Hopefully, the title made you ask, "What the hell is he talking about?" A few weeks ago, while attending a sales meeting, someone made a remark that has stuck with me. They were talking about finding 'balance' in our lives. The comment that was made was actually an extension of the above - "No one ever got to the end of their life and said they wished they had spent more time working." No, we all, before even arriving at that point in our lives, tell ourselves we should spend more time with the kids, relaxing, vacationing, or with our loved ones. Why don't we? I think part of it might be that we are conditioned, as I've mentioned several times before, to think as previous generations had and want to ensure our children have more than we did. I'll say it again - I wanted for nothing when I was growing up and neither did my friends. We were not "spoiled," nor did we have everything, however we had enough...and then some. Our parents made sure we were clothed and fed, had transportation (okay, biked, but they count, too), and a roof over our heads. So what can we give our kids that we didn't have? Again, we give them more...and at a younger age. They are no different than we were at their age, however we succumb, far too often, to their demands of, "I want (fill in the blank) like Susie or Johnny has." Susie has an iPod. Really? Susie is six years old. How does Susie even know what kind of music she likes and where can you download Barney tunes? Please...in the name of all that is holy, do NOT answer that. Any of you. You get my point, though.
So where are these particular ramblings going? Well, though I am one of those that spends my fair share of time at work...and then some (man, I hope someone from the Company is reading these self-indulgent 'pats on the back')...I have decided I do not want to be one of those that spends all my time working and missing things that matter. Last evening was a case in point. Friends of mine know that yesterday was a particular milestone in my life, yet more importantly, my daughter's life. It was her 16th birthday. I called her mother and found out that their plans included a small dinner with my daughter and a friend at a local restaurant. 'Local' meaning 'their' local, not mine. I am a 10-hour drive away. In the middle of the week, I thought it might make a nice surprise. I was not disappointed in my thoughts - she was surprised. Along the way, though, I had time to think about the journey she's been on for the past 16 years and how we've all arrived at the 28th of March, 2012. Memories, like the open gates of a dam, came flooding back as I recalled her years growing up.
I remember so many things now. My first thought, of course, was back to her birth. Thinking back to how I was awakened at 2:00 a.m. to her mother's voice telling me, "It's time. Hey, it's time. HEY - IT'S TIME!" Okay, so I'm a sound sleeper. I'm also one that has to leave the house only after a shower. Ph, yeah - me at 2:00 jumping out of bed and running to the bathroom to jump in when...."We don't have time for that right now." Great. Have you seen my hair? Right - gotta go. Gotcha'. A few hours later (almost 8, to be exact) we had a bouncing baby girl tipping the scales at 5 lb 5 oz. Small, by any standard. Most importantly, she was healthy...and our baby girl.
I remember late-night feedings. Her mother reserved those for me and, after seeing her labor, I wasn't going to argue. These were some of the best nights I've ever spent. I remember lying on the couch watching television a few months later and this tiny little thing falling asleep on my chest. Again, best feeling ever. She was tiny...but growing every day. Later, after moving into our first home, I remember rocking her to sleep and singing to her. Wanna hear a few.....never mind. I remember, too, that I was the one that got her dressed and ready in the mornings. Again, more 'Daddy-daughter bonding time' that I wouldn't trade for anything. Oh, and what about the time she and a little boy, while attending day-care in a private home, got out of their playpen and opened every bit of makeup on the dresser. Tore the room up. We still tell the story.
When she started school, she wanted to play soccer. Dad got to coach for a year. My knowledge of soccer is right up there with my knowledge of rugby. That didn't stop me, though, from watching the 'ant races' - 6-year olds running up and down the field with nary a care in the world other than who can get to the ball and kick it first. I remember standing in the cul-de-sac and Ms Brittany would come out of the garage bouncing a basketball, telling me how she could whoop me in a game. The image of her is indelibly burned into my memory of her standing there wearing sneakers, a pale blue skirt, white blouse and her arms out to her sides flexing her muscles. Oh, and the face. The 'I took you to school and gave you a clinic with that shot' face. Priceless.
Then she somehow, overnight it seemed, grew into a young lady with her own friends and social life. She began to sing and dance and get involved in activities that didn't require mom or dad's help. Her size helped her become a 'flyer' on the high school cheerleading squad and she loves it. Personally, I think this whole 'flyer' thing is another name for the chick that we get to do stupid stuff like stand on our shoulders and blindly trust us when she falls. She is fun to watch. Did I mention her voice? You'll forgive me as being "that" parent when I say she's got the voice of, well, an angel. Okay, maybe not angel, but a damn good voice. The cool part is...she makes me learn the words so we can sing duets in the car. I am honored...and humbled at the same time. She is nothing short of impressive.
Lastly, as the most recent "shared memory," she has become one of the biggest Alabama Crimson Tide fans....ever. She loves the Tide. She watches ESPN (yeah, you other dad can seriously eat your hearts out on that one) and has better football knowledge overall than some men I know. Going to a game with her in Tuscaloosa is such an experience that it cannot be put into words. Her friends give her grief about it at times, too, and she will NOT back down. Any guy hoping to spend time with her better bring his A-Game. Seriously.
So why am I sharing all this? Because she's 16, I'm the one writing the blog (artistic license, eh?), and because time is slipping away so very quickly. Perhaps I am writing as a wake-up call to myself and my friends. Actually, it's for anyone reading this. I don't want to be the guy who worked too much. There is nothing better for me right now than watching this young lady grow up before my very eyes. To see her finding her own unique identity amazes and astounds me. I am, quite simply, in awe of her and the person she has become. Maybe, just maybe, it's my little, "love letter," to her without actually professing it in public and hearing the whiny, "Daaaddd," as she announces her embarrassment. Last night was a very good night for all of us. If you're one of those parents that is actually taking the time to be aware of these moments as they happen, I congratulate you. If you're not, I suggest you do. Really make yourself aware of the moment as it occurs. You will not be disappointed, I promise. These moments are fleeting and before we know it, we're living the Harry Chapin song, "Cat's In The Cradle." Oh, yeah, you remember it. You're old. Now take the time to make sure your kids are watching and paying attention to your grandchildren so they, too, can experience these things. I don't mean to be maudlin in any sense, but the moments are just that in the big scheme of things - moments. I wish you all the same feeling I had last night because, quite honestly, I am still smiling.
Until next time............
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
Standing Your Ground?
Yeah, I've done it so many times it's laughable at this point, right? I spend time away from this blog, only to return a month or so later and apologize for not writing. Who am I apologizing to? Surely, your lives have gone on without missing this. I suppose I am apologizing to myself because, well, I like to write. It makes it hard when there are no issues to debate, though. What was I going to write about - Peyton Manning signing with the Broncos and Tebow being sent to NY? By the way, that last sentence would've been far more humorous had I written about Manning 'singing' with the Broncos, huh? Ah, the twisted mind still lives. Seriously, was I going to write about Kim Kardashian having flour thrown in her hair? Actually, that will come up in this piece...but not how you might imagine.
Yes, I have now found a story far more worthy than these others on which to spend time. Let me throw out two names and see if you guessed them before you read them. Ready? Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman. They are the hot items right now...for all the wrong reasons. The law in Florida is being tested...and questioned. By now, we all know the story. Trayvon Martin, an 17-year old black man, was walking home at night through a gated-community. George Zimmerman, captain of the neighborhood watch, caught sight of Trayvon and called 911 reported that "Yep, there's something wrong with him. He's coming to check me out." The teen, though, appears to have been going away from Zimmerman, running perhaps. This much has been reported - Zimmerman followed him when instructed not to and got out of his vehicle. Had he not done either of these two things, this situation, most likely, would not have occurred. What eventually followed was an altercation that left young Martin dead and, though Zimmerman reported that he was carrying something, it appears to be a bag of Skittles and an iced tea.
So here is my dilemma. I understand the "Stand your ground," law. I might even submit to liking the fact that it exists...were it not for the fact that it can easily be abused and, after another person is killed, can be used as a defense with no rebuttal. For years, we've all been told, "If there is an intruder at your home, you can shoot them. If they are anywhere outside, drag 'em back inside." The laws, to date, have been very strict about when you can and cannot use deadly force. Almost unfairly slanted towards the perpetrators, I feel. Well, Florida has seen to it that won't happen anymore. If you are being attacked, you can now stand your ground. If you are in imminent danger, you can use deadly force to neutralize the threat. I get it. Someone help me, though. How, exactly, was George Zimmerman standing his ground if he got out of his car and proceeded to follow Trayvon Martin. I think it fair to say that a reasonable person, unless they are looking for an altercation and were truly vigilant about the neighborhood watch, would remain in their car at a safe distance until the police arrived. That, as far as I can tell, happened in minutes. By then, Trayvon Martin lay dead in a yard. Was he the aggressor? I think it safe to say there will only be one side to the entire story...unless CSI steps up.
The other issue I have is with Mr Zimmerman's vigilance. As part of the neighborhood watch, he's called 911 46 times since 2004. Let's do a little math. 8 years and 46 calls. That means there were 5.75 calls per year or roughly one every other month. A call to 911 every other month for 8 years? Let that sink in for a moment. My deduction? Either that is one insanely troubled gated-community or, as I think we can safely guess, Mr Zimmerman might be a tad overzealous in his neighborhood watching. I may very well be wrong. I will admit that. I have seen neighborhood watches before, however, and this would be classified as extreme. I do not remember anyone, either, that would follow someone they considered to be suspicious, especially after being told, "We don't need you to do that," by the 911 operator. Ironically, Mr Zimmerman's friend showed up on the morning talk shows to say how, "very, very sorry George is," and that, "for the most part, he's virtually lost his life, too." Well, yeah, but I'm betting Trayvon Martin's family wishes Trayvon had only "virtually," lost his life rather than completely losing it.
Lastly, there are calls (as we KNEW there would be) that this was a racially-motivated hate crime. Not sure I believe that. I don't think that the shooting was motivated by Trayvon's race, however I must admit (again) that I do not know for sure. I could be wrong there, too. I do believe that there was a racial bias in the situation. For whatever reason, I believe that George Zimmerman considered Trayvon martin to be suspicious because he was black. Probably because, in the large percentage of cases like this, there are black perpetrators. Please...DO NOT misunderstand me - I am not saying there aren't whites that do the same thing. There are...and many of them. I am merely suggesting that these biases come from watching the news. As I explained to my daughter once as we walked to the convenience store - two black men were walking toward us and, as they approached, her grip on my hand got tighter and tighter until they passed - there are both good and bad black men AND white men. It's the fight we never seem to get beyond. The racial bias that has been, by someone, passed to our younger generations. I'm not sure when...or even IF...it will end. Suffice it to say, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are not going to help us end it.
So there it is - a new installment that calls out the situation in Florida and how we now have another race war brewing because someone went into a situation without considering the full consequence of their actions. This is not simply an issue in Sanford, FL. This is now an issue all over our nation and needs to be dealt with quickly. Sadly, in my opinion, it won't be resolved. Most likely, not in our lifetime.
Until next time............
Yes, I have now found a story far more worthy than these others on which to spend time. Let me throw out two names and see if you guessed them before you read them. Ready? Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman. They are the hot items right now...for all the wrong reasons. The law in Florida is being tested...and questioned. By now, we all know the story. Trayvon Martin, an 17-year old black man, was walking home at night through a gated-community. George Zimmerman, captain of the neighborhood watch, caught sight of Trayvon and called 911 reported that "Yep, there's something wrong with him. He's coming to check me out." The teen, though, appears to have been going away from Zimmerman, running perhaps. This much has been reported - Zimmerman followed him when instructed not to and got out of his vehicle. Had he not done either of these two things, this situation, most likely, would not have occurred. What eventually followed was an altercation that left young Martin dead and, though Zimmerman reported that he was carrying something, it appears to be a bag of Skittles and an iced tea.
So here is my dilemma. I understand the "Stand your ground," law. I might even submit to liking the fact that it exists...were it not for the fact that it can easily be abused and, after another person is killed, can be used as a defense with no rebuttal. For years, we've all been told, "If there is an intruder at your home, you can shoot them. If they are anywhere outside, drag 'em back inside." The laws, to date, have been very strict about when you can and cannot use deadly force. Almost unfairly slanted towards the perpetrators, I feel. Well, Florida has seen to it that won't happen anymore. If you are being attacked, you can now stand your ground. If you are in imminent danger, you can use deadly force to neutralize the threat. I get it. Someone help me, though. How, exactly, was George Zimmerman standing his ground if he got out of his car and proceeded to follow Trayvon Martin. I think it fair to say that a reasonable person, unless they are looking for an altercation and were truly vigilant about the neighborhood watch, would remain in their car at a safe distance until the police arrived. That, as far as I can tell, happened in minutes. By then, Trayvon Martin lay dead in a yard. Was he the aggressor? I think it safe to say there will only be one side to the entire story...unless CSI steps up.
The other issue I have is with Mr Zimmerman's vigilance. As part of the neighborhood watch, he's called 911 46 times since 2004. Let's do a little math. 8 years and 46 calls. That means there were 5.75 calls per year or roughly one every other month. A call to 911 every other month for 8 years? Let that sink in for a moment. My deduction? Either that is one insanely troubled gated-community or, as I think we can safely guess, Mr Zimmerman might be a tad overzealous in his neighborhood watching. I may very well be wrong. I will admit that. I have seen neighborhood watches before, however, and this would be classified as extreme. I do not remember anyone, either, that would follow someone they considered to be suspicious, especially after being told, "We don't need you to do that," by the 911 operator. Ironically, Mr Zimmerman's friend showed up on the morning talk shows to say how, "very, very sorry George is," and that, "for the most part, he's virtually lost his life, too." Well, yeah, but I'm betting Trayvon Martin's family wishes Trayvon had only "virtually," lost his life rather than completely losing it.
Lastly, there are calls (as we KNEW there would be) that this was a racially-motivated hate crime. Not sure I believe that. I don't think that the shooting was motivated by Trayvon's race, however I must admit (again) that I do not know for sure. I could be wrong there, too. I do believe that there was a racial bias in the situation. For whatever reason, I believe that George Zimmerman considered Trayvon martin to be suspicious because he was black. Probably because, in the large percentage of cases like this, there are black perpetrators. Please...DO NOT misunderstand me - I am not saying there aren't whites that do the same thing. There are...and many of them. I am merely suggesting that these biases come from watching the news. As I explained to my daughter once as we walked to the convenience store - two black men were walking toward us and, as they approached, her grip on my hand got tighter and tighter until they passed - there are both good and bad black men AND white men. It's the fight we never seem to get beyond. The racial bias that has been, by someone, passed to our younger generations. I'm not sure when...or even IF...it will end. Suffice it to say, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are not going to help us end it.
So there it is - a new installment that calls out the situation in Florida and how we now have another race war brewing because someone went into a situation without considering the full consequence of their actions. This is not simply an issue in Sanford, FL. This is now an issue all over our nation and needs to be dealt with quickly. Sadly, in my opinion, it won't be resolved. Most likely, not in our lifetime.
Until next time............
Monday, January 23, 2012
How Far Can We Take Political Correctness...Before It Becomes Stupidity?
I first have to thank a friend for sending me the article about this particular post. He knew I'd go on a rant because, well....we really seem to be approaching 'The Line'. "What line?" you ask. The line that has common sense, civility and decency on one side....and sheer unadulterated, laughable stupidity on the other. I'm sorry but we have truly lost our collective minds. See? I'm ranting already and you don't even know what it's about yet. I'm saving that for the 'Big Reveal'. It's too incredibly priceless not to. When I read the article, though, I started thinking about this thing we call Political Correctness...and I think it's time for it to go. True, we'll still need a modicum of civility and common sense which, as we all know, seems to be in short supply for many. Still, we can try without having to be so concerned we're going to hurt someone's feelings. When I began to ponder all this, I realized that this thing we've created is actually causing more issues than it helped resolve. Let's put it into perspective - when I was a kid, we'd spend our days outdoors playing games, one of which has been renamed for our youth. So that they might be politically-correct, there are kids that run outside to play, "Native Americans and The Frontiersman that Stole Their Land." We called it, "Cowboys and Indians." Whoa, what a huge no-no that is, huh?
I remember when much of this began. Suddenly, we had to say that people were African-Americans because "black," was considered offensive. To whom? Jesse Jackson? Al Sharpton? I'm sorry, fellas, but I'm not trying to be disrespectful...and I will tell you why I am okay with using the term, "Black." I always felt this way, however it truly hit home and made an impression when, in the Richmond-Times Dispatch, a black man wrote a letter to the editor. He stated in his letter that he was a US Marine and had fought for his country. He was born here and will die here. He went back four generations in his family and could not find one person that came from Africa. He refused to be called and African-American because he was, and is, simply...an American. Kudos, brother - I salute you! You see, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are always screaming, to anyone that will listen, of the grave injustices done to their ancestors. I get it. Hell, we ALL get it. Trouble is, I didn't own any slaves nor do I know of anyone that did. I thought it extremely ironic, too, that these are more men that are inspired to cause a fight rather than fix the problem. Oh, they will portray themselves as the latter but I know differently. You see, I had the opportunity to meet Jesse Jackson once. While living in Richmond, Doug Wilder was recently elected the first black Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. As the participants and guests began to arrive at the State Capitol, I was on the grounds in downtown Richmond. I looked up and ol' Reverend Jackson was about three feet away. There were few people in the vicinity and I stuck my hand out instinctively. I even said, "Rev. Jackson, how do you do?" Yeah, that's a whole other 'southern thing'...but I digress. Anyway, the man ignored me. Not entirely true - he looked at me and brushed my hand away, saying nothing. I lost no respect for him that day but, rather, allowed this to confirm my suspicions. If you want us to be "PC," you'd better know it's a two-way street. Many of us Irish-Americans are tired of strolling it in one direction.
Again, I digress, though. I am missing the part of the story that involves stupidity. Yep, he knew I'd rant...and here I am getting WAY off track. My fault - please excuse the mess. Anyway, here's the one I was telling you about initially. The one that shows we have gone far too far....and we're becoming blithering idiots. Hang on - you're not going to believe this one. You see, it seems that, in Draper,UT, Corner Canyon High School will be opening in 2013. It's a new school and they are preparing for their first classes. In this state, Brigham Young University (BYU) plays a big part. They are the collegiate powerhouse that enjoys a huge fan base of those that follow the Mormon faith, as BYU is a Mormon school. Well......seriously, I cannot believe I am even going to share the fact that this issue arose......the high school needed to plan everything, including its mascot. BYU Cougars gave them their inspiration...and the school board allowed the students to vote on what they wanted. By an overwhelming majority, the students chose "Cougars," over "Chargers, Diamondbacks, Falcons, Raptors, Bears," and a few others. A nice thing the school board did allowing student participation in the process, I feel, right? Yeah, well.....now they WON'T let them use the name. Nope. Can't be the Draper Canyon Cougars. Want to know why? Because (and I quote), "Board members deemed it might be seen as offensive to middle-aged women." Please read that again...and let it sink in. These kids cannot be called the Cougars because we are too concerned that (according to Webster's dictionary #2 definition - a slang term), "A middle-aged woman seeking a relationship with a younger man," might get offended. I....I mean.....it's.....I can't.....well, but......ARE YOU KIDDING ME? SERIOUSLY? ENOUGH ALREADY!!!
So let's sum this up, shall we? We can't say black, we have to say African-American. Florida State shouldn't be called the Seminoles. Atlanta's baseball team shouldn't be called the Braves. The 'tomahawk chop' needs to go. Now, we can't use the term Cougar?? What if it pisses off the cat? I gotta tell ya', folks, I'm a whole lot more worried about that prospect than some middle-aged woman being upset. Let me get this straight, too - if we decide to use the term, I don't know....'Tiger'....to mean a middle-aged man that wants to have a relationship with a younger woman, then Detroit's baseball team is going to have to change? LSU changes their mascot? That one works for me...but still, are we really going to go this far?
It's time we change the rules and stop making this a focus. it always ends up in a court case that costs time and money, yet is nothing more than frivolous. I have an idea. How 'bout we just try being nice to others and less offended by the little things. Sure, it's still going to happen and feelings will be hurt from time to time, but that's what makes an apology so useful. Just sayin'. I think it would make a lot more sense than the idiocy we're showing now...don't you?
Until next time................
I remember when much of this began. Suddenly, we had to say that people were African-Americans because "black," was considered offensive. To whom? Jesse Jackson? Al Sharpton? I'm sorry, fellas, but I'm not trying to be disrespectful...and I will tell you why I am okay with using the term, "Black." I always felt this way, however it truly hit home and made an impression when, in the Richmond-Times Dispatch, a black man wrote a letter to the editor. He stated in his letter that he was a US Marine and had fought for his country. He was born here and will die here. He went back four generations in his family and could not find one person that came from Africa. He refused to be called and African-American because he was, and is, simply...an American. Kudos, brother - I salute you! You see, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are always screaming, to anyone that will listen, of the grave injustices done to their ancestors. I get it. Hell, we ALL get it. Trouble is, I didn't own any slaves nor do I know of anyone that did. I thought it extremely ironic, too, that these are more men that are inspired to cause a fight rather than fix the problem. Oh, they will portray themselves as the latter but I know differently. You see, I had the opportunity to meet Jesse Jackson once. While living in Richmond, Doug Wilder was recently elected the first black Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. As the participants and guests began to arrive at the State Capitol, I was on the grounds in downtown Richmond. I looked up and ol' Reverend Jackson was about three feet away. There were few people in the vicinity and I stuck my hand out instinctively. I even said, "Rev. Jackson, how do you do?" Yeah, that's a whole other 'southern thing'...but I digress. Anyway, the man ignored me. Not entirely true - he looked at me and brushed my hand away, saying nothing. I lost no respect for him that day but, rather, allowed this to confirm my suspicions. If you want us to be "PC," you'd better know it's a two-way street. Many of us Irish-Americans are tired of strolling it in one direction.
Again, I digress, though. I am missing the part of the story that involves stupidity. Yep, he knew I'd rant...and here I am getting WAY off track. My fault - please excuse the mess. Anyway, here's the one I was telling you about initially. The one that shows we have gone far too far....and we're becoming blithering idiots. Hang on - you're not going to believe this one. You see, it seems that, in Draper,UT, Corner Canyon High School will be opening in 2013. It's a new school and they are preparing for their first classes. In this state, Brigham Young University (BYU) plays a big part. They are the collegiate powerhouse that enjoys a huge fan base of those that follow the Mormon faith, as BYU is a Mormon school. Well......seriously, I cannot believe I am even going to share the fact that this issue arose......the high school needed to plan everything, including its mascot. BYU Cougars gave them their inspiration...and the school board allowed the students to vote on what they wanted. By an overwhelming majority, the students chose "Cougars," over "Chargers, Diamondbacks, Falcons, Raptors, Bears," and a few others. A nice thing the school board did allowing student participation in the process, I feel, right? Yeah, well.....now they WON'T let them use the name. Nope. Can't be the Draper Canyon Cougars. Want to know why? Because (and I quote), "Board members deemed it might be seen as offensive to middle-aged women." Please read that again...and let it sink in. These kids cannot be called the Cougars because we are too concerned that (according to Webster's dictionary #2 definition - a slang term), "A middle-aged woman seeking a relationship with a younger man," might get offended. I....I mean.....it's.....I can't.....well, but......ARE YOU KIDDING ME? SERIOUSLY? ENOUGH ALREADY!!!
So let's sum this up, shall we? We can't say black, we have to say African-American. Florida State shouldn't be called the Seminoles. Atlanta's baseball team shouldn't be called the Braves. The 'tomahawk chop' needs to go. Now, we can't use the term Cougar?? What if it pisses off the cat? I gotta tell ya', folks, I'm a whole lot more worried about that prospect than some middle-aged woman being upset. Let me get this straight, too - if we decide to use the term, I don't know....'Tiger'....to mean a middle-aged man that wants to have a relationship with a younger woman, then Detroit's baseball team is going to have to change? LSU changes their mascot? That one works for me...but still, are we really going to go this far?
It's time we change the rules and stop making this a focus. it always ends up in a court case that costs time and money, yet is nothing more than frivolous. I have an idea. How 'bout we just try being nice to others and less offended by the little things. Sure, it's still going to happen and feelings will be hurt from time to time, but that's what makes an apology so useful. Just sayin'. I think it would make a lot more sense than the idiocy we're showing now...don't you?
Until next time................
Sunday, January 22, 2012
The Finality of an Era...and We'll Miss You, Joe.....
It finally happened. A day that many of us thought surely would never arrive...has come. What can be said that has not been written and reported at this point? Joe Paterno, former head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, has died at the age of 85. A college football coach died today. I still, personally, find it hard to say, "former," before the title of head coach. Yes, he was summarily dismissed from his position after 46 years as head coach and 61 years overall. The Board of Trustees saw an opening several months ago - one they had been waiting for that they assumed would never come - and took the opportunity to finally, once and for all, force Paterno and Penn State into the 21st century. After a particularly dismal 4-7 season in 2004, they called for him to step down. This was, by most accounts, going to be the proverbial 'straw' that would break the hold on the head coaching job and finally get Coach Paterno to step down. He met with the Athletic Director...and refused. Joe told him he would retire when he was ready...and not before. His answer to those critics? The team took the field in 2005 under his command and proceeded to rack up 11 wins to only one loss. Those critics? Yes...a long, pronounced silence. That was until 2011 and a former defensive coordinator gave the administration said opportunity. I find it sad, as many of us do, that more had been written and reported about Joe Paterno during the scandal than the perpetrator of the crimes. Rather than crucify the man who allegedly performed those heinous acts, we publicly humiliated and dispensed with a man that had given more than anyone to the university. I cannot discuss THAT again - I've already let my feelings be known months ago.
What has made a lasting impression, though, on many is that this man put in more years at one university...one job...than many people can imagine. 61 years? 46 as head coach? THAT is why we have seen the end of an era today. Gone are the days, especially in college athletics, of someone holding a job for that duration. That 4-7 season the Nittany Lions suffered through back in 2004 would have cost many lesser coaches their job. As it is widely known, I am one of the Crimson Tide faithful here in Alabama. We have a coach now that we would love to keep for, well, as long as he wants to stay. Why? Because he is winning. In a time when money is tied to the winning percentage, the school needs wins...and will pay handsomely for them. From 1992 through 2006, Alabama went through a slew of coaches...because they didn't win routinely. For almost half a century, Joe Paterno helped make Penn State football his lasting legacy. He taught 'Success with Honor' - a credo that had come under fire recently - though I say he always was, and will be, honorable in both word and action.
It's hard not to draw comparisons between Joe, Bear Bryant, Bobby Bowden, and Eddie Robinson. These men gave their all to their players and schools with fiercely loyalty and passion. They were all, in my opinion, men of class and character. Perhaps that's why they were always among the winningest coaches in the college game. We watched Bear Bryant, as he retired, tell folks that, "I'd probably croak in a week if I ever quit coaching." His love for his players, his school and the game was that great. Bryant died just 37 days after announcing his retirement. I often said, as did many friends and PSU faithful, that we thought the same thing might happen to Joe. He was forced into retirement on 11/9/2011. Less than three months later, we've lost Joe, too. In interviews on ESPN today, several people made comments with the same general theme - they believe Joe died of a broken heart. I think so, too. He left a loving wife, Miss Sue, 5 children, and 17 grandchildren. They were there until the end...and never broke his heart. It was, sadly, the loss of the thing he loved most - working with his players, the schools, the supporters. Those were the things that sustained him daily, along with his personal family, and he simply missed the loss too much.
It was asked today, of a former player, what Penn State lost this morning. "They lost their heart." For a man that gave his life to the institution...and to anyone that was a fan, or even a resident of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we know that to be true. RIP Coach Paterno. Say hello to the Bear...and the two of you start preparations for when the rest of us join you. That'll be a game we'll want to see again.
Until next time...................
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
It Was, After All, Their Destiny.....
It's been forever, I know. Over a month since I've written anything...ANYTHING...here for someone to read. Maybe it was too often then. Some too controversial. Too.....I don't know...lacking, perhaps. Tonight, though, I'm sensing some of you almost expected to see this again. More than me simply reliving last night's Crimson Tide victory over LSU, this is more of the 'why' we expected this...or thought it was destined to happen.
Many, if not all, of you remember back a little more than eight months ago when THE tornado ripped through Tuscaloosa. Living here, watching it head our direction, seeing the reports as it tore through downtown Tuscaloosa was more than we could believe. Unimaginably, it headed for Bryant-Denny Stadium...and missed. What it did not miss, though, were the thousands of lives in and around the University of Alabama campus. Most notably, as we've all come to know, was the first confirmed fatality for a Crimson Tide student, Ashley Harrison, the girlfriend of Tide long snapper, Carson Tinker. According to Tinker's later report, he and Ashley, along with one of his roommates were in their apartment when the storm headed toward them. They huddled together, he and Ashley, until the incredible winds literally ripped the 22-year old woman from his arms. The storm threw them all from the apartment - Tinker landed in a field about 50 yards away, while Ashley was found about 100 yards away. The storm decimated much of Tuscaloosa. 60 miles away, here in Birmingham, we watched as debris rained down as readily as the raindrops themselves. You looked toward the sky and watched pieces of trees, mobile homes, family dwellings come floating toward the ground. It was, as I mentioned those months ago, unnatural. Ashley was killed that day...and Carson Tinker was indelibly touched with loss.
The town began the rebuilding process as I've come to know southerners simply do. They do not stand around asking, "Why us, why here?" but, rather, they pick up the pieces and rebuild almost as if it is an expected part of the life process. They just survive...and come back stronger. It is, honestly, something very cool to see. This town, you have to understand, lays claim (at that point) to 13 National Titles in college football. Hell, everyone knows that, right? Okay, in the poll-era they are only recognized with 9 Championships, however the system that dates back to the beginning of college football itself recognizes the number "13". Needless to say, life here revolves around this school and its teams. The legendary Bear Bryant, with 6 Championships to his credit, saw to that. The town began looked to this team, the 2011 Crimson Tide, to provide some sense of belief that life could actually return to 'normal'. They had their chance and spoke of, "If we can...," knowing it would help heal the wounds. The season began with the Tide ranked #2 behind Oklahoma...and they knew they could. Those hopes remained...until November 5, 2011. That day. The game between LSU, ranked #1, and Alabama, ranked #2, was billed as 'The Game of The Century.' Okay, so the century is only 11 years old. Fair enough. A little over-hyped? Perhaps. A great game when all was said and done? Very much so, especially if you are a purist and love defensive battles. It was a 6-6 tie at the end of regulation and Bama had missed 4 field goals. In overtime, they missed another...and LSU would not be denied. What no one realized, though, was that it was meant to happen. It HAD to happen. Was SUPPOSED to happen. I only realized that toward the end of last evening's game.
Alabama had lost to the #1 team in the nation. Surely, they could not fall that far in the polls. They didn't. They dropped to #3. Along the way, Oklahoma State, Stanford, Oklahoma, and a few others had a chance to leap over Alabama and reach the summit - a #2 ranking - for a chance to play LSU in the Championship. LSU continued to win...and looked incredible doing it...as they marched toward a perfect season. Alabama continued to win, too, as their defense maintained the #1 ranking in ALL major categories. They were outstanding and had held the LSU offense to three field goals in their loss....but it was a loss. Those other teams? Yes, they marched toward the end of the season, too.....and all proceeded to lose a game. The highest-ranking challenger to Alabama would end up being Oklahoma State who had posted an unexpected loss to an unranked Iowa State. Today, they are still talking about why THEY deserved to be in the Game rather than Alabama. Moot point, though. With a very flawed BCS system, they are simply charged with placing the top two teams in the country into the Championship Game. They got it right. For a few weeks, we've heard the question, "If LSU wins it all, will they be considered one of the best teams EVER in college football?" If they had spanked Alabama, then yes. If they had SCORED on Alabama, then maybe. They didn't.
We've heard all the reasons Alabama should not have been in this game. They are in the same division of the same conference as LSU. They did NOT go to the conference championship. LSU played Georgia for the SEC Championship. It would be a rematch...and they aren't supposed to happen. Then we understand that, nowhere in the rules does it state that you must win your conference to go to the Championship game. Whew. What? Just the two best teams? Good - I'm thinking LSU and Alabama...right? Again, the system is flawed. Don't hate the teams, hate the system. We didn't "work the system," we played within it. Went out and....well, won. Like I said, this was meant to happen. SUPPOSED to, even...because, at the end of the evening, Alabama had come into New Orleans ranked #2 with the #1 defense. LSU had the #2 defense. it promised to be another slugfest...that never materialized. LSU was held to 92 total yards, 5 first downs, and only got past the 50-yard line one time. The defense was dominant, while LSU could not contain the Nick Saban-designed game plan. it was, if you're a Bama fan, something of beauty and domination. This team handled business at hand with incredible determination, skill, and focus. The kicker, he of, "I can't believe I missed another," fame earlier in the year, banged 5 through the posts last night. It was a lopsided 21-0 drubbing that was the first ever shutout in the BCS era. Again, for a Crimson Tide fan, it was remarkable.
As I said initially, though, this was a thing of destiny. If you don't believe it, remember this - Oklahoma State lost to Iowa State. Stanford lost to Oregon (on cue) and Baylor knocked off Oklahoma (when needed) so Alabama could retain the #2 ranking much to the chagrin of many. I know it sucks...but those are the rules. Hey, all they had to do was...not lose! Destiny. As everyone watched, the final point to this 'Destiny' theory was driven home - today, 1/10/12, would have been Ashley Harrison's 23rd birthday. Carson Tinker, along with Ashley's parents and friends, lost a beautiful young lady that day. I refuse to believe that, in ANY small way, last night wasn't touched by destiny....or fate. Ask Carson if he believes....
Congratulations to the 2012 National Champion Alabama Crimson Tide. Last night was something every Crimson Tide fan needed...and appreciated.
Until next time.............
Many, if not all, of you remember back a little more than eight months ago when THE tornado ripped through Tuscaloosa. Living here, watching it head our direction, seeing the reports as it tore through downtown Tuscaloosa was more than we could believe. Unimaginably, it headed for Bryant-Denny Stadium...and missed. What it did not miss, though, were the thousands of lives in and around the University of Alabama campus. Most notably, as we've all come to know, was the first confirmed fatality for a Crimson Tide student, Ashley Harrison, the girlfriend of Tide long snapper, Carson Tinker. According to Tinker's later report, he and Ashley, along with one of his roommates were in their apartment when the storm headed toward them. They huddled together, he and Ashley, until the incredible winds literally ripped the 22-year old woman from his arms. The storm threw them all from the apartment - Tinker landed in a field about 50 yards away, while Ashley was found about 100 yards away. The storm decimated much of Tuscaloosa. 60 miles away, here in Birmingham, we watched as debris rained down as readily as the raindrops themselves. You looked toward the sky and watched pieces of trees, mobile homes, family dwellings come floating toward the ground. It was, as I mentioned those months ago, unnatural. Ashley was killed that day...and Carson Tinker was indelibly touched with loss.
The town began the rebuilding process as I've come to know southerners simply do. They do not stand around asking, "Why us, why here?" but, rather, they pick up the pieces and rebuild almost as if it is an expected part of the life process. They just survive...and come back stronger. It is, honestly, something very cool to see. This town, you have to understand, lays claim (at that point) to 13 National Titles in college football. Hell, everyone knows that, right? Okay, in the poll-era they are only recognized with 9 Championships, however the system that dates back to the beginning of college football itself recognizes the number "13". Needless to say, life here revolves around this school and its teams. The legendary Bear Bryant, with 6 Championships to his credit, saw to that. The town began looked to this team, the 2011 Crimson Tide, to provide some sense of belief that life could actually return to 'normal'. They had their chance and spoke of, "If we can...," knowing it would help heal the wounds. The season began with the Tide ranked #2 behind Oklahoma...and they knew they could. Those hopes remained...until November 5, 2011. That day. The game between LSU, ranked #1, and Alabama, ranked #2, was billed as 'The Game of The Century.' Okay, so the century is only 11 years old. Fair enough. A little over-hyped? Perhaps. A great game when all was said and done? Very much so, especially if you are a purist and love defensive battles. It was a 6-6 tie at the end of regulation and Bama had missed 4 field goals. In overtime, they missed another...and LSU would not be denied. What no one realized, though, was that it was meant to happen. It HAD to happen. Was SUPPOSED to happen. I only realized that toward the end of last evening's game.
Alabama had lost to the #1 team in the nation. Surely, they could not fall that far in the polls. They didn't. They dropped to #3. Along the way, Oklahoma State, Stanford, Oklahoma, and a few others had a chance to leap over Alabama and reach the summit - a #2 ranking - for a chance to play LSU in the Championship. LSU continued to win...and looked incredible doing it...as they marched toward a perfect season. Alabama continued to win, too, as their defense maintained the #1 ranking in ALL major categories. They were outstanding and had held the LSU offense to three field goals in their loss....but it was a loss. Those other teams? Yes, they marched toward the end of the season, too.....and all proceeded to lose a game. The highest-ranking challenger to Alabama would end up being Oklahoma State who had posted an unexpected loss to an unranked Iowa State. Today, they are still talking about why THEY deserved to be in the Game rather than Alabama. Moot point, though. With a very flawed BCS system, they are simply charged with placing the top two teams in the country into the Championship Game. They got it right. For a few weeks, we've heard the question, "If LSU wins it all, will they be considered one of the best teams EVER in college football?" If they had spanked Alabama, then yes. If they had SCORED on Alabama, then maybe. They didn't.
We've heard all the reasons Alabama should not have been in this game. They are in the same division of the same conference as LSU. They did NOT go to the conference championship. LSU played Georgia for the SEC Championship. It would be a rematch...and they aren't supposed to happen. Then we understand that, nowhere in the rules does it state that you must win your conference to go to the Championship game. Whew. What? Just the two best teams? Good - I'm thinking LSU and Alabama...right? Again, the system is flawed. Don't hate the teams, hate the system. We didn't "work the system," we played within it. Went out and....well, won. Like I said, this was meant to happen. SUPPOSED to, even...because, at the end of the evening, Alabama had come into New Orleans ranked #2 with the #1 defense. LSU had the #2 defense. it promised to be another slugfest...that never materialized. LSU was held to 92 total yards, 5 first downs, and only got past the 50-yard line one time. The defense was dominant, while LSU could not contain the Nick Saban-designed game plan. it was, if you're a Bama fan, something of beauty and domination. This team handled business at hand with incredible determination, skill, and focus. The kicker, he of, "I can't believe I missed another," fame earlier in the year, banged 5 through the posts last night. It was a lopsided 21-0 drubbing that was the first ever shutout in the BCS era. Again, for a Crimson Tide fan, it was remarkable.
As I said initially, though, this was a thing of destiny. If you don't believe it, remember this - Oklahoma State lost to Iowa State. Stanford lost to Oregon (on cue) and Baylor knocked off Oklahoma (when needed) so Alabama could retain the #2 ranking much to the chagrin of many. I know it sucks...but those are the rules. Hey, all they had to do was...not lose! Destiny. As everyone watched, the final point to this 'Destiny' theory was driven home - today, 1/10/12, would have been Ashley Harrison's 23rd birthday. Carson Tinker, along with Ashley's parents and friends, lost a beautiful young lady that day. I refuse to believe that, in ANY small way, last night wasn't touched by destiny....or fate. Ask Carson if he believes....
Congratulations to the 2012 National Champion Alabama Crimson Tide. Last night was something every Crimson Tide fan needed...and appreciated.
Until next time.............
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
I Know We Can't Watch Them Every Minute, But...
I have a daughter that will be turning 16 in a few short months. She recently got her learner's permit. I'm scared. Nervous and worried might be more to the point. I think with good reason, too. We all have heard the reports - teens are more likely to be involved in a traffic accident in the first six months of driving than any other time. You have to look no farther than the evening news to see this happen every day...and last night was no exception. A simple posting on Facebook alerted us to the news - "Five Teens Killed in Adams County Crash." Teens. Killed. Those two words, if any adults had their way, would never appear in the same sentence. In the small town north of where I grew up, these five teens were riding together in their Saturn when they crossed the center-line. They ran into a pickup truck that was pulling an empty livestock trailer, which then pushed the Saturn 200 feet. That's 2/3 of a football field. Imagine how far we think it is when a running back breaks free for a 65-yard run. Yeah, THAT far. The impact as they were headed north, then suddenly got pushed southward for 200 feet. The driver of the pickup, his wife, and two children were not injured...physically. The car swerved into his path and the crash was unavoidable. Again, though they were not injured physically, I cannot imagine living the rest of my life knowing I was the driver when we collided...and five teens were killed. The ages of the teenagers? One was 17, three were 16, and one was 15. This should never happen.
They say this is particularly troubling at this time of year. I understand that. There will be 5 families that, in just a few short weeks, will have to live with the loss of their children as we celebrate THE holiday of the year. The one where the world grows a little more peaceful, and words are spoken a little more gently as we interact with each other. Christmas will always be a sad time for these families, especially since a parent is never supposed to bury a child. It's not natural. The school and fellow students will never be the same. To this day, I can name the students that were killed when their car ran into a tree head-on and their lives were lost while we were in high school. You never forget it...and it's not the way anyone wants to be remembered. The families will gather to mourn rather than celebrate...and that is wrong. The families, while grieving, will try to maintain a sense of normalcy...that will not come. We, as friends, will be placed in that awkward position of knowing not what to say, knowing not how to offer any true comfort...for that will be impossible. We aren't supposed to lose our youth this way.
Flowers will be placed along the road where this happened. For weeks and months, people will pass the spot and, if they knew these teens, will most likely shed a tear and feel the lump in their throat as they remember their friends. We owe it to their memories...and to our children's lives...to keep talking to them about safety. I remember once, as I walked out the door, my mother calling for me to, "Be careful." I, being the idiot son that she had, called back, "No, mom...I'm going out to throw caution to the wind and be a daredevil." She should have smacked me harder. I remember the first time I got the call, too. I had had my share of accidents in a car when I was younger and, fortunately, walked away from them relatively unscathed. When my son turned 16 and got his first car, I was attending a function at my daughter's school. It was 7:10 p.m. when my phone rang. He'd been in an accident and ran into a tree on a treacherous curve. He was fine, however I remember the feeling...and automatically thought of the times I put my own parents through the same thing. I eventually called my father and told him, "I'm a member of the club now...and I don't like it." I now knew the feeling...and worry that the call will come again. As I prepare for it, hoping it will not happen, I will stress to my daughter to be careful and wear her seat belt. I will tell her that it isn't worth risking an accident to get somewhere 5 minutes early. I will tell her, drastic as it may sound, that I do not want to have to place flowers on the side of the road. I will do whatever it takes to make her understand how fragile life is...and how hard for the survivors. I will never stop telling her how precious she is and how much I love her. I will always let her know that she, too, can never be too careful.
Please keep telling your children. Share this story with them, though they feel invincible at this age. Let them know...MAKE them understand...they are not. No one should have to anticipate Christmas while remembering the loss of a child. For 5 families in Pennsylvania tonight, they are doing just that...and our hearts go out to them. Our children are far too important for something like this...something preventable...to take them from us. Make sure they understand. Make sure you tell them, too, how much you love them. Again, for five families, they will never have that chance again.
Until next time.............
They say this is particularly troubling at this time of year. I understand that. There will be 5 families that, in just a few short weeks, will have to live with the loss of their children as we celebrate THE holiday of the year. The one where the world grows a little more peaceful, and words are spoken a little more gently as we interact with each other. Christmas will always be a sad time for these families, especially since a parent is never supposed to bury a child. It's not natural. The school and fellow students will never be the same. To this day, I can name the students that were killed when their car ran into a tree head-on and their lives were lost while we were in high school. You never forget it...and it's not the way anyone wants to be remembered. The families will gather to mourn rather than celebrate...and that is wrong. The families, while grieving, will try to maintain a sense of normalcy...that will not come. We, as friends, will be placed in that awkward position of knowing not what to say, knowing not how to offer any true comfort...for that will be impossible. We aren't supposed to lose our youth this way.
Flowers will be placed along the road where this happened. For weeks and months, people will pass the spot and, if they knew these teens, will most likely shed a tear and feel the lump in their throat as they remember their friends. We owe it to their memories...and to our children's lives...to keep talking to them about safety. I remember once, as I walked out the door, my mother calling for me to, "Be careful." I, being the idiot son that she had, called back, "No, mom...I'm going out to throw caution to the wind and be a daredevil." She should have smacked me harder. I remember the first time I got the call, too. I had had my share of accidents in a car when I was younger and, fortunately, walked away from them relatively unscathed. When my son turned 16 and got his first car, I was attending a function at my daughter's school. It was 7:10 p.m. when my phone rang. He'd been in an accident and ran into a tree on a treacherous curve. He was fine, however I remember the feeling...and automatically thought of the times I put my own parents through the same thing. I eventually called my father and told him, "I'm a member of the club now...and I don't like it." I now knew the feeling...and worry that the call will come again. As I prepare for it, hoping it will not happen, I will stress to my daughter to be careful and wear her seat belt. I will tell her that it isn't worth risking an accident to get somewhere 5 minutes early. I will tell her, drastic as it may sound, that I do not want to have to place flowers on the side of the road. I will do whatever it takes to make her understand how fragile life is...and how hard for the survivors. I will never stop telling her how precious she is and how much I love her. I will always let her know that she, too, can never be too careful.
Please keep telling your children. Share this story with them, though they feel invincible at this age. Let them know...MAKE them understand...they are not. No one should have to anticipate Christmas while remembering the loss of a child. For 5 families in Pennsylvania tonight, they are doing just that...and our hearts go out to them. Our children are far too important for something like this...something preventable...to take them from us. Make sure they understand. Make sure you tell them, too, how much you love them. Again, for five families, they will never have that chance again.
Until next time.............
Monday, December 5, 2011
Time For A Change. A REAL Change
I used to apologize for not writing....and suppose I should again. Really, though, I think it's more to myself than anyone. That, or the lack of really incredible newsworthy things to rant about. After taking a good deal of time away from blogging, I am returning. Things have happened recently that have simmered...then reached a boiling point. There is, shall we say, more madness running rampant. I should have been amazed, for example, by a headline I read online today. It read, "Seattle Welfare Recipient Lives in Million-dollar Home." I was barely shocked which, in retrospect, says a lot in itself.How sad is it that we are all so accustomed to our broken system that we hardly question it anymore? The couple that lives in the home receives more than $1200/month in public housing vouchers, plus state and federal disability checks...and food stamps. Oh, and they've been receiving these benefits since 2003. Court records also show that, in addition to living in this $1.2 million dollar home on the lake, they have travelled extensively to Turkey, Tel Aviv, and resort towns in Mexico. Okay....seriously? This is REAL? Sadly, it is. More sadly, we're paying for it. I'm going to go out on a limb here, too, and say this is NOT an isolated incident. My guess is they just got nailed. As luck would have it, they have yet to be charged with a crime, either. It seems they might have taken advantage of a loophole in the law. Loophole? Let's be serious - this is a hole big enough to jam the Superdome through. While this is going on, the majority of us are left to work to pay for everything we have because, well, we were raised better. I watched a show a few nights ago that showed couples that are receiving food stamps to supplement them. They have jobs. They lost their higher-paying jobs and, rather than let the government foreclose or simply walk away from their debts, they have swallowed their pride and are accepting assistance. I, for one, am okay with that. I do not mind helping someone until they get back on their feet. it's what the system was designed for, I believe. I, however, do have a problem with the folks that get pregnant with their fourth or fifth child because, "The government gives me more money for having more kids." Serious problem...and that isn't isolated, either.
While we're at it, I'd like to jump on an e-mail circulating that supposedly has ideas generated by Warren Buffet. Personally, I don't care whose ideas they are. I like 'em. The long and short of the suggestions are for members of Congress. The suggestions are for them to have their retirement funds placed into Social Security just like the rest of us. They must forgo their health plan and take the same plan the rest of us do. You want better insurance? Pay for it like we do. They must abide by all laws as the rest of America AND THEY MAY NOT VOTE THEMSELVES A PAY RAISE...EVER! How does that work, anyway? How do you think my boss would react if I went to him and said, "Hey, I've been doing some thinking. Based on what I am getting paid right now, I'm raising my income 5% next year." Really, how long before you think I'd be unemployed? Think I'd get the entire question out before he tossed me outside? Yeah, neither do I. Apparently, though, our Congressmen and women, along with Senators, think they make the rules and we are going to stand idly by. If the sitting President had one thing right back in 2007 while he was campaigning, it was this - IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE! I'm not the first to say it, but I will reiterate this point, too (especially in light of our friend Herman Cain's recent adventures) - "Running for office today is not about who's best for the job. It's about who has the fewest skeletons in their closet." That is my quote...and I stand by it. Even still, if a candidate came out and said to us, "Yes, I tried marijuana. I inhaled. I had an affair on my first wife (or husband...but that's another topic). I'm gay. I've been in a few 'compromising positions' but here are the details. Either way, I want to be your President." I might actually vote for him. Seriously, do you want that guy, or the Herman Cain guy that tells you he adamantly denies everything being said about him...then has women crawling out of the woodwork to continue the accusations? Seriously, Herm...one accusation might be someone trying to get attention or a book deal. Two women might even be an opponent's camp trying to discredit and embarass you publicly. Three or more is called, "The Short Goodbye." Why even try to run for office these days with an impressive resume of women like that? You think they won't be found? What are you drinking? Smoking, even! They WILL find them. They WILL find the drugs...or Chappaquiddick accidents...or illegitimate kids...or arrests. You must know that. So a little note to the candidates...and a new battle cry for the American People in the spirit of Nany Reagan - "Just Say SO!" "If you did it, admit it." C'mon, I could go on like this for some time. I won't though....because I just wnated to rant again. Tomorrow might even bring a BCS rant...in an oh-so-good kinda way - ROLL TIDE! Oh, and thanks for reading...
Until next time................
While we're at it, I'd like to jump on an e-mail circulating that supposedly has ideas generated by Warren Buffet. Personally, I don't care whose ideas they are. I like 'em. The long and short of the suggestions are for members of Congress. The suggestions are for them to have their retirement funds placed into Social Security just like the rest of us. They must forgo their health plan and take the same plan the rest of us do. You want better insurance? Pay for it like we do. They must abide by all laws as the rest of America AND THEY MAY NOT VOTE THEMSELVES A PAY RAISE...EVER! How does that work, anyway? How do you think my boss would react if I went to him and said, "Hey, I've been doing some thinking. Based on what I am getting paid right now, I'm raising my income 5% next year." Really, how long before you think I'd be unemployed? Think I'd get the entire question out before he tossed me outside? Yeah, neither do I. Apparently, though, our Congressmen and women, along with Senators, think they make the rules and we are going to stand idly by. If the sitting President had one thing right back in 2007 while he was campaigning, it was this - IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE! I'm not the first to say it, but I will reiterate this point, too (especially in light of our friend Herman Cain's recent adventures) - "Running for office today is not about who's best for the job. It's about who has the fewest skeletons in their closet." That is my quote...and I stand by it. Even still, if a candidate came out and said to us, "Yes, I tried marijuana. I inhaled. I had an affair on my first wife (or husband...but that's another topic). I'm gay. I've been in a few 'compromising positions' but here are the details. Either way, I want to be your President." I might actually vote for him. Seriously, do you want that guy, or the Herman Cain guy that tells you he adamantly denies everything being said about him...then has women crawling out of the woodwork to continue the accusations? Seriously, Herm...one accusation might be someone trying to get attention or a book deal. Two women might even be an opponent's camp trying to discredit and embarass you publicly. Three or more is called, "The Short Goodbye." Why even try to run for office these days with an impressive resume of women like that? You think they won't be found? What are you drinking? Smoking, even! They WILL find them. They WILL find the drugs...or Chappaquiddick accidents...or illegitimate kids...or arrests. You must know that. So a little note to the candidates...and a new battle cry for the American People in the spirit of Nany Reagan - "Just Say SO!" "If you did it, admit it." C'mon, I could go on like this for some time. I won't though....because I just wnated to rant again. Tomorrow might even bring a BCS rant...in an oh-so-good kinda way - ROLL TIDE! Oh, and thanks for reading...
Until next time................
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