Like a lot of people, parts of my profile are a bit whimsical, while still being honest. Believe it or not, I've actually "toned it down" from it's original form. Personally, I prefer to reveal my "darker side" initially, rather than trying to introduce it at some later time. Besides, just mentioning an activity isn't an invitation for participation.

Several years ago, a former minister described himself as politically and theologically conservative, while still being socially liberal. His self-discription also seems to apply to me. I also agree with an evangelist who stated that "too many 'Bible thumpers' never bother to actually read it." Yes, I know I have flaws; but I've yet to find any mortal worthy of judging me ("casting the first stone"). The world is full of "plank eyes."

Opposing viewpoints are welcomed. And I could probably empathise (but not necessarily sympathise) with most. There is a deep truth in the cliche: "When two people are in total agreement, only one is necessary."

I have a copy at home; and I sometimes review parts - remorseful of how much it seems to be ignored by those who are supposed to be defending it. The Bill of Rights is often posted in public buildings; and each of these amendments has been crushed by so-called liberals.

Free speech and freedom of religion: Try that if you're a Christian with a government job.

Right to keep and bare arms: Intended to prevent tyrannical rule and provide for personal protection. Nearly impossible in cities with the highest crime rates, like Chicago or NYC. Even in "gun friendly states" like Florida and Texas it could result in jail time if in a public building.

Etc., etc.

To even get a job requires mandatory drug testing; which violates the fourth amendment, supposedly protecting "PERSON, papers and effects" from unreasonable search and requiring a Warrant "supported by oath or affirmation" for such search. Also, if the test is positive, it may violate the fifth amendment (self incrimination).

The lawmakers have even taken away our right to trial by jury and brainwashed the masses into thinking that "decriminalization" is for our benefit. Jury trials are rarely allowed for "civil infractions" because inflation seems to be factored into the "twenty dollar" constitutional limit which would exempt the right to trial by jury.

If our forefathers were alive today, they would be branded as terrorists. Imagine the headlines: "Terrorists, disguised as native Americans, storm Boston Harbor and destroy freight." When it comes to personal liberties, our forefathers were true liberals; although their attitudes might be considered as "extreme right-wing" by today's twisted definitions. As a side note, Washington and Jefferson also corresponded often about their hemp crop (hemphistorian.com).

Personally, I think it's about time to lobby our courts and lawmakers in order to restore the God-given rights that we've been robbed of. And, if that fails, we should all become scofflaws.

Field doves seem to be almost everywhere in the south; and usually receive little regard. But, I'm often reminded of something that happened several years ago, which proved to me that even the "lower life forms" have emotions.

I was driving home from work, when I noticed a field dove flopping around in the middle of the road. So, I stopped to check out it's problem.

It appeared that the dove had been shot with a bb, just under the wing. Additionally, a worm had begun to attack the injury. It's chances of survival seemed very slim; but there was a chance.

I removed the worm and placed the injured bird in the floor of my car. When I arrived home, I turned the dog's house (which received minimal use from our dog that stayed mostly indoors) on it's back; and attached a wire mesh covering to keep out any neighborhood cat. The bird seemed too weak to eat or even stand; but I placed some popcorn inside the doghouse, along with a jar's lid of water. It was late Friday; so there would be time the next day to either release the bird, or bury it.

Surprisingly, the bird seemed much more energetic the next morning; but still didn't resist being handled and examined. When I first attempted to release it, it circled and bumped into the side of my house. Closer examination indicated that, among other injuries, the bird had also lost use of one eye. So, I carried the bird to the the less-obstructed end of my driveway; and again released it into the sky.

It hesitated departing. The dove circled above me and then landed by my feet. There, it simply looked me over, head to toe; and didn't depart until after I had squatted beside it, said a few words and then walked away. I truly believe that "lower life form" was thanking me.

There was a time I referred to my peers as the generation that refuses to grow up. I guess part of growing up is actually settling in a career. So there must be many like me; being that so many entered my most recent career, relatively later in life.

I've been on the road most of the past year. There is no comfort when forced to live in such close quarters with a stranger, your co-driver; in whose hands rests the fate of your life.

I'ld rather earn the lower wages of a hostler than to be over the road with a stranger again. Besides, the lesser wage would be offset by a reduced cost of living. It can be expensive, living on the road. Does anyone have leads to companies with local needs of Class-A, CDL holders?

On the other hand, there may be other options. I've often believed that a true indication of success is to find something that you truly enjoy, and then find a way to make the activity profitable. Unfortunately, the activities that I enjoy most and perform best have very few legal avenues for profit. Direct payment for the activity itself is illegal in most states; but, can be filmed for profit, provided other contract rules apply. Free auditions are available.

On March 20, 2011 my co-driver fell asleep at the wheel at about 4am. I was in the sleeping berth and sufferred a mild concussion, during the crash. I'm home now.

There will be some 'red tape' to deal with, for a while; but it would be great to hear from someone nice while I'm in town.

My co-driver was fired, as expected. But there were a number of errors also made by the company we were driving for; such as putting me back on a truck before being medically cleared, stranding me in Oregon (even though the accident occurred in Indiana), etc. Some of the 'red tape' will include a visit to my attorney.

But there are lessons for everyone; such as NOT driving alongside other vehicles, stopping when fatigued, etc. No trip is worth your life.

I've been spending a lot of time on the road, lately. Unfortunately, it hasn't been for pleasure; it's my job. On the bright side, at least I'm working and able to see much of this country that I might otherwise miss. But, it greatly inhibits social activities. (There's only so much that can be discussed at truck stops.) I've also developed a bit of a distain for stupid drivers. Give a trucker a break; it could save many lives. (Passing a 18-wheeler on the right is suicidal; they can't see you.) Too many people risk lives in order to save a few seconds. With all the miles I've been traveling, I often see the fatal results of someone's impatience.

Enough rambling. My initial intent for this post was to say "hello" and give an explanation for any correspondences that I've neglected. I don't carry a laptop, yet. But, my phone is always with me. I check my messages when I can.

I would sometimes see that window sticker in truck stops, but only recently learned it's meaning. "No Lot Lizards." Perhaps here we might say "no 'bots'." In a recent trucking class, we were warned about 'lot lizards;' a term derived by the way they crawl through the trailers at truck stops. Basically, they're prostitutes; and nasty ones at that.

There is no reason to spend for that which is already due. Nor is there reason to spend on that which doesn't satisfy. I DO NOT WANT TO VISIT ANY SITE THAT WANTS MY CREDIT INFORMATION. No "lot lizards" / No "cam whores" / No "bots"..!!

Happily [[single again]], living in my own modest home by [[Jacksonville Beach]]. Anyone who has commented says that I'm handsome; however, I'm not really into the superficial. I'm seeking additional [[friendships]] (not "ownership") to include in my current social circles. All current relationships are 'open'; and I prefer to keep it that way, unless I find the perfect woman, if she truly exists. Various lady friends describe me as a "wonderful person" and their "buddy". Not all of my friends are involved in all of my activities; but most are aware, and approve. I'm also a bit of an adrenaline 'junkie'; and someday hope to hang-glide into the Grand Canyon. If you happen to own a hang-glider or hot air balloon, or simply feel like making an interesting friend, you may e-mail me at fantasydelights@aol.com or call 904-307-2626. Guests may be welcome to stay over; and if inebriated, are incouraged to do so.

When I first started focusing on meeting through the internet, I probably registered with every meetup site available. I get invitations to social events quite frequently. So far, my most committed RSVP has been a "maybe." I've yet to actually attend any. However, if there would be someone that I've been partially introduced to, it might be a more comfortable atmosphere to meet.

However, I disagree that it is difficult to meet. Personally, the most difficult aspect is only our own resistance. We're afraid. And I still haven't figured out "for what?"! We're designed as social creatures; and we all have similarities.

Yes, at this age, we all have baggage. But, more important than what type of baggage we possess is the manner in which we carry it! I know. At one time, I was one of the whinners that spoke of the ex; as I'm sure we all have.

Experience has also shown that it is easier to stand against the competition of an ex, than a deceased. My second wife was widowed. It wasn't until I secretly began to study Spanish, as an intended pleasant surprise, that I learned of her comparison. Although, we have again become casual, after my demise from my third and final spouse.

See, I've already exposed my personal baggage, and how I handle it. But I promise that any other discussion on the topic will be at your discretion. Just be prepared for a potential "brutal honesty" in any responses that you ever request. However, I always remain a gentleman, with priority toward the accompanying lady.

So, you can see I'm pleasant enough. It has also been hinted that I'm always open for a meet-and-greet. Where's the difficulty in meeting? My contact information is even posted within my profile. It's only a choice.

michael

I wanted to take a moment to share a couple of anecdotes that you may relate to. The first was originally told to me in Barnaul, by my translator. The second was told to me upon my return to America.

#1
someone who speaks two languages = bilingual
someone who speaks three languages = trilingual
someone who speaks four languages = quadralingual
someone who speaks only one language = American

#2
Two ditchdiggers are taking a short break when an expensive European sportcar pulls up and the driver attempts to ask for directions, first in German, then French, then Italian, then in Spanish. Each time, the ditchdiggers only shrugged, totally oblivious to what the driver was asking. So, frustrated, the driver speeds off. Afterward, one of the ditchdiggers said to the other "We really should learn another language." To which the other replies "Why? That guy knew four; and it didn't do him any good."