Blog Credo

The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.

H.L. Mencken

Friday, July 22, 2011

Talking 'Bout A Heat Wave

Well, that's one way...

I have now lived in four distinct climatic regions: Subtropical Georgia, Subarctic New Hampshire, Mediterranean California and Temperate Connecticut.

I was thinking of the lessons I learned - especially returning to the South from more temperate climes - about the need to go slow in the heat.

People who live in tropical climes understand this.  These are people who know the benefits of a good siesta and the principle of manana.  But in the US we have a culture built around the Protestant work ethic of Northern Europe.  Sloth is a sin, God put you here to work.

As the globe gets warmer, the US will go from a predominantly temperate zone to an increasingly sub-tropical climate.  It will be sad watching people hustle and scurry in 100' heat.  We weren't built for that and A/C only helps a little.

So, take it slow, people.  Amble, don't walk.  Mow the lawn next week.

Unless your Congress, in which case: Get Off Your Ass!

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