Great read

Just finished reading 1776 by David McCullough.  A good friend of mine recommended this author to me years ago, and I finally got around to reading one of his titles.  Though I already knew the general outcome of the stories, I found I could hardly put the book down because of the amazing, insightful detail included.  I enjoyed reading the author's perspective; and equally enjoyed his myriad quotations from the major players from both sides, contemporary opinions of the events, and observations from modern day historians. I wish he would follow up with a series of books that would finish the story of the revolutionary war.

From my reading, I grew to appreciate Washington more than ever.  I learned that he was far from perfect as a general; and his quality I most admire is his unwavering perseverance to a cause he believed to be just.  I am convinced that no other American leader has sacrificed more for his country, though some may be his equal.  The story of Nathanael Greene inspires me no less than that of Washington's.  He appears as the faithful Samwise Gamgee, loyal to his leader and friend to the end. This makes me want to read a biography of both men.  And I can't forget Henry Knox.  Such a daring, courageous man.  

If I were to compare these men to leaders of today, at first thought, I am tempted to be cynical and assert that there is no comparable leader alive today.  But my heart and mind force me to believe otherwise.  There are too many good families in America, too many good people, that I am constrained to believe that there exist other Washingtons, Greens, and Knox's.  Where are they?  Where is someone who is firmly rooted in a just cause, and unflinchingly, without apologies, fights for this cause----year in and year out---despite seemingly insurmountable odds?

Setting aside religious leaders, I don't see that person right now.  Can anyone help me out?  Can you point me to a Washington to follow?

Gotta find another McCullough book to read. . .    

Ping Pong and humility

So, I was talking to my son, Reed, and insisted that we would never beat me in Ping Pong.  One thing led to another, and we now have a Ping Pong Table in our basement (it's actually a Pool Table with a Ping Pong Table Top).  All my smack-talking came back and bit me in the butt--Reed can hold his own against his old man, and he's beaten me twice already.  Ouch.  And John and I have played once, and he beat me soundly.  I patiently await my chance to avenge my loss against John. Augh!!  So much for going undefeated on my own table.  And so much for my arrogance.  Humble pie is always quite bitter!

Come on over if you want to play pool or ping pong!