J. Davy Crockett III

As the countries of the world reel from the debilitating effects of the coronavirus pandemic and tensions erupt in political strife and division, a literal explosion in the smallest country in the Middle East has grabbed everyone’s attention. The massive blast occurred at the seaport of Beirut, Lebanon, when 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate exploded.

Outraged protestors carrying “BLM” signs have filled the streets of many large cities in the United States following the death, at the hands of a white policeman, of a black man who resisted arrest. What should have been a routine apprehension of a suspect resulted in the man's violent death, which a bystander captured in a stunning video.

Twitter is a popular way to communicate in this age of social media. In a few words, a person or organization can put out opinions, random thoughts, political positions, personal philosophy, or simply go on a rant about some pet peeve or complaint. In a matter of moments, these ideas can be “blasted” around the world. This popular, wide-open forum of communication can be abused since intentionally inaccurate information or perversion is often promoted, sometimes by prestigious individuals or organizations.

As individuals, our civil rights are very important to us, especially in the USA and most Western democracies. Today, an astounding array of behaviors have come to be considered civil rights. Many are choosing to ignore long-held social mores to pursue lifestyles that not only are unconventional but until recent times were considered aberrant behaviors indicative of mental illness. These behaviors include homosexuality and transgenderism, and some adherents of these lifestyles are pressing for more than recognition or a place in society.