Today's Ethos

This is what you shall do:
You shall honor your mother on a daily basis,
You shall thank your god each and every day that you are free to choose how and who to worship,
You shall perform selfless acts for those in need,
You shall remain positive and helpful,
You shall maintain integrity at all times, even when it hurts,
You shall daily smile and bring forth sunshine,
And most importantly,
You shall thank those that sacrifice for you.

 I show you this picture as an explanation for what you shall do.  Live every day according to the tenets listed above.  This picture is half the story.  What it doesn't show is the damage created by a truck bomb loaded with chlorine.  This girl is walking toward the apartments that were hit and she is looking at death and destruction.  She is just a child.  She wants what my daughters want, yes, she does.  The same exact things.  Mom and Dad and a safe place to live.  She is the reason you are safe.  Men and women from across the globe have stood to fight for the oppressed, and for you.  You shall act as I have stated above, and you too shall help to create a world of peace.

I know this to be the truth.  I have spent my life following these beliefs and only wish more would follow. 

Today's "Hip"

After looking at the picture I found highlighting today's "hip" person, need I say more?  I have often thought about what is going on in one's mind when choosing a tattoo.  Do they not realize this is permanent?  I foresee this pictured hipster agonizing over her choice of ink.  Imagine the question from a three year old, "Mommy, why do you have a picture on your back?" 
I'm not here to bash tattoos.  I love them and plan to get another soon, however my ink is related to my Marine Corps service, not a tween movie.  Yes I said tween.  I have daughters.  I grew up in the 70's and 80's.  I was into punk rock and skateboards.  I dressed, and even acted the part when safe (away from parents), but I cringe at the thought of walking around in my 40's with a dog town tattoo on my back or chest.  I agree that today's hipster is using the body as its canvas, but I just refuse to accept that one day soon, these folks will regret todays choices.



That is all.