The stoic view of things

 There is an old saying, wearing your heart on your sleeve. It is reference to those people that openly display their emotions. I believe it has become a modern fashion to do so. The proliferation of ribbons is evidence of that. We also see " rainbows " everywhere in support of that lifestyle(s) choice. Window stickers have replaced bumper stickers to show how much you love or hate something. We even put window stickers " in memoriam " to our loved ones. We go to great lengths to state the obvious. On some level the tattoo craze is a sign of this as well. Getting a tattoo is a big commitment. Getting " inked " is proof positive that I support a certain thing. It is a statement. Some will choose symbolism while others will just spell it out.
 Now I'm not saying any of this is wrong, it is a choice. I am by nature a more stoic individual. That probably stems from my New England roots. New Englanders are known for there stoic natures. We are more; matter of fact. Growing up I wasn't even aware that a different philosophy existed. Well, we did but that philosophy was the city folks. City folks like to talk about everything, forever, and rail against life in general. They were always complaining about something. Those city folks philosophy involved the making of money more than anything else. And the others were just the wannabe outlaws. They got through life by being bullies and trying to make folks afraid of them. Tattoos was a way of doing that. Tattoos could only be had in dark seedy places or while you were in the service. You had to be of that character to get one. Tattoos remain a questionable choice in polite society. They are being more readily accepted, like long hair on men has been over the years.
 I write about this because I do wonder why this trend of wearing our hearts on our sleeves has become so popular. What is this need to advertise ? Is it to keep people from approaching or to draw them in ? Have we become so paranoid of our fellow man that we feel the need to state our allegiances before we even interact with one another ? Making a public display of private feelings is an alien thing to me.
 But this is not about tattoos and the decision to get one or a hundred. I'm just talking about publically displaying private feelings. Why the necessity to do so ? I see this on social media as well. All these " like " if you hate cancer postings. Just who would support cancer ? Don't scroll without typing Amen or you are ignoring God. I don't believe God is checking to see how many like he got on Facebook ! Post this or that in support of all these causes. Why the need to advertise your feelings for the obvious ? Does anyone support animal abuse ? Is it insecurity that drives this ? A confirmation that there thinking is correct ? Or is it just waving the flag and saying " see " I support good things, I am a good person.
 Well I just feel like we would all get along a lot better if we just kept our personal beliefs, personal. How about keeping private things, private. Might not be a bad idea. All of the vice and lifestyle choices we hear so much about today has always existed. It really is nothing new. In the past these things were kept private. Even when we knew or suspected a person may be contrary to what their public image was, we didn't say so. The stoic person is not unfeeling as is generally assumed. Drama just isn't not their forte. The stoic person responds in a controlled , well reasoned fashion. They  can be just as passionate as anyone else, they just don't openly express that enthusiasm.  I would add that drawing attention to yourself is easy enough. Gaining respect is a different action. It can not be gained by waving flags, ribbons or symbols. Respect is something given to another for just actions. Making declarations is of little value if you do not back that declaration up with action. Just what is your " constitution "  composed of ? The American society was one of stoic determination. I see a change in that and find it troubling. Now I see a lot of flag waving and complaining. We are becoming a society of whiners ! One more piece of advice, BUCK UP people ! Stepping off the soapbox. Thank You.

A place to go

 I made a call yesterday to speak to an old friend. The day before had been his birthday but I let that day slip past and felt the worse for it. He is my oldest and closest friend. I can't remember the number of years it has been since we saw each other face to face. Time has a way of passing, almost unnoticed. He didn't answer that call but did return it later in the day. We picked up our conversation where we had left it off many years back. It truly is like that with an old friend. I see the Memes on Facebook about that very thing and smile. Yes, it's true and I am fortunate to have a friend like that. We spoke of old times and changes. For us, not much has changed as time starts and stops with each conversation. Our friendship lives in brief periods of time, scattered over the years. It is a heartwarming thing and a gift. We revisit the past together, almost as tourists. We parted ways long about 1977 or so. Since then there has been marriages and deaths. That is the way of the world. For those two actions are the defining moments in our lives. There are children and grandchildren.
 After talking with him I began to wonder. How much have I changed since those days ? How much has he ? When we talk it sounds just the same as it always did. But we are talking about the same things, as they were, and not speaking in the present tense. Our views are still the same, for the most part. That isn't surprising given that we practically grew up together. Our teenage years were spent in the company of one another. We listened to the same music, played baseball together and confided in one another. We shared secrets and desires. We even joined the Navy together ! After out initial hitch we had a job working together. Then I went back in the Navy and he went his way. Our youth had ended but that friendship lives on.
 We went through the silliness and irresponsibility of youth side by side. Those are the days we reminisce about. It is in that time that we live. The more recent years we share, almost as a storyteller relates his tales. We just tell the other person about it trying to convey the experience as best we can. The old stories we lived together and so are alive in our minds. Just a few words or a simple phrase can bring those things back to life. That is what I think about and wonder. If we were still in each others company today would the friendship be sustained ? That is the change I wonder about. We are not young anymore, although we may be silly and irresponsible. How have we changed ? I don't think it is reasonable to think that we haven't. Life surely changes us and our views. And then I think perhaps that is the way it was designed. Our friendship is a gift. One to keep and enjoy over the years, unchanged, undisturbed and appreciated. A place to go every now and again. A place to visit, not to live. Isn't that what our youth is ? A memory and a comfort. My old friend lives in my youth and I in his. It is enough.

What comes around

 Yesterday I saw the green shoots of the daffodil reaching for the sun. The bud was evident on its' tip straining to break through. The wind was icy and it was snowing. What a contrast the two made. The flower the promise of spring and the wind howling, not yet. I was inspired by that lone patch of daffodils. I began making plans for the warm weather to come, I could taste barbecue. Funny how our senses work and sometimes trick us. That little bunch of green stems snuggled at the base of an old oak catching the morning sun acting as heralds. Can the robin be far behind ? Soon we will see that red breasted bird out from the wood, head turned and listening. The worms beneath will be awakening with the warming of the soil and stirring about. They too will rise to meet the sun.
 Spring, renewal and rebirth. The beginning of a cycle, a cycle unbroken over the eons. Time to awaken from the solitude of winter and go forth into the world once again. To be out of doors and in the sunshine. To breathe the fresh air and feel the moist ground beneath your feet. I expect man began his journeys in the spring, to explore new lands. In ancient times man did live closer to the earth and its' cycles of change. Spring was the time to begin. In some ways we have become disconnected from that. Our food doesn't follow the change of seasons as it did in the past. Through the long winter we had been eating root vegetables stored in the cellar.  Stews, soups and salted meats would have been the main fare. But in the spring those fresh shoots of green onions would appear in the fields, we called them spring onions, and they were welcomed. They added flavor to the blandness of our winter diets. With the greening of the grass fruits were promised, and berries. Fish could be caught on warm spring days and throughout the summer. And sitting in the coolness of a shade tree of a hot afternoon can't be beat. Ah spring, with its' opportunities for growth. Each spring a new chance, a new beginning. Each spring is new life.
 Seeing that daffodil brought a smile to my face. It was a confirmation that all is well in the world. It will be alright. While the machinations of man complicate life unnecessarily, it is a comfort to know my God has got it under control. Spring is on its' way. That small clump of daffodils pushing up through the ground are an inspiration. They grow and prosper, unaided by man in any way, at the base of an oak. What strength and resilience they display. One of Gods examples. Trust and perseverance is all that is required. Patience too. The spring will come around and bring new chances for growth. Stretch your arms and reach for it.

Holding my ground

 There is an advertisement that comes on the television every now and again. I hear it, but don't remember watching it. They are hawking a " place for Mom " , a senior care referral site. Each time I hear it I can't help but think, shouldn't Mom be at home ? Although they don't seem to mention Dad I guess they would find a place for him as well. I realize that concept may be a thing of the past but I for one , never want to be " placed " anywhere. Placing something is just sitting it down somewhere out the way. It is also something you do with a " problem. " You place that problem in a rehab, half way house or institution of some type. The court may place you there.
 I hear all the arguments and reasoning for why Mom can't stay at home. I hear all the reasons Mom can't live with me. Yes, some are valid I wouldn't disagree, but most appear more as an excuse or an inconvenience. I do believe that this modern day practice of just putting the old folks in a home, and that is a gross misnomer, is destroying the continuity of life that is so vital in a society. Was the day we were born, lived and died in the same geographic area. We were attached to that area. We lived out our days at home. We watched the children grow and their children as well. In the end we went to join our ancestors in the cemetery, generations lying side by side. Now families are scattered across the country. Good thing for digital media and record keeping or we would never find our ancestors. The Bible does say, ashes to ashes and dust to dust. Our families are becoming as dust in the wind. An old rock group, Kansas , used that very metaphor. One line in that song says, I close my eyes only for a moment, then the moments gone. So too are our lives in the big scheme of things. We should keep those we love as close to ourselves as possible. Instead we have made a business out of " placing " then elsewhere. To me, it speaks volumes about our value system. That advertisement hits me every time. A Place for Mom  ! The message being the correct action is just to find a place to put her and your responsibility ends there. You can just pay someone else to do the caring.
 Yes I understand there are circumstances where this isn't possible. I just feel like all the possibilities should be exhausted first and this " place for Mom " is a last resort, not the first option that comes to mind. Mom should be home. I get annoyed when I hear that advertisement. The overall message they are trying to sell is, you are being the best child you can be by sending Mom off to the home. It is practically abuse if you do not ! Don't worry, financing is available. And to me that is the disconnect in society that is leading to the mess we are seeing today. High crime and a lack of morality. I can just move away where no one knows me and do whatever I please. When the folks get old, just place them in a home somewhere. that way you don't have to listen to them. When you go to visit them, at your convenience, they'll just be happy to see you. No flack from them. No hassles man. When age or infirmary catches up to me, as it certainly will, I hope I am not " Placed " somewhere out of the way. I will say this much, be warned, I'm not going without a fight ! I'll be holding my ground !

taking stock

  Every once in a while a restlessness comes over me. I get the feeling I should be doing something but have no idea what it should be. It isn't a desire for entertainment, that isn't what I feel. It is more like I have forgotten something,  or something I should be doing. It is a frustrating thing. Really my reaction is more one of wanting to just quit than one of action. I just can't decide. I think it comes down to one thing, making a difference somehow. I want it to matter. The truth is, it must matter to me as much as it matters to others, for it to be worthy of the effort. Just what is that concern ? I think it may be things that can not be changed. That is why I feel the frustration that I do. The feeling of  " yelling into the wind " can be exasperating. There are times when writing these blogs I get that feeling. Doing something " just for yourself " is something I take little satisfaction in. You could say that I require confirmation, appreciation and validation and that would all be true. Yes, I do, and that is just an honest appraisal.
 Does this restlessness come from wanting those things ? I suppose it could be. I am looking for something that is clear. Perhaps it is a desire to settle things. How do we measure success ? Is it measured by wealth, fame or notoriety ? That is the image we are shown everyday. Our society in general uses those things as the yardstick. We tell ourselves it is otherwise, especially as we grow older, but the glaring truth is still there. Yes, that is how success is measured. Happiness is not related to success in all cases. I will say it is easier to be happy when you have success. Could it be otherwise ? No one wants to fail. Are our lives to be lived like playing a game ? That depends. Do you play games to win, or just for the fun of playing ? I always want to win, that is my nature. I had to learn how to lose. I believe most of us have to learn that lesson. You won't win every time but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try.
 Am I reaching a point of reckoning ? Or is it more of a reconciliation ? The later is certainly dependent upon the former. Is all this writing I have done over the years the reckoning and now the process of reconciliation begins ? Reconciliation leads to understanding and understanding to peace. The old folks would have called it, taking stock. What values, traditions and ideology have you invested in ? Have those proven to be sound ? That is the reckoning. Reconciliation follows. Is that what aging really is ? Now how ironic would that be ? Well it would provide an opportunity to square the books before the final reckoning. Could be it is all just a part of the plan.

Stressing out

 When I was a small child my Mom told me, " if whatever you're doing you feel you need to hide, you probably shouldn't be doing it. " Words of wisdom and ones I haven't forgotten. I have found the truth in those words on more than one occasion. I was reminded of that advice when listening to the hoopla surrounding the unlocking of that I-phone. Apple claiming that unlocking that one phone will open the floodgates and wash away all our privacy. They claim they would have to create new software or an application to do so. I even heard on the news this morning that folks were protesting outside of stores demanding that Apple not comply with a federal warrant to unlock this device. They fear for their privacy. And it is that that leads me back to my original statement. " If whatever you are doing you feel the need to hide, you probably shouldn't be doing it. " I am left wondering just what are all those folks hiding on their phones ? This one phone was the property of terrorists and killers. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is asking for help and Apple refuses. To me that is tacit support for the criminals. I mean really, the people that built and designed this phone expect me to believe they cannot bypass the encryption. Do they also expect me to believe that their phones are so secure that this hasn't already been done by some kid in a garage. The whole " refusal " thing appears as a marketing ploy to me. Well because we are all anti-government these days, except when we want the free stuff that is. Toss Apple a tax break and watch how fast that phone is unlocked !
 Now I understand there may be business or financial data on some of those phones. I just question the wisdom of using them as a secure storage device in the first place. I don't believe the average everyday person has such vital information stored on their phones that it should be shielded from the FBI. We all demand and expect security yet are refusing to provide any help ? The reality is, nothing is 100% secure no matter what Apple tells you. Some kid in his bedroom hacked into the Pentagon computers I'm sure an I-phone isn't a big deal. I don't get why the FBI is even asking, I'm certain they can, and more likely already have, unlocked that device. I read somewhere they changed the passcode already. Another confusing aspect in all of this is why does the average citizen feel the government wants to spy on them ? But more importantly I want to know what is it that you are hiding ? Maybe, just maybe you shouldn't be doing whatever it is you're doing and that is why your concern is so great. Guilt perhaps ? I do not even own an I-phone but I can assure you if I did I wouldn't have anything on there that would need to be hidden from the FBI. If they really wanted to look at my pictures, I would share them. I have learned over the years that there is only one way to keep a secret, don't tell anybody ! That was true was I was a child and has remained a fact to this day. Do not write it down, record it in any fashion, or confide that information to anyone else and it remains a secret. That is how it works.
 In 1969 the Internet became a reality. Since that time we have digitized our lives.  Computers and all the other little devices that have been introduced have been recording our every word. If you put it on anyone of these devices it remains there. I'm not as savvy as the younger folks but I listen to the news. Taking screenshots is one method of preserving data. There is always a way. When we first used a telephone an operator could easily listen in, that can still be done. Cell phones are not secure communication devices either. They operate at ultra high frequency ranges but can be " tapped " into by those knowledgeable in such things. Digital media of any type is not 100% secure ! The reason is a simple one, it is media ! It stores and distributes data. Not a difficult concept to understand at all. If you have something to hide, don't put it on there.
 A warrant has been issued by a federal magistrate. We all would agree we must abide by the rule of law. It is a legal and biding document. Refusal to comply is punishable by law as well. Private individuals, nor corporations get to override the Construction of the United States. How many of you would have even known that I-phone was unlocked if Apple had just quietly taken it into their lab and complied ? How do you known they haven't already done so ? Well, don't put anything on those devices you wouldn't want the federal government to know about and you have no worries. Being a secret agent or a spy is very stressful. Don't do it, don't stress out !

Righteous litigation

 I heard on the morning news that a group is filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer of the gun used in the Sandy Hook shootings. They feel Remington should be held liable because the gun was too deadly. Remington naturally wants the suit dropped. There are several things to be considered here. First, was the gun illegally manufactured ? No, it was not. Is any one gun more deadly than another ? I submit that the only difference between them may be the rapidity in which they can be fired. As far as being deadly, that depends upon the marksman or just plain bad luck. All guns are deadly weapons ! And so I don't feel Remington is any more liable for the actions of a crazed individual than Ford motor company would be for a drunk driver. The manufacturer has no control over how the product is used.
 I can not truly know the feelings of those that lost their children or others that day. I can only imagine the grief, anger and frustration. The act of a crazed gunman is something none of us can understand. What I do know is we can not expect to litigate the mental health of others. Litigation is the process of obtaining justice for a wrongdoing. Suing the manufacturer of a product can not provide a remedy for its' misuse. Are manufacturers to be held accountable for their legally produced products performing as advertised. Guns, of any type are designed to shoot a projectile downrange. Some are used for targets and others are used to kill. All guns, by their very nature, are deadly. So are hundreds of other products legally manufactured and sold in the United States. Are those manufacturers to be held accountable for their misuse as well ? All our products are plastered with warning and caution labels of all types. Those labels are supposed to " inform " the consumer of the inherent hazards and dangers in using the product. That is the extent to which a manufacturer has control of the product following the sale to the consumer.
 The bottom line here is that there is no remedy for the losses than were sustained that terrible day. No amount of money can replace those lives. Manufacturers can not be held accountable for what the consumer does with their product. Manufacturers can be held accountable if their product fails to perform as advertised or is somehow defective or deficit. Manufacturers can he held accountable for knowingly producing a product that is dangerous and those dangers are not made public. I don't believe anyone in the civilized world doesn't know a gun will kill !
 No the problem here is one of mental health. I will say this much, when right and wrong actions are determined by litigation and not morals, the society begins to fade. I often say, you cannot legislate morality and I believe that to be true. Now I know the Atheists and others will bristle but the removal of God from a society leads to exactly what we are seeing today. A lack of morals. What happened at Sandy Hook was the surfacing of pure evil. You can define that evil in any fashion you like, but it is evil nonetheless. Remington did not manufacture or promote any such evil. Who is to be held accountable ? The individual is to be held accountable. Why it happened can be discussed and analyzed for centuries but will never be known. There is no explanation for evil other than to say it is the opposite of righteousness. Righteousness stems from faith. It is true that even people of faith commit horrible deeds but we must remember we are human after all. It is a human failing when we commit evil. Don't try to blame anyone else for that, the fault lies within.

Standing by

 There are times when I am left just staring. I can't seem to find a point of focus. I believe this happens to all of us at times and is a natural thing. Maybe my brain just need to be rebooted. That works with my computer sometimes. Is it the operating system or the software ? That is the question in this situation as well. I don't really think anything is wrong with my operating system, the firmware is intact, so it may be I have gotten a virus from somewhere. This virus is causing a slowdown of the processor. I find myself opening a lot of files simultaneously. Old files that I have archived as well as new files. It is a frustrating experience.
 The frustration comes from not knowing how to get rid of this virus. The fact that I am infected or should I say, effected, is just one of those things that happen. I want to know what to do to eliminate it or at least make it go away for a while. In the computer world it would be a removal tool. What removal tool should I employ ? Years ago I may have tried beer. Beer certainly obscured some issues and aided in forgetting about the problem. The only trouble was it sometimes caused more damage.  There were times when I would just lash out at those around me. That never fixed a thing. The problem lies within me and the cure does as well. I have introduced this virus and I alone must remove it.
 All of this is really just a mood. Moods change given time. Patience is the cure. Patience is a virtue and a virtue that should be cultivated. But patience is a difficult thing. It is doubly so when coupled with anger. It is anger that I feel this morning but without an explanation of why. What is the cause of this anger ? I am only angry with myself, self induced by what ? I am left just staring. Whatever it is it will pass. I hope to learn the cause, so as to avoid it in the future, but the primary mission here is to just eliminate it. Failing that would indicate a problem in the operating system. I'm getting the message, do not turn off your computer, updates are being installed. Hey, it happens and it is necessary.

Revenge or Justice

 How long are we to be held accountable for the failures and fallacies of past generations. Is it forgiveness that we seek, or forgetfulness ? It has been said that to forget the past and its' lessons you are doomed to repeat it. I wouldn't debate the wisdom of that so remembering those lessons are vital to moving forward. I would add that we mustn't allow that knowledge to act as an anchor either. We can not be anchored in the past and expect to make progress. All we can do is change the methods employed to continue our successes. We can make amends and reparations, but for how long ?  That is the question at hand.
 Amends and reparations are ideally made to the ones that were wronged. In the absence of that we can only offer sympathy. We can then empathize with any descendants that may have suffered as a consequence of those actions. Is that one , two or more generations ? At what point does history become a crutch ? How long can we use history as an excuse ? History can not be undone or rewritten. We do hold the pen to write the future however. Do we want that future to be one of seeking revenge for the past ? It is my feeling that is what is being sought by many in society today. Amends and reparations have been offered and made in abundance. Anything further than that is revenge. Indeed the word revenge tells us just that. It is the act of seeking compensation for what happened to someone other than ourselves. It is true that it may have been a family member or friend but that doesn't justify the action. Some will attempt to call it justice. Justice cannot be provided to those wronged in the past. Justice is only served in the present. So to say Justice is served for the actions of those already long past is a fallacy. It just sounds more palatable than revenge. Justice implies an entitlement. We are entitled to Justice no one would dispute that. Are you entitled to Justice for anyone other than yourself ? I would argue that you are not. Justice, just behavior or treatment, is a personal thing. Each of us interpret it differently. We have written laws to define what we consider minimum standards of Justice. Justice is often thought of as punishment, that too, is a fallacy. Those laws are the defining of just behaviors. The penalties for acting contrary to those just behaviors are the amends, reparations and in some cases, revenge that are sought by a society or a nation.
 I believe once the laws have been changed to eliminate injustice to members of a society, or a nation, and reparations made, that should be the end of it. I'm not saying we just forget it ever happened. I would employ an old adage, there is no need to cry over spilled milk ! If that milk has been replaced that is all that can be done. Should I have to provide milk to future generations ? Now milk is a physical thing than can be replaced and I understand that there are things that can never be replaced. Attempting to do so is an exercise in futility. Futility leads to frustration and frustration to anger. So what is the answer ? I wish I had that answer. I do know that as long as you use the limitations of the past as your foundation you cannot expect much growth. Even though those limitations were artificially imposed upon your ancestors and injustices done it does not justify the actions of today. Amends have been made, reparations have been paid, and injustices corrected. There is nothing more to be done. The spilled milk has been cleaned up, let's move on.

About the Donald

 There was a bit of controversy stirred up by the Popes' speech the other day. Well, really only with Donald Trump. The Pope was saying, those who spend more time building walls than building bridges are not Christian. That isn't the exact quote but that is the jest of what he was saying. Donald Trump being the ego maniac that he is, took it to mean the Pope was directly addressing him. The Donald was offended and shot back. Now I'm not Catholic but I really don't think it is a good idea to start a fight with the Pope ! You are just not going to gain much in popularity in doing so. The Pope, whether you are Catholic or even a Christian is held in high regard as a man with " connections."  Start messing around with him and you might get a celestial smack down ! All kidding aside, the Pope is a world figure and deserves due respect. I believe the Pope was using the wall analogy in a metaphoric sense. I say that because I don't believe anyone actually believes a wall will be built between the United Sates and Mexico. I don't believe Donald Trump actually believes it either but it makes for a great talking point. It has a certain appeal to a class of people here in the United States.
 There was a Meme posted to Facebook that sparked a small discussion among my friends. This Meme concerned the fact that the Pope lives behind a wall. Yes, Vatican city is surrounded by a wall.
 This wall is about fifty feet high but does not completely enclose the city. It is also not patrolled by any guards. So, you could say it is no more than a large fence. We all build fences around our homes and no one thinks that is so terrible. Why should it be so bad for a city, or a small country for that matter, which incidentally Vatican City is. The smallest country in the world as a matter fact. I even have an individual on my friends list that self describes himself as an Atheist. He found the whole thing humorous that the Pope would talk about walls when he lives behind one. His position was the Pope should trust to God to protect him in all cases. I pointed out that in Deuteronomy Jesus says, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, you are risking a celestial smack down by doing so. All of that is a distraction however from what the Pope was really saying. He was saying we should not build walls to divide ourselves from others. We need to build bridges to connect with one another. That would be the ideal situation. That would be the most God like action to take. Unfortunately reality plays a role in all of this as well. Faith is a wonderful thing to have and to hold, in fact, I believe a necessary thing. No matter how much I believe there are those that do not. It is those folks we must guard against. They will take advantage.
 Consider something as simple as a soup kitchen. They have provisions to feed a certain number of people. If only the truly needy were to utilize that kitchen it may sustain itself. If the " patrons " begin to outgrow the supplies that same kitchen will become overrun and forced to close. Now, there isn't that many folks that want that bowl of soup. Change the " reward " however. The rewards are now free health care, free money, even citizenship. If left unchecked and uncontrolled the result will be an overwhelming of that State or Country. Although it may seem unchristian, it is a necessity. Just as a wall was built to protect the Pope from attack, so too should a wall protect others. The wall is just a metaphor for that action. I believe the wall the Pope was talking about was a cultural wall. We need to build bridges between cultures not exclude them. And therein lies the problem I see in America today. The discussion is of race, when it should be culture. That is something I have covered in a previous blog posting. The Pope, quite naturally, promotes the Christian culture and view of things. By virtue of his position he can speak of such things with authority. He has said nothing unexpected as far I can tell. I will point out that I am not Catholic and so am not generally concerned with his doctrine. I try to follow the doctrine of Christ but then that is another discussion altogether. I mean no disrespect toward the Catholics.
 Different cultures have different value systems. Customs are different. To those not of that culture they can be intimidating. Different is sometimes scary and more often, misunderstood. When the culture that is strange to the majority begins demanding recognition of their culture friction ensues. Simply put, to settle in my land, you must conform to my land. That is the way of nature and of man. Both have a way protecting what is theirs. But I have strayed once again from the topic at hand. I was talking about Donald Trump vs The Pope. The Donald has backed off somewhat but I haven't heard an apology. I will say he has kept the conversation focused on him. With the next primary taking place in the Bible belt he has once again found something to shift the conversation. Many in the Bible belt are not Catholic so it may have been a calculated risk on his part. The public is fickle and sometimes quick to forget. Donald Trump is a master manipulator. There is nothing he won't use to his advantage. I'll say one thing, he does start a conversation !  

Bound and tied

 For those of us " in a relationship " as the modern jargon describes it, do you seek permission before doing things ? Now I don't necessarily mean asking for permission directly, like a child to a parent, but wishing to receive at least tacit approval before proceeding with certain actions. And if you do, do you sometimes find it confining ? Do you need to consider your significant other in every decision ? Will you deny yourself something if your spouse/partner disapproves ? If that is the case what choices would you have made differently should you have been single ? Is that ever a consideration ?
 When we join " in a relationship " we form a team. Teams act in concert to accomplish goals. Should that take place in exclusion to personal goals ? Doesn't every team need a captain ? So just who is the Captain ? Traditionally it has been the male. At least in appearances it has been so. The old adage of behind every man there is a good woman pushing him forward, does hold some truth. I do think this changing somewhat in society today. Is that a result of the ladies earning more income outside of the home ? Or is it a result of the " equality "  of the sexes ? We are even seeing a " unisex " thing now. Who is the alpha there ? It does all hinge upon personality. It always has, but it is just more in the open. In the past it was based upon the perceived physical prowess of the man. Man could rule by brute force ! That is natures' way. Only the strong survive. Of course as we grow in intelligence, physical prowess becomes less a factor. Our ability to provide for the basics in life depend upon the earning of currency. Both sexes are equally as capable. That is why the disparity in wage between the sexes. Subconsciously the male still feels the need to be dominant in that regard, to be the primary provider.
 What I am asking is, do you feel as though you can act independently of your partner in certain areas ? If so what are those areas ? More importantly, how limited do you feel those choices are ?  Are they confining ? I do believe it is an area of contention in most relationships. In the beginning of that relationship the area is quite relaxed and your freedom to act relatively uninhibited. Then comes, the " ties that bind. " This expression comes from a hymn written by John Fawcett. I think the third verse is especially telling of his thoughts about this. Verse 3 :"  We share our mutual woes, Our mutual burdens bear, And often for each other flows, The sympathizing tear." What he is describing is empathy. Empathy is the tie that binds us to each other. When we begin to feel confined by that empathy, we begin to rebel. Isn't that really a lack of empathy ? When we get the perception that our partner lacks empathy, that is when we rebel. We fail to understand what the other persons' wants or needs are. We become concerned with our own. The fault lies in ourselves. Empathy lies in honest communication. It can not be experienced in any other fashion. Honest communication is often mistaken as confrontational and that is an issue. There are times when we must trust those " ties " to hold the team together. If those ties prove too weak a separation occurs. That doesn't mean they cannot be repaired. I have found it best not to apply too much strain all at once. But that comes from experience and patience. Even if the tie doesn't break it can " snap " back !

Where happiness lies

 It's all in the details. Any decorator will tell you that. That statement holds true in life as well. For that reason I feel you should examine your life often and closely. It is all too easy to gloss over the details or just plain ignore facts that may be problematic. In doing so you are selling a product that is less than what is represented. That product is you. All too often when others discover this, disappointment follows, that disappointment may lead to you being discarded. It is the fault of the product, not the consumer. Some will label this dishonesty and call you a fraud. If you knowingly practice such deceit that is an accurate statement. Attention to detail and self examination will go a long way to avoiding that.
 This self examination may take several forms. Quiet contemplation is one technique. Just turn off the television, radio and everything else. You don't need to concentrate on anything in particular, your mind will find what needs cleansing. The secret is to listen. I find reading a good book can have the same benefit. As the characters in the book confront whatever situation the author has placed them in, you begin to relate to that. Walking in another's shoes, so to speak, can be an enlightenment. For me, writing thoughts down may provide the examination. I have surprised myself on more than one occasion. It isn't always pleasant. It certainly is easier to talk or write about correct actions than to perform them daily. That is the detail I'm talking about. The details are the things that usually go unnoticed but provide the foundation for creation. A weak or unstable foundation will eventually disappoint or collapse entirely. We should pay particular attention to the details.
 I do think that we need to establish that foundation. In the modern jargon, just where are you coming from ? What values were you taught as a child ? I don't mean the ones you were told, but rather the ones that were practiced. Our parents or whoever raised us laid the first blocks. Did they practice what they preached ? What actions did they praise and punish ? Was it alright as long as you didn't get caught ? Or where you held to a higher standard ? It is a difficult thing to realize that perhaps your foundation isn't as stable as you thought it was. It is even more difficult to admit that you may have weakened that same foundation. Putting a batch on it to mask the underlining issue will not work in the long term. That is what I mean by just glossing over the details.
 If the details must be explained, they are probably not appreciated. That is to say, if I have to point them out to you, you probably didn't notice them. Learning to appreciate the details requires study. The actions behind those details is what is of importance. Those actions are usually patience, practice, and learning. The old adage, you can't rush quality, applies to life as well as construction. Our goal should be to live a life of quality. That is the finest accolade a person can receive. In the area where I was raised we had a simple description for that, " the finest kind. " A person that was genuine and true to their word would be of the finest kind. A person to emulate and admire. Each of us have many flaws, we are humans. We can correct those flaws if we become aware of them. Self discovery is the most effective method. Others will be quick to point them out, that is true. It really is in the details. Be patient with yourself and others. Each day is an opportunity for change. Each day is an opportunity for growth as well. Some days we just need to examine what we have already done. We should learn to appreciate the importance of the  details. That is where happiness lies.

Text or conversation

 I'm not a big fan of texting. That seems funny from someone that writes a blog every day. A blog is a text. But text and texting have taken on a whole different meaning over the years. It appears to me you text someone when you don't want to talk to them. I mean why else would you not just call them ? I don't get it, especially when you send multiple texts back and forth. Seems like a lot of effort to communicate.
 I will send a text when I feel the necessity to do so. It is like sending someone a postcard. I do it to just convey a short message that may or may not require a response. I do not expect an answer immediately. If I want a response I'll call you. You know the problem I have with texting ? It removes the emotion. Oh, they try inserting those emoticons and emoji's but they just don't cut it. I need to hear your voice to fully grasp the message. That is the subtlety of communication that is lost with this texting stuff. It also allows for a longer response time which isn't always a good thing. Are you checking to see if you have a " better " offer before agreeing to meet me ? Of course, this texting is also a semi permanent thing as well. I have seen these " texts " used in a court of law. This is what you said, here it is and it is confirmed by Ma Bell. Well, at least it is one of Ma Bells kids, Verizon, Sprint or some step child like One Talk.
 I do find it amusing that we have created all this technology, and wind up passing notes like we did during our school days. Be careful that the teacher or Mom doesn't intercept it. I hear they have some " application " that acts like disappearing ink, You send your note but it disappears in a few minutes. I don't remember the name of it but it is popular with the younger crowd. It is also the home of predators. The big advancement, if that is what you want to call it, is this ability to send pictures. The closest thing in my day was the polaroid. Expensive and taking a selfie was extremely difficult. Having to have another person did add a layer of oversight ! As long as you had a good friend you could be saved from making poor decisions. Notice they had to be a " good " friend. Having kids oversee their peers isn't a very reliable measure. That is the reason we hear so much about this problem !
 I do get annoyed when I am with someone and they start texting. No excuse me, I need to send a message, just thumbs on the phone texting while they pretend to be talking to you. Would you start writing a letter under the same conditions ? Hey, if you want to talk to someone else just say so ! Makes me feel like you are not really listening to what I have to say. If it is a text it can wait, can't it ? Or do you expect an immediate response to that text ? If you do, call them. That's my thinking on this anyway. If I feel the urgent need to text I will just say, excuse me for a minute, I need to send this text. I will include some excuse for doing so like " before I  forget. " If my phone rings while I am talking with you I will glance to see who it is. If I feel it is important I will say, excuse me I need to take this call.
 All this texting is distracting us from the present moment. We should be fully aware of the moment. If you are sending text messages your mind is somewhere in the future. Pay attention will ya ! Along with that there is a breakdown in communication. We are forgetting how to have an actual conversation. Conversation is more than speak and respond. A conversation is an exchange of ideas. Merely sending and receiving responses to questions or statements is not conversing. That action is a distillation. Like a postcard the object is to convey your message as briefly as possible. Brevity is not conducive to conversation. Abrupt responses can be misleading. Conversations involve thought. Some thoughts require explanation. Conversations involve the entire spectrum of human interaction. Thoughts, emotions and a degree of empathy. Difficult, if not impossible , to include in a text message. When those texts do include all of that they are called " letters " or " books. "
 I do have a rather small circle of friends. Perhaps that is why I do not feel the need to text as often as others. I simply give them a call. If they don't answer, I'll call back later. Leaving a message is like sending a text to me, only if it is very important. I feel obligated to respond to written correspondence like cards or letters. Maybe that is because I understand the effort it took to write them and then mail them. I feel like it is time you spent thinking about me and I should reciprocate. Funny I don't feel that way about a text message. There was a time when we devoted some time to answering our correspondence. When I was in the Navy writing letters home it was like time spent with whomever I was writing. Receiving those letters was like they were visiting. Text messages just seem impersonal to me, like a telegram. I never got one but I imagine that is how it would feel. Telegrams are not associated with good news. Is that the psychology behind this ? Could be. A few words - stop - a few more - stop.  Isn't that how a telegram went ? Maybe it is just that I don't like to stop talking. It is just a good an explanation as any.

Benefit and duty

 The creation of the desire to assimilate is the largest task of mankind. As long as there are differences, there will be conflict. Many are trying to co-exist where the action should be acceptance. The minority must assimilate to the majority. although that is the primary point of contention. To assimilate is to submit. To allow yourself to be absorbed by a foreign culture is to abandon the past. An action contrary to the " celebration " of heritage. The assimilation to a culture is the only way a society can be formed, or maintained.
 We are having growing pains in America as a result of this. It is further complicated by a shift in majority. The race that is the majority is being replaced. It is a cultural upheaval. It is predicted by some that by the year 2046 that race will no longer be in the majority. Troubling if you belong to the race, hopeful if you do not. Along with that is a redefining of the culture. This process has been likened to the melting pot, a fusion of races and culture. Like a melting pot the quantity of specific ingredients will naturally define the alloy. A new product is created. The new product must be tested to prove its' worth.
 To those of us born to the culture, those that have benefitted from that, are the most resistant to change. That is a natural thing. It is not a race thing, but a cultural thing. We speak of diversity but demand other cultures to assimilate to ours. That is only because we have found the formula we are using to be tried and true. The status quo must be maintained. In America, the trend has always been one of assimilation. The " foreigners " joining our society adopting our ways and customs. Now we are seeing a rebellion against that practice. Not only are those immigrants to our nation protesting that action, there are factions within the nation attempting to define their own separate culture. Perhaps that culture has always existed. For those that identify themselves as African American it has only been five generations since their enslavement ended in this society. The desire to assimilate to that society did not exist then and is resented to this day. Understandable ? Certainly. The real question is should a culture base itself upon that resentment ? The we against them mentality is being taught, promulgated and reinforced. Indeed an entire culture based upon " reparations " is being created. It is this ingredient added to the pot that is weakening the structure. How many generations are responsible for the actions of past ? That is the question of the majority.
 We are what we chose to become. It is not an abandonment of the past but a moving forward. You cannot live a productive life in continual conflict. You must find peace within yourself and with your fellow man. The formula for that is what is under contention today. What ingredients should be added or eliminated from the cultural melting pot. It is a struggle that began thousands of years ago. It shall ever be so, just as Abraham Lincoln pointed out, A nation divided against itself cannot stand. It was cultural differences that precipitated a civil war. And what is civics ? The rights and duties of citizenship in order to maintain that civilization. It is the duty of the citizen to assimilate to the civilization. This applies to those born into the society as well as those wishing to join.  To do otherwise is to create division. One should not expect to enjoy the benefits of citizenship without complying with the demands that citizenship incurs.

a reaffirmation

 We live by emotions, not by words. Our thoughts and beliefs drive our actions, but emotion rules. This does vary by individual but I believe it is a fair assessment. The good writer tries to convey emotions to support his ideas. The explaining of why is the goal. There are some subjects that there are no words for. That is when we hear, this doesn't make sense. This usually happens following  tragic events, seldom after a fortunate one. Finding a reason for injury or misfortune is a very difficult thing. Our thoughts and beliefs drive our actions and when those thoughts or beliefs fail us we can formulate an explanation. The bottom line is living with the emotions. Anger and despair are the common emotions following a tragic event. Some seek retribution while others merely question why, and mourn. That feeling of helplessness is the worst feeling of all. When we are powerless to provide any answer whatsoever, even one to satisfy ourselves. For the pious that is the time they question their faith. Those are the times when we have to " give it up " to our God. It is beyond human comprehension.
 This idea is portrayed by the character Spock in the Star Trek series. Logic should rule our actions is the message there. But Spock is half human and has emotions that he attempts to control. Emotions can cause bad decision making. The action taken doesn't make sense. Did the action make sense to the one performing that action ? Yes, you would have to say it did. But the person is mentally unstable and therefore unable to make sense. Using that logic, anyone that doesn't empathize with your own thoughts or beliefs are unstable individuals. So, just how do we define the boundaries ? There are two methods employed, sometimes in combination, sometimes not. First and foremost there are what we call the " natural laws " of man. They are best described by the words, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. They describe our rights as humans and define a boundary of minimum standards of conduct. And then there are the laws of man. These laws are prescribed by a society and the structure of that society. The laws are designed to influence our emotional responses. This is done in the form of punishment for incorrect actions.
 It was in our Declaration that our society first expressed this idea of natural laws. The Constitution defined the method and scope of government. You might call it the logic behind the emotion. We mustn't forget it was emotions that drove the action that lead to that Declaration. It was the perceived injustice of another government that motivated these emotions. We used the belief that each man is equal and free to seek his own way in the world as the foundation for that declaration. We determined to establish our own society, define our own boundaries for living within that society, and the consequences of noncompliance. The premise that each citizen was to act in a moral and ethical fashion, as determined by the Christian tradition, was not written into those documents for a very simple reason. It was a universally accepted concept. The words written were to be taken in their literal sense.
 "When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation." -  This comes before the famous lines holding these truths to be self evident, that all men are endowed by their creator. You know the rest. And there it is, written in plain enough English that we can all understand their thoughts. We can empathize with the emotions. The laws of Nature and the Laws of Natures God. I don't believe there is any question about what God they felt was natures God. It was the Christian God although they did recognize that others may hold different views and went on later to express that those folks should be free to exercise their beliefs within the laws established.
 We live by emotions , not by words. It was emotion that drove the founding fathers to that declaration. The declaration was based in faith. We cannot justify faith with logic. If our emotions are sustained by just actions, just results will follow as a natural consequence. Words alone cannot sustain us. Words are subject to interpretation. It is faith alone that sustains mans' actions. As Jefferson stated, we should " declare the causes which impel them to separation " and then went on to say, " We hold these truths to be self evident. " As I watch the news and see the current events I can not help but think about these things. Do we need another revolution ? No, what is required is a reaffirmation of the faith that inspired a nation.

Golden Years and Senior Moments

 Getting old is irritating. Most of the irritation comes from the younger crowd. When they start to offer advice and telling you, you are wrong Things that we have known for longer than they have been alive ! Now that's irritating. It is especially irritating when they begin to preach about moral and ethical behavior. You know that isn't what you taught them. That isn't how they were raised. Just where did they learn that nonsense ? Probably hanging out with the wrong crowd and watching the wrong movies. Haven't heard much about reading books of substance. Harry Potter or some other such foolishness. Apparently they haven't been reading the Bible much. Reminds me of a Hank Williams song, Dust on the Bible. The first verse goes like this,                                                            " I went into a home one day just to see some friends of mine
Of all their books and magazines, not a Bible could I find
I asked them for the Bible when they brought it, what a shame
For the dust was covered o'er it, not a fingerprint was plain "
 A lot of the knowledge I have gained I got from that book and then they want to say they know better, irritating. Then they start sending " text messages " on some Instagram thing and talking to someone named Siri ! Irritating ! Can't you just call them on the phone and why does Siri need to be involved. They get tattoos everywhere and use language that would embarrass a sailor ! They try to tell me it is art and everybody uses that language. Irritating.
 Even setting all that aside there is the medical conditions that come with aging. Most of those are just irritating. Hair turns grey and begins to fall out. Joints begin to creak and squeak. The television ads keep telling you about all the " supplements " you probably need to take. Golden years and senior moments, just irritating ! And then they want to know why you are so grouchy. Is it any wonder ? Darn kids irritate you near to death and then complain you are grouchy.  Or the more irritating dismissal of your opinion. You're too old to have any opinion, you're outdated !
The Fifth Commandment says: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you  These youngsters need to read that passage carefully. It irritates me when they don't do that.
 Yup, this getting older is an irritation alright and I don't think there is a potion or cream for it. Maybe that medical marijuana the youngsters are so fond of would help. Problem is I have enough senior moments as it is, smoking that stuff would only make it worse. Far out man. My generation advocated for sex, drugs, and rock and roll. A vast majority of the musicians died from that combination. There was a song popular back in the day, where have all the flowers gone, my question is, where have all the old hippies gone ? Well, we're around just irritated most of the time.

Thoughts on grieving

 In Abingdon Maryland just the other day two police officers were tragically slain. The man doing the shooting was another nut job. The investigation continues into the why. It will be speculation in the end, a good guess no more, as the man was shot dead. These things happen and we question why, that is natural and normal. These things have always happened and no doubt will continue. There is no explanation. All one can really do is offer their prayers and condolences.
 No doubt the gun control advocates will jump on this incident as another reason to tighten regulations. In this case the gun was purchased legally. There is much discussion about his past and his violent tendencies. He did have two outstanding warrants for his arrest. Some are saying he was mentally ill. There are those that will say anyone having any sort of run in with the law should be denied their " right " to own a gun. It is probably the same folks that passed legislation allowing felons to vote here in Maryland. They have, after all, paid their debt and should be able to vote. Well, I'm certain anyone committing a felony is deeply concerned about performing their civic duty ! I'm as equally certain they will never offend again.
 There has been a tremendous outpouring of support. Memorials are popping up everywhere and I understand a vigil was held. Perhaps the family members will take some solace in that. I can not presume to have an inkling of what they must feel. Their loved ones were in law enforcement, a hazardous occupation, and their worst fears were realized. Tragic is the only word to describe that. I pray that they do. I can't help but think that maybe all those memorials and a vigil actually adds to the sorrow. Memorials are to serve as a reminder. I would think those affected need no reminder. When their loved one no longer comes through the door, or answers that phone call , they know. The news coverage is relentless. Interviews with the family are a part of that news coverage. Just what do they expect those folks to say ? Are all our good intentions adding to the tragedy ? I see memorials on the side of the road. I do not know who was killed there, but I feel sorrow. I always think, why would you do that ? I wouldn't want to drive by that memorial and be reminded. But grief, and the coping with it is a personal thing. Maybe they take comfort in that I just don't know.
 For me grief is a personal thing. A public display is not necessary. In some ways it strikes me as insecure. It is more of a " celebration " rather than supplication. We do not hold funerals anymore either, we have celebrations of life. I personally feel no need to publically display my sorrow. It goes without showing that I mourn the loss of my loved ones and indeed, the loss of any life. These memorials and vigils just come off more as a spectacle than anything else.
 All of this stems from my personal beliefs. I am well aware of that. Church, and the act of worship,  is a personal thing to me. I go to the house of God as a guest. He has invited me in. I should behave in an appropriate fashion. I go in supplication before my God asking for his guidance and mercy. It strikes me as presumptuous to have a party or celebration beforehand. Truly I should just be grateful for whatever I receive. They even have rules about " excessive celebration " in football and I think that should apply to church as well. Piety is best displayed with decorum. The proper proprieties, at all times. Addressing my God is a formal affair. So too, is death. Death is a finality and should be considered as such. It is solemn. No amount of flowers or lighted candles will negate that sorrow, they just add to it.  I do not need to show you or anyone else how much I grieve. I do not require any validation in that regard.
 Of course all of that is just my personal feelings. I hold no bad thoughts about those that wish to create those memorials or hold those vigils. Each of us must cope in our own way. I am only concerned when these well meaning memorials and gatherings incite further actions. Emotions are nothing to play around with. I question the wisdom of teaching our children that we should hold these vigils almost as a form of protest against death. Death will come regardless. Should we erect memorials for each persons passing ? Yes, a simple headstone or marker is an appropriate memorial. Over the years the size of those stones reflected the status of the person in life. The reality is we are all equal in death. I come from old stock. My ancestors were raised in the stoic ways of the New Englanders. That was the social norm. Those values are changing that cannot be denied. It is ever so, this evolving of social norms and customs. Each generation adding or subtracting from that.
I hope to make my passing with dignity. I wish no great fanfare following that. For me, please no bumper stickers in memoriam, no tattoos , and no vigil with lighted candles. Come visit me, speak softly, and I will hear your heart. Mourn briefly and love forever. Think of me not as a " candle in the wind " but rather as a bright light that shone for a while. Like a lighthouse my light will return to guide you whenever you feel the need. All that is necessary is sincerity of belief. And I believe, it'll be alright. 

LIsten closely

 Politics, even though we all know better is a topic best left alone. Still, working at the store many people bring up the subject. I generally just smile and agree. I try to remain noncommittal. I do not do that because I don't have opinions, I most certainly do, but I haven't the time or inclination to try to explain. It is my belief that many folks just don't understand how things work. There only hear what they want to hear and fail to consider the consequences. I have some experience to back up that statement, I was, at one time, a Navy recruiter. And no, I didn't lie to anyone to get them to join. The boys failed to hear the message and didn't consider the consequences of their decision. That is why when you are 17 you need Mom and Dads permission. They tend to listen more closely to what is being said. It is a psychological thing. We tend to hear what it is we want to hear. If you ask me, can I fly a jet in the Navy my response would be, yes, if you qualify you can fly a jet in the Navy. Most don't hear, if you qualify, in their mind they already have.
 A question I hear a lot these days is about Donald Trump. Many wonder how he can be so popular ?How does he get away with saying the things he does ? The answer is really a simple one. He is not a career politician. He can say and do as he wishes because it is not his career ! If he loses all that is lost is ego and pride. He has both in abundance, most think too much. The point is, his livelihood is not dependent upon his success or failure in this venture. To him, it is just a business proposal. He is no different than a lot of us non-politicians. Many of us believe we could do a better job running the country than the candidates being offered. Well there is one major difference, he is filthy rich ! He has the money to massage his own ego. Donald Trump, love him or hate is a master manipulator and master of self promotion. It is as simple as that. He says what a lot of Americans ae thinking. I don't believe that he speaks for the conscience of most Americans however. We often say and think things we don't really mean when we are angry. Feels good to say though ! Donald Trump, the angry patriot. Hard to see him that way isn't it ? I can't support him for a basic reason. The President of the United States is our representative to the world. It does require one trait that the Donald is sorely lacking, diplomacy. Nothing diplomatic about him. He is a bully, that is his primary tactic. I do entertain this idea. If we need someone to run the business of government, perhaps what we need is a businessman. Politicians like to talk about it, a businessman gets it done.
 I also hear a lot about Bernie Sanders. Feel the Bern. The self described Democratic Socialist. Most of his supporters can't define just what that is. Most can't explain what socialism is, let alone a new version called Democratic. Those folks still believe we live in a Democracy ! They are unaware of what form of government we have had for the last two and forty years ! Not that Bernie doesn't have some wonderful ideas. But I would say we all do when we are spending other peoples money ! Trust me I can tell you what to do with your money and it will be better than what you are currently doing. If my home doesn't look like yours and you feel it is decreasing the market value of yours, pay to fix mine up ! That will solve the problem nicely. This " redistribution " of wealth is nothing more than legalized robbery. It is " taxation with representation " that is what Democratic Socialism really is. To clarify, Socialism : any of various social systems based on shared or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods :  I, for one, am not willing to surrender my independence for free anything. And the whole concept of anything being free is just nonsense anyway. Raise my pay and tax me more is not making things free ! Taking from those that earn more and giving to those unwilling to work is not equitable. Margret Thatcher said it best, " The problem with Socialism is eventually you run out of other peoples money. " Yeah, feel the Bern. The only one getting burned is the American taxpayer in that scenario.
 But all of this is just in the way of explanation. These are my thoughts and my opinion. You are certainly entitled to yours. That is the beauty of this Republic. We do have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. I don't have a right to take yours though. I also do not have to finance you. Each of us have a duty to government. We ARE the people ! We elect our representatives. That does not mean we then surrender all future decisions to those same representatives. We must remain involved and informed. The right to vote is an obligation as well. You owe it to your children, and your children's children. The preservation of the Republic is at hand with each election cycle. See you at the polls.
 I would leave you with this advice. Listen closely to what is being said. Don't become excited when hearing what you want to hear. Listen. Had some join the Navy and commit four years of their lives for what they " thought " they heard. What followed was disappointment and anger. More than that is at stake here, an entire Republic depends upon it. .
 

Just actions

 I hear the sales pitch al the time. You need this or that. The line most frequently used, that annoys me he most is, you deserve this ! You deserve a new car, a new house, a new smile and a new life ! Whatever product they are advertising, you deserve it. In other words, you are entitled. But, are you really ? Just what is it that you are entitled to ? Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That is the three things the founding fathers enumerated as being our basic right, our entitlement as human beings. We are entitled to life. No one has the right to kill us. Liberty is a bit more difficult to understand. Liberty is our ability to live free within a society without excessive or oppressive government intervention. Finally we have the right to pursue happiness. It is the definition of happiness that most often gets confused as it applies to the Constitution. They were not talking about just making yourself happy. The idea was to be happy you had to contribute to the society in a positive fashion. Happiness comes from just actions. That is what Jefferson, Monroe and others all felt. These men were all idealist in a fashion. You had to be to start a revolution.
 But back to those commercials. " You deserve this. " It is nothing more than an extension of this entitlement attitude that is prevalent today. Because you deserve it, you don't have to earn it. If it something you wish to purchase but can't afford, you deserve it anyway. No problem, I'll finance it for you ! That way you can earn it a little at a time. Then the effort lies in " keeping " your " entitlement. " What is lost in that statement is, an entitlement is something you are entitled to, without encumbrances. Having to pay back that loan is most definitely an encumbrance. This is becoming a way of life in America. Fact is, our society is now becoming based solely on those encumbrances. Our pursuit of happiness is pursuing the funds to pay for what we feel we are entitled to ( deserve to have ). All those advertisers contribute to that mentality with the hawking of their wares. We hear it almost 24/7. You deserve it ! And just who is the judge of whether you deserve that ? You are. Isn't that convenient. It is better than the alternative however, having someone else decide. And that is the premise of socialism. Let the government decide what I need or deserve to have. It is that, that our founding fathers were well aware of, and the reason for our constitutional republic. We do have a right to the pursuit of happiness as unencumbered from government intervention as possible. It does hinge upon one thing, the citizen. The citizen is required to assume personal responsibility for their actions within the society. The government does not legislate your happiness.
 The US Constitution lays it out nicely; "We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America".
That sums it right up doesn't it ? Notice it says, to secure the blessings of liberty. And liberty is what ? To live free within the society, as a productive member of that society, unencumbered by the government. That is one of the three things you are entitled to by a divine right. Everything else you must earn through your own efforts. Just actions bring true happiness is the moral in all of this. Attempting to finance happiness is pure folly. Let us not forfeit our " happiness " for an entitlement.

The Lessons of Lent

 Today is the first day of Lent. As a child growing up I was told I had to give something up for lent. The usual thing was candy. Then, come Easter morning, the bunny arrived and brought all that candy That tradition still survives in my house and with the grandchildren. It isn't taken quite as seriously as it was in past years. I believe that is the normal course of things. When we get older we find more reasons for not " giving up " things we enjoy. We don't necessarily forget the lessons that we were taught, we just find ways to justify not doing that.
 What was that lesson ? Without writing a sermon about it I will just say it was about sacrifice. Jesus gave his life for me, the least I can do is give up candy for him. That wouldn't guarantee my entry to heaven, but it was a sort of toll to be paid. I learned that by giving up things you liked,  you will gain even better things in the end. That basket full of candy ! The lesson was doing the things that just make you happy are not always the best. You had to do the things that are right. If you are to live your life, following Christ, you must also bear that cross. In reality it was more of a test of willpower than anything else. Willpower and honesty. Could you resist that candy ? And sneaking a piece when no one was looking wasn't an option, God sees everything. You can't cheat God ! You have to do the things that are right, even when no one is looking. Those were those lessons.
 Easter, for me, will always be associated with getting new church clothes as well. I always got new shoes, shirt and pants. Most years I got a new suit jacket too. You had to look your very best for Easter Sunday services. Jesus was risen and you were going to meet him. A new life is beginning. I don't think I really understood all of that, but Mom was excited about it so I was too. Easter was a big deal. Not as big as Christmas but it was close. New clothes and candy and maybe a toy or two thrown in there.
 Today, being Ash Wednesday, I remember seeing the Catholics with those ashes smeared on their foreheads. Seemed to me I saw that a lot. In more recent years I have seen fewer and fewer. I wonder if there are just fewer Catholics around these parts, or is that tradition passing into history ? I don't have any plans on giving anything up. It is not a requirement in the Christian faith. The season of Lent is supposed to be a period of abstinence, penance, and reflection. We should live our whole life in that matter, but I'll leave that to the Preacher to instill upon you. I'm not sure what the Grandkids are doing. Last year Mark gave up Kit Kats, Morgan didn't participate. All I remember is giving something up and it lasted for a few days. The lesson was taught and we were reminded. Our lives were a bit more surrounded by the Church calendar back then. Palm Sunday is next. The season of Epiphany has ended and Lent has begun. We have received much, let us reflect upon that gift. 

Conscription Equality

 The question was asked of me by my grandson, I think he heard it on the radio, should women have to register for the draft ? It is something I really hadn't given any thought to. I read just a while back that the government will now allow women in a combat role. My first response was, sure, why not ? We spoke about it for a while and moved on. The question has lingered in my thoughts. My answer has not changed, I would vote, Yes. In our striving to become " gender neutral " in all things I can not answer otherwise. The thing I take issue with is the whole premise of gender neutrality. I can't seem to get past a basic observation of mine, boys and girls are different ! They are different physically, and in some ways emotionally. And neither of those qualities has to do with intelligence so don't go getting upset about that. I'm just pointing out a few facts. Are there exceptions and aberrations ? Well of course there are.
 I am surprised it has taken this long for this issue to come up. Equality has been at the forefront for quite a long time now. Would requiring women to register for the draft provide that government endorsement/acknowledgement that some feminists seek ? Is allowing women to serve, in all capacities, enough ? Or is the only way imposing the same requirement upon our young women as we require of our young men the only way ? True equality answers that question.
 No one has been drafted in the United States since 1973. No one had to register from '73 to '80. Then President Carter required males to again register for the draft, just in case. The thinking being it would be a good thing to know the numbers available should that need arise. In 1987 it became necessary to have a social security number assigned to a child at birth. That was for tax reasons but it also provides an enumeration of birth and gender. One I would think that is more complete than one done so voluntarily without a reward. Being able to claim that child on the parents tax form is the benefit, see my point ? Anyone born in 1987 would now be 28 years old. So the question now becomes do we really need a separate enumeration for a conscription ? I would think that the social security database would suffice. But will the federal government draft women ? In the past the reasoning was that women could not serve in a combat role and therefore the drafting of women was unnecessary. You could only conclude that it is now necessary, unless we are going to make exceptions based only on gender. That is a contradiction to the whole point. If the ladies are now going to be required to register, those born in 1987 and after would have to be included. They would then fall under the same rules as the men. It is a felony to not register ! Jail time and a fine can be the result of failure to register for the draft. No one has ever been prosecuted however.
 Now having given this some thought I can only reach the same conclusion as my original thought, why not. Why are we even discussing this ? In our " gender neutral " thinking equality should be unquestioned. What consideration should be afforded to females that is not afforded to males ? Careful, mustn't appear chauvinist in your responses. Moms could be drafted and Dad left home to care for the children. Men are just as capable of housekeeping as women, right ? Men can cook, clean, and raise children. Women can serve in combat roles. I admit it is a different view that I am used to. Call it progress. That is what we label anything we wish to change. Many other countries have women serving and have done so for years. Of course, this is America. I like to think we do things a little differently and a little better than most others. Call it patriotic. Label it bias. Doesn't really matter. Sign'em up !

Cycle of sports

 I stayed up to watch the big game and boy am I dragging this morning. We hosted a party and it was a wild time. Stayed up to near eleven. There was pizza, chicken wings, cheese and crackers, sausage balls , desert cups and Doritos. There was probably more, I'm telling you it was decadent. I'm paying the price now, gastronomically and with lack of sleep. The thing is, I'd do it all again. This " road to hell " is a superhighway ! I drank several cans of soda as well.
 I must say that Lady GaGa  did a wonderful job with the National Anthem. I knew that she could really sing as I have heard her do a duet with Tony Bennett. Her makeup choices seemed a little strange but all in all I would say she was very conservative. The choir doing America the Beautiful didn't impress me much with that arrangement. But, in all fairness, I do prefer they stick to the tradition renditions, the way it was composed. And , as usual, more folks had their hands over their hearts for that song than they did the National Anthem. That is something that always sticks in my craw ! The Star Spangled Banner is the National Anthem ! To honor that we place our right hand over our left breast and stand at attention. If you are in the military you stand at attention, face the flag and hold your salute for the duration of the anthem. Get it right people ! Don't they teach that in school anymore ? It is citizenship 101 !
 Then we have the half time show. Cold Play ? Heard of them but no idea what songs they sing. I noticed the lead singer seemed to be fascinated with squatting down while he sang. At one point he even encourages the crowd to squat down ! Guess he's ducking for some reason. Beyoncé shows up, wearing what seems to be the only outfit she owns. At least that is all I've ever seen her in. Reminds me a " Bunny " outfit, sans tail and ears. When she got close to Bruno Mars she dwarfed him. Apparently Bruno is a bit of a misnomer for him, but who am I to judge ? The half time show wasn't my cup of tea but it is all about the money. I think they wasted it this time.
 Oh, yeah, they played football as well. The game gets kinda lost in all the hoopla. The Broncos win. Peyton Manning gets his 200th win and second Super bowl ring ! Were you surprised ?After the game he was plugging for Budweiser beer and PaPa johns pizza, Cam Newton will be back next year. I don't really care one way of the other. They were showing off some of the new technology they use to officiate and control the game. I just wonder how much longer they are going to allow the players to actually tackle one another. At least one player was in the locker room having failed the concussion protocol. Will Super Bowl 100 be flag football ? Don't think I'll be around for that game, I'll be sleeping. Well, the boys of spring will soon arrive. The cycle of sports will continue.

A soundtrack

 Each generation has its' music. I grew up in the rock and roll era. My father listened to country and western. My Mom ,although I don't remember her listening to music much, listened to what I think you would call popular music. Well, popular music for her that is, I'm not sure what she listened to as a kid. I thought about that as I was riding with my daughter in law and granddaughter going to a soccer game. The wife and I sitting in the back being chauffeured around. Feels good too ! Of course the driver controls the radio, that is an unwritten rule. Now Maria listens to a variety of styles, some I am familiar with and others, I'm just what ? Thankfully no one is listening to any rap ! No potty mouth music allowed !! As I rode along I began to think about when the music ended for me.

 Just the other day, February the third, marked what people of my generation would know as the day the music died. 3 Feb 1959. Bye, Bye, Miss American Pie. Don McLean chronicled that demise in 1971 the same year I graduated high school. For a long time I thought he was just singing about Buddy Holly and the Big Bopper, just folks I had heard stories about. Over the years I have come to gain a better understanding of just what he was writing about. He was writing about the death of America as it existed in the 1950's. Seems cliché to say so, but the fifties died in the sixties. The song was rather prophetic when you study the lyrics. But I'm going off the track, no pun intended,, skipping, I couldn't resist, that one. I listened to records growing up and later on tape.
 Music isn't necessarily a generational thing however. There are those that stay current, listening to the top forty or whatever billboard they use nowadays. For me I think I lost interest in the Disco ! Meaningless lyrics set to a dance beat. At least that is what I got out of that genre. A bunch of junk followed that. I began to listen to Dads' music, country and western. That is what he called it anyway, now it is just country. I discovered a love of George Jones, Merle Haggard, Hank, Willie and the boys. Even now though, country has started to go " bro " and I'm not liking that. Don McLean said Rock and Roll died that day and America with it. He was writing ten years after the event took place. Rock and Roll has been blamed for a lot of things. It is that " Devil " music after all. Very tame stuff compared to what they sing about today and the lyrics can't even be printed without an appropriate warning label !
 I do think that most of us find a place we are comfortable with in our music. I also think that many of us are closet listeners. The music I like to listen to with my headphones on, in another world. is different than what I put on the radio. Why is that ? It is alright to acknowledge you enjoy a specific genre but playing it out load is another matter altogether. I think maybe our music, the soundtrack we live to, does get boiled down to the top forty or so. We all have a playlist for different situations. Life isn't always a party but it does require music. When I'm feeling pensive the " Hag " always has a song and when I'm feeling like a party SRV can bring the tunes. Speaking of the " Hag " he asked a question, " are the good times really over for good ? " He was talking about America as well. Waylon Jennings sang, " My heroes have always been cowboys " a song written by Sharon Vaughn. It is another one of those songs that tell a moral tale. Those songs tell of the passing of time. George Jones singing, " he stopped loving her today " is the quintessential ballad of love and love lost. I wonder what the kids of today will discover and hold onto for their soundtrack. In 1971 Carol King released her Tapestry album. I don't remember too many after that. Although not the big hit off that album and very few lyrics, Home Again, is the song that really touches me.
 So, what about you ? Are you still listening to the songs of your youth or have you stayed current ? I am in no way current. Artists and songs are a mystery to me after about 1980 or so. Disco killed the music for me ! The last band I got a little excited about was the Zac Brown band. They have failed to hold my interest. These " modern " cowboys are just ridiculous in my opinion. Make up your mind, country or rap ! Ain't no wonder so many people are confused ! Barbara Mandrel was country when country wasn't cool. Nothing confusing about that. Do these songwriters of today actually write about anything ? Guess I'll never know and probably don't want to.  

Common sense explained.

 I have seen the ads for those programs to increase your neuroplasticity. Well, not to increase it per se,  but to exercise it. It seems scientists have decided you can teach an old dog new tricks.  The dog just has to be willing to learn. With exercise you can remember more of what you already know and store more information as well. This exercise can be accomplished by playing games, just like when you were young. All you need to do is read, practice and repeat. In other words, switch off auto pilot and think about things ! I can see the need for that in todays' world alright. Seems like a lot of folks just do for the moment without any thought for the future. They see the task at hand, accomplish that task in any manner they can, and tackle the next task. The most perplexing thing I observe about these folks is their inability to see the consequence of the first action they have taken. Like the proverbial person painting themselves in the corner, they just don't see ahead. I guess their neuroplasticity isn't so plastic ! Either that or the old memory banks are disconnected. You just did that same task yesterday and today I have to teach you to do it all over again ! It is like it was a surprise to you.
 This neuroplasticity is the brains ability to form new connections. As we age or become injured in some fashion some connections may be lost. That is when we can not do what we used to do or remember things as well. The answer is, if at first you don't succeed, try, try, again. Just how that became a science I have no explanation for. It is an age old axiom and holds true. If you really want to do something you can. Just because you used to do that, and can no longer do it, doesn't mean you can't do it again. You just need to keep trying. Yes there are physical limitations on your ability. Natural ability and age figure into that. You can practice and improve your performance. If you use your brain you can figure out a way to accomplish the task.
 Those ads imply that you can increase your intelligence. That is not true. You are who you are. I believe you are born with an intelligence level. It is your desire to reach that potential that is measured on those tests. Do some folks have more connections in their brains than others ? That is what scientists are studying I think. We still don't really understand how the brain works. We understand what makes it not function though. A lack of blood flow, physical damage and a lack of exercise all impact the brain in a negative fashion. Neuroplasticity seeks to exercise the brain. The thinking is by exposing the brain to new challenges we will force new connections. That is learning.  Makes sense to me. When we were children that is what we did. Well at least until we became teenagers and " knew it all. "  Some folks never recover from that and go the rest of there life convinced they do " know it all. "
 As I watched those ads for neuroplasticity I couldn't help but think about this. An entire science has now been created around that old axiom, if at first you don't exceed, try, try again. Shouldn't that be common sense ? Makes me wonder about the neuroplasticity of the scientists behind this. I have another axiom for their consideration, the more you know, the less you think you know. Today I'm convinced, I don't know a thing. Do we need science to prove common sense ? Can it be explained ? 

The need to vote

 Are we seeing the end of the American republic ? Is the supreme power still held by the people; jointly; with an elected president ? I do not think it is unreasonable to say the politicians hold the power in this country now. Yes, the electorate places those politicians in office and keeps them there. Yes, the electorate can remove those that prove undesirable from those offices. What I am seeing however is those same politicians wielding their power to retain office and making promises. I see an electorate that is selling out their vote in exchange for more government. Are we voting out the republic ? When asked what type of government the continental congress had given America Ben Franklin responded, " a Republic, if we can but yet keep it. " A couple hundred years later and I believe the republic is in danger.
 What is the thing about a Republic ? Why is it different from a democracy ? A democracy is a system of government by the whole population or the eligible citizens of that state. The major difference is a republic requires more of a consensus from the electorate then a simple majority. The democratic principle is a simple majority, 51 beats 49. In a republic typically you need 75 to gain that victory. The reason for that is a simple one, it is a far more representative poll of the desires of the population. Two thirds must agree. With that democracy you can have nearly half the population in opposition ! And it is that situation I see our country in right now. Call it political correctness or call it enlightened, call it whatever you want, but we do not want to make a firm decision about anything anymore ! That is why we resort to that simple majority.
 The lowest members of society, those with no wealth and no power are being made dependent upon the government. Then those in power in that same government can begin to control that electorate. It is not always by the withholding of benefits, although that is the primary threat, it is also through the promise of more. Those in power are not talking about taking their own funds for redistribution, they are talking about taking the funds of everyone else. Have you heard a single candidate, from either party, talk about reducing the salary of the President or any other government official ? Have you heard about any reduction  in their benefits ? No and the reason is a simple one as well. Power. We have a congress that votes itself a raise ! Anyone ever ask you to vote on that ? No. And the reason there is a simple one as well. They would never get one. That is because everyone else already makes enough money, but I never do ! In the original model those politicians, Senators and Representatives , were not paid positions. There were elected to perform the function of government gratis. Up until 1815 those officials only received per diem while they were actually in session. After that they began receiving a salary of 1500 dollars a year. Of course they were then handed the checkbook and could write themselves a raise. Currently the least they receive is 174,000 dollars plus benefits. Not a bad raise over the last two hundred years wouldn't you say ? One hundred and sixteen thousand per cent ! I wonder if two thirds of the electorate would vote for that ?
 Is it a coincidence that what is taught in our schools is that we live in a democracy ? Majority rules ! That is the narrative isn't it ? Yes but it is not the whole truth. We wouldn't want too many to be aware of that. We will reserve that privilege to the educated elite. It is much better to just convince the general public that fifty one people want it compared to forty nine so the fifty one wins ! That way we don't have to bother with further discussion or, heaven forbid, compromise ! We can just continue to push the agenda. The removal of the republic is that agenda.
 In order to restore the republic I believe we need to begin with one thing. Let us all agree that we are Americans. We are not hyphenated ! If we can not even reach a two thirds agreement that we are all Americans how can we reasonable believe we can retain the republic ? Shall we just abandon that ? A republic require a two thirds majority to be in agreement. You can not achieve that by having a thousand splinters in the society. Yes, one third of the population may not be in agreement that is unavoidable. Someone is going to be " offended. " The thing that made America great was that two thirds majority. It is still achievable, I believe that. We just need to decide upon that once again. The first time we simply made a declaration ! The British weren't happy about that. We can make that declaration again ! We the People, the electorate. We can be that two thirds and override the career politicians. That is why we need to vote !

Trust me

 I find it interesting that the President and others refer to Muslim-Americans. I don't hear anything about Protestant-Americans, Catholic-Americans or Jewish-Americans. Are there no Buddhist-Americans ? Wonder why that is ? Could it be because no other religious group, and Muslim is a religion not a country or region, posses a threat to western society. Why would this " religion of peace " be singled out for a special classification " Muslim American ? " Think about that. We have African-Americans. They claim a national identity with Africa and African nations. Of course there are many other, Italians, Poles, Irish, and the list goes on. Only one is identified with a religion however. The reason is a simple one but misunderstood by many. It is because Muslim is more than a religious belief, it is a complete ideology. And furthermore it is stark contrast to our own. In fact it is in contrast to every other one in the world ! It is like oil and water. The two will not mix. One group will have to assimilate to the other. Changes will have to occur.
 Now I'm not saying that all Muslim-Americans are terrorists. I am not saying that all that identify themselves with that religion follow the teachings of that religion precisely. We all have our shortcomings. What I am saying is that it is the teachings of their Prophet that trouble the rest of us. I am amazed at the number of non-Muslims that are either completely ignorant of those teachings or refuse to acknowledge just what they say. I think it only prudent to inform yourself. I also think it prudent and wise to believe those that claim adherence to those same teachings. If I tell you I am a Christian, I would expect you to believe that I believe in Christ and his teachings. If I tell you I am a Muslim, I would expect you to believe that I believe what the prophet Mohamed taught. Only seems reasonable to me. This attitude of, they [sic] Muslims don't believe the bad stuff is just ridiculous. Either you believe the words of your Prophet or you don't.
 I do believe that anyone would be foolish to base any trust in the idea that Muslims only believe the good parts, as defined by opposing religions, of their own prophet. It would be the same thing as me telling a Muslim I only believe the portions of the Bible that Mohamed approves. Right, and the check is in the mail. In our eagerness to avoid any sign of conflict we are now going to invite the wolf into the fold. After all, the Muslim-American wolf says he is peaceful. We will ignore the actions of the rest of the wolves and label them as " extremists . " What makes them extreme ? They are following the teachings of the Prophet Mohamed ! If that is the criteria for being an extremist I would certainly hope I would be labeled a Christian extremist ! I believe everything that Jesus said to be true. I believe if I were to follow his " law " exactly I would be living a perfect life. The reality is I am not and I am aware of my shortcomings. That is simple truth. Doesn't mean I shouldn't try. It also doesn't mean that I won't wake up tomorrow and have a epiphany. I may awaken and cast off all my worldly goods and needs and devote myself to my fellow man. To live my life in the purest fashion as instructed in my Bible. And if I did that what harm would be caused to others ? If a Muslim-American were to do that what harm would come to others ? Heads chopped off, fingers cut off and blowing something up seems like a reasonable expectation given the actions of those " extremists " that follow the book of Islam. That is several of their methods to obtain passage to heaven.
 I do grow weary of the discussion. I believe the answer lies plainly in sight. I am aware that many will label me as having Islamophobia. I prefer to think of it as being informed and duly concerned. I have no choice but to take you at your word. If you tell me that is what you believe, I have to believe that as well. If we utter so much as an offensive word or term we are called racists. On the other hand an entire nation of people that claim adherence to a book that espouses violence to achieve its' end goal of world domination we call Muslim-Americans an we are told not to be concerned about that. As if just tacking American on the end of it makes it alright. That it somehow acknowledges their " heritage " while being inclusive. The problem lies in the assimilation to our society which is in stark contrast to theirs. In order to assimilate to our society they will have to abandon the teachings of their Prophet. Are they willing to do that ? Doubt it, as I certainly won't abandon mine. See the problem yet ? My prophet teaches that I should allow you to live in peace. Their Prophet teaches that they should kill to convert the others to his version of peace. Diametrically opposed philosophies.
 I try hard to remain silent but I cannot. I believe the danger is a real one. Paranoid ? I don't think so. Cautious, prudent and wise is my view. You are entitled to your opinion.