A CHRISTMAS WISH

For centuries mankind has sought peace on earth.  However, our diverse religions, philosophies, and politicians have given us too many easy reasons to mark all the seasons with war and misery.

Man seems incapable of achieving universal harmony despite touting itself as the earth's smartest creature and establishing  hundreds of different flavored religions. Indeed, men of different cultures, political persuasions, and colors have no sustained record or good prospects for achieving world tranquility.

Therefore, my Christmas wish is for an invasion of space aliens. Not the cuddly big headed ET type, but the groveling, vicious, slimy, sharp toothed monsters of our worst nightmares. These creatures should be killers and destroyers lacking any mercy and holding a warrior technology better then mankind's.

I believe such an alien invasion would unite mankind against a dangerous and common enemy. The differences in religions, cultures, and politics would evaporate in the face of a gruesome adversary. After battling horrible unearthly things, earth men would discover common ground among all it's tribes and clans.

An H.G. Wells "War of the Worlds" is what we need to truly appreciate the beauty of our tiny blue planet and all it's inhabitants.  If Santa cannot find this in his gift bag,  perhaps the Supreme God of all Gods will craft an event from outer space. We need a miracle to somehow unite all of us. Perhaps it soars from our prayers and dreams to the starry sky's and the wonders beyond our eyes. 

The Final Lap: MUSIC MINE OVER MIND

The Final Lap: MUSIC MINE OVER MIND

MUSIC MINE OVER MIND

In my time I've learned to appreciate all manner of music. The blended sounds of musical instruments and the human voice are an art and gift from God.

However, when I come home to myself, my most favorite music is Rock n' Roll.

Some say the lyrics and rhythms were simple, silly and jumbled with goofy sound effects. Others will point to themes which were soapy, self indulgent, and pointless. To some, a careful listening may confirm the noted criticisms. However, as all my boomer buddies and honeys will agree, the sounds from the mid fifties through the late seventies were the juice of our younger lives.

I think vintage rock sounds blended with raging early teen hormones did some magic. Specifically, our brains were etched to associate rock n' roll with great passion, boundless energy, lofty dreams, and love. The emotional flush we all experienced with that first date, kiss, dance, and petting session is forever linked to the music of our younger days.

When I listen to good Doo Wop, Woodstock, or American Graffiti soundtracks, I am energized. Maybe, the Rock n' Roll music reminds or tricks my mind into thinking younger thoughts. Maybe not. However, dear friends, turn up the volume and believe you can; climb "Blueberry Hill", become a "Paperback Writer", "Get a Job", or, find that "Little Darlin'" or " Duke of Earl", "At The Hop".