Is Wikipedia a classic? For lack of a better resource I went with their definition “A classic is an outstanding example of a particular style; something of lasting worth or with a timeless quality; of the first or highest quality, class, or rank–something that exemplifies its class.” We often hear it in describing a sporting event, a song, a motorcycle, a car, joke, or person. At a breakfast meeting this week for the Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy I sat next to a person who had just returned from Cuba. I have always wanted to go there, in no small measure to see the classic muscle cars that they have kept running since the embargoes. I always wanted to own a 57 Chevrolet two door – now that was a classic. I will go to Cuba one day and likely bring back a “classic” Cuban cigar.
My son in law lost his father over a year ago. Tom was an Emergency Room Doctor who was defined by his peers and friends as a “classic” Tom left his son with many memories none more poignant than the 1977 Porsche Targa that is pictured today. I asked Holt what made the vehicle important to him, obviously it was his father’s pride and joy, but he told me the car retains his father’s spirit and even the smell is uniquely Tom’s. By definition, a classic has lasting value or timeless quality. Holt’s experience made me think about what has irreplaceable value for me – friends, family, memories, accomplishments, relationships–take a minute to tell those that are classics in your life how you feel.
I have mentioned that my brother is recovering from a traumatic brain injury. I have visited him a bit to let him know I care and to harass him in the classic Mooney tradition. Five brothers growing up in Pocatello was quite an experience and we were fortunate to have great parents who assured we were well educated and understood the value of family. Jeff’s injury has pulled us back together as we have stayed in constant contact for updates. Jeff had his best day since his accident – highlighted by eating solid food and ice cream. Growing up watching the limited programming on television I started my daily questions with what was Sky King’s plane called – no hesitation from Jeff – songbird. What was Sky’s nieces name? Penny. How about the jeep’s name in the Roy Roger show – Nellie Belle. Tomorrow we will test our memories on Ren and Stimpy and The Lone Ranger. Jeff also added some memories from the old Dragnet series where Joe Friday was the stoic cop. Classic television, shared memories, and humor are a part of the road to recovery.
I mentioned I attended a breakfast for the Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy this week. I am a supporter of this not for profit group. Led by Lauren Necochea, this organization has earned its reputation as the “go to” resource for the State Legislature because of its non partisan analysis of the impacts of changes to taxes, funding, and spending. Fact based legislative review and decision making will have a profound impact on our future in Idaho. If you would like to understand the savings associated with Medicaid expansion – go to the website and see the easy to understand bar chart. Encourage your legislator to avail themselves of the analysis provided by the ICFP.
Charles Swindell said “life is 10 percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.”
WinstonChurchhill reminded us “keep calm and Carry On.”
I close with a quote from the “classic” from Mae West “you only live once but if you do it right once is enough.”
Wishing Abraham Lincoln was here to assist the Republican party? He said “in the end. It’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”
Make each day a “classic”.
Mike