5:00 Again

Its 5:37 AM on June 2.  I failed in my quest to write 30 blogs in 30 days.  Frankly, I ran out of time.  3 kids keep you really freaking busy.  I still wanted to do it, and I am disappointed, particularly because I did not write last week when the family was gone.  Yes, it was just me from last Tuesday - Saturday.  Needless to say, I had no idea how to fill my time.  The house was very quiet with no kids and no wife.

On Saturday, I went to MN to finish the trip with the family.  We saw a game at Target Field (Twins).  Nice park, but the concourses were too narrow in the outfield.

On another note, Shaw retired yesterday.  I only mention this because I have watched him play basketball since I was in college.  I always was a Shaq fan and I never understood those that did not like him.  I suppose you could think he was over the top, but he was one person who acted like they were actually having fun.

On a more serious note, I was in trial this week and talking to one of the deputies.  During our conversation, we discussed the young people and what is happening to our society.  It stemmed from a recent sentencing (it hit the papers) where an 18 year old received 175 years for a home invasion / murder.  Obviously, a big boy crime.

The deputy made the point that people in general (black, white, etc) need to stop blaming other people or things, or events for their behavior.  It is time to take responsibility for our actions.  This was in response to the comments of another person who indicated that historical events played a role in the crime.

I think I read a lot.  I think I am some what progressive.  I, as much as anybody, believe in helping those people who need it.  I do not, though, believe we should help the capable forever.  At some point, don't people have to take responsibility for their actions?  At some point, don't people have to pull themselves up and do something?  I know how hard it is.  I have represnted indigent people for almost ten years in one capacity or another. I know how difficult it can be to pull yourself up and make things better.  I also know it is not impossible.  Over the next few weeks, this blog will be discussing my ideas and thoughts on how real change can occur, what needs to happen to make it possible, and whether it is possible.

I see what is happening in our city (St. Louis) and I hear what happens in other cities.  Something needs to change. The fundamental question is simply, can it?

Remember, this is only what I think.

On a more positive note, I mentioned Target Field.  We also went to the racetrack in MN (Horse racing).  My oldest daughter, who was terrified of horses last year, rode a pony.  She had ridden one last October, but this time she did it with no help.  She always loved horses from far away, but now she is starting to love them from up close.

Have a great day.

-cp