Author: The Timedok

Thanks for the hug!

Why are hugs important?

Hugs are part of a more complex subject, “Love Language.”

Recognizing and understanding love languages can significantly improve relationships. It helps partners communicate their needs more effectively and fosters a deeper emotional connection. When both partners understand each other’s love languages, they can express love in ways that resonate most with one another, leading to greater satisfaction and harmony in the relationship.

Love language doesn’t stop in your home. In our increasingly social world, we tell people we barely know happy birthday. How does social media affect the fabric of the human condition?

I want to discuss five different aspects of the love language. I want to focus on the fifth one specifically.

Words of Affirmation: This language involves expressing love through verbal compliments, encouragement, and affirming words. People who resonate with this love language feel valued when they hear kind words.
Acts of Service: For some, actions speak louder than words. This love language emphasizes doing things for your partner, such as helping with chores or running errands, to show care and support.
Receiving Gifts: This language is about giving thoughtful gifts that show you are thinking of someone. It’s not about the monetary value but the sentiment behind the gift that matters.
Quality Time: This love language focuses on giving your partner undivided attention. Spending meaningful time together without distractions is crucial for those who value this form of love.

I want to expand on this form of expressing love. Without going into a lengthy explanation, let’s talk about what it means to be “without distractions.” Kindly disable the phone and store away any other electronic devices. When I say quality time, I truly mean it. You are important to me, and I truly want to hear about what’s happening in your life. How many times have you interrupted or been interrupted by something on some electronic leash? Have you done it to people? Are you guilty of putting them in some lower class of person by elevating a Facebook post or reel? It’s important to put them first, period.

Physical Touch: For many, physical affection such as hugs, kisses, and holding hands is essential. This love language emphasizes the importance of physical closeness in expressing love.

The first four are self-explanatory, and we can accomplish many of them through social media. We can also do the opposite through an unkind word. I have told many people never to drink and drive and never to drink and get on social media. While you might not kill someone on social media, your words can cut like knives (yeah, I know it was in a song), and the damage your thoughtlessness can do is far-reaching.

What about physical touch?”

Not that many years ago, I topped a hill at freeway speeds to meet head-on with a drunk guy in a Cadillac that his wife had just bought him because he promised to stop drinking after he drove his truck into a tree. True story…you can read about it here…

Beeping monitors, wires, and tubes mixed with needles, and the sterile odor of a hospital is only part of the process. The thought of never being held or holding someone again sets the stage for an emotional roller coaster.

To live through an experience like that makes one appreciate life and its simple pleasures.

Why physical touch, why hugs?

The truth is you have no idea what someone else is going through. People don’t fake depression, they fake happiness. When you ask someone how they are doing and they say “fine,” do you buy it? We are all going through stuff. We also know that when someone asks us how we are doing they rarely want to know the truth.

“Fine great. Did you see the Cowboys?”

“What if we asked, “No, really…how are you doing, and then listened?”

A simple hug can do that. I care about you and I don’t know what you are going through but this hug is my way of showing…not telling you…that I care about you. If you need an ear or a shoulder, I am here.” Would the world be so much better if we showed more people that we care about them?

Are we that kind of friend? So, why hug?

Hugs play a significant role in our emotional and physical well-being. Here are some key reasons why hugs are important:

1. Emotional Connection

Hugging fosters a sense of connection and belonging. It communicates feelings of safety, love, and support, which can be especially comforting during difficult times. This emotional bond is crucial for mental health, as it helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

2. Physical Health Benefits

Research indicates that hugging can have tangible health benefits. For instance, it promotes the production of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” which acts as a stress buffer and can enhance overall well-being. Additionally, frequent hugging has been linked to reduced severity of infections, highlighting its role in bolstering the immune system.

3. Stress Reduction

Hugs can significantly lower stress levels. The act of hugging can help ease feelings of anxiety and depression by boosting the release of feel-good hormones, which can improve mood and emotional resilience.

4. Pain Relief

Interestingly, hugging may also help reduce physical pain. Touch, including hugging, is a powerful form of communication that can convey comfort and support, potentially leading to a decrease in pain perception. Were you aware that your state of mind has an effect on your general health?

True story time:

We had a blood drive at work. One of my employees got a call from them telling her to check with her doctor, something wasn’t right with her blood. This girl had never missed work and was always up. She was delightful in every way. Two weeks after she got the news that she had cancer, she died. Her brain shut her down.

What if she had positive support from just a few hugs? There are cancer centers that focus on treating the whole body, not just the disease. I believe in something I call PMA or a positive mental attitude. There is scientific evidence that your mind is powerful. How could we develop more PMA in people we know? It’s like the butterfly effect, ripples in a pond. The media for whatever reason wants us at each other throats, scared of everything. Would hugs be the middle finger to the talking heads stoking fear and hatred? I think it would be worth a try. Whatever happened to Flower Power?

Did you know there are different types of hugs?

Hugs come in various forms, each conveying different emotions and meanings. Here are some common types of hugs and what they typically signify:

Bear Hug A bear hug is a strong, enveloping embrace that conveys warmth and affection. It often signifies a deep emotional connection and is typically shared between close friends or loved ones.
Side Hug In a side hug, two people stand next to each other and wrap one arm around the other. This type of hug is often seen as more casual and can indicate friendship or comfort without being overly intimate.
Romantic Hug This hug is characterized by a close embrace, often with bodies pressed together. It signifies romantic feelings and intimacy, typically shared between partners.
Back Hug A back hug occurs when one person hugs another from behind. This type of hug can express protection, affection, and surprise, often making the person being hugged feel cherished and secure.
Polite Hug A polite hug is usually brief and may occur in social situations where a more formal greeting is appropriate. It often lacks the emotional depth of other hugs and is more about social etiquette.
Comforting Hug This hug is given to provide support and reassurance during tough times. It is often longer and more enveloping, conveying empathy and understanding.
Group Hug A group hug involves multiple people coming together for a collective embrace. It signifies unity, friendship, and shared joy, often seen in celebrations or moments of camaraderie.
Lift Hug In a lift hug, one person lifts the other off the ground while hugging. This playful gesture often signifies excitement and joy, commonly seen in romantic relationships or among close friends.

I am all for meaningful hugs. The gift of a hug, a genuine hug, is worth more than just about anything you can think of. When we draw our last breath, everything that we own stays behind—all the money, cars, collections, clothes, friends, all of it.

What do you take with you?

I pray we take the memories of the kindnesses we were shown.

The Mormons believe they group around their family members. That is one reason they are so adept at genealogy. I guess they want to know who is waiting for them.

The love language of kindness, touch, empathy, and caring for another person is a selfless act and a treasure that one takes with them, I hope.

Always resolve conflicts before going to sleep and make a point to express appreciation to your loved ones. Nothing compares to the impact of a warm embrace over verbal communication.

What if we incorporate the phrase in our daily walk, “I may not agree with you, but I love you anyway?”

Words to think about.

-Best

Show Don’t Tell

‘Show don’t tell’ is one of the foundational principles of writing, emphasizing the importance of vividly illustrating instead of simply stating.

The principle of “show, don’t tell” is a fundamental technique in writing that enhances storytelling by allowing readers to experience emotions and events more vividly. Here are several reasons this approach is effective:
Engages the Reader’s Imagination
When writers show rather than tell, they invite readers to interpret the emotions and actions of characters through descriptive language and sensory details. This engagement encourages readers to visualize scenes and feel emotions alongside the characters, creating a more immersive experience.
Creates Emotional Depth
Showing emotions through actions, dialogue, and body language adds layers to character development. For instance, instead of stating that a character is angry, a writer might describe clenched fists, a flushed face, and a sharp tone of voice. This method allows readers to understand the character’s emotional state more deeply and personally.
Enhances Character Development
Characters become more relatable and realistic when their emotions are demonstrated through their behavior. Readers can infer motivations and personality traits based on how characters react to situations, making them feel more authentic and complex.
Builds Tension and Conflict
By showing rather than telling, writers can create suspense and tension in a narrative. For example, a character’s internal struggle can be illustrated through their actions and decisions, allowing readers to sense the stakes without explicitly stating them. This technique keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome.
Encourages Reader Interpretation
When writers show emotions and events, they allow readers to draw their own conclusions and interpretations. This active participation can lead to a more rewarding reading experience, as readers connect with the story on a personal level and reflect on its themes and messages.

Here are some basic emotions

Joy – A feeling of great pleasure and happiness.
Trust – A positive emotion characterized by reliance on someone or something.
Fear – An emotional response to perceived threats or danger.
Surprise – A reaction to unexpected events.
Sadness – A feeling of sorrow or unhappiness.
Disgust – A strong feeling of aversion or repulsion.
Anger – A strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
Anticipation – A feeling of excitement about something that is going to happen.

Detailed or nuanced emotions.

Affection
Amusement
Anxiety
Apathy
Compassion
Confusion
Contentment
Curiosity
Despair
Disappointment
Empathy
Envy
Excitement
Fearfulness
Frustration
Guilt
Hope
Horror
Hostility
Interest
Jealousy
Loneliness
Nostalgia
Pride
Relief
Remorse
Satisfaction
Shame
Surprise
Tenderness
Worry

Examples:
Opening his birthday present, Tim was joyful when he saw the latest video game.

Opening his birthday present, Tim’s face lit up with joy as he saw the latest video game. He eagerly imagined the hours of fun ahead.

Tim was disappointed to learn he would have to wait to play the game until the weekend, as tomorrow was a school day.

The following example may be a bit excessive, but it effectively conveys his disappointment.

As Tim’s face fell, a deep furrow etched itself across his brow. His eyes, which had sparkled with anticipation just moments before, now held a hint of sadness. The corners of his mouth, which had been curved up in a hopeful grin, now turned downward, reflecting the weight of his disappointment. He sighed, a long, slow exhalation that seemed to carry the burden of his unmet expectations.
He stared at the game console, its vibrant colors and intricate graphics now a stark reminder of the fun he would have to postpone. His fingers, which had been itching to wrap around the controller, now drummed a slow, disheartened rhythm against the table.
The room, once filled with the excited chatter of friends eagerly discussing strategies and predicting outcomes, now fell silent, save for the soft ticking of the clock on the wall. The hands moved inexorably forward, marking the passage of time that Tim could not reclaim.
As the reality of his situation sunk in, Tim’s shoulders slumped, and his body language indicated his despondency. He glanced at his friends, their faces a mirror of his own emotions, and then back at the game console. The screen, with its glowing promise of adventure and excitement, now seemed cold and distant, a cruel reminder of the joy that was now out of reach.
With a final, resigned sigh, Tim turned away from the game, his eyes downcast, his heart heavy with disappointment. He knew he would have to wait until the weekend to play, but for now, he could only endure the long, slow hours until then.

Try your hand at it. Pick a couple of the basic emotions, tell the story, and then show the story.

If you want more of these types of interactions, share your thoughts or stories in the comments.

-Best

Unlock Your Writing Potential: Start Your Book Today

When people discover I am an author, they often confess they have always wanted to write a book.

Why haven’t you?

“Well, where do you start?”

Writing a book is a significant undertaking that can be daunting and rewarding.
My personal account likely resembles numerous others. Much like countless individuals who are inclined towards a sedentary lifestyle, I eagerly anticipated and fervently watched a television show that revolved around a subject matter that held deep personal meaning for me. It was a clear case of escapism, and I readily acknowledge and confess to it.
Ever since the disappointing ending of that show, I have abstained from watching television entirely, a habit that has persisted for years.

The cartoon Futurama comes to mind, where a character called Hypnotoad appears on the screen with pulsating eyes. Whether you know the subject, the salient point remains that television has consumed a significant portion of my time. Besides taking up my time, I had to endure an excessive amount of mind-numbing drug advertisements. Ladies and gentlemen, it quickly became evident who controls the media through the advertising dollars urging you to consult your doctor regarding mortality: Big Pharma.
Often, writing a book requires sacrifices.

It requires time alone, not in a dark, dank dungeon but if that inspires the story, I suggest you go with it.
Seriously it is my belief that screen time along with the TV takes more of our time than we would ever care to admit. If you want to create a masterpiece, what are you willing to trade for that creation?
For me, TV was the obvious choice. We are told to write to a seventh-grade education. Do you think in your heart that the TV even makes it a fifth-grade education?
YouTube and TikTok are just as bad. While you can find a diverse number of opinions on streaming services, few, very few, will enlighten you. They engineer emotional triggers for most of them. “You don’t need that. Truly, you don’t.”

If you want your heartstrings tugged on, write about some character doing it.
Read, yes, read the good, the bad, and the horrible so you can tell the difference.
While I could pontificate about big pharma and how they make money treating and not curing you, that is outside the scope of this blog post.

The remarkable thing is that I revised the ending of that show and, as a result, uncovered my writing potential. I not only possessed the ability to write, but I derived glee from it as I maintained control over the narrative, the journey, the characters, and, above all, the result.
Upon discovering that I am an author, individuals often admit to their desire to write a book but express uncertainty regarding the initial steps.

Now that you know a little about me and my philosophy, let’s start with the basics.

We should start by understanding the Writing Process
The process of writing a book is often perceived as a daunting task, especially for novice authors. However, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable sections can make the process more approachable. By conceptualizing your book as an assemblage of concise articles or scenes, you can dedicate your attention to creating a small segment each day, which can later be restructured into a cohesive entity. This approach can help maintain motivation and make the task less overwhelming.
Before starting a book, it’s crucial to understand your motivation and purpose. The reason behind writing your book serves as the cornerstone of your project. Establishing a distinct objective can effectively steer the writing procedure and maintain concentration, whether it is for personal development, introspection, or the dissemination of a narrative.

Writing a book can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. It allows you to explore your thoughts and experiences in a structured way, helping to clarify your thinking and examine your values and beliefs. This process can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and your motivations, making writing a transformative experience.

On this topic, I want to pontificate just a little more. Years ago, I was in a head-on collision with an inebriated son of a bitch. He was old, a known alcoholic and his wife enabled him.
We were at highway speeds, and the story was breathtaking. I wrote that story in Carrollton League of Writers’ first Anthology, The Roads We Take. It is in the very last part of the book. I wanted to title it Oh shit Bang, and the leader of the group didn’t like that language in the book. So, if you get the book and read the story, the title is The Devil’s Rabbit Trail.

Why tell you that?

Since I still suffer from PTSD and pain from that horrible day, this was therapy for me, and I was hoping people who might drink and drive might see it and decide not to mess up someone else’s life, much less their own.
If you want to read more about it, there is a free version on the Reedsy site under my stories. Look for the story called “Why I Write.” I tell you this because it might also resonate with you.
Writing a book requires discipline and commitment. Starting and finishing are both critical steps in the writing process. It’s essential to be disciplined, protect your writing time, and not give up, even when faced with challenges. Embracing the process, including the creation of a ‘bad’ first draft, is essential to produce a polished manuscript, eventually.

Writing fiction can also be a therapeutic tool, allowing you to process emotions and experiences. Writing is a skill that improves with practice, and engaging in regular writing can lead to personal growth and enhanced critical thinking skills.

In future blogs, we will dive into publishing.

I use Reedsy for their contest, which is not so much to win but for $5 to enter a story as a ‘chance’ of winning. I get feedback from others who are serious about writing. I get nothing out of advertising for them. My goal is to help you if you are interested in writing.
My stories on this site are many, and you can read them for free. If you do, please spend a moment commenting. Feedback is why I do this.
Please inform me of your preferences, dislikes, and any additional inquiries that we can address as we proceed.

-Best

Trump Derangement Syndrome

The news of another attempted assassination attempt on Trump made me nauseous.

The Keyword NEWS is the problem.

The excessive use of hyperbole, propaganda, NLP, and rhetoric to generate clicks and advertising revenue has become overwhelming. This nut job in Florida is just one more brainwashed lunatic that doesn’t understand the media has to sell airtime to advertisers and ratings are part of the formula that allows them to charge so much a second for you to learn about self-storage or the latest drug to combat your poor choices of foods.

Even today, after the attempt, Dana Bash is out there calling JD Vance a racist.

Do they not see, or do they not care?

Money is driving the agenda. What kinds of stories garner the public’s attention and make people click or tune in?

Way back when 30 seconds of airtime during the Super Bowl was a million dollars, that was probably a bargain by today’s standards. Imagine that: 30 seconds of airtime for a product during the Super Bowl was a million dollars and change.

If you remember the talking frogs advertising Bud Wis Er, well that was one of our commercials that my employer at the time created. Those commercials cost big money and were aired several times during the game.

To sell airtime, you needed something that drew lots of attention.

The Super Bowl is only once a year. How do we get higher ratings for the rest of the year? Well, we create a product that drives emotions. Trump Derangement Syndrome is a product. The stronger the emotional impact, the more people will tune in.

Hyperbole incites an emotional reaction.

If Trump gets in, the world is going to hell, our democracy is gone, and you will be living on the streets with the migrants.
If Harris gets in, the world is going to hell, our democracy is gone, and you will be living on the streets with the migrants.
The Sky is falling, how to survive a nuclear war, Climate Change will kill us all.

Emotional response not only invites people to tune in, but it incites the unstable into action.

Not a single word of what was mentioned holds any truth.

The simple fact is we have no idea who is controlling the country right now. It isn’t Biden and certainly not the cackling VP. Who is it? Who is setting policy? Who is keeping the country safe? Are your cats being eaten?

The media is not your friend. They are not telling the truth about anything.

If you could talk to Putin, you would learn a whole different set of facts about why he is doing what he is doing. RFK shined some light on it during his speech. Why is our CIA sponsering regime change when these folks have enough nukes to destroy the world 100 times over? What is the ultimate goal?

Are they really trying to reduce the world’s population by 33%?

Do they really think they can create a one-world government when you have so many diverse opinions, religions, ideologies, government structures, and so on?

What about the oligarchs that are pulling the strings? Sooner or later, one of them will claim God’s status, and then what happens?

If you could speak with the Ukrainians who are not pulling the strings, you would learn a new set of facts.

Someone is getting a hell of a lot of our tax dollars, and lots of human lives are being extinguished to feed the greed of a few.

We are puppets being taken to the cleaners by those who control the narrative. Do we really think the woman who slept her way into politics is the answer?

As far as the debate the other night, that was not a debate; it was an ambush.

Harris had been working with Hollywood’s best method acting coach to learn to put on a show. Knowing Trump and his temper, they ambushed him. All three wanted to get under his skin by attacking what he was proud of. Using opinion to fact-check him live, I noticed they didn’t fact-check Harris once.

Everything he says is a lie.
People leave your rallies because they are bored.
World leaders think you are a joke.
The economy was your fault, not ours.
We fixed immigration. It was you who destroyed it.

There is so much more I could say. The moderators agreed with these falsehoods. I am not sure I could have stood there and dealt with that abuse. If it were me, I would have flipped them all off and left. When he said it was a waste of time, it was, his.

While I don’t wish this lunatic who waited for a chance to kill Trump any peace whatsoever, I am glad he is alive so they can dissect what set him off. I am sure the MSM will play a massive role in the lies told that he accepted as the gospel. I am sure in his mind, he felt like he was doing the work of God Almighty saving Democracy.

One quick thought: name another president who left office poorer than when they went in. Name one other president who didn’t accept a salary.

We are not casting our votes for an individual; instead, we are casting our votes for a set of principles and policies. Trump’s were and are solid and much better than those of the current administration and the last 3.5 years.

We need to toss the assholes out and start fresh only voting for those who will enact term limits in Congress.

Thoughts?

THINK

Darwin was on to something.

Last night, as we drove home, the road stretched before us, illuminated only by the faint glow of our headlights. About an hour after the sun had set, darkness settled over the landscape. Walking along the side of the road, this person, gender unknown, blended into the surroundings, dressed head to toe in black. It was as if the world had been stripped of all signs of civilization, with no lights or reflective clothing to break the darkness. They disappeared into the shadows of the night, becoming one with their surroundings.

They were just a hair’s breadth away from the road, practically walking alongside it. In the distance, headlights emerged briefly, their glow creating a faint silhouette before fading into the night.

Let me explain; shockingly, there is actually no legislation criminalizing suicide. What would they do, lock up your dead, broken body?

If suicide is your goal, choose a method that doesn’t involve law enforcement or innocent bystanders. Let your imagination run wild as you explore the many bridges stretching across the tranquil water. You might also consider the hornet nests around; toss a rock at one of them and see what happens. The hornets will feel no sympathy, and you will not ruin their lives. They will just have to work on fixing the damage to the nest. At least that way, you can feel your heart beating and adrenaline rush, reminding you that you are alive. If the frigid water doesn’t snap you out of it. Perhaps the sharp sting of the hornets will impart some valuable lessons.

While I would strongly recommend seeking medical assistance, I would also advise against jeopardizing the well-being of others.

You are not a victim; you just make bad choices. God’s creations are not without worth or purpose, and that fact includes you. Find your purpose.

Like in the city, I observed this behavior occurring in various corners of the urban landscape. During this time of year, when the days are getting shorter, people would often go for a walk. They would set out during the daylight, but by the time they neared their homes, darkness had once again descended, and they navigated through busy roads, their dark clothing blending into the night. It’s great that you can see the headlights, but those of us behind the wheel don’t see you. Have you considered the lasting impact of your foolishness on someone else’s life?

Not all of us can afford Teslas with cameras that seek infrared silhouettes of bodies.

Survival of the fittest is not just about physical abilities but also about using common sense. The sides of the roads are littered with roadkill from animals that don’t realize what tons of steel will do to a body at 60mph. Don’t become food for vultures. And by that, I mean don’t ruin someone else’s life because you were stupid.

Think.

We Need Daddy!

Mars, our past, or our future?

Full transparency: I am a sci-fi author.
If we delve into Newtonian physics, 95% of you will likely navigate away from this page…so let’s avoid that.
My argument is simple, Mars is both.
What?
Yeah, here is the kicker, scientists are well aware of this fact, yet they continue to feign ignorance. Is it possible that the motivation behind Climate Change initiatives is driven by the potential financial gain?
Similar to how the hydrocarbons in freon remain close to the ground, climate change is unlikely to result in our catastrophic demise.
If you want a glimpse of what the Earth will become in a few million years, just look at Mars.
Billions of years ago, Mars resembled the Earth in its current state. Huh?

The sun, in a relentless display of power, consumes a mind-boggling 4.3 million tons of fuel per second. For those who don’t see the big picture, the sun, that glowing orb in the sky, consumes a staggering 371.52 billion tons of fuel every 24 hours.
Over billions of years, the sun has been steadily losing mass, either through fission or the cosmic wind.
Our little blue dot, like all the celestial bodies in our solar system, is inexorably drawn towards the sun, its gravitational force exerting a powerful pull. But wait, as we soar through space at a staggering velocity of 67,000 miles per hour we are in orbit.
Why are these details important?
Similar to those who reject the concept of evolution, their narrow perspective limits their ability to comprehend a timeline spanning millions of years. No, it’s not just a belief or opinion, it’s supported by scientific evidence and facts.
About 430 million years ago, the scorpion is thought to have been the first creature to crawl out of the ooze and start breathing oxygen. Fun fact.
Around 4.3 billion years ago, the Earth and Mars were likely much closer to the scorching heat of the sun.
Why?
Back then, the sun was much bigger and had a stronger gravitational pull.
Two things are happening today that people aren’t aware of.
In addition to the sun losing mass daily, the earth is also experiencing a gradual decrease in its own mass.
What?
Have you seen the news blurb or clickbait telling you the moon is pulling further away from the Earth? Why would that be?
It is true that the Earth’s mass decreases by roughly 96,616 tons each day. There are two main mechanisms responsible for this loss:
Each day, approximately 95,000 tons of hydrogen and 1,600 tons of helium evaporate into the void, escaping from the Earth’s atmosphere.
According to Einstein’s famous equation E=mc2, the Earth’s core converts mass into energy, causing the Earth to lose approximately 16 tons of mass daily.
Part of that loss is water.
Approximately 25,920 liters of water evaporate into space from Earth each day. This figure is based on research that measures the release of water vapor from the atmosphere, specifically examining the evaporation of hydrogen and oxygen within water molecules.
Throughout Earth’s existence, approximately 25% of its initial water has been lost, equating to a substantial depletion of roughly 42,000 cubic kilometers. The loss is mainly caused by hydrogen escaping into space, as the water vapor in the atmosphere can decompose under specific conditions, leading to the release of these elements.
Now, my friends, take a look at Mars today and marvel at its vibrant red hue. What happened to the water that was once here?
Now comes the pandering part, where I try to win you over. My book Earth’s Last Hope takes you there in story format.
Being a science fiction writer fills me with a sense of pride as I have the opportunity to create unique and thought-provoking stories. Remember to distinguish between short-term weather patterns and the long-term effects of climate change. Climate change isn’t solely caused by human activity; natural factors like the Sun’s eleven-year cycle of pole reversal also play a significant role.
-Best

Retiring is Stupid!

Those were the words of one Elon Musk. Were they out of context? I hope so.

Should you retire?
The choice to retire is a personal one that depends on several factors, including financial stability, health, interests, and personal preferences. Here are a few significant points that should be considered.

To attain financial stability, one must possess ample savings, investments, or pension income to sufficiently cover one’s living expenses during retirement.

Now here is the rub: I don’t see Gen Z or even the Millennials preparing for retirement. What I see is them living for today and not planning for tomorrow. It’s almost as if they never heard of Dave Ramsey.

The simple fact is that many could not pull together $500 in case of an emergency. It’s true, and the credit card folks love it. If you save money, you know that .50% is about all you can get unless you adopt some high-yield account of 5.5%

Conversely, if you use a credit card, which many Americans do, the interest rate has reached an all-time high of 28.4% APR. We should ask why the current administration is allowing the fat cat bankers to do this, but we can deduce the reasoning.

This administration creates inflation, forces people to use their savings and borrow money, and allows bankers to raise interest rates to encourage predatory lending. I’m sure it’s all on the up and up.

I was curious about what it would cost to borrow $10,000 and repay the loan by making minimum payments. Are you ready for this?
The total cost of borrowing $10,000 at an APR of 28.4% with minimum payments is infinite.

The minimum payment is assumed to be 2% of the outstanding balance each month, a common minimum payment percentage for credit cards. Suppose the minimum payment is less than the interest accrued in a month. In that case, the balance increases, leading to a situation where the balance never decreases, and the total cost of borrowing becomes infinite.

Since they don’t seem to teach introductory economics or critical thinking skills, what are the chances of retirement? Is that why Elon says Retirement is stupid?

Health and wellness: Reflect on your existing state of health and the potential healthcare needs. The presence of a well-developed plan addressing potential health issues can enhance the comfort of one’s retirement. Until you are 65, health insurance is a budget killer. The sad fact is that many companies will not hire older Americans. By older I mean over 50. Yeah, I know the HR bit about not discriminating, but trust me, they do. Getting a job over 50 is doable, but not for the average Joe.

Your track record must be exceptional and free from the embellishments often found in contemporary resumes.

Playing video games is not a career move, nor would it impress a boss who needs someone with critical thinking skills. Unless you are a developer of such games, turn off the game and get your hands dirty.

It’s not enough to have funds or adequate health to retire. What will you do when the day of the week no longer matters?

All too often the day and time of the week only matter to retired folks when a medical appointment is looming. That’s a sad fact, stay healthy.

Consider your interests and hobbies when contemplating how you would prefer to allocate your time during retirement. Certain individuals may enjoy pursuing hobbies, traveling, or engaging in volunteer work, while others may prioritize spending additional time with family or friends.

The ability to lead a satisfying life post-retirement may be contingent upon preserving social connections and actively participating in social activities.

If one derives pleasure and contentment from their occupation, they may pursue part-time employment or a more flexible role. Consulting is a frequent option until the consultee gets what they need from your head and no longer requires your expertise.

The company typically lacks loyalty towards its employees. A paycheck is owed to you for the job or duration of service completed. That sums it up. It can be pretty difficult to accept when you put forth your utmost effort for the company only to have them opt for a more cost-effective alternative. When setting goals, consider yourself and the needs of your family first.

Ultimately, the decision to retire should be based on a thorough evaluation of your financial, health, and personal circumstances. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that aligns with your goals and priorities.

With inflation, remember that the million you thought you had in the bank now has substantially less purchasing power than what you think you have. If trends continue, you might be in real trouble.

We should discuss the G-word here: Goals. If you have been successful, you are most certainly familiar with goal setting by now.

It would be best if you were goal-setting now, even forty years away from retirement. We do this for several reasons. One of them is setting an example to our progeny. They are watching. They absorb everything you say and do like sponges.

You don’t want to be the grandparent or parent who writes checks to cover your kids’ or grandkids’ bad decisions, sacrificing everything you worked for to bail them out of their bad choices.

I watch them and talk to them, and I must tell you that very few of them have a grasp on reality. It’s almost as if the video games that steal so much of their waking hours are their reality.

If you want to give them a dose of reality, kill the power so that even the smartphones will not work. That topic deserves a book but unless it was in the form of a video game they would most probably never know of its existence.

Your final goal is to run out of money and life simultaneously. When you slide into the home plate (the grave), have it paid for in advance. Whatever your residual is, is what it is. If you teach your children right, they won’t be counting on your investments for their retirement.

Should you retire?
Stress comes out of your hide. Those gray hairs and wrinkles are badges of honor and a price paid for being the best you could be.

In a future blog, I want to explore the subject of jobs. What should you or your child focus on for a career choice? Is college the only way to go?

Stay tuned, follow and comment.

In case you’re new to this blog…I am a writer.
With several works in process.

My books are here, and your support is always appreciated.

-Best

A four-hour tour or another distraction?

Writer’s block, is there a cure?

Ahoy there, landlubber! Do you have writer’s block? Let’s take a four-hour cruise in a few moments (time dilation) and see if we can impart some wisdom. I am ready to whisk you away on a tale of wit, wisdom, and neurotic writer’s block. So, buckle up and hold on tight, for we’re about to embark on a literary adventure!

“Lovee, have you seen Teddy?”

Now, dear reader, imagine you’re on a ship, sailing through a tempest of ideas as the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle. Suddenly, a mighty muse appears a mischievous sea creature that’s as unpredictable as the ocean itself. This muse could be a siren, tempting you with a new story idea, or a kraken, wrapping its tentacles around your keyboard to keep you from writing.

Your phone rings, and it’s like a mermaid singing her enchanting song, enticing you to answer her call. You take the bait, only to find yourself in the clutches of a maritime monologue that drags on for hours. You wonder, “Is this a tale of my own making?”

As you sail on, you reach the infamous Sargasso Sea of Writer’s Block, where the water is murky, and the winds are as unpredictable as the muse’s whims. You’re in the middle of your literary voyage, and the muse has lost interest, leaving you adrift. Your ship starts to lose speed, and you’re struggling to keep it afloat.

You know what that means, don’t you? It’s time to spice up your story with a little something extra, like a dash of Viagra to the mushy middle. And while you’re at it, why not take a break and try your hand at a short story for a contest? It’s a great way to flex your creative muscles and prove that you’re not a quitter!

So, whether you’re a seasoned scribe or a budding bard, remember that the ocean of writing is vast and filled with adventure. And when the muse strikes, be prepared to dive in headfirst and create a story that will leave readers hooked!

Before I leave you to return to the depths of my latest story, subscribe to this blog so we can keep up. Secondly, as a reward, I have free stories for you to ponder on the Reedsy website.

A few weeks ago, I introduced Aunt Haddie, the eccentric relative who has a fondness for blending weed and Magick. Last night, as I entered another story with Aunt Haddie, I could hear the buzz of excitement from the audience, who were already raving about her performance. It’s a freebie that you definitely don’t want to miss out on.

Where the Wild Skunks Roam https://blog.reedsy.com/short-story/r0gsys/

At The Roads End https://blog.reedsy.com/short-story/si9llh/

Reviews on the Reedsy site are great, and I love them. Again, it’s all free…

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must dive back into the ocean’s depths to search for more literary treasures. Bon voyage, my friend, and may your writing journey be filled with excitement and inspiration!

-Best

Are We Just Livestock in a Tax Farm?

I saw a meme on social media. If I posted this, it might get taken down or have its ranking changed, resulting in fewer views. Why?

They don’t want you to think critically. Just nod and agree with the propaganda and vote as instructed.

I don’t believe in that.

In a world where we pour substantial financial resources into the education of our children, it’s hard not to question the ultimate goal of this investment. Are we truly cultivating a generation of thinkers, innovators, and productive taxpayers, or are we merely raising livestock on a tax farm operated by the government?

The current educational landscape is riddled with contradictions. We’ve adopted a system that teaches to the standardized test, a method designed to fit every child into a neat little box. Yet, the reality is that there is no such thing as a standard child. Each student comes with unique strengths, weaknesses, and perspectives that standardized testing fails to acknowledge. This one-size-fits-all approach not only stifles creativity and individuality but also fosters a culture of conformity that is detrimental to genuine learning.

Among the many skills that our educational system neglects, critical thinking stands out as a glaring omission. In an age where it’s all too easy to share a meme that highlights an issue we’re passionate about, we often fall short when it comes to proposing real solutions. Critical thinking encourages us to analyze, evaluate, and create—skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of modern society. Instead, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of reactionary thought, where the loudest voices drown out the nuanced discussions we desperately need.

As we look to the future, it’s crucial to recognize that the path we’re on may lead us toward socialism, cloaked in the guise of progressivism. We’re being sold a bill of goods labeled as “the answer,” but what we often receive is a repackaging of failed doctrines that primarily benefit the elites. This system perpetuates the belief that a paycheck is a reward when, in reality, it’s merely a tool for survival in a landscape designed to keep the majority compliant.

We must ask ourselves: Are we content to remain mere livestock grazing in the fields of mediocrity, or will we demand an educational system that nurtures critical thinkers, problem solvers, and independent minds? It’s time to reevaluate our priorities and challenge the status quo. Let’s invest not just in education but in cultivating a society that values creativity, innovation, and the power of independent thought. Only then can we hope to create a future that doesn’t merely churn out taxpayers but empowered individuals ready to take on the world.

The media is owned by the elite, who are also the ranchers that keep the herd inside the fences or put them out for slaughter.

Before you vote, look at the candidates’ policies versus their rhetoric. The rhetoric, videos, and pictures can and usually are deep fakes created by AI. The policies are hard to fake.

I genuinely want my novels to remain fiction, and I don’t want them to become historical documents.

-Best

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