So many ways to start this November 20th, 2019 post. It’s National Absurdity Day which is a day to celebrate to “say absurd and nonsensical things and do silly things”. Think about that for a second….. Everyday is absurdity day in Washington DC. It’s also Name Your Keyboard Day. I’m naming mine Fred. It’s also National Peanut Butter Fudge Day, Future Teachers of America Day and Universal Children’s Day. The absurdity day reminds me of the JImmy Buffett lyric “If we couldn’t laugh we would all go insane”. Nuff said. Onto the what happened on this date: In 284 Roman soldier Diocletian proclaimed Emperor by the army. I’ve never read about Diocletian. He was born to a family of low status, joined the army, rose through the ranks to become Roman cavalry commander and when the Emperor and his son were killed in battle the army declared him the new Emperor of Rome. He ruled until 305 and then retired. He was the only Emperor to every retire. I didn’t know that. Now I do. In 1919 the 1st municipally owned airport in US opens (Tucson Az). In 1945 the Nuremberg war trials begin as 24 Nazi leaders are put on trial. Finally, in 1966 “Cabaret” opens at Broadhurst Theater NYC for 1166 performances. Probably my favorite musical. The move version is great. Back to the absurdity day thing. People say and do absurd aka stupid things all the time. Just read the political posts on Facebook. How you choose to react to the chaos and absurdity is up to you. My advice is to look for the humor, laugh at it and move on. Take Buffett’s advice “If life gives you limes, make margaritas.” Abide
