I’ve been lax. I usually write at night, but I haven’t been up to it lately. It may be a bug of some sort. I am not down in my bed groaning sick, I just feel yucky. That’s a very specific medical term. I have fallen asleep watching TV and lose my place in my book when reading. I had already learned that TV was a sedative. My dad loved baseball and years ago would turn on a Saturday ball game and he drop off like a light. It now works for me when I want to sleep. But these have been unintentional.
My doctor is trying to get me to stop blaming everything on age. I may be too accepting, but little things that happen get neglected. They just don’t seem important. I’m content with the aging process, but some of it may not be due to aging.
My left foot bothers me from time to time. It has always been shorter than the right leg — a birth defect. In 1996 the left foot really bothered me. I was playing racket ball often at the time and would come home to soak my foot and limb badly the next day. My doctor referred me to a neurologist to determine what was wrong. He ran a little wheel with needles on the rim over parts of my leg and foot and learned I don’t have a lot of feeling there. I could have told him that.
I was having trouble with my 1966 burgundy Ford Fairlane 500 with genuine imitation leather seats on an extremely cold winter Regina day. I took it downtown to leave it for repairs. There was a bus stop right across the street so I waited to catch the bus home. I am not sure how cold it was, maybe 100 below or 200 below. All I really remember is that it was too cold to stand around. I started walking along the bus route back to the campus. I was sure a bus would come soon. No it didn’t. I got all the way back to college and never saw a bus. My feet were ice. The school nurse said I had some frostbite in my left foot. The feeling was less from then on.
So one leg is short, it has some dead spots and it is hurting mildly at time. The neurologist said that the binding at the bottom of my spinal cord was tipped and pulling my leg up. Great, what do we do? Well, they could have fixed that before you turned 16, but it’s too late now. Thanks for the info. I asked if he was sure it could have been fixed in 1958. Oh, no. They didn’t know how yet. Thanks for the info. I guess I will just keep on living with it. The leg usually never bothered me. It was noticeable when I would get tired as I limped more. Eventually, that pain just went away. Who knows why.
As I age, the leg doesn’t hurt but the foot rolls over. I have inserts but probably need new ones. Great. I can’t believe the cost of just trying to hold myself together. It is easier, and cheaper, to just fall apart. I am well into the phasing out stage. We call he Home our second to the last stop. Convalescence is next. That’s not so bad. Naturally I would like to do it without much pain, but we don’t always get what we want. I don’t consider myself a fatalist, but a realist. I have no knowledge of anyone who has skipped the death stage except for those two guys in the Old Testament. That’s OK. I don’t mind. My turn will come, as will yours. I will live with what I must and attempt to repair what I can (afford) and give myself over to this phase of life. It is fun in it’s own way. I laugh a lot.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
NEW DOORS
It’s been quiet around here for several days. That’s nice even if it is unusual. It’s nothing to go a couple of days and not hear much of anything or even run into very many people, but it’s been almost a week of peace.
A long awaited physical change to our building is underway today. They are installing automatic door openers on our front door. That is going to be great. Not just for those in wheelchairs (although that is reason it is happening) but also for anyone bringing in packages, pushing or puling a cart or to lazy open two separate doors.
This is only happening at the front doors. OK, at least it is happening. We have a weather lock opening on both buildings. That is my expression, but if it makes no sense to you it is where you walk through two doors to get into a building. This is more commonly seen in very cold weather areas. We get cool weather, but our double door system is primarily a safety devise.
The first door from the outside is not locked and anyone can get in to use the call system to connect with whomever they came to see. It is the second door that is locked. The area between the doors is adequate – unless you are in a wheelchair. They must pull the door on the outside, to get in between the doors then reach forward again, unlock the door, pull it toward themselves with limited space to back the chair up and wiggle their way inside. The new system allows you to open both the doors from outside when you use your key and push the open door button. Both doors will open together and you have a minute to get inside before they close again.
OK, I’ve taken a long time to explain a simple process. After a meeting today it seemed that this was about to become the most difficult thing we have yet to endure. I didn’t know there would be so much to ask about “insert key, push button, doors open.” I thought the questions would never stop. It seemed like every question was repeated in multiple variations — forever.
Are we getting new keys? Asked and answered more than 15 times! The answer: No, the key you have will work.
Will the key work the same way? Asked an answered four times! The answer: Yes, insert and turn to the right? Which direction do we turn the key? It will only turn one way – to the right. Is that a full turn? No, only a quarter turn. Turn it until the key will not go any further. So we will need a key to get in the buildings? Yes, you have always needed a key to get in. Will that be a new key? No, use the key you have. Will I need the key for both doors? No, only one door needs a key. Which door is that? The inside door, just as it had always been. Why do we need a key if there is a button to open the door? This is a secured building. The doors must be kept locked. What a waste of money. Sorry you feel that way, it will improve accessibility for those who need the help. Exasperated: You get in the building just as you always have. Well, then why are we getting automatic doors if they don’t open automatically.
I won’t bore you with more repetitious questions. I’m sure you get the idea. After the door lock instructor left, questions continued amongst one another. I left. Tomorrow we will discuss how to get out of the building. I don’t think I’ll go.
A long awaited physical change to our building is underway today. They are installing automatic door openers on our front door. That is going to be great. Not just for those in wheelchairs (although that is reason it is happening) but also for anyone bringing in packages, pushing or puling a cart or to lazy open two separate doors.
This is only happening at the front doors. OK, at least it is happening. We have a weather lock opening on both buildings. That is my expression, but if it makes no sense to you it is where you walk through two doors to get into a building. This is more commonly seen in very cold weather areas. We get cool weather, but our double door system is primarily a safety devise.
The first door from the outside is not locked and anyone can get in to use the call system to connect with whomever they came to see. It is the second door that is locked. The area between the doors is adequate – unless you are in a wheelchair. They must pull the door on the outside, to get in between the doors then reach forward again, unlock the door, pull it toward themselves with limited space to back the chair up and wiggle their way inside. The new system allows you to open both the doors from outside when you use your key and push the open door button. Both doors will open together and you have a minute to get inside before they close again.
OK, I’ve taken a long time to explain a simple process. After a meeting today it seemed that this was about to become the most difficult thing we have yet to endure. I didn’t know there would be so much to ask about “insert key, push button, doors open.” I thought the questions would never stop. It seemed like every question was repeated in multiple variations — forever.
Are we getting new keys? Asked and answered more than 15 times! The answer: No, the key you have will work.
Will the key work the same way? Asked an answered four times! The answer: Yes, insert and turn to the right? Which direction do we turn the key? It will only turn one way – to the right. Is that a full turn? No, only a quarter turn. Turn it until the key will not go any further. So we will need a key to get in the buildings? Yes, you have always needed a key to get in. Will that be a new key? No, use the key you have. Will I need the key for both doors? No, only one door needs a key. Which door is that? The inside door, just as it had always been. Why do we need a key if there is a button to open the door? This is a secured building. The doors must be kept locked. What a waste of money. Sorry you feel that way, it will improve accessibility for those who need the help. Exasperated: You get in the building just as you always have. Well, then why are we getting automatic doors if they don’t open automatically.
I won’t bore you with more repetitious questions. I’m sure you get the idea. After the door lock instructor left, questions continued amongst one another. I left. Tomorrow we will discuss how to get out of the building. I don’t think I’ll go.
Monday, September 20, 2010
A READERS RESPONSE
I have decided to print the entire response of my best friend to my post of yesterday. He is a professional and I often write him about various conflicting issues. I like many people, prefer to be a people pleaser and peacemaker. I want to make things right. His response was too long for a comment and is a post in itself.
RIGHT OR WRONG — A RESPONSE
“I sympathize with the feelings you are having. Maria is an abusive person. Abusive people work on the guilt principle, making you pay for confronting them, training you to never do that again. I think it would be disaster for you to go to her and say you were wrong or you were sorry. That would be the "people pleaser" coming out in you. It would reinforce in her that she can train people to fall in line, and that she truly is an authority on everything. I think the best approach is to realize that the action you took is not the way you first or generally deal with someone. All the kindness and all the over-looking have not changed Maria in any way. She has continued to be abusive and out of control. When you see your normal way is not working you have to go to Plan B, which you did. I find that Plan B always eats away at you and fills you with suspense. "How is this going to shake down??" I think your best bet is to hold your ground. Just continue to be a friend. When she has some unique need in the future, come through for her and she will see what a genuine friend you really are, and that you don't carry grudges.
“In counseling I have done some work on identifying abusive people.
“1. Power-Posturing--the abuser (A) spends a lot of time focused on their authority and reminding others of it. Their authority isn't real, so it must be postured.
“2. Performance Preoccupation. -- Power is postured and authority is legislated. The worth of her "subjects" is how they perform. If they don't fall in line, she will conduct herself in anger and meanness, which reflects her frustration. She will continually "up the anti" until it does or doesn't produce the desired result.
“3. Unspoken Rules. People's actions are controlled from outside (they don't feel like falling into line) so they must control them from outside---this involves rules, spoken and unspoken. In her mind she has her rules lined up and when someone doesn't fall in line, she lets them have it. In many cases she has not vocalized her rules--they are unspoken and you don't know what the rules are until you break them. By then it is too late and carnage results. "ANYBODY with any common sense would know this" is the favourite introduction to his or her rant.
“4. Lack of Balance. She likely and unknowingly treats people according to their educational level or lack thereof, or their nature, particularly zeroing in on the timid. There are a multitude of categories that only make sense to her. She doesn't have a clue that she is doing this. She has these classifications and they give her the "all systems go" or, better not take that one on because they are more volatile than me. You didn't react the way she has trained, and it threw her off balance. It takes her time to find her balance again. You have hurt her feelings--so get with the program lady and learn how it feels.
“Believe me she knows that she hurts people. She just doesn't care. We often excuse their behaviour by saying, "Oh that is just Maria". This only gives them an unfair advantage. Sometimes when I get a sticky situation I ask myself "How would animals deal with this?" They are innocent and wise. They know when to cuff someone ears! They are less likely to compromise, or protect abusive behaviour.”
I thought his response to my dilemma might help someone else. The end has come. I would like to make a smart remark or a wise comment, but alas, I have none.
RIGHT OR WRONG — A RESPONSE
“I sympathize with the feelings you are having. Maria is an abusive person. Abusive people work on the guilt principle, making you pay for confronting them, training you to never do that again. I think it would be disaster for you to go to her and say you were wrong or you were sorry. That would be the "people pleaser" coming out in you. It would reinforce in her that she can train people to fall in line, and that she truly is an authority on everything. I think the best approach is to realize that the action you took is not the way you first or generally deal with someone. All the kindness and all the over-looking have not changed Maria in any way. She has continued to be abusive and out of control. When you see your normal way is not working you have to go to Plan B, which you did. I find that Plan B always eats away at you and fills you with suspense. "How is this going to shake down??" I think your best bet is to hold your ground. Just continue to be a friend. When she has some unique need in the future, come through for her and she will see what a genuine friend you really are, and that you don't carry grudges.
“In counseling I have done some work on identifying abusive people.
“1. Power-Posturing--the abuser (A) spends a lot of time focused on their authority and reminding others of it. Their authority isn't real, so it must be postured.
“2. Performance Preoccupation. -- Power is postured and authority is legislated. The worth of her "subjects" is how they perform. If they don't fall in line, she will conduct herself in anger and meanness, which reflects her frustration. She will continually "up the anti" until it does or doesn't produce the desired result.
“3. Unspoken Rules. People's actions are controlled from outside (they don't feel like falling into line) so they must control them from outside---this involves rules, spoken and unspoken. In her mind she has her rules lined up and when someone doesn't fall in line, she lets them have it. In many cases she has not vocalized her rules--they are unspoken and you don't know what the rules are until you break them. By then it is too late and carnage results. "ANYBODY with any common sense would know this" is the favourite introduction to his or her rant.
“4. Lack of Balance. She likely and unknowingly treats people according to their educational level or lack thereof, or their nature, particularly zeroing in on the timid. There are a multitude of categories that only make sense to her. She doesn't have a clue that she is doing this. She has these classifications and they give her the "all systems go" or, better not take that one on because they are more volatile than me. You didn't react the way she has trained, and it threw her off balance. It takes her time to find her balance again. You have hurt her feelings--so get with the program lady and learn how it feels.
“Believe me she knows that she hurts people. She just doesn't care. We often excuse their behaviour by saying, "Oh that is just Maria". This only gives them an unfair advantage. Sometimes when I get a sticky situation I ask myself "How would animals deal with this?" They are innocent and wise. They know when to cuff someone ears! They are less likely to compromise, or protect abusive behaviour.”
I thought his response to my dilemma might help someone else. The end has come. I would like to make a smart remark or a wise comment, but alas, I have none.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
RIGHT OR WRONG?
It’s always hard to admit you’re wrong. It’s even harder to admit you might be wrong when you don’t know whether you are really wrong or not. Maybe I was right. Does that make sense? Maybe it was just double talk. Maybe it is just second-guessing. We do that a lot. Make a decision, follow through and then wonder for weeks if we made the right decision.
I’ve spent a week wondering if I did the right thing with Maria. I know I am rethinking the situation because she is avoiding me and grunting when we pass. I confronted her because she gave me hell for leaving to pick up bread without her. She shared her frustration loud and far. I didn’t appreciate her response. She missed the meeting time. Remained in her room reading. We waited ten minutes. I thought she might be ill. I didn’t see how I was responsible for leaving her to do a simple, unimportant task that only requires one person, let alone three.
Yes, there was some defensiveness in those comments. I did not feel responsible. In retrospect, I may be more upset at how broadly she spread her frustration and with the anger and volume with which she released her venom..
If the truth was known, and I’m about the share the truth, she did nothing out of character. She is an angry, hostile person. She never accepts responsibility for any actions that cause a serious conflict. It is always the other person’s fault. No exaggeration. She has never apologized. No exaggeration. She will be in charge or will not serve. If she is cut out of anything, she has always let many know her displeasure. She will deny it. If she wiggles into something she will take it over. No, not try, but she will take over ordering everyone around and not allowing them to do anything for which she might receive praise.
So, knowing who she is and how she responds, why should I have expected anything different when my action was not pleasing to her? Am I the idiot? I think so. If I had ignored the situation, she would return to her self and all would be peaceful. I would have just been another person lying in the path of her destruction. Even I would have and did, calm down. What set me off again was a group meal at a very nice restaurant the following Monday. She verbally abused Kiki repeatedly making everyone at the table cringe. She told her what she could and could not order, finally telling her directly what she must order. She repeatedly corrected Kiki’s speaking telling her how she did and did not feel. Maria felt like her coffee was cold. When Kiki said her coffee was hot, she was told that it was not hot. Gail also got coffee out of the same pot and argued that it was hot. Not to Maria. And if Maria thought it was cold, everyone’s coffee was cold.
The whole meal continued like that. I was gentle but confronted her treatment of Kiki and her accusation about me the next day.
I admit it is peaceful without her. But the preacher indirectly addressed my concerns this morning and I am now rethinking my actions and am concerned that I only made matters worse. Do you know how much easier it would to deal with people if there were no people?
So, what’s the right response? Is it right to confront a 70’s old controlling woman when you are reasonable sure it will only come back and hurt you more?
I’ve spent a week wondering if I did the right thing with Maria. I know I am rethinking the situation because she is avoiding me and grunting when we pass. I confronted her because she gave me hell for leaving to pick up bread without her. She shared her frustration loud and far. I didn’t appreciate her response. She missed the meeting time. Remained in her room reading. We waited ten minutes. I thought she might be ill. I didn’t see how I was responsible for leaving her to do a simple, unimportant task that only requires one person, let alone three.
Yes, there was some defensiveness in those comments. I did not feel responsible. In retrospect, I may be more upset at how broadly she spread her frustration and with the anger and volume with which she released her venom..
If the truth was known, and I’m about the share the truth, she did nothing out of character. She is an angry, hostile person. She never accepts responsibility for any actions that cause a serious conflict. It is always the other person’s fault. No exaggeration. She has never apologized. No exaggeration. She will be in charge or will not serve. If she is cut out of anything, she has always let many know her displeasure. She will deny it. If she wiggles into something she will take it over. No, not try, but she will take over ordering everyone around and not allowing them to do anything for which she might receive praise.
So, knowing who she is and how she responds, why should I have expected anything different when my action was not pleasing to her? Am I the idiot? I think so. If I had ignored the situation, she would return to her self and all would be peaceful. I would have just been another person lying in the path of her destruction. Even I would have and did, calm down. What set me off again was a group meal at a very nice restaurant the following Monday. She verbally abused Kiki repeatedly making everyone at the table cringe. She told her what she could and could not order, finally telling her directly what she must order. She repeatedly corrected Kiki’s speaking telling her how she did and did not feel. Maria felt like her coffee was cold. When Kiki said her coffee was hot, she was told that it was not hot. Gail also got coffee out of the same pot and argued that it was hot. Not to Maria. And if Maria thought it was cold, everyone’s coffee was cold.
The whole meal continued like that. I was gentle but confronted her treatment of Kiki and her accusation about me the next day.
I admit it is peaceful without her. But the preacher indirectly addressed my concerns this morning and I am now rethinking my actions and am concerned that I only made matters worse. Do you know how much easier it would to deal with people if there were no people?
So, what’s the right response? Is it right to confront a 70’s old controlling woman when you are reasonable sure it will only come back and hurt you more?
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
D-DAY
Tuesday was “D” day, the day of reckoning. It had to come. I dreaded the day, but planned and thought and prayed about how I would address the issue. I had confront Marias accusation of me when she was the one who blew it.
What she did is nothing new. It’s just that it happened to me this time. Her niece says she has never accepted responsibility for her own actions and that she always finds someone else to blame. I had noticed that with others, but had managed to avoid being the target until a week ago today. Many of us already know she is always right — on everything. She cannot accept another opinion as she has the only opinion that matters. If she cannot win an argument she swears and turns to personal accusation and name-calling. When someone is mad at her she has no idea why or what their problem could possibly be.
I have watched her lose two of her closest friends over silly issues. She argues that she did nothing wrong. They were at fault. She had bent over backwards to be their friend. That’s not quite true. If they apologize and made overtures to her, she might restore the friendship. But things are over if they expect her to acknowledge responsibility.
Maria has helped me get bread on Wednesdays for almost a year. She was not at our meeting place on time last Wednesday. I mistakenly assumed she was sick or may have slept in. She has not been well. As soon as I walked in the door last week she went after me with both barrels blasting away. She used her excessively loud barrels that can be heard in the next county. There were a dozen or more people in the room. All but my helper and I had heard it all before. So had a number of the organizations administrators, as they were just finishing up a meeting when she arrived complaining about my thoughtlessness. Apparently, without any prior discussion or request, I was to know I should call her or come and knocking at her door. I guess I was to usse my x-ray vision to ss what she was doing. Unfortunately, my eyes are getting worse and that part of seeing is fading. My explanation was not acceptable. She was not sick or tired. She was sitting in her apartment reading a book. READING A BOOK! That’s my fault?
Consider for a moment how unimportant our little bread pick up is in the big scheme of things. It is a nice service. Managers had always provided the service. I volunteered to take it over after a couple of months without anyone doing it when we lost our manager last year. Usually one person can do the job. I had another helper so could have done it without her.
What I did was extremely offensive. As she reminded me, she wanted to buy some bread there. I had prevented that. WHAT? When I realized no one was going to win, I left and waited for a time alone when I was not so volatile. That was yesterday. She opened the door. We often go to movies on Tuesdays. That was the plan for that afternoon. She asked if I was going, I told her no. I no longer wanted to be with her and Kiki at the same time because of the abusive way she treats Kiki. It was long way around, but another issue for me.
Kiki is a mild and meek Japanese lady who is abused by her sister, was abused by her husband, abused by her daughter and now by Maria. Kiki cannot or will not stand up for herself. It seems like her life has been one big abuse and she sees herself as deserving the treatment she gets. I don’t, and neither do others.
That lead to telling her how hurt I was being accused of something I did not do and that I wanted a couple of weeks of space. As expected, she denied having said anything to anyone or having attacked me. I explained that I was barely in the door before she was giving me hell. Naturally, she did not do that. I told her I had received an email from the main office wondering what I had done that made her so angry. She was not angry, and stunned that I got an email.
I let it go at that. My perception was one of accusation and I wanted a proper response. I’m sorry. For what? I don’t know, I didn’t do anything. That’s the problem. You never do anything. Let me know when you know what happened. Silence prevailed.
I am now waiting to see if she talks to me again. We have had two encounters. The first was at a table around coffee. She left when I arrived. The second was in passing and she grunted when I said hi.
I know I am expecting a lot from one who has been like this for 70 years. In two weeks, I will begin the process of rebuilding our now destroyed friendship. I expect it to be hard, but I will see if she can accept any responsibility. I doubt it, but will let it go. I wanted her to be aware there was a problem; I do not want a permanent rift. That will be noticeable and demand explanation. I do admit I am interested in how she will handle the explanation. I expect to be even more at fault about the awful way I treated her. I’m not sure she will be believed this time.
What she did is nothing new. It’s just that it happened to me this time. Her niece says she has never accepted responsibility for her own actions and that she always finds someone else to blame. I had noticed that with others, but had managed to avoid being the target until a week ago today. Many of us already know she is always right — on everything. She cannot accept another opinion as she has the only opinion that matters. If she cannot win an argument she swears and turns to personal accusation and name-calling. When someone is mad at her she has no idea why or what their problem could possibly be.
I have watched her lose two of her closest friends over silly issues. She argues that she did nothing wrong. They were at fault. She had bent over backwards to be their friend. That’s not quite true. If they apologize and made overtures to her, she might restore the friendship. But things are over if they expect her to acknowledge responsibility.
Maria has helped me get bread on Wednesdays for almost a year. She was not at our meeting place on time last Wednesday. I mistakenly assumed she was sick or may have slept in. She has not been well. As soon as I walked in the door last week she went after me with both barrels blasting away. She used her excessively loud barrels that can be heard in the next county. There were a dozen or more people in the room. All but my helper and I had heard it all before. So had a number of the organizations administrators, as they were just finishing up a meeting when she arrived complaining about my thoughtlessness. Apparently, without any prior discussion or request, I was to know I should call her or come and knocking at her door. I guess I was to usse my x-ray vision to ss what she was doing. Unfortunately, my eyes are getting worse and that part of seeing is fading. My explanation was not acceptable. She was not sick or tired. She was sitting in her apartment reading a book. READING A BOOK! That’s my fault?
Consider for a moment how unimportant our little bread pick up is in the big scheme of things. It is a nice service. Managers had always provided the service. I volunteered to take it over after a couple of months without anyone doing it when we lost our manager last year. Usually one person can do the job. I had another helper so could have done it without her.
What I did was extremely offensive. As she reminded me, she wanted to buy some bread there. I had prevented that. WHAT? When I realized no one was going to win, I left and waited for a time alone when I was not so volatile. That was yesterday. She opened the door. We often go to movies on Tuesdays. That was the plan for that afternoon. She asked if I was going, I told her no. I no longer wanted to be with her and Kiki at the same time because of the abusive way she treats Kiki. It was long way around, but another issue for me.
Kiki is a mild and meek Japanese lady who is abused by her sister, was abused by her husband, abused by her daughter and now by Maria. Kiki cannot or will not stand up for herself. It seems like her life has been one big abuse and she sees herself as deserving the treatment she gets. I don’t, and neither do others.
That lead to telling her how hurt I was being accused of something I did not do and that I wanted a couple of weeks of space. As expected, she denied having said anything to anyone or having attacked me. I explained that I was barely in the door before she was giving me hell. Naturally, she did not do that. I told her I had received an email from the main office wondering what I had done that made her so angry. She was not angry, and stunned that I got an email.
I let it go at that. My perception was one of accusation and I wanted a proper response. I’m sorry. For what? I don’t know, I didn’t do anything. That’s the problem. You never do anything. Let me know when you know what happened. Silence prevailed.
I am now waiting to see if she talks to me again. We have had two encounters. The first was at a table around coffee. She left when I arrived. The second was in passing and she grunted when I said hi.
I know I am expecting a lot from one who has been like this for 70 years. In two weeks, I will begin the process of rebuilding our now destroyed friendship. I expect it to be hard, but I will see if she can accept any responsibility. I doubt it, but will let it go. I wanted her to be aware there was a problem; I do not want a permanent rift. That will be noticeable and demand explanation. I do admit I am interested in how she will handle the explanation. I expect to be even more at fault about the awful way I treated her. I’m not sure she will be believed this time.
Monday, September 13, 2010
LUNCH OUT
I just got back from our big “meal out together”. We went to the Bistro. The food was wonderful and reasonably priced. They sent a limo for us. The place is only 4 blocks away but the limo was really fun. Only a couple had ever been in a limo before.
While I was the organizer, I was not prepared for the anger and hostility that began to pile up within minutes of our arrival. Fourteen of us went so we were treated as a large group. Made sense to me since we were a large group. As soon as Maria read there would be an eighteen percent gratuity tagged on she began complaining and never completely stopped till we got home. I’m not going to pay it. But it’s going to be added to your bill. It’s not right! It’s not fair! So I said we are only four blocks from home, you can leave. They have no right to tell me what I have to tip them. You have a choice. You can leave. That slowed her down some.
Her anger and bad attitude made pleasant conversation difficult. I went to the other two tables to make sure everyone else understood about the gratuity. Everyone was fine with it except one other person, but they were not ranting. The average meal we all purchased was about $12.00. Not bad at all for an up scale lunch with drinks (non-acholic).
This is not a restaurant with a large lunch crowd. As far as I could tell, there was one waiter, one bartender and one cook. There were two other tables with diners. Not a big crowd. Ten minutes after we ordered she was complaining. All the drinks were not out yet. Drinks were not at our table. We had three tables of 6, 5 and 3; He had started at the other tables. He took their orders and got their drinks. We were the last table served.
By this time she had upped the anti on her hostility rant. Twice I asked her to be patient. If I had known it was going to take so long, I wouldn’t have come. It’s not too late to go home. He has not taken your order yet. She made several under her breath comments and finally scalmed down — briefly. Twenty minutes later she was just getting around to take our orders. It didn’t seem long to most of us, but to Maria it was an eternity. That brought on more complaints about the gratuity and the service.
Fifty minutes into our arrival, food was being delivered. We had already endured 10-15 minutes of whining about when our food would arrive. She was starving. She had mentioned that several times within the first few minutes of our arrival. We were quite aware she was hungry. So was our waiter. He served her first.
She had taken the joy out of this event for me. Also for Gail. She could not even look at Maria. Conversation seemed to be swirling around her. She had things to say, but they were independent of the conversation. I don’t even know if she was aware she was being ignored.
I have spent my life being inclusive. I have had my share of arguments around here, without lasting consequence. Eventually both sides have worked things out – rather quickly surprisingly. But since Maria has never done anything wrong there is nothing to forgive.
I have news for her. I will treat her kindly and with friendliness, but our going to do things together is over until she recognizes what she has done to my reputation and me. As I have said before, I will not accept responsibility for something I did not do.
If you haven’t read previous blogs, three of us go to collect free bread on Wednesdays. Carmen did not come to our meeting place on time. After ten minutes we left without her. When we returned she gave me hell for leaving her. She considered it my responsibility to call, knock on her door or come and drag her out of bed, I suppose. She was in her apartment reading. How was I to know? We never had that arrangement. Before about 30 people in the commons room including several from the administrative office, she let everyone know what a scumbag I am. She will never figure out that she did anything wrong or that arriving on time was her responsibility. I have no intention of telling her, but we are done with extra things together until she figures it out and straightens it out. I will forgive and forget, but it is way past time fr her to figure out what she is doing. The world does not revolved around her. She is not a presvhooler any longer — I thought.
While I was the organizer, I was not prepared for the anger and hostility that began to pile up within minutes of our arrival. Fourteen of us went so we were treated as a large group. Made sense to me since we were a large group. As soon as Maria read there would be an eighteen percent gratuity tagged on she began complaining and never completely stopped till we got home. I’m not going to pay it. But it’s going to be added to your bill. It’s not right! It’s not fair! So I said we are only four blocks from home, you can leave. They have no right to tell me what I have to tip them. You have a choice. You can leave. That slowed her down some.
Her anger and bad attitude made pleasant conversation difficult. I went to the other two tables to make sure everyone else understood about the gratuity. Everyone was fine with it except one other person, but they were not ranting. The average meal we all purchased was about $12.00. Not bad at all for an up scale lunch with drinks (non-acholic).
This is not a restaurant with a large lunch crowd. As far as I could tell, there was one waiter, one bartender and one cook. There were two other tables with diners. Not a big crowd. Ten minutes after we ordered she was complaining. All the drinks were not out yet. Drinks were not at our table. We had three tables of 6, 5 and 3; He had started at the other tables. He took their orders and got their drinks. We were the last table served.
By this time she had upped the anti on her hostility rant. Twice I asked her to be patient. If I had known it was going to take so long, I wouldn’t have come. It’s not too late to go home. He has not taken your order yet. She made several under her breath comments and finally scalmed down — briefly. Twenty minutes later she was just getting around to take our orders. It didn’t seem long to most of us, but to Maria it was an eternity. That brought on more complaints about the gratuity and the service.
Fifty minutes into our arrival, food was being delivered. We had already endured 10-15 minutes of whining about when our food would arrive. She was starving. She had mentioned that several times within the first few minutes of our arrival. We were quite aware she was hungry. So was our waiter. He served her first.
She had taken the joy out of this event for me. Also for Gail. She could not even look at Maria. Conversation seemed to be swirling around her. She had things to say, but they were independent of the conversation. I don’t even know if she was aware she was being ignored.
I have spent my life being inclusive. I have had my share of arguments around here, without lasting consequence. Eventually both sides have worked things out – rather quickly surprisingly. But since Maria has never done anything wrong there is nothing to forgive.
I have news for her. I will treat her kindly and with friendliness, but our going to do things together is over until she recognizes what she has done to my reputation and me. As I have said before, I will not accept responsibility for something I did not do.
If you haven’t read previous blogs, three of us go to collect free bread on Wednesdays. Carmen did not come to our meeting place on time. After ten minutes we left without her. When we returned she gave me hell for leaving her. She considered it my responsibility to call, knock on her door or come and drag her out of bed, I suppose. She was in her apartment reading. How was I to know? We never had that arrangement. Before about 30 people in the commons room including several from the administrative office, she let everyone know what a scumbag I am. She will never figure out that she did anything wrong or that arriving on time was her responsibility. I have no intention of telling her, but we are done with extra things together until she figures it out and straightens it out. I will forgive and forget, but it is way past time fr her to figure out what she is doing. The world does not revolved around her. She is not a presvhooler any longer — I thought.
CHURCH RANT
Got this great letter from my best friend from college days. We both entered the ministry with the same organization and are coming to similar conclusions, and they are not nice. There are great similarities between governmental leadership and denominational leadership. This letter provides me with a great opportunity to rant (as old people are expected to do) about the state of things. This one is the state of the organized church. I have already expressed myself on government. Don’t get me wrong. I love the church. I even go once-in-a-while. It is still ordained of God. However, man seems to have taken over in a number of places. The leadership power, authority, and fame (yes, fame) go to the heads of national church leaders as much as any other business CEO. It’s a shame, but its true. Something is wrong with this picture. Our organization was created to function from the ground up. Leadership serves the needs of the grass roots. But things have changed. Now they seem to be spraying the grass roots with DDT.
A friend is the chaplain at a Nursing Home in a nearby city. It is our denominational nursing home, but the administrator doesn't really think they need a chaplain---just get the program director to enlist some pastors and have them come in and conduct a weekly service. That should do it for pastoral care. Families of clients aren't supposed to hurt or struggle I guess. Or need someone to do their funerals, or visit their clients when they are in the hospital or face emotional needs. Those days are past. With all our modern conveniences clients do not need shepherds. If they want something, get it on line. It’s the modern way. I think I’ll open a business — Funerals on line. It will carry several general messages of your religious choice and the image of a cool attractive middle aged pastor type oozing compassion and concern over the loss of (insert name here).
Churches still want pastors. But church leaders do not want to supply them everywhere. They are looking for the superstar pastor. The one that can draw 5000 with a single word, organize a 10,000 member church with a single plan able to jump all church complaints and have his on TV show with an audience of 10 million and donations of at least a half billion.
They want big churches. Reorganization recently has meant that churches up to a certain size (40 or 50 I think) are being closed. Pastors are fired if the church does not grow. Isaiah would be fired. He felt like he was called to a people who would not hear and that he alone was following God. But we demand results and cost effective churches. It is cheaper to have one church of 1000 than it is to have twenty churches of 50. AND the programs are bigger and better. Professionals can run nearly everything. Those pros are administrations. They don’t visit or call in your home or have any personal contact. The boys in the ivory tower like that. Big means success, small means failure. Naturally that cannot be expressed out loud, but check out what the boys on top are directing church leaders to do. Let the sheep care for the sheep.
Most pastors no longer make house calls (influence of doctors?). It’s more efficient having the client come to you. We don’t counsel, but you can make an appointment to see our staff counselor. The hospital chaplain will visit you in the hospital. He doesn’t know you, but he/she will visit. Hopefully you have family or friends who will come around. If you are the child of a church leader the pastor might conduct your wedding, other wise use the marriage pastor whom you met only at the required pre-marriage counseling class he lead. The big boys want us all to improve administration skills. We take classes in time management to help us learn how to find others to care for our sheep. It’s the corporate farm model. We have speaking engagements, world tours, and books to write. (or more realistic – find an editor to convert our messages to book form).
When you are tired, exhausted, ill, worn out or just finished serving, district and national leadership will sideline you as of no worth or value. They will reclassify your credentials and you will be stripped of your right to vote at Denominational and District Meetings. What would a bunch of old guys know anyway? One leader wants any reference to former times erased so that the younger guys will feel that this is the way it always was. A rewrite of their church history, I guess. Few know of the large number of women who founded churches at the beginning. Many still have no place for women. That started with the national women’s movement. Before that, we gladly welcomed them to serve. National leadership is in charge. Not true, but don’t let the new guys find out.
They act as nothing ever happened until they got in power. A former leader instituted pastoral care for a number of reasons, but one was to reach out to pastors who have gotten hurt and keep contact with them and try to get them back into ministry. But if they left we don't have any responsibility to them now. They are off our books and out of our minds and hair. We have pastors who have given 20-40 years of service and are a thing of the past. They did something someone didn't like. They questioned the direction things were going. They seemed too interested in what was going on.
Lets not keep in contact with past workers. Drop the letters, the newsletter, the magazines, or emails. The previous philosophy that we might need them at least as prayer warriors is gone. They are useless. Why tell them anything? Without having an actual ministry we can no longer give them access to inside information that might be about people we worked with and cared for. Now where’s the trash heap. Throw them out. It’s time to take a new stand on euthanasia so we can “help” the former workers out the back door. (OK, that’s an exaggeration, but not by much.)
Previous leaders got us to where we are. They made a difference in their small little caring churches. Can we honor the contribution they made?
A friend is the chaplain at a Nursing Home in a nearby city. It is our denominational nursing home, but the administrator doesn't really think they need a chaplain---just get the program director to enlist some pastors and have them come in and conduct a weekly service. That should do it for pastoral care. Families of clients aren't supposed to hurt or struggle I guess. Or need someone to do their funerals, or visit their clients when they are in the hospital or face emotional needs. Those days are past. With all our modern conveniences clients do not need shepherds. If they want something, get it on line. It’s the modern way. I think I’ll open a business — Funerals on line. It will carry several general messages of your religious choice and the image of a cool attractive middle aged pastor type oozing compassion and concern over the loss of (insert name here).
Churches still want pastors. But church leaders do not want to supply them everywhere. They are looking for the superstar pastor. The one that can draw 5000 with a single word, organize a 10,000 member church with a single plan able to jump all church complaints and have his on TV show with an audience of 10 million and donations of at least a half billion.
They want big churches. Reorganization recently has meant that churches up to a certain size (40 or 50 I think) are being closed. Pastors are fired if the church does not grow. Isaiah would be fired. He felt like he was called to a people who would not hear and that he alone was following God. But we demand results and cost effective churches. It is cheaper to have one church of 1000 than it is to have twenty churches of 50. AND the programs are bigger and better. Professionals can run nearly everything. Those pros are administrations. They don’t visit or call in your home or have any personal contact. The boys in the ivory tower like that. Big means success, small means failure. Naturally that cannot be expressed out loud, but check out what the boys on top are directing church leaders to do. Let the sheep care for the sheep.
Most pastors no longer make house calls (influence of doctors?). It’s more efficient having the client come to you. We don’t counsel, but you can make an appointment to see our staff counselor. The hospital chaplain will visit you in the hospital. He doesn’t know you, but he/she will visit. Hopefully you have family or friends who will come around. If you are the child of a church leader the pastor might conduct your wedding, other wise use the marriage pastor whom you met only at the required pre-marriage counseling class he lead. The big boys want us all to improve administration skills. We take classes in time management to help us learn how to find others to care for our sheep. It’s the corporate farm model. We have speaking engagements, world tours, and books to write. (or more realistic – find an editor to convert our messages to book form).
When you are tired, exhausted, ill, worn out or just finished serving, district and national leadership will sideline you as of no worth or value. They will reclassify your credentials and you will be stripped of your right to vote at Denominational and District Meetings. What would a bunch of old guys know anyway? One leader wants any reference to former times erased so that the younger guys will feel that this is the way it always was. A rewrite of their church history, I guess. Few know of the large number of women who founded churches at the beginning. Many still have no place for women. That started with the national women’s movement. Before that, we gladly welcomed them to serve. National leadership is in charge. Not true, but don’t let the new guys find out.
They act as nothing ever happened until they got in power. A former leader instituted pastoral care for a number of reasons, but one was to reach out to pastors who have gotten hurt and keep contact with them and try to get them back into ministry. But if they left we don't have any responsibility to them now. They are off our books and out of our minds and hair. We have pastors who have given 20-40 years of service and are a thing of the past. They did something someone didn't like. They questioned the direction things were going. They seemed too interested in what was going on.
Lets not keep in contact with past workers. Drop the letters, the newsletter, the magazines, or emails. The previous philosophy that we might need them at least as prayer warriors is gone. They are useless. Why tell them anything? Without having an actual ministry we can no longer give them access to inside information that might be about people we worked with and cared for. Now where’s the trash heap. Throw them out. It’s time to take a new stand on euthanasia so we can “help” the former workers out the back door. (OK, that’s an exaggeration, but not by much.)
Previous leaders got us to where we are. They made a difference in their small little caring churches. Can we honor the contribution they made?
Saturday, September 11, 2010
WATER, WATER
It happens to many of us. At about the worse possible time, a time when we are in a hurry, a time when we have no time to get to the emergency — an emergency happens.
It was a pleasant morning. I got plenty of sleep and casually wandered through the morning. A nice bowl of cereal with blueberries, a few small puzzles on the computer even a game of Mahjong. I took my bowl to the kitchen, put it in the sink to be washed and went to have a shower. When I got out I could hear water running. I assumed the tenant above me was taking a shower. As I headed to the bedroom to get my clothes, I could hear the water running and it was louder. I looked in the kitchen and water was running over the sink and down the front of the cupboard and the only think holding the water back from running all over the apartment was the carpet edging separating the kitchen from the hall. I had turned on the water to fill the sink and was only going to be gone a second. I can’t even remember what I was going to do after the water started. All I know is that I had a shower instead.
I was glad all my blinds were still closed. I was stark naked. I waded through the stream on my floor to turn the water off, ran for the bathroom to get every towel I owned, soaked up as much as possible and threw the towels into the sink. Time was running out. When I got out of the shower all I had to do was get dressed. I still had 20 minutes before I was to meet a group to visit the Farmers Markets.
After the towels, I grabbed a large quilt, which covered the entire floor. It seemed to absorb most of the remaining water. But I knew if I picked it up water would still be standing and running again. The quilt was keeping everything in place. I was out of time, so I did what any teenager would have done and considered the water to be in a temporary holding pattern. I got dressed and left.
I never worried about what was happening ay home. I returned 2 hours later and thought about it as I was approaching my apartment. My concern got really concerned. I was thankful I was on the ground floor. If the water had found a way leak through it would only go to the crawl space. Can you imagine the problems if I were on the top floor. I opened the door and stuck my head in to see how bad it was. Not bad at all. All around the quilt it was dry. Water was being held in place. It was like the little boy who stuck his finger in the hole of the dam to hole the water back. Except, it wasn’t a finger holding back the water, it was a queen size quilt. There’s a difference.
This was actually easier to finish cleaning things up than the last time I did that. But that’s another story all together.
It was a pleasant morning. I got plenty of sleep and casually wandered through the morning. A nice bowl of cereal with blueberries, a few small puzzles on the computer even a game of Mahjong. I took my bowl to the kitchen, put it in the sink to be washed and went to have a shower. When I got out I could hear water running. I assumed the tenant above me was taking a shower. As I headed to the bedroom to get my clothes, I could hear the water running and it was louder. I looked in the kitchen and water was running over the sink and down the front of the cupboard and the only think holding the water back from running all over the apartment was the carpet edging separating the kitchen from the hall. I had turned on the water to fill the sink and was only going to be gone a second. I can’t even remember what I was going to do after the water started. All I know is that I had a shower instead.
I was glad all my blinds were still closed. I was stark naked. I waded through the stream on my floor to turn the water off, ran for the bathroom to get every towel I owned, soaked up as much as possible and threw the towels into the sink. Time was running out. When I got out of the shower all I had to do was get dressed. I still had 20 minutes before I was to meet a group to visit the Farmers Markets.
After the towels, I grabbed a large quilt, which covered the entire floor. It seemed to absorb most of the remaining water. But I knew if I picked it up water would still be standing and running again. The quilt was keeping everything in place. I was out of time, so I did what any teenager would have done and considered the water to be in a temporary holding pattern. I got dressed and left.
I never worried about what was happening ay home. I returned 2 hours later and thought about it as I was approaching my apartment. My concern got really concerned. I was thankful I was on the ground floor. If the water had found a way leak through it would only go to the crawl space. Can you imagine the problems if I were on the top floor. I opened the door and stuck my head in to see how bad it was. Not bad at all. All around the quilt it was dry. Water was being held in place. It was like the little boy who stuck his finger in the hole of the dam to hole the water back. Except, it wasn’t a finger holding back the water, it was a queen size quilt. There’s a difference.
This was actually easier to finish cleaning things up than the last time I did that. But that’s another story all together.
Friday, September 10, 2010
YOU'RE GOING TO TURN INTO A STRAWBERRY
The artisans got together this morning in the sales room to check things out for our November Christmas Bazaar. We moved tables around to check space and it was obvious I did not have the correct dimensions. Fortunately the space is bigger than I was given. The crew loved the space. There is plenty of room to move around. The drawback, like in so many older buildings — there are only four plugs. And since we want to decorate with Christmas lights, plugs would be terrific. It’s the little things that count. When people are happy, my job is easier.
So I got everyone situated, expanded space for a couple of people and ended up with no place for myself. I’ll find something. Maybe I’ll set up outside and catch the customers before they come in. Or maybe I’m just very selfless — ya, right!
Okay, I’m still ticked about Marias actions of Wednesday. It’s the follow up that is getting to me. I’ve lost track of the number of people asking why I left Maria. I’m about to scream. Telling them she didn’t come is counter-productive. It sounds like a phony defense. I hate being blamed for another’s forgetfulness. I hate even more defending myself against a lie. I did it once and have said nothing since. At least today I laughed about it. She was clever. She divested herself of responsibility. However, I have the sense that the tide is turning against her, She is beginning to sink deeper into negative poll numbers. This may have been her biggest error. Maybe that’s why I laughed. I might win this election yet.
I don’t really wish her ill. I would be thrilled just to see her know what she did, learn and change. I pray it happens.
I rented a good movie for tonight and had to keep forcing my eyes open. And I liked the movie. I often take a nap during the day. Didn’t happen today. I had supper, popped in the movie and my body said, shut your eyes, sleep. Since I like that command, I obeyed.
I plan to make the rounds of Saturday Farmers Markets tomorrow. I want to find some berries I can freeze. I love just about all kinds of berries on cereal, as a topping, in pancakes and even plain. My mother used to say if you keep eating those strawberries you’re going to turn into a strawberry. I can honestly say after a thorough study, she was wrong. However, I have the shape. I guess that means she was partially right.
So I got everyone situated, expanded space for a couple of people and ended up with no place for myself. I’ll find something. Maybe I’ll set up outside and catch the customers before they come in. Or maybe I’m just very selfless — ya, right!
Okay, I’m still ticked about Marias actions of Wednesday. It’s the follow up that is getting to me. I’ve lost track of the number of people asking why I left Maria. I’m about to scream. Telling them she didn’t come is counter-productive. It sounds like a phony defense. I hate being blamed for another’s forgetfulness. I hate even more defending myself against a lie. I did it once and have said nothing since. At least today I laughed about it. She was clever. She divested herself of responsibility. However, I have the sense that the tide is turning against her, She is beginning to sink deeper into negative poll numbers. This may have been her biggest error. Maybe that’s why I laughed. I might win this election yet.
I don’t really wish her ill. I would be thrilled just to see her know what she did, learn and change. I pray it happens.
I rented a good movie for tonight and had to keep forcing my eyes open. And I liked the movie. I often take a nap during the day. Didn’t happen today. I had supper, popped in the movie and my body said, shut your eyes, sleep. Since I like that command, I obeyed.
I plan to make the rounds of Saturday Farmers Markets tomorrow. I want to find some berries I can freeze. I love just about all kinds of berries on cereal, as a topping, in pancakes and even plain. My mother used to say if you keep eating those strawberries you’re going to turn into a strawberry. I can honestly say after a thorough study, she was wrong. However, I have the shape. I guess that means she was partially right.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
WHY?
I’m not without a small grasp of human nature. Understanding it doesn’t mean I like it. The kind of things I am about to share has been heard throughout my life, so I can’t blame it on old age or The Home. But I can scream WHY?
I go to bread wars on Wednesday morning. That means I go and compete with three other groups for free bread at Oroweat. Stupid things happen there most mornings, but I kind of like it anyway. My helpers meet me in our lobby at 8:30 for the trip. This morning Maria was not there. In my memory, this is the first time she has missed. I figured she was tired and could not get up or was not feeling well so I left without her. I used to do this job by myself. I picked up assistants when my back went out and they have stuck with me. Help means speed, so I appreciate their assistance but can do it alone.
On our return, Maria was waiting in the commons and went on the warpath for leaving without her. OK, slow down. We left 10 minutes later than normal. She was not where we are to meet. And I’m to blame for leaving her. Go figure. She gave me hell. Why didn’t I call her? Why didn’t I knock on her door? How could I leave without her? To my way of thinking (admittedly it is not how she was thinking) her questions were stupid in light of the meeting time being her responsibility. My reasonable (to me) response that I was concerned about her and did not want to disturb her. When I figured out being kind was not working I told her that I left because I didn’t like her and didn’t want to deal with her coming with me. That at least caused hesitation. I then took her to pick up her medication. We had a late breakfast together and came home. All was well, or so I thought. The plot thickens. Later in the day, I got an email from the office telling me I had left one of my helpers. WHAT? Why did that go to the office? It’s not like I left her in Canada and came home without her.
I wish this response were rare. However it seems to be the norm. At our Labor Day Potluck/BBQ Maria’s sister arrived half way through the meal and then joined us to eat. Why is she here? Who let her in? She doesn’t belong here? Just because she has a sister here is no reason for her to come. And this from two women who have never brought anything to and potluck, and never signed up for any event so they can keep their options open, and who have never lifted a finger to help with anything around here. Thanks for sharing. Maria at least spent a lot of time cooking.
Yesterday, I told you about Chas and his frustration about food being taken after the meal. What’s that about?
Jenny has some mental problems and tried to help on Monday. She grabbed an already dirty dishrag to wipe tables. Most people were still eating. No matter, she moved their plates and cups and was wiping away. Many yelled at her and only one kindly thanked her for what she was doing and suggested it might be better to wait until people were done eating. Really.
We have a gentleman who is not permitted to cook in his room because of fear he might leave his stove on. He might. After everyone had eaten he took a large bowl and filled it with food to take to his room. Why is he doing that? It’s not his food? Look how much he took! Frankly, I told him to help himself. He normally goes out Monday-Saturday to find all the free meals all over town. He knows where they are. He needs the help. We helped him.
A service dog barks and people are angry that a dog is in the dining room. A walker bumps a chair, and the person is told to watch where they are going. One person talks to loud and they are disgusting. Crumbs are dropped on the floor and they are pigs and another immediately gets a carpet sweeper to make a point of cleaning up. An item is set in a public area for display and another removes it because it is ugly. There are too many signs on a bulletin board so someone decides to throw half away. One has potted plants in the way to water another’s garden space, so they are moved to the shade. They are not moved back into the sun.
In any given day, it seems like there are a half dozen or more people upset and angry over some silly little thing. The children in the sand box are not playing nice.
I was doing laundry on Saturday. The dryer was in use, but I started my wash. The dryer’s time had ended. I had planned to take out the clothes and fold them, but they were still wet. It was over two hours before the person came pack the take care of their wet clothes. I guess I should have been angry.
But why? Why are so many upset over so little — and much of their anger has nothing to do with them? How does it hurt that someone’s sister ate with us? I don’t get it. All I can say is we’ve got trouble right here in river city.
It’s Wednesday and bingo starts up after now that the summer break (what summer?) is over. Many will be there to fight and argue and complain about the caller — too fast, too soft, to impatient, etc. He cheated! I love this day. I will draw, read a book, watch a movie or have a nap. I won’t hear any of it.
It late now, I napped. Loved it. No one complained in my dream. In fact no one did anything that I remember dreaming. Too bad! That was my chance to have fun.
I go to bread wars on Wednesday morning. That means I go and compete with three other groups for free bread at Oroweat. Stupid things happen there most mornings, but I kind of like it anyway. My helpers meet me in our lobby at 8:30 for the trip. This morning Maria was not there. In my memory, this is the first time she has missed. I figured she was tired and could not get up or was not feeling well so I left without her. I used to do this job by myself. I picked up assistants when my back went out and they have stuck with me. Help means speed, so I appreciate their assistance but can do it alone.
On our return, Maria was waiting in the commons and went on the warpath for leaving without her. OK, slow down. We left 10 minutes later than normal. She was not where we are to meet. And I’m to blame for leaving her. Go figure. She gave me hell. Why didn’t I call her? Why didn’t I knock on her door? How could I leave without her? To my way of thinking (admittedly it is not how she was thinking) her questions were stupid in light of the meeting time being her responsibility. My reasonable (to me) response that I was concerned about her and did not want to disturb her. When I figured out being kind was not working I told her that I left because I didn’t like her and didn’t want to deal with her coming with me. That at least caused hesitation. I then took her to pick up her medication. We had a late breakfast together and came home. All was well, or so I thought. The plot thickens. Later in the day, I got an email from the office telling me I had left one of my helpers. WHAT? Why did that go to the office? It’s not like I left her in Canada and came home without her.
I wish this response were rare. However it seems to be the norm. At our Labor Day Potluck/BBQ Maria’s sister arrived half way through the meal and then joined us to eat. Why is she here? Who let her in? She doesn’t belong here? Just because she has a sister here is no reason for her to come. And this from two women who have never brought anything to and potluck, and never signed up for any event so they can keep their options open, and who have never lifted a finger to help with anything around here. Thanks for sharing. Maria at least spent a lot of time cooking.
Yesterday, I told you about Chas and his frustration about food being taken after the meal. What’s that about?
Jenny has some mental problems and tried to help on Monday. She grabbed an already dirty dishrag to wipe tables. Most people were still eating. No matter, she moved their plates and cups and was wiping away. Many yelled at her and only one kindly thanked her for what she was doing and suggested it might be better to wait until people were done eating. Really.
We have a gentleman who is not permitted to cook in his room because of fear he might leave his stove on. He might. After everyone had eaten he took a large bowl and filled it with food to take to his room. Why is he doing that? It’s not his food? Look how much he took! Frankly, I told him to help himself. He normally goes out Monday-Saturday to find all the free meals all over town. He knows where they are. He needs the help. We helped him.
A service dog barks and people are angry that a dog is in the dining room. A walker bumps a chair, and the person is told to watch where they are going. One person talks to loud and they are disgusting. Crumbs are dropped on the floor and they are pigs and another immediately gets a carpet sweeper to make a point of cleaning up. An item is set in a public area for display and another removes it because it is ugly. There are too many signs on a bulletin board so someone decides to throw half away. One has potted plants in the way to water another’s garden space, so they are moved to the shade. They are not moved back into the sun.
In any given day, it seems like there are a half dozen or more people upset and angry over some silly little thing. The children in the sand box are not playing nice.
I was doing laundry on Saturday. The dryer was in use, but I started my wash. The dryer’s time had ended. I had planned to take out the clothes and fold them, but they were still wet. It was over two hours before the person came pack the take care of their wet clothes. I guess I should have been angry.
But why? Why are so many upset over so little — and much of their anger has nothing to do with them? How does it hurt that someone’s sister ate with us? I don’t get it. All I can say is we’ve got trouble right here in river city.
It’s Wednesday and bingo starts up after now that the summer break (what summer?) is over. Many will be there to fight and argue and complain about the caller — too fast, too soft, to impatient, etc. He cheated! I love this day. I will draw, read a book, watch a movie or have a nap. I won’t hear any of it.
It late now, I napped. Loved it. No one complained in my dream. In fact no one did anything that I remember dreaming. Too bad! That was my chance to have fun.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
LABOR DAY
We had our largest turnout for an event on Labor Day. 42 showed up for our ribs BBQ. Naturally it was inside. Weather has turned to fall. That happened sometime in June, I think. It has rained on every major holiday this summer. Most of us live here for the cooler weather. We got more than we wanted this summer.
Anyway, Monday was a potluck of sorts and the crowd and food was terrific. We made an announcement in an attempt to correct a huge problem we faced in on July 4. Many people went threw the line and packed up plates to take home before everyone got through the line. I DID NOT GET RIBS, and I did all the BBQing. So we requested that everyone take only one section of ribs and one corn on the cob. There was plenty of everything. OK, so the request was somewhat personal. It doesn’t matter much as I am not very hungry when I do the cooking. I should cook all the time. My body would appreciate it.
At the end we had a normal amount of hoarding going on. One lady (I’ll just call her fatso) ate two full large plates of food and took three overflowing plates with her. There is a neighboring retirement home that shares our name, but is not legally, officially, or socially connected. They come for the regular bingo games. One lady has taken to writing down our special events and then inviting friends to come along. She does not live here. That annoys plenty of people. Worse, when they left they loaded themselves up with food for later.
All these scavengers took the food when everyone had eaten. This bothers a hand full of people. What would you like me to do? I don’t know, but its wrong. What’s wrong about it? The food is to be shared and few want to take home full bowls of food. Well, it’s just the idea. Shall I publically warn people that they will not be permitted to come if they take extra food home? Then Chas looked at me and said, it shouldn’t matter should it? No, Chas, it shouldn’t matter.
There is a great deal of concern over nothing. We have only one married couple here and they are fascinating. The woman is the one who was part of our plan for a Christmas Bazaar and withdrew because I moved her location. The discussion was strange. But that’s past. They hate the thought of an animal even being in the building, let along the dinning room. Pets are allowed. She did not come to our supper. He did. He was sitting the furthest distance from the woman with the service animal. When she got up to get her food, the dog gave one bark. Andrew said, that’s it, and jerked up and left. They will complain about this offense for the next 2-3 weeks. Will probably even report it to the administration office. It won’t help, they know it, but that won’t stop them.
The turn out for next Monday’s Monthly Meal Out is looking to be big. They are sending a limo to pick us up. Strange I know. The Bistro is only four blocks away. Oh well. Very few have ever been in a limo so it will be fun anyway. It will take longer to get people in and out of the limo than the actual ride will take.
I was asked who died and made me the God of activities. Well, I am the descendent of royalty and have inherited the crown. I am willing to duel for role it if they want. Frankly no one else wants any responsibility, let alone trying to keep 60 old people happy and enjoying life. There are at least two who I doubt have ever had a happy day in their life. With these two, I will never win. I just want to stay out of the way.
Anyway, Monday was a potluck of sorts and the crowd and food was terrific. We made an announcement in an attempt to correct a huge problem we faced in on July 4. Many people went threw the line and packed up plates to take home before everyone got through the line. I DID NOT GET RIBS, and I did all the BBQing. So we requested that everyone take only one section of ribs and one corn on the cob. There was plenty of everything. OK, so the request was somewhat personal. It doesn’t matter much as I am not very hungry when I do the cooking. I should cook all the time. My body would appreciate it.
At the end we had a normal amount of hoarding going on. One lady (I’ll just call her fatso) ate two full large plates of food and took three overflowing plates with her. There is a neighboring retirement home that shares our name, but is not legally, officially, or socially connected. They come for the regular bingo games. One lady has taken to writing down our special events and then inviting friends to come along. She does not live here. That annoys plenty of people. Worse, when they left they loaded themselves up with food for later.
All these scavengers took the food when everyone had eaten. This bothers a hand full of people. What would you like me to do? I don’t know, but its wrong. What’s wrong about it? The food is to be shared and few want to take home full bowls of food. Well, it’s just the idea. Shall I publically warn people that they will not be permitted to come if they take extra food home? Then Chas looked at me and said, it shouldn’t matter should it? No, Chas, it shouldn’t matter.
There is a great deal of concern over nothing. We have only one married couple here and they are fascinating. The woman is the one who was part of our plan for a Christmas Bazaar and withdrew because I moved her location. The discussion was strange. But that’s past. They hate the thought of an animal even being in the building, let along the dinning room. Pets are allowed. She did not come to our supper. He did. He was sitting the furthest distance from the woman with the service animal. When she got up to get her food, the dog gave one bark. Andrew said, that’s it, and jerked up and left. They will complain about this offense for the next 2-3 weeks. Will probably even report it to the administration office. It won’t help, they know it, but that won’t stop them.
The turn out for next Monday’s Monthly Meal Out is looking to be big. They are sending a limo to pick us up. Strange I know. The Bistro is only four blocks away. Oh well. Very few have ever been in a limo so it will be fun anyway. It will take longer to get people in and out of the limo than the actual ride will take.
I was asked who died and made me the God of activities. Well, I am the descendent of royalty and have inherited the crown. I am willing to duel for role it if they want. Frankly no one else wants any responsibility, let alone trying to keep 60 old people happy and enjoying life. There are at least two who I doubt have ever had a happy day in their life. With these two, I will never win. I just want to stay out of the way.
ANSWERS
YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HOME ANSWERED
ARE WE GETTING A MANAGER?
No! We are getting a warden with power to lock us up when necessary.
WHY ARE THERE BROWN SPOTS ON THE LAWN?
The massive heat wave blanketing the nation and pushing temperatures into the 100’s has affected it. Now take your sweatshirt off.
WILL WE BE USING THE BUS TO GET AROUND?
No. But a red wagon will be delivered soon and we can pull each other around to various destinations.
WHY IS THERE A GAS SMELL IN THE GARAGE?
We believe it is terrorists who want to get rid of old people first because we know the most.
WILL THE GOSSIP STOP?
No. It is the only real entertainment we have. Try to think of is as a replacement for TV’s soap operas. As on TV, everything is greatly exaggerated.
WILL THE FIGHTING STOP?
No! It is our version of the Saturday night fights. We just don’t know the final results until Monday morning.
WHO PUT YOU IN CHARGE?
A divine act. As a descendant of royalty is seems to be my birthright, and I humbly accept this great gift of responsibility.
WHEN WILL THE NEW ELECTRIC DOORS BE INSTALLED?
How much time do you have?
CAN I GET ASSISTANCE TO PAY FOR MY MEAL AT THE BISTRO?
What! No, absolutely not. Friends are already paying for the limousine ride. How generous do you thing we are? We’re on a fixed income also.
WILL WE GET A NEW EXECUTVE DIRECTOR FOR OUR ORGANIZATION?
No. This is the punishment on earth you get for the life you have lived. It does not bode well for your future.
WHY DIDN’T SOCIAL SECURITY GIVE US A RAISE THIS YEAR?
I’m sorry, but the money was needed for our starving members of congress. And as you know, we get too much as it is.
WHY HAS THE WEATHER BEEN SO COLD THIS SUMMER?
With apologies to the rest of our country, it has averaged only a couple degrees lower than other years. Right, and I have a bridge to sell you. Now, where’s my winter coat?
WHY DOES THE GARBAGE MAN COME SO EARLY?
That is the wrong question. It should be why does he constantly drop the dumpster at 5:30 a.m.? I don’t know, but am organizing a group to fork his lawn. However, I cannot participate as once I get down, I cannot get up.
I hope you now have a better understanding of issues we face at The Home.
ARE WE GETTING A MANAGER?
No! We are getting a warden with power to lock us up when necessary.
WHY ARE THERE BROWN SPOTS ON THE LAWN?
The massive heat wave blanketing the nation and pushing temperatures into the 100’s has affected it. Now take your sweatshirt off.
WILL WE BE USING THE BUS TO GET AROUND?
No. But a red wagon will be delivered soon and we can pull each other around to various destinations.
WHY IS THERE A GAS SMELL IN THE GARAGE?
We believe it is terrorists who want to get rid of old people first because we know the most.
WILL THE GOSSIP STOP?
No. It is the only real entertainment we have. Try to think of is as a replacement for TV’s soap operas. As on TV, everything is greatly exaggerated.
WILL THE FIGHTING STOP?
No! It is our version of the Saturday night fights. We just don’t know the final results until Monday morning.
WHO PUT YOU IN CHARGE?
A divine act. As a descendant of royalty is seems to be my birthright, and I humbly accept this great gift of responsibility.
WHEN WILL THE NEW ELECTRIC DOORS BE INSTALLED?
How much time do you have?
CAN I GET ASSISTANCE TO PAY FOR MY MEAL AT THE BISTRO?
What! No, absolutely not. Friends are already paying for the limousine ride. How generous do you thing we are? We’re on a fixed income also.
WILL WE GET A NEW EXECUTVE DIRECTOR FOR OUR ORGANIZATION?
No. This is the punishment on earth you get for the life you have lived. It does not bode well for your future.
WHY DIDN’T SOCIAL SECURITY GIVE US A RAISE THIS YEAR?
I’m sorry, but the money was needed for our starving members of congress. And as you know, we get too much as it is.
WHY HAS THE WEATHER BEEN SO COLD THIS SUMMER?
With apologies to the rest of our country, it has averaged only a couple degrees lower than other years. Right, and I have a bridge to sell you. Now, where’s my winter coat?
WHY DOES THE GARBAGE MAN COME SO EARLY?
That is the wrong question. It should be why does he constantly drop the dumpster at 5:30 a.m.? I don’t know, but am organizing a group to fork his lawn. However, I cannot participate as once I get down, I cannot get up.
I hope you now have a better understanding of issues we face at The Home.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
AND THEY GO ON AND ON AND ON.
I know I seem to complain about The Home way too much. The Home just happens to be my primary story line. It’s my personal soap opera. Some times I feel like I am standing apart or even above and looking down on the people and trying to move them and their decisions with my own body movement. I hold my breath when I sense an explosive comment is coming. I tighten my fists as I tense for them. I lean from side to side. I furrow my brow. I make strange faces. Nothing helps.
Several are predictable in their responses. When Hazel hears Chas raise his voice and make a sarcastic remark her smile disappears. She grinds her teeth, Chas says things as a joke, but his tone is one of anger. I tense and wish I could have stopped that before it happened.
Today I got caught with one of our three nonstop talkers. You know the type. Once they start you could sit back and read a book. You are no longer vital to the conversation. There are no questions, no pauses and at times I wonder if they ever take a breath. You must interrupt if you want to say something. However, your comments are superfluous. So why say anything. You will not change the direction of the speech. You are there as the audience. They are the featured guest speaker and they will make eye contact to make sure you are paying attention. Turning your head and starring off into space only causes them to make a comment directly to you that demand a “humm” or an “ummum” or some other nondescript, non-word response.
In truth, the only way to end the conversation is to find away to leave. Today’s nonstop talker rarely says much of anything. She will get off on one tiny little topic and wander through the entire topic and subtopics of the topic. I confess. I grew up in the Midwest, almost the exact middle. It was the largest city in the state. When I was young there was a stockyard. The city was known for great steaks. The first time I ever ate in a restaurant was before a big dance at the grand ballroom. I was a little embarrassed because I knew so little about eating our in a fancy place. Why would there be two forks? A real puzzlement! I knew the word salad, but never had one. So when I was asked about a dressing I didn’t have a clue. My date ordered oil and vinegar, so I oldered the same. It was awful.
I was stopped right there in my story and Miss Never-ending-story-teller took over. She had lived in the same town several years after I had left. She treated us to a grand tour of the city restaurants. Where they were, how there were decorated, the types of food they prepared, her meal in particular, who she was with, what they were out doing, where they went later and on and on and on. I was surprised there were no fashion descriptions. One had a red carpet. Forty-Five minutes later I was tired of the grand tour. I know I have missed twenty minutes or so. My head was nodding appropriately – I think. I managed to squeeze in an “I must be going.” Hazel jumped in to help me make a gracious exit by adding that we had been there three hours and were pretty tired. We both escaped with that sign off.
Miss Non-stop-talker usually works, but with tomorrow being a holiday, she will be here. She asked what time we would be down for coffee. I think I will skip coffee tomorrow.
Several are predictable in their responses. When Hazel hears Chas raise his voice and make a sarcastic remark her smile disappears. She grinds her teeth, Chas says things as a joke, but his tone is one of anger. I tense and wish I could have stopped that before it happened.
Today I got caught with one of our three nonstop talkers. You know the type. Once they start you could sit back and read a book. You are no longer vital to the conversation. There are no questions, no pauses and at times I wonder if they ever take a breath. You must interrupt if you want to say something. However, your comments are superfluous. So why say anything. You will not change the direction of the speech. You are there as the audience. They are the featured guest speaker and they will make eye contact to make sure you are paying attention. Turning your head and starring off into space only causes them to make a comment directly to you that demand a “humm” or an “ummum” or some other nondescript, non-word response.
In truth, the only way to end the conversation is to find away to leave. Today’s nonstop talker rarely says much of anything. She will get off on one tiny little topic and wander through the entire topic and subtopics of the topic. I confess. I grew up in the Midwest, almost the exact middle. It was the largest city in the state. When I was young there was a stockyard. The city was known for great steaks. The first time I ever ate in a restaurant was before a big dance at the grand ballroom. I was a little embarrassed because I knew so little about eating our in a fancy place. Why would there be two forks? A real puzzlement! I knew the word salad, but never had one. So when I was asked about a dressing I didn’t have a clue. My date ordered oil and vinegar, so I oldered the same. It was awful.
I was stopped right there in my story and Miss Never-ending-story-teller took over. She had lived in the same town several years after I had left. She treated us to a grand tour of the city restaurants. Where they were, how there were decorated, the types of food they prepared, her meal in particular, who she was with, what they were out doing, where they went later and on and on and on. I was surprised there were no fashion descriptions. One had a red carpet. Forty-Five minutes later I was tired of the grand tour. I know I have missed twenty minutes or so. My head was nodding appropriately – I think. I managed to squeeze in an “I must be going.” Hazel jumped in to help me make a gracious exit by adding that we had been there three hours and were pretty tired. We both escaped with that sign off.
Miss Non-stop-talker usually works, but with tomorrow being a holiday, she will be here. She asked what time we would be down for coffee. I think I will skip coffee tomorrow.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
545 vs. 300,000,000 - PART 2
Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.
The following might be funny if it weren't so darned true.
Tax his land, Tax his bed,
Tax the table, At which he's fed.
Tax his tractor, Tax his mule,
Teach him taxes Are the rule.
Tax his work, Tax his pay,
He works for peanuts Anyway!
Tax his cow, Tax his goat,
Tax his pants, Tax his coat.
Tax his ties, Tax his shirt,
Tax his work, Tax his dirt.
Tax his tobacco, Tax his drink,
Tax him if he Tries to think.
Tax his cigars, Tax his beers,
If he cries, Tax his tears.
Tax his car, Tax his gas,
Find ways To tax him up his ….
Tax all he has Then let him know
That you won't be done Till he has no dough.
When he screams and hollers;
Then tax him some more,
Tax him till He's good and sore.
Then tax his coffin, Tax his grave,
Tax the sod in Which he's laid...
Put these words Upon his tomb, '
Taxes drove me to my doom'...
When he's gone, Do not relax,
Time to apply The inheritance tax..
Sales Tax — School Tax — Liquor Tax — Luxury Tax — Excise Taxes — Property Tax — Cigarette Tax — Medicare Tax — Inventory Tax — Real Estate Tax — Well Permit Tax — Fuel Permit Tax — Inheritance Tax — Road Usage Tax — CDL license Tax — Dog License Tax — State Income Tax — Food License Tax — Vehicle Sales Tax — Gross Receipts Tax — Social Security Tax — Service Charge Tax — Fishing License Tax — Federal Income Tax — Building Permit Tax — IRS Interest Charges — Hunting License Tax — Marriage License Tax — Corporate Income Tax — Personal Property Tax — Accounts Receivable Tax — Recreational Vehicle Tax — Workers Compensation Tax — Watercraft Registration Tax — Telephone Usage Charge Tax — Telephone Federal Excise Tax — Telephone State and Local Tax — IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax) — State Unemployment Tax (SUTA) — Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA) — Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax — Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax — Gasoline Tax (currently 44.75 cents per gallon) — Utility Taxes Vehicle License Registration Tax — Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes — Telephone Recurring and Nonrecurring Charges Tax
STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY? Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, & our nation was the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids. What in the heck happened? Can you spell 'politicians?
Tax his land, Tax his bed,
Tax the table, At which he's fed.
Tax his tractor, Tax his mule,
Teach him taxes Are the rule.
Tax his work, Tax his pay,
He works for peanuts Anyway!
Tax his cow, Tax his goat,
Tax his pants, Tax his coat.
Tax his ties, Tax his shirt,
Tax his work, Tax his dirt.
Tax his tobacco, Tax his drink,
Tax him if he Tries to think.
Tax his cigars, Tax his beers,
If he cries, Tax his tears.
Tax his car, Tax his gas,
Find ways To tax him up his ….
Tax all he has Then let him know
That you won't be done Till he has no dough.
When he screams and hollers;
Then tax him some more,
Tax him till He's good and sore.
Then tax his coffin, Tax his grave,
Tax the sod in Which he's laid...
Put these words Upon his tomb, '
Taxes drove me to my doom'...
When he's gone, Do not relax,
Time to apply The inheritance tax..
Sales Tax — School Tax — Liquor Tax — Luxury Tax — Excise Taxes — Property Tax — Cigarette Tax — Medicare Tax — Inventory Tax — Real Estate Tax — Well Permit Tax — Fuel Permit Tax — Inheritance Tax — Road Usage Tax — CDL license Tax — Dog License Tax — State Income Tax — Food License Tax — Vehicle Sales Tax — Gross Receipts Tax — Social Security Tax — Service Charge Tax — Fishing License Tax — Federal Income Tax — Building Permit Tax — IRS Interest Charges — Hunting License Tax — Marriage License Tax — Corporate Income Tax — Personal Property Tax — Accounts Receivable Tax — Recreational Vehicle Tax — Workers Compensation Tax — Watercraft Registration Tax — Telephone Usage Charge Tax — Telephone Federal Excise Tax — Telephone State and Local Tax — IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax) — State Unemployment Tax (SUTA) — Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA) — Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax — Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax — Gasoline Tax (currently 44.75 cents per gallon) — Utility Taxes Vehicle License Registration Tax — Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes — Telephone Recurring and Nonrecurring Charges Tax
STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY? Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, & our nation was the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids. What in the heck happened? Can you spell 'politicians?
545 vs. 300,000,000 - PART 1
I agree with the following article and have given my blog over to Mr. Reese to say what I have thought for years, but could not put into words.
Charlie Reese, is a retired reporter for the Orlando Sentinel and has been a journalist for 49 years. hit the nail directly on the head, defining clearly who it is that in the final analysis must assume responsibility for the judgments made that impact each one of us every day.
545 vs. 300,000,000
By Charlie Reese
"Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.. Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits? Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes? You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does. You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does. You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does. You and I don't set fiscal policy, and Congress does. You and I don’t control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country. I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank. I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes. Those 545 human beings spend most of their energy garnering votes to stay in power and convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall or insolence of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.... . The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it. The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to. It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can not replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility.
I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist. If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair. If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red. If the Army & Marines are in IRAQ and Afghanistan , it's because they want them in there. They do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it that way. There are no insoluble government problems. Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do. Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible. They, and they alone, have the power.. They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses. Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees... We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess! "
Charlie Reese, is a retired reporter for the Orlando Sentinel and has been a journalist for 49 years. hit the nail directly on the head, defining clearly who it is that in the final analysis must assume responsibility for the judgments made that impact each one of us every day.
545 vs. 300,000,000
By Charlie Reese
"Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.. Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits? Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes? You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does. You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does. You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does. You and I don't set fiscal policy, and Congress does. You and I don’t control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country. I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank. I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes. Those 545 human beings spend most of their energy garnering votes to stay in power and convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall or insolence of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.... . The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it. The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to. It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can not replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility.
I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist. If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair. If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red. If the Army & Marines are in IRAQ and Afghanistan , it's because they want them in there. They do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it that way. There are no insoluble government problems. Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do. Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible. They, and they alone, have the power.. They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses. Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees... We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess! "
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