So just to go on record with this. In a previous post I spoke to my stance regarding comments at this place and basically I think I said as long as you don't make a direct threat upon another, then as the host I won't feel the need to moderate. I think I have also said that while I do edit my posts and comments, I won't make an edit after a few hours on any comment and if there is an exception to that I will point it out directly as part of the edit. As for the posts I make, the articles, I will edit them per my discretion and as far as this story goes it is a story being told in real time.
I for one ascribe to the idea that anybody ought have freedom to post and comment as they please as long as the comments are not a direct threat to anybody and as for the posts the same is probably how it ought to be but it takes a nuanced lens to judge this and artist telling a story ought be given the benefit of the doubt.
So just to be clear on that - I mean there is a possibility this thread of comments could become rather involved as the story itself evolves assuming the story does.....but you never know I reckon until the "publication" button is pushed.
Anyhow, I think I'm going to "pin" this one and "unpin" the other one (well, to "unpin" the other means I would have to edit it outside of the timeframe, so I guess it will remain pinned as well and yes, this is an edit and I'm making another now with my fingers, and I'm not a bot as others have accused me but I truly digress and so sorry for that.......if you think I am, lets put it to the test....but I'd just assume not).
I've got so many ideas for how this story might unfold and I just need to stew on it kind readers.......it is nice to know there are others out there who like a good story about pee-wee football and memories treasured. When the wolf shows up I suspect it will be a bit of a surprise for the players.
Buffalo_Ken - so if you don't want to be hunted down to extermination, then disavow the vote you made - set yourself apart from it. Say you were under "undue" influence, but do what you can to separate yourself from the vote that was 21-0 to approve these experimental jabs to babies just six months old. Know this however, you cast your vote, it is known what you did - it is in the record. Disavow your choice while you can, but if you don't then know this - we will hunt you down.
~
That is what the "wolf" whispered in my ear when as an adult I went back to the wolf from my childhood. The wolf said, the pack always prevails in the end - we will get our prey - have no doubt about this the wolf whispered as it floated away.
~
This is what I would say to any of the 21 voted yes approving experimental jabs for six-month old babies.
BK - I enjoy word play, but I'm not kidding around - those 21 who approved jabs for little kids should of known better and I sent an email to them expressing my opposition, but they didn't listen and now we all know how they voted so wrong.
Another example of their lack of concern for kids’ lives: The polio shots back in the early 1960’s were contaminated with a monkey virus, from the manufacturing process. This was due to the use of monkey kidney cells to culture the polio virus on. The monkey virus was called SV40. SV40 isn't dangerous to monkeys, but causes cancer in humans.
The findings were ignored, and kids were given that polio vaccine, resulting in brain tumors and death for many kids."
Fabulous peppa sauce! Full flavored, with a great fragrance that smells of VA. soil, and as peppa sweetness coming through. Perfect spice/sweetness ratio!
So I want to keep this story going and in fact, I started to tell the next part, but I need to think a bit about it....first of all I said this "imaginary" bus trip occurred after both teams won their leagues in 1978 regular season, so when I speak about conditions at that time even though the story is "imaginary" I want the actual facts of the time to be accurate. So, for example in the story I have already said the kids departed on the bus on a "cold blistery April day" in Buffalo, NY and I've found a site that has the weather data and I want to be consistent with that because I have no reason to doubt the data presented. Moreover, I know this because I made the trip - you can't get from Buffalo, NY to Wytheville, VA on bus as quick as you can today the way it was in 1978. In 1978 I don't even think most of the West Virginia turnpike was like it is today....so today maybe the bus ride if all things go as planned could be done in about 8 hours, but in 1978 I think it was about 10 hours. Wow - talk about transportation progress in what 45 years! (ha, ha). I hear the pee-wee teams in China get to ride on a magnetic bus that is so much quicker in time as it travels from Point A to Point B, but I digress.
The other thing I'm not sure about is how to make an "edit" on a story post and have emails go out to subscribers, so they can read as the story progresses. I need to look into that. I'm pretty sure it can be done. Plus, I don't even know what the "ReStack" option means.....restack what?
Regardless, I will have another chapter in this short story and it will be the way I like to tell stories - in real time! The story is not going to be what you might expect nor is it anywhere close nor having anything to do about in the author's mind as to what the commentator below was trying to project upon it.......oh no, this story is deeper than that. It is already in my head and I will type it out in real time as the months go by in 2023.
Peace is easy,
Buffalo_Ken
* this message is pinned per the author's discretion
The thing for me is I think being "defensive" was my gift and that is why I was a better Safety than Center. In fact, I can't say I have too many memories of playing center - it was the same ole battle play after play at the line of scrimmage and it was hard work and everybody noticed the Quarterback or maybe the Halfback and we also used Fullbacks in the backfield in those days as well....or maybe there was a dapper receiver caught the eye of the cheerleaders with his fancy footwork and quick moves. Typically, the folks on the offensive line don't get much attention for all their hard work play after play.....most of the time same is true for the defensive line players unless that is you are a defensive end of the caliber of Bruce Smith or some such who was just a force on the field undeniable and asserted his will with athletic grace, agility, swiftness and strength in a huge package of damn near pure muscle with almost no fat.
As for playing Safety, that was my forte, especially being a was a smaller kid relatively speaking, and I was skilled at reading the angles and knowing my main task was to prevent any opposing team from getting the big play. I was good at it - I loved it. I loved playing on the field with my friends teammates and usually some other friends on the other team. It was formal, folks cared about it, coaches made efforts, cheerleaders were there, and parents attended the games by choice.
So, this is why "American Football" is truly such a big part of my life, because I played it in neighborhood games (tackle and touch), in the pee-wee league (full contact), in middle school I tried, and after that in flag-football games formal (intramural) when I was in college at NC State. It has been and is a big part of my life and is also part of the reason why some of my heart also died when I saw #3 from Buffalo Bills fall on the field in that game against the Bengals - I'd already seen players drop like that as well as everyday folks in general on various off the beaten path media outlets. It is all connected in my mind, and I don't think I have this sentiment alone.
Bill, so thanks for posting here. I've been to Alabama a few times. I prefer Mississippi, but both those states are close and I married a Mississippi girl so that must be why.
I was a better Safety than I was a Center. I think I was a mediocre center, and some thought I held them, but you know.....
I got the Defensive MVP that year and I have the trophy bottom part to prove it! I'm pretty sure it came down to that one game against the Kenmore Packers when I made the tackle on the field as any safety proper should do when the opposing team does the flea flicker!
Ha, ha.
Thanks so much for your post about "football" - without it I doubt this story would have even gotten started.
Good use of the Indigo Bunting & the wolf Ken! Instead of going down a rabbit hole, you boys kinda' went down a ravine instead. The wolf lurking in the tree lines made it your totem, and after the game the kiss in the hospital sealed the experience. What a story it would have been if you had married Claire later on in life. That might be a fictional telling of the story... ;-)
Parzival - you alone here know most about the indigo bunting. I "maybe" did sort of marry "Claire" later, but by then she had a different name! (ha, ha).
Now that's a deep dive into a game/event that still resonates all these years/decades later ... And there's a good reason those events resonate in our memories.
I pulled this quote from the story:
"You know they say, with good coaches even a bunch of misfits can be league champions and I guess that is the best way to describe the Bill’s Bomber players in 1979."
That's true. A great coach can make all the difference. This coming from a man whose father played for arguably the best coach ever - Paul "Bear" Bryant. He could "take his'n and beat your'n and then take you're and beat his'n" (that's a quote from Bum Phillips).
Then again, another great quote is: "It's not the X's and O's it's the Jimmy's and Joes." that make all the difference. If you have the studs, your team is probably going to win.
Nick Saban figured that out, which is why he put so much emphasis on recruiting the best Jimmy's and Joes.
I hope the Powers that Be don't kill the great game of football!
That is a great comment and I can sense you got a lot going on so thanks for taking the time to share it.
Now, you may have noticed or maybe not, that Quinlin is sort of close to Quinlan and you may recall Quinlan played for the Packers out of Green Bay and was pretty stout against the run but lacking in some skills desired these days in defensive ends. Nitcheek is sort of close to Nitschke, a fella played middle linebacker for the Packers and turns out he was roommates with Quinlan.
There are other connections in this story about American Football and I agree about what you say about the "Powers that Be", but to be honest I think it would make more sense to put them in the past sense as in: "Powers that once were". They are on the way out because new ideas are forming that are better and American Football can't be killed. It lives on in the memory of those who played it and it is incumbent upon us to pass that knowledge on to future generations. Football is a great game in so many ways as long as the field of play is fair.
ps - you know I'm almost positve Lou Saban was the coach for the Buffalo Bills on that evening I met Howard Cossell. Small world really when we sit at the table.
Parzival - it is awesome of you to check out my SubStack place.
Harrison also has a place - https://ponerology.substack.com/ The other posters here also have places worth checking out. My focus is sharing about my garden efforts, but I’ve decided to have a story going at the same time - sort of a “real-time” story. Who knows how it will unfold - that is the fun part for me.
Hey Ken. Yeah, I subscribe as a non-monetary free subscription to Harrison's ponerology substack. I'll read what you post with interest. Maybe I'll learn a little something about gardening ;-) Take care Ken, have a good week...
Very well written Ken, but the story is lost on me as I don't understand American football; hell I don't even understand our soccer or rugby! My games are inside, out of the weather, like snooker, cards, board games (Risk, Monopoly etc). But these days I am too busy writing that I have little time left for pastimes.
Lastly Peter did you know that both Quinlan and Nistchke both literally were there when Vince Lombardi was the coach of the Packers and talked about teamwork as you quoted.
So the web of this story has already formed and I hope it is a web like the one Charlotte made being she was a kind spider - but all webs formed in real time emerge as they will I reckon.
I know where my principles stand and I know RSX now shows up as having a value of "0" in my account, and something about that rubs me the wrong way, but I digress I reckon.
Some webs are tight and some are loose and some are uncertain - no doubt in that.
Yes indeed Ken. Your link: https://www.epsilontheory.com/the-long-now-pt-4-snip/ is a super read. Most of our problems derive from fear. Fear drives greed (FOMO). I ahve used this great book's 12 lessons for personal transformation very successfully with clients (13 weekly sessions):
OK P&S, I've made a first effort to explain the rules of the game of American football, so I know you are a Brit or maybe a South African or maybe a South African Brit or vice versa a Brit South African, but I respect you and I appreciate your place and I've tried to describe the rules and seriously if you read the whole story the rules will be described in full assuming I'm breathing and able to finish the story and such.....and yes, I know I have an extra "o" in the "booomy" and I'll fix that in the story, but I just wanted you to know that I appreciate you.
Thanks Ken, that's really kind and I too very much admire your worthy life as reflected in your Stack - I learn a lot from you - it would be wonderful if we could meet for a beer some day. :-)
Gaming in general for me, sports, card games, board games, pretty much all games that are played fairly has always been a big part of who I am, but of course there needs to be balance, and I like to work hard as well - sometimes you can have both at the same time. Those are the best of times for me.
Whenever the story is continued I'll try to include some info on the basic rules of pee wee football.....the story is mainly about good coaches who care about teaching kids how to work together as a team.
Thanks Ken - team games are really important for character building I do believe and I love some of Yogi Berra's quotes, some of which i have used in my books. But this one I think sums it up (at the beginning of my Part 2)
“People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defences, or the problems of modern society.” -
Peter - thanks for that link. I have downloaded it and if I don't say anything to you about it direct in a month or so, please remind me to give it attention because that is my intent - to read it.
My grandfather, a man I never met was an accountant as was at least one of his sons, my uncle whose name was Ted. My sister was an accountant and she taught at the college level along with her husband, an accountant as well. Now, I can speak for my sister and her husband - they are both good folk....they ain't perfect (who could be), but I trust them. So based on that, at least 50% of the immediate accountants I know are good folk. I can't speak for my uncle, I didn't really know him that well, but on all accounts he seemed like a good man to me and I think my Dad (his brother) was fond of him. As for my Grandpa, he died before I was born, so I can't speak to him either, and my Dad....... I don't recall him ever talking about his Dad. I think he should have, but too late for that.
So, based on that anecdotal amount of info, I stand by what I said about lawyers on your thread because let's acknowledge this - the "game" of accounting fiscally has rules easily audited, whereas the "game" of jurisprudence does not lend itself to this and so the likelihood of those playing the game of jurisprudence becoming "foul" is much higher versus the bean-counters. Don't mean one is smarter than the other and frankly, I'm glad I chose to be an engineer. I have anecdotal "lawyer" experience as well, so please consider my view informed by that.
Myself, I'm a chemical engineer BS-Che, and everybody knows chemical engineers are kind of oddballs, but the reality is most folks can't make the cut to be a chemical engineer. Me, I graduated Magna Cum Laude cause nobody is perfect and I did make one C in "medieval history" for eff sake even though I still think that paper I wrote was deserving of a better grade.
Now, my oldest daughter she went to my alma mater (who could have predicted that!) and she graduated with straight A's - Summa Cum Laude I reckon and she has the tassel to prove it - but good grades don't make the person although they can be indicative.
My daughters are the sunshine of my life and they are lucky they have my masculine presence in their life because think about it - without me they would have never been born in the first place.
Ah yes, provincial accountants are indeed the salt of the earth Ken, and one of my best friends is an accountant who I have known for 50 years - a man of truth and integrity and a Christian to boot. It is those who rise by chance or connections into the world of corporate C-suit bosses and play to their tune.
Having consulted in this arena for many years I was able to observe the subtle undertones of 'money on the table' that few can resist. If you read just the Introduction of Part 1 you will gain an understanding of where I am coming from. AND BTW - I have worked with engineers most of my career and hold them as the highest of all professions. It is sad that their skills are rarely appreciated.
I admire your achievements in chemical engineering. I studied Chem, Bio, Phys, Maths at college and I planned to go on to biochemistry - but that's another story. I know enough to stand in admiration of engineers in general.
Well accountants and engineers are needed, but it is a fair question to ask if we really need lawyers just to put some closure on my sentiment. I've known a few good lawyers, and my brother is of the profession, but in general those who play jurisprudence are easily corrupted.
OK, to follow up on what I said I would do here is my response.
~~~~~
This is the beginning of the article at the link you provided (edited in format only):
~~~~~
During 1993 I made a major career transition from that of a corporate and business life to one of a more socially responsible activity. Having retired from my successful business in 1993 I joined the Citizens Advice Bureau as a volunteer and found that I thoroughly enjoyed helping people solve their personal life management problems. What I did discover however was my inability to effectively relate to the clients which were presenting unfathomable issues and often more than one at once. I approached my immediate manager, the bureau manager of the moment and expressed my problem. She advised me to take a counselling course at the local technical college and having enrolled in 1994 I gained a diploma in Humanistic Counselling in 1997.
~~~~~~~
OK, let me comment on that if you don't mind.
1. The Citizens Advice Bureau - is that a local entity?
2. Humanistic Counselling - is that defined later in the text?
~~~~~
OK, let me read on a bit.
~~~~
Technology is a double-edged sword; it can turn you into a zombie. The internet and
social media is a powerful source of information and knowledge but it can anesthetise us to the tragedies that surround us every day across the globe. Techno-gadgets can be merely distractions from what’s really going on in the world; a way to escape our unpleasant feelings of angst and fear. If you are going to make a difference in this world, you will need to cast aside those earphones, turn off your iPhone and spend much less time viewing screens.
Humanistic Counselling: There are 3 main forces in counselling (the talking therapy):
Psychodynamic (Freud); asserts :'You're not OK, I am OK, I can fix you'. I think this is toxic.
Rational Emotive (Skinner): asserts "You're not OK, but by understanding why you can overcome your fear. Works well with OCD - claustrophobia etc.
Humanistic (Rogers) asserts: "You're OK, I'm OK". We are all born beautiful perfect spirits damaged by life events. I will walk with you on your journey of healing self-discovery. "Humanistic counselling encourages individuals to think about their feelings and take responsibility for their thoughts and actions, with the emphasis on self-development and achieving their potential rather than on problematic behaviour. Gestalt therapy, for example, is one of a number humanistic approaches." https://www.verywellmind.com/humanistic-therapy-definition-types-techniques-and-efficacy-5203657
Hey P&S - I'm circling back one circle at a time and I've circled back here just now and truly the proof must be in the pudding. I paid the $50 bucks and I did it willingly and do you want to know the best part? I have no expectations - I just know I appreciate the wisdom from an ole fella who ain't pompous.
So, the way things are going - pretty soon - I think others are going to know.
You are such star Ken and I am humbled by your willing support which I hope to deserve in due course as the world as we know it unfolds. It's not about the money, which is worthless to people like us, it's about the love of fellowship with comrades-in-arms as we go forth secure in the knowing that which our Maker knows is right in this great battle of survival. "Cry God for Harry, England and St. George!" You can't beat Shakespeare Ken!
It is nuanced however and I hope you can sense the nuance.
I sure hope so because victims are not desired here on the story about kids who were pee-wees and good coaches who cared about the players, the cheerleaders, and everybody involved in the game.
Truly - there are more good folk than others who push harm, so not all men have harmful intent.
In the US , sports is not "sporting", not for fun. It's military training.
Ever study what the big sports guy have to say? They have a real hard time turning off the animal kill switch that makes them winners....when they get home. Guess who suffers?
Ever study the incidence of domestic abuse after any big game?
Why don't you all just have a circle jerk instead?
Seems to me you are trying to project your hostility onto a short story about pee-wee football for eff sake......Jeesh....
This story is not about what you are trying to project upon it and being that I'm the author of the story, I know. This story is about GOOD men who were coaches and the kids who played pee-wee football and teamwork. If your attitude is one of hostility toward "masculinity" I think you are commenting at the wrong SubStack.
I've given credit above - I mean really - did you think I came up with the name Phipps Boomy (PB) out of nowhere - hell no I didn't - I give credit when credit is due - do U?
Tis 22424 - the time is 2:07 pm (EST). There is a full moon today and the wolves are howling!
Get ready for Justified Retribution - it is coming.
Just like the boys from Buffalo - smaller than those hill-boys well coached - they had the advantage of better communication - whistling style and with humility to listen to the Whisper of a Wolf.
Congrats to the Buffalo Bills today (111923) in their victory and check this out bout indigo buntings:
~
The bright blue male indigo bunting (P. cyanea) is a conspicuous bird along eastern American roadsides; the drab brown female hides among thickets and incubates the eggs. The painted bunting (P. ciris), native to the American Southeast, is sometimes called the “nonpareil” because of the male’s unrivaled colouring—indigo head and neck, scarlet breast, and lemon back.
So, this is the 50th comment here and if I ran the numbers, most of the comments probably are from me - the author of said story here on "my" SubStack place. I think the story has mostly been told - typos corrected that will be and images provided that were intended to help convey the story written visually.
I think it is a beauty to be able to share stories and I appreciate the SubStack "Terms" - which I know will present in complete below:
the terms as of 82023 1613 are in the link above - here are some of the specific words that appeal to me:
~~
Posting Content on Substack
First and foremost, you own what you create. Any original content you post, upload, share, store, or otherwise provide to Substack remains yours and is protected by copyright and any other applicable intellectual property laws.
That includes newsletters, subscriber lists, any other text or photos you upload to your subdomain on Substack, and any information that you provide to obtain a Substack username and account. It also includes any comments posted on any current or future discussion board features on Substack.
I'm pretty sure this story could be made into a movie and it would have value in that regard.
Anybody want to make an offer on it?
I'm not saying it is "for sale" - I'm just saying this is a good story - it has value.
Make an offer fair and maybe we can barter.
BK
So just to go on record with this. In a previous post I spoke to my stance regarding comments at this place and basically I think I said as long as you don't make a direct threat upon another, then as the host I won't feel the need to moderate. I think I have also said that while I do edit my posts and comments, I won't make an edit after a few hours on any comment and if there is an exception to that I will point it out directly as part of the edit. As for the posts I make, the articles, I will edit them per my discretion and as far as this story goes it is a story being told in real time.
I for one ascribe to the idea that anybody ought have freedom to post and comment as they please as long as the comments are not a direct threat to anybody and as for the posts the same is probably how it ought to be but it takes a nuanced lens to judge this and artist telling a story ought be given the benefit of the doubt.
So just to be clear on that - I mean there is a possibility this thread of comments could become rather involved as the story itself evolves assuming the story does.....but you never know I reckon until the "publication" button is pushed.
Anyhow, I think I'm going to "pin" this one and "unpin" the other one (well, to "unpin" the other means I would have to edit it outside of the timeframe, so I guess it will remain pinned as well and yes, this is an edit and I'm making another now with my fingers, and I'm not a bot as others have accused me but I truly digress and so sorry for that.......if you think I am, lets put it to the test....but I'd just assume not).
I've got so many ideas for how this story might unfold and I just need to stew on it kind readers.......it is nice to know there are others out there who like a good story about pee-wee football and memories treasured. When the wolf shows up I suspect it will be a bit of a surprise for the players.
BK
So this story is basically over besides the charts and diagrams I need to add. But another story is forming and here is a clue on that: https://www.sott.net/article/481233-God-is-queer-says-German-pastor#comment464873
~
Buffalo_Ken · 14 minutes ago
Buffalo_Ken - so if you don't want to be hunted down to extermination, then disavow the vote you made - set yourself apart from it. Say you were under "undue" influence, but do what you can to separate yourself from the vote that was 21-0 to approve these experimental jabs to babies just six months old. Know this however, you cast your vote, it is known what you did - it is in the record. Disavow your choice while you can, but if you don't then know this - we will hunt you down.
~
That is what the "wolf" whispered in my ear when as an adult I went back to the wolf from my childhood. The wolf said, the pack always prevails in the end - we will get our prey - have no doubt about this the wolf whispered as it floated away.
~
This is what I would say to any of the 21 voted yes approving experimental jabs for six-month old babies.
BK - I enjoy word play, but I'm not kidding around - those 21 who approved jabs for little kids should of known better and I sent an email to them expressing my opposition, but they didn't listen and now we all know how they voted so wrong.
Another example of their lack of concern for kids’ lives: The polio shots back in the early 1960’s were contaminated with a monkey virus, from the manufacturing process. This was due to the use of monkey kidney cells to culture the polio virus on. The monkey virus was called SV40. SV40 isn't dangerous to monkeys, but causes cancer in humans.
The findings were ignored, and kids were given that polio vaccine, resulting in brain tumors and death for many kids."
-Brucha Weisberger https://www.ageofautism.com/files/wyeth79.pdf
Now we got this story Parzival - https://www.bitchute.com/video/N5QK7QzBMY4V/
I mean a trip back in time maybe - but if the dot connecting has merit, then I'm pretty sure there is going to be holy Cajun hell to pay.
A lot of nastiness then, and a lot of it going on now... Talk about bio-terrorism. This poor woman was able to dodge it... https://karenkingston.substack.com/p/how-i-survived-targeted-bioweapon?publication_id=1103773&post_id=137782120&isFreemail=true&r=iun8d
Onward & upward to fight another day!
Yo P - has the peppa sauce arrived yet?
My sister got hers - did you get yours?
Fabulous peppa sauce! Full flavored, with a great fragrance that smells of VA. soil, and as peppa sweetness coming through. Perfect spice/sweetness ratio!
About a jab for kids/babies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCM88_Gz4gA
So I want to keep this story going and in fact, I started to tell the next part, but I need to think a bit about it....first of all I said this "imaginary" bus trip occurred after both teams won their leagues in 1978 regular season, so when I speak about conditions at that time even though the story is "imaginary" I want the actual facts of the time to be accurate. So, for example in the story I have already said the kids departed on the bus on a "cold blistery April day" in Buffalo, NY and I've found a site that has the weather data and I want to be consistent with that because I have no reason to doubt the data presented. Moreover, I know this because I made the trip - you can't get from Buffalo, NY to Wytheville, VA on bus as quick as you can today the way it was in 1978. In 1978 I don't even think most of the West Virginia turnpike was like it is today....so today maybe the bus ride if all things go as planned could be done in about 8 hours, but in 1978 I think it was about 10 hours. Wow - talk about transportation progress in what 45 years! (ha, ha). I hear the pee-wee teams in China get to ride on a magnetic bus that is so much quicker in time as it travels from Point A to Point B, but I digress.
The other thing I'm not sure about is how to make an "edit" on a story post and have emails go out to subscribers, so they can read as the story progresses. I need to look into that. I'm pretty sure it can be done. Plus, I don't even know what the "ReStack" option means.....restack what?
Regardless, I will have another chapter in this short story and it will be the way I like to tell stories - in real time! The story is not going to be what you might expect nor is it anywhere close nor having anything to do about in the author's mind as to what the commentator below was trying to project upon it.......oh no, this story is deeper than that. It is already in my head and I will type it out in real time as the months go by in 2023.
Peace is easy,
Buffalo_Ken
* this message is pinned per the author's discretion
I like it. Good start. Safety and center! I was once a safety too.
The thing for me is I think being "defensive" was my gift and that is why I was a better Safety than Center. In fact, I can't say I have too many memories of playing center - it was the same ole battle play after play at the line of scrimmage and it was hard work and everybody noticed the Quarterback or maybe the Halfback and we also used Fullbacks in the backfield in those days as well....or maybe there was a dapper receiver caught the eye of the cheerleaders with his fancy footwork and quick moves. Typically, the folks on the offensive line don't get much attention for all their hard work play after play.....most of the time same is true for the defensive line players unless that is you are a defensive end of the caliber of Bruce Smith or some such who was just a force on the field undeniable and asserted his will with athletic grace, agility, swiftness and strength in a huge package of damn near pure muscle with almost no fat.
As for playing Safety, that was my forte, especially being a was a smaller kid relatively speaking, and I was skilled at reading the angles and knowing my main task was to prevent any opposing team from getting the big play. I was good at it - I loved it. I loved playing on the field with my friends teammates and usually some other friends on the other team. It was formal, folks cared about it, coaches made efforts, cheerleaders were there, and parents attended the games by choice.
So, this is why "American Football" is truly such a big part of my life, because I played it in neighborhood games (tackle and touch), in the pee-wee league (full contact), in middle school I tried, and after that in flag-football games formal (intramural) when I was in college at NC State. It has been and is a big part of my life and is also part of the reason why some of my heart also died when I saw #3 from Buffalo Bills fall on the field in that game against the Bengals - I'd already seen players drop like that as well as everyday folks in general on various off the beaten path media outlets. It is all connected in my mind, and I don't think I have this sentiment alone.
Bill, so thanks for posting here. I've been to Alabama a few times. I prefer Mississippi, but both those states are close and I married a Mississippi girl so that must be why.
Best to you,
Ken
I was a better Safety than I was a Center. I think I was a mediocre center, and some thought I held them, but you know.....
I got the Defensive MVP that year and I have the trophy bottom part to prove it! I'm pretty sure it came down to that one game against the Kenmore Packers when I made the tackle on the field as any safety proper should do when the opposing team does the flea flicker!
Ha, ha.
Thanks so much for your post about "football" - without it I doubt this story would have even gotten started.
With Respect,
BK
Hey Kenny, I think you'll find this right up your alley...
'What Makes A Casino Gamble Different Than Making A Decision Under Uncertainty?
by WILLIAM M BRIGG NOV 21 https://wmbriggs.substack.com/p/what-makes-a-casino-gamble-different?publication_id=682601&post_id=139040920&isFreemail=true&r=iun8d&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
Good use of the Indigo Bunting & the wolf Ken! Instead of going down a rabbit hole, you boys kinda' went down a ravine instead. The wolf lurking in the tree lines made it your totem, and after the game the kiss in the hospital sealed the experience. What a story it would have been if you had married Claire later on in life. That might be a fictional telling of the story... ;-)
Parzival - you alone here know most about the indigo bunting. I "maybe" did sort of marry "Claire" later, but by then she had a different name! (ha, ha).
Ken
;-)
Now that's a deep dive into a game/event that still resonates all these years/decades later ... And there's a good reason those events resonate in our memories.
I pulled this quote from the story:
"You know they say, with good coaches even a bunch of misfits can be league champions and I guess that is the best way to describe the Bill’s Bomber players in 1979."
That's true. A great coach can make all the difference. This coming from a man whose father played for arguably the best coach ever - Paul "Bear" Bryant. He could "take his'n and beat your'n and then take you're and beat his'n" (that's a quote from Bum Phillips).
Then again, another great quote is: "It's not the X's and O's it's the Jimmy's and Joes." that make all the difference. If you have the studs, your team is probably going to win.
Nick Saban figured that out, which is why he put so much emphasis on recruiting the best Jimmy's and Joes.
I hope the Powers that Be don't kill the great game of football!
That is a great comment and I can sense you got a lot going on so thanks for taking the time to share it.
Now, you may have noticed or maybe not, that Quinlin is sort of close to Quinlan and you may recall Quinlan played for the Packers out of Green Bay and was pretty stout against the run but lacking in some skills desired these days in defensive ends. Nitcheek is sort of close to Nitschke, a fella played middle linebacker for the Packers and turns out he was roommates with Quinlan.
There are other connections in this story about American Football and I agree about what you say about the "Powers that Be", but to be honest I think it would make more sense to put them in the past sense as in: "Powers that once were". They are on the way out because new ideas are forming that are better and American Football can't be killed. It lives on in the memory of those who played it and it is incumbent upon us to pass that knowledge on to future generations. Football is a great game in so many ways as long as the field of play is fair.
ps - you know I'm almost positve Lou Saban was the coach for the Buffalo Bills on that evening I met Howard Cossell. Small world really when we sit at the table.
Chapter 1: "Oh the weather outside was frightful, but the champs in tow delightful."
I'll be keeping an eye out for your next installment Ken. I like your down to Earth style. Should be a fun story!
Parzival - it is awesome of you to check out my SubStack place.
Harrison also has a place - https://ponerology.substack.com/ The other posters here also have places worth checking out. My focus is sharing about my garden efforts, but I’ve decided to have a story going at the same time - sort of a “real-time” story. Who knows how it will unfold - that is the fun part for me.
Thanks, Ken
Hey Ken. Yeah, I subscribe as a non-monetary free subscription to Harrison's ponerology substack. I'll read what you post with interest. Maybe I'll learn a little something about gardening ;-) Take care Ken, have a good week...
-P-
Very well written Ken, but the story is lost on me as I don't understand American football; hell I don't even understand our soccer or rugby! My games are inside, out of the weather, like snooker, cards, board games (Risk, Monopoly etc). But these days I am too busy writing that I have little time left for pastimes.
Lastly Peter did you know that both Quinlan and Nistchke both literally were there when Vince Lombardi was the coach of the Packers and talked about teamwork as you quoted.
So the web of this story has already formed and I hope it is a web like the one Charlotte made being she was a kind spider - but all webs formed in real time emerge as they will I reckon.
I know where my principles stand and I know RSX now shows up as having a value of "0" in my account, and something about that rubs me the wrong way, but I digress I reckon.
Some webs are tight and some are loose and some are uncertain - no doubt in that.
Ken
Yes indeed Ken. Your link: https://www.epsilontheory.com/the-long-now-pt-4-snip/ is a super read. Most of our problems derive from fear. Fear drives greed (FOMO). I ahve used this great book's 12 lessons for personal transformation very successfully with clients (13 weekly sessions):
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Love-Letting-Fear-Gerald-Jampolsky/dp/158761118X
OK P&S, I've made a first effort to explain the rules of the game of American football, so I know you are a Brit or maybe a South African or maybe a South African Brit or vice versa a Brit South African, but I respect you and I appreciate your place and I've tried to describe the rules and seriously if you read the whole story the rules will be described in full assuming I'm breathing and able to finish the story and such.....and yes, I know I have an extra "o" in the "booomy" and I'll fix that in the story, but I just wanted you to know that I appreciate you.
Ken
Thanks Ken, that's really kind and I too very much admire your worthy life as reflected in your Stack - I learn a lot from you - it would be wonderful if we could meet for a beer some day. :-)
Gaming in general for me, sports, card games, board games, pretty much all games that are played fairly has always been a big part of who I am, but of course there needs to be balance, and I like to work hard as well - sometimes you can have both at the same time. Those are the best of times for me.
Whenever the story is continued I'll try to include some info on the basic rules of pee wee football.....the story is mainly about good coaches who care about teaching kids how to work together as a team.
Warm Regards,
Ken
Thanks Ken - team games are really important for character building I do believe and I love some of Yogi Berra's quotes, some of which i have used in my books. But this one I think sums it up (at the beginning of my Part 2)
“People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defences, or the problems of modern society.” -
(Vince Lombardi)
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358116877_THE_FINANCIAL_JIGSAW_-_PART_2_A5_Update_V1_-_2020
Peter - thanks for that link. I have downloaded it and if I don't say anything to you about it direct in a month or so, please remind me to give it attention because that is my intent - to read it.
My grandfather, a man I never met was an accountant as was at least one of his sons, my uncle whose name was Ted. My sister was an accountant and she taught at the college level along with her husband, an accountant as well. Now, I can speak for my sister and her husband - they are both good folk....they ain't perfect (who could be), but I trust them. So based on that, at least 50% of the immediate accountants I know are good folk. I can't speak for my uncle, I didn't really know him that well, but on all accounts he seemed like a good man to me and I think my Dad (his brother) was fond of him. As for my Grandpa, he died before I was born, so I can't speak to him either, and my Dad....... I don't recall him ever talking about his Dad. I think he should have, but too late for that.
So, based on that anecdotal amount of info, I stand by what I said about lawyers on your thread because let's acknowledge this - the "game" of accounting fiscally has rules easily audited, whereas the "game" of jurisprudence does not lend itself to this and so the likelihood of those playing the game of jurisprudence becoming "foul" is much higher versus the bean-counters. Don't mean one is smarter than the other and frankly, I'm glad I chose to be an engineer. I have anecdotal "lawyer" experience as well, so please consider my view informed by that.
Myself, I'm a chemical engineer BS-Che, and everybody knows chemical engineers are kind of oddballs, but the reality is most folks can't make the cut to be a chemical engineer. Me, I graduated Magna Cum Laude cause nobody is perfect and I did make one C in "medieval history" for eff sake even though I still think that paper I wrote was deserving of a better grade.
Now, my oldest daughter she went to my alma mater (who could have predicted that!) and she graduated with straight A's - Summa Cum Laude I reckon and she has the tassel to prove it - but good grades don't make the person although they can be indicative.
My daughters are the sunshine of my life and they are lucky they have my masculine presence in their life because think about it - without me they would have never been born in the first place.
Proud alum from NC State - the Wolfpack!
BS-ChE, class of 1987.
BK
Ah yes, provincial accountants are indeed the salt of the earth Ken, and one of my best friends is an accountant who I have known for 50 years - a man of truth and integrity and a Christian to boot. It is those who rise by chance or connections into the world of corporate C-suit bosses and play to their tune.
Having consulted in this arena for many years I was able to observe the subtle undertones of 'money on the table' that few can resist. If you read just the Introduction of Part 1 you will gain an understanding of where I am coming from. AND BTW - I have worked with engineers most of my career and hold them as the highest of all professions. It is sad that their skills are rarely appreciated.
I admire your achievements in chemical engineering. I studied Chem, Bio, Phys, Maths at college and I planned to go on to biochemistry - but that's another story. I know enough to stand in admiration of engineers in general.
Well accountants and engineers are needed, but it is a fair question to ask if we really need lawyers just to put some closure on my sentiment. I've known a few good lawyers, and my brother is of the profession, but in general those who play jurisprudence are easily corrupted.
OK, to follow up on what I said I would do here is my response.
~~~~~
This is the beginning of the article at the link you provided (edited in format only):
~~~~~
During 1993 I made a major career transition from that of a corporate and business life to one of a more socially responsible activity. Having retired from my successful business in 1993 I joined the Citizens Advice Bureau as a volunteer and found that I thoroughly enjoyed helping people solve their personal life management problems. What I did discover however was my inability to effectively relate to the clients which were presenting unfathomable issues and often more than one at once. I approached my immediate manager, the bureau manager of the moment and expressed my problem. She advised me to take a counselling course at the local technical college and having enrolled in 1994 I gained a diploma in Humanistic Counselling in 1997.
~~~~~~~
OK, let me comment on that if you don't mind.
1. The Citizens Advice Bureau - is that a local entity?
2. Humanistic Counselling - is that defined later in the text?
~~~~~
OK, let me read on a bit.
~~~~
Technology is a double-edged sword; it can turn you into a zombie. The internet and
social media is a powerful source of information and knowledge but it can anesthetise us to the tragedies that surround us every day across the globe. Techno-gadgets can be merely distractions from what’s really going on in the world; a way to escape our unpleasant feelings of angst and fear. If you are going to make a difference in this world, you will need to cast aside those earphones, turn off your iPhone and spend much less time viewing screens.
~~
* (in the original text) This is worth reading to gain an insight: https://www.epsilontheory.com/the-long-now-pt-4-snip/
~
Hey P&S - I super agree with that.
I appreciate the wisdom you share.
Ken
Thanks Ken for your kind words - it's always a joy for me to have others appreciate my scribbles. To answer your questions:
The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) was established on September 3 1939 at the outbreak of WW2 to help the public deal with extraordinary conditions - it is a voluntary service. After the war it proved to be so successful that HMG expanded it and it is now named just 'Citizens Advice': https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/global/migrated_documents/corporate/citizens-advice-introduction-to-the-service-2012-13.pdf
Humanistic Counselling: There are 3 main forces in counselling (the talking therapy):
Psychodynamic (Freud); asserts :'You're not OK, I am OK, I can fix you'. I think this is toxic.
Rational Emotive (Skinner): asserts "You're not OK, but by understanding why you can overcome your fear. Works well with OCD - claustrophobia etc.
Humanistic (Rogers) asserts: "You're OK, I'm OK". We are all born beautiful perfect spirits damaged by life events. I will walk with you on your journey of healing self-discovery. "Humanistic counselling encourages individuals to think about their feelings and take responsibility for their thoughts and actions, with the emphasis on self-development and achieving their potential rather than on problematic behaviour. Gestalt therapy, for example, is one of a number humanistic approaches." https://www.verywellmind.com/humanistic-therapy-definition-types-techniques-and-efficacy-5203657
Go well my friend
Blessings
AP
Hey P&S - I'm circling back one circle at a time and I've circled back here just now and truly the proof must be in the pudding. I paid the $50 bucks and I did it willingly and do you want to know the best part? I have no expectations - I just know I appreciate the wisdom from an ole fella who ain't pompous.
So, the way things are going - pretty soon - I think others are going to know.
You are such star Ken and I am humbled by your willing support which I hope to deserve in due course as the world as we know it unfolds. It's not about the money, which is worthless to people like us, it's about the love of fellowship with comrades-in-arms as we go forth secure in the knowing that which our Maker knows is right in this great battle of survival. "Cry God for Harry, England and St. George!" You can't beat Shakespeare Ken!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCGSXMiQrFQ
"bombers...whipped ...smash...a lot of smack" ...and on and on...a paean to violent masculinity. "Life".
One might inquire what a "paean" is - so let me detail it with a definition:
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paean
Well, as I said below - correct you are I reckon.
It is nuanced however and I hope you can sense the nuance.
I sure hope so because victims are not desired here on the story about kids who were pee-wees and good coaches who cared about the players, the cheerleaders, and everybody involved in the game.
Truly - there are more good folk than others who push harm, so not all men have harmful intent.
Ken
Correct I reckon - not all kids could play on the Bills Bombers - only tough kids accepted.
Moreover, lets remember sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me.
Take that to heart and then let the words flow is what I think.
BK
In the US , sports is not "sporting", not for fun. It's military training.
Ever study what the big sports guy have to say? They have a real hard time turning off the animal kill switch that makes them winners....when they get home. Guess who suffers?
Ever study the incidence of domestic abuse after any big game?
Why don't you all just have a circle jerk instead?
Circle jerking I think is more popular amongst folks who never choose a mate.
By the way Blue Electric Storm - I refer to that as a 2-1-2 hug.
Let me give you a hug genuine - I think you need one.
Seems to me you are trying to project your hostility onto a short story about pee-wee football for eff sake......Jeesh....
This story is not about what you are trying to project upon it and being that I'm the author of the story, I know. This story is about GOOD men who were coaches and the kids who played pee-wee football and teamwork. If your attitude is one of hostility toward "masculinity" I think you are commenting at the wrong SubStack.
Ken
I've given credit above - I mean really - did you think I came up with the name Phipps Boomy (PB) out of nowhere - hell no I didn't - I give credit when credit is due - do U?
Tis 22424 - the time is 2:07 pm (EST). There is a full moon today and the wolves are howling!
Get ready for Justified Retribution - it is coming.
Just like the boys from Buffalo - smaller than those hill-boys well coached - they had the advantage of better communication - whistling style and with humility to listen to the Whisper of a Wolf.
Congrats to the Buffalo Bills today (111923) in their victory and check this out bout indigo buntings:
~
The bright blue male indigo bunting (P. cyanea) is a conspicuous bird along eastern American roadsides; the drab brown female hides among thickets and incubates the eggs. The painted bunting (P. ciris), native to the American Southeast, is sometimes called the “nonpareil” because of the male’s unrivaled colouring—indigo head and neck, scarlet breast, and lemon back.
~
Here is the link of course...
https://www.britannica.com/animal/bunting-bird
~
Some stories never end and some buntings got a message to send.
So, this is the 50th comment here and if I ran the numbers, most of the comments probably are from me - the author of said story here on "my" SubStack place. I think the story has mostly been told - typos corrected that will be and images provided that were intended to help convey the story written visually.
I think it is a beauty to be able to share stories and I appreciate the SubStack "Terms" - which I know will present in complete below:
https://substack.com/tos
~
the terms as of 82023 1613 are in the link above - here are some of the specific words that appeal to me:
~~
Posting Content on Substack
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