Thanks for the Words

Just expanding a little on the meaning behind my signature outro.  Also, I forgot to mention this in the video (I'd planned to), but the phrase "Remember, don't be afraid to question the consensus" was ad libbed by me as I was wrapping up my pilot episode, and it just stuck.  It succinctly describes the theme of the channel.  In this video, I describe my interpretation of questioning the consensus, and explain how that doesn't mean ignoring the consensus of the medical or scientific community, the likes of Ben Shapiro, Steven Crowder, Contrarian Dude or Tucker Carlson.  It means not fearing being cast out of the group because you're the only one who can see the Emperor has no clothes.

Today I'd like to share a story about celebrating success before the mission is complete.  If a deliberate action has lead to success, you can't stop the action before resolution of the endeavor has been reached.  I believe Governor Gavin Newsom lifted mask mandates too soon, possibly out of political pressure and fear of the upcoming recall election.

Parallel thoughts on patriotism and familial love.

Note: I should clarify, I have a second YouTube channel that this video was originally posted on, which is why you'll hear me referring to the "I don't care" channel.  If you didn't already know, I do video record these podcasts before uploading them here.

The second YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCElKpYxf2CZCntj2MLC0hvw

Note:  This was recorded Saturday evening.  I've already had the COVID test today.  I'll update once I have results.

I've had symptoms since June 25/26: persistent cough, sore throat, headache, some fatigue.  I don't think I have COVID but probably isn't a bad idea to do a test just to rule it out.  It would be ironic having spent 4 months in COVID vaccination sites only to contract the disease after returning home.

1.  No other Olympic hopeful was expected to stand on the podium and face the Flag or the National Anthem. 

2.  Gwen Berry broke no rules. 

3.  As an American, she has the right to protest her grievances peacefully, legally, and without harming anyone. 

4.  We should be proud to show the world that we hold true to our values of freedom and democracy by showing we accept the very display of free expression we purport to support. 

5.  Would you expect a Jew to stand for and honor a song written by a Nazi?  Why do you demand someone to honor a song written by a man who owned slaves just as her own ancestors were enslaved?

Today I am joined by an esteemed friend, educator, actor, and fellow veteran of the Armed Forces, Nathan.  Join Nathan and me as we further analyze Gwen Berry's actions, as well as candidly discuss the issues of systemic racism, police brutality, and what it really means to stand up for what you believe in.

After qualifying for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo next month, Gwen Berry turned her back on the US flag during the awards ceremony on the podium.  If you disrespect the flag, why would you want to represent your country in the Olympics?  And is turning your back on the flag really indicative of disrespect?  Was our country founded on the idea of freedom of expression, or is that just an illusion?

Some updates on the podcast, and answering another question about the deployment.

A short story about a man I met who shared with me a personal tragedy.

In another story from my deployment, a brief discussion on some of the things that I did to help patients feel a little better about getting their shot.