The Abbeys of the World

My wife and I have watched season three of Downton Abbey. I have become much more enthralled than she has. I find the whole era interesting and I thought what I learned of the aristocracy in England would be an enlightenment. The stodginess of the Lords and Ladys. The arrogance of some of the servants who have have their own social pyramid. We have seen the awkward customs of dressing for dinner. Having a servant serving every drink or meal. The valets and housemaids tending to all the needs of the Granthams. The series takes place in the 1920's. It occurred to me that after 93 years little has changed in the world. Women are still oppressed in many countries. The aristocracy are now called dictators. They assume their power not from any talent on their part but simply through heritage. Outlandish, dated, ridiculous customs still are practiced in many countries. Everyday I read the headlines about women arrested for wanting equal rights. People being persecuted under laws centuries old. Downton Abbey has become for me a reminder of the injustices in our generation. The unwillingness to change and the hiding behind archaic laws and edicts to perpetuate the harsh and unequal treatment of society.

My Valentine

Valentines aren't blue that's true
Nor are they green
They are red as a spleen
for all to be seen.
It's a day to remember
each one and each member
of your family or special ones
I've been blessed as a man
to have found in this life
the woman whom I call my wife.
She is a woman unique from the rest
In many things she is the best
The best thing she does is take care of me
so that in spite of myself I continue to be
She is the love of my life
My best friend not just a wife
and so I am so fortunate to call Lea
My most loved and treasured Valentine
and lucky to have her as mine