Undocumented Workers: The Silent, Transparent Social Target

I watch them scurry around the restaurant busing tables, delivering meals and seating patrons. They work, not only in restaurants, but also in many other labor-intensive businesses such as landscaping, drywall installations, painting, construction and food preparation plants. They come from Mexico, Guatemala, Panama and Nicaragua. These undocumented workers work diligently while paying local, state and even federal taxes with no hope of filing for returns. Many even pay social security payments without the possibility of ever benefiting from the investments. They come here to the United States to work and find a better life (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1810158037/info). As most of you know, these Hispanic immigrants have become the target of many slurs, social attacks and legislation. Immigration has emerged as a prominent, national political issue. The resolution has international, national and local implications. We must construct an immigration policy that resolves the issues. (http://www.stateline.org/live/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=136&languageId=1&contentId=51473)

I know much about Hispanic migrant workers: I've translated for them over the past many years. Late at night I travel to State Police Posts, the County Jail or village detention centers in order to make sure that these Spanish speaking folk understand their situation, charges that may be brought against them or circumstances they face. Generally the person in question has had a little too much to drink and made a bad choice: driving under the influence. From there, the person must hear and understand his/her rights, take a breathalyzer test, sign various documents (mostly in English) and either post bail or go to jail. I generally follow them through the entire process, making sure they hear their options along the way (in Spanish). I've gotten to know numerous Spanish speaking migrants and I must say none has posed a threat to the security of the United States of America. Most work hard, keep a low profile and send money back to her/his home. In my twenty years of advocating and translating, none of the Hispanics have carried weapons, caused harm or endangered neighbors or communities. Naturally most of my experiences have been in Southern Ohio, but I must tell you that these folk have always been polite, considerate, respectful and gracious. I have always tried to ensure that they receive fair treatment. I believe in justice for all...regardless as to status.

The police and the court system in Southern Ohio have been very fair and just with migrants arrested for DUI. Almost without exception, the police here (local or state) treat Hispanics with respect and justice. The courts (municipal and common pleas) make every effort to supply translation and clear instructions for those incarcerated or accused. My concern does not center on Southern Ohio law enforcement or the courts. My worry comes from the national temperament and federal approach to enforcement. I present here four precautions. These represent my worries and fears over an overreacting national consciousness concerning immigration. One size does NOT fit all. What may work in Arizona may not work in Ohio. Please take time to consider my thoughts...my concerns. I write this out of a heart-felt desire to see US as humane.

Precaution One: Let us not target the Hispanic immigrant as the sole cause of our faltering economy, the demise of Wall Street or the reason for unemployment in our country. Nazi Germany tried to point blame at one cultural segment of the population and few in the United States would defend their actions or the result of such evil attitudes. We must look passed the the influx of migratory humans and ask ourselves "why do they come?' and "what do they want?" With these questions we can better understand our own national soul. We have always welcomed the downtrodden right? As a nation we say, "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden  door!"  (http://libertystatepark.com/emma.htm).

Precaution Two: Let us not forget history. In our efforts to claim our territory and mark our borders, we should not forget the raw truth of history. Texas belonged to Mexico. I'm sure you know where I'm going with this! New Mexico, California and, yes, Arizona once belonged to Mexico too. The Caucasian sheriff, senator and governor live there as a result of immigration. I'm not saying they don't belong...I'm just saying we should remember (http://academic.udayton.edu/race/02rights/guadalu3.htm). Culturally I am not sure we can blame people for migrating across the Americas. People have done this for time eternal. Migration served as the way we all came to this continent. Be it land bridge, boat or border, all of us in one way or another have migrated here in some form or fashion...even if we were born here...our ancestors immigrated.

Precaution Three: Let us remember to be human. I'm tired of the anger, malice, violence and hatred spewed out as moral justice. We must determine and decide if we stand as a society of justice and dignity or a mob of social militants. Many undocumented workers serve us meals, cut our grass, clean the pool, cook our food, work in manufacturing and housekeeping. They do jobs many average Americans refuse to do. I do not argue for amnesty or deportation. I merely point out to you that we must decide if we are human and want to be humane. Philosophically and nationally we must decide where we stand and where we want to go. Do we seek to take in the masses yearning to be free? If so, let's come together as sane, civilized people and solve this problem. We cannot incarcerate people merely for seeking a better life. Surely we will not criminalize the hopes and dreams of thousands because of ignorance.

Precaution Four: Let us seek solutions. I understand politics. I understand agendas. Yet, if we do not get this self-serving, jealous, mean-spirited, hedonic set of tendencies under control in America, we will lose the very social fabric that makes us strong. We celebrate freedom, dreaming, hope and what we call the American Way (http://voices.yahoo.com/the-american-way-1621481.html). Lately I sense that Congress does not seek solutions...only private agendas. I think that people many people in the country have galvanized their thinking about cultures, people and migration. Even the federal government cannot mold a national policy that satisfies state and local governments. What a quandary. What a mess. We need a solution but we kick the can down further down the road. I like that cliche. We should confront the issues and make a plan. (http://www.forbes.com/sites/investor/2010/12/20/kicking-the-can-down-the-road/)

And so let us make a pact, you and me. Let us seek to treat all people with dignity, honor and justice. Whether at home or abroad, let us stand for the ideals of our founding fathers. We've always embraced a powerful work ethic...let's not punish people for seeking to do the same. Recently, a Mexican young man drank a little too much, drove a car down the street in a local town, got pulled over and went to jail. He spend Christmas in jail. Our local courts fined him, put him on probation and released him (this was his first offense). Within hours of his probation orders (after being set free by our local municipal judge) INS came, picked him up, took him away and flew him back to Mexico. He left a kitchen job, six very good friends and his new life (his better life) behind. The term? Deported. Gone. Disappeared. Kicked out. Rejected. Pick one and think about who we are and who we want to be. These people constitute the silent, transparent folk we have selected as our new target. I'm not sure what we're aiming at...all I know is that this does not feel like a solution. Yes he drove under the influence...but under what influence are we acting?

Losing Track of Billions...Only in America!

I must confess that I'm still smiling. I've been following this story for some time..."US loses over 9 billion dollars in chaos of war." http://edition.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/meast/01/30/iraq.audit/ The reason I'm smiling so much? I just can't believe that someone could be in charge of so much money and then lose it. I don't make big money. All of my life I've lived from week to week, month to month. Please don't think I'm complaining because I'm not. I'm just flabbergasted that so much cash could go missing without a logical explanation. I mean...I lost $20 once and grieved over it for weeks. I never found it but I did eventually find $10 in the Walmart parking lot...so I'm just ten bucks down. I'm still looking. But really? I mean really? Nine billion? Yikes!


The Drachma

 As a boy in Sunday School I learned about the parable of the lost coin (Luke 15:8-10). This woman had ten silver coins but lost one of them. She didn't grieve...she broke out into action and looked the house over. She cleaned, swept, looked and searched until she found that coin. She then called her friends in and threw a party. The coin specified by Luke was a Greek drachma, which was almost the equivalent of a Roman Denarius. It was a silver coin, and although worth by our standards less than twenty cents, it was the common wage for a day's labor. Some scholars have suggested that in this case the coin was especially valuable to the woman since it formed an ornament for her head. It was customary for Jewish women to save up ten coins and string them together for a necklace or headband. The ornament became a treasured possession worn as the sign of a married woman, very much like a wedding band is worn today. At any rate, whether as a part of her cherished jewelry or simply as something of monetary worth, the coin was of priceless value to the woman. That is evident from her diligent search. On missing the coin, she at once lit her little oil lamp and began to sweep. A lamp was necessary for the search even in daytime. In those days, most houses then were generally built without windows and with only one door. In the house there was no wood or stone flooring, only the packed earth covered with dried reeds and rushes. With a floor like this there were many places where a coin could be lodged. All of this made the search a difficult and trying experience and helps explain why the woman was overjoyed when she found the silver piece that had been lost. She wanted her headband back.

Good news! We found 6 billion of our money. Imagine...it was in the bank...er banks...all along. We shipped it over to Iraq and put it in a couple of banks over there so we could do the business of war. I'm so happy we've found the mysteriously missing money! I have this big smile on my face because we found that which was lost. I have a question though. When's the party? Oh...I forgot. We have separation of Church and State so we shouldn't follow the example of the the woman with the lost coin. I was just thinking how cool it would be to have a big, national party to celebrate the money that we found. You know, we could give everyone a couple of bucks and tell'em to have a coke or sweet tea. I mean...think about it...we could pass around some cool drinks for the Occupiers and then give something to quench the thirst of the Tea Party folk too. This party would be a unifier not a divider. We'd celebrate the discovery of the missing money. It is simple! It was in the bank all the time. No worries. We should all get headbands that read: We Got Billions Back!
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/envoy/once-feared-lost-now-accounted-iraq-inspector-says-153935856.html

Hey...wait a minute. We lost nine million? We found six million? I wonder if I should ask about the three million or just assume that it is OK to lose a little in the translation? I should have known...three million is chump change. We're not worried about that small amount. Look I have to say this...someone should really be embarrassed. Really. We have high unemployment; poverty on the rise; children going hungry and job loss every day (not to mention those crazy gasoline prices)...we could have sure used that money around here about now. Even the three billion would be a welcome asset to our struggling economy. Even Greece seems to have reached a way to have a fresh start! http://news.yahoo.com/greece-stocks-opposition-blasts-debt-deal-125444465.html We need fresh start too!

No one seems embarrassed. Everyone keeps running their mouths on the cable news and no one seems the least bit concerned that we just misplaced six to nine billion dollars. It all seems surreal to me. That's why I'm smiling...we just can't keep this up. We've got to get our country back in order. If not...we're gonna end up just like Greece...begging others to help us get out of a seemingly impossible set of circumstances. We have to be more like that woman with the drachmas...let's redeem what we've lost before it is too late!

Little Sisters of Liberty: Boy Scouts of America...And We Have One!

"In order to help promote the BSA’s 40th anniversary theme of Strengthen the Arm of Liberty, 200 small versions of the Statue of Liberty were placed in communities across the country in the early 1950’s. A recent campaign has helped restore many of these long-neglected statues."

"http://www.scoutingmagazine.org/issues/0710/d-wwas.html

Only four of these replicas of the Statue of Liberty found there way to Ohio. Scouts erected one in Cleveland, one in Toledo, another in Youngstown and one in Ironton. The one originally placed in Youngstown disappeared. Now only three exist in Ohio and Ironton has one of the three. We stand at the precipice of an historical moment. Sixty years ago this year, Boy Scouts of Southern Ohio made a stand for Liberty and left us a legacy that we must embrace. We have a responsibility to pass this torch of Freedom to a new generation of Scouts.

Between 1949 and 1952, in town after town across America, community celebrations took place as Scouts dedicated more than 200 of the now historic Little Sisters of Liberty.

Shawnee Mission North High School in Overland Park, Kan., is home to this replica of Lady Liberty.

The statues were located on capitol grounds, courthouse lawns, and main streets; in city parks, schoolyards, and libraries; and at Scout camps — all as part of Scouting’s 40th anniversary theme, Strengthen the Arm of Liberty.

Jack P. Whitaker, a Kansas City businessman and commissioner for the local Boy Scout council, originated the project after seeing a dedication of a Statue of Liberty replica made of chicken wire and concrete in Spirit Lake, Iowa. He decided that Scouts should endorse the prospect of Liberty by erecting the small replicas throughout America. Whitaker paid for the mold, promoted the project and helped Scout groups arrange fundraisers and dedication programs. The campaign enjoyed national success.

Local communities provided pedestals, which were often quite elaborate and added several feet to the overall height of the statue. Landscaping, too, sometimes graced the statues.
No official count or record was kept on the project and, as the decades wore on, many of the little Statues of Liberty suffered the effects of time. Eventually, weather and vandalism took a toll. Spikes were broken from the crown and the torch-carrying arm often was damaged. While some cities faithfully restored the statues, others simply junked them.



Little Sister  at Southwest Corner
of Lawrence County Court House
Lawrence County, Ohio

 During a recent research project conducted by one of my classes I teach at Ohio University, I snapped some photos of the various commemorative monuments located on the Lawrence County Courthouse lawn. The displays include an old jail cornerstone, a model of the pyramid type iron furnace, some battle cannon and the small replica of the Statue of Liberty. The plaque on the base references Boy Scouts of America and, being an adamant fan of Scouts, I began a second avenue of research concerning these Little Sisters. I'm glad I did! I'm astonised that we have one of only three of these replicas right here in our county seat.

After some deliberation, I felt moved to request special permission from the Lawrence County Commissioners to clean, restore and repair the Little Sister of Liberty that stands on our courthouse square. Our Boy Scouts stand ready for the challenge. We have sought donations from several of our supporters (if you'd like to help, please contact us today) and we have permission to restore the statue on November 12th, 2011 and we will rededicate the Little Sister of Liberty on November 19th, 2011. The local newspaper in Ironton has already begun to cover the progress of the project. http://www.irontontribune.com/2011/10/14/putting-the-shine-back-in-lady-liberty/

So now, at this moment and time in our history, let us once again gather as a people, as a community and as faithful Scouts to embrace our cherished liberties and freedoms. Join with us as we rededicate ourselves to the task of reaffirming our commitment to liberty, freedom and the American Way! Take the hand of the Little Sister of Liberty and walk together with us into the future with hope, promise and confidence that we, We the People will lift the Torch of Freedom from this day forward...Forever! God Bless America!

Occupy This! The Pendelem Swings Back

I've always heard that if you live long enough you'll see the pendulum of life swing back to a place you remember. The pendulum swings back and forth...but always returns. The last few days I've reflected about my hippie days. Yes...I admit it...I embraced the hippie philosophy. Let me quickly add that I lived as a hippie-wanna-be. I never took drugs...my dad would have put me in the hospital! I took baths...my mom taught me that "cleanliness is next to Godliness" and I wanted to stay close to God. I just wore long hair, big bell-bottoms and yellow tinted sunglasses. I played the drums. I know, I know...that doesn't sound like the glamorous counter-culture revolution, but that stood as the best I could do at the time. Actually, after some time, I became a Jesus Freak. That's a whole different blog story.

The recent Occupy Movement reminds me of the 60's. I'm telling my age here but I lived it so I might as well recount it. We suffered from general dissatisfaction with the establishment...The Man! (Wall Street today), we wanted out of the War (Vietnam then...Afghanistan and Iraq today). We didn't have jobs (we really didn't want them) and the Occupy folk don't but say they do. I'm not sure. They've got a blog asking for food to be shipped to New York to help them continue their Occupation. I've listened carefully to the rhetoric of the Occupy People and I hear some similar themes: down with The Man; Power to the People, and We are the world. The more things change the more they stay the same. I'm thinking of a new soap opera...As the Pendulum Swings. I'm thinking of a new moving script: Occupy This!



Occupiers

 I've truly listened to the messages coming out of the protests (man do I miss those days!). One young man said, "We're going to change history. We're not putting up with this anymore. You watch...we will change the world." I didn't see a peace sign though. I have a close friend who went to Woodstock. That was love, peace and music...with some nakedness thrown in for good measure. I think the Occupiers will get too cold to go naked...although I did see a snap shot of a woman walking down Wall Street who almost made it. Naked I mean. There's something liberating about sleeping in tents pitched on the ground, eating communal meals and going without a shower. In my hippie days (I never went naked, mind you) we called those moments an Air Shower or Air Bath. I'm sure it didn't work. I see American flags too. That's nice. I wonder why they want to bring down the government but wave American flags? Seems counter productive.

In the 60's we had a unified message. Peace, love and end the War. The Occupiers can't seem to find their place or their voice. Unions have co opted the movement, too. Multiple messages come from various factions. One boy said, "I live with my Mom so this provides me a break from my routine." I wonder what routine that would be? Probably eats Mom's cooking, sleeps in her house and plays X Box on her TV. He had a BA in English. He should look me up...I could get him a job teaching English in any one of several countries. I forgot. He's busy occupying. I don't think he really wants a job. I've said all along that I wish I had time to protest. I loved it. I remember sitting in the shade of a big tree down at the court house protesting against the Establishment. I can't do that now. I have to go to work...for The Man. He pays for my home, food and vehicle payments. So unless you want to pay me to hold signs (and some pay for sign holders) I can't make the protest. I have to pass the opportunity to wax nostalgic. And by the way...Wall Street actually belongs to the City of New York. Why not come and Occupy Ironton. We could use the infusion of  cash that would come from the many visitors and protesters. Occupy This!



Peace Baby!

 I'm anxious to watch the outcome of all of this. Some have likened this movement ti be similar to the Tea Party. Nah, I don't buy it. I think this is a retro-fit of the hippie movement of the 60's. These folk don't drive micro buses. They take the train. But I must admit that the videos, the still shots, the messages and the protests take me back to a more innocent time. The hippie movement was all about getting out of the war and bringing down the Establishment. I suppose the aims are not too far apart after all.

Occupy Wall Street claims to be a leaderless resistance movement with people of many colors, genders and various political persuasions. The one message they claim to have in common is that We Are The 99% that will no longer tolerate the greed and corruption of the 1%. We are using the revolutionary Arab Spring tactic to achieve our ends and encourage the use of nonviolence to maximize the safety of all participants. And yet, as I think about it, there's no way the crowd they had walking the Brooklyn Bridge represented 99% of the people. Come on...we're not stupid! We did the math. So let me leave you with one of my favorite expressions: Peace Baby! Where's Telly Savalas when you need him? Pass me a lollipop. I'm ready for the show.

Folknography...The Art of Giving Voice!: Shoot Out at the Walmart Corral

Folknography...The Art of Giving Voice!: Shoot Out at the Walmart Corral:  Walmart in Logan, WV  Jesus Canul traveled to Walmart after work to cash his check. He washes dishes at a local restaurant and that...

Shoot Out at the Walmart Corral



Walmart in Logan, WV

 Jesus Canul traveled to Walmart after work to cash his check. He washes dishes at a local restaurant and that's hot work. He wanted to cash his check, get a cool drink and chill. Lots of people do that. He had much on his mind. He wanted to enjoy the weekend. He wanted to spend time with friends. Logan, West Virginia may not be the hot spot for the social scene but you can stir up a fuss on the weekend if you're so inclined. Jesus waited patiently for his turn in line, stepped up to the counter and smiled as the clerk counted out his cash. Time to party! With not one care in the world, he stepped out into the evening air and the busy parking lot only to be accosted by a man with bad intentions. Jesus worked for the money but this guy wanted the cash. Just another robbery at Walmart right? Nope. Not this time. The scissors toting bandit took on the wrong guy. Jesus had connections. Never mess with a man named Jesus. He has a way of  sending a message.          

David Abbot from nearby Chapmanville had been watching for a mark. He figured Canul would be easy pickings. When Canul stepped out into the bustling parking lot, he through a headlock on Canul, shoved his scissors close to his neck and demanded his wallet. Bandits in the Walmart parking lot. Reminds me of the Wild West. Only in this case it is the Wild Walmart. Surprised and shocked, Canul complied with the robber's demands and surrendered his loot. "Too bad," he thought, "man works hard for his money and some bum shakes you down in the parking lot of a national chain. What's the world coming to?"

Abbot scurried off, thinking to himself that the pickins seemed fine in the Walmart asphalt lot. Probably the last thought the guy had. You see, that's when things changed and became more like Wyatt Earp and the Shoot Out at the OK Walmart (er...the Logan Walmart). Jesus pulled out his six shooter, drew a bead on Abbot and busted a cap. Yep. Dropped the guy right there in the parking lot in front of Ma maw Harrison, Billy Joe Riley and Ernie Crump. Wow! What's the world coming to? http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=47308


Gun Shop, Logan WV

 Jesus had a permit for that gun. Abbot didn't have a permit to carry scissors and rob people. The news went wild (It was Logan you know). WSAZ television announced, "Logan Police say Jesus Canul, 26, of Logan, was approached by David Abbott in the parking lot of the Wal-Mart at Fountain Place. Police say Abbott had a sharp object and attempted to rob Canul in front of the store. During the confrontation, Canul pulled out a gun and shot Abbott in the head. Canul is being charged with murder. He did have a legal permit to carry his gun." Well it wasn't the OK Corral...sorry...it was Fountain Place in Logan, WV. http://www.manta.com/c/mm7j7j5/fountain-place

Abbot died. Shot in the head or so they said. Jesus ended up in jail. The powers-that-be charged him with murder because "the crime was committed and then Abbot was walking away from Canul. That's when he shot him!" Yes...Abbot walked away with Canul's hard-earned salary. Jesus said, "Self defense...and my gun is registered. I've got a concealed carry permit." So now what do we do?

Well the big question about self defense in West Virginia is: Do You Feel a Threat? Canul said, "Sure I did. The guy robbed me with a sharp instrument, took my wallet...maybe he was coming back for my keys or something!" Everyone got upset. Just like back in the days of Wyatt Earp. This caused everyone to stop and think about right and wrong, justice and injustice, crime and punishment. Whew! Makes moral philosophers so weary. Check out the self defense law in West Virginia. They drafted it back in the 1800's!  http://booneexaminer.com/logan-walmart-shooter-charged-with-murder-p1945-1.htm

Friends rallied to Canul's cause. They posted bail. Someone had a video camera and captured the entire incident (stay tuned...you may see the whole scene on America's Top Guns). Candlelight vigil's were scheduled (but...Canul didn't die...Abbot did?) What's the world coming to? Cost Cutter Hair Salon...that's where Abbot died. You know that I couldn't make this up. http://www.loganbanner.com/view/full_story/15503733/article-Candlelight-vigil-for-Canul-set-for-Sept--20?instance=secondary_news_left_column

Gun owners unite! They did. They sprung Jesus (by now some people are calling him Jesse because they're just not too comfortable calling him by the "name of the Lord Jesus." Posted bail, out on home confinement and awaiting trial, Jesus quietly visited with neighbors and friends. "He's our hero," said one neighbor. "I don't mean to speak ill of the dead but David Abbot got what was coming to him. That's the way it is." Another woman who knows Jesus stated, "This is downright awful. If you can't go to Walmart in peace...what are you gonna do?" Good question. Shop with your six gun on your hip. Reckon?

Well just relax now. They dropped the charges against Jesus. He's out of jail, no leg bracelet and no impending charges. Gun owners rejoice. Abbot's family grieves. Walmart wishes this would go away and Cost Cutter Hair Salon made sure to note that Abbot was not shot in the head as earlier reported but rather in the chest. Blood stains are barely visible and hair cutting schedules are back to normal. All of this does make you wonder though..."what's the world coming to?" http://www.dailymail.com/ap/ApTopStories/201109193707

In the OK Corral incident, it was a saloon and not a salon. But there are some parallels here. It was a corral...and this was a parking lot...same thing really? There were guns and bandits and well...you get the picture. Makes you wonder though...doesn't it? I mean if we have gun play at Walmart...what's the world coming to? Maybe the Wild West...the OK Corral...gun toting citizens defending their paychecks. Wow!
http://www.statejournal.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=105963

Take It To the Limit

I've been an Eagles fan for years. For some reason, their music speaks to me. You know how it is, right? A song that you really like comes on in a public place and you start singing regardless as to what others around you think? Yeah...that's me when it comes to the Eagles. I have several songs by the Eagles that I claim as my favorites. Generally it depends on the day, my mood or what has happened to me that determines which one of the songs I claim as my favorite that day. I sing along with Hotel California (although some of the words kind of scare me). I like Seven Bridges Road too. http://eaglesband.com/tour.php  I went to see the Eagles live once...and then once again. I never go to concerts (I can't afford it, frankly). I splurged those two times. I enjoyed the music because the live concert sounded just like the recordings. The band impressed me. I like the song Take It To The Limit, too. I think that's what we need to do in our country. Each one of us now...we have to Take It To The Limit. Permit me to explain. http://www.last.fm/music/Eagles/_/Take+It+to+the+Limit

First I think we need to hit the highway. Go visit friends...better yet, go be with family. Our lives seem to be caught up in this frenzy of materialism and it takes a tragedy, serious illness or a brush with death for us to realize how important our relationships should be to each of us. So, count out your pennies, buy the gasoline and head out on the highway to the home place just as soon as possible. Put me on a highway so I can  visit my Mother, my sons and daughters, my friends and those I care about. We depend much on the Social Media today but there's no substitute for sitting on the front porch, sipping a light beverage and chatting it up over not much at all. Let's take our relationships to the limit. Let this be your sign!

Next, let's spend as much time as possible spreading the love. There's plenty of mean people in the world. We need a few more smiling, laughing, happy people. I know that you get frustrated, angry, blue and sometimes flat out depressed. We have to raise up inside ourselves and make happy. I love that movie Happy Feet. Did you see that? I wish I could dance like that. I love those Hispanic characters too. If you don't know what I'm talking about you have got to watch that one. We need some happy feet, sweet smiles, whistling workers, singing young people and let the good times roll. Let's spend our time spreading the love!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEx06KKwm1E

The time has come for you to claim your own Freedom. We can't depend on anyone else to set us free. As Americans, we have to claim the Freedom that the Constitution guarantees each one of us. We must start holding politicians accountable for their promises. We must demand truth from our pulpits, our religious leaders, our community governments and our Republic. I am deeply interested in the welfare of our country but I'm sick of the name calling, the empty promises and the lack of leadership. Today, I take my stand. I want my Freedom. I'm taking this purpose to the limit. I will not let someone else manipulate me, coerce me or shove me around. Join with me and let's take our Freedom to the limit!

Now take a trip down Seven Bridges Road and Take It To The Limit! http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=11799

Flattened Expectations

Charles Dickens wrote a literary classic entitled Great Expectations. The main character in the book, a youth named Pip, struggles through the challenges of life with the hope of becoming something. In the end, Pip realizes his expectations and even exceeds them. Pip becomes a gentlemen when the word really meant something. Though the work remains very English in context and language, the hope and determination resemble American heart and attitude. We Americans have traditionally been very positive about life, the future and our possibilities. The problem? Something has changed in our culture. I cringe as I write this contribution to my blog. Americans' expectations appear to have been violently flattened. Who smashed our dreams? What happened?   http://www.dickens-literature.com/Great_Expectations/index.html

In April of 2005, Tom Friedman published a book entitled The World is Flat that gained international attention. The concepts in the work detail how the information age along with the virtual explosion granted access to information to people all over the globe. The accessible information leveled the playing field and people in obscurity could raise to prominence simply through the click of a mouse. The convergence of technology and events allowed India, China, and so many other countries to become part of the global supply chain for services and manufacturing, creating an explosion of wealth in the middle classes of the world's two biggest nations, giving them a huge new stake in the success of globalization. This flattening of the globe requires Americans to run faster in order to stay in place. The world appears too small and much too fast for human beings and their political systems to adjust in a stable manner. http://www.thomaslfriedman.com/bookshelf/the-world-is-flat

Friedman did not predict, however, that Americans would lose all confidence in their congress. The poor approval ratings for congressional action recently hit new lows. http://www.pollingreport.com/CongJob.htm  We all seem so frustrated and shaken by the lack of leadership, action, civil dialogue and cooperation. We teach our children not to fight or bully others at school while our representatives rage at each other on the congressional floor. What has happened to our political system? The talking heads and commentators proclaim that "Washington is broken." Cliches like this seldom work. The city of Washington is not broken. The Beltway does not control your heart. American dreams have evaporated in the smoke of 9/11, the winds of Katrina and the fierce flames of the Texas wildfires. We need a hero but we just get more disappointment. Where's Batman? Someone fed Kryptonite to Superman. We're not waiting on Superman; we know he's not coming.

In January of 2008, the then newly inaugurated president Barak Obama enjoyed a strong approval rating when elected. Pundits predicted that he held strong political collateral and a high degree of popular power. Many Americans held their breath as he took office expecting a new age of cooperation, participation and change. Now his approval rating ranks at a new low. His message of hope and changes seems to have slipped into shadows of the cold rains of  hurricanes. Someone smashed the dreams. Instead of hope and change, we see unemployment and a broken economy. Who would have expected this?   http://www.9news.com/rss/story.aspx?storyid=217702 

Our economy, productivity and employment remain flat. We're suffering. We don't seem to dream anymore. The Grinch has stolen Christmas. We can't even call it that anymore. We have to call it a holiday or something like that. Frankly, I long for the day when neighbors loved their neighbors. I yearn for someone to enter the room whistling. I want to spend more time with my friends laughing and sharing. I don't want to think about the flat-lined stock market. So many around me have flat expectations. The time has come for all of us...you know...Americans...to stop feeling so dull and flat and take up the cause of our Liberty. http://www.enotes.com/topic/Positive_liberty

This emerges as our moment. We must cast off the doubt, fear, anguish and anger and take up once again the determined spirit of Americanism. http://education.yahoo.com/reference/dictionary/entry/Americanism  We have nothing to fear but a flat spirit, bad attitude and broken expectations. I believe in the ingenuity, strength and potential of Americans. I believe in you. Together we can restore, rebuild and recover. We don't need a stimulus...we need each other. Let us vow to rekindle our loyalty, commitment and joy. Let us commit to be America.

Front Porch Politics

I pick my way through the children's toys strewn across the drive way as I approach the front porch. Roger waves at me as I get closer. He recognizes me. He generally spends the last hour of daylight perched on his front porch chatting with friends and visitors who drop by. Everyone knows that he serves as the region's front porch political pundit. He doesn't write a blog. No one sponsors his evening presentations. I believe, however, that his take on politics deserves just as much attention as those who host those talk shows on Sunday mornings.I take a seat on a bench next to Floyd. The audience numbering six now listens intently as Roger pauses to let his newest participant settle in. Floyd dutifully hands me a paper cup filled with lemonade. I sip the watery refreshment and engage with attention.

"So these politicians in Washington say 'This is what our founders intended. They didn't hand us a perfect process.' I say, 'Hogwash!'" Everyone laughs. Roger's revving up the engines for a powerful take off. "Our founding fathers never figured on career politicians. We're supposed to pick out the best and the brightest and send them to Washington to represent our concerns. They come home and then we send up a new batch. That feeds the system with new personalities, new ideas and dreams. They never figured on personalities living inside the Beltway in order to gain political clout, financial empires or immoral lifestyles. The very people we send to Washington have corrupted the system. They know and we know it. This latest argument stands as more evidence of the fact that Washington has ruined the American Way."

We all sit quietly nodding in consent. Floyd moves nervously on his portion of the bench. Scoot, the old Blue Tick coon dog moves to the ground off of the porch, probably seeking a cooler spot. Wade looks out across the evening shadows that grace the hay field. We know Roger is collecting strength and thoughts for the next installment. We don't have long to wait.

"This fight about the debt ceiling is another illustration of government gone wrong. I don't have a credit card any more. One year Mommy talked me into getting one for Christmas. She said we could buy the gifts for Christmas and then pay'em off with the tobacco money in February. Lord that was a mistake! My personal money suffered just like the government's suffers now. I didn't have enough tobacco money 'cause I had to get a new transmission for the truck. You can't spend what you don't have. Seems to me that we ought to cut back, tighten the belt and stop hand'in out money to everyone for everything. The simple truth is that you gotta have some pain before you gain. Saving is never easy but always the best way to go. They have to stop spending money we don't have!"

Wade speaks up, "Yeah, but, what can we do out here in Southern Ohio? No one listens to us. We don't even get a say in our own State politics, let alone in the big game." Everyone laughs again. We agree with Wade. Listening to all of the wrangling over debt, political parties and such; all seems a bit futile.

"Exactly my point," responds Roger. "You see...we gotta have revolution." You can hear sucking breath and low tone whistles. "Now don't get itchy," Roger continues, "I mean a political revolution. We can't keep this up. Vote'em out. I mean it. Just clean the slate and send a new batch up there. Eventually they'll get the idea that they can't mess with little girls or little boys (someone howls in the back of the porch and I know it's not Scoot!) They shouldn't get dependent on that job as a career. They need to understand that they got up there to represent us!" Low murmurs roll through the front porch and Scoot raises his head to identify the commotion. A slight breeze moves across the porch from the west. We find great wisdom in our local political prophet.

"There's a new wind blowing in our country," announces Roger. "It's not the same wind that Ted Kennedy smelled before he died. The folk are raising up. The elite don't like it. The big shots hate it. But we out number'em you see. All you have to do is go down there in November and bust'em down. Turn'em out. We need change but the kind of change we need involves turning out these people who think they can run our entire country into the ground through uncontrolled debt. We have to stop spending money we don't have!"

I walk off into the darkness. Roger usually ends his political pontifications with the phrase, "Liz, we'd better go to bed so these folks can go home." His wife makes the lemonade so he feels like he must include her in the final announcements. We comply and say goodbyes. I wonder to myself, "How did we get in such a state? What can we do to change our situation?" Maybe Roger is right. We should vote'em all out and start again. One thing for sure: Washington could learn a lot from the front porch political pundit named Roger. Maybe we could start a television show called Roger's Wisdom. I'm not holding my breath.

A Pilgrimage to Sacred Ground

I've been there before. Each time I visit DC, however, I realize how very special this country really rates compared to all others. Please don't judge me a flaming nationalist. I'm a patriot. I admire the ideals of the founders of this great country. As I begin this journey back into the birthplace of the nation, I realize that this truly will be an American Heritage Tour. In this journey I will lead numerous Boy Scouts to the center of American policy and legislation. The journey begins.

We're going to Valley Forge. Here George Washington encamped with his struggling Revolutionary Army seeking to break the bonds of British rule. Even though General Washington did not fight at Valley Forge, he certainly fought a great battle. The army was naked, cold, hungry and discouraged. "Naked and starving as they are we cannot enough admire the incomparable patience and fidelity of the soldiery." (General George Washington at Valley Forge, February 16, 1778). Many of the men had no boots, no clothes to speak of and no hope of victory. They felt defeated. Washington had to dig deep into his soul and speak out to the men to lift their spirits, their dreams and their prospects. This seems to be the real test of a leader. Can the leader call out of

 the followers a passion for the vision presented before them. Washington delivered a powerful narrative, example and promise. The men rose up to accept the challenge. I am grateful. No battle was fought at Valley Forge, but from December 19, 1777 to June 19, 1778, Washington struggled against the elements and low morale in order to overcome all on this sacred ground. I smile to think that we are traveling to Sacred Ground.

After this visit, we will head on over to Fort McHenry. This place is a famous point of interest best known for its role in the Battle of Baltimore. Fort McHenry successfully staved off the British invasion of the fort by 1,000 Americans that inspired Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and amateur poet, to compose the Star Spangled Banner, originally entitled Defense of Fort McHenry. The fortress was named for James McHenry, a politician who secured most of the funds for the project. The British forces bombarded Fort McHenry for 25 hours and eventually gave up when they could not destroy the walls of the fort or the will of the soldiers defending the harbor. The defenders of the Fort ordered a special flag for the occasion. This new American Flag, a large garrison flag, was designed "to be so large that the British would have no trouble seeing it from the decks of their gunships." (George Armistead, Garrison Commander). This fort gave birth to the Stars and Strips and the National Anthem. Surely this place is Sacred Ground. It is fitting and special than the Boy Scouts will raise the flag here at this Sacred Place.

We're very anxious to visit the Pentagon in the morning and then the US Capital in the afternoon. We will meet with Congressman Bill Johnson and also Senator Sherrod Brown. The Boy Scouts will achieve many elements of the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge. I cannot imagine a more exciting or fulfilling way to work on this advancement. We are grateful these leaders will take the time to speak to the boys. We have deep respect for our military personnel who sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy. We do not take the service for granted.

Like I wrote in a previous blog, the highlight will come near the end of our experience when the Boy Scouts will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. We loaded up the wreath tonight on the bus. The wreath has patriotic colors, the names of the Troop Patrols (Chiefs, Wolf, Fox and Bobcat) and significant totems from our Native American friends. We thank Weber Florists for making this special ornament to rest at the Sacred Ground of the Arlington National Cemetery. I speak the truth we I say that these young man will lay this solemn symbol on behalf of all Boy Scouts, all people from Lawrence County, Ohio and really, on behalf of all freedom loving people everywhere.

As we leave on this historic journey I realize that all week we will be walking Sacred Ground. We will keep you posted!

The Boy Scouts and the Tomb of the Unknowns

Changing of the Guard
Tomb of the Unknowns

Probably few other moments in my life have been as moving as the times I have  watched the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery. I've witnessed this event numerous times and each time I'm moved to tears. Sure...I'll admit it...I'm an emotional guy. Yet, this event calls out much more than just an emotional response from me. I sense the deep, symbolic meaning of the well-orchestrated change. The changing of the guard gives new meaning to the old cliche, Spit and Polish. I've never seen anything else like it. The movement, the military choreography, the serious stares and the marble white tombs bring the observer into a somber recognition of the sacrifice so many have made for our Republic. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=et1ik5O-REs&feature=player_embedded)

All of this comes to mind because I am preparing to lead my Boy Scout Troop to Washington DC where these fine young men will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. I grew up in Indiana....basically out in a corn field near a bean field near a creek just down from the 100 Acre Woods. I didn't know Winnie the Pooh in those days but I sure ran with wild animals all the days of my youth. I always wanted to be a Boy Scout but...sadly...no adult would take the time or pay the price. Yes, yes I know the old joke...being a Scout Leader only takes one hour a week...right. If you become a Scout Leader you'll gag on that phrase. I'm happy to spend the time and take these boys to our Capital. We have many plans.



Washington's Headquarters
Valley Forge Encampment

 The Boy Scouts from the Troop will raise the flag at Valley Forge National Park. That moment alone would be worth the entire journey, right? I mean...George Washington camping at Valley Forge during our revolution trying to talk the guys into staying around to get shot up by the expert marksmen of the British and...oh yeow..."no boots fellas and no food either. Fight for it!" When we get there at Valley Forge and those boys raise that flag I'm gonna break out in song, "This is MY country, land of the FREE." Wow. What a price so many have paid for me to have the privilege just to write this blog without fear of retribution (at least I've not heard anything from the NSA, CIA, FBI or the Internal Review Board at Ohio University).



Scouts Lay Wreath at Tomb
1937

 Ah, but the thrill will come when we arrive in Arlington for those singularly unique moments. Only a few Boy Scouts in the history of the movement (see link at the end of the blog entry) have ever had the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Our boys have been selected. I'm so proud of them. I'm thankful for the many community members who have contributed to make this possible. But I am most thankful that I live in the United States of America where I can teach young men to do a "good turn daily" instead of shouldering a backpack in order to blow themselves and someone else up into bits and pieces. I make heavy demands on my Boy Scouts, but I ask them to learn leadership skills, ethics, woods skills and life values. I can't wait to compare the photo of our Troop as they lay the wreath at the foot of the Tomb with the one featured here. This photo was taken in 1937...the same year of the great flood in our home town here in Ohio. My how things have changed. I'm glad some things never change!

Today, our Boy Scout Troop have berets, sport white ceremony gloves and wear long pants. We keep the traditions, however, because our male adult leaders all wear the campaign hats just like Baden Powell. (http://pinetreeweb.com/B-P.htm) Now THAT is Scouting! I'd love for the Boys to wear the old-fashioned campaign hats but they cost too much! We'll stick with the berets...even though the Army has once again abandoned them (except for parade dress). I'm smiling as I think about those boys walking that wreath up to that Tomb and placing it ever so gently down in memory of honor, sacrifice, courage and true patriotism. Goosebumps!

I should tell you about our wreath the boys will place at the Tomb. Weber's Florist has been a successful business here in our community for many years. They're designing this special wreath we will transport to Arlington. The artistic floral arrangement features the name of the Troop and the names of the four patrols of our Troop on ribbons. The entire piece appears to be a beautiful dream catcher made in the tradition and honor of Native Americans. I will certainly post a photo of this unique creation in the days to come.

In the truest sense, Boy Scout Troop 106 will soon make history. Young men from Southern Ohio will travel many miles to join and participate in a ceremony that has not changed since the inception: The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns. I will weep as I watch them. I just can't help it. Imagine the stories these young men will have for their Scouts, their children, their families. This is the stuff dreams are made of. This is the stuff Republics are made of. This IS Scouting!

http://www.erbzine.com/mag17/1795.html

Old Iron Town

Downtown Ironton on a sultry day makes me long for scenes of yesterday. Spain...Madrid...now there's a place. I yearn to see the Madonna's face. Or take me now to Aztec borrows; let me see their irrigation furrows. Oh the sights I've enjoyed! Oh the folks I've annoyed! Take me now to oceans sweet. I need to see the wave's repeat. Heat and dust bring me 'round. Truth takes hold...I'm in Ironton...old iron town.

The Philosophy of the Log Cabin: A Vanishing American Icon

Few people understand the significance of the American Log Cabin. Their appearance on the American Frontier signaled a change in cultural identity and reality. Over the centuries, woodsmen in Europe had razed the forests of the continent. Stone became the preferred material for construction of homes, social establishments and places of worship. As Europeans migrated to the newly discovered New World, the deep, dark forests frightened the visitors but also provided bountiful resources for food and building materials. Numerous narratives exist recounting huge timber in three-canopy forests. The innovative settlers created furniture, fences, water wheels, tools and vehicles out of the ready supply of hard woods, soft woods and other woody plants. By far, however, the most imaginative, romantic and fundamentally basic creation spawned by the newcomers would be the American Log Cabin



Many Woodland Tribes
Used the Long House

 Some insist that Native Americans did not build log cabins. Naturally, such a claim is ridiculous. Native Americans used all resources around them. They constructed the long houses from logs. Several tribes had communal buildings fashioned from logs. In order to be more mobile, they used skin, furs, bark and more temporary material but many of the Eastern Woodland tribes became sophisticated builders with log.

The log cabin we romanticize, however, came straight from the European immigrants making their way into what they called the New World. "Log cabins were used widely in Europe, especially in Germany, Switzerland, and the Scandinavian countries. Swedish settlers built log cabins when they came to Delaware in 1638. Other colonists followed their example. When great numbers of settlers began to move westward after the Revolution, they found thick forests in Tennessee, Kentucky, and the Northwest Territory, and the log cabin became the typical home of the backwoodsman."
(http://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/history-of-the-log-cabin.htm)


The log cabin provided deep, rich symbolism for the ruggedness of the pioneers. The sturdy structures stood firm in the face of wind, heavy snows, torrential rain and even attack. The thick log walls repelled or absorbed musket balls, punk'in balls, arrows or other missiles. Once the log walls warmed, the cabin became a naturally insulated living box. The pioneer family took on the stoic ruggedness of their living quarters. They cooked meals, received visitors, slept and made memories in the small, sparse living quarters.


The log cabin provides flavor for the period. The sweet fragrance of the wood mingled with the candle light scent makes the cabin an alluring, spiritual place. Every nook, corner and crack became special to the owner for holding secrets, papers, valuables and script (an old type of money). To employ a cliche...oh if those walls could talk. The landscape of the frontier held numerous examples of these sacred constructs...the log cabin became the spice of the early settlers, settlements and frontier villages. The structures became center focus of stories, songs, ballads, poems and cultural ritual.

The log cabin has been a symbol of humble origins in American politics since the early 19th century. Seven United States Presidents were born in log cabins, including Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson, and James Buchanan. Although William Henry Harrison was not one of them, he and the Whigs during the 1840 presidential election were the first to use a log cabin as a symbol to show Americans that he was a man of the people. Other candidates followed Harrison’s example, making the idea of a log cabin—and, more generally, a non-wealthy background—a recurring theme in campaign biographies. Even a pancake syrup company adopted the log cabin as the logo and name for the sugary addition to the morning cakes.
(http://www.junoconstructioninc.com/?page_id=5)

Today, various styles and models of log cabins provide sentimental and nostalgic expressions that far outweigh the architectural symbolism of many other American structures. Log cabins speak of America. Glass, steel, composite materials and other synthetics offer contemporary design while the log cabin calls us back to another place and time. We relish the idea of thick wood smells, smokey morning cuisine and banjo, fiddle and guitar blended together into a frontier cultural omelet. We would love to go back, even if just for a few hours. The serene quiet of new-fallen snow in the woods, the cool breath of winter at the window, and a sumptuous rug in front of a roaring fire in the American log cabin. There’s something about a tiny, cozy little cabin in the woods, hewn from the surrounding natural resources that just makes us want to snuggle down and hibernate. We want the peace, solitude and serenity of the log cabin experience.
(http://www.loveromancepassion.com/the-romance-of-log-cabins/)

I built a log cabin. The structure has a loft. The fireplace, stairs, floors and roof all come from the woods around me. When people get mean and angry, when friends let me down, when work becomes more hurtful than happiness, I retreat to my log place of spiritual renewal. In my log cabin, I meet God. I see every notch, ax stroke, peg or special place in a log. Cherry, poplar and even locust make up the walls of my retreat. No harm comes to me here. I lay back to the crack of small fires on cool evenings. I laugh with the brook that runs close by my big wooden box.I am at home in this log cabin. This cabin is my castle. From here I can dream, slay dragons, keep my treasures and plan my defense. The cabin serves as my Holy Grail. I am sorry the log cabin continues to disappear from the landscape. I think we'd have more artists, more poets, more accomplished writers and even more successful presidents if we had more log cabins. The light reflects softly off the log walls. The flickering light speaks to me. "If we had more log cabins, we'd have more people who respect the past, feel safe in the day and have faith in what we can do in the future. That's what I call my log cabin philosophy.

The Power of the Pledge of Allegiance

I came across the story of NBC cutting the phrase "One Nation Under God" out of the Pledge of Allegiance recently. The media conglomerate apologized later. (http://articles.nydailynews.com/2011-06-20/news/29704394_1_pledge-allegiance-twitter-nbc-sports) I sit quietly with my coffee and ponder this. You know what my friends, the folk, ask? They ask, "What's the world coming to?" I ask that too. What is going on here? Have we lost our moral compass? Have we forsaken our roots? How can any editor just slip and trim a part of the Pledge by accident? You know...the Pledge of Allegiance is not hard to remember.

"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, One Nation Under God, Indivisible with Liberty and Justice for All."
(http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xff70e_the-pledge-of-allegiance_music)

See...that's not so hard is it? I mean really...what's going on here? Where will this all end? Let me tell you why I believe that the Pledge of Allegiance is so important for ALL Americans.

A Pledge of Loyalty--I get the impression from the way some politicians, celebrities and comedians act or speak Loyalty has become taboo in our country. The Pledge reminds all of us that we have a commitment of faithfulness as citizens of this great nation. I have traveled extensively and have enjoyed visiting other countries. I relish traveling, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures and learning about other localities. Yet, this much I know and will attest: the United States of America offers more freedoms, opportunities and possibilities than any other country I've experienced. Don't apologize for being Loyal to the ideals of this great Nation. Be proud of your Loyalty. I am loyal to the United States because this country has been very, very good to me. (http://www.scoutsongs.com/lyrics/godblessamerica.html)

Allegiance to the Flag--I know that people burn the flag out of protest. I also know that the Supreme Court ruled that such an act of protest was a protected American right. (http://www.pbs.org/jefferson/enlight/flag.htm)

I had a friend who fought in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Upon his return from active duty, he spoke with me many times about his view of America having been out of the country so long (he was in active combat for over nine years). He drank coffee with me one evening and I saw him cry for the first time in our long friendship. He told me that he fought and nearly died so that "Americans could go to school, get married, go to movies or even burn a flag. I don't think they should burn my country's flag, but I'd die for the right that allows them to do so." I sat quietly realizing that he was more man than I'd ever be. He fought for Freedom. The Flag stands for more than just the voting process or the politicians who make laws...the Flag stands for all that we are and all that we ever hope to be. The Flag stands for Freedom.

Commitment to the Republic--With all the political rhetoric about Democracy, sometimes we forget that we live in a Republic. What is the difference you ask? Representation. In a pure democracy, every person has one vote. We don't do that in the United States. We elect people to come together to consider the greater good and pass laws or created legislation that will promote fairness, equity, prosperity and dignity for all. (http://www.lexrex.com/enlightened/AmericanIdeal/aspects/demrep.html) A Republic guards the rights and citizenship of all people in the Nation not just the majority of people. Yes, yes I know that sometimes we don't get it right but we strive to get it right. The mere fact that the United States seeks to treat all people fairly, equally and justly means so much, especially in light of the turmoil and anguish so many others face in places around the globe. We are committed to fairness and dignity in politics. We keep trying.

One Nation Under God--Abraham Lincoln got it. He understood what was at stake. He could not allow himself to envision a nation divided. He could only imagine a Nation United. Despite the smoke, storm and fog of war, he guided this Nation back to being One Nation. I'm amazed at his genius, foresight and insight. The drafters of the Constitution crated One Nation Under God. When you say the Pledge of Allegiance you join the voices of millions of others committing to a way of life, a framework of laws and a living Constitution. The coins and currency underscore the principle: We are One Nation Under One God. Notice there is no comma in the phrase in the Pledge. This commitment goes far beyond any religion. This is not State religion in action, rather this reaches heights few other leaders of states can even grasp. This is a Nation of destiny, direction and decision. We are a people who believe in values, ethics and principle based on the Eternal Goodness of God. Don't be afraid to say that line without pause or hesitation. When you say the Pledge, say that phrase firmly, loudly: "One Nation Under God!"

Pledge of Liberty--I've seen the Liberty Bell. As a child I sang a song about Davey Crockett patching up the crack in the Liberty Bell. (http://educationalsynthesis.org/famamer/DCrockett.html) Silly as that may seem (and as drunk as he may have been) that very act makes sense to me symbolically, poetically and politically. Liberty is fragile. Sometimes people of leadership, position or power lose sense of what makes this country so great: Liberty! Davey Crockett captured the Spirit of American determination by seeking to reinforce or repair the icon of Liberty. I embrace the Liberty in this Nation. I am proud we are a nation of Liberty. (http://hubpages.com/hub/Understanding-Liberty) Lady Liberty stands in the Harbor of New York beckoning to the world:



The Lady of Liberty
and
Flag of Freedom

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

Emma Lazarus, 1883

A Prayer for Justice--I know some atheists may have trouble with the Pledge of Allegiance. I understand that non-believers wince at the idea of social prayer. But this phrase Justice for All certainly reaches the level of a prayer for social equity and fairness. If God exists as the Universal Being then praying for Justice for all people seems a fitting ritual to attend. (http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html)
Justice means rightfulness, right dealings or just treatment. Justice leads to harmony and happiness. We cannot be content if we are abused, cheated or marginalized. Sub cultures, minorities and ethnic groups have been mistreated in America but I say again, "We keep seeking to get it right." This Republic, even after so many years, is still a work in process. We continue to walk the path of Freedom and explore the garden of Justice. Let us promote justice for all citizens of the One Nation.

I sip my coffee and ponder the reason someone would even dare to cut One Nation Under God from the Pledge of Allegiance. This loyal oath represents our culture, ideals, freedom, liberty and justice. We dare not make even one slip in reciting it. Let us join hands, face the Flag and practice this Pledge together. Let's say it over and over until we get it write. I'm glad that NBC apologized. I'm sad the editors and directors let such a catastrophe happen in the first place. Let us rise up together and guard our Liberty, Freedom and Nation. We all belong to this ONE NATION UNDER GOD. Let's keep it that way! I hope you'll join me!