May 30, 2008

You Know You're A Redneck

"You know you're a redneck when your house is on wheeles and your car isn't."

-Author Unknown-

May 25, 2008

Saluting Our Troops




Thank You
For Your Courage & Sacrifice
2008
Afghanistan/Iraq

May 24, 2008

OOOOPPPPSSSS!!!!

This past week I was involved in an auto accident … yes, since I hit the vehicle in front of me it is automatically my fault even though the truck suddenly came to a scratching halt.

As for injuries, I sustained a few burses, upper body strain, and a concussion for which I was treated. Other than that I’m fine now and doing my best to pull myself out of this setback. As for the passengers in the truck, which sustained bumper damage and I'm sure the same type of injuries I did, are hopefully fine.

Thus far, I've given my insurance company a statement as to what I perceived happened. I’m pretty positive that they ain’t going to like me very much since they are going to have to pay. Anyway, my Ford Focus of eight years, if I fix my windshield the car is drivable which will buy me time to look for another. What really matters is that no one was seriously injured … thank God! (Updated 05/27/08)

The One You Just Walked Past

“Life is too short to live without being Happy. I was taught a valuable lesson long ago, if you're not happy with yourself, only a fool would try to change you, I'm nobody's fool. Most people never look beyond the surface to see what lies underneath, and for those I offer pity because they will never know what true love they may have passed up along the way searching for the next, the next and the next. Thru their path along a rocky road they learn no lesson but rather continue with the same repeated pattern of frustration, and self destruction. It's a very superficial world in which we live, full of advertisements telling us what we need, what we need to look like, and how "cute and sexy" the one standing beside us needs to be. Do they tell you what you're suppose to do when you need someone to hold your hand, when you have to face another lonely evening looking at your monitor instead of into someone's eyes, do they tell you how you're suppose to cope when the current person in you life moves along because he found something better, even though the only attraction you had to him was because he was cute. How long are you going to go thru life treating people so bad because something about them doesn't meet up to (your) standards … you still made the choice to live life with their shallow superficial standards instead of those in your heart. How about that wonderful meal you cooked, guess what, tomorrow you're eating leftovers because there is no one to share it with. … And if you want to go there on religion, ok where did GOD say it was wrong to love a man? A lot of others did, because they were lonely judgmental people, but does their judgment of you make it any better? Do they bring you happiness? Do they give you the love, respect, consideration, and admiration you deserve? No, only the person that loves you UNCONDITIONALLY and God can do that. So do you love yourself enough to allow for your total happiness? If you don't maybe you just need to go shopping and buy a new outfit, at least that way the surface shoppers can say, "he's cute" and never slow down enough to say, "He's one hell of a man.""

Sincerely,
The one you just walked past.

Excerpts from Glen Auburn for the "Dear Gay Man."

Forever Friends

It is said that people come into your life for a reason. Throughout my life I have had many individuals enter and exit my world. Some have stayed for a short while. Some have stayed only during the time I have been in a particular area … some individuals are simply territorial friends. Once you move or relocate, specially out of state, they simply exit your life. Then there are those individuals who stick around. No matter where you go these individuals remain in your life and become life long friends.

I have listened to individuals who say, “Oh yeah, I can count my friends on one hand!” When I ask how many fingers, the typical response has been; “Oh, three, maybe four!” In today’s world it seems that most people have more acquaintances then they do friends. And in this modern society the word “Friends” has a whole new meaning associated with it … have you heard the term “Friends with Benefits*?” That’s right! “Friends with Benefits.” Now days when someone tells me that I am their friend, I have to stop and ask myself as to how they are interpreting my association. Am I a Friend or am I a “Friend?”

Another thing I’ve noticed is that most people want associations that doesn’t include ones entire personality and/or makeup. What makes one unique is no longer important. Everyone is looking for that perfect individual who has the right look, the right moves, the right everything. Relationships are often based on what type of profession you’re in, what kind of automobile you drive, where you live, ones age, and the list goes on. Now day’s, no one really wants to get to know, YOU. More often than not, associations are pretty much superficially based. Once YOU become you, then you’re discarded like a piece of trash. No wonder people have more acquaintances than they do friends. In today’s society, true friendships are far and few, if nonexistent. We as a society have become less tolerant of each other than we are of terrorists.

I have been lucky! Over the years, no matter where I’ve traveled or lived, I have been fortunate to have friends with staying power … I’m talking about Life Long Friends. No matter where I’ve been or what I’ve gone through, these individuals have had my back, and have been my source of reality. These individuals have stood by me through thick and thin, and I am eternally grateful to be associated with them. If it wasn’t for my True Friendships, my live would be shallow and lonely. As far as I’m concerned, it’s not about how many “friends” I could have, it’s the quality of Friends I have. George Washington said it so eloquently, “Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few be well tried before you give them your confidence.”

Compared to “Friends with Benefits” and Friends, “Friends with Benefits" can kiss my @ss! They are not welcomed in my life cause the “Benefits” they bring is shallow, unfulfilling, self-centered and usually filled with undesirable risks. So to the following; Emily, Eunice, Dan, Mit, Mitchell and Patsy, Ralph and Betty, I want to say that YOU and EVERYTHING that makes you unique, has been my source of joy, and being a part of your life has made my life richer and complete. Thank you for being my life long friend!

*Stritly a sexual relationship without any commitments.

May 17, 2008

The Wal-Mart Greeter

A very loud, unattractive, mean-acting woman walked into Wal-Mart with her two kids, yelling obscenities at them all the way through the entrance.The Wal-Mart greeter said pleasantly, 'Good morning, and welcome to Wal-Mart. Nice children you have there. Are they twins?'

The ugly woman stopped yelling long enough to say, 'Hell no, they ain't. The oldest one's 9, and the other one's 7. Why the hell would you think they're twins? Are you blind, or just stupid?'' I'm neither blind nor stupid, Ma'am,' replied the greeter. 'I just couldn't believe you got laid twice. Have a good day and thank you for shopping at Wal-Mart.

-Author Unknown-

Question & Answer

Question:

"Why so much music on your blog?" … from M.J.

Answer:

Music has always been a part of my life. My mother was a concert pianist and teacher, therefore our home was continually filled with music … mostly classical and religious. As I grew up and began expanding my musical interests and tastes, I found that there were times where music would and could express better than the written word as to how I was feeling about something or someone.

It is said that “music sooths the savage soul.” I totally agree! When I am stressed or under pressure, listening to Mozart or Bach allows me to slow down and rest my mind, thus affording me a sense of calm and wellness. Then there are times when a particular song simply causes me to reflect, ponder, think or relate to a particular incident or situation.

As for the type of music I appreciate most, I would have to say that I tend to be more of a country music kind of guy. Country music speaks to my world, its reality and way of life. My second choice in music would be jazz, followed by classical and religious. As for the music video’s on my blog, they cause me to reflect of times past and present. And they certainly reflected what I was or am feeling much better than I could ever put into words.

Hopefully, this answers your question?

Same Sex Unions/Marriage

This past Friday, in a 4-3 vote, the California Supreme Court overturned a voter approved ban on gay marriage. Its opponents, mostly Christian groups, vow to fight to overturn the Supreme Court's ruling by pushing to change the states constitution.

Denying basic rights to any human being is outrages. Discrimination in any form is just simply wrong. Imagine, if you will, if suddenly heterosexuality was viewed as wrong and against nature? There would be such an outcry in this country should the courts deem that heterosexuals could not live their lives the way they choose or enjoy the same benefits as the rest of society. I’m certain that civil unrest would become a reality.

Those opposed to same sex unions/marriages say that it would “destroy” the family structure. Hold on a minute! If this issue will destroy the family structure then the family unit itself must be pretty weak … the family structure can only be destroyed from within. To say that someone who is gay or lesbian and wanting to have their union/marriage recognized by the state can literally tear the family structure apart in my opinion doesn’t make a bit of sense! If anything, it broadens the definition of what a family structure is in today's world.

Another point. These same opponents also state that the Federal Government should not recognize same sex unions/marriages by allowing same sex couples to file joint income tax returns or be allowed to collect Social Security benefits, etc. Now I’m scratching my head! Gay’s and Lesbian’s pay taxes … a lot of taxes! Therefore, why shouldn’t they be allowed to enjoy the same tax status or collect the same benefits as heterosexual couples? After all, it’s their money, they paid into the system, they earned it! By the way, those tax dollars that gay’s and lesbian’s pay into the federal government, well, I hate to brake the news to you, but guess what, heterosexuals benefits from those hard earned dollars as well! Therefore, why not equalize the benefits field? In my humble opinion, everyone benefits. After all, taking from one group and giving it to another then denying those who do not conform to our personal standards or morals … can we say stealing?

On a personal level, I believe that Christian groups need to leave the Constitution alone. It was wrong for the Federal Government to amend the Constitution by adding that marriage is to be between one man and one women. The Constitution provides protection of rights and the pursuit of happiness of all American citizens. It has no room for discrimination or dictating ones sexual preference. No I am not saying that child molesters or bestiality should be protected under the same document … YUK! I would never be accepting of these two groups as “norm.” But to discriminate against someone simply due to their sexual orientation, well, it’s simply wrong.

Religious hatred and intolerence is a dangerous avenue … look what happened to the Jews, even homosexuals and others who were considered a minority or undesirable group!?! If history is any lesson, then it’s time for change … it’s time to allow gay’s and lesbian’s to be seated at the table of life equally. After all, they too are a part of “We The People” which in its very own language gives them rights too. So, right on California! Welcome to the table of life.

May 11, 2008

2008 Bike Week


For the next week Myrtle Beach will be Hog Heaven ... The spring rally is underway and getting around town will be a nightmare. Everywhere you go, bikers, bikers, and more bikers. I tell you, it’s party time, that’s for sure! Though the rally causes havoc, I have to say that it’s great to have the bikers here … Being that I'm a people watcher, I sure enjoy the time they are here!

May 10, 2008

The Most Beautiful Rainbow

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll n ever get back. Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.

-Author Unknown-

Notes From My Journal

Waking up to the reality that my partner had deceased was one of the most devastating experiences of my life. After twenty-seven years of loyal companionship and partnership, facing the future alone was emotionally draining … actually freighting. Now three years down the road and reflecting back, my journey has been challenging as well as eye opening.

The first year was the rawest of my journey. Going from years of contentment, to care giver, to oops now what?, I quickly realized that my survival skills wasn’t as sound proof as I had thought. After all was said and done, reality quickly settled in and no matter how prepared I thought I was, I wasn’t. But by the grace of God, and the with the help of friends and family I survived and came through the most darkest time of my life.

The second year was finding my place at the table of life … re-entering the work force. After five years of taking care of John my employable skills were rusty and out dated. I had no clue as to what I could do to survive. But as any journey would have it, you begin by taking one step forward. I didn’t care what kind of work I had to engage myself in, I just needed a job. Well, my first job, installing a/c filters, I hated! Boy, did I hate it! Nonetheless, it was work and putting food on the table. Yes, I eventually quit this job!

During my down time I reflected on my past employable skills to see what professional field I had enjoyed the most and come to realize that I’ve always done well, as well as enjoyed the customer service/hospitality field. Well, I chose customer service and landed a job working for a local convenient store. Now talk about an eye opener! Believe it or not, I truly liked my job. I’ve meet some really good people and made some friends. But the downside was horrifying! People can be really cruel! I had alcohol, hot drinks, sodas, and food thrown at me cause I wouldn’t sell alcohol to individuals. I had my car vandalized. A gun pulled in my face. Theft was a big problem. Drug dealers and prostitutes doing business in the bathrooms … YUK! I tell you, as much as I liked my job, seven months down the road I found myself becoming really cynical towards people and I hated were my emotions were heading. Had it not been for my friend Tammy who nagged and prodded me to get out of the convenient store business, I would not be where I am today.

Today I am working in the hotel/restaurant industry. Last August, I took a job as a restaurant/banquet server at one of the local resorts and now I am gainfully employed with Tommy Bahamas. I’ve found my niche! Going to work, interacting with “normal” people, having fun, and making money is where it’s at for me. I AM GOOD AT WHAT I DO! Sure it has its downside, but overall working as a waiter has been rewarding, as well as satisfying. Right now I am learning about wins, I get to feast on great foods, I’ve meet some of the coolest people ever, and going home feeling righteously exhausted is a satisfying feeling to end a day. I wish, however, that I could say the same for my personal life … now this is where my eye have been really opened.

Aside from learning new employable skills I’ve had to learn new dating skills. I’m telling you, my eyes were opened to a whole new world unlike the one from which I came twenty-seven years ago … it was a rude awaking! Romance! Yeah, right! Candle light dinners and a romantic evening at home, not! In my opinion, dating today is like playing hopscotch of which I take no part of. Most have a revolving door policy … in this day and age of STD’s and AIDS, not a good policy! Many are simply down right rude and cruel … the “it’s all about me” mentality leaves little room for wanting to get to know someone on a personal level. Hate to say it, but some are simply not worth the air they breath.

As for my dating experience or inexperience, well, one individual turned out to being a stocker … have to say a clever one at that. Two other individuals were abusive, verbally as well as physically. I tell you, now days you cannot wear your heart on your sleeve for one minute, otherwise you’ll surely end up emotionally drained, broken and tossed aside like a piece of trash. Many a times I have thought it better to join a monastery. Nonetheless, amidst all the human rubbish it is possible to find a gem. And as much as some of my friends may disagree, I believe that I’ve found a gem in the rough. If it wasn’t for his friendship and guidance which keeps me grounded I would become bitter and hateful. Can’t say that I haven’t come close, cause there have been times where if murder was legal, I’d be headline news.

In life, there is always going to be the good and bad. Good friends who have stood by me through these years are priceless and my heartfelt thanks goes out to Mary, Tammy, Rob, Angie, Bob, Robyn and Lou, Michael, David, and Sean. If it wasn’t for you and the encouragement you’ve given me I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. You-all kept me going when I wanted to stop, kept me focused when I lost my way, and when I was down you put a smile on my face and a song in my heart. So from the bottom of all that I am, THANK YOU! God loves you and so do I! As for the bad, well, life ain’t always beautiful … a little rain has to fall sometimes, otherwise we wouldn’t know how good life can really be.

Yes, to this day I miss John a great deal … I always will! But now I am at peace. Comparatively, John is in a much better place and I look forward to that day when I get to see him again in that place where there is no sunset and no dawning. As for where I’m headed? Who knows! I am taking life one day, one step at a time, and with the wind at my back I am sailing forward while taking my place at the table of life.