Withdrawal

 It is the last day of the calendar year. Goodbye 2015. Another year in history. No one thing springs to the forefront in this past year. A lot of lesser things do however. It was the year everyone got offended, by everything ! I think maybe that is what I will remember the most. Flags being taken down and monuments removed. People refusing to bake cakes and take pictures ! A man wins " women " of the year. Yeah, it is has been quite the year to be offended or just left scratching your head. The government removing religious symbols from public lands because some are offended. The same government then insisting upon bringing in ten thousand refugees because, " it's the Christian thing to do. " Never mind their religion preaches to destroy us. Am I the only one that sees that contradiction ? And then there are those that are offended that the NSA and CIA are spying on people. What are the purpose of those agencies ? They're spies ! So we should be offended that they are doing their job. Yes, it is has been quite the year.
 2016 is a leap year so we get an extra day. It is also an election year and I can't wait to cast my ballot. I don't know who I'm voting for just yet, but I'll just be ecstatic to see him go ! More damage has been done to our country in the last eight years than is imaginable. It will take some serious work to straighten it out. Benefits and freebies once handed out will cause a great deal of unrest when withdrawn. And that is what is going to have to happen, withdrawal. America needs to wake up and smell the coffee. We need to focus more upon our own problems and quit giving everything away ! That includes supporting those in this country that are just too lazy to work ! It will be a stark wake up call for some. At least that is what I am hopeful of. The party has to end !
 I have no plans for this evening. Might have some cheese and crackers and an ice tea to celebrate. I doubt that I will see midnight (2016) arrive. I have to go to work in the morning. I can't stay up that late and function well the next day. That is a young mans' game. It just ain't worth the pain ! That's simply because there ain't no gain in it ! I have barely gotten used to writing twenty instead of nineteen and now I'll have to remember sixteen as well ! Nineteen something is starting to sound pretty old isn't it ? I saw a sign that said if you weren't born before this date in 1997 you can't buy cigarettes. I thought, 1997 and you can buy cigarettes ? Has it been that many years ? Yes, I guess it has. Are you old enough to buy cigarettes ? Yes I am I was born in 1996 ! I've got sweaters and a coat older than that ! I still think of them as " new. " Then I ran across another reminder. I saw a magnetic business card advertising " beepers. "  That's right, beepers, also known as a pager. They still make them, and some still use them, but their popularity really ended in the mid 1990's. I had all but forgotten about that bit of technology. Makes me wonder what tech will disappear from popular use over the next twenty years. Will we all be wearing " communicators ? " Some already do, I see them in the store. I can't see myself ever doing so. Will all our communications then be encrypted ? All this wireless tech is easily hacked by those in the know. Drones are making the headlines now and will only continue in the new year. What useful purpose will be found for them on a big scale ? UPS wants to deliver small packages with them. Will your pizza be delivered that way also ? It's a brave new world but you do have to be careful not to get offended. But judging by 2015, we have already been offended by everything so we should have that taken care of. Happy New Year

Under the weather

 Apparently the weather has caught up to me, and run me over. I'm a little under it. Being a man the sickness is pretty bad. That 's just the way of the world though and there isn't much to do done about it. Let nature run her course is my usual reaction. I have taken some Tylenol, taking any kind of medicine is something I rarely do. Well I'll survive this I'm quite certain. If I don't I'm not certain I'll know about it. I'm hoping to have it pass before the new year arrives. Don't want to start the year out sick.
 I'm thinking I may have a touch of influenza. On the news there were talking about that boy that suffered from " affluenza " I wonder if I could get a shot of that ? I don't get a flu shot because I do not want that germ injected into my body. This " affluenza " however I think I could deal with. Seriously though, ever hear of anything so silly ? A psychiatrist testified in court that this boy, because of his parents wealth, didn't have a sense of responsibility. He killed four people in a drunk driving accident and received no jail time whatsoever. That is " affluenza. " Now that I think about it I must have received a shot of the " affluenza antidote " because I have never caught " affluenza. " Affluence has avoided me, like the plague !
 Thinking about affluence tonight's Powerball jackpot is over 300 million dollars. I just may have to buy a ticket. Could use that to pay off Christmas bills and the phone bill. I think I would have enough, after taxes, to manage that. It is fun to dream about. I have no idea what I would do if I ever won that much money. I really do believe I would never be broke again. You hear about those that do, but I'm certain I wouldn't be one of them. I would never be convinced to invest it because that is enough so why risk it ? You should only invest to make more and that would certainly be enough. Yes, I believe it is possible to have enough money. I also believe that it doesn't mean I have to give any of it away either. It's mine to do with as I please. I favor the conservative approach.
 So it's off to work for me. I don't feel bad enough to justify staying home. I'll be a little lethargic but those I work with will be sympathetic. That's the good part of working with a great bunch of people. That's what happens when you live in a rural community. I don't think that exists as much in the urban environment. I can see a difference in people and their attitudes dependent upon their location. The larger the town or city the people tend to be ruder. It's a generalization I know, but does hold some validity. Consider a big city, neighborhoods are the close knit bunch. In the country, it is towns ! Man hasn't strayed all that much from the days of " clans. " And I'm not necessarily talking about the Scots. We have a good " clan " at the Save a Lot ! I have to get feeling better soon, got a truck coming next year ! Retail waits for no man.    

Watching the calendar

 New years eve will soon be here. I saw some advertisement for entertainment that night. Baltimore is hosting a huge fireworks display. I was wondering when that tradition began. I don't seem to recall any fireworks when I was growing up. When I first moved to Maryland I discovered a tradition of shooting all your guns off at midnight. Not sure if that is a regional thing or not but I haven't heard much of it in the last few years. I expect it is a sign of the times. When I was a child, still at home, Mom and Dad listened to Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians. It was a low key deal around our house. Watch that show and go to bed.
 I have never attended a real New Years eve party in my life. During my Navy days I certainly went out and enjoyed New Years eve a few times but no organized party. I may have come close to hosting a New Years party but don't remember doing so. Well events associated with excessive amounts of alcohol are often not remembered very well. That's a good thing ! I couldn't say with certainty the last year I watched the ball drop in New York. On television I mean, I have never been there in person and have no desire to do so. A crowd of that size would definitely irritate me. I really dislike crowds.
 I do have a tradition of eating sauerkraut on New Years Day. That tradition comes from my wife who insists it will give you health and wealth. We have both been blessed with reasonably good health, just waiting on the wealth. I try to, take down Christmas, on New Years day. That is something that I have only started doing the last few years. With age comes responsibility. I'm trying to be more responsible. Really I'm just trying to be more organized so I don't have to remember where everything is. That seems to get harder every year. I have no explanation for that. Maybe it's that " old timers " disease, LOL. Alzheimer's or " old timers " almost the same thing isn't it ?
 New Years eve I will watch some television and probably go to bed long before midnight. It never was and never will be a big deal to me. Just another day. Back in the day when I thought the consumption of alcohol was fun, I didn't need a holiday to imbibe. New Years eve appears to be centered around that activity. Hey, not judging here, enjoy yourselves if that is your thing. I'm just not, in that place , at this point in life. I won't rule out taking a turn in the road and finding myself back there. Had a lot of good times. The thing for me is this, I was born in July. The year begins and ends , for me, in July. I am 62.5 years old. I celebrate my years, call it a birthday. I celebrate the birth of Christ. I just can't see the big deal about a calendar. I did get a new calendar as a Christmas gift. It is one I will enjoy. Here's a picture of it !

I'll be happy happy when this calendar is expired !

Truth is not negotiable

 I have never been much for small talk. That isn't to say I don't like to talk, quite the opposite is true. My wife is always saying, you talk to everyone. Yes, I do. I will often engage anyone in conversation at any opportunity. I will begin with small talk but can't help but interject something of more substance. Some will respond with cautious reserve while others will immediately state their opinions. If their opinion is directly opposed to mine I will gently tell them mine, as " something to think about. " The trick is to do so in a non confrontational way. I do try hard to not cause a confrontation as little meaningful discussion can take place when people are angry. I can usually tell right away which way the person is going to go in the conversation.
 Many people shy away from speaking to others, I believe because of the perceived threat of controversy. If you say nothing people will leave you alone. I'm not sure why but I feel the need to speak. Oh there are plenty of adjectives that have been applied to me to explain that. Perhaps that is what others see and I wouldn't challenge their perception. Those that answer with expletives and anger I pay little attention too. A quietly spoken rebuttal will go a long way to gaining my interest. I admire a well reasoned response. In the political race currently being run this is in evidence. Consider Donald Trump vs Ben Carson. Opposite approaches there ! The Donald is the very definition of being loud and aggressive in his speech. Ben Carson is being criticized for being too soft spoken and quiet. With Donald Trump I do believe it is all a part of his strategy. I believe he is in it more for the fame and publicity than to actually win. There is no arguing with the fact that Donald has the attention focused upon him. Sadly I do think that a good portion of society admires his approach. I am hopeful that these same folks are the ones that do not vote ! Ben Carson was prompted to run and I feel his ego is what fuels his desire to continue in the race. Not that he doesn't have the ability to lead the nation, but, I don't think he has the personality to do so. Unfortunately soft spoken and well reasoned people are construed as being weak. It's the " geek " effect. Donald has the " bully " effect. At this time I can not endorse any candidate, from either party. The Dems are offering a liar and a socialist. I'm still waiting for someone to distinguish themselves.
 We must engage in discourse to move forward. I think it should be done in the most straightforward fashion as possible. State your opinion clearly and state the reasons you think so. Really the only requirement is that you think for yourself. If you just repeat the arguments and logic of others that is not engaging in the conversation. I want to know just what concessions you are willing to make. It is through an understanding of those concessions that I can form my opinion of you. The things we are not willing to concede are the most important things to us. That is a simple principle to understand. It is the comparison of  those things against mine that form the basis for understanding. If you are unwilling to concede to the truth, growth of any kind is impossible. Truth is not negotiable. It is a struggle we are facing at this very moment in history. A great deal of the world is trying to negotiate with the truth. Apply any label you like to that struggle. Until everyone agrees upon the truth it will continue, as it has done so for  around 1400 years. I believe I know the truth. That truth being I have the right to live and believe as I choose. I believe you have a right to live and believe as you choose. I do not have a right to kill you for not believing as I do. You do not have a right to kill me for not believing as you do. Those are truths and I will not concede otherwise. It is simply the truth !
 

Standards

 It is a troubling trend in this modern society of ours, this removal of standards. The current thinking and teaching being that we are all individuals and therefore each have our own standard. That same standard should not be applied against the society as a whole. That is the liberal progressive view is it not ? That I can do whatever I wish and should never be judged for those actions ? I am of course speaking about moral actions. We have plenty of rules and regulations to enforce regarding secular actions. What we seek to eliminate is the moral actions. The founding fathers of this nation realized the necessity of separating secular decisions in government from the strictly moral judgements of any one religion. That is what that separation is all about. We are all well aware of the various practices contained within the practice of faith. The Catholic church is in stark contrast to these " new age " churches. It is so only in the manner of practice, not faith however. Remember reading about the Protestant reformation ? Do you remember what that was all about ? Martin Luther and others began that movement. It was a move away from the Churches involvement in politics. And that was back in the sixteenth century ! In its' essence it sought to redefine " standards " for the good Christian to adhere to. Those standards are written in the Bible.
 Today it appears that there are those that wish to eliminate those standards altogether. They wish to eliminate God from the affairs of man. How ridiculous that is. It is only through moral and just behavior that man can co-exist with his fellow man. Those moral laws, standards, require no secular enforcement to be valid. You cannot just strike them from the book. Man will destroy the secular in the enforcement of his religious beliefs. Isn't that what we are seeing today and have seen over the centuries ? There are some religions that even demand such action for their faith to be practiced ! Standards are required. How can we measure if not by a standard ? There is but one standard and that standard is God. The only difficulty lies in the definition of God. The difficulty lies in the word and its' meaning. God, what is God ? God is moral and just behavior. God is that standard. We cannot remove the standard. Our only actions are to either meet that standard or fall short of the mark. The problem lies with the later action. What if we fall short ? What are the consequences ? In this modern concept we attempt to remove any consequence by the removal of the standard. A rather simplistic approach for such " enlightened " folks don't you think ? If the standard is too high or too inconvenient to obtain just remove or lower that standard.
 It all comes down to a simple question. Is this all there is ? Is our existence on this earth all there is ? Do our efforts, hopes and dreams mean nothing more ? Do we just live and die ? It is the question man has struggled to answer since there was man. If you answer yes, that is all there is, that certainly lowers the bar, the standard doesn't exist at all. Without a standard what is it that we are striving for ? Money and power ? That only lasts as long as you live. It is also subjective. Now we are all aware of the standard. We are born with that knowledge. It is the articulation of that knowledge that is the stumbling block to all mankind. We aren't near as smart as some would think. For what we can not explain, in words, we call on faith. 

marching on

 Coming down from the excitement of yesterday I am left feeling strangely solemn. I have no reason for such a feeling as it was a wonderful day. I got to spend time with my son and the grandkids, as a family, and that is always a good thing. Sure I could have had my other son and his family here ae well but they were in spirit anyway. We did open the gifts they sent to us on Christmas morning, although it was difficult to wait. Curiosity is powerful motivator to do wrong ! Do not open until Christmas ! Do you wait ? If I sent you a package right now with that message attached, could you wait ? Or is there a " time frame " that you could employ, say a week before or after the actual date ?
Perhaps this solemn feeling is the result of receiving too much all at once, like coming down off a sugar rush. I was certainly blessed.
 I have been looking forward to Christmas and now it is over. Come and gone in a flash. New Years is next week but I don't really celebrate that occasion, never did. Oh, when I was younger we stayed up and would imbibe those adult beverages. Seemed like fun and the social convention. Haven't done that in a number of years now, can't say when that last happened. So New Years is no big deal to me, that's the day to pack away Christmas. That is what it has become to me. Just another year. And then I chide myself for being so complacent about that. Each year is a blessing and we shouldn't forget that. Each day and hour is a blessing in fact !
 As in a lot places in the country this year the weather is a little bit crazy. The temperature will be near seventy today. Great for all the kids that got bicycles, terrible for those that got sleds. I'm grateful for the moderate temperatures as it is saving me on the heating bill. I do enjoy the change in the seasons but to be honest, winter can take its' time getting here. If it lasts a week or two, that's enough. All things in moderation you know.
 Having written these few words I am feeling a little better. We have made some plans for today and I'm excited to get out of the house and go on that adventure. Doesn't take much to get me enthused. I had a wonderful Christmas. Time to get started on the next big thing, whatever that may be. Mark, my grandson will be fifteen in January. And time marches on. 2016 here we come.

Making memories

 It's Christmas morning and Grandma and Grandpa are the only ones stirring. We are up and at it same as every day. Now the waiting begins in earnest. This year the kids, and their kids are coming to our house to celebrate the day. In years past we loaded up the gifts and went to their place but Santa's sleigh is parked out back this morning and we'll wait for them. The excitement level isn't as high energy as in years past due to the kids growing up. It's not quite ho-hum but, an annual event that has become routine. Maturity ?
 We have a few surprises in store for the kids. Preparations have been made. I can't wait to see the reactions. After the day is over the wife and I will critique the results. That is another annual activity. I'm wishing for a good review ! In just a few days the house will return to normal. On New Years day the decorations come down and are put away. That is becoming our tradition as well. Decorations down and house cleaned for New Years day. That and eating sauerkraut ! The wife says if you eat sauerkraut on New Years day you will have good health and wealth for the rest of the year. I must say I've been blessed with good health and wealth, well, that's a subjective thing. I've had enough to get by so I am blessed in that way as well.
 2016 is only a week away. I haven't decided what I'm going to do. I could retire fully and just go that route. I only work twenty five hours a week or so now but it is nice to have some pocket change from that. I'm not certain what I would do all day, every day if I did retire. It certainly sounds enticing. I'll think more about that situation next week. If nothing else is true about me, I'm adaptable. I change according to the situation  rather quickly. I'm sure I could be the retired guy and develop that as a habit ! You know, the old guy that goes to the coffee shop every morning. Problem here is, we don't have a coffee shop, at last not like the one I remember. Before I get all nostalgic though it's Christmas morning 2015 and there are memories to make. Can't wait for those kids to get and get going !
 I wish for all of you a Merry Christmas. Enjoy your families and friends for they are the true gifts. And like gifts, sometimes we are excited about them, and sometimes not so much. That's not the point though. It is a special day and a special time. It would be wonderful if every day were Christmas, not for the presents, but for the emotion. You know how everyone is more tolerate and understanding for Christmas. Whenever things get a little upset what do we say, " It's Christmas ! "

Final countdown

 The final push begins this morning ! The list has been checked, twice ! More wrapping to do and preparations to make. Everything needs to be just right. The excitement is building I can feel it in the air Speaking of the air it is almost 70 degrees outside ! Rain most of last night and more on the way. But not even the rain will dampen my Christmas ! Did you catch that, dampen my Christmas, pretty clever huh ? It isn't raining at the moment and I'm glad for that. I have to go to work and of course I have some packages to take with me. I wouldn't want them to get wet. The store closes early today, 7pm. I'll be gone long before that. Got big plans you know.
 This Christmas season has arrived with sudden ferocity. I'm quite certain tomorrow will come and go just as quickly. The kids are older now so the unwrapping of gifts will last a little longer. Funny how things have a way of working out. When they were little they just tore through those gifts one after another. When they were small we also had piles of toys, one after another. That was in the days of buying those " sets " of toys. A few dollars each and so you could afford quite a number of them. Now, the price tags are just a bit higher ( sarcasm there ) and as a consequence fewer. But, they open them slower and so the enjoyment lasts. They will also pause for a cup of hot cocoa and a donut. It is a calmer situation and I like that. Most of us older folks like that, another one of those coincidences in life. Little children can be nerve wracking  at times ! Especially if they get excited about things.
 My countdown calendar says 17 hours and fifty two minutes ! No tic,tic, though it's digital. And I'm sitting here drinking coffee and typing. I had best get going. Here is hoping you all have a wonderful day and a Merry Christmas. Be safe out there. Be especially careful if you go out tonight, there will be reindeer in the sky ! That means if you see brown stuff falling from the sky, it ain't snow ! LOL.

Remember

 It struck me this morning how quickly we have moved on from the Muslim discussion. Remember there were fourteen people killed, when ? It was twenty one days ago. Seem a lot longer ? I believe for the majority of us it does but I'm certain it doesn't for those affected. Of course the real question in all of that is, was it a Muslim terror attack or just two deranged people who are also Muslims ? That is the question the government is struggling to answer. Many American have already made that decision. Many Americans have also moved on. And that is the real problem here, complacency. We will not make any serious attempts at further action until it happens again. We talked and talked and talked some more. Fingers were pointed and a few stupid things were said and done. Proposals were offered. Now the clamor has died down, the initial shock is over.
 I thought about that as I sat here enjoying my Christmas preparations.  The tree is up and presents are scattered underneath. I am thinking about those last minute things. That is when I thought about those fourteen that have had their last things, their last minutes. They were at a Christmas party or Holiday Party if you prefer. For their families there can't be much joy in the season. Forever a cloud will shroud their holidays. I pray for peace for them all. This is the season of Peace, or at least it should be. Jesus has been called the Prince of Peace. With a new year fast approaching I can only hope for change.
 I didn't intend for this mornings blog to be so somber. We do need to move forward. We also need to learn from the past. Those fourteen people were not just a lesson in a book however. They deserve to be remembered for their lives, not their death. I will remember them on Christmas morning, in a special way, and hope others will do the same.
 

The gift of the season

 We all know the reason for the season. We all know that for children it is mostly about the presents. It is with that thought that I recall a particular Christmas. I was about ten and all about the gifts. We were a family of four kids and times were tight. Of course we got gifts, Santa never failed to deliver at my house. But that Christmas I received a gift that I will never forget. I got a complete set of Tonka trucks ! Everything from a pick up truck to a large dump truck. The set had a crane and a flat trailer to haul it on. Yes, it even had a bulldozer ! I couldn't believe it ! Even then I knew just how costly those toys were, They were a gift from my Mom's sister and husband. Aunt Bet and Uncle Doc. They couldn't have children of their own and so spoiled me and my siblings. They once gave me a plastic boat for my birthday. Not a toy, a boat big enough for two to paddle around in. I used it as a sled one winter and it cracked in the cold but that is another tale. Each Christmas I think about those Tonka trucks and my Aunt and Uncle. The two will be forever linked in my mind. I wonder what they would think of that ? That year they gave the perfect gift, the gift of the season.
 Do you have a favorite gift of the season ? That one gift that sticks in your memory for some reason. I can't explain why those trucks are so embedded. I didn't ask for them or anything like that, they were a complete surprise. Maybe that is why they stand out so much. I remember wanting a Sting Ray bicycle from Sears. I circled it in the catalog, bookmarking in todays lingo, so Mom would be sure to see it. Myself and my siblings often did that " bookmarking " in the weeks before Christmas and our birthdays. I have no idea what I circled in the big " wish book " catalog that year. I'm certain I received at least some of what was circled. As I said, Santa always made it to my house. I must have been good, right ? Yes, that set of trucks ranks right up near the top in Christmas gifts received as a child. Well I'll go right ahead and say, they are # 1 ! Best ever.
 Now as an adult, and I use that term loosely, I hope to be the one that gives that perfect gift. To see another so well pleased with your choice can't be beat. I don't obsess over it though, trying to find the perfect gift, rather I just let inspiration hit me. It may sound cliché but truly it isn't the cost of the gift that counts. It is true that the " nicer " things usually cost more, you do get what you pay for, but not necessarily the most memorable. I'm hoping for that reaction this year. You can never tell. I don't believe I ever told my Aunt and Uncle how much of an impact that gift made. Somehow I think they know anyway. It is a wonderful Christmas memory. And yes, I got that Sting Ray bicycle from Sears too.  Purple and " Troll " handgrips. Five speed T-Handle shifter counted on the crossbar, since outlawed by the government as " dangerous. " I guess it was a bit dangerous it you crashed but it was also equipped with a racing slick and dual handbrakes. A real sweet ride.
 I have learned the secret of Christmas and the gift. When the person receiving that gift truly appreciates it, you know you have done well. That's it, having another accept your gift, whatever that may be, is the secret. That is what brings happiness. Wasn't that the purpose of the very first Christmas gift ? It is a gift that will never be equaled that much is sure. I have accepted that first gift and will be forever grateful.

Chrsitmases past

 My weekend was a flurry of wrapping gifts and attending the Nutcracker performances. Now I wake up and see it is only three days till Christmas. At least that is what the countdown calendar shows but I count it as four days. That makes it feel like I have a bit more time. I haven't made the deadline, that much is sure, as far as mailing things. Oh well, I'm old I'll use that as an excuse. Had to wait for that social security check to come in you know. LOL  Or I could say I had a doctors appointment. Doctors appointments trump anything else on the calendar. Now I need to get ready for work. You never know if the grocery store is going to be busy or not. Depends on how much money people have left after buying gifts. Gifts before food !
 I didn't have the television on that much over the weekend. That is a good thing as I needed a break from the rest of the world. If you listen to the news like I do I', sure you understand. It doesn't make all that stuff go away but giving it a rest can't hurt. I missed the Democratic debate but we all know who is running and leading in that race. I really dislike even listening to her. I won't get started on that subject however, three days till Christmas ! A new year is coming and I am anxious for it to arrive. 2016 just sounds like a good year. Sixteen is better than fifteen right ? Got my drivers license at sixteen, at fifteen I was still riding a bicycle.  Fifteen years ago we were all worried about the millennial ! The computer clocks didn't now about a new century. The banks were going to fail and lose all our money. The world might come to an end ! There were some that were pretty nervous about the turn of the century. Well fifteen years later and not much has changed. Safe to say we got by that one.
 I didn't hear about any must have toy for this Christmas. No beanie babies, tickle me Elmo's or gaming systems. I did hear a lot about hoverboards that apparently burst into flames. My granddaughter Morgan was asking for one of those. It ain't happening. I did check them out and they are nothing more than a Segway without a handle. They do range in price from hundreds to thousands. I think the cheaper ones are the one bursting into flames. They have been banned from airplanes. Not that I fly often but I think that is a wise decision. They do look like they would be fun, although a little dangerous. Isn't that what makes them fun though when you are young ? It's like climbing tress and swinging from the branches, fun, just not very safe. Or jumping in the water. Well I do come from a generation that drank water right out of the hose ! Didn't use hand sanitizer either ! None of my toys burst into flames during the night however.
 I'm hoping we will never see a repeat of those shopping crowds. You know the ones, where people got punched, trampled and generally mistreated trying to get those toys. I expect we all just do it online nowadays. I think that is a good thing. Sad in a way that we have to do that, that people can't behave in a reasonable fashion. Well those Christmas shopping stories will become part of Christmas past, grandparents telling the grandchildren legendary stories of shopping, in the old days. Conan the Christmas shopper ! I purchased quite a few of my gifts online this year and I gotta say, I like it.
 So it's off to get this week started and I'll end it with Christmas. I am looking forward to it. That hasn't always been the case. I'm sure we all have had those times, when you just didn't feel like it. I would say my Christmas spirit is moderate this year. Not to the point of excitement quite yet but building. The weather is warming and that will dampen the spirit a bit. No, it won't ! I'll watch some snow on television.
 Oh by the way, did I mention my boys are forty today ! Forty. Twin brothers that don't look much alike. One lives in New York and the other just down the road from me. Seems like only a few years ago I was buying them the Hulk Hogan workout sets ! Why I remember buying them each a television for their bedroom. They were small, the televisions. and portable. You could plug them into the wall or a cigarette lighter port in the car. That was before they were called power ports.  They were black and white ! The kids thought they were broken at first because of that. I didn't realize they had never seen a black and white television before that. Now they are forty and we have flat screen televisions. They call them monitors more often than not. Forty Christmases have passed. Man, there goes some of my spirit ! Well, it's also the first day of winter. Crap, I'd better quit writing or I'll have no spirit left !
 

Radicalized

 In a moment of anger I wrote some words yesterday. I stated that I was a " radicalized " American. I went to explain I believed in saying the pledge of allegiance. I would fight to defend the constitution and the bill of rights. I must say it felt pretty good saying that too. I garnered a few likes and a coupe comments. There were enough to keep that thought fresh in my mind. They fed that fire. You see, for me, anger comes in a flash and is soon gone. Anger doesn't smolder within me like it does some, I'm grateful for that. I used the term " radicalized " because that is what I hear the pundits saying about the " bad " Muslims. They have become radicalized. I thought about just what is it they are saying there. Are they radicals ( radicalized ) because they believe what their religious texts and Imans tell them to do ? Their texts do tell them they should fight and die for Allah. Their texts do tell them to lie and deceive the infidels and nonbelievers. There texts do tell them to cut the fingers off those that refuse to convert to Islam. They are to behead the nonbelievers ! That is what the book says and if they believe that, they are radicalized. Sounds to me like they are practitioners of the Muslim faith. The whole religion appears rather radical in my eyes.
 I don't want to write about the Muslims anymore. I have pretty much said everything I want to say. I do want to make the case that going by that standard I guess I would also have to be a radical. I believe the Bible and strive to practice its' teachings. I am also a radical American as I fully believe in and support the American way. I believe the words of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights mean just what they say. In these times we have hundreds of lawyers, scholars and activists trying to reinterpret those portions of those documents to suit their agenda. A means to make a profit. They are doing the same with the Bible. But I'm a radical ! I believe in the fundamental principles. That seems at odds doesn't it ? How can you be a fundamentalist and a radical ? You can when the fundamentals are radical !
 The United States was founded by a bunch of radicals. The British called us rebellious. We spoke of the fundamental rights of man. That was pretty radical to them. It was about freedom. The freedom of man to practice his religious belief and make money. That's it in a nutshell. Government is a necessity only to maintain order and discipline. I am a radicalized American as I stand for and will fight to defend our way of life. I make no apologies or excuses. I will do what I feel necessary and prudent to preserve her. Wars are fought by radicals. You are welcome to join my society of radicals. You must however assimilate to that society  and become just as radical as I am about it. Anything less than that is unacceptable.

A natural order

 I'm starting out the day remembering my oldest brother, Harold. He left this earth one year ago today to join the host in heaven and I miss him. Although he lived a mere twenty miles from my house for the last fifteen or twenty years we didn't see each other often. We just seemed to travel our own paths in life. There was no hard feelings, we were not what is called " estranged " or anything like that. In retrospect I suppose we just didn't have a lot in common those last twenty years, we were brothers. It happens that way sometimes with brothers, and sisters too. For a while I blamed myself for not making more of an effort to go and visit him but I'm past that. We saw each other as opportunity presented itself and that is how it was meant to be. I'll live with his memory and we will see each other again, when opportunity presents itself again. I only need to be patient.
 Now I need to go finish up some shopping. It seems you always find out you need just one more thing. I don't mind so much even though I'm not a shopper. Most men aren't. It is the hunter instinct in us. Go to the store ( or forest ) and get what you want and get out. Just go and kill it ! Women love to shop because they can't make up their minds. They even invented a thing called " window shopping " just so they wouldn't have to decide. Well, it is the natural order of things, no use complaining about nature.
 Okay so I got myself in a little trouble with that last paragraph but truth often hurts. There I go again, digging the hole a little deeper. After the shopping comes the wrapping and mailing. I dislike both of those tasks. I start out all enthusiastic with the wrapping but after just a few, the excitement quickly fades. The last few wrappings always look sloppy. I convince myself that it really doesn't matter. Secretly, it matters to me. The mailing should have already been done but by mailing them late, they will arrive later. That will then distinguish them from all the others. That's a good thing right ? Avoid the rush and stand out, that's my plan. Really it is a lack of a plan. But I'm going with that logic.
 Tonight and tomorrow afternoon I have performances of the Nutcracker to attend. The granddaughter Morgan will be playing the part of a cookie, I think. Also  a Russian soldier I think. She is quite excited about it again this year. We will attend , that is what grandparents do ! It is a part of the role we are required to play. Another part of the natural order of things. I'm big on tradition and the following of it. So it will be a busy weekend leading into Christmas week. Only five days to go.
 

Sick of it

 With all that is going on in the world the thing I hear most about this morning is Star Wars. Think about that for a minute. Quite the commentary on America isn't it ? I mean, terrorism, hunger, homeless veterans, health care, the elections and on and on but now it's Star Wars ! Really people. You will stand or sit in line for days, even weeks to see a movie, with out worry or fear, all the while insisting we should have free health care and fifteen dollars an hour minimum wage. Really ?
 I shouldn't be a bit surprised I mean just look at the salaries we pay our " sports " figures. I know of one that was recently offered 150 million dollars to play baseball for seven years, he turned it down, not enough. Many of the fans agree with that. One hundred and fifty million dollars ! The same people that think that is fair complain when they have to wait for their doctors appointment thirty minutes longer than expected. I can wait for a week to watch a movie though ! Just where are our priorities ?
 I'm not sure just why this bothers me this morning as much as it does. I'm quite used to seeing people act like a bunch of fools. Line up and wait to give you my money. I need to be entertained. I will dress up as a character from the movie, sure I'm fifty but I don't look foolish at all. I. along with literally millions of others will set a box office record in profit for one day, hundreds of millions, but we can't raise money for our Veterans or the homeless or even homeless veterans ! It's just crazy.
 I will finish by saying this. I'll see Star Wars when and if it is convenient to do so. I will not stand in line to do so. It is entertainment, that is all. Being an expert on " Star Wars " is not an accomplishment. It tells me you have too much time on your hands that you are not using productively. Everyone needs a break that is true, but to spend days waiting on a movie ? I think you need to reevaluate your priorities. Too bad we couldn't get people to line up for COMMON SENSE ! Maybe then we could begin to solve some of these world issues that are a bit pressing in my opinion. Like maybe not killing each other because of our religious affiliation. Makes me sick.

Adrift, In a fog

 There are days when I feel like I'm adrift. I'm moving, but do not know where I'm going. I think we all share that feeling occasionally. I also think that not everyone is aware of it. There are those that go through life believing they are in control all the time. It isn't so. Circumstances arise to halt our forward progress. We are then forced to navigate around the obstacle. It is true we can choose the course but that doesn't mean we are in control. It can be frustrating. There are times when we just choose to drift, to just go with the flow. It is the easier path but not as satisfying. Still it is part of the journey.
 Being adrift doesn't mean you do not know where you want to go. It only means you have lost your means of propulsion. There are times when that means is financial, and times when it is mental. We may just get lost in the fog. If you stay alert, notice what is going on around you, I find you constantly adjust your course. That is as it should be, as there are few constants in the world. A complete dedication to a cause is admired but can also be a detrimental thing. It really depends upon how that dedication is viewed by the majority. Sanity is determined in the same fashion.
 Each morning I try to write some thoughts. Some mornings they are nothing more than memories. Those would seem to be the easiest, but it isn't so. Memories, my memories, can be of little interest to others. It is surprising how many of those memories fit that category. Memories are a personal thing. Shared memories are a luxury. They are a luxury that comes with friendship. Strangely they are best enjoyed in solitude.
 This morning my thoughts are scattered. I can't seem to remain focused on one thing for more than a few minutes. I find myself looking about, trying to get my bearings. Christmas looms large on the horizon. I have many obligations to fulfill before that day. They are all obligations of my own making. Commitments some would call them. Personal commitment. No way around that " obstacle ". It is straight ahead. I have to battle the tide and current rushing at me. I had best just set the course and keep at it. When in the tempest it is hard to remember that fair winds and a following sea are just over the horizon. You just have to keep sailing.
  

Good advice

 My Grandmother and my mother have a saying. " God helps those who help themselves. " I have heard that advice all my life. It is not advice that came from the Bible. No where does it say that in scripture. It is rather, common sense advice. By attaching God to it would seem to add credibility to that advice. almost to the point of making it a commandment. The truth is God helps everyone that calls upon him. That is what I believe. That isn't to say I don't also believe you should help yourself. The world owes you nothing, neither does anyone in it. We are the people we choose to be. If we choose to just be complacent with our lives, they will be ones of complacency. Those that make a positive impact do so with their own actions. They are the ones that motivate and inspire. They are not content with just getting by.
 I would say this Country is no different in that regard. We need to first " help ourselves " before we help others. We have become so concerned with foreign affairs we are neglecting our own. In our pompous and smug attitude we just think we have all the answers. That is certainly the attitude I am seeing from our President, and the majority of the candidates to succeed him. Our leaders are making decisions based on popularity, not effectiveness. In order for this country to remain great we must help ourselves first. There are those that say we should return to the days of isolationism. There is no argument that we became the great nation we are during that period of history. Like a child though we must grow and enter the world. The world is full of options. When we left the security of our childhood we carried the lessons of that time with us. So too, we did so as a nation. I believe we have reached a point were we are forgetting a lot of those lessons. Self sufficiency is not isolation but it is Independence. Strength lies in conviction ! Determination is key, not talking about it. I hear a lot of talk but see little meaningful action.
 It also says, " In God we trust " on our currency. Some claim that motto should be removed because it is contrary to the policy of separation of church and state. That is an opinion of law. I am more concerned with the sentiment. Why should we trust God ? I'll tell you why, because God helps those who help themselves, that's why. If we do what is right and necessary good things happen. I trust in my God to guide me on this path. It is my belief that through the teachings of the Bible and good common sense decision making I will make the correct choices. I must act and I trust my God to guide me. I am not asking for God to do it, but rather to guide me on my way. All people, with a few exceptions, believe in a God of some kind. They also believe their God will guide them in their decision making. In America we do have that separation of church and state and for a good reason. The reason being, my last statement. Our Government must act in the best interest of the citizens. We cannot use Religion as the sole justification for an action. Common sense must be applied. God helps those who help themselves. We need to take of our own before anything else. That must be our top priority. Just as a mothers' first responsibility is to her child, so is government to its' citizens.

single digits

It's down to single digits. Nine days till Christmas. Are you anxious for it to arrive, or anxious for it to pass. I'm anxious for it to arrive. It hasn't always been that way in years past and you never know what the next year will bring. Last year on the nineteenth of December I lost my brother. Now that event certainly effected my holiday spirit. The shock of his loss is over but his memory will remain forever. His passing will always precede Christmas in my calendar. I believe we each have an internal calendar of events, something like holidays, that mark our years. Certain things remembered. These events may hold no significance to others and so go unnoticed by them, but you know. They are " Hallmark " moments to you but no one makes a card. The majority of these events seem to be in the month of August for me. Lots of beginnings and endings in August. It is those events that make the biggest impression upon us. Beginnings and endings. We celebrate our birthdays. There is no celebration for the end however, or is there ? That is a question best answered by hope. Faith and hope are intermarried with that idea. Me, I intend to celebrate. After all, it will also be a beginning.
 I'm anxious for Christmas this year. I really can't explain why that is. The year has been a good one and I guess I would like to finish it up that way. The grandkids are older, of course, and the excitement level is a bit lower than in years past. It is a process I have watched over the years, this growing up the kids do. Funny how you don't notice it as much when the kids are yours. Grandchildren just seem to grow faster. Probably has something to do with time going faster. Another theory of relativity ! But don't get me started on relatives . LOL
 The gifts have been purchased and the wrapping begun. The tree is up and the decorations hung. This year I became more keenly aware of my " traditional " decorations. I refer to those ornaments and decorations that belonged to my ancestors and the ancestors of my wife. This year I took special delight in those objects. I suppose that is another sign of aging. We begin to thin things out. We learn an appreciation for the past. With that appreciation understanding develops. An understanding of what is important. Christmas marks a beginning. Sure the calendar doesn't reflect that but that was decided by man, Pope Gregory in fact. He had the calendar corrected in 1582. That was based upon the solar system and the length of time it takes the earth to rotate around the sun. My calendar is not based so much on that but on my personal milestones. That is a calendar internal to us all. Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus, would have to be day one for anyone believing in that miracle. Certainly the most important event of the year, of any year for that matter. It has been that way for two thousand and fifteen years !
 Yes this year I am anxious for the big day to arrive. I feel a little bit of excitement of past years. Something of the excitement of a child. I'm not excited for what I may receive materially, I have grown past that, but excited to share. I have gifts to give and look forward to seeing the reception. Have I chosen wisely ? I have come to understand it truly is not the cost of the gift but the thought that went into it. Yes, I still ask the grandkids for a list but it is only a guide. I try to find something special for everyone, something they haven't thought of. It is my experience the best gifts are the ones you didn't know you wanted ! Unexpected blessings are always the best. In a way that is how faith works as well. A beginning, a present, and a surprise. The miracle that is Christmas. I can't wait.

Traditions lost

 I had read yesterday was Santa Lucia day. Also known as " Lucy Bride " in some Nordic nations. My grandmother was from Sweden and so celebrated this occasion as a child. She came to America at the age of sixteen. Married with children by the age of twenty one I don't believe she ever celebrated " Lucy Bride " day again. It was that thought that caused me to read further. I could only remember grandma telling us children about a lady that wore a crown of lighted candles on her head ! What follows is some of what I read.
 That lady was the representation of Santa Lucia. Saint Lucy walked through the dimly lighted home with those candles on her head to help light the way. She was bringing coffee and cakes to all those in the house. There are several versions of the Saint Lucia story but most involve her losing her eyesight. In one she plucked her own eyes out to avoid having to marry a suitor. In many pictures of her there are eyeballs on the serving tray she is carrying. Grandma never mentioned that part ! Another tradition, one I think may have been modified for children, she just has bad eyesight and thus the candles. She was real a person and martyred for her faith. Strangely that was in Italy. I did some further reading about how Christmas is celebrated in Sweden. I found it quite interesting.
 I was thinking about this as I went about preperations for Christmas here at my house. I began to wonder how grandma felt about not celebrating her Christmas the way she had as a child. I, for one, am quite nostalgic about Christmas and the traditions I associate with it. I find these traditions grow stronger as the years pass. For her, those traditions surely just faded further away. She did bake a certain cookie, one called " peppercorka " at least that is what the name sounded like to me. I read yesterday that it is served on Saint Lucia day and that is why grandma made them at Christmas. A tradition learned on the internet ! I read of many other traditions the Swedes embrace and they all sound wonderful. They carried the season twenty days past Christmas day ! I learned that in Sweden not only Santa Claus can bring presents but gnomes too ! I rather like the idea of gnomes bringing gifts.
 I did find myself feeling a little sad and depressed thinking about grandma. I do not have anything that belonged to her that is associated with the Christmas season. I kept thinking about how she must have missed the celebrations of her homeland. Not all that immigrated here had a choice. She was sent here to help care for a sick aunt. Perhaps in the first few years while living with her Uncle they celebrated Christmas in the Swedish tradition. After she got married and moved to East Hampton I'm quite certain that all changed. Her husband, Grandfather Horace, would have demanded Christmas be celebrated in the American tradition. Just after the turn of the century ( 1900's ) it would have been a wife's duty to provide just that. It was a different time and place for sure. Over the years , with ten children, I'm quite certain her Swedish traditions were all but lost, except to her. Christmas perhaps became a gloomy time for her. Grandfather Horace passed away on Christmas Eve in 1949. For another twenty years she lived in that little home before her passing.
 I'm thinking that I will try to locate a figurine of Saint Lucia. I'll just google that. I will try to do that in memory of grandma, " nana " as I always called her. A little woman, short in stature and softly spoken. Her gray hair was always up in a bun and she always wore an apron. Her long house dress swept the floor as she went about her chores. I never heard her speak a harsh word about anyone and never a complaint. I do remember those " peppercorka " cakes. Hard as a brick ! My own Mom used to make them when I was little. I'll have to get the recipe. Not that I will eat them but in the tradition of gingerbread, more to look at. I'm certain grandma Bennett has gotten to celebrate her Christmas traditions in heaven. Must be quite the birthday party !

What I mean

 Epictetus is one of my favorite people. His quotes inspire me. One that came to mind this morning goes like this, " First learn the meaning of what you say, then speak "  Wise words indeed. The problem lies in getting others to understand your meaning. I wonder what Epictetus would say about that. I can find no where he addressed that problem in his discourse. Making our meaning understood is the biggest challenge to effective communication. I also believe in brevity. I strive to keep it as simple as possible, not because I feel those listening are simple, but I do not want to lose their interest. No one wants to listen or read a long explanation of your thoughts and so I try to get to the point. I often miss my target ! I take responsibility for that.
 There is an entire profession surrounded around the meaning of words and what they meant to say. They call themselves lawyers. At various times and places they are also known as attorneys, barristers, procurators, solicitors, and jurisprudents to name just a few. Even the professionals can't decide upon a single name, although the meaning is essentially the same. And what is that meaning ? They are people that argue what the words mean. We call that interpreting the law. The supreme courts sole function is to do just that. Fortunately our constitution does not give them the final say but empowers them to give an opinion. The opinion is not easily revoked but is not necessarily the final decision, that power lies with the people. Our Justices are appointed by the president. They then must be confirmed by a simple majority in the Senate. They can only be removed by impeachment. Did you know they don't have to be a lawyer ? That is not a qualification. I think the founding fathers just felt like any educated man could understand the meaning of words.
 Epictetus said, " first learn the meaning of what you say, then speak. " I think what he was telling us was to consider what our words would mean to those hearing them before speaking. Our minds often race far ahead of our vocabulary. The oxford dictionary of the English language has over 250,000 listings, not counting scientific and slang terms. A word that is specific to each action, mood or idea. It is no wonder we sometimes choose our words recklessly. We can not know the meaning of all those words ! In reality it is intent that we wish to convey, in most cases anyway. It is my intent that causes your reaction, whether positive or negative. The longer I try to explain my meaning the more it begins to sound like an argument. Guess that is why they say lawyers " argue " the law. I much prefer to just state my case, hence my love of brevity. The struggle is to find the " word " that fits the action. Then having found that word having others agree on the meaning. An almost impossible task.
 I do get frustrated when I know what I am saying but others do not. Of course the others feel the same way. That is when discussion should take place but more often than not it winds up as an argument. I know what I'm saying ! You know what you just read ! One question I would like to ask Epictetus: how can I know the meaning of what I say if I don't ask others ? I have to speak. I have read somewhere that the simple answers come from God. Seems logical that I should just ask God first. In doing so I have only to listen for the answer. It is solely the machinations of man that complicates the universe.

which way to the highway

 If we remove religion from the narrative what is the goal of this terror ? I do not think anyone believes the Muslims will erase all other religions from the face of the earth. What is the goal of these Jihadists ? Is it to just kill and maim as many people as they can ? To what purpose ? That is another question I am not hearing an answer to. Many that practice the faith of Islam will tell you it is a religion of peace. They will also tell you that their prophet Mohamed instructed them to wage Jihad only in defense of Islam. That would certainly be a reasonable approach. Even though Jesus taught us to " turn the other cheek " we certainly call on him during times of war to be on our side. So, to defend yourself makes sense to me. I have no issue with that, in fact, I expect it. As a rule I would only attack those I felt I could defeat as a matter of common sense. Mohamed was a very successful warrior and general for a reason. He followed that same common sense approach. As a rule he only attacked those he knew he could easily defeat. At other times he employed more guerilla tactics. He used Islam as a motivator to his followers to attack whenever necessary. There were times when his followers did not agree with him, as with any general sometimes the troops had different ideas, but he told them Allah ( GOD )  commanded them to do so. To not obey the commands of Allah was to be a hypocrite and you will suffer the consequences. Genuine rewards can only be gained by following Allah precisely ! The command is basically no different than patriotism. My country right or wrong ! The territories controlled by Islam have expanded and contracted over the centuries. The peoples populating those areas have either had to assimilate to the Muslim narrative or be subject to second class status. This is in evidence even today in middle eastern nations. True the Muslims are not killing the non-believers in their land, at least not on a large scale, but their human rights record is atrocious. It isn't in their culture, but is in stark contrast to ours.
 Is the goal of these extremists, as they are being labeled, to force the rest of the world to assimilate to their culture ? Is it, my way or the highway for them ? It would certainly seem that way to me. At least for a minority of them it is. As with all zealots they are not the majority but influence the majority decision. They do tend to force the issue. And just who is best qualified to handle the problem ? That is if we are going to agree that the " zealots " are a problem. In this case that would have to be the Majority of the Muslim population in the world. It is their duty to reign these folks in. Others doing that will often be viewed as " outsiders " and considered an enemy. It is similar to intervening in a domestic dispute. The spouse being abused will often turn on the person trying to intervene. Doesn't seem to make sense does it ? Happens all the time. Why, because the attachment to the abuser is stronger than any attachment to the one intervening in their " personal " affairs. Religion is a fairly personal thing.
 Ah, these are troubling times. They are times you cannot ignore. To do so would be complete folly. The threat is a real one. Being prepared to face that threat is not being afraid. Taking actions to defend against an attack is not being afraid. To speak out in opposition to a theology that demands death or subjugation is not being afraid. Being afraid is doing nothing about it. Passivity is not a defense ! Defense requires action. It is what the zealots wish to obtain as well. An action to take place. They are forcing our hand. Their " family " should be taking care of this, but should they refuse or be unwilling outside intervention will become necessary. If peaceful coexistence is the goal, stop killing and maiming our people !

Religion and Ideology

 My thoughts are preoccupied with the terrorist threat. I know there is little one can do to prevent the determined attempt of those wishing to do harm. That is especially so when those same folks believe in a reward for killing themselves in the process. Still, that doesn't mean we shouldn't take all precaution. I have a gut feeling plans are being made while we talk about the problem. I also think this discussion is serving as an impetus for those same terrorists. Swift and sure action is required to send a clear message. There are times when that " knee jerk " reaction saves your bacon ! Instinct has served mankind well over the ages. Analyzing results is best done after the action is taken. We must react. What I am seeing is an administration of inaction. A lot of talk.
 The threat is a real one. How to separate ideology from a firm religious belief is the problem that lies before us. Ideology is associated with politics and government, a defining of methods and motives. Religion is belief. Religion does not rely upon " truth " but upon faith. The distinction is a fine one but they are distinct actions. Both may inspire the individual to sacrifice their own life as a result of their adherence to the principles of that religion or ideology. That is where the line is blurred. It is especially blurred within the religion of Islam. Their holy books outline an ideology as well as a faith. The Bible does not do that. The Bible only speaks to the individual, not a nation. The ideology contained within the Quran demands violent action, something Christians do not associate with the practice of their faith. I know, the crusades. They began in 1095 and lasted several centuries. It wasn't the Bible that demanded that action, but the Pope. The Pope being the leader of the Catholic church just naturally forms ideology. We must remember that the Pope is only a human being. He is striving to be like Jesus along with the rest of us. He is not infallible. The Pope did not draw that call to arms from the pages of the Bible. So, the argument that the crusade's is/was a Christian ideology is false. It was the ideology of the Pope. Another fine distinction but distinct nonetheless. Each of us, in our own way, form our own ideology as well. That is why strict adherence to a religion is so difficult to achieve. I would imagine for those practicing Islam this has to be a real issue, more so today than at any other time in history. Their ideology of aggression and retaliation flies in the face of humanity. That isn't to say their " religious " belief does, just the portion that comprises the ideology. As the world tries to form a community these basic beliefs and ideologies will be tested. It is interesting to note when monetary gains are to be achieved we can co-exist quite well. We often set aside our religion and ideology in deference to gaining wealth. Wealth is power upon this earth, religious conviction and adherence to that religion is power after death. We want both !
 The truth is their are no simple answers. Allah is God and Mohamed his messenger. That is my understanding of the Islamic faith. God is God and Jesus his messenger, also his son. That is my understanding of the Christian faith. Christians are bound to follow the teachings of Jesus. Muslims are bound to follow the teachings of Mohamed. I am quite familiar with Jesus taught, and quite ignorant of what Mohamed taught. Truth is, I only know those teachings that call for this action called Jihad, a religious war against the non-believers. And by war he means a physical war. So I am left with a difficult question, if Muslims are truly the religion of peace, as I hear them proclaiming, why did Mohamed preach the opposite ? Did he get the wrong message ? I am perplexed. Or could it be that this " holy war " really has nothing to do with religious belief. Could it be about power ? If that is the truth that begs another question. Why are those that are truly religious not battling against this evil force ? If their religion teaches they should kill the non-believer why are they not killing those that are perverting their religion ? It is a bit of a quandary.

How religion works

 In the understanding of religion it is personal. Understanding each other is personal. Often words, especially written words, just do not convey our true thoughts. Those reading those words come away with a different interpretation of the commentary. This happens on a fairly regular basis. It is at its' worst when others don't even read the narrative. Those folks just go off on their own ideas of what the text may or may not say. It is especially troubling when we only read a small portion, handpicked by others, that wish to change or form our opinion. That is what is happening right now with this religion called Islam. I am as guilty as everyone else as I have not read the entire text and have no personal experience. I do have questions. From what understanding I do have of this religion it also contains an outline for government. Sharia law it is called and it's precepts are troubling indeed. The treatment of non-believers and women and children I find reprehensible if what I am reading is true. I do know that it calls for this thing called Jihad ! That is defined as a war or struggle against the non-believers. This is to be accomplished with violence. Quite the difference from the religion I practice.
 Now I know that not all those that practice this faith called Islam also believe in this Jihad concept. That is a part of the religion that I am having a hard time understanding. If you say you are a Muslim and practice that faith, except for certain parts of that same religion, are you not then saying you are a non-believer ? Shouldn't you be killing yourself ? Sounds ridiculous when put that way doesn't it ? I can only speak on a personal level about Christianity. At least the Christianity I was taught and practice. Yes, I have many faults and do not follow all the things my Bible tells me I should. The distinction is however that there are no parts of the Bible I reject. One must embrace the complete doctrine even though I will fail in following all of those same doctrines. That is why I pray for forgiveness. I question whether one can " modify " their religious text and still claim to be following that same text. Doesn't seem reasonable to me.
 So, I am left misunderstanding the precepts of these Muslim people. They claim allegiance to the prophet Mohamed. Mohamed has quite the legacy of violence. That is history. A small amount of research reveals that the Quran contains 109 verses addressing Jihad and how the faithful must practice that. The text calls those that refuse, hypocrites. That is what I have read so far. How can you claim allegiance to a religious practice while ignoring 109 verses of the doctrine ? It is my feeling that what we have here is not a bunch of bad people ( muslims ) but some bad ideology. This does place those of the Muslim faith in a precarious position. How can you say you are a Muslim but don't practice being a Muslim ? Do you see the problem with that or is it just me ? Can you only be part Christian ? Or part Jewish ? Or Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist or anything else for that matter ?
 I do know that Muslims are supposed to follow the doctrine of the Quran. I know that doctrine calls for Jihad. So I am left with a question. Are we only to accept the " bad " Muslims into society ? The ones that don't follow the Quran ? How can we know ? In my thinking unless one is ready to publicly denounce this ideology, I don't want you here. Is that bigoted and unreasonable ? And what of a person that will say, I'm a Muslim but a bad one. I believe in Islam, a little bit. Only the good parts. Is that the way religion works ?
 The Muslim people called God, Allah. A different name for a different language but essentially the same thing. We have that in common, there is only one God. My God's messenger was his son. He was dispatched with the message of peace. No where in his doctrine does he support violence against those that refuse to believe or ridicule his words. Quite the contrary is true. His is a message of forgiveness. Now, it is my understanding that the prophet Mohamed was the messenger of Allah in the Muslim tradition. He did profess a doctrine of violence against the non-believers. In fact 109 verses of that doctrine are contained in the Quran. Exactly what the rest of it says I really don't know. I wonder if you choose to ignore or delete that part of the Quran what are you left with ? Wouldn't it be a new religion ? Isn't that how it works ? In Christianity we have many sub categories, Catholics, Methodists , Baptists, etc, etc. They all read and follow the same Bible however. Christians do not delete certain passages from that book and still claim to be Christian. Yes, yes, I know we all do not follow the book exactly, but that is not the point here. We all acknowledge the words and accept the complete message. We interpret the meaning of those words slightly different that is true. No where in the Bible do we interpret the words to mean, kill the non-believers. That is simply because it does not say that.
 As I stated in the beginning of this piece the understanding of religion is a personal thing. I struggle to understand. I was not exposed to this religion of Islam. I know little of it. The parts I have read do trouble me deeply. I do not understand a God that would demand the killing of those that do not believe. Wouldn't that God just kill you himself or you not even be born in the first place ? I don't understand. If that same God sent his messenger to spread his word, why would that God then want the non-believers killed ? Just doesn't seem to make sense to me. In the Christian tradition God just flooded the earth and killed all the evil people. Sounds like a God thing to me. I wouldn't ask you to do anything I wasn't willing to do myself and neither would my God. My God then dispatched his son to spread the word. His son then commanded us all to spread the word, to testify and bring the non-believers into understanding, not kill them. If you took that " kill the non-believers " part out of the Quran and followed the rest of the Quran would you still be a Muslim ? Maybe, I just don't know, but maybe you would be more like a Christian or a Hebrew. Could be we all want the same thing and it is just the method of achieving that goal.

Faith and Government

 A question I'm struggling to answer. Does the practice of my faith justify endangering others ? In spite of my sincere belief in the moral precepts of my faith and the risk of eternal damnation for not abiding by them, I find it hard to justify placing others in harms way. Does my belief give me that permission ? Why should my belief supersede another's safety ? Can I , in good conscience advocate for that action ? It is a very difficult question indeed. But it is a question I ask myself in response to those that demand that action. They correctly point out the teachings of my religion as demonstrated by the parables in the Bible. I should love my neighbor as myself. The basic of Christian teachings scream at me, yet I must, because of that same religion, ask the question. Despite the fact that I have no doubt that my God will provide and protect me I understand you may not be subject to that same assurance. It is the old " trust me " syndrome. I firmly believe I am correct but that isn't the point here. You have an equal right to your belief, or lack of it. I believe you will answer for your lack of faith but that choice is yours to make, I can do nothing but testify. This question has moved to the forefront of my thoughts in these troubling times.
 I am keenly aware of the country I was blessed to be born in and live. A country founded on Christian principles, although that is often challenged, but a country that is tolerant and forgiving. This country promises religious freedom and  separates the practice of religion from the function of government. In these times we are faced with the decision of government. A government of the people, by the people, for the people as stated by Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg. The actions taken by both sides in that conflict stare in the face of Christian belief. The decision was made however to defend the union, by that same government, at the cost of many lives. Both sides were fully convinced that God was on their side.  Once again this nation is being tested. We must make the decision based on government, not on religious conviction. We the people is not a singularity ! That to me is the key to this whole dilemma. My faith and my religion are my personal business. That is a singularity. The manner in which I choose to exercise that belief is also my singular choice. In this republic the function of government is to act on behalf of the majority. That is the guiding principle.  Gaining a majority decision is the stumbling block. Even among the broad group described as " Christians " a majority decision is difficult to attain.
 The decisions of government must be based solely on logic and reason. Those decisions may seem contrary to our religion but only at the national level. Each of us are still afforded the opportunity to act as we see fit. Individually we must follow our conscience. I have no right to impose my beliefs upon you. That action can only be done by the majority and even then it is only forced compliance. Even Jesus said, give unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's and unto God the things that are Gods. Submit to government is the message, your reward is in heaven. That is my belief but not necessarily yours.
 This question is on my mind in response to the " Muslim " threat. It is really a terror threat but being perpetrated by a group, or several groups, that purport to be following the Muslim faith. Islam it is called and it's guiding principles, according to their own text, is to kill the infidels. Do all those that practice Islam believe and follow that precept ? Of course not. Not all Christians follow all the teachings in the Bible. There is a definite distinction there as no where in the Bible does it call for the killing of anyone ! It does say there is a time to fight however. Is it unreasonable to be suspicious of anyone claiming to be Muslim ? No, I don't think you can say that it is. Is it unreasonable to take precautions ? Quite the contrary I would say, it would be unreasonable not to. The maximum coverage is done with a large brush. Until the details are known that is the wise decision. But it is this action that has caused quite the rift. The mention of not offering our full and complete confidence in the intentions of those practicing Islam has caused that rift. Those proposing it have been called ungodly and pagan ! If it where a nation that had attacked and killed our citizens would there be such a hesitation ? I highly doubt that. We would be quick to defend, Onward Christian soldiers ! But it is a religion, Islam, that is the perpetrator of these acts. There is no country to defeat. The Bible says to turn the other cheek and I may be willing to do so, but do you have to ?
 The fight is not over whose " God " is the better God. The fight is over the method used to gain entry into the everlasting, over what follows death. One ideology versus another. One is compelled by their own text to kill and subjugate anyone that will not profess to follow their God. The other two major ideologies in the world preach the opposite. This is not an opinion but fact. Weakness breeds aggression. That is why we have bullies ! The Christian belief in turning the other cheek is viewed as a weakness to some. We Christians believe it is a strength. It is a strength, but a strength that will preserve our religion not our country.  In the book of Ephesians chapter six verse twelve it says, " for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. " I believe my God will protect me. Will that same God protect the non-believer ? Can we count on God to save us all ?
 We are taught that the non believers and those that live a morally corrupt life are doomed, for all eternity, to hell. Therefore the answer has to be no. God has given us all free will to act as we will. If I knowingly and willfully subject you to danger in the name of that God am I not just as bad ? Is it not a moral obligation on my part to shield you from the forces of evil ? Should I just, turn a blind eye and do nothing ? The parable of the good Samaritan is often quoted and the lesson it teaches. Love will overcome prejudice. That is truth. Can I allow others to be killed because of that belief ? I may choose because of my faith to endanger myself but that faith gives me no license to endanger yours.
 How many wolves enter the hen house before the slaughter ends ? It is either when all are dead or the appetite of the wolf is satiated. I am commanded to love my neighbors as myself. Not all those neighbors are Christians. Some are Muslims and some have no faith whatsoever. My religion does not say to kill them if they refuse to believe in my form of Christianity. I strive to live in peace. I do not believe it is a sin to protect yourself. I also believe it is a obligation. on my part, to protect others from evil as best as I can. The preferred method is through the teachings of the gospel. If a " radicalized " Muslim where to attack a group of people, and they have on several occasions in recent memory, and I defend others lives, either by killing or being killed am I not hailed as a hero ? A hero sinner ? Which is more heroic ? To die because I failed to act or die because of my actions ? Do I get to decide that for you ? I think not. That is also a matter of faith on my part. But I am talking about matters of government and government policy. The obligation of government is to protect its' citizenry. We the people have the obligation to make that decision. I am left with the question, does the practice of my faith justify endangering you ?

Memory and Santa

 I like the " memory " feature that appears on my Facebook page. It is always interesting to see what I posted a year ago or more. I do find I tend to repeat the same themes and ideas. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised as that is you I am. You just don't think of yourself in that manner, others certainly, but not me. I am full of fresh new ideas stimulated by growth. Don't we all feel that way ? It is a healthy attitude and nothing to be ashamed of. That is what I keep telling myself anyway when I review my postings. The truth never changes, right ? It is good to be reminded of the truth every now and again and that " memories " feature does that. In the colloquial expression, " it's all good. "
 It was the day before yesterday when I read a post about Santa Claus and the grandchildren. It was written several years back. In it I was relating how my granddaughter Morgan had said goodbye to the Santa Claus of childhood, and moved on. Reading that post was a reminder. For a short time I was back there with her and experienced that emotion over again. It is a bittersweet memory for sure. I recalled her excitement at seeing Santa. like seeing an old friend. She ran up to him and embraced him. Santa was welcoming of course and said Merry Christmas. Morgan looked at him and returned the greeting. It was then I realized she was really saying goodbye, goodbye to that myth. At the same instant I felt that Morgan had come to understand the magic that is Santa Claus. A figure dedicated to making children happy. And how does he accomplish that ? He does it by reward, the giving of gifts. The only caveat, you have to be good, all year and all the time. As adults we tend to forget that lesson. We tend to forget that we too are children. If we are good, all our life, we too will be rewarded with a gift. The gift of eternal life. In the case of either all it requires is faith. Faith and being good.
 I find it interesting that you hear, more now than ever before, that God doesn't exist. Secular science attempts to explain and prove everything. I hear the whole narrative and can't help but smile. Those saying all of that have no faith. Why is it I don't hear those same people vigorously spreading the word that there is no Santa Claus ?  They just go along with that premise in the spirit of the season. Well, just what is that spirit ? That spirit is the spirit of giving, is it not ? To give without the expectation of receiving ? No, that isn't correct. It is to give with the promise of a return. To give your very best to your fellow man with the promise of a reward. The material gifts we exchange are only symbolic. The real gifts we give should be compassion and understanding. To treat others as we wish to be treated. These gifts do come at a cost to ourselves. We must place the welfare of others before our own, not an easy thing to do. It is my hope that I can accomplish that action, in sufficient quantity, to be rewarded. I want the reward that is promised but I must earn that reward. Isn't that what Santa teaches ? Isn't that what the Bible teaches as well ?
 So what does Santa Claus have to do with the birth of Christ ? Both are concerned with right actions and reward. Santa Claus is a myth but provides a reward for behavior that is acceptable. With children we can not expect them to think in terms of the eternal. To a child a week is an eternity ! We use Santa as an reason to " behave " or else. We threaten the withholding of the reward. We also show forgiveness for wrong actions and the reward is still gained. That is planting the seed however for the real lesson we need to learn in life. We need to learn that this life is only temporary, that is true. It has even been verified by secular science and given a name, death. Then having come to understand that we need to learn that our soul, our essence, lives on. We should spend our lives in preparation for the life to come. We don't have much time. Something we only come to understand as we age.  How to prepare ? It is simple really, be good. All the time. But I have wandered off, as usual in my own thoughts.
 I started out thinking about memories. I enjoy looking at those memories and being reminded. What is interesting about those memories is they all tell a story. Like a good book you find new things each time you read it. I find new meanings and lessons there. There are few absolutes in life. Death is one of those absolutes. What we seem to forget is , so is birth, a miracle that happens to each of us. The gift is life. It is up to us accept that gift. The manner in which we do so determines our future. The truth is we are not talking about short term goals here, we are talking an eternity. Good memories last that way also.

The annoying truth

 I keep seeing the advertisements for all these drugs that will help you quite smoking. The side effects may kill you but you will die a non-smoker. I can not help but wonder if it is a good idea to take drugs to alter your brain chemistry. I'm no doctor but surely that is the way these drugs work. I say that because I started smoking without any drug and stopped the same way. It was a choice on my part. I alone was responsible for both actions. Despite all the efforts of the advertisers to convince me otherwise, I just quit doing something that was harmful to me. I did not introduce any other chemicals into my body to influence that decision. I did not allow myself to become persuaded that I was addicted and couldn't control myself. If I am the pharmaceutical company that is certainly the message I want you to hear. I'm having none of it. Fact is it was something I enjoyed for only one reason, ego. I started that habit as a young man in the Navy. I wanted to fit in and be one of the guys. Real sailors, the tough guys that smoke and drink and pursue other activities of questionable moral value all do that. That was an image I wanted to portray. It became a part of my m.o. Old habits die hard but that all it was, a habit. Habit can be changed without the introduction of another habit. Taking some chemicals to replace the one habit with another. It is my opinion that people are being deceived. The message should be, you can leave that habit behind. Instead the message is, you need help. How many times do we hear that message daily ? That is also the message our children are hearing. The definition of " self sufficiency " is being changed. Being self sufficient now means having the ability to buy whatever service you require. Whether that service is personal counseling or kicking a bad habit you can't do it yourself, you need help ! Our children are being taught to seek " help " for everything. They are also being taught it is wrong not to do so. It is the later that disturbs me the most. Personal accountability is not being taught, just personal responses to any action deemed negative. That is to say, once you realize you have a problem seek help with that problem. The message being, if you have a problem there is nothing you can do about it. You should seek sympathy and understanding immediately. You are now a victim of your own mentality. Buy a drug or pay a professional counselor. It's not your fault so therefore there is nothing you can do, personally, to change that. Strive to be a survivor ! That is something you can take pride in, being a survivor. Being a survivor of a hazard of your own making ? Being proud that you survived the treatment is closer to the truth. That is the reality.
 We have made remarkable advances in medicine that can not be denied. We have many drugs and treatments of tremendous benefit to mankind. These drugs and treatments do enable us to survive. It is not these drugs that I am speaking about. It is only about the ones I personally feel are being misused and wrongly prescribed. These pills to make you quit smoking. That is a personal decision and is not a medical or mental condition. It is simply a choice. There are eating disorders and treatments for that action but I know of no smoking disorder. Oh I'm addicted, phooey you have only convinced yourself of that. Well, that is what I have to say about all of that. Does it matter ? Not a bit. The bottom line in all of this is to make us all dependent. Sadly, it's working. We are all becoming dependent upon things that only money can buy. I'm no exception. As long as there is a profit to be made it will ever be so. It just bugs me that's all. Sometimes the truth is just annoying.

A tradition continued

 Tomorrow is Pearl Harbor day. A date that will live in infamy. That is what President Roosevelt stated on Dec 8 1941. Within an hour the United Sates was at war with Imperial Japan. America had been victimized and we were not going to stand for that. Action was taken immediately and the enemy clearly defined. This unprovoked attack would not go without retribution.
 Among the more than 16 million soldiers that went to fight that battle was my wifes' Uncle George. I know of many others, including my Dad, that also went but it is Uncle George I will speak about today. George Willard Coffin, Jr. born Dec 4, 1920 died May 24, 2015 at the age of 94. A tall lanky man with a congenital bone disease. his right leg was noticeably bowed. Although it did grow worse over the years he served nonetheless and never uttered a word of complaint. He served in a supporting role, not being in actual combat, but took pride in having served. I only knew him in his later years as age and infirmary took its' toll upon him. He all but lost his eyesight and was legally blind. His bone disorder make it extremely difficult for him to walk. At the very end he could only manage a few steps at a time. Still he lived in his home, alone and managed. It was the home he had left when he went to war and the one in which his life would end. He fell down the stairs and passed away. He lived his life with dignity and honor.
 What does this have to do with Pearl Harbor ? Well, Uncle George had a " banner " for lack of a better description that says, " Remember Pearl Harbor. " It is a painting on velvet and stretched onto a frame. At one time it was bordered by an ornate frame. I don't know the full story behind this piece of memorabilia as I neglected to ask. I do know that Uncle George told me he placed that banner in his front window every year in commemoration of that fateful day. How many years that ritual was carried out I do not know. I do know this, the last few years of his life, practically blind and crippled he kept the things most precious to him close at hand. There were few pictures on his walls as there was no point. HIs kitchen table, were he often sat to listen to the radio was littered with the objects of his everyday routine. Things were placed in specific locations and you soon learned not to move them. That was one method he used to manage. This banner sat in the corner by the front window. In earlier years it was stored away and brought out for the occasion. When I last saw it it was in that corner dusty and standing on end. The material had dry rotted from exposure to the sun, a sun Uncle George felt more than saw. It had become torn in the frame. After his passing the family members were asked if there was anything of his we would care to have. His home being sold the necessity to clean it out was pressing. I requested this banner and was given it. The value is immeasurable to me. What the significance was to Uncle George I can not say with certainty. Whether it was something his parents had purchased during the war or he had bought himself in later years I just don't know. I do know that it held great importance for him. It was an object that he kept close at hand.
 I have remounted this banner as best as I know how. I will keep it and display it every year in remembrance of Uncle George. It will also be a reminder of that Date in history. This banner has no monetary value whatsoever and could be viewed by some as a cheap souvenir. Uncle George placed it in his front window every year without fail, I will attempt to do the same. A tradition continued.

                                                                                    

This is Uncle George's banner.

Accepting the gift

 Does the acceptance of a gift create a social contract ? Sounds like a Sheldon ( Big Bang Theory ) sort of question doesn't it  ?  Well my sister in law feels as though it does and I agree with her. I do feel an obligation to reciprocate. To just take a gift without that action feels like taking charity. I understand that the giver may not feel the same way, but the contract is not with the other person, the contract is with our own morality. Our morals are those standards of behavior acceptable to ourselves or our beliefs. Technically that isn't a social contract but what else would you call it ? I believe the majority of us would say we do not expect anything in return. Saying otherwise is just wrong ! I also believe that most of us do expect something in return. It may be nothing more than a heartfelt thank you but we expect something. It is that belief that writes that contract. Does the urgency in which we honor that contract reflect upon our gratitude in having received that gift ? How long should we wait before reciprocating in kind ? How long before the connection is lost between the two actions ? How long does it take for you to forget that you received that gift ? Those are the variables in this contract.
 Personally I find it uncomfortable when the giver insists upon giving. Know what I mean ? They offer a gift or some gesture and you politely decline, yet they persist. There intentions may be completely without any expectations but you are unwilling to enter into the contract. Your reasons for doing so may also be completely honorable. They insist and a contract is created. I will usually not honor that contract right away but rather it will reside on my conscience. Eventually I must honor the contract and I feel like I was somehow leveraged into that. Gratitude by coercion. It even feels that way when the gift was needed and proved to be a great benefit. This is even true when the monetary value of the gift is small.  To complicate matters I feel an obligation to accept what is offered with an outward display of gratitude. Accepting the contract with grace.
 Now we have entered the gift giving season. We received a great gift, the greatest of all I would add, and feel the obligation to reciprocate. What gift can we offer ? We buy all matter of material objects to exchange with one another. We exchange greetings cards expressing our sentiments. We erect a tree with the express purpose of a place to place those gifts. Gifts are expected ! We are told not to expect anything yet teach our children to " make a list " of items we would like to receive. This list is then given to a figure that we can not give a gift in return to. We feel no obligation to reciprocate. And in that lies the spirit of Christmas. A gift freely given. A gift of immeasurable value.
 When we are small children, before we understand the value of money, we are content with just playing with the box. Then we begin to comprehend the monetary value of items and hence the necessity for Santa Claus. He's magic and doesn't need money at all, but our parents do. We are told the " value " of those gifts and told to " take care of them. " We are being taught to value the gift. We are also taught to reciprocate in kind. We feel the obligation , the moral necessity to exchange a material manifestation of our gratitude. It may be the thought that counts, but all too often the thought is counted in dollars and cents. Except at Christmas. If you do not exchange a gift with another person on that day you do not feel obligated to do so at a later date. Am I right ? Christmas gifts are to be exchanged at Christmas. In the spirit of giving no contract is entered into. That is my feeling anyway. The gift we were given was a simple one. We were told to love one another. We were given the gift of Peace if we but accept that peace. We must receive that gift, appreciate it and share it. The obligation is there and we must honor that obligation. We are promised a return by the one who gave. Isn't that amazing ?