Rushing or walking towards 2013

Dang, but it is difficult not to become overwhelmingly pessimistic as a result of reading the newspaper or watching television, including cable, news.  Certainly not helpful are the near hysteric comments from those on both sides of the aisles, each fanning the flames (as the saying goes) of the extreme views embraced by their cohorts.  Lost appears to be the current, very impact on the lives of the average American family. 

The economy stinks.  Political hyperbole abounds.  Compromise for the good of the whole nation isn't on the horizon.  Government intrusion expands, seemingly exponentially.  Popular rating of Congress is abysmal.   This can be characterized as the no-so-grand theater of the absurd, though the impacts are very, very real and dangerous.  Responsibility and accountability are lost on those who place themselves above the average family.

Should the average American family rush or walk towards 2013?  Is there hope for improvement?  Does the horizon hold forth promise for a better life?  Are the elected officials, to whom we entrust the care of our governments, truly concerned about us, or are they more focused on their own political and economic power?  Will the value of our homes increase?  Will another recession be created by those in elected office?  Will petty bureaucrats issue, unchallenged in most cases, ridiculous and counterproductive regulations?  Will judges at various levels continue to make law rather than interpret it?  Will the average family have the healthcare it needs, in realistic terms at reasonable cost?  Will the retired population be able to survive on their savings and social security?  Is it really the role of the federal government to intrude into every aspect of my life?  Will race relations continue to deteriorate?  Will the media outlets continue coloring their reporting for whichever political party and view they endorse?  Will our servicemen and -women continue to go in harm's in pursuit of disjointed, flawed strategic objectives?  Will our nation continue to be the beacon of liberty and freedom? 

Will we be better off in 2013 than in 2012?  Not a campaign slogan, but the harsh reality.  Not defined by others, but by our own aspirations and goals.  (I, for one, am sick of politicians purporting to tell me how happiness is defined.) 

Far more questions than answers.  But, from my perspective, the questions I and others have reveal an overwhelmingly pessimistic view of the world.  So it's hard to judge whether we should rush forward with high expectations or walk cautiously to the beginning of the new year, concerned about what the future holds.

Smiling on Christmas

Just a short post today, Christmas.  It is about as great as it could be, with kids and grandkids.  Celebrating in Sacramento, we've seen whole blocks in the "fab 40s" decked out in terrific lighting displays.  The grandkids were so excited, I thought our grandson would wet himself in anticipation.  And then, this morning, he declared that Santa really did read the wish list (although he didn't get everything for which he yearned).  A call to the extended family added to the day.

In addition to celebrating the birth of Christ, our Savior, being with the innocence of youth as they enjoy the day is just about the perfect way to spend the day.

After spending too many holidays away from family when I was on active duty, this is small payback.

I can't end, however, without commenting about the thousands of our warriors who are deployed away from their families, protecting our freedoms.  May the ner do wells in Washington DC strive harder to warrant this service and sacrifice.  (2012 didn't show me the electeds were worthy of the service and sacrifice.)

God Bless you all.

Merry Christmas

Well, the Mayans must have been wrong, because earth is still here.  Or maybe we just don't how to accurately interpret their calendar.  Regardless, our world continues and Christmas approaches.

It would be understandable for many to feel depressed, as is an all too sad norm during this time of year, even in a good year.  But this doesn't appear to be a good year.

• Sandy Hook Elementary School and a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado- nothing more need be stated.
• Political rancor, with an excessively liberal President re-elected.  Excessive amounts of money thrown into the political campaigns.  Hyperbole at every turn from so-called experts and pundits.  A nation divided, not united (at least politically).
• The market tumbles.
• Hurricane Sandy.
• Unemployment.
• "Fiscal cliff."
• Affordable Care Act (ACA).
• Union thuggery.
• Conservative African Americans being accused of not be "black enough."
• Young woman "flipping the bird" to the graves of the fallen at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Continued deaths of our men and women in Afghanistan.
• 13,000 plus pages of new federal regulations, an 8.5% increase.
• Demise of Twinkies.
• Libya debacle.
• Federally subsidized companies failing.

And the list goes on.

I argue now it is vastly more important than normal to seek a Merry Christmas.  The Christian faith, plus our customs and mores, see comfort and joy in the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.  It is uplifting, invigorating, and unquestionably positive.

Partly just to aggravate the secularists, I have been wishing Merry Christmas to all those I encounter.  The primary reason, though, is to convey that which is positive and uplifting.  My fellow Americans need some uplifting, even the lemmings parading under the progressive banner.

So I will continue to wish all a Merry Christmas, not for commercial reasons, but in the faith that there are vastly more who believe in our God and seek the goodness that embodies our religious beliefs.

Merry Christmas.  May it be spent in celebration with family and friends.

A special note to my fellow warriors in uniform, deployed around the world and at sea.  While you miss Christmas at home, just as my generation of warriors did multiple times before you, please recognize we back here value and cherish your willing sacrifice in the name of protecting our freedoms.

Merry Christmas.

Memorial

While sharing comments of disbelief and anguish, one of our friends stated that Sandy Hook Elementary School should be razed and a memorial including 20 angel figurines be erected on the site.

As I'm sure most of the country did, we talked about the Sandy Hook tragedy with close friends over the weekend.  He and she are both retired school teachers and I spent some years as a school counselor.  For those who have worked on school campuses, there is a connection of sorts with this incomprehensible horror.  Our friend very correctly stated that no student, teacher, or staff member could be expected to return to the site of this unspeakable atrocity.  Nor could parents of the survivors be expected to send their children to the facility in which so many died.

Challenging, yes.  Impossible, no.

Newtown, Connecticut, and the nation can come together and replace the physical manifestation of the school, at another location in the city.

A memorial on the current site of Sandy Hook will serve as a visible reminder, for generations to come, of the innocence of the children and the heroics of the adults on that day.

Unspeakable tragedy

Most of the nation is struggling to comprehend the unspeakable tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School.  The shock upon learning of the killing of 26 people, 20 of them school children, was initially emotionally crippling.  20 children shot down at their school.  As the initial reaction passed, comments, opinions, and observations flowed as a torrent.  Much of this torrent will continue, with some seeking to gain some perceived advantage for their pet rock.  Others will seek to sensationalize.

I fear many of those jumping in with such commentary, blogs, opinion pieces, etc. will obscure or miss the point that should remain the primary focus. 

So abhorrent as to be unthinkable, the act of one individual struck at the soul of our nation, where children are properly held to be innocent and loved.  Religion, politics, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, gender, employment, and the other groupings in which we either identify ourselves or society places us, don't matter when it comes to the health and safety of children.  Our society, replete with countless freedoms that enable its members to pursue happiness as they choose to define it, rightfully looks to its young children for their joyous laughter, absence of zealotry, unquestioned love of parents, race neutrality, innate curiosity, political ignorance, playful smiles, boundless energy, and carefree enjoyment of the day.

The unspeakable tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School tears asunder our reverence for young children.  Even in a time of unprecedented strife and contention, as a people we hold that our children should be, must be, held in this special status.  All one has to do is look at what we do around the world to assist and protect children, children of multiple nationalities, religions, and races.  Look how we revile the mistreatment of children and deplore the horrible conditions in which some live.

Look at our generosity, particularly as Christmas approaches.  The national Marine Corps Reserves Toys-for-Tots Program, local programs that provide teddy bears for hospitalized children, toy drives of ever imaginable kind.  These are the proverbial no-brainers, because they help put smiles on the faces of children.  Putting smiles the faces of those we revere illustrates a positive aspect of our national soul.

As we strive to grasp the horror that has befallen the families of those young innocents killed at Sandy Hook, our hearts go out to them, realizing there are no words or acts that can dampen the incomprehensible anguish.

Let us, nonetheless, maintain the primary focus that our children remain innocent and loved.

Update:  It is understandable that the media wants to interview the parents of the murdered children.  However, it is appalling to read of reports of the media pursuing the parents, calling and visiting (uninvited) their homes.  Leave the parents alone.  Establish a process by which the families can contact the media, if - and only if - they so choose.  Create an environment that protects the privacy of these families, while providing for those who choose to to tell their story.  The media's manic declaration of "the public needs to know" rings falsely hollow in the context of this unspeakable tragedy.

          

Where's the commentary?

I really wonder about our politicians and members of t he so-called mainstream media.  My latest wonderment leaves me thinking, "Where's the commentary?"

Contiguous to the attack on our consulate in Benghazi, politicians, political appointees, and members of the media condemned a video described as insulting to Islam.  Plenty of commentary, some verging on outrage.

Where is that same level of commentary and near outrage at the insulting bill board put up by atheists in New York's Time Square, on which Christ is characterized as a myth?

With the majority of the nation Christian, it would seem reasonable to produce the same level of commentary and outrage.  Unfortunately, this isn't likely to occur.

Another point against the politicians, their appointees, and the so-called mainstream media.

Right to work

As a former union member, I feel compelled to comment upon the approval of right-to-work in Michigan.

After a period as a member of a union, in my case the California Teachers Association local organization, I departed.  There were multiple reasons.  High on the list were the NEA and CTA using forced union dues for political purposes, without my consent.  Also were the local union association officials' unsupportable positions on changing the school schedule structure to provide two week breaks in the fall, because "it was a great time to get good travel deal."  When I finally had enough and resigned, I was forced to become an agency fee payer to the union.

Moreover and most disturbing, I was slammed by the local association president in a note he sent ot all union members, stating that if one was anti-union, then one was unAmerican.  After serving my country in union for 30 years, I found the assertion disgusting.  I asked to meet with the association president, with a third party.  As the meeting started, he jumped up and declared he didn't have to listen to this "BS," before I'd even attempted to make my point.  He simply refused to discuss the matter, showing the enormous lack of character I've found elsewhere in union officials.

When labor strays from collective bargaining to self protection and hyperbole, when it uses union dues without permission for political purposes, when it castigates those who criticize it, when it condones violence (as occurred in Michigan), then it is appropriate that the right-to-work laws are put into place.

Interestingly, where right-to-work laws have been enacted, labor memberships have shrunk. 

Nothing is clearer than this indication the members don't see value in the unions, once freed of the mandatory requirement to join.

Hearing from friends

Unexpectedly hearing from friends, with whom we haven't been in close contact, is one of the all time greatest pleasures.  When such a call is received, it's guaranteed to generate a smile.

And smiles are good for the soul.

Inevitably, there is some time spent catching up since the most recent meaningful contact.  How are the kids?  How is the job?  Any new situations?  In my case, questions about biking, music, working out, tennis, etc.

You may have guessed by now that such a call was taken today.

Out of the blue I took a call from a young, at least compared to me, gent with whom I worked while in a K-8 school district.  Without exaggeration, he is one of the most positive thinking and acting individuals I ever encountered.  He and his wife have a wonderful family, and are focused on what is really important in life.  They both work, and work very hard, in public education.  When you read or hear of teachers and administrators who don't do their jobs and aren't in the profession to take care of kids, these ARE NOT the folks you hear or read about.  Long hours for mediocre pay.  But it is always kids first.

Any way, back to my friend.  His positive attitude is infectious and his mentoring meaningful.  Over the time we worked together, he constantly highlighted the importance of making our lives count.  Using the phrase "life is too short," but not in the insincere manner that permeates most conversations in which the phrase is used.  His view is to enjoy the time we have with our families, while also finding that which makes us happy and pursuing it, undertaking both goals in balance.  Knowing I am a retired Marine, he offered encouragement to pursue my avocations, those activities that provide pleasure, plus time with my wife, kids, and grand kids.  Often he'd comment that I should retire-retire, meaning depart the work force.

Well, when it came to making the fairly recent decision to retire, as my wife and I were weighing the pros and cons as part of the decision making process, his mentoring and advice resonated loud and clear.  When he called today, I also felt a twinge of guilt, for not having reached out to him, to thank him for the great advice.

As I compose this post, his laughter, which was always present, continues in my ears.  I can see his smiling face, grin at his jokes, and appreciate the sincerity of his comments.

So, it is a pretty damn good day when we hear from a friend.

As the saying goes, doesn't get any better than that.

Under assault

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Surely, another post decrying what I define as a problem, or perhaps a collection of problems flying under one banner.  If so, the banner would read, “Under Assault.”

What, you may ask, is under assault?  Collectively, I would state the values and beliefs I was raised to accept and honor, plus the behavior, ethos, and societal norms associated with them.

These values and beliefs include:

• ·      Belief in God, admittedly a Christian belief.
• ·      Sanctity of family.
• ·      The freedoms contained in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.
• ·      The obligation to serve our Nation.
• ·      Patriotism.
• ·      Respecting others.
• ·      Holding elected officials to higher levels of responsibility, commensurate with their higher levels of authority.
• ·      Law and order.
• ·      Earning our way through life by working for what we achieve.
• ·      Civil rights, though it was during the 60s that this brought to the forefront of the Nation’s conscience.  In our home, it was a given.
• ·      Charity.
• ·      Polite, temperate discourse, using the power of persuasion to make one’s point.
• ·      Accepting responsibility for one’s actions, even the stupid mistakes and errors in judgment we make.
• ·      Sportsmanship, exhibited (in part) by doing your best while seeking the win.  Celebrating wins, graciously accepting defeats.
• ·      Ethics and integrity in all aspects of ones life.
• ·      Speaking up against that which is wrong, while recognizing and accepting others may hold opposing views.
• ·      Humility.
• ·      Tolerance.
• Most, if not all, of these are under assault.
• ·      Christian values and beliefs are being denied across the spectrum, falsely flying under the flags of tolerance and separation of church and state.  We are one nation, under God, founded on the imperative of religious freedom.  So let Christians celebrate Christmas, not Happy Holidays.  And my Christian values are also under attack.  The Ten Commandments are being taken down.  The President of the United States publicly lies about his sexual relationship with an intern. 
• ·      The nuclear family is rapidly disappearing, encouraged by lack morals; legal incentives that financially reward single mothers for producing children out of wedlock; the manic push for oxymoronic “gay rights;” access to abortion; marriage tax penalties; societal acceptance of divorce, demeaning the value of the marriage vows; and partially because of the economic stresses that virtually require both members in a marriage to work in order to support the family.
• ·      Legislators, judges, and presidents have and are ignoring the centrality of the freedoms in the Constitution to suit their political beliefs.  Big government is attacking virtually every aspect of American life, destroying the very foundation of what makes this country great.  The basic tenants of our freedoms are being replaced by government regulations, the mere establishment of which bypasses the legislative process.
• ·      With the end of the draft, the sense of obligation to serve our Nation has diminished.  While my Marine Corps still meets or exceeds its recruiting goals, more Americans are not serving than are.  I offer that if every able bodied male and female, at age 18, was required to serve the country for a minimum period of three years (military service, Peace Corps, or projects similar to the CCC), the country would be far better prepared to tackle the challenges of the future.  Taking these young men and women, putting them together with individuals from across the country, in common communal living arranges, working in pursuit of common objectives for the greater good, at a time they are most impressionable, as members of a team, will yield a far better work force in the future.  I would also make it law that one must have served in the military to hold federal elected office.
• ·      Fortunately, a by-product of the war on terror has been a resurgence of patriotism.  But there are still pockets of the population that expect the nation to give to them, rather than giving to the nation.  Similarly, it is disgusting that there are those who hide behind so-called freedom of speech to protest at the funerals of the fallen.
• ·      Respecting others is rapidly being replaced by the sound bite insult hurled at others.  Or the rude middle finger gesture flashed to others, as did UN Ambassador Susan Rice to another official.  You-Tube and other methods are purveying scene-after-scene of disrespect.  No place is it more prevalent than in politics. 
• ·      Holding elected officials to higher levels of responsibility, commensurate with their higher levels of authority.  Our elected officals commit egregious errors in judgment, adversely impacting millions of people and then want a free pass by saying, “Sorry, my bad.”  Actions have consequences and when elected officials error, they must be held immediately accountable.  Sending pictures of a sexually aroused Congressman to women.  The current Secretary of State falsely claiming to have landed “under fire” while the First Lady.  Solyndra.  Fast and Furious.  Influence peddling (by members of both parties).  The sum result of the lack of responsibility by members of Congress it they are viewed with only 15-18% favorability.
• ·      Law and order.  All one has to do is watch TV to understand crime is up.  But it is more than that, as elected officials deliberately decide to ignore laws.  The President declares and directs that the nation won’t enforce immigration laws.  The Mayor of San Francisco famously declared he would ignore the law.  A nation not willingly living under its laws is doomed for failure.
• ·      Earning our way through life by working for what we achieve.  Now it is popular to expect/demand that the government give us things.  It is common for students to expect the teacher to give them grades, rather than earning them.  People are confusing the right to earn something with being entitled to it without working to earn it.  The unions scream about workers rights, while concurrently protecting teachers who have been convicted of sexual molestation of the young.  For self worth it is crucial that one earns what he/she receives.  The sloth and unraveling of societal values rests as much on this factor as any other.
• ·      Civil rights, though it was during the 60s that this brought to the forefront of the Nation’s conscience.  In our home, it was a given.  Today, the phrase civil rights has been mutated to demands.  Demands and unreasonable expectations.  If a person of color doesn’t get what he/she desires, like as not someone will call it racism.  If a female is released from a position because of inadequate performance, like as not someone will call it sexism.  Civil rights level the playing field.  They do not provide a club to beat others into submission when the outcome is not to your liking.  As Martin Luther King Jr.  stated, we should be judged by the quality of our character, not the color of our skin.  Nowadays, being a conservative white male like as not means you will be held in contempt and have your civil rights challenged by the uncivil demands of others.
• ·      Charity has become an almost dirty word, as non-profits are being set up and then using the donations for personal purposes.  This makes it more difficult for legitimate charities to raise funds.  Additionally, the entitlement culture has produced countless citizens who believe it is their right, their entitlement to receive support.  I worked for a couple of years in a non-profit that provided charitable support, operating under a strict set of parameters and guidelines to ensure those receiving or assistance were truly in financial hardship.  Yet, on almost a daily basis we’d receive requests from those who were demanding support.  And let’s not forget that Congress is considering doing away with charitable giving tax benefits, because they “unfairly” benefit the wealthy.
• ·      Polite, temperate discourse, using the power of persuasion to make one’s point.  The histrionics of the cable news programs, talk radio, and sensationalist TV are facilitating the destruction of polite discourse.  Politicians, media, entertainment, and even the universities contribute to these phenomena. 
• ·      The disappearance of accepting responsibility for one’s actions, even the stupid mistakes and errors in judgment we make.  I could write for much longer on this alone.  Politicians are most visible for failing to adhere to this.  Businessmen and bankers closely follow.  Members of the media certainly belong in this group as well.  In a form of trickle down societal values, we see it in schools, when the mantra manifests as “it’s not my fault.”      
• ·      Sportsmanship is rapidly becoming a loss element in our nation.  Kids don’t compete to win or lose, while learning to accept defeat.  Of course, this builds the expectation that merely showing up is sufficient.  Bounties for injuring opposing players.  Using performance enhancing drugs or medical procedures.  In a nationally televised tennis match, one of the players (who is very strong and large muscled) physically threatened one of the officials.  Gamesmanship during competition at all levels.  May the best man (or woman) win is no longer acceptable, since much of sports has been corrupted by insane amounts of money.  By the way, is there anyone who doesn’t understand that college football players in NCAA Division I are essentially semi-pro players?
• ·      Ethics and integrity in all aspects of ones life was how I was raised and how I live.  Today, in all too man aspects of our life, these are absent.  From the minor to the major, ethics and integrity are viewed as situational, dependent upon one’s personal stance on this or that.  In the university, the work place, politics, media, sports, and even family life, these qualities are rapidly fading.  Perhaps it’s part of the assault on Christianity at work.
• ·      Speaking up against that which is wrong, while recognizing and accepting others may hold opposing views.  Too many remain silent, fearing they can’t change anything.  When, as I’ve been known to do, someone does raise a voice of concern (temperately, politely) it is likely to result in castigation, which some use in an attempt to ban free speech.  Further, as cited recently by George Will, free speech is being denied on college and university campuses across the nation, under a false flag of being disrespectful.  An essence of free speech is that one may offer his/her views, risking the disagreement of others.  This liberal penchant for limiting the speech of those who disagree with them is abhorrent.  We have a responsibility to speak up when something is wrong.  Doing so recognizing that others may disagree.
• ·      Humility.  There appears to be no humility in government or the media or the social “elite.”  Arrogance and self-promotion abound.  Work hard, achieve, and reap the rewards of recognition.  Don’t seek them by arrogant self-promotion.
• ·      Tolerance.  Finally and most importantly, ours is a nation in which tolerance is valued.  What I observe are elements demanding that we believe the way they believe.  I’m more than willing to tolerate that others believe differently than I.  It is a unique American freedom.  But what are intolerable are the demands these groups place on the populace as a whole.  I do not believe in homosexual marriage.  I do not believe in Islam.  I do not believe in socialism (aka wealth redistribution).  I do not believe every issue is based on racism.  I expect that others will be tolerant of my views, even if they disagree.
• While I sincerely believe values and beliefs are under assault, I equally believe there are enough holding similar values and beliefs that we can change the landscape of our nation.

Hard not to be pessimistic, but...?

It is certainly difficult not to be pessimistic, as the supposed political leadership of the country bandies about statements about the present and looming fiscal problems; foreign powers seek nuclear weapons and long range delivery systems; the EU is in shambles; the middle east continues to fester and threatens to erupt; American liberals want to use regulations to by-pass the legislative process; free speech is denied on college campuses; and hyperbole reigns supreme on the cable news programs.

Damn!  What happened to hard work in pursuit of what is good for the nation?  What happened to sacrifice for the good of others?  What happened to temperance and humility?  What happened to principal based on values, rather than political survival?

Hard not to be pessimistic.

But, it is also not a time to give up.  Too many people give up, on matters large and small.  I'm aware of a youngster who wanted to be a U. S. Marine, but when the time came to put it out there, he gave up.  Though angering me, it was better that he gave up, here in the states, prior to being a battlefield somewhere and giving up on Marines, causing them harm.  I also see politicians giving up, surrendering values in favor of political survival.  All the while taking the reputation of the political bodies down a notch. 

There must be men and women of character somewhere.  Men and women of courage, willing not to give up and take the easy, politically convenient path.  Men and women with the backbone to stand up for what is truly right, not the manufactured definitions spewed by the political machines, unions, extremist cable programs, etc. that are only interested in their retention of power.

There must be men and women of the moral fiber necessary to stand up to the arrogance of power exhibited by others.  To stand up to them, with facts and right in hand, to defeat those who play with the welfare of the nation.

Not men and women who claim we must pass a 2,000+ plus page bill so it can then be read; not men and women who refuse to put forth a budget for a simple up or down vote; not men and women who send sexually suggestive texts to one another; not men and women who claim diplomatic protection as "honorary counsel;" not men and women who knowingly misrepresent information to the nation; not men and women who avoid responsibility and act disreputably; not men and women who lie, cheat, steal, and otherwise act abysmally with the arrogance of those in power.

I am convinced there are men and women who can lead this nation out of the politically garbage pit that most of our currently elected officials have created and are wallowing within.  With the stakes extraordinarily high, these men and women will come forth. 

Just as on the battlefield, when the situation is at its worst, the best people come forward.

So while it is hard not to be pessimistic, I remain hopeful that there are men and women who will not give up, will find their backbone, and take on and defeat the challenges before us.

Fairness - in the eye of the beholder?

Much is being said and written about the approaches by the two political parties in making their cases regarding the way forward in resolving the financial crisis facing our nation.  Both parties offer that this or that isn't fair, or this and that must be done to be fair.  Trouble is, there isn't agreement on how they define fair.

Is it fair to require more money of the average taxpayer, when he/she had little to no impact on the creation and perpetuation of this fiscal crisis?

Is it fair to increase taxes by default, when employees of the nation (AKA members of Congress and the President of the United States) failed in their duties?

Is it fair for each party to demonize another, in pursuit of political power while not resolving the financial crisis?

Is it fair to threaten to remove the deduction of mortgage interest, thereby threatening countless homeowners?

Is it fair for threats to end tax deductions for "the wealthiest Americans," who donate to the non-profits/charities that do so much good work for the disadvantaged, when it is this group of citizens who make the most substantial donations?

Is it fair for politicians to travel the country, attempting to drum up support for their views, rather than remain in Washington to work on them?

Is it fair to look towards changing the rules for the Senate, merely for political power?

Is it fair to shove the ACA down the throats of the country, when the members of Congress have their own "Cadillac" health plan?

Is it fair for the President to claim an electoral "mandate," when 49.5% of the electorate voted against him?

Is it fair for a school administrator to state, "In an attempt to be fair to everyone, we decided that we would just not put the Nativity scene out on campus,” when the Nativity scene had been displayed for decades?

If it fair for the elected officials to publicly employ hyperbole and threats in describing their opponents, rather than sitting down across the negotiating table?

Is it fair to threaten breaking the contract for free health care for life made with military retirees?

Is it fair for politicians to put their personal status ahead of what's good for the nation? 

In the end, I guess how one defines fair is in the eyes of the beholder.

 

Inexcusible action

In case you missed it, there was a recent report about the firing of a woman and her co-worker from their jobs at a non-profit in Cape Cod, because of a picture that was posted on Facebook.  In the picture, the woman is seen "flipping the bird" to the fallen and appearing to scream at Arlington National Cemetery, next to a sign reading "Silence and Respect."  Do a search on the Internet and you can find a copy of the picture.

Before continuing, Well Done to the non-profit for firing the woman.  Her actions, including staging and publicizing the photograph, were undeniably, indisputably across the line.  Some companies would not take this wholly appropriate action.  Well Done to Living Independently Forever (LIFE).

Once my visceral reaction to the photograph passed, a deep concern set in.  First, the visceral reaction.  The last time I was at Arlington, it was to attend the funeral (with full honors) for a close friend and fellow Marine, who died as a result of exposure to Agent Orange during the Viet Nam War.  He'd served as an enlisted Marine, then went to college to earn his degree and receive a commission in the Marines.  An exceptional Marine, mentor to hundreds, and leader.  The ceremony included a Marine band, two platoons of Marines, an Honor Guard, rifle salute, and Army Caisson.   We walked behind horse drawn caisson to the grave site, listed to taps and the rifle volleys, and watched as my fellow Marine was laid to rest.  The lady's actions were an unspeakable offense to his honorable and faithful service to our nation, as they were to all those laid to rest among their comrades.

What possesses a young adult to act so horrendously?  Clearly it isn't something taken out of context, as the photo was obviously deliberate.  Does she not realize the freedoms she so dismissively enjoys were purchased by the blood of many of those laying in rest at Arlington?  

The above report includes what is described as a statement from this woman.  "We never meant any disrespect to any of the people nationwide who have served this country and defended our freedom so valiantly."

It is my sense the woman believes there are no consequences for her actions, that she is not responsible for them.  If my sensing is correct, it provides for tremendous concern if this is indicative of the belief of some younger members of our society.

Despite the statement, the woman can not be forgiven.  She appears to be one of many who believe that they can take any action, no matter how egregious or offensive, then be excused by insincerely saying "sorry, my bad."  No responsibility taken for her actions.  If she is truly remorseful for this exceptionally horrific act, then I await her actions demonstrating that remorse.  Perhaps she can volunteer thousands of hours at a VA hospital; volunteer to place the American flag at thousands of graves of our fallen for Memorial Day; volunteer to serve thousands of hours as a docent at a military cemetery; volunteer for thousands of hours at one of the numerous non-profits supporting our wounded and veterans.

Until or unless she takes action as indisputably respectful of the fallen, as her actions were undeniably disrespectful, her supposed statement rings hollow.  In life, we are responsible for our actions.  It is time for this woman to take that responsibility and take action that demonstrates her embracing responsibility for this despicable act.   

 (Wonder why Obama hasn't commented upon it?  He seems compelled to comment on so many other issues unrelated to the office of President, why isn't he commenting now?  Does he hold the military fallen and their families in less regard than a college professor?) 

Coming together

Sadly, over the weekend we attended the service for wife of a friend, who left behind her husband, daughter, and son.  The somber, religious service is what our society expects at such times.  But it was neither the service, the graveside internment, nor the inconsolable sadness for the remaining family that motivates this posting.  The coming together of so many people was inspirational.

The service was conducted in a chapel at a local cemetery.  We arrived approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled start, offered a hug and condolences to the grieving husband, our friend, and took our seats.  At that point, there were numerous seats remaining.  Candidly I wondered to myself if they would all be filled when the services began.  I needed have wondered.  By the end of the service, there literally standing room only, with folks lined up along the walls and at the the entry.  My buddy and I were standing, having offered our seats to ladies who had been standing.  Far more people arrived than the facility could accommodate.

These people, from multiple faiths and numerous generations had come together to pay their respects, offer their condolences in person, grieve, and provide moral support to the family.

Again, they came together.  Each gave of the one thing we can not create more of in our lives.  We can get a second job to earn more money, we can work hard to make more friends, we can engage in more activities that provide a smile.  But we can not create more time in the day.  None of those gathered in the chapel that afternoon woke that morning and declared there would be 28 hours that Sunday, with four of them set aside for the service.  Rather, they came together, willingly giving of their time.

In another example, friends of the family opened their home for a gathering after the service and internment.  Once more, people came together.  This time in a more personal forum.  I say more personal, because during the service and graveside internment there was a degree of anonymity created by the solemnity and sadness of the moment.  One is not expected to chat with the others in attendance.  However, at the gathering, names are exchanged with individuals most had not met previously.  Small talk ensued, with reference to the deceased and family, but also with some effort to establish another connection, one not associated with the sadness.

Again, individuals came together for a common purpose, even though from widely disparate sectors of society.  This common purpose transcended their differences.  The grief of the family was unifying.

From this sad event, I can't help but wonder why we can't come together more often, in pursuit of common objectives and goals?     

Higher level of responsibility

The news carries a report that the Secretary of Defense has ordered a review to "find out why so many generals and admirals have become embroiled in legal and ethical problems."  Reports include allegations of sexual assault, misuse of public funds, gross leadership failure, and "creating a toxic work environment."

Those at the highest levels of military leadership must be held to a higher level of responsibility.  The uniqueness of the military demands it.  On this, there is virtually no disagreement.  However, as practiced, lingering questions exist.

While not purporting to be an expert on the subject, during my military career I found some situations involving senior officers to be dealt with in strangely inconsistent ways, when compared to the discipline of the junior enlisted personnel.  A commanding officer who falsified travel claims and plans was removed, but then allowed to retire, without being disciplined.  A high ranking general involved in a physical relationship with an enlisted woman was allowed to retire, without being disciplined.  Allowing one to retire rather than face legal discipline is an option not offered/available to the Private First Class who violated the UCMJ.  Frankly, I don't accept the offered explanation that permitting senior officers to retire is in the interest of good order and discipline, and is "punishment enough."  Personally, I was part of the Board that dismissed a field grade officer due to adultery (fired...no retirement, no benefits).  Haven't heard of a general officer disciplined in the same manner. 

Putting together the review ordered by the Secretary of Defense and other occurrences leads me to wonder about the process for selecting flag officers (generals and admirals).  The exceptionally small population of flag officers is responsible for selecting the new members of the small club.  Are the best being selected?

Certainly politics play a large part in this selection process.  Those favorably  connected in political ways to those in "the club" -- current flag officers --  stand a much better chance of selection for flag rank than do those who are not similarly connected.  This connection extends to other aspects of the military career, such as selection for certain assignments.  In the Marine Corps, certain assignments are critical in the grooming of officers for competition for selection to general, most notably command.  With fewer command opportunities than aspirants, selection for command is highly competitive and limiting at the same time.  Without command at the lieutenant colonel and colonel levels, selection for promotion to brigadier general is almost nil.  And who controls the selection and assignment process?  The current crop of general officers.  So, by extension, those in "the club" are controlling who will compete to join "the club."  Likewise, it is the membership of the "the club" that selects those for entry.  Sounds like fraternity/sorority rush doesn't it?

How does the above fit together and relate to the news article?  If senior officers are not held to higher standards, why?  If the number of generals and admirals facing legal and ethical issues is a concern (and it is), are we selecting the right officers?  Are the rumored issues involving flag officers being swept under the rug true?  Is the "club" protecting its own?

Certainly, during my career there were officers selected for flag rank that didn't rate it in my opinion, just as well deserving officers were passed over.  Incompetence trumped war fighting capability, integrity, military skills, and proven leadership.  Politics over substance.  Again, in my opinion.  And it should not be forgotten that the precepts for the selection boards are approved, if not directed, by the civilian leadership, those appointed by POTUS.  Thus, depending on the way the political winds are blowing, certain categories of officers are placed at the head of the line for flag rank.  These, of course, are just my opinions.

If, however, the recent news is an indication of a problem (and it is), then the military and its civilian leadership must be held to a higher level of responsibility.  First, vigorous prosecution of those accused of crimes under the UCMJ  (Uniform Code of Military Justice), unfettered or restrained by political concerns - a crime is a crime.  Second, internal review of the selection process within each service.  Only those best qualified must be accorded the unique recognition of future capability that is provided by selection for flag rank.  And once selected, all flag officers must be held to the highest possible standards and levels of responsibility.  And not in word only.

The men and women in uniform and our nation deserve nothing less.

Blessed

Like many of us, I can whine and complain about something or another.  I also worry about various matters (the economy, our kids, our grand-kids, politics, national security, disappearing civility, excessively liberal media, overt attacks on Christianity, loss of free speech on college campuses, economic security, health, etc.).  Surely, there are some matters worthy of deliberate thought and analysis, both of which may legitimately contribute to worry and concern.  But, when it comes down to the bottom line, my wife and I are truly blessed.

Every now and then, something occurs that jerks a knot in my chain, reminding me of the blessings we enjoy.  One such occurrence was the recent passing of the wife of a friend.  Younger than we, it was a shock to learn of her passing.  As stated above, it jerked a knot in my chain.

Sitting here over a cup of coffee, I've been trying to imagine what it would be like to lose my wife, soul mate, high school sweetheart, anchor in our marriage, mother to our children, and grandmother to our grandchildren.  She's the centerpiece of my life, so it is incomprehensible to imagine life without her.  From these thoughts, I migrated to the petty and not-so-petty worries.  All pale to the minor or inconsequential when thinking of such a loss.

We are truly blessed.  We enjoy good-to-great health; have terrific children and grandchildren; have close, loving friends; are financially secure (at least for the moment - there is worry about the liberal agenda); live free in the greatest nation on earth, enjoying our uniquely American freedoms; enjoy the area in which we live; participate in activities that provide smiles and purpose; enjoy memories of 44 years together; are proud of an exceptional career in the Marines; and foresee smiles and laughter in the future. 

Yes, Thanksgiving will soon be upon us and the deluge of stories and commentary regarding that for which we are thankful will begin.  I, for one, intend to spend more time thinking of the positive, inspirational, and smile-producing aspects of our life.  Those elements that contribute to the blessings from which we are so fortunate to benefit.

Life is indeed too short to fret over that which doesn't make us happy.    

Proud to be an American

I'm proud to be an American, unashamed in this pride, which includes standing and saluting during the playing of our National Anthem.  All too often we learn of those who decide, for whatever reason, to eliminate the playing of the National Anthem.

The latest is the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League, which decided to cease the playing of the National Anthem at their high school ice hockey games.  The stated reason is the financial cost, with the league claiming it costs $300 per hour to rent the ice rink(s) at which the games are played. 

If the playing of the Anthem takes between 1:30 and 2:00 minutes, that's a cost of $7.50 and $10 per game.  Sounds rather absurd to contend cost is the issue, doesn't it.  My guess is that there is something more behind this story.  Perhaps an excessively liberal individual who is ashamed of his/her country, or who is anti-military, or is a socialist.  From looking at comments on the web, the local people aren't buying the pitch that the decision was cost driven.  Rightfully so in my view.

Apart from the farcical aspect of this all too sad true situation, there is a much broader point we, as citizens, MUST take to heart.  We have a responsibility as citizens to be proud and to display that pride.  This responsibility is more crucial now than it has been for many years.

The latest election shows us to be a nation divided, a nation polarized.  Unless and until we come together as Americans, it will be terribly challenging to bridge the divide and to bring to the polar extremes to the middle.

Coming together to stand and display our pride during the playing of the National Anthem is one significant step forward in demonstrating our love for our country. 

The action of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League to eliminate this short ceremony, for the stated reason(s), is not only absurd, it is insulting.  Maybe the coaches, teams, and fans can take matters into their own hands and conduct their own playing of the National Anthem, demonstrating their pride in being Americans.

Fidelity, ethics, integrity

If the electorate, regardless of political affiliation, learns from the recently concluded election cycle, it should be to demand fidelity, ethics, and integrity from those running for public office, their surrogates and campaigns, the media, plus from itself.

First, some definitions:

•  Fidelity:  Faithfulness to obligations, duties, or observances.

•  Ethics:  The moral fitness of a decision, course of action, etc.

•  Integrity:  Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code. 

There is no doubt that these principals were inadequately applied by campaigns, individuals, surrogates, the media, unions, candidates, and countless others involved in the election process.  As is said, it was obvious to the most casual of observers.  Moreover, it's offered that this deficiency is not limited to the election cycles, which appear to be blurred into a never-ending process.

This deficiency permeates all too insidiously throughout the broader society.  Examples abound: general officers in the military being tried for sexual assault and misuse of public funds; a member of the U.S. House of Representatives forced to resign (rather than being "fired") for sending sexually provocative electronic pictures of himself to women, then lying about it; the U. S. Secretary of State, while campaigning for her political party's nomination for President, falsely claiming she'd landed "under fire" in Bosnia in 1996; the Senate Majority Leader failing to bring a budget to a vote in the Senate, for multiple years; a decorated military veteran, elected to Congress, then sent to prison for corruption while in office; school teachers convicted of sexual relationships with their students, some of who were underage; the Penn State scandal; unions spending their members' dues on political causes, without the approval of the membership; deliberate and selective editing of a 9-1-1 call in the Trayvon Martin case by the media; the Enron scandal; falsifying one's resume, such as a Radio Shack CEO and a case at MIT; a minister close to POTUS spewing racist and inflammatory invective from the pulpit; elected representatives missing countless votes, while campaigning; etc.  In none of the examples can it be argued that the individuals involved acted with faithfulness to duty, moral fitness, or ethics.

If elected leaders are to be exemplary icons in our community, role models for our youth, and stewards of the crucial management of government at all levels, then they must embody unimpeachable fidelity, ethics, and integrity.  In selecting such individuals, the electorate as a whole must act based upon these standards.  Else-wise, the process fails and individuals falling short of "those best qualified" will be empowered by our ballots to make monumental decisions impacting us all.      

Welcome home

In an earlier blog, I described a mission with the Patriot Guard Riders.  Yesterday was another mission, this time for an Army Sergeant killed in combat in Afghanistan.  He leaves behind a young wife and toddler son.

Of the dozens of riders in yesterday's mission, there was a very high percentage of Viet Nam vets.  Each was there to do something that was missed for their generation.  Each was there to welcome home a warrior.

So very much has changed, for the better, over the past four plus decades.  The average citizen now respects the men, and women, in uniform.  That was not the case for these vets.

Then, there was much animosity towards the war.  Today, there are similar views.  Then, the men and women in uniform, many of whom were drafted, became the targets of the anger and animosity towards the war.  Lost on our citizens was that these warriors weren't making the decisions about the management of the war.  This resulted in military orders that uniforms not be worn by those serving in our military headquarters in Washington, DC for a period.  Though not a Viet Nam veteran, as a Marine, I did serve overseas for the first time in 1974-75, leaving behind my wife, who was pregnant with our first.  My long awaited return was delayed due to the mission of the final evacuation from Viet Nam.  When the return flight finally landed in CONUS (continental US), I was excited about seeing my 8 month old son for the first time.  As I was walking through the airport in San Francisco to my connecting flight, I was accosted by the proverbial "hippies."  In voices that grew louder and louder, they were peppering me with the phrases of the day, such as "How many women and children did you kill today?"  And this was just days after we finally evacuated the Ambassador and thousands of Vietnamese from Saigon.  As angry as that episode made me, I can't really imagine what it must have been like for those who lost buddies while fighting in Viet Nam.

Today, I'm proud that the Viet Nam generation of veterans has led the way in making sure our men and women in uniform know they are respected, their sacrifices recognized, and their service honored.  As a nation, our conscience finally awakened to recognize the importance of the service of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines.  Citizens have come out in droves at major airports to welcome home those who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines can be seen traveling in uniform, to be stopped and thanked for their service.

It's my view that those Viet Nam vets who participated in yesterday's mission, and on other missions across the nation, are standing to ensure those who wear the cloth of our nation are welcomed home.  To these vets who give of their time, Welcome Home, brothers.

UPDATE

On 7 November, we gathered again to honor this fallen soldier as he was laid to rest. We old, gray bearded vets formed two flag lines at the cemetery for the private ceremony.  The young (all too young) widow and mother of the hero walked the lines and shook the hand of each and every one of us.  As Taps was played, we each saluted, offering this final welcome home to one of our fallen.    

Music lyrics and the political parties

While working on the monthly bills, I’ve been listening to country music.  As I heard once, a country song is a 2.5 minute soap opera.  In addition to the music, I’m partial to the lyrics, because of the values and/or activities they express.  On the other end of the spectrum is the R&B Hip Music, some of the lyrics I find objectionable.  While certainly not a scientific study, I searched lyrics for some of the current music, R&B Hip Hop and Country.  Here are some samples (please note a deliberate choice to avoid the exceptionally profane language in some of the R&B Hip Hop):

R&B Hip Hop lyrics:    

“I tell a bad bitch do whatever I say”

“Hit ya ass with that block-ow, dope enough to go in yo nostrils”

“…don’t try me, I’ll pull that trigga”

Country:

“til my last day I’ll be lovin you”

“Maybe God just kinda likes cowboys and angels”

“Friday night football, Saturday last call, Sunday hallelujah”

In one category is read disrespect for women, advocacy of drugs, and glorifying violence.  In the other, pursuit of love, recognition of a Christian belief, and middle class America.

Occurs to me that music is a reflection of society at the time.  Certainly recognizing some of it is manufactured and manipulated by recording companies, the artists nevertheless, in my view, write lyrics that reflect generally held views.  Otherwise, the songs wouldn’t sell and no one would make money.

There are at least two polar opposites in the current music, as illustrated above.  I suppose more folks listening to R&B Hip Hop will vote for candidates of the Democrat Party and Country fans are more likely to vote Republican. 

Can this supposition extrapolate to values embraced by the opposing groups, based on their music preference?  Makes me wonder.  

If so, which is best suited to lead the country? 

Time to turn up that Country music!

Basic respect

In autumn, large numbers of us enjoy the World Series, the NFL, and college football.  Grand entertainment in the form of athletic competition.  Many an hour is spent, in homes, bars, and man-caves, watching and cheering on favorite teams.  Quintessential Americana, some may offer.

At the beginning of these events, prior to the first pitch or opening kick-off, there is routinely a ceremony honoring our country, this great nation of ours.  These ceremonies involve the playing or singing of the National Anthem.  It is distressing to observe, whether attending the games in person or watching on TV, the failure of many to provide the most basic respect. 

Protocol provides that during the playing/singing of the National Anthem, all in attendance should stand at attention, men remove their head gear, and place our right hand over our hearts.  Those in uniform are to render a proper salute.  Recently, I'm proud that protocol was changed to permit veterans to also render the hand salute during these ceremonies.  However, proper protocol is not followed all too often...most of the time captured by the TV cameras.

Players and coaches are observed to wear headgear, including stretch caps over the hair/skulls.  Others are seen to be scratching various parts of their anatomies.  Still others are rocking back and forth, chatting with the players on their right and left.  Football coaches are seen continuing to wear headphones, chatting with someone in the booths.  Folks in the stands, bleachers, seating areas, etc. are observed failing to remove headgear; talking on their cell phones; texting; taking pictures; going for a beer; and otherwise failing to provide the basic respect.

While proud that our nation is once more honoring, justifiably, the men and women in uniform, it is shameful that so many fail in this basic responsibility as citizens.

If professional and collegiate athletes really want to be viewed as role models, if their coaches and managers truly want to be viewed as leaders, then lead by example.  I challenge all coaches and players to learn and strictly adhere to the proper protocols during the playing of the National Anthem, and to vocally and forcefully encourage their fans to follow suit.

It's not to much to expect this basic respect. 

One good thing

Watching the World Series Game 2 tonight, it was both surprising and uplifting to view the pre-game recognition of World War II veterans, who were also MLB baseball players.  True heroes like LtCol Jerry Coleman USMC Ret, the 1950 World Series MVP and a USMC pilot who fought in both World War II and Korea.  Then the MLB theme "Welcome Back Veterans" was commented upon.  As the large national flag was unfurled by members of our Armed Forces, the crowd stood and cheered.  (Quite remarkable, given the liberal bent of San Francisco.)  During the seventh inning stretch, God Bless America was sung by an Air Force Staff Sergeant.  Again, those in attendance stood, sang along, and cheered.

While as a nation we can debate the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, at least one good thing has come from these ten years of war.  The American people once again honor those who wear the cloth of our country.  No longer, as occurred during Viet Nam, do our people dishonor those who serve.  No longer are those who wear our uniforms subjected to mistreatment and disrespect from their fellow citizens, the very ones they serve to protect.

As a retired Marine, it is humbling and gratifying to observe at least one good thing come from the decade of war.  The American people again honor those who wear the cloth of our country, the men and women who volunteer to protect our great nation.

It would be terrific if the nation's President shared in honoring our men and women in the Armed Forces.

Children as parents

As one might surmise from the title "Graybeard views," one of the thrills of this time of life is being a grandparent.  Many, many sayings address this thrill.  You can undoubtedly remember some without prompting.  What isn't as broadly, at least in my view, addressed is the even greater thrill of observing one's children as parents.

What prompts this blog is the recent arrival of our third grandchild, the progeny of our daughter and son-in-law.  They have two older kids, ages nine and six, so we've been able to watch their parenting for some time now.  It never ceases to be a source of pride and admiration to observe their parenting.  One would like to think that we, as parents, influence our own children's approaching to parenting, if not the actual skills.  If this is indeed the case, then all credit is due my wife, the mother of our children.

She was ever present, as a stay-at-home mother.  I, on the other hand, was the absentee father.  It wasn't that I deserted the home.  It was a matter of the career I'd chosen as a Marine.  Overseas when our eldest was born, I didn't hold him for the first time until he was eight months old.  Even after returning from that overseas tour, I was away for days and weeks at a time, "in the field" training for our combat mission.  During that time frame, our second was born.  A year after she was born, we headed overseas as a family, hoping to have a more stable home environment, with far fewer absences.  While that was the case, I left the house in the dark and returned in the dark, seldom seeing the kids awake during the week.  And since I worked seven days a week, even the weekends were impacted.  After returning from that three year assignment, during which we had one family vacation of five days, it was nine months of schooling then I was off overseas again, without the family this time.  Such was the career pattern.  Consequently, my wife bore the brunt of the critical years of parenting, since I was literally seldom home.  She remained an "at home" mother until our eldest started college in the youngest was a junior in high school.

Whatever skills taught and lessons provided that would ultimately influence our youngsters parenting capability, they came most assuredly from my wife.  Her people centered approach to life and exceptional maternal instincts carried and buoyed our kids through countless moves and my frequent, if not seeming to be perpetual, absence.  These lessons and skills must have been indelible, as I now watch my daughter's exceptional success as a mother.  Together with her husband, they are raising two, now three, wonderful children.

So as we relish the roles as grandparents, there is equal if not greater pleasure gained from seeing our child as a parent.  Not yielding to much of the "modern" world, she ensures our grand kids are grounded in the important factors of life.  Courtesy is taught and expected.  School is viewed as important.  Laughter encouraged.  Ambition and achievement rewarded.  Love given and received.  TV limited.  Reading encouraged.  Creativity praised.  Discipline expected, but never cruelly or harshly.  Enjoyment through exploration provided.  Family, immediate and extended, the center of the home.

I could continue listing the positives for some time.  Suffice it to say the kids are happy, healthy, loving school, enjoying sports, respectful towards adults, articulate and creative, and simply "being" kids throughout.  These markers are the signs of the success of our daughter and son-in-law as parents.

The child as a parent.  

Most people smile, laugh, and are nice

It's awfully tempting to think poorly of our fellow citizens, particularly if one were to judge them by the newspapers, on-line reporting, and TV/cable news.  So much negative news, stories about crime, and the like.  And don't get me started about the political campaigns!

But, really, most people I encounter are truly nice.  They enjoy smiling and laughing.  Even though we all have troubles, large and small, with which to contend, I think it is human nature to smile and laugh.

Whether it is someone encountered while walking along the street in a very nice neighborhood, the server at the local coffee shop, the person next to you at the ball game, or those driving along the freeway along side of you, if you look for it, you'll see the smiles and humor.

I'm certainly not discounting the immense troubles that fulfill our lives and that of those around us.  I recently wrote about the death of the young female Marine who leaves behind four small children.  Smiles are likely in short supply in that home.  Additionally, a former colleague was bludgeoned to death last month, a terrible fate for a very nice lady.  No smiles for her friends and family either.  But this will not be a permanent situation.  Eventually the pain will recede, allowing the more positive and uplifting thoughts and activities to renew.

I remain convinced of the basics of our fellow citizens, including smiling and laughing.  Even in the face of the tragedies our families and friends contend with in the course of life.

So as I travel through our great nation, I'm taking notice of the smiles and laughter.  Makes it a far more positive trip!  

Tuesday night

As I walked off the tennis court this evening, I was asked if I was going home to watch the Debate between Obama and Romney.  Actually - NO!

I watched something far more American, an ALCS game between the Detroit Tigers and New York Yankees.  Close game all the way into the 9th inning.

Why would someone watch baseball rather than the Presidential Debate?  Because I can't stand to listen to Obama misrepresent who e his and what he claims to accomplish.  Our country is at a precipice and he's is tying to push us over the cliff.  So why listen?

On the other hand, the baseball game was trilling.  Men actually had to perform.  It was all out in the open for people to see.  No claiming someone else was at fault if one of the players booted the ball or struck out.  Not at all like Amb Rice trying to affix the blame on someone else.  No one blaming the 2004 Yankees for the abysmal performance today (Yankees are down 0-3 in the ALCS).  The players and managers took the heat and accepted responsibility for their performance or lack thereof.

In October, what is more quintessential than baseball?  Surely, politics comes no where close.

So, as a red blooded American, with 30 years of active duty in the Marine Corps, I found it imminently more preferrable to watch baseball than the debate.

A beer, a hot dog, salad, and baseball.  Free from the political rhetoric.  By God, a far better way to spend the evening.  The Tigers won, which helps bolster the spirits of Detroit, a city ruined, in part, by the policies of Obama.  Car makers pulled out of debt by the American tax payer, without our approval, and not having the courtesy of paying back the guaranteed money Obama and his acolytes provided.

Even your brother-in-law, the one with low self esteem, has better ethics than the above.

So let's hear it for a Tigers - St. Louis World Series.

Americana at its best.

Semper Fidelis.  

Paying respects

A tough, tough day, emotionally, as a parent, grandparent, and Marine.  

It was my first mission with the Patriot Guard Riders.  If you're unfamiliar with them, following is the mission statement:

"Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives:

1. Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.
2. Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors.

We accomplish the latter through strictly legal and non-violent means.

To those of you who are currently serving and fighting for the freedoms of others, at home and abroad, please know that we are backing you.  We honor and support you with every mission we carry out, and we are praying for a safe return home for all."

Today's mission was in support of the family of a Sergeant of Marines who was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan.  SHE, that's right...she, leaves behind her husband, Staff Sergeant USMC, and four children, ages two-to-six.  

Together with dozens of others, we provided a motorcycle escort for the family to the church; provided a flag line for the family members as they entered the church; formed up behind the USMC Honor Guard during the rifle salute and Taps; and escorted the hearse and coffin from the church to the funeral home.  At the funeral home, I joined four other Marines and a Navy Master Chief as pall bearers.    

Each of us are volunteers.  Many have performed similar missions countless times.  Why?  Showing respect and supporting the family are my motivation.  Further, I'll not stand by if anyone would attempt to disrupt the funeral of a fallen warrior or demonstrate any disrespect to him/her or their family.  

As my first mission, this hit hard.  Looking at those kids, I couldn't imagine if they were my grandchildren.  Nor could I imagine the Staff Sergeant if her were my son.  And, most pointedly, as a Marine, I can only imagine what the family is facing.  

When attempting to describe today to my wife, a Marine wife of more than 30 years, my voice cracked and tears welled up.  She understands and gave me a moment.  

So, as today concludes, I'll remember more than other days, how precious life is and the absolutely importance of our warriors as they go in harm's way.  I'll also say a prayer, one of many, for this Marine family and those four young ones. 

This was my first, but not my last, mission.

Semper Fidelis