Along with the week of thoughtful Letters, tonight we're blessed with this beautiful photograph. Thank you, HCR.
Reflections on Democracy from a philosopher, former First lady and the current president of the United States:
“For, if liberty and equality, as some persons suppose, are chiefly to be found in a democracy, they will be attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost.”
—Aristotle
“Our children should learn the general framework of their government, and then they should know where they come in contact with the government, where it touches their daily lives and where their influence is exerted on the government. It must not be a distant thing, someone else's business, but they must see how every cog in the wheel of a democracy is important and bears its share of responsibility for the smooth running of the entire machine.”
—Eleanor Roosevelt
"This is not rhetorical, academic or hypothetical. Whether democracy is still America's sacred cause is the most urgent question of our time. That's what the 2024 election is all about."
Thanks, Fern. End of a week in the hospital. Got a stent and looking at an ablation. Getting my heart ready for the election of our lives!! Joe is right. There may be two candidates but only one real question. Hope my stent holds up !!
Grateful for HCR, your always "on mark" input and for the gathered community here.
From a retired RN… thinking of you and your stent! The stent will hold… we have to protect democracy from these authoritarian loving lost their minds people!! Thanks Heather for the lovely picture
Yes, Carol, looks like you are in good hands. Have missed your voice but look at you now! You are a new woman 💃🏼 and your heart❤️…well, it’s always been in the right place. My very best to you as you recover and should you need help getting your ballot in, say the word! ☮️
Blessings for a speedy and complete recovery, Carol! I'm coming up on one year since my unexpected triple bypass. I LOVE your idea of getting our hearts of our "gathered community" ready for Nov 5. ❤️🙏🏼❤️
Carol, prayers for health and healing. I have wondered if my heart will hold out. I'm coming up on 71...during a recent phone-in 'townhall' with my representative, I was in line for questions, but of course never got the chance (I think they know me from my constant posts of FACTS on his social media page). The lies he said in response to people had my hair on fire and I could tell my blood pressure was rising. Agghhh!!! Hope my heart makes it through the year.
Carol, wishing you the best with you heart. It's hard to keep the blood pressure low with too much news about death star. I try just to stay away from the news if it becomes too much. Reiki energy to you to heal.
Fern. Thank you for taking the time to put these three dots together. I could not agree more that this generation and "Our children should learn the general framework...". What happened to Civics? I took Civics in high school. We ALL should. We must understand what Democracy is about and how we each come in contact in a postive way with our government. Reagan did irreputable damage when he said "government is not the solution...it is the problem." Wrong. Government and governing IS the solution.
Reagan’s actual quote in context is worth reading. He spoke of a specific crisis. And although I am no fan of Mr. Reagan , I agree that the government cannot and should not be considered “ the solution “ in every situation. The government and governing are useful and in some cases necessary tools toward solutions. And even then it demands a government by and of the people to be a solution for the people.
Thank you, Fern. The juxtaposition is moving. The Greeks gave us so much to think about and act on. (Surviving Trump with a fragment that stuck with me—maybe from Aristophanes—“and the gods laughed.” It keeps me laughing, mostly at myself, trying at 89 to write more than 25 GOTV postcards a day without damaging my writing arm, wishing I could consult with the 4th grade teacher who taught us the Palmer method or the one who taught us the Locker method.) Eleanor is my childhood from December 7,1941
onward. I heard her in person at UNC-CH(1954), understanding, for the first time, her power and patriotism. If we survive this crisis, maybe our education system will return to the curriculum for children that Eleanor describes and our universities to requiring a liberal arts curriculum which will include at least a distillation of the Greeks. (How about in this crazily puritanical country, requiring “Lysistrata” with elaborate political notes?)
You’ve made my day! Woke this morning (having not noticed that it was CDT Day), struggling with “To thine own self be true. Then it will follow as the night the day, that thou canst not be false to any man.” Then it hit “Shakespeare.” It’s a long story, but for some reason the important bits come sailing back when needed. Then you threw us Aristotle. Bless you. And Eleanor, who should be mentioned at the Edmund Pettus bridge, because she gave impetus to civil rights. (Thought: did she influence Truman’s desegregation of the military?)
Right, Sandra! If you haven’t read Aristophanes, do try that one and “The Clouds.” Maybe influence for Gilbert and Sullivan who almost undoubtedly read the plays.
And may our focus on the light of the moon remind us of our connection to a vast universe and our need to seek truth. Thank you, Fern, for your thoughtful words that complement HCR's letters and photos so well. Always appreciate your input.
These are great quotes, Fern. Thank you! Eleanor Roosevelt's quote belongs on a wall in every public school. I speak to so many people who have absolutely no idea how our government works and think the president can just wave a wand and make things happen.
Thank you Mary Hardt; I think that those quotations and many more in support of Democracy, speak for the American people as well as our sisters and brothers throughout the world.
Eleanor Roosevelt was the best First Lady because she listened to disadvantaged people and helped.President Biden has helped too, within the confines of big businesses.Bobby will not heed to big businesses and will rebuild the middle class and hence our democracy.For example, his plan to provide a 3 percent mortgage to first time homeowners is way more effective than President Biden’s plan. And it will stop the big corporations from scooping up our homes as is happening now under President Biden’s watch.
'Angela McArdle, the chair of the Libertarian National Committee, said no decision has been made about whether independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will join the Libertarian Party’s presidential ticket.' (TheHill)
'California family says anti-vaccine book backed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. misrepresented son’s death'
'Not long after their 12-year-old son’s death, Gina and Padrig Fahey got more shocking news: His photo was plastered on a book, backed by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., that falsely argues COVID-19 vaccines caused a spike in youth deaths. (Oct.18) (AP Video: Terry Chea)'
'DNC accuses RFK Jr. campaign and super PAC of colluding on ballot access effort'
February 9, 2024 / 7:53 PM EST / CBS News
'The Democratic National Committee announced Friday that it is filing a Federal Election Commission complaint against Robert F. Kennedy Jr. 's independent presidential campaign and the super PAC supporting him on allegations the two are colluding to get Kennedy ballot access.'
'On Dec. 5, super PAC American Values 2024 announced it would invest $10 million to $15 million in ballot access, with the aim of getting Kennedy on the ballot in at least 10 states.'
'In the FEC complaint, the DNC claims that in the states in which American Values 2024 has announced a ballot access initiative, each' "requires the candidate to submit a draft signature petition for state approval, turn in the completed forms, identify the individuals who collected the signatures, and obtain certification for circulators."
'The DNC complaint alleges that the super PAC is coordinating "its activity with Mr. Kennedy and his campaign in a way that violates federal campaign finance laws."
I’m aware of all your accounts by others against Bobby.I was just watching a Joe Polish interview with him when you responded.I respect your support for our president.I’ve looked at many of RFKJR’s interviews, and there are many.He really captures my hope and belief’s in our obtaining a more equal, more people’s controlled America.Democracy is all about hashing it out with those who see it differently right?
With our defective one-choice-only, win-with-a-mere-plurality voting system, having a spoiler candidate like RFK Jr. on the ballot is pernicious. We have seen spoiler candidates like Ralph Nader and Ross Perot change the outcome of Presidential elections. The MAGA organization knows this and is funding RFK Jr. as a way to get Trump in the White House. Trump learned in his term of office what was restraining him--a civil service dedicated to the law, and not loyal to the Dear Leader. In a second term, his first act would be to destroy the top of the civil service and replace its members with loyal MAGA followers. Trump is a criminal sociopath, and his re-election would be a moral catastrophe for America and the world. This will be the most "Special" election since at least 1864. Keeping RFK Jr. out may be of critical importance.
I believe RFKJR is our best hope for democracy. I think he has a momentum building chance to win, not spoil.Our country is long overdue for an independent to win, the conditions for that are ripe now. I am offended by people who say my vote is a spoiler vote.I would never say to you that your vote for Biden is spoilling mine. Please be respectful.
Sorry you're offended, but the term, "spoiler" is not name-calling--it describes a political reality. The Only non-Duopoly candidate to ever win a Presidential election was Abraham Lincoln in 1860, which he was able do because the Democratic Party had split in two pieces over the slavery issue and ran separate candidates (fracturing the Duopoly). Had they been one party in that election, Lincoln would have lost, like every other third party/independent candidate in American history. With his election the Duopoly flipped: Whigs out, Republicans in. Even a former incumbent like Theodore Roosevelt, who ran as a "Bull Moose" candidate in 1912 when the Republican Party foolishly denied him the Republican candidacy, was a spoiler. He put Woodrow Wilson in the White House. The ONLY thing an RFK Jr. candidacy can accomplish is to threaten the catastrophe of a Trump re-election. The idea of his winning is a pernicious fantasy.
Fern, thank you! Just like Heather, you put today's challenge in historical perspective. As one who hated history classes (I could never remember the lists of dates!) I'm truly catching up. This is a perfect foundation for expanding the history of democracy.
I'm creating a jpeg with your three quotes t and I will credit "One of HCR's readers" unless I have your permission to credit Fern McBride NYC. Blessings, ❤️
Yes! With an hour less tonight, we need it! When will this “springing ahead” madness end?! This is why your kids will be melting down this week! Also, drive carefully! It’s a peak accident week! 🌅
Thank you. I hadn't seen anything in the press about the time change so I stupidly assumed it was next week because the Academy wouldn't schedule the Oscars on a day when everyone will be sleep deprived. Oh well.
The total solar eclipse of June 24, 1778, began in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and swept eastward, passing close to Philadelphia. There, it was observed by prominent astronomer David Rittenhouse… Thomas Jefferson, who was in Virginia at the time of the eclipse, wrote in a letter to Rittenhouse that “[we] were much disappointed in Virginia generally on the day of the great eclipse, which proved to be cloudy. In [Williamsburg], where it was total, I understand only the beginning was seen.”
Thanks, Dr. Ryan, for reminding us about the date for the solar eclipse.
"And for those couple minutes standing in shadow, perhaps all we will care about is the sun, the moon, and the beautiful, colorful, alive Eden we still have here on Earth."
Anyone want to join me in Erie, Pennsylvania on April 8th for the Solar Eclipse. I bought a dozen pairs of cheap solar glasses and some sort of filter for my iPhone.
I got to watch the eclipse from 2018 right in the center of the path. I was with friends who were very into astronomy (did a 2 week "internship" in Huntsville AL at the invite of NASA), along with a lifelong friend of my Aunt Liz (who at the age of 80 drove from the bay area to stay will us and watch the eclipse with us). It is not to be missed.
I'm in Cleveland, OH in the path of peak totality. I plan to stay home, most likely indoors (it's laundry day), listen to (or maybe watch) the Guardians' home opener at 5:00 p.m. and head to church for my 7:00-8:00 p.m. holy hour.
Thank you, Michael. This is a perfect expression of the sentiment embedded in the image of a quiet night Heather shared with us at the top of this letter. I have seen that moon reflected in a mirror-smooth pool of quiet water; I could look into the water and see the moon and stars as clearly as if I gazed up at them. I frequently revisit that image when temporary retreat into that welcoming calm becomes the best way forward.
We owe it to ourselves to own our personal version of such an experience, for the road forward remains a relentlessly challenging and sometimes wearying journey, and we need to refresh however that works best. If we really care, dropping out—as many Americans have chosen—is not an option. The retreat you beautifully describe, is the exact opposite of dropping out. It is dipping in to our essence, finding it, and coming back with renewed clarity and energy.
The beauty of it is that it need take only the time we need, from a minute or two to an entire day or more. In any case, we will return more energized, more focused, more effective than weariness would have permitted. That is what Heather’s (Buddy’s?) photo and Michael’s words did for me. I am grateful.
Here is to each one of us knowing that space and using it to recharge our commitment to Our Great American Experiment.
Heather What a lovely photo that permits us all to take a tranquil night off before the three ring circus commences tomorrow.
I am reminded of when I was on a sail boat at anchor in Bermuda during a hurricane. It was blowing 100 mph with heavy rain and seas when there suddenly was an eery lull [called being in the eye of the hurricane].
It was a strange feeling to know that, in about half an hour, the full force of the hurricane would hit again. We relished the momentary relief, then faced the hurricane’s return. The next day the wind and sea finally calmed and we were relieved to be rested for what lie ahead.
Unfortunately, for you (and us) our political hurricane will continue until November [and even later, if the Orange Orangutan again refuses to acknowledge his defeat].
Virginia During the ‘lull,’ two of us sought to replace the fractured chain of our mooring. We didn’t get back on board before the hurricane came back full force. I learned what 100 mph rain felt like and was thankful to be able to climb up the ladder.
All this was momentary—the Orange Orangutan is 24/7.
🤣🤣🤣 You hit my funny bone with that one. Of course I could have cried, but laughter is invigorating and that’s why it happened. Need all the vigor I can summon these days. But I understood after imagining yoour braving such elements why you are going strong with canes. Whatever it takes!
Who sleeps? There’s no sleep in Gaza. Hamas chose violence and the most brutal terror. Hamas filmed their progress.
They proudly slaughtered the helpless and kidnapped. Hostages are held. Palestinians helped Hamas. Israel reacted.
Since 1948… since Ralph Bunch’s Nobel Peace Prize, America’s ignorance has only grown.
Fascist Americans favored Hitler. One a national hero. The popular aviator of the Spirit of St. Louis joined with a fascist Detroit priest gifted on AM radio.
They liked Hitler, hated Jews. Hated American values.
Hamas is committed. Palestinians chose Hamas. Gaza is Hamas territory. Lebanon is the same. Hezbollah runs Lebanon. Iran directs both, supports terrorists.
Putin supports them all. And a growing NATO gets it.
Palestinian sympathizers in the USA complain.
But Israel will not tolerate Gaza run by Hamas or Palestinians teamed with Hamas.
Israel cannot tolerate Hezbollah armed to the teeth. Iran & Company is committed to the destruction of Israel. Hamas and Hezbollah are dancing with Iran as Iran’s proxy.
Antisemitism is sweeping the blissfully uninformed in our Ivy League schools. Two ambivalent weak Heads rolled US campuses chose silence on October 7. Antisemitism is ignored. Or quietly supported.
Antisemitism’s friends are the ambivalent, the prejudiced, the fascist elements dressed as liberals and the confused so-called conservatives.
Our president understands. He speaks.
President Biden cannot take the night off. He fears WW III with Russia, Iran, the antisemitic of the Middle East and Europe - and the antisemitic of America. President Biden gets it. He knows Ireland.
Take the night off? I use SIGNAL for Europe. For Ukraine. For Israel.
We are at war in the Ukraine and Gaza. We are at war in Ohio and Texas and many more.
Not all Palestinians, like not all Americans chose chump in 2016. But they tolerated them, like we have tolerated the orange clown in so many ways. The ones “not guilty” are paying the price for a guilty minority. They always do…
Along with the week of thoughtful Letters, tonight we're blessed with this beautiful photograph. Thank you, HCR.
Reflections on Democracy from a philosopher, former First lady and the current president of the United States:
“For, if liberty and equality, as some persons suppose, are chiefly to be found in a democracy, they will be attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost.”
—Aristotle
“Our children should learn the general framework of their government, and then they should know where they come in contact with the government, where it touches their daily lives and where their influence is exerted on the government. It must not be a distant thing, someone else's business, but they must see how every cog in the wheel of a democracy is important and bears its share of responsibility for the smooth running of the entire machine.”
—Eleanor Roosevelt
"This is not rhetorical, academic or hypothetical. Whether democracy is still America's sacred cause is the most urgent question of our time. That's what the 2024 election is all about."
---U.S. President Joe Biden
***
Thanks, Fern. End of a week in the hospital. Got a stent and looking at an ablation. Getting my heart ready for the election of our lives!! Joe is right. There may be two candidates but only one real question. Hope my stent holds up !!
Grateful for HCR, your always "on mark" input and for the gathered community here.
Carol, you came, YOU CAME TO BE TOGETHER!
Gathering my affection and sending it to your wonderfully strong spirit.
Please keep in touch.
Big, warm and gentle hug 😊❤️🌿
Thank you Fern! Feel better already!
🌟😊🌟☀️❤️
Carol, I hope your recovery is quick, easy, and complete!!
Thank you, Linda. Am going in the right direction. You are in the home city of my Mom and all my ZAHNER cousins.
All the BEST to you, Carol. Happy Healing. Hugs!
Carol, all the best—please take good care and rest 🫶 up! ☮️💟
Hope you have a full and complete recovery. I took a friend to the Portland VA last month to have that done. I think you'll feel a LOT better.
From a retired RN… thinking of you and your stent! The stent will hold… we have to protect democracy from these authoritarian loving lost their minds people!! Thanks Heather for the lovely picture
Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
Give yourself the time to heal. Each day will bring you more energy.
Carol—so glad that we’re going to have your cogent comments for a long, long time. Teddy bear hugs.
Thanks Mary!!
Yes, Carol, looks like you are in good hands. Have missed your voice but look at you now! You are a new woman 💃🏼 and your heart❤️…well, it’s always been in the right place. My very best to you as you recover and should you need help getting your ballot in, say the word! ☮️
Blessings for a speedy and complete recovery, Carol! I'm coming up on one year since my unexpected triple bypass. I LOVE your idea of getting our hearts of our "gathered community" ready for Nov 5. ❤️🙏🏼❤️
Best wishes for a successful recovery. From this stranger
Carol, prayers for health and healing. I have wondered if my heart will hold out. I'm coming up on 71...during a recent phone-in 'townhall' with my representative, I was in line for questions, but of course never got the chance (I think they know me from my constant posts of FACTS on his social media page). The lies he said in response to people had my hair on fire and I could tell my blood pressure was rising. Agghhh!!! Hope my heart makes it through the year.
Carol, wishing you the best with you heart. It's hard to keep the blood pressure low with too much news about death star. I try just to stay away from the news if it becomes too much. Reiki energy to you to heal.
Keep getting well Fern!
Fern. Thank you for taking the time to put these three dots together. I could not agree more that this generation and "Our children should learn the general framework...". What happened to Civics? I took Civics in high school. We ALL should. We must understand what Democracy is about and how we each come in contact in a postive way with our government. Reagan did irreputable damage when he said "government is not the solution...it is the problem." Wrong. Government and governing IS the solution.
Reagan’s actual quote in context is worth reading. He spoke of a specific crisis. And although I am no fan of Mr. Reagan , I agree that the government cannot and should not be considered “ the solution “ in every situation. The government and governing are useful and in some cases necessary tools toward solutions. And even then it demands a government by and of the people to be a solution for the people.
Incredibly on mark Fern; profound and fitting. Rest well all ~
Thank you, D4N. As always, you bring a smile inside and out.
Can we add to this:
"You can't love your country only when you win!"
~~President Joseph R. Biden~~
SOTU March 7, 2024
Thank you, Fern. The juxtaposition is moving. The Greeks gave us so much to think about and act on. (Surviving Trump with a fragment that stuck with me—maybe from Aristophanes—“and the gods laughed.” It keeps me laughing, mostly at myself, trying at 89 to write more than 25 GOTV postcards a day without damaging my writing arm, wishing I could consult with the 4th grade teacher who taught us the Palmer method or the one who taught us the Locker method.) Eleanor is my childhood from December 7,1941
onward. I heard her in person at UNC-CH(1954), understanding, for the first time, her power and patriotism. If we survive this crisis, maybe our education system will return to the curriculum for children that Eleanor describes and our universities to requiring a liberal arts curriculum which will include at least a distillation of the Greeks. (How about in this crazily puritanical country, requiring “Lysistrata” with elaborate political notes?)
You are cooking, Virginia. May I have your spirit and grow younger!
You’ve made my day! Woke this morning (having not noticed that it was CDT Day), struggling with “To thine own self be true. Then it will follow as the night the day, that thou canst not be false to any man.” Then it hit “Shakespeare.” It’s a long story, but for some reason the important bits come sailing back when needed. Then you threw us Aristotle. Bless you. And Eleanor, who should be mentioned at the Edmund Pettus bridge, because she gave impetus to civil rights. (Thought: did she influence Truman’s desegregation of the military?)
Virginia, Lysistrata: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Greek_comedy,
Wikipedia
Right, Sandra! If you haven’t read Aristophanes, do try that one and “The Clouds.” Maybe influence for Gilbert and Sullivan who almost undoubtedly read the plays.
Thank you, Fern, for these words well put together!
Beautiful Fern - thank you. These words go perfectly with Heather’s wonderful photograph.
May our determination be as deep as the sea and as blue as the sky, dear Lynn.
And may our focus on the light of the moon remind us of our connection to a vast universe and our need to seek truth. Thank you, Fern, for your thoughtful words that complement HCR's letters and photos so well. Always appreciate your input.
These are great quotes, Fern. Thank you! Eleanor Roosevelt's quote belongs on a wall in every public school. I speak to so many people who have absolutely no idea how our government works and think the president can just wave a wand and make things happen.
Well, that is what the front runner Republican wants it to be.I hope that Biden hangs in there and starts running a more aggressive campaign!
Fern, I wish I could give your comment many more than one heart—it encapsulates what faces us so well. Thank you!
Thank you Mary Hardt; I think that those quotations and many more in support of Democracy, speak for the American people as well as our sisters and brothers throughout the world.
If I may put it in another phrase
“You Rock, Fern”
And Heather and Buddy!
Three great quotes, thank you Fern, and thank you so much HCR for this beautiful and peaceful photograph!
Thanks for your magnificent contribution, Fern! Particularly for Eleanor Roosevelt!
Eleanor Roosevelt was the best First Lady because she listened to disadvantaged people and helped.President Biden has helped too, within the confines of big businesses.Bobby will not heed to big businesses and will rebuild the middle class and hence our democracy.For example, his plan to provide a 3 percent mortgage to first time homeowners is way more effective than President Biden’s plan. And it will stop the big corporations from scooping up our homes as is happening now under President Biden’s watch.
RFK Jr. newsreel in brief. It's Sunday, so, perhaps, impolite to load the morning up with RFK Jr.'s controversies.
FACTCHECK POSTS › SCICHECK
RFK Jr. Incorrectly Denies Past Remarks on Vaccine Safety and Effectiveness
https://www.factcheck.org/2023/11/scicheck-rfk-jr-incorrectly-denies-past-remarks-on-vaccine-safety-and-effectiveness/
RFK Jr. slams Biden’s State of the Union address as ‘hyper-partisan’
https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4521035-rfk-jr-slams-bidens-state-of-the-union-address-as-hyper-partisan/
'Angela McArdle, the chair of the Libertarian National Committee, said no decision has been made about whether independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will join the Libertarian Party’s presidential ticket.' (TheHill)
'California family says anti-vaccine book backed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. misrepresented son’s death'
'Not long after their 12-year-old son’s death, Gina and Padrig Fahey got more shocking news: His photo was plastered on a book, backed by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., that falsely argues COVID-19 vaccines caused a spike in youth deaths. (Oct.18) (AP Video: Terry Chea)'
'DNC accuses RFK Jr. campaign and super PAC of colluding on ballot access effort'
February 9, 2024 / 7:53 PM EST / CBS News
'The Democratic National Committee announced Friday that it is filing a Federal Election Commission complaint against Robert F. Kennedy Jr. 's independent presidential campaign and the super PAC supporting him on allegations the two are colluding to get Kennedy ballot access.'
'On Dec. 5, super PAC American Values 2024 announced it would invest $10 million to $15 million in ballot access, with the aim of getting Kennedy on the ballot in at least 10 states.'
'In the FEC complaint, the DNC claims that in the states in which American Values 2024 has announced a ballot access initiative, each' "requires the candidate to submit a draft signature petition for state approval, turn in the completed forms, identify the individuals who collected the signatures, and obtain certification for circulators."
'The DNC complaint alleges that the super PAC is coordinating "its activity with Mr. Kennedy and his campaign in a way that violates federal campaign finance laws."
***
Cheers to all!
I’m aware of all your accounts by others against Bobby.I was just watching a Joe Polish interview with him when you responded.I respect your support for our president.I’ve looked at many of RFKJR’s interviews, and there are many.He really captures my hope and belief’s in our obtaining a more equal, more people’s controlled America.Democracy is all about hashing it out with those who see it differently right?
With our defective one-choice-only, win-with-a-mere-plurality voting system, having a spoiler candidate like RFK Jr. on the ballot is pernicious. We have seen spoiler candidates like Ralph Nader and Ross Perot change the outcome of Presidential elections. The MAGA organization knows this and is funding RFK Jr. as a way to get Trump in the White House. Trump learned in his term of office what was restraining him--a civil service dedicated to the law, and not loyal to the Dear Leader. In a second term, his first act would be to destroy the top of the civil service and replace its members with loyal MAGA followers. Trump is a criminal sociopath, and his re-election would be a moral catastrophe for America and the world. This will be the most "Special" election since at least 1864. Keeping RFK Jr. out may be of critical importance.
I believe RFKJR is our best hope for democracy. I think he has a momentum building chance to win, not spoil.Our country is long overdue for an independent to win, the conditions for that are ripe now. I am offended by people who say my vote is a spoiler vote.I would never say to you that your vote for Biden is spoilling mine. Please be respectful.
Sorry you're offended, but the term, "spoiler" is not name-calling--it describes a political reality. The Only non-Duopoly candidate to ever win a Presidential election was Abraham Lincoln in 1860, which he was able do because the Democratic Party had split in two pieces over the slavery issue and ran separate candidates (fracturing the Duopoly). Had they been one party in that election, Lincoln would have lost, like every other third party/independent candidate in American history. With his election the Duopoly flipped: Whigs out, Republicans in. Even a former incumbent like Theodore Roosevelt, who ran as a "Bull Moose" candidate in 1912 when the Republican Party foolishly denied him the Republican candidacy, was a spoiler. He put Woodrow Wilson in the White House. The ONLY thing an RFK Jr. candidacy can accomplish is to threaten the catastrophe of a Trump re-election. The idea of his winning is a pernicious fantasy.
Thank you.
Oh Fern, I so love your posts! Thank you 😇!🗽☮️💟
We are together, Linda Hanson, and thank you for encouraging us all!
Fern, thank you! Just like Heather, you put today's challenge in historical perspective. As one who hated history classes (I could never remember the lists of dates!) I'm truly catching up. This is a perfect foundation for expanding the history of democracy.
I'm creating a jpeg with your three quotes t and I will credit "One of HCR's readers" unless I have your permission to credit Fern McBride NYC. Blessings, ❤️
Now there is the calming image we needed. Thank you dear Professor and sleep tight.
Full moon, blue on blue setting…perfect for our blue wave that’s a’coming. Sweet dreams and see you tomorrow.
Sleepy tight Professor. You deserve it. Thx.
Yes! With an hour less tonight, we need it! When will this “springing ahead” madness end?! This is why your kids will be melting down this week! Also, drive carefully! It’s a peak accident week! 🌅
Thank you. I hadn't seen anything in the press about the time change so I stupidly assumed it was next week because the Academy wouldn't schedule the Oscars on a day when everyone will be sleep deprived. Oh well.
I didn’t realize how much I needed this moment of calm. And, I do!!
Thank you for again catching moment.
What Ken said!
Thanks for the moment of peace and memories of Maine. So beautiful and will assure us all pleasant dreams tonight. Hugs to you, Heather.
Yes, and nice moon shot 🌝 !
Don’t forget, and have a plan for Monday April 8th - the Great American Eclipse:
https://mccormickmd.substack.com/p/the-great-american-eclipse-of-2024
The total solar eclipse of June 24, 1778, began in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and swept eastward, passing close to Philadelphia. There, it was observed by prominent astronomer David Rittenhouse… Thomas Jefferson, who was in Virginia at the time of the eclipse, wrote in a letter to Rittenhouse that “[we] were much disappointed in Virginia generally on the day of the great eclipse, which proved to be cloudy. In [Williamsburg], where it was total, I understand only the beginning was seen.”
Thanks, Dr. Ryan, for reminding us about the date for the solar eclipse.
"And for those couple minutes standing in shadow, perhaps all we will care about is the sun, the moon, and the beautiful, colorful, alive Eden we still have here on Earth."
I must find my solar glasses from 2017!
Morning, Lynell! Yes, find those solar glasses.
Nice write up, Dr McCormick!
Anyone want to join me in Erie, Pennsylvania on April 8th for the Solar Eclipse. I bought a dozen pairs of cheap solar glasses and some sort of filter for my iPhone.
Looking forward to a fun day (and a sunny day!)
Wish I could, Dr. Bob. Lovely invitation.
I got to watch the eclipse from 2018 right in the center of the path. I was with friends who were very into astronomy (did a 2 week "internship" in Huntsville AL at the invite of NASA), along with a lifelong friend of my Aunt Liz (who at the age of 80 drove from the bay area to stay will us and watch the eclipse with us). It is not to be missed.
Ryan, Thank you so much. That was a great read, and wonderful to share.
I'm in Cleveland, OH in the path of peak totality. I plan to stay home, most likely indoors (it's laundry day), listen to (or maybe watch) the Guardians' home opener at 5:00 p.m. and head to church for my 7:00-8:00 p.m. holy hour.
An unbelievable week Conserve your energy for the craziness to come. We are about to " Spring Ahead "'in so many ways.
Enjoy!
''Calm Rest''
In search of calm, amidst life's fray,
I seek a refuge, a quiet bay.
A day to pause, to breathe, to be,
Amidst the chaos, find serenity.
No rush, no hurry, just peace to find,
In stillness, tranquility entwined.
Nature's whispers, a gentle breeze,
Granting solace, as my soul appease.
With each breath, tensions gently slip,
Away from worries, I softly grip.
In this respite, a sacred space,
Where time stands still, and worries erase.
Thank you, Michael. This is a perfect expression of the sentiment embedded in the image of a quiet night Heather shared with us at the top of this letter. I have seen that moon reflected in a mirror-smooth pool of quiet water; I could look into the water and see the moon and stars as clearly as if I gazed up at them. I frequently revisit that image when temporary retreat into that welcoming calm becomes the best way forward.
We owe it to ourselves to own our personal version of such an experience, for the road forward remains a relentlessly challenging and sometimes wearying journey, and we need to refresh however that works best. If we really care, dropping out—as many Americans have chosen—is not an option. The retreat you beautifully describe, is the exact opposite of dropping out. It is dipping in to our essence, finding it, and coming back with renewed clarity and energy.
The beauty of it is that it need take only the time we need, from a minute or two to an entire day or more. In any case, we will return more energized, more focused, more effective than weariness would have permitted. That is what Heather’s (Buddy’s?) photo and Michael’s words did for me. I am grateful.
Here is to each one of us knowing that space and using it to recharge our commitment to Our Great American Experiment.
Beautiful, thank you Michael.
All of you bring peace to my soul. In this fractured society, your "voices" prompted by Heather, are eagerly awaited...sleep well dear hearts!
I agree, Julie!
It's been a week!
Love the blue on blue photo.
Heather What a lovely photo that permits us all to take a tranquil night off before the three ring circus commences tomorrow.
I am reminded of when I was on a sail boat at anchor in Bermuda during a hurricane. It was blowing 100 mph with heavy rain and seas when there suddenly was an eery lull [called being in the eye of the hurricane].
It was a strange feeling to know that, in about half an hour, the full force of the hurricane would hit again. We relished the momentary relief, then faced the hurricane’s return. The next day the wind and sea finally calmed and we were relieved to be rested for what lie ahead.
Unfortunately, for you (and us) our political hurricane will continue until November [and even later, if the Orange Orangutan again refuses to acknowledge his defeat].
What a jolt, Keith. Two sides of a hurricane pale beside “Orange Ourangutan.”
Virginia During the ‘lull,’ two of us sought to replace the fractured chain of our mooring. We didn’t get back on board before the hurricane came back full force. I learned what 100 mph rain felt like and was thankful to be able to climb up the ladder.
All this was momentary—the Orange Orangutan is 24/7.
🤣🤣🤣 You hit my funny bone with that one. Of course I could have cried, but laughter is invigorating and that’s why it happened. Need all the vigor I can summon these days. But I understood after imagining yoour braving such elements why you are going strong with canes. Whatever it takes!
Exquisite!!! I will take this image into my sleep and ease my fretful mind with its beauty and serenity.
One less hour of sleep.. tonight.
Who sleeps? There’s no sleep in Gaza. Hamas chose violence and the most brutal terror. Hamas filmed their progress.
They proudly slaughtered the helpless and kidnapped. Hostages are held. Palestinians helped Hamas. Israel reacted.
Since 1948… since Ralph Bunch’s Nobel Peace Prize, America’s ignorance has only grown.
Fascist Americans favored Hitler. One a national hero. The popular aviator of the Spirit of St. Louis joined with a fascist Detroit priest gifted on AM radio.
They liked Hitler, hated Jews. Hated American values.
Hamas is committed. Palestinians chose Hamas. Gaza is Hamas territory. Lebanon is the same. Hezbollah runs Lebanon. Iran directs both, supports terrorists.
Putin supports them all. And a growing NATO gets it.
Palestinian sympathizers in the USA complain.
But Israel will not tolerate Gaza run by Hamas or Palestinians teamed with Hamas.
Israel cannot tolerate Hezbollah armed to the teeth. Iran & Company is committed to the destruction of Israel. Hamas and Hezbollah are dancing with Iran as Iran’s proxy.
Antisemitism is sweeping the blissfully uninformed in our Ivy League schools. Two ambivalent weak Heads rolled US campuses chose silence on October 7. Antisemitism is ignored. Or quietly supported.
Antisemitism’s friends are the ambivalent, the prejudiced, the fascist elements dressed as liberals and the confused so-called conservatives.
Our president understands. He speaks.
President Biden cannot take the night off. He fears WW III with Russia, Iran, the antisemitic of the Middle East and Europe - and the antisemitic of America. President Biden gets it. He knows Ireland.
Take the night off? I use SIGNAL for Europe. For Ukraine. For Israel.
We are at war in the Ukraine and Gaza. We are at war in Ohio and Texas and many more.
Sleep well.
Not all Palestinians, like not all Americans chose chump in 2016. But they tolerated them, like we have tolerated the orange clown in so many ways. The ones “not guilty” are paying the price for a guilty minority. They always do…
We are all exhausted. Enjoy your downtime.