Monday Missionary Position

It’s today’s Monday Mission:

1. In the United States of America, it was recently ruled that the phrase “one nation under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance is unconstitutional. Do you agree with this ruling? Should the phrase “under God” be removed? Why?

I’ve been running hot and cold on this one. Frankly, I think it’s a much more trivial subject than a lot of others going on. To my mind, though, what sets me most in favor of having the phrase dropped is the response of the folks who are sqawking the loudest about the ruling. Far from the “ceremonial Deism” of the dissent, there are clearly a number of people (apparently including our President) who see this phrase not as anything ceremonial, but as a direct identification of the US as a Godly nation, dedicated to the Almighty. I.e., it’s religion. And “loyalty oaths” (which the pledge essentially is) should not force folks (particularly children) to identify with a given, distinct religious position.

2. When was the last time you took a road trip? Where did you go and what did you do?

Hmmmm. Probably last Christmas, when we drove off to California (in lieu of paying extortionate air fares).

3. Do you have any vacations planned for this summer? Already gone? Where to and what?

Well, we’ve done the Big Family Campout already. We’re looking at going to the San Diego ComicCon in August, coupled with a reunion thang (on Margie’s side of the family), so we’ll be spending a week in California (with me working out of one of the offices there).

4. What is the most drastic change to your appearance that you have ever made? Are you brave enough to post a photo?

Hmmm. Toss-up between one of the occasional beard-shavings and the buzz cut I started sporting about a year ago or so. Gory details in the “About … my photos” section.

5. Tell me about something to which you are committed?

My wife and child. You’ll have to go through me first.

6. Now tell me about something you just flat-out gave up on.

Teaching. It was a very rewarding two years, and the fulfillment of a childhood dream, but I realized that too much of my time was spent running the classroom (on administrative and disciplinary details) and not enough in sharing the joy of learning with kids.

7. (new saga) I’ve had it, this place is just wearing me out. You too? We need a break! Let’s head out and go someplace new. You make the plans, I’ll get things ready. So what do you have it mind, and did you want me to pick up anything special to pack for the trip?

New York! Never been to New York. Sounds like fun — lots to see, lots to do, and even a few people to visit. Pack some cool clothes, and some munchies for the car (I’ve been inspired by the Road Trip thang) and let’s go!

BONUS: Where is my hairbrush?

Um, last I saw it, Kitten had it.