Well, this old planet is spinning faster than usual. At least that’s what scientists say. They reported Earth recorded its shortest day on June 29 since records have been kept. What is to blame? Climate change of course. From when in time did they start the count? When did the record for the measurement of time start? Likely far short of the 4.54 billion years this Earth has existed. Too bad they didn’t have instruments to measure the speed of rotation during the Miocene Epoch. Way back then a forest of stubby trees exited in Antarctica. Instead of climate change how about looking into seismic activity or the pull of the moon? What about the effects of 1000’s of atomic bombs being detonated since the mid 1940’s? Governments have been fighting climate change for thousands of years. I’m surprised the temple sacrifices to ancient gods didn’t work. Bet an increase in taxes would put it right. But I do tend to have such negative views at time.
****
Speaking of taxes, some of the 87,000 new IRS agents are going to be armed. Remember when the Gipper warned us about the nine scariest words in the English language, “I’m from the government and I’m here to help.” Under Uncle Joe’s rule if you work hard for a living, own your property, pay your taxes and help out your community, you’ll be vilified and put on a terrorist watch list. If you commit burglaries or car jackings you’ll get praise and incentives. Won’t be long until former IRS Director Lois Lerner comes back to D.C. on a tank turret.
****
Quote of the Week: “The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States.” Declaration of Independence
****
Driving to the Democrat office in Clinton I usually cross Ohio Street where the railroad track intersects. This always reminds me of the line, “Keep your hand upon the throttle and an eye upon the rail.” Where did this come from? When Merriam Lane taught music at R-9 North in the 70’s, she taught us a few railroad songs. “Life Is Like A Mountain Railroad” comes to mind. Haven’t been on a train or heard one in years. But I do remember trips to Clinton when the world was young and seeing the “freights” come through. Warning bells pealed out when another train was headed down the track. Clinton was home to the Frisco Railroad which ran between Kansas City and Springfield, serving many small towns along the way. There was also the M.K.T. known as the “The Katy.” It served the long stretch between St. Louis and Parsons, Kansas. So many people who would have ridden these lines have gone on a trip too. Don’t think of it as a depressing idea. It will be interesting to see what’s in store for us to see and do on the next go around. In the meantime, life is pretty swell right here. You bet!
****
Time to call a halt to this mental meandering and take care of the mess on my desk. Nearly all of it post notes with messages that need attention. Beats having bricks on there. Take care of yourself old buddy and remember, mum’s the word.
****
Til Next Week:
J.M.W.
