Author: plinyblogcom

United States Federal Government
Department of Citizen Complaints
Capital Office Building,
Washington, D.C
Gentlemen:

It is with appropriate gratitude, that we acknowledge having the good fortune, among the entire, world-wide population of human inhabitants, to have been be born, and to reside in this country, with assured benefits of liberty, as prescribed by the Nation’s Founding Fathers, and as guaranteed by its Constitution and Bill of Rights.

The Founders’ declarations concerning universal equality of all citizens, sagely and properly, eliminated the centuries-old, European system of privileged birth, and its unfortunate consequence of privileged classes. We especially appreciate the constitutional assurance, proscribing governmental interference with the right of every citizen (in principle) to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Since childhood, we were assured that these rights were, inviolate, eternal and enshrined; virtually, secular icons, to be, equally hallowed by all Americans. We learned to be proud of our country of birth, and in its, unfailing, moral rectitude. We were, in our younger years, however, not made aware of the ugly National blemish of inequality of race and gender. The Nation, we have happily, noted, has, recognizably made considerable progress, in this disappointing and unjust area, but, yet, cannot, claim, complete accomplishment, of its promised, universal equality of rights and freedom from bias.

We were taught, as schoolchildren, the American, semi-religious dogma, called “Manifest Destiny,” pursuant to which it was the prescribed, and inherent, duty of our Nation to expand its territories to the Pacific Ocean. We were never, informed, however, about the consequential Governmental program of removal and killing of innocent, Native Americans, and the destruction of their ancient culture, in effecting that xenophobic destiny.

Decades later, we were advised that the Indochinese War (Viet Nam, Cambodia and Laos) was, imperatively, necessary in order to stop the formation of a dangerous Communist bloc, with Red China. The war lasted about 20 years, killed thousands of Americans and their allies, and an untold number of Asians, and tore our country apart, perhaps, irretrievably. After the war, Secretary, Robert McNamara, one of the war’s original promoters, and architects, expressly admitted, in his subsequently, published book, that the bloody war had, been an ignorant mistake; that, there was never a realistic threat of the feared, “United Communist Bloc;” in that, China, Vietnam, Korea, Cambodia and Laos, have historically, been, mutual enemies. [ Query, why did it take, Harvard’s McNamara, et al.so long to discover the error? The war lasted 20 years]

Americans were always justifiably proud, that every citizen had the inalienable right to vote. Nonetheless, one observes, hypocritical travesties, such, as poll taxes, voter blocking, deletion and interference, and the wide-spread, undemocratic practice of gerrymandering, persist, to date. Would you also reconcile, the fundamental democratic guaranty, of one, man, one vote, with the continued maintenance of the Electoral College?

The Constitutional principles of Separation, of Church and State, were always earnestly maintained, by the Founding Fathers to be a fundamental guaranty of liberty, yet, we still suffer from religiously motivated, government proscriptions of the woman’s choice of abortion, have foolishly, meddled in the vital subject of contraception, and discouraged sex education in schools.

We were taught about the Separation of Powers, [Executive, Legislative and Judicial], functionally, and, in addition, the ability, of one branch of government, to prevent, the abuse of power by another branch.  (“Checks and Balances”).  At present it seems to be an impotent dynamic, as amply demonstrated our current President, and his illegal and unconstitutional usurpation of unauthorized powers.

Our Nation received the assurance, since the time of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, that America was to afford to the lower and middle classes, new and needed social programs, and the amelioration of want, by empathic benefits, included in a new American concept, of a compassionate Capitalism. Yet, the present government, in Washington, has permitted moneyed interests to exercise their influence, in eliminating, or reducing them (welfare, food stamps, unemployment and sick benefits, regulations of safety in the workplace, purity of food and water, fair housing and other like programs).

The Constitution, as is known, expressly, forbids cruel and unusual punishments, yet, America still tolerates, in too many jurisdictions, officially approved, killing of convicted individuals; euphemistically, called, “Capital (as in decapitation) Punishment.”

We have, publicly and accurately, represented ourselves as a Nation of immigrants, and their descendants, with an eternally open door, to welcome the poor and endangered, immigrant, as enshrined in our Statue of Liberty. Nevertheless, particularly, in the past few years, contrary to our history, Laws, our pretensions to decency, the government has permitted false and defamatory representations of fugitives and other immigrants, with brown skin, as undesirable, criminals, and has taken steps to block their immigration, as well as, mistreated them and separated their families.

We have acknowledged that the most valuable natural resource, of a Nation, is the quality and sophistication of its population, but have not been responsive to the need for assistance, to students, in the financing of higher education; resulting in substantial, life-long indebtedness of its graduates. Additionally, the government does not support, the cultural growth and improvement of its citizenry, by its denial of financial support to the Arts and Sciences.

The Courts, by their decisions, have permitted the misreading of the Second Amendment, to permit the free commerce and ownership of guns. A, objective plain reading of the same, especially with knowledge of the history of its time, clearly indicates, that, in order to induce the several States to (surrender much of their respective sovereignty) to an established federal government, their (the State’s) right to maintain an armed militia. would be preserved. The cynically intentional and tactical, misreading has earned miscreant members, of the gun lobby, multiple millions of dollars in profit; it is also the cause of an untold number of innocent deaths.

We continue to hope, together with, as well, we assume, of other loyal and believing, citizens, nevertheless, is that these past issues will be addressed and corrected, and not be shielded, or avoided by hypocritical and misleading euphemism. Our aspiration is and that the avowed, and traditionally laudable, image and promise of America, would continue in its progress toward the elimination of injustice, extremes in inequality, unfettered individual freedoms. We would, significantly, hope, as well, for a return to rational governance by leaders who are just, capable and sufficiently knowledgeable.

Until the foregoing is accomplished, would you please be kind enough to afford us some guidance on what to teach our young children.

Respectfully,

Pliny

If by some chance, you happen to drive through the small hamlet of Cheeseville, located in South Oregano County, Nevada, please be sure to stop at the Pizzeria, on Main Street, owned and operated by the Mozzarella brothers, Vince, Angelo and Bradford, (the latter, eldest, and third brother, from a previous marriage of their mother, Mrs. Angelina Mozzarella). Please be sure to ask for Bradford, or Vince, and say hello, and see how things are going. The three brothers are the owners and operators of the “Goomba Pizza Parlor, Ltd.” a well- known, successful business establishment, exclusively patronized, by self-styled pizza aficionados, throughout the entire, Oregano County.

You might ask Brad or Vince, whatever became of the Wolf Bakery, and Mr. B. Wolf, its vicious and loathsome proprietor. The last we heard, Wolf, who decided to incorporate pizza into his muffin business, had applied to the Superior Court of Oregano County, for an Order of eviction, against Goomba Pizza Parlor, Ltd., and, additionally, for a judgment for punitive damages, against the three proprietors.

To bring the reader up to date, the relevant facts are as follows. Wolf, a carnivorous and aggressive personality, had, conspired to, and by some sleight of hand, succeeded in, procuring the lease to the premises of the pizza parlor, and thereafter, as, tactically planned, in his drive to force the brothers out, raised the rent to an impossible amount. It seems that Wolf’s muffin business was in steep decline, and he lusted for the pizza parlor, which, in addition to being very profitable, was in vogue throughout the entire County. He also entertained an unreasonable hatred, against the three brothers, for many other reasons, besides business, among which was, jealousy over the desirably, close interactive relationship between the brothers (including the half-brother), who spent most of their working hours, happily, singing. When the brothers learned of certain unsuccessful attempts, by their new landlord to injure their business, they added to his irritation, a confident lack of concern, in face of the vicious (and, so far, unsuccessful) attempts by the, cunning, landlord to destroy their business.

What they wisely, did was to continue to pay rent, at the previous agreed rate (as opposed to the tactically, impossible rate, imposed by the new landlord, Mr. Wolf), which, in accordance with, the Landlord and Tenant Division of the State Supreme Court, Mr. Wolf learned, to his dismay, denied to a landlord, [ who imposed a penalty rent on his lease abiding tenants] the right of summary dispossess, for non-payment of rent. The landlord angrily, and tight-fisted, threatened further legal action.

The second attempt by Mr. Wolf, consisted of an attempt to falsely advise the public, that the pizza company, Goomba Pizza, Ltd., included, amounts of sawdust, in their pizza crust, to save money. This second attempt, slandering the product of the three brothers, was laughed at, by the highly satisfied customers, who were well aware of the method of preparation of the product, and immediately recognized the falsity, as well as the evil motivation of the slanderer.

The third (and, apparently, the final) attempt, was the costly engagement of a local attorney, with local political connections, to obtain a Court Order of Eviction and Damages, against the brothers, for withholding his right, as landlord, to possession, based upon the grounds of inadequate (but, regular) rent payments. This proceeding was brought by, Order to Show Cause, in the Superior Court of Oregano County, itself, [as opposed to proceeding in the Landlord and Tenant Division]. The case was still pending, when last we heard, and such was the reason we requested that the traveler, referred to in the first paragraph, speak to Vince or Brad; to obtain a report on the outcome of the third attempt, of the landlord, Mr. Wolf, to recover the building premises and oust the three entrepreneurs.

As it happens, just before the publishing of this writing, we received a text message, which, (happily) read: “The application of the Landlord, for possession of the premises, and for punitive damages was denied, due to the Applicant’s evident, deceitful action. It   was further ordered, by the Court, that, the three tenants are granted damages in the amount of $…….. against the Landlord, Mr. Wolf by reason of the latter’s illegal and inequitable business practices.

The three partners were happy and celebrated, in their usual, musical mode.

-p.

* We, emphatically deny, any and all, similarity between the foregoing narrative, and the children’s story, “The Three Little Pigs.”

Readers, old enough to remember, the dramatic (1948) movie, (or later release) “All My Sons,” starring the celebrated actor, Edward G. Robinson, as protagonist, may recall the plot, and its timeless message. The picture, based upon a play, by Arthur Miller, told the story of an airplane parts manufacturer, who, in order to keep his business from failing, knowingly, shipped defective airplane parts, to the military, during the pendency of World War 11, causing the death of several servicemen. The narrative, [a morality play, in our estimation], leads to an inevitable tragic ending, morally portended, by the commission of the mortal sin, of exaltation of individual need, over societal and moral responsibility. We understand that the Miller play is being revived for current audiences.

In common with all great works of art, “All My Sons,” articulates an eternally, ageless issue, in its case, the vexing choice, between financial survival and social and moral responsibility. This specific issue is eternally important, but it is one that is, especially, at this moment in our history, inarguably and existentially, relevant.

If mitigation, to some minor degree, is compassionately, to be accorded the protagonist, in the movie, it might be conceivably based, upon the rationality of his errant choice, the objective fear, of financial ruin. No such minor mitigation, can justly be allowed, to the big oil magnates, responsible for climate change, and conceivably, irreparable injury to mankind and the planet. Google search, reveals that one partner of the Koch Brothers business entity, David Koch, has a net worth of $44.9 Billion, and his brother, Charles Koch, with $44.8 Billion, Dollars. Like the fictional protagonist in “All My Sons,” these irresponsible, or more accurately put, psychopathic entrepreneurs, secure their profits from death. In the case, of the detestable Koch brothers, and other merchants of atmospheric poison, the homicide and injury is not limited to man, but also, to the Earth’s entire fauna and flora.

The declaration, of the revered, ancient Hebrew Sage, Hillel, and its later iterations, by Emmanuel Kant, and in the Christian, “Golden Rule,” prescribes the fundamental, and morally essential, basis of all human justice and empathy, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

The profit seeking entrepreneurs in the oil and gas industry, the saintly, Koch Brothers, are the elite, among the unapologetic perpetrators, and financial beneficiaries of, serious and possibly, permanent, anthropogenic damage to mankind; including, the biophysical environment and ecosystems, biological diversity, natural resources, global warming, environmental degradation, such as ocean acidification, extinction of species, ecological crises and ecological collapse.

We wonder what these Koch miscreants, think of themselves; do they have a conscience, or sense of morality? We, in the desire for accountable accuracy, term such people, ”psychopaths;” who would, intentionally, create the risk that our living, verdant, planet, and its inhabitants, would be degraded and reduced to the stage, of a lifeless, orbiting sterile moon- like rock, in their insatiable, neurotic, and psychopathic drive, for unlimited billions of dollars. Do these monsters have offspring? Do they go to some church? Do they examine themselves, introspectively? Can they sleep at night?

The protagonist, in the merely fictional, movie, “All My Sons,” at the end, commits suicide, in remorse for his immoral choices. The Koch Brothers, and like (non-fictional) entrepreneurs who psychopathically, value profit, above human life and planetary habitation, yet continue to thrive.

Such villains can thrive, however, only in a nightmarish environment, such as ours, today, where a miscreant, Chief Executive, can permissibly, legally and publicly, break up families, and install the separated and helpless young children, in governmental wire cages.

-p.

Human, experience, has ineluctably, demonstrated, that there are no reliable formulaic prescriptions, in any degree useful, in matters concerning human behavior, as contrasted, by analogy, to the dynamics of chemical formulas, with empirically, predictable outcomes. For this reason, we have consistently impugned and detested  aphorisms, for their arrogant, ignorant and reductionist presumption of saintly rectitude, as hallowed solutions, to man’s presenting problems.

It is difficult to rate these inane, substitutes for reason, in order of merit, since it is difficult to discern merit in any of them. However, at a time in our current events, in which the phenomenon of “candidacy,” is presently operative, we would select a particular homily, as a frontrunner, for the very worst, and which, in our view, has little real, “bottom of the barrel,” competition. It also has, in its atavistic stupidity, provided us with the subject of this note. It pains us to be obliged to repeat the same, but we do so for referential identification purposes only: “Spare the rod, and spoil the child.”

We suspect that the home-spun laureate, who authored this shameful inanity, may be from the same school of classic literature as is, the simpleton, who is responsible for another well known, hoary, travesty, “Children should be seen and not heard.” The latter aphorism, suggests that well brought up children, should be silent, inactive, potted plants, rather than, enthusiastic and welcome participants, in normal family interaction. The parent who abuses mandatorily silent children, certainly is not, in any way, in the running, for a Fred Rogers gold medal, for parenting.

Someone might, generously and defensively reply, that these are traditional (“old”) homilies; to which we would, emphatically state, that in contemporaneous speech they would, accurately, translate to, “Child abuse and cruelty, are the accepted, and recommended modes of rearing children.” We would confidently declare, that there exists, no possible moral rationale for striking a child, [nor keeping him mute].  We are parents, and, candidly admit to experiencing, at times, the feelings of stress and frustration, inherent in child rearing, but, have never reacted to our frustration by physically, acting it out on the child. No one, we believe, beats his child, as purportedly, claimed, “out of love” or because, “he loves him.” Moreover, the child will not, likely, perceive it in that way. The child is physically abused, by the parent, as a result of the inhumane, venting of his own impatience and lack of understanding of kinder and vastly more effective, alternatives. An errant child, may forget the intended lesson, but he will not soon forget the painful treatment. Under such a regime, he, predictably may, later in his life, replicate such learned, cruel behavior.

There are far more effective, appropriate and loving policies, founded upon a taught sense of the child’s respect, for himself, and his own self-image. It should be emphasized, that, if a child is to behave properly, for the purpose of avoiding punishment, what will his behavior demonstrate, when he knows the disciplinary adult is absent. Lessons in rewards and punishments, place the subject of behavior in the wrong context, and are foolish, and self-defeating lessons; promoting the values of stealth and caution, instead of rectitude. We would offer the following, hypothetical illustration:

Supposing that [hypothetically], on some unusual impulse, I stole your cell phone. The next day, fraught with remorse and anxiety. I return it to you, confess and profusely and sincerely apologize for my wrongful act. You, being generous in nature, forgive me, and state: “I forgive you, let’s forget all about it and pretend it didn’t happen.” He may actually, forget about it, but I certainly cannot. I am still, internally plagued by the question: “What kind of person can I be, to have stolen his phone, in the first place?”

Morality is an internal phenomenon, closely aligned with one’s self- image (self-identity). By analogy to a long term savings account, a charitable or empathic act, is like making a deposit (reinforces) a perceived moral and just, internal feeling of identity, while a selfish or wrongful act makes an expensive, at times, a lasting withdrawal, from that account. For properly socialized individuals, self-appraisal is a vital ingredient in their life’s assessment, and a consistent positive self-image, is crucially important.

The truly enlightened and responsible parent, will endeavor to instill in the child, an internalized, and candid, sense and awareness of “himself” and his valuably essential, self- worth. This, admittedly, takes considerable time, and much disciplined and instructive patience, on the part of the parent. The child must learn, ultimately, through much patient and loving instruction, to be his own moral and empathetic supervisor, and when he does so, will, predictibly, grow to be an empathic and honest adult; and, at some, future day, an enlightened parent.

It must be said that, in such a proper program of enlightened teaching of virtue, perhaps, the most effective element, as an instructive model, is the exemplary behavior of the parent, himself.

-p.

It would be exceedingly useful, if some electronically gifted, denizen of Silicon Valley, were to develop a GPS, which could (albeit by satellite) direct the best route to the achievement of one’s aspirational outcomes. Man’s recorded history and classic literature, speak to a dismal record of eternally vain attempts, and of subsequent failures, in the pursuit of mankind’s ultimately, meaningful, goals.

At the earliest stages of human life, innate, primitive desires, relating to man’s fundamental need for survival, would appear to have been automatically installed, by instinctive nature. These rudimentary desires gradually morph, from such initial, existential wants, to creative imaginings, which themselves, in time, undergo alteration, during the long, developmental process of childhood. As life goes on, childish fantasies and dreams, become translated and edited to express, progressively, more realistic and attainable, possibilities. With the progress of maturity, many early fantasied designs, become more specific, and begin to emulate aspirations, shared by other members of his societal group; albeit, refined by his personal, empirical experience.

Recognizably, the greatest number of man’s personal goals and aspirations are mutually shared in common, with other fellow societal members. Included are, good health, financial security, friendship and love, marital happiness, professional success and personal self-fulfillment. It is inarguable, that such outcomes will, necessarily, vary in degree of satisfactory attainment, due to nuances in persona, and the occurrence of determinative events, outside of one’s control.

Mandatory ingredients for normal life in any society are, one’s confident perception, of his acceptance, and the earned respect of others. Fortunately, all that is necessary to arrive at this relatively, easily attained outcome, is a demonstrated, responsible and consistent compliance, with societal expectations.

Another category of attainment, but, one universally requiring, adequate desire and dedication, includes, losing weight, learning a foreign language, reading all of Homer or Whitman, running the Marathon, learning to swim, ice skate, ski, dance or riding a bicycle. Successful outcomes, in such matters, usually require normative skills, and an appropriate level of motivation. Inner-directed type personalities, may be able to accomplish these goals and skills on their own; others may need coaching or tutorial assistance. As to these subjects, the requisites, as applicable, are physical skills, such as balance and strength or, academic capability; however, by far, the overriding consideration is motivation.

In fairness, it should be noted that, in certain, identified areas, such as business ventures, successful outcomes, may in great part, depend upon external factors, beyond one’s control. Changes in supply, stylistic variations, supply or absence of raw materials, labor issues, weather phenomena, economic downturns, changes in the law, scientific advances, monetary policy, politics and/or other variables, may operate to retard, or advance, success. A thorough knowledge of the relevant field, flexibility, and a fixed determination, seem to be the only practical and possible, recommendations, for hoped for success. In commercial agricultural pursuits, sufficient knowledge is also mandatorily required, but, in similar fashion, there are a great many uncontrollable variables, including weather, pests, government regulation and changes in consumer demand.

Mankind’s profoundly fundamental and existential challenges, world peace and brotherhood, absence of want, as updated, to include: victory over cancer and other diseases, reduction in air-borne carbon, increased longevity, are, classic goals, to which mankind, universally and eternally, has aspired. These, outcomes, however, will always remain, sad to say, merely, esoteric destinations, as long as, so many humans continue to downplay learning and wisdom, in favor of short-lived and shallow entertainment, and for as long as ignorant populism continues, as a virulent pathogen, to sicken the potential advancement of humanity, towards its evolutionary- intended destination, attained wisdom and world peace.

-p.

The successful advent of the Fourth Anniversary of plinyblog.com, seems to incline us to introspective and autobiographical musing. We gratefully see this enjoyable, and responsible, activity as a special franchise, for the expression of our thoughts, ideas and perceptions on the empirical and emotional world of our personal experience. We have diligently listened, to the extent of our abilities, to life’s lessons, for the greater part of a century, and to the extent of such empirical education,  have attempted to convey, to the best of our abilities, the lessons learned, hopefully, in an appropriately, modest manner.

Over the slightly less than five hundred posts (including, essays, editorials and poetry), we are grateful to have had the opportunity to express ourselves, our thoughts and observations on a plethora of subjects. This, we acknowledge is a special franchise, for which we are duly appreciative, most especially to our regular followers and readers. We, at plinyblog.com, have accepted the challenge imposed by the obligation to be responsible, and interesting, as well as clear and (hopefully), readable. The challenge and opportunity, has been, most rewarding and no less than, stimulatingly, joyous.

Our loyal readers are aware that the wide variety of subjects undertaken, societal, anthropological, literary, historic, political, ethical and moral, psychological, ethnic and, indeed, the mundane, will reveal, nevertheless, a common theme, the advancement of mankind, and the enhancement of life, through the individual pursuit of learning. The latter provides depth and self- fulfillment to the individual, and ultimately, value to our Nation.

We are thankful to our readers for providing the opportunity for this most rewarding experience, and look forward to attempting to provide further interest and diversion, in the coming year.

Happy New Year, to all.

-p.

By an unusual, unanimous vote, the Officers and the entire Board of Directors, of plinyblog.com, after a period of controlled, but somewhat contentious, debate, has, now resolved, to put the erstwhile, popularly used phrase, “cultural borrowing,” in moth balls, to be immediately replaced and permanently superseded, by the more accurate, and empirically descriptive term, “cultural replication.” The prime movants of this change, correctly asserted, that “loans,” as we know them, have to be repaid, usually with interest. Moreover, should A “loan,” his lawnmower to B, for the period of time that the equipment is in B’s possession and use, A is deprived of the lawnmower. These observations, it is submitted, clearly, illustrate the patent inapplicability, to this specific topic, of the all- too commonly used noun, “loan.”

Accordingly, notwithstanding the word’s regular use, by recognized experts in such fields as, cultural anthropology, sociologists, and, as well, historians of note, we have resolved, respectfully, not to refer to the inter-cultural exchange, emulation or transmission of cultural practices or folkways, as “loans.”

The singular evergreen tree, eternally, revered by the ancient peoples, which remained, continuously, thriving and verdant, despite the fact, that in certain periods, of the year, (Winter) the Earth seemed to suffer in the throes of death. Religious-cultural observances, for example, the Roman “Feast of Saturnalia,” (4^th Century), had rituals, principally involving the evergreen, performed in honor of the ailing Sun God. This practice, consistently, proved to be the curative, annually, restoring the Divinity and the Earth, to active health (as evidenced by the melting and running of brooks and streams, bunny rabbits and new greenery.) The history of Saturnalia, itself, has been traced to the very early days of man, to mark the end of the agricultural season. The, earlier, Feast of Dies Natali’s Solis, (3^rd Century), celebrating the rebirth of the Sun God, is understood to have been celebrated with branches of this magically, green tree.

The word, “Yuletide”, or “Yule”, was a festival, historically observed by the Germanic peoples (ex., Norse and Gothic), eleven days after the date the Winter Solstice. The Norse Goddess,” Farigga,” was caused, by such ritual, to give birth, unfailingly, to a new, young, sun, each and very Springtime.

It may be observed that, the common, celebrations of the Winter Solstice, reiterated universally, by successive ages of man, were intended to promote the successfully, anticipated lightness and rebirth of the planet. The modern aphorism is, “If it seems to be working, keep doing it.” The Ancients, it seems, noted, the prior, consistent, successes of the observances, and emulated or replicated (not “borrowed”) them for use, with amendments, fitted to their own cultural context.

In the contemporaneous context, we do, miraculously see, a rebirth and resurrection of the planet in Springtime, verdant plants, hopping bunny rabbits, and awakened deciduous trees. Our Holidays of Christmas (death) and Easter (rebirth) are, indeed, identical to the celebrations of the ancients, and with the same perceived results. It does, logically, and rationally, seem to be a republication of the same mind- set and rituals. There is a strong rational temptation to see, in these beliefs and observances, replication as an emulation of the ancient rites, tailored to a contemporary mold. This, after all, may be true; but we have another (perhaps, original) idea.

We have learned from the study of history, and the reading of great literature, that the basic existential problems and issues, are not only universal, but timeless. This blogspace has eternally recommended the reading of great literature, for many good reasons. Perhaps the best reason is the realization, by the discerning reader, that the essential, lifetime issues, are eternally identical, albeit in different settings and contexts. Such reading, as we have constantly maintained, accordingly, furnishes the thoughtful reader, with a mature and objective, understanding and perspective, relative to his own life.

The analogous holiday celebrations referred to, are lucid examples of the universality of man, in every age, demonstrated, among other ways, by his specific, and revelatory, holidays. The price homo sapiens pays, for the generous gift, by evolution, of an advanced brain, is the (repressed) knowledge (fear) of his mortality. The franchise of life, is, inarguably treasured and celebrated; the eventual, certain, occurrence of death is of course, feared, but for practical reasons, rationalized and kept under the surface.

Holiday beliefs or fantasies, concerning, the possibility of rebirth, or resurrection, after death, would seem to be an understandable reaction, and attempt at the amelioration, of the recognized (and feared) inevitability of life’s termination. Our personal conjecture, is that such identically, motivated and analogous, holiday celebrations, have always served the same, universal, psychological, purpose. They may not merely, be interesting examples of cultural replication, but rather, the demonstration of mankind’s universal, contemporaneous fears and, his private, existential fantasies. [as was also, of course true, in ancient times].

-p.

* Wm. Shakespeare, “Julius Caesar”: Marc Anthony,: “ Friends, Romans and Countrymen, lend me your ears…”

It seems, ages ago, [perhaps for the legitimate reason that, it was, ages ago], that any young boy, residing within the confines of the City of New York, with any acceptable, degree of pride and self- respect, would demonstrate those traits to critical company, by predictably, drinking “egg creams,” only, at an appropriate soda counter. For the benefit of the insufficiently worldly, of our readers, let us proceed to elucidate.

European recorded History, by analogous reference, reveals countless instances of hostility, and outright warfare, between claimants to the throne termed, “pretenders;” one claiming legitimacy, and the other, in its own, forensic, interest, contesting that claim. Ultimately, the true and authentic, Monarch, was said to be, religiously and legally, the choice of the divinity [“Devine Right of Kings”].

In the the heraldic, first half of the 20^th Century, it was, demonstrably clear, that only the “wet,” soda fountain establishment, employing a “soda jerk,” who had mastered the artisanal and aesthetically valid, iteration, of the “egg cream” had the irrefutably clear right, to assert that it was the legitimately crowned Realm. It had, but weak opposition, from contenders, existing in the “dry” confectionary establishments.  The authentically, recognized, “wet,” confectionary, establishments, uniformly contained solid, granite-like counters, at which sat, the gourmet imbibers of that truly royal, Olympian nectar, the egg cream. The establishments of sodas and candy, signified as “dry” candy stores, could never field an adequate army of supporters, to initiate any serious challenge, to the latter’s recognized and religiously, authentic, rule. This was, divinely and eternally, ever the case, as to any and all, dry candy stores, albeit, with soda jerks who had, somehow, managed to acquire the exotic mysteries of the ancient, artisanal, “egg cream.”

For those random readers, who, for some [astounding] reason, happen not to be sufficiently schooled, in the conceptual existence of the egg cream, nor, in the vital and elegant process of its assembly, it may be useful to relate, the fundamental facts regarding both vital subjects. We do so, with the benign hope, and in the optimistic expectation, that the vast constellation of its former aficionados, will elect, in a disciplined and charitable manner, to temper their reactions of superiority and haughty impatience.

The legitimate and authentic egg cream (at times, “crème”) is, significantly, and primarily, a product of its artisanal and assiduously correct assembly process, as compared with its actual content. The contents are simply, chocolate syrup (traditionally, Fox’s “U-Bet”, brand), a few ounces of whole milk, and, fountain supplied, carbonated water. To comply with strictly accepted, orthodoxy, the glass should be the standard eight ounce, Coca Cola type; the visible words “Coca Cola”, which may be imprinted on the glass, itself, are not, merely, immaterial, but, in many cases, to the truly experienced cognoscenti, an assurance of the authentic, classic provenance, and quality, of the beverage.

The proper amount (see above) of chocolate syrup, is, customarily, introduced into the drinking glass, by means of a small spigot, located at the top of the syrup jar, or, in instances of large, economy-size containers, on its side. Two quick and short, hand pumps, is the tried and true technique, for balance, in the avoidance of the inclusion of too little, or too much, of this sweet ingredient. The next step is the addition of two or so, ounces of milk. These two, initial steps, are, concededly, within the natural skill, and experience, of any dispenser of so soda. But, from this crucial point on, the actual, defining, or “make or break,” procedure is commenced. It requires, true and assiduous attention, aesthetic skill, and, above all, sufficient experience. Before this final, absolutely, crucial and defining step, one is obliged to disclose, yet, some more revealing, cultural addenda, to the [pardon the expression] mix.

The anonymous esoterica of the “egg cream” is such that, despite its name, no eggs or cream, whatsoever, are included in its artisanal preparation. The beverage bears the distinctive name, solely justified, by its unique creamy-foamy properties. It is the very technique of preparation, which, only if, strictly and orthodoxly replicated, will result in the light, chocolatey, foamy consistency, entitling it to be, a legitimate and divine pretender, to that exotic, appellation.

After the specified chocolate syrup and milk have been dutifully, installed in the glass, the next and, ultimately defining step is, the addition of strong, short, streams of carbonated water, from the soda fountain. But we, must, of necessity, stop here for another caveat; this one, no less than, the ne plus ultra of the legitimate existence of the egg cream.

Every experienced young consumer and aficionado of the drink, would examine the area, proximate to the dispenser of soda, (the “soda jerk”) to observe whether, or not, he kept a long handled, small, metal spoon, at the ready. If none were apparent, the young, but savvy customer, would have, predictably, refrained from placing an order for the drink. This is because the technique of adding the strong bursts of carbonated water, to complete and to give birth to the drink, must be mandatorily, accomplished, by directing the broadcasted carbonated water, on to the back of the, hand held, classically required, long handled, small spoon; the direction of the flow of carbonated water from the concave side of the spoon was, routinely derogated. No other process will produce the legitimately, authentic, egg cream, as opposed to a milky, chocolatey and illegitimate, pretender to the divine name.  The authentically made drink, resulted in a properly combined, active, and integrated carbonation with the milk and chocolate, producing the desired, creamy and highly valued drink.

The authentically constructed egg cream, may not have been, as in the case of a true and legitimate European monarch, the claimed manifestation of divine right, but, in the realm of the appreciative youngster, it was, incontrovertibly, “divine”.

-p.

“Zachary Star,” was the name, assigned to him, a long time ago, by the Supervising Social Worker; the first name, arbitrary, the last name, for the unusual, but pretty, star-like mark on his right hand.

Soon after stealthily and resolutely, stepping out through the rear exit of the “Vineland Residence for Boys,” Zachary noticed, at his feet in the new fallen snow, a shiny, silver colored, medallion, brightly lit, by that night’s full moon. The Medallion seemed to be of ceramic construction, and appeared to be in an odd shape, conceivably, resembling a kidney bean. It had an appended neck chain, and Zachary, reflexively, put it around his neck, and continued, quickly, and silently on his route.

Early on, he had been informed, that he was simply left, at the Residence Entrance, approximately fourteen years ago, by an unidentified person, presumably, his natural mother. Only recently, had he made a bold determination to leave, and, on this night, steeled himself, to actually, depart from the cold and loveless institution, in an idealized quest for high adventure, or at the very least, a more satisfactory life.

The sum total of his personal possessions, were, two shirts, one clean pair of jeans and three pairs of underwear. He had a second bag with food, consisting of a wrapped, whole loaf of sliced white bread, a half-  full jar of peanut butter and two apples, all of which he had stolen from the kitchen pantry.

He wandered, without any destination or resolved purpose, except, that of putting distance between himself and the cold, regimented life, endured at the Home. Although his fingers were cold, he, somehow derived some (perhaps, imagined) relief from fingering the found medallion.

He soon thereafter, located an ample recess, in the doorway of a closed barbershop, and found some needed rest and sleep. When he awoke, dawn was beginning to break. As he sleepily and hungrily, stood, he felt, at his feet, a young, soft, furry cat, rubbing against him, while profusely, purring. He shared some of his bread and peanut butter with the young cat (marveling at the cat’s acceptance of such food) petted the cat and continued on his way, resolutely, followed, by the little, furry animal.

Zachary, followed closely by his new animal companion, traveling in a direction, which he perceived, was taking him away from the Home, came upon a market square, in which produce of every kind was sold. He chanced to notice, in the increasing daylight, some farmers bringing their produce to the market for sale. He reflexly, fingered his medallion, when he observed, that it’s ceramic configuration, was virtually, identical to the kidney beans, displayed, by the farmers, for sale.

He soon came upon a small group of old men, nearby, trying to warm themselves around an active fire, burning, in an empty oil can and stopped at the fire, to warm himself, diffidently, reaching over the brim, to warm his hands. A rather ancient appearing, dark skinned man with braided hair, noticed the medallion around Zach’s neck, and inquired as to its manner of acquisition. Zachary, truthfully related, that he found it on the ground, shining in the moonlight. The man, resembling an elderly American Indian, advised him that it was a magical, good luck medallion, and that his manner of finding it, was especially indicative of imminent good fortune. Zachary, looked down and discovered that the little cat seemed to be purring in response to the statement and, possibly to indicate moral encouragement.

As the light of day began to gradually, brighten in intensity, Zachary found himself, transfixed by the unmistakable, delicious aroma of freshly baked bread and cakes, and was drawn, mouthwateringly, into a bakery, in which, many varieties of highly delectable, baked products, were displayed for sale. The observant and empathic baker, observing the lone youngster’s condition, gave him some free baked products to eat. After a satisfying and somewhat extensive conversation with the needy young man, the baker offered him, a try-out, of his, sorely needed, position of delivery boy, and upon Zachary’s acceptance of the offer, immediately gave him instructions and set him to work. Positive and very satisfactory feedback, from customers, was received by the baker, and, after a few days the baker offered him the job, plus a rent-free warm room, in the back of the shop, as a temporary residence.

The close proximity of the two occupants of the premises, soon led to the mutual realization of the comfort of a close, family-type relationship [the baker was still young and unmarried]. When the baker was not feeling well or tired, he would allow Zack to fill in for him at the sales counter, and received many complimentary comments on his courteous service. The baker furnished Zachery’s back room, in a style of pleasant and comfortable ambiance.

A harmonious period of time had passed by, when the baker, suddenly, rushed into Zachary’s room, where he was reading, with the cat in his lap, and, nervously, and breathlessly, asked him to take over at the counter to serve the customer. Zack, dutifully, rushed to the counter, assuming that the baker had suddenly felt ill. When he arrived, he noticed a young attractive woman, who stated that she had just returned home, after being away for a couple of weeks. She said that she had always patronized the bakery and would, as previously done, come by, from time to time to buy baked products.

After the woman left with her purchases, Zachery solicitously, inquired after the baker’s state of present health, and received the response of “fine.” On further discussion, the baker admitted that he knew the woman customer, for some time, and loved her, but was shocked, suddenly, to see her after a period of her absence. Apparently, he had failed in his resolve, and, at her expectation, to propose marriage to her; and so, she unhappily, went away. He thanked Zachary, and agreed that if, and when she returns, they would both serve her.

Two days later, the woman returned to purchase some goods, Zachary was at the counter, at the time. For some reason, the cat was, excitedly, rubbing herself, against his leg. Zach, seemed to feel a pull or drag at his medallion, as both he and the woman, for some reason, reddened, and stared at each other. Zachery’s stomach began to become upset, and he started to tremble for no accountable reason. He thought that this time, it was he that was ill, and was relieved to see the baker return to the sales counter. However, the baker was also nervously trembling, visibly, at the sight of the woman. He began speaking at an uncommon speed, included in which was a profuse apology, and a tearful explanation of events, and most significantly, a heartfelt, sincere proposal of marriage. The woman sobbingly, but, clearly, accepted the proposal and the two [ Zachary was overjoyed to observe] locked each other in an embrace and loving kiss.

The cat purred loudly, as she brushed against Zachary’s leg, the medallion felt unnaturally heavy, and most miraculous of all, was the, unmistakable shape of a star on the woman’s right hand.

The couple married, mother and child were reunited, and the small, furry cat, still resides with the happy family threesome. At the first snowfall, Zachery removed the Medallion and generously, and very gently, left it on the ground, atop some fallen snow in front of the nearby Children’s Hospital.

-p.

It isn’t as though Lucinda (“Cindy,” to her friends and neighbors), had little to do. Since, miraculously, surviving the horrific, fiery automobile accident, she vainly attempted to divert herself from its, traumatic recollection, by volunteering as a childhood librarian, at the Main Street Library, by participation in Church charity sales, and working, as a part time, real estate salesperson for a local broker. She had always been an avid gardener, and now, by necessity, rededicated herself to the solicitous care and oversight, of the shrubs and flowering bushes, growing in front of her modest, shingled house.

There had been, a veritable stream of consoling visitors, since the funeral of Ken, her late fiancé, the unlucky driver, of the smashed car, bringing, with their warm condolences, flowers, home baked cakes, and pies. Lucinda was often, momentarily, diverted, during the pendency of their visits, and heartfelt wishes, but returned to a state of inconsolable tragedy and angry, self-pity, as soon as company departed. Following one such visit, she despondently, tossed into the trash can, a lovely, home-made rhubarb and strawberry pie (known to be her favorite) previously brought by Susan, her best friend and erstwhile intended, Maid of Honor. After some weeks, she finally was able, between staccato sobs, to put the intended, and, unused wedding gown, and the matching, sequin purse, away in a cardboard box, in her small upstairs attic.

Her longtime best friend, Susan, earnestly, tried in every conceivable way, she could think of, to console Cindy, bringing her along to movies, concerts and to the occasional cultural programs which presented themselves to the town. Cindy was appreciative, but sad to say, seemed to be chronically inconsolable.

Susan and her husband, Barry, were, eternally concerned about political matters, such as ethics in government, the overhaul of the unfair, U.S. Tax code, the subject of compassionate capitalism, and the amelioration of climate change. In reality, Barry practiced law in a local office, and was, for, both, business and idealistic reasons, relatively active in State and local politics. It was election time, and so, Barry suggested to Susan, that she bring Cindy to some of the town political meetings. He was supporting, in the upcoming federal election, for President, the candidacy of liberal, Democratic Nominee, named, Jeff Prince, a capable, intelligent, well educated, widower, with an Honors degree in Political Science, from Geogetown University.

Lucinda (“Cindy”), accompanied Susan and Barry to several political programs, at first, reluctantly, but later on, often, finding the heat of debate and contention somewhat, diverting and enjoyable. She, after a while, would make written notes of the arguments of the debating presenters and keep them for later consideration. Not wishing to misplace or lose these, increasingly interesting notes, she bravely, (and uncomfortably) recovered her sequin purse, from the attic, for their storage. Before long, the dressy purse, originally intended to be an accompaniment to her sequin wedding dress, was bulging with recorded argumentative points, asserted at the political meetings.

Cindy soon elected, to terminate her real estate sales activities, as well as her services as volunteer, part- time children’s librarian, in order to allow time for attendance, with Susan and Barry, at political meetings; finding the forensic debate, somewhat more effective in diverting her from the grim thoughts of her past loss. She enjoyed the challenging, analytical, activity, of making brief, written notes, of the contested and debated points, storing the notes, in her (sequin) purse, for later, quiet consideration and analysis.

She came, in time, to know the offered platform and philosophy of the locally, preferred candidate, Jeff Prince, and to candidly, prefer his position to the other, competing candidates. Reviewing, re-reading and consideration of his positions on the issues, appealed to her, personally as properly, correct and empathic. She would regularly, following an exhaustively, debated meeting, when arrived home, empty her dressy purse, of the transcribed notes, and save them for possible, future reference.

The political air was becoming, noticeably, electric with excitement, as the date for the Presidential election drew near. The Presidential Candidate, Jeff Prince, and his opponents, were furiously traveling around the Country, barnstorming and speaking in support of their respective election. Barry learned, through the political channels, that Jeff Prince was soon arriving to make a twenty- minute stop at their hometown. He excitedly and immediately, notified Susan and Cindy, of the exact place and time of his appearance, so that they could personally, meet the Presidential Candidate, Jeff Prince, and have the rare opportunity of speaking with him.

Barry, Susan and Cindy, were waiting at the exact point, where the Candidate was to make his intended appearance. Cindy, especially, took care to bring her (sequined) purse, a pen and some writing paper, to record his words and the general experience. It was, unfortunately, raining, heavily, when our trio was able to personally, meet, and greet the Candidate. The famous personality, subsequently to be elected President of the United States, was a handsome, young man, who, hurriedly spoke with our three supporters, but noticeably, and intensely, kept staring at Lucinda, through the rain.

After the candidate hurriedly left, having exchanged wet, rainy handshakes, with the three friends Cindy was heard to alarmingly, cry out, “Where is my purse?” “My sequined purse is nowhere to be found.” The next day, the future President-to-be, returned to the local political headquarters, and reported that, in the rain and confusion, someone, in his party had taken the purse, mistakenly, assuming that it was hers. The celebrated young man was told, by Barry, who the owner of the wet, sequined bag, was, and he offered to return it to her. The handsome, future President, smiled broadly, winked, and happily, and anticipatorily said, “I’ll take it to her, myself.”