This day’s assigned name is November 21, 2023. Its real name is Now. Time only exists because we are sentient and can remember yesterday and anticipate tomorrow. The Stoic philosophers understood that the past and future are abstractions in our minds and that we can only control the present. Seneca said, “Ture happiness is to enjoy the present.” I’m going to do my best to follow Seneca’s advice. Today we can celebrate Alascattalo Day (Alaskan holiday to celebrate their mascot which is a mythical cross between a moose and a walrus). False Confession Day, Gingerbread Day, National Red Mitten Day (in Canada), National Stuffing Day, Pumpkin Pie Day, World Hello Day, and World Television Day. Onto history: On this day in 1817 US soldiers attacked the Miccosukee village of Fowl town, Georgia. This was the beginning of the 1st Seminole War. On this day in 1902 the 1st night football game was played between the Philadelphia Athletics who beat the Kanaweola Athletic Club 39 to 0. On this day in 1918 Polish soldiers organize a pogrom (organized massacre) against the Jews of Galicia, Poland. On this day in 1922 Rebecca L. Felton from Georgia was sworn in as the 1st female US Senator. This is the day in 1931 that horror film “Frankenstein” starring Boris Karloff was released. On this day in 1959 Jack Benny (violin) played a duet with Richard Nixon (piano). On this day in 1963 President Kennedy flew to Texas. He will be assassinated on November 22, 1963. Today is Voltaire’s birthday and since he’s one of favorite philosophers, I’ll use him for today’s quotes. Voltaire said, “If you want to know who controls you, look at who you are not allowed to criticize.” “The more often a stupidity is repeated, the more it gets the appearance of wisdom.” “It is difficult to free fools from the chains they revere.” “The most important decision you make is to be in a good mood.” “The comfort of the rich depends upon an abundant supply of the poor.” “Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.” “Prejudices are what fools use for reason.” “Dare to think for yourself.” Last one: “We are all guilty of the good we did not do.” Do you see why I like Voltaire? Hope so. Abide.
