We sat on driftwood logs that lined the beach and watched explosions in the sky. The BBQ was excellent, especially the Mexican corn and ice cold cerveza. The fireworks were almost over and I felt a wave of relief. I get all the blowing stuff up and sparklers at night thing, but the way this ‘patriotic’ ritual affects our dogs, and many other species domesticated and not, seems in step with the current about of suffering being dished our way by the mean spirited, bullying bigots calling themselves an administration. One funny (paradoxical) story from many delivered last night catches this spirit somewhat.
I am watching tiny bombs bursting in air and I start to laugh. Mike looks over and asks what is so funny. I respond with the observation that we are standing about a mile from a Navy installation that houses enough firepower, nuclear and above, that makes this show look like children at play. The image of Navy personnel watching our petty display from their stations, shaking their heads and calling us amateurs, strikes me as funny. Yes, I know, in a weird kind of way. Funny still.
It was later in the evening when I got to talk with a retired surgeon. He is also a historian and we used the theme du jour to travel back into time and consider the differences, difficulties and demands put on our fledgling army at the time, engaged in a battle for independence where we, the good guys, were out manned, out gunned, out financed and nearly out of ammo. Morale was bad.
He went on to say that George Washington’s Newburg speech to his officers was one of the pivotal points in our nation’s history. One thing led to another and I offered the current situation of the resistance, the Democrats, the good guys, needing leadership like GW. ONE GOOD SPEECH, delivered at the right time, in the right place any by the right person, can change the course of history.
Got me to thinking about bravery and courage and the characteristics those who inspire others share.
And we start a new series, Heroes. Here are three for the initial launch. Please feel free to nominate your own.
"And let me conjure you, in the name of our common Country--as you value your own sacred honor—as you respect the rights of humanity, & as you regard the Military & national character of America, to express your utmost horror & detestation of the Man who wishes, under any specious pretences, to overturn the liberties of our Country, & who wickedly attempts to open the flood Gates of Civil discord, & deluge our rising Empire in Blood." George Washington.
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