We live in unique times. Things that used to be common in our culture and society are not so common anymore. Attitudes that used to be held by the vast majority of people are now held by only a few. For those who are 40 or 50 years old or younger may not understand what I am referring to. This would include all of our 14 grandchildren. For us who are older, how do we make sense of all that is happening in our world and society today? For those of you who are younger, like our grandchildren, how well do you understand or make sense of the bickering and seeming division that is becoming more evident in our society? I write for our grandchildren to help them understand how the way life was before they were born. Not to ask them to revert back to the traditions or practices of the good old days. That would be silly and not helpful. Rather, to share with them the principles of life we lived by and the values that were shared by the vast majority of people. I believe these principles and values are timeless and essential for the good quality of life we all seek and yearn for. I want to offer those who read this may have a chance to stop and think and possibility reflect with me. Your efforts will not be in vain.
A little about me and my wonderful wife. We have been for 60 years. We have five children, whom we dearly love, and they have given us 14 grandchildren. I was in the Navy during the Vietnam war from 1966-1970. When I got out of the Navy, I worked in the construction trade for over 25 years. Then, when that became too strenuous, I went to college and after receiving an advanced degree, I taught at the college level for several years. I am now retired and have been for the past 14 years. I turned 80 years old this year.
My wife and family have given my life a sense of purpose and meaning that I would have thought possible. Our Catholic faith, which I share with my wife and many in our family, has been the bedrock of who I am today. I have made a fair number of mistakes in my life, and I have also experienced the joys and sorrows, including the loss of our oldest daughter this past year, as well as the frustrations that so many of us experienced over the course of our lives. However, I am puzzled about what is going on around us in our society and world today. I want to write about our experiences, as well as my thoughts and the faith that we share.