Epilogue
I found my little 30-acre farm 30 years ago, when I was in the middle of life’s rat race getting and spending, climbing the corporate ladder, flying from one side of the country to the other, attending meetings, drinking too much, trying my best to have my first heart attack before reaching 50. The Veteran’s Land Board financed the purchase at a favorable rate, just one of the wonderful things I was blessed to receive in return for 4 years of service to my country (White hat US Navy.’64 – ’68).
“The Farm” as the place became known, was used as a family gathering point for our annual Thanksgiving reunion, and as my refuge from the craziness of the world. My brother carved a sign for me, that hangs over the mantle of the fireplace that warms the “Two-pen dog-run” cabin where I now live full time It reads, “The Sanctuary” - - .
While I marvel daily at my good fortune, my story was/is not uncommon for those born in 1945 - - . We have found that almost all the things we were told by our parents were true - - work hard, be good, kind, charitable, faithful, honor your word, follow the 10 Commandments, admit your mistakes, take responsibility for your actions - - - and good things will happen in your life.
But - - as VDH so artfully points out - - the dream I have lived is not only under attack, but in many parts of the country, and for most young people an impossible dream. We find the formula for a happy life given to us by our parents got lost, and the direct result is the ‘American Dream’ is getting lost right along with it.
The spark of hope still shines in the heart of the youth who drove the hay truck, but the reality of life gives an old man pause. “As California goes, so goes the nation”? Will it come down to a question of “fight or flight”? I hope not. With everything that is in me, I hope not.
In November we will have an opportunity to restore the sovereignty of our country - - or not. We will know the result of our decision by the end of the first quarter of 2025, when we will either see the first signs of healing, or further decent into the abyss.
Please consider carefully. Please choose wisely
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Lovely post and so true