Some final thoughts

I recently realized that there were two great thrills in doing Reddit's, Ask Me Anything! Over 1000 questioners seemed sincerely interested in what my answer would be and made no judgment of whether it was right or wrong. Equally exciting were the scores of responders who suggested that I write a book. What a high for this junior high school principal who had difficulty writing a weekly staff memo for his teachers!

Well there will be no book! I'm not up to that and one who writes a book is usually perceived as an authority. Working in the field of education with primary interests in family, religion, and sports, I have lived in a world where authorities are a dime a dozen. And being retired from the field of education for over 32 years, I make no claims to being an expert in education any more. Yet one thing I know for certain and that is that I have been privileged to have lived an extremely satisfying life through a fascinating period of our nation's history.

It's been extremely gratifying to have an opportunity to share my views with young people through the mystique of the Internet. Yet all good things must come to an end and my 15 minutes of fame as a "Reddit Guru" has been exhilarating. But with energy diminishing and new adventures before me in my retirement Valhalla, it's time for change. But inevitably I have a few "Final Thoughts" I feel driven to share.

1. The fact that the American electorate resorted to choosing our present leader is one of the greatest disappointment of my life. No need for me to enlarge on that, but it causes me to ponder the nature of humans worldwide in the democratic process. Specifically I recall another seminal event in my life experience: those "desperate" people who elected a Hitler: a man who also used fear and hatred in their quest for economic security. Yet I see in my own country an entertainer using those same techniques catering to the fears and base interests of society. Was it a failure of my chosen profession, education, to provide an enlightened electorate? While that's a problem demanding a long-term solution, my hope/plea is that the long ignored voices of our country – women, the economically deprived, minorities and young people will in a few days come to the polls in record number to provide a corrective course for our nation's future.

2. While I can recall previous periods of rancor and divisiveness in our country. I have never seen it reach such levels of vitriol and hate. It seems to be the new "Spirit of America." That "American Spirit" first chronicled by Alexis de Tocqueville not so many years ago - in the eye of history - has been replaced by a myopic view of life incorporating isolation, selfishness, divisiveness, contempt and suspicion. While studies and books have documented this, we seem to be in a period of isolationist "know nothingism" in our fitful and frantic rush to protect our personal welfare, status and interests. Facts and knowledge and science itself have been ridiculed. Yet it is knowledge and science that have been most valuable in fulfilling the American dream. For me, one publication stands out in chronicling our current dilemma, Robert Putnam's publication "Bowling Alone," Putnam laments the decline and loss of institutions and agencies that have been paramount in fostering a unity of purpose for our nation. These groupings were essential in providing a commonality for all people and ranged from churches to bowling leagues to civic clubs. The mass media followed by most of people were essential in creating community unity and providing a commonality of information through just a few newspapers and radio/TV channels. Knowledgeable journalists were respected for their thoughtful analysis expressing a variety of viewpoints

With scholars highlighting such a problem, one wonders why this is not been given greater national attention. My next three points briefly focus on areas where this has been particularly prevalent. Unfortunately, because of my desire to "go to press" quickly. I'll only be able to give them cursory attention.

3. There is little question that America has prided itself on being a "religious (yea Christian) nation." Yet it's a topic that is shunned by many as being "too personal or divisive" for polite discussion. And while lip service is given to religion with extremely high percentages of the citizenry avowing divine belief and religious affiliation, national statistics show a diminishing interest in participation in religious institutions. Putnam's, "Bowling Alone" was followed up by another book "American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us" forcefully documenting this decline. Yet there are many signs that there is a growing "hunger" or something.to give meaning to life.

It is my contention that Religion has been given a bad rap as modern society, seeking meaning for life, has found new words and labels such as spirituality and "a search for meaning." “Can Religion Survive Worship" is a book that cause me to appreciate anew my lifelong interest in this topic. Making no bones about it, the book clearly describes that ALL RELIGIONS are created by humans in their search for giving meaning to life (spirituality) and structuring a moral code for the enhancement of communities of people living together. Worship has become idolatry. Could there be a greater American Heritage than providing space for all religions espousing love to find freedom and expression?

In my perception, unfortunately, organized religion has an extremely negative connotation. And as a long time adherent, I can understand why. Yet in my lifetime I have seen tremendous change led by progressive religious leaders in changing our society. I would contend that the progress made in civil rights for every minority and disadvantaged cultural group would not have occurred without the leadership of progressive, religious communities.

Yet I am most concerned with the dying church: there is an understandably urge for change. young people particularly have discarded religious traditions that still reflect a pre-scientific mindset. The last time the foundations of Christianity were challenged was 500 years ago when Martin Luther posted his 95 thesis. The concerns of that era, including words such as indulgences, justification by faith and bondage of the will mean nothing to young people today. I contend that the hypocrisy of blindly affirming dogmas is no longer acceptable to young people as they leave the church in droves. Yet is the spirituality, community and search for meaning in life that churches have and can provide that can give a much-needed moral tone to our society. Particularly as we discover the pride of giving all religions equal stature and status.

On a very personal level, I feel compelled to offer the following observation about religion. (Given my early heritage, I might say "testimony") I am tremendously grateful that my parents sought a neighborhood church to attend. I am confident that the teachings and moral values we were taught established the foundation for my life. I believe they were also instrumental in helping my wife and me provide a home that attempted to install the same values in our children. Yet I vehemently denounce the claim of any religion based on love and welfare of all to proclaim superiority over another religion. From my personal experience in attending them I must state that whatever it is called: synagogue, mosque, church or meetinghouse, it is there that I have found direction and peace.

4. I am extremely concerned with the public support of the public schools of America. Once the innovative pride of the world, Horace Mann's creation suffers from that neglect which was once a source of national unity. Raised In southern segregated schools, I can personally attest to the harmful effects of that divisiveness. But I know full well that there was community unity and doors open for all of my neighborhood rubbing elbows together. My cross-sectional enclave in my large southern city had rich and poor (admittedly segregated) people of all faiths, nationalities and abilities together. The proliferation of both private schools and Charter Schools inevitably has undercut the spirit of unity within our country.

5. In my day we played sports for fun and to fill our idle hours. From this outsiders view of the current scene, it appears that the emphasize is on winning teams, excellence, possible college scholarships and creating a harried home life. In my day we dabbled in a variety of sports according to the weather and the "professional season." There were even quasi legal prohibitions on participation in sports outside the season. We had no trophies telling us we were winners or participants. We found plenty of good competition nearby rather than feeling the need to travel great distances that require family contributions or community fundraiser. While lamenting the erosion of family time. I also question the effect on a child's outlook as we glorify winning and excellence. I discuss this with some reluctance as one who had many doors opened for me because of my involvement on teams. Certainly the basketball hoop my father put in the backyard that gave me an initial skill would not suffice today in competition with those participating year-round at professional camps.

That's about all the energy a 92-year-oldster has in relating experiences from a good life. But I feel compelled to once again recall one of my continued concerns regarding a failure of our current affluent society. There's no question that the health of the world is endangered by human lifestyles. While young people have been in the forefront of citing this problem, I contend that current lifestyles increasingly contribute to the problem. Lip service is given, but a variety of practices in the name of comfort and convenience only exacerbate the problem. Where is the protest and demand that would lead to strict laws that would force national and recognized practices ameliorateing the problems?How can it be that we remain one of the only developed countries that has only 10 of the 50 states having a bottle deposit law that has been universally recognized as important, but lobbied against effectively  by the beverage industries.

So that's it! It's time for me to move on to my next endeavors. Thanks for reading my rants to the end.

America's true exceptionalism!

I've always been intrigued by the concept of "American Exceptionalism!" And so I just had to check the meaning of the word, "exceptional" in an old-fashioned thesaurus. I learned that synonyms include

"unusual, rare, far above others in quality or excellence

or beyond the normal or customary"

Consequently, it's easy for me to apply the term to America:

both historically and in this "exceptional" era in which we find ourselves.

Historically has any country been able to create a new society and culture where none had existed before? Except that we exceptionally destroyed a pre-existing culture and enslaved another race in order to build our own concept of excellence!

But that's all in the past, isn't it? Let's look at current events and recent history for other behaviors "beyond the normal or customary."

1. Remember how unusual it was to see a single, rare individual here in Washington at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and 34th St., year in and year out, good weather or bad? Stationing himself in front of the Vatican Embassy, this male individual carried signs stating that the Pope was shielding pedophiles. I wonder if anyone has recommended him for Sainthood now that we have “true facts”?
2. I thought it quite "unusual" that Supreme Court nominee Kavanaugh would cite “regular church attendance” as a hallmark of his high character. This same statement must have been uttered by the thousands of priests who used their power and strength to take sexual advantage of children and destroy lives.

3. What a lost opportunity for exceptionalism was lost by the millions and millions of Germans who have always proclaimed Germany to be Christian nation. All they had to do in the 1930s was ask themselves, "What would Jesus do " in response to the evil of Adolph Hitler?

4. I admit to being among the many who were skeptical of President W. Bush when he admitted to changing his behavioral pattern from carousing and drinking after finding religion. Yet the tenor of his life gives credence to such a conversion. While I may still question some of his leadership, I do not question his veracity and motivation. Perhaps the time is ripe to have less hypocrisy in religion and all phases of life. Five hundred years ago there was an extremely exceptional event known as the Protestant Reformation. Then and now
5. exceptional times call for rare or unusual behavior. Certainly we saw at the recent hearings the usual example of male domination, blustering, and venomous divisiveness. How crass that Republican senators would not even speak to one of their "invited guests. How courageous for an "ordinary" citizen to speak to a "power personage” in an elevator, and that courageous act provided the stimulus for change.

After 92 years of life. I've had revealed to me some extremely exceptional events and occurrences – the #Me-too by women is one of the most dramatic.

HOWEVER,

the bravery of these millions of women is awaiting an answer from the millions of men who still hide behind anonymity.

The male counter movement might well be entitled

#Iconfess (to my brute-like behavior)

ARE YOU LISTENING

Bill Clinton

Don Trump (and your locker room co-hearts?

PS. And while I earlier committed to having my next rant about "the sporting scene and its effect on American family life" I MUST place in higher priority. The topic that continues to intrigued me,

The rationale for a religious reformation - 500 years after Martin Luther!

Ron reveals some of the principles behind his Ranting and Raving

The responses to my recent Rant regarding the three formative factors shaping my life have been extremely gratifying, yet they put me in a bind! There are so many observations I want to make yet so many of them might seem old-fashioned and counter to political correctness. And – heaven forbid – they may even cause me to lose friends and, even family members. Still the thought that my ramblings might find a responsive ear is something I can't resist.

For example, one issue that immediately comes to mind, and I feel very strongly about is the havoc wrought on families and our culture because of competitive sports. In my day games (sports) were something we did for fun and to fill idle hours. Now the press is for highly competitive teams demanding practice year round and development of skilled athletes at too early an age.

But before getting into something so controversial, I feel it necessary to share further details about my perspective on life as MY clock winds down. I do this because the views I express reflect my lifelong philosophy that is rooted in a few beliefs which include:

1. I believe that the life of every human being has worth and dignity and is entitled to equal liberty, freedom, and justice.
2. I believe in the motive force of love. This human relationships must consider the welfare of others, and that true love never seeks to hurt or destroy.
3. I believe in the authority of reason and conscience and that humans are endowed with a never ending search for truth.
4. I believe that humans have ever sought to find the source and meaning of life. From prescientific days of superstition. humans have created various dogmas and religions to explain and enhance "the human condition."
5. Thus, all "love based" religious expressions must be encouraged as a way of seeking and providing ethical behavior.
6. The individual finds succor, support and encouragement from various groups beginning with the family to the state. The democratic process provides means for members to share ideas, improve life conditions and equality under the law. Cooperative efforts recognize mutual dependence of people throughout the world.
7. The human experience is enhanced through cooperative endeavors. Life for the individual is enhanced when there is a confirmation by one's peers, providing a critical platform for expression and mutual support.
8. The work of all employees should be valued and that respect must be tangibly recognized by payment of a living wage.

This statement is my personal adaptation of a 10 point statement of policy developed by Dr. David Rankin, senior minister of the fountain Street Church Grand Rapids, Michigan 1982 – 1998 ordained is a Unitarian minister, David statement has been modified somewhat by the national Unitarian/Universalist church is a statement of their beliefs.

As you can see, there is no mention of God. As a congregant of his Grand Rapids church I participated in a class in which the encouraged us to develop our own Definition of the Word, God.

So that's a further background to my story. I think you will see it reflected in the way I look at life. Next week or asap, I'll share my thoughts on the impact of “the sporting life” on children, the family structure and society.

How much more should one say on the social media at 92 years of age?

Perplexed

Life continues to present dilemmas: Certainly they don't diminish with age. I've enjoyed ranting and raving and felt I might still have something to say. Yet the Social Internet is filled with trivia like mine. I well remember having been thrilled as a young man in the Marine Corps during WWII and being mesmerized by the preaching of famed Hollywood Presbyterian minister Louie B. Evans. How exciting to discover 25 years later that he was preaching at National Presbyterian Church in DC. What a marvelous chance to share his powerful sermons with my children. What a disappointment to discover that he should have rested on his laurels.

But what a thrill recently to discover the following on the Internet following some of my recent musings.

from anon  sent 1 month ago

Hi, I just saw your AMA, and I wanted to let you know that I think you're a pretty cool guy, and that the way you articulate yourself and write is just phenomenal to me. Thanks for being you.

So where am I? Should I hang it up? Or perhaps it's time to become more succinct and share a few most heartfelt thoughts and see where they go.

As I approach 93 and continue this marvelous voyage, I continue to wonder:how it is possible that a lower middle-class kid (certainly in the 30's and 40;s most of us with white skin pigment felt most of America was part of a broad middle-class) could experience such a happy, satisfying and fulfilling lifetime experience. Given time to ponder this question, I have identified three underlying pillars or givens that made it possible.

1. A loving family. Yet how contrasted with the present was my nuclear families expression of love. I can remember no kisses or conversations expressing emotions as are so prevalent today. How gratifying, however it was to change and have this in my maturing years.

2. A supportive community. From neighbors on our block, to a neighborhood school, to a local community church (regardless of denomination), my world was slowly expanding,. And it was this latter institution – religious institutions – that I feel is in greatest need for immediate change, Indeed I'm eager to share how I believe “religion” has been totally misunderstood and vilified today as we have glorified terms such as worship, spirituality and meditation.

3. A supportive government. Beginning with public schools, to a vibrant tenth largest city in the countr , to the G. I. Bill of Rights providing financial support for my three academic degrees, to Social Security providing income for my wife and four children in case of a personal catastrophe to me, to a state retirement system proving liveable income for over 32 years, to Medicare providing health care for me and kidney transplants for three of my family members, I have seen citizens paying their taxes providing aid and succor for me and my family. How tragic that “government” is today ridiculed by so many of our citizens.

Yet how frail are some of these institutions today and how divided we are in nurturing them. Perhaps this is enough for me to say now pending having more to say on each of the 3 factors. OR,as
 Douglas MacArthur said to Congress? “??????????????????????????????????????????”

92-year-oldster has thrilling new experience!

I hope this headline gets your attention again as I recall the good fortune I've had for the past two years in reaching a rather varied audience with my Ranting and Raving!

This communique will only serve as an introduction to the many thoughts that have been percolating within my soul that are yearning for release and expression. While this Rave may be somewhat frivolous, I can assure you that will not be true of my musings in the days, weeks and months ahead.

But here's the thrill I experienced today for the first time in 92 years. A rash on both my size 13 feet finally convinced me that I had to see a podiatrist. This depression era born child considered it frivolous and a waste of money to have someone else clip his nails & polish his bunion. While others may have seen my feet as gnarled and my toenails gruesome, I honored and respected these two parts of my body that have propelled me over thousands of miles.

How soothing and simple was the work of Dr. Tiffany K. Hoh, DPM in prescribing medication and clipping chunks of granite! How relaxing a massage by her assistant! You can rest assured that I've already scheduled a revisit in three months.

I hope this simple tale has gotten your attention and commitment to find the meaning and messages in my future musings. I promise there will be no more medical stories from one nearing the century mark. Yet I hope that the sharing of my observations about the lessons of life from another generation will stimulate meaningful discussion - particularly between the generations.

There is so much we can learn by making sure our noses (and eyes) are not continually concerned with the far-flung social media. In this frenzied time of immigrant bashing, I was delighted to be treated by Dr. Hoh from China. I was referred to her by my general practitioner. Dr. Singh with Indian roots. Dr. Song was my dermatologist. Dr. Desai from India and Dr. Picone from Italy take care of both my back and my lungs. And I am comforted and checked by a countless array of dedicated technicians, most often from nations and continents demeaned vile and unfit by our present national leader.

I hope you realize I'm just getting warmed up in expressing my feelings. I'll be back in a week or so.

I'm a 92-Year-Old Optimist Who Almost Became Depressed Thinking About the Future of My Country

I recognize how fortunate I have always been as a member of America's white middle-class. Serving my country in World War II,  I look back on a charmed life. With few unavoidable setbacks, I've had a fulfilling and satisfying life. I've doted on raising a family of four children and nine grandchildren, two "marriages" and a profession as an educator. As a school principal I've had a satisfactory income and felt richly rewarded by making a difference in young people's lives. I've lived through a Great Depression, a world war and a variety of police actions and other  world crises. Unfortunately I've seen my country make mistakes - above all its failure to provide freedom and equality for ALL citizens. Yet I have always felt that the trajectory of progress has been in an upward spiral. That a “New World,” a "promised land" has been the goal of my beloved country. That is until the past election!  Now living within two miles from the headquarters of the swamp—the White House—I found it difficult to avoid depression in my terminal years.

I'm appalled by the leadership of my country. It's inconceivable to me that my fellow country men and women have chosen a president who represents and exhibits the worst of what I've known America to aspire to be. I once thought "American exceptionalism" was a positive seeking to provide equal opportunity and freedom for all. Now the executive branch of government  projects a aura of leadership by wealth and power bordering on the fascist model. And equally frustrating is a divided second branch of government, the Congress, which is paralyzed by divisiveness putting party over principle. And I fear where the judiciary might soon take us.

The status quo seemed hopeless until I saw first hand two recent events that gave me hope for the future. Truly I see a REVOLUTION: a turning away from stale male led divisiveness by involving:

*The long ignored leadership skills of women, and

*The enthusiasm, resilience and idealism of youth as shown by youth of Parkland and Stoneman Douglas High School.

Yet in these turbulent times there are at least three other ingredients from my experience that I feel are vital for securing change.

1. The wisdom and insights of sages, prophets and solons bringing historic perspective and advice from the past to solve new problems.
2. Finding new or restored groups and activities to bring citizens together in constructive and meaningful ways. The malaise of separateness that exists in our country today, far exceeds anything I have seen in the past.
3. Exposing hypocrisy and demanding truth from all segments of our society.

My lifelong optimism has been fueled by continuing to have communication with young people. I hope I might get reactions to the article and suggestions about what I/we must do further.

I recognize how fortunate I have always been as a member of America's white middle-class. Serving my country in World War II,  I look back on a charmed life. With few unavoidable setbacks, I've had a fulfilling and satisfying life. I've doted on raising a family of four children and nine grandchildren, two "marriages" and a profession as an educator. As a school principal I've had a satisfactory income and felt richly rewarded by making a difference in young people's lives. I've lived through a Great Depression, a world war and a variety of police actions and other  world crises. Unfortunately I've seen my country make mistakes - above all its failure to provide freedom and equality for ALL citizens. Yet I have always felt that the trajectory of progress has been in an upward spiral. That a “New World,” a "promised land" has been the goal of my beloved country. That is until the past election!  Now living within two miles from the headquarters of the swamp—the White House—I found it difficult to avoid depression in my terminal years.

Yes, I'm now a 92-Year-Old Optimist Who Almost Became Depressed Thinking About the Future of My Country

I'm appalled by the leadership of my country. It's inconceivable to me that my fellow country men and women have chosen a president who represents and exhibits the worst of what I've known America to aspire to be. I once thought "American exceptionalism" was a positive seeking to provide equal opportunity and freedom for all. Now the executive branch of government  projects a aura of leadership by wealth and power bordering on the fascist model. And equally frustrating is a divided second branch of government, the Congress, which is paralyzed by divisiveness putting party over principle. And I fear where the judiciary might soon take us.

The status quo seemed hopeless until I saw first hand two recent events that gave me hope for the future. Truly I see a REVOLUTION: a turning away from stale male led divisiveness by involving:

*The long ignored leadership skills of women, and

*The enthusiasm, resilience and idealism of youth as shown by youth of Parkland and Stoneman Douglas High School.

Yet in these turbulent times there are at least three other ingredients from my experience that I feel are vital for securing change.

1. The wisdom and insights of sages, prophets and solons bringing historic perspective and advice from the past to solve new problems.
2. Finding new or restored groups and activities to bring citizens together in constructive and meaningful ways. The malaise of separateness that exists in our country today, far exceeds anything I have seen in the past.
3. Exposing hypocrisy and demanding truth from all segments of our society.

My lifelong optimism has been fueled by continuing to have communication with young people. Indeed, that was enhanced by four previous AMA's! I hope this fifth attempt will continue this conversation with the youth of Reddit that has been so meaningful to me.

Proof: https://i.imgur.com/TmyOLi4.jpg

It all seems so simple....

Why don't we just ;let the good people of South Korea settle things with the North Koreans? It's their peninsula, not ours.

NBA bests the NFL

With the stupidity of the owners of the NFL: clubs, it is refreshing to see the action of the San Antonio Spurs on another front: replacing scantily clad young women with "family friendly gymnastic" teams. Small, enlightened steps of progress are so important but often overlooked.

Was it not ironic hypocrisy?

That the (otherwise) meaningful and beautiful service of Meghan and Harry began with the statement to the effect, "marriage is the joining of a man and a woman" was in stark contrast with the sermon extolling "the love between two people."

If I heard it right, I'm sorry I did not join the throngs of young people who must've been tempted to tune out yet another religious service.

Another lesson at Uber University!

It was my first trip on Uber Pool to see a notation reading, "Driver may be deaf or hard of hearing." Indeed he was totally deaf, but other than limiting my "usual" conversation, the drive went very smoothly through busy traffic. He appeared to be in his 30's, and seated next to him on the front seat, I could notice that his stylish cap read" Ethiopia". I tried to converse with him by stating that I had been to nearby Egypt!

How remarkable that I, because of my handicap in walking, was being assisted by a recent immigrant who was totally oblivious to the spoken word. I smiled at him in our mutual derision at the lady who insisted that he make a difficult turn in horrible traffic in order to take her merely one=half block closer to her designated address. I wondered what he must've thought about the American fetish for ease and service.

How I wish I could have the opportunity to converse with him to learn more about his possible trials or tribulations in entering our country. How I wish I could show that I would like to be his friend. But at least I luckily remembered that giving him my business card might be some evidence of friendship.

A remarkable new experience at 92!

Oh  I'd been to many concerts before, hundreds, maybe thousands if you count organ concerts at church. But I never had the almost out of body experience as I did recently at the Concert Hall of the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. I was literally "blown away" in a number of ways.

Most of my concert going has been in the nosebleed section where the sounds are blended and somewhat muted. From there,looking over a sea of patrons, we viewed the cooperative effort of anonymous and almost faceless performers. This time, however, Linda managed to get tickets that were not only in the Center Section, but were in the Second Row!

From the beginning of Bach;s Fugue for Strings I knew I was in a different world. As the violins began over here, there were violas over there and then they were joined by the cellos in the back. I could see the intensity of individual players and the effort exerted to fly their fingers over the strings and fling their bows in unison at their instruments. It was Stereo on Steroids live and in person!

But it only got better! As Leila Josefowicz played Stravinsky's Violin Concerto in F Minor just 15 feet from me, I saw unmitigated genius and dexterity at work.  Such concentration and intensity in blending mind, body and spirit!  She appeared to be dancing with her violin as her partner.

After the intermission we had the opportunity to concentrate on conductor Gianandres Noseda's and his magic fingers. Stravinsky's Symphonies of Wind Instruments was apparently performed by flutes, oboes, clarinets, bassoons, horns, trumpets, trombones, and a tuba. We couldn't tell because they were all hidden from us by the vacated chairs and music stands of the string section.  Truthfully to me, the music seemed to emanate from the fingers of the Conductor as he waved in various directions. As he turned to the audience to bow we could see the perspiration streaming from his face, and I was particularly warmed as, in response to my loud, "Bravado", he looked directly in my eyes in apparent appreciation.

But the climactic "climax" came with Mozart's Symphony Number 39 in E Flat Major. It was a chance for me to close my eyes and revel in beauty and contemplation. I thought of the effort and diligence of the performers and of the enjoyment  I shared with so many others.

But there was one added thing that drew my attention as I left my prized second row seat. I felt the need to greet more warmly a person in the first row. She was remaining until someone could escort her out. She was blind! How striking to learn from  our conversation that she had enjoyed the concert as much as I.

Yet another new/old experience

How thrilling on Easter Sunday to see once again Jesus Christ, Superstar; But in a totally different format and style on television. And for the first time three generations viewing it. The original performance heard by my young family so many years ago was so very meaningful to us. It was their Hamilton! They memorized every word. And here it was again bringing tears to us in a new exciting format.

I'm not sure though that I could tolerate anyone messing with 

Menotti's

Amahl and the Night Visitors

That March 25th Rant was my last! But.............................

You might recall that in it:

http://ronlehkersrants.blogspot.com/2018/03

I promised to enlarge on several of the items that give me hope. And here I begin

Advice for young people:

• While I have thrilled to see their vigorous response to the gun issue, I sincerely hope that they not only have the conviction, courage and endurance to follow through, but they must realize that they not be a "single issue constituency".
• And while I know I run the risk of being turned off and considered an, "Old fuddy-duddy" (or something much worse) for giving advice to young people. I'm still going to suggest a first area for their consideration.  And there may well be more to come.

The environment:

For 20 years or more. I've done my darnedest (that's as close as I can come to swearing on the printed page) to understand and do something about geting more than 10 states have a bottle refund deposit law. From personal experience in several states, from research and from the example of almost every developed country in the world but ours, it has been a boon to improving the environment. It's well-known that we have failed to extended such laws to other states primarily because of the lobbying of the bottle industry.

From my experience with young people I know full well that the environment is (and should be) a major concern of theirs. It also appears to me that they are among the greatest users of disposable plastic, glass, and any other kind of container. Thus I would challenge them to look at the issues that are involved ranging from personal choice to governmental issues and lobbying to determine an appropriate course for our nation as a whole to join in this environmentally sound the practice. There are times and conditions that necessitate dramatic events. The gun protest was one. The ingenuity of youth can find many ways to protect the environment. Perhaps it's time for boycotts of products or study and debate groups looking at the issues that would be involved in individual states or nationwide.

A marvelous view of a changing society

This made my day!

It was at the end of a grueling trip – and almost any flight today is grueling when you're 92 years old. I wondered if – in order to save money – I had made a mistake by taking a bus instead of Uber to get from BWI to my apartment in DC. And the three block walk from the connecting Metro stop seemed interminable to my aching back.

But it was worth it! Crossing Macomb Street, just one block from home, were two middle aged gentlemen. Walking with them was a beautiful, smiling, child of about four years of age of a totally different racial composition.

And then as I entered my apartment complex, I again saw a male Caucasian speak to a two-year-old African-American child saying, "And daddy is upstairs fixing dinner."

How fortunate I felt that fate enabled me to have these two experiences. Certainly I made assumptions. But I could only feel joy that the bounds of love and caring in my lifetime have been expanded. And that no amount of pseudo-intellectual discussion could dissuade me from knowing the improvement I have seen in this lifetime of mine.

******************************

Quite a change from my previous very lengthy rant, but I hope you'll check it out. It's my testament to a hopeful future. 

Hope for the future

At 92 years of age

I finally see hope for the future of America!

And here's why.

For the first time in my 92 years, I came awfully close to despair regarding my country's future. My lifelong optimism has been in danger of being lost because of the daily onslaught of divisive news and the lack of a cohesive effort politically to solve complex national and worldwide human problems. Having lived through depressions and recessions, hot wars and cold wars as well as innumerable natural catastrophes, I have always seen the citizens of my country unite to meet the various challenges through cooperation and respect for government. I've always been proud of my country even though our treatment of Native Americans and other minorities has been dismal. I am proud that in my lifetime progress has been made in redressing our countries' historically dismal treatment of minorities so that I could find succor in the statement of Dr. King and others that the arc of justice continues to move in a positive direction. But never have I been so dismayed by the disregard of our leaders for simple courtesy in the treatment of others, for the disregard for truth and scientific analysis, for an unwillingness to compromise for the common good and for the rejection of America's fourth estate, the press.

However I am now able to move from this temptation of despair

because of two forces that not only give promise for change,

but also provide leadership for the first time to

Make America Truly Great!

How heartening for me to live to see HOPE as women finally become co-partners in leadership and are now joined by the youth of America with their vision for a future of love, peace and goodwill using modern technology. How dramatic to see that that these young peoplS throughout the country have begun to realize the important contribution they can make in creating a peaceful and loving world: that they can see through the selfishness and hypocrisy that has been permitted to control America and envision a world that values unity and inclusiveness for all in a safe environment.

These two forceful movements provide the vehicle for change and progress for an idealistic future that has only been dreamed of. Yet I believe there are

TWO ADDITIONAL MISUNDERSTOOD AND MISUSED FORCES

THAT HAVE BEEN OVERLOOKED

AND ARE DESPERATELY NEEDED NOW

• The wisdom of Solons, oracles and prophets
• The strength and unity of American communities in the past.

But before looking at the last two aspects involved in change, I think it important for me to share some of my personal thoughts relative to the reason for my optimism.

1. The force of feminine leadership.
   From the privilege of attending the Woman's March in Washington the day after the inauguration of President Trump, I am well aware that the women of America need no advice for me. I increasingly find it inconceivable that human kind has ignored the strengths of one half of the population in seeking to solve complex world problems. Tradition, social mores' and emotional prejudices have dominated the conversation while we have ignored the unique contributions that women could make in charting undiscovered human potential. It's time for men to step back and see how we can best support women in this movement. It's time for we men to consider the past difficulties we have burdened women with in order for us to understand and and support them in the future. History is replete with arduous struggles for justice and equality. WE MEN CAN BEGIN TO HELP MOVE FORWARD by schooling ourselves in past and enduring injustices. We can begin by looking back at the great leaders like Anthony, Stanton, Friedan and Steinhem. We should also individually look at ourselves and see where we have failed to support insightful women in our own lives. Taking this advice personally, I can recognize my failure as a father and husband to stand up for daughters and a wife who endured misunderstanding and mistreatment:

• When my high school daughter was in the dentist chair and told by her dentist, "Honey, open your mouth wider", She replied, "My mother may call me honey, my father may call me honey, but you can't."
• My seventh grade daughter, in order to participate on her junior high school track team, had do undergo the ridicule of being on the boy's team since there was no girl's tea coach. She was not treated with respect by her male teammates and even her the adult coach.
• The trauma of my two daughters being subjected to Me – Too behaviors by men in power positions!
• It was hard for me to accept the fact that my 21-year-old fiancé broke our engagement in 1950. As she gave me the ring back, she stated that while she still loved me, she felt she was compelled to do so since she had never – and probably would never would if she married me soon – experience the freedom of life on her own without being responsible to a male. Never did I give thought to her difficulties as a pioneering feminist. I thought only of my trauma. But how insightful she was to "endure" this experience that she deemed necessary. I know now the full happiness that ensued because of her wisdom.

2. The idealism of young people in seeking to chart a new direction for their country.
   Young people throughout the world over the past few years have played a leadership role in seeking justice, equality and freedom from tyranny for all peoples. Certainly this was the tenor of the times in the Near East where it was so vividly displayed in Cairo Egypt. And for years, even our own country, young people have been on the forefront of improvement in civil rights For me the month following the murder of students and adults at the high school in Parkland, Florida, is a continuing part of this demand for change. Young people are tired of the hypocrisy on constant display and the pace of change over the past few years to improve conditions for those without hope our safety, especially for those whose voices have never been heard. I find it remarkable there are similarities around the world. While the similarities are uncanny, consider how dramatically different is the action of American youth. It began with young people from an affluent public school who learned their civics lessons well. Peaceful demonstrations were followed up by discussions and meetings with public officials to bring change through the American system of legislation and justice. Yet consider how dramatically different appears to be the action of American youth. It began with young people from a public school who learned there civics lessons well. Peaceful demonstrations were followed up by discussions and meetings with public officials to bring change through the American system of legislation and justice. Young people were mocked and faced ridicule and censure as they expressed their sadness and grief and deeply felt feelings. Yet they felt compelled to confront a system they perceived as being moribund.
   What an exciting way to begin a revolution.

Thus my hope for the future has been renewed. I would be remiss, however, if I left it at that. While in many ways my 92 years were never unique or exotic, I feel I have been in a position to participate in and observe a rather historical period. And I feel compelled to share insights I have gained in that time that might have value in the future.

2. The wisdom of Solons, oracles and prophets. Even printing the words seems archaic. There are probably few who know that Solon refers to the wise, elderly lawyers of Athens who were called upon to redefine the law. Do many young people know that the Oracle of Delphi refers to the elderly Greek philosopher of wisdom in 1400 BC. But most Bible oriented Americans know what an elderly prophet is. I fear that one of the weaknesses of our society today is that history – the past – has nothing to offer and there is a reluctance by young people to seek elderly wise solons, oracles or prophets.
   This previous paragraph is my attempt to be erudite in giving some advice to young people: that their much needed enthusiasm and desire for change be tempered by looking to the wisdom, achievements and errors of past generations. For proof of this. I would like to share an example from my educational experiences in the 1950s and 60s.
   James B. Conant's distinguished career ranges from the presidency of Harvard University to that of a scientist developing the atomic bomb to leadership in West Berlin during the height of the Cold War. As an educator, however, I saw him best when he was called by the Carnegie Institute to lead a reform of American education. All America was upset because the launching of Sputnik by the Russians meant that their educational system was for superior to ours. While the study brought forth many helpful suggestions for improving the American high school, we failed to heed Conant's underlying warnings “written in wrath” in the Carnegie study, Slums and Suburbs:

that ghetto schools were woefully inadequate and were the equivalent of social

dynamite and he feared that the dangerous social situation would explode.

In retrospect, one can clearly see that a younger generation at that time did not follow the wisdom of this prophet who clearly pointed to the needs of Fourth of A Nation, the title a book published at that time which clearly denoted how one fourth of our country was being neglected.

While I make no claim to being an Oracle, Solon or Prophet, I shall occasionally use my Ranting blog to share thoughts from the past which may be of help in assisting these young people in their commitment to saving lives and making life better for all

2. The strength and unity of American communities in the past.
   In his book, Bowling Alone, Robert Putnam mantains that America has lost those forces that have been the glue that unified our people into one country in the past. From Rotary clubs to churches, from a few mainstrem radio and television voices to a cacophony of discordant social media voices, we are no longer drawn together. Separation and isolation are today the norm.

I personally believe that recent political events have magnified this problem,

and it is perhaps the greatest stumbling block that must be overcome for harmony

and wholeness is to be achieved. if our . And while there are many tangents to the

problem. I believe that Robert Putnam's book American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us and Better Together:Restoring the American Community

provide insight into how unity can again be achieved. And yet I know that even though we profess to be a “God-fearing” nation, the mere mention of the word is not only anathema to my four children and nine grandchildren, but is disdain by

most of America's idealistic young people.

Religion: the word alone sounds the alarm of hypocrisy and hostility to young people. Mystical things like virgin birth, miracles, a heavenly father and an afterlife are anathema to them. Yet I am convinced that it is in this area that a better understanding of the role and function of the world's great true religions, all of which are built on the platform of love and peace will provide a world that is desperately sought by women and the youth of America. It is my belief that the hypocrisy expressed by religious leaders in maintaining traditional practices and superstitions has kept young people from finding the strength and purpose that they are desperately seeking. While I respect religious institutions for their good works, I am convinced that their tribal approach and concept of a father God who created and controlled world has shown the need for

A new Reformation is needed to remove divisiveness, political posturing and hypocrisy in order to create unity in America by making churches, mosques and synagogues places of contemplation and commitment to love and peace for all.

And as agnostic, atheistic Christian, I'd enjoy talking about the topic further.