Stan & Ollie

 **Laurel & Hardy: Timeless Icons in a Changing World**

Laurel & Hardy, the iconic comedy duo consisting of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, reigned supreme during the early years of cinema. Their slapstick humor, impeccable timing, and endearing character dynamics captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Even today, decades after their last performance, they remain a symbol of comedic genius, resonating with audiences across generations. What accounts for their timeless appeal, and why do they continue to matter in today's world?

**1. Universality of Humor:**

Laurel & Hardy mastered the art of universal humor, which transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. Their sketches focused on simple, everyday situations, which often spiraled into comical chaos. Their humor, based largely on visual gags and physical comedy, is universally understandable, bypassing language barriers. As film critic Roger Ebert once noted, "Their comedy is elemental, dealing directly with the most basic human needs and emotions." It's this fundamental, human-centered approach that makes their acts relatable, even to contemporary viewers.

**2. Archetypical Characters:**

Stan and Ollie represent contrasting character archetypes — the naïve, childlike fool and the pompous, often misguided, authority figure. Social scientists argue that these character dynamics tap into shared human experiences. Dr. Julian Hoxter, a film studies expert, posits that "the bumbling, error-prone nature of both characters speaks to the fallibility inherent in all of us." We see our own flaws, missteps, and vulnerabilities reflected in their antics, allowing us to laugh at ourselves through them.

**3. Evolution of Comedy:**

Modern comedians owe a debt to the foundational principles set by Laurel & Hardy. Their influence can be seen in the works of comedians like Abbott and Costello, Morecambe and Wise, and even contemporary acts like Key & Peele. By studying the duo's expert pacing, delivery, and use of props, budding comedians can learn the essence of comedic timing. The manner in which Laurel & Hardy utilized pauses, reactions, and even silence, is a masterclass in the art of eliciting laughter.

**4. Endearing Friendship:**

The genuine bond between Stan and Ollie was palpable both on and off the screen. Their friendship, rife with bickering yet underscored by unwavering loyalty, mirrors the complexities of real-life relationships. Social scientist Dr. Rebecca Steinberg argues that "their relationship embodies the ups and downs that all friendships endure, making them eternally relatable." In an era of digital relationships, their tangible camaraderie serves as a poignant reminder of the depth and value of human connection.

**5. A Source of Comfort:**

In today's fast-paced, often tumultuous world, the simplicity and innocence of Laurel & Hardy's comedy offer a refuge. They provide an escape to a world where problems, no matter how convoluted, are resolved with a laugh. Their work reminds us of the therapeutic power of laughter and the importance of finding joy in life's absurdities.

In conclusion, Laurel & Hardy's relevance in today's world stems from their universal appeal, their representation of timeless human archetypes, and their foundational impact on the comedic arts. As the world changes and modernizes, the human need for laughter remains constant, and there are few who can deliver it as profoundly as this dynamic duo. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring power of humor and friendship, reminding us that some things are indeed timeless.

Chinese Naval Aggression is Hurting the U.S. Economy.

 

                Business Victims of Chinese Naval Aggression:  Inger & Olaf Grimstead.

 

**The Rising Aggression of the Chinese Navy in the South China Sea and its Implications for the U.S. Economy**

The South China Sea, with its rich resources and crucial shipping lanes, has been the stage of intense territorial disputes for many years. In recent times, however, there's been a perceptible increase in tensions, largely driven by the increasing assertiveness of the Chinese Navy. With its implications for regional stability and the global economy, especially the U.S. economy, the situation warrants a closer look.

In one telling instance, a New York Times report highlighted a significant encounter where the Chinese Navy reportedly threatened a Vietnamese fishing boat, demanding that they leave what China claims to be its sovereign waters. This incident isn't isolated. As cited by the Washington Post, there have been numerous cases where Chinese vessels have harassed, intimidated, or even collided with fishing boats and naval ships of other nations like the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei.

This aggression in the South China Sea is deeply rooted in China's territorial claims. The so-called 'Nine-Dash Line'—a demarcation used by Beijing to mark its claims in the region—covers most of the South China Sea. These claims, as many analysts and the Wall Street Journal have noted, are far-reaching and overlap with the territorial waters of several Southeast Asian nations. The Chinese government asserts that its historical rights justify these claims. However, in 2016, an international tribunal in The Hague rejected Beijing's claims, declaring many of them to be inconsistent with international law.

The question arises—why does the South China Sea matter so much to China, its neighbors, and, by extension, the U.S. economy?

To begin with, the South China Sea is a strategic waterway. It's a lifeline for global trade, with approximately $3.4 trillion worth of trade passing through it annually. It's not just crucial for regional players; it's a major conduit for U.S. trade as well. The New York Times has noted that any disruption in the South China Sea can impact the global supply chain, affecting everything from electronics to energy supplies.

Moreover, beneath its waters, the South China Sea is believed to house vast reserves of oil, gas, and other natural resources. For an energy-hungry country like China, these resources can aid in fueling its massive economic machinery. It's no wonder then that the Washington Post quotes experts who believe China is keen on establishing de facto control over these resources, irrespective of the interests of smaller Southeast Asian nations.

But what does all this mean for the U.S. economy?

For one, a militarized and volatile South China Sea threatens the stability of a region that has become a vital hub for American trade and investment. The U.S., as stated by the Wall Street Journal, stands as a significant trading partner for many Southeast Asian countries. Any disturbance in the waters of the South China Sea can disrupt the flow of goods, leading to potential supply chain bottlenecks and increased costs for American businesses and consumers.

Furthermore, as China flexes its muscles in the region, neighboring countries might feel compelled to ramp up their military expenditures. An arms race in Southeast Asia would divert valuable resources away from economic development, potentially shrinking markets that are vital for American goods and services.

Another critical aspect to consider is the potential for a direct U.S.-China confrontation in the waters. Both nations, as major Pacific powers, have strategic interests in the region. While the U.S. does not have territorial claims in the South China Sea, it has been a vocal proponent of freedom of navigation. Consequently, as the Chinese Navy becomes more aggressive, the chance of unintended incidents or confrontations between Chinese and U.S. vessels grows. Such an event could precipitate a broader conflict, the economic ramifications of which would be severe for both nations and the global economy.

In conclusion, the rising aggression of the Chinese Navy in the South China Sea is more than just a regional issue. It has profound implications for the global balance of power and the international economic order. The U.S., with its deep economic ties to the region, stands at the crossroads of these evolving dynamics. As tensions escalate, it's crucial for all stakeholders to engage in dialogue, understanding, and diplomacy, ensuring that the South China Sea remains a sea of peace and cooperation, rather than conflict and division.

WHY LIMBURGER CHEESE IS GOOD FOR YOU.

 

 

**Limburger Cheese: A Nutritional Powerhouse As Endorsed by German Health Authorities**

Limburger cheese, often associated with its strong aroma, has deep roots in the history and culture of Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. But beyond its distinct scent and unique taste, Limburger cheese boasts an impressive nutritional profile that's backed by various German health and dietary authorities.

**1. Rich Source of Calcium and Phosphorus**

Like many cheeses, Limburger is a dense source of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. The German Nutrition Society (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung or DGE) recommends a daily calcium intake for adults at 1000 milligrams. A single serving of Limburger cheese can contribute a significant portion of this recommendation. Furthermore, it contains phosphorus, another mineral essential for bone health, which works synergistically with calcium.

**2. Good for Gut Health**

The bacteria responsible for the distinct smell of Limburger cheese is Brevibacterium linens. This bacterium is also found on human skin and plays a role in the characteristic scent of body odor. But more than just its odor, this bacterium can potentially benefit our gut microbiome. A diverse and balanced gut microbiome is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall immune function. By consuming foods rich in various bacteria, we promote a diverse gut environment, and Limburger cheese can be part of that diversified diet.

**3. Quality Protein Source**

Limburger cheese is a good source of protein, providing all essential amino acids necessary for muscle building, repair, and other vital body functions. The German Federal Centre for Nutrition (Bundeszentrum für Ernährung or BZfE) notes the importance of varied protein sources in the diet, and Limburger cheese can serve as an alternate protein source for those looking to diversify their intake.

**4. Presence of Essential Fats**

Cheese, including Limburger, contains fats, specifically saturated fats. While excessive consumption of saturated fats can be harmful, moderate amounts, as part of a balanced diet, can be beneficial. Fats are essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Moreover, the German Heart Foundation has acknowledged that dairy fats might have a neutral or even beneficial effect on heart health when consumed in moderation.

**5. Rich in B Vitamins**

B vitamins play an essential role in energy metabolism, nerve function, and the formation of red blood cells. Limburger cheese is particularly high in vitamin B12, which is necessary for nerve tissue health and the synthesis of DNA. Vitamin B12 is especially vital for vegetarians and vegans, who might not get enough from plant-based sources. As such, incorporating Limburger cheese, in moderation, can help ensure adequate B vitamin intake.

**6. Supports Local and Traditional Production**

While not directly a health benefit, there's something to be said about supporting traditional and local food production methods. Limburger cheese production sustains local economies, promotes traditional cheesemaking techniques, and encourages the consumption of regional products, which reduces carbon footprint.

**7. Mental Well-being and Culinary Exploration**

Exploring different cuisines and food items can have a positive impact on mental well-being. According to the German Federal Centre for Health Education (Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung or BZgA), trying out new and varied foods can be a source of pleasure and can contribute to a balanced and health-promoting lifestyle. Limburger cheese, with its distinctive taste and texture, can be an exciting addition to the culinary repertoire, adding to the diversity of the diet.

**Conclusion**

Though Limburger cheese might not be everyone's first choice due to its strong aroma, its myriad health benefits, as cited by various German health and dietary authorities, make it a worthy addition to a diversified diet. As with all foods, moderation is key. When consumed in a balanced manner, Limburger cheese can be both a delightful culinary experience and a nutritional powerhouse.

Donald Trump. by Vladimir Putin.

 

**A Personal Perspective on Donald Trump: As Narrated by Vladimir Putin**

(Not to be found in the New York Times.)

As the President of Russia, my interactions with world leaders have been numerous and varied. Among the most memorable and media-covered of my relationships was with the 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump. Let me share my insights into the life and works of this controversial and unique figure.

I first became aware of Donald Trump long before he entered politics. The businessman-turned-reality TV star had already made headlines for decades. Trump's ventures spanned real estate, golf courses, casinos, and television shows. The world knew him for his iconic skyscrapers, luxurious resorts, and the phrase “You’re fired!” from his reality show, "The Apprentice." These endeavors not only earned him wealth but also a name synonymous with brashness, opulence, and self-promotion. When I read about Trump's successes and failures in the glossy magazines, I perceived a man of ambition and determination.

Our first meetings, post his election, were in the crucible of global politics. The world watched as Trump's policies and tweets made daily headlines. In newspapers, they often paraphrased his words: "Make America Great Again," "Build the Wall," and "Fake News" were just a few of his oft-repeated catchphrases that echoed across global media outlets. His directness, some said, was refreshing; others found it alarming.

In the realm of international relations, his "America First" policy was a notable departure from previous US administrations. He questioned NATO contributions, renegotiated trade agreements, and sought to rebuild domestic industries. Such moves, for some, upheld his promise to prioritize American interests, while critics argued it weakened international alliances.

When Trump and I sat across from each other, our interactions often became the subject of speculation and intrigue. The media loved to paint our relationship in various shades, ranging from camaraderie to rivalry. Reports from magazines quoted sources claiming we had a "special bond" or that our meetings were laden with "hidden agendas." I must clarify that our discussions, like with any other leader, focused on the interests of our respective nations. We spoke of Syria, arms control, and economic cooperation, to name a few topics. Despite disagreements, we maintained a dialogue, which I consider vital in the complex tapestry of international diplomacy.

During Trump's tenure, his administration faced numerous challenges. The investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US elections, spearheaded by Robert Mueller, made headlines for months. Newspapers eagerly cited the findings: "No collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia," yet opinions on the matter remained deeply divided.

On the domestic front, Trump pushed for reforms and changes that were both praised and criticized. He slashed regulations, overhauled the tax code, and appointed three Supreme Court justices. His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic was a major point of contention. Supporters lauded his ban on travel from China as proactive, while detractors said he downplayed the virus's severity. Paraphrased headlines from those times read, "Trump pushes for quick reopening," showcasing his eagerness to restart the American economy.

Yet, beyond policies and politics, what struck me most about Donald Trump was the man himself. Here was someone who, despite facing constant scrutiny and criticism, remained undeterred in his beliefs and actions. Whether in business or in the Oval Office, Trump displayed an unwavering confidence. Some might call it arrogance, but no one can deny the impact of his persona on the global stage.

In our meetings, Trump presented himself as a dealmaker. He approached diplomacy much like a business negotiation, always searching for a beneficial outcome for America. This pragmatism was both his strength and his limitation. While he often found unconventional solutions to longstanding issues, critics argued he lacked a deeper understanding of geopolitical complexities.

In conclusion, Donald Trump's life and works are a testament to the complexities of modern politics and media. He remains a polarizing figure, evoking strong reactions from both supporters and critics. My experiences with him were shaped by our mutual roles on the world stage, and while we did not always agree, I respected his commitment to his country.

From a personal perspective, as I reflect on Trump's tenure and our interactions, I am reminded of a quote I once read in a newspaper: "In a world of scripted politicians, Trump is an improviser." And in that improvisation, he has certainly left an indelible mark on history.

 

Who was Till Eulenspiegal?

 

 

**Till Eulenspiegel: The Prankster of German Folklore**

**Profile**:
Born in the village of Kneitlingen, near Braunschweig, in the 14th century, Till Eulenspiegel is one of the most beloved figures in German folklore. Though historical records on the real Till Eulenspiegel are scant, his legend has thrived over the centuries through countless stories, poems, plays, and even operas. Often depicted as a vagabond or itinerant jester, Eulenspiegel's name literally translates to "Owl Mirror," which reflects his dual nature of wisdom (symbolized by the owl) and reflection (the mirror).

**Alleged Tricks and Pranks**:

1. **The Sticky Buns Incident**: In one tale, Till is a baker's apprentice and sells warm sticky buns in the market. Instead of telling customers to be cautious of the hot buns, he uses a riddle. When customers burn their hands or mouths, Till argues he did warn them, just in his own playful way.

2. **Playing Dead**: In another story, after having caused enough trouble in a town, Till fakes his own death. The townspeople, in both relief and respect, arrange a funeral. As people pay their respects, Till suddenly jumps out of the coffin, causing pandemonium.

3. **Mirror Trick**: Till once claimed he could have a horse eat from his palm without touching the oats. After taking the townsfolk's money for the bet, he spread oats in his hand and placed it behind a pane of glass. The horse, seeing the oats but unable to eat them, proved Till's point.

4. **The Donkey Trick**: Till enters a town riding a donkey, promising townspeople that the animal can read. He arranges an expensive demonstration wherein the donkey chooses the greedy mayor's hat over the honest teacher's, suggesting the donkey knows the mayor's corrupt nature.

**Modern Interpretations**:

Modern scholars see Till Eulenspiegel's tales not just as simple stories of mischief, but also as sophisticated social critiques. They highlight several recurring themes:

1. **Anti-authoritarianism**: Till's pranks often involve undermining or mocking those in power, be they aristocrats, priests, or town officials. This anti-establishment angle has endeared him to many over the years.

2. **The "Fool as Sage" Trope**: Like many jesters in folklore and literature, Till's foolish exterior masks deep wisdom. His pranks often reveal deeper truths about human nature or societal norms.

3. **Morality and Ethics**: Several of Till's tricks play on the dishonesty, greed, or pride of his targets. By doing so, the tales force readers or listeners to reflect on their own values and behaviors.

4. **Linguistic Play**: Eulenspiegel's pranks are often based on wordplay, puns, or the literal interpretation of idioms, pointing to the unreliability of language and the dangers of miscommunication.

In the present day, Till Eulenspiegel's tales are seen not just as entertaining stories but as sharp societal commentaries that offer insights into medieval European life, the nature of authority, and the enduring qualities of human nature. He remains a symbol of wit triumphing over might, and his legend continues to inspire artists, writers, and thinkers around the world.

Letter to the Kids. Sunday, September 10. 2023.

 

Dear kids;

this week has gone by faster than a honey buzzard after a titmouse. i'm happy to report that my chronic exhaustion has somewhat abated this week. i thought i would have to give up our daily early morning temple sessions, since it left me so drained for the rest of the day. but there's been a definite physical change taking place, so that i can now get up at 430 each morning, do the 6 a.m. session with your mother, and then have enough energy left to go out to the kolache place with one of my haiku poems on a sign board for a few hours.

THEN i come home and collapse for the rest of the day. until your mother and i go to the rec center at 5 p.m. to work on the machines. 

this morning i thought i would be making jalapeno cornbread. i bought a fresh jalapeno pepper last night for that purpose. but this sabbath morning finds me unmotivated to mess around in the kitchen. i'd rather let the 25 cent jalapeno pepper rot in the fridge than turn on the oven or mix up a big bowl of batter. am i getting more focused on other things, or am i just getting lazier? maybe neither; maybe i just need to take my 'poet for hire' sign out onto the boulevard for a few hours before we got to church at 1 p.m.  after all, i am a performance artist, so i need to be out performing. right?

this past week has been blessed with a complete lack of annoying nonsense. no nut cases have accosted me at the kolache place. your mother and i have pulled together in peace and harmony. i eat my prunes each morning and take my Metmucel with religious regularity. aches & pains come and go with varying intensity, but nothing that i'm not already used to and resigned to endure with saintly patience. we are getting new neighbors, as old neighbors die and/or move out. the new neighbors will be hispanic, no doubt. this place is turning into a barrio. it makes for interesting potlucks. your mother has been doing a lot of sewing with sarah's sewing machine; making tote bags and mending my shirts.  we find the Lord blesses us so that each time a new medical bill comes in that is not covered by medicaid/medicare we find another way to earn enough to pay it off. without robbing any banks. yet.

every saturday i buy your mother a bouquet of flowers. 

whenever i get sleepy while i'm out with my haiku, i write a new one along the lines of:

the old man dozes

in the warm caress of sun

while passersby smile

and then prop it up against my wheelchair so i can fold my hands over my belly mound and take a snooze for ten or fifteen minutes. sometimes when i wake up i find another dollar or two dropped in my can while i slept. only in provo. anyplace else i'd wake up and find the can gone.

this morning your mother and i learned all about quick clay. this phenomenon occurs in parts of norway and canada. we were looking at youtube videos about norway when we came across a post about the geology of norway and learned that as the ice age glaciers retreated they left behind a weird blend of clay and silt, called quick clay, that appears to be firm ground -- but when it is disturbed or a great weight is placed on it it turns to liquid, causing huge landslides that swallow up houses, barns, people, whole villages even. who knew? we always thought norway was such a safe place to live.

your mother is making grilled cheese sandwiches this morning to place out in the community kitchen at noon for anyone who would like one.

well, the outdoors beckons. i can think of little else i'd rather do on a mild sunday morning than to take my poet for hire sign out into the fresh air and wave at cars as they pass by. the world needs to know there are such things as poets for hire. i need the wind and the sun and the hiss of tree branches rubbing against each other. or else an anchovy pizza.

roses are red

violets are cheap

may you be so blessed

you never do weep.

Love, Heinie Manush.

 

 

Work. (A Poem dedicated to Emma Goldberg)

 

 

 

I retired long ago,

so I could watch a TV show

when I wanted, and besides

commutes are really awful rides.

I stayed broke and homeless while

all my friends turned mercantile.

now they all have condos where

they sit and at not much do stare.

Me, I moved in with my kids

and raise jellyfish and squids.

I loose these nasty beasts on them

who say I'm lazier than phlegm.

I do a little dumpster diving,

and yet my ego still is thriving.

I have had a great career

sleeping late and swilling beer!

 

Buttons. Monday, September 4. 2023.

 

 

Buttons. Monday, September 4. 2023.

What is the moral responsibility of the artist? With balding pate, white goatee, and mischievous mien, Sung Neung Kyung is sitting in his studio in Seoul, South Korea, looking back half a century to the country’s authoritarian regime and wondering whether, as a radical young artist, he made a difference.

“I have to say, thinking back to my artistic practice then from the luxury of hindsight, I feel that my activities at the time were not political enough,” he says on a Zoom call. “I feel that I was carrying the voice of a mosquito. It was just so small, and because of that, I am ashamed.”  (The Guardian Newspaper.)

As a First-of-May, I tried to be political with my clowning (which I now see was always performance art first and comedy second) at Ringling Brothers. When the show played Chicago, I made up like Hitler and began goose-stepping out into the arena to salute then-mayor Richard Daly because I considered him a fascist. Performance Director Charlie Baumann grabbed me before I could “Sieg Heil” hizzoner and literally carried me under his arm backstage. Where I got a terrific dressing down.

My comedic voice has been that of a mosquito, like Sung Neung Kyung’s, but I have not felt ashamed about it. Having been denied a national or international forum for my shenanigans, I now find profound contentment and fulfillment in displaying my japes locally here in Provo. 

I got rained out this morning at Hruska’s Kolaches at 8:30 without making any money or getting any kolaches.

But today, I had an ace up my sleeve. With Amy’s help yesterday, I printed out a notice in both English and Spanish that read:

We are serving a free helping of homemade Tuscan turkey/spinach loaf, along with a side of brown rice, on Labor Day, Monday, September 4. Promptly at Noon. With Amy’s amazing cookies for dessert.

To receive your free serving, you must bring us a button; any button will do. 

Tim & Amy Torkildson. Apartment #115. Valley Villa.

Lunes. 4 de septiembre. 2023. Estamos sirviendo una porción gratis de pan casero de pavo / espinacas de la Toscana, junto con un lado de arroz integral en el Día del Trabajo, el lunes 4 de septiembre. Puntualmente a las 12 del mediodía. Con las increíbles galletas de Amy para el postre. Para recibir su porción gratis, debe traernos un botón; Cualquier tipo de botón servirá. Tim y Amy Torkildson. Apartamento #115. Villa del Valle.Monday. September 4. 2023.

Yesterday, we put this notice on door knobs and under windshield wipers in the parking lot. And today, we reaped a total of 11 people at our door, all with buttons and all dying to know what we would do with the buttons. “Ask me no questions, and I’ll tell you no lies,” was my reply to each.

The truth is I never had any intention of doing anything with the buttons. Would people show up for a free meal in exchange for a button? They did. So that was my work as a performance artist today.

The weather is still moist and gray this afternoon, so I’ll not be going out again. Instead, I’m warming up some cold spaghetti with a can of smoked mussels for my lunch. Then, write a haiku for tomorrow. The forecast calls for clear skies and cool temperatures for the rest of the week. Perfect weather to dress up as Hitler again . . . 

 

Sunday Morning Haiku.

 

Sunday morning sleep --

all the bells are in my head.

why no outside bells? 

 

Sunday morning street --

full of brittle brown leaf dust.

mute parked cars glisten. 

 

Sunday morning sun --

leftover Saturday games

and cold grilled sweet corn. 

 

Sunday morning clouds 

seem to be settling in

for a long visit. 

 

Sunday morning birds

put on their hats and trousers

to stroll in the park. 

 

Sunday morning smells --

 orange sweet rolls, and fried eggs

 with Tabasco sauce.

Sunday morning shoes --

Florsheim or jogging sneakers?

No. Carpet slippers.

Sunday morning socks --

new pair with the plastic clip

still holding them tight.

Sunday morning dew --

seen by so few and believed

by even fewer.

Sunday morning news --

lawyers eat donuts on air

and talk of the dead.

Haiku Hiatus. Saturday. September 2. 2023.

 

 

Haiku hiatus. Saturday. September 2. 2023.

I have been unstable all my life. My artistic sensibilities kicked in at a young age. These sensibilities were not understood by my parents or even by me. So I was labeled “moody,” “thin-skinned,” and “unfocused.” I grew up feeling guilty about my inability to find much interest or make much of a commitment to anything outside of performing and writing. I have always needed a public. After I joined the Church, I scolded myself as “selfish” and “self-centered” when the lack of artistic outlets left me stifled and ill-tempered.
And, let’s face it, I AM self-centered and selfish – my need to express myself either as a performer or a writer overwhelms most other considerations in my life. I’m difficult to live with and unsympathetic to the needs of others when I’m caught up in my art – whether it is creating a new clown gag or organizing a limerick or haiku.

This past week has proved to be a watershed in self-realization because I finally gave up on the idea of being only a poet so I could blossom into what I truly am and will indeed be for the rest of my mortal life: a Performance Artist.

Let’s back up a bit. Last Monday, I promised Amy that we would go to the Temple four times a week for endowment sessions. She has wanted this for years, but I have not been enthusiastic about it. I don’t really “get” the Temple ceremonies and symbolism. What generally happens is I feel a genuine lift in my spirits and nothing more. And with my bad knees and back, it’s always been more a test of endurance than an act of faith and worship.
So we went to the 6 a.m. session at the Provo City Center Temple four days in a row. And I was feeling more and more miserable. Because there was less time to get out with my haiku sign and because I felt exhausted and ill from fasting until noon each day, I had to forgo food, water, and my medications, or else I would have had an accident. Or so I thought.

BTW:  I have to go to the earliest morning session because, by noon, I am entirely done both physically and mentally.

Then, on Thursday, while at the Temple, I was hit with a thought so forceful it nearly toppled me out of my seat.
Relax and take it easy as part of this thought. You have never been just a poet but are a performance artist, was the other part.
A great deal of pressure and misery immediately left me.
The Temple session became much more peaceful and enjoyable for me. And I formed an idea of what I would do when we were home, and I was on my way to Hruska’s Kolaches.
I would take a blank piece of cardboard to display. See how people reacted.
I got two dollars in my can and no kolaches. Each dollar bill was deposited by a kind person who wished me good luck . . . and who apparently never realized I was holding up a piece of blank cardboard.
Two other people stopped to read my sign, realized there was no sign, and asked me what it meant.
I told them both: “It means nothing, and it means everything.”
Both passersby rubbed their chins sagely and seemed to say to themselves, “Yes, that is very profound – very profound indeed!”

And now, other ideas flood my mind in the Temple. I’ll wrap myself up in newspapers, and when people stop to gawp, I’ll tell them, “I get wrapped up in the news.”
I’ll have a sign that reads “AVOID MIND CONTROL. Get your tin foil hats here!” And I’ll be wearing a tin foil hat.

I’ll hold up one of the many colorful circus posters at home just to see what people will do. What they will ask. How much money, if any, they’ll give me.

Yes, the Temple has become a fruitful place for my imagination. Sometimes, I ponder a new performance art routine, and sometimes, I am struck by something in the ceremony that puts me in a deep ponder about how our world was organized and the role Adam & Eve played in it all, etc. My wit is quickened while attending the Temple, and my eyes see more.

Pray for me, gentle reader, that I do not relapse into a guilt-ridden, fasting fanatic!

Today, Saturday, I only spent an hour and a half at the kolache place. Because it began to rain, Amy and I had a granddaughter’s baptism to go to. So, I did a haiku:

A lot of brown shoes
Passing on the wet pavement –
Avoiding the cracks.

And I managed to make enough money to buy Amy a large bouquet of flowers at Fresh Market.

My total earnings for the week were $80.00. Plus, I got a used $50.00 Visa gift card with nine dollars left on it.
I can hardly wait until Monday to get out there again!
It’s time for a bagel with cream cheese and then binge-watch The Blacklist with Amy.