This day’s name is January 9, 2024. I intend to squeeze all the enjoyment I can out of it. Some play, some work, good food, a glass or two of wine, friends and family. The rest of the world will do just fine without my participation. January 9th is Ballon Ascension Day, National Apricot Day, National Cassoulet Day, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, National Poetry at Work Day, National World Nerd Day, National Shop for Travel Day, and Play God Day. Strange list to be sure. Moving on to history: We will start with 1349 when 700 Jews of Base; Switzerland were burned alive in their houses. On this day in 1493 Columbus sees manatees for the first time and thinks they are mermaids. He wrote “not half as beautiful as they are painted.” On this day in 1811 the 1st women’s golf tournament was held in Musselburgh Scotland. The local fisherman’s wives played in the tournament. On this day in 1912 the US invaded Honduras to protect the interests of the banana plantation owners. On this day in 1941 6,000 Jews were murdered in Bucharest Romania. On this day in 1980 in Mecca Saudi Arabia, 63 people were beheaded. Just another example of organized religion at work. This is the day in 1991 that Baseball officially banned Pete Rose from being elected to the Hall of Fame for betting on baseball. It occurred to me this morning that over the years I’ve been able to internalize the wisdom of some very smart people who have come before me. Probably the most beneficial aspect of writing this post. Today we will hear from the comedian Bob Saget who died too soon in 2022. Bob said, “If you don’t wake up every day happy, change something.” “Kindness isn’t a virtue, it’s a necessity.” “I have no plan except to take care of the people I love.” I’ll end with “Some dead people said smart stuff.” I agree. Ab ide.
