In My Opinion

​With some regularity, I meet with a group of intelligent, articulate folks to discuss politics, philosophical beliefs and other pressing topics. Once a month, we “calendar” the subjects for the next four weeks and we make good-faith attempts to stick to the topic at hand. Mercifully, we’re led by a moderator who is very good at keeping us focused and ensuring that all who want to speak are recognized. Hers is sometimes a daunting task which became all the more demanding  as the astonishing and contentious 2016 presidential campaign ground on. As you might imagine, our discussions sometimes took a turn for the … well, just took a turn. Finally, it was suggested that when we speak, we either preface or conclude our statements with the phrase, “in my opinion.” Hence, the title of this blog.  
 
All opinions expressed herein are mine.* They're the result of a lifetime in this country, enhanced by trips to the far reaches of every reasonably habitable continent on the globe with more to come, I'm sure. The opinions are based upon my understanding of the facts. Please feel free to submit comments. Life’s too short to keep them to yourself.

*11/14/18 Actually, that's no longer true.  There has been a change in plans. In the "Bright Spots" sections you'll now occasionally find contributions by guest columnists. We can never have too many bright spots! 

If the great American people will keep their temper, on both sides of the line, the troubles will come to an end, and the question which now distracts the country will be settled just as surely as all other difficulties of like character which have originated in this government have been adjusted.

--Abraham Lincoln