Seeing another old friend

While working at Staples I had another encounter with a friend from long ago.  Striding up and down the aisles, there was a man with a walker and lots of paraphernalia hanging from his neck lumbering along.  During the day we get lots of customers in varying states of age and disability.  He was discussing a product with a coworker and mentioned he had spent time teaching and in Germany.  To my great surprise, it was Monty Weathers, someone from my high school days.  I had read of his medical issues on a facebook post some time ago.  So his condition did not surprise me.  We had a good chat amidst finding the stuff he needed.  A good man and a good teacher of German at the high school disabled by some manner of dystrophy.   To be truthful, seeing him in such a state was disquieting to me.  But still and despite of his condition, he soldiered on.  I wish him well and improvement.

This provides another note on aging.  As I travel down this road, people will be sick.  Its a fact of life.
Some will be thru no fault of their own.  This guy's issues are from genetics.  He did nothing wrong in his lifestyle.

This leads me to the most important thought to all of us, STOP KIDDING YOURSELF AND GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR ASS!  Your health is your responsibility.  See a doctor, if you are a type 2 Diabetic, check your glucose daily and make adjustments to your diet as needed.  These numbers will tell you if you fucked up and had an ice cream sundae the night before.  There are some things we can control.  

Well now, Harry the dog is sleeping on the couch after a long walk finally calmed down.  I am ready to get cleaned up for the day and maybe walk downtown for some dinner later.

all for now
 

Fourth of July, 2017

It is with some trepidation that I write about this holiday and what it means to myself and others.  With all the turmoil that swirls around us, it is difficult to find a reason to celebrate.  For me personally, my life isn't too bad nor is if for my family.  Some are suffering waiting to be removed from their homes because of their status.  I cannot imagine the stress they must feel.  It would be my hope that veterans of all our services could be treated better and receive the care that they need.  I did not serve.  Sometimes when I think of my kids service in the US Navy,  I regret not choosing to serve my country.  My one experience aboard a ship I was moved when the crew members got awards and pins and their accomplishments were recognized.  My kid was recognized as the "go to guy" on damage control issues by the captain.

But as Americans we seem to be so divided without any room to talk or negotiate.  Neither side listens to the other.  I am not fond of the current president.  However, he will be with us for a good while.  I hope he becomes less impulsive and actually learns to listen and learn from those around him and those that came before him.  

I am happy to be an American but am embarrassed by his antics. I have never thought or said that about any president, even the ones i did not vote for. In some ways he seems to lack basic self control. There is a ill at ease feeling I wake up with every day.  

One a more personal note, we have been invited to cookout with my son.  I am lost for something to do.  I took the dog for 2 long walks (he is now nearly out of the puppy stage).  But I'm not cooking and sweating at the grill.  My role has been transferred.  He is good at it and the food he and his wife prepare is always tasty.  It must be time to let some things go.  

Broke a tooth yesterday.  It looks dreadful and will, I fear, be expensive to fix.  My vanity prevails and I will see the dentist tomorrow.

all for now