[BRINDLEKIN TALES – Book 4: Chapter 16]
Re: Here’s a tear-jerker…
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 11, 2021 11:20 AM
> …with a very happy ending.
Animal rescuers are the BEST! But a shame that we even NEED them in the first place. Great video, touched my heart. Poor thing had to go through even MORE trauma before comprehending she was finally in loving hands. How could ANYone neglect such a lovely darling? The owner “left the dog behind;” that’s atrocious. But she’s deliriously happy now, and that’s a victory!
THE BOX & THE FLUFF
When they last came over, Flaco didn’t seem to mind the box having vanished…just glad to hop onto that fluffy bedding and zonk out. After first expressing her usual sweet gratitude, and my belly rubs in return. But it has become her habit late at night, to suddenly awaken and jump off the cot to spend a private fifteen minutes or so in the box, before returning by my side. Sometimes scratching loudly on the cardboard floor before settling in. But that night there WAS no box, so she stood around wondering what to do, as she wasn’t ready to return to bed, nor lie down directly on the floor…until I tossed one of the sleeping bags down. She happily accepted, and curled up on it till early morn. Meanwhile, Lucky remained in a deep sleep, his head and upper torso pressed upon my calves in friendly comfort.
She loved the larger box, but I don’t know when I’ll find another that size. So I taped two small boxes together as a temporary solution; see attachment. I imagine she’ll appreciate the extra depth: like a burrow that will give her a sense of seclusion, while peering out at the world.
That recent stayover, I had told Deek to pick them up no later than 1 PM the next day. Not sure if he’d follow through, I was wondering how I’d finish my room prep with the pups present. Because I needed to bag all the bedding as the final step, and they’d have to stay on the floor without anything fluffy to rest upon, before we all stepped out. That’s when I learned how important that fluffy respite is to them. Because the moment Lucky jumped off the cot for a drink of water (Flaco was already on the floor, atop one of the kid’s sleeping bags), I snatched the remaining three comforters away, leaving only the two adult sleeping bags that were laid out flat. I figured they’re cushy enough, and I could now seal up those smaller comforters. But when Lucky jumped back onto the cot, he sniffed around with disapproval, then leapt back onto the floor and attempted to join Flaco…but there wasn’t quite enough room for him to enjoy a piece of the fluff she laid upon. So I tossed a second sleeping bag down, and he went right to it.
Fortunately, I needed not go through the actual difficulty of dealing with the doggies’ presence up to the last moment, since Deek showed up around 11:30 AM. Which allowed me ample time to complete preparing my hovel, with ease. I was very pleased with him, for that.
Ironically, those two smaller boxes were the final remnant of neighbor Todd’s passing. They came from a stack of cardboard flats left by his door, for packing away his material possessions: a veritable cornucopia of movie DVDs and music CDs, plus paperback and hardcover books, intriguing board games, an amazing assortment of tarot card decks, and enough sex toys for a platoon. They could fill a small warehouse; I don’t know how he fit all that junk in one, tiny room smaller than mine. They clogged up half the back porch all the way to the ceiling for several weeks. Now, nothing of his remains, no evidence that he ever existed in the first place.
I must say, Wattson, that I’ve benefited from his death far more than I ever have from his living presence. No more of his nasty glances and gossip against me, no more of his hogging up the WC, and no more having to set one’s bare feet on the restroom’s icy linoleum floor!
Yes, that last part, which annoyance I have told you about previously, though it was some time ago, and you may have forgotten. Some years back, the building manager had gifted us who share that bathroom, with a fluffy throw rug. A small but welcome comfort, that gave a homey touch to the space. However, someone had smeared a bit of human feces onto it, so the manager promptly removed the rug. Could’ve been some homeless person who sneaked into our building. But I suspected Todd had thought it was MY contribution, thus resented the rug by committing that heinous act. A few months later, the manager tried again with another rug…but the same disgusting result put an end to having ANY throw rug in our humble toilet!
Now just over a week ago, a new rug has appeared in the communal lavatory. I chuckled to myself about that: another benefit of Todd’s welcome extinction.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: A Couple of Quick Meetups
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 12, 2021 12:50 AM
9 PM Deek and pups dropped by, he asked for more doggy food, and gave me the usual electronic items to recharge. He granted me a good amount of time to sit with the doggies, eager for my hugs and attention. He was a bit edgy, but calmed down in a few minutes, after hurling a couple of insulting accusations my way. I just told him to stop picking at me, and I’m sorry he’s in a bad mood.
Flaco stood up on my lap, facing me, and gazed into my eyes with love. And I looked back at her with equal kindness. She’s amazing like that! She doesn’t move or do anything else while in that pose, and it can go on for a minute or longer…just an adoring, prolonged gaze: no licks, kisses or any other actions. While at the same time Lucky’s sharp little teeth nibbled up and down my right arm from shoulder to elbow and back again, then repeat…like a jokester who mimics gnawing upon an ear of corn. His friendliness is both passionate and silly…but always sincere.
I took this sweet visit to compliment Deek on how incredible he’s doing these days, and in the past several months.
“I guess a bit more aging under the belt has done you good,” I noted. “Experiences pile up over the years, and have their way of coming together in wisdom, further down the line.” He actually listened attentively to me, so I embellished:
“One thing life has taught me, is that everyone is testing everyone else. No matter how shitty someone behaves, they are testing you in ways that make your life better, even if you don’t realize at the time. Angels work through people, sometimes consciously, but also without that person realizing it. If an angel decides he needs to be tough with you, to lead you down a better path, then that’s what he will do. Otherwise, they are always as kind and generous as they can possibly be. As more testing goes on, and more lessons are learned, kindness will increase in your life, and harshness will decrease.”
Well, I used my words better than that, but I can’t recall verbatim, so I’m paraphrasing myself. Outside of that brief anxiety attack, Deek was calm and in good spirits…as I’ve noticed he’s been for many weeks now. He is now totally receptive to my positive reinforcement, much to my amazement and pride. And that sense of pride is for both of us.
[pause]
He just dropped by again (a quarter after midnight), to ask for a cigarette lighter…which he does from time to time. But he had the dogs with him, too (instead of leaving them tied to the cart 20 feet away), and they wanted SO badly to visit! Flaco got partway through the open gate, with Lucky right behind, nudging her on. Then Deek pulled them back, said “thanks” and took off once more. The pups, of course, kept looking back at me, so I smiled and waved at them. Though I REALLY wanted to sweep them up in my arms and take them home.
BTW I’ve noticed Deek now has a healthier glow about him these days. Tonight was no exception. And he’s not been hounding me for an “advancement” on his allowance, as he used to do all the time. It’s very important he pay me visits withOUT cash in mind; our friendship is too important to be monetized, nor should my paying him for the pooches’ visits ever be a thing.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: 2 emails: did you miss them?
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 14, 2021 9:39 PM
> Great reports, both of them. Love the description of Flaco looking into your eyes. Their complete sentience is so obvious in those moments, it makes you wonder how anyone could doubt it for a second.
She’s an AWESOME pup; they both are. Sometimes when I’m hugging Lucky, she looks really sad, like I just rejected her: ears pinned back and staring intently. So I immediately draw her into my arms, too. Or she’ll come right over and plunk herself smack-dab on top of him to intercept my affections. It’s as if she’s expressing her pride in protecting me…even if it’s from her brother’s little love nips. She shows incredible gratitude for my kindness, I’m floored! It seems to make Lucky happy, that I care for her so much.
Yes, their sentience is remarkable. Not ALL dogs are that expressive; those two knock my socks off, totally opened my heart. This is a real FRIENDSHIP thing we’ve got going. And STUNNING when you think that it is Deek who’s brought such wonderful pooches into my life. There is more to this fellow than meets the eye.
> And the solution to the box problem!
It will do for now. She hasn’t explored it yet; would rather crash out on the bedding for now. It occurred to me yesterday that I could probably purchase a large box from UPS down the block (a single one, rather than a batch of ’em like what Amazon offers). So I’ll look into it tomorrow.
> Eew, the soiled rug. Ghastly. Maybe have a small rug of your own; carry it with you into the W.C., then take it with you when you leave. Keep those tootsies warm.
Well, that’s no longer a problem, since the source of the mischief is now dead.
> And I agree that Deek is making progress, even if it’s two steps forward, one step back.
Oh I’m sure of it…and so PROUD for that. For both of us, I should note. Been agonizing, I readily admit. Still is, but not so extreme any more.
THE PUPS ARE BACK AGAIN, BTW! As you already know via my text.
About an hour ago Deek came by to collect his weekly allowance, and said I can have them stay over, but he hasn’t decided yet whether for a few hours, or overnight. He’ll possibly be back later this evening to pick up his recharged devices. Every time previously, when he says he’s undecided, he winds up letting them stay for the night. So most likely, he’ll either just pick up his items around midnight, and leave the pups with me…or just not return until tomorrow.
I think his reducing the pups’ number of visits is his way of showing me he CAN take care of them on his own, and does a good job of it. Presumably because I gave him the challenge, and he’s following through. IOW my own interactions with him are pushing him to grow up.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: 2 emails: did you miss them?
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 14, 2021 10:56 PM
Deek just returned to pick up his devices…said to keep the pups overnight. Hooray! Another good sign: he wasn’t the least bit upset when I told him that one of the smartphones wouldn’t let me transfer new songs over. It’s a strange model with limitations. And the other smartphone is slow to charge, only reached 55 percent after two hours. He wasn’t upset over that, either. What a great night THIS has turned out to be!
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: 2 emails: did you miss them?
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 15, 2021 12:47 PM
> Pretty magical. Are they part dachshund?
Yes, they appear to be half dachshund and half terrier…perhaps American pit bull terrier.
I’ve referred to their dachshund nature in previous posts, especially in my earlier Brindlekin tales. Their eyes give it away.
> Because I remember an encounter I had years ago with a dachshund. He’d come down my driveway where I was living way out in the woods. I stepped out the front door, and our eyes met. He looked at me, cautious and reserved, fifteen feet away, waiting for a sign that would let him know if I was friend or foe. I greeted him and patted my knees, and he instantly put his ears down, wagged his tail furiously and sausaged toward me. He wasn’t homeless, it turned out; he lived nearby and was just out roving around. But I’ll never forget those fully sentient eyes, looking into mine, waiting, “reading” me.
What a charming encounter! I’ve never paid much attention to that breed, but Flaco & Lucky have changed all that for me.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subjecting: Disheartening, but Not Surprised
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 15, 2021 3:54 PM
So Deek came by to pick up the pups, no drama. Gave me several devices to charge, said he’d be back later, and that was that. But before I entered the gate I looked right to see him turning the corner. Which means he’s gonna park behind my building again. Now, why wouldn’t he let the doggies stay with me longer, instead of just have them resting on the cold concrete beside him?
An hour later I looked out the hallway window to see he was still there, with a couple of other homeless folks. And the dogs sitting on the sidewalk, not even a sheet of cardboard. How many times have I told him they’re gonna develop arthritis if he keeps this up? What the hell’s wrong with him?
And there’s no point in my bringing it up again ’cause he won’t change, and he’ll just keep Flaco & Lucky away from me even longer.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Pups are back again, for the night!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 16, 2021 12:09 AM
Deek came by, said he wants to ride his bike, so I can have the doggies again. So here we are again! It’s a cold and windy night, and I suspect he doesn’t want to admit they should be inside where it’s warm and dry. Though I may be giving him more credit than he deserves. Or not. Anyway, they were elated to drop by again, and enjoy this little sanctuary of mine. I love my 2-dog nights!
– Zeke K-Homes
Subject: He’s turned over a new leaf…
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 16, 2021 9:33 AM
…and I’m impressed, and grateful. Deek came by earlier than I hoped (8 AM on the dot), to pick up the pooches and his gizmos. He was polite and of good cheer, said he’s gonna spend the day in the park, give ’em lots of exercise. Putting my complete trust in him is working…but boy has it been a tough haul getting there, good doctor! The dogs have changed everything between us, and for the better.
Waking up with the doggies is always amazing; their constant good cheer touches me like nothing else. The American pit bull terrier is very sweet natured (great with families and children), though often doesn’t get along with other dogs. Blend that with the dachshund, and you’ve got a winning mix! More of the pit bull is evident in Lucky’s stocky frame, while Flaco shows more of the dachshund. However, besides those glorious eyes, Lucky’s bowed, chunky legs also reveal those dachshund genes.
That first pic of Lucky, and of Deek nodding off with him (dated May 2020)–both taken well before Flaco came into our lives–reminds me of what a long way we’ve come since then!
Re: He’s turned over a new leaf….
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 16, 2021 2:18 PM
> I was gonna ask how it went, and now I know! Splendid portrait of Lucky. A truly noble creature.
I can’t praise enough, what a stupendous pooch he is! BOTH are utterly remarkable. Despite my remonstrations that Deek NOT get a second dog, I now must admit: I WAS WRONG, AND HE WAS RIGHT. They are constantly cheerful and affectionate, and have a real blast visiting me. Their enthusiasm is boundless as they wait for me to open the gate and let them dash upstairs to my hovel. Sometimes they’ll politely pause at the first landing, for me to catch up…they’re THAT thoughtful.
My impression of Deek’s strategy to temporarily reduce the frequency of the pups’ visits, is as if he were guiding me to a better path: one where I learn to worry less and enjoy more. Now, he’s resumed their more frequent stay-overs, as if to acknowledge “lesson learned.” As I said in an earlier email: there’s more to him than meets the eye. This fits in like hand to glove, regarding my Bodhisattva Premise!
Since the eruption with police intervention back in February, instead of his completely walking out on me, he stuck it through to work things out, just as I have with him. Seeing as I love those brindlekin so much, I HAD NO CHOICE but to maintain our friendship as best as possible. It was a most painful passage of several months, exacerbated by OTHER unexpected crises…yet we both made it through all the hurdles, and came out the other end intact, and much better off for the wear.
The past several times he’s hung around my building, he’s been quiet and drama free. And mostly garbage-free, too. Things can only continue to get better, and I see a happy ending to my Brindlekin Tales on the horizon. A win-win outcome for all parties involved. In the past few months, many of his street friends have witnessed my caring for the dogs, and being a strong ally to Deek. This is all VERY good.
> I went the other day to visit my former neighbor, who has severe progressive MS and has lived for the past 5 years in the nursing home in Fort Bragg. She was bedridden even before the pandemic, and during the worst of it, was even more trapped than usual. No visitors allowed, no outings, no nothing, just bed and TV and the constant madhouse noises of the inmates, most of whom have some form of dementia, which my friend does not. Now they let you in with an appointment. She’s very goddamned stoic, I’ve gotta say. Way more than I would be if I were in her figurative shoes.
She sounds like an incredible person, but a shame she is forced to live in such surroundings. I can’t imagine her having a better friend than you, to visit her and cheer her on. My tales are writ precisely FOR such long-suffering good angels…that it gives them inspiration, delight, and a smile on their face. A lot of cliffhangers in my trilogy as well, to keep them turning the pages.
You do so much good work for people in crisis, or left out in the cold. I don’t see how you have all that stamina for more than ONE person. But you do, Wattson, and for that I am most grateful and inspired, myself.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Pups are with me again, my head is spinning…
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 16, 2021 7:56 PM
…with delight. Deek came by a half hour ago, handed me two smartphones and a portable speaker (about 12 lbs, on a small dolly), and told me to take the dogs, too. He’ll be back later.
Once arriving hovel, I discovered he forgot to give me the cord that goes with the speaker. But he was already gone. So I backtracked to see if it had fallen onto the floor, stairs, or the sidewalk. Nothing.
“Well, this puts a cramp in things,” I thought. “Hopefully, he’ll see the cord in his cart and rush back to deliver it.”
I reflected upon the collection of cords I have, and seriously doubted that the type needed (a double-pronged, flat female end) was in my possession. But I finally decided to look anyway, so lifted the heavy storage bin that rested atop another, placed it down and opened the second one, where all the cords are stashed. Went through the entire collection and, just as I predicted, did not find the right one. Just when I was about to put the lid back on the bin I thought “wait a minute, may as well empty this bag and see for sure.” I had already examined the contents of that sack w/o opening it, as it was clear plastic…and did not see any that would fit. But upon emptying the bag, voila! There WAS the right cord after all! Much relieved, I plugged it in to the speaker, and tended to the pups.
[pause]
Deek just returned, much sooner than I expected (barely an hour had passed). Told me to keep the dogs, and bring down the gizmos. He asked where the cord is, when I handed him the speaker. Told him what happened, that I found a replacement, so it’s been charged. He rummaged through his cart (now a sidecar attached to his bike with an aluminum swivel bar), and found the forgotten cord. He’s in remarkably good spirits, as he has been for weeks now. Took off for God only knows where; he never tells me. Said he’ll be back later. I’m sure he will, though hopefully it won’t be till the sun next rises.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Pups are with me again, my head is spinning…
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 16, 2021 8:58 PM
> Hope he stays away all night.
That would be nice, as I hate disturbing the pups from their blissful rest, and taking them outside into the cold, damp air. I feel like such a heel. But I am bound to his dictates. It’s a frightening game I’m forced to play.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Pups are with me again, my head is spinning…
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 16, 2021 12:17 AM
> “It’s a frightening game I’m forced to play.”
I think so.
Classic Jungian “hero’s journey” as delineated via Jung’s greatest disciple, Joseph Campbell. According to my Bodhisattva Premise, your guardian will set up the game board with many difficult challenges, some quite scary. A roll of the dice could change everything for or against you. But the trick behind this is:
It is always YOU, not the dice, that turns the outcome in your favor. Action and attitude are equally important…and when placed judiciously after much thought, give you the edge. Your thinking skills improve with each successful move.
This game I call “Battle of the Bodhisattvas” is a mind-power game. It is not a game designed to be fun, but a game of life lessons for the more evolved among us. You don’t get to play until other, more basic, lessons have been learned first. Including being totally resolved to always do good as you see it, no matter the personal risk. You are challenged to become a hero, so that is the playing piece you are given: the knight in shining armor. There is a life, or lives, to be saved…in my case, that of two dogs. Your opponent IS your guardian, whose piece is called Nemesis (or in some circles, “The Devil”).
Somewhere along the game’s path, if you’ve played your moves well thus far, it is revealed to you that Nemesis is actually your guardian angel, who creates each challenge for the sole purpose of testing your mettle, that your soul be advanced one square at a time. Until you, hopefully, reach the Gates of Avalon, and be crowned the victor.
With this realization, your win is almost guaranteed, and the end part of the game commences. Do not be so smug over your likely conquest of the board at this point…for it is a trap well concealed by the cards. Know that, at this stage of the game, you have conquered all fears but one: worry. So it is YOUR final challenge to unfetter yourself of that last curse, by feeling joy take wing in your heart while remaining vigilant on the game board, unto the very end.
Obviously, Deek plays Nemesis. Well, ’tis now midnight and the pups are still with me, so…hallelujah, I’ve played my last few moves like a pro! I shall sleep with the pups again, third night in a row.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Flaco Sleeping in the Double-Box
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 17, 2021 1:55 PM
It’s actually dark in there, but I used flashlight mode. A favorite position is with her forelegs fully extended, paws pressed against the side, and the rest of her stretched out as far as the container permits. Sometimes when she’s resting on the cot, she’ll lie close to the wall, again with forelegs thrust forward and paws pressed. Like she’s holding up the wall. And she’ll stay that way for hours.
Re: Flaco Sleeping in the Double-Box
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 17, 2021 6:40 PM
> They LOVE cozy, enclosed spaces. A legacy of their evolutionary past, no doubt.
Dachshunds especially; they love to burrow. Maybe it goes all the way back to the deep past, when the first mammals had to hide from the dinosaurs, many of whom were diminutive themselves. But I love cozy, enclosed spaces, too! In fact, I live in one. Well, we humans have the same mammalian roots!
I imagine, though, that Flaco prefers to remove herself from the cacophony and chaos around her; and is why she seeks to dig a snug little hole right beside a shrub with broad leaves that hang over her in semi-seclusion. Lucky is not so hidey-hole loving, as he is an aficionado of all things fluffy.
They never complain about anything, or beg for food. They never bother me when I’m snacking, nor do they even let me know when they’re hungry! So it’s hard to tell, thus sometimes food is wasted because they won’t touch it. Usually it’s one pup or the other, rarely both. One will eat and the other couldn’t be bothered. The ONLY way I know if they’re hungry, is AFTER I set down the bowls.
If they have to go poopy, all I need do is yank a jacket from the closet. In which case they’ll either leap onto the floor, rarin’ to go, or remain on the cot if not interested.
They don’t mess up my room, or bark or whine when I’m gone. Nothing’s out of order when I return! Except, sometimes, the trash bin which Flaco gets into now and then. So I just move that to a high spot before exiting. Though I do forget from time to time, but no big deal. I never leave anything in it that would cause them harm. It’s always been Flaco who knocks over the basket, and she goes for an empty plastic soda or milk container. Whenever that occurs (and sometimes I hear the “thunk” of the bin toppling over barely seconds after I shut the door), I make no fuss, as Flaco is too sweet a girl to deserve any guilt trip.
I’ll usually say, “Oh no, someone’s gotten into the trash again!” And Flaco will be standing there in the middle of the floor, wagging her tail furiously and looking up at me with delight, brown eyes sparkling. And maybe Lucky will be busy gnawing on the bottle, the small screw-top cap removed and chewed to a pulp by the time I return. Easy to clean that stuff up; no harm, no foul.
They’re both tucked in now, close to each other. See attachment. Their evening meal will soon be ready. 6:40 PM and no Deek yet.
Re: Flaco Sleeping in the Double-Box
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 17, 2021 8:00 PM
> So you haven’t seen Deek since last night?
Nope.
> They’re making the most of their vacation from the streets!
Indeed they are. I couldn’t be happier, myself. Their company is a blessing.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Governor Newsom signs $100 Billion state budget: Here’s what’s in it for you
From: Zeke Krahlin’s Mailing List
To: Chuck Kapinski
Date: July 17, 2021 8:37 PM
You sound totally bonkers, Chuck. Certainly, you’re not the Chuck Kapinski I used to know. Whatever you’re smokin’ (or drinkin’) I don’t want any. Trump has done GREAT damage to our nation, he now owns the GOP, and Trumpism is a great danger in our world. IOW Trump is far from harmless. Your misogyny is outrageous and disgusting. Do you talk like this to your female friends? You sound like a standup comedian mimicking a Boogaloo white supremacist. You are flat wrong about COVID-19 and everything else you’ve ranted. I see no good purpose in us continuing communication on any level, as you are beyond reason.
——- Original Message ——-
On Saturday, July 17th, 2021 at 11:36 PM, Chuck Kapinski wrote:
This has nothing to do with Newsom, it’s probably more about a response about Biden’s shortcomings.
“you haven’t criticized Trump” (or words to that effect)
So what? What’s the point of the obvious? Duh.
I have no respect for the largely female Trump bashing club. He poses no threat to anyone. He cut his own throat with the latinos when he called beautiful Puerto Rico a shit hole. And drug his feet on FEMA fire funds for California.
At least I’ve never heard him making any pius Xian claims. That’s something you get from dirty lyin’ Joe. I don’t remember Trump lying. He may have stated untruths, but he actually believed them. There’s a difference. I see no connection between the church crazies and Trump. He ran technically on the Republican ticket, but many long established Republicans actually voted against him. In truth he’s more of an Independent. His corporate business approach to presidential matters left many bases uncovered.
We have seen from numerous objective news sources that over 90% of covid deaths were from co-factors of already terminal patients, mostly aged. The lying Democrats allege that Trump let the pandemic get out of hand – NONSENSE. He DELEGATED management to the state level, and many a Democratic governor managed the CDC recommendations. He also initiated working on the antidotes long before Biden’s chicken little charges.
Dirty lyin’ eyes Joe USED the covid scare to pointlessly bash a man who had already cut his own throat. I am not fooled by his nonsense.
Amy Kubluchar (or whatever her name is) is desperately trying to bar Trump from a re-run. What the dumb [C-word] is missing is the fact that she is ACTUALLY promoting the belief and fear that Trump would win by a landslide if he ran again. That’s counter productive paranoia. Not to mention, she might get her fat ass shot. Wimmin are STILL stupid, and always will be. (what’s new?) To give you an idea of how retarded wimmin really are, I went to a Biden kiss ass site forum, where some woman was praising Joe’s smile. Well, I told her that she was just a menopausal bag of gas, Hitler had smiling manners to his support, and that Joe will grin as he ushers her fat ugly ass into the oven. I’m PROUD of how quickly I got banned from the site – less than twelve hours.
Re: Flaco Sleeping in the Double-Box
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 12:18 AM
> Hope he doesn’t show up in the middle of the goddamned night.
I doubt he’ll do that, because he’s been respectful of my “new” schedule for over a year now. Which is: I hit the sack by midnight, instead of 1 AM. And he’s also been a lot more considerate towards me in other ways, recently. But we’ll see.
Listening to Memo of the Weird’s latest podcast right now, while enjoying Flaco & Lucky’s fluffing the hell out of the comforters. Lucky takes fluff very seriously, arranging the sleeping bags just so, by pulling on one part with his teeth, then another part…snorts of dissatisfaction until it’s all perfect in his eye. I thought he’d never settle down, it went on for well over five minutes…but then he suddenly plunked himself down with a grumbly sigh. Flaco, meanwhile, got out of her brother’s way, while plumping up her own portion, then burrowed beneath the fluff for the rest of the night, like she had just disappeared down a rabbit hole. They live for fluff! And boxes. As usual, I’ll have to slowly worm my way onto the cot, unless Flaco switches to the double-box before I hunker down. We are family!
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Deek Woke Me Up Twice!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 10:55 AM
First time, over my smartphone. I know, I know, if he doesn’t have cell service, how did he manage to do that (you’re wondering): through another person’s phone? Well, that’s a good guess, but you forget that he doesn’t KNOW my new number, nor did he ever know my old one for that matter, because he’s never bothered to memorize it, or tattoo it somewhere on his body (such as his ass).
At 6:05 AM I was awakened by his raspy hobo impersonation coming through my LG backup phone (that I use to listen to scary tales as I nod off), screeching and making all sorts of baseless accusations! As I rubbed the sleep from my eyes, I realized his voice was NOT coming from the window, but from my LG. And it was that recording of our verbal contract back in January, that I now own the dogs in exchange for $300. That would be this video here, if you care to refresh your memory:
But how did this amazing invention of high technology come to play that particular video of its own accord (you are probably asking yourself this very moment)? Here’s the answer to your sensible query, Wattson (hewn over the years by your impressive perspicacity):
I have my media app set to play the next downloaded Youtube video in my “bedtime” folder until all have been played through. Which files amount to no more than three or four, usually. With each taking anywhere from a half hour to an hour to play through. Sometimes I only have one or two. In which case–and if I’m still awake by then, which is rare–I’ll switch to my “Pocket Cast” podcast app and play some more scary tales directly via wifi.
Apparently, I was wrong about the media app limiting “play next file” to just one directory. After completing those, it must’ve jumped to its own list of ALL media files stored on that phone. On which are located several videos of the pups, and that one of Deek.
Annoyed at being disturbed at such a ghastly hour, I reached for the phone on the black metal file cabinet (upon which my second LCD monitor also rests), but it slipped and fell between that cabinet, and the artfully painted hexagonal table (upon which my desk riser and X230 laptop sit). So I actually had to squirm my way around the sleeping pups in order to stand up to fetch that smartphone and silence it.
[You may be wondering at this moment, how I could simply “reach out” for my phone, when I usually sleep with my head at the end of the cot by the door, instead of at the end by my work station. Well, Wattson, something I have yet to tell you, is that I switch ends some nights, depending on whether I want to cuddle up with Lucky or Flaco. They tend to sleep at opposite ends, and are already tucked in for the night before I, myself, do the same. Furthermore, when I lie down with my head door-ward, there is no need to reach out for my phone, as it is somewhere close by, near my head or torso. But often has drifted somewhere beneath the blankets, thus sometimes a puzzle to recover. Now that your curiosity in this matter has been satisfied, do permit me to continue:]
Two hours later our flesh-and-blood Deek called to me at the window:
“Yo! Yo! Yo! Yo! Yo!” Soon as I poked my cranium out the window (which took awhile, ’cause groggy), he told me to bring the pooches down, along with another supply of dog food, since all his stuff was stolen. There was no cart, stroller, or even a bag in his presence. He wasn’t even wearing a shirt. Somewhat perturbed that everyone ELSE on that side of the building could hear our business, I packed away five more cans of dog food and two large Ziploc bags of kibble, leashed up the pups, donned my sneakers, a jacket, a hat and my small backpack, and stepped outside in the bright morning sun. The air was ocean-fresh. Deek sat on the sidewalk at the far end of the bus stop.
“Another lovely visit with the pups, thank you!” I exclaimed while releasing them to their master, whom they gleefully rejoined.
He apologized for taking so long to return. Rather than tell him I prefer that–in fact, the longer the better–I just replied: “No worries, I love their company.”
He then remarked he lost another friend to opioids, that it kills far more people than COVID, and it’s been an epidemic for over a decade. I agreed, and said I’m sorry for his loss. I’m guessing he went to look some people up he hasn’t seen for some time, only to discover one had passed on from Oxycontin overdose. Though more likely, he’s just playing out another little drama for his amusement. That is: none of this really happened.
“That’s why I stay away from other drugs, just stick to crystal. Though that is sometimes laced with opioid, too.” He shook his lowered head. “I got nothing now, just me and the dogs, starting from scratch once more.”
“You always prevail,” I reminded him.
“Thanks for watching Flaco & Lucky. I’ll be gone in a minute, not gonna hang out.”
“Okay,” I said, not knowing what else to add, and walked off to Rosenberg’s. Upon returning some minutes later, I realized I should’ve spent a little more time with him, give more encouragement than I had. But when I turned the corner with java in hand on my way back, I saw they had already departed to the other end of the block, about to cross…just two little doggies and shirtless Deek. They’ll be fine, I thought, and returned hovel.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Deek Woke Me Up Twice!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 12:07 PM
> He’s been ripped off like this before, hasn’t he??
Yes, countless times. He always rebounds like a boss.
> Funny (in a grim sort of way) about the Deek video waking you up. And that it happened to be THAT video.
And the TIMING, that it should only have ever happened on this particular morning, when Deek DID show up, after being gone for a considerable while. A mark of bodhisattva mischief. They have a very TOUGH, warrior sense of humor. From THEIR side of the veil–and in their eyes–our tragedies and crises are but momentary and trivial.
> Will the loss of his stuff mean more, or fewer visits from the doggies?
Neither, it won’t make a diff. He will fully replenish his possessions within a day’s time.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Flaco Sleeping in the Double-Box
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 12:19 PM
> “Grumbly sigh!” Exactly! It’s amazing how vocally expressive some dogs are. Ours has a range of noises he makes; there’s one that sounds like the creak of a rusty gate, that he makes when he’s happily anticipating something–a walk in the woods or on the beach–and he wants you to hurry up. It’s his polite way of saying: “C’mon, let’s get going, now!”
Some little doggies have a way of stealing your heart many times over, each day.
Re: Governor Newsom signs $100 Billion state budget: Here’s what’s in it for you
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 8:24 PM
> Woo! That’s some ugly weird shit he be spewin’!
He’s bonkers in his old age.
> Guess he missed the pic of Trump holding up the bible in front of the church in DC.
No, I don’t think so. He’s bonkers. I have a lot of good memories of my friendship with him, when he lived in SF. What a sad outcome.
Subject: He’s looking good, and in good spirits!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 9:15 PM
Deek just dropped by, asked me to charge up a smartphone, a small speaker and a battery backup pack. He had a city garbage bin (blue and on wheels) loaded with empty cans and bottles, plus a sack of his own possessions…whatever they are; I think I saw a sweater in it. Dressed nicely: long T-shirt that draped almost down to his knees, with abstract black splotches and ragged stripes on it, and a rugged looking, lightweight black leather jacket over that. Dark baggy jeans, black and white sneakers and a black baseball cap completed the ensemble.
Told him I like the look, the whole thing. He was in a cheerful mood, not hyper at all, and definitely no drama or belligerence. When he took the cup of root beer from my hand, Lucky suddenly tugged on his leash, causing the drink to spill a bit. He turned to the pup, said “Whoa!” and patted him kindly…not a pinch of anger.
Of course I hugged the pups, held them in my arms for a minute or so. But that goes without saying, as that ALWAYS comes with our meetups. Deek said he’ll be back tonight to pick up the devices, so I guess that’ll be some time shortly before midnight. And as usual, sad to leave the pups behind. So much love in their eyes, as they watch me depart until the moment I disappear through the gate.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: He’s looking good, and in good spirits!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 9:38 PM
> Sigh…
Sword of Damocles.
Subject: “C’mon, enough of that, she’s in heat!”
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 18, 2021 11:47 PM
Is what Deek blurted out to me as I held Flaco in my arms, rubbed her belly and held her sweet face close to mine. He had returned to pick up his items, so I sat with him on the sidewalk for a few minutes, enjoying the pups’ company.
I felt like smacking him hard, knocking him senseless, for talking to me like that. Instead, I retorted:
“By the way, I’ll be busy the next two days, taking a class on meanness.”
“What?” he said with an annoyed grimace.
So I repeated myself, and added: “Being too nice is bad, it’s evil, isn’t that true? I get your point, I really need to stop being such a nice guy, it’s not good for my health.”
He then said “C’mon, I gotta go, I’m just waiting for you to leave.” Nice guy, eh?
So I gave Flaco a few more hugs, Lucky a few more pats, then got up and told Deek: “I hope you’re in a better mood next time.” And walked away.
But I looked back as I reached the gate, and there was Flaco away from the two, as far as her leash would allow, looking up at me. Who can resist such innocence? So I returned for a few more hugs, told her I’m sorry, but she’s gotta go with her master.
What a let-down. Like you said: “Two steps forward, one step back.”
– Zeke K-Holmes
RE: Republicans Suddenly Care About “Discrimination”
From: Zeke’s Mailing List
To: Carlyle Lambourne
Date: July 19, 2021 09:35 AM
On 2021-07-19 05:19, Carlyle Lambourne wrote:
> The only qualm that I would have is that in another time, another place, if raised under a different set of circumstances, exposed to different influences, I could imagine myself being just like them, and vice-versa. It would astonish most of humanity if they could peer into alternate universes and see how easily and fluidly they could morph back and forth to opposite side of the spectrum, and become their own worst enemy.
Well of course. If we grew up in a Christian fundamentalist family, we’d most likely be pinheaded troglodytes. That shouldn’t be cause for “qualms” though. We are who we are now, and everything else is conjecture and mind games. Neville Chamberlain took the same “qualms” about the Nazis, and that certainly turned out to be a big fail. Have we learned nothing from that?
> Does that mean we need to tolerate their outrages patiently, forever?
I can’t remember a time when I’ve EVER tolerated them. It is the facade of religious piety that causes many to hesitate. It’s akin to being superstitious. And that is a major weakness that the Religious Reich takes full advantage of. Christianity is above the law, and that should never have been allowed.
> No, I don’t think so. Maybe we should be more patient than we otherwise might be, if we did not have that perspective. But somehow, also when we realize that we are making war on images of ourselves, as they would do in our shoes, it seems to be a justification. The fact that both sides think they are right in their grievances does not really mean there is an equivalence.
Were they not so blatant with their hostility and lust for violence, death and mayhem, you might have a case for more patience. But you do not.
> Symmetry of sentence structure is not equality of content. There can indeed be a situation where both sides think they are right about an objective matter, but really only one of them is. On subjective matters, there is no underlying reality that need compel anyone who does not share the subjective opinion.
They are intellectually incapable of considering the complexity of subjective vs. objective matters, and for that reason alone, are an imminent danger to our well-being and survival as a species. It is time for them to go. Hip, hip hooray for the Delta strain.
> The poor, poor Christians. There are so many things that they are not even being allowed to do, anymore.
They are not even being allowed to tell those homosexuals
that homosexuals are not allowed to get marrried,
that homosexuals are not allowed to be foster parents,
that homosexuals are not allowed to be serve the military,
that homosexuals are not allowed to be in the Boy Scouts,
that homosexuals are not allowed to be in the St. Patricks Day parade,
that homosexuals are not allowed to have a Gay Pride parade,
that homosexuals are not allowed to donate blood,
that homosexual are not allowed to be teachers,
that homosexuals are not allowed to have sex between consenting adults.
Well, it’s a start, but at the same time they’ve gained tremendous power and influence, thanks in no small part to DJ Trump. As a result, we are under threat of having ALL our rights stripped away…and it’s already begun in the red states.
> When we have been beaten, murdered, fired from jobs, blackballed, to see Christians getting coddled and pampered over the injustice of having to bake a wedding cake is a blood-curdling provocation at the profound lack of perspective.
Many gays said it’s no big deal, fussing over wedding cakes. I told them otherwise, as it’s their tactic to start with a seemingly trivial issue. Nonetheless, that supposedly insignificant victory against LGBTs shoves a wedge through a door where more serious matters of our freedom become vulnerable and under attack. The “no big deal” queers were wrong, and I was right.
If they can’t win their way outright, they’ll dig in their heels and chip away, chip away, chip away over the years, no matter how long it takes…removing one part of our rights here, another part there. The abortion issue proves that very well, it is a textbook example of how persistently devious they truly are.
Having said all of the above, my Bodhisattva Premise gives every reason to look forward to our victory, no matter the odds against us. As the Buddha said, “We have no enemies, only teachers.” And that statement holds a most profound, and joyful, promise. No need for me to explain further in this email, as I have laid it all out many times over, in my numerous tales and essays, over the years.
– Ezekiel
Subject: Another Night of Doggie Bliss!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 20, 2021 11:38 PM
So Deek showed up accompanied by one of his street buddies…a rather nice fellow, around 75 years old. I was only there with them for a minute, when he gave me several devices to be charged. He then handed me the joined leashes and said, “Here, they can stay over!” I said “Wonderful!” and then he and his elderly friend took off for parts unknown.
Flaco & Lucky crashed out almost immediately, though first gave me their kind hellos and acted silly and playful for a little while before conking out. Though they did jump out of bed the moment I laid their filled dishes down 20 minutes later. Glad to see such a hearty appetite! Then they drank some more water and hopped back onto the blankets and zoned right back into doggy dreamland.
Deek returned two hours later, told me just to leave the pups hovel, and bring down the gizmos. He also wanted a razor and a cup of root beer to quench his thirst. Then off he went again, on his bike.
So, it was a non-eventful, friendly meetup, and the pooches are in seventh heaven to be here once more. I love the new, no-drama Deek! In spite of the occasional glitch in the updated app.
– Zeke K-Holmes
Re: Another Night of Doggie Bliss!
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 21, 2021 1:08 PM
> Dreamy!
I couldn’t be more pleased…things are mellowing out with him. More of his friends who are mentally stable and actually FRIENDLY, have seen me with him, and exactly where I live. This is good insurance, for they’ll know to bring the pups to me, should Deek vanish, be rushed to the ER or jail, or die. They all appear to be very kind to Flaco & Lucky. Hopefully, I’ll bump into one of them soon, when Deek isn’t around; whereby I’ll make it clear they should be brought to me, should he be taken from them for whatever reason. As well as helping Deek with keeping the pups in blankets and sweaters.
The brindlekin are still here right now, ate a hearty breakfast, dumped some good poops, and are resting well. I guess I could say the same for myself.
My Xfinity service has been flawless; same with Tracfone. So many legal and free TV and Movie sites out there, i now have bookmarks to: Tubi, Roku, Crackle, IMDB, Peacock, Pluto, Adult Swim and Plex. Amazon Prime, too, but the other services make their free videos unnecessary because redundant. So I think I’ll unsubscribe from Prime once more, as they really don’t do much else for me, that a plain subscription doesn’t already. IOW: I’m not a rich, spoiled twit who needs everything NOW, and I don’t shop Whole Foods.
Adult Swim has free streaming shows, including Rick & Morty! Right now, I’m binge watching Alfred Hitchcock Presents via Roku. I don’t feel like I’m missing out at all, just because I’m not a paying subscriber to such services…I’m more than saturated with quality entertainment. Youtube also provides tons of excellent videos at no cost, of course! And I’m paying NOTHING for Internet access, for god knows how long. But once that deal ends, I’ll STILL only be paying just $10/month!
All’s been quiet EVERY NIGHT outside my window, as regards the Hohokum smoke shop…since that night they set off roman candles. And NO sign of Myrtle & son for almost a month now, though her name is still on the lobby mailbox. Morey at the corner store two blocks up, told me others have said they’ve seen him still hanging out with those punks, and that “Adisa’s a nice kid, but he’s hanging out with a bad bunch, and he’s headed in a bad direction. Just be glad he’s left your building.” I thanked him for the update. He said he feels sorry for the mom, but I sure don’t! I would love to know what kind of arrangement the building manager had with her, to inspire him to be so hostile towards THIS harmless pilgrim. Though I guess it was me who triggered their eviction, by standing up to them. I’ve even entertained the thought that she was involved with dealing drugs through her son, and maybe the manager, too. Does that sound far fetched to you?
Hope your day goes loverly: you and your cats and the pup, and your male hominid!
– Zeke K-Holmes
Subject: Deek picked up the pups last night.
From: Ezekiel Krahlin
To: My Dear Wattson
Date: July 22, 2021 10:25 AM
Around 10 PM. No muss, no fuss, no drama. I found a complete pack of American Spirit cigarettes (minus 1) on my walk that morning: an excellent brand that I knew he’d enjoy. So I presented it to him upon returning the dogs. Actually, I withdrew it from a pocket and held it in my hand, waving it around while updating him re. the pooches’ visit, till he could take it no more and said, “I’ll take that!”
Doggies were happy to be with him again. Two other homeless folks approached and struck up a friendly conversation with him, when I returned to bring down more doggy food, a cup of soda and a spare lighter. I pet the dogs one more time, thanked them for their company, then returned hovel. They all departed a few minutes later, when I heard Lucky’s bark right across the street, and rattling of cans as Deek resumed his nightly round of collecting recyclables. Here’s another video of them howling:
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