Just had a very profound meeting in my driveway.

[converted_democrat]

I have to pretext this by saying I live in the reddest red of areas. The last time I put an anti-war sign in my yard it was taken, and my house was egged. It's the kind of place where even the trailers in town have Bush stickers.

My husband was up early this morning to put new graphics on the side of one of our work trailers. He likes to get an early start, because of the awful summer heat here in Florida. I however had a case of the lazies, so I decided to stay in bed.
My husband came in the house and woke me up. He said I needed to come outside ASAP, and promised it would be worth my while. I through on a pair of shorts and a shirt and went to the garage to see what the big deal was all about. There was an elderly man standing in the middle of my driveway. I still had no clue what was going on and was still a bit sleepy, and confused. As soon as he saw me he started walking in my direction. He introduced himself and told me where his house was. (He lives two streets over) Anyway, he started looking really uncomfortable, and started shifting from one foot to the other. He looked down at the ground and said, "So, your husband says your really into politics." I said "yes sir, I am." That was all he needed to hear. He started in on gas prices, on the price of medicine, than he started telling me about Carlyle, and Halliburton. He just kept going and going and going, and he had the majority of his facts correct. He called * every name in the book, twice. Then his voice dropped almost to a whisper and he said something that really blew my mind. He said, "I've fought in two wars and I've lived a lot of years, I believe our country is in trouble, more trouble than we have ever seen as a nation before." I just stood there and shook my head in agreement. He then started in on the media, and how he does not believe we are being told the whole story. I just kind of stood there in shock. He then went on to tell me that he and his wife were going through some economic hardship and he did not know how much longer they would be able to keep their home. He said that he was getting up everyday and walking the blocks around his house to tell everyone about his fears about this administration, until he is forced out of his home. He said he wanted people to know what was going on even though they were not hearing about it on T.V. He then thanked me for my time, shook my hand and walked away. I walked back into my garage and told him about the conversation. I asked my hubby "What did he say to you?" He said that a first he had not said anything. Hubby said he was just standing at the end of our driveway, for like 5 minutes he had just stood there saying nothing and then my hubby walked up to see what he wanted. He had told my husband, In this neck of the woods you don't ever talk about politics or religion, but he really needed to talk to him, and it was not about religion. That's when my husband came into the house to get me. I thanked my hubby for coming into wake me up, and then I excused myself to come in here and write it down for you guys. I have not had a morning this good in years. I was excited when my red-neck family started flipping, but this is even better than that.

[ultraist]

1. Please tell your elderly neighbor that we appreciate his good work!

Talking, one on one, neighbor to neighbor, is a very effective way to spread the truth!

[Snotcicles]

17. Would ya whip up a casserole and take over to him and his wife

tell them that the people you hang with are on his side.

[converted_democrat]

37. I'm making brownies for them right now. n/t

[blm]

46. When my dad got older all he wanted to eat were his "2.89@lb sausages"

and HoHos.

Back then it was quite a big deal to have such an "expensive" treat.

I just love your story converted.

[loudsue]

72. That's really kind of you!

Brownies are yummy!

As a person who is really into nutrition, however, I'd love to see you take him a nice vegetable casserole, or maybe a chicken salad, or something. Often, people who are "losing everything" need some healthy food, because the cheap stuff they can afford to buy isn't always nutritious.

Back in the day, this country had programs designed to help people; people like your neighbor. It doesn't appear to me that all this government funded "faith based" support is going to help poor people much...it's only going to buy votes through church organizations.

I really admire this man's courage. Becoming poor is very humbling, and demoralizing, and makes a lot of people paralyzed with depression.

I wish I lived nearby where you are, converted_dem. Maybe together a bunch of us could help this couple out, on a long-term basis. Unfortunately, is the republican world of today, there are millions of couples....a lot of them elderly....who are moving into desperate straights.

Have I said this is a REPUBLICAN thing? REPUBLICANS are the problem with this world. REPUBLICANS, in total power, are destroying America and our people, and turning us against each other, and the world against us.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. What a way to greet the day, huh? :donut:

[knitter4democracy]

99. He also needs brownies.

If he and his wife are spending everything they have on basics, something really out there like brownies would be appreciated. Having lived that, I can share that as my opinion.

Maybe they should come over for dinner, too? They might take an invite as they know it's a safe family to talk with. :D

[Eloriel]

105. Here's another idea -- to go with the brownies, sorta

This man's testimony is QUITE powerful. He's been there, done that. He's a vet. He's old (and wise?). What if you helpd him do some neighborhood meetings where you and he could share what you know? You could help provide some internet printouts (mainstream sources) to back up what he might want to talk about, perhaps.

Or whatever. See where the idea takes YOU. Obviously, HE feels a strong commitment to try to warn and educate people. You could really help him get the word out, if you had a mind to and it fit your style.

[yellowdogintexas]

114. get him on tape, with his history and knowledge and experience

in addition to all the other things

[ray of light]

129. The power to make connections is within all of us--one person at a time...

And if you're interested in continuing organizing grassroots at the local level, please check out the Democracy Cell Project because that's exactly the type of community its trying to help us build.

Everyone who read and/or responded to this post has the heart and soul to be a local organizer. We invite you to join the DCP and educate, activate, and empower your community. You can do it!




Home page with 5 minutes of Democracy per day! http://www.democracycellproject.net

Forum
http://www.democracycellproject.net/forum/index.php?

Blog
http://www.democracycellproject.net/blog/

Register here:
http://www.democracycellproject.net/forum/index.php?act=Login&CODE=00

Post YOUR community organization or your interest in finding an organization here:
http://www.democracycellproject.net/forum/index.php?showforum=24

[Triana]

41. GREAT idea...those folks

need to know they're NOT alone and you all in FL - all of us need to stick together and be ONE BIG LOUD VOICE. I really feel sad for this guy and his wife. They deserve so much better than to lose their home. :(

The historical perspective the ol guy put on what's happening today is very frightening - and telling. My 78-year old Mom has said the same thing time and time again: "I lived through the Depression and I've never EVER seen things this bad..."

*sigh*

[blm]

48. Yes it is....maybe get an address and some of us can send some goodies.

Maybe even staple items like toothpaste, water, etc...

If they have a pet we can send some food for the pet, too.

We NEED to keep these patriotic folks around for as long as possible.

In fact, we need this guy to get on CAMERA. Can you videotape him and get it up on the computer? Tell him to just share what he knows with the rest of the world.

This is important to him and I think you can lift him in ways he has not imagined, just by letting him speak to thousands or millions, even, around the world.

[I Have A Dream]

70. We just need to make sure that we don't post it here because...

of lurking freepers who will harass the poor man. If we can set something like this up, we should do it by PMing people who are interested.

i'd also be interested in helping this family.

In reference to him sharing his message, this seems to be exactly what he's trying to do, so he'd probably really welcome a much larger audience.

[blm]

78. I hope converted sees our posts.

We can make that difference.

[LibraLiz1973]

94. I'd be willing to send something

Money, grocery store cards etc.

I HATE to hear stories of people on the brink of losing it all. Having been poor for a sizable chunk of my life, I immediately identify with the feelings that creates.

PM me if you decide to do something that you want donations to

[converted_democrat]

109. I do not have a video camera, however I do have a digital camera.....

I'm sure he would not mind it if I took his picture. He really is a neat man. As far as aid goes, I'm going to try to get him some state aid on Monday if he qualifies. We also have some great Vet groups and I'm hoping to get some help there. My hubby has even gone as far as promise he will hire him for our small business answering phones if worse comes to worse. Also, my best buddy owns a bar, and would be happy to assist me with a fund raising dinner. I WILL NOT let this guy go homeless or hungry. I PROMISE. If worse comes to worse I may still need your help, but right now I think I have it under control. Thank you so much for your kind words and offers of support. I am so proud to belong to such a great group of people. I'll let you know how things stand on Monday, after I find out if he qualifies for any aid.

[blm]

117. Just knoiw we're with you. We will help.

.

[renate]

130. bless your heart

:grouphug:

[sepia_steel]

137. Please tell us how we can help him

I'd like to be able to make donations, even if a small one is all I can do I can help him again later. We want to see him living proud and keeping his home. He served his country; he deserves it.

[faithnotgreed]

53. thats what i was thinking triana - i feel awful for that couple

they are elderly
the man has served his country
and now what do they have
what are they left with when they are afraid and feel they will lose their home

to go where
and for what

lets give them all the support we can

[lildreamer316]

83. Tell me more here;

my mother and dad were 39 and 49 when they had me; so I had depression-era stories alot when I grew up even thogugh I am only 32. They were of course very young but did remember alot of the realities of the time. Since they and my grandparents are all gone I have no more points for recall. Could you get your mom to elaborate a little on what she thinks is as bad as the Depression going on currently? I am very curious. It would be interesting to see the similarities and differences; what can we learn from it?

[wake.up.america]

2. I hope the "good " people who believed in the crap from

Bush are waking up.

It is also hoped that they will equip themselves to make wiser choices.

That would be a death blow to the neo-cons, assuming real elections are conducted.

[GreenPartyVoter]

3. WOW! *agog* Amazing.

[Neecy]

4. you know...

It really seems as though the elderly are taking the biggest hit in the Bush economy. People on fixed incomes are having to deal with higher property tax rates because the federal money is being cut/squandered in Iraq, gas prices are a hardship, and they don't have the luxury of flipping their homes in a bubble market.

[ultraist]

10. That's true. The poverty rate amongst the elderly is also increasing

And of course, they are not pleased about *'s Social Security "reform."

[insane_cratic_gal]

35. They are.

I recently visited my Grandparents while on vacation in NH. During a discussion about her bills, she brought up the fact that recently she got 2 prescriptions for both she and my Grandfather. One was bought at the VA hospital the other at Walmart. Both the same quantity, same generic drug, same dose.

My Grandfather's cost $14 dollars through the VA.
My Grandmother's cost $114 at walmart with her prescription card(that whole bullshit genius plan passed in 2004)

Now this is also bothering me, Her Doctor said he could get her medication through Canada. Yet her savings was barley anything! (like 40 a month) WTF.. is he flat out lying to her? Can doctors do that? My first thought was how much is he pocketing! But the more I think about it the more concerned I become that he's misleading her completely. Anyone know anything about this?

[kitkat65]

52. Confused. Doctor can get it from Canada for $40/month?

He might not necessarily be lying. It could be the fair market price within Canada's regulations. If she's not sure and has internet access, she could research a couple of stores to see what the average retail rate is.

[insane_cratic_gal]

62. No, the saving is only $40

Meaning the prices differences really aren't any better. I don't think he's getting it from Canada at all to be honest. I had thought US doctors were discouraging their patients from getting medications and congress had passed laws against Americans getting meds out of Canada (all because of the greedy ass american drug companies lobbying congress). Which I disagree with strongly! I think you should be able to buy cheaper meds at the prices that Canada has offered. Seniors shouldn't have to choose between Groceries and Medications.

I know people have said that Canada prices for drugs are that much more affordable that is why a savings of just 40 a month for all of her meds and my Grandfathers shocks me.

I would believe it would be much higher savings but who knows with the price of dollar being lower then the yen. I guess I need to start researching what's going on.

[knitter4democracy]

100. Hmmm. That doctor sounds fishy.

First of all, he should be helping her get on the Pharma plans to pay for meds. She probably qualifies. My hubby does it all the time for his patients. It doesn't give him a cut of the action, though.

That, and she should be getting samples to help cut the cost even further.

See if you can find out which company makes the drug and get the paperwork started so all the doctor has to do is fill out a bit and sign it. He might at least do that.

Grrrr. National Health Care Plan Now!!!!

[Trajan]

5. Flipped Republican family members ? ...

Neighbors in pain, KNOWING the true cause of that pain ? ...

My oh my .. something is happening in GOPville, and it is not good for the GOP ...

I (we) have always said, "Give Them Enough Rope ..." ...

Surely; they ARE hanging themselves ...

GREAT story, now go get some coffee ...

[doodadem]

6. Outstanding!

Alot of your neighbors will probably dismiss him as a crazy old coot, but he's great.

[Jon8503]

7. Thanks for posting your experience. At the same time it was a

sad story because he is one of many many elderly in trouble because of this administration's support of the entire health care industry and especially the drug companies. We know elderly around here that are getting worse off and had nothing extra to start with to begin with. By the time they pay the meds, heating bills, car gas, food, A/C if they can afford that, some die in the summer heat because they can't and have to keep their windows and doors locked they have nothing.

These people worked hard all their lives, fought in wars to give us a better life and look what we are giving them. Excuse me, but it really pisses me off and I think we owe them better. Most of us on this board have tried in some form or another to change things but it is difficult but I am keeping up an optimistic outlook that enough people are waking up to the fact of how bad things really are.

[1monster]

23. We may owe them better, but many of us are in the SAME boat.

We are all hanging by our fingernails over the abyss of disaster. Those elderly on fixed incomes are a bellwether for us all.

on edit: removed a redundancy

[GetTheRightVote]

8. Thank you for sharing, these are the stories the media should be picking

up on and spreading some real news. It made me cry to know there are people like this elderly man suffering in this once great nation.

:kick:

[wake.up.america]

63. It makes me cry as well. There is no valid reason for this...

fellow citizen of the world to suffer as he does.


Have you ever met a Freeper who cries except when the stock market prices of oil shares go down?

[Canuckistanian]

9. Light bulbs are turning on all over the place

I love reading these stories. * is losing support from ordinary people everywhere.

They're finally starting to see that "A better America" does not apply to them.

[ultraist]

11. And it's ordinary people, like Cindy Sheehan who are making the difference

Power to the people! We don't have time for our Dem leaders to speak out for us, we must step up and do it ourselves.

[nookiemonster]

12. Expect more of this.

the...worm...is...turning...

:-)

[Clark2008]

13. A messenger from God.

This man is a messenger and I hope people in your neighborhood listen to him.

I dare think that God will be sending many.

And, to those of you who don't believe in God, then chalk it up to the fate of the universe.

[wake.up.america]

64. FEEL , GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU SOUL, THIS WILL PUT A...

SMILE ON YOUR FACE. YOU CARE, YOU LOVE. That is what it is all about.

Not the PLASMA TV

[lonestarnot]

14. WOW.... I'd get up early for this!

Hope the neighborhood of we don't care people don't tar and feather him!

[ismnotwasm]

15. I was a long-term care nurse for a long time

And that story just made me cry. See even though I work in acute care now, elder care is my first love and one of the many reasons is stories like that. Our elders are maginalized and unheard. Many of them try to cling to the conservative ideals of their younger days, not realizing that it's been subverted, made into a filthy monster. My heart just aches for that gentleman, and I wish him all the good will in the world. I hope things turn out ok for him and his wife, but I've seen too many examples of what the current policies do to our elders--medically and otherwise.

[Jon8503]

25. I agree, the elderly care about as you say conservative ideals of

their day. However, those conservative ideals are not the same today as in the past. The right wingers have taken it and turned it into what we all know it. The RWs are a very scary and dangersous group.

[faithnotgreed]

54. thank you ismnotwasm - i feel that too

thank you for caring so much and for working to make lives better

[Ezlivin]

16. Ironically, I just had a meeting in my driveway

I, too, live in a red state (Texas) and one of my neighbors was out walking his dog.

We talked of the weather, then he mentioned how good the economy was going. He said, "Did you see what happened on the Stock Exchange? It's going up despite the rise in oil prices!"

I muttered something about the volatility of the market and instability of oil prices. He said, "You can't say Bush isn't great for the economy." A beat, then, "He's cut down the deficit by millions."

I was aghast. I replied, "He entered the office with a surplus! Don't talk about how he's driving down the massive deficit he created."

He would not relent. He said, "My business is going great. It had been flat during the Clinton years."

"You built a jewelry store in a high-end town and the people who frequent your store are benefiting from Bush's policies toward the rich."

He just couldn't understand that his business was not the economy and that many middle-class people are suffering.

The suburbs around Dallas are packed with selfish people, enriched beyond reason by Bush's policies and completely ignorant of the world around him. (This neighbor also said we should "nuke" the entire Middle East. However, he would not encourage his son to join the service.)

[ultraist]

33. LMAO!

I've heard the same story! Sure, if you sell, develop or build vacation homes or other luxury goods, your business may be doing well. Vacation home sales are way up as are other luxury items because the rich are getting richer!

People who vote soley based on their personal income are SELFISH and irresponsible Americans.

[faithnotgreed]

56. that story is just as depressing - but for a different reason altogether

cannot fathom how people can be so completely self absorbed

one day they will be forced to see what evil is being wrought - and how they have contributed

[CAG]

121. Your last paragraph sums it up well....

He actually said that about stocks and oil prices???? Does he know what the NYSE did during the Clinton years (up, up, and up) and what its done through 5 freakin years of Bush (absolutely flat or declined - and don't give me any of this 9/11 effect business - that was FOUR years ago!!). Tell him that the neocons will continue to appreciate his support and ignorance.

[CAG]

122. and give him an army enrollment form for his son, despite his

lack of "encouragement"

Also ask him what parent should encourage their son or daughter to serve under the neocons.

[Ezlivin]

135. I did mention the NYSE hitting 10K under Clinton

He regarded that as "happenstance" and preferred to view the economy solely through the lens of his own business (jewelry store to the upper-middle class). Naturally, since his business was flat during the Clinton administration and grew under Bush, it was Bush's policies that made most economic sense.

Arguing with him is a test of one's will.

[mainer]

18. Another story. A retired career military guy at Home Depot ...

overheard a political discussion in the store between two liberal moms angry at Bush. He walked on over, and he's a BIG guy who stared down at the moms, and told them he was a proud veteran of the US Air Force, had served in Vietnam, and only recently had retired. The moms were immediately on alert that he was a freeper about to call them names. Instead he says, "Bush is a disaster. All the active duty officers I know are angry as hell." Then he wouldn't stop talking politics. Right there in Home Depot.

One of those liberal moms told me all about it!

[jackster]

19. my oh my....

I've been very depressed over the last couple of weeks. My homeless almost jobless Republican war/Bush supporting son wants to go to Iraq. Oil prices near $70 a barrel. Killing in Iraq seems to be escalating. Worrying over what I'll do if my son goes. Worrying over what I'll do if gas is at $3 a gallon and I have a 27 mile commute one way and cannot afford to move. Worrying over what is going to happen to my beloved country.

I weep as I write.

What kind of country will be left for my two young grandchildren? Don't they deserve a country as good as we inherited? How are we going to pay all this debt? Are we going to be beholden to China... Russia? What will happen to my son-in-law's family home heating oil company? Why haven't we invested in renewable sources of energy? What's going to happen when there is no middle class left?

I could go on and on. Free flowing thoughts that lead to uncontrollable weeping and worry and stress.

GOD DAMN THESE F'ING NEOCONS HAVE DESTROYED OUR COUNTRY AND I WONDER IF ITS TOO LATE TO SAVE!

Then something like this comes along - one little man walking his neighborhood in Florida - probably north Florida - probably the panhandle (where I was born and raised) - one little man working to do what he can.

And one little woman. One little woman who cries for her son. And the sons and daughters of countless others and ask for an answer and that the lies and killing stop. One little woman who may just have changed the world...

A glimmer of hope is restored.

I'm an agnostic, but if there is a god - PLEASE GOD HELP US!

[sunnystarr]

28. and that lone man and that lone woman could be each and every

one of us. They are setting the example. We should all be following.

[lildreamer316]

84. We will keep you sane.

I am one of the lucky ones; the way my money and life are structured I will not feel the pinch for awhile. That is only a recent development; however; and I know how it is to not know where your next meal is to come from. There are days when I worry what kind of life my year and a half old son will have to face; and I weep with you to think of my child going into a war from which...I will not say it. I come here to converse and to grasp what hope and solace I can from others of like mind.
Feel free to vent whenever. We most certainly understand.

[Talismom]

20. Wonderful story--and terribly sad at the same time. I'm middle aged but I

too can see the changes, just since the '70s, that have rocked the poor, old and working class.

I live in a very blue state, but even I am noticing changes in attitudes! I work in a white, ethnic (mostly Italian) repuke stronghold in the Bronx, NY and park my car in one of these neighborhoods. It is just plastered over with angry, sarcastic anti-Bush bumperstickers (it's one way for me to express my frustration). My husband thinks in kinda tasteless and I used to get dirty looks from people in that neighborhood. Lately though, they're stopping to talk and greet me; people are driving by and giving me the "thumbs-up" and Thursday, an elderly gentleman in a gorgeous jaguar stopped behind me at a red light, put on his flashers and ran up to my car to tell me how much he liked and agreed with my back bumper! It was so sweet and feels so great!

[dalloway]

21. this is a great thread. Nominating so that others can add their stories.

[MelissaB]

22. I'm piling on. It gives me more hope than I've had in a long time.

Thank you all for your stories.

As for the OP. If you find out the man would accept help, please let us know. I don't have a lot, but would give what I can. This breaks my heart.

[juajen]

32. It's really wonderful knowing there are people

like you on this forum. I was so proud of DU during the Andy crisis and your post makes me even prouder. I love being a liberal because we truly care about people. God didn't see fit to give me money, but, I have come to know that the only reason I would enjoy some is to be able to give it to people like this dear man and his wife. Bless you!

[faithnotgreed]

57. i would contribute to help this couple also melissab

please let me/us know if we can help

[converted_democrat]

80. I'm going to go Monday morning to try and get him some state help....

if worse comes to worse I'm going to ask my best buddy who owns a bar to help me with a fundraiser. I'm not saying I might not need help, but I'm going to see how things shake out on Monday. I WILL NOT let this guy go homeless. My husband is a very resourceful person and bless his soul he's promised to do whatever it takes. Thank you for your kind words and support. I'll let you know how things stand when I get home Monday. We have a couple really great vet support groups in our area, I'm hoping he'll qualify for state aid or aid from one of the groups. I'll let you know what's up after I see if he qualifies for any aid on Monday.

[faithnotgreed]

82. perfect - thank you both so very much

what a situation
so grateful that you and your husband care so much

and i would hope there are vet support groups or some state assistance to help if they are in need

please do keep us posted and again all our thanks
please give him a warm du hug

[Daphne08]

108. In the memory of my grandparents who are all now deceased,

I thank you.

I was very close to my grandparents (I'm older than most of you here) who were all born around 1900.

Many people discount the elderly, but the old ones are very wise.

My paternal grandfather always kept a lot of cash in a safe in his bedroom because he'd been through the Crash of '29 (and had lost all his hard-earned money which was in a bank) and through the Great Depression.

Until the day he died, he didn't trust banks and he didn't trust the government, either!

When I was in my 20's and 30's, I thought he was silly, but now, I know he was wise.

[SaveAmerica]

97. I agree with the sentiment, I would love to see them have a little

extra but it's better to gather it then give it as a present. Proud hard working people are going to say no if asked if they need help. I think they'd appreciate a heartfelt gift though. I'm hoping things will become easier for them very soon.

[BamaBecky]

24. I have "chill bumps".......THIS MESSAGE HAS TO GET OUT!!!!!

American have to wake up............

Bama

[Al-CIAda]

26. The cost of health care for everyone has gone up 120% in the last 4 years

with no end in sight. Premuims are increasing at a rate of 20% per year. The recent raiding of the treasury by Big Pharma monopolies and legalized stealing by corporations will of course add to this.


Good story. I too thank the man. The media is more than broken, it is complicit.

[GeorgeBushytail]

27. Encourage him to write down his views

We can help him spread the truth.

[Vox_Reason]

29. Please do what you can to help this noble man.

And encourage him to write letters to the editor and write handwritten letters to his representatives.

Silent suffering is honorable, but raising the awareness of others about that suffering is what builds pressure for change.

[marions ghost]

66. maybe...

but I see this guy as more of a missionary in the field. Face-to-face, making a point that no amount of letter-writing to busy politicians could ever achieve. You may be a letter-writer, I certainly am a letter-writer. But this guy is depending on word-of-mouth to wake up the community around him. Somebody said a "messenger"--bringing light into the darkness.

[ourbluenation]

30. Sit your neighbor down by you on the computer

and let us talk to him...he should know how not alone he is.

[FizzFuzz]

36. I'll second that.

I chit chat with people and often worm in a word about the mess we're in, to see where the person stands. Mostly now, I get agreement.

A while back I was chatting with a very elderly couple at the local grill. The woman mentioned having had a long day at work (at the dollar store). I dumbly said, "gee, you should be retired" (god, how clueless of me), and that's when I wanted to cry. She told me she had to work because her husbands medicines were costing them $600.00 bux a month. She was couldn't bring herself to cook that night.

:cry:

so so tragic and scary. It makes me feel sick in the pit of my stomach.

I made sure to mention it to one of the fundies at work. I wonder how many fundy churches are still pushing the liar's agenda? I'm sure that's where alot of them go for the "news"--their little demigod pastors.

[knitter4democracy]

110. Six hundred a month.

Oh, that's just awful!!! Isn't his doctor careful on prescribing what's affordable, trying to keep everything both managed and manageable? My hubby's proud that he figured out the scrips for heart failure to be around a hundred a month (cheapest he could get it), but he's had patients come in for the same thing paying six hundred a month and more--brand name, new stuff, the pricey drugs.

That poor woman shouldn't have to slave all day just to pay for her husband's meds. That just isn't right. We need a national health care plan now!!!

[glitch]

38. Yes - find this man and befriend him. Perhaps you can walk with him.

and others will join you.

[roguevalley]

136. there's something so tragic and honorable about someone going

door-to-door in his neighborhood speaking from his heart. I can hardly stand it, its so touching. Hug this man for me and if there is anything we can do, post it, honey. God bless him and his wife and you and your husband.

[rman]

59. What they said

"I believe our country is in more trouble than we have ever seen as a nation before."

That brought tears to my eyes, because it is so true. It is a matter of great urgency; we need all the help we can get, to build a politically aware community.

[tlsmith1963]

31. That Made Me Cry...

Finally, these people are starting to wake up! I would have shook that guy's hand. :)

Tammy

[Judi Lynn]

47. You're not alone. I was suddenly overwhelmed myself, finding eyes

welling up with tears. My Gosh.

Wonder how many, many people there really are who've been suffering in silence, truly afraid to speak up all this time. That's just what the administration wants: national fear. That man has courage, deciding to step outside his fear and tell a stranger.

God bless the elderly neighbor. Thanks to converted democrat for telling us about this.

Welcome to D.U., tlsmith1963. :hi: :hi: :hi:

[AuntieM1957]

34. God Bless Your Neighbor

I pray angels comfort he and his wife.

What courage it must have taken for him to begin that morning walk.

He's a real patriot.

[Beam Me Up]

39. This is how we're going to get America back--one person, one family,

one neighborhood at a time. Since the media refuses to educate the people about the truth of our situation, it is up to US to educate one another and keep educating one another until there is a critical mass that can overwhelm the LIES told by our government and our media with the TRUTH. We here at DU have been working on this for years and it is beginning to pay off. Please give our heart felt thanks to your neighbor and let him know HE IS NOT ALONE!

[wake.up.america]

40. I love it!!!

"This is how we're going to get America back--one person, one family,"

You got it!! The Neo-cons cannot stand educated choices.

[kbm8795]

42. Wow...nice. And your house was egged before?

Oh yeah...I forgot...these are the "conservatives" who claim they are patriotic Americans. Except they love to intimidate others.

This poor man seems to have so much on his mind. . .and. . .one cannot feel the pain he must be going thru, especially at the thought of losing his home. Here is a veteran who fought for this country in two wars and yet his own government deserts him in his time of need. What a beautiful story...but..why do I end up feeling worried about this man's future as much as my country's?

I am increasingly convinced that the difference between us and the Republicans is that they honestly DON'T give a damn who they gain power - deception, dishonesty, deliberate lies, intimidation..it's all good as long as they win. It is a mindset that so many of us can't even imagine, because we were raised with real American values. My heart goes out to this man and his family - and I'm glad you had a chance to hear his story. I..just hope his family won't end up in a homeless shelter.

[Darth_Kitten]

43. It takes a lot of guts to do what he did.

IMHO.

Going from home to home making his feelings known. :( I hope he doesn't have to lose his own home.

Thanks for sharing this with us. It's a little sad, but still very inspiring. :(

[mongo]

44. Thanks for the encouragement

And I've noticed it too. I've had a couple of customers that made negative comments about the Kerry sign in the store window before the election tell me that they made a mistake and that we are caught up in another Vietnam.

I did't really forcefully argue with the customers - they don't come in my store for political debate.

The tide is turning.

[graywarrior]

45. Encouraging story. I am sensing some change here, also.

Yesterday I was driving down Fruitville Rd and stopped at a light. I noticed 4 other cars around me with anti-war stickers, Kerry stickers, etc.

I also saw a guy behind me take a notepad and write something on it. He then passed me and said "cool sticker." I only have one sticker on my car: democraticunderground.com.

[tblue37]

49. Great story,

but I could not even read it until I copy-pasted it into a Word document and put in a few line breaks. A large block of uninterrupted text like this is very hard to read on a computer. For those of us with aging eyes, it is close to impossible.

The story is good enough that I am glad I copy-pasted it and fixed it to be readable. But usually I don't have the time to do that, so I am sure that I (and many other people) end up missing a lot of great stories just because there is no white space in them.

[Al-CIAda]

50. Halliburton needs you-

THE PROJECT FOR THE OLD AMERICAN CENTURY

  The Project for the OLD American Century is a grass-roots organization that strives to protect and strengthen democracy primarily by disseminating unreported and underreported news stories from a perspective untainted by political or corporate sponsorship. 

  The Project was founded in 2002 in response to a rigged election, reduced civil liberties, a hijacking of our domestic and foreign policies by the energy/defense industries, and a compliant corporate media that refused to make these problems prominent in our national consciousness.  We felt it our duty as patriots to create a web-based independent media outlet where we can not only debunk the myth of the liberal media but expose the corruption and cronyism taking place at the highest levels of government and corporate power.

  The Project for the Old American Century conducts its own research and compiles dossiers made available to the public both via the web or in print free of charge. Topics include conflicts of interest inside government agencies, specific profiles of top public officials, data acquired through the Freedom of Information Act, and much more.


http://www.oldamericancentury.org/about.html

[marions ghost]

68. thanx !

I hadnt heard of this website--some good articles :)

[oncall]

131. Download the 14 points of fascism from that site.

I share them with as many people as I can and have posted it on the bulletin board where I work. I am surprised by how many people read them and nod in agreement. I am also disappointed by the freepers who indignantly tear it down.

[ClassWarrior]

51. Wow. That's beautiful.

Another reason to...

Never Give Up.

[jean]

55. please find a way we can help this man and his wife - who knows what

the problem is that is 'forcing him out of his house' - maybe there is some way we can help him keep his footing.

[faithnotgreed]

58. right jean - whether its local help or du or both

there must be some resources we can get for this couple

[blm]

60. We're on the same track. I posted similarly above.

WE can make a difference.

[converted_democrat]

74. I think I have it covered......

We are going to try to get state help for him first thing on Monday morning. (I needed a new pet project anyway.) If worse comes to worse I'll beg my best friend who owns a local bar to help me with a fundraiser. I still might need some help, but let's see how things shake out on Monday. I think I have it covered. Thank you for your kind words and support.

[jean]

77. don't hesitate to give us a shout out - we are many!

[spuddonna]

123. You totally rock...

Please, please keep us updated... :)

[nashville_brook]

61. one of the things i loved about living on the space coast was old-timers

like this guy. always feels portentous. what a sweet thing to do. what a sad situation for so many people in florida being driven out of their habitat along with the manatee and panthers. it's brutal in florida in so many ways.

[Ilsa]

65. What a shame. Not your story, but his.

He's a retired man, trying to get by. Served his country in two wars and then some. And this chickenshit pretzeldent is about to get it all taken away from him, possibly leaving them both homeless.

Perhaps a financial planner could talk to him and his wife pro bono? Maybe they can figure out a way to shore up his finances, cash flow, insurance, etc so he can stay where he is.

Thanks for taking the time to tell us about this. His story should be written down and sent as an LTTE with some anonymity, if permitted.

[titoresque]

67. WOW!

That really brought me to tears. I know how afraid people are. And they don't know who they can talk to. What an awesome gentleman!!!
I've seen it too, people wisper, they lean in to talk, they look around. They give you a quick thumbs up, but not too high as to draw attention. They give a little honk on the horn, instead of laying on it for all the world to hear. People are so scared...but they need to know that they are the majority! They're just nicer and a more compassionate caring majority!

[evilqueen]

69. *sighs*

To have the courage to go around in his neighborhood, speaking to strangers, not knowing if they will be with him or against him... and what he faces is what we all face, eventually. How long did he and his wife sit at their kitchen table, suffering alone, before he decided he had to tell people? That thought is bothering me.

And how many will never get the courage to speak as he has. He's earned his house and enough to survive, he's a veteran of two wars... and this is how his country kept its promises to him and his wife... that just disgusts me and angers me. How many more are like this man and his wife? How many will suffer and die in silence because they never did get the courage to speak out and tell their stories?

This couple could be any one of our grandparents... or even the grandparents of a freeper. Poverty knows no political bounds.

[sakabatou]

71. Whoever you are...

:yourock:

[marions ghost]

73. thanx for this inspiring story

...this guy is doing the best thing he knows how to do, and I think it just might be effective. Even in his stressful circumstances he's fighting back...doing it for his own sanity, as well as to wake up others. Cindy's doing the same thing, as are many of us here, each in our own way. You get to the point where you can't just suffer in silence. You have to confront the lies we are being asked to swallow, just to stay sane. This guy might do a better job without a big spotlight on him--though I do support some sensitive effort to see if there's any help for his situation, absolutely.

Everyone looks at this story through their own filter. I see this man as speaking what others are holding inside, a messenger of truth. Being from a media-oriented family, I am also profoundly ashamed that the media has been so manipulated that this man has to go around the neighborhood educating people about what is going on, people who as you implied, converted democrat, were not given enough good info (and were force-fed so much bad info) that they didnt even have the basics they needed to make better decisions about who to support. This is a tragedy, in this country with so MUCH media (and much of it useless). I BLAME the corporate media for it's complicity in this national disaster we are living through. "The Messenger" certainly had that right--these are dark times--and the media has failed in it's responsibility.

This is how it will be accomplished--by enough of us coming together and getting the message out in our own way.

[bushliedpeopledied]

75. support old neighbor

This is a perfect time for all blue collar workers to support this man emotionally & financially. We can all afford a $20.00 bill. Let him know us liberal Democrats are human beings.

[I Have A Dream]

79. Welcome to DU, bushliedpeopledied!

Glad to have you here! :hi:

[converted_democrat]

98. Welcome to DU!!

:hi:

[dave123williams]

76. That's the kind of Republican that we need to be reaching out to...

I know; I used to be one. My family's been GOP since it existed, and I won't have anything to do with the party, ever again. They've permanently lost my vote.

They're totally corrupted, and there's a lot of Republicans that feel that the party's been taken over by a bunch of zealot, religious nutjobs. I think it's all about greed; greed for money, and a hubristic will to power at any cost.

Cloak that agenda in the flag and loudly thump on a bible while you're gouging the country a gallon at a time, and you've got the current state of the party.

They're weak and prone to failure, people are begining to recognize just how their arrogance is translating in to policy, and that spells opportunity for us:

2006 is right around the corner, and we need a cohesive and progressive answer to these lunatics, to take back the Congress and maybe save the world while doing it.

[bleever]

81. What a beautiful and touching story.

Thank you for sharing with us, and with him.


:patriot:

[Cleita]

85. Sad story, but I think we are going to start seeing a lot

of this. BushCo does not care about ordinary Americans.

[bearfan454]

86. People are scared

Really.

[clement]

87. Brilliant.

I hope you told him to keep on spreading the good word.

[rodeodance]

89. thanks for allowing him to vent and tell him--GRAND

[wryter2000]

88. Thanks for telling us

I hope things work out for that gentleman. Losing a house at an advanced age can be fatal, literally.

[donco6]

90. Wow. I'm not the weepy sort, but . . .

. . . that must have been a really moving experience.

I feel so bad for the old man - that he might lose his home.

Bush is such a fuckwad.

[steve2470]

91. Can we send him some money ? I'm serious about this nt

[buddysmellgood]

92. Wow. That is good news

[LibraLiz1973]

93. Its wonderful that he talked to you, but

I am really sad that he might lose his house.

WHEN WILL THIS END????

[Rainscents]

95. Story is very sad and yet, gives me hope that ties are turing.

I would love to help this couple, please let us know anything he needs. God Bless the couple. :grouphug:

[Geek_Girl]

96. It's very sad that this is happening to so many people

I live in a red state too and in a very red part of a red start that has a 14% poverty rate. I feel this administrations policies are going to actually ruin so many that actually voted and support this president.

[emdee]

101. Do they need medications they cannot afford?

www.helpingpatients.org helps to find programs available for people who cannot afford their meds. I used it for my parents and it's helped greatly. Bless that man's heart. I pray he and his wife will be ok. I pray we all will be.
emdee

[knitter4democracy]

111. Thanks for the link--I'll have my husband look at it.

He already uses some of the Pharma programs for his patients, but something like this might make his job easier. He spends a lot of time on paperwork for his patients, so anything to cut paperwork is good.

I know you posted it to help the OP, but as a doctor's wife, I'll take it too! :)

[emdee]

115. I'm glad you can use it....

It's a great site. My parents recently lost their drug coverage and their meds are over $1200/month. This site helped us to find programs that we would have never known about. My dad is currently receiving much of his medicine through programs that are either free or very low-cost, thankfully.

I hope it is useful to others!
emdee

[knitter4democracy]

116. Maybe you should start a whole thread on it.

It would help get the word out.

[emdee]

118. That's a good idea....

which would be the best board to do that?
Thanks,
emdee

[knitter4democracy]

124. I'd try GD first.

Most people seem to go there first or second. Start it at night, the busiest time.

[emdee]

127. Thanks, I will!! n/t

n/t

[Nothing Without Hope]

102. Oh, that poor man. How utterly helpless and isolated he must feel!

It must have been a relief to finally find someone who shared his fears and did not call him a traitor or a fool. But oh, what anxiety he must be living with! I hope you are able to visit him sometimes. If he is able to get on the internet with sites like DU, he could feel he COULD contribute something.

[Ilsa]

103. It's a shame we can't relocate the recently homeless from this

Administration's intentional mismanagement to Bush's* 1600 acre ranch. This man could sell his home before he loses it, buy a moblie home, and go squat on the Prairie Chapel.

[roguevalley]

104. hug them both and tell them someone in Alaska appreciates them,

their sacrifice and their dignity. I feel so bad about this. Please, tell them for me.

[FourStarDemocrat]

106. I'm wondering if this kind of thing happened in the days before prior..

revolutions..you know, people quietly walking around, scared, powerless, afraid...whispering warnings to others to wake them up.. to take caution and be prepared.

That scenerio almost seems like it could have taken place in another century in a sense. Thanks for sharing your story and for reachng out to him. I'm just thinking that if this country just keeps plugging along with the republicans and neocons in power, corrupt elections continuing and timid, corporate-lite Democrats in Washington, that at some point the people are going to storm the Bastille. And I'm wondering what it's going to look like and feel like before it happens, because things cannot get much worse for this country before something HAS to happen.

[ClayZ]

107. There are angels! Ours lives across the street! We both got egged!

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0501-12.htm


Snowflakes and EGGS?

Before the WAR someone knocked on my door. I had hung my big peace sign flag on the porch the day before and was sure it would be a complaint. Our pretty Boulevard heads right down to the waterfront where the USS.Lincoln is based.

Peeking over the flag was a little lady. Still thinking I was probably in trouble, I opened the door and she said, " Hi, I am your new neighbor across the street and we wanted to tell you how happy it made us to see your Peace Sign when we got up this morning."

<snip>

This morning there was a call on my answering machine. It was my new friend. She said, "Someone tore up our posters and threw eggs at our house in the night." So much for freedom. She said she felt like there was a death in the family. I went to our porch and sure enough, eggs all over the house. I am not surprised but she was.

<snip>

update.....
Since this post to Common Dreams, we have marched on for PEACE with Bonnie and Owen and joined them to take a "Stand for Peace" to the main intersection in our home town weekly.

I printed the membership application for Owen to join "Veterans For Peace", not long after the bombs and eggs flew. He is a very active member and visits wounded soldiers every week at the Military Hospital.

[MUAD_DIB]

112. Thank you for that post.

I don't usually respond on DU that often. I lurk and read, but mostly I fight my battles elsewhere.

This post was very good and very sad at the same time.


The older generations know what they are talking about when it comes to really bad times.

I hope for his sake that he and his wife make it.

I hope for all our sakes that we make it.



Thanks again,


-Muad

[Donailin]

113. You DO know aht your neighbor was up to, don't you?

He's fishing. He's looking to make a connection. He's looking to build a concrete foundation of solidarity in his own community. Tough times are ahead, chimp supporters are waking up, some of them know very well that without the support of one another in their own neighborhoods, we will have no power as individuals. He is in effect, ORGANIZING on the micro level.

We are all going to need each other.

My neighbor, who was pro-Bush right up until last year, told me the other night; "My mother has a 110 acres up by deep creek lake. If it comes down to it, you and the kids are welcome to come live there with me and mine in the event of catastrophe (economic or otherwise)."
This is a woman who used to use terms like "those muslims" and "Sadam hit the world trade center" pre-Iraq war.

It took only a few conversations with her right before the Iraq War to point out what was really going on. She dismissed me. But then everything i said came to pass. By the 2004 election, she voted for Kerry. We are pretty much best freinds now and we lament all the time about the disasters happening all around us.

Community is what will get us through what's to come.

[steve2470]

119. Who's the band in your sig line ? It really got me curious. nt

[Donailin]

120. that would be

OPETH -- only the best progressive metal band on the planet, with my sons' band coming in a close second: xKNORWOODx http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=5569648&Mytoken=20050814131941

[ray of light]

128. You got that right!!!

And if you're interested in continuing organizing grassroots at the local level, please check out the Democracy Cell Project because that's exactly the community it's trying to help us build.


Home page with 5 minutes of Democracy per day! http://www.democracycellproject.net

Forum
http://www.democracycellproject.net/forum/index.php?

Blog
http://www.democracycellproject.net/blog/

Register here:
http://www.democracycellproject.net/forum/index.php?act=Login&CODE=00

Post YOUR community organization or your interest in finding an organization here:
http://www.democracycellproject.net/forum/index.php?showforum=24

[jsamuel]

125. Is there a way we could help him and his wife with their house?

[converted_democrat]

134. I'm working on it.......

I'm going first thing tomorrow morning to see if he qualifies for state aid , or aid from one of our local vet groups. I have a best friend who owns a bar and can throw him a fund raiser dinner if push comes to shove. Also, my AWESOME hubby says if worse comes to worse we will hire him to answer phones for our small business. I'm not saying I may not need help, but I think I have things under control. Thank you for your kind words of support, thank you for caring.

[fortyfeetunder]

126. The sad thing there are more families like him

We must remain vigilant to help the vulnerable amongst them.
Thanks for sharing the story.

132. this land is our land

We need a good rally song.

[oncall]

133. I have read this entire thread

So many of us are feeling emboldened by Cindy Sheehan that we want to take it to another level. I have been an active member of The Democracy Cell Project, and we have been doing exactly what you all have been talking about. The site is the brainchild of Dick Bell who was the blog master for the Kerry Edwards campaign. We are an on the ground movement bringing together people with a progressive message to help make America a better place to live. I encourage you to check the site out and see if you have anything to contribute to your neighborhood. Read the forum, participate on the blog and the irc chat room and get ideas in the forum. Ray of Light has posted twice on this thread about Democracy Cell Project. You might find that the ideas listed there will be exactly what you are looking for so that YOU can make a difference in your community.

Converted Democrat,

Thank-you for sharing your experience. You have an excellent opportunity to help the cause for your neighbor and the rest of America.

Hoping to see you in D.C. September 24.

<http://www.democracycellproject.net>