FollowAs I’ve mentioned before, I’m a literature major and if I’ve learned anything in my study of belles-letters, it’s that fiction hasn’t fared very well in this postmodern world. I don’t mean quality-wise; there’s plenty of fiction out there that holds its own with Hemingway, Hurston, or Fitzgerald. For example, Margaret Atwood tackles Christian …
Category Archives: enlightenment
What I’ve Learned In 55 Years
In the days surrounding my birthday, I usually write something about questions I might have or make smart-ass comments about aging. This year, I decided to something a little different. In honor of turning 55, I want to share some of my accumulated wisdom with you folks. Don’t worry, it won’t take long. In my 55 years on this Earth, …
My Beloved Rednecks
I have always loved the line that makes up today’s title. I believe it comes from an early 20th century southern politician (possibly James K. Vardaman of Mississippi, but don’t hold me to that). It’s a favorite because if ever there was a group that needed some love, it’s the rednecks. Another reason I love it is …
Am I A Good Man?
I have a confession to make: I am a Whovian (aka, a fan of Doctor Who). Don’t worry, though, I’m not one of those uber-nerdy ones who thinks every Doctor after Tom Baker sucks, even though Baker is my default Doctor[1]we all have one, you know and it’s generally the first Doctor we ever saw. You …
The Bookmobile
Growing up in rural North Carolina during the 60’s and 70’s, reading was a big deal for me. Back then, it was still one of the chief forms of entertainment since cable television was pretty much unheard of in my neck of the woods. And, while the internet existed, it wasn’t available to peons like …
It’s That Time Of Year…, Again
By “that time of year”, I mean The Wild Goose Festival is almost here. And, the closer it gets, the more I feel like Wile E. Coyote when he saw an a train bearing down on him. It’s not that I don’t like Wild Goose, it’s an amazing time. But, my preparation ritual for any trip …
Not All Men?
In case you’re wondering, the title of today’s post refers to #NotAllMen, which is a response to #YesAllWomen. When I started reading the stories being shared, my initial reaction was indeed “Not all men are like that”. Now, though, I have a different reaction now: shock. Not shock that these things are actually happening, I …
Progressive Redneck?
In the very first article for The Progressive Redneck, I said that, while I am pretty progressive, I still have a few redneck tendencies. I also said that I’d go into detail about that in another post. Well, this is that post. This piece has been on the back burner for about a month now, percolating and coming together. …
It Was A Very Good Day
Yesterday was one of the better days I’ve had in quite a while. I spent the morning with my friends at Love Wins and, that evening, I got to experience something everyone should at least once in their life: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band live. Now, on their own, those things would qualify …
Relationships
The folks at Love Wins say homelessness isn’t really a lack of housing, it’s a lack of relationships. A lot of people who are homeless, hungry, poor, etc., don’t have relationships with others who can make sure they’re not outdoors, have enough to eat, are sufficiently clothed and any of the other necessities that life …