cheers (a reference to the show)

Do you have anywhere that you can go that everyone knows your name? A situation where you walk in the door and you are immediately greeted, recognized and acknowledged? In turn you see familiar faces and feel a genuine sense of community and friendship? You share your story, what you've done recently (only in the last day or two because they have seen you a brief while ago) and what you plan on doing that day. You hear what they have planned for the day. You hear about their job, their kids, their friends. You know all of their names, and they know your's. They know that you like two creams in your coffee (no homo) and interestingly enough DON'T like cream cheese on your bagel. Don't have money today? No problem, you can pay tomorrow - they know you're good for it. When you didn't see them in a week there was a real anxiousness, and eagerness to catch up when they returned. "Look a little tired today Al-Akbar (yes progressive), late night at the office?" They notice these things. You notice these things about them.

How about at least a place where anyone knows your name?

No?

Well went to McDonalds today and I experienced this. A real sense of community and connection with others' lives at this place. People just taking it slow, enjoying the day and eachother and being alive. Sippin' on some Joe.

Now to the point...

The Republicans take over the House today. They want to end all this. All they care about is getting rich and richer and even richer. Beg borrow and steal. Don't care about community, helping someone out, and genuine compassion. Any semblance of my description above that remains in America will be gone soon.