Category: Uncategorized

Navigating Holidays Alone: A Personal Journey


December 24th, 2024 has arrived, it is the beginning of Christmas Eve day for me. Outside it is 28 degrees here in Westborough, Mass. and snow is forecasted for today. As I look out my sliding door to my balcony, the skies are gray and overcast and it does look like snow shall be here soon enough.

As to the Holiday itself, I don’t do anything for it, anymore. Since I lost my wife in 2021, Christmas Eve and Day have become just another day for me. The normal is all I have now a days. I stay home, try to eat and drink properly and watch tv, read, and build my puzzle. Clean my home as I go, when needed. I go out these days only for certain things. 1) To see Doctors as needed. 2) Grocery shopping so I may eat. 3) Twice a week I play Mexican Train Dominos at the Clubhouse and on Monday evenings I play Billiards. While I enjoy playing them and the company of others while I do, I am cautious doing so. But, I do so, to just get out of my condo and in an attempt to be social is all. I am trying to fit in, like a square peg, in a round hole here, it is at times uncomfortable for me. Yet, it is an attempt, whether it will work or not is at times beyond my comprehension, yet at least I attempt.

At 68, soon to be 69, I have come to realize many thing regarding myself. I am not overly friendly to anyone. I try to keep a distance and not disturb others. Although invited to other’s homes, I do not attend, I hate imposing on people or being a burden to anyone, always have and will. I have never been a true social person, who interacts with others easily, I don’t have the charm, needed for that. No I am not a scrooge as some may say, nor am I really a loner, or wanderer, I just am very careful and more scared then anything. I get very melancholy on Holiday Season. I miss my wife who passed in 2021 and I am slowly trying to move on, yet, I find it hard. Is that wrong to say or do, I think not, after the 28 years I spent with her. Yes I know, I must learn to carry on without her, but my spirit remembers her too well to forget her too.

Anyway, the year is moving forward and time ticks on. Each day bring me closer to 69, and the New Year ahead. I am disappointed in the American people, because they voted Trump back in Office. I can’t change it, but it depresses me. How did the American People vote in a convicted felon as President and why? I shall never understand the logic behind it, and find it very disturbing that the American People, have fallen so low, as to do so. Yet, I face what may be my final years, living under a President who is a felon, and is being run by the likes of Elon Musk, Steve Bannon and Steven Miller. Having to live with it, will harm our place i the world, our economy and the mental health of the American People. yet, Americans chose this, so forward we go.

As a Senior citizen and a Disabled Veteran, I hope and pray we stay a Republic and Democracy, but, it does not look good for us. Sadly, I will never understand how we got here, but here we go. Trump wants to kill the Department of Education, Attack Medicare and Medicaid and Social Security and give more tax breaks to his rich cronies. he is threatening Mass Deportations and so much more. It seems to me, the American People have been conned by a con man and criminal. People fell for lies, and now the America I defended, protected, and love so well, is being taken over by a cult, led by Trump. In fact as many are now beginning to realize, Trump is not capable of running the country. It is being run and will be run by people like Elon Musk, and Steve Bannon and Steven Miller and the likes. Stop and think people, Trump is taking office at almost the same age that Biden is leaving it. Trump is physically and mentally in worse condition then Biden and will only get worse as his term goes on. You want the real scare of what is coming next, if I were you, I would pray trump hangs on till the end of his term, if not you get a President J.D. Vance, imagine that!

Ok enough politics. I have learned in my life that I must deal with what is, not what I wish. So, I go forward with a body that aches, and has it’s problems. The way I see it, I have overcome many things in my life, and at this point shall continue to do so. I believe, I am actually a miracle being in some ways. I overcame so much in my life. Seizures as a baby, Hyper-activity and attention deficit disorder were just the start for me. Battles with my mother over who my father was and where he was, got me put away for two years as a child, and she attempted to give me away three times through the state. Yet, I returned home. I overcame and persisted. By my teen years, I found a way to find my father on my own and did so, only to have a mother who had to get on her high horse and interfere anyway. After I met my father, mom found out and forced me to go back down there with her. By the end of that day, I faced my father a man who was in his fifties at the time, and scared shitless of my mother who was a whole 5ft 4 inches and 120 lbs. so, I told him, if he ever wanted to see me again, he had to make a stand and tell her, to leave him alone. He did in the end. and life moved on for me.

I served my country for 16 years in three military branches, Army, Army National Guard and Navy, and grew up there. I had no choice, I made the commitment so I lived it. I served Honorably and have a DD-214 to prove it too. I also, got injured, six herniated discs in my spine and live with them daily. I was married twice, had two daughters, my longest marriage was my second for 28 years. I did well I think, because I also went back to school and got a Associate’s Degree in Hotel Management, becoming the first in my family to do so. Two Honor Societies inducted me, Alpha Beta Gamma, and Phi Theta Gamma, not bad for a man who was 40 years old when it was done.

I have written many blogs such as this, many poems and lil stories made into small books online. I did what was right when mom died, and put her with her husband, helping my sister do so. I brought my dying wife home and hospiced her, till her death in 2021. So, I have tried very hard to do what I believed was right to all. I am not perfect, but I am smart enough to be respectful, and kind, and considerate as I go along. Whether the same consideration will be extended to me in my ending, I do not know, I only know, I had the drive to do so for others, I loved.

As, 2024 rolls now closer to it’s ending and tomorrow is Christmas Day, I shall keep going forward. I spend my holidays alone these days, and it doesn’t matter which holiday it is. I do not wish to impose, on or burden anyone in any way and I don’t. Alone is fine with me, I have my television, my internet and books and puzzles to keep me going and busy. I believe I am better off alone, than being taken advantage of by someone else in any way. As Christmas Eve gets underway, and tomorrow is Christmas Day, I Wish all a Very Merry Christmas! Remember, it is not about the material things you give or receive, it is about the time you spend with those who love you and that you love in return. And last but not least, I Wish all who read this, A Very Happy New Year, as 2025 comes rolling at us very soon. Happy Holidays to All !

Embracing New Beginnings in 2025


December 22nd, 2024, is upon us all. We have a few days left till Christmas Day, and people are rushing to the stores I say. As they do, I pray for you, that you all don’t get in each other’s way. Drive carefully out there will you please, and make it safely home, for the holidays.

I have been asked why, I stay alone on the holidays, it simple really you see, the holidays mean nothing to me. I have lost my grandparents, my parents and my wife to cancer, my children live over 500 miles away and so do my grandchildren. My sister God Bless her, is doing her things with friends, and personally I shall never impose on anyone or be a burden to anyone on a holiday or otherwise. Simple right, many don’t understand it though, but that’s ok with me.

I keep to myself, and I have a roof over my head, a bed to sleep in and heat. I have all the lil electronic toys I need to play with too. I build puzzles, read books, watch television and movies and play on the internet is all. In my mind and heart, my children and grandchildren and sister are all better off without me to drag them down. So, by myself I shall stay, until my dying day.

As Christmas gets closer each day, I use the NFL and NBA to watch and keep my mind busy, I read books and relax. I have food and heat and a place of my own, my 956 square feet condo is my home. I moved here, so I must accept what I choose to do. The Complex is ok, the people are too, I ignore the rude and crude, the impolite and I shall survive well past New Year’s night. I turn 69 in January, of 2025, and I face my health problems as most my age do. I suffer from a bad back, PTSD, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes too. yet, I still march on in life and do what I can do.

I feel I have had a full life so far, my service years, my two marriages. all kept me going. Homes I had to care for, and people too, I think I did my best, can you say that too? It’s been a decent life for me really. I am a lucky man in many ways, I just know I miss my wife and our happier days. It’s not unusual for a man who is a widower at almost 69 to say so, it is hard for some to hear. But for me, I say, do not worry or cray a tear, for soon we all shall face the New Year. 8 days left to 2024, and onward I go to a New Year once more. I shall be fine, I shall be well, and if I am not, oh well. I did my thing, and did it my way, I have no fear or worry about yesterday. I did what was right for those I loved, I cared when I should and now they are all up above. I am alone and on my own, but, I know I shall survive, no matter what, for now, it’s a feeling in my gut. Full life i have lived and I have always found a way to smile and give.

I am working on building a Singles Group for the Condo complex here and at the same time, trying to get on The Veteran’s Board for the town too. The idea is simple for the Single’s Group, I figured many single women here and some single men, see if I can make them at least mingle and have fun. As to the Veteran’s Board position, as a 16 year disabled Veteran I believe i can help them understand what the Veteran’s need in town, and as someone else said, we need to be represented on the board for our complex. Time shall tell if it works out for me.

My thoughts on 2025 are simple. A new year, a new beginning and onward we go. As to politics, I can’t change the election results, and have to live with it. I pray we survive the next four years, I am sure we shall, we survived it before. I hope for no wars, help for the poor, and health for all mankind. I try to keep a hopeful outlook on all I see, and hope it all works out for you and me.

Merry Christmas to All and To ALL A Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Reflecting on Life as 2025 Approaches


I think everyone, gets to a point in life, where we stop and reflect on our life, and try to decide where or what to do next, if of course we are healthy enough to.

As 2024 is getting closer to it’s end and the new year shall begin, I do the same I do each year. I examine where I have been, what I have done and try to decide if I did right or wrong in certain cases. The idea is to not make any mistakes or problems in my future. I have taken to not reacting harshly to much these days, and the only thing that ever got me angry, was when a guy tried to take advantage of my wife who passed in 2021. So, unless, someone attacks the ones I call family I do not get mad. I will walk away before I will fight over stupidity.

As I look back at 2024, I find I did things as usual for me. I just go to my Doctors when needed, walk when I can, build puzzles and read. I also walk when I can depending on weather of course. I do participate in playing pool on Monday evening, and Mexican Train Dominos on Wednesday evening. I was doing Friday Afternoon Mexican train Dominos, but I won’t anymore for personal reasons.

Del Webb Chauncy Lake as a community, will be expanding soon enough over time, to a compound, of 14 buildings, 50 condos per. When you figure it out it’s 700 condos. That leaves us as one person said, a large part of Westbourgh’s, Mass. tax base. Hopefully we can maintain some kind of involvement with the town, so we have our say. We have the ability and the people to do it, if we keep abreast of all happening.

As 2025, is now not far off, I see myself, as doing what I think is right for me. I shall maintain what I have of course. As to what to do, well, I try to avoid large crowds, and I know I am not Mr. Popular anyway. Never was Mr. Handsome, or Mr. Personality, and I avoid confrontations and arguing. I find that people do not like me, most of the time. My sense of humor some say is strange, sometimes I speak too fast or soon. I do try to get along with everyone I can, but there will always be some, it doesn’t work with. Thus the avoidance factor I brought up earlier. Get angry around me or upset, I feel it is my fault I leave and won’t bother again. I am old now, so I am set in my ways, in situations, of course.

Someone accuses me of something suddenly, bye. Some judge me wrong, some think I am rude or crude. But, my humor is hard to take at times, and misunderstood. Some I poke fun at, or joke with, it is all a game is all. I have come along way from my childhood of attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity. I lived with those in my childhood years and at times they get me today at 68 going on 69.

The more I stay alone, and away from people the better it is for me, I think so I isolate and stay home. It’s a crazy idea but it works, can’t see me, can’t say I did something, lol. when you get to my age, you know damn well when someone doesn’t like you, and you do avoid.

All of the above just means not many changes will happen to or for me. I don’t attend every event planned here, nor do I plan any. I try to stay away, for these are open events paid for by those who attend them. And I am far from socially as adept as many others here. Never was a social animal, have always been one to stay away and alone and watch from a distance. I think, I never had the right social skills as a kid and as an adult. Yet I survived two marriages, and the service. Not bad. As 2025 comes in, I plan on trying to open up some, but I know, it won’t be easy. It is like I told some people I just talked to about a club, I haven’t talked in front of people in a long time. I tend to avoid women. Most men here, have no problem with women, me well, what can I say. I don’t trust many people that’s for sure, never did. I still have the Navy in me in many ways also, once a sailor always a sailor they say. I don’t drink really, I am not a party person for sure. So, as I go forward, I am going to do what I have for a while since moving here. One day at a time, avoid confrontations and arguments, avoid those who don’t like me. As I told one person, I only come out of my condo for certain things these days. 1) Doctors, 2) grocery shopping 3) Billard’s on Monday evenings, Mexican Train Dominos on Wednesday evening. I walk, I mind my own business, and I try to treat all with the same respect I want for myself. That is how my New Year shall be, it’s like a resolution by me. Time will tell. Some say, volunteer for something to do, so I have. Some say go to church, I am non-religious so that’s out. if I walked into a church it would probably fall on my head. So, the town of Westborough, is like the small town I live in my my teens. All we had were bars, taverns, banks and churches. I am old and I get bored at times, I feel the loneliness of course, but, struggle through like others I had met. It’s a process is all and we live through it all, don’t we?

Embracing Life After Loss: Lessons Learned at 68


December 15th, 2024, it is chilly and cold outside today, the sun is shinning bright here, in Westborourgh, Mass. The day began for me at a lil after 6 am. Each day is different for sure and it doesn’t matter, who your neighbors may be or where you live. Time seems to move right along at a steady pace. I have now loved alone, basically since my wife died, and it is now over 3 years, since she passed. And yes I still think of her constantly, especially when someone or something reminds me of her. But, I also have learned she is not coming back and to look ahead, for I am still here. I have learned to live each day for myself, do the best I can, and have the most fun I can.

Well, sometimes, things happen, and you can’t change them, nor, did you intend them, but, wham they smack ya upside the head. Or someone thinks you did something and you didn’t, and wham again, it’s another smack at ya. I really, don’t care which it is, I just wish it would stop happening to me, these stupid things. I was leaving yesterday to go to the store and as I passed through the lobby on my way out, a lady was bending over and picking up some packages she ordered. As I was going out the door I looked back and she told me I was looking at her ass! I wasn’t of course but, she accused me of that. I told her, I did nothing wrong and she was the one bent over, not my fault, lol. I didn’t want to say what I was going to, which was, Lady I don’t give two cents about your ass! But, as usual I am too polite to do that, so I just left it and went to the store. Afterwards, I thought of seeking her out and telling her, I wasn’t looking, but, she wouldn’t believe me anyway, so I said fuck it. Silly shit happens all the time, when you live in a 55 plus community like I do. I could care less about her assor any other women’s to be honest, at 68 soon to be 69, seen enough of em. lol

Onward I go, throat was scratchy and sore this am, so I got some ice cream and cough drops for it and some chicken for the NFL games later. In the meantime, I wonder if I am doing the right thing, by trying to get out more and interact with others or not. Seems, some people don’t like me period, and because of that I usually stay at home. I don’t like people who think their shit don’t stink, or think they are better than everyone else, or smarter than all. Their not really, they just have this big ego and big mouth they use to say stupid things without thinking first. But, hey, as mom told me as a child, engage brain before you speak, is the only advice I can give these folks. Some accuse other of doing things they never did, and some accuse others of things they think we did, when in fact they do them themselves. It’s a crazy world ya know, and humanity itself, is not really stable in all ways. I know I am not loved by many, who live here and as far as I am concerned I am not worried about it, anymore. I used to worry about it, but then, I figured out, no one is going to love everybody and no will get along with everyone either, so why force it. I am me, and that is who I be, if you don’t like me avoid me and I shall return the favor for you. I think that makes better sense then hiding, or fighting with someone verbally, mentally or physically. So that is how I live, so if I don’t talk to you, much, please understand, it’s either you made it clear by your actions and replies you don’t like me, or I just don’t care for you either. I hope that makes sense. I know it does for me.

In my life, I have many different friends, and I still have some from when I was 14 years old and guess I always will, at least I hope so. I still have friends from my service days too, and my two marriages actually. I am not that difficult to get along with really. Yet, for some strange reason, some misread me, or don’t like my sense of humor or style, whatever. I can only say what I always say to some, I am me, who else can I be! So, as life goes on, I have learned I don’t like stuck up people, I don’t like people who think they are better than I. I don’t like people who think you said or did something when you didn’t, and who never stop to ask, if you did. I am not in love with liars, or thieves, I hate violence also. I think live should be live peacefully, and it should be fun. I had enough pressure situations in my life, in my childhood, my teenage years and as an adult who was married twice and in the service for 16 years. all I want is some peace, and happiness, some laughter, a way to relax. Is that too much to ask folks?

Now being 68 and turning 69 in a lil over one month, I cam honestly say, I never hurt anyone on purpose. I never was a physical person, nor did I torture or bother anyone mentally. I am not a vengeful soul either, I usually just walk away. No sense trying to change anyone else, the only time I hit anyone was to protect myself, period. Time does not change my nature or who I be, I shall always be just me.

Since moving here, I have seen many different types of people, both male and female. The stuck up woman, or the macho man images come to mind for some. Then there is the intellectual types, or those who rely on an attempt at humor to fit in. Then, there is the sarcastic ones too, they are sarcastic about everything they say to anyone and try to hide it behind a giggle, or a laugh, saying they didn’t mean it when they did. people are funny, and you can usually read it, if your patient, and smart enough to. You learn, you see, and you react appropriately, to avoid problems. That’s my way anyway. I never judge a book by it’s cover, I learned long ago, what’s inside a person may be totally different than the cover they show. All, have a way of protecting themselves in place they have learned to do, as they go along.

After two marriages, Two of everything for 40 years, I am now back to just me. No woman in my life, no children to pay for, no big homes to care for, just a decent condo, in a 55 plus community in a small Massachusetts town. A small car and all I need to survive. I read a lot these days, some politics, some murder stories, some biographies. I build puzzles, Walk when the weather is good. I play on the internet, and watch television. It is one day at a time for me now. Shop one day for food, do my laundry as needed, cook for myself and thats my way of life, simple is all. No I do not chase the women here and never will, just so that is known by those who thought otherwise.

I decided after I was asked to try to start a Single’s Group here in my community. To be honest, I have no interest in any kind of relationship. I am doing so, to help Widows and Widowers, but, I am not qualified as a grief counselor, so I had to expand it to all singles. So I did, and will see how it goes. I know at 68 going on 69, no woman wants an old man like me, and I never was a handsome person lol. Hopefully, it will help the ladies and gents here.

The other thing that has my interest, is Veterans and what we need. Many towns have places for Veterans to go and be with others and to entertain them, as well as to provide for their care. So, I was told there was a position open on The Veteran’s Board for the town, so I thought it over. I applied in the hope I may be of assistance to the town and the Veterans. I hope in my own way I can, but time shall tell.

In January, I turn 69 years old, and I have now outlived my father, mother and step-father as well as my mother. All died between 55 and 60 years old. I have one brother is older by a few years I never see, a sister I see now and then and a younger brother who I never see also. One of the five of us died at 30 years old many years ago now. My grandfathers died in their early 70’s, one at 72 and the other at 74, as far as I know. So how long I have left is a question for me, considering I have PTSD, 6 herniated discs in my spine, and more aliments. Pain is like a second constant for me, and I survive. I had Attention Deficit Disorder and Hyper-Activity as a child. I still overcame. I am the only one in my family with a college degree I believe, so I did ok. I write a lot or poetry, short stories and this blog. I do have short stories online and poems. Life hasn’t always been a bowl of jello for me, yet I never surrender or give up. As my life goes forward, I just hope, I can live it out in peace and some happiness.

Embracing Change: Insights for Seniors in the New Year


Hello all, it’s Saturday December 14th , 2024 already! The year has flown by for me and I believe for many others also. An old song said it best, Time, Time, Time, it’s telling me a story. Time does march on no matter what as we all know, and in less than two weeks we hit Christmas again and then the New Year of 2025 will be next. My hope is for a peaceful time for all, but, I know that may not be, due to changes in government, politics and attitudes. yet, asa Senior Citizen I am doing what many before me and with me will be doing, keeping my head low, saving my money and surviving, the best I can. It is a basic approach for sure, but a necessary one in today’s American world.

I set for myself some objectives for 2025 and I hope to full fill them the best I can. Every year people world wide make resolutions for themselves and try to stick to them, well I am no different. With one exception, I try to make any resolutions I make, realistic and attainable. Making resolutions that are unrealistic, just dampens down the hope one has, so make them realistic and honest and you may attain them.

I have resolved to try to get out more and be more friendly and open to others. I have resolved also, to avoid negative people with bad attitudes. Look, I am honest about this, I can not take angry, mad people, who believe no matter what, they are right, and everyone else is wrong. I can’t stand people with a stick up their ass, because they believe they are better than all of us. I will avoid them from now on. I do not like people who have what I call double standards. It’s ok for them to do something, but not for you or I right! Bull shit!

I have resolved to avoid people who can turn nasty in a heartbeat, for stupid minor reasons also. It all seems so childish and immature to me. Now I have been convinced in the past by friends, to return to the fray so to say and hold the course and give others a second chance, that’s fine. But, as the old saying goes, fool me once shame on me, fool me twice forget me. I shall just do what is right for me and avoid trouble when I see it, from now on. I am I guess set in my ways at my age, and yes I can be sometimes a pain in the ass, or accidently upset someone, but never intentionally like others I have seen. No one is perfect and I am far from that, but I am not ignorant, nasty, impolite to people on purpose like some I see.

That said, I wanted to open up the possibilities I had coming in the new year and try to help others and myself. So volunteered to open a new Club where i live and give it a try, if it doesn’t work, like some have told me, well, it’s no hair off my ass, at least I gave it a shot. I also wanted to try to join in more events and clubs where I live and talk to more people in general. Since my wife passed in 2021 and I moved here to Chauncy Lake in Westborough, Ma. I have kept to myself for the most part. I think even if I get involve din more clubs here and volunteer for service elsewhere in town, I must guard against cruel, uncaring people, with nasty attitudes. I learned growing up there are two types of people in the world, one is the competitive ones who must win at everything they do, and the second is like me, non-completive, and able to accept when we lose with a smile. Winning at silly game is not important to me, never was, it not whether you win or lose it how much fun you have playing it. For the competitive person you tell them that, and they will argue with you over it, and tell you what’s the sense if you don’t win? Simple folks, just trying to fit in and be social and acceptable counts.

As time rolls on now, and 2024 comes to it’s end and 2025 begins to come in focus and to begin, we must remember first and foremost all are human. We have flaws, we have faults, we are not perfect and we must all learn to accept the same in one another. Secondly, we must all come to realize we can not get along with everyone we meet, so we learn to adapt and choose and avoid the ones we don’t. I have learned in many ways since living in a 55 plus community, life is not a bowl of cherries so to say. You won’t love all your neighbors, you can’t be friends with all, but you can be kind, generous and you can avoid those who don’t accept you for who you are. It is what I must do, in my own life. You want to know the people to avoid, angry people, nasty people, impolite or insulting people, bossy people, and in the end, people who are two faced, liars, and just down right rude. Thats the list I avoid and will going into 2025.

For 2025, I want to smile more, I want laugh more, I want to write more, I want to live like I was dying. Try to go places and see things i have never seen, enjoy the company of people I have never met, learn from those around me. But, I also want to be able to accept the difference and move forward, and keep a good nature to me. I have never been discriminating against anyone, nor am I predijuced against anyone. I don’t usually hold hate in, and I don’t hate for no reason. So to those who do, do me a favor, look in the mirror first, for if you hate so much, you must also hate yourself. Just my belief.

As 2025 comes into focus, America faces changes, it faces things it never thought it would. As Americans we must fight against, being drawn into wars, for we have enough of our own problems here at home. Immigration and the border isone thing to fight, but it must be fought with common sense, and compassion. We can’t lock up women and children, or toss them in a haphazard manner with out caring. We shouldn’t allow the Department of Education to be shut down either. Nor should we allow, vaccines that saved billions of Americans and others in the world to be banned. This will only bring back illness and death to the world and America. So many things are being planned by Trump and his new Administration that are not logical in any way. For instance, What is Elon Musk doing, being given the control of the American budget for? I remind all Elon Musk is a South African, who immigrated here, and now he is going to be leading DOGE! What is that shit? He is going to decide for America, how many employees our government is going to have? Nice, that means an increase in the unemployment ranks for sure, and more damage to our economy. You can’ just cut jobs and benefits to working people and think we will be ok folks, it doesn’t work that way.

As 2025 comes into focus in my mind, I am glad in many ways I am over 68, retired and on my own. But, us seniors and veterans, disable or not, depend on our social security checks and disability checks to survive. We earned them, and it would be nasty to cut us. As to Social Security, future generations not grandfathered in or currently collecting, they want to strip you of this. Will Americans be foolish enough to allow it? It’s you future, and I expect you may wake up when you find out they are trying to, and all the work and payments in you made will not be there for you when you can’t work anymore. But, who am I right, I am an average American guy is all, but logic tells me this direction is not good for future generations, my kids, my grandchildren and more. It’s a sad state of affairs if it happens.

Women in the military serve daily and have now for many decades. They provide and serve strongly in many positions of importance. From Nursing to engineering, to leadership and more. Now they want to say women can not go into battle zones. Let me say this, it didn’t stop women from doing so, during the American Revolution, or during the Civil War, or any of the World Wars, or wars since. They knew their purpose, they volunteered and died in service too. They know the risk like all men do. Stop trying to take away their rights. Stop trying to tell them what to do with their bodies too. Let them have abortions, if it was you daughter who was raped, you would want her safe. Incest happens, no female should be forced to carry a pregnancy full term and give birth to a baby she didn’t want in the first place. It’s sad world, what’s next you going to repeal the right to vote for women?

2025, marks my 69th year alive, I was born in 1956. I was raised in the 1960’s and 70’s. Life was different then. We got disciplined and corrected regularly. Our parents worked hard, came home raised us even if both of them worked. We never were hungry, we never were naked, we never were cold, and we went to school, when we were supposed to. We didn’t have computers, and video games and consoles, or big screen tvs. No, we went outside and played. We played with other children, we played sports, ran the woods and laughed and cried. Mom would say, be home by dark or by supper and we did it. We survived. Look privilege is one thing, money doesn’t buy common sense though does it, it doesn’t buy social skills or logic either. You learn it as you grow up because your parents teach it to you. They should anyway and they should have taught you manners too. If they didn’t they failed you in many ways. Today, too many parents leave their children to video game consoles to be babysat. Mine never did. They taught us to clean and cook too, to dress ourselves and the normal habits you should have of being clean and neat in appearance. What happened to that America folks? What happened to teaching morals and ethics to your children? Where did that world go, America?

Let me close this way today, 2025 will be a large change for all Americans as a society. I have a prediction for America for the future. I see it as a falling Empire, like the Aztecs, The Incas, the Romans, and even the Germans. we are failing because we do not adhere to what works, we change too many things. Ever stop to remember the old saying folks; Leave things alone if they work, don’t mess with it? Well America has messed with too many of it’s core values, and it will pay a price like all the empires and societies before us. As, Ben Franklin said after the Constitution was Signed, We shall have a republic as long as we keep it! When we start to deviate too far, we shall lose it and fall from grace, and lose our democracy and republic and our rights without realizing we are. I hope it doesn’t happen, at least in my remaining lifetime, but when it does, the the last great Empire and nation on the planet shall disappear!.

Embracing New Beginnings: Community and Growth in 2024


As the year of 2024 heads towards it’s conclusion, America faces a Second Trump Presidency, high home costs and food costs too. It faces a President who shall run it like an Autocrat, and will have to fight to survive it. The battle will be to keep the Democratic/ Republic the Founding Fathers found it.

For me, I am moving forward in my own ways. Medically being checked out, because I am turning 69 soon enough. Eye appointments, pet scans, and more. Then, I am tired of being alone so much, and at almost 69, I am looking to meet more people. Loneliness kills actually so I am stepping out in two ways. First I created a singles club here in the condo compound i live in. The idea is to see if we can get the two genders to interact and get along, and go out having fun. It is not intended as a dating thing, but a friendship thing, where we all have fun. From that who knows what may grow.

Then I was told about a volunteer position for the Town or Westborough, as a member of the Veteran’s Board. I applied there hoping to join in to help fellow Veterans of all kinds and myself included. As a 16 year Veteran who was disabled serving my country, I want the Veteran’s here to have all they need and can get for help, from The Veteran’s Administration and the Town we live in. If there is anyone who deserves help, it is our Veteran’s who served Honorably.

I am hoping by getting involve in these programs and clubs, I can expand my own involve and have fun doing so. If it works out, I will be happy.

As 2024 passes for me it is now over 3 years since I lost my wife to cancer. Yes I still miss her, and yes I will always miss her. But, as I told one person, those of us who suffer such a loss of a loved one, must take the time to grieve and then move on. For with our loved once lost, we must steady ourselves, take one step at a time, into getting out again and interacting more. We the survivors and widowers and widows,, can only deal with the grief in our own ways, and for each of us, it will bea different time line for sure. If you are one like me, you will, hit a time, when you feel you are still here and must do something for yourself again and on your own. We deserve to find a partner, or a friendship with the opposite gender, to make our lives whole again.

So, as, we head into the Christmas Season this year, I want to wish all, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year ahead. I hope all can find someone, something, or someway to carry on and enjoy life in their fullest. For as the New Year of 2025 comes at us, we deserve to be happy, content like all the rest, it is up to each of us, to make the best out of what we have and can do.

As 2024 runs out at a fast pace, it is time to lift ourselves up, save our money, hold our homes and find some happiness and contentment in our own ways. God Bless all and may 2024 as it ends, disappear slowly and comfortably for all, ad Mat 2025 bring Happiness, Joy, Contentment, and relationships for all of us, who need them most. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All !

Supporting Veterans and Seniors: Community Needs and Solutions


As the snow flies and settles on the ground for the first time this year in my area of Massachusetts, I watch the battle over the incoming Presidential Administration and President and go what did we do? I voted the other way, so yes I may be a bit bias here, but, I pray we survive, the next four years of autocratic rule, under Trump. I tire of those who are woke, or die-hard MAGA backers, saying it won’t be bad, we will be fine. Before you say that, I say lets wait and see, where it goes from this.

First up now is Trump’s Nominations for Cabinet Positions. As we found out quickly, Matt Gaetz did not make it far, as his Attorney General Pick. Now we are on to a man, Pete Hegseth, who is a accussed sexual abuser, and some say heavy drinker and possible alcoholic. While he served his country, and yes I saw that, one with a temper and opinion of women not belonging in the military is just dead wrong for the Department of Defense. Look, America has had a military of both genders for many decades and more. Women provide expert care medically, they provide excellent warfare too. We have seen it over time, so why, try to kick them out? In my opinion, anyone who drinks, has a temper and a sour opinion of one gender or the other does not belong handling the budget and deployment of our military in anyway. What is needed is a military person, who is stable, experienced, fast thinking and not predijuced or discriminating in anyway. Someone who has experience in leadership, and knows the military might, and won’t try to steal from it’s budget. Hegseth, has been accussed of syphoning funds from Veterans Organizations in the past, he should not be let loose with a budget like our military has.

That said, next, thought by me currently. Here in my Hometown, in Massachusetts, I was talked to about a Volunteer position on a Veterans Board for a Senior/ Veteran’s Center in town. I applied, whether I get the position or not, I know as a Disabled Veteran myself, what Veterans need. We do not ask for others to be overly empathic to us, or to pity us. We like to be listened to, and at least recognized for the sacrifices we made, while serving. We want our benefits yes, monetary wise and medically. We would like a Veteran’s area the does in some ways cater to us. Some of us need counseling for PTSD, Help for injuries and loss of limbs. Some of us need a place we can gather and hold informal gathering to talk about our service time. Some of us need prescription coverage and we have that thru the Veteran’s administration, but not all veterans know where to go to get help, who to call, and how to qualify. Some of us have lost our DD-214s, and records and need to access them for help. We need Veteran’s Counselors in The Senior center for these reasons.

There is a need for exercise equipment, special seating and tables, wheelchairs. Veteran’s want things to occupy their minds and their spirits and hearts too. Things like pool tables, ping pong tables, puzzles and books. Art and Craft services also, for Veterans need to know they are giving back for all they get and many have hidden artistic talents. They have ideas, they can put forth to help themselves and others and they understand that what will be accepted, are those items and ideas that help them but also the whole community. Interaction between Seniors and their community and Veterans and their community will not only help Veterans and Seniors, but their families also. Relieving some of the burden on the families of veterans and Seniors will help the community and give families a break from constant caring and pressure, they go through.

To have a phycologist on hand, once a week or monthly, would help also. as I stated earlier, Veterans and Seniors do not want pity, we do not want, unnecessary attention, because someone feels empathic for us or think because we are injured or hurt or senior citizens, no we want a place to be among people our own age, our own special types of people like veterans. There will be a time when the only ones who understand what a Veteran is going through will be another veteran, just as, the Senior population at times would like to be among their own age group for interactions, discussions, support and more.

There should be a quiet spot for those who want some time alone or isolation too. This gives them time to gather their thoughts and ideas and to calm down if upset. While, card games and other interactions will help also, it is best to encourage Veterans and Seniors in many of the same ways. So, yes, social events would help also, such as help with meals, or financial planning and help in who to contact and how, for certain things. Emergency Services, should be available by the staff who run the center, with the phone lines and internet addresses available.

Sometimes, a Veteran or a Senior may just want to Zone out, and relax and try to either calm down or handle their anxieties and fears. Television rooms can be handy for this. Sometimes it takes, just one other person to be present to help someone to start talking, and discussing and getting advice from. No two Seniors, or two Veterans are the same folks, each has their own unique difficulties, and problems and things they need help with. Some need special help at home, and there should be references to Nursing and Medical Help lines and Ambulances. Hospitals will always be available of course in our area, advice on which ones Veterans can go to, or a Senior person should go to, should be listed.

As, times change so shall the needs of both Veteran’s and Senior Citizens. we must have a place for ideas, recommendations, and from both the Veteran’s and Seniors. Some place or box or bin, to drop in their ideas, their needs requests, so as a Community and a combined Senior and Veteran’s Center, can be brought forward and discussed and if needed and approved, instituted, for all who use the Center.

A Director or Manager must be on site 24/7 when the Center is open. A Finanacial Officer is needed to control costs within budget and to come up with ways to increase funding by donations and more. A Out Reach Program to reach the community and let them know the needs of the Senior/ Veterans Center is vital. The more the community of Westborough, understands, the better for the Center and those who use it. many will says, oh, we don’t have a Veteran in our family or we don’t need Senior care for some in our families. It must be pointed out that as we age we all need help in some way, and that Veterans specifically, served all of us. And that you may never know, when your son or daughter, will decide to join the Military, and serve their country. It is understood, that many now a days, won’t volunteer, due to political or personal beliefs, fears or whatever. In the end it must be pointed out that because many did and do each day, we are a free and patriotic and democratic republic. We owe the Seniors and The Veteran’s in many ways, and we should help and support each of them, in any way we can. For as we age as citizens, both men and women, we all should acknowledge our Veterans and Seniors, they gave so we can be free and a decent society.

A large part of any Senior/ Veterans Center should be social functions, such as meals for the needy, bingo, and dances, for all of both sexes to mingle. Many Seniors are lonely and believe they will never find a new partner in their lives. Age does that to all of us folks and we must remember any help with preventing the loneliness syndrome in the Seniors and Veterans. is vital. There are many Seniors and Veterans who are dealing with emotional trauma, ptsd, loss of a spouse, and they need someone to talk to and interact with, to help them through the difficult times.

As I, finish writing this today, I stop and remember the Widows and Widowers who sudenly found themselves alone. The Veterans who sit at home by themselves, wondering where to turn next for help. Not all, are capable of caring for themselves, or for others around them. What is needed also is a program that reaches out more aggressively, for Volunteers to help Veterans and Seniors. While the newsletters and pamphlets are well done currently, a more intense effort must be made, in this area, due to the increasing population of Seniors, Veterans and more.

These are a few of the ideas and thoughts I have regarding the Veterans and Seniors of Westborough and our community. I am sure, there are many more things that can be brought up and out and can be considered too. Special Events trips for shopping, sports or events and more can be used too. While I am just one person, as a Senior Citizen and Veteran, many of these thoughts are ideas. It would take work, and effort to put many in place and improve what is ahead.

Surviving Political Turmoil: Tips for Americans


Hello December 4th, 2024, grey and overcast outside here and cold, 22 degrees this am in Westborough, Ma. As we head deeper into December and toward the end of 2024, I havea few suggestions for the average american, and the lower income families.

  1. Do not buy expensive items, keep the car or home you have, if you have one.
  2. Save money at every turn you can, especially over the next four years.
  3. Be prepared for changes economically and politically, at all times.
  4. Watch the Incoming President closely, for mental and physical disabilities.
  5. Trump is 78 and not physically or mentally healthy, be prepared in case JD Vance takes over.
  6. Stop and think what you did electing Trump, on the world stage and at home here, you will see many things.
  7. Trump’s picks for his cabinet will all be in trouble as we go along.
  8. Gaetz went down in flames, Hegswith will be next and be prepared for a major fight over Tulsi Gabbard too.
  9. Be prepared for Trump’s retribution plan to start taking effect immediately.
  10. Kash Patel can not and should not be FBI Director, he is radiacl and dangerous.
  11. Our relationships with Russia, Koreans, and dictators worldwide will change, for the worse.
  12. lastly but mostly Senior citizens, must fight back against Trump killing or attempting to kill, Medicad, Medicare and Social Security. We paid in for Social Security it’s out money.

Let me close this blog today with a statement of my own opinion. 248 years ago, America became a nation, undera constitution and the bill of rights. The forefathers of our nation, Washington, Jefferson, Adams,Hamilton, Franklin, and more, if they had seen Trump attack his own capital, destroy it to the point he had his MAGA crowd did, what would they have done? My answer is simple, Trump would never have gotten to the White House and Presidency the first time, never minda second term. Back then, the Founding Fathers would have declared trump a Traitor to the nation, and tarred and feathered him and drove him from the country. The only person in American History, compatable with Trump and all he has done, was Benedict Arnold. In the end Arnold was banished from america to Britain, and died crying to get back in, as he died in his American Uniform. Trump deserves no less for all he has done to America in my opinion.

Unlike Donald John Trump, I served my country for 16 years on a Volunteer basis, I did not hide behind bunyons or anything else. I served with pride and I am proud of it today. Trump was friends with and participated with Jeffery Epstien and his island of perversion. Yet, no soays anything about that, why? Trump couldn’t build his wall he failed, he didn’t get Mexico to pay for it either. On top of it all he mishandled and mismanaged the Covid epidemic, and told Americans to drink Bleach. Yet, people voted him back in office as President again?

America has mad ethe biggest mistake in it’s history, because Americans are gullable, foolish, uneducated and have lost the common sense and logic they need to survive. So, I shall survive an dother salike me will also ofthe same opinion, but out nation will roll down a hill economically, diplomactically, and in the eyes of the world over the next four years. Hang on Americans, the ride is about to get nasty, and badly mangaged by a man who deserves to be in prison. He sexually harrassed and attacked women, he was convicted 34 times, yet, a convict will run the country. What is wrong in America is simple, too many believe Trump’s cons, now we must pay for that mistake, over the next four years. God Bless America folks. For like lal the great empires and civillizations in the world, America has now reached it’s point of decline, beyond repair. It took 248 years to reach it, but here it is folks!

The Hypothetical Shift to Autocracy in the U.S.


What would an autocratic America look like?

Imagining an autocratic America paints a rather stark picture. The essence of autocracy is concentrated power, typically in the hands of a single leader or a small group, with minimal political pluralism. Here’s what it might involve:

Key Elements of an Autocratic America:

  1. Centralized Power: A single leader or ruling party holds significant control over the government. This often involves bypassing democratic institutions like Congress and the judiciary, leading to a concentration of power.
  2. Limited Political Freedoms: Political opposition is often suppressed, and dissent is not tolerated. This might involve the restriction or elimination of free speech, assembly, and press freedoms.
  3. Censorship and Propaganda: Media would likely be heavily controlled by the state to ensure that only the official narrative is broadcast. Independent journalism would struggle to survive.
  4. Restricted Civil Liberties: The rights of citizens, such as privacy and protection from arbitrary arrest, might be significantly curtailed. Surveillance and policing could become much more pervasive.
  5. Economic Control: The government may exert strong influence over the economy, potentially including nationalization of industries and redistribution of resources to maintain support.
  6. Erosion of Checks and Balances: Traditional mechanisms that ensure accountability, such as independent judiciary and legislative oversight, would be weakened or eliminated.

Impacts on Society:

  1. Social Polarization: Autocracy could deepen social divides, with those in favor of the regime enjoying privileges, while dissenters face discrimination or persecution.
  2. International Relations: The shift could lead to strained relationships with democratic nations and alignments with other autocratic states, potentially altering global dynamics.
  3. Public Fear and Compliance: Fear of retribution could foster a culture of compliance and silence, stifling innovation, creativity, and critical thinking.

While this is a hypothetical scenario, it’s important to consider that societies are resilient and people often find ways to resist authoritarian tendencies. The United States’ foundation of democratic principles and a tradition of civil liberties serve as robust safeguards against such a shift.

What’s your perspective on how such a dramatic change might be resisted or mitigated?

Gullibility and Governance: Lessons from the 2024 Election


As December 2024 begins in earnist, the weather gets colder here, yet the time flies by. 2024 has been a year of difficulties for many Americans as food prices rose, and utilities and oil and gas too. Yet, President Biden did his best and got most of it under control and back down some. No, one is saying Biden wasa great President that I have heard, the word that comes to mind is decent.

We now face a return to the Trump Years starting in January of 2025. I did not vote for Trump and never would vote in a convicted felon like Trump is. Yet, people put him in office again! I do not run around screaming about Trump winning, but, I hate the fact he did. The economy will tumble again, people without money will end up paying for it all too. Trump does not care about the average American or the middle or lower class, he did a great job, buffaloing the American people.

As your taxes go up, and you lose benefits like Social Security and Medicare and Medicaid be aware you brought it upon yourself, no one else did it. As you see the Rich, get richer due to more Trump tax breaks, stop and think, you were warned before you voted. When your FBI is led by Kash Patel, your DNI is Tulsi Gabbard, your Attorney General is Pam Bondi, and they turn on you at Trump’s orders, don’t cry, you asked for it. When the newly formed, DOGE, led by Musk and Ramaswamy kill the Education Department, cut back thousands of federal employees, don’t cry. You voted for it.

When Putin laughs at Trump and does as he pleases, don’t cry, when Canada returns the tariff favors don’t cry or Mexico tells Trump to fuck off, don’t cry. You Voted for all of it folks, you the MAGA crowd and Trump backers. When Trump pulls us from Nato, and the world becomes more communist, don’t cry, you voted for Trump! The world folks is laughing at America, for voting a convicted felon, sex offender into the Presidency. They now know how gulliable and stupid and easily led the American people really are. It is about to become a sad, desperate world where, the lower classes, the african americans, the hispanics and the immigrants, have to hide to survive and beg to eat and for homing, don’t cry, you voted for Trump!

Many who voted MAGA and Trump have no idea what they voted for or why in my opinion. They jumped on the MAGA bandwagon and rode it to his second shot at the Presidency, now I pray, we all can suvive what is coming. His picks for his Administration and the important positions of this country, are set up for nothing more than retribution for him. He is going to attack, the Justice System, Prosecutors, and legal laws of the land. His FBI Director wants to shut down the FBI, think about that folks. Think about this too, Musk, who is South African born and raised and the richiest man in the world, is gonna cut the federal budget for you right? Ten to one, it raises the money in his coffers and Trumps too. Sadly, none of the Trump and MAGA voters stopped to think about any of the above, now, because they were partying and having fun at Trump rallies where he lied his ass of to all, we shall all pay for the next four years. How about Robert F. Kennedy Jr. running the HHS, what a pick huh? This is a man who said a worm got into his brain! And he is gonna run the HHS be real. BUt, I am just one person, my opinions are my own of course, but I would recommend, the American People, walk lightly, save your money and hold on, for the roughest and worse, next four years, in American History, ever.

As I close this blog today, I can not help but stop to think about American History and World History ay once. We have seen the fall of the greatest civilizations in the world over time. The Aztecs, The Incas, The American Indian, The Romans, and yes The Germans too. Even Russia fell numerous times to be rebuilt under new Leaders. As each fell from power and greatness, they were led by men like Trump. They fell for different reasons of course, but, each fell due to thinking they were the best there ever was. In fact their leaders led them to disasters and their fall from grace. America after 248 years, has fallen under the cult of MAGA and Trump himself. There is no excuse Americans, for the gulliability, the failure of you to choose correctly. Now we will start the actualy downfall of the Great American Empire like all the rest. I wonder and you should too, What would America’s Founding Fathers, Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, our heros through history and their actions, think now? You tell me Americans, for I know, if Trump had pulled what he did on January 6th, 2021, back in their day, what would have happened to him? He would have been driven out, tar and feathered and embarrased. The Founding Fathers would have never allowed Trump anywhere back near the White House, you did, now the price must be paid for the next four years!