"It's a Sign of the Times"

      Once for several years I taught a "Addiction Recovery" class, my qualifications included education and personal experience. When the class started we were honest and called it what it was;an addiction recovery class.People were slow to respond,but we re vamped it and called it a program for people with "Life Controlling Problems" [LCP'S]  we then added to the group though many felt they had NO life controlling problems,[this is good but probably dishonest]. In order to connect with and help a larger group of people we finally became a "Life Application Class"and we drew larger crowd's.(however, the curriculum NEVER changed),People will confront their problems, they just don't want them identified.
       Initially we dealt with the big four,DRUGS,ALCOHOL, GAMBLING AND SEXUAL ADDICTIONS we then added LCP'S such as crossword puzzles and Dr. Pepper [we druggies thought these people were crazy], the we added people who just wanted to see "Whats going on" in the class.We learned that most, if not all LCP'S are simply the symptom of a deeper problem.These were the "fruit" off the poisoned "vine" and it's root must be identified and killed.
       Depression is epidemic in the US today. billions are spent on medications and treatment, In the very lucrative pharmaceutical business more money is made on drugs created to treat "Depression" that those for Heart Disease and Cancer combined. 19 million people are being treated for depression of some type [how many are untreated,only recently this is a diagnosis I received from the VA and am on two meds.], over half are women, in 2000 the average age of those treated was 29 in 2009 it was 14.5 years and many are now children not counting those with ADHD and ADD. 
      Among the LCP'S we dealt with were, anger, guilt, low self-esteem and control issues. If you go to a clinician today with any of these issues and include sleep issues you will get treated. There are a number of physical symptoms associated with depression as well, bowel problems, insomnia, joint pain and heart palpation's [if you cant sleep and are up and in the bathroom and notice your knees bothering and your heart is fluttering you will get admitted-to "a nice quiet place in the country with a well trained staff and compassionate care"].
      Depression is the largest "fruit" on the poisoned vine and while it has many roots the TAP root is identified by the following algorithm;

ANGER=FRUSTRATION=DEPRESSION=ISOLATION.

I have an inexpensive non-medicinal, non-clinical home remedy ;

SHARE A HUG AND A HANDSHAKE WITH SOMEONE, LIGHTEN UP, WE ARE IN IT TOGETHER, NONE LEAVE ALIVE,IT COULD BE WORSE AND LOOK AT THE MAN IN THE MIRROR !

      

Lets Shake On It !

     Shaking Hands- This is a time honored tradition and custom which, much as the Military Salute, signifies a friendly, open hand, empty of any weapon. For centuries it remained essentially the same- Right hand grasping right hand of another, palm to palm with four fingers around the hand of the other with thumb over index finger with up and down hand movement.
     The Handshake has changed several times in recent years and has been adapted for specific cultures and groups. "Secret" handshakes have been part of history for hundreds of years as well, Fraternities,Fraternal Organizations and various clubs.
     I learned to shake hands as a very young child growing up in church, by age five "Little Herbie" [yes I was once LITTLE] would shake everyone's hand and say god bless you,it was CUTE. Next came Cub and Boy Scouts with their "Hand Clasp", High School brought DeMolay and the Masonic Ritual.The Army taught me about saluting.In the Army I had my first contact with inter-city Blacks during the turbulent 60's, their method of greeting was complicated ,"The Dap" consisted of a series of hand gestures and often took several minutes to complete, On A&E we see specials about gangs and the descriptions of thee complex 'handshakes' and identifying hand gestures.
     "Hippies" and "Bikers" share a similar "shake" starting with the clasp hand with the four fingers grasping the top of the others hand in an upward position  going down to the standard "shake" and ending with the first joints of the fingers in sort of a tug, with my "biker" brothers there is a "hug" after the "tug".
      The "high" or "low" five and "five on the fly" plus the normal position "slapping" five are variants also, even small children are deemed  "Bright" if they can learn to give FIVE>
       I have seen people socially embarrassed by not knowing the acceptable "shake" when meeting new people. I have found myself going; standard, dap, hippie/biker, Masonic, Boy Scout and the a hug trying to obtain acceptance.
       The most recent example is the "fist bump" in it's myriad of styles, I believe it started with athletes, there is the standard, the soft, the thumb/pinkie tickle and the grind, I am often startled when a fist comes toward me knowing that boxers "tap" gloves before the beat the "tar" out of each other.

I may start just socking people, hugging and kissing them and walking away !  

Re-Cap, "Can we end the Sin"

        This is the last , for now, of the discussion of the

"Seven Deadly Sins".

             First of all, NO- We can control it, to some extent, we can understand it, we can accept that we are all HUMAN and therefore given to failure in some areas. The "Seven Deadly's" have been around since the beginning of time. Most "Holy" books have a list which varies only slightly, philosophers and other great thinkers through out history have written regarding them; Climacus, Dante, Chaucer, Marlowe and many others, extensively deal with them in their work. They have influenced and been portrayed in Art, Music and Literature for centuries. 
     There was a series of silent films early in the 20th Century, one film for each "SIN", it has been said that Sherwood Schwartz based the seven charterers in  "Gilligan's Island" on them. Several Comic Book Characters are based on them and a collection of Star Trek stories, Star Trek: Seven Deadly Sins, contains seven short novels, which link each deadly sin to a major Trek race: the Romulans (Pride), Borg (Gluttony), Klingons (Anger), Pakleds (Sloth), the Mirror Universe (Lust), the Ferengi (Greed), and the Cardassians (Envy).
       There is good news, for each SIN there is an opposing VIRTUE - LUST/CHASTITY, GLUTTONY/TEMPERANCE, GREED/CHARITY, SLOTH/DILIGENCE, WRATH/PATIENCE, ENVY/KINDNESS and PRIDE/HUMILITY.
  While writing this I have dealt with a few demons, fought a few giants and am convinced that I am not
"A Nowhere Man"    and that if you will  "Stand By Me"

			and I can get " A Little Help From My Friends"   I can do better and so can you.  I GOT YOUR BACK ! [please "click" on the links, I think you will enjoy them]

WE HAVE A GUEST

Subject:  I'm 63 and I am tired.

I'm 63.  Except for one semester in college when jobs were scarce and a six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I've worked hard since I was 18. Despite some health challenges, I still put in 50-hour weeks, and haven't called in sick in seven or eight years. I make a good salary, but I didn't inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get where I am. Given the economy, there's no retirement in sight, and I'm tired. Very tired.
I'm tired of being told that I have to "spread the wealth" to people who don't have my work ethic. I'm tired of being told the government will take the money I earned, by force if necessary, and give it to people too lazy to earn it.
I'm tired of being told that I have to pay more taxes to "keep people in their homes." Sure, if they lost their jobs or got sick, I'm willing to help. But if they bought McMansions at three times the price of our paid-off, $250,000 condo, on one-third of my salary, then let the left-wing Congress-critters who passed Fannie and Freddie and the Community Reinvestment Act that created the bubble help them with their own money.
I'm tired of being told how bad America is by left-wing millionaires like Michael Moore, George Soros and Hollywood Entertainers who live in luxury because of the opportunities America offers.  In thirty years, if they get their way, the United States will have the economy of   Zimbabwe , the freedom of the press of  China , the crime and violence of  Mexico , the tolerance for Christian people of  Iran , and the freedom of speech of  Venezuela .
I'm tired of being told that Islam is a "Religion of Peace," when every day I can read dozens of stories of Muslim men killing their sisters, wives and daughters for their family "honor;" of Muslims rioting over some slight offense; of Muslims murdering Christian and Jews because they aren't "believers;" of Muslims burning schools for girls; of Muslims stoning teenage rape victims to death for "adultery;" of Muslims mutilating the genitals of little girls; all in the name of Allah, because the Qur'an and Shari'a law tells them to.
I'm tired of being told that "race doesn't matter" in the post-racial world of Obama, when it's all that matters in affirmative action jobs, lower college admission and graduation standards for minorities (harming them the most), government contract set-asides, tolerance for the ghetto culture of violence and fatherless children that hurts minorities more than anyone, and in the appointment of U.S. Senators from Illinois.

I think it's very cool that we have a black president and that a black child is doing her homework at the desk where Lincoln wrote the Emancipation Proclamation. I just wish the black president was Condi Rice, or someone who believes more in freedom and the individual and less arrogantly of an all-knowing government.

I'm tired of a news media that thinks Bush's fund raising and inaugural expenses were obscene, but thinks that Obama's, at triple the cost, were wonderful; that thinks Bush exercising daily was a waste of presidential time, but Obama exercising is a great example for the public to control weight and stress; that picked over every line of Bush's military records, but never demanded that Kerry release his; that slammed Palin, with two years as governor, for being too inexperienced for VP, but touted Obama with three years as senator as potentially the best president ever. Wonder why people are dropping their subscriptions or switching to Fox News?  Get a clue. I didn't vote for Bush in 2000, but the media and Kerry drove me to his camp in 2004.

I'm tired of being told that out of "tolerance for other cultures" we must let  Saudi Arabia  use our oil money to fund mosques and mandrassa Islamic schools to preach hate in America , while no American group is allowed to fund a church, synagogue or religious school in Saudi Arabia to teach love and tolerance.

I'm tired of being told I must lower my living standard to fight global warming, which no one is allowed to debate. My wife and I live in a two-bedroom apartment and carpool together five miles to our jobs. We also own a three-bedroom condo where our daughter and granddaughter live. Our carbon footprint is about 5% of Al Gore's, and if you're greener than Gore, you're green enough.

I'm tired of being told that drug addicts have a disease, and I must help support and treat them, and pay for the damage they do.  Did a giant germ rush out of a dark alley, grab them, and stuff white powder up their noses while they tried to fight it off?  I don't think Gay people choose to be Gay, but I sure think druggies chose to take drugs. And I'm tired of harassment from cool people treating me like a freak when I tell them I never tried marijuana.

I'm tired of illegal aliens being called "undocumented workers," especially the ones who aren't working, but are living on welfare or crime. What's next?  Calling drug dealers, "Undocumented Pharmacists?" And, no, I'm not against Hispanics. Most of them are Catholic, and it's been a few hundred years since Catholics wanted to kill me for my religion.  I'm willing to fast-track for citizenship any Hispanic person, who can speak English, doesn't have a criminal record and who is self-supporting without family on welfare, or who serves honorably for three years in our military. Those are the citizens we need.

I'm tired of latte liberals and journalists, who would never wear the uniform of the Republic themselves, or let their entitlement-handicapped kids near a recruiting station, trashing our military. They and their kids can sit at home, never having to make split-second decisions under life and death circumstances, and bad mouth better people than themselves. Do bad things happen in war? You bet. Do our troops sometimes misbehave? Sure. Does this compare with the atrocities that were the policy of our enemies for the last fifty years and still are? Not even close. So here's the deal. I'll let myself be subjected to all the humiliation and abuse that was heaped on terrorists at Abu Ghraib or Gitmo, and the critics can let themselves be subject to captivity by the Muslims, who tortured and beheaded Daniel Pearl in Pakistan, or the Muslims who tortured and murdered Marine Lt. Col. William Higgins in Lebanon, or the Muslims who ran the blood-spattered Al Qaeda torture rooms our troops found in Iraq, or the Muslims who cut off the heads of schoolgirls in Indonesia, because the girls were Christian. Then we'll compare notes. British and American soldiers are the only troops in history that civilians came to for help and handouts, instead of hiding from in fear.

I'm tired of people telling me that their party has a corner on virtue and the other party has a corner on corruption. Read the papers; bums are bipartisan. And I'm tired of people telling me we need bipartisanship. I live in Illinois , where the "Illinois Combine" of Democrats has worked to loot the public for years. Not to mention the tax cheats in Obama's cabinet.

I'm tired of hearing wealthy athletes, entertainers and politicians of both parties talking about innocent mistakes, stupid mistakes or youthful mistakes, when we all know they think their only mistake was getting caught. I'm tired of people with a sense of entitlement, rich or poor.

Speaking of poor, I'm tired of hearing people with air-conditioned homes, color TVs and two cars called poor. The majority of Americans didn't have that in 1970, but we didn't know we were "poor." The poverty pimps have to keep changing the definition of poor to keep the dollars flowing.

I'm real tired of people who don't take responsibility for their lives and actions. I'm tired of hearing them blame the government, or discrimination or big-whatever for their problems.

Yes, I'm real tired.  But I'm also glad to be 63. Because, mostly, I'm not going to have to see the world these people are making. I'm just sorry for my Grand Children.

Robert A Hall is a Marine  Vietnam veteran who served five terms in the Massachusetts State Senate.

Dear President Obama

          Sir, Thank you for responding to the call to public service, much respect is due you on this account, however realizing the ineffectiveness of your leadership, and the goals you have which are obviously in opposition to the desires of most Americans. I ask that you, with good conscious, reevaluate your plans for future public service. Your level of education and now with some executive experience you have grand opportunities in the private sector. You have a wife with an equally impressive resume.These qualifications and the generous "Diamond Parachute" you will have as a former President will allow you to provide well for your family and contribute ,as do we all, to the common good. I encourage you to have the following words placed on your teleprompter and speak them to us at your earliest opportunity. This is a portion of a speech given by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968.
Thank you for your service and GOD bless you and your family at this Christmas Season.
                                                                                                    The Johnston Family
     "Believing  as I do, I have concluded that I should not permit the Presidency to become involved in the partisan divisions that are developing in this political year.
With America's sons in the fields far away, with America's future under challenge right here at home, with our hopes and the world's hopes for peace in the balance every day, I do not believe that I should devote an hour or a day of my time to any personal partisan causes or to any duties other than the awesome duties of this office--the Presidency of your country.
Accordingly, I shall not seek, and I will not accept, the nomination of my party for another term as your President.
But let men everywhere know, however, that a strong, a confident, and a vigilant America stands ready tonight to seek an honorable peace--and stands ready tonight to defend an honored cause--whatever the price, whatever the burden, whatever the sacrifice that duty may require."
Thank you for listening.
Good night and God bless all of you.


"Seven Deadly Sins"-GLUTTONY # 7

     GLUTTONY- Which is a word we seldom hear used today, generally means the over consumption of food or beverage. Much is being discussed today regarding unhealthy eating, childhood and adult obesity and Government involvement and control of our food industry.
      Despite it being one of the Seven Deadly Sins, GLUTTONY has been celebrated by many cultures throughout history. The ability to consume mass quantities of food or beverage in some cultures is seen as a sign of wealth and high social position. In Polynesian cultures, a high BMI [Body Mass Index] determines ones qualification for leadership among royal families.
 Gluttony as a SIN is the over-indulgence and over-consumption of anything to the point of waste. In the Christian religions, it is considered a sin because of the excessive desire for food or its withholding from the needy. Depending on the culture, it can be seen as either a vice or a sign of status. Where food is relatively scarce, being able to eat well might be something to take pride in. But in an area where food is routinely plentiful, it may be considered a sign of a lack self-control to resist the temptation to over-indulge.
     There are Television shows devoted to and celebrating "over eating", entire TV channels given to the
  preparation and consumption of food. World wide competitions with large prizes for those who can eat the most of all most anything. San Francisco has banned the inclusion of toys with "Happy Meals" because they encourage children to eat unhealthy foods.
     Thousands of festivals are held yearly which focus on one type of food or another. At Holidays we prepare copious amounts of food for family and friends and prepare our selves to deliberately over indulge.
Again we see how one Deadly Sin is associated with another, we are Greedy for food, can be Envious of those with more or better food, Angry when not fed and develop a Lust for specific kinds of food.
     Addictions to many substances are examples of Gluttony, liquor, drugs etc, While some people may be able to control their consumption most are adversely effected by over indulgence.To much of anything even good tasting things are bad, however it is not the responsibility or the right of Government to control what or how we eat. For adults it is a matter of personal responsibility and for children the control must be implemented by adults with good parenting skills.
       Being a Grandparent is sometimes frustrating for me as I cannot even tempt some of my Grandchildren with candy or soda as their responsible parents have taught them to prefer juice and fruit over sugar filled treats.{I am denied the opportunity to get them hyped up on sugar and send them home, darn}

Because of some of my past behaviors I have been told I was a 

"Glutton for Punishment".

Although this is the last of the "Seven Deadly Sins" I would be remiss if I did not offer an eight part where some solutions and safeguards are offered as well as a look at how deadly they actually are.

I just saw this on the news and had to add it. CLICK BELOW

Fat Thieves  

"Seven Deadly Sins"- SIX- ENVY

     Our series on the "Seven Deadly Sins" resumes just two more and a recap. I am learning a lot, one thing is that the hardest person to forgive for ANYTHING is yourself. Cut yourself a break, you are neither as bad or as good as you think.

The sixth of the seven deadly sins is one which NO one wants to admit they have been guilty of. I believe it slips into out subconscious and we "betray" our selves, without realizing it, when we speak. "Man, I wish I had that", "Why can't I be that lucky", "They don't need a nice truck like that, but I sure do" and many other phrases like these demonstrate that while most of us desire to be satisfied with what we have, ENVY is present.  There is an old humorous comment meant to mask our envy, I have said it my self "I wish they had a feather and I had what they have and we would both be tickled"
     ENVY is defined in several ways -It is an emotion that "occurs when a person lacks an-others (perceived ) superior quality, achievement, or possession and either desires it or wishes that the other lacked it." It is often a symptom of low self esteem when the guilty party believes that what they envy is of great importance and they believe themselves to be the equal of that person with the exception of their lack of the envied thing, person or trait.Envy is one of the most potent causes of unhappiness, because not only is the envious person  unhappy due to his envy, but also wishes to inflict harm and unhappiness on others.
     Along with greed, which is associated with ENVY, Envy is the driving force in most crimes including violent ones. Envy is known as one of the most powerful human emotions for its ability to control a person. Countless people have fallen prey to periods of intense envy followed by anger and aggression. One of the most common examples is a pair of lovers in which a secret love is discovered and can lead to sorrow, then intense envy, and eventually anger and aggression.
       "Envy" and "jealousy" are often used interchangeably, yet they stand for two different distinct emotions. Jealousy is the fear of losing something  to another person (a loved one, for instance), while envy is the frustration caused by another person having something that one does not have. Envy typically involves two people, and jealousy typically involves three people. It is possible to be envious at more than one individual at any given time. Usually envy involves wanting the beauty, wealth, or socioeconomic status of another individual. Envy and jealousy result from different situations and are distinct emotional experiences.
       Again as with the previous five, almost all world's schools of theology consider ENVY to be a serious matter- The Book of Exodus states: "You shall not covet your neighbor house; you shall not covet your neighbor wife, or male or female slave, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor." In Islam, envy (Hassad) can destroy one's good deeds. Therefore, one must be content with what God has given to them by saying Maashallah (God has willed it).

I am always frustrated when someone presents a problem with out a solution, after part seven there will be a part eight which will discuss cause and effect and offer some ideas how we can lower our GUILT level.

Thank You, NO, THANK YOU !

 THANKSGIVING BREAK

       My series on the "Seven Deadly Sins" will continue in a few days, it has generated a lot of interest and has been a challenge to research and write. Those of you who have been following and reading my Blogs, I thank you.I enjoy writing and I hope some of them have proven to be interesting, humorous and thought provoking, if they have been I am thankful for that. I am thankful for my Wife who tolerates my time away from my "Honey Do's" and my Honey while I write. I thank my critics, both constructive and otherwise, you all help me in different ways, the first kind help me to be a better writer and the second type gives me something to write about !
      I thank my parents who cared for me and encouraged me [gently and firmly] to stay in school, with out a decent education I might not be able to communicate at all. I thank my Teachers for teaching, my Mentors for mentoring and my Pastors for their guidance. I thank my DI's in the Army for helping instill a sense of confidence in me and for helping me understand Duty and Honor. I thank my Ex-Wives for tolerating me as long as they did, and for still being my friends and for the great Children we share. I thank my Children for loving their Dad despite my short comings, it demonstrates your good character, for which I am thankful. I thank the people for whom I have worked and those who have worked for me.
      I thank my Friends, both old and new, for overlooking my eccentricities, my sometimes short fuse and those who forgive me for not returning phone calls "in a timely manner".
      And lastly but CERTAINLY not  least. I thank GOD for the blessings I have, even when I gripe, for decent health, for a sound mind [no rude comments please] and for his Grace and Mercy and for spearing my life several times and allowing me time to try and get IT right.

Happy Thanksgiving y'all 

"Seven Deadly Sins" Five-LUST

LUST- Touchy,touchy,touchy subject- in every definition it clearly combines elements of the other six "sins".Dictionary.com gives the following definitions in this order- 
1] uncontrolled or illicit sexual desire or appetite; lecherousness.    2] a passionate or overmastering desire or craving : a lust for power.  3] ardent enthusiasm; zest; relish: an enviable lust for life.

     Many of us, and most, if we are honest,  have and will continue to struggle with this issue. This "sin" like some others has both a good and a bad connotation. I admittedly have experienced all three definitions as aspects in my personal development. For people dealing with this it seems that if one aspect is present in one's life the others are NOT cleverly or easily subdued. While definition  three can and usually does lead to positive results for those who possess it, numbers 1 and 2 are "KILLERS". From personal experience I can confirm that it can and will take you far down a dark road you DO NOT want to travel.
    It seems that while having a "lust" for life is a good thing it can be the impetus for "Addictions" of all kinds, one becomes "Greedy" in trying to satisfy that "lust", angry [given to Wrath] when that "lust" goes unsatisfied and Prideful when it is ! We are beginning to see again how these "sins" co-mingle and feed each other. LUST has been and continues to be a major theme in literature, most "Holy" books have many verses dealing with the subject. In the three major Abrahamic religions, it is considered a sin and  is a craving which can sometimes assume a violent or self-indulgent character. It was a major theme in Dante's work and he addressed it in this way-In the "Inferno", unforgiven souls of those guilty of the sin of lust are blown about in restless hurricane-like winds symbolic of their own lack of self control to their lustful passions in earthly life. The Christian bible makes reference to "The lust of the flesh and the pride of life."
     Historically is is considered to be the reason that the doctrine of Celibacy has become a part of Roman Catholicism and the Hindus consider it to be a pillar of the gateway to hell. It is considered a "deadly" sin not so much for the damage it does to those who commit it as it does to their "Victims".
    The Prophet Mohammed said, "The fornication of the eyes is to look with lust; the fornication of the tongue is to speak lustful things; the fornication of the hands is to touch with lust; the fornication of the feet is to walk towards lust; the fornication of the heart is to desire evil."  It is due to this statement that Muslim women and men are so careful regarding interaction with members of the opposite sex. It should be evident by the weight of the attention given this matter that this Deadly Sin is considered a serious one. I made it clear in part one,that I do not think there is a "score" attributed to one or another which gives it more importance but this one can be so consuming as to lead to the worst consequences for many people.

  While I enjoy "life" a great deal and enjoy others who are vibrant and excited about things and people, I still must learn to be careful not to get to carried away at times. Too much of a good thing is just that, it is too much. Balance, constraint, wisdom.,temperance and common sense are the tools needed to protect us and those we care about from being overcome by lust. Intervention is even necessary at times.

Sometimes for some of us you just have to take our "keys"

"Seven Deadly Sins" # 4 PRIDE

This Illustration was used to depict PRIDE in it's negative aspect. Negative PRIDE can be described as; A vain or" high" sense of one's personal status or ego which leads to judgments of another persons  personality,character or possessions. 

     PRIDE, as one of the "Seven Deadly Sins"  is one which causes people to think the are "extra special" due to some physical trait, their position, financial wealth and or their intelligence.  Physical attractiveness is desirably [like having a "head of beautiful white hair"], being respected for who and what you do is great [like being a really cool retired guy], having money is good [as long as it is a tool and not a "god"], and having a high IQ is important [if your trying to get in Med School].
PRIDE is considered the original and most serious of the seven deadly sins, and the source of the others. It is identified as a desire to be more important or attractive than others, failing to acknowledge the good work of others, and excessive love of self.Vanity- is the excessive belief in one's own abilities or attractiveness to others.Conceit- A regarding of oneself with undue favor. Both of these words in common usage are synonymous with PRIDE in it's unfavorable context. It is simple to see how PRIDE can be a source of the other Seven Deadly Sin, for example the first three we have examined- WRATH or anger; a Prideful person gets angry when others do not acknowledge their superiority or when there position is challenged. They are GREEDY with what they do have for fear that someone would have soothing that they do no have, and they are often SLOTHFUL or lazy as they feel the world owes them a living.
        Having looked at PRIDE in it's negative aspects we want to realize that one must have PRIDE but not be PRIDEFUL. We have concerns today about people not having PRIDE in America, we talk about people without any personal pride, we tell young adults to accomplish this or that so they can have something to be PROUD of. When my Grandchildren accomplish specific tasks, in school, sports, Scouts or some other activity I tell them they should be proud of themselves and that we are proud of them. We can be PROUD that they are just good and decent people [in the "world" today that is quite often a lot to declare].
       It can be challenging to identify or establish the fine line between being proud of ones accomplishments and positive traits and being PRIDEFUL. I am fortunate that my Children and their Children have inherited my Fathers humble nature. I beleive we should be self confident , knowledgeable of our positive traits while being able to admit our faults, it is OK to be brilliant without being boastful, clever without cunning and kind but not condescending.

       

IT IS OK TO BLOW YOUR OWN HORN JUST DON'T BLOW EVERYONE ELSE AWAY.

Four down three to go, stick around, you may learn something, you never know.

"Seven Deadly Sins" The Third-Revised

     More on the foundation of failure, How the "Seven Deadly Sins"  set us up for a miserably and empty life. Even one of these vices is destructive, and since they are so intertwined and "co-dependent" it is hard to have just one.
    This study has been educational and enlightening for me and I hope for any readers as well, it has become apparent how easy it is to "COMMIT" one of these "SINS" and I am realizing that I may not have known the complete definition of any of them.
       Take number three for insistence- SLOTH- Growing up I was taught that SLOTH was laziness and it is in the purest sense. I beleive we all are guilty here, some more that others, While idleness and shiftlessness are listed as synonyms the critical definition is- a disinclination to action or labor or spiritual , moral or emotional apathy and inactivity.
       I, as most people do, feel a high degree of frustration with those who are not self-motivated, those who make little or no effort to better themselves or provide for their families. I tried hard, both as a parent and with any opportunity I have to mentor or influence young people to encourage them to show initiative. Instructing them that if the will simply "put out an effort" that someone will acknowledge that effort. I want to make the point  that I know many "adults" who need to be taught this as well. I am not a "Life Coach" or Pastor , but, I have been called upon to try and influence many "adults"  to "BUCK-UP" as well. I know grown people who will call me, Email me or Message me on Facebook and ask for a phone number which they could have found for themselves. I hear reasoning such as "Well I thought you might know it and I wouldn't have to find my phone book."or even the admission "I was just to lazy to look it up."
      In past BLOGS when I have written about social and poetical issues I have  discussed  being concerned about APATHY.  I, and others whose work I read or listen to are aware that this deadly SIN may kill the hopes and dreams of many and destroy a healthy way of life in this country and many places in the world. If you haven't read it I would refer you to a BLOG of mine from September for more on this issue as it relates to Social and Political Issues.    APATHY.; "Click Here"
      I am saddened by the fact that I hear so many say today, "I just don't care anymore" and at the same time many, at least politically and socially have moved from the middle ground and have become energized to action and do care.
      Society has made it easy to be lazy, fast food [which I enjoy], fast computers [which I must have] etc. We have become accustomed to having things fast often using convenience, as an excuse. Things must be fast to give us more time. So we can be too "BUSY" to do important things. I, myself, out of "slothfulness" may have taken the easy way to make, fix or accomplish a task, NOT because I need the extra time for some useful purpose but just because I was lazy.
       I beleive having made things so easy we have applied 'the quick fix' to many things which really need our full attention. W have become LAZY regarding education, work, child rearing, criminal justice and most other issues. We have drive in or even drive by, Funerals, Church Services, Medical Care, mail in voting, online banking, and most local, state and federal government business can be done on line. You can order almost anything, including food by computer and have it delivered to your home. The entertainment business is currently under going major changes, large video chains shutting down or drastically changing the way they do business, {and why not ? you can order your Pizza and your movie without leaving home}.An old preacher friend of mine would say "Get up off yer butt bone and stand on yer feet bones and use yer head bone to put yer hand bones to doin' sumpton."

IT HAS BECOME CONVENIENT NOT TO CARE ABOUT ANYTHING.

IT OFTEN SEEMS THAT THE ENTIRE WORLD IS SITTING ON IT'S BOTTOM SCREAMING

"FEED ME !''

 

      

" Seven Deadly Sins according to the Old Wives" # 2

People have asked me "What do you hope to do by writing a BLOG ?"- Let me tell a little story to help answer that question;

 One day a man was walking along the shore, as he looked down the beach, he saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself to think of someone who would dance to the day and he began to walk faster to catch up.
As he got closer, he saw that it was a young man, and the young man wasn’t dancing, but instead he was reaching down to the shore, picking up something, and very gently throwing it into the ocean.
He called out, “Good morning, what are you doing?”
The young man paused, looked up and replied, “Throwing starfish into the ocean.”
“I guess I should have asked: WHY are you throwing starfish in the ocean?”
“The sun is up and the tide is going out. And if I don’t throw them then they’ll die.”
“But, young man, don’t you realize that there are miles and miles of beach and starfish all along it. There must be thousands of them on this beach alone. You can’t possibly hope to make a difference!”
The young man listened politely, then bent down, picked up another starfish and threw it into the sea, past the breaking waves and said, “To THAT one, it made a difference.”

If I can get someone to smile, be encouraging, share some information or stimulate the thinking process, I have "thrown one back". I LOVE STARFISH.
    To continue talking about the "Seven Deadly Sins" I believe they overlap and inter connect in a way in which, if you are guilty of one you are involved in all of them. I know that all of us, as humans have a little of each of these as part of our "personalities". The problem becomes toxic when our whole being and purpose is driven and controlled by one of these "SINS".
     The Second one of the accepted list is GREED which is defined generally as-an inordinate desire to acquire or possess more than one needs or deserves, especially with respect to material wealth. Greed can manifest it's self in many ways we may not realize such as, disloyalty,  betrayal, especially for personal gain, or through bribery . Scavenging and hoarding of materials or objects, theft and robbery, especially by means of violence, trickery, or manipulation of authority are all actions that may be inspired by greed. We need to teach and be taught to be satisfied with what we have, that is not to say we should not attempt to improve our selves or obtain the things we need or even want, but to do so at the expensive of others is unacceptable.
     One of my "pet peeves" is the person who constantly says things such as "when I get some money I am going to..." or "I wish I had ......." and "when I can get........I'll be happy". I think these people keep themselves in a constant state of depression or at least unsatisfied, I know it depresses me when I hear it !
     Most violent crimes are born out of greed,; more money, more dope, more power-the OVERWHELMING desire to have something or someone they could or should not have, and in most cases do not NEED.
     When I have expressed my frustration with people who are constant "I WANT"S" I have been reminded that at one time, from a financial stand point I could and often did obtain almost anything I wanted. I was fortunate in business and was blessed. But with every blessing there can come a "curse", with out being consciously aware I began to act as if I could "buy" people as well. Many people in my family and some friends were adversely effected by my actions. My GREED manifested in an unusual way, while not necessarily acquiring "things" for my self I began to spend money and buy things for others; cars, vacations, houses and gifts of all kinds. I had people point out to me that some of my actions were "over the top" but I had become blind to my GREED for acceptance, love and power and position.
     This behavior became obsessive and resulted in Moral, Financial and Spiritual bankruptcy. It has only been through some counseling and a great deal of self reflection that I am aware of the COST of GREED.
As we will continue to see all of these "SINS" are or can be interconnected.

Today I can no longer "buy" people or many "things",but I can and do share what I have and have learned that most things or people of 

VALUE are PRICELESS.

     

" Seven Deadly Sins according to the Old Wives"

     The "Seven Deadly Sins" are said to be; Wrath, Greed, Sloth, Pride, Lust, Envy, Gluttony. Over the centuries the list has varied with, and due to societies whims, they are often divided in to separate lists of major and minor ones. I see no such "scoring" system in any doctrine of any major religion. When I see or hear people making distinctions about someones "character" and classifying them by what "sins" they have observed that person to have, two things come to my mind; First- "Judge not lest ye be judged", and Secondly- I have yet to find a list in any "Holy" book delineating a "point system".
     Society does however see particular behaviors as more grievous than others. The seriousness is determined by the culture in which we live, while some cultures adhere very strictly to the "eye for an eye" system of judgment it seems that western society is doing all it can to insure that the punishment seldom fits the crime.
     Their are thousands of books written regarding political and social issues about which we are most concerned today. I am unsure why we continue to "beat the dead horse" of attempt to "re-invent the wheel", the answers to these problems have been available since time began. I think our reasons for not applying them are many, but the two primary ones in my opinion are- Trying to find the easy way out and a lack of personal responsibility.
     If we simply consider the SDS [seven deadly sins] and their effect we could save a lot of debate and discussion and save a lot of trees by making all these "help" books unnecessary.
WRATH- Strong vengeful anger or indignation- WOW, How many serious problems would be solved in the world today if we could exercise a little self control, be less sensitive, "let bygone's be bygone's", cease demanding "our pound of flesh" and quit demanding and dictating political correctness. In its purest form, presents with self-destructiveness, violence, and hate that may provoke feuds that can go on for centuries. Even Suicide which if we are to believe what we read and hear is almost epidemic among some groups This final solution, at it's root, is anger at one's self. Anger Management courses and programs are money makers for those who teach them and are a big part of today's justice system and counseling programs.

Over the next few days we will examine the other six "Deadly Sins" we will see how they interconnect and look at their counter parts or opposites and see if we can learn and then share with others that the answers are already available.

"ONE STARFISH AT A TIME"- that story next time. Keep on commin' back.

BOGGED DOWN !

Id, ego, and super-ego are the three parts of the psychic apparatus defined in Sigmund Freud's structural model of the psyche; they are the three theoretical constructs in terms of whose activity and interaction mental life is described. According to this model of the psyche, the id is the set of uncoordinated instinctual trends; the ego is the organized, realistic part; and the super-ego plays the critical and moralizing role

    I am  going to S..L..O..W..L..Y  come out of hibernation. I discovered that I had become a "BEAR" so I have picked the correct terminology I believe. I had 'retreated' to a 'cave' called the internet and like a few other things in my life."I never thought it would happen to me" !.
After retiring last year and moving back to Louisiana I stayed busy the first few months, I worked the Census and began working as an actor and Movie extra. I do not have a place here to work on my wood carving or other such projects which had initially kept me busy while still in Arizona. I have always had a strong ID,EGO,SUPER-EGO and generally not subject to cyclical ups and downs that many people experience.
    Others have defined me as a 'rock, the proverbial  'duck' from whose back water runs, unflappable, stalwart, strong and stable.In the past 18 months I have experienced a number of the 'events' that doctors and physiologists list as events which can impact a persons 'physique' in significant ways. Death of a parent, moving, change in employment, family illness or serious injury,death of a friend and maybe a couple of others. I 'handled' these events with little obvious effect.I did not realize I had a problem, while I might have recognized the symptoms in others, it took a while before I saw mine.In fact it was only through an  ' intervention' by several family and friends that I began to see the light. My Son insisted I take a drive with him and he gave me the old "FUTA"  [foot up the a##] speech.
Despite Writing a BLOG, maintaining a Website, and some work I- HAD BECOME DEPRESSED.
Signs and Symptoms- sleeping too much [everybody deserves a nap], not eating [hard to believe for many who know me],  lack of attention to personal hygiene ["TMI", I know, this is the one i finally became aware of]. becoming anti-social. [not old Herbie]. when I left my house, even to visit family I became anxious and wanted to get back home to my computer. I was not surfing porn sites as happens to many, but became addicted to reading the news, blogging, Facebooking and maintaining my website.
Treatment- Complete medical and mental health evaluation [so far so good], establish a new routine [up by 7 am, shower, shave, dress].Leave house for at least one hour morning and afternoon,exercise [OMG not that] regular meal times [eat whether you are hungry or not]
  Schedule and maintain COMPUTER time. I will use the computer for one hour each AM and PM, answer E-Mails and Facebook messages and write my weekly BLOG. Only post comments which are too funny to pass up, I will not be drawn into useless debates on sensitive subjects, avoiding casting pearls before swine.
  I POST THIS IN HOPES OF HELPING OTHERS WHO MAY BE IN DANGER, CHECK YOUR SELF, THE COMPUTER IS A WONDERFUL TOOL BUT A POOR COMPANION.

They Can't Do That !

PREJUDICE -[1]- Preconceived judgment or opinion [2]- an adverse opinion or leaning formed without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge. 

* [please note that as per definition [2], it can be reversed when given the correct information and proper  education]

Synonyms: favor, partiality, partisanship, ply, bias, tendentiousness

Antonyms: impartiality, neutrality, objectivity, open-mindedness, 

      I believe I am open minded,  I believe most of the antonyms listed apply to me. I am fairly well educated, well traveled, I have a keen interest in Sociology, Anthropology and History.however I have discovered that many of us, including myself ARE prejudice regardless of what we may think or how 'cultured' we may be.
      I know that in many cases, and in fact I want to believe that among those people I count as friends it [prejudice] occurs subconsciously.
     EXAMPLES-
Intelligence-During the recent miraculous rescue of the Chilean miners my Son who is a Paramedic and my Daughter-in-Law who is also a Paramedic and a Nursing student were discussing the medical condition of the men and my son said "I wonder how they knew the one guy had Diabetes.", we had foolishly assumed that because these people, looked different and spoke differently than we that they were somehow less intelligent than us. In further discussion we realized that the people of Chile were a genetic combination of the vast and powerful Spanish Empire and indigenous people who preformed brain surgery with stone implements thousands of years ago when our European Ancestors were still painting on cave walls with their hands.The accident which trapped them was a natural phenomenon while similar accidents in this country are caused by poor mine construction and unsafe operation.
Religion- I am not talking about the historic prejudice which exists between members of the major religious groups in the world but the divisions which exist within each group. Each group has "denominations", "sects" or branches with-in it. This is an area,again, where I have always felt I was above the fray. We all have a specific 'type' of church where we feel most comfortable and are able to receive the teaching and fellowship I know we all need..I have been very vocal about the fact that "denominational-izm" is a serious problem which keeps many out of fellowship and seriously effects individuals and society.Recently we have been experiencing transportation problems and have not been able to attend the church of our 'choice'. SHAME ON ME I live. less than a 'stones throw' from a wonderful church, whose Pastor I respect, which has many members I know and like and is attended by my Son, Daughter-in-Law and two and 8/9's of my Grand Children. Many parents have concerns about their children not attending church and I have allowed long ingrained 'prejudice' prevent me from enjoying hearing G-D's word preached and sharing in Christian Fellowship with my Family.
Gender- This is still a very touchy subject all over the world all 'sides' must admit that physically and emotionally there are vast differences in how information is processed and the actions which result from that process. [please refer to "Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus"] I consider myself to be very sophisticated and enlightened in regard to gender bias.I do believe that there is a natural and genetic code which assigns specific roles to individuals. For those who hold to the theory of evolution it is clear from observation of various other species including our , supposed closest "relatives" that there are distinct differences between the genders.Differences in reaction and function within the group.While we have made great 'progress' in erasing gender bias in the work place, politics and family roles we must realize that there are vast differences not in intellect but in instinct.

TO BE CONTINUED......

Roger Lee Stearns Sr. In Remembrance.

 
Roger Lee Stearns Sr. In Remembrance. 1947 - 2010

I have made note of the passing of a dear friend in my regular postings,and there has been an outpouring of sympathy and concern for his family and very welcome comments of concern for me which I much appreciate. In my weekly BLOG I have been writing about HEROES of all types and trying to explain who and what I think a HERO is.
     The man who passed away yesterday was a HERO, not just because of his Military Service or any publicly proclaimed accomplishment during his life but because of his life. Roger Lee Stearns Sr. wore some medals from his military service, some for the renegotiation for his work in civilian life. The most important awards he earned are the titles of Child Of GOD, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother and Friend.
       He wore his successful Son,And Beautiful Daughters around his neck like Medals of Honor, he always kept us up to date on what they were doing and thereby allowed us to share his joy. His praised his wonderful wife for the care she provided him, and knowing his 'impish' personality she wears a medal as well for being his best friend. She and Roger were married 41 years, that makes both of them HEROES in today's world. Thank You, Regina, Roger said it was love at first sight.
      In High School neither Roger or myself were star athletes, did not drive the fastest cars [although Roger tried] he loved his automobiles. We were not Class Presidents, Homecoming Kings, Most Likely to Succeed [but we did]. We were just guys, not jocks, or 'socise's' or 'nerds', at lunch we hung out at the gym lobby where they sold popcorn and cokes. During Nam we both entered the Army at different times to do what we thought was the right thing as we had been taught. "FATE" if you want to call it that, however Roger and I think a much greater power is at work, reconnected us in Vietnam. My unit was cut off and in grave circumstances, and Rogers unit was sent to assist, which they did, Roger may have saved my life, though at the time neither of us know the other was even in country.
     We reconnected several years ago by E-Mail and the Facebook, which Roger turned me on to. Our daily commenting and jesting back and forth and with others often brightened my day. We shared common political views and an abundant faith in GOD.Roger feared no man or philosophy. What you saw and heard was what he was, take it or leave it, his principles held.
     The last years of his life he was confined in a chair and had numerous  health problems, but he was always lifting others up, his last day here he was proud of becoming a volunteer at a Hospital where he could continue GIVING.He was a BIG man in body soul, mind, heart and spirit. He will live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched. He certainly lives on in mine.Roger we will continue the Battle, as he just posted a few days ago, "WE WERE WINNING WHEN I LEFT'

Never Forget "It's The Dash That Counts" 

How Did You Spend Your Dash?

I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
From the beginning...to the end.

He noted that first came her date of birth
And spoke the following date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time
That she spent alive on earth...
And now only those who loved her
Know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much we own;
The cars...the house...the CASH
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard...
Are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left,
That can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough
To consider what's true and real,
And always try to understand
The way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,
And show appreciation more
And love the people in our lives
Like we've never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,
And more often wear a smile...
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy's being read
With your life's actions to rehash...
Would you be proud of the things they say?
About how you spent your dash?