All Hail

Great American Thinkers

In troubled times, we recall words of better minds.  Here are three examples to cherish. And contemplate.

“We have met the enemy and he is us.”  Pogo

Walter Crawford Kelly Jr. created Pogo the Possum in 1941 after leaving a career as an animator at Disney. Those of us with birth dates in that vicinity feel a real affinity for Pogo’s wit and wisdom.  Donald Trump is a troubling image in our mirror of national identity crisis.

"It’s like déjà vu all over again.” Yogi Berra

 Lorenzo Pietro Berra interrupted an outstanding lifelong career in baseball to man the guns in 1944.  He was providing cover to fellow Americans storming Normandy beaches in aid of allies resisting the twisted machinations of Adolph Hitler--Donald Trump’s ominous role model.  Those of us alive in 1944 know the vow to “never go back” is more than a slogan.

“I am not a member of an organized political party. I am a Democrat." Will Rogers

William Penn Adair Rogers was born a citizen of the Cherokee Nation in 1897.  He began his career in vaudeville. While twirling a rope, he poked fun at gangsters, prohibition, politicians, government programs, and a host of other controversial topics in a way that amused without offending. There is a joke making the rounds in Texas these days that Will might refashion into advice to the Democratic Party after the Election 2024 shellacking.  It goes like this—"Jerry Jones has hired a new coach for his football team.  A Chinese man named LetsWinOne.”  I wonder if the coach consults.  Persons concerned about the results and consequences of Election 2024 need a game plan for activities more promising and productive than group hugs and circular firing squads.

And, yes, I have some thoughts and suggestions.  I will begin to share them in the next few posts.  As always, your feedback will inform and guide my efforts.