love and strife in the time of coronavirus 2


Super Cow, New Britain, CTAmerica is torn. I recently drove the East Coast to get a pulse of the nation recently ravaged by governmental diktats, media distortions, and rioters coddled by a major party.

The further north I drove, the darker the journey became, into a northeast traumatized by the virus and disastrous state decisions. Electronic highway signs threatened “14 day quarantine” and admonished me to call state hotlines. Despite my Florida plates, I was not stopped at any state line or crossing into New York City – as was reported weeks prior. Why would you want to enter these mismanaged and dangerous cities anyway, where the rule of law has given away to mob rule?

I had family and friends to visit. Since the pandemic start, my mission has been to give support and encouragement to any and all. While friends were more than welcoming, family in Massachusetts were not.

Among the viral devastation – in lives, livelihoods, dreams, and educational advancement – appeared a particularly sad one for the frequent road tripper: so many old diners, cafes, and restaurants had closed permanently, with messages such as “Thank you for the opportunity to serve you for 57 years!” next to For Lease signs.

The country was attacked by a foreign invader. What a tragedy that instead of rallying us together in the face of such a threat, one major party decided to politicize it.

But the American spirit is strong, and I have faith that the American people – in spite of so much leftist propaganda – will choose a hopeful and decent path forward that doesn’t reward the country’s critics, haters, and enemies.  Come glimpse some glimmers of hope, including a short music video below that might bring a smile.  [please hove over images for captions]

Listen to the true heart and soul of America, with a rendition of Tom Paxton’s Ramblin’ Boy here at the Blue Ridge Music Center, NC

 


About ben

Ben Batchelder has traveled some of the world's most remote roads. Nothing in his background, from a degree in Visual & Environmental Studies at Harvard to an MBA from Wharton, adequately prepared him for the experiences. Yet he persists, for through such journeys life unfolds. Having published four books that map the inner and exterior geographies of meaningful travel, he is a mountain man in Minas Gerais, Brazil who comes down to the sea at Miami Beach, Florida. His second travel yarn, To Belém & Back, received a starred review from Publishers Weekly. For more, visit www.benbatchelder.com.

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2 thoughts on “love and strife in the time of coronavirus

  • Lynn Carey

    I’m with you. What has happened, especially to small businesses, is heartbreaking. But I’m not giving up on the American spirit! We are freedom lovers in our core and I believe that is what will eventually shine through!

    • ben Post author

      Thank you so much Lynn, for journeying with me not only through the pandemic here on South Beach but also up the coast of our great country! The American spirit remains indominable, especially in patriots like you.