Immediate gratification at root of problems

Many of us older folks have lived long enough to go from large floor radios to video cameras in computers and the instantaneous transmission of news and events of interest, along with highly annoying cell phones. We also find ourselves as the elders who have helped initiate and perpetuate credit.

Now Utopia is crumbling. Lay-away has come full circle. There is an old saying about paying the piper. We are the purveyors of the attitudes and actions which have fostered the economic climate and current severe downturn of stable growth.

Regardless of one's political leanings, we must accept responsibility for the basic fact that immediate gratification has come about to bite us in the derriere. To quote Michael Douglas in a famous role, "Greed is good." If not greed, then maybe gluttony or envy.

Americans generally are not opposed to capitalism or supply and demand. I believe both concepts are the most valid means of economic success.

What happened ? Credit cards? Home loans? Unions? Foreign imports? Medical costs? Aliens? Corporate greed? Wall Street? Oil moguls? Welfare? Congress? The war? Us?

I can attest that I have overcome the impulse to be extravagant. I understand that I live better than probably 99 percent of the world. I eat regularly, I sleep warmly while enjoying the freedom of choice, friends, travel, personal beliefs and alliances. I am American.

West Marcus
Montgomery

'Divas' delightful ASF production

"The Three Divas" are gone. If you failed to see the production, you missed as professional and stirring an afternoon of music and talent, as you could ever expect to experience. Bravo and magnificent are the only two words which come close.

The ASF has produced "Crowns," "Menopause" and now "The Three Divas," which stirred my soul. Thank you ladies. You are splendid.

If I may be allowed a segue way, I apologize to the two ladies seated in front of me, who moved to adjacent seats. I do theater and I appreciate brilliant performances. I do get vocal as well as involved. Actors want honest audiences who let them know the work is appreciated. This audience was obviously appreciative. I apologize, not for my actions, but that you got the luck of the draw.

Lastly, a pox on the boorish, rude, ignorant persons who continuously checked their cell phones, especially during the finale. I am dumbfounded that the cast was one of the best ever showcased at ASF while the boors are so important they are checking messages. Stay home.

Once again, bravo ladies.

West Marcus
Montgomery