Opinions

Being a native Texan is something for which I am grateful. A very unstable upbringing involved less than desirable conditions that involved a wonderful mother, father and step-father, the latter when he was sober.

Being a native Texan is something for which I am grateful. A very unstable upbringing involved less than desirable conditions that involved a wonderful mother, father and step-father, the latter when he was sober.

Bruce Springsteen, the up-tempo rocker, released a poignant song in 2012, “We Take Care of Our Own,” is a reminder that wherever the American flag is flown, in difficult economic times, we are responsible for those in need. It is a healthy reminder to everyone that the homeless, the hungry, and those suffering from disaster, should not be forgotten.

I dedicate much of my writing to providing positive and encouraging words of hope and inspiration, but I also must be truthful, we are growing older. I apologize for reminding us about that, but instead of all the negative attributes of aging, we should embrace it more like we are a fine wine that is becoming more delightful and appreciated. Those of us who are noticing a few gray hairs and aching joints, relax and count your blessings. It is God that has allowed you and I to be at this place and time and to enjoy each day with those we love. Being older allows us to use what we have learned from our past and to apply it to our lives today, and also share this hard-earned wisdom with those who love and respect us. Aging is not about a number, it comes from abandoning our excitement and zeal. The years may wrinkle the skin, but letting go of our joy and enthusiasm wrinkles the soul.

Are they happy now? Largely called for and hugely supported, defunding police has to be one of the worst ideas and least thoughtout in years. It is another kneejerk response from Democrats.

“I guess I’m having my second childhood,” said my 90-year-old aunt in our telephone conversation this weekend. “I never had tonsillitis as a child but now I’m on my second week of antibiotics for what they’re calling ‘tonsillitis.’” Since she has been homebound, I have called to report what news I could think of, and to learn from her, too. We discussed the calendar, school starts, birthdays and anniversaries.

What’s the first question that pops into your mind when I ask you to think of a rhetorical question? Some common rhetorical questions are: Is rain wet? Is the Pope Catholic? Do you think money grows on trees?

I don’t like having blood drawn. I don’t like anything about doctors’ appointments except the declaration, “You’re fine.” At the end of August, however, I headed toward a routine appointment and observed a flurry of teachers returning to their desks and their duties.