MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
The Gettin place
I love reading, and I dabble at writing. I recently spent some time re-reading a couple of books from one o f my favorite Authors, Cormac McCarthy. Reading is sort of a reach; I should say that I had them read to me. This was via book on tapes on my commute to and from work. I’m not really cheating in this; I have truly read both of these books, along with most of the other books McCarthy has written. When I find an author I like, I sort of stick with him. Audio books can be a delight, depending on the book and the reader. There are certain readers that can make a story come alive. I love these two books, and the vocal talents were top notch.
The two stories I am talking about here are ‘All the Pretty Horses’, and ‘No Country for Old Men’. Both novels are set along the West Texas border of the Rio Grande, and involve journeys across the border into Old Mexico. ‘No Country for Old Men’ starts off in Terrel County, ends in El Paso. The border crossing occurs very briefly at Piedra Negras in this story. ‘All the Pretty Horses’ starts off in San Angelo Texas, and travels down to Cuatro Ciénegas in Coahuila Mexico. Looking at a map, it would appear that this border crossing could have been in the same general vicinity as in ‘No Country for Old Men’. Yet, in ‘All the Pretty Horses’ the border crossing is quite important to the story itself. In fact, ‘All the Pretty Horses’ is the first book in McCarthy’s border trilogy.
There are many similarities like this between the two stories. Almost to the point where I start to wonder, could the author have a lazy streak? Did he come across some vivid imagery and prose that he felt was so good that they had to be reused?
There are many examples of this in the two books. One very simple one is a simple one line phrase. In ‘No Country for Old Men’, as Llewelyn Moss returns home from hunting carrying a nickel plated handgun, his young wife asks him where he got the gun. ‘The gettin place’, he answers. This exact line is used in ‘All the Pretty Horses’. It is a good line, and it works in the West Texas syntax applied to both books.
Another example is that both stories use the imagery of a coin flip to describe aspects of fate important to the story line. In ‘All the Pretty Horses’, the image is used to describe how fate is sealed when the die of the coin is cast, and all coin flips that happen after that moment are sealed in fate. In ‘No Country for Old Men’, the evil protagonist Anton Chigurh allows two of his potential murder victims a coin flip to decide their fate.
So, laziness, or obsession with images? I’m not sure, really. My primary reason is that I truly enjoy McCarthy’s stories and his writing style. I also think it’s possible that by using these common themes and images, he may be tying his stories together.
Both stories have vivid images of Comanche’s out of the history of West Texas. In ‘No Country for Old Men’, the narrator remarks on Llewelyn Moss, the hero/villain of the story coming across petroglyphs from some similar ancient hunters of the past. In this story, Llewelyn Moss begins the story as the hunter and quickly becomes the hunted.
In ‘All The Pretty Horses’, John Grady Cole, the hero, while riding the trails on the historic family ranch about to be sold, follows a trail once used by Comanche’s travelling up from Mexico at a time when the Comanche owned the West Texas llano. In a way, John Grady Cole rides these same trails throughout the book as he searches for a life no longer possible.
So to me, rather than attributing these reused images and phrases to laziness or obsession, I think perhaps the author might be tying together these stories in a historic perspective. The violence that occurred in the setting of ‘All the Pretty Horses’, set in 1949, to the border violence and drug wars of ‘No Country for Old Men’, set in 1980…has occurred many times before in this same barren, desolate, yet beautiful border land. And perhaps, it will happen again….witness McCormack’s newer book, ‘The Road’.
As for me, I just enjoy a good story.
Cheers
nca
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Thanksgiving
Recently, I read some websites about the very first Thanksgiving. I admit, I am not an expert on that subject in any way. I did find various facts pretty interesting. They mention that there were 53 surviving Pilgrims, along with some 90 Indians, and the feast went on for about three days. Ooh...my tummy gets bloated after three hours at the dinner table.
I was thinking about the Indians. They were Wampanoag living in their native New England lands. The arrival of the Europeans on those native lands had left entire villages decimated with European diseases of which the Wampanoag and other indigenous tribes had no immunity. The Wampanoag
formed alliances with the English settlers in a alliance against other Indian tribes like the Narragansett.
The Pilgrims were English settlers who had migrated to Holland. The King of England had granted them papers to settle in Virginia, but they had landed and settled in New England instead. The alliance with the Wampanoag during these crucial settlement years helped the Pilgrims to gain a foothold in the new world. Later, after the leaders of the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag had passed on, the next generations found that European values and native values were a tough mix. Eventually war broke out between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag. The Wampanoag were destroyed in these wars, although there are still descendants of this tribe living in New England today.
To this day the North American continent stands like a beacon to peoples of the world. They see the natural riches of our country. They see our freedoms and our democracy. They see opportunities to lift their families out of poverty and into respectability. They saw those things back then, as undocumented Pilgrims. And they see those opportunities now, as illegal aliens or whatever other term we choose to use for them.
I know that I have so much to be thankful for, at this time of year I do think about all that. I'm grateful for family, blessings, food on my table, and a roof over my head. I'm thankful for this great country that I live in, and the foresight of our founders for hammering out the charter for our freedoms. I'm grateful for the soldiers who have fought for our freedoms over the years, and for those soldiers fighting for us today. I know that I have a lot to be thankful for, and I guess I just don't hold a lot of rancor for those that want the same blessings and freedoms as those I enjoy.
For Another Viewpoint on this same topic, click here.
I was thinking about the Indians. They were Wampanoag living in their native New England lands. The arrival of the Europeans on those native lands had left entire villages decimated with European diseases of which the Wampanoag and other indigenous tribes had no immunity. The Wampanoag
formed alliances with the English settlers in a alliance against other Indian tribes like the Narragansett.
The Pilgrims were English settlers who had migrated to Holland. The King of England had granted them papers to settle in Virginia, but they had landed and settled in New England instead. The alliance with the Wampanoag during these crucial settlement years helped the Pilgrims to gain a foothold in the new world. Later, after the leaders of the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag had passed on, the next generations found that European values and native values were a tough mix. Eventually war broke out between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag. The Wampanoag were destroyed in these wars, although there are still descendants of this tribe living in New England today.
To this day the North American continent stands like a beacon to peoples of the world. They see the natural riches of our country. They see our freedoms and our democracy. They see opportunities to lift their families out of poverty and into respectability. They saw those things back then, as undocumented Pilgrims. And they see those opportunities now, as illegal aliens or whatever other term we choose to use for them.
I know that I have so much to be thankful for, at this time of year I do think about all that. I'm grateful for family, blessings, food on my table, and a roof over my head. I'm thankful for this great country that I live in, and the foresight of our founders for hammering out the charter for our freedoms. I'm grateful for the soldiers who have fought for our freedoms over the years, and for those soldiers fighting for us today. I know that I have a lot to be thankful for, and I guess I just don't hold a lot of rancor for those that want the same blessings and freedoms as those I enjoy.
For Another Viewpoint on this same topic, click here.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Swiss Army Knives
It must be a boys rite of passage to be fascinated by pocket knives. I had many of the standard issue ones as a boy. The Boy Scout special, a cool little Bartlett, several Buck knives too. Probably the most fascinating was the Swiss Army Knife (SAK). I'd have to admit I had a extreme fascination with the Cork Screw, the Scissors, and the Spoon blades on the SAK. It was amazing to me that one knife would even have a tooth pick. I could spend hours playing around with all the different blades. Seeing if the saw blade could take down a tree, or if the Phillips head blade could poke extra eyeholes in my leather clodhoppers.
Now, I'm not quite sure how much credence I would put in a knife used by the 'Swiss Army'. I can't remember any major European Theatre battles they kicked butt in. Aren't they the guys that wear the funny suits and protect the Vatican? Yeah, not exactly scary. I can't exactly envision Bernardo whipping out the fish scale blade to defend himself against the Rockets in West Side Story. Yes, if I had some serious knife business, I'd probably lean toward the SOG Seal Knife used by the US Navy Seals. I don't believe I had that in my arsenal as a kid though. A switch blade or stiletto might come in handy I suppose, if the blade needs to make a real quick appearance. I did have one of those for a day or two until Mom found out and disarmed me.
Exactly how most of those blades that come with the Swiss army knife really are useful has to be a bit debatable. The toothpick, nail file, and scissors might be somewhat useful in personnel grooming, but for serious knife business I just don't picture them. And then again, if I really need personnel grooming done, I might not want to use something that's been sitting in a kid's pocket all day. Even in my light collection of boyhood knives, I don't remember keeping the SAK for more then a few months, I probably traded it for the cheap Mexican Switch Blade Mom confiscated.
Which brings me to the point. Somehow, Cell Phones remind me of Swiss Army knives. Every year they get more and more apps. 2g becomes 3g, which morphs to 4g. Gee, really...do we need all that in a phone? Really? And do we really need to be that connected?
Recently, walking around ASU, everyone I seemed to see either had a cell to their ear or they were typing away at the little QWERTY keyboards. I'm talking dudes at the very prime of their lives, walking in a sea of pretty girls, connecting to someone somewhere else far far away. Now that 'Text' has become a verb, I suppose 'Sex' is getting downgraded to an adverb? I'm not really against technology, my occupation is technology, and here I am blogging. But sometimes I think we may be taking it just a bit too far, we've got more blades then we need. One blade that was missing on the SAK was the castration blade. But I'm sure now there is an App for that. I'm just saying...
I wish I still had that Boy Scout Special though.
Cheers
ncas
Link to Interesting Variation on the Swiss Army Knife
Now, I'm not quite sure how much credence I would put in a knife used by the 'Swiss Army'. I can't remember any major European Theatre battles they kicked butt in. Aren't they the guys that wear the funny suits and protect the Vatican? Yeah, not exactly scary. I can't exactly envision Bernardo whipping out the fish scale blade to defend himself against the Rockets in West Side Story. Yes, if I had some serious knife business, I'd probably lean toward the SOG Seal Knife used by the US Navy Seals. I don't believe I had that in my arsenal as a kid though. A switch blade or stiletto might come in handy I suppose, if the blade needs to make a real quick appearance. I did have one of those for a day or two until Mom found out and disarmed me.
Which brings me to the point. Somehow, Cell Phones remind me of Swiss Army knives. Every year they get more and more apps. 2g becomes 3g, which morphs to 4g. Gee, really...do we need all that in a phone? Really? And do we really need to be that connected?
Recently, walking around ASU, everyone I seemed to see either had a cell to their ear or they were typing away at the little QWERTY keyboards. I'm talking dudes at the very prime of their lives, walking in a sea of pretty girls, connecting to someone somewhere else far far away. Now that 'Text' has become a verb, I suppose 'Sex' is getting downgraded to an adverb? I'm not really against technology, my occupation is technology, and here I am blogging. But sometimes I think we may be taking it just a bit too far, we've got more blades then we need. One blade that was missing on the SAK was the castration blade. But I'm sure now there is an App for that. I'm just saying...
I wish I still had that Boy Scout Special though.
ncas
Link to Interesting Variation on the Swiss Army Knife
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Brothers
1822 E. Amelia, 1000 square Feet, One Bathroom / (♂ * 4) = 250 Square Feet
250 Square Feet per brother to, develop, grow, educate, and mature to men.
Baseball, Basketball, ditch’em, Scouts. Altar Boys, Students.
Business Leaders, technical gurus, engineers, managers.
Fathers, Husbands, Grandfathers. Sons.
Brothers. 250 Square Feet.
Cheers
nca
Monday, October 11, 2010
Fake-O-Lanterns
Artificial Pumpkins? My daughter and I were in Michael's a few days ago and I saw the huge display of Artificial Pumpkins. I had to ponder that one. Artificial Christmas trees, as bizarre as that may sound, are one thing...but Pumpkins? Of the 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkins produced each year in America, are they not quite 'Pumpkin' worthy for Halloween displays? I'm going to go out on a limb (vine) here and guess these Mock-Pumpkins are not manufactured here in America. You can't carve them (pre-carved, some are), and they are missing the yummy seeds we roast each year after the annual carving. Can we strain out all the real charm of our Holidays when we over exploit the icons?
This reminds me of a funny story about my bachelor Brother-In-Law. Some local students were going door-to-door in his neighborhood selling Christmas Paper, and he honored his charitable genes and purchased some. To my knowledge he has never wrapped a Christmas gift in his life...and he did not know what to do with the wrapping paper he purchased. So he stood the rolls up on a small table centered in his front window, strung Christmas lights and ornaments on them. It served as his 'Christmas Tree' that year. There was something unique and personal about it...something more Holiday then a 'Christmas Tree'.
Cheers and Happy Halloween
nca
This reminds me of a funny story about my bachelor Brother-In-Law. Some local students were going door-to-door in his neighborhood selling Christmas Paper, and he honored his charitable genes and purchased some. To my knowledge he has never wrapped a Christmas gift in his life...and he did not know what to do with the wrapping paper he purchased. So he stood the rolls up on a small table centered in his front window, strung Christmas lights and ornaments on them. It served as his 'Christmas Tree' that year. There was something unique and personal about it...something more Holiday then a 'Christmas Tree'.
Cheers and Happy Halloween
nca
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Prayer In School
In My School
We Prayed Like This
In My Church
They Teach Like This
But If Schools Taught Would they Teach Like This
Or whirl around like a dervish?
Or Add some shakes and snakes?
I Think Perhaps some things are better taught at home
Cheers -- nca
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Parody of Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven”
The Pug
Parody of Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven”
Nicholas Adler and Daughter
Once a paw the floor a scratchy, I opened up the now-bare pantry
Over many a scrumptious crunching mouth-full of ill-gotten kibble
While he slobbers, his tongue flapping, his curl-ed tail serenely tapping
Here some creeping beast drools, sneaking, sneaking a nibble
“Tis some furry foe,” I whisper, “who scratched upon Ye Olde Pantry Door”
Quoth the pug, “is there more?”
Monday, September 20, 2010
On Family
Last Friday, my third grandchild was born, a little boy.
My wife and I took my other two grandkids down to the hospital to meet him Friday night, they were quite excited and happy.
After they both got to hold him, my grandaughter who is 3 pointed out everyone in her family. She included her new little brother.
She told me that 'that is my family'.
It's pretty simple, really, sometimes I think we over complicate things. My three year old grandaughter already figured all this out :)
Cheers
nca
My wife and I took my other two grandkids down to the hospital to meet him Friday night, they were quite excited and happy.
After they both got to hold him, my grandaughter who is 3 pointed out everyone in her family. She included her new little brother.
She told me that 'that is my family'.
It's pretty simple, really, sometimes I think we over complicate things. My three year old grandaughter already figured all this out :)
Cheers
nca
Friday, September 10, 2010
Remembering 911
Early in the morning on September 11, 2001 Islamic terrorists hijacked 4 American Passenger Jets. Two crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City. One crashed into the Pentagon in Washington D.C. Passengers aboard the fourth jet were able to overpower the terrorists and crash the plane in a secluded area, killing all aboard. One at a time, the two World Trade Center Towers collapsed to the ground in an act of horrible destruction killing thousands of innocents civilians, brave policemen, and courageous firemen. The images would be played over and over on the TV’s around the world, an event that would shock and scare the nation and our world allies.
I remember distinctly that I was home in bed at the time, I had taken the day off work. My wife had called me from work to tell me to turn on the TV. When I first tuned in the two majestic towers were still standing, but smoke was billowing out of them. I watched in shock and awe as the terrible scene unfolded, and then again later as more details became available.
At the time, I was working for America West Airlines. Because of the terrorist risk, the FAA grounded all American flights for several weeks. My airline was virtually closed down. I often was unsure as I woke up each day whether I would still have a job. It was a shock to drive by Sky Harbor Airport each day and see the silent lonely airport.
Following the attack, my extended family exchanged e-mails on our thoughts and feelings at the time. I thought that our reactions might be interesting to preserve. I have changed the names in the correspondence to protect the innocent.
I grew up in a poor Catholic family in Phoenix Arizona. At the time of 911, my Father had already passed away. But all 6 of my brothers and sisters are still alive and well, along with my Mother. At this historic event unfolded, most of my extended family still lived in Arizona. Now, as I put this down on paper only my youngest brother, my Mother, and I still live in the Valley.
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The first note I saved was from my Mother. She was living in Young Arizona at the time of the bombing.
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From: "Mom"
To:
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2001 11:10:46 PM
Subject: today
It's not fear that bothers me. It's that I have no one to share my sorrow with. You know. It would be so nice to have someone's hand to hold while I watched all that on TV. What a terrible, terrible day! So sorrow-full. Pray for our country and those poor victims. Love you. Mom
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Sister1 is my oldest sister, living in the Detroit area at the time of the bombing.
-------------------------------------------------------
From: "Sister1"
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:53:29 AM
Subject: Re: today
I felt the same way yesterday. I still feel lost today. Who does one blame and how do we stop this from happening again? Part of me wants to kill everyone who was involved... the other part knows that an eye for an eye is just a means to escalate all of this. I do know prayer is all I can offer
and I can cry for the victims. I could use a collective hug as well. Love, Sister1
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Next my younger brother, his family, including his wife were living in Yuma Arizona at the time of the bombing.
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From: ‘Brother3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 7:36:01 AM
Subject: Re: today
I am ready to get back in the Navy but I guess I am too old now. The baton has been passed to our next generation which includes ‘Brother1's son and nephew‘. The only thing we can do is go to war against these dogs. They brought their war to America and we need to finish it. Go get them guys. This is more personal for me, I know Naval Officers and Marines working in the Pentagon. This is war.
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Sister3, my younger sister, was living in the Boise Idaho area at the time of 911.
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Sister3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:01:38 PM
Subject: Re: today
Yes but when will the blood shed stop. It really depresses me when my eight year old asks me why anyone would want to do this to us. I am afraid to tell her that when we find out who did this we will fight right back. Then children in another country will be asking their parents why anyone would want to do this to them. It really saddens me.
------------------------------------------------------------
Sister1 again.
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Sister1’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:34:06 PM
Subject: Re: today
I agree Sister3... I just don't know what the answer is but I think we have to go on loving. Love Sister1
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Brother2
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Brother2’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:41:25 PM
Subject: Re: today
The face of Mayor Rudolph last night and this morning really got to me. I can see the loss and the heartache of the entire city in it. When he spoke this morning, he mentioned rebuilding saying they will rebuild to greater then before. That is how I feel...that we must
learn from this ordeal and become better for it.
Still, to the families of those victims my heart goes out.
------------------------------------------------------------
Sister1
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Sister1’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 4:00:33 PM
Subject: Re: today
amen
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Sister2 was living in Phoenix at the time of 911.
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From: ‘Sister2’
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 6:43:28 PM
Subject: Re: today
For the past two days I have sat with a group of children aged 13 to 18 and watched the horrible scenes on the TV. Answering their questions, providing support for their fears, and helping them to calm down. Each of them discussed how they would respond and it all went from one student saying "let's blow them all up" to one student asking "how can we kill babies like they did?" I had no real answer for them except to tell them that we need to support each other and our country. The students have now organized an American Pride day for Friday and we are all signing up to go to the blood banks, when they have available space, even some of my 18 year old students have signed up! Like Sister1 says, all we can do is pray. I am torn myself with thoughts of retaliation and thoughts of moving on and trying to pick up the pieces. But one thing that I do know is that we need to know who could be so sick as to do what was done yesterday and find a way to make sure that it never happens again. We all need to know that we are safe in our own homes. I pray for Nephew1 and Friend1, and several friends who are in the service. One of my students informed me that he turns 18 next month and all he wants to do is enlist and go to war! God help him and us too. I guess all of the shock hasn't worn off for me, my sons keep calling so that they can get reassurance that they are safe where they are. It breaks my heart to hear their fear and to know that my words may make them feel better for a few minutes but then it wears off as they remember whatever words or pictures they
saw yesterday and today. Love all of you, and thinking of you all today really helps!
Sister2
=====
Everyday should be considered the first day of the rest of our lives, But then again if the rest of our lives are anything like today than I would rather not consider it!
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Addressed from Brother3, this is actually his wife.
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Brother3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 7:28:21 PM
Subject: Re: today
The bloodshed will not stop whether we are the ones to stop it or not. The Bible never promises our lives will be free from suffering and disaster. But God does promise inner peace during times of turmoil. The prophet, Jeremiah witnessed his world crumbling down around him. He not only experienced the present wrath but God also told him of the horrible future to come. At that time, the children of Israel were about to be sent into exile. Some in very violent ways. In the book of Lamentations, things are pretty dismal, but all of a sudden Jeremiah is reminded of the hope he has in God. He precedes to write the favorites of verses, Lamentations 3:22-24
22. "The Lord's loving kindnesses Indeed never cease For His compassions never fail.
23. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness.
24. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul,
"Therefore I have hope in Him. Our hope goes beyond this world of pain and destruction. God promises an eternal home in heaven where there is no pain or tears. You see, God
made this possible by sending His only Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for the sins of the world. No one is without sin only Jesus. We all need a Savior. And perhaps this is a good time to realize that. Life here is so short. And bodies are only temporary but souls are eternal. Now where they go after death is up to us by repenting of our sins and accepting Christ as our Savior, we have everlasting life with Him. Those of you that have done this, be encouraged, God has something far better that this. Focus on the hope. Those of you who have not done this, please consider your eternity, it is a matter of life or death, heaven or hell. Those who died yesterday didn't have a lot of time to think about it. As far as our nation's response to this evil doing, remember what our country has always fought for -"liberty and justice for all". Much blood has been shed for not just our freedom, but for the freedom of other countries. It has always been worth fighting for and never done in vain. God Bless America! I love you all!
------------------------------------------------------------
Brother3, following up his wife.
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Brother3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 7:34:27 PM
Subject: Re: today
At least America never has and will not intentionally target their or anyone else's children. Also, this is actually a matter of defense rather than revenge. We can not let anyone or any nation come to our soil and do what these people have done.
------------------------------------------------------------
Brother2
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Brother2’
To:
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2001 9:04:45 AM
Subject: Re: today
Do you mean Americans as individuals? Timothy Mcveigh was an American. Do you mean Americans as soldiers? Was not My Lai a civilian massacre? Do you mean Americans as politicians? Was not Senator Kerry at My Lai.
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Brother4 was living in Phoenix at the time of 911.
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Hey Everybody...
Now my take on this attack. Before I do, I just want everybody to understand that I do believe in God, but I don't think he has anything to do with this and I wish everybody, especially are leaders in Washington, would stop making references to him as if he is going to guide us. I don't know God personally, but I am pretty sure he didn't have
anything to do with the attack and he will not approve of any retaliation. We as people are perfectly capable of making our own decisions without looking to him for guidance. The last thing that I want is this to turn into some kind of "holy war" where each side tries to prove that their God is more powerful. If I'm not mistaken, our God and their God are the same God. OK... I'm through with my sermon. I believe that we need to
take out any person, organization, or country with any force necessary that has befriended, associated with, or harbored any international terrorist organization, not
just the ones responsible for the attack. Where does it stop? When terrorism stops!!!!
Now, I am just a common person without any military background and I do not
have any friends that may have been involved. I'd like to get on with my life at this point. I won't ever be able to forget those images or the thoughts of those people that died, but it does not do them any good to change the way we live. The best thing we could do is get vengeance for their loss and move on. I did think of an alternative plan... we could give them the most cruel punishment I could think of. We could send them the
Cardinals along with the Bidwell folly's. That would throw their governments into total chaos. Heck... we could even throw in a brand new football stadium and watch them fight in the streets.
------------------------------------------------------------
Brother2
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Brother2’
To:
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2001 8:46:36 AM
Subject: Re: My Take
Brother1, have you heard from your son since this all happened? Has his unit been deployed to the city or otherwise involved in the action? Please let him know that our prayers are with him and his family...
------------------------------------------------------------
Brother1, living in Phoenix at the time of 911. His oldest son was in the Army.
------------------------------------------------------------
From: ‘Brother1’
To:
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2001 9:54:59 AM
Subject: Re: My Take
Thanks for asking. “My Son” is part of the 10th Mountain Division which is an elite assault division that is often the first to be deployed. He has received all sorts of special training, including jumping out of planes and rappelling from helicopters. Fun stuff. Not that long ago he was training in New York City with ambulance crews. He recently reenlisted and is looking forward to his next duty station at Ft Huachuca south of Tucson. He was also scheduled for Ksovo and was going to leave next month. Since he is a medic with the 10th, it is likely that his plans will change. So far nothing certain. I will keep you advised as things become more clear.
Our nephew XXXXX is assigned to a Destroyer that was scheduled for a Gulf tour in October. He was recalled from leave. He gets to shoot cruise missiles, which might be a great way to relieve frustration.
One interesting note. I taught a public procurement class about a year ago in Kingston New York, which is about 60 miles north of the city. Of the twenty students, five were Port Authority contracting officers and they work on the 60th floor of tower one. I received an e-mail yesterday and all 20 Port Authority contracting employees survived. I
imagine the details will be very interesting. I understand some financial houses lost hundreds of employees. Looking around, it is very hard to imagine losing more than half my colleagues.
I hope everyone, including our government keeps things in perspective. Our response should be measured and accurate. The Soviets fought Afghanistan for ten years in their own version of Viet Nam. We should also remember the attitude of the British during the Battle of Britain. They were bombed day and night yet they tried to conduct business and
life as usual, with brief visits to shelters while the bombs fell. This "stiff upper lip" eventually resulted in the end of the siege, and many frustrated Germans. I think the Brits were down to just a few banged up Spitfires by this point but they hung in there. The Brits also captured the sympathy of the world. Seems like the same thing is happening, many nations uniting against terrorism. Our response will determine whether we retain that sympathy and respect.
Don't you just hate these stupid lectures
I remember distinctly that I was home in bed at the time, I had taken the day off work. My wife had called me from work to tell me to turn on the TV. When I first tuned in the two majestic towers were still standing, but smoke was billowing out of them. I watched in shock and awe as the terrible scene unfolded, and then again later as more details became available.
At the time, I was working for America West Airlines. Because of the terrorist risk, the FAA grounded all American flights for several weeks. My airline was virtually closed down. I often was unsure as I woke up each day whether I would still have a job. It was a shock to drive by Sky Harbor Airport each day and see the silent lonely airport.
Following the attack, my extended family exchanged e-mails on our thoughts and feelings at the time. I thought that our reactions might be interesting to preserve. I have changed the names in the correspondence to protect the innocent.
I grew up in a poor Catholic family in Phoenix Arizona. At the time of 911, my Father had already passed away. But all 6 of my brothers and sisters are still alive and well, along with my Mother. At this historic event unfolded, most of my extended family still lived in Arizona. Now, as I put this down on paper only my youngest brother, my Mother, and I still live in the Valley.
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The first note I saved was from my Mother. She was living in Young Arizona at the time of the bombing.
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From: "Mom"
To:
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2001 11:10:46 PM
Subject: today
It's not fear that bothers me. It's that I have no one to share my sorrow with. You know. It would be so nice to have someone's hand to hold while I watched all that on TV. What a terrible, terrible day! So sorrow-full. Pray for our country and those poor victims. Love you. Mom
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Sister1 is my oldest sister, living in the Detroit area at the time of the bombing.
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From: "Sister1"
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:53:29 AM
Subject: Re: today
I felt the same way yesterday. I still feel lost today. Who does one blame and how do we stop this from happening again? Part of me wants to kill everyone who was involved... the other part knows that an eye for an eye is just a means to escalate all of this. I do know prayer is all I can offer
and I can cry for the victims. I could use a collective hug as well. Love, Sister1
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Next my younger brother, his family, including his wife were living in Yuma Arizona at the time of the bombing.
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From: ‘Brother3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 7:36:01 AM
Subject: Re: today
I am ready to get back in the Navy but I guess I am too old now. The baton has been passed to our next generation which includes ‘Brother1's son and nephew‘. The only thing we can do is go to war against these dogs. They brought their war to America and we need to finish it. Go get them guys. This is more personal for me, I know Naval Officers and Marines working in the Pentagon. This is war.
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Sister3, my younger sister, was living in the Boise Idaho area at the time of 911.
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From: ‘Sister3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:01:38 PM
Subject: Re: today
Yes but when will the blood shed stop. It really depresses me when my eight year old asks me why anyone would want to do this to us. I am afraid to tell her that when we find out who did this we will fight right back. Then children in another country will be asking their parents why anyone would want to do this to them. It really saddens me.
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Sister1 again.
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From: ‘Sister1’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:34:06 PM
Subject: Re: today
I agree Sister3... I just don't know what the answer is but I think we have to go on loving. Love Sister1
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Brother2
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From: ‘Brother2’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 3:41:25 PM
Subject: Re: today
The face of Mayor Rudolph last night and this morning really got to me. I can see the loss and the heartache of the entire city in it. When he spoke this morning, he mentioned rebuilding saying they will rebuild to greater then before. That is how I feel...that we must
learn from this ordeal and become better for it.
Still, to the families of those victims my heart goes out.
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Sister1
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From: ‘Sister1’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 4:00:33 PM
Subject: Re: today
amen
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Sister2 was living in Phoenix at the time of 911.
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From: ‘Sister2’
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 6:43:28 PM
Subject: Re: today
For the past two days I have sat with a group of children aged 13 to 18 and watched the horrible scenes on the TV. Answering their questions, providing support for their fears, and helping them to calm down. Each of them discussed how they would respond and it all went from one student saying "let's blow them all up" to one student asking "how can we kill babies like they did?" I had no real answer for them except to tell them that we need to support each other and our country. The students have now organized an American Pride day for Friday and we are all signing up to go to the blood banks, when they have available space, even some of my 18 year old students have signed up! Like Sister1 says, all we can do is pray. I am torn myself with thoughts of retaliation and thoughts of moving on and trying to pick up the pieces. But one thing that I do know is that we need to know who could be so sick as to do what was done yesterday and find a way to make sure that it never happens again. We all need to know that we are safe in our own homes. I pray for Nephew1 and Friend1, and several friends who are in the service. One of my students informed me that he turns 18 next month and all he wants to do is enlist and go to war! God help him and us too. I guess all of the shock hasn't worn off for me, my sons keep calling so that they can get reassurance that they are safe where they are. It breaks my heart to hear their fear and to know that my words may make them feel better for a few minutes but then it wears off as they remember whatever words or pictures they
saw yesterday and today. Love all of you, and thinking of you all today really helps!
Sister2
=====
Everyday should be considered the first day of the rest of our lives, But then again if the rest of our lives are anything like today than I would rather not consider it!
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Addressed from Brother3, this is actually his wife.
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From: ‘Brother3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 7:28:21 PM
Subject: Re: today
The bloodshed will not stop whether we are the ones to stop it or not. The Bible never promises our lives will be free from suffering and disaster. But God does promise inner peace during times of turmoil. The prophet, Jeremiah witnessed his world crumbling down around him. He not only experienced the present wrath but God also told him of the horrible future to come. At that time, the children of Israel were about to be sent into exile. Some in very violent ways. In the book of Lamentations, things are pretty dismal, but all of a sudden Jeremiah is reminded of the hope he has in God. He precedes to write the favorites of verses, Lamentations 3:22-24
22. "The Lord's loving kindnesses Indeed never cease For His compassions never fail.
23. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness.
24. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul,
"Therefore I have hope in Him. Our hope goes beyond this world of pain and destruction. God promises an eternal home in heaven where there is no pain or tears. You see, God
made this possible by sending His only Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for the sins of the world. No one is without sin only Jesus. We all need a Savior. And perhaps this is a good time to realize that. Life here is so short. And bodies are only temporary but souls are eternal. Now where they go after death is up to us by repenting of our sins and accepting Christ as our Savior, we have everlasting life with Him. Those of you that have done this, be encouraged, God has something far better that this. Focus on the hope. Those of you who have not done this, please consider your eternity, it is a matter of life or death, heaven or hell. Those who died yesterday didn't have a lot of time to think about it. As far as our nation's response to this evil doing, remember what our country has always fought for -"liberty and justice for all". Much blood has been shed for not just our freedom, but for the freedom of other countries. It has always been worth fighting for and never done in vain. God Bless America! I love you all!
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Brother3, following up his wife.
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From: ‘Brother3’
To:
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 7:34:27 PM
Subject: Re: today
At least America never has and will not intentionally target their or anyone else's children. Also, this is actually a matter of defense rather than revenge. We can not let anyone or any nation come to our soil and do what these people have done.
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Brother2
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From: ‘Brother2’
To:
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2001 9:04:45 AM
Subject: Re: today
Do you mean Americans as individuals? Timothy Mcveigh was an American. Do you mean Americans as soldiers? Was not My Lai a civilian massacre? Do you mean Americans as politicians? Was not Senator Kerry at My Lai.
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Brother4 was living in Phoenix at the time of 911.
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Hey Everybody...
Now my take on this attack. Before I do, I just want everybody to understand that I do believe in God, but I don't think he has anything to do with this and I wish everybody, especially are leaders in Washington, would stop making references to him as if he is going to guide us. I don't know God personally, but I am pretty sure he didn't have
anything to do with the attack and he will not approve of any retaliation. We as people are perfectly capable of making our own decisions without looking to him for guidance. The last thing that I want is this to turn into some kind of "holy war" where each side tries to prove that their God is more powerful. If I'm not mistaken, our God and their God are the same God. OK... I'm through with my sermon. I believe that we need to
take out any person, organization, or country with any force necessary that has befriended, associated with, or harbored any international terrorist organization, not
just the ones responsible for the attack. Where does it stop? When terrorism stops!!!!
Now, I am just a common person without any military background and I do not
have any friends that may have been involved. I'd like to get on with my life at this point. I won't ever be able to forget those images or the thoughts of those people that died, but it does not do them any good to change the way we live. The best thing we could do is get vengeance for their loss and move on. I did think of an alternative plan... we could give them the most cruel punishment I could think of. We could send them the
Cardinals along with the Bidwell folly's. That would throw their governments into total chaos. Heck... we could even throw in a brand new football stadium and watch them fight in the streets.
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Brother2
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From: ‘Brother2’
To:
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2001 8:46:36 AM
Subject: Re: My Take
Brother1, have you heard from your son since this all happened? Has his unit been deployed to the city or otherwise involved in the action? Please let him know that our prayers are with him and his family...
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Brother1, living in Phoenix at the time of 911. His oldest son was in the Army.
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From: ‘Brother1’
To:
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2001 9:54:59 AM
Subject: Re: My Take
Thanks for asking. “My Son” is part of the 10th Mountain Division which is an elite assault division that is often the first to be deployed. He has received all sorts of special training, including jumping out of planes and rappelling from helicopters. Fun stuff. Not that long ago he was training in New York City with ambulance crews. He recently reenlisted and is looking forward to his next duty station at Ft Huachuca south of Tucson. He was also scheduled for Ksovo and was going to leave next month. Since he is a medic with the 10th, it is likely that his plans will change. So far nothing certain. I will keep you advised as things become more clear.
Our nephew XXXXX is assigned to a Destroyer that was scheduled for a Gulf tour in October. He was recalled from leave. He gets to shoot cruise missiles, which might be a great way to relieve frustration.
One interesting note. I taught a public procurement class about a year ago in Kingston New York, which is about 60 miles north of the city. Of the twenty students, five were Port Authority contracting officers and they work on the 60th floor of tower one. I received an e-mail yesterday and all 20 Port Authority contracting employees survived. I
imagine the details will be very interesting. I understand some financial houses lost hundreds of employees. Looking around, it is very hard to imagine losing more than half my colleagues.
I hope everyone, including our government keeps things in perspective. Our response should be measured and accurate. The Soviets fought Afghanistan for ten years in their own version of Viet Nam. We should also remember the attitude of the British during the Battle of Britain. They were bombed day and night yet they tried to conduct business and
life as usual, with brief visits to shelters while the bombs fell. This "stiff upper lip" eventually resulted in the end of the siege, and many frustrated Germans. I think the Brits were down to just a few banged up Spitfires by this point but they hung in there. The Brits also captured the sympathy of the world. Seems like the same thing is happening, many nations uniting against terrorism. Our response will determine whether we retain that sympathy and respect.
Don't you just hate these stupid lectures
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Ask But Don't Tell
My daughter is due to deliver her third Child at the end of this Month (September). She has a little boy
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| Grandson |
and a little girl already.
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| Grandaughter |
On this third one, she has decided to not know the outcome in advance. As she has gone to the Dr. and the various ultrasounds have taken place, she has asked the Dr. and technicians to not tell her the outcome.
Her husband says he knows, but personally, I love the suprise aspect of this. In less then 30 days some mystery Grand-Child will be added to the group of people I know as loved ones. I am happy and excited to welcome him/her...but I love the fact that this new personality will be brand new and unknown.
Wonderful, from my point of view! I'd be interested to know your opinion?
Saturday, August 21, 2010
about the blogger
I’ve tried the FACEBOOK and LINKEDIN thing and it’s really cool how I can reestablish contacts with family and friends from the past. But it somehow makes me feel like a voyeur, peeking into the private lives of people who may not really want me lurking out there. But there is a latent writer in me, the exhibitionist part of me that likes to publish my thoughts and deeds in the random order and pattern that fits me….so I started this blog. I will be routing all my FACEBOOK and LINKEDIN friends to this before I permanently check out of those social groups.
I was never really great at keeping all my friendships and relationships long term. I have really one buddy I have kept in touch with from my High School Days. I have managed to reconnect a lot of my SKY-Y and TGIF friends through the wonders of Facebook. But really, I have been really lazy in that regard overall, and I apologize to all for that. It’s not that I don’t care about all the people that have tiptoed through my life. It’s more that I tend to always be moving forward in life and I don’t always remember to look back or even stop and smell the roses. It’s really one of my many personality flaws.
Enough about me! This is a picture of my family (I need to update this!). I have stuck with them for the last 30 years (or rather, they have patiently stuck with me). I know that I am truly blessed with this loving group…I won’t embarrass them by posting too many details on them. Please just trust me when I say that they are the pillars of my soul.
This is a picture of one of my two pugs. It is my spouse and daughter who most connect with these beasts; I am mostly a distant personality to them.
Cheers - nca
I was never really great at keeping all my friendships and relationships long term. I have really one buddy I have kept in touch with from my High School Days. I have managed to reconnect a lot of my SKY-Y and TGIF friends through the wonders of Facebook. But really, I have been really lazy in that regard overall, and I apologize to all for that. It’s not that I don’t care about all the people that have tiptoed through my life. It’s more that I tend to always be moving forward in life and I don’t always remember to look back or even stop and smell the roses. It’s really one of my many personality flaws.
Enough about me! This is a picture of my family (I need to update this!). I have stuck with them for the last 30 years (or rather, they have patiently stuck with me). I know that I am truly blessed with this loving group…I won’t embarrass them by posting too many details on them. Please just trust me when I say that they are the pillars of my soul.
This is a picture of one of my two pugs. It is my spouse and daughter who most connect with these beasts; I am mostly a distant personality to them.
Cheers - nca
Friday, August 20, 2010
Paper Trails
My wife recently procured a paper shredder for her home office. Privacy experts may recommend shredders so that people can shred bills, credit card and bank statements, and other items which could be used to threaten personnel privacy. It’s a cool little tool, and I don’t think she spent a fortune on it. It’s kind of fun to feed various paper documents into it to watch the machine chew up the paper into tiny little strips, quietly grinding the forms away like a hamster building a nest of newspaper.
Playing around with the hungry little beast reminded me of one of my Dad’s last requests before he passed away. He lived like a hermit in his little senior’s apartment in Mesa Arizona, and he was always reluctant to let me enter when I would occasionally visit him. He would come out and visit me in the recreation center or just outside the recreation center with all the other rebelliously smoking seniors. His reasoning was that his apartment was just too messy.
On one visit with my Dad, he mentioned that he was getting more junk mail then he could handle, and he was having problems disposing of all of it. He was worried that if he just tossed it, that someone might be able to get information about him from the trash, information he did not want to share. He mentioned that he might need a shredder to help with the situation, and I told him that I would remember to pick up a shredder for him the next time I was going to visit.
Time passed, visits came and went, and I always seemed to forget about the shredder. He did not really mention it again, but occasionally I would remember the request. Perhaps I would see an ad in the paper, or walking through a store I might have seen a display of office products that would remind me about Dad needing the shredder. But I never really pursued the act of actually purchasing one.
It was a cool January day that my brother had to call me at work to tell me that my father had passed away unexpectedly and completely alone. I won’t dwell on that sad experience except to say that eventually my brother and I had to go over to Dad’s apartment and clean it out. We were shocked when we went in and saw stacks and stacks of letters and junk mail. I am talking tens of thousands of letters, many still in the original envelopes and never opened.
Dad must have been entangled upon every junk mail list in America. ‘You May Already Be A Winner’ envelopes, charity requests, coupon flyers, Senior Citizen advertising, investment and banking solicitations. The entire apartment was filled overwhelmingly with junk mail of every type. My poor Father was being literally overrun with solicitous begging by post.
I’m not writing this to pontificate on the alarming burden our society placed on my father and seniors like him by ‘marketing American style’. All I really want to communicate here is…there really was no excuse for me to forgo spending a few bucks to buy Dad a ‘flippin’ shredder. He would not have asked if he did not need one, Dad was not like that. He really needed one, and I failed that opportunity for doing a tiny bit of service. Lesson learned, let’s hope I don’t shred any future service opportunities.
Thanks and Cheers --- NCA
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| Blogger and His Pop |
Playing around with the hungry little beast reminded me of one of my Dad’s last requests before he passed away. He lived like a hermit in his little senior’s apartment in Mesa Arizona, and he was always reluctant to let me enter when I would occasionally visit him. He would come out and visit me in the recreation center or just outside the recreation center with all the other rebelliously smoking seniors. His reasoning was that his apartment was just too messy.
On one visit with my Dad, he mentioned that he was getting more junk mail then he could handle, and he was having problems disposing of all of it. He was worried that if he just tossed it, that someone might be able to get information about him from the trash, information he did not want to share. He mentioned that he might need a shredder to help with the situation, and I told him that I would remember to pick up a shredder for him the next time I was going to visit.
Time passed, visits came and went, and I always seemed to forget about the shredder. He did not really mention it again, but occasionally I would remember the request. Perhaps I would see an ad in the paper, or walking through a store I might have seen a display of office products that would remind me about Dad needing the shredder. But I never really pursued the act of actually purchasing one.
It was a cool January day that my brother had to call me at work to tell me that my father had passed away unexpectedly and completely alone. I won’t dwell on that sad experience except to say that eventually my brother and I had to go over to Dad’s apartment and clean it out. We were shocked when we went in and saw stacks and stacks of letters and junk mail. I am talking tens of thousands of letters, many still in the original envelopes and never opened.
Dad must have been entangled upon every junk mail list in America. ‘You May Already Be A Winner’ envelopes, charity requests, coupon flyers, Senior Citizen advertising, investment and banking solicitations. The entire apartment was filled overwhelmingly with junk mail of every type. My poor Father was being literally overrun with solicitous begging by post.
I’m not writing this to pontificate on the alarming burden our society placed on my father and seniors like him by ‘marketing American style’. All I really want to communicate here is…there really was no excuse for me to forgo spending a few bucks to buy Dad a ‘flippin’ shredder. He would not have asked if he did not need one, Dad was not like that. He really needed one, and I failed that opportunity for doing a tiny bit of service. Lesson learned, let’s hope I don’t shred any future service opportunities.
Thanks and Cheers --- NCA
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