For my first foray into blogging here at the Banner, I'm tempted to "tear the roof off the sucka," as Parliament/Funkadelic so eloquently expressed on their 70s classic, "Mothership Connection."

I'll refrain.

Suffice it to say, however, I'll make a concentrated effort not to "fluff" you in this space.

I'll attempt to keep my focus on things national and global, rather than on our beloved community. There are plenty of opinions out there for you to digest regarding what goes on in Putnam County. I hope to generate some discussion on the rest of the world.

I want so desperately to be joyous this holiday season. After all, the Christmas season is a time to share with our loved ones the blessings we have. I'm healthy; I have people who love me, including three wonderful children, and my life in our society of privilege is relatively comfortable.

But the fact remains that I'm a little sad this particular December.

I think about how quickly our collective memories have faded regarding the Katrina victims. Do we think everything is "back to normal" in Biloxi and New Orleans? I would suggest that is one mission that is not accomplished.

I wonder when health care costs are not going to be a life-shattering burden to those who need care the most. Anyone been prescribed one of the new designer medications out there...you know, the ones that pharmaceutical companies are spending millions on promoting via full-page ads in national publications? My guess is the cost was prohibitive to all but a privileged few.

I ruminate on a hypothetical day in the future when women will cease to be 2nd-class citizens, not just in Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia, but in the American workplace and places of worship as well.

I fantasize about a day when our military might and technology will be used in a situation that offers us no benefit other than the satisfaction of saving the lives of an oppressed people...like Darfur, maybe? I said it was a fantasy.

Finally, I'm just very worried about Brittney Spears...that poor girl has gone through way too much recently. With a new niece or nephew on the way, she, more than ever before, needs our understanding, compassion, and holiday cheer.

Merry Christmas, Brittney.

Ho ho ho.