ROB REINER'S TRUTH

May 9, 2016

I watch the KTLA Channel Five local news if I'm up early enough during the week. We segue from Dolf Lungren hyping Kindergarden Kop II to Rob Reiner talking about a new film, but more than that, his take on the "presumptive" Republican candidate is brilliant.  He points out with passion that the United States is on the brink of world ridicule.  We are half ridiculous right now because the orange man is, according to Reiner, being given a pass by the press when they allow him to steam roll over them and is seldom required to answer follow up questions.  Reiner points up that this may be the "Kardashianization of America:" when people are famous for being famous with no substance whatsoever behind the fame.  We are sucked into the gossip and glitz and consume it hand over fist.  Not that there's anything wrong with that... except... it's like having cotton candy for breakfast, lunch and dinner..  pretty soon your teeth will rot and fall out and you'll die from a lack of nutrition and the ability to chew!  He pointed out that 'show business,' 'real life' and 'reality programming' and all are now blurred lines and that may be our downfall.  The man is articulate and, sadly, what he says may be very true. 

I used to tease a conservative friend of mine that it really didn't matter who was President, even Donald Duck!.. but then we got GWB and I had to apologize.  I sure hope we don't make that mistake again. (Of course, there was cheating, but we had to  live with it.. )

Reiner was also promoting his new film, "Being Charlie," that he made w/ his son, Nick, who penned the script.  In the interview he points out that the second "A" in Alcoholics Anonymous is a problem because it is only through open and honest discussion that embarrassing or problematic topics can be defused.  When we allow shame and fear to rule, then shame and fear control our lives.  Once the 'terrible' thing is out in the open, in the light, exposed... then we have an opportunity to have a discussion and move forward with life.  We may be 'judged' but when folks get to a secure place where others' prejudices lose power, then life may go on.  

 When each of us finds a way to being honest, then.. we may grow as individuals.. and this may lead to what Maharishi said a long time ago... "In order for the forest to be green, every tree in the forest must be green."  What a concept! 

May 9, 2016

michaelsheehan