October 13, 1991 officially ended my 9 years and change of service in the Navy as a Petty Officer First Class.
It's very sobering to realize that a quarter of a century has passed since then. I can recall often wondering if my term of enlistment would ever end. I learned a lot during that time, but would never wish that learning experience upon others. The Navy intentionally taught me how to run a nuclear plant and leadership and teamwork skills. It unintendedly taught me how to deal with abusive people, situations, and bureaucracy. I am most certainly better for it, but never like to be honored when people ask "will all our veteran's stand?". I often tell people who care to listen: "Keep your public recognition. Keep your parades and bumper stickers and yard signs. Three things I would ask to truly honor veterans: 1) Excellent heath care service - especially for the wounded in mind and/or body 2) Easy access to housing - especially for the wounded in mind and/or body. 3) Vote.
Voting is the most fundamental element of democracy. It is why we have a national defense, especially one led by a civilian leader. Even if you don't like ANYone ... just go to the ballot box and write NOBODY on the ballot. Choosing not to vote is certainly a right, but all that does is allow a minority of people choose leaders for the majority population. Eventually, only the passionate enough (angry enough) people will be the voters, and politicians with enough money and influence to align angry people behind him or her will be the ones who get into office.
Enough.
Here are a few random pictures I've taken that I thought I'd post. I can't bring myself to put anything substantial on FB, so you remaining Xangans are my audience. 
I'm VERY good with that.
This first picture is a house in historic New Castle, where I often take walks. If you look closely in the smaller window, you'll see a dollhouse of the bigger house. I thought that was kind of neat.
The picture below was taken outside of may apartment building. It's poignant. The woman on the back was simply walking the streets of Wilmington, DE when she was shot from behind and killed. The bullet was likely a stray from a gunfight, but the culprit(s) have not been found. She left behind an infant child. The story was in the local news, but I hadn't realized that the family is apparently close to someone in my building, as I've seen the van a couple of times.
"Battery Park" is also in the historic district of New Castle. I was blessed to see a mom and her daughter flying a kite one lovely September afternoon. Pictures sometimes capture the emotion of the moment well and other time, not so much. This one is a "not so much," but is a moment that remains in my head, all the same, as one of innocence and love.
The last time I was home in Baroda, I spotted this butterfly on my butterfly bush next to my grapevines.
I treasured those moments in my beloved garden and was quietly thrilled to have one during the very short time I was there, last.
