The clouds are rolling in. More rain is on the way. Jonathon knows that the old man is a closet weatherman. A good hobby for the golden years. Retirement has brought me attuned to nature. I watch every permutation. Time to think and ponder. Time to consider my magnificent obsession.

I have studied leaders for 60 years, since I helped Neva J navigate the rough waters of life. Presidents fascinate me, and ministers dedicated to Christ’s message to the poor have a place in my heart. I was a manager/administrator for many years.

Writing is in my blood. If I do not write daily, I feel unfulfilled. I write for writing’s sake. I am always surprised when someone likes what I have written. Writing has been in my mind since I was young. Perhaps I was a writer at Oxford in a former life. Few activities give me more pleasure.

Photography is a passion and perhaps an obsession. Our world looks so special in a snapshot. Time stands still in a photo. It is a form of time travel. The hidden is unveiled in a picture.

Others have magnificent obsessions. Many are obsessed with power. Some are obsessed with money. Power and money make a lethal combination. Our country’s persistent problems are based on these obsessions. My former supervisor told me once that he had complete and total control of every person in our department. I responded that I did not have complete and total control of my dogs.

Obsessions are out of focus. Leaders speak of the end of the world when their world and sense of place are in doubt. Narcissist project their inner voices as the voices of those they lead. Manic chaos reigns in the minds of many who have the lives of millions in their hands. The people suffer from the dreams of madmen.

Applaud the worker! Revere the woman and man who carry a lunch bucket. Understand the dignity and grace of most people in our country. They seek no acclaim or fame. A quiet life of caring for their family and friends is their goal. A decent wage and their magnificent obsession with fairness for all…