J. Davy Crockett III

Some expressions in the vernacular, that is “words used on the street,” express an idea in a way that more formal expressions just can’t match. Such an expression is “on Easy Street.” Someone who has just received a great windfall that transforms their economic circumstances from being meager to being set for life might use the expression, “I’m on Easy Street now!”

Does it frustrate you that so many things are made with “planned obsolescence” built in? You know, the product falls apart or quits working soon after the warranty expires? As you walk the aisles of your favorite store, are you appalled at the flood of cheaply made merchandise that becomes worthless soon after being put to use? Then, there are activities that soak up a lot of our time without resulting in anything positive or productive.

Children’s books often entertain and educate young readers with stories and illustrations of animals. Sometimes the animals depicted are realistic in appearance and the lesson or message is made with the circumstances and surroundings. In others the animals are cartoonish, having human like characteristics. Anthropomorphism—attributing human characteristics to animals—is very popular. As a result, there is a generation of young adults that have very unrealistic attitudes toward animals and their place in the food chain and social order.

When I was a Boy Scout, many years ago, going to Summer Camp was a great adventure. Living in a tent with other boys, hiking forest trails, and learning new skills were memorable experiences. One class that was useful then—and which I still find useful today—was how to safely handle a hatchet or small axe. These hand tools are essential in camping and being a woodsman. Our counselor showed us how to sharpen the cutting edge of the axe, explaining that a sharp tool is much more useful—and safer—than a dull one.