Sugar Creek Publishing

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

# 312 “The Gift”

March 12, 2025

There is a pattern to life, and often that pattern does not fit what we have in mind. The ordinary falls into daily life and what should be special becomes so routine that we fail to see the importance of it in the larger scheme of life.

Over time, we take far too much for granted. What seems commonplace is set aside mentally and the everyday morphs into a repetition that is not only comfortable but also predictable.

And so it was with a companion of mine. Our days began with a good meal and some exercise. We greeted others with a smile and a lilt in our steps. Sheer dimension elicited reactions from onlookers as we plied the streets of the small town or did errands in the suburbs of the state capital.

The good that came from our union glowed in the aftereffects as folks walked away from us in both awe and appreciation of what we shared together.

There is no way that a simple column could do my colleague justice. In essence, he made me a better person and affected, in some way, anyone with whom we came in contact.

We led a simple life, replete with the basics that we assume with always be there for us. Our valued communication is something I will treasure and regret that I failed to fully appreciate – accepting the depth of it and seldom giving a second thought of its longevity.

The relationship between a dog and owner is uncomprehensible to those who go about their days sans canine. For those who share their days with an animal who counts on you for its very life, the bond is all too familiar and comforting.

Physicians will tell you that petting a dog lowers blood pressure. Considering what a great percentage of us face in terms of daily stress, it would seem that a dog is certainly a pleasant way to stay healthy. As for me, the last sixteen years of my eighty have been nothing less than golden.

Breakfast, while with little variety, was anticipated with excitement. Browsing new streets and vistas heightened the mood. The exhilaration of scents and sounds gave rise to a new human appreciation for what others ignore as normal. And then there is the reaction of others to this wonderful friend. From the smallest of children — and I mean babies – to retirees, the reactions ran the gamut. Because our breed of choice is large and a bit intimidating for many an onlooker, the surprise comes in response to the gentle nature of a dog who outweighs – and “out loves” – his owner. I admit that he had much more enthusiasm for a perfect stranger than I. Although, I must tell you, that a dog senses a person to be avoided much quicker than an owner. When a dog skirts a stranger, there is a great deal of wisdom in action and it best to pay attention.

I recall vividly times when my dog reacted to a stranger in a way that flummoxed me. The rare ability of a dog to sense danger is amazing. It happened more than once, but in terms of the numbers of people we saw over the years, it was also very rare. Only the quick reaction of the dog alerts the owner to a possible threat.

To a great degree, I chalk the whole relationship up to an extension of what I enjoyed most about life: mothering. Taken in sum, the years with three small children evaporated in a blur. It’s not that I fail to remember what happened over a half century ago. I do. Yet, the feeling that it all passed so quickly is only felt many years later. And so I mothered my dog.

Size certainly played a part in our shared life. I cannot begin to fathom the number of people we met over the years that were completely floored by the gentle, unassuming and patient behavior of my Newfoundland dog. I realize that a large breed dog is not for everyone, but for devoted Newfie owners, there is no other dog that even comes close.

They don’t call a Newfie a Gentle Giant for nothing. Indeed, the Newfoundland is a proud dog that exhibits every nuance of gentility and love one can imagine. Whether visiting nursing homes accompanied by my Therapy Dog or giving our “Memorable Journey” program on Lewis and Clark for school children, a community organization, a church group or a national convention, the reaction was the same. How could a huge dog be so good?
The fact that Merriwether Lewis took his Newfoundand, Seaman, on the trek only served to mesmerize audiences. Lying quietly for an hour and fifteen minutes was no problem for Bear. He would make eye contact with a child or an adult in the audience and captivate their imagination.

I have witnessed my Bear sit for nearly an hour while a nursing home resident petted his head and I have watched as onlookers gaped in amazement as he navigated tourist sites nationwide. I wonder if there is another dog who had his picture taken – by request – by Wyatt Earp in Tombstone, Arizona. I wonder how many dogs prompted an invitation for his family to enjoy a free sunset cruise on Lake Superior on a three-masted schooner. I wonder how many dogs welcomed the captain of a hydrofoil who sauntered down to the deck after returning from Mackinac Island to greet Bear by name and ask if he had a good time ashore. A constant in our lives for years, we loved him so much. He was such a big part of our lives that we probably just took him for granted. My husband and I never had to question the Bear’s behavior. Many people who never allowed a dog in their homes, welcomed Bear and made mention of the fact that he was the only dog allowed to do so. His behavior was consistent and exemplary. Observing other dogs who misbehaved only heightened our appreciation for the Newfoundland breed.

In our RV travel nationwide, we inspired awe and laughter among too many people to count. Walking a campground, we greeted campers who piled out of simple, tents, fifth-wheels (including toy haulers) and pricey motorhomes – all padding out to meet Bear. I can attest to the fact that many of our current relationships root in meeting Bear in a campground. Had it not been for him, we would have missed out on good friends!

The years went all too quickly, and while taking on a puppy was no trouble at all in my 60s and 70s, the prospect of doing it again is not wise. It’s not that I do not want another furry companion, it’s that I would not be smart to do it in my 80s.

The roughly seventy-two hours that brought to its end a relationship that, while raw now, will morph over time in a litany of smiles and memories more precious than gold was totally unexpected. We were blindsided. The clues that were there in front of us never failed to warn us. Sudden illness took our Bear. We never saw it coming and that is a good thing. Everything happened so quickly that we rode out the storm unaware that the end would be swift.

We gave him the one thing that he needed, a respite from pain and suffering. While a dog cannot talk, he communicates with eyes that tell it all. He was ready to go. He knew it. As a matter of fact, he lay on the snow for hours taking in all that was around him. If he had to go, the season could not have been more perfect. He was in his element, surrounded by familiar fir trees and the sylvan wilderness he had come to love.

As time goes by, I know our memories will surface again and again and remind us of how bringing a puppy home can change your life forever. The anguish comes when it is time for you to say good-bye. Memories comfort us now, yet the edge is still much too raw. Time heals all wounds, and this will be no different.

And so, on March 4, the beginning of Lent, we said good-bye to an invaluable family member who counted on us for his health and well-being. It is not lost on me that three letters, arranged differently, are inextricably linked. It is no coincidence that God and dog share the same three letters. Three: three letters… the Biblical Trilogy… husband, wife and dog. The power of three.

After eight years, two months and eleven days, the day came. God gave him to us and the time had come for us to give him back. Rest in peace, dearest Bear.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

# 310

January 18, 2025

Oh, what price history?

There is a price to not studying history – world or American. My generation was guided by excellent teachers who knew the value of history and its importance to forming informed opinions and not being led astray by the “buzz words or attitudes of the day.”

So, we this now. The battle over Tic Tok is an excellent illustration. And the generation “Z” is not shy about expounding opinions and criticizing national leadership over it. Yes, with over 170 American millions users, it wields a lot of clout.

When I heard a teenager complaining about losing the site, I was astounded to hear that she would just go to “Red Note.” And what is that? It is another CCP (Chinese) site. The color is – to be repetitive – the first red flag. Red? Yes!

When Mao Tse Tung took over China, he was responsible for killing tens of millions of his people. Why? They were not the least bit interested in his Communist philosophy. The genius of the Chinese people aside, he is remembered for a little red book.

“Quotations from Chairman Mao” is replete with his expounding on his view for the world. And a scary view it was — and is. To say that Generation Z will go to Red Note is to realize how ill-informed they are. To flock to a site run by a government that is a continuation of Mao’s push for ultimate control over his people is downright scary.

To follow Hitler and Lenin who are responsible for millions of deaths, Mao must take the prize for killing the most people. The shame of this is if the Chinese people were free to pursue their personal ambitions, it is hard to imagine what they could achieve. When men and women are killed and never allowed to blossom into contributing members of their society, the loss is inconceivable.

And so we have the current controversy. Unless and until we make sure that our teachers at every level teach accurate world and American history, the students will lack the guidance to see emerging situations for what they are: benign or perilous.

Right now, it is up in the air as to what the Chinese seek here. Given the fact that, if pressured to release all data held on its users, it is compelled to turn all the information over to the Chinese Communist Party, then user identities and data is truly at risk. Yes, many young people use Tik Tok as a way to make money (and in some cases, a lot of money), the lure of profit holds sway. I doubt if the CCP has any interest in videos of dancing, music, or sport. But what if their seeking a way to get to the younger generation through, what at first, looks harmless and entertaining, is really a Trojan Horse?

Will Tik Tok sell to an American owner? If so, will that owner, or owners, honor the privacy of his, her, or their users? We may know in 90 days if the delay that President Trump wants is a reality. Just how much do we want the onerous power of a really dangerous adversary invading our homes via our children and grandchildren?

Is there a price to not knowing history?

Think about it.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

# 309

Prayer – the answer, but not the only one!

January 9, 2025

We need, corporately and individually, to pray for the State of California. Since Reagan was Governor of California, the incremental slip into socialism and progressive policies has not only stymied the population holding solid, constitutional thought, but has also nearly destroyed what once was lauded as the most beautiful and prosperous our states.

If you look up Reagan’s speeches as he ran for President, you will hear him cite that if California were a country, it would have ranked among the topmost in the world. Oh, how time has changed that vision!

If truth be told, the American farmer is the most fervent environmentalist. His very life depends upon his stewardship of the land and water. Yet, the progressive left considered the Delta Smelt fish more important than the water flowing from Northern to Southern California. The Department of Commerce put forth an act to initiate the flow of water from the snow melt in the north to the south, but Governor Newsom refused to sign it. The result is all too painful. Thousands homeless, thousands of structures burned to the ground and municipalities with no water. They ran out!

And the L.A. budget? Millions to homeless – who, incidentally, caused nearly 14,000 fires in one calendar year and a cut in the budget of the Los Angeles Fire Department. If there were an Oscar for stupid, it would need to be shared by the Governor, the Mayor of L.A. and all the department heads who did not hold up their oaths of office.

Only one entity rules the earth, and it is not the Democratic Party. It is God. This is not to say that there is an underlying message in these horrendous fires. They are, in fact, a visible and visceral warning of what will continue to wreak havoc on California if voters do not wake up and realize that what they voted for has come around to bite them in the pocketbook — and sadly – perhaps paved the way to the funeral home.

Take a look at these quotes from 2016: …when Ronald Reagan was governor. We had a surplus. He actually gave money back to the people of California.

The state once was famous for having the best education system, the best business climate, the best roads and infrastructure in America. It was a growing, dynamic paradise where people came to pursue their dreams and hopes.

Now California’s a wreck that people and businesses are leaving in droves. And Gov. Brown and his gang are offering us more of the same this fall – higher income and sales taxes and a bullet train no one wants but them.”

Sound familiar. The litany of incompetence continues and the population able to leave are getting out!

Is prayer the answer? Certainly common sense is fighting a losing battle. The specter of Hollywood affixing itself and its studios and celebrities to the left is not helping. Oh, for the days of John Wayne and James Stewart. If you can, pull up “America: Why I love her!” a magnificent message from John Wayne.

I haven’t seen actors champing to volunteer for military service as they did in World War II. Search a list of those actors who volunteered in that war. You will be astounded at the number and quality of those men. Not that women did not step forward. The USO and military nurses certainly did their part.

Prayer and a return to the mentality that we humans are the creation of a loving and beneficent God is a good step. Pray for California. It is unlikely that those in control who are destroying the state will willingly resign. Fat chance.

Pray for California. It may be the only message that gets through. They need a an entity more powerful than man. Think about it.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

# 308

January 2, 2025

“A Question of Honor and Patriotism”

As we begin this new year and anxiously anticipate the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump, we need to assess the strengths of working together and the prospect of honoring the wise values put forth to us by our Founding Fathers.

Working from the fact that God is the source of both wisdom and power held in the hands of man, we must take a moment to reflect on what has – and will — show the world what a truly good civilization can achieve.

Consider for a moment the kitchen table conversations and restaurant, café and bistro gatherings expound and embrace. Beginning with a sports premise. Everyone has his or her favorite team and loyalty is key. Nothing angers a fan more than poor coaching. Given this thought process, what we face now is the aftermath of not poor coaching — but abysmal coaching. The past nearly four years of a glaring absence of national leadership has left the United States weaker, less respected and more vulnerable than in any time in her history. As a former history teacher, I am well aware of former predicaments in moments of extreme risk; but, in retrospect, they pale in the wake of the Biden-Harris (?) administration.

Why the question mark? I, along with many others aware of how the government works, are not convinced that the two aforementioned persons had anything substantive to the workings within The White House. Need I make the comparison to the camel as the prime example of an animal made by committee?

If you want to kill a snake, the best way is to cut off the head. With no one really functioning as the President of the United States, the risk is absurd, and scandalous.

Going back to the sports model, if a sports team has a great shortcoming at any position, the prospect of winning dies. Alas, with no coach and key players propelled by ideology instead of expertise, the result was completely predictable.

Now to the Congress. For all its shortfalls — and they are too many to enumerate – the Democrats do stick together like glue. It’s not as if I believe that, to a person, they all espouse every modicum of the legislation and positions put forward by the party leaders, yet they do vote in lockstep. The Republicans, on the other hand, often hold to individual ideals and do not vote with their cohorts. The pattern, while understandable, is highlighted here – not because of its reflection of individual independence — but because the lack of holding the deference to the GOP position sought more important that the end objective. It’s the stilted motivation that lacks a good result.

If a coach or quarterback set a play and the defenders and the receivers did not follow through resulting in a loss, the fans would erupt in boos and the backlash would be terrific.
Job losses would follow.

Can we demand nothing less of our U. S Senators and Representatives who should be reflecting the landslide victory coupled with the popular vote?

As individuals, we need to take stock of what lies before us. At the heart of this nation is faith and hope. We need both and in good measure. Not only do the border and economic issues loom over us, but the debt is at a crushing level. For anyone who has ever been under the pressure of a daunting debt load, the sole solution is the patience and determination required to pick away at the debt a bit at a time, not unlike the old beaver and the tree. One bite at a time and persistence work.

Do we have the mettle to tackle this and accept less government money in order to ease the crunch in the budget? Time will tell.

In the meantime, take a moment to thank God for the glance to the chart in Butler, Pennsylvania. Modern miracle? Divine Intercession? Why would a person so focused on looking directly at a crowd suddenly look away? Decide on your own. Personally, I feel as if God had a purpose for Donald J. Trump. It was not his time to die.

Preparing for the Presidential Inauguration of our 47th President Donald J. Trump, take time to realize what is at stake. It is time for the United States to regain its position on the world stage. It is time for America’s enemies to think twice before attacking us or our allies. It is time for citizens to demand results and not empty promises. More than all of this, it is time for America to turn back to God. If God be for us, who can be against us?

Think about it. Pray.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

# 307

November 11, 2024

“Veterans Day”

Today we honor each who selflessly stepped up to serve his or her county. I am reminded of the teacher whose students walked into an empty classroom — no desks. Astonished at the scene, they stood rapt as their teacher offered an explanation that should hit home with all of us.

When she asked the students if they knew the value of their education, she was greeted with odd expressions. After a few quiet minutes, adults entered the room, one by one, each carrying a desk. As each student took a desk, an adult stood behind.

The teacher explained that, because of a veteran, they were free. Quite a lesson. Smart teacher. I would like to think that those kids took that memory with them. I hope so.

Today, more so than in years, our veterans have something to celebrate. They are about to serve under a Commander in Chief who puts them first. You have only to look at the record of President Donald Trump firing incompetent workers in VA Hospitals around the country and enabling veterans to access medical care in convenient locations if a VA hospital was far away. Imagine, if you will, that in order to get medical care – even minor procedures – you were mandated to travel for hours just to get there. Many of Trump’s speeches highlighted veterans. Moreover, his actions mirrored his words. Sadly, recent years have seen a disintegration of attention paid our veterans.

For the moment, consider the fact that our veterans took a back seat to illegals in recent years. The current administration had more money (our money, incidentally) than sense when it displaced veterans to house people who crossed the border illegally. That will stop. Private concerns such as Tunnel To Towers stepped up to house veterans, but the government has a role to play. Under Trump and Marine veteran J. D. Vance, federal help will once again focus on our veterans.

We not do we only owe our veterans attention and good medical care, but our highest respect. I always go out of my way to acknowledge a veteran wearing a cap identifying his service, but even that falls short. They deserve so much more.

A tip of the hat (and I DO wear hats) to all veterans and, in particular, an unnamed veteran in Michigan. Eleven o’clock this morning commemorates the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, and heralds back to the end of World War I, dubbed as “The war to end all wars.” Sadly, history confirms that its title did not live up to its name.

We, to a person, owe our very freedom to our veterans. Love of country is love of veterans. Take time to thank one you know, and when you do, thank God for all those you do not know.

As is my custom, I close with a twist on “Think about it.” Think about veterans.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

#306

November 4, 2024

“Scarlett O’Hara’s Lament”

One day left. Tomorrow is election day. Tomorrow will chart the future for the United States of America. The differences for the voter could not be clearer.

This is a vote between good and evil.

Election rules cast aside
Abortion – allowing exceptions. Woman’s right to choose – what of the child’s right to live?
Inability to explain the word man or a woman
Allowing biological boys and men to compete in sports with girls and women
Grand promises but no positive outcomes
Lying as a tactic to win (ala Harry Reid and Mitt Romney years ago)
Our open border with resultant crime and overloading of local services
Support to illegals over help to struggling Americans, often at the expense of veterans
Prosecutors (sponsored by one George Soros) releasing dangerous felons daily
Law Enforcement prevented from doing the job
Foreign aid that, if reviewed carefully and cut back, could help our own people
Wars abroad, some of which have gone on for centuries with tribal mindsets
Dictating vaccines to military members – no vaccine, no job. Not smart.
Woke policies that dilute the strength of our military
Printing money we do not have
The imperiled state of the US Dollar as the world’s trade currency
A federal debt with crippling interest that should be used in infrastructure
Hatred and vitriol as acceptable speech
Denigrating God and those who believe in Him
Promoting government as the answer to all problems
Labeling parents as terrorists when they disagree with educators and school boards
Skewing facts and outright lying
Lip service for Israel while supporting Hamas
Labeling 50% of America as garbage
… and all of this undergirded and profligate by the no longer “free press”

Not a pretty picture, is it?

I need not name the party described above. We all know which one it is.
Your VOTE for Trump is your VETO of his opponent. One candidate showcases evil in many forms and only pursues power. Trump is the exact opposite. His strength, resolve, and – yes – faith is the recipe for us to regain America’s standing in the world and restore the American dream for each of us. Let’s pray for Trump and for God to help us.

Like Scarlett O’Hara, “Tomorrow is another day!”

Now, go exercise the most precious right you have. Let’s take our country back.

Vote for good.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

A Lady in Mourning

June 5, 2024

Over the decades, my professional resume has grown considerably. Of course, keep in mind that I began working at age twelve. My employer was a local dentist’s wife and she taught me more about housekeeping over one summer than many girls learn in a lifetime.

Next came carhopping at the A & W Root Beer stand on East 421. I kept a full academic schedule, often doing homework at the counter of the establishment in between customers. Funny how you remember somewhat mundane details so vividly after 60+ years. I had one customer who always ordered the same meal, so I would call the food order in when I glimpsed his spotless blue and white pickup pull into the lot. He loved a “Hurri-Burger” with cheese and onion accompanied by a made to order chocolate nut shake. God bless him. He made sure to leave a hefty tip and I appreciated his kindness.

Flash forward to a local law office where I sat taking dictation from Phillip Brown when the receptionist interrupted normal work with a terse message. “Listen, please.” The next minute is etched into my brain. President Kennedy was dead. Assassinated in Dallas while in a parade to the Dallas Trade Mart. And the dictation? It was a bad check to the then Louden Super Market on South Harrison Street. It was for $40.00 – as clear today as then.

Next, I worked for a criminal defense attorney. That was a learning experience I will never forget. Privy to the inner workings of an active defense team, I tried to take in all the details to better prepare myself for life as an adult.

When I began working for a personal injury lawyer, I was flabbergasted by his medical knowledge. Just listening to him, one would think that he was a doctor by profession.

Legal secretarial work behind me, flash to a prestigious Indianapolis law firm, Barnes, Hickam, Pantzer and Boyd. At that time, all four senior partners were there. Mr. Barnes was a sweetheart. I booked all his travel, and his trips spanned the globe. It was imperative that he knew the specific type of aircraft. Odd, really, because Mr. Hickam had a close family relationship to aircraft. Hickam Field, Hawaii, was named for his brother. If a staff member, lawyer, secretary, or accountant, traveled to Hawaii, he saw to it that they received a special tour of the base.

Flash forward again and I was in my 40s and a recent graduate of Franklin College. My eldest son and I graduated the same year – 1984. Considering law school, I began to work for a Shelby County Prosecutor James Lisher, the very best boss for whom I have ever worked. Cases ranged the gamut from petty crimes to the apex: murder. I was allowed to go into court and observe, and that I did.

For Mr. Lisher, the law was sacrosanct. His approach was level-headed, to the point, and honest. Watching him was a lesson in integrity. Given my background, the recent show trial in New York was more than a shock, it was an insult. Building on “all men are created equal,” is the absolute mantra that a defendant is assumed innocent until proven guilty.

It never occurred to me that someone serving as a prosecutor, pressing the government’s case against the accused could morph into a political vendetta with the prime goal of undercutting, smearing, and convicting a person of a yet undisclosed crime. Given the varied work experiences among a number of firms and lawyers, I had a hard time wrapping my head around how a misdemeanor with statute of limitations expired could morph into 34 felony counts. Even Houdini couldn’t escape such a morass of nonsense. Agenda driven? You bet!

Did you ever hear the actual crime named? You did not. I traveled abroad quite a bit. I recognized the respect that the United States held in foreign countries. Leaders and their people looked to the United States as what President Reagan described in his Farewell Address. President Reagan acknowledged the increased budget deficits, expressing regret, but asserted that overall, his presidency was about restoring America to her role as a “shining city on a hill.” The United States stood as the ultimate form of government for a free people and a magnet for those who wanted a better life devoid of socialism and communism.

Contrast that with the diminished stature of the US under the current administration. I purposefully avoid naming the occupant at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. My only hope is that his title is temporary.

The concept of law in the United States is based on the wisdom of The Founders, who drew upon the Bible and experience living under the tyranny of the British. The result has been stable for nearly 248 years. Overall, the system has worked well, not that there have not been errors. Humans can make mistakes. Clearly, that is not what the nation and the world have witnessed over the past weeks.

It’s time for every American to defend the bedrock issue of our time. Restoring the rule of law administered fairly and without bias to the courtrooms across the nation. Sad is not the operative term here. Disgusting and embarrassing are better terms.

And so, behind her blindfold are tears. Lady Justice is in mourning.

Reflecting on past experience, I could never understand why something termed “brief” was anything but. I remember long before the advent of copy machines that the firm cleared the conference room and hundreds of pages were meticulously assembled into as many as 100 copies to be given to those involved in a particular lawsuit.

And so I acknowledge those who practice law. I salute them for painstaking and tedious work. I challenge them to join with others to clean up the profession. All this trial did was to sully the reputations of those who practice with honor and ethics.

Think about it.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

#303 – May 26, 2024

Memorial Day

Military history gives a vivid description of what this weekend commemorates and the pivotal battle in American history that spawned its genesis.
Apart from law enforcement, military servicemen and women, and medical personnel on duty, vast numbers of Americans pause in their work in celebration of Memorial Day. Most people realize that it is a day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in war, but – sadly – this is not the case for the remainder of our population.

Our children need, from the earliest grades or school, to read and understand the history of their nation. Currently, American history, world history and basic civics are lacking among the curricula offered in our elementary and secondary schools.

For the moment, I will omit collegiate studies. That subject plays havoc with my temperament – not to mention my blood pressure. All that aside, it is the day to go back to read just how the holiday came about and the early days of its celebration. To do that, we need to revisit days long gone…

The years following the end of the Civil War in 1865 saw American communities tending to the remains and graves of an unprecedented number of war dead. All of the previous wars and conflicts fought by the United States combined would still not add up to the body count produced by the Civil War. On the first official Decoration Day — May 30, 1868 — Ohio Rep. James A. Garfield, a former general and future U.S. president, addressed a crowd of 5,000 gathered at Arlington National Cemetery:

“Hither our children’s children shall come to pay their tribute of grateful homage. For this are we met to-day. By the happy suggestion of a great society, assemblies like this are gathering at this hour in every State in the Union.

“Thousands of soldiers are to-day turning aside in the march of life to visit the silent encampments of dead comrades who once fought by their side. From many thousand homes, whose light was put out when a soldier fell, there go forth to-day to join these solemn processions loving kindred and friends, from whose heart the shadow of grief will never be lifted till the light of the eternal world dawns upon them.”

But Decoration Day was not yet an official national holiday. May 30 was a day touted by the Grand Army of the Republic, an association of Union Civil War veterans, as an official day of remembrance for people across the country. The idea was to honor the war’s dead by decorating the graves of Union soldiers.
Over the years, localities and states adopted resolutions to make Decoration Day an official holiday in their areas. Each of the former Union states had adopted a Decoration Day by 1890.
As time went on, “Memorial Day” began to supplant “Decoration Day” as the name of the holiday, and it soon became a day to honor all fallen American troops, not just those from the Civil War. After the two World Wars, Memorial Day was the term in more common usage, and the act of remembering all of the fallen took on a renewed importance.

In 1968, the U.S. government passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which put major holidays on specific Mondays to give federal employees three-day weekends. Memorial Day was one of these holidays, along with Washington’s Birthday, Labor Day and Columbus Day. The act also codified the name “Memorial Day” into law.
It all went into effect in 1971 and, by then, there were no more Civil War veterans — but there were millions of vets from later wars. So, as we pause to enjoy the day, none of us should forget those who served and died.

God bless America on this the 156th year of recognizing the service of our armed services.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

January 29, 2024

# 302 “Ah, yes, the seven…”

No matter how much things change, they remain the same. Ever hear that statement? No doubt, you have. Sadly, it more than applies to society today. If you need any proof, you don’t have to look very far. All it takes to understand what you see happening now is to compare today’s society with one that illustrated what happens when societal glue disappears.

Basically, a functioning society is held together by a common language, a shared history, and deeply held morals and values. Just in case you haven’t noticed, folks, the US is fractured in all three.

For hundreds of years, people coming to this country sought freedom and achievement. My paternal grandparents immigrated from the Republic of France in 1898. I proudly display my great grandfather’s immigration paper in my home and I well remember my grandfather telling me about his family’s early years in America. First and foremost, they all learned to speak English. English and a strong worth ethic formed the cornerstone of not only their lives, but of those of countless others welcomed here from far flung parts of the world.

Contrast that to today. We not only have phone prompts for Spanish, but we also see all manner of government documents printed in a myriad of languages. Teachers and schools are burdened with unwieldy numbers of children who have English as a second language. Anyone who knows anything about language will tell you that immersion is the sole path to success. Two generations before mine, adults retained their native language but spoke English in order to have success in the American workplace. I dream of America when, once again, English reigns in America as the gold standard of language.

Beyond the language problem, we have the obstacles presented by the challenge to have all people in this country share morals and values upon which this country was founded. Yes, it is true that the Congress opens each session with a prayer, but when was the last time you heard of a governmental body pausing to pray when faced with a really difficult situation? This happened more than once during the time when the Founding Fathers drafted the documents that make the United States the “beacon of freedom for the world.”

Going through The Federalist Papers, it is not hard to find references to The Almighty and Biblical wisdom. We are far more apt to hear the Lord’s name taken in vain today than invoked as guidance for sound decision making.

Biblical prophecy is often set aside as fiction by those who seek to gain for themselves at the expense of others. After all, if there is no consequence to sin, why not do whatever you please? Suffice it to say, this is an empty attitude rife with danger.

Let’s take a look at what has happened in the last three years. Perhaps the easiest reference is a list that most people could not quote if pressed to do so.
They share a number that most of us recognize as the lucky numeral. Sadly, the list is all too applicable to the world in which we find ourselves today. Although they may appear in slightly different order, they forewarn a dire future and their names are, undoubtedly, familiar to many – although mot as danger signals, but as laughable passè remnants of societies long gone.

Not so.

Lust. A reference to intense desire to engage in illegal or immoral sexual pleasure. You don’t need to look too far to see this one in practice today. Beyond the sexual reference, the strong and often unreasonable desire to gain wealth is easy to spot. Add to this drive the incessant push for fame and power and you can identify many of its adherents today.

Gluttony references the overconsumption of food or any other commodity to the point of waste. The countless number of overweight Americans illustrates this perfectly. Looking back to the 1950s, there was an occasional obese person seen, but the number seen today is high to the point where one sees so many of these people that they seem to blend into the background. How sad.

Greed. Sharing aliases with avarice, covetousness or cupidity, this takes lust and gluttony to the next level. The television program “Hoarders” may be funny to some people, but it clearly depicts irrationality. Brewing beneath the surface of greed are theft, robbery, bribery and corruption. Anyone come to mind here?

Sloth. Apologies to the furry animal with which so many people have a fascination, but sloth more than applies to a growing segment of Americans who would rather seek out as government check than make their own money.
Ask any good parent what he or she wants for a child and you will likely hear is not a career choice, but the concept of personal responsibility. Avoiding responsibility is the hallmark of sloth. Have you ever heard this? Those who do not work should not eat. Sadly, one of the most damaging aftereffects of the Chinese virus pandemic was the disintegration of the work ethic after the government began to pay people to stay home from work. It hasn’t improved either. One look at “NOW HIRING” across the spectrum of employers tells you that – and in spades!

Wrath. Want to see uncontrolled anger? Turn on any major media television news broadcast. Wrath feeds on a terrible emotion – vengeance. The push to harm anyone who holds to basic beliefs of this republic (yes, republic not democracy) festers among the self-absorbed broadcasters today. Inspired by left-wing professors in the all-but-extinct journalism school with ethics, they are doomed to fall for concepts devoid of any true worth. For example, name one place across this planet where socialism has succeeded. You can’t. Yet, the news media, both print and broadcast, continue to expound the “DEI” line when it defies logic and result.

Envy. Oh, my. This attitude is familiar, isn’t it? To want something that belongs to another, be it an actual item, a talent or a lifestyle. Ah, the push to have what others have. Lest we forget, that should hinge on effort alone and should not be the “be all, end all” of one’s ambition. Happy people don’t envy others, they work to get ahead on their own. And what is the excuse that envious people expound? Those whom they envy simply don’t deserve what they have. What a vacuous and empty criticism. Don’t get me wrong, many of us would love to have the talents of others, but not to the point of envy. Just wishful thinking….

Pride. To feel pride is normal for people, but when it spirals to the level of excess, pride becomes – not an asset – but a real liability. Many assess pride as the root cause of its other six compatriots.

And so, let’s take a look at the seven and apply them to what we see today.

Lust. What was once limited to adult audiences and roundly banned in mainstream entertainment is not marketed to our children. If you are a boy and want to be a girl, or vice versa, counseling is not the answer. Gender reassignment and genital surgeries. It’s as if this trend is the “IN THING” for teens. Child development doesn’t end at 12 or 13, yet some states allow children of this age to make decisions well beyond their capability to discern the long-term consequences. The fact that 30% of Gen-Z youth consider themselves LBGTQ should scare the pants off everyone. A condition once considered a form of mental illness now is seen as a condition remedied by medication and/or surgery. This confounds rational thinking Americans.

Gluttony. The explosion of obesity in our population.

Greed. This is an easy one to recognize. Crowds breaking into stores and looting them with abandon with law enforcement standing by without doing a thing to stop it. Spiraling crime. The basic lack of respect for life. The push for a minimal annual income. Anything to get money without working for it. Equality of opportunity has been killed on the altar of equality of outcome.
Add bribery and corruption and you have the perfect picture of targeted politics at its zenith. Anything for gain. Forget honesty and integrity. The end justifies the means. What an attitude!

Sloth. Lack of ambition. Reliance on government for an income. Disability payments to those who falsified applications. Even when genuinely deserved, restrictions impede those who want to get ahead with limits on earnings that negate needed funds to forge ahead. Sadly, sloth, in many instances, is actually encouraged. It’s not a game, but many play it as such.

Wrath. I cannot remember an instance in which large groups of people went to the streets in anger. Crowds in my youth were for important events and national holiday parades. Nobody painted the streets, defaced buildings, wrecked businesses, vandalized and destroyed law enforcement facilities, and lauded criminals who, unfortunately, lost their lives in a faceoff with police. The scene in “Network” comes to mind. Shocking to movie audiences, a man leaned out of a window and shouted, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore.” A lot of us feel that way facing a society rife with crime, corruption, and downright cheating. Instead of instilling love in children, too many entities encourage hate.

Envy. This attitude has destroyed too many lives to count. Wanting what others have to an exaggerated level is not normal. The excuse is that the person envied does not deserve what he or she has is lame and crass.

Pride. The push to excel over all others feeds into the other of its six companion sins.
And today, we see the elements of the seven deadly sins played out daily in big business, big government, and big media. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to find two cities to complement those cited as blasphemous in the Bible.

Sodom and Gomorrah were awash with homosexuality, debauchery, crime, and corruption – fit companions to the seven mentioned herein. And what are our contemporary examples in America? Although there are many, two recognizable cities are Washington, D.C. and San Francisco.

These once beautiful cities now are scenes of streets littered with human feces, open drug use, needles, muggings, murders, fetid camps of homeless, closing businesses, and yes, if financially able, fleeing residents.

Mayors and judges seem blind to what we see as chaos and evil.

And, as if governmental dereliction of duty isn’t enough, consider today’s broadcast televised advertising. I deem private life just that – private. Now, open to children’s eyes, are ads flaunting homosexuality, same sex couples and venereal disease medications all couched among party scenes that play on emotions of immature minds. And all of this is portrayed as if it is normal. l When will enough be enough? Everything society considered wrong has been upended, and older Americans seem the only ones to speak out against it.

In sum, good is now represented as evil and evil as good. This goes way beyond anything seen for centuries. I cite condoning to the abortion of babies up to and including the time of birth, to recognize same sex marriages, to exploit and virtually sterilize children with the transgender movement, to encourage dependence on the government for basic needs, and to purposefully turn Americans against one another – all mirroring that which Lot saw and from which he fled—in sum, to “win at any cost.”

And what will the punishment be for all this that we witness? While we who believe in God have our opinion, there is no way to know what lies ahead or the timing of it. All we can do is call out sin where we see it, vote against it, and demand that the country envisioned and planned by our Founding Fathers be restored. The so-called silent majority needs to step up and call this out for what it is – and that goes from the pulpits across the nation. Being quiet doesn’t solve the problems we face.

Revisit some famous quotes that apply here.

“Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Lord Acton

Adding to that famous quote, Howard Nemerov added, …”and if you surrender your personal responsibility to a government which promises to take care of you, they will only take care of themselves.”

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want test a man’s character, give him power.” Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln, considering his timing of the 1860s, had a prophetic view of the nation. Consider these, his words.

“I see in the future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country… corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until all the wealth is aggregated in a few hands and the Republic is destroyed.”

Sound familiar?

We need to awaken he younger generation to truth and speak truth to power, such as it is. Lucky seven. Hardly.

Think about it.

IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray

# 300

November 11, 2023

“Eleven Eleven”

And so it was. At the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1919, we began to celebrate Veterans Day. To celebrate the end of World War I in 1918, November 11 was known as Armistice Day. Further commemorated in 1921 with the burial of an unknown soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Not to be ignored, Italy and Portugal England and France also had similar ceremonies. The previous year, unknown soldiers had been interred at not only Westminster Abbey in London, England, but also at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France.
Although Armistice Day became a legal American holiday in 1938, its name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all those who had served in all U.S. wars. To this day, ceremonies are held on November 11 to honor those men and women. With the placing of a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, similar ceremonies fan out across the nation in tribute to those who sacrificed to insure our freedom.
As you walk or drive by a cemetery and see Old Glory fluttering across stone markers, recall that each flag flies to honor a fallen Soldier, sailor, Marine, Merchant Mariner or Coast Guardsman.
Wars inflict great physical damage on returning veterans. Some died instantly, but many others suffered unbelievably. In sum, each life was given for us. Beyond outer scars, the emotional damage, hidden to view, is all too real. The mental anguish and incessant nightmares that plague so many are not to be ignored, either.
We need to honor our veterans with more than one day. Yes, we need to stop and thank those wearing caps designating service, but we need to assiduously petition our government to support them. We manage to fund inane projects, yet it took the former president to push for better health care for our veterans. How sad.
Even more bizarre is the fact that any number of worthy groups ask Americans for a monthly contribution to fund projects ranging from paying off mortgages for surviving families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice to giving veterans an opportunity to join with peers in outdoor activities they thought impossible considering their injuries.
Why is it that our government has what seems to be limitless funds to house, feed, and provide healthcare for people who entered our country illegally? Although no firm figure has been given for the amount spent on them, those dollars would be far better utilized taking care of those men and women who volunteered to protect us.
As you stop tomorrow to glance at the television or listen to a radio broadcast highlighting the importance of this day, take a breath and remember just what these – forebearers as well as contemporaries – have bequeathed you.
You are the recipient of the most valuable gift on earth: freedom in a country founded on God’s principles, by God-fearing men who sought to dislodge themselves and their countrymen from an overarching and punitive government. Begin today. Make a personal commitment that you will instill respect for those who serve among your friends and within your family. It is an honorable pursuit and one that will fuel your love of country.
Currently, when patriotism wanes more than I ever thought that it could, we all need to make sure that real history – not a stilted and edited version – is being taught in our schools. As a former history teacher, I can tell you that the curricula today pales in comparison with what I received in post-World War II America. Only facts prepare us to learn from past errors. As I told so many of my students, history is a road of warning signs. If you heed these signs, you are not doomed to repeat the costly mistakes of the past. Just as you would retrace your steps if lost in the woods, so, too, should you look at past events to have a good understanding of what comes next. A litany, if you will, of the decisions that lead to a catastrophic military involvement –- in one word -– war.
We do not need to don a Kevlar vest and shoulder a rifle, because so many others have done that for us. Each and every one deserves our praise and our prayers.
I close with a comment heard so often in the past: “Lest we forget…”
Think about it.