“And once you get rid of the cave… Once you figure out the lie … Once you’re just a human goddam being walking the earth … well, maybe you are a little closer to something that might be a cosmic understanding.” – From “Before the Fall” by Stephen Romano
Politics and religion. The two taboos I try to stay away from.
Why? Because both are polarizing forces.
Either or both (too often they are one in the same), given the abuse and manipulations of stupid, ignorant, and/or evil creatures, is used to extort our ability to think and behave in a civilized manner.
We are turned against each other based on religion, nationality, beliefs, skin color or any of a myriad of differences we all possess.
And folks, we humans are damn good at passing judgment on each other.
All of us are guilty. You are. I am. We all are.
I used to care a lot about the human condition. I even obsessed over it.
At a certain point in my life I realized it was a colossal waste of time. Moreover, it was making me miserable. Like an apocalyptic vision, the best course for me became obvious.
Close the circle to family and a few close friends and hope the world as we knew it does not completely unravel before our time on the planet is over.
I am not remotely interested in your religion or politics.
I am only interested in what my chosen circle does.
Do not preach to me. Do not attempt to impose your beliefs on me. I will only think less of you.
“There is no witness so dreadful, no accuser so terrible, as the conscience that dwells in the heart of every man.” From “Forty Times a Killer” by William W. Johnstone
Texas Heat 
Ok considering this weather.
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I think people have lost the ability to discuss or debate. They just argue. Watch any talking head show. They shout and talk over each other. If they can’t make a point they resort to personal attacks. Alas Bob I think you and I are now at the place where the only safe subjects are the weather and our ailments. God save us please!!!
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So right Harry. If I weren’t for you and a few other friends, there would be no one for me to discuss the issues with. Just don’t die on me. How’s your health by the way?
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I agree Harry. I love intelligent, unemotional discourse. I never expect that all or anyone should agree with my opinion. And when the shouting and interrupting begins, I am done. But good, intelligent discussions are great. Just very hard to find. Like you, I hate watching the “talking heads. “
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Excellent, excellent, excellent…and timely. I wonder how many people realize how they sound to their friends and family when they espouse, with spitting fervor, their opinions. I know I have stepped back and asked myself, “Do I know this person? More importantly, do I want to continue to know this person?” For me, they are letting me know that they feel I can’t think for myself and I’m stupid. I’ve lost a couple of friends who couldn’t understand why I didn’t want to receive their hate filled opinions anymore. One even called me “un-American”. Thanks for this blog! Like you, my circle has become more exclusive. I just don’t want to argue anymore.
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Political posturing on facebook and other social media is forcing me to consider dropping out of those platforms as well. Hey folks-keep your opinions to yourself. No one cares what you think. Am I right Vickie?
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I refuse. 😄
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I understand.
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And thank God you do. I have at least one in my camp.
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