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Ben Stein's Diary
A Smile on My Face
People in Washington were never friendly, but now they are really, really unfriendly. But then there’s Charleston.
Friday
Here I am at the Atlanta airport. I
flew in from LAX this morning. I was so groggy when I awakened in
L.A. I literally could not remember where I was even though I was
in my own bedroom.
Things are sad at our home. Our beloved Brigid, German Shorthaired Pointer of my dreams, heiress to the love I had for Mary Margaret of Santa Cruz, Trixie, Puppy Wuppy, Ginger, is in extremis.
She can still get around our house in Rancho Mirage because it’s all on one floor, but we have to carry her up and down the stairs in Beverly Hills. Even though she is considerably diminished in size and weight, that’s still a chore. Plus, she falls down frequently. Her back legs just go out from under her. It is (as my wife would say) “heart rendering.”
Brigid is also extremely incontinent. My wife, a literal saint (I mean, a real saint) lets Brigid sleep next to her and deals with the mess with total aplomb. I am too weak to do it.
Anyway, Brigid, who slept next to me for 11 years, will soon be sleeping with Old Shep.
That’s what makes things sad at our home.
I slept almost the entire way from LAX to ATL. It was a super flight, a Delta 777 with comfy seats and a great staff. Then, when we got to Hartsfield, the whole place was filled with soldiers. I greeted them to the extent they did not overwhelm me, then went in search of one of my favorite foods, Popeyes chicken. All around me were kind, friendly people wanting to talk about the issues of the day. Mostly, they were TV watchers who had seen me on Fox or CNN or, even more often, CBS Sunday Morning. They were uniformly upbeat, happy, outgoing. No sneering. None of that garbage about “I usually agree with you but sometimes you’re really off base” that I get from people in Beverly Hills or New York.
I looked around me as I ate my chicken wing. The men and women had friendly faces. I know I use that term too much. But it means everything to me to have friendly faces nearby. In my main home, in Bev Hills, too many people look suspicious and cunning. Well, I am going to get in trouble if I go much further with this. Let’s just say that when wifey and I are walking around in Beverly Hills, I feel as if my pocket is being picked emotionally. Out there in AMERICA, I feel as if I am refilled.
I ate my chicken, also some string beans, went to my gate, posed for a lot of photos with soldiers (who are apparently all flying to Fort Sill for training), then got on a surprisingly large plane to one of my favorite places, Charleston.
Omar, my Charleston driver, picked me up and took me to The Charleston Place, a fine hotel, where they put me in my room.
It was COLD there in Charleston. I did not have a heavy coat, so I walked in my skimpy, pitiful threadbare blazer to a nearby barbecue place. Closed. I met a trio of men who had just eaten at FIG, a famous bistro in Charleston. One of them invited me to join them for a drink at the hotel lounge. I don’t drink, but I went with them. One of them gave me his takeout container of steak from FIG. It was heavenly. I ordered a cheeseburger. Fabulous. It was literally the best cheeseburger I have ever had.
All of us at the bar had a long conversation about current events, especially the recession. Then I went to my room, watched some nutty movie about zombies for 30 seconds, and then to bed.
I have to tell you that except for north Idaho, the Deep South is my favorite place in this world. Polite, intelligent people. Great food. No bad attitude. Love them.
Saturday
Up and down to a café at The
Charleston Place to meet some donors to the cause for which I am
speaking in Charleston, a hospital and health care environment
called “Roper St. Francis.” The guests were all happy and charming.
Charleston has a lot of good-looking people, men and women. I found
myself sitting next to a super successful property magnate named
Jim. By an amazing stroke, he also loves German Shorthaired
Pointers. He has a huge farm in North Carolina and many, many, many
other homes, but his main love seems to be his dogs, which is as it
should be.
I am not sure I have ever hit it off so quickly and happily with anyone else in my life as I did with Jim. It turned out we had met before at a bank conference. He is my new hero.
About the Author
Ben Stein is a writer, actor, economist, and lawyer living in Beverly Hills and Malibu. He writes “Ben Stein’s Diary” for every issue of The American Spectator.
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Herb| 3.29.11 @ 7:02AM
Another enjoyable column by a man who drinks deeply of the joy of life, yet who wonders much and sorrows more at the incredibly high morale of our wounded and disabled warriors. And then he hits on something: I just retired from the Army Reserve; my days in the service began with a tour in Vietnam, it's a long story. But our weekend drills since 2008 included mandatory classes on suicide prevention which demoralized everybody since the suicides, most of them, took place after the soldier had left theater, not during deployment. Has Ben hit on something here? Are antidepressants the culprit, the reason why in 2008 suicides outnumbered deaths by enemy action? Since Mr. Stein is obviously a friend of the military, his further insights on this tragic subject would be most welcome.
Emily| 3.29.11 @ 1:36PM
Very important thoughts on the use of anti-depressants. In many cases probably anti-psychotics are being prescribed along with the anti-depressants--common practice at the moment. Would be interesting to hear what some of the thoughtful voices in the anti-psychiatric drug wing of psychiatry have to say about this, people like Dr. William Glasser. I think it's becoming clear to those who are paying attention that psychiatric drugs are not a substitute for contact with caring human beings.
Caroline| 3.29.11 @ 2:23PM
Oh, I do so agree about the overabundant usage of anti-depressants and similar drugs. All one has to do is listen to the drug ads on TV and hear the warnings of certain side effects. Many of them involve suicidal thoughts, increased, not lessened depression. Our service people are not well informed about these matters, and the
government couldn't care less. Ben is definitely on to something here.
Le Cracquere| 3.29.11 @ 8:26AM
Tuesday though it be, Mr. Stein, let me offer you a hearty post-hoc welcome to Charleston! My daily bicycle meander generally takes me by Charleston Place and FIG (though your encomium to the "good-looking people" of Charleston suggests that I wasn't spotted).
Come again soon, and best to you, yours, & Brigid in particular!
Miss Alabama| 3.29.11 @ 10:20AM
Ben, my darling, I was so in hopes you would include a mention of me and our afternoon tea at Charleston Place.
And why did you not describe our hotel in more detail? Dear readers, Charleston Place Hotel is a gathering point for local society, and Hank and I stay here often. The hotel blends gentility and old-world charm with a leading-edge spa and innovative cuisine. It's just my cup of tea!
And speaking of tea, while Hank was out golfing, dear readers, Ben and I were having tea in a secluded area of the hotel's opulent lobby. And I know you are dying to know what was on the menu, so here is what I remember:
A Pot of Assam Tea
An Assortment of Classic
Open-Faced Tea Sandwiches
Fresh Baked Scones with
Preserves and Honey, (yummy, yummy)
Traditional Crumpets with
Whipped Cream and Lemon Curd
Homemade Cakes, Tarts and
Tea Cookies (just like the ones served at the Savoy in London)
And brother, did Ben wolf down those cakes, tarts, and cookies. I had to say, "Ben, dear, they are not going to run away from you. Slow down, darling."
And Ben kept getting the lemon curd and whip cream on his cheek, and I had to take his napkin off his lap and wipe his face. At one point he had whipped cream on the end of his nose. Adorable! I just had to lean over, squeeze his hand, and give him a kiss on the cheek.
I looked ravishing in a Vivienne Westwood dress with a plunging neckline. And needless to say, when Ben was not gobbling up the cakes, he could not keep his eyes off me.
Lovely memories. Just lovely.
Mary Ann McAllister| 3.29.11 @ 10:30AM
Interesting that wherever Ben goes, so goes Miss Alabama.
I hate to say it, but she sounds like a wantan woman to me. She's trouble, Ben. Stay away, far away.
Prudy W.| 3.29.11 @ 10:36AM
Miss Alabama's highfalutin ways are infuriating! She makes me sick!
If I could be in her presence for just one minute, I would snatch her baldheaded.
E from Montgomery, Alabama| 3.29.11 @ 12:27PM
"Miss Alabama" lives just outside of Montgomery, and she is the richest woman in the state.
She has set herself up as the social and cultural doyenne of the South, and does she put on airs. Nobody can stand her, but she is a huge contributor to "the Arts," especially the Shakespeare Festival, so everyone puts up with her.
She frequently mentions Ben in her conversations. "Ben is such a lovely man . . ." and so on and on and on.
Ridiculous! Poor thing. She's enamored of the man.
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:42AM
I said one day, it takes all kinds of people to make the world go around...
My Forman I worked for from Sand Mountain Alabama said, "No, there's just all kinds of people in the world."
Madge Gillespie| 3.29.11 @ 5:49PM
And Ben's poor wife at home in bed with that sick dog!
While Ben and Miss Alabama get it on.
It just about breaks my heart.
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:43AM
Take you medication.
Chalkdust| 3.30.11 @ 6:18AM
Lying in bed with an incontinent dog is the almost the most disgusting I've heard of. I say almost because some of these posts are...are just....disgusting. I post this with a smile.
Danielle| 3.29.11 @ 12:20PM
OMG. How about the fact that there is a Mrs. Stein on the Earth who we all respect and appreciate?? And perhaps the reason Ben didn't mention his time with you Miss Alabama was because you were actually quite obnoxious. Your name dropping and oh so southern "charm" borderlines on self absorbed insecurity. And your post made many of us simply roll our eyes at your gigantic ego.
Mr. Buckeye from Alabama| 3.29.11 @ 12:30PM
Yeah, but she's one sexy gal.
A little long in the tooth, but she's still got what it takes to make a man wanna get inside her panties.
hannah from savannah| 3.29.11 @ 12:39PM
You Southern men are disgusting.
Pigs! We are trying to maintain a serious, dignified tone on this blog, and we will not tolerate posts of a sexual nature!
Censor please!
Seek| 3.29.11 @ 1:16PM
Southern men are every bit as charming as Southern women. Censorship stifles healthy impulses.
NoLib| 3.29.11 @ 12:40PM
Yuck!
Mac | 3.29.11 @ 4:57PM
Well Ben, looks like you have stirred up a hornet's nest. You have made many of you "Women" followers pea green with jealousy.
I must say, when I read many of your personal posts, I tend to let my mind wander to a room such as a hunter's cabin with a throw rug on the floor in front of a fireplace, sitting in a rocking chair with a hunting dog asleep beside me basking in the warmth of the fire. This is how your writings make me feel; warm and comfortable, safe and sound. Thanks for the memories Ben.
o p| 3.29.11 @ 5:44PM
For Goodness Sakes, Mac.
Are you mooning over Ben too? Is EVERYBODY in love with Ben?
Get me outta here! And fast!
Jonah| 3.30.11 @ 1:19AM
LOL!!
Le Cracquere| 3.29.11 @ 5:18PM
As I believe General J.E.B. Stuart once said: "Haters gonna hate."
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:58AM
Thank you Miss Alabama, for being a BFF!
I just want to note that Popeye's specializes in spicy chicken..."Love that Spicy Chicken at Popeye's!"
But however, Southern Fried Chicken is not spicy!
OLDRAY| 3.29.11 @ 8:59AM
Another lovely piece. Helps us to remember old comrades and value current heros. Helpful and heartful. Thank you Ben.
73 w/a bad knee| 3.29.11 @ 9:34PM
Ben is a sweet old pooch. The kind you like to pat on the head.
A warm and fuzzy old pooch.
edo| 3.29.11 @ 9:10AM
:) :) :) :) :) from Atlanta!
Jean| 3.29.11 @ 9:30AM
Mr. Stein,
I am sorry to hear that your beloved pet is old and dying. I do thank you sincerely that you love my south as much as I do! There is no place nor people like it anywhere in the world. Come back and visit again!
Thunderbottom| 3.29.11 @ 11:35AM
Mr. Stein:
I am also sorry to hear about the impending demise of your beloved dog. I am presently on dogs six and seven (Kayla and Pepper). When Scoobie, dog number five, had to be put down at the ripe old canine age of 15 years, 3 months, I was devastated. A friend told me that her vet had told her, "Every year that a dog lives past eleven is a gift." My time with Scoobie (almost 15 years) lasted longer than many marriages nowadays.
Mac | 3.29.11 @ 5:16PM
I never really thought about it but, there are two kinds of dog people. Those who have dogs for a pet and those whose dogs become part of the family. They name their dogs human names, they talk to their dogs so much that the dogs actually understand almost everything they say. They actually become more than an animal to take care of, they become a companion, a member of the family. When they want something, they actually come to you and look at you knowing you will figure out what they want, and that you'll get it for them. They talk to you in their own way that you can understand.
Then there are those who name their dogs, spike, rover, red, goober,..... dog names. The dogs live outside, have fleas and ticks, and get fed when you get time. Their basic understand is to "sit" when told to, and the owners are proud of that.
Ben, I'm real sorry about your dog Brigid. If only they lived as long as humans, we'd be the better for them. They are better than an anti- psychotic drug or any anti-depressant.
ShortNSweet| 3.29.11 @ 9:59AM
Mr. Stein,
You made my day. It's surprising to hear someone who isn't from the south compliment "southerners". We are mostly a kind and considerate, and intelligent lot, and I so appreciate the compliment. I am not used to that.
I am so very sorry that your sweet Brigid is not getting on well. I so feel your pain. I lost one of my dearest friends in this world, three weeks ago to an inherited auto-immune disease. He was a white german shepherd, and his name was Reichter. He will be in my heart always. I honestly hope that dogs go to heaven, so that I can see him again some day. I hope your days left with Brigid are many.
I truely enjoy reading your diary. Thanks for sharing.
Brian Mc| 3.29.11 @ 10:24AM
What a sweet pause to the morning, Ben. I am grateful for your words. They cause me pause and smiles...and sometimes, consternation. For instance, was it the Jupiter Symphony? Piano Sonatat K. 333? Lacrymosa? Marriage of Figarro? Sorry, Ben...Mozart's my hero. Now, I think I'll go sit down at my Yamaha...U3, that is. It's a little out of tune, but so are my abilities with it.
Dick Daugherity| 3.29.11 @ 11:15AM
Great column.
You asked what we could do for the wounded soldiers, Fisher House!
Emma| 3.29.11 @ 11:19AM
Since your dear doggie is not longer able to enjoy life, please be aware of where you are drawing the boundaries regarding how long she should struggle. Our Siberian died on New Year's day, and our Dalmatian 3 years ago, so I know the grief. Please don't extend her suffering unnecessarily: your tears will be no more or less. Do your best for her now as you have always done. I'm so sorry.
Leslie Saunders | 3.29.11 @ 11:20AM
Dear Ben,
Rhett Butler was so right about Charleston. And to further prove its civility dogs can swim on the lovely beaches in the early morning and meet friends, share toys and be dogs.
We Jewish yankees should appreciate this city for its contributions in all ways. I hope you had time to see the oldest Reform synogogue in America.
A.M. Mallett| 3.29.11 @ 11:20AM
Glad you enjoyed your stay! It was unusually chilly here but not to worry. That too will pass.
Ken Roberts | 3.29.11 @ 11:23AM
Welcome to our world , I feel a sadness over your pet . I know that is the hardest thing I ever did with the exception of letting my wife go. 43 is way to young to die . May the best be with you sir and I am smiling while I write,
Deborah| 3.29.11 @ 11:30AM
Dear Mr. Stein---I have this theory: if a man (or a woman) is extremely lucky, he can have five good dogs in his lifetime. You have been blessed, but you know that. Best Wishes, Deborah
tarheel| 3.29.11 @ 11:36AM
Great column, Mr. Stein. The South always welcomes you. So sorry about your pet, the love of a pet is hard to beat. And I do thank the wonderful gentlemen and ladies in our Armed Forces who protect us night and day. God bless them.
Mimi Evans Winship| 3.29.11 @ 11:37AM
I smile when reading Ben Stein,
And it costs me not a thing.
I smile when I pass a mirror,
Though tears make my cheeks damp and they sting.
I smile at total strangers,
And they think I’m certifiable.
The fact that their faces brighten
Is more often then not quite reliable.
I smile in anticipation.
I smile at a memory once lost.
I smile when someone needs cheering up
And there’s never any cost.
The corners of my mouth turn up
As I toast the great Mr. Stein.
To bask in the smile of that compassionate man
Would be like enjoying a wonderful wine.
Mimi Evans Winship
John Harlow| 3.29.11 @ 11:42AM
So sorry to hear about Brigid. Every time I experience that awful pain I say never again.. Yet usually after a couple of months of withdrawal a new puppy (or puppies) bring joy into my life again and the cycle begins anew. I admit it. I am addicted to the love and enjoyment that dogs bring.
Beverly Edberg| 3.29.11 @ 11:44AM
Brigid is in my prayers - so much love. Thank you for all you do to lift me up - everytime I read or hear you I am remided that there is clarity and common sense still out there.
Jane| 3.29.11 @ 11:56AM
Ben Stein is a ray of sunshine in a world of bleak naysayers. God Bless Ben. I truly wish I had at some time in my life met this man.
Laraine Kendall| 3.29.11 @ 12:00PM
We need more Ben Steins in this world!!! I loved your column and I am so sorry about your sweet Brigid. Our animals enrich our lives, but it is heart wrenching when they leave us!!
Thank you so much for the kind words about southerners.... I am one and I agree that we are a friendly lot!! :-)
God Bless Our Men and Women in the Military!!!
Laraine Kendall, Atlanta, Ga.
Wayne | 3.29.11 @ 12:08PM
The problem with DC is that everyone thinks they are important.
Carlos| 3.29.11 @ 12:13PM
So sorry to hear about your dear pup. We've been there too.
As for all the scowls in Dee Cee, why, what would you expect, so long as the Obama regime rules, and no man's life or property is safe? Just hang in there till January 2013, and you'll see plenty of 1000-watt smiles all over the greater Northern Virginia area (including suburban Maryland and Washington, D.C.) as we welcome a new Republican President.
Carolyn Larson| 3.29.11 @ 12:22PM
Prayers for you, Brigid and your wife. What a tribute to them in this column. May another dog (or dogs) be so blessed to have your care and devotion. It will honor her memory.
Ray Burke| 3.29.11 @ 12:31PM
When God had made the earth and sky, the flowers and the trees, he then made all the animals - the fish, the birds and bees.
And when at last he'd finished not one was quite the same. He said, "I'll walk this world of mine and give each one a name".
And so he traveled far and wide and everywhere he went, a little creature followed him until its strength was spent.
When all were named upon the earth and in the sky and sea, the little creature said, "Dear lord, there's not one left for me".
Kindly the father said to him, "I've left you to the end. I've turned my own name back to front and called you DOG, My friend".
Bill| 3.29.11 @ 12:35PM
Ben,
How DARE you be so positive, so happy, when the world is full of racism, hatred, greed and social injustice? It's... it's inappropriate. Shame on you. Stop smiling, lest you be thought a fool, or Midwestern.
And complimenting the Deep South??? You are off-script, my friend. Good luck getting invited to another party anywhere in Beverly Hills.
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:47AM
I so am glad that Ben has folks that care enough to filter replies to his posts!
Andy| 3.29.11 @ 12:40PM
So many points to absorb, situations that bring back my own pain and difficulty traveling America.
Stranded by fog in ATL and given printed-out scrip for the next flight and a $7 meal voucher, I always find soldiers to talk to and give my coupons. They deserve it more than I do, I know this personally.
I was in their situation in 1986 after being discharged from WRAMC and traveling the day before Thanksgiving. My leg was in a hip to ankle brace from my leg reconstruction and I was in Class A uniform, on crutches to fly home. I couldn't fit into my seat when I boarded and was walked off the now defunct airline's plane. There was no effort by the carrier of the passengers to get me in a left aisle seat in which I would fit.
Initially I was happy to be relieved of my bags that were so hard to manage on the crutches. I was sort of happy to not be under such a driven effort to get to the airport and to the gate. I felt the dried sweat from all that, but I'd be home soon and take a long shower.
My bags flew to Little Rock directly while I was rerouted, thanks to Delta whose agent stepped up as my government ticketed airline agent couldn't help. Through some delays and a mechanical malfunction I arrived in ATL at 2 AM Thanksgiving morning and slept on the floor. I spent my last pocket money on breakfast and flew to Memphis that evening for another night in the chairs and on the floor among what seemed like the entire population of the country.
I do not recall any outreach than the Delta ticket agent but my parents said there was an ad hoc phalanx of ground staff that cleared the ramp ahead of me as I lumbered into the Adams Field Little Rock terminal that morning after Thanksgiving. I nodded off in the car going home.
I got home hungry, dirty, tired, in need of dressing changes and a seeming pariah in my travel. I don't permit the same to happen in my sight now. I know Walter Reed and the goodness shown me there by others much more damaged than myself. I know the invisibility I achieved in the public terminals of the airports that Thanksgiving. I know the ache of feeling like I made a mistake in volunteering to serve during this time. It wasn't a mistake and I validate that each time I encounter someone in uniform as I travel.
I encourage you to seek the invisible, the injured and the tired service member when you travel. You have no idea how much just a few words or how appreciated a meal could be to one of these Americans.
I cannot say enough on these travelers behalf, I can only recall my own hunger and emptiness for the days I was ignored as I traveled.
Jo| 3.30.11 @ 1:32AM
I hope you've had a happy life, Andy, and that you've found peace.
Gregory K. Holobaugh| 3.29.11 @ 12:41PM
Mr. Stein, Your views and observations always give me hope that the American civilization will survive. Proud to be serving over here, MSG Holobaugh
Jonah| 3.30.11 @ 1:21AM
God bless you and thank you for your service, Sir.
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:48AM
Amen!
Delores Smith| 3.29.11 @ 12:54PM
DEAR BEN STEIN,
Another excellent article. Thank you. You made me love Brigid, and I am sad for all of you.
Your visit to Walter Reed Hospital brought back so many memories because my mother died in intensive care there. My brother and Dad were treated there also. All three of them are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Walter Reed Hospital is very special to me. The injured men brought there are those that you will never forget. There's a bond within the Military and their families that surpasses any other. One soldier that I met while my Dad was in the hospital was about to undergo immediate lung surgery. His wife could not be there until a day after the surgery. David, who was scared, had a bed next to my Dad.
I assured David that I would be there when he came out of surgery to take care of him (I am not a nurse.) He was so grateful. I contacted his wife, who was arranging for a sitter for their 3 children, and she would then fly to David.
The surgery was very long, and when David was brought to his room, I did everything a wife or a mother could do. He had to cough in order to avoid pneumonia. I pushed the pillow for him to hold at his chest for coughing. When I was told to give him ice chips, I did. I put a cool cloth on his forehead. He was so grateful. I assured him that his wife would arrive soon. He had a good night.
Annie arrived early in the morning. When she did, we hugged each other as if we were sisters. I had never met her before. David was so happy to see her.
Military families do things like this all the time. As I previously, mentioned there is no greater bond. I can only equate it with the bond that you and your wife have with Brigid. It is special.
Delores Smith
Delores109@cox.net
Jo| 3.30.11 @ 1:34AM
What a great lady you are! You make me proud to be an American woman. God bless you and your family.
Delores Smith| 4.5.11 @ 12:54AM
JO,
Thank you for your kind words. Your taking the time to say something pleasant to someone tells me that you are truly a great lady. Take care.
Delores Smith Delores109@cox.net
Slingshot| 3.29.11 @ 1:16PM
Mr. Stein, having lived among them, I really don't think your hope of getting along with Muslims is going to work out. Especially not with a name like Stein. Be careful. There are some things that a smile will not ameliorate.
Larry Hawk | 3.29.11 @ 1:38PM
After twenty-one years in exile in a "no pets" apartment in San Francisco, I finally retired and moved to the sticks near my youngest daughter and her brood in Caliente. First thing I did was get a dog. Niko the Wonder Pup, a Great Pyrenees, is now five months old and pushing seventy pounds. I've read your work for so many years, that I instinctively address him as "puppy wuppy," which really sounds a little silly when you see the size of him. Wonder where I got that endearment? My condolences on Brigid, but there's no doubt she'll go to doggie heaven.
Wally| 3.29.11 @ 1:42PM
These people are the fresh water and soap that wipe this nation clean...
A perfect phrase in every respect. God Bless Ben Stein.
LeftCoastRightBrain| 3.29.11 @ 2:02PM
Another great read. Sad about the dog. BTDT and didn't like the final scene.
Nice comments about Southerners. Lived in Kentucky for a few years and traveled the south a bit. My "coastal sophisticate" friend looked at me oddly when I praised Southern people and Southern ways.
Smiles are wonderful. In most Nothern cities people look at you like the suspect you might be a bit "off".
We met last May in Anaheim. I share the picture of the two of us with my lib friends. Drives them nuts.
I honor your good work with our wounded vets. God bless.
charles wick| 3.29.11 @ 2:05PM
Ben, a wonderful column. Especially about your beloved Brigid. Dogs are here in part to always remind us of our temporary lives and how fleeting love is. I hope all goes well for her, and you. I hope you find a potion to help her legs work again and let her hop up to sleep on your bed.
I thought my ten year old border collie was in trouble, and the vet did not help. i went to Petsmart and got a potion made by "Nutri-vet" --glucosamine and chondriton-- because it was mostly sold out. She's jumping, climbing the stairs and so much happier. I hope it continues. I hope Brigid gets better too.
Helen| 3.29.11 @ 2:34PM
As I was reading Mr. Stein's post today, I am grieving for our family dog who is in the process of dying. We are keeping him home, surrounded by his humans who love him like part of the family.
I love reading Ben Stein's posts. I wish I could meet him someday and say thank you for writing about important issues which do not get much attention.
Jo| 3.30.11 @ 1:30AM
God bless you and your special pup, Helen. You were so fortunate to have had time together.
Life is short, love hard!
Wm. Tomlinson| 3.29.11 @ 2:37PM
"I wonder how long until we can hope that free markets and free men and women will allow us to have good relations even with the Islamist militants?" Mr. Stein, this is wishful and wholly unfounded thinking. TRUE Muslim ideology overrules all possibility of that Pollyannish outcome.
TRUE Muslim ideology leads to millionaires living in squalor in caves and all who are not at least willing to join them are the enemy. They declare it openly, "We love death more than you love life." Unfortunately, there is only one solution to such a problem. Think Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the scene where Indie must face the scimitar wielding opponent.
One of Islam's foundational doctrines is the bringing (by force if necessary) all of the world under sharia law. ALL Muslims believe that.
For the individual Muslim the promise of Islamic heaven, but far outweighing that the terror of Islamic hell, is far stronger than anything this world might have to offer.
ISLAM Ben, is the 21st century's COMMUNISM (which is still rearing its ugly head even though we supposedly defeated that beast last century). Just as Communism must be destroyed, so must Islam. However, it will not be until the last minute of history ... which we are rapidly approaching.
ilana | 3.29.11 @ 2:55PM
Several words to say and that is 'anti depressants are evil. Doctors who prescribe them for anyone should be on a course of them before. Simply awful way to kill someone.
Intelligent Design| 3.29.11 @ 3:02PM
It's amazing that we have so many volunteers willing to risk their lives and limbs in Afghanistan, Iraq, now Libya, etc. When I meet soldiers in airports and airplanes, I always thank them. But I don't tell them what I'm really thinking: We should get out of Iraq, get out of Afghanistan, and stay out of Libya, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Yemen, Syria, etc. This would save hundreds of billions of dollars.
Muslims have been fighting and killing each other for 1,400 years, and they will still be doing it after we waste thousands of our soldiers lives on stupid "nation building". Does Congress really think that the Muslim rebels in Libya will be better friends of the U.S. than Gaddafi? Do they think the Muslim governments of Iraq and Afghanistan are reliable allies, or ever will be? How dumb can the U.S. get?
Islam is subversive to the Constitution and Bill of Rights. The problem is not just "radical" Islamists, or the Muslim Brotherhood. The problem is Islam.
(BTW, I am veteran of the 4th Infantry Div. in Vietnam.)
Jo| 3.30.11 @ 1:28AM
You are a very wise man. I wish there were more just like you here!
Michael| 3.29.11 @ 3:11PM
Don't be fooled, Ben. Red China is a center of fashion, and it's where overall eighty percent of the millionares are Communist/Red Army officers!!
Kathy Washburn| 3.29.11 @ 3:22PM
Ben sounds like he was very uplifted, and I am so happy he was because I feel uplifted every time I read one of his articles. This one was super! Thanks, Ben.
TOM BOYLEN| 3.29.11 @ 3:33PM
MR STEIN,
I SIT HERE READING YOUR THOUGHTS AND THINKING............ITS LIKE HAVING A PLEASANT CONVERSATION WITH AN OLD WISE FRIEND. I THINK I HAVE MISSED A LOT BY NOT READING YOUR WORDS OF THE PAST. ANYWAY, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING. IT GAVE ME A NEW INSIGHT ABOUT THE SOUTH. I HAVE LIVED HERE ALL MY LIFE AND I TOO SMILE AT TOTAL STRANGERS. KNOW WHAT? MOST SMILE BACK AND IT IS WHAT I CALL CONTAGIOUS . SO YOU KEEP SMILING. YOU NOW HAVE A NEW ADMIRER. I AM 83 AND STILL LOVE PEOPLE............TOM BOYLEN
politicaljules| 3.29.11 @ 9:46PM
Tom, you are amazing. Thank you for bringing such a great smile to my face. Stay strong young man!
old progmr| 3.29.11 @ 3:34PM
There are many reasons why we here in the South are smiling , while the Westcoast and the NE features so many nasty, unhappy people. We know those reasons down here, but the Westcoast and NE will never get it.
Geri| 3.29.11 @ 3:57PM
Am sitting next to my dying little treasure doggie Judy. Blind though she is, she knows where I am at all times; especially at bed time.
It's hard, Ben.
GN.
Ardith Hollis Roddy| 3.29.11 @ 4:05PM
Ben, I've followed your column for awhile but never responded. I graduated from Montgomery Blair 2 years before you and Jim Johnston became my step-brother when our folks married some later. I found my way to NC right after college graduation (in WV) and discovered a whole new world of humanity. People are friendly, kind, concerned, gentle, and we all smile a lot. After 40+ years I'm a died in the wool southerner. Thank-you for praising those traits that have so endeared us and kept us in the south.
I hope that military docs will somehow hear about your concern about the drugs and suicide rates. My husband is a Viet Nam vet and I've had to closely monitor and advocate for him at the VA since those doctors are overworked and anxious to throw a pill at the problem and move on to the next patient. You are probably correct in your conclusions. Keep writing your bits of wisdom and observation. Thank you.
Strider| 3.29.11 @ 4:20PM
Ben, condolences on your imminent loss. It's been 10 years since we lost our beloved cat (age ~15.5) to diabetes, and even though we've had a new one for nearly 7 years we still miss the original.
If you haven't already done so, be sure to visit the famous Confederate submarine H. L. Hunley next time you're in Charleston; it's guaranteed to leave a lump in the throat. Give serious consideration to moving to Charleston (or elsewhere in Dixie) before the inevitable breakup of the US. At the very least, get out of California before "Moonbeam" and the Mexicans make the place utterly unlivable.
The best thing we could possibly do for those hideously wounded soldiers is to end these asinine, illegal wars NOW, so no more soldiers need join them there. Then we must honor the memory of Smedley Butler and make sure we never send future soldiers into harm's way absent actual or imminent invasion and formal declaration of war.
I have to agree with "Wm. Tomlinson" re Muslims (especially the Indiana Jones analogy). Islam stands in 100% opposition to our founding principles -- indeed, to Western civilization. In the appendix to 1984 Orwell noted that the Declaration of Independence could not be translated into Newspeak other than boiling it down to the single word crimethink. To a devout Muslim, that document boils down to the words heresy and blasphemy, and that will never change. Along with exiting the Mideast wars and forbidding entry to any Muslim without diplomatic immunity, all non-citizen Muslims already in the US (again, except diplomats) should be declared persona non grata and given a reasonable time (3-4 months?) to get their affairs in order and leave the country. They can't harm us if we're not over there, and they can't harm us if they're not over here.
politicaljules| 3.29.11 @ 9:44PM
I was in agreement with you right up to the point you wanted to ship all Muslims out of our country. If they are American citizens, YOU CANNOT DO THAT. I also wont support anyone doing that to a fellow American. Will there be some bad ones? Absolutely. But that is a chance we have to take. There are plenty of bad regular old Heinz 57 Americans too. Should we make them pack? of course not.
Wayne| 3.29.11 @ 4:23PM
Thanks Ben,
I don't know why I read this whole article but I just ket reading.
Besides having similar views about human kind, I enjoy your simple way of integrating complex thoughts.
God bless Bridig &
Keep the faith,
Wayne
Dana| 3.29.11 @ 4:38PM
Really enjoy your pithy, meandering articles.
So sorry about Brigid--brings to mind holding my cancer ridden cat in my arms while he died looking into my eyes.
Ditto on LA people. My last job brought me people from all over the country. LA people were instantly recognizable.
Keep smiling ;-) It's God's lip balm
doolittle| 3.29.11 @ 5:27PM
losing a dog is the worst thing ever. I write as "doolittle" a gentleman in every sense of the word and though he's been gone almost 6 years I still miss him so much. Luckily for me, one day he was fine and the next day he wasn't and the next day he was gone..having to agonize as to the decision is so bad, I'm coward enough to say I was spared that.
David Romero| 3.29.11 @ 6:30PM
Good old Ben Stein. You gotta love him.
Stammon| 3.29.11 @ 9:00PM
Dogs are God's way of encouraging us to experience a small taste of his infinite love.
Love you Ben.
Janis Keller| 3.29.11 @ 9:03PM
I have always appreciated Ben Stein's views, and now I am fortunate enough to see my grown children appreciate him, too. My oldest son, Caleb, looks to Stein for wisdom. I can tell. Once, Mr. Stein was in a commercial and Caleb jumped up from the sofa and shushed everyone because he didn't want to miss what Ben Stein had to say. Oh, the joy that went through my heart! Thank you, Mr. Stein, for being such an influence to my grown children, and to myself. What am I saying? I don't know of anyone who doesn't like you! Except that Caleb won't listen to the movie "Expelled!" on account of the view you take of God over evolution. Caleb will, eventually, give in to God. Thanks again, Janis Keller
politicaljules| 3.29.11 @ 9:39PM
I am in total understanding about the sadness felt in DC.
I am from Texas, and the open friendly positive faces you are so used to seeing here, I sometimes take for granted.
I made a short trip to DC recently and one night I found my self just sobbing with overwhelming sadness. It was as if no one cared if anyone lived or died in that town, and it really affects you. Especially if you are from a place like Texas. I do not know how other people do it.
Veronica Ackley| 3.30.11 @ 12:11AM
Sorry you are about to lose your precious pup. Thank you for your public voice. God Bless you
Dee See| 3.30.11 @ 12:16AM
MEANWHILE, both the RED China TREASON
issue ----and the unfolding 'eugenics friendly'
Fukishima disaster are being MASSIVELY
covered-up and buried.
Put down the cocktails ----and START thinking
HUAC meets NUREMBERG
------HUAC meets NUREMBERG!
------------HUAC meets NUREMBERG
NOW-------------!
Jonah| 3.30.11 @ 1:25AM
Put a sock in it, moron. Go over to HuffPo and share your cheer.
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:35AM
Jonah, come over to HuffPo & respond to me.
CV| 3.30.11 @ 2:32AM
Lovely article. I will read Ben Stein in the future. I could feel all his emotions and agree that the mood in the South is so friendly. I'm in Las Vegas now and it's hard to get a smile, but going to Texas the friendliness bubbles over... Soldiers in the airport remind you of everything good about America.
Allen Jenkins| 3.30.11 @ 5:29AM
Hello Ben, I agree with you about your four-legged friend. It's sad but you'll come upon a day when the right thing was done, I for one think that God created his wonderful gifts to us in our pets with a Spirit that shall never perish...you will meet again!
I lost my wonderful animal Duchess, whom spent twelve wonderful years with me. Cesar Milan is Gods gift to lovers of dogs, he teaches what I learned from a friend of mine from Cleveland, that dogs need a calm, assertive Pack Leader!
Someone made off with Duchess, I never had to visit the agony of loss like you, she wound up on an old Lady's porch, taken care of, I found out later...courtesy of so-called friends...It took about six months to adjust to being so alone, but life went on Further.
There are some powerful anti-depressants out there, I'm on one...I have lived 53-years & well enjoyed my simple but helpful life...I can't imagine what young people hold onto whilst adjusting to something that can help them control their thoughts to their betterment. Counseling or more of it?
Yes America is Great here in Cookeville, Tennessee and I am always amazed at the fact that as tough as it gets, God gives me things as he says he knows our hearts & gives us things to think and do that we never thought he cared about!
God Bless you Ben, I look for your visits via Sunday Morning and American Spectator!
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life, he that believeth in me though he were dead, yet shall he live!"
Life Ben, is a Quality Word!
Barbara Jean| 3.30.11 @ 8:16AM
Not sure if you read these comments, Ben, but it appears you don't know the meaning of the word "literally". For your wife to be a saint, she would have to be deceased. And don't pass it off to hyperbole; it isn't clever, it demonstrates a lack of understanding of English. Literally!
Tim in AL| 3.30.11 @ 11:57AM
Really, that's the best you could come up with Babs -- seriously, literally??
Lori Aronsohn| 3.30.11 @ 10:30AM
for the elderly pup, our Kylie was suffering the same way but we found relief for our 15 year old poodle with a prescription of Proin for the pee pee problem and Drs Foster&Smith; 'Joint Care 3' for the achy joint problem. She's a new old girl!
JB| 3.30.11 @ 11:49AM
I laughed a bit reading the column, now crying real tears for Bridget, I'm in the same boat with my old Labrador. For years she was the best bird dog in Texas, now she's 15 and can barely get around. But,,, no matter what, I know she has loved me every day of her life. I will always have that.
Nowadays I don't travel much (I'm 70) but when I do I always try to pick up a tab for a soldier or sailor in transit, I was once in their shoes and I know they don't have the money to pay those outrageous airport restaurant prices.
God bless you.
Jim| 3.30.11 @ 6:40PM
Mr. Stein's ruminations at WRAMC remind me of my own change of heart.
I have hitch hiked through Central and South America, behind the fallen Iron Curtain, and of course western Europe. And I have met many people suffering under corrupt, mafia-like regimes who view the USA as their shining city on a hill, their last hope in a cruel world.
If they can not immigrate here, many folks in foreign lands have told me they can at least hope that America will overthrow their tyrannical oppressors, and save them from the violence and bribes and murders that occur every day in their home lands. Regardless of one's political view, it is difficult not to take an interventionist stance.
But a visit to our soldiers tells a different story. If we truly live in a free society, it becomes difficult to see the fallen and wounded, and not question what we do when we send sons and daughters into harm's way, even if they are volunteers.
As I grow older, I find myself questioning whether anyone, especially the President or the UN, should have the power to instigate violence using our young men and women. Unless it is for the preservation of our own state, the negative externalities that accompany such action produces an even more complex situation.
If that sounds like I am espousing a 'Fortress America' strategy, then so be it. And if we fight, we should fight to win and conquer by all means, or not fight at all. The idea of 'just and sympathetic' war is hogwash. A trip to WRAMC proves it.
Delores Smith| 4.5.11 @ 1:13AM
JIM,
Your words present the TRUTH. Men, such as you, have been placed in Harm's Way by leaders like Obama. Obama is pure evil. He will not permit the people of Arizona to identify all illegals who cross our border. He took Arizona to court, and also reported us to the U.N. for human rights violations. He started a war in Libya without going to Congress first. Just prior to that, he spoke in Cairo, where Muslim Brotherhood were invited to attend his speech. Now, MB, are a part of Egypt's new government. As you know, Muslim Brotherhood founded the terrorist groups, Hamas and Al-Qaeda. Al-Qaeda is now in Libya, but they are called the Opposition. Senator Lieberman calls them Freedom Fighters. Americans are speaking out more, and my goal is expose Obama and get him
out of the White House.
Delores Smith
Delores109@cox.net
Stephanie| 3.31.11 @ 1:21PM
Ben, my heart goes out to you for the pain you are feeling in because of your beloved baby, Bridget. I will pray for your pain. Our dogs are such a wonderful gift from God and bring us such wonderful enjoyment, and unconditional love! We lost a beloved Westie, Wendall, 2 years ago (he was 15) wonderful part of our family and now we have 2 wonderful chihuahuas and they are such a joy! I can't imagine the pain you are going through and we try not to think of it, if and when it happens, it is unbearable to think about, so we just focus on enjoying them for as long as God will give us. They are only 4 and 5 yrs. old, so we are hoping for the 19-20 year life span! Lord Willing! You are such an inspiration and I always love reading your letters! God Bless you Ben, Jesus loves you!
Sally Montgomery| 3.31.11 @ 5:54PM
Thank you, Ben, for a great article about everyday things....I just had to put my little dog down so I know the pain. Yes, your wife is a saint! And why don't people smile as often? It's free and makes others feel good. Thank you for going to military hospitals - those people willing sacrifice their lives - for us! Thank you for being there! Sally
EmilyT| 4.1.11 @ 9:42PM
I know exactly what Ben Stein is talking about when he describes being in Atlanta. I remember coming from my home in DC and visiting Atlanta several years ago. I couldn't understand why people were saying excuse me when they bumped into me at restaurants and bars.
Christian Louboutin | 6.23.11 @ 4:11AM
Things are sad at our home. Our beloved Brigid, German Shorthaired Pointer of my dreams, heiress to the love I had for Mary Margaret of Santa Cruz, Trixie, Puppy Wuppy, Ginger, is in extremis.
weddingdresses | 6.27.11 @ 5:04AM
Thank you, Ben, for a great article about everyday things....I just had to put my little dog down so I know the pain. Yes, your wife is a saint! And why don't people smile as often? It's free and makes others feel good. Thank you for going to military hospitals - those people willing sacrifice their lives - for us! Thank you for being there! Sally
Creative Recreation | 8.10.11 @ 11:15PM
is good
Alice Brusnighan| 10.20.11 @ 12:47PM
You, Ben Stein, have become a literary hero to me. You put into wonderfully eloquent words those feelings I often have regarding our wounded military men and women. Keep writing and filling our hearts and minds with your articulations.
Thanks.