Years ago, around forty actually, I had an American history professor who was memorable for two traits: he chain smoked in class and he used the phrase, “It seems to me…”, constantly.  His voice, whether from the smoking or a genetic occurrence, was deep and resonate and he used it to good effect.  His students were allowed to smoke in the small classroom with the only stipulation being that you disposed of your ash properly.  I used a coke can.  There was no mention of or consideration for non-smokers.  His use of the phrase, “It seems to me,” to preface almost everything he said seems to me to have been a sly ploy; one that worked.  The phrase implied, at least to me, “This is only my humble opinion and I only offer it for consideration.  I’m sure you have equally considered and viable ideas about…”.   I, for one, as a college freshman during the late sixties had few considered and viable ideas about anything excepting perhaps the Vietnam War, which I do not remember discussing in his class.  Its seems to me, by adopting that almost humble presentation, his ideas and points of view were much more palatable and acceptable.  No one likes to be preached to—-well, some people do and I never understood that.  Although I do not remember his name I can still–almost–see his leathery, creased face.  He was the only person that had any influence on me that first year of college; the only instructor I remember.  I’m sure he died years ago from lung cancer or emphysema.  Rest in peace.

 To make my point: it seems to me, there is an over abundance of discourse today that is manic-didactic and spoken with clinched jaws; the speakers might as well be wagging their fingers in our faces.  Some actually do!  Everything anyone says is open to dispute and usually is; jumped on and shredded before the last syllable dies in the air and I’m not just referring to political rhetoric.  I have wanted to do that, shred someones argument, but usually I just shake my head and mumble, “What a dumbass!” Since this is usually directed at an image on TV, no harm is done, no confrontation ensues.  If an actual person, friend or relative, utters something that raises my ire I attempt to smile quizzically and say nothing.  If you let them talk long enough without argument they usually smother themselves in contradictions and embarrassment. We must put our ideas and opinions out there whether they be about politics or chocolate-chip cookies but we have to realize we aren’t going to change many minds.

My purpose for this blog is completely personal, completely selfish.  I don’t intend or really want to change anyone’s mind about anything; I want to clarify, for myself, my own ideas and opinions.  It seems to me, that is what I need at this point in my life.  Therefore, if I have the urge to express my “considered and viable ideas” in any form other than a short story or poem I will preface it with “It seems to me” and file it accordingly.

Let us be considerate and thoughtful out there.