There is an old Indian proverb that in my humble opinion better defines the word tolerance, than does Webster. I am not sure of the exact wording, but it says something like, “Do not condemn a man until you have walked a mile in his moccasins.”
To be tolerant of another person is perhaps the hardest of all our duties. And, duty it is. How can we expect to be understood and yet not understand others? We are all in this world together. Why not get along?
Allowing for the difference between each of us, we must know that others are not required to think or do the same as we. It would be a chaotic world indeed if everyone thought and acted the same way. Ability to use our minds differently is one of the things that place us on a plane above animals. Each act of intolerance tends to drop us one level below this position.
When we use the term, “I simply cannot tolerate that person,” have we walked the mile in their shoes? Or is it that we refuse to accept the fact that they are individuals with different aspects on life in general. If we will make an attempt to understand their outlook on the subject, it could be that our own attitudes would change.
To tolerate does not mean that we must abandon our views entirely, but simply to look at the issue from another angle. Perhaps we can combine the convictions of each and arrive at a better solution to the problem at hand.
Once we begin to tolerate others, it becomes easier to realize that we do not have a monopoly on resolving the troubles of the world and with their help we can make a difference. Each step in their moccasins will make our own shoes feel more comfortable.
Go on, tolerate. What have we got to lose? It could very well happen that someone whom we could not heretofore tolerate could become one of our best friends. It would be a shame to waste this friendship because of our deep-seated refusal to accept another whose beliefs differ from our own.
By the simple act of tolerance, we are drawn closer to the mandate of our Heavenly Father, to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Demijon
Meanings: - BIGOT: - A nickname given to “OT” Barfield after he got growed. Dj.
November 30th, 2009
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A while back, as I watched a live telecast of a former President’s funeral, I began to wonder about politicians. Just what driving force causes them to desperately seek public office? Of course they are quick to tell us that it is simply a love of their country and a desire to make a better life for all of their constituents. If this is the only reason, is there one among them that would serve if the total salary package consisted of only their expenses?
I think not. The fact that they are paid an above the average salary and are guaranteed a better than average income for the rest of their lives would be incentive enough even if the prestige were not present. Is their love for their country greater than the grunt rifleman on some foreign beach that is risking even his life for a cause that is primarily political? And, for how much pay do these military persons serve?
What went through the minds of the living former Presidents in attendance as they sat and listened to the eulogies for the late President? Were they reminded of the promises that each had made and were unable to keep? Did they think only of his mistakes and that they could have handled the situations better if they had been in office instead of the late chief executive?
Perhaps some of them felt that it was expected of them to be in attendance at the service for an equal, and the fact that it was a live telecast would be beneficial to project a caring attitude. After all, they had nothing to lose and everything to gain by their attendance.
Noting that their years of service to their country in the capacity of President had taken its toll on each of them, I reflected on the periods before each was elected. While campaigning, each displayed an image of a person much younger than their years. At the end of their first term, they all seemed to have aged by at least ten years instead of the four that they had held the office as leader of the free world.
What would have happened if all of them had been able to keep the promises that they made before they were elected? Would all of the troubles of our country, and the world, be a thing of the past? Could they really have solved all of the problems that they and their campaigners claimed?
It’s doubtful that anyone could have done any more than their predecessor and it irks me to hear one promise something when they know full well that they cannot deliver.
Now; getting back to my original question. If the job entails being raked over the coals by the media constantly and receiving criticism from every quarter, to be held accountable for all of the world’s miseries, and to never receive thanks for anything; why do they exert so much effort in seeking it? Surely their talents could be put to use in other endeavors that would offer as much compensation as well as recognition.
A favorite expression of all politicians is, “It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it.” If the job is so tough, wouldn’t it seem silly to have worked so hard and risked so much scorn and criticism to attain it? Please, someone explain to me…
WHY IN THE WORLD DOES ANYONE WANT THAT JOB?
Demijon
Could it be; “We have a permanent PLAN; for the time being!” Dj.
November 29th, 2009
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The building blocks for a story come from ideas gathered in the least expected places. From conversations, incidents that happen during day-to-day activities, and even the semi-consciousness of an insomniac desperate for the peace of deep sleep. There have been many times when I have awakened for no good reason except to think about past experiences and to wonder about future events.
These are usually the times when creative juices flow and ideas for stories are born. Unfortunately, many of these ideas are not as great when they have been written as when they first materialized. Page after page would eventually be discarded before the final product emerged. Often after completion, there is doubt that it will be interesting to anyone other than myself.
The recording of events in such a way as to appeal to others is by far the hardest task of any writer. We know what we want to say but the question remains, can others relate to our interpretations of the events in the same context? Will the final outcome be dull and boring or will it become a candidate for the bestseller list?
There have been few writers that have not agonized over these questions more so than the original story. Happily, many have overcome this malady and have produced products that are excellent in every detail.
I am sorry to say that my “stuff” is not in the same category as these best sellers; however, the endless possibilities for creating an entirely different look at an everyday occurrence is very satisfying to me. If anyone wishes to read it, then this is like having gravy on my biscuit.
To become a famous writer is the furthest thing from my mind, and my rejection slips will prove this point. To create something that someone would find amusing or interesting is the sole purpose for my continuing to record these musings.
First order of business at 05:30 a.m. is the re-fueling with 100 proof caffeine. Now comes the chore of re-calling all of the incidents that were so outstanding only yesterday and destined to be recorded this morning for entry into the writers Hall of Fame.
Alas, as I stare at a blank computer monitor, I suddenly come to the realization that this is the substance from which dreams are made, and have little or no relevance to the literary community.
Fortunately, a computer has a delete button, designed to rid cyberspace of unsolicited material that no one wants.
If you read before depressing the delete button, I thank you.
Demijon
For those of you who deleted before reading; here is your second chance to delve into the mind of a Literary Genus. Dj.
November 28th, 2009
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Believe it or not; I have actually been asked, (after reading some of the junk that I write); “if there was a hint of truth in it?” My question in response is generally, “Whadaya mean; you think that anybody in his right mind would mess with crap like this?”
Honestly, there have been people who took some parts of my musings literally, and perhaps have even become insulted. This is not the intention of my writing. My purpose is to inject a bit of humor into what would normally be a dull, uneventful subject. Judging from some of the response I have received, I have failed miserably on more than one occasion.
Please allow me to say here that I have one iron clad rule. I do NOT poke fun at anyone that I do not like. However, in doing so, I do strive to keep most of my stuff in good taste.
Regardless of how serious we try to be, there are events in all of our lives which can appear funny when twisted a bit or added to in some manner. These events are the ones which we jump on, like a dog on a bone. Someone once said, “Someday, we’ll look back on this and laugh.” Why wait? Let’s laugh about it today.
Another necessity for one who attempts tongue in cheek writing is the capability of laughing at oneself. It is essential to assure the reader that you will accept criticism with a good natured attitude. You must prove that you can take it as well as dish it out. Fail in this aspect and your work will surely bomb out.
I do not believe that God meant for us to never enjoy any portion of our lives or to forever remain pious and somber throughout our brief existence. Certainly, there are times when humor and tongue in cheek banter are inappropriate and should be avoided, but there are also times when breaking the ice with a humorous remark can relieve tension and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Science has proven that it requires less effort to smile than to frown. Given this proof, should we not, at least in this case, adopt the attitude that less is better? No one of us is perfect and each has instances which could possibly be interpreted as funny. By building on these foundations, we will be better equipped to cope with the serious side of our lives.
Try it. What have you got to lose except tell-tale wrinkles which come from frowning constantly? Think of the money you could save by not purchasing all of those creams and lotions.
Demijon
Meanings: – FORECLOSING: – “Fore closing that door, make sure it’s locked.” Dj.
November 27th, 2009
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Attention: All Automobile Manufacturers, Foreign and Domestic
Perhaps you have been so concerned that there will always be bail-out funds available when your profits dwindle; that you have overlooked an important safety issue that is rampant on our streets and road ways. This is mainly due to the hoards of drivers who refuse to abide with the law and lower their headlight beams when approaching another vehicle during the night-time hours.
On all early automobiles, the dimmer switches were located on the floorboard to the left of the clutch; therefore, the driver must search with his left foot in order to dim the headlights. You made quite an improvement in later models when you re-located the dimmer switch to the stalk that encased the turn signal switch.
To show consideration for all approaching night-time traffic, a driver simply uses a finger to flip the switch and lower the headlights, without removing his hands from the steering wheel. It may surprise you to know that a vast majority of drivers will not flick a finger to dim their headlights; but will not hesitate to give you the finger if you forget and leave your lights in the bright mode.
With all the technology at your disposal today, it would seem to me that a simple computer chip could be installed in all vehicles to automatically dim the lights of an approaching car. Who knows how many accidents this little chip could prevent or how many lives could be saved.
Last, but certainly not least; I will request that you install a bright neon sign somewhere in the rear of all future vehicles for inconsiderate drivers who follow another car with bright lights (and sometimes additional fog lights) blazing. My suggestion for this sign is that it should read something like “DIMITT -DAMMIT!
Thank you for helping keep all travelers safe.
Demijon
Meanings: HARMONY: - “I borrowed some harmony to harr me some help. Dj.
November 26th, 2009
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A true story:
Let’s just call her Jane. She was a talented individual who was quick to offer her services if and when she was needed. Trained in music and the piano from childhood, she could be an asset to any gathering. When her talents were discovered by the church that she attended, they immediately asked her to substitute as musical director whenever the occasion arose.
She quickly agreed, thinking that she could add to the service by combining piano and organ with the sounds of the choir. After a short while of accompanying the congregation on the standard hymns, she noted that the ruling body of the church had approved her as substitute organist.
“This is great,” she thought, “I can use my talent to an advantage and enjoy my being involved with the musical aspect of my church as well.” Practicing almost constantly on piano in order to hone her skills, she solicited the opportunity to practice on the church organ as well.
Becoming familiar with this instrument meant to her that she would be comfortable in her role so as not to distract from the musical programs that she felt were so important to the entire services. Never mind that her’s was a non-paid position in the budget unless she was replacing the director.
It was not long before she noticed that her name appeared on the church bulletins as a member of the staff. This came as a surprise to her because no one had contacted her to secure permission to list her accordingly, neither was the budget revised to include another paid staff member.
Quite naturally, she assumed that if she was considered part of the staff; she would be assigned a regular part of the service. She practiced more diligently to insure that her skills were adequate.
However, this assignment was not forthcoming and she was required to sit in the congregation until such time as someone invited her to play along with the organ and/or the choir. A staff member, but yet not part of the staff. “Strange,” she thought. The attitude of, “We’ll call you if we want you; but otherwise don’t bother us,” was not what she had expected when asked to serve in this capacity. Even once, when the organist/director suffered a broken foot, she, (the organist), played the piano during the service while the organ sat idle and Jane sat in the congregation.
Then the final straw was dropped. Suddenly, her name appeared on the back of the bulletins, just under the name of her church, the minister, and the musical director. This time, she was listed as Pianist; but, Jane still sat in her pew until asked by someone to help with the music. After a few weeks, her name just as quickly disappeared from the bulletins. It was as if someone had made a mistake, discovered and corrected it just in time to prevent permanent damage.
Her enthusiasm for serving was waning by now since it seemed that the only times that she was needed were the times when the other staff members found it inconvenient to do something. Inquiries were made as to her schedule in order to have her available for various duties that did not suit the director.
Once eager to a fault, Jane has been jerked around and used until…
SHE’S ALL USED UP!
Demijon
Addendum:
Almost immediately upon Jane’s resignation as pianist, the ruling body sought and found enough room in the budget for the salary of a full time pianist.
The moral:
The squeaking wheel gets all the grease. Dj.
November 25th, 2009
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Read any book about the Deep South in the days before the Civil War, and you will surely find that some lady, usually of genteel background, had suffered from an attack of the Vapors at one time or another. In many cases, the attack was so severe that they were required to take to their bed for an extended period.
The exact cause of this malady was never explained; however, I arrived at the conclusion that it had something to do with shock or astonishment since it usually followed an announcement from a daughter that she was keeping company with a young swain who lacked the proper breeding which their station in life demanded.
Although I am far removed from the aristocracy of the plantation owner set, it nevertheless caused me concern that a little of this disorder could perhaps have made its way through the generations, and therefore be responsible for my many aches and pains.
Turning to the dictionary for guidance in my pursuit of the meaning of the dreaded ailment, the best I could come up with was, exhalations of the stomach, believed to be harmful to ones health; hypochondria or depressed spirits. Delving deeper, I discovered that exhalations means, something exhaled – as air, steam or ODOR.
At last, here is the diagnosis for milady’s problem. She was simply suffering from gas pains. Come to think of it, this could have been passed down through the generations.
The thing which troubles me most is the fact that this affliction is only mentioned following some extreme tribulation. Were these sophisticated souls not affected by pinto beans or sweet potatoes? And, why take to their beds? It would seem to me that fresh air would be more of a solution than the confinement of a bedroom.
Nothing is said about the rank and file members of society suffering from this illness. Perhaps they were immune since their physical makeup was not as delicate as the nobility.
Getting back to my aches and pains; Whether or not a touch of the Vapor Genes have been passed down leaves room for question. However, please allow me to make one thing perfectly clear. If I suddenly leave the room during a conversation, you may be sure that I do this for a very good reason.
Demijon
Meanings: PARADOX: - “Lem needs a paradox to anchor both of his boats.” Dj.
November 25th, 2009
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I suppose that our youngest son has forgiven us for being so poor when he was a child. Although he experienced many traumatic incidents, it is apparent that he suffered no ill effects from a childhood set apart as a result of poverty. In fact, he seemed to enjoy the time spent in the basement of the church trying to borrow money from the mice. In essence, his world revolved around the word “NO!”
He became accustomed to awakening and removing the pillow, under which he had carefully placed the tooth addressed to the tooth fairy; and finding in its stead, the note which read: “I’ll pay you when I get my check.”
Perhaps an early youth, devoid of material possessions, had much to do with his decision to become a Minister. Since he had first-hand knowledge of the insecurity of seasoned have-nots, he felt he would be better equipped to relate to others who had been dealt a losing hand by fate. Whatever the reasons, he appears content with a life of service as a Pastor to a congregation of believers.
If there were any thoughts of envy during his childhood, they were long ago abandoned in his search for better insight into the true meaning of life. Dealing with inequities in the lives of others on a day-to-day basis somehow promotes the feeling of accomplishment within himself that his choice of profession is not in vain. If he can demonstrate that there is more to life than riches and fame, his efforts will be justified.
By attuning his ministry toward youth, he attempts to teach, by example, that an optimistic outlook on life is a must. In general, a sincere desire to make a difference is what it’s all about. His recollections of deprivation during his childhood did much to prepare him to identify with members of his flock on a “been there-done that” basis.
Has he forgiven us? Perhaps: Has he forgotten? I doubt it. I often wonder if he still has those notes from the tooth fairy filed away among his important papers.
Hopefully he will not one day demand an accounting. With the late fees and the accumulated interest, this could be catastrophic for retirees on a fixed income to say the least. Our only choice would be to issue another note stating….
“We’ll pay you when we get our check.”
Mom and Dad
Sometimes recollections hurt. Dj.
November 24th, 2009
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If the elected officials from (any state) would only take a long, hard look at their demands for a means to accomplish a balanced budget, or a reformed health care bill, I believe they would find that the brunt of the sacrifice is intended for the very ones who can afford it the least.
In essence, they are saying: “Everyone will be required to ‘bite the bullet’ except those of us who hold exalted positions in the Congress.” Not once have I heard an offer from any of these distinguished members to relinquish even a small portion of their more than sufficient incomes for the purpose of reducing any part of the deficit.
It would appear that they have adopted as their strategy, the adage of “You will do as I say, not as I do;” and, they have the audacity to request the voters to return them to their lofty jobs to continue with their fleecing of the Country’s assets. It is my belief that the American people have seen through their charades and as a direct result, are beginning the process of seeking new blood to fill the halls of Government.
Open letter to -”Mr. and Ms. Congress persons: “Can you not see that the elimination of all unnecessary junkets at the expense of taxpayers could, in fact, satisfy a large portion of the deficit? How can you, in good conscience, continue with your lavish spending and expect the poor and needy to gladly rush to your aid when you have gotten in over your heads? Do YOU, as Americans, not feel the same obligation that you ask from your constituents?”
“A simple offer to reduce your incomes by a small percentage and/or a willingness to curtail the extracurricular activities which benefit no one except yourself, would demonstrate your interest in helping solve the country’s ills. This is called: leadership by example. If you do not possess this ability, perhaps you are in the wrong profession.”
“I can see no reason that you, as custodians of the country’s assets, should not be held accountable for the influx of exorbitance which has become the norm for today’s governmental body.”
The time has come to issue a challenge to ALL members of the Congress to exert a little leadership by example; and to share in the fight for balance the budget. By doing this, it will be unnecessary to place blame on another lawmaker OR to call each other names.
Demijon
Always borrow money from Pessimists. They don’t expect to get it back. Dj.
November 23rd, 2009
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Something that really upsets me is to be asked for my opinion on any subject and then immediately be told that it is totally wrong. It’s only my opinion, for crying out loud; and not a guarantee that it is the only solution to the problem in question. There is; however, some merit in the opinion offered, since it usually is based on prior experience and / or trial and error.
In many cases this denial is compounded by the fact that, ‘So and So’ has tried it that way and it did not work. Then why in heavens name, was ‘So and So’ not consulted in the beginning? Why seek a second opinion only to refuse it before it is even tried?
It has been said that two heads are better than one, but apparently only one of them is capable of rendering an accurate response to the predicament; therefore, wouldn’t we be wise to not waste time with the second head?
Due to lack of technical training, most of my vast knowledge has been in the field of trial and error. Try something and if it does not work, simply change the procedure and try again. No blueprints or manuals; nothing but old-fashioned ‘making do.’
To impart this wisdom to some people is nothing short of impossible. They cannot accept the fact that a solution can be arrived at without benefit of written instructions and even then, doubt is raised if the answer is not exactly what they wish to hear. Often when something simple is suggested, the matter is complicated with; “WHY?”
Descriptions of the methods utilized in arriving at a solution to a problem are not easily revealed since many experiments have been executed before a satisfactory solution was achieved.
I am not bitter. Frustration would better describe my feelings when I am called on to offer an opinion on a subject with which I am thoroughly familiar only to have it rejected without so much as an attempt to discover if, in fact, it just might work. If it does not perform after this resolution has been tried, then the only recourse would be to place a call to ‘So and So’ and leave the matter in his capable hands.
After all, it’s only my opinion.
Demijon
Somewhere; A village idiot is missing. Dj.
November 22nd, 2009
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