I have purposely been quiet over the subject of the South and the Confederate flag. I am a Northern transplant here. I grew up learning history from a different viewpoint. I can’t possibly understand the significance of holding on to this particular remnant of a war fought long ago. 

But this is what I do know. The Confederate flag is a symbol of heritage for many. Ancestors fought for their land. 

Most of us agree that there are many dark images that can be attached to this flag as well. We are more sensitive to these things today. 

I think the problem now is that no one wants to be TOLD to remove their flag. Think of when we were children and TOLD to do something. Many of us dug our heels in and stubbornly refused. 

Let’s all calm down. Cooler heads will prevail. Many of the flags will come down. But not all. And so things will move on. 

I can’t help but think of my Chief Wahoo during this debate. As a long time Cleveland Indians fan, I  grew up with the Chief. He’s a foolish characature that Native Americans find offensive. I can’t disagree, but he’s tradition.

Perhaps it’s time to start new traditions for the Cleveland Indians, as well as the new South. 

Recently, I have been thinking about the parable of the talents and wondering which servant I’ve become in life. Have I been the one that received a modest amount of money and invested wisely, or have I become the servant who buried his money for safe keeping? This is a parable with greater implications than just money. I think about my career as a Pharmacist. Has this been a good outlet for my talents? I’d like to think so. I’ve been successful in this career and feel I’ve been an asset to the people I have served.
I
often wonder if there might have been another outlet for me of greater success but I never recognized that potential. No wonder the younger generation struggles. It’s hard to know what path to take when we are young. Very few of us has that loud, direct calling.
I think most of us simply evolve into the person we are destined to become. We often squander opportunities along the way, but the final destination will be the same.

I’m trying to appreciate and explore my new surroundings here in the South. One thing I’ve learned is that if an area is called “Middle Swamp” or Alligator Avenue, they aren’t kidding. There is an eerie beauty to this area. Peaceful. Calm. But it seems to hold its own sort of secrets. I look forward to future journeys as the year unfolds.

No resolutions for me. Perhaps I’ll call them “statements of affirmation,” Such as:
-I will only wear clothes that fit properly, regardless of size.
-I will remain active, and worry less about achieving lofty goals.

I’ll come up with others. It’s only January 1.