Into the Abyss

This is scary stuff! When in the course of a unique individual human journey, one finds it necessary to "put it out there," via the world wide web, I believe it's not an unnatural occurence for the heart to race, knees go aknockin', and generally have second thoughts about exposing your soul for all to see. Yes, those are bruises on the insides of my knees. But, as I mentioned, it's necessary. Why now, why me? I don't have a succinct answer to that question, but I can tell you this; I'm compelled. And so........ here I am.

There is so much wrong in the world today: corrupt politics, war, disease, sexism, racism, bigotry, on and on. It is righteous and necessary to fight battles against these afflictions, yet even the most hardened zealots must occasionally retire to the rear for wine, dancing, laughter and love. Affirmation that we are more than just warriors. Replenishment and resupply of the soul. The battles, and the replenishment, these are what I will write about.

All are welcome here except assholes. Assuming as I do that we are all quite versed in the definition of assholes, I don't need to delineate specific behaviours that will result in one being 86ed off this blog. I have been assholish myself in the past. I'm not proud of that, yet I claim it.

Growth is accomodated by accountability and humility. I promise to do my darndest on both in this venue.

So, what can you expect here? THE TRUTH! However, to ascertain the truth, all aspects of the subject must be explored. That's where you folks come in. A long, long time ago, in a liberal state that is just a lake's width away from me now, we had a retail business. Across the street was a cozy dining establishment. Up in the front was the "community table." All comers, newspapers spread and left for the next perusal, lively discussions, passionate discourse, etc. Provacateurs coming and going, so the mix of participants and perspectives was always changing. Thing was though, we were a community. So there was no yelling, no namecalling, no venom. (well, except for those who decidedly didn't feel Mr. Reagan was quite up to the task.) I would be pleased as a fat pig in deep slop if this site evolves into a cyber version of that "community table." Comments are encouraged.

Having been married for almost 30 years, and having raised two fine sons, from time to time you will hear me speak of the "Babe" and the "ex-teenage food processors." The cast of characters also includes "the little bitch." The feline furrball snoozing in my briefcase on the desk in front of me does not answer to her "little bitch" moniker, but I'm quite certain that she wouldn't deny it either.

Finally, in this opening salvo, I will immediately go shamelessly apluggin'. I'm inspired by many, but a couple bloggers stand out on my favorites list and in my eyes as bloggers to be emulated. Brigid from "Home on the Range," and Lex from "Neptunus Lex." They both are smarter'n me and can paint with words like no others. I encourage you to go visit them over in the sidebar, and you too will become smitten.

And so, off we go.

stephen