Your No Bullshit Zone

 07.31.2022

Where do you find your solace? For me, I have a handful of places, but I keep my circle of friends and aquiantances small. For a reason. I find mine as I listed below:

Children's smiles & squeals & laughs & wonderment. My family's happiness. Positive messages, even from the least likely of deliverers. Nature. Positivity in others. Books. Most surprisingly though, the contacts and like minded humans online. It's a gift and an option I never would have dreamed about having 20 years ago. But here you are. The freedom of expression and explanation that equated to education has been unbelievable, at least for me. I can read with interest, or scroll on. I can request to follow, block, unfollow, and unfriend. I must admit, all of the above assist in my mental well being. But there's just some folks that beg a response to their commentary.

This is my no bullshit zone. My opinions are always clear, and as accurate as my research will provide. 

If you've been following along, it should be abundantly clear my political affiliations and why I make the choices I make. The older I've gotten, the stronger my feelings. Huge Obama fan. Not the last president, though. A wannabe dictator filled with greed and self interest, I gag at the thought of his reign of terror, nepotism, and the way he oversaw the country as well as his administration. Had enough yet? There's more.

I'd been seeing talking doctors for some years. The first one got me on meds, the second one got me off of them, and finally, our dear GP got me stabilized. I credit my Bride for  helping me, holding my hand, never letting go, and talking me off the ledge of the less sane. No bullshit.

This current political shitstorm we watch unfold on the regular gets to be a wee bit much. I thank those in my circle, my daily correspondence with online citizens, and my family for their patience and support. It's my hopes that I can mend fences, and rebuilding bridges that I've burned. I'll try, but honestly, just so much. If doing so compromises my solace, well... I'm out.

Be well, all. Thank you for stopping by.

The Great In-Between

 07.30.2022

In between the times I wake up and others do as well, I sit silently, usually with our feral homeboy Samwell, drinking coffee, and thinking about daily happenings everywhere. While my focus tends to be politically charged, that's not always the case. But mostly.

Have you noticed that so very many aspects of our day-to-day revolve around politics? 

"The activities or affairs engaged in by a government, politician, or political party."

I think about the division of our two party system. And I also see the third, Independents, and a fourth, 'write in'. The ladder two rarely have a chance, as they encroach upon peoples beliefs and comforts. I think about the people that help elect these greedy, homophobic, lying, racist, misogynists into power, preserving their lifestyle, with their myopic views, seemingly with little thought for the masses. Or the future.

I read and attempt to grasp what I see in the news. I try in earnest to internalize my rage, and at least temper it with good, positive stories. There seem to be fewer each day. I try to level out before our granddaughters rise for the day.

I watch the news on TV less now, so I can 'small dose' myself better that way. Motherfucker, though. It's bad enough reading about tragedies & war. But daily political bullshit. I worry so much (thanks, Mom) about the kids, their early trials, tribulations & successes, and especially their kids. I know I'm not alone. 

All this before 8AM. 

Look, I know I could burst into flames at any given moment. And I'm cool with that. But in between now and when that time comes, I really, really, want to troubleshoot what makes people so fucking stupid. Did none of these politicians ever watch the Beverly Hillbillies? Green Acres? Uncle Jed and Oliver Wendell Douglas embraced a simple, less complicated life, where common sense reigned supreme. Comedy's with no tragedies. Some community politics, but no earthshaking battles. 

"If it bleeds, It leads". That's how news has always been, and I see no changes now, besides the accessibility factor. So all day, every day, dumbass leads appear. Not that shocked anymore, just frustrated and scared for our offspring.OK, cease ranting, my Bride begs. Alright, honey. For now.

Thank you for stopping in.

Oh, Texas. Oh, Black Panther

 O7.29.2022

You've probably heard of Texas’ SB8, a law that empowered regular citizens to sue anyone involved in helping a woman get an abortion, and made it all the more tantalizing for them to do so by promising a minimum of $10,000 in damages, plus attorney fees.

 Motherfuckers.     

In this week's big feature, Pema is here to tell you that SB8 is just the beginning. Her incisive piece walks us through the terrifying rise of vigilante laws as a tool to enact the GOP’s agenda on everything from abortion to LGTBQ rights and clasroom discussion about racism. And it widens the lens to show us the extent to which this legal trend is a growing threat to our democracy.

She opens with the moment when a woman who runs an abortion fund opens her door on a weekend to find that she’s being served legal papers at her home: an intimidation tactic from an anti-abortion advocate empowered by Texas’ vigilante abortion law.

That early morning knock on the door, the ominous legal papers, and the knowledge that someone out there is looking for a chance to sue you are the features of a dystopian new trend: The rise of vigilante enforcement to reverse progress and entrench physical and psychological control over women, LGBTQ people, and people of color.

These laws do not stop at targeting society’s most vulnerable. They also attack the legal and social norms that underpin our system of government. They turn citizens into spies in a surveillance scheme more reminiscent of a totalitarian state, and shred the vital principle that the laws are applied equally to all people.

OTHER HEROES

So you know how our comic book heroes that come to film are recast at times? Think Superman, Batman, and also their villains. Being a fan of escapism is a lifelong part of me. Wanting good to triumph over evil, the selfless giving, doing the right things. Well, like in real life, we're here again.

The passing of the wonderfully talented Chadwick Boseman created another need for facilitating a recast of the Black Panther. I'm really stoked to see the next chapter of T'Challa in the upcoming release of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. But after reading that he'll not be recast in the second movie, I too was heartbroken. But mainly for the kids that looked up to this strong Black man. 

An almost entirely Black cast in the first movie was monumental for me, too. I had Sidney Poitier and Louis Armstrong. That's about all I can recall from my youngest years. Then, in The Mod Squad, I had Clarence Williams III. By the 70s I started seeing more African Americans in sitcoms. But I never thought about what others may have thought.

In the case of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, I'm old & savvy enough to know that this issue has little to do for me. But kids being the brightest light of my life, it hurts me for them. Just another instance of a little forethought going a really long way.

So will I, too, boycott the movie? Probably not. Too many other characters, actresses and actors, that I love. I'm sure the film and most of the writing will be on point. But am I pissed? You bet. And hopefully the boycott will draw great attention to how we have NOT honored Chadwick.

#ReCastTChalla #seetheforestforthetrees

Amelia Earhart

 07.28.2022

Most recently, Amelia was in the news. Out in Kansas, where she was from, a statue was commissioned and placed in   The United States Capital  Statuary Hall to honor her many contributions to the world. And there's a lot.

Years after her presumed death, Earhart was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1968 and the National Women's Hall of Fame  in 1973. 

Take your time, boys. 

She now has several commemorative memorials named in her honor around the United States, including an urban park, an airport, a residence hall, a museum, a research foundation, a bridge, a cargo ship, an earth-fill dam, four schools, a hotel, a playhouse, a library, multiple roads, and more. She also has a minor planet, planetary corona, and a newly-discovered lunar crater named after her. She is ranked ninth on Flying's list of the 51 Heroes of Aviation. 

Were you aware that she also lobbied President Herbert Hoover for an Equal Rights Amendment to our Constitution? Or that she was a nurse, a wife, an advocate for gender equality, a truck driver, a fashion designer, a social worker, a writer, a professor, a political advocate & lecturer? Quite a strong woman indeed. But she has inspired so many to reach out for non traditional female roles. Brave & badass.

Which I feel like also inspired men to aim for non traditional roles, too. How do you measure all of the above? Expand your thinking. Educate yourself. Reach for the goals you've only dreamed about. Get involved in helping your community...the community outside of your own. 

And still somtimes I have to catch myself, about drawing attention to women in what has inherently been roles for men. Shame on me. I think the more we as a culture see all genders simply as people opposed to what they do career-wise, the more we can understand the importance of equality. And acceptance. A little effort goes a long way.

Our pathway towards equality for all has had some detours. A few potholes. Checkpoints. But we're coming together. As I grow, although late in the game, I hope I've made some think outside of their own box. Like Amelia, and countless others with maybe less notoriety. Acknowledge each other. Don't forget the moms, dads, kids doing the daily diligence.

Unique contributors are all us. Do you know of 19 year old Texan @oliviajulianna ? She was sick & tired of Representative Matt Gaetz & his anti-abortion bullshit. She was targeted by that walking dung heap & began a fundraiser to assist @genzforchange in funding abortions. This young lady does not play. Over half a million dollars was raised IN LESS THAN A WEEK to assist 50 abortion funds in states that need it the most. Atta girl.

As my time here grows shorter, I'll transition with a full heart, knowing that amazing people...everyday people...still exist.

Thank you again for stopping by.

The Chris Cuomo Project

 07.27.2022

Like him or not, it's your choice. But for me, a follower of him & other CNN/MSNBC personalities, they've made an impact on me. They've informed me, educated me, shown compassion, and been as outspoken as they have been allowed to be from their respective networks.

My retirement life has a schedule, and it revolves around our family. I elect to put Sponge Bob & Patrick or Mister Rogers on the TV for our granddaughters rather than the news for myself. They are pretty cool, though. I don't mind adapting for them in the least. 

Because grandkids. 

So I've chosen to listen to Podcasts while they watch their shows. And so I'm really excited to hear Chris Cuomo again.

He has always given his own perspectives on issues that align with my thoughts and feelings. 

But perspective. I need it's stimulation. My IG account offers me viewpoints and an opportunity to 'move on' past folks when I feel skeptical about someones messages. But, I try to put myself in other's minds as well. At least for a moment. I try to understand from where they stand. I read and think, with interest, how folks may have come to their opinions. I love to read, but trying to cypher the truth is often my challenge. So I read more. Investigate. Weed out the obvious bullshit first.

Confirmation is often by you. Also my Bride, our son, his fiance', and other 'reliable sources.' Weed out whomever you choose as an American. I mean, before your choices dissipate completely. 

I jotted down some thoughts after watching Congressman Hakeem Jeffries in a recent video clip:

Complaints, By: Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

Congressman Jeffries asked Justice Thomas of the SCOTUS why he was such a hater. He also suggested that Thomas begin his search for the right thing to do in his own home, a reference to Ginni Thomas, his wife, of being complicit in trying to 'stop the steal'.e: Lifetime Appointment. Why? Isn't it time for change, REAL CHANGE, in some of our current laws and rules?

Issues cited by Congressman Jeffries that Thomas was 'hating on':

Voting Rights 

Women's Rights 

Civil Rights

Reproductive Rights

Marital Rights

Equal Protection

Free & Fair Elections

Liberty & Justice For All

Thank you, Congressman.

Perspective. Getcha' some. Thank you for stopping by.

Me & RBG-The Conversation

 07.26.2022

I went to sleep last night thinking that if I was deep in thought about her, I would have this incredible dream about meeting & talking with her. You know, just us, over tea & crumpets. African Black Tea & non-GMO crumpets, of course.

But I didn't.

If I did though, it would probably go like this...

Me: I'm so excited to finally meet you, ma'am!                  

RBG: Please, call me Ruth.

Me: OK, Ruth. You may call me whatever the ?+&$ you like.

RBG: Oh, a funny one. Not unlike my late husband.

Me: Wow. I can't believe this. May I just start in & take a few notes?

RBG: You aren't going to be here that long.

Me: But... 

RBG: I have a 10:30 gym appointment. Sorry, but I don't miss these.

Me: I get it. Now, about your years on the bench. How...

RBG: SERIOUSLY?!? It's been documented to death, as has my struggle to get there. Google it, Steve. (grins)

Me: Sure. OK, although you've made clear your position on Women's Rights, how does the stacking of the court to favor hard conservative values sit with you?

RBG: Honestly, it's appalling. As hard as I've tried to comprehend the BS I see happening today, it boggles the mind. My views of today are immaterial. What's been done in the SCOTUS sickens me. The rulings have set America back in time. Particularly with women, but the rulings don't just affect women. It reaches far and wide. Equality has been trampled, too. Our immigration policies are ancient. That bi**h Ginni Thomas has even further damaged the court's reputation and validity. I never cared for her. The office of the POTUS has has been polluted with the worst of the worst. Child trafficking. religious zealots influencing areas that should be separated. Drug epidemics causing senseless deaths and destruction. Racism, which is perpetuated and encouraged from the top. Idiotic firearm policies that never needed to happen. The country's mental health. Homelessness. Taxing is backwards. Hunger. Illiteracy. Domestic violence & child abuse. 

The list goes on. Wait, aren't you from Texas?

Me: Yes, ma'am.

RBG: What in God's name has happened there? Greed by the power hungry, sure. But so many puppets that have been bought & paid for. Surely that has been the root of most of the  degradation.

Me: Thoughts on the former POTUS?

RBG: OH $H!+! Look at the time!

Me: I get it, and respect your perseverance towards your well-being. May I see you again?

RBG: Possibly. You sure do talk a lot, though. Maybe you could take me for nachos?

Me: It'd be my pleasure, ma'am.

RBG: You better vamoose, son. I'm due at the gym for a 15 mile'r on the treadmill. Nice chatting. Excellent crumpets & black tea. Talk soon.

Always inspiring, there's never a disappointment with Ruth. Hopefully, I'll see her again.  RIP, ma'am. Thank you for your service to our country.

Thank you for stopping by.

Missing Tom Petty

 07.25.2022

"It was a beautiful day, the sun beat down, I had the radio on, I was drivin'..."

Runnin' Down A Dream -Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers- 1989

Released a little after my birthday, a couple of months before our son was born. I was about a year away from landing my career employment with our local government. Loved my job, love our community, but  I miss Tom Petty. And others.

Back in the day, I would drive the Texas and Georgia back roads, nursing a few beers. I was still in a deep funk after losing my best friend in a vehicle accident. I was never the same, nor will I be. But I'm better, thanks to my phenomenal mate and supporting circle. It took a minute though. About 9 years. But still, I can't hear or recall certain songs without taking a moment to remember all the beautiful souls I've had in my life that have transitioned. And I credit my life with lessons learned from so many. It's just that for me, loss to a death, particularly an accident, lingers. Lives well lived taken by father time is a little different, as is loss to disease. But, of course, any loss stings. But with some stings, the swelling never exits. The swollen part stays swollen. Man, the emotional turmoil we are tasked with carrying. Ugh.

Tom Petty dying was a tough one for me. Kinda like Leon Russell. Artists that me & my buddy listened to. These musicians had "it". Others did as well, but I'm able to jam & scoot past their songs without a brief dark cloud hovering over me. Let's remember some. Indulge me.

Friends: Donald. Pat. Johnny. George S. Bob. Mom & Dad. Nana & Pops. Faith. Pops. Emily. Harold. Max. Charlie. Anna. Nancy. Uncle Bud. Abe. Squeaky. George H. 

Musicians: SRV. John D. Chris. Jimi. Janis. John L. Taylor. Kurt. Buddy. Ritchie. Dan. Keith. Bon. Dime. Rusty.

Just a sampling, really. And look, we all move on. Like paying taxes, it's inevitable. Why I struggle sometimes is beyond me. My depression peeking out? Very possibly. Now, I do my best to counter my sadder thoughts with the folks left with us. Strain out the harsh memories for a rinsed final product. Usually, it works. My hopes are that you don't tear up too often. Maybe if you hear an intro you know, pass on it if you're feeling particularly vulnerable. There's always next time. Big hugs.

Thank you for stopping by.

LEOs

 07.24.2022

I'm a Leo. It's my zodiac sign. Sometimes I read my horoscope, just checking it to randomly see if it's accurate. Most days, in a scary way, it is.

LEO is also an acronym for Law Enforcement Officer, as most folks know. I've been fortunate in my career to have known many officers, detectives, crime scene  investigators, chiefs, sheriffs, deputies, jail staff, wardens, corrections officers, etc... The vast majority of these women and men were dedicated, unflappable, praise worthy individuals. Hard working, law driven, and community focused. I have never seen folks work so hard for so little money, or no recognition. And so few give a damn about the recognition part. Plus, their pay is a job well done, as they sacrifice so much to try to make a difference.

I've seen some LEOs get worn down, or bitter, or just plain tired. Frustrated with recidivists, same folks & same calls, domestics that get out of hand, sexual assault victims, mental health sufferers, robberies, homicides, drunk & disorderlies, public assholery, homeless issues, drug addicts, drug dealers, overdoses, loitering, bad checks, ICE issues...and this hardly scratches the surface.

With all of the different subjects to be dealt with, constant training is involved. Can you imagine? CPR, first aid, tactical emergencies, firearm certification, EVOC (EMERGENCY VEHICLE OPERATOR CERTIFICATION) for reasonable response times, and no telling what else.

After traumas like the George Floyd case, so many folks wigged out. Understandably so. But society should NOT let the lesser controllable cops ruin the name or image of all cops. To  call for getting rid of law enforcement? I mean, after a while, the goal somewhat transitioned to Police Reform, but totally dissolved? Wow. These folks are friends, saviors, parents, committee members, and Law Enforcement Officers deserve our respect. They are also mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, aunt, uncles, daughters, sons, and lots more. They perform (often thankless) jobs, pull double shifts, work after hours security, patrol our neighborhoods, but mainly, and please note: Protect and Serve.

 They are sometimes transferred to different shifts, different details, or different home base locations at a moment's notice. In a university town like ours, at-home football games typically require 'all hands on deck'. So birthdays, weekend getaways, anniversary celebrations, holidays, must be scheduled around Game Day in Athens.

So next time you see or have an opportunity to interact with these incredible public servants, and without identifying their jobs, just give them a smile & thank you. They'll know what it's for. It may be the first they've ever received. If you've ever had a negative interaction with a LEO, think about your own role you might have played. 

A salute and big thank you for your selfless contributions, LEOs. Retired, current, or past contributors. Thank you. 🫂

I thank you for stopping in.

Too Late For Love

 07.23.2022

"Standing by the trapdoor, aware of me and you, The actor and the clown, they're waiting for their cue"

Def Leppard-Too Late For Love- 1983

By now, you've noticed that I like the metaphors. Reviewing the last 7 years in my head now. Just like yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before that... Man, I can't get away from it. In watching the news, reading articles, and watching our country being torn to shreds has been a test of sanity for lots of us. It's been so divisive it hurts, causing both mental and physical fatigue for so many. The loss of meaningful rights has been debated ad nauseum, and ruled upon haphazardly. How did our great country get here? Protests and marches tell some of the tale. Watch & listen. Plug into what's going on and it's pretty easy to see. Watch lying liars, live and on tape, spewing nonsensical bullshit that eventually equates to: 

• Our LGBTQ+ communities again being treated as second class citizens
• Our citizens of color STILL having to accept bullshit treatment that should have been dissolved centuries ago
• Freedoms for individual healthcare choices now being compromised 
• Discrimination, heavy and deep seated
• Our less fortunate being dismissed, living in boxes, or tents, if they're lucky

The actor and the clown referenced? Our former president and first lady. The jokes on us. Shame on those not doing their political homework. Now that the proven truths are revealed through our constitutional processes that make our country the best of the best for freedoms, sometimes beyond compare,  how will our staunch conservatives react? We've seen some already repelled by the facts. Bravo. Our conservative party, of which I was once a member years ago, is as fucked up as I could have ever imagined. A house divided indeed.

Why do minimal gains in traction towards a true democracy excite us so much? When you see and hear people, citizens or people seeking to be citizens of our country, raging against a machine that we created, it's heartbreaking. Is it all because or our former president and first lady? I don't really care, do you?

This morning, sitting outside with the cats & waiting for the deer, the sounds, or lack of specific ones, was calming.  Cicadas & tree frogs & crickets sounding out, no A/C compressor or transport truck noise, I was thinking about our political climate seven years ago. I miss Barack & Michelle. I miss Bill & Hillary. Although I was not a huge G.W. Bush fan, I always loved Laura, and respected many of G.W.s efforts.

Sue me. Or shut up & hug me.

No, I'll never, ever, be able to say many kind things about 45 and his Melania. Too bad about their mental health? Sorry about their shitty upbringing? Why did The Rose Garden get redone, or the White House Christmas decor get turned into a movie set depiction of a Las Vegas wedding isle? The fucking White House, man. The history. The builders. The American people. Just seeing him seated at the  Resolute desk/Hayes desk in the Oval Office made me sick. If only I could bottle my rage.

I try really hard to be chipper & good natured while with family, but particularly our granddaughters. My hopes are that they will be somewhat cushioned from current times until the ship can be righted. Let's make trumps shitstorm go away.

Thank you for stopping by.

Samwell Bernard

 07.22.2022

Samwell Bernard Hinsch-about 5 years old now. Named after Samwell Tarly, Jon Snow's most loyal friend, I felt Sam's destiny the moment I scooped him up.

Sam was discovered inside of a 53' van trailer that was used for storing used tires, pre-disposal, at my place of business. A coworker had heard a little kitten mew sound, moved several tires, and brought him to me. "I've heard you talking about how you missed your cat", and handed him to me. It only took a millisecond. Called my Bride, read her in, and asked her to meet me at our Vet. "How're you going to get him there?" I told her my plan of slipping him into my jacket pocket, zipping it most of the way, and being as slow & calm as I'd ever been on my motorcycle. And I did just that.

Loving and loyal, almost a pure black cat, our Sam is seemingly part dog, part mountain goat, a tail chaser (his own), and like our youngest son. If you're an animal lover, you soooo know what I'm talking about. Let's back back a bit...

When our son was 6 or 7, my sister-in-law & her husband kept our son for us one weekend. When his stay was over, he was gifted with a kitten. A tiny, recently weened female tuxedo. He was already captivated by her, so into our home she came. He chose the name Roxanne. Why, only he knows, but it fit. And so it began.

My Bride & I being cat lovers, we all got her set up in her own space. It wasn't long before she hired us full time.

Roxanne, aka Roxannie Fanny, was rowdy, loving, and affectionate, and like many animals, a very caring companion. Her natural instincts were on point. If anyone was ever sick or even sad, she'd be right by our side. As our son & Roxanne grew, she would attack his legs/feet while he was eating before school. My bride had sewn slip covers for our dining table that totally encased the chairs, and was a perfect place to hide, waiting for her sneak attack. She'd be under a chair where she couldn't be seen, and BOOM. We never knew which chair she was under, but we all knew it was one of 'em. He wouldn't let his legs dangle after that, keeping them tucked up in his seat. Roxanne would eventually come to simply move to a seat, hidden by the tablecloth, and attack from a higher vantage point. She was so tricky!

We had her for 19 years. 

About a year after her passing, I was really jonesing for another cat. We were talking about going to a shelter to adopt, and then Sam happened. Thank goodness he found us.

Game of Thrones fans know of Samwell Tarly's significance. Our Sam is not so different. 

Thank you for stopping by, and tolerating this story. Sam's a huge part of our lives, and we're all better for it. Lucky us.

Our LGBTQ+ Brethren

 07.21.2022

This, in our community:

Excerpts from an ONLINE ATHENS article, 6.30.22

'Fighting to protect our kids': Laws targeting LGBTQ youth concern Athens teachers

When Thea Canby and Nicole Gustafson opened a school together, they wanted to create the kind of learning environment they needed but never had. In January 2022, the duo founded Our Resilient Community, a combination learning space for homeschooled children and queer community center. 

As a space run by LGBTQ educators for LGBTQ students, many of their class topics center around LGBTQ studies. Queer issues, in particular, came into sharp focus during Georgia’s spring legislative session with the introduction of Senate Bill 435, a bill intended to ban transgender girls from participating in sports teams that match their gender identity.

Then, on May 4, the Georgia High School Association voted unanimously to ban transgender athletes from competing on high school teams consistent with their gender identity.

'They need to know they have a place in the world'

According to data collected by the Trevor Project, an LGBTQ youth crisis hotline and advocacy group, LGBTQ kids already report high rates of depression and anxiety. Katie Leikam, a therapist who specializes in working with LGBTQ children, said that learning they are the center of a national debate doesn't make things easier.

Check out "Our Resilient Community" on FB & IG. Equality, Inclusion, Antiracism, are all important. You want to move towards a Supreme Race like Hitler, or embrace everyone, no matter their differences? I'll pursue the ladder, thank you very much. Hate breeds hate, as we've witnessed for thousands of years. So where does it end? I say let's let it end now. Today. No exclusion, no thinking that we know what people have been through, why they're hungry, homeless, or suicidal. Everyone is someone's kid. And everyone deserves to be heard. So ask them. What they think, what they need. Our society loves their pets, and I'm no different. But human beings, man. We can do better. Check your selflessness in the most honest way possible. Every day.

Sam Cooke wrote an all time favorite, "A Change Is Gonna Come". We're workin' on it Sam.

Thank you for stopping in. Be well, all.

Little Dreamer

 07.20.2022

"Seems no ones talking 'bout those, crazy days gone past"

Van Halen"Little Dreamer"1978

Days begin and end with current events, memories, and sometimes, heartache. I'm so thankful for a life well lived, but I swear, haunting thoughts will probably lead to my wiggin' out. I don't always recall dreams, but when I do, they can be so vivid. Thank goodness for my daily meds.

Tonight as I was doing our cat-roundup, I saw a couple of bucks that've been stopping by on the regular. Strong, healthy looking guys. Velvet in tact, I think they're eight pointers. They may be brothers, as they're always together. So there were 4 deer total, 2 doe on the fringe. They see me & give me the nod and stare. I duck inside to get my feed container, load it up, and go for the feed bowl. They back away a bit usually not far, and by the time I get back to the deck, about 15', they are on it. But only the bucks. The fucking patriarchy, man. I know it's probably nature's way, but I've been feeding, almost by hand, these does for a while. The biggest buck faints towards a doe, and she skitters off deeper into the shadows. Both bucks clean the feed bowl & trot off. After about 10 minutes, the does return. I take more feed out, and the ladies return. The one I can almost touch raises her head to see one of the bucks return. She ain't havin' it. She rears up a little, stomps, and the buck stands up on his hind legs, front legs flailing, but she stands her ground. Atta girl. The buck & his buddy/brother trot off. Rapidly.   #becausestrongwomen

It was a moment for me as a feminist, and I quietly cheered for both ladies. Their solidarity was an affirmation. Their point was made, and I got to witness it all in real life, real time. Kinda like a Pro Choice team giving a big 'FU, it's my turn now' message of accomplishment.

I never got the cats in, even 2 hours later.

I'm my own Little Dreamer, waiting patiently for the ball to drop for equality. Is all the current greed and hate part of something bigger? Like the end of days?

I think that despite our political landscape and state of affairs, we, collectively, are strong, and despite some leaders being confused, selfish, and weak, we the people shall overcome. Does this last sentence resonate with anyone? 

Let's keep our head down, continue moving forward, work for legislative action geared around PEOPLE, and keep our eye on the prize. 

Thank you for stopping by.

Perspective, or POV

 07.19.2022

Ahhhhh. The freedom to develop our own. Change them. Write them. Speak them. Some countries balk at these freedoms, or even imprison or kill you for sharing yours.

Sure, I get irritated about certain political triggers. But I promise, I work DAILY to understand other people's points of view. Everyone's matter, so it's important to allow for equal time. Color me guilty for shutting folks down when my temper overrules my better judgement.

It has recently started small, while doing my best to set examples for our youngest granddaughter. Our setting up an inflatable pool has created an environmental landscape for learning through both observations and daily maintenance. While manually skimming leaves and tree debris, we'll see insects struggling not to drown. With her tender heart, she is quick to scan the pool for any creatures in distress. "Pop, an ant right there!" We'll scoop it up & gently set it back into action. It happens a lot, so there are ample opportunities. "We have to save that June bug, Pop!" "Look, a spider!" She gets a little sad if our life-saving efforts are late to arrive, and that face...I am humbled at every saved life and every funeral. We saved a Honey Bee last week, and a Carpenter Bee yesterday. We put some sugar water in a jar lid for the assist, in which she marveled in watching insects recover, energize, and go on their way. Her elation was  palpable every time, no matter the subject. And that provides me with perspective. It sends me into a flurry of thoughts of infinite possibilities, making me question everything, and how I perceive, then react. 

Animals and insects are her world. And at 4 years old, now  the student has become the teacher. You can see her mind percolate, then she machine guns questions right at me. So happy to answer, and if I can't answer due to a lack of knowledge, we search for them together. These lessons lead to cautionary tales of environmental health, her generation being next-in-line. Too heavy for her? Not this 4 year old.

The importance of perspective in our society is necessary in my opinion. So point/counterpoint with people. Share ideas of hope, of taking pockets of time for beneficial assists in making a difference. Partner with teachers and school staffers. With law enforcement. With animal shelters. With your local American Red Cross. With hospitals, our elderly, our churches...be a part of something larger than yourself.

In closing, I must say something about perspective provided by Drawings By Trent. Go to IG or FB and watch Trent and his wonderfully supportive family. @drawingsbytrent.

Perspective. Getcha' some. Thank you for stopping by.

Rebel For Their Futures

 07.18.2022

"I went back to my Mother, I said I'm CRAZY Ma, help me, She said, I know how it feels son, 'cause it runs in the family"

The Who -'The Real Me'- 1974

I often wake up with lyrics from some song playing in my head. I'm questioning myself, I'm ranting, I'm sweating, I have to pee, take my meds, feed the cats, make coffee, then I turn on the news, and wait. Wait for that "feel good" story to lift me up from a sometimes hellish landscape that I hold in my head. I think about rereading "The Road" by Cormack McCarthy, a fictional novel about a man and his son in a post apocalyptic world. His sole mission is to get his son to a specific destination, obstacles be damned. I try to shake myself out of this fictional scenario, but in my head, its our potential reality. Think 'worse than Mad Max'. So I think about to whom I'm responsible. Am I prepared fo a SHTF reality? Am I over-reacting? 

I take the cats outside, feed the birds & the deer & ultimately the squirrels, and wait for a sunrise, then for our granddaughters to wake up to force my smile. I see their carefree young selves, remembering my own days like that. 

Am I doing all I can, as I'm sure most of you are, to assure their real chances for a world like I had, or living conditions like I enjoy? That all kids deserve? Man, I sure hope so. 

"Feed the babies, who don't  have enough to eat, shoe the children, with no shoes on their feet, house the people, livin' in the street, oh, oh, there's a solution"

The Steve Miller Band -'Fly Like An Eagle'- 1976

I'll sign off for now, but add these final thoughts for consideration: 

• Human suffrage
• Equality for all
• Unity for success
• Accept no dictators
• Embrace/talk with neighbors
• Do unto others...you know the rest. That's why this rule is golden.

Thank you for stopping by.

Bullet The Blue Sky And More

 O7.17.2022

U2, Rage Against The Machine, The Clash, Dropkick Murphys, CSNY, CCR, Green Day, Pearl Jam, NWA, Sleater-Kinney, Public Enemy, Dead Kennedys, Black Flag...if you don't know the power of music and how the arts can unify people, you've been snoozing since before Woodstock. The original one.

These artists and so many others, too many to name in this daily snapshot of my thoughts, have been encouraging us to RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE for years. When you're updating your Spotify or iTunes playlists, check some of these tunes of these creative and passionate  performers & writers have crafted. Inspiring, often enraging, and always thought provoking, you (and I) both may hear something that your news channels probably missed. 

Our son has kept us young at heart, well, for his entire life. He offers tips and ideas for today's world, corrects us when we all debate, and challenges our responses when it's called for. Probably needless to say, but his need to offer constructive criticism lands on me WAAAAY more than on my Bride. They're the smart ones on our team.

I don't just get my relevant information from the arts or my family, though. I count on my favorite networks and world class journalists, and below are a few I MUST read and hear on the daily. If I'm fortunate enough to stay mentally able and alive for 20 more years, I'll base my learnings from these fine folks in the hopes to be the best husband-father-uncle-brother-friend-grandfather-neighbor-countryman I can be.

John Avlon, Joy Ann Reid, Michael Smerconish, Jake Tapper, W. Kamau Bell, Brian Stelter, Chritiane Amanpour, James Baldwin, Carl Bernstein, Arwa Damon, Clarissa Ward, and so many more. We're fortunate to be able to access news st the click of a button.

Wait. Is this The Jetsons?

Thank you for stopping by. 

Inside The Circle Of My People

 O7.16.2022

How small has my circle gotten? Relatively small, especially since COVID-19 and my retirement. In comparison with my youth, really small. You grow, you learn, you move away from the place of initial growth, space is created, and distance happens. If you have the great fortune to retain your early friendships, it's miraculous. Sometimes.

Friends fade sometimes. It hurts when it happens, particularly if it's true friends opposed to acquaintances. I think we all have both. But the friends, and friendships grown with love and trust, can and do haunt me.

Something I relish is being able to just pick up where you left off. That's powerful. I also find great joy and comfort in forming new relationships electronically, something not really knowing anything about until after moving from Texas in 1986. I miss lots of them, at least  until I learn about adult views that may drastically differ than my own. I don't love them any less, I just drift away from rekindling a tight bond. I try to be civil, I promise.

My electronically formed bonds are based on the like-minded  and what seems to be sincere. I try to be selective, and not ever rude or pushy. I love joining groups that talk about hobbies, dreams, and of course, politics.

Circle development is important to me, especially in my later years. While I still have the talent of thinking like a 17 year old, I have gained a bit of maturity in my ability to think and function as an adult. I no longer succumb to peer pressure, I just smile and quietly fade out. Unfriending and unfollowing and blocking takes a toll on me emotionally. I know, all grown up & a big ol' bag of emotions. Can't help it when the heart is the target.

The growth of my circle has been a quest of acceptance, one of learning and excitement. I had been in a vague depressed state since hearing of trump possibly running for the POTUS. All of my feelings about the state of the political landscape came into view, and as it played out, it was televised. It has been the lead story in radio and the news. You can't get away from it. If you can passively ignore it, my hat is off to you. Kinda like if you can socially have a drink on occasions. I'm jealous for sure, but mad respect.

 My online connections are strong and many. Some even remain from my life in Texas. But my newer contacts have schooled me, heavy on explaining in an educated ways. We rarely fuss, and always share a common mission: reaching a common goal in a democratic way. It's funny how you can be so fond of people you've never even met.

Folks, our democracy is at risk...have you noticed? So stand up and be counted.

As always, thank you for stopping by. 

#strengthinnumbers

Tops Supermarket, Buffalo, New York

 07.15.2022

Two months after a hate mongering Cracker massacres ten innocent human beings, Tops has reopened. I remember the day it happened, and watched in horror as the story coverage expanded. Nineteen year old Payton Gendron, racist domestic terrorist, committed premeditated murder, shutting down the local grocery store that served a very dependent community. Way to make momma proud, you steaming heap of dung. The lives lost were just folks shopping. A place any of our family members might have been.

 Now what?!?

Forgive him? Wait until karma comes in the form of prison justice? Banish him to "The Hole"?

My vote goes to prolonged suffering, living with himself and his decisions, being judged by his incarcerated peers, having all rights and prison privileges revoked. No communication with the outside world, no books, no councilor, no TV, no radio, no newspaper, no letters coming or going, and to be blocked from groceries, like his actions dictated to many, particularly our elderly, for two months. THEN, check in on him, maybe  every few days. What a drain on our society. Tough foe me to go the 'forgive him' route.

And what about Uvalde? Synagogues? Churches? Movie Theaters? Shopping Centers? Convenience Stores? Or vigilantes? Or rouge law enforcement officers? White nationalists? Gangs? It's enough to make you want to scream. I'm not a fan of arming teachers, like many have suggested, but I AM a fan of intelligent reviews of the status quo. I believe in our democracy, but not the majority of the elephants in the room. Please contact your local/state representatives with solid, doable changes that will make shootings, especially mass shootings, go away. Our faith in humanity has been tested. Now respond.

Thank you for stopping by.

LGBTQ(+) And You

 07.14.2022

First of all, I'm heterosexual, so my commentary is based on personal knowledge in my interactions with the LGBTQ+ community since I was 18. 

I was recently out of high school, and the world was opening up. Understand that I'll never profess to be as accepting of others that were different than me right away. It took a minute.

My first (known) encounter was with an African American coworker in 1976. He was part of a group of about 5 of us that spent every waking moment outside of work together in party mode. One time we went to a bar to play pool & continue drinking in small town Texas near my best friend's family lakehouse. It was horribly eye opening. We were gawked at, mumbled about, and politely asked by the owner to leave. Meanwhile, one of the Big Whitey crew called the police upon our exit. The officer was nice enough, but of course, we'd all had a lot to drink. I had a loaded .22 pistol in my best friend's car, which helped in landing us in jail overnight...for our own safety. Luckily, our friends had left just before us. 

The next morning, we were released, no charges, and my pistol was returned to me. The officer was kind, but added the following: "Boys, if you're gonna come to our town, don't bring your Ni**er buddy with you." This was late 1977. It was the moment that changed me.

Since then, I've tried my hardest to be accepting of all people. Even that officer, that was doing his best in his role, while achieving balance. His comment was a sign of our troubled times even then. Small town mentality still exists, so be careful out there. And not just in Texas.

Acceptance. Do yourselves a favor, and accept the things you cannot change. Thank you, AA. I've found that if you try to change EVERYTHING that ills you, it will mentally erode you, until your compassion struggles to appear.

Humans. We're everywhere! We're fallible! One of my favorite quotes is "Seek to understand, THEN to be understood". I think it a lot, obviously. We work to change what we can. Like that night at the lake, I changed my drinking habit, because that situation evolved from alcohol consumption...and my need to tell the Big Whitey crew to fuck themselves. 

OK, I drifted into storytime and a little off subject. Apologies. My passion for understanding others and accepting our differences is strong. Our LGBTQ+ sisters and brothers need our love & support, as their burdens of gaining acceptance is real. I can't imagine having to think about hugging, kissing, or holding hands with my mate in public. Mull THAT over. Think interracial couples. Long judged by society as well. But NOT all over the world. Watch some BBC TV.

Please join me and the many others in normalizing our fellow human beings. Say Gay. Hug whomever you want. Celebrate same sex relationships as well as dual sexual preferences. Let your transgender thoughts be accepted as a human alternative to being stuck as someone you are not. Think Elliot Page. Caitlyn Jenner. Just think.

Thank you for stopping by. Be well.

Power In Unity

07/13/2022

This is another area that needs our immediate attention. Not that we're not trying, as many, many folks have joined together. But we need our left thinking countrymen and women, NO AGE BARRIERS, to talk it up. I believe that our younger folks, particularly ages 13-18, are still pretty peer conscious. Understandable, as we all want to fit in as we find our paths. I get it. But these ages, and forward, are the formative years where your decisions have great affects on your future. They define you in a way that attracts like peers, old and/or new. I like to talk with our younger generations, and am almost always surprised in the best ways at their knowledge and maturity. Honored to be allowed these moments.

Where to begin? Educate yourselves. Everything you profess to know MUST be based in facts. 

Debate important issues with your nearest and dearest, and then encourage them to share to anyone that is accepting of broadening their path. Social media is a wonderful tool, as so many can be reached. If folks are interested, they'll read what you have to say. You'll know your takers. 

Recruiting, semi- passively, at every turn. Plant seeds that begs inquiry and research. Suggest books. The takers will be ones that value education, or maybe just tired of the status quo, or are burdened by historical bullshit. Because there's a lot.

Tick-tock goes the clock. School is about to start, so let's make moves together. If you're local, I can suggest a few books that may interest you. We're so fortunate to have a phenomenal public library, so don't be a stranger to it. Books on real instances of real life hatred aren't hard to find, and unfortunately, there are many. Unfortunately? Records of the truth are hard, but necessary. I believe that the documentation of these horrors will benefit us if we just.pay.attention.

Thank you for stopping by. Our currently challenged democracy needs us. Now. Let's unify, and if we don't live to see it, hopefully our kids & their kids will. 🫂

African American Hatred. Asian Hatred. Latinx Hatred. LGBTQ+ Hatred. Muslim Hatred. Jewish Hatred. Native American Hatred. LWhy?

07.12.2022

Still trying to wrap my head around sooo much hate. We've documented, written books, taken and drawn pictures depicting horrors against humanity, had our educators patiently coach us, listened to elders that lived it, yet still...so I'll try to continue to get to the root of all of this evil. These are my opinions based on my readings, current events, and straight from the mouth of those affected.

1. A continuum of teachings from an early age: I say this as a receiver of propaganda from an early age. From home and from peers. Please understand that my parents eventually changed, but they too were subjected to steering comments. An age old conundrum, racist remarks. My parents were beautiful people, so I don't hold their memory with disregard. But the occasional "N" word was used until later in their lives. They grew, adapted, and accepted that these behaviors were hurtful and derogatory. I credit my Bride with starting the ball rolling, which only heightened their appreciation and respect for her. She had already shut, me down for my occasional outbursts of negativity towards others, no matter how I tried to justify my actions to myself.

2. Slowly, terrorism from abroad reared it's ugly head. Our country was/is inflamed over attacks that are so senseless in our eyes, and I am no exception. But for the pockets of terrorists from overseas, the hatred of a group, like Muslims or Russians, for example, is terrible. If you think the whole population from these groups are terrorists, or power hungry, or greedy, think again. I'll just leave this here.

3. Genocide. Extermination. What ugly words. Internment. Imprisonment. OK, I easily drift into my nightmares. Hiroshima, Nagasaki, World Wars, Slavery, the shunning of human beings fleeing country-wide corruption...where does it stop? Education. Activism, and being proactive instead of buying in to fit in.

4. Domestic Terrorism. Save me, man. It's hard for me to swallow the fact that our fellow countrymen can be so hateful and divisive. Yet here we are. Did trump create this? Maybe not, but he sure helped to unleash the radical right. I understand how important a strong economy is, so let's collectively push for improving ours BUT NOT AT THE COST OF OUR HUMANITY.

5. So I can see how easy it is to be bitter towards past and present treatment along with crimes against humanity. I'm bitter, and have never been (physically) affected. So let's be more understanding, more giving, more loving, and more caring. Our kids are counting on us.

P.S. Years ago when I went home to Texas to see friends & family, my sister had recently gone through a divorce. She had her three kids the majority of the time, and finances were challenging. Her yard hadn't been cut in a bit, so When I went to crank it, it was a no go. No oil, engine seized. I went to buy her one & was cutting her yard and when her ex-husband rolled up. Trying to be cordial through tense emotions, said hi, shook his hand, and he said "So I see she found a yard ni**er". Are you fucking kidding me? I knew I shouldn't stomp that word out of his mouth, but under great restraint and for my sister, niece & nephews, I didn't. I didn't. Rising above as I was taught was indeed possible, even for me. Thank you Mom & Dad. Thank you tiny baby Jesus.

#openyourheart #PeopleoverProfits     #stoptheh8

 

07.11.2022

 Traction, or "gription", will be used in this blog a lot. Because I have a lot to share. I'll be 64 in less than two weeks, am recently retired, and finally had time to share and express my thoughts...well, on a variety of topics. My primary expressions will be about the political landscape here in the United States, but I ramble, so buckle up for ramblings from this old man.

About me. Just a snapshot of how I've been lucky enough to make it this far. First, I'm white. Built-in privilege. Born & proudly raised in Oak Cliff, a beautiful southern area of Dallas, Texas, for the first 18 years of my life. Loving parents focused on providing for my sister, brother & me. I was much older before I realized just how privileged we were.

We were part of the White Flight (look it up if need be), which then took us to North Dallas. I met my Bride five years later, married, and four years later moved to Georgia. To say it was culture shock is minimizing, to say the least. There was quite a learning curve, but had the love & support of my Bride's oldest sister, her husband, and their two magnificent daughters. From there grew friends, more family, and then we were blessed with our son. Soon after, I was fortunate enough to get sober. Life changing in the best of ways.

Fast forward 25 years, and our son, his soon-to-be Bride, and their two daughters complete our blessings.

Stop here? Can't.

Our political climate over the past seven years has been unnerving, as I am a liberal's Liberal. I was encouraged to start this blog opposed to meme'n everyone to death. Guilty as charged. Insight from your loved ones is a treasure, so always, always, be open minded. Like using  seatbelts, the life you save might be your own. 

OK, so I'll stop here for now. I hope to have favorable political (Liberal) content to add daily. Thank you for stopping by, and come again if you like. All commentary is welcome, as I'm also here for perspective.

#fuckthepatriarchy #equalityforall #loveoneanother #LetsGainTraction