reflection, welt fingering and contemplation

I marvel at young people today.  It seems evident to me that many fail to receive proper guidance from their folks. I received guidance from my dad on a regular basis.  Sometimes Mom reinforced Dad’s guidance with a willow limb applied lovingly to the sensitive skin behind my boney knees.  Then I was encouraged to sit quietly in my room for a time of reflection, welt fingering and contemplation. Dad provided beneficial enlightenment regarding the pursuit of young ladies too. “Chase girls to your heart’s content,” Dad always said. “Chasing girls is rousing sport, first-rate exercise and good clean fun. But write this down and remember it well, Son, catching girls invariably has consequences.”   SC  

In my opinion, the fact is, an awful lot of people prefer their opinions over the facts. I could name names and party affiliations, but that would be counterproductive. Basically, it’s just those who don’t share my views. Of course, that’s just a matter of perspective, and the fact is, that’s just my opinion. ;)

DON'T LOOK EDITH!

There’s absolutely no question that our American democracy and the long-established election procedures which are essentially inherent in it can become discouraging to those of us who feel pressed by our patriotism to observe and participate in the process.

It’s not surprising that we occasionally become bitter and disillusioned by what inevitably becomes exasperating and painful to watch.  On those occasions, it’s prudent to step briefly away from the process and admire the results.

To those who despair and disparage the process, I would point out that, unlike the early years of our Republic, today’s campaigns rarely result in duals, bloodshed and imprisonment.

in essence, our democracy today is the product of a nonviolent but passionate and often rambunctious electorate, an electorate comprised of gut wrenchingly enthusiastic right and left wing elements whose perpetual interaction produce an abrasive friction, sharpening, refining and polishing the vast moderate middle and our country as a whole to a brilliant luster envied by the civilized world.

The result is one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men and women of every conceivable ethnicity and stripe are created equal, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not parish from the earth. Take a deep breath, avert your gaze when necessary, and enjoy the benefits of citizenship and freedom. SC

     

Way back in the 1940s, Will Rogers cautioned that the 1% consistently increase their wealth because money doesn’t trickle down; money gushes up.

Ignorance is virulent, injurious and extremely contagious, but generally relieved by a patient application of facts. SC

THE DAMAGE WAS ALRESDY DONE

Yesterday I was lounging contentedly in the Corolla, patiently awaiting the arrival of my spouse, as instructed; when a remarkably well fed young lady ambled by.  She was gaily bedight in a two-piece swimsuit which, despite what I’m certain had been a valiant effort, was rapidly abandoning all hope of containing her.  Her plentiful form was an entirely unrestrained celebration of unbridled undulation, and displayed a propensity for self expression, independence and extravagant fluidity of motion well beyond anything I’d previously imagined or ever hoped to see. I quickly averted my gaze and began a frantic contemplation of the cosmos in a desperate attempt to unsee the demonstration, but the damage was already done.  SC

CELEBRATE DIVERSITY AND KEEP AMERICA STRONG

Lately I’ve heard numerous concerned citizens pose the following question: What has gone wrong with this country and how did it get this way? They believe our best days are behind us. I, of course, can only offer my own humble opinion. I disagree. I believe this great nation suffers today from the same malady that has, from its inception, made America the wonder of the world. Today, as always, we suffer from growing pains, unprecedented prosperity and a desire on the part of sincere and compassionate Americans to promote and manage this remarkable achievement in a way that is sustainable, fair and equitable for all our citizens. We’ve gotten this way because, as a democracy, when we vote, we elect leaders who reflect and represent a voting populace whose views are as diverse and varied as one would expect from a population comprised of every faith, heritage, ethnicity and nationality on the planet. As a result, today the principles that made America great are stronger than ever, our ideals increasingly resolute, our future brighter and our liberty the envy of the world. The vast, moderate, middle of our electorate may not be prepared to march for the advancement of justice. But, once advanced, the majority will recognize and sustain it. The American ideals of Liberty and Justice are forged in the fires of scripture and tempered by the ages.  Many people have dedicated their lives to the freedoms we Americans enjoy today.  Honor their sacrifice. Honor our veterans and all those who choose a life of service.  In all things, promote liberty for all and justice tempered by mercy. Take pride in your heritage, but value the traditions of others. America’s greatest strength is diversity. Celebrate diversity and keep America strong. SC