Not a day goes by that I don't find something in the news or on television that provokes some kind of response in me, from unease to outrage. Consequently, I'm thinking about a series of essays I intend to write for my kids and grandkids, for them to find in my "papers" someday. It will be titled something like "Life's Lessons" or "My Beliefs," (sounds a bit lofty doesn't it?) I choose this method of preaching to them, without all the connotations of a "buttinski" mother or mother in law. Also, the written word will allow me to get my points across without the interference of their own opinions. I think they'll find my conclusions on myriad subjects comforting, although they may not agree with me.

Some of the subjects I will choose are:

Religion: This covers such a huge array of subjects, it will be the longest essay. Included would be: The philosophical differences and similarities among religions, life after death and reincarnation, the overall meaning of life, evolution vs intelligent design and the lack of conflict between them, the pros and cons of the literal translation of the Bible, and many other subjects, all based on the precept that "Man divides, God unites.")This essay might contain my own epitaph (I'm a planner by nature.)

Politics: A discussion based on the premise that the over-riding goal of most of those involved in politics is power, either from the beginning or occurring sometime during the political career, and the most perfect form of government is benevolent dictatorship--think Solomon. Perhaps to include the effect on modern politics of 24/7 talking heads (Aldous Huxley: any comment?)

Psychology: Also an extremely broad subject that will illustrate a fledgling science with secrets still waiting to be uncovered, through all the physiological--along with physical and environmental factors--that can affect a healthy mind.

Child Rearing Obviously, with my background, this will discuss what NOT to do in raising kids, and that from the earliest moment, they are PEOPLE in progress. Again, in family situations the "benevolent dictator" is applicable.

Education: Will include a discussion of the importance (or lack of) of the current "on-campus" education system in the U.S., given the alternative resources available to today's parents and youth. Other opinions: the pros and cons of adhering to the archaic school schedule developed in colonial days, when children were needed for agricultural work in the summer, prompting the suspension of school instruction for three months. What we are left with is hundreds of billions of dollars worth of educational facilities sitting idled and empty for months, while still needing maintenance and service, and students running the streets. Perhaps we should be looking at what works in other countries, like a staggered system of "time off" for teachers and students, and electing a government that places education in a priority at least as high as tanks and M16s. Based on my own school experience, I would also discuss the problems of allowing our schools to become social clubs, with the "in" group and the "rejects," the athletes and air-heads, the bullies and the bullied, and how it is dealt with in other countries, e.g. school uniforms and a no-bulls**t approach to learning or leaving.

Doctors and Medicine: This subject will relate some of my horror stories of factors encountered when trying to deal with treatment of a sick or injured child or loved one, and the absolute imperative that a mother be a vigilant guardian, no matter how many professionals are involved.

Self-healing/Attitude (including nutrition.) Discussion of my conviction that physical healing must start at home, with excellent life-style choices and avoiding poisonous relationships and stresses. Will include a discussion on the almost criminal attitude within the medical community to ignore the power of the human brain--think power plant; computer extraordinaire--and each individual's ability to develop, utilize and control its power.

The negative effects of pure capitalism (mass advertising and marketing.) These would include the burgeoning obesity in Americans, widespread selfishness and self-indulgence, a sense of entitlement among youth, the current trend toward misguided priorities in the selection of careers, other "ripped from the headlines" subjects. Also discussing the consumerism that is causing the destruction of our planet. My mother always said we should "be at least as smart as barnyard pigs and not s**t in our own nests," but that is just what we're doing.

See? Opinions! Do I sound like the laid back grandma of thirteen, great-grandma of two? I've told everyone who asked me what I would write after the trilogy is completed, that one thing I do not lack is opinions. But rather than lay them verbally on my family, I'll simply share with them in writing, and they can use or reject the ideas as they wish.

I certainly hope I don't run out of time or energy. I'm getting a good outline of my essays with this blog. I'm keeping print-outs. Tomorrow, then.