IS COMMON SENSE DEAD ?

Growing up I was often scolded over foolish acts and told to use more common sense. I slowly learn ed common sense was a term used to describe thinking and acting within practical and wise bounds. Common sense wasn't necessarily linked to ones intelligence or level of skill, but more a way of correctly approaching projects, problems, and issues.

Just as a chain or electric saw should never be operated with its whirring blade pushed in the direction of any body part, it makes no sense that an old socialist like Bernie Sanders can actually color socialism as something bright and shiny. The misdirected blade of a power saw will inflict cutting pain and the rehash of an economic system fraught with total failure will only disappoint another generation of immature idealists. Bernie and other political millionaire hypocrites preaching socialism are no more socialist than Donald Trump or Bill Gates. Our common sense buzzer should warn us that physical hurt follows poor handling of power tools just as supporting a "pie in the sky" economic system run by government bureaucrats can only end in disaster.

Human abortion is tragically a common and accepted practice that makes no sense in the vast majority of medical situations. Why should we kill healthy human beings as our birth rates are declining and the need for immigrants is necessary to complete our employment needs ? God gives us the miracle of human life and aborting innocent babies is very serious and against the laws of nature. Murdering babies has nothing to do with a women's rights.

While a good cause, why is there more heartthrob and celebrity interest "news" about animal rights and mistreated animals than stories about  thousands of casually killed babies ? Where is our decency about preserving human life ?  Despite empty political posturing, women's rights should not overrule the fundamental right of an infants life.

History is full of good and bad stories of great and roguish characters and their acts. It defies my hold on common sense why we would ever want to erase records of our bad history. Renaming a  building,  highway or tearing down a statue doesn't change history. History cannot be altered so why all the energy to wash away our sins from the past ? Obviously, we should not celebrate the disasters of the past, but we must remember. First, we should recognize the culture and elements in the past which created dark periods and next we should insure information and knowledge is available so we can learn from the past so as not to repeat past errors. Deniers will never erase the horror of past  wars, slavery, holocausts, plagues, and periods of religious persecution.

Have we become so politically correct to forget that our Creator built a universe of humans and animals featuring only two sexes. While a wide range of variations have developed in recent times, the gift of producing more alligators, humans or bluebirds can only be accomplished by a male and female of each species. Departures from male and female types are now generally accepted with a laundry list of justifications. I guess its OK to deviate if your actions don't endanger the health or safety of your neighbors, however there is a total disconnect when people actually believe God and nature designed a series of exotic sexes.

Violence and murder among neighbors, families and directed at innocent masses has been on the rise. Common sense should point to dysfunction's among individuals, mental illnesses, fatherless homes, economic depression and a failure of families and churches to monitor their troubled members as the main reasons. However, the only solutions from our political leaders is to plaster more gun laws on books already crammed full of older gun laws. There is a reason murders are generally the worst in cities and states with the most restrictive gun regulations because bad people don't recognize or follow laws. If all guns magically disappeared violence from evil people would simply be rendered with knives, hammers, rocks, clubs, poisons, pressure cookers, etc.

To repeat for emphasis, the current wave of socialist excitement in America is absolutely stupid. First, by any measure all attempts to install socialism in other large nations has failed, economies have collapsed and people have suffered. Second, how can anyone think the government running more things can be good thing.  Except for waging war, most governments are inept in providing better  services or products than a free market of entrepreneurs and capitalists. Advocates of socialism need to know history and become aware of how the real world works.

In my seventy something opinion, many have strayed from pragmatism, common sense and good judgment to another place where common sense, political correctness, and fantasy exist.

NY TIMES 1619 PROJECT IS A FALSE AND FAR LEFT REFLECTION OF HISTORY

The New York Times along with all it's media and political puppets have seized upon this 1619 thing to further polarize Americans and cast America as an evil place.

While slavery was an important economic driver in the South for fifty or sixty years during the nineteenth century it certainly didn't establish or maintain the nation as the worlds economic superpower. Slavery was an inhumane practice, but it wasn't a unique American experience. Sadly, slavery and cruel indentureships among nations existed before America and continue today in some parts of the world. The United States didn't invent slavery and hundreds of thousands of it's citizens suffered and died to forever end the practice. These terrible systems have caused people of all cultures and races suffering and deprivation. It's not only a "black" thing, it's a "bad" thing for many humans worldwide.

Over a half million Americans died and many more suffered during the Civil War which officially ended slavery. Despite "Jim Crow", "equal but separate" laws,  the KKK, our government has steadily enacted laws to fulfill the premise that all men are created equal. Abraham Lincoln (a republican president) ended slavery and despite a pro slavery democratic party of the nineteenth century which lived well into the twentieth century race relations have improved over the decades. Racist democrats such as Woodrow Wilson, George Wallace, Robert Byrd, Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton have detracted and denied progress to advance their political or profit making potentials.

The 1619 Project is not real journalism because it is not a realistic balanced review of American history. It is a dark message intended to dampen the exceptionalism and enthusiasm most Americans feel for their homeland. Doubtless the 1619 scam will be heralded by race pimps to further fill their pockets with money. Groups of left leaning politicians will proclaim the 1619 deal as a further indictment against their political opponents. The reparation gang will beat the drum for undeserved handouts and in the mix, those who oppose will be labeled racists.

The United States of America has a history of low, but mostly high points of accomplishment in providing liberty and justice for all.  The 1619 Propaganda Project is yet another attempt by the NY Times and political left to undo our exceptionalism as a nation.  Rather than a dark side view of our few national failings, the NYT should spend as much time and ink with "projects" detailing the many accomplishments of the United States. This balance in reportage might also boost the sagging sales of the Times.

TO HELL WITH SHAMELESS DEMOCRAT POLITICIANS

The Mueller Hearings was designed to be the knockout blow for Trump and it was a crashing failure. Mueller is an old warrior and appeared distracted and tired. Also, he didn't mumble any thundering headlines for the liberal media or DC Trump haters to seize as reasons for impeachment.

Since the 2016 election; Democrats, RINO's, the left leaning media, and the new hybrid Dem./Socialists have spent enormous amounts of time, energy and money to invalidate the legal election of Trump. All their efforts have failed and backfired. Their gung-ho pursuit of every unconfirmed rumor and unreliable source to paint Trump as a monster have been a disservice to America. Their outrage and anger has been skillfully counter punched by Trump who isn't afraid to fight back and often mounts offensives against his political enemies.

While the President has correctly addressed the economic, border, defense, and foreign policy concerns of the nation, Democrats have shown utter contempt and refused to participate in getting important things done. Trump shows great energy and enthusiasm in his endeavors while the Democratic Party offers lethargy and opposition in getting anything done.

In digging up John Dean, other impeachment friendly witnesses, issuing endless & senseless subpoenas, and forming countless investigative committees the Democrats have been shameless and selfish in  wasting over two years and millions of dollars in their witch hunt. America has been and continues to be poorly served by the present Democratic Party. While Trump is no shining knight without flaws, he is the best damn man to run the country now and through 2024.

GOVERNMENT FREE STUFF SEASON ...

As predictable as a sun rise, the siren song of many 2024 political office seekers is in full swing. Free government stuff!

Free tuition, education, health care, income supplements, housing, childcare, telephones, full on assistance for illegal aliens, and more is promised in return for votes. Desperate for power, the candidates even offer free stuff and instant citizenship to illegal aliens in return for their votes. Charlatan politicians pledge the free goodies will be paid for by Wall Street, billionaires, other rich people and a benevolent federal government which plans to suck  more dollars from taxpayers with 87000 more IRS agents. 

Many politicians spout their nonsense without much serious questioning because real journalism in America is practically dead and most media outlets dutifully support progressive and left wing initiatives. Also, too many voters will  queue up to ballot boxes with an incredible level of ignorance and naivete about history. Many  lack a good understanding of the Constitution, 101 civics, economics or the real issues challenging the nation. Too many people believe the lies spewed from CNN, MSNBC, NYT, WPO etc. and never question the deep fraud of free government stuff. 

More remarkable than the lying scumbag candidates are the millions of voters who will waste their vote on "pie in the sky" proposals. Are there really any adults of voting age who truly believe free government stuff is really free ?  Are there really people, with any knowledge of history, who believe socialism has ever lifted any nation to new heights of prosperity ? Do voters know the history, economic havoc and human misery caused by socialist leaders Lenin, Stalin, Khrushchev, Mao Zedong, Fidel Castro, Xi Jinping, Chavez, and others ?

Have we forgotten that every penny spent by local, state or federal governments on services and materials come from taxes levied on citizens and corporations? Santa Claus, Easter Bunny and tooth fairies are not government employees and government has never and will never generate any income or wealth on it's own. Governments consistently spend and waste too much money. Most well informed citizens are weary of the pattern. 

Aside from the primary and necessary role of defending the nation, the federal  government is a constant threat to our personal liberties and economic vitality. Joined by lobbyists, special interest groups, the military industrial complex, and bureaucrats our national government finds and invents endless ways to spend and waste a helluva lot of our tax dollars. 

Our Founding Fathers wisely designed a system and body of laws to protect citizens from oppressive government. Sadly, these days too many people are willing to trade their freedom or look the other way for a free phone, welfare check, chunk of cheese, income or housing supplement, and any other free goodies from Uncle Sam. In return and like a relentless bully, the federal government seeks to control every aspect of our lives especially when it offers "free" stuff which is never really free.

And the beat goes on! 

2024 will be an election year full of ridiculous promises and claims grounded in few specifics or facts. Will the lies and impossible dreams offered by democrats and progressives again be devoured by millions who regularly get tricked out of their vote?

  

STUPID - BIASED POLITICAL POLLS ?

Many months, speeches and events before the 2020 elections and we are beginning to suffer national polls which are absolutely meaningless. The reason behind the polls is a sketchy blend of wishful thinking and bias for one candidate or another. If one were to believe the polls, the likes of Donald Duck, Homer Simpson along with the twenty some odd ball democrat candidates will enjoy landslide victories over Trump.

As stated in earlier posts, political polls are mostly bullshit concocted to influence those with little information or knowledge of political campaigns and national elections. Most educated people ignore polls and especially the ones which attempt to predict an outcome.  Much of the noise and publicity about polls comes from political commentators and pundits whose job is to make something out of nothing and create a favorable rating for anyone other than Trump.

Polls usually involve a small number of voters, likely voters or folks who simply answer their phone.  The political diversity of those polled is usually suspect and the history of polling indicates more wrong guesses than accurate calls. The only poll which is meaningful are the electoral votes which will eventually select a new Commander in Chief. Look at the boundless energy, enthusiasm and accomplishments of DJT. Don't surrender your vote to a Biden/Harris ticket promising free  government stuff, increased taxes, the new green deal, open borders, unlimited abortions, endless welfare schemes, more appeasement plans like the Obama/Biden Iran payoff, police defunding and a return to the bad old days of tepid Obama domestic economic policies.

Whether Trump or one of the Democrat party goofballs win will be decided by millions of American votes and the electoral college. The polls are smoke and mirrors which will not reflect the decision of American voters in the Fall of 2020 and they oddly rersemble the bozo record of the 2016 polls.

MAX TAX THE RICH & OTHER DEM/SOCIALIST BS .....

Biden/Harris and dem/socialists 2020 congressional hopefuls have a standard line in their speeches which implies billionaires should pay more and more taxes. Their pleas draw huge cheers from their left leaning audiences. In my opinion, these political goons are preaching and pandering to a choir often too full of gullible fools. No matter the facts and statistics this socialist rant remains a standard trademark for leftists and extemeists in every national campaign.

FACT is if all the money and property of US billionaires and millionaires was seized by the federal government the combined wealth would only fund the federal government for a few weeks and it could only be seized one time. Really rich people own businesses and investments which provide vital services or products, hire millions of workers and pay tons of sales and payroll taxes. Our retirement, 401 K and other investment plans prosper when capitalism works and wilts when government imposes too much regulation, bureaucracy, and welfare (for votes) schemes.

Few, if any, so called journalists have the guts to challenge the claims of their dem/socialist brethern  on this and other ridiculous claims about punishing the rich to fund more government. More government takes away personal liberty and economic opportunity just ask anyone in Venezeula, China, Cuba or Russia. Class warfare is a losing proposition which only destroys.

When will talking heads and their network bosses challenge politicians when they make statements which cannot be verified by facts and are clearly designed to pander to poorly informed citizens ?

All the stuff about free tuition, free health care, unlimited immigration, more UN funding, police defunding, massive global whatever research expenditures, unchecked abortions (baby murders), Trump crimes, foreign aid (appeasement payments) to our enemies, and many other popular talking points are simply smoke and mirrors designed to sway voters who voluntarily or involutarily are incapable of understanding civics and economy 101. If they truly believe the empty promises and lies of politicians, they surely must also be waiting breathlessly for a Publishing Clearing House grand prize or a lottery scratch ticket worth millions !

All politicians ( republicans and especially democrats) stretch the truth and lie to get votes and political funding. It is disappointing and shameful so called journalists are unwilling or unable to challenge silly and untrue statements and unmask the blatant falsehoods. Unfortunately, when repeated enough by liberal talking heads these lies become gospel in the minds of many.

When will news people, preachers, community leaders, educators, celebrities, and thinking grownups do their homework and destroy the nonsense and flat out lies of deep swamp politicians and their leftist media partners ?

HUMBLE HERO - MY FATHER'S HELLISH ORDEAL AND SURVIVAL DURING WWII

Humble Hero is about my fathers' life and unusual WWII experiences in the Philippines.

Charles Robert Joyner, a native of Portsmouth Virginia, began life as an orphan and street ruffian. In early 1941 he married the love of his life, then after several weeks was shipped off to war. 

As an army private he landed in the Philippines. Within weeks, he and allied armed forces suffered defeat and retreat at every turn for over three years. He survived the bombing of Clark Field, The Battle of Bataan, Bataan Death March, POW imprisonment, and slave labor details before making a daring escape from his captors. He joined guerrilla insurgents until betrayal left him alone in the mountains and jungles of Luzon Province. With help from a brave Filipino, he spent thirteen months isolated in the wilderness barely escaping native headhunters, the enemy, and dangerous animals. As the tide of war slowly changed, he rejoined guerrilla forces until his medical evacuation. His story uncovers the terrible plight of allied military members and their Filipino compatriots during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. He suffered starvation, tropical diseases and relentless enemies. Eventually, he was rated a 100% disabled veteran. 

Humble Hero is an account of one soldier. The book reflects one story about the unique generation of Americans who sacrificed, died, and labored during WWII. What happened in the Philippines between MacArthur's exit and return is a chapter of American military history revealed in this book by way of one man's remembrances. It is important history sometimes bypassed by some historians and teachers. 

An author signed copy of Humble Hero is available from E-Bay. Also, the book is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Outskirts Press, Nook, Kindle, and other booksellers in print and media formats. Reference:  Humble Hero by Charles T. Joyner, in your inquiries.

This book serves as a reminder to everyone and especially young people of the enormous sacrifices of their parents, grandparents, and other family members. They did so much to secure our personal and economic liberties. Humble Hero illuminates the saga of America's greatest military defeat during WWII and how citizens and soldiers responded.

 In honor of my father and all those who honorably serve, a substantial portion of proceeds from all book sales are directed to reputable veteran charities.

 

TRUMP HATERS

HATERGATE describes our current political landscape. The term defines the coalition and energies of most Democrats, media, and squishy Republicans opposed to all things Trump. They cannot abide or admit the success of Trump's business like approach to improving the economy. Nor, can they appreciate his incredible energy in setting forth bold initiatives challenging our international foes who pose military and economic threats against our republic.

Without doubt. Trump's greatest offense to the "establishment" was whipping the Obama/Clinton cabal. He replaced their lethargy with action and embraced the American people more than his desire for popularity or reelection. While his manners and cosmetics may offend some, he rejects the status quo and boldly goes where few professional politicians dare go. He is pure American gold to an increasing number of thinking citizens despite constant demonizing by his opponents and media.

Sadly, the Democratic Party has been taken over by the most extreme elements of the left. Their  desperation to destroy Trump has resulted in incredible hate speech, paid mobs, and senseless
acts of insult. The far left is killing any sense of loyal and thoughtful opposition in the tradition of great democrats such as FDR, JFK or Harry Truman.

In my opinion, the MAGA agenda will move forward because a majority of voters recognize his good intentions for a stronger nation. Finally, I believe more fair minded citizens understand the negative energy demonstrated by  Democrats, Socialists, Mainstream Media, and DC Swamp politicos work against the best direction for our nation. Trump WILL win 2020 and end the dims brief majority in the House of delegates.

God Bless Donald Trump, The Constitution,  and United States of America.

PHOTOS FROM HUMBLE HERO ARCHIVES

ST. VINCENT ORPHANAGE

LATE 1930'S

WEDDING DAY MAY 15, 1941

TOM PASQUEL  TUCKAHOE NEW YORK

GI'S WITH A HEADHUNTER

BASIC TRAINING AT FORT BELVOIR VA. 

MAP # 1

POW'S AT CAMP O'DONNEL

BATAAN DEATH MARCH

ROUTE OF DEATH MARCH

BATAAN DEATH MARCH

AMERICAN POW'S 

MATAIS BADANG AND FAMILY

PIO PINAD AND OTHER BARRIO COUNCILORS

EARLY 1945

EVACUEES ABOARD RESCUE SHIP

AMMO BOX HOUSE 1950

AMMO BOX HOUSE 2018

PORTRAIT OF GRANDDAUGHTER CHARMAINE   1974

OTHER OIL PAINTINGS   1970'S

"HUMBLE HERO" AVAILABLE FROM AMAZON in print or e-book format. Also, B&N, E-BAY, and other book sellers.

CHARLES R. JOYNER - A HUMBLE HERO

    CHARLES R. JOYNER       A REMEMBRANCE



One hundred years ago God created a special person who positively touched many lives. In his 84 years he was an orphan, teenage ruffian, soldier, home builder, artist, Naval Aircraft Inspector, Realtor, devout Catholic, expert fisherman, and skilled dancer. He was husband to the love of his life, Catherine Lee (Williams) and their romance lasted over 60 years. Nicknamed Dinky and Kakie, their union survived and thrived from the dark days of WWII into the 21st century. He was a generous man who supported charities and helped family members with shelter and money during their times of need.

His military service was unusual. Between 1941 and late 1944 while serving in the Philippines he was bombed off Clark field the day after Pearl Harbor, fought in the Battle of Bataan, suffered the infamous Bataan Death March, and POW imprisonment. Forced into a slave labor detail, he and three buddies made a daring escape from their captors and fled into the jungle. After escaping the Japanese, he briefly served as a guerrilla fighter. Betrayed by a native he was nearly recaptured, but escaped again by isolating himself in the mountains and jungles of Luzon Province for over a year. During this period he was aided by a brave Filipino villager named Matias Badang.

As the tide of war shifted in favor of the Allies. he re joined guerrilla forces under the overall command of Colonel Donald Blackburn. As a guerrilla combatant he participated in struggles against the enemy and avoided headhunters while receiving field promotions for his service. Finally, he was medically evacuated in late 1944 back to the United States.

Returning home to Portsmouth Virginia he weighed only 100 pounds and was plagued by malaria, other tropical diseases, and trauma. For his service he was awarded many decorations including The Bronze Star. Also, he was eventually rated a 100% disabled veteran. However, my father always downplayed his endurance and survival as a gift from Almighty God. He insisted the real heroes were the Filipinos and Americans who suffered greater injury and died during the terrible struggle in the Philippines.

A book entitled "Humble Hero" detailing his life and extraordinary military experiences was published December 2018. It's available in print or e book format from Amazon and has received only 5 star reviews from readers.  Barnes & Noble, Outskirts Press, and other book sellers also stock the book. An author signed copy can be secured from E Bay.

It's a heluva story about an amazing citizen soldier and a part of the Pacific Campaign of World War II overlooked or lightly covered in history books.

MY AFTERLIFE FANTASY

Sometimes, I contemplate hopeful thoughts on what occurs after we die. Nobody really knows what

happens or if anything happens to our spirits or souls. Actually, there is no clear proof we have souls or spirits which survive after our bodies quit. Faith and hope are crutches holding up this and other theories not provable by scientific means. While faith and hope are nice feelings, they are concepts likely invented and promoted by religious leaders to justify their specific religions.

My Catholic education and traditional western religious beliefs teach our souls or spirits ascending or descending to another place. In this afterlife scenario our eternal destination is determined by our beliefs, good works or something called pre destination. This may all be valid, but I enjoy thinking about the eastern Hindu idea of reincarnation. In this belief the human spirit returns to earth as a different life form and the process repeats itself as the spirit strives for perfection. While inexpert on all the specifics of this reincarnation business, I find the possibilities curious and appealing.

I'm not sure what form of life one gets each time they are reincarnated since a soul or spirit may get no choice in the matter. One could come back as a slug, bug, tree, rabbit or any of countless other life forms. The possibilities are incredible and how one would strive for perfection from being an insect or plant is a mystery.  

If reincarnation was an afterlife reality and I got a choice, I'd choose to return as one of natures glorious winged creatures. For years many have sworn I was a "bird brain" and I would revel at the thought of having a matching avian body. Forever, I have admired the great animals that can fly.
From backyard birds fluttering tree to tree while chirping to mighty raptors soaring on high while eyeing prey, the variety is remarkable. To live and learn the mysteries of flight, migration, and the secrets behind the songs and calls could easily consume several lifetimes.

MY POLITICAL AWARENESS AND EVOLUTION

I remember the televised political conventions for the 1952 presidential race. The two national party meetings may have been the first on television and I was hypnotized by everything I saw. I was only five or six years old.

First,  I was impressed by the diversity of geography and citizenry from our forty eight states. Delegates of different colors, wearing funny hats and outfits, bedecked with shiny campaign buttons all waving placards was pretty exciting stuff. It was my first realization that my country was a huge place full of many different folks. I was a political virgin, but really enjoyed the spectacle and roll call process. When called each representative would boast the products or unique features of his state or territory and then loudly proclaim the number of delegate votes for the various candidates.

I believed all the speechifying and promises of the candidates and speakers. They were all grandfatherly types and I assumed their honesty and sincerity in every thing they said.  Later, I learned that this convention was a process where the winners were actually chosen in smoky places full of party bosses and floor delegates brokered their votes for political favors.

I listened to Eisenhower, Adlai Stevenson, Nixon, Douglas MacArthur, John Sparkman, Nixon, Estes Kefauver and other party leaders. Their speeches all produced wild cheering, dancing, and sign pumping.  At the time, the conventions and fancy inauguration parade pretty much summed up my exposure to the world of American politics. In 1952 "I liked Ike " because he was a great war general and my dad's choice.

I didn't gain my right to vote until the 1968 election, but faithfully followed all the conventions. Like many, I was impressed by the youthful John Kennedy and his hopeful visions for America. To my fathers dismay, I actually supported Hubert Humphrey, Jesse Jackson and Lyndon Johnson at various times in the sixties.

After Vietnam, the Kennedy/ King assassinations, and the civil rights and anti war demonstrations of the 1960's my political views changed. I had never considered myself a complete democrat or republican, but slowly began to drift to the conservative side of politics. My father was pleased that our endless political differences were fading. I still viewed all our national leaders as incredibly talented men and women of value despite the rare cases of corruption reported in the news. Since the 1952 political conventions there are now more balloons, fanfare, and firebrand speeches. In my opinion, the conventions have become more predictable with less drama, spontaneity, and smoke filled rooms.

In my opinion, while he was a masterful political wheeler dealer with tons of political clout, Lyndon Johnson, had the Vietnam mess destroy much of his legacy. Nixon always seemed edgy and sneaky, but his work with Kissinger opening up China revealed his skill as a great global political leader. Jimmy Carter, Bush senior and Ford were honorable men, but weak chief executives. Reagan was a master communicator and able to undo the USSR, boost our economy and national esteem. I rate Reagan as Americas second or third best president of the twentieth century bested only by FDR and Truman. Bill Clinton had his naughty ways, but was effective in reaching across the political aisle and getting things done. Bush junior sadly became his best after the 9-11 crime. Obama offered great promise, but delivered little domestic or world leadership. He ended up a terrible disappointment for many Americans and especially minorities. Trump is the new guy at 1600 and its too early to rate his tenure.

I never liked The War on Poverty because giving people free stuff and services has been a trillion dollar mistake of well meaning progressives. Self sufficiency cannot be legislated or controlled by the government. Franklin Roosevelt enacted the first social help federal programs during a dark period in our nations economic history. At the time it was good and necessary, but over the decades politicians have discovered giving away stuff as an easy way to capture votes and gain easy re election. Sadly, welfare and giveaway government schemes multiplied and have robbed taxpayers for decades and helped mostly bureaucrats and political despots and kept poor people poor and dis spirited.

In the fifties and sixties as a young white southerner, I sadly witnessed the daily insults to people of color. I learned of their misery as slaves and the gross injustices generations endured until laws and public opinion delivered black people to a much better place. While things are never perfect, Americans of color have become as equal in economic, government, cultural, education, social and military affairs as other citizens. I am pleased that after all the historic happy talk of universal freedom from our founding fathers, their aspirations have finally materialized. However, I am disappointed and angry with those fake civil rights leaders who have used racism as their cash cow and excuse for bad behavior.

I believe our Constitution is a sacred document. Laws should be followed until Congress vote legal changes to a law. Judges are the judicial branch of our government and have no business changing or making laws. Their job is to interrupt laws enacted by Congress.  Illegal aliens are the anti thesis of lawful citizens and despite the potential votes, do not deserve the unlimited support of any political party. I believe the number one role of any government, including ours, is national defense. To protect citizens and our natural resources a strong military force is a necessity. Teddy Roosevelt was very right when he repeated the old line, "speak softly but carry a big stick."

I have traveled the world and seen nicer places and ones not as nice as America. Also, I have studied a lot of world and American history and find that despite a few skeletons in our national closet, the United States is the worlds home of maximum economic and political liberty. Among large nations American, has the most generous, creative, inventive, peace loving, and diverse population.

Over the last seven decades I have become a political conservative with empathy, a strong supporter of our military, and a nationalist who cannot listen to our National Anthem or visit Arlington without shedding a few tears. I was part of the "silent generation" and believe the concerns raised by the Tea Party movement and my fellow advocates caused a major shift in our political world. I am not worried over the ever changing flurry of radical protesters, silly acts of political correctness, liberal media bias, Hollywood strangeness, and screeching from the halls of Congress. All of these peculiar patterns, after all, manifest healthy burps in a land of healthy free speech and expression. I know  there are political clowns, frauds, patriots, and great Americans  in both major political parties, but believe true conservative politicos are the best of the bunch.

I worry most about our leaders who are unaware or unwilling to identify foreign centers of evil seeking to undermine our nation from within or without. I strongly adhere to an "American First" policy and fear our leaders who are more interested in appeasing or being liked by other nations rather than striving to make America great.

I do my best to respect the opinions of my liberal friends and family members. It is very difficult at times and I must try to be a better listener and more effective voice for my political views. Since the 1952 political conventions I have observed our political process/players and evolved from the left to the right side of politics.

Despite verbal arrows and disapproval from some, I know my father would be proud of me and my politics.

HANDS

Take a moment to consider your hands. Controlled by the brain, they are remarkable instruments instantly executing our mental commands with phenomenal dexterity. Also, the fingers of each hand have markers unique to billions of past and present human finger prints.

My hands began as pink little paws grasping for mothers touch and warmth. After some time, my hands began to playfully grasp the hands of a loving sister, cousins, and playmates.  A few years later, father guided my growing hands to successfully control a bicycle. Then, he helped while I nervously maneuvered the steering and stick shift of his automobile.

Miraculously, with the guidance and frowns from patient nuns, the fingers of my right hand were trained to write the alphabet in flowing cursive. At the same time, my hands occasionally clenched into fists to battle other boys in long forgotten disputes. My schoolboy hands also joined in prayer as an altar boy and almost seminarian until I noticed the magic and mystery of girls. I remember how my hands became clumsy and sweaty mitts on those first dates.

About the same time, I painfully discovered my inability to handle tools without injuring myself.  Father wisely advised me that " I'd starve to death" if my future earnings depended upon me using tools, so I joined the Army. I became an expert with an M 14. Despite being an army bookkeeper, I fired at an unseen enemy de jour a few times. After Vietnam, my hands and heart embraced the love of my life and later a beautiful baby girl.
,
Over the years my hands have guided my mind to a fruitful career with thousands of business and social handshakes. My hands have served as faithful assistants for seven decades in all the solemn, recreational, and routine activities of life.

In my Final Lap, I thank God and nature for my hands. I invite everyone to consider their versatile, delicate, and glorious hands.

INTER RACIAL/ MIXED ETHNIC MARRIAGES ARE GOOD FOR AMERICA

The increase in inter racial and ethnic unions is a good thing for our nation. Love between people of different skin tones and national origins, and their children represent an underreported good phenomena. Love does conquer all.

The ugliness of The Charleston Massacre, Charlottesville and Ferguson riots are exceptions to an America that is, and will become more tolerant in the coming decades. The extreme bigotry and discrimination against people of color and different national origins so prevalent during the Wilson Administration is no longer todays reality. Voting rights and integration over the last 100 years have led to a better America.

Unfortunately, some elements of the media sensationalize violence and the extreme views and the actions of racial supremacists. These hate groups involve very small numbers of unhappy and disturbed people and do not justify extended news coverage. These fringe mobs do not represent the beliefs of most citizens. The massive outpouring of genuine concern, generosity, and volunteerism witnessed during national disasters is the real face and spirit of most Americans.

As we see more of our family, friends, work mates, and neighbors enter marriages and civil unions involving different races, nationalities, and sexual partners we are witnessing a society no longer separated. The bad old days of segregation are fading. The need and usefulness for a NAACP, BCC, BLM, KKK and other race oriented groups will soon end. As generations of children with mixed racial and ethnic origins enrich society, toleration will increase across all socio-economic groups.

Because inter racial and mixed ethnic love and marriage are breaking down the old walls of racial and ethnic differences, America is and will be a better place in the future.

MALL WALKER ?

When the weather gets too hot, humid or wet, I seek a cooler climate for my daily walking. Fortunately, we have one old fashioned mall left in town. While my favorite walking spots are the brick paths of historic Williamsburg, airy boardwalk of Fort Monroe or the Riverwalk in Yorktown, Patrick Henry Mall is a great indoor alternative. I find natural and people scenery makes walking easier and more interesting. Trekking the neighborhood or on one of those horrendous YMCA treadmills turns exercise hour into an endless bore.

I used to snicker at my father and other oldsters plodding the mall in their snappy white tennis shoes. Now its my turn.

Since May I have lost over forty pounds by daily exercising and eating less. I hope to continue this "amazing habit" with a goal of reaching my Army weight (1966-69) by the end of 2017. Cutting out  the carbs, sugar, and junk foods while doing an Atkins redux have helped, but the daily exercise is critical to my goal.

I find the mall an interesting venue. As a window shopper, I cannot find a product or service I really need or worthy of the fat mall prices. I have no desire to have my eyebrows done, body parts pierced or finger/toe nails manicured. Also, the clothing items are priced higher than the same slightly used fashions I uncover in my favorite high end thrift or consignment shop. The silver and gold treasures in the kiosks look sleazy and the food court represents the anti thesis to good healthy eats. This mall lacks a hardware, toy, hobby or book shop which might transform  my walking into a buying experience. However, I am happy the mall exists and does enough business to feature walkie talkie guards, cleanup people, and good air conditioning.

While walking I have observed several distinct groups of mall visitors.  During the week there are young mommies with their baby carts and squirming pre schoolers, older ladies in gangs of two or three toting bags of mall goodies, groups of bag less and giggling teenage boys and girls following each other, mall walking zombies, and stylish young ladies into serious shopping. On weekends complete family groups and seriously styled young men actively seeking those stylish young ladies mix with the weekday groups.

I enjoy the mall as I walk the large aisles of the anchor stores and main connecting walkways. As a non buying visitor I endeavor to avoid getting in the way of sales transactions, shoppers, and employees.

My only distraction has become the mens fragrance counter and testers in the high end department stores. The scents are exotic and expensive, but I find them alluring and a tiny free reward for my exercise. The perfume ladies smile as I spritz and don't seem bothered or anxious to make a sale. I think they understand I'm a harmless mall walker. I enjoy a moment slathering the cooling scents into my face, neck and hands. Out of the mall and into my car, some combinations are
surprisingly pungent especially in the closed space of a warm car.

Too heavily perfumed I wonder if my innocent mall walking will begin to smell like a seventy one year old old street walker ?

LIGHTENING BUG NIGHTS

When I was a kid the summer evenings were always full of those little bugs with yellow flashing lanterns. In my day, we called them lightening bugs, some called them fireflies, but by whatever name they were bright little wisps of great entertainment. We chased and captured the little buggers in jars. Some kids squashed and spread their florescence on their hands or faces. It was all great fun groping in the early darkness to catch lightening bugs. Their night companion biting mosquitoes and no seeums were ignored until the itching began later.

Tonight, sixty plus years beyond those childhood times,  I sat on my screened patio listening and watching as the night steadily approached. Crickets began chirping, a hooty owl gave it's  last calls, and in the distance rumbles and blue white flashes signaled the approach of cooler weather. In the quiet and peace I dozed. When I awoke from my nap, a bright yellow light flickered near the screen. It was the first lightening bug of the season and it brought back a lot of good memories. Laughing and running with cousins, sister, and friends pursuing the elusive flickers of light.

But, it also reminded me of the declining population of the insect and the realization that their light flash is a mating signal. Knowing  the little creatures only live a week or two was sobering and a bit sad when I watched this firefly flash it's light as it drifted into the woods without any responses. While the drama of the bug didn't approach the unrequited love Edgar Allan Poe suffered over his beloved and cousin Virginia Clemm, there is tragedy in the plight of this lone firefly unable to find a mate. While I lingered on this thought I nodded off, again.

With a nearby crack of thunder I awoke still thinking of the lightening bug using its limited illuminating energy and not finding a companion. It seemed an unhappy fate. As random cooler breezes of wind enlivened a nearby chime, and a few fat raindrops crashed through the oaks, I decided to survey the yard and adjoining forest. I wanted to see if  my first lightening bug of the season was still on patrol and if it had found another blinking companion.

For minutes I peered into the full darkness and could find no lightening bug flashes. As I was preparing to quit the patio something told me to look one more time. As the sparse rain drops ended, I spotted a faint yellow flash just above the grass, then another and then another. In a small way it was a joyful moment. Realizing the descendants of ancestor fireflies from my childhood were still lighting the night with their specialness. It created a nice moment.

MANY NEW JOBS ?

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PLACES TO APPLY:
Any GEORGE SOROS,  BLM, ANTIFA, DNC HEADQUARTER, CNN, GOOGLE, ABC, NBC,  CBS, AP, HUFFINGTON, YAHOO, BBC, REUTERS, DAILY  BEAST, NEW YORK TIMES, LA TIMES, WASHINGTON POST, FACEBOOK, BOSTON GLOBE, TIME MAGAZINE, ATLANTA CONSTITUTION, MCCLATCHY NEWS, NEWS WEEK, AOL NEWS, MSNBC, USA TODAY, AND THE OFFICES OF THOUSANDS MORE LIBERAL TYCONS OR THEIR OFFICES.

POLITICAL AFFILIATION:  
DEMOCRATIC PARTY, SOCIALIST, COMMUNIST, ANTIFA, FACIST, SOROS FUNDED, BLM, FEMINIST, PLANNED PARENTHOOD,  NAZI, CLINTON FOUNDATION, OR ANYONE HATING TRUMP.

TRUMP'S GREAT AND UNFINISHED LEGACY

Since Trump's election in 2016, the liberal MSM, Dem Party, RINO's, hard core never Trumpers, and  DC establishment have consistently opposed every proposal and accomplishment of Donald Trump.

From false allegations about 2016 ballot box cheating to collusion with Russians, the hate speech and  rudeness of his critics has been a never ending severe thunderstorm. Relying on unnamed sources, unverified rumors and downright lies, leftist media giants; NYT, CNN, WAPO, MSNBC, CBS, TIME, NBC, AP, LATIMES, ABC, FACEBOOK, DAILY BEAST, USA TODAY, TWITTER, GOOGLE, YAHOO NEWS, BBC, AOL NEWS etc. and most of their printed clones have consistently and joyfully participated in Trump bashing.

The repeated pattern is an anonymous charge with no evidence or reliable source repeated for days until a new allegation is concocted or imagined. Press retractions are never or very quietly offered when  false charges are proved incorrect.

Much of academia and entertainment celebrities join the whims of the politically correct and cancel culture left media in condemning every word or action of POTUS #45. 

Donald Trump after his election did two things that made him the forever enemy of most media,  democrats and the bureaucrat/ lobbyist class known as the D.C. establishment. First, he defeated Hillary Clinton and delegitimized the legacy of Obama. Next, he set to implement his MAGA agenda by reducing bureaucracies, boosting our economy with reduced regulation and taxes, establishing our energy independence, defending our southern borders, championing the Constitution, installing more constitutionally sound judges, and openly engaging our foreign adversaries.

In my opinion, the MSM wishes to direct the nations political course by supporting politicians and causes which fit their liberal play book.  They wanted the first black president and woman president despite their qualifications or past accomplishments. Along with democrat and socialist politicos, the core mission for the fourth estate has been to destroy all things Trump by whatever means possible. Their ongoing fervor to twist history coupled with too many poorly informed and emotionally motivated voters has created a period of American angst which thrills our foreign and domestic enemies.

Aside from his  huge ego, gruff manner, and yellow hair,  Donald Trump has committed no crime during his steady pursuit to fulfill campaign pledges. Two failed impeachments, threats, deeply biased and hateful media coverage, and ninth circuit court objections didn't wreck his agenda. Lead by the MSM, the Democrat Party, Hollywood gadflies, Soros/ANTIFA/BLM sponsored pay to protest groups, and a large number of college & cultural snowflakes a steady stream of hate speech and mob action  have been supplied. The accomplishments of his administration and economy remain grossly underreported to the American people. However, as the Biden Administration stumbles along, the increase in energy costs, illegal immigrations, new taxes and regulations will awake many citizens.

Donald Trump fairly won the presidential election in 2016 and was robbed in 2020 by an enormous deep conspiracy of voter fraud. During his tenure as president he promised changes to "Make America Great Again" and he squarely challenged how the federal government works and serves the American people. His presidency was one of major triumphs including  historic solutions to the "Chinese flu" of early 2020. Biden won 2020 by using a campaign of fear. By way of executive orders he is cancelling the solid achievements of Trump in record time. 

Trump and his loyal supporters will remain strong, reject all the drip - drip of rumors from unnamed sources, and vote his approval by producing a republican majority House in 2022, a republican Senate and a republican President in 2024. The Biden/Sanders Democrat Party victory of 2020 was illegitimate. The electorate will soon question the credibility of the Biden/Harris ticket as they swing deeper to the murky waters of far left and socialist schemes. More taxes, regulations, federal handouts and constitutional restrictions will convert many democrats to republican ideals in the coming months.  .

Trump and America have flaws and will never be perfect just as no man or nation will ever be perfect. However, based on our individual freedoms and economic liberties, which Trump will always champion, our nation will remain stronger, richer and freer than any other place on the planet with Trump in charge.  The doom and gloom of the current democrat cabal will soon fizzle and our economy will get back to growing. The Corona virus will end and enemies from within and without will shrink understanding that Trump speaks for most Americans despite all the noise from the left. 

Despite all the censorship and cancel culture, patriots must speak out loudly and boldly. Mightily challenge and invite the Biden bunch to quit their schemes minimizing our Constitution rights, personal liberties and economic opportunities.  

Someday, when history writers of today report the efforts and accomplishments of Trump, he will be recorded as a unique President who genuinely loved and labored tirelessly for America. I predict he will be ranked along with Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, the Roosevelts, Truman  and Ronald Reagan as a brave and exceptional Commander and Chief.