The Best Revenge

Nobody Told Me There’d Be Days Like These

It’s strange. I do not blog for two years and the world goes crazy. I suppose you can blame me for the madness........ “Why don’t you write about what is going on anymore?” I have heard that from several of my friends regarding world events. Well, I tell them when they sober up, I really can’t add to the state of the world with my words and do it justice. It is all there for us to see and feel. The world of these last few years is better than any fiction Hollywood could create. Take the new plague - COVID 19. I have seen movies with the theme of a deadly disease haunting the population, and it looks like camp fun compared with our reality. Tinseltown has heroes and villains that move around in a plot line. You know, the brave man who fights for humanity, slays the evil bureaucrats that want to profit from misfortune, saves the world, and gets the gal in the end - where, they will live happily ever after until the sequel and another disease aimed at the box office dollar. Usually, the savior for the world is played by Tom Cruise, but, if he is out playing Scientologist, Bruce Willis can fill in and be our guardian...... But, as I’ve said, today’s world doesn’t need screenwriters to embellish things. It is all in our lives, a nagging fear not only that we can become sick but that reality has become unreality. A nightmare dream where no matter how much you struggle to wake yourself up, you just can’t. I thought 9/11 was the biggest thing in our lifetime. It sure was ( and, still is, a game changer). However, COVID dwarfs 9/11 by far. When things do, hopefully, calm down, picking up the pieces of the world will also be an eye opener. Examples do not immediately present itself to the mind but we all know things we used to be able to do will not be regular form anymore. I’m talking safety procedures. How we must still practice a reduced way of social distancing and health care....... And, then, there is the work issue. During the pandemic, working from home was the new norm. Most businesses shifted to not having their employees come in and, instead, stay in the comforts and safety of their abodes. This was sound advice, safety practiced and rewarded. But, it also gave a glimpse into the future of the work force and how business will be done. Before COVID, business’s were already fleeing from the office to everyone’s front porch. If you can work from home, do so. We don’t mind. Well, there are good and bad sides to this way of commerce. The good is that with less employees at a traditional business site, the risks of problems and arguments and lawsuits decrease. Economically, it’s cheaper to have less people around. Yes, the bosses know that home bound workers screw around a lot when they should be technically working. But, it is “ out of sight, out of mind”. Plus, on bad weather days, who the hell wants to get in their cars or take the train to come into work. Just stay home, the axiom feeling is, and be comfortable......... Now, the downside of working from home is just as obvious:people are losing their jobs. I’m talking the salesmen and the retail people. The secretaries and the office people. The older worker out of date with modern practices and the teenager looking for their first job. All of these people, plus, many faceless others, are squeezed out by the convenience of having business owners seeing the P & L on their monthly reports and realizing that not seeing John or Betty actually increases their profits. We know that Amazon and few other companies are co-conspirators in this way of doing things. Yes, I know that ordering online is easy and requires no effort from the buyer other than using your fingers. No hassle shopping, no crowds to bug you, you immediately get what you want and it will be there tomorrow. I’ve done it but when I shop online, I do it gingerly and after I have exhausted all of the other options of actually going out into the world and seeking my desires. I’m old-fashioned. I like to support business - especially, when they are small. But, I would never tell anyone what to do. That would be presumptuous. However, a warning I must dangle : be careful what you wish and shop for. You may, one day, find yourself being expendable......... And, this leads me into my job racket. Education. While I am not a teacher, I am Support Staff. I do the Study Halls at the school I work with. It is a good, honest job, with no strings attached when I leave for the day. Good people surround me, both students and staff. Pleasurable to come to work. In the last few years, technology has caught education in its vise and the process of e-learning, home learning, is fast coming up. Again, like regular business, it has its good and bad parts to it. It will be the wave of the future - the future is actually here and breathing heavily - and I wonder if my younger co-workers see the handwriting no longer on the chalkboard but on the virtual wall. I’m 54 and I’m playing out the string until retirement, but, someone coming into education in their twenties and thirties now has to be realistic, I’m hoping. Because, like the Mom-and-Pop store on the corner that Amazon and Walmart just ate up, e-learning will soon make brick-and-mortar schools obsolete. Very soon, the days when having ten or more teachers teaching history will be history. Why have all of them on the payroll when, with home schooling, you only need one or two of them in the department to communicate and educate the students? It will be a mass disappearance of traditional teaching. And, the Support Staff and school security and kitchen and maintenance industries will fall by the wayside also. It will be the proverbial domino effect, a chain reaction. It is already starting. The COVID virus lit the match with home learning being the way things will be done. The toe in the water moment. And, many will have their jobs drown. Not now. I give it within the next ten or fifteen years.......... So, I guess the connecting tissue with all of this must be the COVID virus. Not only health issues but the boomerang echoes. Our collective ears are ringing from this sound. I purposely have stayed away from writing about the divisions and debates that have raged since Day One. In social media, rantings and arguments raged. What the scientists and politicians are doing and the people being pro or con with these actions. Of course, with Free Speech, we all have the right to express our opinions. A healthy and respectable dialogue is always welcome. Still, I have seen the darkest side. Some people, whom I considered rational, acting very irrational. Despite solid evidence supporting a fact, you run into a wall of defiance and a lack of common sense. To each his own. The younger me - a little brasher, definitely thinner - would have taken them on in a spirited debate ( usually, when alcoholic spirits were present). I’ve given up trying to do this. I will argue a viewpoint when asked but I no longer argue with my mouth pressed against an opponent’s ear. Let them believe what they want. One insight I’ve also learned with age is that I have not walked in the other person’s shoes in their walk through life. Whatever ideas they may have - whatever biases, whatever views - they formed through the roads they traveled in this world. They have brought back life’s experiences to form judgments and thoughts that I may not share, but, I must indulge. I just hope those views aren’t warped by bitterness and hate. Those people, whom I do pity, will never see the light of reason in their minds. It will always be a darkened tunnel they live in, a blackness of the soul........ I can be cynical but I am not a cynic. I like to see, as Lincoln famously said, the better angels of our nature. It is there in humans. With many, you have to dig deeply into finding that well of goodness. I do believe in God’s plan. I am not arrogant enough to try to explain that plan. I just believe it firmly. And, I love how God dishes out Karma! Don’t mess with the Almighty! All of these bad recent moments are happening for a reason. Again, I do not pretend to know that reason. I am NOT supposed to know. But, I am firm in my belief that we will get through this and fight another day....... Until that day, I wish you all good luck and, mostly, good health. And, I look for more musings from me, if it interests you. I remain faithfully yours.........Stay Gold, Ponyboy........

Cosby

The routine had to deal with Noah talking to God. Noah had a nervous timber in his voice, like someone who was about to be smited. But, God was reaching out, wanting a favor from the poor soul. The favor was simple: build an Ark, collect two of every animal species, and board them on the vessel to save Mankind. Does not sound like a difficult task, eh? Well, Bill Cosby saw the humor in this famous tale from the Bible and gave a welcome rendition of the conversation between the Almighty and his Chosen Ark Driver. And, with everything Mr. Cosby did, he did it sidesplittingly funny........... I grew up listening to Bill Cosby albums. His bit about Noah was just a slice of the truly inventive mind of a genius stand-up comedian. His records sold in the millions. These were the days of the Great Cult Comedy Albums. Performers from all walks of comedy--- from Bob Newhart to Redd Foxx to George Carlin to Steve Martin--- presented their special wit on vinyl and the records sold in the volume numbers of rock records. But, somehow, Bill Cosby stood out. Partly, because of his observational view of life [which, consists on looking at everyday life threw a skewed eye and reporting back those visions to the masses for comic recognition], and, partly because of his appeal as an engaging, comfortable presence. In a time of unrest and upheaval, Cosby was the gentle comic, friendly and approachable in demeanor, as comfortable and cozy as a pair of old slippers. Parents could leave the room when Cosby was on TV because his act was ''clean'', meaning no profanity or hot topics to scare the parents. And, he used that clean humor as a social commentator. A decade before Jerry Seinfeld and his peers arrived on the scene, Bill Cosby had the national funny bone easily within reach. He crossed racial and gender lines and age groups. But, underneath all of this, he was a funny man that we welcomed into our homes........ No kid who grew up after 1970 can never say that they never watched ''Fat Albert'' on Saturday mornings. It was required viewing for children. ''Fat Albert'' was a comic invention from Cosby through animation. Cartoon humor via a ghetto setting. But, Cosby was smart. He did not use the background of his characters for political and social statements. No, he aimed the show where it belonged: kids, just waking up on a Saturday morning after the grind of a weeklong school headache, laughing as ''Fat Albert'' encountered various people in his life. If there was a message in the show, it was a special lesson of tolerance and diversity. For many white kids watching [like me] ''Fat Albert'' was the first contact with someone of another color. And, Bill Cosby knew this and exploited this opening in most positive ways. He could have easily caved in and made the show all about race but the man knew his audience did not want this. Little kids are color-blind and accept their fellow playmates at face value [a shame adults do not practice this]. ''Fat Albert'' was just as the name sounded: a fat kid who faced friendly teasing. But, he overcame this bias and triumphed through pure goodness of heart. While there was humor at his expense, it was never mean-spirited. More like you would tease your sibling or best friend. Cosby was smart enough to see that ''Fat Albert'' was the underdog that appealed to all children. ''Fat Albert'' was signpost for the emerging generation of TV watching kids. And, that sign said: ''Love Your Neighbor''....... Bill Cosby continued to be popular as the years rambled on. He toured the country and made us laugh on talk shows and specials. He also made prime time his home from his breakthrough role in ''I SPY'' to his gym teacher drama/comedy vehicle ''The Bill Cosby Show''. Somehow, though, Cosby at night did not click on television. While the shows were well-done and in no way failures, something was missing. It was like he was surrounded by a concept that did not measure up to his talent. Bill Cosby was always ''Family''. He needed that support around him in a sitcom....... Of course, he found this in 1984 with ''The Cosby Show''. We all watched this program, I really do not need to elaborate on how wonderful the show was or the chemistry between the cast members. You just tuned in on Thursday night every week at 7:00 pm. Millions did and Bill Cosby grew even bigger in the national consciousness. He was ''Dad'' for an entire country, a comic that reached a plateau few performers ever truly reach: A BELOVED FIGURE. Through eight seasons he reigned untouched in the public's mind. We knew his TV family and his real-life family. He talked about his kids and his wife, Camille. He sold himself like the Jello pudding product he pitched: as an All-American Good Guy......... Well, we know now that there was the Other Side. And, this side was repulsive. He cheated on his wife [not a shocking revelation usually for a public figure, but it was for his reputation]. And, he drugged many of these women and raped them. This shocked and stunned his legion of fans. Again, infidelity is old news in show business. But, to take advantage of these women by forcing himself on them, whether they were conscious or not, threw us all. Some of these women were paid off with their silence, some just suffered silently. You can have a debate among yourselves about the timing of these disclosures and the reasons behind many of them coming out after decades of saying nothing. But, these incidents DID happen and in alarming frequency. Bill Cosby preyed on these women and took advantage of their trust [and, I'm sure in some of the cases, their naivete]. This is FACT, not a canard. While Cosby now concedes that he was a serial philanderer, he denies that anything was not consensual. This is hard to believe, given the volume of his accusers. You can write off one or two accusations. Not dozens and dozens. The man did this. And, today, in a courtroom, he was found guilty of 3 counts of ''Aggravated Indecent Assault''. He is 80 years old and could face the rest of his life in prison if the judge so sentences him. And, he should......... We always have to be very careful when we pick our heroes in life. Most times, they do not deserve exulted status. They are public figures who have achieved a certain notoriety, whether good [or, in some cases, they are celebrated for the bad] and are put on a pedestal in the culture. Their foibles and dark sides are not exposed [at least at first] because we want the HERO to be everything good and wholesome. They are nice on TV or in the movies, so, therefore, they must be nice and wonderful in real life. We feel that we KNOW them, so, we make excuses for any bad behavior or transgression. Or, we refuse to believe they did such a thing. The older I get, the less shocked I am when someone is exposed for their true self. But, every once in a while, there is a revelation that is a communal public shock. Bill Cosby and his lifestyle is the latest. At first, we all did not buy it. But, as story after story was aired in sordid detail, it was hard to shake off. He is a scumbag piece of garbage who deserves everything he gets....... When Bill Cosby does die, he will hear the Voice Of God, sounding like his long-ago routine about Noah and God. But, this will not be a Voice born out of comic invention. No, this Voice From Above will be his final Judgment. And, God will not be laughing..........

A Royal Toast

''Dear Harry and Meghan...... Let me be among the many that wish you two kids the best in your upcoming nuptials!!! Like hundreds of millions of mere mortals, I want the best for both of you. Young couples are struggling all over the world with new matrimony and I expect you two rascals to walk that fine line of the beginner and the novice. Naturally, money will be a constant worry. Most couples start out slowly. Perhaps, you two can make do with a small apartment by where you work. Rents are high in England, from what I hear. Hell, you might be forced to share a flat with another couple of Royals just to make ends meet. Or, you may have to move in with the in-laws. Harry, I've heard that your family has a few extra rooms in that old clunker of a subsidized house that your family has somehow managed to hold on to for generations. Maybe, just maybe, Mom and Dad Windsor will let you sleep in the basement. Sure, it will be chilly come wintertime, but---- wink!!! wink!!!---- I'm sure you lovebirds can create your own warmth!!!........ On that subject--- sleeping together---- I'm sure that you both are virgins because you have never been married before and I know you do not want to go against your sainted religion. Take it slow, kids. I know you two have the hots for each other. Young people and their hormones!!!! But, just think back to the sex education you two learned in school. Meghan, you were raised American, so, I know what you learned. Harry, the history of English education is legendary, with public schools being very tolerant and encouraging to their youngsters. Why, I've even heard of headmasters actually feeling bad after breaking a cane over the head of a misguided demon child. So, I'm positive that the sex talk was done with the utmost care. Take it from an old unmarried man like myself: take your time with The Virgin Meghan Markle. She will not disappear from your sight if you wait until she is ready. Treat her with respect, kindness, a keen sense of awe. She loves you and your pauper ways. She is in love with you!!!! That is all she wants!!!! When genuine love rules the ranch, sex is the cherry on the cake!!!! So, take it easy with her cherry. Treat her like a Princess!!!!!...... Another matter you two should be aware of is when you both feel comfortable enough with each other to start farting freely. Come, come, we all do it, kids!!!! Nothing to be ashamed of!!!! I'm sure it was never mentioned during the pre-nup, but, it will happen and you will release the glorious freedom from your insides. The sign of commitment is the loud raspy rip first thing in the morning. At first, Harold, you will think someone is sounding revelry by bugle. But, reality will tell you that she and her bowels are awake and, also, what she had for dinner. Hold her close, after the odor disappears. Tell her to pull your finger so you two can be as one.......... I assume you two have talked children. This is the most important part of any marriage after discussing doing a threesome. You both look like you are kids at heart. Harry, you have that imp look that your Father/Cousin has. Meghan, I don't know your heritage but I know you come from Los Angeles, that great city of sincerity and good feelings and real body parts. You must have been raised well by your Mom and Dad, Tad and Bambi. With both of you being raised by good stock, I'm positive that, by osmosis, your offspring will be prized children. Perhaps, they may even grow up and not have to worry about the normal things we all have to deal with. But, take it slow!!!! You do not want multiple children around the same age group!!! That would put a strain on your finances, and Harry, you might have to get a second job at WalMart......... Your wedding will be small, I'm positive. The neighborhood church that seats but a few. A video photographer that is a family friend. Be careful on not going over the limit on whom you invite!!! And, keep track of the gifts and who gave you what. That way, when you go to other weddings, you will have the proper amount to give. Sigh. I hope, since you are registered at Target, that you do not get a lot of toasters......... And, then, dear Meghan, you have your new in-laws. Do not be blinded by their beauty and electric personalities. Believe it or not, they have a hidden side. From Queen Elizabeth and her notorious nude wrestling pool parties, to Prince Charles and his famous love affair with the kid from ''Deliverance'' , the Windsors are a randy bunch. Sure, they can be a sporty crew--- like when the Queen likes to get drunk on ripple and show strangers her balls. But, please have some patience with this fun-loving bundle of dreamers. Take a cue from the sainted Princess Diana on how to handle them..... Ah, maybe, not with this last thought. You do not wanna die ''accidently'' in a Paris tunnel..........  There is more, so much more, to your marriage that you will experience. Take time and smell the roses. Look around at the wonder of your union and how you are everyone's fairy tale life!!!!!........ One more thing to look around at if you have time. Look around at what is going on in your home country of England. Take a family chauffeured drive around the cities and countryside. See what life is really like. Look at the poverty, which has grown worse as the decades have gone on. Look at the starving children, many of them still abused by the corporate punishment being given out in the sadistic school system. Look at the men and women who struggle mightily every day, as little by little, their health and spirits are shattered by continual gloom. Look at the horrible health care that these people do get--- waiting for their turn to have quality care in what passes for hospitals. And, then, look at your family history, Harry, and see how the Windsor Family--- the so-called ''Royal Family''---- have done nothing to stop the suffering. Your vast fortune was built on the blood of others, the so-called ''masses'' of your country. You know, the people who are not the ''beautiful people'' that you have been raised to believe you are. The ones that you tax and take from without any thought of what it is doing to their lives. The people who you pose for and egotistically court their adulation, putting yourself on pedestals because you feel you are so much better than the poor unwashed....... Well, I've got news for you both: you are nothing to me. I have forever wondered why the ''Royals'' have gotten away with murder for centuries of abuse. Yes, I get the schoolgirl fantasy of marrying your Prince Charming, but it does not hold water to reality. Why this country of Britain--- with more working class than even America----has not risen up and overthrown these charlatans and their caste system is beyond me........ So, you two will have to excuse my indifference at all of the hoopla at the engagement news. I do not care, as, I'm assuming, most people do not. Perhaps, you two are decent people---I hope so. Maybe, you will be the generation that wipes away the tyranny of the past and present. Maybe, you two will lead a revolution, kinda like what we did when we separated from the Mother Country in 1776. But, I do not think so. It is an endless cycle of abuse, the classic example of the very rich taking advantage of the rest of the population. You two are photogenic, I grant you that. Many people will follow your every move. For those poor souls, I have to question the pathetic state of their lives that they follow with interest the very people who represent the family who have shattered their dreams....... Piss off!!!!....... Jim Scoleri, American''............

Random Thoughts: November 2017

I have not written in a while. I'd like to say that it is because I have been very busy trying to solve the world's problems, inventing cures for diseases, or, getting laid a lot. The last one has some ring of truth to it, but, on the whole, the reason I have not written is simple laziness. Oh, I excel in this department!!! Happily!!! Joyfully!!! If I could skip like I did when I was younger---- which kept me out of the military--- I would be skipping around and singing to the highest mountaintops my joy of laziness. But, since I am lazy, I will not be doing this. Laziness takes a lot of work........ We are a little over a year since Donald Trump was elected President, in an election that surprised everyone [including, I'm sure, Mr. Trump himself]. So, what has happened with him being in the White House and the fallout? About what I expected. I voted for the weasel knowing full well that it was gonna be a shitshow. Why? Well, I did not want HER. I could not look myself in the mirror if I voted for Hillary Clinton. And, I would not change that one year later. That does not mean, however, that I am a fan of President Trump. Far from it. When I write that his Presidency is turning out like I thought it would, it gives me no satisfaction, just the sad and fearful truth that I was right about him all along. His Presidency, so far, has become a national car crash of scandals, unfounded statements, and scary thoughts that this man is quite unstable. I do not know if the Russians played a part in the election results. It would not surprise me if they did. Until some strong and unbiased evidence is brought forth against him, we have to assume his victory is legit. Still, Donald Trump as President Of The United States does not warm my heart. The fact he is ruthless and self-centered and egotistical is not fresh news. Name me someone in politics who isn't? My deep concern is his temper and his unfiltered mouth. Some applaud this cowboy behavior, as if it is a sign of his macho demeanor. It is not. He is on the Bully Pulpit and he enjoys swinging his animus at real and perceived enemies. Just because you act tough doesn't mean that you are tough. but, please, someone take away his Twitter account!!! In the middle of the night, when he is taking a dump, our President has his insecurities and phobias inflamed and he takes to social media. I do that too, but, I'm writing a fucking blog, not running the most powerful country in the world. His ramblings, which can sound deranged, are of a frightening nature. It stuns me that a man this smart [and, I do believe he is smart] cannot just let criticisms roll off his chest and talk about how well things are going. The economy is going gangbusters, investments are up, the Stock Market is rocking and rolling. Since people usually vote with their wallets, try telling the world about how well they are doing. But, no. He attacks with venomous rage, like a 1st grader, and scares the shit out of everyone who does not adore him. And, the media is no help to him. They hate him and have an all-out war against every move that he makes. And, he falls for their antics, hook, line, and sinker. Let us hope that the next few years are of sound mind and body from Trump. It has to get better. I fear it will not......... Hollywood is taking a big blackeye with all of the sexual misconduct and harassment claims being leveled almost daily now. First, it was the deplorable Harvey Weinstein. Then, Kevin Spacey was next on deck. Louis C.K. followed quickly. And, now, the politicians like Roy Moore, George H. W. Bush, and Al Franken are this week's fodder. There will be more, perhaps, even more shocking from what we have heard. But, is anyone TRULY surprised to hear this? You may be shocked to hear that a favorite movie star is not a Knight In Shining Armor. I will not be. I long ago gave up on public people being saints. Many are vipers, doing anything they can to further themselves. Not all, but, quite a few. And, with power comes corruption of values that you are supposed to hold in your soul. That Kevin Spacey would force himself on young boys, that Weinstein [ a true terror of human behavior] would take advantage of women is old news. What I worry about, though, is the men and women who are coming out now to jump on the gravy train. They are out there, hucksters who see the money and fame and notoriety and can't resist themselves. The Jerry Springer audience who are misguided enough to accuse an innocent person just so they can feel large. Reputations may be ruined, careers tarnished. It takes away from the true victims of abuse [both famous and mere mortals] . Like anyone else, I want the guilty punished. But, I also want the accusation liars to be punished also. It is a dangerous minefield to accuse someone of improper behavior. If it did happen, justice must be served. Still, with my cynicism of some of my fellow men and women, I see situations and lives that may explode. Years ago, I worked with a guy who put 40 years into the company we worked for. Side by side with him for most of those years sat his loyal female assistant. One day, they had a furious fight over business. It fell over into the personal area. The next day, this 40 year veteran was called in on sexual harassment charges. It was complete nonsense. Long story short, he had to get a lawyer and six months went by before his assistant admitted that her charges were false against him. He was cleared by the company but he had a dark cloud following him until he finally retired. People whispered about him, no longer could he kid around and tell a woman that her new haircut looked nice. He left the company a broken man. There are many stories like this in the world. In today's society, accusations go hand in hand with guilt. Again, I want the abusers punished. I also want the innocent to not be fed to the wolves........ Charles Manson is dead. The most notorious murderer of modern times finally met his Maker. It was a long time coming. The fact that he lived as long as he did is something God can only explain. It is an affront to us all that we even know his name and story. A scumbag who ''preached'' his half-ass mantra to a bunch of smelly, drop-out hippies--- many of them sharing the murderous rage that flowed within him. The Gospel According To Charlie stated that a blacks against the whites revolution was brewing. Charlie and his ''Family'' would hide in the desert until after this revolution. Charlie believed that black people would triumph but they would need a leader to guide them to world domination. Enter Charles Manson and his ''Helter Skelter'' scenario. Of course, this made no sense, but, try explaining this to his disciples and their acid-soaked brains. The gullible believed Charlie and followed his every whim. That the real story of the Manson Family murders---- the music business rejecting Manson as a recording artist---- meant nothing to these animals. Charlie was their ''Jesus Christ'' and they followed his lead exactly. And, murdered for him. Popular belief has it that Manson was one of the killers on the nights of the Tate-LaBianca slayings but Charlie never killed anyone those nights. He just planned them. That is not to say, though, that Manson never murdered anyone in his life. Charlie always claimed to have put ''five in the ground'', meaning bloodshed. Possibly, he killed more than that. We will never know. One persistent rumor for years was that he murdered singer Bobby Fuller [''I Fought The Law''] in 1968, a year before the Sharon Tate slayings. Whatever his murder history is, he is forever a blight on our existence. Sadly, Charles Manson will never be forgotten. Ask the average person on the street to name his victims. Chances are, they cannot. But, everyone knows Charles Manson. It is wrong, I know. But, it is fact. There is an old theory that one reason why we are all fascinated by murderers is that we sit comfortably and safe in our homes while we read about the terrible exploits of these killers. You are nice and snug and safe in your home, not at all in danger. But, as we all love horror movies, we love the stories of the macabre. From a safe distance. Leno and Rosemary LaBianca felt that same serenity the night Charles Manson broke into their home, tied them up, and then left while his ''Family'' bludgeoned them to death. There is a small but loud lunatic fringe that has always embraced Charles Manson. They see him as anti-establishment, a true rebel. And, he is celebrated by this frightening group of outcasts. Guns N Roses has even recorded a song by him. To tell these misguided fools what Manson really is would be a waste of breath. People will believe what they will believe. The important thing right now is that he is dead. Long may he roast in Hell........ The 2017 ''Mark Twain Award'' has been given to the great David Letterman. It is a lifetime achievement honor bestowed to a comedian that has made a mark on the national consciousness. They sure picked a winner with Dave. His influence on comedy has been enormous for the last 35 years. Every talk show host on TV now owes an enormous debt to Letterman and his skewed sense of the absurd. Also, stand-up comedy. Dave played the wise, smart-ass observer of the everyday foibles of the population. He became a spokesman for the masses, the Mark Twain of modern times. So, it is richly deserved that he has received such an honor. Miss you, Dave........ I also miss the Chicago Cubs. Partly, I miss seeing the boys playing exciting baseball. And, also, because the Bears and Hawks and Bulls look dead in the water. The Hawks still have fire and might go far this year if their veterans start kicking it into gear. Lets hope, because the other two winter sports teams in town already look like they lost before they hit the playing arena. The Bears have a highly-anticipated prospect in Mitch Trubisky as QB. He has been spotty so far but that is to be expected, at first, from a rookie. He needs to keep playing and then we will see what we have after this season. The real fear in the Bears--- besides having no wide receivers or secondary--- is an befuddled coaching staff led by John Fox. Every time they show Fox on the sidelines, he looks like a dementia victim. He looks clueless out there, like he doesn't understand how the game is played and what city he is in. And, only the Bears can not just lose a challenge call but also the possession, as happened recently against the Packers. The organization drafts lousy, there is infighting among the inbred McCaskey family, and a dwindling interest in the NFL overall. The Bears will always be the Number 1 team in town. However, the Cubs have always been nipping at their heels in terms of popularity. The Bears better watch out or they could be overtaken. As for the Bulls, start playing ''Taps''. They look so bad out there that the ''Little Sisters Of The Poor'' could kick their asses. Long ago I stopped watching the NBA when it became a hoodlum sport, so, I am no expert on teams. However, I know a bad team in sports and this Bulls team is awful. So, now, we must look to spring for more than just the nice weather that will be awaiting us. The Cubs should be strong again, and, the White Sox may be the sleeper team in baseball. I am still hoping for a future World Series between them. That would be wild. Even John Fox could not screw that up...... Well........

A Boy Not Born

It was just not in the cards for me. Becoming a father. It seemed to, for some unexplained reason, slip through the cracks of life for me. I always wanted to be a father. I thought it would happen. And, at various times in my life, there were a few women who seemed to want to be the mother of my children. But it did not happen. I have comes to terms with this loss. Even at my age of 51, if, by some chance, I would become a father tomorrow, my child would be graduating with a father who would be 69 years old [this statement is not meant to draw a laugh]. Just about everyone who knows me well has stated on several occasions to me that they thought I would be a terrific parent. Perhaps, I would have been. While I certainly would have made the standard mistakes all novice parents make, I believe that my innate love of family would overcome the obstacles that are par for the course. Alas, these words ring hollow: it will not happen. I have reconciled and accepted life's verdict on this subject. But, at night--- you know, the dark night, when sad thoughts and broken dreams speak most loudly--- I wonder about the child that never was to be......... I see the child in my Mind's Eye. The child is a male. He would be named after my own Dad--- the child's proud ancestor who will forever be the standard of a fine human being. The name is James Martin Scoleri. But, in family tradition, he will be called ''Jimmy'' by all who come into contact with him. The child will inherit strong features: a shock of thick brown hair, dark eyes, a good nose, and a strong mouth that flash teeth any shark would be envious of. The child, as he grows into a man, will grow to average height, nothing overpowering, nothing too dominant. But, that would be down the line. For now, he is a child and child's world he would encompass....... In that world, there would all of the joys that a child must enjoy. There would be friends, there would games. There would be fun, there would be laughter [for what better sound in the world is there than a child laughing?!!]. And, more than anything, that child will enjoy the increasing rare existence of JUST BEING A CHILD!!! There would be no outside influences to taint the innocence. His own father [whom will always be called DAD] would giving all of his energy to ensure that the little boy is protected from the cruelties of life--- even though the bubble will burst eventually....... The boy will be raised with respect and manners. In a world that seems to forget these practices, the boy's Dad will teach these most basic kindness traits to the boy until they become an unconscious part of his nature. But, the Dad will be conscious himself on how much to put on the young boy's plate. The Dad realizes that children must not have deep pressure--- maybe, a gentle kick in the pants, once in a while. The child would be raised to not fear or disrespect his parents. The child would be taught right from wrong, good from bad, kindness given and received. And, when the boy makes a mistake, as all children [and, crucially, parents] do, the boy will learn from those mistakes and not be scolded or put down. The child will never feel the sting of embarrassment or a sense of failure. Insecurity, common to all human beings, will be dealt with through optimism and encouragement to feel good about yourself. And, the child will never seek out other children to bully or pick on. This will be one of the paramount lessons taught the boy by his parents. Unacceptable behavior and cruelty will not come close to the child. The Dad will never permit it........... After teaching the child the first years of life, the Dad, mostly, along with praying for good health for the boy, will stand back and survey his work and hope that the boy is on the right road to becoming a good human being. Some things, naturally, will have to be corrected. No person is perfect. Hopefully, the fruits of the Dad's labor have not been in vain......... The boy will come into focus. Personality will be blossoming. In the fine tradition of the boy's family, a strong sense of humor will be pronounced. This is key becomes this will serve the boy in good stead in the coming years. This, along with being a kind person, will connect him with the people in the outside world. A good sense of humor walks miles in people's hearts and minds. It makes someone feel good about themselves and the person serving up the laughs. It will also make vast armies of friends for the boy. As the boy becomes active in the outside world---- and, his personality becomes stronger and more forthright---- the collection of friends through good feelings will bond the boy with people who will become his secondary family, a family that he can sail through life with....... But, the boy will know to make the right kind of friends. Because he has been taught this task from his first flicker of memory. The boy will be taught whom to accept and whom to stay away from. The boy will know to stay away from danger and trouble. The boy will not become in any way involved with someone who will do him or anyone else any harm. And, the boy will know when to tell his Dad if the situation becomes a problem. Open door communication--- the feeling the boy innate knows that he can tell his Dad anything---- will be a benchmark to their relationship......... The boy will respect school and his teachers. Sure, the Dad will say to the boy, there is a lot of unnecessary nonsense to going to school. But, it must be tolerated and schoolwork will always be honored. The boy will never be pressured to get straight ''A's''. That is the unwelcome bridge to putting too much pressure on a child. A simple staple of trying your best will be good enough. The Dad will be close by, not only to monitor that the work that will be done, but also, to be a helping hand when the boy gets stuck. This will always be another hallmark to their relationship: the Dad will always be there. Its a lifetime job that he proudly signed up for........As the boy grows older, the familiar feelings of unrest that invade all teenagers will come to the surface. The Dad knows this is a very tricky time--- judgment day for all that has come before. All previous rules are thrown out of the window because the rules have changed. In fact, a new set of rules will be thrust front and center. Conflict, almost unheard of in the formative years, will rear its ugly head and become Public Enemy Number 1. The Dad will grasp this and try to ride the unsteady wave of teenage moodiness. Both child and man will be swimming in these treacherous waters, each trying to keep the other's head above high water. There will be times when both will be sinking. But, with a spot of luck---- and balls of iron in both males--- the storm of puberty will blow away and a deepening bond between the two will be the welcome end result........ And, then, there are girls. Talk about a LANDMINE!! No rule book has ever been written about the most complex of all relationships: the male/female dynamic. Oh, yes, there are books and so-called helpful guides, but, the Dad will tell the boy that, quite frankly, all bets are off when love comes into your life. The only thing the Dad can tell the son in all certainty is the plain fact that you treat a woman like a rare jewel, a wondrous creature from God's hands. They are to be worshipped and adorned, treated with kindness and respect. They must be given freedom and no restraints. They are allowed to disagree with you and you are allowed to learn from them. A successful relationship must not have a dominant partner. Everything is equal. However, the man must never stop protecting the woman. It is a man's job, the Dad tells his son, to always be there for his love and to never abuse her or let someone else abuse her. You must never cheat on her, you must never strike your hand to her. You must listen and you must give solid advice. And, never stop adoring her.......... Finally, after the long road of childhood is over, a man emerges from the child. Hopefully, all the years of constant quality parenting has formed a successful young male human being. If the Dad has been somewhat successful in his role, the young man in front of him will make great strides in the world. The Dad----- with the equal partner is his life, the Mom---- will beam with pride on this creation of loving parents.......... In these dark musings that I sometimes have, I picture the son that I will never have. He is in the Other World, the world of the Unborn. At times, I feel he is so close to me that I can reach out and touch him and bring him to life. But, that touch will never be. He is my great What Might Have Been. There is a small part of me that feels guilty that I have not brought him to life. But, I also know that it is for the best. Perhaps, my life is more rewarding and successful without him here by my side. When my destiny was planned by Someone, it was decided that parenthood was not gonna be in my life. That is fine....... But, I cannot help but be moved by the image of a boy somewhere, in some form, waiting to play catch with me........

Let's Put On A Happy Face

God, it seems so long ago!! Another time, another place. A different life altogether. But, it was a magical time, all innocence and rapture. We were young then, too young. Yes, I am remembering the golden era when Facebook was fun........ So you love President Trump. So you hate President Trump. I've seen it. And, seen it. AND, SEEN IT!!! Good God almighty, when did Facebook become the dumping ground of political rantings and ravings? I cannot ever go on there and not be assaulted by the pro and con of Trump. Yes, you are most welcome to share your thoughts---that is why we are friends on FB. But, when it becomes so burdensome to read EVERY post on the subject of this man, I begin to reevaluate whether I can continue to have this social media communication going. Yes, I've done the same kind of rants. But, they are on a marginal-need-to-know-about-the issue-basis. It is not my every consuming thought of the day. Again, you have the right to espouse. I also have the right to not care........ I also do not want to see abused animals and deformed children. I know you care. So do I. However, we do not ----- I'm speaking for your audience of friends---- need to see the suffering and your outrage. It is a given that you are offended and saddened by the cruelty. What decent person would not be? But, with some I have a sneaky suspicion that part of posting this pain is to draw attention that they care. You know, in a macabre and dark way, they are using the subject of abuse to paint themselves as the caring sufferer of those abused. A saint who feels their pain. Well, I like to think it is true for most people that their outrage is a selfless act of human kindness. Most people I know are not so vain that the menace of abuse becomes their crutch to beg for applause. Still, I know a select few who practice the misery of others so they can spotlight themselves. These are the same people who have a loved one that is inflicted with a deadly disease and it curiously becomes about how hard it is on THEM instead of the patient......... I like fun people on Facebook. Someone who is as goofy as me. I like posts that make me laugh. I do not mind an educated post---- I like to learn something everyday. Even, if I do not agree with the post, a refreshing breeze of originality also goes a long way with me. Be creative. Tell me a funny observation or joke. Or, mostly, a poignant pang from the heart that will stay with me. I like the inspirational musings of a mind different from mine. I like to hear the stories of love. I love to see the baby pictures and the videos of first steps taken. I take pride in the pride of my family and friends. See, I like warm feelings and thoughts from the soul. It feels a hell of a lot better than someone's hard-on against a political candidate........ Too much free reign of thoughts and ideas can be costly. I have heard the stories about friendships broken in half over this last Presidential campaign. Violent, bitter words exchanged, forever separating decades of royal companionships. Personal attacks that should stay as friendly differences of opinion. I have never met a human being who agrees with every thought and feeling of mine. Nor do I seek such a person--- I have me to agree with. A lost art in our modern times is the joy of difference of expression. ''Viva La Difference!'', as the French proclaim. When a different wavelength of thought opens up, sometimes, a wonderful avenue of discovery of a new facet of life emerges. Something that you were quite sure of on Monday may be completely new territory on Friday. The joy of discovery. Not a day goes by that I am not wrong about something. Hopefully, it is a small mistake easily corrected. And, that correction is not a shot to the vanity of the speaker. Instead, it is an instrument of growth---human growth---a marvelous gift bestowed on all of us in our brains. But, the joy of new chapters of knowledge in life seems to be stifled in neutral, alarmingly, on Facebook. It is ''MY WAY IS RIGHT AND IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH ME, THEN YOU ARE A SIMPLETON!'' Those people [thankfully, in short supply in my orbit] are not my friends. Why would I or anyone else put up with such abuse? Stop polluting your hate and bitterness........ I have a secret weapon on Facebook now. I know I can trust you not to tell anyone. I am ''unfollowing'' people, while keeping them as ''friends''. Why? Well, it is because I feel that they are essentially good people to have around--- they are just going through a trough of bad moods. Hopefully, they will see the light and come back to the Fun Zone. So, I am giving them a temporary time-out without their knowledge. In time, I will check up on them and see how they are doing and if the bounce is back in their step. If so, I will ''follow''. If not, then sadly, I will delete. Call it a ''silent suspension'' of their rants........ I just want the Facebook brethren to be fun again. Show me your vacation photos [ Oh, on that. One item must be addressed: when you are vacation, get off of Facebook or any social media and ENJOY THE MOMENT!! It is not necessary to check in from every location or spot you are visiting. Save that for the ride home]. Lets all agree to leave the negativity about this last election in last year. What is done is done, whether your side won or lost. Go forward with good feelings. Leave the rants and down feelings to those who write blogs. Clearly, any idiot can write one........

Perception And Reality

As I've said to numerous people today: ''Don't worry. Donald Trump will not come into your house and kidnap you and deport you''.......... Ever since the shocking news about Donald Trump becoming our next President, the population---- or, certain parts of the population---- are on fire with fear and hatred about what might happen when he becomes our new Chief Executive. A lot of venom is being thrown around social media, with friends defriending friends on Facebook, blogs alive with the doom and gloom of a Trump Presidency [Any idiot can write a blog.....]. You would think Satan has risen, won the Electoral College, and is gonna bring the Dark Ages Of Humanity back to the surface......... Let's slow down and take a breath. It is not the end of the world that Donald Trump is going to run the United States. Nor will it have been the end of the world if Hillary Clinton got in. For anyone with any knowledge of history and the political process, governing in a democracy is all about sharing the power of various individuals, not one person. If, for instance, Donald Trump decides he wants to go to war with Mexico, he cannot just send troops in and start bombing. We have checks and balances in America, our system is designed to guard against dictatorships. One person, whatever his or her own title says, cannot control the actions of an entire country. We have a Congress. We have watchdog groups. And, we have an ever ready media ready to pounce. Any major piece of legislation must be formed, written, rewritten, re-rewritten, and finally, vetted through various channels and deal making. If Trump wants something, he must be prepared to give up something. That is politics....... The anti-Trump demonstrations give one pause. The day after the election, many took to the streets, shouting, looting, threatening. These are well-organized mob actions funded by special interest groups. Trump was the principal reason they took to the streets, but, behind the scenes, we all know the true story. Profiteers, always ready to pounce and exploit, were waiting in the wings, along with professional extorters like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, both men who have the ''Reverend'' title in front of their names, but are venomous, evil men who do not give out God's word, but, spread insidious hatred among the gullible. The masses they inspire are a hot pistol of hate and rage just waiting to fire---- Jackson and Sharpton and ''Black Lives Matter'' give them the bullets to shoot........ I fully understand the anger against Donald Trump. I have never liked him ever since he came on to the scene in the 1980's. He is venal, arrogant, rude, a sexist, eternally self-centered, etc. Any negative can be thrown at him and it deserves to stick. But---- and this is key for his enemies---- he is also a very smart man who knows how to sell the sizzle and not the steak. And, politics is full of that sizzle. Trump has amassed friends and enemies galore, hardly anyone is neutral about the man. Who knows what kind of President he will be because running corporations is not the same as running a country....... Or, maybe it is similar. We have never had a professional businessman like him in office, it has been only neophyte politicians who know nothing of the business world. Perhaps, Trump can bridge something that we never thought could bridged: commerce with government......... Part of the anger directed at him in the aftermath of this election is the fact that everyone expected him to lose. Polls showed him always trailing, the media bashed him left and right, showing, once again, how biased the Fourth Estate can be if you are not their Golden Child In The Sun. The Republican Party, that great mass of self-destruction, was torn apart by his candidacy. And, the other side HATED HIM!!!! So, how the hell did everyone miss this? How did this insane man win, the public is saying? The answer is twofold....... 1] The ''Silent Majority'', as Nixon coined them, was waiting quietly in the corner ready to be heard. The media zeroes in on big-mouths that fill their slot on a news bite. The juicy pundit that is the know-it-all. These cretins think they speak for everyone in America because they have the public forum that Mr. and Mrs. Front Porch do not have. Therefore, they must know what will happen. They are the ''experts'', not you and me. Or, so they like to think. But, they are proven wrong continuously----- never in my lifetime has a major election been proven correctly by their gospel of political wisdom, every election that they say will be close, has been a landslide. And, vice versa. The pundits, these hacks, got caught with their pants around their ankles by the Trump juggernaut. Why? Because a sizable part of America, while not caring for Trump personally [like Nixon] still believed in most of the things he had to say as reflecting their own internal feelings. They want closed borders---- not because they are racists but because they are frightened of terrorists walking into this country. They want Obamacare, perhaps, the most disastrous piece of government tyranny ever established, repealed. They want the United States, crippled by the ineptitude of Obama and his policies, to be held in high regard again in foreign circles. It seems many countries around the world fear a potential Trump Presidency. That is good, keep them on edge. Don't worry, he won't throw nuclear weapons like I throw down beers. But, a good THREAT is most welcome in certain hot spots around the globe. And, the ''Silent Majority'' wants people documented as citizens, not to break up families and send people to die. Our ancestors had to match the requirements to become legal citizens, why should that change now? One thing I've learned in my years is that if you follow the law, your life will work out much easier.......... 2] Hillary Clinton fucked up. Now, it would waste everyone's time to talk about what is so unlikable and untrustworthy about ole Hillary. We all know what she is. Yet, some did not care because she was the first female candidate to have a shot at the Presidency [Shirley Chisholm ran in 1972 but was not a factor]. Hillary Rodham Clinton appealed to the same crowd that elected Barack Obama in 2008----- lets have someone we have never had before. This is fine----- Donald Trump was elected in the same vein---- but, in Hillary's case what was crucial in her defeat was the long memories of voters that she was not counting on. Hillary has been a lightning rod of controversy ever since she and Bill showed up on the national stage. Like Trump, no one is neutral about her. She has her fans and people who want to feed her to the lions. I am in the latter group. She and her husband are a walking Human Lie. They spark negative feelings from people even when the people may be agreeing with their points of view. Oil slicks cannot match the slime found in these two characters. Team Hillary was counting that we, the public, would not remember their endless troubles and follies. Not to mention, her current mistakes---including, the horrible handling of Benghazi and the needless deaths that her inaction caused---- and the curious and suspicious deletion of emails. We do not need more of her games, so said the ''Silent Majority''. And, we don't. She is a USER, a politician in the worst sense of the word. Perhaps, the word on the ''New Hillary'' was not successful---- it did not fool a public she thought was very gullible. No further proof can be better than to see who voted for her. She was strong with women. But, blacks and Hispanics deserted her this election. Trump got his constituency for him. Hillary do not......... So, now, we are presented with perception of Donald Trump as President, and, the reality of what he will most likely be like. The perception is that he will ruin the United States, that there will be fighting in the streets, women and children harmed, bedlam as he takes us to Armageddon. Of course, this won't happen. The reality is that not much will change with him---- unless, a 9/11 type of tragedy unfolds--- and the government will go perking along as always. We will say he made a mistake here, a success there, like we have for all of our leaders. He will rise and fall in the public opinion, praised and damned. Most likely, he will not build a wall to Mexico but there will be increased presence there, which is sound. If a wall does go up, it won't be because of him putting the arm on Mexico and getting a blank check, but, rather, it will be paid the old-fashioned way: a tax of that countries tariffs. He was always be regarded as a divider, love him or hate him. I do not like him but I am a cheerleader for anyone who becomes President. It is a thankless job that no sane person would want. I wish him well, because if he does well, the country succeeds. If he fails, we all suffer....... That is something those foolish protesters do not realize: he is President whether you like it or not. To wish someone back luck in this office is not to be an American........

There Is Crying In Baseball

You felt the emotions rising during the last few moments of Game 6. The Chicago Cubs, perennial lovable losers for over a century, were about to cross over into the rare land of The World Series. I watched at a party at the home of my friend, Molly, and you felt the electric charge of the crowd through the TV. When the final play happened--- that double-play--- and the final out was made, you heard a sound, deafening in its velocity, shoot through the screen. It sounded, to me like 40,000 lions suddenly roared....... At the party, there was yelling and hugging [mind you, other than Molly, I knew no one there]. But, celebrations are made to be shared. Strangers become instant friends. A bond has been established. Til our dying days, all of us in that room will remember where we were when the Cubs clinched the pennant....... You saw what was happening onscreen. Controlled madness. The crowd went crazy, along with the players. Delirious human behavior, in a charming way. It was the end of a long road for this team, a road that gave these very young men their dreams starting to come true. They hugged with fierce pride, young guys who went to war together. They slugged the beginnings out in the minor leagues, that baseball boot camp where only the strong survive and advance. They argued and fought. They became friends and joined the baseball fraternity of the major leagues. These men, little more than babies, became the proud standard bearers of a losing franchise. But, they had a dream to turn this organization around, to set the train right on the tracks. The public hooted at their bravado, saying that the Cubs will never win. Being young, they only heard their own inner voices, never listening to the naysayers. They made the baby steps, making the errors that all beginners make. Along with an owner and GM who also shared their dream, these Boys Of Summer became good. Very Good. Soon, the wins started to come, the heckling from the pessimistic fading into the background. The Chicago Cubs became THE CHICAGO CUBS!!! They took no prisoners...... The scene on the field was spellbinding. And, so were the emotions of all of us Cubs fans watching. Almost automatically, I started to cry. These weren't the tears of a sad movie or losing a loved one. No, these tears were tears of joy and pride. I have watched this team my whole life. It was passed down in the family by my Mom, who grew up by Wrigley Field and saw the good Cubs teams of the 30's and 40'. My brother, sister, Nana--- we all were drawn to this club at 1060 W. Addison. Dad was never a big sports fan, but, he liked them because the rest of us liked them. Year after year, in my childhood, this club broke our hearts. They always seemed to start out good every year, but, seemed to fade when the warm weather of summer showed. But, I watched them faithfully, like millions of others. Hope springs eternal, so the saying goes. And, hope was the abundant narrative drive for this most backwards of professional organizations. The Cubs always seemed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. Pick a season, pick a player, pick a playoff game. It always seemed to come undone for them. And, it devastated their loyal fans. But, we showed up every year, saying, ''This is the year!'' The fan base of the Chicago Cubs has to be the most loyal in any sport. Every team has their rabid supporters. However, no fan base has every been through the losing wringer like we have. Heartbreak after heartbreak. Hope was slowly fading away, eroded by the constant hitting of the wall hard. But, we were there, silently waiting for greatness...... It has come. And, along with this blessing has come a fun, exciting, and very likable group of ballplayers. Sure, behind the scenes, there are disputes and arguments among the players, I'm sure. They are young guys, full of piss and vinegar. I'm betting that they are all not the best of friends away from the field. But, it doesn't matter. I don't care what they are like because I do not hang out with them. On the field is where it matters to me. And, they royally shine out there. There is a sense of infectious joy watching them, the excitement you get from being at a really great concert and rocking your ass off to the music. This ball team plays that music and we dance with joy........ Back to the crying. I soon went to social media after the game and the comments I saw mirrored my own feelings. I read people saying how proud they were of this team and that were crying, too. They were crying with the joy of winning, but, also, something else. They were crying for those loved ones who did not live to see this golden moment in the sun. The grandparents, parents, siblings, wives, husbands, girlfriends, boyfriends, best friends-- all who have gone on to the magic of the next life. I thought of my family and how they would be screaming with pleasure like myself. I cried for them, I know. In my heart I know they saw it, they experienced what I was experiencing. They were in that beautiful ballpark and they were happy. In someway, in some form, they were there. As were your loved ones........ As I write this, the World Series is gonna start tonight in Cleveland. I think the Cubs match up well with them. We have stronger pitching and hitting---although, Cleveland is a damn good team that should not be underestimated. But, I think the Cubs will take the series in 5 games, maybe, 6. There is a glow around this team. They are a team of champions. I do not think anything will stop them. In a few days, I might be eating these very words. I doubt it....... And, after that final out, I expect to do more crying. Perhaps, it will even be more intense. I'm looking forward to it. I feel like a distant Uncle seeing his ''boys'' do well. Despite my bravado sometimes, I do cry very easy. The tears will be flowing with pride and love. For the Cubs....... And, for my family in Heaven....... Go Cubs!!!!!

Random Thoughts: July 2016

Well, you gotta hand it to Hillary Clinton. She dodged yet another noose. This one had to do with her using classified e-mail information for personal reasons. This constitutes a violation of federal law. Why she felt that she needed to have this info only she can say. However, we will never know the reasons because the FBI has decided not to charge her for her crimes (there are five crimes in total, including, the deletion of certain e-mails that, I'm thinking, would have sunk her). The failure of the FBI to do their job---- along with the failure of the Attorney General not doing her job---- has the curious connection of a whitewash, i.e. Coverup. Bill Clinton also is in the middle of this because, recently, he met with Attorney General Loretta Lynch. Ole Slick Willie claims it had nothing to do with Hillary's problems, it was just a social visit. Perhaps, Bill was seeking possible interns if his wife gets elected. But, the timing of his visit cannot be dismissed as just him being neighborly. He clearly was meeting with a powerful person that might lower the boom on his dear, devoted wifey-poo. It was successful, because like many Clinton scandals of the past, a clearly guilty couple will walk away from the firing line without a scratch. Meanwhile, America and her citizens will bleed from the collateral damage. I thought we were done with these sleazy people years ago. But, we are not. Like a virus that lies dormant, the Clinton Hillbilly Gang keeps coming back. If the Republican Party goes ahead with its death wish and has Donald Trump as its nominee, Hillary Clinton will very likely be our next President. Some will cheer, for her supporters foolishly tie-in her candidacy with the fact that a woman will finally be Presudent, making her campaign a gender campaign, instead of the best candidate possible to run, regardless of the sex. Be forewarned all of you Hillary fans: the same behavior that embarrassed this country in the 1990's will resurface yet again. Along with the unwelcome scent of scandal. And, when these scandals do surface, look for Jethro and Ellie May to plead innocence, to claim that they are targets of various right-wing conspiracies that are always after them. "Poor us", they will proclaim, "we are just a happily married couple that has all of the evil people after us!! Why won't they just leave us alone!! We want to help all of you out there have better lives!!" Get ready. If the hit the White House again, the same tired soap opera begins once more. But, at least this is good news if you own a cigar shop...... Locally, we have our own shysters in this state. Mike Madigan and his fleecing flock are blowing themselves because they, in their own eyes, averted more economic chaos by passing a "budget". Actually, it isn't a real budget. Like all politics, it is all smoke- and-mirrors. What they have done is just kept the state going another six months. The whole circus of budget battles will come again come January as these pricks argue among themselves about how they are doing right for us. Meanwhile, businesses are leaving this state in record numbers, along with its citizens. Illinois holds the unwelcome distinction as being the most inept and corrupt state in our fair Union. And, astoundingly, Illinois voters (mostly, Old Machine Democrats) keep Madigan and his dirty henchmen employed. This state has a bleeding cash fiscal problem that they refuse to address. This, along with a crippling pension program, leaves this state with an alarming deficit that will bring this state down. Naturally, these politicians look to us to bail them out. They pass laws in which we are forced to shell out money in taxes--- property and personal--- that empties the coffers of Mr and Mrs John Q. Public. And, then, they come back for more. Example: the Elgin-O'Hare Exoressway, which for years was free to drive, is now a tollway. This is the latest gimmick to bleed money from taxpayers. And, Governor Rauner---- reviled in union circles but applauded in business circles--- is playing hardball with Madigan and his stooges. Hence, the log jam. I think the jury is still out on Rauner and his intentions. But, not on Mike Madigan. His time, along with his cronies, is long past....... Lately, I have been catching up on TV shows. Specifically, old TV. I am a huge fan of MeTV, which gloriously presents old chestnut shows that bring back warm memories of days past. Like a classic song that stirs the mists in your heart, old TV shows bring a person back in time when we were young and you were in the bosom of your beloved family. I can watch a rerun of, say, "All In The Family" and not only appreciate the quality of the show, but also, it takes me back to a little TV room in Des Plaines when I was a kid. The room had two couches and a couple of small tables. But, most importantly, it had five family members who loved each other and watched TV as a family, the way TV was meant to be. We laughed at the adventures of Archie or Hawkeye or Mary or Barney Miller. In that little room, we gathered to watch the goings on in the fictional police precinct of "Hill Street" and marveled on how Marcus Welby healed the sick. There were also various stops around the dial on other shows, be they Maude or Burt Campbell thinking he was invincible. All of those shows--- and many others---- are a part of a treasured memory bank in my heart and soul that I love to revisit in good times, and especially, in bad times. The images are crystal clear. And, those golden reruns are the gateway to those memories....... I love modern shows also. I like "Check, Please". This program consists of a few Chicagoans going out to various eateries and eating the food at the restaurants. Then, like amateur food critics, they grade the food on TV. How do I get on this show??!!! It is the perfect concept for me--- food and wine. And, it is all free!!! I have always wanted to be a food critic. Think about it: your job is to go to excellent restaurants and sample all of their finest food!!! Paradise!!!! The only thing better than that would be if I was naked eating the food!!! Knowing my endless love affair with groceries, I know I would excel at this job. And, I would be gentle and respectful in my food appraisals. Nowhere would I be mean or vindictive. Food brings out the finest in me, some cell in my body is touched and my being is filled with euphoria. I must get on this show!!!........ The Chicago Cubs balloon has landed. Meaning, the excitement of the constant winning at the beginning of the season has settled and a sense of the normal is back. The Cubs have lost their fair share of games, as all good teams do. Some of the fans are alarmed to see that they aren't winning everything in sight. This behavior can be explained. We Cubs fans are not experts at winning and having an exciting team to root for. We are experts at losing and having our hearts torn out. But this team sparkles with a different feeling. It is the feeling of confidence and achievement. It is the feeling of joy and the sense of the possible dream, as opposed to the impossible of so many years in the past. They will lose many more games this season. But, unless they go under with injuries, the Chicago Cubs will go far in the postseason. October will see the pinstripes shining brightly, possibly heading towards a World Series......

Why The Hate?

I still do not understand the LeBron James hatred. It goes beyond the usual distaste for an opposing player from a rival team. No, many people really hate the man, all without the benefit of knowing him personally. Granted, he does come across poorly on camera. And, with the public, if you do not succeed in the media spotlight, it can sink your reputation. He does not have the charm and charisma that many athletes possess. Nor does he cater to reporters for their approval.  LeBron seems to march to the beat of his own drum. And, his detractors do not like the sound of his music....... Some of the hatred can be traced to his "Big Decision" a few years ago. You remember it. It was the big decision when he was a free agent on where he was gonna play after he left the Cleveland Cavaliers. He was courted by many teams, including the Chicago Bulls, and the staged "drama" played out in the public court. He chose Miami, which pissed off a lot of cities who wanted him. Chicago was the most vocal (well, really, Cleveland was because they were losing him) and the fans ridiculed the pomposity of LeBron for making his decision such a laughable farce. This, I had to agree with, for he was poorly advised by his agent and public relations people. He came off looking arrogant and self-important....... What was lost in the fury of him going to Miami was the fact that he did nothing wrong in changing teams. While the haters cried foul that he was deserting Cleveland for big money, the truth was that he simply took a better business offer somewhere else, something that all of us do also. All of us, given the chance, would take a business opportunity with a rival company if the terms suited our future. Whatever your job is, if the company across the street offered more money, more recognition of your talent and abilities, and more success, would you not take the job offer, regardless of the loyalty to your employer factor? Of course you would. Who wouldn't? LeBron was looking to his future, his chance for the Big Brass Ring. Again, how he did it was wrong---- with a foolish announcement that he and his advisors mistakenly thought was of world importance---- but, the actual deed was well within his right in the right-to-work world we live in. Its called Free Enterprise....... By the way, most of the proceeds Team LeBron made with the TV special went to charity....... So, let's look at his on-court playing. Do people hate him for this? Yes, many do. He has been called a cheap-shot artist, a cheat, a crybaby, and highly overrated. Non of this is true. Those criticisisms come from opinion, not fact. Crybaby? He complains aboutbbad calls not going his way, something every athlete does, going back to grade school. A cheat? Where and when has this happened? No examples come to my mind or any other person I have asked. Cheap-shot artist? Well, I've seen many a player go cheap on him. But he has never been in trouble with the league for his behavior. In fact, most players he has played against respect his talent. He is quite professional on the court. Does he have enemies in the NBA? Yes, he does, for everybody does who is so high profile. The common saying about LeBron James is: "He is no Michael Jordan!"....... You remember Michael Jordan, don't ya? He was the Greatest Basketball Player Ever. And, he certainly was. Jordan was poetry in motion, a man of extraordinary talent and skill. He walked on a basketball court and slayed his enemies. Watching Michael Jordan play basketball was like watching history in the making. Plus, Jordan was a charismatic man whom the media adored. He made good copy, with a handy quote and a welcome quip. And, a ready smile. The camera loved him---- which, remember, is very important to a public figure---- and his face gleamed out to millions of ready fans and non-fans of basketball. Such was the love Jordan inspired, that his darker personal life never came to the surface during his playing days. The rampant infidelities, the absentee father, the gambling addiction, etc, were all swept under the carpet because Jordan was so beloved. As long as he produced magic, Michael Jordan was Mr. Clean-Cut, the hero of millions....... Unlike LeBron James. LeBron is the anti-Jordan, a man viewed as sullen and uncooperative to the public. He is selfish, his detractors protest. If he only acted like Michael Jordan, then, he would be OK, so they say. My answer is, "Why should he be like Jordan?" We already have the real article, why do we need a rerun? LeBron James lives his life on his own terms, and until evidence is brought forth against him, he does not seem to hurt or abuse the people around him or his public with his behavior. Locally, we have behavior of a certain hockey player, Patrick Kane, that is reprehensible on so many levels. Yet, he is constantly let off for his conduct because he benefits the Blackhawks by playing well. This seems to be forgotten in this town because Kane serves the interests of his fans. When that stops, look for him to be thrown to the wolves (which he royally deserves). Until then, the media loves him and will overlook his foibles. LeBron does not get that pass........ One more thing about the Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James connection. Is LeBron better that Michael? Is he a better all-around player than the Original King? I think Jordan was a better player in most categories but LeBron haters are not comfortable with the comparison. They feel it is an insult to compare him to Jordan, as if acknowledging LeBron's strengths somehow tarnishes the glow of Air Jordan and his legacy. When comparisons of athletes from different eras, with different playing styles, are made, the older generation gets defensive and vitriolic. "How dare you say he was as great as Michael Jordan?!! Jordan was the greatest ever!!!" And, then, they will spew out statistics that support their righteous indignation. They may be right in their defense but the core of the debate is one of defensiveness and a feeling that their hero may be eclipsed or forgotten by the public. And, they blame the young upstart, the perceived threat to the legacy of The Great One. I find this most notable in the LeBron Haters Club. They instantly segue into the "He's no Jordan!" Or, "Jordan was better!" argument. Never mind that it is a winless debate on both sides of the aisle. Jordan is Jordan and James is James. There is no need to pit one against the other in a phantom contest....... So, the hate of LeBron James goes dribbling on, probably, for as long as the man will be playing. Whatever more he achieves on the basketball court has yet to be written. In due time, he will retire and with that will come a public rehabilitation of his character and a new-found respect for his abilities......  By that time, the next basketball sensation will be on the scene, someone the press and public will call "The New LeBron James." This person will take the same grief and slings from the arrows that LeBron experiences now. And, he will be hated by some. The argument from those people will be, "He is no LeBron".......

Boredom's Companion

Fred was set to go fishing and we all had to know about it. You know a guy like Fred. Someone who is absolutely in love with the sound of his voice. Fred is never short of opinions and theories. Everyone knows someone like Fred, be it a neighbor, a relative, or the blowhard at work. The ''Fred'' character insists on telling you----without any prompting on your part---- EVERY FACET OF HIS LIFE. Be it the home life, what his wife does at work and the people she deals with [Never mind that you have never met Mrs. Fred, nor desire to] or, the long-ago story of when Fred was 22 and encountered a situation identical to yours. Well, not identical---- the ''Fred'' type of person needs to TOP your story with his. All the endless and repetitive yarns of Fred are spun, none to your actual interest. Well, my ''Fred'' was going to the Canadian border to do some fishing. Apparently, the fish taste better with a Northern flavor. Fred is going with his buddies, a group of people who must be the carbon copy of Fred because no sane human being would spend a week with Fred without heavy alcohol and narcotics to buffer you. They will fish and talk. And, talk. AND, TALK. All the while casting their lines to catch some unsuspecting carp that will just be swimming by. Eventually, a fish will be caught and hauled aboard the boat. And, Fred and his mates will offer up endless chatter about various other times they have caught something similar. Meanwhile, the poor fish, if he hasn't already died from the catch, most likely, will try to fling himself off the boat back into the water to escape the boredom of the talk. With luck, the mini-''Jaws'' will succeed. But, sadly, probably not. The last thing the fish will experience in life will be hearing Fred talk about a fish he caught in 1969. The fish does have one advantage over us humans. The fish will not have to look at the pictures of the trip that I will see when Fred comes back......... Herb likes movies and old TV shows. So do I, which is why he likes talking to me. Herb is an amiable fellow, I'd say around sixty. He kinda of resembles the ''Stay Puft Marshmallow Man'' from ''Ghostbusters'', although, Herb doesn't have the sparkling eyes. His are mostly half-closed, like he is just about to fall asleep but is barely able to keep awake. Herb likes to talk , too. But, unlike Fred, Herb actually has interesting things to say. Sometimes. Many times it is all dribble, with me looking at him and thinking, ''What the fuck are you talking about?'' Herb is another type of guy that you know. Someone who is essentially a good guy, but excruciatingly BORING, with a capital BORING. But, he is decent and knows his movies and television. Boy, does he ever!! Whenever we rap, he will ask if I saw such-and-such show last night, or, if I have seen any good movies lately. Usually, my answer is a negative because I am in the cycle of not watching much new programming and have been settling in for my nightly viewing with a nice return to past entertainment pleasures. Herb will then tell me about what he recently watched. More than tell me: He will recite verbatim EVERY PART OF THE MOVIE OR SHOW HE HAS SEEN. From what the actors were wearing to how they delivered the lines, my mini Roger Ebert dissects his viewing down to the smallest detail. This would be fine if Herb could tell a story. But, to my hearts regret, Herb couldn't ad-lib a fart in a bean eating contest. His retelling of the fine entertainment is enough to drive you up a wall. Recently, Herb told me about his viewing of a show recently in such boring detail that I actually started weeping openly. Herb asked if everything was alright and I covered up my true thoughts by saying his story reminded me of a painful past incident from my life. Which was awkward because he was describing a ''Gilligan's Island'' episode. But, like the tough soldier I am, I nodded my head and listened, all the while hoping that his mile-long sentence would have a period coming so I could jump in and change the topic. It didn't happen. Herb went on talking. And, I grew conscious of the fact that I would never get these minutes of my life back again......... By the way, Fred and Herb are good friends. When they talk, I wonder who is really listening........ Barbara is a ''Millennial'' child. Meaning, she talk in codes and phrases that I do not understand. Stuff like ''OMG!'' when something is unbelievable to her. There are times, after I am done talking to her, that I have to Google her terms to see what she was talking about and to make sure she is not calling me an asshole.  Barbara is harmless, though, just very immature for someone her age. Barbara is also someone who has no filter when it comes to telling you a story about her life. She is one of those people that tells you EVERYTHING on her mind. Literally, EVERYTHING. She will start a conversation on one topic, and then, swerve into another, and then, take the next mental lane into another, and before you know it, my brain is trying to unscramble information. I feel like a fly caught in a spiders web. Every time I try to mentally unscramble, Barbara just pours more info on, as I helpless try to escape her clutches. Eventually, I cry ''Uncle!'' and just smile and pretend that I am listening to every word. My brain can do that with some people: while they are spewing useless talk, I am going through in my head the things I need to do, like, stop for gas, get some groceries, call that hooker. Barbara, God love her, never picks up that I have gone into a vegetable state of mind and I am just breathing with the phantom air ventilator until she concludes her tales. Meanwhile, like in the movies, calendar pages, signaling time, are flying around, along with my growing a beard........ I tell these stories myself because we all have these types of people in our lives. Well-meaning, good- natured people that you dread getting stuck talking to. They mean well, but they bore the shit out of you........ To not listen, though, would be impolite, and we all weren't raised that way. Plus, these people, inevitably, have no one else to tell their life stories to. I keep telling myself this when I get trapped into listening to them. Whenever I happen to stumble in their sight and cannot run away [I don't run] I say to myself that this time might be different, that they may actually peak my interest and tell me something that will stimulate me. Alas, I am wrong and my dreams die quickly as I listen to how the newborn had diarrhea, or a funny scene in the movie happened this way, or the fish lodge was out of quarters. But, I listen because I want to be nice. My only job is to try to stifle the yawn I am brewing........ And, I'm sure they are thinking,''Jim is very quiet and serious. Maybe, I will tell him about my Great-Uncle, who was quiet and serious''...........

The Champ

As I write these words, Muhammad Ali is being laid to rest in Louisville, Kentucky. It is a big media affair, with thousands of people milling around. Some are media barons, just doing their job and hoping that some incident will occur that they can capture. Some are celebrities---- actual friends of Ali, and the celebrities looking for a little publicity to, I guess, further their public image and career. But, most are fans of Ali's. They are of all colors and nationalities. One thing about Muhammad Ali must be said: He spanned the different cultures of the world and all types of people embraced him. All in all, it looks like a big media show honoring the self-styled ''Greatest Of All Time''. I'm sure it would please him.......... I have always had mixed feelings about Muhammad Ali. Unlike the public and media, I have a long memory. I remember the good and the bad in people........ The GOOD in Ali was dazzling. He was a triumphant fighter, in the ring he was, as the cliche says, ''Floating like a butterfly and stinging like a bee''. A massive talent, he danced and jabbed. He taunted and played possum. He was wounded and then came out swinging to the Heavens. And, he was a superb entertainer, both in the ring and out of it. He loved the cameras and they loved him. Always quick-witted, he had a handy quote for any occasion. Some were thoughtful and funny. Some were damned and goddamned as being arrogant and judgmental. His back and forth camera sparring with Howard Cosell was legendary. On Saturday afternoons, ABC had ''Wide World Of Sports'' on its schedule. It seemed, once a month, the Ali-Cosell Show would parade across the airwaves for the home viewers. It was a comedy act, mostly, with Cosell as the Straight Man and Ali as the Comedienne. Back and forth they both went, with each trying to top the other in verbal exchanges. They were playing for the camera and the audience. And, both responded most generously........ There was also Muhammad Ali the champion boxer. He slayed him opponents with a ferocious intensity. He went up against the finest of his times. Names like Joe Frazier, George Foreman, and Ken Norton became partners in the ring with him. A few times he lost, like with Frazier. But, he mostly succeeded. Ali first came to prominence in 1964 when he astonished the world by beating the heavily-favored Sonny Liston for the championship belt. The public was stunned that this loudmouth, who already was dividing people with his opinions and behavior, had knocked out Liston. It wasn't until many years had passed that the true story came out. Sonny Liston was Mob owned. And, in a classic example of the Mob controlling the fights, right out of a movie, Sonny Liston was ordered to ''take a dive.'' The Mob placed all of its money on the underdog, Ali, and cleaned up the action. Whether Ali was in on this or knew about this, is an open question. But, he had to have known that Liston was not giving out his best in the ring that night......... Still, after this fight, Muhammad Ali grew in stature. He became a public hero for the times, especially, among the black population. He was a classic story right out of a fairy tale. He came up from nothing, with the odds stacked against him because of his color, and he rose to the highest levels of acclaim. Black children looked up to Ali as a Role Model. And, he deserved to be on that pedestal because he DID overcome a lot in his time. He DID face hardships and prejudice. He DID have nothing going for him except his talent and his remarkable personality. He was a smart, proud black man, in an society that did not want that. He was a THREAT to many.......... Then, he made a major mistake. This is where the BAD Muhammad Ali came courting. He foolishly joined the Black Muslims under the vile leadership of the ''Honorable Elijah Mohammed''. You would have to look long and hard to find out where he was so ''Honored'', for he was a race hustler and separatist who hated all white people. Like any good race hustler, Elijah Mohammed mixed reality issues with his prejudices to create a doctrine that fed into his pockets with money [Green is the true favorite color of race hustlers]. He called all white people ''Devils'', and called for black men to take up arms against the white establishment. Malcolm X [another racist that flowered under the ''Honorable''] and many others of the Black Muslim movement preached this hate. And, sadly, so did Muhammad Ali. In fact, he embraced this garbage so much that he renounced his real name, Cassius Clay, and became Muhammad Ali. He claimed that Cassius Clay was a slave name given to him by white people, overlooking that his parents gave him that name........ Muhammad Ali went full-throttle into the movement. Not only changing his name but storming the media with the words of the ''Honorable.'' Overnight, he became a polarizing figure. He turned into the very racist that he claimed white people were. He preached the gospel of the ''Honorable'' and became estranged from his family and friends. The movement controlled him and brought out a hateful side to him. Even his loyal trainer in boxing, Angelo Dundee, was taken aback by his harsh dismissal of boxing and all that it gave him. Ali even had the audacity to say he didn't believe in violence----- ignoring the fact that he made millions in a sport that is violent, and also, forgetting that he favored the violent overthrow of the white establishment. He spewed venom and rage, mingling it, like his mentor, the ''Honorable'', taught him to do, with real issues and real problems in every day black life. He exploited his very own people that he said he was trying to help. Finally, he refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War, therebye, paving the way for him to be stripped of his heavyweight championship title. Throughout the 1960's and early 70's, Muhammad Ali remained someone you either loved or hated. And, sadly, it went by racial lines........ But, in this world, we love to bring back a champion. Because of his extraordinary charisma and boxing skills, Muhammad Ali came back with force to take the heavyweight championship title again. He did not go to jail for his draft dodging, for he employed many fine lawyers to keep him out of the pokey [most of these lawyers were Jewish, which must have made interesting conversations between Ali and the ''Honorable'']. And, Ali showed his prowess again in the ring, usually defeating his opponents in most entertaining fights. He still managed to polarize, but, his tone lowered, his demeanor softened, and, the rage and racist chants he spouted in the 60's  seemed to go away. Whether he still believed the ideas of the Black Muslim movement, we do not know. He still could have. But, he kept his personal politics private, where it should be for everyone of every color. And, his hero status grew, especially, among black young men. He encouraged black men to stop fighting each other and to get an education. He said that we should all live together in harmony. He said that white people weren't all ''Devils'' like his foolish hero stated. This new Ali was most welcome. While he still brought up the valid important discrepancies among the races that exist, he did not point angry fingers anymore. As his boxing career came to a conclusion, Muhammad Ali cleansed his public image and became universally admired and beloved. He gave to charities and spoke up for the forgotten. He put his money where his mouth was. He became the most famous person on the planet, it has been said. He could go anywhere in the world and be known. He was the World's Ambassador For Good Will......... Then, the Parkinson's hit him. Speculation is that it was tied into his boxing career. He took too many punches, stayed in the sport for too long. Like all Parkinson's victims, the disease starts slow, with mild tremors. Then, it builds to a horrible intensity that leaves the victim with a  constant shaking. Muhammad Ali went from a supreme specimen of human strength to a sad victim of disease that ravaged his body. In his final years, he would be seen less and less. This once vital and captivating force of nature could not control his body anymore. He knew it and that is probably why he didn't want his public to see him this way. While Ali never put it in public words, I'm thinking he wanted the public and his fans to remember him as he was, the mighty champion of strength and verbal wit, striding along in and out of the ring, vanishing all contenders that came his way. Part of this thinking is ego, yes. But, part of it---- again, I'm speculating here---- is Ali's recognition that we all need heroes in life. We all should be our own hero, of course. But, we need someone else to look to for inspiration and guidance, at times.  For many, it is your parents and your children and your mates. However, Ali knew that in the black community----which, was and still is, his greatest influence---- he could not look weak and human. He must, in their eyes, be the tower of strength and achievement that he always was. Perhaps, that is why he became such a recluse in his final years. Partly because he physically could not handle being out in public. But, also, because he was MUHAMMAD ALI, THE GREATEST. He could not let them down to see he was human, like the rest of us......... As I have said above, I always have mixed feelings about Muhammad Ali. I admire the fighter and showman. He was a hell of a lot of fun to watch and listen to. But, I also see the other side to him. It is always hard for me to forgive hate in its rawest form. He did a lot of damage in his time between the races, at a time when it was most volatile. And, him not serving in the military I find shameful. His feeble excuse about not serving the interests of the United States Government because of its racist behavior towards blacks can only go so far. Jackie Robinson served in World War Two and experienced a hell of a lot more prejudice than Ali ever did. But, he served his country honorably and was a vocal critic of Ali during the Vietnam War for not going into the military......... Perhaps, time does heal wounds. But, not all of them. As Ali is laid to rest today, his legacy is yet to be written. It won't be until several generations have passed and, hopefully, racial relations have gotten better........ I will pick his Greatest moment. It is not in the boxing ring or a quote of his. It is his appearance at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. The torch was to be lit to start the ceremonies. Speculation ran rampant at the time whom would be the one to do the honor. To the wonderful surprise of everyone, it was Muhammad Ali. There he was, older, feeling the effects of his Parkinson's Disease, holding the flame torch. The crowd in the stadium went wild, as did hundreds of millions who watched around the world. The Champ smiled a big smile. You could tell he was honored and touched by the reception he was receiving. It did bring chills to you and a few tears in the eyes. He lit the torch. And, for one last, historic, glorious moment, Muhammad Ali was the Greatest again..........

The Kids Are Alright

The hallways always have an extra buzz to them on the Seniors last day. You can feel it like it is frozen in mid-air, an electricity of energy. The Seniors are done with high school, and a great sense of relief has washed over them. They have crossed the finish line of primary education, the goal of many years has been achieved. And, they rightly pat themselves on the back and stand up a little straighter to accept the praise that they have earned. High school is done and the gateway towards adulthood is now....... The last day is a half day, with a picnic to be the celebratory meal of a job well done. But, the first five periods must be observed. They do this, in fast motion, because they want it done. However, I have noticed a certain look that overtakes them. A glazed look. The stunned realization that, ''MY GOD!!! I AM DONE WITH SCHOOL!!!'' It amuses me to see this. Why? Well, I think that you can rightfully call this look the first time that, physically, life is settling in on them. An adult life, full of promises and responsibilities and passions and fears and all of the human bundles of positive and negative human emotions. I can kinda of remember that same feeling. After I graduated high school in June, 1984 A.D., I got in my parents car that they lent me and drove away from the school towards the first party I was going to attend that night. In the rear view mirror, my high school, the late and undistinguished Forest View, was visible. The feeling I had at that moment I can clearly recall. I had the excitement of being done with school. And, then, I also had the fear of being done with school. I knew at that moment that I was in charge of my life then, my destiny, with no cushion and no structure. How I lived my life was completely up to me. It was both comforting and terrifying. It still is........ And, I saw it today in the passing faces of the Seniors. Bewilderment and cockiness. That is ok, for both are necessary for the first few steps from being a child. What they do not know----and, I would never dare tell them----- is that they will encounter dark roads that life throws in your pathway that will erode those looks of wonder and self-confidence. Dangerous avenues of temptation and harmful passageways that could bring their dreams and good intentions come crashing down. I would never break their moment of joy, for it will be the last time they will have the bubble of innocence surrounding them. There is no need to break the spell. They will all find reality in their own ways........ At the same time I am happy for them, I feel a personal sadness. I have known most of these kids for four years. I have seen most mature and grow. I have betted heads with them as Freshmen [when, you know, old Mr. Scoleri knows nothing and is mean] to where they are now with a fresh Seniors perspective [you know, cool Mr. Scoleri, who was right about what he was preaching and really is a softie]. I have seen them find first loves and have first heartbreaks. I have coached them to do better with their grades and applauded them when they passed that tough test that they thought they would never pass. I would tell them exactly what to say when they go on their first job interview, and I would tell them what a good work ethic is, and for them to give me free food at Portillos. And, for many, I was just a sympathetic ear for them, for many, sadly, do not have an adult at home that they can share things with and inspire the best out of them. Those are the kids that reach deep into your heart. Even when they ''act up'' and do something that they should not do, there is the little voice in my head that says, ''Go easy, Jimmy. Remember where they are coming from.'' That has been how I have always been: first the anger at the situation, then, understanding and compassion, followed by the urge to help them as best as I can. It doesn't work for all students, mind you. Still, the ratio is high towards success. Myself---and, many of my friends and colleagues at work--- try to be there for the kids, to steer them in the right direction. Most times, I think we do. But, sometimes, a kid you think you have going well does something that breaks your heart. You take it personal. You have to. Because you care.......... Those kids remain with you as the four years progress. The bond grows stronger. Every adult I work with has a favorite student. The one that you watch out for. I have many. I have kids who may not have me in class anymore who stop in during their lunch, or, between passing periods, just to say hello and to tell me about what is going on in their lives. Many invite me to come watch them play in the team sport they belong to. And, in the sweetest example of making a mark with them, come Christmas time or Staff Appreciation Week, I may get a small gift or card expressing how they feel about me. Those are the moments when you do tear up....... I write this not to show what a swell guy I am, but, to show you how they are. Lost among the confusion of being a teenager is the enormous pressure society puts on them. Teenagers today have it much rougher than at any other time in history. Look at the world----and, the world's expectations on them----- that they have to endure. Everything from terrorism to enormous debts to two childish people running for President Of The United States in 2016. As they graduate, this will hit them with a sonic blast that I could not imagine. And, yet, through this pressure, through the self-centeredness that is the bane of any teenager, comes a thoughtful act of generosity and goodwill out of nowhere. It may just be a Christmas card to them. But, to me, it gives me a warm hope for the future....... After 5th period, it is all over but the hugging. This is allowed because they are no longer students, but co-equals as adults. A goodbye hug, full of gratitude and best wishes for their future. And, more tears---both from them and from us. I tell them to come see me in the future. A few will. Most, will not. While I might have been a recognizable figure to them these last few years, I know I will fade away in their memories as the years roll on. It is natural. There is a little sadness in knowing this. They hug and I say good luck to them. And, I give the line that makes my throat tighten up: ''Have a great life''......... I want them to have that ''great life''. I want them to have all of their dreams come true. I want them to fall in love with that special person. I want them to do good work and be proud of the achievements they make as life goes on around them. I want them to have the fun times. I want them to learn from the sad times. I want them to solve the problems that the generations before them have given them. And, I want them to be nicer to each other than we have been to our fellow human beings in our time, to find that loving human spirit to forge a better future for their kids. I want them to solve the problems of hate and division and be as One. It is a tall assignment I am giving them, I know. But, who is to say that they won't be ''The Greatest Generation?''......... I'm rooting for the Class Of 2016. They should be proud of what they have done. I am proud of them. You will be, too. Just give them time to grow into their roles, to let life measure them........ Looking at the calendar, I see there is about 3 months until the Class of 2020 arrives at the school. I look forward to meeting them.......