The American Way

Relatively speaking, these are tough times. Less merry making and photo-op vacations for some. And others? The days and months have become agonizingly long years.

Keeping homes and families together, food on the table, even holding onto the essence of ones job-self in this compromised economy takes work. On the surface many of us look like we belong and are prospering, appearing American as apple pie. On the inside, however, we've constructed a facade.

It's taken a toll, this pretending has. On all of us. The ground upon which we've built, the institutions we've trusted, even our beliefs and values have become shaky, some are crumbling. As the contrast between what once was and what is filters through our consciousness, we seek balance and in doing so, again, are reminded that life's nature is to ebb and flow.

Of course, this rhythm-tide worth remembering will bring correction. There will come a time when we will celebrate again, but not before we prune and cleanse. Beware, though. For as we blame and slash away the wrong-doing politicians and CEOs, we must take a long, hard look at ourselves, that which we value and the systems we have birthed. In the final analysis, it is human nature to want more and more. Yet when left unbridled, this impulse leads to an insatiable appetite. Redefining ourselves - the American Way and our American Dream - must take priority if we are to call this nation great.

Presidential Grin

Did anyone notice the grin? It was as if witnessing a child on the playground. Like the game had been played before. Our President standing next to the prime minister of Iraq ducking shoes. Who knew that we would bear witness to an American president' s dodge ball skills, at mid-life in the Middle East no less?