I'm fortunate enough to have a couple o' friends who have been with me since Day One here at EIP (not counting The Boys who read mostly as a function of filial duty and obligation, Bless Their Hearts), a few other friends who have been with me for a couple o' three years, and a contingent who are relatively new. Now is a good time to say thank you to the "Old Hands" as well as express my appreciation to those of you who recently stumbled in here for one reason or another. And keep coming back, for reasons The Deity At Hand only knows why. I look forward to your visits and the comments you leave, for you are the biggest part of my "social life." (I use scare quotes for what should be obvious reasons.)
Now is also an appropriate time to apologize to the Old Hands, for we have changed and not for the better. I noticed this decline in quality as I was searching (fruitlessly, as it were) the back pages yesterday for pics of Portales. A couple o' three years ago we had much more of an edge and never lacked for an opinion on the day's doin's, both large and small. We were one helluva lot more political, too... especially during the run-up to the last presidential election. Obsessed, even. These days? Not so much. Not at all, hardly, beyond the occasional political cartoon. The main reason for that is I'm just sick to frickin' death of Obama and his asshat sycophants. Sick to the point of turning it right the Hell off; sick to the point I can't even muster comment on other peoples' outrage much beyond a weak-ass "me too."
I'm tired. Kinda like this guy... who's been linked and e-mailed around these intertubes hundreds of thousands of times during the last year (I've received it via e-mail at least three times myownself). Who begins with...
I’ll be 63 soon. Except for one semester in college when jobs were scarce, and a six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I’ve worked, hard, since I was 18. Despite some health challenges, I still put in 50-hour weeks, and haven’t called in sick in seven or eight years. I make a good salary, but I didn’t inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get where I am. Given the economy, there’s no retirement in sight, and I’m tired. Very tired.
It's a classic rant and one which I kinda-sorta identify with, except for the fact I'm (a) older and (b) actually retired. And (c): I don't have the motivation left to itemize and categorize the shit I'm tired of. But I will say this: I'm tired of the vitriol on both the left and right, but especially on the right. Sick to fucking death of it, actually. I've tuned out all but a few of the right-wing ranters I used to read and am perilously close to abandoning those who remain. I continue to "read" (or read at) those people out of a sense of loyalty, but even that emotion is being sorely tested of late. One can only take so much of this "I'm right, you're wrong" bullshit and I'm speaking specifically of people who make this their stock in trade, NOT those who vent occasionally. It does get wearisome. Which, if you're still with me, is the MAIN reason I've given up a lot of my pontificating. I'm just tired of it. The thought also occurred to me that giving up on the pontificating also means I've lost what little edge I once had. So... I apologize.
I've been a bit remiss in commenting lately, but rest assured I stop by everyday. And the faithful will always stop, cause no one can be at the top of their game all the time.
ReplyDeleteI'm completely worn out on the political BS. The only thing that really changed with Obama's election is that the left and right changed places as to who the taunter and tauntee have become. I feel utterly unrepresented by our government. Hang in there, my friend. As a wise person once said, "this too, shall pass."
A lot of people share your sentiment my friend. Even this outsider looking in shares it. Its no longer critical, its blaspheme and accusatory and full of hatred. Nothing gets accomplished in that state... and nothing positive is coming of this. I don't know what the solution is to remediate the immediate problem. Not sure if even overthrowing Obama from office is going to fix it. But something has to change, and it has to change in the hearts AND minds of the people first.
ReplyDeleteYou good people Buck. Some of the best I've had the honours to 'meet' in blogosphere. So chin up. You didn't loose you're edge. The world is just on edge... and that makes is a precarious place to be in.
Dad,
ReplyDeleteI agree with the comments above... our country has seen better times and we can't always be on top of our game.
I stop by here for my daily (not always, but close) read is that you're better than most to read. And I don't stop by for the Political opinions, though I almost (99%) always agree with them. I stop by for the videos, pictures and PERSPECTIVE you have on things... I can't get that anywhere else.
Sam (SN2)
OK - you have to quit stealing my thoughts and putting them into posts -- it's spooky!!!!
ReplyDeleteYou're not making a living from the rant, the way Ace or Rush or Glenn are. It takes serious energy to get up every day and deliver a consistent level of ire.
ReplyDeleteIt reminds me of watching a volleyball match. Best 3 of 5 games makes the winner. But each serve can lead to an intense battle over the net, and there's a minimum of 45 serves. There's no upper limit; some close matches can have two hundred or more.
Watching a good volleyball match can really wear you out, because you get revved up so many times. And so it is with politics. Obama et al would like nothing better than to have the opposition spend all their energy by July 4, and then coast to November.
The thing is, this shit matters. Never mind the stuff that's already done; imagine the additional damage that could happen. And if Pelosi and her wrecking crew figure they're out in November, they may as well go for broke and try to take it all preemptively.
There's a reason why political campaigns tend to back it down during the summer, before kicking it back up in September. We have a limited attention span. A campaign can't maintain a consistent level of energy that long. And neither can you or I, as individuals.
I had a bit of a set back on my blogging this week - had to stop and rethink things. I don't know why I blog. I don't know who the hell cares if I blog or why anyone would read me. But hey, I like it. And I like your thoughts and views - no matter what - even the hockey. Hmm, that sounds like I meant "hockey" as in "bullshit" but I really meant the sport :)
ReplyDeleteEvery day I stop by to read this one. I have for about 4 to 5 years or so. I don't remember when I started to comment, in the anymouse mode. You had me reading other neat ones, like Ann up there in the Flathead country of my home state. And now with the above fine folks, Jeff, Kath, kc along for the ride, it has been most grand, my friend.
ReplyDeleteSo have a beer. Watch some hockey. Take a breather. We understand.
Sides, us old war horses almost need one another in the current environment. We understand each other, sometimes without a spoken word.
I even had a moment early this morning. I put it into words on Among the Joshua Trees Blog I have at word press. Snigs thought it was a good one. But I am not giving up.
I am already working up to hammering my Navy on that "green hornet" that the cinc was plugging. Got a similar emblem to the hopey changy thing that has been shoved into our collective consciousness over the last couple of years.
But rest assured. That what ever decision you make is OK with me. I understand.
Aim High!
It takes a lot of energy to be angry. What's important, IMHO, is to hold fast to your values and share them in a calm, gentle but firm way.
ReplyDeleteIt's what you've always done, Buck, and I thank you for it.
Buck ... you haven't really changed, after all.
ReplyDeleteGood.
If one is ranting just for the sake of shouting out, then that can get pretty boring.
ReplyDeleteIf one feels truly aggravated about something, then say it.
That's what I think of blogging, it's not the news of the world, we're simply being given a glimpse into someone else's life and "what's up" with them.
Stopping by is like calling you up and saying, hey, how's your day, what's going on? And, God forbid, I might learn something! :)
Buck, looking back at old posts can really dismay a blogger. I know my stuff was way better (which ain't sayin' much) a couple of years ago.
ReplyDeleteAnd you're right about losing the edge due to "the hell with it syndrome." I can't listen to Hannity, or Beck. I can take Rush for a while. Even though I know those guys are probably 99% right, I'm tired of hearing it. I already know it.
Maybe they're doing some good with new converts. Dunno.
I like your stuff. I will continue to read every post until you quit, or the plug is pulled on the internet.
It doesn't matter what you write about, Buck.
ReplyDeleteSimply put, I like you.
Hi Buck,
ReplyDeleteI have not been here as much as I would like to be ... and that is not because anything has changed in your blogging (you are always great!) ... but mostly for reasons that I am going to disagree with most everyone here.
I am totally caught up in politics right now. I am energized. For the first time since that awful election in 2008, I am beginning to see that we have a chance for an enormous victory in November, but only if we work hard every single day from now until then.
John and I are involved in watching the state government (they know we are watching them, and our conservative group here in Santa Fe has seen them back down several times from passing bad bills because they fear not getting re-elected.) We are attending local GOP meetings, as well as some meetings of other conservative groups. We are meeting some great people who are also working hard and the energy and enthusaism is growing as we all realize we are not alone and we CAN make a difference. Right now we are preparing for our Santa Fe Tea Party on April 15.
There are some awesome political races shaping up here in New Mexico. We have some EXCELLENT candidates for governor - we have met all of them except one, and I believe we can elect one of them in Nov., and any one of them would be better than the alternative. Also the congressional race here in the NM 3rd district is a lively and spirited one, with a chance for a Republican to defeat our lousy congressman Ben Ray Luján. One of our friends here is running for the 47 State Representative Distric seat to challenge an arrogant first term congressman. The numbers are against us, but we have the fire this time around. We are PUMPED and ready to campaign from now until the election.
I know everyone will not share my passion for politics, but I implore everyone not to lose heart and get discouraged and sit at home wailing while the country goes down the drain. We HAVE THE POWER to save it. I don't want to see my children and grandchildren bankrupted because we didn't do anything. That is what drives me these days, and which will drive me until I take my last breath.
Thanks for letting me rant, Buck.
Say, Buck, is a road trip in order soon? After being indoors during this long winter, and then feeling spring revving up all around, can be a shock to the system sometimes. It can be energizing and fatiguing both. But a road trip clears the mind and gives one a different perspective.
ReplyDeleteTowanda, I admire your energy and sense of purpose. The U.S. always needs people like you. Our country is healthier for it.
A lot of us are on you side, My Friend! And if you called it quits on EIP, it would leave an empty space for us. Really.
ReplyDeleteBut then we do understand. OK?
Got new Granddaughter pics up on ORPO. Go have a look. It will brighten your day a wee bit.
First: Thank ALL of you for your support and kind words. I was serious about apologizing... in that I want your visits here to be a positive experience and I feel they've been less so of late. It's that frickin' Type A in me... ;-)
ReplyDeleteBR sez: I'm completely worn out on the political BS. The only thing that really changed with Obama's election is that the left and right changed places as to who the taunter and tauntee have become. I feel utterly unrepresented by our government.
My point exactly, with one minor exception. I'm registered and vote in Texas and my congressman (Kevin Brady) is as Red as they come. My senators (Cornyn and Hutchison) are pretty good, too, which is to say I'm pleased with their votes.
KC sez: A lot of people share your sentiment my friend. Even this outsider looking in shares it.
I know, KC. I read your and OI's latest and nodded my head north-south. I also didn't comment for the reasons I articulated in this post.
Sam: Thank you, Sir!
Cynthia: LOL! I've been working on my mind reading of late and it seems to be working!
Gordon sez: The thing is, this shit matters. Never mind the stuff that's already done; imagine the additional damage that could happen. And if Pelosi and her wrecking crew figure they're out in November, they may as well go for broke and try to take it all preemptively.
Absolutely agreed. I have NO problems with people posting reasonable disagreement with this administration's policies and presenting opposing ideas or arguments based on FACTS. It's the "gotchas" and the name-calling that irritates me. I'll freely admit I'm somewhat hypocritical in this space since I use some disparaging terms to describe the Democrats from time to time. It's a fine line...
Lou: I'm very much like yourself in that I can't quite put my finger on the "why" of blogging. But, like you once again, I enjoy it. And I treasure the relationships I've developed through blogging, YOU being chief among them. I totally enjoy your writing and your painting.
Glenn: Thanks for your good words. I have no intention of giving this blogging thing up... I'm just a lil bit perturbed at how mundane I've been of late. I always appreciate your insight, as well!
Bec: You're right in that "it takes energy to be angry," and I find myself lacking there. It's also not in my nature to be among the "perpetually offended," LOL! And... it IS time for a road trip. Or two. We're making plans in that space... but there are major timing considerations. There always ARE!
Lori sez: Buck ... you haven't really changed, after all.
LOL! Didja REALLY think I had? Srsly? ;-)
Kath sez: If one is ranting just for the sake of shouting out, then that can get pretty boring. and Stopping by is like calling you up and saying, hey, how's your day, what's going on?
To the first: YES!! Especially if it's the same thing, over and over and over. To the second: Well said. I feel that way about the great majority of my Daily Reads, you among them.
Andy: Your points are well-taken, especially about the "early stuff." I think it's a lil bit like song writing... the best stuff is the early stuff. Any number of rock 'n' roll bands prove that point, LOL! Your political points are in-line with my thoughts, too. I don't listen/watch the shouters, either.
Daph: Thank ya, M'Lady. I like you, too. ;-) You have one of the sharpest wits on these here inter-tubes.
Sharon: ALL of your points are well-taken, as well. You and John are doing the right thing up in deep blue Santa Fe, even though you MOST certainly have your work cut out for you. I applaud you. That said: see my comment about where I vote.
I wish you were voting in New Mexico, Buck. We need the conservatives here more than Texas does as they are already red!!!!
ReplyDeleteWe feel your pain Buck, but all I ever end up doing when it gets to ridiculous is sit back, have a couple of pulls off of a good single malt whiskey and laugh at it all. The human condition is just too funny sometimes, and it is when I FORGET that, issues arise. Keep it up friend; good to be a part of this and hope you stay around.
ReplyDeleteI'm a little late to the party here. And I disagree with you Buck - the quality of your posts hasn't changed. The subject matter may have but not the readability and writing style. High marks for both of those for sure.
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean about the political stuff too. I don't blog as much politics anymore, which is ironic because I started my blog due to politics! So go figure.
What amazes me about the blogging thing is that even when we turn our attentions to other things that may include more personal stuff - people continue to read.
It amazes me because I count the people who read my blog as friends - real ones. Not just cyber friends, but plain ole friends. You'd be as welcome in my house today, tomorrow or any other day as my real life friends.
That is what keeps me blogging, even though my original blogging inspiration has been tempered by the exhaustion of it all.
Hey, Buck, for what it's worth, I enjoy my visits here. Don't go badmouthing yourself so much. You don't deserve it.
ReplyDeleteYour writing style is genuine. You write from the heart on all manner of topics so it's always a pleasure to stop by Buck. I love it here.
ReplyDeleteThe human condition is just too funny sometimes, and it is when I FORGET that, issues arise.
ReplyDeleteHow true, Old Iron. As is your remedy, which I bring to bear often!
It amazes me because I count the people who read my blog as friends - real ones. Not just cyber friends, but plain ole friends. You'd be as welcome in my house today, tomorrow or any other day as my real life friends.
I feel the same way, Kris. And thanks for your kind words.
Jim and Alison: Thanks to the both of you, as well. The feelings are mutual!