I have been asked, more than once, why I write this blog . . . why I first decided to give it a try, and why I have continued it for the past two years even though it hasn’t reached anywhere near the viral stage. In fact, if “viral” is the benchmark, then my blog hasn’t even developed a case of the sniffles.

I do have a handful of loyal readers from various parts of the world, though; and I appreciate them more than they can know. I write for them, of course; and on those rare days when I’ve thought about quitting, I keep going because I don’t want them to think I’ve died.

But I also do it for myself.

I started it because I was bored. And I chose writing because it’s an outlet . . . for my thoughts, my observations, my opinions, and yes, even my feelings. I don’t expect masses of people to be swayed, influenced, or greatly moved by my words. If it happens that someone is, now and then, that’s a bonus. But mostly, I keep writing because it feels good: I enjoy it, and it’s cathartic.

And if I add some lovely background music, a cup of chamomile tea, or occasionally a glass of wine, I have the makings of a perfect evening on my own — just me and my iPad. And some Haagen-Dazs, because you can never have too much Haagen-Dazs.

*. *. *

So, how do I choose my subjects? For the most part, I don’t; they choose me. I’m a news junky, and by the time I’ve waded through several daily online news sources, I have the makings of a slew of commentaries. Sometimes it’s difficult to narrow them down to just a couple each day, though I do have my favorite topics — world politics being at the top of the list. But my interest might be piqued by a story about a surfboard-stealing sea otter named Laverna living off the coast of California, a volcanic eruption in Iceland, or an archaeological dig in Türkiye.

Sometimes I simply reminisce, and harangue my readers with tales of my youth, or the years of my travels. Most of my friends and relatives near my age are gone now, and it feels as though I’m talking to them when I write about years past. As long as I don’t start getting answers from them, I figure I’m still running on a full tank.

Well . . . almost, anyway.

But enough about me. There was plenty in this morning’s headlines to keep me busy for several hours, and I’m anxious to get to it. In fact, with the start of the new, potentially controversial four-year presidential term here in the U.S., I foresee a limitless source of inspiration . . . for me, and for the late-night TV hosts.

(Did I say “potentially” controversial? Ha! Silly me!)

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
1/23/25