dissent or common sense

    Dissent or common sense ? It seems the two are being confused on a regular basis these days. At least that is my observation. When I, or others state what should be common sense it becomes recognized as dissent. Take for instance all the illegals in the country. These folks have, for whatever reason, chosen to enter my country illegally. Reason and logic should tell you they have broken the law and are therefore criminals. But no, they are being called undocumented immigrants. I often point out if I robbed the bank, a criminal act, it wouldn't be considered an undocumented withdrawal ! No, that would get me labeled a criminal. Another example are those complaining about all the arrests for marijuana use and possession. Well those folks are breaking the law and the police are doing their job. Common sense says they should be arrested. When I point that out I am the voice of dissent. It shouldn't be illegal. I didn't address whether the law should exist or not, what I did address is what the law currently is.
 Another position I find myself at odds with is all this protesting. Yes, we have the right to peaceful assembly. That is the first amendment. That amendment does not give you the right to break the law, only to request redress from the law. Protesting does not mean lawlessness. I find myself in support of many things being protested but can not justify breaking the law. That just seems contrary to what you are doing. If we allow " crowds " to influence the enforcement of law, anarchy will follow. The police and other agencies are being labeled as the wrongdoers for enforcing the law. We can not allow mobs to rewrite laws as they see fit. Citizens have an obligation to the country. We must as citizens abide by the law of the land. In order to enjoy the " freedom " our nation provides we must pay a price. Surely everyone can agree that freedom isn't free. This isn't Burger King buttercup, you don't always get it your way.
 And one more thing, all this demanding of restitution for the past. You may feel enlightened and so very progressive but you know what ? You can't rewrite history. If you choose to be a victim, you will always remain one. The injustices of the past will not change the future. Only you can effect those changes. Using the past as a crutch will not get you very far. I hear many saying how poorly those in the past were treated. Yes, it happened. How far shall we go back ? Oh, the native Americans had their land invaded by the Europeans. Yup, and the Europeans were fleeing from what ? They didn't come here for the fun of it. So the real folks to blame are whom ? The ones that forced the Europeans to migrate, to become refugees in a foreign land. And then those refugees changed the land to suit themselves. Does that sound a bit familiar ? It should , the voice of reason is telling you that is happening right now. Ah, but then I am the voice of dissent.
 That is my rant for this day and one I expect will not be warmly welcomed. No matter I feel compelled to point out what I see as common sense and reason. I think many are sorely in need.

lacing up the cleats

 I went to watch a little buddy of mine play soccer yesterday. Oliver is four and just a friend, no relation. It has been a while since I saw him last and he didn't remember who I was. No matter, that is to be expected. He had his soccer gear on, complete with cleats. I didn't know they made soccer cleats that small ! Very cute. Anyway the warmup period was little more than organized chaos and the game about the same. The thing is it was all about having fun. At his age they call it " happy feet " and it is aptly named. Yes, they were encouraged to make a goal and I think everyone got that chance. Very difficult to get children to pay attention for more than thirty seconds or so at that age. Overall it was fun to watch.
 Oliver wasn't the only child to have cleats. It appears that the majority did. I really don't think the children were paying any attention to that and I really don't think it makes a difference. That will come later on. Parents were naturally encouraging their children to " play " the game. Interesting to watch how the kids react to that. Some went after the ball and tried to move it downfield. Others seemed disinterested in that altogether. If you were paying attention you could see the difference in abilities between those children. One little girl was a standout. She moved the ball and kicked it well, scoring a " goal " every time. Natural ability ? I'm certain others will bloom at a later time. I can remember watching my own grandson go through the various stages.
 I think it is a wonderful thing to have these " leagues " organized and open for all the kids. Yes, there is a fee associated with them and the cost of equipment for the players. I'm certain some do not play for that very reason. That is unfortunate but a part of life I suppose. I believe there are programs in place to help with those situations. Another part of me wonders if all this " organized " playtime isn't a detriment to social growth. What I mean is, if all their social activities are organized and monitored  is that preparing them for the real world ? Remember when you didn't get picked for the team ? There was a reason for that and it usually centered around your ability. You did have to learn to accept that rejection. Now, if you sign up, you make the team. Pay to play. Is that a good thing ? Perhaps it is, perhaps I think too much about these things. You still have to make the team at school. Could be this pay for play is the only avenue some will have to play an organized sport.
 What started me on this train of thought was the cleats. I'm certain the parents bought those cleats to properly outfit their child. I'm as equally certain it was done with the best of intentions for the safety and well being of the children. In doing so I think the child may be influenced. Not when they are too little to understand but later as they do begin to comprehend. Are we pushing the children to be more " professional " by the requirement of having the proper equipment ? Is that something that is being unintentionally taught ? Are we placing more emphasis on the equipment, training and professional aspect of the game rather than just having fun ? I know for myself my favorite games were always pick-up games. Maybe that was because I didn't meet the " professional " standards. I only played for fun. Yes, it was more fun to win but I learned to lose. Maybe I think this way because I never made the team. Fact is, I never tried. Watching from the sidelines is far easier. What if my parents had laced up the cleats ? Might be a different blog altogether. Could be I am watching progress. Progress can be unsettling when you begin to age. Maybe that is what I'm feeling.
  

deciphered

 I sat down and tried to think of how to arrange these symbols into something that you could decipher. In doing so I hope you will be entertained. Isn't that what writing is really all about ? It is certainly something we don't often give a thought to. Really it is an amazing thing. I can just arrange these symbols and elicit emotional responses from you. I could make you mad, sad, or happy. I can make you think or dismiss my thoughts as insignificant. These symbols can also inform or misinform.
 The most difficult part is getting you to interpret the symbols in the context of their usage. In other words, what I am really trying to say. Those words may indeed incite a response but the wrong one ! It happens more often than I would like. I can place the blame no where but on myself. I, and I alone am arranging the symbols. That is why I try to chose my vocabulary carefully. Each word does have a rather unique meaning in its' own context. Why else would we have so many ? It is the communication of " ideas " that cause the issues. I do tend to ramble on a bit every now and again in an effort to explain. There are times when I get lost in my own thoughts. It should be no surprise when I lose you ! Yet I am surprised when something I have written gets totally convoluted. Again, I take responsibility for that.
 I wonder if we are interpreting hieroglyphs in the context of their usage ? Do we really know what they meant ? I'd have to say based on my own experience, probably not. Were those ancient people just being sarcastic ! Might be. Take our language as an example. I've arranged these symbols in this certain order and it says, " Good Morning. " Is that a statement of fact or an opinion ? If I wish you a good morning what do I mean ? If I say the morning started out good does that imply the rest of the morning got worse ? You wouldn't know unless I tell you. It could be the morning started out good and got great ! That is what I am thinking about when reading whatever symbols you post. What do you mean ?
 This morning I really didn't have much on my mind to write about. I try not to bore you with the trivia of everyday life. I hope to be at least mildly entertaining. My writing also serves a form of therapy. I can get things off my chest as the saying goes. Often when I write the words I am thinking and read them back, I find it isn't what I really wanted to say. It is a " wait a minute " sort of thing. I think if we all could hear what we were saying before we said it, the world would be a kinder place. We need like a two second delay between thought and sound. Give us a moment to hear the more subtle message being sent. Emotion precedes thought ! Emotion does stimulate a response and it is often immediate. We are wise to delay our response to whatever that emotion incites, tempering our reaction with empathy and reason. I find my fingers hovering over this keyboard all too quick to strike. I make an effort not to do so, but fail in that attempt on occasion. Maybe a delay between thought and motor response would be equally as wise.
 So I hope you enjoyed deciphering these symbols. Take a moment to marvel at that ability. I can't imagine how it would be to not have that skill. It really is something that we take for granted. Fact is it is a skill learned and learned at an early age. If we so smart as to learn that when we were say five or so how can so many be so stupid ? Is that a rhetorical question or am I serious ?  Decipher that.

contrition

  As some of you may already be aware I became involved with WreathsAcrossAmerica. The purpose of this organization is to place a wreath on the grave of every veteran in the United States. This group has been around for a while now but has only started to be known in recent years. It is a non-profit. It is also used as a fundraiser. Don't ask me how that works, non-profit and fundraiser, but I just know I am selling the wreaths for fifteen dollars each and my group will receive five dollars for each wreath sold. I am representing the Greensboro historical society. So the veterans get their wreaths and we get five dollars. Sounds like we are making a profit but I guess the organization as a whole does not. Anyway I believe in full disclosure and present these facts in that spirit. Your group can donate the funds you would receive back to the organization to purchase even more wreaths. I haven't asked but don't think the Historical society would do that. I'll pose that question at the next meeting.
 I have purchased wreaths the last few years. I also went one year to help place those wreaths. I'm certain I will help place them this year. There has been an effort to identify the graves of all veterans interred in the Greensboro cemetery. There is no comprehensive list but it is my understanding significant progress has been made. I know that there are civil war veterans and I expect every war since. I make certain to place an American flag on the grave of a Colonel Comegy, civil war veteran, every Memorial day and Veterans day. I have never seen another flag or flower placed upon his stone and I assume his family is no longer in the area. I'm certain that happens quite frequently. I believe that will be even more common in future years. We do tend to move around a great deal more than in the past. More than likely I'll be the first Reichart in there ! Now I'm in no hurry to get that distinction but I saw that to illustrate my point.
 I went to their website to brush up on the information. There was a lady giving a speech there. She says, " we all die twice, when we take our last breath and when our name is spoken for the last time. " I take no credit for it being my original thought or idea but I have always said, you are alive as long as your name is spoken. I probably heard or read that somewhere. I was surprised to hear it though. The sentiment is exactly the same. She goes on to say that it is requested the name of the veteran be spoken out loud when the wreath is placed. That, accompanied by a thank you for your service. A symbolic gesture and one I believe in. I will be certain to do just that ! I have more reading to do to become more informed on specific policy and procedures.
 I'm not really much of a cause guy. This one however hits me where I live. It is not so much that I am a veteran but I can't help but think of the vets lost. Yes, men die in war and that is to be expected. We all pray it isn't us or someone we love. I seem to be blessed with incredible luck in that regard. I have spent many hours researching my family tree. No one, not one, to the best of knowledge, in my family has ever been killed in war. Many have served and in combat theaters and all returned. This cause is to remember all veterans. Yes, we have Veterans day to celebrate them as well. I understand that. The placing of a wreath, for Christmas is another symbolic gesture of our respect. Some would say it is a Christian gesture, it being a Christian holiday. Yes, I get that but I make no distinction in religious beliefs in the placing of those wreaths. The gesture is not a confirmation of their beliefs, but a show of respect from mine. It is a solemn gesture, not a celebration. Wreaths have been used throughout history and in many cultures as symbols. And, truth be known, I am not concerned with political correctness or offending anyone. This is my gesture of honor and respect. I will not apologize for that or make excuses. I should hope I receive mutual respect.
 So I will continue to ask for support for this cause. I hope one day to see every veterans final resting place decorated with a wreath. We should never forget them. How sad is it to be forgotten and go unrecognized, especially so at Christmas. I urge everyone to participate. It is a good feeling. Yes, it is a selfish act. I do it as an act of contrition. I feel sorrow for those lives lost and pensive for those forgotten. That wreath is a symbol. The circle is completed. The circle will not go unbroken.

Voting

 I got involved in a discussion about voter ID's. To be more specific the proposal that every voter have a photo ID. I am amazed at the opposition. I consider myself a fairly open minded individual and normally oppose new government regulations, believing smaller government is best. I have struggled to understand the reasoning behind not requiring such. I have heard that it is an impediment to freedom. That this requirement is nothing but the targeting of the poor, to prevent them from voting. Never mind that ID is presently required to apply for benefits or entitlements. I've heard it is an attempt at voter suppression by the Republican party. An argument I can't seem to grasp. Is anyone proposing that only Democrats would have to have ID ? Or are they saying that only those that are poor would be voting for the democratic party and therefore not have the means to obtain ID ? What are they saying about their constituents ?  I hear the argument that the verifiable incidence of voter fraud is almost infinitesimal. Okay, if that is true, that is wonderful. How is it justification for not requiring better evidence ? The incidence of bank robbery is quite small compared to the number of banks but we don't leave the door unlocked. I just can't wrap my mind around that logic.
 What I find most troubling is the mindset that fabricates this line of thought. How can a logical person feel that the requirement of a photo ID is an impingement upon freedom ? Just where in the Constitution or the Bill or Rights does it say, you must take me at my word. In a court of law I have to swear or affirm to tell the truth. I also have to provide identification. I have read both of those documents and I can't find anything pertaining to that. How many instances of having to have a photo ID are there right now ? I can make a list quite easily, as I'm certain you can. If we are going to say the government can't require photo ID to vote, just how do we justify the government ever requiring such ? What is more important to verify, your vote or buying a pack of cigarettes ?  The later requires a photo ID. And as to cost, I'm quite certain the political parties will gladly assist you in obtaining that photo ID. I'm betting they will pick you up at your door to do so ! Would it only be the Republicans doing that ? I don't think so.
 Now I admit to having some rather harsher views of things. I think there is far too much " early voting " and absentee ballots. Yes I realize the need exists for both. Strange thing about all that is every pollster will tell you those votes will not make any difference. No election has ever been changed as a result of early voting or absentee ballots ! I think you should just cast your vote on election day. I also know that it wouldn't be fair to those that couldn't make it for any number of reasons, so it is a necessary evil. I received my absentee ballot each time while I was in the service regardless of where I was in the world. I dutifully filled it out and mailed it back. Whether it was ever counted I just don't know. No photo ID was required and anyone could have filled it out. No one was concerned about that because, the votes really don't count anyway. A sad reality but a reality nonetheless.
 Well I have gone on and on about this for no apparent reason. It is just something I can't understand I guess. I don't feel strongly enough about the issue to start any crusade one way or the other. Just seems like a common sense thing to me. Of course, to be cynical about the whole thing, common sense is being left behind in favor of political correctness. Mustn't offend and present any semblance of bias. But I am biased. You must be a legal citizen of the United States of America, at least 18 years old to cast a ballot. Proof is required to be presented at the polling place. The addition of a photo ID is not an imposition or restriction on freedom but rather the securing of such. Our vote should be safeguarded using the best available method. I wouldn't object to a retina scan ! It ain't like the government doesn't already have a file on you. This attitude of just because only a little fraud is committed it doesn't matter, is the same attitude of being a little pregnant. If the object is to prevent either one all available methods should be employed. That's my take on it !

Racist

 Is poking a little fun at people racist ? I think it is a slippery slope to tread upon. I guess I just can't help it but I often do. I do try to limit it to those I am closer to, those that know my personality. One has to be cautious these days. I'm certain it has to do with the time and place I was raised. I've written entire blogs about that. Funny how we locals tend to think of certain folks as " characters " but non-locals are just kooks. Is that racist ? I would say it was based on a prejudicial judgement of their perceived character. It doesn't always concern their race. I would say it has to do with ethnicity. What's the difference you say ? Race is a matter of biology and ethnicity deals with culture. We often confuse the two. It is my thinking a whole lot of people confuse the two. When I am poking fun at people it is because of their ethnicity, not their race. It is true that certain races may have certain ethnic traits associated with them but that is not disparaging to the race. It is the source of humor. That is why it is important to be able to laugh at yourself. If you can't understand and recognize your own ethnic background how can you possibly understand another's ?
 I began to think about this because of a joke I saw on Facebook. I've shared it several times now and some of you may know it. It is a picture of a pumpkin, carved to be a jack o' lantern. The joke is the eyes are slanted and it is wearing a coolie hat. The caption says, he is a Jack O Rantern. Ha,Ha the joke is the way you are supposed to read the sentence. Is it racist to say that Chinese folks replace L's with R's in learning to speak English ? No, it is an ethnic thing. I'm quite certain many foreign language speakers do the same with English speakers. I get teased about having a New York accent all the time. Do I care ? Not one bit. I will admit it can be annoying when they feign they can't understand what I am saying. That is also something I'm sure those foreign language speakers share with me. I mean, each of us know what we are saying. Another favorite of mine I see often on Facebook is the Mexican word of the day. They are the same type thing, poking fun at an ethnic group.
 Yesterday I made a Jack O' Rantern for my grandson. I left it on his side table in his bedroom. It gave him a smile. I asked if he had shared it with anyone and he said no. His concern was that it was racist. You see that is the world he is growing up in, the world of political correctness. Some would argue that it is just being sensitive to the issues. I can see that but disagree. I think it is important that we teach our children the difference between racism and ethnic differences. The idea is to blend all the cultures together, not to separate them. That is why we call America the melting pot. Ultimately we will all be one big ethnic group composed of many races. Yes it is a subtle difference but one that should be taught. It is my belief we must learn to be comfortable with other before we can form lasting bonds. One thing at a time. I think the best way is to keep it light, respectful but light. When we learn to laugh with each, at each other, discussion can begin. The funniest things are often funny because of the truth they expose. If we teach our children to handle some good natured ribbing is that not teaching them to listen to the truth as well ? Yes there are boundaries, I understand that. I'm not talking about being a bully. The thing is you have to cross the fence every now and again to know what is on the other side. You can't travel with blinders on, that is unless you wish to be led.

Conscious say : raf it up, rife too short to be sad

Traditions

 I saw a video of some folks stomping on the flag. When I see that it doesn't make me angry, it makes me sad. As I wrote in the comments section it is my belief that is the most selfish act I can imagine. It shows a complete lack of regard for anyone else. To trample upon tradition, and that is what you are doing, is very disrespectful. Yes, the courts have upheld your right to do so, we live in a Republic where that right is guaranteed. Yes, there are codes associated with the care of our flag. Those codes are not enforceable by law. Those that would use that as a symbol of protest obviously do not understand its' meaning at all. They are only using it to incite. Those that would attack these doing so also do not fully understand the significance of the flag.
 Francis Scott Key penned the words to the star spangled banner in an attempt to describe the feelings associated with the preservation of freedom. That is what he saw through the dawns early light. Our flag was still there. What did that mean ? That we had stood the test and did not capitulate to the British bombardment. Freedom had not yielded to tyranny. This was in 1814 and it was the preservation of the Republic that he wrote about. That flag symbolized that ! That is what the flag flies in honor of, to this very day. To take the flag and cast it down is to admit defeat. That is why the tradition of that flag never touching the ground. I will never allow that to happen as a deliberate act on my part. I will never surrender the republic. If you wish to do so, you may. You may also leave the security this nation offers and seek one of your own. I will not attack you for disrespecting my flag, but I will defend the nation ! The flag is just a symbol after all.
 Tradition is integral to a society, to a nation. Isn't that why the interest in our heritage ? We all wish to carry the traditions of our ancestors forward. Especially so in todays America. Why else would we insist upon this hyphenation of American ? We speak with great pride of our ancestry. We claim that ancestry when only DNA samples can show it. Several generations have inhabited America and yet we claim ancestry from countries all over the globe. Why should that be so ? The answer is a simple one, the preservation of traditions. It is unfortunate that we only wish to preserve those traditions that serve us in this new land. We use our ancestry to gain favor or an advantage. Oh, we claim being Americans quickly enough when that suits. Indeed many will wave the flag then !
 What I, and many others I know embrace is, the American tradition. Yes those roots lie in Europe principally. I'm not talking about roots  right now, I'm talking about the growth that is America. And was that not the idea in the first place ? To create, to grow a land where all men could live free. We took the roots of our raising, the lessons learned, and planted the seed of freedom. We fought for and nurtured that dream. We gained our ground, our garden. Key was a lawyer and a poet. Born in 1779, just three years after the republic was declared free, that struggle would have been recent to him. I'm certain he spoke with many that had fought for that freedom. When that freedom was again challenged in the war of 1812 Key joined the militia even though he was opposed to war on religious grounds. After the British burned the White house and took Dr. Beane captive, Key and another man where dispatched to negotiate with the British for his release. They did so and that is why he was on that ship. Part of the deal was he could not return until after the bombardment of Ft. McHenry. When Key saw the flag flying the next morning he knew our land, our garden, had been secured once again. That is what that flag symbolized, Freedom ! That is the American tradition. Laws are enacted by men, but traditions grow from the heart of those men. Traditions are enduring things and provide the strength and resolve to continue. Those that would trample upon tradition do not understand that. They are doomed to failure. I don't need to enact any law to protect tradition. ( the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, or the fact of being passed on in this way: ) that is what the dictionary says about tradition. Those that disregard tradition risk losing what has been gained. They are doomed to repeat the past. We should pity them.

going home

 There are times when I am inspired to write a blog about something that is obvious, yet remains hidden. That happened yesterday morning. A friend and fellow blogger was writing about having a sleepover with her granddaughter. She mentioned how much of a handful young ones can be and they can become exhausting. I understood completely what she was talking about. I also understood the sentiment about you love to have them around,  but are glad when they go home ! It takes a grandparent to fully comprehend that statement. And it was a bit of " light " that illuminated something in the reaches of mind. An understanding, or more properly, an explanation for that feeling. Grandparents, well some grandparents anyway, know that less is more. By offering love, kindness and understanding we inspire the children. We show them the positives in life. We also offer compassion, understanding and guidance. We are also wise enough to know that we should limit their exposure. No one is capable of sustaining those qualities 24/7. That is why it is wise to send them home. That is the function of parents ! Let them be exposed as human, not us. We grandparents are the stuff of legend and lore. Grandparents are associated with love and understanding, not discipline. Yes, we will enforce what their parents impose, but imply it is the parents fault, not ours. " What did your Mother say ? "  Yeah, grandparents are sneaky like that.
 Oh I know that not every situation is the same. I write from my perspective. We all wish our parents were like our grandparents ? Didn't you as a kid wonder how come Mom and Dad were so mean ? I mean, they were raised by these terrific folks ( our grandparents ) so why should they be so different ? Hey grandma didn't care if I spilled a little milk or tracked mud in the house. That's alright dear, I'll just mop it up, no harm done. At home you'd think the world was coming to an end and half of Africa would be going without milk ! You certainly knew that money didn't grow on trees but grandma always had a few extra dollars. ( shhh ) Mom isn't to know that secret. I wondered why Grandma always hid that from Mom ? Will Mom spend it on nonsense like she says I always do ?  Must be one of those grownup things. Grandma was always saying, let the kids be kids ! Mom was always saying, grow up and be responsible. And Dad, well he was the enforcer at my house. All it took was a whisper from Mom and that was it. You're guilty, case closed and punishment administered. Now grandpa could occasionally be tough, or at least pretend to be, until grandma intervened. I was never real sure about him.
 I do believe whether it is a conscious thing or not that is the explanation. That is why grandparents are glad to send those precious little children home. Once they are out of earshot we can let loose. Darn kids are spoiled ! And they get more than I ever had and don't appreciate a thing. Why if they were mine. I raised their parents better than that, what are they teaching them. But, we can't wait to see them again. When they run up to you and smile, their eyes bright and say, Grandpa, it all disappears. Grandchildren are like having a second chance, a do-over of sorts. We see the future in them and the future looks bright. After a while storm clouds begin to form and it is time to seek shelter. See you later, alligator - after a while crocodile. As Scarlett pointed out, " after all, tomorrow is another day. "
 Funny thing is each time they come back, they are older. Our kids didn't do that, they did it overnight. Grandchildren do it in stages. We are aware and mourn the passing of each stage. If only they could only stay little. The little ones are easy. As they grow older the friendship is harder to keep. It is not their fault, it is that you are old. Very difficult to be " cool " when you are from another century ! I remember waking up to find my own parents weren't " with it. " You still like them but don't want to hang out with them, or be seen with them if it could be helped. Oh, they could be useful when you needed a ride or something but for the most part, stay away. Well at least grandparents can be excused. There friends " get it " with old people, that is just the way we are. And grandparents do know when to back off ! We do it more for our own peace of mind than giving the kids space. They, of course don't know that, another sneaky Grandparent thing. We are great on putting the spin on stuff like that. That is probably because we practiced on our parents.
 Being a grandparent is a wonderful thing, not doubt about that. We get to enjoy those kids, in moderation. We do know that " all things in moderation " is the wisest path. We love to see them come and encourage them to come back. We do explain to them how they have to " go home " because their parents want to see them too ! It wouldn't be fair for them to stay here all the time. What we don't tell them is, it is an effort to be grandpa all the time. It doesn't just happen by accident ! It does require patience. A quality most old folks are lacking. We're tired of waiting and just want to get on with it. Why else would we get mad about waiting for our doctors apt when we are retired and have nothing else to do ? Kids can try your patience. Time to go home.  

simplified Feng Shui

  Feng Shui is the Chinese method of creating harmony with your environment. At least that is what I have read. To be honest about it I don't know a thing about its principles or practice. I have always just tried to keep the wife happy, that creates harmony in my house. I purchased a Himalayan salt lamp that is supposed to put negative ions in the air. These negative ions will increase the flow of air to my brain. That is what Web MD says anyway. It has been on my side table for about six months now. Guess you have to be patient with these things, but I haven't noticed anything different. I do like the way it looks, kinda rustic and nature like. Maybe it is a part of this Feng Shui stuff.
 That came to mind because I am rearranging the furniture to prepare for winter. I have electric baseboard heat and you can't have the furniture blocking it. At least the sofa shouldn't completely block the heater for obvious reasons. Some of this has to do with getting older. I am more concerned about the possibility of fire and all that, you know how us old folks get. We call it wisdom, the kids just think you are worrying about nothing. I want to be harmonious with my environment which means I don't want to burn up ! Maybe those Chinese folks are onto something. I also feel it necessary to hem the curtains. I purchased some new ones when I did the valance boxes and they are a bit long. They reach the floor and that means they can be in front of the heater. That has been fine during the warmer months but, time to adjust them. I put that off when I first installed them. Now it disrupting my tranquility.
 The concept of Feng Shui is a complicated thing. I have heard of people hiring those versed in it to arrange their spaces. I have no desire to study it or even read much about it. Am I being closed minded ? Some would say I am and I can live with that. That is my Feng Shui. As long as I can live with it, it's good. Can it be made better ? I don't know, perhaps it can, but why worry about that ? Not everything requires improvement. I think harmony can be achieved by learning to accept the things you have or been handed. Whether it is physical objects or the circumstances of life, acceptance of the reality is most important. As to decorating a room I think it should reflect who you are. Your likes and interests should be on display. I strive for the " homey " atmosphere more than the magazine versions of home. My home is lived in. Feng Shui, from the little bit I did read, is supposed to make the room happy and comfortable. It is directing energy. Ok, if you say so. I just think I need to make you feel at home. I personally don't feel at home in those homes that look like showrooms. I agree they are very nice to look at but don't do much for warmth. Warmth is what is important. You learn that when you get old ! LOl, but seriously it is true. If I am comfortable and you are comfortable with me it follows that you will be comfortable sharing my space. Feng Shui ? Maybe it is that simple once you understand it. Didn't Confucius say something about this ? He has talked about everything else.
 The bottom line is I am moving the furniture around and hemming the curtains. Yes, I do most of the sewing in the house. My wife does the crocheting. I can sew, on a sewing machine, in a straight line. That is what I call sewing anyway. I can hand stich cushions and furniture as well. The wife wants to rearrange the photographs I have covering the walls in my corner. In the interest of Feng Shui ( harmony ) I will start that process as well. I don't need to hire anyone to create harmony in my house, just do as you are told and all is well. Quite a simple concept really.

creating success

 I think the most creative people always do the creating for themselves. That would explain why they become so self involved. When the " art " whatever it may be, is not so pleasing to others we call them eccentric or just plain nuts. When the " art " is pleasing we begin to call them genius. Strange how that works isn't it ? You struggle to create and wait for approval from others. Of course some do not seek that approval and continue to create. Are we only successful if we receive that approval ? I believe that depends upon the individual. Well, individual and economics. It is far easier to be successful if you are financially stable. The perception of success is dependent upon the mental state of the individual. How do they measure success ? Is success only enjoyed when shared ?
 I can only speak for myself in regard to that question. I answer in the affirmative. Yes, success is enjoyed the greatest when shared. Sure I take some personal pleasure in accomplishment but then I seldom doubt that I will fail myself. The " fear " is in failing to satisfy others. For it is only from others that I can receive confirmation. The feeling of success, of acceptance is what I seek. There is no consequence if I fail myself but the consequence of failing, in a public way, is altogether a different experience.
 As to the measurement of success, is it not in monetary gain ? Do you know any " successful " paupers ? It is fact that you can be pretty darn eccentric as long as you are wealthy. If you are poor, you're nuts ! Many will argue this point of view and attempt to disprove it. I challenge them to do so. Keep in mind that I am not talking about how it should be, but what it is. The only argument that can come close is Mother Teresa. She devoted her life to helping the less fortunate in this world. She garnered no personal wealth. She did however enjoy a measure of fame so I would argue that she was rich in that regard. She was certainly receiving affirmation of her good works. She was a success, no doubt about that, and deserving of whatever she received.
 I think money and success are bedfellows. A little of either one and you want more. You can become obsessed with either one. Then we become concerned with the displaying of our success. Is that why we build mansions and drive expensive cars ? Are they physical manifestations of our perceived successes ? Are they the "proof ! " They can certainly serve that purpose well. I'm impressed with those auspicious displays. They leave no doubt that they are successful folks. The manner in which they achieved that success is another area of discussion altogether. What is the cost of success ? That would vary with each individual. For some success is no effort at all, a gift almost. Others will struggle mightily.
 That is all concerned with success in the society. It is not the personal side of creating. You may take great satisfaction in whatever you create and not require that affirmation. Some don't share their creations at all. For me however, having created something I am pleased with, I want to share that pleasure. Yes, I am disappointed when it doesn't meet with the reaction I had anticipated. It does have an effect upon me. I'd be foolish to try to deny that. Despite all the good advice to the contrary, it does and will continue to do so. When I am creating something, whether it is a poem, story or anything else I am thinking about how others will perceive it. How does it look ? How does it sound ? Is it " professional ? " Ah, you see that is the thing right there. Professional. What is a professional ? A person that receives monetary compensation for his services. That compensation is the affirmation of the service. That measures success, right ? Talk is cheap. That is why we say, put your money where your mouth is. Money is the affirmation of a quality product. That may be changing a bit though, one can go viral these days. You may enjoy great success without receiving any monetary compensation whatsoever. Unless of course you consider fame as success. Is it ? Are all successful people famous ?  "In the future everybody will be world famous for fifteen minutes." That is what Andy Warhol said and I think he may be correct about that. Not everyone will be a success.
 I do think the most creative people of all do create for themselves. They are not concerned with the opinions of others in regard to their craft. I envy those folks. For me, I must share my creations. I believe we are here to share with each other. It is true we may not always like the reception we receive, but I believe we have to go to the party ! Stepping into the spotlight is a risk and one we all should take. If that light just moves on by, without lingering for even a moment, we still were in it. I don't think you can enjoy success without sharing. You can enjoy creating. The question is, does your creation require affirmation to be valid. For me, the answer is yes.

it's a choice

 Do we have a purpose beyond the grave ? That is a question I often ask myself. I begin by asking what is my purpose now ? Why am I here ? Truth is I don't have an answer for that. I exist and that is all I know. I am aware that I can influence events but I don't control them. I have read that someone wrote, " if you want to see God smile, tell him your plans. " I agree with that assessment wholeheartedly. I also believe there is much that man can not understand, it is beyond our capacity. What is more important, the question or the answer ? I would say the question because it is the search for knowledge and understanding. That is something we should never stop doing, whereas the answer is perceived as final. As to the question of purpose does there have to be an answer ? Why should we think we are that important ? Can we not just exist ?
 I do believe that we are energy. I believe God is energy. The entire universe is energy. The big bang or whatever you believe created this universe is energy. I believe in the truth of energy. It can not be created or destroyed only transformed from one state to another. That is why God always has been and always will be. Quite a simple thing if you give it thought. Can we understand that ? I don't think we really can comprehend how that is possible, but the proof exist. Energy is everywhere. Man has learned to manipulate energy to satisfy his needs. Man has not learned how to create it ! If we learned that it would change everything we know in a fundamental way. That would mean we understand God !
 So, do I have a purpose beyond the grave ? The answer for me is yes. My energy will continue in some form or another. Just what that energy will be applied to I can not know, nor do I need that knowledge to exist. Call it eternal life if you so choose, the term applied is of little consequence. The point being I will continue. As to whether I can be conscious of that is still unanswered in my mind. I wouldn't rule that possibility out. My hope is that I make progress in this life on whatever journey I am traveling. But that is a human thought, controlled by human desires. It really has little to do with the big scheme of things. God is indeed smiling.
 The reality is a simple one. I can only influence events in this life. I can influence my own and those around me. There are choices and consequences. We can only control the choices, not the consequences ! When things do not go the way we expect we tend to place the blame elsewhere. The fact is, we made the wrong choice. I hate it when that happens. Yes it happens, even with the most considered, informed choice available to us, it happens. Is the universe to blame ? If that were so the universe would then have to have an agenda. If that is so why is man not being informed of that agenda ? Certainly one can not expect a goal to be reached without explaining what that goal is.
 The universe is energy. Give it any other title you wish, that really isn't so important. Call that energy God. The question would be, what does God expect of us ? Is it obedience to his laws ? And if it is, to what purpose ? To grant us eternal life ? Yes I believe it is and here is why. God, the universe, or whatever you wish to label that entity is the only thing capable of creating energy. It logically follows that it is also the only entity than can destroy energy. When we understand that process we will understand God. Why doesn't God just grant us that eternal life, why the requirement to fulfill his law, his will, if you choose to view it in that context ? That is the real mystery to be solved isn't it ?
 Is it possible that our eternal existence is the substance of that energy ? That is to say, the destruction of that energy will end the universe ? Will it all end with a big bang or disappear into a black hole ? The two are opposites. Positive and negative. In and out. We have all heard much talk about the Higgs Boson particle, the God particle they say. The truth is it has not been proven to exist beyond a doubt. This particle is supposed to impart mass to everything in the universe. That is the simplest explanation anyway. It is not exactly gravity but that is where it gets confusing. No matter to us lay people that really don't understand the Standard Model of the universe in use today. I certainly don't. An important discovery ? Well all knowledge is important and has intrinsic value. This Higgs Boson particle creates mass and we have all been taught that it is mass that makes up everything. Mass is measured by weight and is variable depending upon the conditions. Confusing ? Well we are trying to understand God. How can an object in space be weightless and still contain mass ? Science will tell you they believe it is because of that Higgs Boson particle. So, what created the Higgs Boson particle ?
 I have gone on at length about a simple question. Do we have a purpose beyond the grave. I say, yes. Will I have eternal life ? I don't know for sure, but hope so. Is it a question of reward ? Do I have to earn that ? I think all I can do is make choices. I have been given that much at the very least. Everything that happens to me is the result of a choice I make. I don't get to decide the consequences. Will I be destroyed ? Only God can decide that. Can I influence that decision ? I need to believe that I can. It's a choice, isn't it ?    

contributing to the story

 It is something I have mentioned before and it is on my mind again this morning, this informality in which we have begun to conduct our lives. What I am talking about is society in general. I have written about a  concept called " polite company. " You remember that don't you ? That was when you didn't say certain things or make certain gestures under various conditions, when you were in polite company. And what was polite company ? It was when you were with those that you did not share an intimate relationship. A intimate relationship didn't mean you were having sex with that person either ! It just meant that you were familiar with that persons likes and dislikes. You did not broach controversial subjects in polite company. It was also rude to point out flaws in other folks in a public fashion. And this was learned without having attended " sensitivity " training.
 What is this polite company ? It is nothing more than structure and standards. I'm a big believer in both. If we blur the lines of structure, and standards become situational, how can we expect a society to flourish ? A society is based upon mutual beliefs and shared traditions. If everyone is just doing their own thing cohesion is non-existent. Seems fairly obvious to me. That is the purpose of structure to provide the boundaries.  Just as a house ( structure ) defines the boundaries of your personal space so too a society requires boundaries. The standards are the acceptable behaviors within those boundaries. An Army is ineffective without a general ! Oh, lots of damage can be created but what goals can be achieved ? You do have to agree upon that goal. A standard must be established.
 Maybe it is this chaotic election that has got me thinking about this. They are certainly not acting very politely. I didn't watch the debate but understand they didn't even shake hands before or after. In my world a real faux paus. That was always the moment I got to look you right in the eyes ! Much can be determined by that action I believe. Beyond that, it is just rude. Maybe it is other, less obvious things , that I notice. The President is seen with his shirt sleeves rolled up more often than not. I understand it is a symbolic gesture. Rolling up your sleeves to get the job done but the work I require of my President is not manual labor ! I want him to look like a professional. One should wear the " uniform " of your profession. Remember when that was a thing ? I certainly do and I admired it. It was easy to tell who was whom. Now, not so much. It appears to me that " casual Friday " has become everyday. Was a day when your employer could demand a certain standard in dress and appearance. Those days are gone and you see the result.
 I can't help it. I just feel that life should be conducted as a formal affair. One should dress for the occasion and conduct yourself accordingly. The folks that do are often the ones we most admire. At least it used to be that way. We would say they had their act together. They were " professional. " I'm not saying it should be taken to the extreme. I'm not advocating for a " social state " where everyone is required to dress alike. What I am saying is " freedom " does not mean you should do whatever you feel without regard to others. We live in a free society. The key part being the word " society. " We all have obligations to the society, to the whole. Those obligations should be taken seriously and our duty dispatched accordingly. Yes, we each have a role, just as Shakespeare pointed out. Our entrance and exit from the stage should be a formal affair. Our conduct between those events determines our contribution to the society, whether positive or negative. When I exit the stage I would hope that is met with regret from the audience, not applause. Life isn't about garnering applause, but about contributing to the story.  

Absolutely

  I suppose it comes with aging, as every generation says the same, but I can't help but notice a chipping away of the foundation. The truths I was taught as a child are being discarded in favor of new logic. With that comes a sadness and an anger. And it is those two emotions that I deal with on a daily basis. Happiness is a transient thing and enjoyed in a moment. Thankfully I have quite a few of those moments and so will not complain. It is a sadness for things lost, and an anger at being unable to prevent that loss, that is the stuff of everyday life. Those two feelings are the source of my introspection. I spend a lot of time in introspection. I watch the world around me and question myself. Are the principles I cling to correct ? How can I know but by examination? In order to examine anything you must first have an example to compare with. Where shall I get that example ?
 The fact is you cannot be certain. That is why there is faith. You must reach a point were you believe. We must however guard against blind faith, blind allegiance, and ignorance. That leads us to this question of " proof. " I have said it many times and believe it to be so, belief requires no proof. Faith is dependent upon belief. Is introspection the search for truth ? Ideally yes, you would have to say it is. It is a self analysis. I find it much easier to analyze others than myself. That in itself is a warning sign to me. I should be aware of all that influences me. I don't have that knowledge about you. So logic would dictate I should make a more accurate examination of myself. But, I don't. That is because I find excuses enough to justify my choices. The examination is accurate enough but the results of that examination could be called into question. And they are ! I find myself questioning.    Of course the first thought that comes to mind is, am I a doubting Thomas ? Is it proof I seek ? The answer is no, I don't believe I require any physical proof. Now, I'm not just talking about religious faith here I'm including those basic principles I was taught as a child. Call them the axioms of Mom or whatever, but they were the guiding principles I was raised with. Did some of those guiding principles contain prejudicial material ? Absolutely, I was raised by real people after all. Have I been able to identify and erase all of that ? Probably not. The real question there is, what is prejudicial and what is simply fact, the two are often confused. I find that more common in todays world than say thirty years ago. How can we know if truth is an absolute ? Some would say that there are no absolutes. Those who hold this view believe everything is relative to something else, and therefore there can be no actual reality. Because of that, there are ultimately no moral absolutes, no authority for deciding if an action is positive or negative, right or wrong. This view leads to “situational ethics,” the belief that what is right or wrong is relative to the situation. This obviously leads to chaos and confusion. As the situation changes so do the ethics ?
 Personally I can not subscribe to that way of thinking. I believe there is absolute truth. Being a human being I can not know the workings of the entire universe and all it contains. The more knowledge we gain of those workings the more I am convinced. Hey, face it, we don't even understand or comprehend the size of the universe. It is infinite ! Do you understand infinite ? I sure don't. So what is the absolute truth ? That is a question man has been asking since the beginning. I don't believe we will ever know that answer. The best we can hope for is a revelation. Will we find that in death ? Maybe, maybe not. The truth is, I don't know. That is an absolute. That is also the " proof " that absolutes do exist. I exist and I am energy. Energy can not be destroyed only transformed from one state to another. Why shouldn't that be true in regard to us ? I believe that is an absolute truth. That is only one however, how many more absolutes exist ? I believe there must be an ultimate authority. Without that how can order be maintained ? The mysteries of the universe. There is no doubt that it is an ordered structure. Something has to be directing the show ! The situation may have changed, but I believe the ethics must remain the same. I'm watching them change and don't like it. That pretty much sums it up.      

Obediance

 Is it possible to have a multi-cultural society ? Mankind has certainly tried over the centuries to establish such, with limited success. Even The United States of America whose stated purpose was " freedom " for all mankind is struggling to achieve that utopia. I don't think it will ever be achieved for a very basic reason, human nature.

A society is a group of people involved in persistent social interaction, or a large social grouping sharing the same geographical or social territory, typically subject to the same political authority and dominant cultural expectations.

The very definition of a society precludes that from happening. Dominant cultural expectations is the biggest stumbling block. Otherwise known as assimilation to a society. Expectations are dependent upon the upbringing and traditions that you are exposed to. The American tradition is predominately European at its' roots and that can not be denied. Africans were introduced to our society as slaves. Their willingness to assimilate to our society has been less than enthusiastic. Who could find fault with that ? I'm positive if the roles were reversed the reaction would be exactly the same. That is human nature, all humans ! So, that is one aspect and the other is religious beliefs. Not so much the " belief " part but the practicing of that belief. Remember there was a time when human sacrifice was considered part of the religious experience. Right now in America, and indeed in a lot of places in the world, a certain religious practice is now being called " extreme. " Sacrifice wasn't extreme back in the day, it was expected. Now a certain component of a religion is considered " extreme. " But, it is still what is expected in some areas.

 There are those that propose the abandonment of religious belief as a solution to the problem. If we just ignore the spiritual aspect of life and base everything on verifiable " facts " that should make it easier. The problem there is you have to eliminate compassion and charity. How can you justify those " feelings " with facts ? It is being attempted by the writing of laws. We will delineate entitlements and benefits so as to ensure the even distribution of such. An " enlightened " approach ? Also the reasoning behind the " acceptance " of social behaviors commonly held to be deviant in nature. Remove any " eternal ramifications " from a behavior and you remove the reason for abstinence from those behaviors. You see how that works ? It is also tied to cultural expectations. 

 It takes centuries for cultures to develop and change. Our culture has changed somewhat over time but I would submit not in a basic way. We have made strives toward human equality and that is where it has to begin. We do not have to learn acceptance because accepting is not the same as practicing. It is only when the society practices their beliefs together that the society prospers. Look at America during WW2 as an example. Strides were taken, on  equal rights, because the society was working toward a common goal. Japanese Americans suffered because of that. They were interred for the safety of all. Today we would call that racist and uncalled for. What was the real reason ; cultural differences. Was it really unreasonable to think that Japanese folks in America might support their countrymen ? Paranoia ?  Yes, it could very well have been so. But the point is they were viewed as practicing a different culture. They weren't Europeans that much was sure. What were their religious beliefs ? Did they even have religious beliefs ? These are folks that think suicide is an expected practice should you be dishonored ! Quite the cultural difference from what the average American believed. I wasn't around in 1941 to say with authority but I don't think there were many folks claiming to be any sort of hyphenated American at that time. All this African, Italian or whatever American stuff didn't come along until much later. Back then the goal was to be an American ! Immigrants wished to assimilate to the society, not exist within it as a separate group. And that is why I say a multi-cultural society is a utopia that can not exist. A society may form from an amalgamation of many cultures, ie: The United States of America, but ultimately must become a society. In order for that to happen we must all agree on two components. Religious belief and Cultural expectations. Will mankind ever reach a consensus on that ? One can only pray ! But if we eliminate prayer then what ? Then what is the standard we judge behaviors against ?

 I just don't believe it is reasonable to expect everyone to " accept " the practices of others that are in conflict with their own personal beliefs or practices. If they " accepted " it would they not then practice it ? Isn't that acceptance ? As far as tolerating goes, it does have limitations. It is limited to the point were it interferes with my own actions. I will only tolerate just so much ! Human nature. So, all that being said, one would have to say a society is a group of people that are prejudicial and biased toward all those that are not perceived as a part of that society. That includes everyone doesn't it ? Deal with that issue and you will have dealt with the issue we all face, obedience. Isn't that the real issue ? To whom do you owe obedience ? Consider the question carefully.

frustrated

 I find myself out of sync and out of time. A string of events has left me in this state. The days and time are all jumbled up. Here it is almost ten in the morning and I have just sat down to write. Crazy, should have been done with this hours ago. It will have an effect on my writing of that I am sure. I have already had to interact with people and that alone will change your attitude. I will say my interactions so far have been pleasant ones and that is a plus. The chores outside my home have been accomplished and I'm ready to settle in. But alas, their are distractions inside as well. To sum it up, it feels like a long time since I have been home. Does that make any sense to you ? I'm home but not home. I have a friend that probably shares a similar experience, although a lot more intensely than I. I'll be home on Tuesday afternoon. At least that is my hope.
 One of the things is while I'm trying to write I keep getting interrupted by banter. I don't mind someone asking a question but it should be obvious that I am trying to compose something over here. I sometimes feel as though it is quite rude, like interrupting a conversation. Well, it is, I'm pretty much having a conversation with myself when I write my blogs. I have said before, I look at it almost like therapy. Physician heal thyself ! Except in this case I need a shrink !! Was a day when I would have reached for some " medication " in a bottle but those days are long gone. There are times when I wish I hadn't " wised " up and remained foolish. If I am to believe all the hype I guess I should take up smoking dope, that seems to be the cure all of choice these days. Safer than alcohol is what I read. The truth is it is just a mask to cover up things. Doesn't really matter what you use the result will be the same. In the end you'll be no better off. If it doesn't kill you or cure you what is the purpose ? Well, I don't want to get into that discussion. I already know how I feel about it.
 What I'm dealing with here is frustration, the feeling of being upset or annoyed, especially because of inability to change or achieve something. That is what it is alright and I feel better for having written it. Once we understand the issue we can begin to deal with it. Now I can choose to change my circumstance and alleviate some of this frustration. The choices I face are not ones I want however, that is a part of it. I could go and do other things, productive things, but I just want to relax at home. That is the frustration. Nothing to be done about it except wait for the circumstances to change. So, that is what I will do ; maybe. I might talk myself into doing something else to distract myself from this frustration. I have the ability to change the situation, at least temporarily.
 I find it no longer possible to string together coherent thoughts. I must close for today. Maybe a nice walk in the park.

Truth is a mystery

 I inherited an old clock that once belonged to my great grandfather. This brass and glass clock sat on the shelf at Moms house for years never running , just sitting there. This clock had a partner, not a mate as the other clock looked differently, but also came from great grandfathers house. It has since found a home with my sister. Now there has been some speculation about the origins of these clocks over the years. As is often the case the ones that know the truth are long gone and left no record. So, it will remain forever a mystery or become a tale of yore if I write the story. There are few that could dispute the tale and that is power. I have the power to write the past and make it into the future. But, alas I am obligated by my conscience to tell the truth of it. Funny thing is, the truth is sheer speculation at this point ! So you could say, the truth is a mystery.
 Whatever way you wish to view it this is the story. Great Grandfather Lester worked for a wealthy lady in his older years. He did light yard work for her and other chores. Her name, if I recall correctly, was Mrs. Morris. She lived uptown, as the saying goes, and grew quite fond of Floyd. After she passed, the story goes, her heirs allowed great grandfather to take whatever items he wanted from the house. He selected those two clocks. That is how it has been told by some, others claim those clocks were wedding gifts. The former story makes more sense to me as grandpa was always bringing stuff home. He was a bit of a pack rat and never passed up on anything free. However they came into his possession he kept them for many years. My father inherited them along about 1965 or so. My mother gave the clock to me around the turn of the century ! That sounds like a long time ago now doesn't it ? It is possible that it is the second century my clock has seen. The exact year the clock was made I can not say, but it is close.
 Well, I took that clock to a clockmaker here in Greensboro for oiling and whatever maintenance it needed. It took the man a while but he does have it running again. From him I have learned that the clock was sold by Tiffany and Co. The works however were made in France under contract to Tiffany. My clock man says it is a very nice example and quite expensive in its' day. The value of it today isn't all that much but I wouldn't consider selling it at any rate. Well, if I was offered a million or so I might be persuaded. I have had it running the past few days and enjoy hearing it chime. I did have some difficulty getting it to run initially. I went back to my clock guy and he explained about putting the clock " on the beat. " Turns out that is a clockmakers term for setting the pendulum in motion. He attached an amplifier to the clock and swung the pendulum. Then he said, listen to the beat, really listen. Can you hear the tick/tock ? At first I couldn't distinguish exactly what he meant. Then he tilted the clock just a bit and I could hear a difference. After just a bit I understood what he was saying. You can hear a definite tick followed by a tock ! When I got home I repeated the procedure and my clock has been running fine ever since. One thing I did notice was how noisy my house is. I had to turn off the television, which is constantly on, or the radio, and close the windows. Then it was quiet enough to hear that tick and tock. It occurred to me that many young folks have probably never heard the tick/tock of a clock in the stillness of an evening. I found that sound somehow nostalgic. Strange since we didn't have a pendulum clock in my house growing up. I did have a wind up Big Ben though and I guess it tick- tocked.  Anyway, I find it a comforting sound.
 Great Grandfathers clock is sitting there marking the time once again. How many years it sat silent I couldn't say. My clock man says it showed significant wear so it must have been used for a long time. He also said a clock should be oiled at least once a year by a qualified clockmaker. Apparently those folks made house calls in the old days to do just that. I wonder what year that occupation faded away. At least the part about making house calls ? Maybe they still do ? I guess if there is money to made someone will do it. Perhaps that clock was just resting, waiting for the right time and place. I'd say it has found it and I plan to keep her going. A quality timepiece never goes out of style.

My clock with a turkey on top just for fun.

Integrity

 Those that feel the necessity of offering proof are the ones I trust the least. I find a certain insincerity in that and can't shake it. I don't want to go into specifics and cause any undue tension but am compelled to write about this for a reason I can't explain. I suppose it is the same reason we leave those comments on Facebook postings. They serve no real purpose at all and cause unrest more than offer comfort. This may seem inconsistent with a person that posts his commentary on just about everything , almost daily, in a blog. I am defending my position most of the time, although I make an effort to not make it appear so. I do write what my feelings are. They are subject to change. I'm no different than most, I will offer " proof " if the necessity arises. But it is just the unsolicited offering of " proof " that triggers my response. I mean like when someone says, I have black friends so therefore I am not prejudiced. That is the type of " proof " that I'm talking about. I just wonder who they are trying to convince ? Some do that with everything and never just take a stand. A sentiment that was best said in a song, " you've got to stand for something or you'll fall for anything " and I couldn't agree more. Standing for what you believe is not a matter of right and wrong, but a matter of personal integrity. Too many don't seem to understand the difference between the two.
 Perhaps it is the need to defend their integrity that bothers me. If you have to do that, would that not be calling it into question ? It certainly seems that way to me. For what is integrity ? Is it not a integral part of you ? If that is so calling any part into question would require a change in belief. Belief is what controls integrity. Facts may change your belief, that is true, but facts are not integral to belief. If that were so, religion could not exist. Is God or any deity a fact ? Only if one believes it to be so. Those that question the existence of a God don't believe, it is that simple. That belief is either an integral part of you or not. Do not confuse that with doubt, even facts can be disputed. New information may come to light to disprove what was believed to be a fact. But, as I said, belief requires no proof. I feel no need to defend my belief. I feel no need to offer " proof " of it either.
 I'm not sure what triggered this line of thought, that happens to me a lot. I just sit in front of this keyboard and begin. I don't think I write about anything earth shattering or particularly insightful but do hope it is entertaining. Entertainment comes in many forms although we tend to think of it solely as fun. Really, to be entertained is to be interested. I also hope to write some words of substance. That is the hope of any author. I find to hard to think of myself as an author. Their words are published by someone other than themselves. I hope you find something in this that causes you to think a bit. My intent is to shine a light into a corner that perhaps you haven't explored before.

teach the children

 When the first settlers came to this land they discovered they were not alone. The " savages " that lived in those dense forests were something to be feared. The reason was a simple one, because they were different. The looked different, they dressed different and they talked differently. Then we had some dealings with  them, misunderstandings took place and resentment grew. One culture could not adapt to the other. The Europeans took over by shear numbers alone. You could argue about technology and diseases giving the advantage to the white man and it is a valid point but it was by shear numbers that we prevailed. Interesting isn't it that I say we, it is an ingrained thought. I am a white man. The white man conquered the Indians or indigenous population if you prefer. An error in navigation gave them the name of Indian and it could just as easily been something else. We are called white men because of the color of our skin. Just an identifier, nothing more. The white man wanted the land and the wealth it contained. I hear arguments that we were illegal immigrants but that isn't so. We didn't know a nation of any kind even existed, shoot we didn't know the land even existed, so to say we were emigrating is ludicrous. The plan wasn't to conquer the indigenous folks and take the land. We ( white folks ) were trying to escape Europe and the limitations there. But, all of that is subject to conjecture and speculation. What I am trying to say is, white folks were taught to not trust and fear the indigenous folks. Was it justified ?
 Well now that is another whole discussion isn't it ? My suspicion is it was a two way street. There was wrongdoing going on. The indigenous folks liking what they saw these white people had and getting it any way they can. There wasn't any law enforcement folks to arrest you for just killing those folks and taking whatever you wanted. Of course it worked the other way too. Point being both groups began to teach there young to never trust the others. In more modern times the white man has figured the indigenous folks have pretty much been neutralized. They don't pose any threat. So now we romanticize them and speak of their great wisdom. We admire their culture and revere them. Kinda the same thing as domesticating an animal when you think about it.
 I got to thinking about all of this after watching the news. There were the Black Lives matter bunch and others on there. I began thinking what are the children being taught. It appears to me that African-American children are being fed a constant diet or every white man is prejudice. That there is/was injustice can not be disputed. They were enslaved ! And white folks were the owners of those slaves. Let us not forget that they were sold by Muslim slave traders, people of color themselves. They " purchased " them from competing tribes in Africa and other places. here is a difference in culture. I don't think anyone would dispute that either. Are the African-Americans justified in teaching that all white folks are racists ? I'll leave that judgement to you but I will say this. Folks have a tendency to believe whatever it is they are taught to believe. I can't see race relations improving much in the climate that is being created today. You hear talk of this " divide " between the races. One race being pitted against the other. It is real, it exists ! The question is how do we close the gap ? It must begin with trust. Children instinctively trust one another. It is only later that they begin to harbor doubts about their fellow man. It begins with sharing their toys and what Mom and Dad may tell them. Siblings add to the " knowledge " base. They begin to learn what they are taught. After a while, they believe it. And that is my point. People do tend to believe whatever it is they are taught. Maybe, just maybe the lesson plan needs to be changed. It is a two way street. The indigenous folks were " subdued " and made irrelevant. What we struggle with now is being " inclusive." Can we melt cultures together ? I believe it is possible. It sounds old fashioned but I believe it wholeheartedly. Once we all determine that we are all Americans, and nothing more, the process will begin. One people, one culture, one nation.    

standing up

 I have written in the past about age differences. What I was thinking about was when we were children. Two years or more seemed like a big deal. This was especially true with brothers and sisters. The way they remembered things was often different from what I remembered, if I remembered it at all. It is also evident if you talk with the younger siblings of your friends. I have had the pleasure to reconnect with a few here on Facebook and discovered just that. The other day it became starkly evident. I was speaking with a younger sister of my sisters friend. We were talking about our Moms and how they were doing. Hers, sadly is suffering from Alzheimer's and mine, thankfully is just getting old ! The thought entered my mind and I said to her, look at us, talking like adults ! Truth is, we are grandparents. At least I am, not sure about my friend but she is old enough to be. Our differences are in memory. That is the point here.
 I'm not sure why but I was thinking about this again when I thought, when we get older we do age differently. What I'm thinking about now is how much physical difference can exist with those of the same age. I know some folks, say 63 or so, that can barely walk. I know others that run marathons ! I wonder why that should be so ? Oh, I know there are lifestyle choices that can influence that and events in life also may take a physical toll, but not in every case. I sometimes find myself shuddering to think I may be in such a state myself, soon. Then I remind myself of some people I know that were well into their eighties still doing everything fine. Yes, they may have been a bit slower, but they were still doing whatever they liked. I wonder if that was from necessity or just their personalities. Know what I mean ? If you don't have the resources to hire someone else you do have to do it yourself. For some though I think even if they were millionaires they would still want to do it themselves. I'm thinking it is related to what I wrote about yesterday, attitude. My attitude is, I'm not too old to do whatever I really want to do. I also like to think I'm wise enough to know what I shouldn't do. Wisdom should be the byproduct of aging. It isn't always so however ! I do believe if you want something done right you need to do it yourself. That is human nature to me, but apparently others don't think so.
 When we are young it is our " brains " that separate us into groups. Not intelligence so much as perception. Call it experience points. The younger ones not always receiving all the available information on a subject or just plain not understanding the subject altogether. I have found that to be the case with my siblings more often than not. I wasn't told certain " things " as I was too young. I'm thinking that is changing in todays world and we will have to see if it is for the better. I tend to subscribe to let children remain children as long as possible. There is plenty of time to be an adult ! My heroes weren't crushed before I learned the lesson they were designed to teach. And that is a big difference between the " old " days and today. Our heroes did teach us life lessons without us even being aware of it. Superman defended the American way of life ! The Lone Ranger and his trusty sidekick Tonto took care of the criminals. Tonto wasn't complaining about the white man and the Lone Ranger respected Tonto ! No big deal right ? No one needed to point that out, the message was there to see, if you even gave it any thought at all. What are the children learning now ? What heroes do they have ? Even Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny do not enjoy a long life anymore. Not even the pretense of belief is allowed to the children of today. I find it sad.
 But I have wandered off just a bit. What I was going to say was, when we get older it is our physical state that begins to separate us. The ones that can do and the ones that can not. Age, in years, has little to do with it sometimes. It is almost the opposite of when we were young. I think the secret is to keep that attitude of youth, mix it with the wisdom of aging, and the desire to just keep going. Patience is a virtue and something that we all need to learn. Could be that patience is what will win out in the end. Like the tortoise and the hare, no need to hurry to get there. Years don't make you old, you make yourself old by acceptance. It may be a conscious thing, or just sneak up on you. The truth is you have to accept it and I'm not ready to do that. Yes I have limitations and I am aware of that. I have always had limitations, we all do. That doesn't mean you shouldn't do all that you are able to do. Don't allow your limitations to limit you ! Just go forward wisely. That's is all I'm saying. I don't need to stand out, just stand up.    

attitude matters

 Well my blogging has become somewhat sporadic lately. All this traveling. You could say retiring has created new avenues for me, no pun intended. It has given me the opportunity to travel around without worrying about a schedule. I like that. As we were driving to upstate New York we passed through Pennsylvania and a tunnel in the mountains. The Lehigh tunnel to be exact about it. It wasn't my first time going through this tunnel and I am always amazed at what a difference in terrain occurs. This time we even noticed a change in temperature. Entering the mountains is a different experience for those us from the flatlands. On my drive from Greensboro to Oneonta we rise 1096 feet. I do notice the difference. The foliage was changing as we headed north. We hit it at its' peak somewhere in central Pa. and by the time we reached Oneonta you could see that the colors were beginning to dull just a bit. As I watched the scenery go by I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like for those first explorers. Riding through the mountains and the thick forest must surely have been an amazing experience. Not knowing where you were going, or when you might emerge , if ever, from those mountains had to be both scary and thrilling. I thought about those that followed, looking for landmarks to guide them. Now we ride the interstate and the golden arches and subway signs provide reassurance and comfort along the trail. Our gps telling us how to reach our destination and the time we should reach it. The only gps those first explorers had was the stars. Amazing to me that they traveled so far and always seemed to return.
 I was almost completely separated from social media. I had a laptop and a tablet with me. I couldn't remember my password for Facebook ! The tablet connected automatically to Facebook on my account but I am not too familiar with it. I tried to enter a few things and became frustrated with that. So I just left that stuff lie. It is surprising if you don't read all these postings for a few days how different they appear. It is something I can't really describe. A great deal of those posts seem rather silly and foolish. I expect mine appear the same way as everyone else's. That gives me pause to think about that and reconsider what I do post. It is easy to just get caught up in all of it. This is especially true of the political postings. Some are quite vicious ! I have determined to limit my responses to that. Not an easy thing for someone as opinionated as myself. Yeah, I am aware of that facet of my personality. I don't necessarily think it is a bad thing, but should be exercised with judgement. Something I am guilty of failing to do on occasion.
 Well the winter approaches and I don't think I'll be traveling much during that time. I am planning a trip to Florida in the spring. I know you should go to Florida in the winter but I have the holidays to get through and then save up for the trip. But I have discovered that being retired is conducive to spontaneity. I like that ! I am guarding against being one of those old folks that worry about each little appointment or trip. You know what I mean ? My Mom will say things like, I can't go I have a Drs. apt two weeks from now and I'm afraid I will miss it. Or, I have to go to the store tomorrow. I want to say, ROADTRIP gandpa is in. Worked all these years and missed out on a lot because of being " responsible. " Don't want to be that responsible anymore. Been there and done that. Hey Doc, I might be there or I might not. I'll let you know. And now I'm thinking I might write a blog and I might not. Probably will when I'm home though. We'll see. I'm adopting this new " devil may care " attitude in life. I recommend it to anyone that is retired.        

empowered by the mob

 A new group is in town with the expressed purpose of empowering women. Empowering, a word I hear tossed around a great deal in the last year or so. The dictionary says it means to give someone the power or authority to do something. I don't get it though. I was taught that I am in charge of what I do and that authority comes from God. Grandma didn't tell me she would empower me, what she said was, God helps those who help themselves. Ah, there you have it, the old axiom that seems to have been forgotten. Now, dependence upon someone giving you power or authority to act is necessary. Most of the time it more like a mob attitude. Move your agenda forward by force or intimidation.
 I guess it is my age. As I read the words I write I can hear an older person speaking. All this talk of empowering. I don't need your permission to do anything. You really have no authority over me at all. I, and I alone am responsible for the choices I make. But that is another point of contention these days isn't it ? Who is to blame ? We have an entire industry focused on just that. Personal injury lawyers they call themselves. No cost unless we win the case. It really matters little if the " accident " was caused by your own stupidity. Common sense doesn't count, it must be written down. You must be warned ! Any failure on their part to communicate any and all potential dangers is cause for suit.
 But let me return to this concept of empowering. Empowering is giving you the authority to do something. So by that definition every license or permit I purchase empowers me. The government surely requires a great deal of personal empowerment of us citizens. Why is that ? Is it for the generation of revenue or establishing order ? I would say both. Money is power. Are the richest among us the most empowered ? You could argue that indeed they are. They do have the authority don't they ? Is this concept of empowering really saying there is safety in numbers ? That's another old axiom I was taught. It was also implied that only the weak would seek such. You were expected to stand alone if need be and state your truths. Being part of a mob wasn't a good thing. You really are supposed to think for yourself.
 I don't know. I hear this word bantered about and find it unsettling. It just sounds like so much hype. I'm empowered, I feel so empowered. What are you trying to say ? You have received permission to agree with others ? Is that why you join in the group. My question is, why do I need your permission ? Is it because I am too insecure to stand on my own and state my case ? I need to join the mob for safety ? Was a time when you were recruited to a cause. Now they are telling you they are " empowering " you. Do you see the subtle difference in that ? I certainly do. That is what I find unsettling.
 Now that old axiom God helps those that help themselves is not in the Bible. Surprised ? I sure was as I thought that is where Grandma got it. Turns out it is from ancient Greece. What is it really saying ? It is saying that you must help yourself before you can expect any help from someone else. Aesop's fables addresses this idea twice. I don't think they teach those anymore though. I did some reading and found that this phrase is included in the Quran. Maybe that has something to do with their ideology of aggression. Helping themselves ? In the Judeo/Christian tradition it is thought more to mean taking positive action. Don't just pray for help, plant the crop ! Any idea can be used for good or bad. It really is a matter of perspective.
 Well I have wandered around in my thoughts once again. I find that useful in connecting all the pieces. I hope it doesn't confuse or obscure my thoughts too much. I started with this idea of empowering. My power comes from my God and my faith. I must live within the constraints of the law for the good of society. I do not seek your permission. I do not need anyone to tell me it is alright or what is right. I can figure that out for myself. I can help myself !

waiting

 In the irony that is life time seems to speed up just as you learn to be patient and enjoy it. At least that is what I am experiencing. When I was younger and even into my later years I was always in a hurry. I needed to grow up, move out, get a job, get married, have children, have a career and on and on. Always in a hurry. Now I'm retired and in no hurry. Why is that ? The reason, I believe is a simple one, retirement ends when ? Yup, not in a hurry to get there. It is there that the irony exists. Most troubling to me now is, we are encouraging the children to hurry up too ! We are so busy structuring their lives and activities that they have no time to just entertain themselves. Shoot, most of them are bored if they have to do that. I guess that is why we invented video games, keep them occupied. Some are even claiming how good a thing this is. We can do high school in three years now and college too. Hurry up and get an education so you can hurry up and work. But will retirement come early ? I don't think so. Social security, if it still exists in the future, certainly isn't going to allow that. The age has already been increased. Is the accumulation of sufficient funds to retire early going to be a reality ? I doubt that. So, what's the hurry ? There really are only two certainties in life, death and taxes.
 So where is the happy medium ? I believe there is a medium, a balance in all things. Certainly we should prepare our children for the world and life in general. Should we push them forward like cattle through a chute ? Herd'em up and send them to school. It begins with pre-school these days. These kids don't even have the chance to develop social skills at home. I'm not certain that is a good idea. I'm thinking that is why we are seeing some of the behaviors we are seeing. The kids are " smarter " but do lack social skills. At least that is what I think. Instead of allowing them to become comfortable with themselves we are pushing them out into the world. It is all about the competition these days. We try to compensate for that by giving everyone the " star " or the participation trophy. Then later in life they don't get those and begin to complain. It isn't fair ! We even have to create " safe spaces " so they don't get there feelings hurt. Is that preparing them for life ? I don't think so. This attitude of every one should receive the same regardless of effort put forth is just wrong. Entitled ? Seems like that to me.
 But back to the topic I began with : time. I'm sure that it has been said of every generation and will continue but we need to slow down. If we tone down the competitive nature of our lives and allow more time to develop our social skills everyone would be better off. We may be smarter and more technologically advanced, but we are sacrificing our humanity in doing so. The abandonment of moral and ethical values to achieve " success " is destroying us. I'm not saying we shouldn't strive to make advances. I'm not saying we should just sit around doing nothing. I am saying we should ease up just a bit. Take time to smell the roses as the saying goes. We need to spend more time being people and less being productive. In the end, when the production run is over, what will be left ? Time, and time goes all too quickly. Time is one commodity we can not control. When it runs out, it is out. Can you waste time ? Can you spend time ? I'm not sure of the answers but I do know you can enjoy time. And that happens one moment at a time, subject to change. Patience takes a lifetime to develop and then time runs out. All we can do is wait for it. Ironic isn't it ?

new thoughts on old ideas

 New thoughts on old ideas. That's what happens with every generation. The thing is a generation is generally considered to be twenty years. So, that means I should be in my third generation of thinking. I would say I have been through a couple anyway, sometimes we call that maturing or just plain getting old. Either way you look at it I have changed my opinion on things several times. I do think that my core values have changed little. If anything I hope I follow those core values a little more closely than I have in the past. You do have to spread some seed before you can grow. It shouldn't take long to realize that not all the " crops " are good ones. You really do reap what you sow ! A very old idea that has proven itself to be truth with every generation.
 I often say there is little one can write or say that hasn't been said before. The challenge for each generation is finding a way to express those thoughts. How to express those old ideas in a new way. I don't believe there is much " new " thought either. These little revelations come to us over time and we adopt the truth of them, but they have always existed. The world was formed with axioms. Those truths haven't changed over the millennia. You know a revelation isn't something new, just something we see for the first time. Something revealed. The new part comes with understanding. The challenge does lie in expressing your own understanding of things in a way that others recognize.
 There are several stages we all go through. We begin with experimentation. We see what the other kids are doing and want to try it. This period may last a few years, and for some much longer. Then we go through that period of knowing it all. That time is usually accompanied by a sense of rebellion. We will change the world ! We protest and fight against the " establishment. " The old ways are wrong, reform is required. Change is the only way ! Especially change that benefits yourself in some fashion. Whether that benefit is to justify past actions or just increase personal wealth is not the issue. The important part being to effect a change. Well because we all know that change is a good thing.
 After a bit I do think that most of us will arrive at the conclusion that not all change is good and there are things we shouldn't attempt to change. We begin to understand those axioms that formed the world. We can't explain them or recreate them but acknowledge their validity. You do reap what you sow and what goes around,comes around. The love of money is indeed the root of all evil. That truth, often misquoted, is one of the harder ones for folks to accept. Greed, followed closely by envy does more damage in this world than anything else. That is my opinion anyway.
 It seems to me that the more people have in the way of wealth the more liberal they become in their thinking. I also think that is to justify their actions in obtaining that wealth. Some choose to assuage that by becoming philanthropists. Those that are the most comfortable always want to change things for the better. At least that is what they say. My question is, better for whom ? Myself I advocate for standards and structure. There is right and wrong. I believe that. You need to have standards and structure in your life and in a society. That is the very definition of a society ! The experts say there are six basic types of societies created by man. Not having studied sociology or anthropology I'll take their word for it. My point being all societies have structure and standards. We do have new thoughts on old ideas. Thing is, the old ideas haven't changed a bit and so will continue. The old ideas aren't really ideas at all, but axioms. Our challenge is to understand and accept them. The " golden rule " is the first axiom in life. And I would submit really has little to do with religion, it is concerned with life.