Altitude

When you think things can’t go any lower don’t bet on it. There is apparently no “limbo limit” in the current administration with regard to empathy for our affected federal workers or related contractors.  Some outstanding advice on dealing with the financial adversity include: negotiating with your grocery store for free food; or “can’t understand why those affected would not just get a loan”; this is short term pain for the good of the country; or people will just figure this out.  Perhaps the asymptote of absurdity came when one leader mentioned this was like a vacation for the federal workers.  If you did not hear the speech of Michael Bennett,  a Democratic Senator from Colorado, he deserves a viral video. The normally soft spoken,  highly ethical, competent and thoughtful congressman launched an emotional  “Cruz” style verbal missile at the wall, our President and the junior Senator from Texas (what is with that awful facial hair). We are seeing a chance that sanity may return to our government – reason may prevail to put our furloughed federal workers and related contractors back to work, thanks to those brave enough to speak up regardless of their political persuasion. Tip of the cap to Idaho Congressman Michael Simpson.

I had another uplifting experience this week – Hank and I went to Altitude, a facility that utilizes safe trampoline, air bag, and jumping pit design.  We began on the balance beam where the goal is to knock your opponent off with a large battering pillow – I need to work on my center of gravity as I repeatedly found my old self in the pit.  Off to the basketball dunk – I had more of a chance here as Hank is 4 feet tall and I am a bit closer to the rim.  I burned a lot of calories jumping to play an electronic version of wack a mole with the lights placed at various heights on the wall. I was, however, very glad when Hank found a new set of friends to bounce with and my only role was to film the amazing feats.  Boundless energy is one of the joys of youth.  There is no limit to the heights our children can reach when nurtured and challenged.

I admire Michael Jordan for his skill and attitude.  I liked his quote as an experienced persons advice on barrier issues. “Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a Wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” I suppose, my trampoline practice gives Hank and I another option.  I hope it is not only Mr. Jordan who has the determination to overcome the proposed medieval structure that is intended to protect America.