Scary thoughts . . .

Probably not coherent but as I was swinging my life away on the back porch, which I love to do, I was thinking that between Google, Twitter, Facebook and all the other poppycock people are turning to for knowledge we are a dying Universe. It’s scary to me that perhaps no one takes the time to look at the sources of the materials they choose to read and believe! I really think that many people get their education through the media - all sorts of media. This is topsy-turvy. I am appalled that even the little ones in school watch and supposedly learn with videos. I’ve seen children acting out some of the ridiculous ideas that are portrayed and they think they’re so cute and cool. It’s not cute; it’s sad because they will never be able to interact with others if this is where they get most of their learning. I’ve seen Moms and Dads with kids in tow and the parents are so busy with their phones and apps they do not take time to make sure the children are careful and polite at all times. But they will stop and take photos of whatever shenanigans the kids are up to and post it right then and there while crossing the street! I know, I know I exaggerate a lot! I don’t think ‘polite’ exists any more - it seems to be noise, looking good so others will notice, making a big deal of yourself. Wow, how did we get so self-centered that we don’t realize it is happening to us? We accept the status quo. I think I would gladly help anyone who could turn off all screens on all of the gadgets in the world and make people listen, learn, love, appreciate what came before the computer age took over. I would keep the computers that work for us ie those that keep trains, planes, boats, hospitals, Doctors’ offices , policemen, firemen safe and those that regulate heat and cold in our homes and businesses but I think that would be it. We need people to work at being human again! ( Yes, it’s a rather crazy rant but perhaps I’ll be able to put what I’d like to say in a better way if I take the time to read some philosophy and just sit quietly in my porch swing and ponder. Getting away from idiot screens for a while would be a good start! )

It’s been a while . . .

It’s springtime in Louisiana - the neighborhood was out walking this evening and the younger kiddos were screeching their bike tires as they raced around the Circle. It was so good to be swinging away and listening to the kids having fun. I had already done my three turns walking around the neighborhood earlier in the afternoon. It feels so good to be out in the low humidity with blue skies and white clouds blowing by.

Saw a young woman at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Baton Rouge yesterday with the best haircut - a crew cut! Boy I am sorely tempted to go back to almost having my head shaved! Every curl I have ever had has come back with a vengeance. Not sure if it’s because I’m off of all antibiotics or just because my hair has finally gotten used to the soft water. In any case the waves are out of control. I have a haircut set for 10am tomorrow. We’ll see what Erica comes up with! She’s not too daring.

 I was amazed at the beautiful stained glass windows at the cathedral. They reminded me of the cathedrals in France and England. But it was odd that the front of the cathedral was absolutely plain and the cross and altar were off center! I really didn’t like that. I felt that there should have been a Rosetta above the altar. They also have a pipe organ and a wonderful choir. I was at the first service where the Bishop accepted the new converts into the church. The young friend I met last year at the Early Learning Center asked me to be her sponsor as she prepares to become a Catholic. It’s been quite a busy time but well worth the joy we’ve had in the journey! There was a second service later in the afternoon as there were many converts. I was taken by surprise. There were 198 candidates and each one of them had at least three people accompanying them plus all the helpers and musicians. It was a moving ceremony. I do believe that there is great art to be found in churches, synagogues and mosques. A friend from my Killingly days has just returned from Jerusalem and environs. The photos and videos she shared with us were wonderful.