while the masses are glued to their television sets, hanging onto every vestige of Survivor, I sit here and write.

Nonconformist to the bitter end.

I cannot understand the appeal of this show, though, given its popularity, I know it must have some to someone. I, therefore, certainly do not begrudge anyone watching it. I must say, though, that the stars of this ditty are certifiable. They are proof positive that Western capitalism has the ability to turn anyone into a prostitute.

Ironically, there is nothing even remotely close to "surviving" in this show. Greed...yes. Selfishness...yes. The dark side of ruthlessness...yes. True surviving...definately not.

My version of this show would entail following several ghetto families around for a year. Now there is survival for you. However, something like that is too real. It reminds us of the fact that life beyond suburbia is anything but perfect, and that the majority of the population lives that kind of life everyday. And who would sponsor it? Certainly not the corporations that keep these families right where they are thank you very much.

Yet one more cash cow for television execs, and let us not forget, big brother.

And we fall for it every time

Pretty soon, the only thing that will satisfy our entertainment cravings will be a show akin to The Running Man. Are we that far removed from it already?

I do not think so.

That is my rant for this day. You may now return to your regularly scheduled programming.

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Things on the home front on this day are relatively quiet. Work is steady, and I was assigned more new clients this week. My schedule is now over-full, and I dread the ringing of the telephone. But it keeps a roof over our heads, all six of us. And Reekie likes to eat, on top of that.

The Goddess is as we speak still not back from a job interview. It is a part time position as a home aide to a woman with MS. It is right up her alley, but home aids are seldom paid what they are worth. Nevertheless, if it is what The Goddess wants to do, I certainly support her efforts. Something more always comes along.

Moo is now finished Moostruating. Our bedding and my underwear are safe once again. She'll be spayed before she has a chance to go into another heat.

Alyx is currently somewhere in Nashville. He and his estranged brother decided to take a week and drive there, stopping at all major tourist attractions along the way. I am thrilled that he is feeling well enough to handle the traveling. He deserves a break more than practically anyone. I miss his company, though, and cannot wait for him to get back on Monday. He needs a good skunkin' at crib.

Freda just returned from Old Orchard Beach, and is going to stop by tentatively on Friday night. I hope the plans stick, for she has been wayward most of the summer. I miss our coffee talks.

Lowlandz is working too hard. I think we should start an e-mail campaign telling him to go home and rest.

And, finally, fellow journaler, Al Schroeder, mentioned The Spiritual Journey in his August edition of Lives On Line. A hearty and heartfelt thank you, Al.

Be Well