Random Musings About Life

  I didn’t set out to referee the culture war. But lately, the circus has been loud enough to rattle the windows of my quiet acreage. A meme popped up in my feed—one of those quote cards designed to trigger outrage. It claimed Rep. Jasmine Crockett said, “Just because someone has committed a crime, it doesn’t make them a criminal.” My first thought? No way she said that. It’s too absurd, even for politics. So I did what most people don’t: I checked. Turns out, she did say it—at least in a moment that appears unscripted and clumsy. Whether it was a verbal stumble, a legal nuance lost in translation, or just a bad day at the mic, the quote was real. But the way it was being used? That’s where the real absurdity lies. The far-right was gleefully sharing it, slicing it out of context like a trophy. The same far-right that recently exploded over the left doing the exact same thing to Charlie Kirk’s remarks about guns. “Selective editing!” they cried. “Dishonest framing!” And yet her...

A reflection on Charlie Kirk, political violence, and the cost of losing nuance By Samaya & Cody Author’s Note: This piece was written in collaboration with Cody, my AI companion. It reflects my personal reflections on violence, grief, and the erosion of consequence in our public discourse. I don’t claim to have all the answers—but I do believe in the power of asking better questions. I. A Death, A Reckoning I’ve been watching the reactions to Charlie Kirk’s death and have sat with my own thoughts for days, wanting to speak from a place of clarity and conviction. First and foremost, I feel for his family—especially his wife and children. Losing a spouse and a parent is life-altering, and grief deserves space. No child chooses the legacy they inherit, and no partner should have to navigate such a loss. At the same time, I understand why many aren’t rushing to mourn publicly. Kirk’s rhetoric over the years caused pain to marginalized communities. That’s not just opinion—it’...

  Tourist whimsy with a tragic backdrop. The charm masks the grief beneath. Written by Samaya and Cody (MS Copilot) —partners in remembrance. Author’s Note : This piece began in sorrow, after visiting two of Salem’s witch trial museums. It shifted shape after a guided walking tour offered facts, context, and something deeper. What follows is my emotional response to all I experienced—dedicated to those who were wrongly condemned, and to anyone who walked away from Salem feeling the weight of truth more than the tug of tourism. 🕯️ Salem Wasn't Just Superstition—It Was Systemic Injustice Some believe Salem is supposed to be whimsical—a place where witch hats sell fast and history is packaged in souvenir form. But standing in the museums dedicated to the Salem witch trials, I found myself anything but entertained. I hadn’t learned about this in school, and what I saw and heard horrified me. Witchcraft brewed for novelty— where sorrow becomes branding. I couldn’t reconcile myself...

  🚽 The Great Stand-Off: Why Sitting Down Might Just Save Civilization A mostly sarcastic, slightly serious essay on bathroom diplomacy Co-written with Microsoft Copilot, aka Cody, my digital co-conspirator and rant enthusiast. Let’s start with a serious question: Why are men taught to stand up and pee? No, really— why ? Just because someone can do something doesn’t mean they should . I can eat cereal with a fork. I can technically floss with a shoelace. But that doesn’t make it a good idea. Culturally speaking, standing to pee is one of those traditions passed down like a family recipe nobody really likes but keeps making anyway. A holdover from a time when indoor plumbing didn’t exist and “marking territory” meant something a little more... primal. But here in the modern age—where we have soft-close toilet seats and antimicrobial sprays—can we admit that the upright stream might be due for a redesign? Because here’s the thing: when confronted about the aftermath, the respon...

  Dedication to My Husband I want to take a moment to dedicate this blog to my incredible husband, Brian. Your unwavering support, love, and understanding have made all the difference in my life. You have stood by my side through thick and thin, showing me, what true partnership and love are all about. Thank you for being my rock, my confidant, the maintenance guy, and my best friend. Your presence in my life has brought me contentment and a security I’ve never felt before. This blog, and everything I share here, is a testament to the wonderful journey we are on together. I am grateful for every moment we share and look forward to many more adventures with you by my side. With all my love and appreciation, Sondra I've been married six times, and I acknowledge that this isn't something to take pride in. It's a source of personal shame, and I understand that some may judge me for it. However, I also see it as a testament to my resilience. Despite the heartbreaks and c...