RANTS AND OBSERVATIONS
Welcome to www.RantsandObservations.com.
I am a forty year veteran of the music business, still performing from time to time. As a musician, singer, songwriter and recording artist, I’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the greats in the industry.
I have also recorded a couple of CDs that are still available. You can learn about both CDs and my entire career in music at www.MichaelKontras.com.
Over the last 4 decades, I’ve had thousands of conversations with people all over the country at what politicians call “the grassroots.” Their thoughts have helped me to understand much about this nation. I’ve been able to form my opinions from first-hand knowledge rather than the blather that is often heard in the media.
Like millions of others around the globe, I’m very interested in what’s going on in the world of politics. As you may have noticed, I have posts on other subjects, but our elected leaders’ decisions on policies that affect our country and its citizens tops the list. Here’s my latest post.
I’ve learned not to discuss politics at family gatherings. Needless to say, unless everyone is open-minded and can agree to disagree without tempers flaring and insults flying, it’s not worth ruining a good meal. Those that know me well, know that is culinary blasphemy to me.
Obviously, I stay away from these discussions at work. I enjoy my work environment and those in it so I apply restraint. That’s not to say I don’t overhear political discussions as I’m walking by, but I make it a point not to join those conversations.
My wife and I are on the same page with most issues, so discussions are usually a pleasant experience – except when I speak up during the commentary of someone she is watching on television. Then, of course, I get “that look.” Married people know EXACTLY what I’m talking about.
My youngest son is not that interested in any of this, but a father can hope.
My oldest son and I have the same passion about politics. Since he is in the entertainment industry I can mention his name. You can learn all about him at www.AdamKontras.com. I started writing about politics before R&O in Faith Trumps Fear. It was a huge effort and when Adam read it, he said, “Dad, from now on you should do a page once in a while throughout the year, rather than save it all up for one big project at the end of the year.” He has now apologized to my wife for the monster he created. This blog was his suggestion.
I find writing to be both addicting and cathartic. Most of all, it forces me to back up my statements with facts – something I know many bloggers do not do.
Hopefully this gives you some insight to my thinking.
Please do not hesitate to respond.
I learn when I listen.
Sincerely,
