. No wonder I hadn't heard of that. I read about a few others before that one and it was interesting. One was Pope on three different occasions ! One even sold the position for money and a wife ! But that was all so long ago. A Pope resigning, now that is something to think about.
The Pope is the leader of the Catholic Church we all know that. His influence and power is tremendous. Even those that do not " believe " have to acknowledge that. In the end, he is just a mortal man like all of us. He ages and grows feeble. The burden of office surely weighs heavy upon him. Especially so in these modern times. What with the scandals and declining membership in the church. Changes never come easy. That is doubly so in an organization like the Church. Steeped in tradition and a model to the whole world. The Pope,by his own admission, no longer feels up to the task. I have to admire him for that admission. It cannot be easy for so powerful a man to also be so humble. Truly this act is a sign of humility unmatched in six hundred years. Of course, the job does require working on Sundays and holidays !
Already I have heard some conspiratorial banter on this event. Power plays from inside Vatican city. Big changes in doctrine coming to the church. The effort to install a more liberal Pope. An effort to draw the young people of wealth and power into the fold. I'm sure I will be hearing much more of these theories as time goes on. When the conclave meets to elect a new Pope it will be a nervous time for those of the faith. An awful lot depends upon that outcome. It does have the potential to change the world stage. Whether directly or indirectly it may affect us all.
I hear the ex-Pope, if that is the proper term, will be living in a convent for cloistered Nuns at Vatican City. He will be free to come and go as he pleases. He plans to spend his time praying. What an unusual situation this is. If you accept the figure of twenty years as a generation, this is the first time in thirty generations ! A historic time to be sure. I'll pray for his well being and may he find contentment in his retirement. 

Dressing Up

I am not much on award shows or the Hollywood scene in general. Whereas I admire the talents it seems they often lack social skills. Often times their behavior is closer to a spoiled little child than anything else. And so it was with amusement that I heard the people running the Grammys sent out a memo regarding dress. I didn't stay up to watch the show. I did watch the opening act, Taylor Swift, and her outfit seemed to be in keeping with the request. I think she is rather conservative in dress anyway, but I'm no expert in that field.
One presenter following her made a remark about receiving the memo, as she showed one of her legs through the slit in her gown. Very elegant.
I have heard of wardrobe malfunctions in the past. Malfunction or a childish prank it did garner attention. I have noticed this trend to pay more for their outfits while getting less material. In some cases I would assume if you spend that much money getting "work" done you want to show everyone. I have an old fashioned view of things, the promise is often better than the actual gift. Why these starlets/entertainers insist on looking like they are going to a strip club instead of an awards ceremony I don't understand. I know, sex sells, but in order to get where they are, they had to have already sold. Why not show some class.
These entertainers are role models. Whether they want to be or not is not the point. They are. If they are modeling a reflection of society I must say I'm not happy with it. At the very least show some common sense in your choice of wardrobe. Says a lot when you have to get a memo about that. I didn't get a memo. I was sent back upstairs to put on the proper dress for the occasion. Get those Sunday go to Meeting clothes on boy ! You're not going out of this house looking like that !

Eye on the prize

I spend a good bit of time thinking about the past. Reminiscing as it where. A mixture of emotions accompany these flights into the ," what was. " Happiness,regret,amusement and wonder. The choices made in review. I believe we all do this. At what point in my life I went from looking ahead, to looking back, is not clear. It happens to us all though. At least I think it does. There are notable exceptions, that is always true. To be old and have these dreams or aspirations, if you prefer, may get you a label. Eccentric. And a good synonym for Eccentric is : Kookiness ! I know because I looked it up and that is what the online dictionary says. And so, in accordance with standard convention, I had just better stay focused on the past.
I do wonder why this should be so. Why shouldn't I look to the future ? I have amassed a number of years of experience. I have never been better prepared to embark upon new adventures, unless we are talking about the physical. You do have to be aware of certain limitations, but that is always true no matter your age.I'm thinking I am being influenced by my own expectations. What is the motivation ? Recognition, wealth ?
These are usually the prime motivators in anyone's life. Wealth has never been a prime consideration in my decisions. Recognition ? I enjoy that as much as the next person, but am not driven by it. And therein lies my dilemma. I can't seem to find that motivator. Either that, or I just refuse to acknowledge it.  There are times when we just won't admit to the truths we already know. A failing of the human mind. Honesty can be painful, even with yourself. Are their truly pure motivations ? The desire to do whatever for the benefit of others, without personal consideration ? Mother Teresa seemed to posses that quality. After all, she is a saint. I certainly don't fit that category.
Whatever the reason I think I will make an effort to spend less time remembering and more time doing. I do have a habit of over thinking things. Discretion is the better part of valor, but you do have to enter the fight. I do know I don't want to go quietly. I really don't want to be labeled as the " crazy old man " that lives down the street either. I'll have to risk it though, with risk comes reward. I'm just not sure what prize I'm looking for.   

Stay the course

Growing up on an Island I heard many nautical terms used in everyday life. One I heard a lot was " stay the course. " When I was in trouble or in doubt I would be told, you must stay the course. It was explained that if you had chosen the correct course you may meet with some misfortunes along the way, but in the end you would reach your destination. I expect this came from the old days when vast areas of the world were unknown, especially the sea. To venture off the course was to invite disaster. You may become lost and wander aimlessly about. You may run aground. You may even sail off the edge ! Staying the course was a wise move.
Of course we had the adventurers. Those that just couldn't stay on course. Those that returned told exciting tales. And there were those that never returned, but we didn't talk about them. We have a habit of talking about successes and forgetting about failure. The most difficult decision of all is, what course to take ? Growing up we are told what course would be best for us. Parents,siblings,friends and counselors all trying to influence the course we take in life. Most are well meaning and a few may be self serving. Ultimately the choice is ours. Or is it ? If you are a believer in fate or destiny was not your course set at birth ? In that scenario we are merely the vessel, destined to stay the course. The destination would be unknown and only the journey counts. But by what power was this course set ? God ? Doesn't seem likely as I believe he has given man free will. Included in this gift would be the ability to change the course. To adventure out on your own. But to do so, is to invite disaster. That presents a bit of an enigma. One of the apparent contradictions in Christian theology. But it is not so, for we have been given the choice to invite that disaster. To leave the course. We have been provided the chart necessary to complete the journey. It has been written down for hundreds of years. One need only study it. Frequent reference to the chart will guide us through the journey. Our destination is eternal life. That is the promise. It is up to us to journey well and "stay the course. "

Ads

Every so often I see an advertisement on the television that gives me pause to think. The latest one I've noticed is for a new mattress. This mattress promises the most comfortable nights sleep ever. Ok, heard that before. This mattress incorporates three separate technologies. Memory foam, a gel of some type and the third escapes me at the moment. Perhaps air adjustment technology but I won't swear to that. Whatever the case, the part of the ad that caught my attention is the fact they don't give you the price. They do say you can get financing for this product. They offer a four year plan. What ? I remember when you financed a car for four years ! Now I should finance my mattress. Must be some mattress. I shudder to think if I also need the box spring and frame.
Another that I'm seeing again, was on last year, is Joe Kennedy talking about oil heat. This year he is visiting a family with a five year old child that has tumors and has undergone five surgeries. The child now needs chemotherapy. The mother is in a wheel chair and the father works two jobs. They need help paying their oil bill for heat. It is all a very sad case. According to Joe,as he refers to himself, only President Chavez of Venezuela answered  his pleas for help. President Chavez and the good people of  Venezuela showed compassion and understanding, along with Citgo. Oil for Joe. The problem I have with that bit of advertising is that it is misleading in so many ways. There are many avenues for obtaining assistance with oil for heating other than this. Attempting to exploit the misfortunes of others to arouse my anger and hopefully make me buy Citgo oil,( really it is the gasoline they are selling) just doesn't sit well with me.
The funniest thing to me is, the ads I enjoy watching the most, I don't remember what they are advertising. I get amused by the ad itself and the product gets lost in the shuffle. The ad people wouldn't be very happy about that. Those and the ones that say, but wait, if you call within the next thirty seconds, and you see the ad every day for a month. Crack me up. That's not all you get ! Just pay separate handling and processing fee. At least those ads don't try to hide the fact that you are getting ripped off. They tell you if you listen. 

Eye Opener

Turning on the evening news I hear the White House spokesman, Jay Carney saying the killing of Americans is both legal and ethical. Excuse me Sir ? Listening a little closer now I hear he is defending the white house position that the President has the authority to launch a drone aircraft attack against American citizens. No evidence or imminent threat to security or national safety necessary. No hearing,trial or testimony from the suspect. Just kill them. Legal ? It what country are you living ? I'm certainly no lawyer but I do know about due process. Amendment 14 of the constitution specifically states, " no state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States ; nor shall any state deprive any person of life,liberty,or property,without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. ' Seems clear to me. The intent is obvious. To prevent just such a thing as this from happening. Of course the lawyers and spin doctors are trying to use a series of semantics to justify their position. The amendment speaks of " states " all the states. Do not collectively all the states comprise the United States ? The federal government derives its power from the States.
Legalities aside let us consider the ethical issues. Our President apparently has no qualms about killing Americans. Given his stand on birth control, I believe that to be a logical conclusion. Aborting a life, even a potential life, is akin to killing that life. One can list possible scenarios to attempt to justify their use ( the morning after pill) but their purpose is clear. To end a life. My ethics do not allow for such actions. Our President  also flip flops on the death penalty for criminals. For the most part he opposes that. So what are you saying Mr. President ? We shouldn't kill convicted criminals, those that have been afforded due process and all the legal considerations guaranteed in the Constitution, but we should should kill those that may have,might have,could be,might be, opposed to your views ? Those that you consider, without judicial review, warrant death !
These are dangerous times. Our freedoms are being attacked from all angles. Slowly and surely they are being chipped away. This memo about the drone attacks and its legality was leaked out. I for one am glad of that. Hopefully this wakes some people up. I'm not much of a conspiracy theorist but things are not looking good for the average citizen. The rich and powerful are circumventing our Constitution and protections to fit their own agendas. Making the population dependent upon the government, attempting to abridge our right to bear arms, and now stating they ( the government ) have the right to take our lives ? Dangerous times my friends. 

Staying young

I was asked what is the secret to staying young ? My response was," remembering the past while looking forward. You become old when you no longer look to the future." If you have no plans,desires or ambitions left, those are the things that age you,not the passing of time. Remember the lessons of the past be they good or bad, for they are the road map to the future. Young is a state of mind, a freshness. A freshness in thought and in spirit. It isn't looking young or acting young, it is thinking young.
Young people are certain of tomorrow. Tomorrow always holds promise. Something new and exciting. And so it does.That never ends throughout your life, unless you allow it to do so. When young we think of getting " older " and that is good. With age, opportunity exists and doors are opened. We all continue to age but some refuse to acknowledge that. That is a mistake. One should be aware. Adapt and change to your life. Continue to pursue your dreams.
The best part about aging is you can once again do the things you did as a child. I'm not talking about the games you played and that type of thing, I'm talking about being uninhibited. The older you get, the more free you become. Once again being able to speak freely your truths and your mind. You can pursue a hobby and take pride in the accomplishment. To be young in spirit. Remember, just because you may be too old to do one thing, doesn't mean you can't do another. Find something else to amuse yourself with, or find another way of doing it. Those who can't play, coach. Be a life coach to someone. If you say or do anything that might be foolish, blame it on Alzheimer's or having a senior moment. The younger ones will only laugh and nod their heads. In the smugness of youth they will not understand, but they won't judge either.
It is true that as we age we tend to slow down. That is a natural thing and a designed thing as well. We should slow down. Slow down and take the time to enjoy our life,loves and accomplishments. Slowing down is not the same thing as stopping. We only do that once ! The hustle and bustle of youth can leave little time for reflection, but the advance of years can afford you that opportunity. Seize it, relish it and use it.
Remain aware of what is current. Do not close your mind to new possibilities. Try new things. And I have one more theory about aging. I'm thinking it might be better with a lot of money. I don't know about that but am buying a lottery ticket. I'll let you know if the situation changes.

World Champions

Having never been much of a football fan I haven't really supported any one team. In high school I liked the New York jets mostly because of Broadway Joe Namath. I thought the white shoes were pretty cool and I liked his attitude. Beyond that I just went with the home team. Now living in Maryland, and close to Baltimore, I support the Ravens. Funny little aside here. I got my grandson, Mark, to be a huge New York Yankees fan. My son asked me to support the Ravens because he was afraid I would get Mark to support another team. LOL And so, I'm a fan of the Ravens. And now the Ravens are the Super Bowl Champions.
Second time,too. I hear them called the World Champions as well.
Thinking about that I had to chuckle. World Champions ? What teams from other nations did we defeat to earn that title ? At least in Baseball we do have teams from Canada. The arrogance of us Americans. We invent a sport, play it, and then declare ourselves world champions. I don't think we do that in basketball though. Can't remember those teams being referred to as world champions.
To us, the United States is the world. I understand that. The world is getting smaller every day though and soon we will be forced to realize that,even in our sports. We are trying to make our presence known in World Cup soccer. We do loom large in the Olympic games. That is where world championships are won.
I guess world champions just sounds better than United States Champions. And so we call our teams World Champions.
Whatever the case, congratulations to the Ravens. To all the other teams,better luck next year. We are the World Champions ! If there any other countries in the world that wish to challenge for that title,bring it on !

Manly

So I'm watching the pregame hype, and the interviews with the players and coaches. The more I watched and listened the more I kept thinking. What happened to all the manly men ? If they weren't talking about how much they respect the other players, they were praying. Give me a break. And when the coaches start talking about how much they " love " their players, I can do nothing but shake my head. When they played the game for the " gipper " there was none of that nonsense going on. I can't help it, it is contrary to what I was taught as a young man. I was raised in the time of, men are men. We don't cry (in public anyway), you damn sure don't show affection toward another man beyond a firm handshake and don't go around complaining about everything. You didn't see John Wayne act that way !
I've written about this subject before. It is not just the football players. Look at the so called " cowboys " in country music. Wearing ear rings, their ball caps on backyards and the songs they sing. Not too many about Momma,trains and drinking anymore. More like my feelings, a four wheel drive truck and living a healthy lifestyle. Pooh. Just like the bear. Men, we are getting soft !
Now a man always had faith in God, he just didn't talk too much about that. Sure we loved our women and children, but we never felt the need to tell anyone other than them that. Why would I do that ? It is a given is it not ? Seems like the men of today are constantly seeking validation. Trying to get a gold star from the teacher or some other recognition. Was a day when doing the right thing was all that was necessary. You did what was right because, well, it was right.
Times and attitudes change. It is a brave new world. We are going to need some good men to lead. Where are they ? I'm not seeing much in that regard. Rhett Butler, John Wayne as, the quiet man, Jimmy Stuart, Roy Rogers and the Lone Ranger. All a man among men. And that is the way it should be. My opinion, enough said.

Stretching

I am way behind in today's blog. Here it is three in the afternoon and I'm just sitting down to write. The day has been rather hectic so far, but soon I'll settle down to watch the Super Bowl ! The kids spent the night and that disrupted my early morning writing. Got them off to church but by then I had started work on a project here in the house. No time for writing. Stop on that for a trip with the wife to the grocery store. Big sale starts today and don't want to miss out. Back from the store and time to finish up the project I started. Well, it is not complete but I cleaned up the mess I made anyway. Now time to write.
I seldom know what it is I'm going to write about until I sit down. Today is no exception. I have decided to write about being in a routine. As we age our lives do become routine. Some would say we are stuck in a rut. I don't think so. I'm just in a comfortable place on cruise control. I like knowing what's coming and being prepared for that. With age one does lose flexibility, in both ways, mentally and physically. That's not to say one shouldn't still stretch, I do that, but can't stretch as far as I could twenty years ago. That's just part of life.
I find changes cause stress. I can't explain why that should be so, only that it is so. I get stressed out easily nowadays. Was a time when I just took it all in stride, now not so much. Maybe that is because my stride isn't as long, part of the flexibility thing. The reaction is different now. In the past when I got stressed I got angry. I don't get angry now, just grumpy. Find myself muttering under my breath about things. After a bit I'll take a nap. A nap fixes everything. I guess life does go in cycles. Took naps years ago and that fixed things then too. Stick with what works, that's my motto.
That's all I have for today. Everything is discombobulated ! Never tried spelling that word before but spell checker didn't underline it so it must be right. Enough stretching for today. A quick nap and then some football. Life is good. 

Foreign Relations

Some of the things we were taught as children are really ingrained into us. " Don't talk to strangers " is one that comes to mind. I'm certainly no wall flower, but am hesitant to speak to those I'm unfamiliar with. A certain standoffish attitude that is sometimes misconstrued as being aloof. I'm not aloof, I'm leery. It is a product of my upbringing.
I find myself more willing to speak to others in my advancing years. I have less fear of the consequences, I suppose. I'm not sure what was supposed to happen to me if I did speak to strangers, but it wasn't good. That much I was taught. Now I find strangers often have the same feelings and opinions as I do. Some strangers are even reluctant to speak to me ! What a turn of events.
There are always the safe subjects to talk about. The weather being the primary ice breaker. Sometimes a recent news event as long as it doesn't involve any controversial material. I admit I am terrible when it comes to remembering names and faces. It takes several meetings before I begin to remember. That's probably because I was told, " It's not polite to stare. " So as a consequence I avoid eye contact. That bothers people. I know, I feel the same way. You may remain a stranger to me for a while after having spoken with me, it's nothing personal.
Each of us live in our own little world. Those that don't live in that world are foreigners ! You have to be suspicious of foreigners. First off, they talk funny. If they speak English at all it is with some sort of accent. Makes you wonder if they really understand what it is you're saying. And misunderstandings can cause a lot of grief. Somebody once said, Europe is a pretty place, but it is crowded with foreigners ! I know what they mean. I've been there and they are correct.
All of this must surely go back to cave men and the clan days. If you weren't in my clan, you were an enemy. It is the most practical view to take. As we learned to communicate with one another, we did become more social. Then we learned how to deceive. You just can't trust a foreigner. Best thing is, don't speak to them.
There is a lot to be learned from these foreigners though. New ideas and ways of thinking. All rewards come from taking some risk. I have become more willing to just, "put it out there " and take that risk. I may travel in your world for a short time, but I will always return to mine. As we age, we can allow our world to either shrink in size or grow. I'm thinking I'll do what I can to grow mine. To become old is unavoidable, to be alone is a choice. Even if I have to talk to strangers ! Besides, I married one of those foreigners and so far it is working out quite well. She talks a little funny, being from Maryland and all, but we understand one another fairly well. Yes, there have been misunderstandings but we got it worked out. Two worlds united !

Growing up with Indians !

Growing up one of my fathers friends was a man named Tez. At least that is what my father called him. He was an American Indian and a member of the Catawba tribe. This man made his living traveling the country  giving shows and demonstrations. He professed to speak this native tongue of the Catawba and was the last one to do so. A linguist in New York city recorded and attempted to write down this language as told to him by Tez. He would occasionally appear at our home to visit with Dad. As you can imagine as a child I thought this was so cool. Tez was always dressed the part. So, he would arrive in breechcloth and breeches and an ornate tunic. Seldom did he wear feathers, but he had them. On most occasions he was returning from a show. He gave myself and my siblings some trinkets that he sold. I remember a rubber tomahawk and bowie knife. He gave my sister an Indian princess doll. On another occasion he had several of his fellow performers with him. A carload of Indians ! They sat with my father and drank " firewater " and told many tales. Wasn't easy to hear, as children were to be seen but not heard. I hid around the corner.
Years later, he rented a home from my father just up the street from us. Chief Red Thundercloud, as I now knew him to be, wasn't traveling as much these days but working on one of several books he was writing. He lived there with his wife, Princess Pretty Pony. And he had a dog. Having lived in the town for so long he must have lost some of his native skills. I crept up on him in the woods behind the house. He didn't know I was there. He had a mirror fastened to a tree and was dying his hair black. I watched silently for a few minutes then managed to leave undetected. I felt like I must be akin to Daniel Boone or something to have pulled that off. I did spend some time with him just talking, well listening mostly. He was an interesting man and told me lots of things abut the Native tribes and their ways. I still remember him showing me a sassafras tree. He showed me how to dig up the roots and use them to make sassafras tea.
Now this was back in the sixties and rules were different then. He would dig up these roots, cut them in short pieces, wash them and put them in baggies. A small recipe for making tea was included. These he sold at his shows, among other things of that nature. No FDA approval or anything of that nature. As I said, it was different back then.
Then I joined the Navy, Tez moved and I never saw him again. I read some years back of his passing. A man of note in the Native American world. All my life I have told others of growing up around an Indian. It is mostly met with skepticism. Those I went to grade school with would know this man. He did perform at our school. I have one small snapshot of him standing in my front yard, in full regalia. Unfortunately, I am not in the picture. I know the truth though.

Chief Red Thundercloud
at my home on Hunting lane, East Hampton