With news of Congressman Anthony Weiner's indiscretions the word "Hung" has frequently been heard. "Hung Over" too entered our conversations. Many asked if he was. "Hung Up" played a powerful role in reflections. "Hung Out to Dry" seems to be the consensus. Crowds of Congressmen and women, citizens from each political Party, and even those who claim no loyalties, say, The Representative must be renounced. Few wish to admit that Anthony Weiner is but you and me.
Supreme Court Justices, who served under Chief Jurist Brennan, perhaps, make three. Any of us might easily say, as the Justices did decades ago; on the subject of obscene or outrageous, "I Know It When I See It." We each do. Still, the definitions vary.
While few of us are officially appointed to write "codes" of conduct, as the Supreme Court Justices are, we too avidly watch the actions of another and judge.
Another year has come and gone. Everywhere she goes she hears people speak of New Years resolutions. They all say this time will be different. I will decide to do as I had not done previously or at least had not done well. Countless commit to a life of calorie counting. Others merely muse that they will exercise more. Drugs, drinking, there are also discussions of these concerns. People are confident. This year I will deliver myself from what I think evil. A few philosophize as to their personal career path. Change is the objective. A greater goal is thought to be golden. As Author Mary Anne Radmacher reflected and now millions whisper as their mantra, "Live with intention . . . Choose with no regret. . . . Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is." Therein lies the problem.
We would all like to naively assume that politicians - the medical profession - pharmaceutical companies etc, have our best interests at heart. The ordinary citizen cannot relate to a world of corporate greed, absent conscience, that puts profits above any considerations to the well being of public health (environmental protections). How much is enough profit - apparently there is no limit? If you have ever been involved in the vaccine program or are the first to jump in line for that flu shot, (other vaccines) it behooves you to take responsibility in not taking the word of every slick snake -oil- salesman coming down the pike promising you protections from the ills of life. Men care about their bottom lines, stock portfolios, and opulent lifestyles, not you or your child's health.
I wish to present a glorious and comprehensive tome, written by Judith Moriarty. "Eve of Destruction" examines the state of affairs in America. In abstraction, the author contemplates the annihilation of this country. The original text was published at rense.com. I marveled as I first read this missive. I hope you will appreciate this deft deliberation. I am honored and privileged to share this thought-provoking treatise.
"The eastern world it tis explodin',
violence flarin', bullets loadin'
ah, you don't believe we're on the eve of destruction"
If I were given unlimited power, money, and the unknowing assistance of multitudes of pawns, players, shills, toadies, lap dogs, etc; to take down a nation, how would I do it?
Sex is in the city and in the country. Americans are aroused and sizzling. They are hot and ready to trot. Numerous are running rampant. Others await Mister or Miss Right; these persons are tenuously evaluating the situation. Some saunter into the sex scene. A few wait on the sidelines. Many find more than one partner that pleases them. Nonetheless . . .
Belated Prologue . . .
I realize in retrospect I ranted and raged in haste. I was less reflective than I might have been. I did not consider how my words might be received. Thus, I neglected to state a significant point. Accepted political postures now supplant dictionary definitions. Back in the day, a conservative was one that conserved. They did not waste money or energy; nor did they treat life with little care. Natural resources were of great values to conservatives. Conservatives retained worthy traditions. Conservatives were cautious.
Currently, when we speak of conservatism, we equate the term with theories such as "trickle down economics." We think of those that allow for trillions of dollars in debt. Conservatives believe fighting terrorism in a protracted war that cost billions of dollars each week is best. It is conservatives that flippantly send our troops to battle; thus, endangering their lives. William H. Rehnquist was considered Chief among conservatives.
The story . . . This treatise may be more of a personal rant. I typically present, or attempt to offer facts, figures, and a hint of my own individual reflection. However, in this moment I am just shocked, stunned, and perhaps aghast. I was late to the news of the day. I listened as I prepared my dinner. I heard the teaser, 'Former Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist had a serious drug problem.' I feel a personal connection with the Justice since I learned of our shared history. I do not necessarily admire the man. Still, upon hearing this news, I [mistakenly] gave the former Chief Justice the benefit of the doubt.
A recently released study reports that the famous and often used, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders is not the reliable source it was once thought to be. The DSM offers definitions and analysis of mental, or personality disorders. Treatments are also prescribed. More often than not, these require drug therapy. For decades, psychiatrists, psychologists, pharmacists, and other medical specialist have turned to this guidebook for counsel; it was considered the Holy Grail. This large book was looked upon as an objective reference; it is not.