“TREEHOUSE MASTERS”…Young men building tree houses

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PETE NELSON has singlehandedly engaged a crew of young men to join him in making fantasy real. Who would have thought that childhood dreams could be a grown man’s means of supporting his family.

While Pete is no longer a young “whippersnapper,” he is definitely way out in front of the pack in his youthful antics. He whips around like a whirling dervish. He is up to any challenge. He scales hillsides and trees with nary a concern for his own safety. He delights in every detail that enhances the whimsical nature of the tree house. And his hugs are thoroughly heartfelt with the warmth and love of a child.

Beyond what Pete Nelson brings to the whimsical world of fantastical tree houses, he contributes something even more important. And, to my mind, magical. Pete teaches the next generation of young men that college is not necessarily for everyone. That manual labor is just as important and highly valued as technical wizardry. Both are essential to our survival as human beings.

Who decided that technical skills were relics of the past? And the not too distant past either. I may not be a “spring chicken,” but I’m no dinosaur either. When I was a girl growing up in Maui, there were technical schools which one or more of my brothers attended. They weren’t academically inclined, so they had an alternative route to pursue. I’m not sure anything like that exists today. Sadly. Perhaps the lack of society valuing non-academic pursuits contributes to young men feeling undervalued as human beings. Especially here in America.

Most, if not all, of the gun violence is perpetrated by young men. Why is that? I’m not naive enough to think my seemingly simplistic idea of technical schools are the answer to all society’s problems. But it’s perhaps an answer to a career roadblock for a segment of population.

The young men building tree houses alongside Pete Nelson exude such enthusiasm for what they are doing, it’s difficult for me to accept that more young men wouldn’t benefit from learning physical skill sets.

Men are expected to take care of their families. Why shouldn’t they do so with the same sense of wonder and joy, as when they were youths? At this stage in my life, my suggestion to young folks is to “live your best life now.”

Notice the small things. Take pleasure in them. Plan for the “big things” that are within reach. And indulge in these now. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Yesterday is behind us, existing only in our minds.

Given today’s hostile political environment and growing tensions worldwide, living in the present seems more imperative than ever. We can’t control the future of others, we can only do what positive we can with what we have and release that energy into the universe where endless possibilities exist for transformation.

Watching grown men revel in building tree houses for the childlike delight of others, seems as befitting a prayer to God, as any offered by Pope Leo in the Sistine Chapel.

God loves you…and so do I, hugmamma.

Life’s “little things “

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“Enjoy the Little Things in Life… For Someday You Will Realize They Were The Big Things.”

I have always been focused upon life’s minutia. Perhaps much to the chagrin of some with whom I’ve crossed paths. Like the man supervising one of our several home renovations in the last home we owned on the mainland. Because I’d wanted to ensure that our budget included exactly what I wanted, I believed in being as specific as possible. Unfortunately, I happened upon the supervisor ridiculing me to one of the workers. Having “crossed a line,” I refused to continue with the contractor until he assigned us a different supervisor. And he did.

As an antidote to much of what’s on TV these days, I watch a lot of home renovation shows. One of my “go to’s” is BARGAIN BLOCK. It features a “gay” couple, Keith, the artist “extraordinaire,” and Evan, the master builder. Together, they are a very formidable construction duo. What makes them unusual is their dedication to changing Detroit “one block at a time.” They buy houses that are seemingly beyond salvation, and save what is salvageable, and rebuild what is not.

The “little thing,” for me, is that a gay couple is making their life’s work one of improving the lives of the lesser fortunate in Detroit. Mostly black folks. Oh! And I forgot to mention that Keith and Evan are both white men.

I still can’t wrap my brain around it. To me, this is a “big deal.” Two gay, white men creating beautifully restored houses and making them affordable for mostly black families.

Keith and Evan have truly found their place in God’s universe. Along with their realtor-friend, a charming black woman, Shea Hickman-Whitfield, they have drawn upon their combined, positive energy to give back. In the process, I’m certain the trio will “land on their feet” amid the latest brouhaha with HGTV.

Positive energy begets positive energy. I truly believe that.

God loves you, and so do I…hugmamma.

“Angels don’t always have wings, sometimes they have whiskers.”

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“Once upon a time there was a girl who loved cats. It was me. The end.”

These are quotes from tin signs I have hanging in my bathroom. Along with many other such tin signs. Like “Today I choose joy.” They inspire positivity. Something to which I aspire each and every day. Some days, I need a little more “oomph” than others.

I have always had pets. Cats, mostly, and a couple of dogs. Not that I wouldn’t have been happy with bunnies, or a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig, or a fainting goat. Ha, ha. I did have a Guinea pig named “Samantha.” “Sam” for short. She was cute, but not really huggable. Too small, I think, and not really cuddly.

Shadowing me to the bathroom, for an abundance of pets, is Ebi. She is blondish/orangish with a few streaks of blackish-grey. Probably the last, but by no means the least, of my pets. Salem, her “brother,” is my other “popoke.” Hawaiian for “cat.” They truly contribute to my well-being. Truly.

Now that I’m a “captive audience,” I relish being able to pet them for as long as they, or I, want. No more rushing hither and yon, taking care of business. No more putting my pets last, hoping they understand. No more feeling guilty when I don’t spend time with them. Petting them on the run. Too pooped at the end of the day to do much but give them quick pets. Of course, they never complain.

One of my goals now is to live longer than Ebi and Salem. I want to be the one who comforts them when they pass. I want to look into their eyes as they draw their last breath. Their “mom” since they were a couple of years old, they are my “babies.”

I’ve been with some of my pets when they have gone home to God. It’s never easy, especially when they are suffering. My tears at their passing always included feelings of guilt for not having spent more quality time with them. It didn’t matter if I had a job, or a child to raise. I thought I could do it all.

So now, I revel in my kitties. They are my “fur angels.” They hover nearby, and love me without reservations. I feel as though we are intricately entwined. As if God brought us together for a reason. They need me; I need them. They bring out the best in me.

Pets react only when they feel endangered. Otherwise, they preserve their energy. They are “chill,” if their environment is “chill.” They don’t reach for danger. They don’t dwell on fear. Or “what ifs, or “could a, would a, should a’s.” They live in the moment. Fully entrenched. Not one paw in the present, with the other reaching for the past or the future.

While I didn’t learn these things from my cats, but instead through meditation tapes, I soon realized that Ebi and Salem were already practicing what I, at 76, had not yet learned. (And humans pride themselves on being superior to animals. Judging from what’s going on in the world these days, I’m not so sure.)

“I AM YOUR FRIEND, YOUR PARTNER, YOUR CAT. YOU ARE MY LIFE, MY LOVE, MY LEADER. I WILL BE YOURS, FAITHFUL AND TRUE, TIL THE LAST BEAT OF MY HEART. I AM YOUR CAT.”

“In my darkest hour. I reached for a hand and found a paw.”

God loves you and so do I…hugmamma.

keep on…keeping on

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When one is old and disabled, like me, it becomes obvious that to “keep on…keeping on” becomes increasingly more difficult. Not that I think about it overly much, but there are moments when it’s pretty obvious that I’m NOT really “Wonder Woman” after all.

Unfortunately, l’ve learned the body “listens” to everything. So be careful what you wish for. Your “genie in the body” is ready to grant your wish. Even when it’s harmful to yourself.

Looking back over the years, decades really, I was heading in the wrong direction for a very long time. I should have remained true to what I wanted, instead of putting others needs ahead of mine. Women have a tendency to do that, because society dictates it.

During a recent Reiki healing session, the consultant said that we should remain in our own “energy lanes.” Meaning that we should not intermingle our energy with that of someone else’s. They have their own path; we have ours. While we may empathize with them, or vehemently disagree, we shouldn’t REACT emotionally as if the path was ours.

I think this is especially true for folks who are deeply empathetic and want to do whatever they can to make things better. The problem is they soon become so entangled in trying to resolve the issue, that they soon own it.

I have had to say to myself time and again, it is NOT my “energy lane.” I wish I had learned this particular lesson long, long ago. I might not be immunocompromised today. The problem is when you’re young and seemingly healthy, you think you can “take on the world’s problems.” You ARE Wonder Woman !!!

Of course, it’s a little harder with loved ones. Keeping to your own energy lane feels impossible. However, at 76, with major health issues to navigate, I know with certainty that I can no longer put others needs before my own. Putting myself first honors my loved ones desire that I be around with them for a long, long time.

So I do my utmost best each and every day to…KEEP ON…KEEPING ON.

God loves you and so do I…hugmamma.

A “Different”…Normal

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While at our local mall doing our walk-about recently, I was deeply moved by a man who momentarily sat beside me as I waited for my husband to complete his second pass around the mall. I had wanted to say something complimentary, without offending. However, he left before I could get the words out of my mouth.

You see, HE WAS A DWARF.

I’d never ever seen a dwarf in person. He was nicely groomed, just muscular enough to be attractive. Because of his grey and white streaked hair, I’d say he was in his 40’s. What surprised me was his ease with being a dwarf. I immediately felt my own health issues were somehow manageable.

The man scooted himself up onto the bench. Then he proceeded to try and hoist his small backpack onto his back. It took a few unsuccessful tries to get his right arm through the strap, so he switched and tried the other arm. Finally managing to get his backpack comfortably settled in place, the man left as quickly as he arrived. I don’t know if he could “feel” me watching him. While trying to think of what to say, I thought I’d give him time to sit back and relax. But, for whatever reason, our chat was not to be.

What intrigued me so much was how comfortable the man was in his dwarf body. In fact, there were normal-sized folks who looked unhappier, and unhealthier, than him.

I hope I see the man again. And next time, I won’t hesitate to chat with him.

God loves you and so do I. Hugmamma

HEALING

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ALL healing requires optimal conditions. Anger and fear do NOT contribute to healing. And since I’m on a journey to better health, I’m done with belly-aching about things beyond my control. Although I can be a part of the broader community sending positive vibrations out into the universe. What we send out; we get back. And I’m a sincere believer in UNIVERSAL HEALING ENERGY. So, I hope you join me in sending out JOY AND INCLUSION.

While I am normally resilient, some days are harder than others to launch my “mojo.” Couple an already depleted reservoir of energy due to my health issues, with countless, nightly visits to the bathroom due to medication and old age…it’s anyone’s guess how I manage to get out of bed at all. But I do. With God’s Light and Love guiding me, I do.

One of my favorite walking spots is a nearby mall. It’s large enough to guarantee I get 2,000+ steps in one pass, yet small enough as not to overwhelm me. In spite of its being Black Friday today, I could manage weaving in and out of the crowds. In fact, I felt exhilarated. I kept whispering to myself “I’m walking. I’m walking. I’m walking.” Meaning…some aren’t so lucky.

As I waited for my husband to finish his second pass around the mall to get his 5,000+ steps, I sat reading HEAL by Kelly Noon Gores. I had actually restarted it from the beginning, because it’s that good a read. I’d forgotten much of what I’d read a while back, and decided it was worth backtracking. One of the most significant testaments to how physical healing can be significantly impacted by trapped emotions is the miraculous case of Anita Moorjani.

Ms. Moorjani was in a coma, dying of lymphoma cancer which had progressed rapidly from a lump in her throat 4 years earlier to tumors “from the base of her skull, all around her neck, under her arms, in her chest, and all the way down to her abdomen.” Her organs were collapsing and (she) became comatose. On February 2, 2006, her family was advised she was only hours away from dying.

In retelling her story to Ms. Gores, the author, Anita said that while comatose, she was aware of her father’s presence. When he was alive, she had felt pressure to agree to an arranged Hindu marriage. But having been educated in Hong Kong, she grew up with British values. And so, she refused to acquiesce to their wishes. However, in her father’s other-worldly “presence” she felt none of the acrimony; but only love.

“Now here I was, with him in the other realm, and all I felt from him and for him was pure, unconditional love. There was no judgment from him at all for anything that I had done. In that moment I reached a state of complete and total clarity, and in that state of clarity, I understood why I had cancer. I understood how it was that every decision and every choice I had made in my life up to that point was made from fear.”

According to Anita, her father bid her to return to her life because “she must go back and fulfill her purpose, and it was in those moments that she felt herself coming out of the coma.” Five weeks later, she was cancer-free. She has all the medical records tracking her journey from beginning to end.

“During Anita’s near-death experience, she made a dramatic shift in the way she looked at life. She went from viewing life through a lens of fear—fear of judgment, fear of what other people think, fear of failure, and so on—to shifting her perception to one of love. Her body responded to her change in consciousness and it healed.”

As mentioned in a previous post, the opposite of LOVE is not hate, but FEAR. When we let go of fear, we can walk freely in God’s Love and Light. And heal ourselves inside and outside.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

Christianity…

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If it seems I’m on crusade against organized religion, you’d be correct. Having been a practicing Catholic for the better part of my life, my opinion is well-founded and based upon first-hand knowledge.

For decades, the Church was a proponent of the “underdog.” It sent nuns and priests around the world, gathering the downtrodden into its fold. While the religious missionaries were probably well-meaning, it’s very likely that the hierarchy wanted to enrich its coffers and add to its flock. Among them, far-away lands like China, Japan and the Philippines.

The Church of the Latter Day Saints is well-known for requiring its youth to serve as missionaries in other countries. I had 2 nephews who did stints in Latin America. The experience served them well in their personal lives. They are now exceptionally devoted husbands and fathers. Exceptional!

Again, my disdain is not for those who were charged with spreading Catholicism and Mormonism throughout the world. But rather, it is with the men in charge of these religious institutions here in America. They, who supported Trump for president and encouraged their followers to do so as well.

Trump promises to send immigrants of “color” back to wherever they came from. So the Catholic and Mormon hierarchy, and their followers who voted for Trump, agree that these unfortunate people should be sent packing.

So, I ask you. Why preach to the less fortunate about wanting to make their lives better by having them join the Mormon and Catholic churches…and, for that matter, other Christian denominations who preach about helping the less fortunate…if, when these people seek better lives in America, they are told that they don’t deserve to be here?

Essentially, what the missionaries are saying when they visit the downtrodden in their countries is “We’ll come to you when we want; but you can’t become Americans.” It’s as though the less fortunate are only useful, when they are useful. Otherwise, they are useless.

And, what about the homeless right here in America? Of which there’ll be many, many more once Trump implements Project 25. Why don’t the churches hell-bent on caring for the poor elsewhere in the world…start right here at home? I guess the streets here at home are not as exotic as those in far-away places.

Religion is NOT an institution. Religion is a way of life. It’s how we treat the less fortunate among us, wherever we find them. We share what we can, with joy and kindness in our hearts. And God’s Love and Light in our souls.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

30 Pieces of Silver

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I thought I’d be able to listen to the news again, but I was wrong. To see that there are more like Trump heading to the White House is gut wrenchingly sickening.

According to Matthew 26:15 of the New Testament, Judas turned Jesus over to the Jewish chief priests in exchange for 30 pieces of silver. Because Jesus posed a seismic shift away from what they had been preaching, the chief priests convinced the Jewish people to choose Barabbas, and not Jesus, when asked by Pontius Pilate who they wanted freed. Their choice condemned Jesus, Son of God, to death by crucifixion.

Granted, this is a simplified version of what happened. The history of the Jews is more complex and tragic.

What my years of religious schooling can’t stomach is how wealthy Jews and those in power, seem to constantly sell their people out for their own enrichment. Think Rupert Murdoch, Miriam Adelson and Bebe Netanyahu. Thankfully, the Jewish people, unlike their ancestors, are standing up to Netanyahu. Hopefully, they can take back their country from a growing dictatorship.

At the end of his life, Moses learned that the Jewish people would forever wander the earth in search of a home. God had chosen the Jews as the people to whom Jesus, His Son, would be born. That He would be condemned to die by the Jews, may have sealed their fate as nomads. Surrounded by mostly hostile Arab nations, Israel itself seems condemned to fail. As mentioned in an earlier post, Baba Vanga had predicted the world would be dominated by Muslims in 2043. It may be that she spoke the truth. Only time will tell.

So, how will the MAGA supporters divvy up the spoils of the new Trump Administration? At one time or another, they have all been antagonists, supporting opposing views… the white supremacists, the Netanyahu Loyalist Jews, the Gaza-sympathizing Muslims, The Nazi hard-liners, and the anti-abortion Christians.

And what do the rest of us do? Those of us who voted in favor of JOY and INCLUSION?

We celebrate the life God has bestowed upon us with our neighbors…loving them as we love ourselves. So that when our time on earth comes to a close, we know that we will have been walking in GOD’S LIGHT AND LOVE all the days of our lives.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

“THE” Church

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Although I was baptized and raised a Catholic, I recognize NOTHING familiar about the way Catholicism is practiced here in the United States. The vows of poverty and humility among the clergy is not apparent in today’s Catholic leaders. The so-called “Al Smith dinner for Catholic Charities” is a joke. In fact, the highlight is when the candidates for president are invited to sling jokes at one another.

So, I guess the the consensus among Catholic leaders, and their obedient followers, is that Kamala Harris lost their vote because she failed to show up at their joke fest. Well, in the end, I think the joke will backfire upon them.

Catholics-for-Trump” will be among those recognized in the history books as having taken a knife to democracy, once and for all.

As described in my previous post on abortion, I have been on both sides of the debate as an abortion survivor and as someone who considered abortion, because of my own traumatic upbringing. So when the Catholic Church began its “drumbeat” against abortion, I began to take a cold, hard look at its teachings. Chief among them, LOVE THY NEIGHBOR, AS THYSELF.

The further into the debate the Church got, the leaders seemed to be undermining their own teachings at every turn. Then began the slippery slope into other aspects of peoples’ lives.

Whatever happened to God’s gift to Adam and Eve, and to us by extension, of FREE WILL?

When did man and God become interchangeable? When did God revisit a descendant of Moses on the Mount? And print an addendum to the Ten Commandments.

I have always been a “Doubting Thomas.” Even as a kid. I was always of the mindset “Don’t just show me Jesus’ wounds, let me put my fingers in them to know He is returned from the dead.”

My problem is NOT with Pope Francis. As a man of color, he was a “man of the people” in his own country of Argentina. And he is still the same man. He is open to all people; not just “old-school” Catholics.

It’s the Catholic hierarchy in America who have “separated” themselves from Pope Francis and Catholicism, as it was founded. That ALL ARE EQUAL IN GOD’S EYES.

I believe that God created all of humankind, and bestowed upon all of us the right to choose with our own free wills…how to live our lives. The only rule He commanded we keep is TO LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS AS WE LOVE OURSELVES.

And, if that’s all hokum, well then the entire Catholic Church is founded upon hokum.

Yes. I can see that Harris might have chosen to skip the Al Smith dinner because of her position on abortion. And while that may have turned Catholics away from her, I feel Harris honored her belief that abortion should be left to the individuals. She didn’t choose to have it both ways. What would that have signaled to the loved ones who lost women to inhumane abortion laws? Harris “put her money where her mouth is.” Unlike Trump, who has so many mouths out of which he speaks, he gives Medusa a run for her money.

Harris/Walz is still my President/Vice President; no matter what Cardinal Dolan thinks. He can “go suck an egg.” For all I care.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

“Buyer’s Remorse”

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It seems some Trump voters are having regrets about voting for him. Among them, a white Lesbian who is bemoaning the realization that she will no longer receive Federal Government aid for her handicapped child.

And the Michigan Palestinian who feels betrayed by the appointment of former Governor Mike Huckabee as ambassador to Israel. A loyal friend of Netanyahu, Huckabee favors colonization of the Gaza Strip by Israel.

Or the small business owner who obviously knows little of how tariffs work. Evidently, he learned the hard way when a reporter explained to him that tariffs on his products would necessitate his passing the rise in costs along to his buyers.

STUPIDITY? “JUST DESSERTS?” Or FOX NEWS ONLY!!!

These folks, and others like them, have only themselves to blame for blindly following Trump down the “yellow brick road.” They, like Dorothy, the Lion and the Tin Man, will soon discover that behind the facade, Trump is just a mere mortal acting like he’s the “real deal.” And he won’t even know how to help his followers “get home to Kansas.”

There’s NO GOING BACK.

Harris and Walz tried to warn these folks, and millions more like them, about NOT GOING BACK. Unfortunately, their voices fell on “deaf ears.”

While it’s not easy for any of us faced with 4, or more, years with a Trump Administration, at least those of us who voted for JOY and INCLUSION have each other with whom we can commiserate in our time of great need. Those who were fooled into voting for Trump have only themselves for company. Unlike MAGA followers, they will be second-guessing their vote for the remainder of their lives.

I pity those wishing they could change their votes. Too little; too late.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

GUARDIANS…

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I was taught that everyone is born with a Guardian Angel. Now, however, that I no longer blindly subscribe to the teachings of the Catholic Church, I am of a different opinion. Granted, I’m just one person, an ordinary one at that. With no special qualifications to back up my thoughts. For me, however, my life is all the proof I NEED.

Depending upon the path we choose to travel throughout the course of our lives determines, I believe, whether or not God provides a Guardian Angel to accompany us. The key requirement is whether we choose to help others along the way. With Free Will provided by God at our births, we determine whether or not God’s presence, in the form of a Guardian Angel, will be welcomed.

If we choose to go it alone, abandoning those less fortunate in the process, then we turn our backs on God. Doing so signals to Him…NO GUARDIAN ANGEL REQUIRED HERE!!!

What we send out into the Universe, is what we get back. The boomerang effect, according to Quantum Energy believers, of which I’m one.

On the other hand, if we choose to bring others forward with us as we make our way through life, God is ever-present. He never leaves us. In fact, for those experiencing extreme difficulty due to circumstances beyond their control, God may even provide a Guardian Angel in the form of a person.

Because I ALWAYS turned to God as a child experiencing emotional and physical trauma, I have ALWAYS felt HIS PRESENCE. ALWAYS. With the death of my dad when I was one, God became my Father when I was old enough to know that I needed Him in my life permanently.

During my younger years, I was sexually propositioned by male relatives on 3 separate occasions. With God by my side, I was able to summon the courage and strength to escape these horribly scary encounters. Unfortunately, the emotional scars remained. And they continue to this day.

I believe God sent me my own Guardian Angel in human form. And to this day, I am grateful for ITS PRESENCE in my life.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

ANGELS

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I believe that ANGELS walk among us. I am personally acquainted with 2 such. One is mentioned in the Bible; the other, is of earthly creation.

The second are EARTH ANGELS. They include people, and animals, who sense when others are in need of uplifting.

Earth Angels react reflexively. They sense the need, and fill the emotional void without hesitation. With a loving gesture and/or a kind word, an Earth Angel steps in and lifts up the emotionally downtrodden. Expecting nothing in return. An Earth Angel’s reward is knowing the person in need has felt loved. That is enough.

Many Earth Angels are present among us. Many. I’m certain you have interacted with some. In fact, some of you, I’m certain, are Earth Angels.

Now, as I deal with life-threatening diseases, I have come to realize that I have been tasked to lift others up. Perhaps, this has been God’s Plan for me all along. With all of my earthly concerns dropping by the wayside, I can focus upon helping others feel loved.

The world is in need of armies of Earth Angels. Especially now, during such uncertain times when Fear and Darkness have taken hold throughout the entire human race.

GOD’S LIGHT and LOVE are lost, when Fear and Darkness dominate. We are bearing witness to this loss, right now. It’s not that God is abandoning us; but rather, that we are abandoning Him. We are using our God-given FREE WILL and choosing to turn our backs upon all that He commanded we do. Chief among them to…LOVE OUR NEIGHBOR AS WE LOVE OURSELVES.

We don’t have to get along with everyone. That’s unrealistic. What we can do is let everyone live their lives, according to what makes them bear witness to GOD’S LOVE AND LIGHT.

Democracy provides the foundation wherein people can do just that. Sadly, the American Experiment is at an end. Perhaps, it wasn’t meant to last forever. And with its demise, the Human Experiment is also drawing to a close.

So, take what time is left to be an EARTH ANGEL to others. You will be blessed with GOD’S LOVE AND LIGHT. I know, because I am. Every, blessed day.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

MUSINGS…

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Now that the election is awarded to the MAGA REPUBLICANS, we can sit back and observe how their governance plays out.

I hadn’t given that idea much thought, until my very astute acupuncturist voiced her take on the outcome today. I must confess, I thought Biden should declare Martial Law in defense of our Constitution. My husband, considerably more practical and conservative, nipped that thought in the bud in no uncertain terms.

I’ve not YET given up on martial law. The Supreme Court would have to “put their money where their mouth is.”

If Steve Bannon has his way, America will NEVER return to a democratic union of 50 states. He will push for an authoritarian state. Bannon will have the religious zealots, MAGA supporters and billionaires, like Musk, in his camp. And, of course, anyone who deems they will profit from the next administration.

The SOUL OF AMERICA is on the block. And the bidding begins…RIGHT NOW!

So, where do all the “little people” fit in? Well. We will still pay taxes. After all, we’re footing the bill for all the shenanigans that will occur. Much like Trump grifted his MAGA supporters out of their hard-earned dollars during his campaign…the gold sneakers, pieces of the blue suit worn the day of the first assassination attempt on his life, and so on.

What can we expect in return?

House Speaker Johnson promised to end Obama Care, now enjoyed by millions of Americans. And, Elon Musk warned of necessary, “temporary hardships.”

Trump promised to deport millions of immigrants, among them…legalized Haitians who “eat pets;” and “illegal aliens” (to include legalized family members.) He also mentioned internment camps. Perhaps Trump will also have Arab American Muslims interred, since Iran still seeks retribution for the Trump-ordered assassination of their beloved, General Qasem Soleimani. I’m certain Trump is always “looking over his shoulder.”

Internationally, Trump will exit NATO. As promised. Trump will give Ukraine to Putin; and Gaza to Netanyahu. In return, Trump will be allowed inside the Russian dictator’s orbit. And Marianne Adelson will fill Trump’s personal coffers.

It will be interesting to see how Trump’s children…Junior, Ivanka and Eric…react to Bannon commandeering their father’s Administration. Evidently, he left the first time because Ivanka and Jared did not care for Bannon. With Stephen Smith, his former accolade, it’s highly probable that this go-around, they will NOT allow anyone, including family, to deviate from total takeover of the federal government.

It’s now or never for authoritarianism! And Bannon will stop at nothing. Nothing.

So. Sit back. Try to “enjoy” the as yet, unscripted enactment of the Republican roll out of America under authoritarian rule. There’s not much else we, “little people,” can do.

Be sure and get your bucket of popcorn. This might take a while.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

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BOUNDARIES

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I am certain that most folks have no idea about setting boundaries. Until, that is, “trespassers” flood our lives with THEIR demands. Who knew?

I never learned that I should stop people from flooding my life with their wants and needs. After all, parents and siblings do it all the time. And if you attended Catholic school for 12 years, like I did, you become REALLY, REALLY adept at putting others’ needs before your own. In fact, good luck getting around to satisfying your own needs if nuns taught you. They called if “self-sacrifice.” They even gave gold stars or St. Christopher medals to the most “self-sacrificing” student. They might have called it something else. Trust me. It was really you sacrificing yourself in the service of God, in the guise of “others.”

I became so good at putting others’ needs before my own, especially as the youngest, that I NEVER learned about barriers until now. At 75, with physical ailments preventing my functioning normally, I can say I have FINALLY learned to put my needs and desires before those of others. Especially folks in much better physical shape than me. In fact, my acupuncturist had to remind me recently that I needed to “set boundaries,” to preserve my own emotional well-being.

One of my sisters habitually told me I was “too sensitive” as a child. So, I learned to keep things to myself. Being called “too sensitive” was NOT a good thing, I learned. Now, I am only too grateful for my being overly sensitive.

Without even trying, I have an empathetic signal that seems to draw “people-in-need” towards me. Whether the “need” is big or small, a hug and a kind word are all that’s necessary to bring a smile to their lips. Meanwhile, there seems to be a sigh of relief. Like a pressure valve has been activated. I know how it feels, since the emotional release works both ways. I give, and I receive.

Being sensitive, I don’t rush into a gathering. Instead, I tend to “read” the body language emitted by the individuals. If I sense a dominant force is present among them, I tend to shy away. I prefer low-profile conversations. According to the Zodiak, I’m a Leo. Believe me. I don’t like being the center of attention. Too much pressure to “perform.” I tend to gravitate towards quiet individuals. Even those who look like loners. No pressure there. Just quiet talk, about important, or inconsequential, things.

Laughter comes easily to me. And that seems to attract people to gather around. I think that’s how I became a favorite of 2 brother-in-laws. We pegged ourselves the “outlaws,” since we’d married siblings. Nowadays, I can’t keep up with the hilarity, so, unfortunately, I don’t see them. I will, however, always cherish the memories.

People may, or may not, intend to inflict emotional pain with their words or actions. Once they do it, however, we have to decide how much longer we can withstand the emotional pain caused. With some folks, it took me years; with others, it was a clean break after one, severe blow to the heart.

With very special folks whom you love dearly, and who love you back just as much, you have to forgive them time and time again. Knowing that they are flawed human beings; just like us.

None of us are perfect. But remember to take care of yourself first. You are PERFECT JUST THE WAY GOD MADE YOU.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma

in case you’re thinking…

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…of moving somewhere more “joyful” for you, after the outcome of the election, I offer some personal perspectives on the matter. As indicated in my previous post, ” think SMALL,” I thrive on details.

As a former paralegal for a major airline in NYC, albeit years ago, I am prone to investigate matters down to the last thread of useful information. I’d even won an arbitration case for one of the Labor Relations lawyer who’d resigned under dubious circumstances. The written brief took me all weekend to write, after having gathered voluminous details in defense of the company’s position against a flight attendant who’d taken a leave of absence. She professed to being sick and under doctor’s orders. In fact, she was vacationing abroad. The arbitrator awarded the company its position, based upon my very thorough, and compelling argument as laid out in my brief.

I might have gone on to law school, having graduated magna cum laude with a paralegal degree from Adelphi University in NYC. Instead, I did something much, much more rewarding. I became a “stay-at-home” mom to our only child. I’ve never regretted my decision. Never!

You might, at first glance, view my musings below as “dark,” and fearful. That’s not my intention. It’s my intent that you reflect honestly upon what MIGHT happen based upon all that we heard during the runup to the election. Don’t make the mistake of “burying your head in the sand,” like an ostrich. Rather, weigh all your options. A move taxes the body, especially the nervous system, which I’m certain is ALREADY taxed to the max. I’m certain our move home to Hawaii, and ALL that’s involved in an overseas move, played a part in my having serious health issues.

It’s no secret that Trump fancies himself a dictator, like Putin, Kim Jong Un and Xi Jinping. At 78, Trump will never make the grade. He wants all the trappings, without any of the hard work that goes hand-in-hand with it. In fact, he will likely leave all of that to his minions, chief among them, Steve Bannon.

The dictators view Trump as a chump. They would NOT invite him to join their ‘menage et trois.” They view him as a “baby.” He’s not done anything to rank him amongst their class of dictators. He has been a pawn in their very shrewd game of “world chess.” In fact, Trump has played right into their collective hands.

Trump just wants his name plastered across buildings and golf courses throughout the world. The trio of dictators are aiming to annihilate America as a world power. In the process, they will divvy up the rest of the world’s countries. They aim to make Hitler a footnote, when they rewrite history. And, without the support of NATO, led by the U.S., they will succeed. It only makes sense, since their countries are always in military mode. Prepared for war at the “drop of a hat.”

Without a comparable army at-the-ready, America, with Trump at the helm, will be easy pickings for the trio of dictators. And his willingness in allowing them “to lead him around by the nose,” will make their takeover even easier than it might have otherwise been under Harris. Or Biden.

Not only is Trump in private conversations with Putin, but he is also speaking with Netanyahu and, perhaps even Victor Orban. He’s more in league with the latter two. Although he has not yet ordered killings in his own name, so we’ll see if he even makes their league.

Trump threatens to abandon the Constitution. His MAGA supporters will be his army. He’s counting upon them to give their last breath to save his life. Maybe they will…against fellow Americans. As recent political history has shown, Democrats are NO MATCH for Republican deviousness. Especially those desiring power at ANY PRICE. Even selling America out to the highest bidder.

However, when the trio of dictators turn their lecherous eyes upon America, MAGA will NOT be able to withstand the onslaught. Many will be only too glad if Putin is their dictator. But will they feel as welcoming if Xi Jinping or Kim Jung On decided to divvy up America, along with Putin? It’s the likely scenario.

Or maybe Xi Jinping will have the might to play hardball with the other two and usurp America for himself and China? His physical might seems unsurpassable, by sheer landmass and the size of HIS military. Being half-Chinese myself, I know from experience, that for “old-school” Chinese men…honor is total. Xi Jinping is old-school.

For those Americans who have a hankering for the “good, ole days” of the Wild West, they may be in for a repeat. Unfortunately, the so-called “natives” will NOT win the battle against the likes of Xi Jinping. Without the help, that is, of the good, ole democrats. An “all-hands-on-deck” kind of shout out. Kind of like when Obama pulled us out of a recession, left by Bush; and Biden navigated us out of heading into a recession left by covid, and Trump.

I anticipate one of the dictatorial triumvirate will salivate over Hawaii, a major American military defense in the Pacific. Since its of major importance, as was demonstrated when the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor sealed our country’s involvement in WWII, it’s certain our forces are always “at the ready” here in the islands.

Chinese investors have been purchasing “bucket-loads” of properties…including farmlands, throughout America. Hawaii is no exception. So, it’s not far-fetched to presume that Xi Jinping might already have “skin in the game.” Asians, in general, are extremely patient when it comes to “getting what they want.” They always play the “long game.” Unlike Americans.

I’m NOT trying to make you fearful of your Asian neighbors. They are, after all, Americans. And, remember, when the United States calls on folks to defend the country…they will HAVE TO include all races. Not just the whites. Or Proud Boys. Or MAGA supporters. But ALL AMERICANS…of every race, creed, educational background, rural or city dwellers. Maybe even the ILLEGALS among us who have come to call America “home.”

Ever since Sarah Palin, former Republican VP candidate, claimed she could see Russia while standing in her doorway, I’ve fancied that Putin would someday colonize Alaska. That day may yet come to pass, especially with an oil-rich pipeline running through the 49th state.

Now that Trump is primed to rule America as an authoritarian…with Stephen Miller, Steve Bannon, the architects of Project 25, and a Republican MAGA congress…prodding an obviously feeble-minded, 78-year-old forward, this MIGHT be a good time to reflect upon where you are physically positioned when Putin, Xi Jinping and Kim Jun Ung come knocking.

Something to ponder.

God loves you. And so do I.

Hugmamma