A Day Like No Other
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Posted:Sep 11, 2012 8:44 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
4112 Views
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The day began with a phone call, my brother a State Trooper. He asked if I had the news on. As I worked to pull myself to wakefulness, recovering from the previous night out, I listened as he proceeded to tell me that the World Trade Center in New York was on fire believed to be caused by a plane hitting it. Such a statement provided a needed jolt to my thought processes as I fumbled about for the TV remote after all of all those I knew, my brother would be the last individual to make such a statement as a joke lacking the necessary warped sense of humor.
As the my TV rose to life I flipped to my favorite morning news show just as they cut to their New York feed coming from a traffic copter near the Trade Center. As I watched in fascination listening to the anchors commentary the edge of my vision noted another aircraft making a direction change. Immediately the same sense that in my military days would warn of a system fault on a switchboard screamed that something was wrong, 1. The plane was way too low and 2. The turn was a little too deliberate and something deep inside screamed “This is no accident….it’s an attack!” The words never got out as I watched as I’m sure many of us did in what seemed to be slow motion as the plane went into shadow followed by the fireball blowing out of the second tower.
Disbelief followed by a cold dread was all I could feel as I still listened to the now shocked newscasters. My next action was to make a bee line to my computer room why I don’t know but I felt the need to go online and open the chat room I ran, the last time I felt such a surreal reality was the night of Princess Diana’s death the difference was though that while that was a continent away this was less than 3 hours from my home.
As I opened up the chat room others, just as stunned as I was came online along with others from abroad wondering if the news bulletins were true, to those on the west coast, wondering if what they were hearing was some form of sick drive-time joke. With some assistance a stream of the news cast was embedded into the chat room and a constant stream of updates filled the lines.
When word of the Pentagon attack filtered in again disbelief was strong until it was confirmed. Soon the room became mini news room of a personal nature as east coast members relayed details to those in the west. When word hit of the jam up of landlines we set up a network of those who still had service to try and get what info they could regarding friends and co-workers employed in the general area. As the day wore on mixed in with the sorrow, anger, and disbelief was a sense of community. We were all sharing a national tragedy unheard of in our lives, on that day there were no trolls, no know-it –alls, just community, and for a few of us a deep hope that in the midst of horror perhaps we, as a nation, had turned a corner that no matter what or who you were you knew you were first and foremost an American a truly United people.
Now years later I wonder if we have lost that sense of community. Some look to use that day to divide rather than unite even while spouting words of patriotism, of right and wrong, of bravery and cowardice. Has the dream that seemed to be born that day been corrupted by interests inimical to community? Did the hate that spurred that tragedy take root, and mutate giving a victory to the perpetrators in a way they never dreamed possible? If so I weep, not only for the lives lost, but for the dream that while it took longer, also passed into death on a day like no other
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Memories and Moments
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Posted:Sep 9, 2012 9:11 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
4067 Views
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Today was the first Sunday of the new football season, a bittersweet day to be sure. My Eagles won but it is the first I’ve spent watching the Eagles without my father. Time, an amazing thing time, It can seem slow, or incredibly fast. Long passes or fleeting moments. It has only one constant in all its myriad forms…change.
Even though a year ago I knew I was spending my last Sunday of football with my father that thought was not at the front of my mind. Although he could not speak and was limited in movement he too wanted to share the time as we always had, and while it was impossible to get our beloved Eagles on the TV fate was kind enough to have the Phillies available and we tracked the birds via the ticker on my blackberry playbook. I spoke about the teams he believed in the hopes that the birds would win the big one that the Phils would return to the fall classic, how Philly was going to be a hockey mecca over the New Year even the owl’s resurgence in college football. I may have been prattling on but I believe every word was taken in and was used to wrap the difficult facts lying ahead.
Yes I’m sure he knew later in the evening when I , my mother, my brothers and sisters discussed the most painful decision one ever has to make, and I think in his gaze was the approval of a proud man seeing the family he loved so much returning that love in the best way they could…by letting go. I also believe that he gave his last gesture of love for us by staying on long enough so each of us had time in private to tell him all we wanted to say. I kept vigil with him through those final days and when my time alone with him came I fought the tears as I related how I felt, the ways I felt I failed in his hopes for me, but also of the pride I had in him, of the bar that he set that I would do my best to reach, of the person I wanted him to know I was and how his example made me that way. And when he finally took his final breath to me it looked as he took it with the peace that comes with knowing he had done beyond his own hopes.
Days later, as we placed him in repose I looked around at my brothers and sister and their families, and while I felt a pang of loneliness being the remaining single , I also took heart that He knew that deep inside that although they might not know it there is someone special to me and even in the pain and whirlwind of changes that my chaotic life will bring the thought of that person will give me strength just as My father drew his from my mother and we his .
And yes I did tell him who that special person is and as I whispered their name I think I saw a twinkle in his eye a hint of encouragement that said don’t give up for while it may never be returned knowing that you love someone is what makes a life well lived.
Miss you Dad
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PNBR2012
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Posted:Aug 25, 2012 10:13 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
3971 Views
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I’ve always believed life is a series of experiences, some good, some bad but each having a unique value that makes us who we are. I’ve also felt that if one is truly going to make the most of life there are times one should go “out of the box”. Today was one of those moments. While headed into work one morning I saw an advertisement for the Philly Naked Bike Ride. On a whim I checked out the website (shocked mind you that I was able to access it at work) . After perusing it I decided I’d try to sign on as a volunteer at the set up point (not having a bike influenced my decision).
When the day came I made my way down to the gathering point. Feeling a touch nervous I entered and presented myself as a volunteer. I was then told that I needed a bike if I wanted to help. Disappointed I left the location and proceeded to walk to the nearest bus stop . I then noticed a bike shop and again the whimsical muse took hold and I wandered in. Half an hour ( and $200.00) later I owned a brand new bike and I then returned to the gathering point more nervous than ever (I hadn’t really rode in nearly 6 years). As I waded into the mass of humanity and bikes I felt the first twinkling of “flop sweat” dancing down my neck . Undeterred I proceeded to disrobe down to underwear and sneakers figuring that would be sufficient for my first ride.
As I took in the gathered throng (and it was a great turnout) I was amazed at the number of brave souls ready to ride into the face convention. Mother Nature toyed with us a bit tossing a few random spritzes though I suspect she had a bigger plan in mind as the drops prompted more folks to disrobe me among them going “full monty” (except for sneakers, hey it’s a bike, on pavement !)
Soon we were off on the ride and I must say it was more fun than I thought. The line of cyclists stretched for at least three blocks as we wound our way up through the South Philly, Center City, Rittenhouse Square, the Museum District, around City Hall, down Market st, Independence Mall, the 2nd street Tunnel (which was clogged from one end to the other by riders) and finally making our way to the Piazza at Schmidts.
All through the ride I enjoyed the comeraderie of those pedaling they way nakedly past surprised tourists , shocked onlookers, and more than a few cheers (with some joining in along the route) .
Maybe it was the spirit of the gathering or something within but I made it the entire route with only breaks for a quick gulp of water ( and a troublesome seat at the start) And at the finish I was feeling very proud that not only had I made it but something within felt like a burden was lifted,for a time, from what has been a weighty malaise of spirit. I felt as if I reclaimed a bit of who I wanted to be . Will I do it again next year? Most definitely. Do I suggest it to others ? Whole heartedly. I only have one regret….It’s hell removing body paint alone, especially off your back!!!!!
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A Bit of a Rant
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Posted:Jun 17, 2012 4:53 am
Last Updated:Jun 22, 2012 8:15 pm
4546 Views
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A few months back I had the fortunate opportunity to participate in a photo shoot for a national human rights campaign. Some of you here may well be familiar with the campaign as it had its origin as a protest against a particularly slanted piece of legislation on the west coast. For a ones photo was taken by the professional photographer/founder of the campaign, the caveat being that you wore a (temporary) tattoo of the campaign’s logo symbolizing your support of the campaign.
I recently received my copy of the photo which came out as even better than I expected as was justifiably proud of it. Again to show my support of the campaign I decided to use it as my profile picture at several of the social networks to which I belong (as a point of reference I am a straight male). I also desired to use it on my profile here at Local Sexy Swingers.
Although the photo was accepted as an album photo it was rejected as my main profile photo. Needless to say I was quite surprised by this so I inquired as to the reason. At first they claimed the logo was a url embedded in the photo (I proved it wasn’t).
The “powers that be” then claimed the photo was “retouched”. Maybe it’s me but I don’t know of many professional photographers who don’t retouch a portrait photo to some degree. Now not to toss stones (nor to insult anyone here) but I am fairly sure that there are a few “retouched” profile photos floating about this site as profile pics. I personally think there was another (political?) reason behind the rejection but maybe it’s me. I would offer as a form of protest that any other Local Sexy Swingers members who have had photos taken for this campaign perhaps post them to their profile. If you are curious about the “offending” pic I can’t link to it here but can send it privately. {UPDATE: The “powers that be” have now totally taken it off the site so a private sending is the only way to share it}
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New Year's Message
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Posted:Dec 31, 2010 7:48 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
4288 Views
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As I look to the coming year, my 7th decade I reflect on the decade ending. Much has changed over the past 10 years, some good, some bad. Things have been gained and things have been lost. Most importantly however has been life which will never cease to touch my sense of wonder. And though I begin this decade much as I did the previous one, I am greatful for those from whom I received the gift of friendship. We may travel seperate paths or travel together but know that wherever the roads we take may lead us, I for one will never cast aside that precious diamond you have bestowed. May the coming year bring you all the richness, happiness, and blessings that the One can bestow, and on my part my thanks for giving me such a special gift.
NJS2u 12/31/10
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To (Not)Protect and Serve(Who?)
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Posted:Mar 14, 2010 10:37 pm
Last Updated:Mar 15, 2010 7:00 pm
4365 Views
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Before I go on allow me to say I have the utmost respect for those who place their lives on the line serving our communities in the field of law enforcement. That said I do however question when those same individuals take it upon themselves to act as a "moral arbiter" and attempt to pass it off as "doing the right thing". If you dear reader are wondering what I am referring to I direct you to the actions of a certain police force in the great state of South Dakota (I will not give out the name but I'm sure an astute use of google will garner you that bit of data).
So what, you ask, did they do? Well in the process of serving a warrant they attempted to contact the partner of the individual named in the warrant (proper thing to do). This partner, a member of the military, was on duty at the local military facility and refused to assist them in locating their partner ( in the police's mind an uncooperative act but I don't think many in the military would agree since at times leaving base during duty hours is kind of frowned upon except in extreme emergencies) Well while looking about the residence they happened to note a marriage license from the state of Iowa on a table (don't ask me how they could tell where it was from let alone the names it from a window...binoculars? Super vision? )using the information on the license they again contacted the military base and informed the "uncooperative" individuals superiors of the license.
So why is this disturbing? The individuals were both female and in Iowa same sex marriage is legal. Unfortunately this bit of information was used against the "uncooperative" partner to dismiss them under that "wonderful" policy called "don't ask don't tell". Now I wonder had this been a straight couple would those same officers have made that call or was this a bit of vengeance knowing fully well what their actions would bring?? Oh and don't think I leave the individuals command blameless after all they (the individual)played by the rules(that is until the call they didn't ask and the individual certainly didn't tell). So now consider this, if you live in certain areas, and the local law enforcement has a beef with you because you didn't readily comply with a request, don't leave anything out that may create a situation with your employer, they may well rat you out. Thus I name these fine officers Grade A prime assholes!!
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Opinions
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Posted:Oct 11, 2009 3:43 pm
Last Updated:Oct 14, 2010 9:33 pm
4907 Views
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Have you ever had one of those moments when a comment made by folks always makes you want to as a question "Why??". Quite often that comes to me when I hear someone say "make up sex" is the best sex they've had. To me that says there may be an issues between the two, after all shouldnt one be bringing their best to any intimate time spent with their partner? I know I do my best to. Why should that only happen after an argument? Is it a "see what you damn near lost" thing,or am I missing something?
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A Minor Rant
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Posted:Mar 29, 2009 11:13 pm
Last Updated:Jul 28, 2009 7:07 pm
4551 Views
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Now I know the flirt feature here is a nice way to possibly "break the ice" and yes I use it often also but please how about a little sensibility like:
1. If your profile's off why flirt
2. If you flirt, dont hide the fact that you viewed the profile.
3. If you are a "pro" (and you know whom I'm referring to) why use the flirt?
I know this will most likely cut down on my flirts but oh well I am trying to meet folks and well cant meet who you cant contact.
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A question
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Posted:Mar 27, 2009 5:47 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
4503 Views
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This morning I looked in the mirror nothing out of the normal usually but today well it was. The face looking back at me had a bit of a lost look. To say changes have been a part and parcel of my universe would be understating things but change is life...right?I've had a few friends tell me that knowing the person I am I should try and be a bit more selfish...thing is that is not part of my personal philosophy so I toss it out for comment...when is being selfish a GOOD thing?
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A Worthy Farewell
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Posted:Mar 21, 2009 5:07 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
4430 Views
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Last night I settled in to watch and say farewell to one of the finest shows I've ever had the pleasure to follow on ANY network. What show ? The re-imagining of Battlestar Galactica. If you have had the chance to catch it you know from whence I come if not you missed a special moment in TV history. Far too often "farewell" shows are self-acknowledging back slapping often digressing from what made you follow the show at the start. No so here...each character had their moment...stories resolved...joy and pain...and even a fair bit of provoking thought. The major networks need to take a lesson ...those three hours were how you truly bring a series to and end. By giving those of us who went along on the ride all that we wanted...and thanking us at the same moment...BRAVO BSG You will not be forgotten...SO SAY WE ALL!!
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Hmmmmmmm
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Posted:Jan 9, 2009 7:20 pm
Last Updated:Jan 14, 2009 8:54 pm
4393 Views
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Now normally I am not a political person (...ok you in the corner, I see you snickering do I gotta spank or gag ya???) However this beggars comment.
The 9 wise folk of DC (aka the Supreme Court) today agreed to hear a challenge to the Voting Rights Act of 1964. The Challenge is rationalized by the plaintiff(s) because in their view the recent election of President Obama (yes I KNOW we still have a few more days under George the dumb) proves the act is no longer needed...HELLOOOO!!!! Mc FLYYYYY!!! Do(es) the plaintiff(s) think we fell off the manure truck? Without the protections provided by the act there might not have even been a SENATOR OBAMA to have won the nomination. I just hope at least ONE member of the Supremes (and no I do NOT mean Diana Ross et al) takes more than a second to realize that bit of logic.Civil liberties are precious things, of course the outgoing administration made a pilicy of determining which were more precious than others buuut hopefully that will change after the 20th.
Now the astute will realize I have not mentioned just who the plaintiff(s)making the challenge are but dear reader if you have a sense of history (or are over 42) you could hazard a good guess.
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I Just Gotta :D
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Posted:Dec 28, 2008 4:35 pm
Last Updated:May 20, 2024 7:23 pm
4367 Views
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A pack of smokes at the local Wawa: $7.00
2 Blue Moon ales and Buffalo wings at the local pub : $13.00
Watching Dallas get a major butt whoopin' on national television: PRICELESS!!!!!
E-A-G-L-E-S...EAGLES!!
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You can call Me Ray or you can call Me Jay or you can call Me.....
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Posted:Dec 17, 2008 3:58 pm
Last Updated:Dec 21, 2008 7:03 am
4694 Views
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First a disclaimer: as a rule I staunchly believe in personal freedom. So long as what you do does not bring harm to the general order of the universe I’m (most of the time) okay with ones individual choices.
That said I really would like to take a certain couple in north jersey and ask …”What in the hell is your malfunction?????”
What couple you ask? Well if you make a point of avoiding the news papers a brief recap…A Shop Rite in northern New Jersey (for those outside the PA/NJ/NY/DE area they are a major food store chain here) refused to inscribe a birthday cake with the name of a couples 3 year old … (And I don’t usually hand out corporate bravos but in this case I give a major high 5). Why…the ’s name Adolph Hitler C_____ (I do to a point respect their privacy). Mind you they wanted the full name no settling for just Adolph for these folks. The fathers reasoning behind saddling his with such a name?? He wanted the boy to have a unique name. Okay...perhaps that might be true after all in my life I have met a Moonflower, admired the guitar skills of a Dweezil, and have encountered other unusal names and so one might see me as being a bit overblown on this except…..well their JoyceLyn AryanNation...and younger Heinrich Himmler….ummmm doth one see a PATTERN here???? Now “daddy” says he has no intention of instilling any racist beliefs in his (hmmmm in a house full of Nazi memorabilia including swastikas….) and says he has no racial issues himself…except for wanting to keep them apart and even had multiracial at the ’s birthday party (I wonder how “multi-racial”) but honestly folks do the parents really assume we are THAT blind???? Why need to teach a to hate when with the magic of a name you can let society make your job simple because let’s face it the parents have made their targets up to at least their 18th birthday (first chance they have to legally change their name) Amazing even more yet saddening as we approach the era of our first President who can physically represent the diversity that is this country. Now the parents are crying foul over the store’s refusal (which the store has done twice before mind you) and I am sure the culturally backward troglodytes on the racist enclaves that still exist here would gladly stand alongside them saying they have the right to name their what they choose and in principle they are correct but let’s be honest…you also have the “right” to wave a red rag at a bull or sleep on a railroad track at rush hour…just don’t complain or blame others for the inevitable outcome…
(Oh by the way that great champion of Americanism (i.e. make money any way you can) Wal-Mart, DID make the cake according to the couple’s wishes…as they have done every time the Shop-Rite refused….go figure)
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To link to this blog (NJSir2u) use [blog NJSir2u] in your messages.
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