On September 23, 2010, Autumn begins and leaves start to fall.

Summer wind signaled the advent
Of Autumn when leaves start to fall
And in our life the great event
Is witnessed at Paradise hall.

Back home my thoughts are of wet and dry
As we roam the fields and mountain
And we love to dance, sing and cry
Then a class of life to attain.

Over here there are four seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn
And school to go in all sessions
When your love begins to blossom.

...there is nothing new under the sun. ( Eccl. 1:2-11 )
If they say to you, "See, it's new!" know that it has already been centuries earlier.

Just Life   ......  By: Greg In. Trabanca

It is normal to live a just life in an unjust society. We need guardian angels in the likes of Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael to trample and defeat the hordes of the unjust perpetrators- the demons in our world. These creatures lurk in every corner of our existence pretending to be friendly yet they are deadly ready to strike on the wink of an eye.

We must be awake all the time. We must be alert and be prepared through our powerful weapon - prayer. As long as we don't fail to attend mass, visit perpetual adoration, attend and practice devotional novenas especially the Divine Mercy, The Lord of Pardon, The Mother of Perpetual Help, the Infant Jesus, we are not afraid.

The promise of Jesus, our Lord, and Savior, to be with us in the Holy Eucharist gives us strength and power to continue on living amidst the turmoil and the chaos.

And when we live a just life, Satan and the company lost a playing field.

Live a Just Life...!

The author of the Book of Wisdom encouraged the people to live a just life, not only for the sake of building a peaceful society here on earth but also because "the life of the just is in the hand of God." It is but natural to say, "Live a just life."However, the reality is just the opposite, as unjust structures, established by men control the lives of the people in a society, besides our individual inclinations and failure to live a just life.

How did humanity arrive at such a scheme of deception? It is natural for men to live justly, but it has also become very normal for men to conduct his affairs unjustly. It indicates an inner conflict caused by unwarranted forces of false desire to be a slave of power and wealth, which is unnatural to humankind. Such a dichotomy within the individual personality breeds ill-effects on society.

Charity is good, but justice is noble. Denying justice is not only taking away from a person what belongs to him/her but betraying his/her rights and denying his/her dignity as a child of God. In every circumstance of sin, there is a violation of justice and charity. Therefore, it is only for us to delve deeper into our being, in order to hear the natural voice calling us to live a just life.

Prophet Amos confronts the people of God, who have defiled their relationship with God and neighbor by conducting their business in an unworthy manner. The chosen people sought every opportunity to cheat the poor and the vulnerable of t society to amass wealth for themselves. The Lord swears it by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a single thing you have done."

You can be the slave of God and of money." Therefore, it is imperative to listen to our inner voice inviting us to live a just life to build the Kingdom of God. At the same time, being aware that God sometimes tempers justice with mercy, not to deny righteousness, but for wholeness and holiness. Let us seek His forgiveness and promote peace and justice. ( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx. Pastor, St. Timothy Church )

In His Wisdom...

The ontological argument by St.Anselm to ascertain the belief in the existence of God affirms the wisdom and understanding coming from the same eternal source."I won't try to reach your heights Lord since I could never make my understanding reach that high. Yet I still want somehow to understand your truth, which my heart believes and loves. For, rather than seeking to understand so that I can believe so that I can understand. In fact, one of the things That I believe is that, unless I believe, I cannot understand."

The author of the book of wisdom employs a similar approach to decipher the divine wisdom. Human life is feeble, and the reasoning of mortals is unsure. How then can we conduct our affairs with true understanding and knowledge? On a few occasions, we find in the Old Testament the mention of the Holy Spirit. One such mention is in today's first reading. ( Wis 9:13-18b). The author affirms the human limitations saying, "Who could have learned your intentions, had you not granted wisdom and sent your Holy Spirit from above? Thus have the paths of those on earth been straightened and men being taught that pleases you and saved by wisdom."

This gift of God is poured in abundance upon all through His Son Jesus, in the Holy Spirit at baptism. In fact, St. Paul reminds us of a divine transformation at the reception of the Holy Spirit, while writing to Philemon. All receive the same gift and are elevated to the same dignity as children of God. Onesimus was a slave, who had escaped from his master. Having received the gift of God's grace while living with St. Paul, he is being sent back to his master, now as a dear brother, "one in the Lord."

Jesus confirms the wisdom of God revealed in the salvation history recorded in the sacred scriptures. Unless we learn to deny ourselves, snap the ties of security with the family and friends, and learn to trust in the Lord, we will not find wisdom. In which case, we might build towers, but they will not stand the test of time. Our pursuit of true happiness will end up in space and time meaninglessly, thus denying our hearts the eternal longing for peace and bliss in God's kingdom.

Let us be lovers of wisdom and God will not deny anyone who sincerely seeks the Holy Spirit, the giver of wisdom. The wisdom of God then allows us to see all as children of God and heirs of eternal life. This world is nothing but the vanity of vanities. Therefore, live in His wisdom.

"Who humbles himself will be exalted"

"Humility and Exaltation are such terms that inevitably create tension, as we face the currents of the two worlds colliding, and pulling us in an opposite direction. At such juncture, discernment is crucial to grow in wisdom and to conduct our affairs wisely for a smooth and steady pilgrimage of life. Otherwise, we might lose the battle of character, obscure the vision, and suffer a mighty fall.

the current of this world promotes exaltation and abhors humility. In general, people look up to those who have successfully achieved honor and glory among men. society loves heroes and adorns them in every possible way. this gives ample opportunity to the youngest to emulate such celebrated figures. Indeed, everyone wants to be the apple of the eye at any cost, while in the process, losing sight for greater liv8ing in the Kingdom of God.

The virtue of humility is the fruit of the spiritual journey of faith. the greater the awareness of the Almighty in one's life, the greater is the humility. This journey breaks the human personality in the eyes of the world and enjoins it to something more profound, that is, more attuned to the melody of God resounding everywhere. Therefore, Jesus says, "for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

The Sacred Scripture speaks volumes about humility and faith very loudly and clearly for all to hear, to understand, and to grow in wisdom. It was not something God imposed on us but He himself walked that path of humility.St. Paul writing to the Philippians said, "Although He existed in the form of God, He did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man-, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason, also, God highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bend of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth and that every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Our spiritual journey should lead us to grow in humility and faith. We have to emulate our Master Jesus, who gladly walked the path of humility to show us the way to our Father. We have to grow in this wisdom to make our life worthwhile. Otherwise, the wealth and the glory of this world will crumble, coming down upon us and crushing us to dust upon the earth. ( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx, Pastor, St. Tim.

Gospel Notes

Enter by the narrow gate...

What a paradox! Everyone wants to walk by the broad gate, to make a quick entry or exit s a hustle for the smooth flow of traffic. The highways are constantly modified to keep up with the pace in order to avoid congestion on the roads.

However, the entrance to the airport becomes more constricted day by day. Travelers need to be at the aerodrome three hours before the flight takes off. To watch the favorite team play or their latest hero, fans push each other to enter by the narrow gate. US government has passed the law to put a fence on the border, consequently making the entry of aliens to the United States by the narrow gate.

Our human nature is to make an easy way out. When restrictions are imposed we detest, and numerous complaints follow. Yet, our empirical experience shows us that without such restrains, there would not be a smooth flow of life. Therefore, to stride by the narrow door is vital for our success and wellbeing.

The invitation of Jesus to the people of the New Testament is to walk by the narrow gate. What does this mean? Love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you; if someone slaps you on the cheek turn the other as well. The Beatitudes: blessed are the poor... blessed are those who are persecuted... blessed are pure... The teachings of Jesus turns the world upside down and makes the path very narrow to tread.

To be politically correct, which is the broad gate, we shut our mouths against injustice, immorality, and allow the degradation of the society, as well as the faith in the Almighty. St. Peter responded politically correct, "God forbid, this shall never happen to you", to the announcement Jesus made about His impending passion and death. Jesus did not think politically while reacting to Peter's answer: "Get behind me, Satan!"

People in great numbers follow those faiths, which compromise the "in thing" with modern society. Catholic Church is looked upon with frown because it would not bend to the pressure and make the gate broader and easier for people to walk through. More than half of the Catholic population do not attend mass, because they feel that the cross of Christ is too heavy for them to carry.

Walk by the narrow door, because, I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed. then you will find yourself saying:"we once ate and drank in your company; you taught in our streets, but he will reply, "I do not know where you come from. Away from me, all you wicked men!" Yes, there are those now last who will be the first, and those now first who will be last.
(Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx, pastor. St. Timothy Church, Chicago, Illinois)

On living what we say ...

Ponder on these words of the Blessed Mother Teresa, "Be holy because the God who created you is holy and He loves you."

True to her words, she believes in what she says and lives on what she believes. She shuns the cloak that people of holy stature wear, so to speak, and wear daily the habit of love.

I am appalled to witness people who tell us to follow what they say because of the nature of their position, but don't do what they preach. But Mother Teresa is a unique mold, a one of a kind. She was offered a nice vehicle; she refused to take it. When asked why she lives on the place where the poor, the beggars, the sickly, the refuse of society stay, she replied, " because in them I see God."

I was fascinated when I read about Thomas Merton, the Trappist monk.

A Note on the Hawaiian night


Make a joyful noise...! By: Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx

Indeed, it was a joyful noise! No... no, it was melodious voices, accompanied with perfect orchestra gave a rousing performance past Saturday, the 7th of August. St. Timothy hosted its annual "Summer Dinner Dance." It was incredible to behold the parish hall with striking distinction. The whole ambiance carried us to a distant land of sunshine and exotic beauty, "Hawaii." The decorations truly resonated the theme of the event, Hawaiian Dance."

All those who came, left the place with a smile and jubilation, only with an intent to return next year to recreate the fun and fellowship, which they have truly cherished. There were close to two hundred people, and the hall was almost packed to its capacity. Thanks to the "Novena Group", who donated two "air conditioner" units, which kept the place from burning into flames, as the people danced to the rhythm of the night. Mike Gallen, our ace carpenter, in a timely manner fixed these two units permanently on the windows in the main hall.

The organizing committee left no stone unturned to make this event a success. It was purely and sincerely their handwork, not for any selfish motive, but to make St. Timothy parish a vibrant community. They put in time and resources to make this event a success, in order to allow the guests to enjoy the evening to the fullest.

Many of our parishioners participated in the event, but most of the participants were guests from outside our parish. It was little disheartening, but not to be discouraged. We have hope, and we are people of hope.We have to keep moving forward to bring people together to celebrate our faith and to strengthen the bonds that bind us together, as one body of Christ.

I express my sincere thanks to the organizing committee for "your dedication, devotion, and determination" to build this community. We have to acknowledge, that we are a diverse community, and we have to learn to participate in all the events, "as parish events." and not of any particular group. In a very special way, I would like to thank, Mr. and Mrs. Nestor and Helen Bongabong, although they live in Joliet, they love our community and selflessly share their time and talent.

A Vatican Visit in Perspective...by Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.

Sharing One-Priesthood in Christ!

Indeed, what a moment! The gathering of thousands of priest from around the world in Rome to show solidarity, to pray and witness to sharing of One-Priesthood in Christ in the Catholic Church, under the leadership of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict, the XV1, the Vicar of Christ here on earth. The whole atmosphere filled us with awe and wonder, even in the midst of present crises in the church.

The first two days priests gathered in the Basilica of St. Paul for a meditative talk from Cardinal, followed by Eucharistic adoration. The first talk was on reconciliation. Cardinal reminded over twelve thousand priests gathered together, the need for confession. What would you prefer,"a loving and forgiving embrace from God in the sacrament of confession, or standing alone with self-righteousness-claiming I have no sins? The latter attitude has wide spread, which is a cause for many of our maladies. The prodigal son preferred the embrace of the father, rather than to stay away from Him with pride. It was encouraging to see so many priests standing in line to receive the sacrament of confession.

The second day, the meditation was on the nature of Priesthood. Cardinal Marc Ouelette reminded that the gift of priesthood is for service. At the prayer vigil in the evening at St. Peter's Basilica, five questions were posed to the Holy Father by five priests from five continents. Questions mostly related to priesthood and priestly ministry in the world. Holy Father promptly answered the questions as a theologian and as a pastor.The vigil ended with Eucharistic adoration, benediction and solemn blessing.

In the backdrop of the sex scandal, the Pope in his homily had this to say to all priest. "Had the Year for Priests been a glorification of our individual human performance, it would have been ruined by these events. But for us what happened was precisely the opposite: we grew in gratitude for God's gift, a gift concealed in "earthen vessels" which ever anew, even amid human weakness, makes his love concretely present in this world. So let look upon all that happened as a task which we bring to the future and which makes us acknowledge and love all the more the great gift we have received from God. In this way, his gift becomes a commitment to respond to God's courage and humility by our own courage and our own humility."

I am truly fortunate to be part of this great gathering of the priests on the occasion of the 150th death anniversary of St. John Mary Vianney. This is a first such gathering in the history of the church. This would not have been possible for me to attend, if not for St. Timothy parishioners, who generously contributed to my trip to Rome. In a very special way, I would like to thank Pat Johnson, and the Liturgy Committee who initiated this process. I am humbled by your love, generosity, and faith. Pray for me that I may be able to serve the Lord in a worthy manner, and be a humble servant to His people.

08/13/10, Friday

Lector: Transfiguration Church/ Novena of Jesus of Nazarene ( A Quiapo, Manila style)

Every Friday of the week in the north side of Chicago at Transfiguration Church there is a 7:00 pm Rosary followed by Novena of Jesus of Nazarene then Mass. This is a devotion particularly activated by Filipinos who have taken roots in Illinois. This ethnic group had glued themselves to the true religion which was rammed to them by the Spanish conquestadores and missionaries. This devotion has its origin based at the heart of Manila which is Quiapo.This Quiapo Church which is the hub of human traffic hold masses almost very hour unceasingly due to the influx of Filipinos from all over the Philippines Archipelago ( Visayas and Mindanao) to the capital of the Philippines to study, to work, to visit or to be permanent residents.

This quest for the improvement of life goaded them to seek shelter in the city's progress, and the promise of tempting opportunities in all aspects of human endeavor.
And when their provincial shoes touched the metropolitan pavement, their first instinct is to be grateful for the safe journey leading them to seek a refuge which is no other but the House of God. The people flock where the flow is. Not all are Roman Catholics but they pray to God, nevertheless.

On Wednesdays, the flow veers to Baclaran for the devotion to the Mother of Perpetual Help. Meanwhile on Thursdays, it is St. Jude devotion.

On vanity...

This world is full of that vanity- conceit, excessive pride in oneself.

This is a period of my life that I saw different signs in the walls of time. People young and old paint their bodies, adorn them bodies with diamonds even their tongues.

Near a diamond store in the mall, a man approached me to buy diamond as his wife is a salesperson.I told him that diamonds are forever luxuries what we need are necessities. Look at me, I said to him, I don't have a watch what for when I have a cellphone that tells time and offers me my needs of infos ...

Vanity of vanities.... all is vanity!
(Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx)

This is a beautiful Phrase, but also a hard reality, which challenges the status-quo of our thought process, and the world-view we hold so dearly. Indeed, the empirical world is nothing but, vanity of vanities, all is vanity.Philosopher Heraclitus coined this world's outlook with another startling chapter, " You cannot step in the same river twice." change is constant, and change is here to stay. How do we perceive this reality in our universe? Does it have any effect in the way we conduct our life knowing that we are just pilgrims? These are vital questions to discern wisdom and find true meaning in our existence.

Such a reflection of this beautiful expression allows us to put things into proper perspective. However, if not rooted in God, it could lead to despair and anguish.If the empirical realities constantly change, the supernatural beings exist beyond the realm of change and exist for eternity. the human body is subject to change, the soul belongs to the supernatural realm, and it continually struggles to reunite to the eternal substance. This struggle determines our purification and true holiness.

The author of the book of Ecclesiastes had this thought in mind to impart wisdom, by sighting the profound truth of the empirical reality. "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity!" Therefore, do not cling to the worldly things, they will all pass away. It seems grat injustice that a man, who has labored wisely, skillfully, and successfully, must leave what is his own to someone who has not toiled for it all. Therefore, we hsve to learn and use the faculties of the soul-knowledge of first cause and principle (we commonly understand as God) grown in faith, hope and charity.

Fool! This very night the demand will be made, we will have overcome overcome the ignorance; otherwise, ignorance will lead us to eternal darkness. Now is the time to decipher life's code, and live in wisdom-detachment from worldly things, and joyful embrace to the faculties of our soul. St Paul writing to the Christians of Collossae reminds them, "since you have been brought back to true life with Christ, you must look for the things that are in heaven, where Christ is sitting at God's right hand."

Because we have been imparted with wisdom, we have to work hard to rid everything that belongs only to earthly life: fornication, impurity,guilty passion, evil desires and especially greed, which is the same thing as worshiping false gods. In Christ, we have been stripped of our old self, and put on new self, which will progress towards true knowledge the more it is renewed in the image of its Creator. The philosophers of old sought this wisdom; we sre given it for free in Christ Jesus. Therefore, do not take it for granted, but give God thanks always, and conduct your life with wisdom.

Get on your knees!

Prayer is a powerful weapon, and when used properly, blessings rain down abundantly. Know for sure, even the heart of a hardcore criminal will transform, when touched by the power of prayer. Mahatma Gandhi would say, "Prayer is a key in the morning and lock at night." Therefore, get on your knees and learn to pray with sincere heart and mind, for your Creator is just a prayer away.

There are different forms, methods, dispositions, and literature to connect in prayer, which are vital for our growth in our spiritual and moral life. Jesus takes us to another level of relationship with our Creator, inviting us to engage in a filial relationship with God calling Him "Our Father". The relationship with God, as father-child is a paradigm shift from the whole concept of relating to an unknown deity residing in an unknown place.

The revelation of Jesus and the mystery of our salvation are weaved so beautifully together in order to create a profound relationship with our Eternal God. In Jesus, we have become the children of God and heirs to eternal Life in His Kingdom. Therefore, only Jesus could teach us to pray by calling God,"Our Father."This relationship then leads us to build a just and egalitarian society with brotherhood of men.

The void in our societies is the reflection of the emptiness in the hearts of individual people.Without our knowledge, this vacuum then unleashes a series of unwarranted consequences, which bend our knees, without us realizing the reason for our misfortune. Therefore, it is an imperative to fill the emptiness with true faith in God our Creator. It has no cost, but offered freely to all men of goodwill.

Get down on your knees and pray, for your Creator is just a prayer away. Build a healthy filial relationship with God, Our Father, who cares for us at all times, and loves us unconditionally. He offers forgiveness, and grants us mercy and pardon that we may rejoice in His embrace.Why do you want to miss out on this opportunity, and go about with pride? In humility, bend your knees in prayer, and peace will flow into your heart without measure. Amen. ( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.)

A Lector's prayer...

Merciful Father help me to follow;
lead me to Thy eternal meadow
where life-giving and healing water flow
be my Guide, my Light and let me glow.

With you by my side I will walk;
Father be with me like a dove
hovering and watching while I talk
to spread and share the message of Love.

I will follow Thee and Thy ways
so Thou will be with me always
enlighten me, make me not to falter
guide me, be with me, now, here and after.

An Addendum on Hospitality

I grew up in a country where hospitality echoes in the air. We trust everybody. We love to be visited by somebody we don't know. Even in our humbleness and country homeliness we still have the heart to dress a chicken, prepare a meal for the hungry, and a drink made up of a native concoction to quench a thirst.

When I went to college away from my place of birth, I encountered friendly people from all walks of life. There was that reciprocal intent of being accommodating. During my time, I am always welcome by strangers as I always welcome them. I was in a diverse world so to speak, far from my parents, no cell phones, no phone calls rarely a land transportation, mostly on water. And all I have was a prayer injected in my cranium by  Catholic school education and of being hospitable to anyone.

On Hospitality

Indeed, the hospitality shown by people towards others, especially to strangers is a noble act. A friendly welcome breaks the ice of coldness and builds lasting relationships of friendship and trust. The tourism industry thrives because it has created a friendly and welcoming atmosphere in their surrounding, as well as among the workers by greeting all the guests with warmth. All are welcome but at a price. It is artificially created for the sole purpose of profit.

St. Timothy parish (located in the West Rogers Park which is in the north side of Chicago) is composed of different ethnic communities, which is a challenge, as well as being the beauty of a Catholic parish. It was a natural outcome for this community to be hospitable and welcoming. The first Sunday of the month- we call it Hospitality Sunday here at St. Timothy parish- gives us an opportunity to go out of our comfort zone, to associate with others, especially those whom we do not know.

In a desert-like area, where Abraham resided in the land of Canaan, hospitality is sacred even today. A person asking for shelter is never turned away; to do so, would amount to condemning the person to die of hunger and thirst. Abraham would have fulfilled his duty of hospitality towards anyone coming to him, but something in his heart told him that these were no ordinary people. In fact, he soon discovered that they were God's messengers, nay, God himself accompanied by two angels.

In today's gospel (Luke 10:38-42), Luke tells us of the visit of God to another family, this time, not "in the form of man" but truly became a man Jesus. This Jesus desires to come into every person's heart in the form of bread and wine. Therefore, we should be joyful like Abraham and Martha and prepare our hearts with love and gratitude. to receive Him. It is an august moment! Like Mary, we should recognize the gift of eternal presence and listen to the words of wisdom.

Nevertheless, Jesus wishes that we welcome all, especially the poor, the orphans, the widows, the strangers, and the most vulnerable of society in His name. For Jesus said, "Whatever you do to the least of my brethren, you have done it unto me." Let us never close our lives to anyone, but welcome people with faith and joy.
( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx, July 18/2010}

On a Friday afternoon by the Park


On a hot summer afternoon
by the park sitting on a bench
I met Kahn of Pakistan alone.

A man of fourscore years and kind
nipping his life with Marlboro,
politely asked me if I don't mind.

Smoke curls out of four sections
happily, children play and grow
sans the formal introductions.

Bereft of suspicion and strife;
innocence, acceptance, and love
surfaced in the playground of life,

that everybody's music resounds
in any park or stage of life;
and camaraderie abounds.

The mind creates noble ideas;
let the heart speaks of unity,
mercy,compassion,forgiveness.

When the heart speaks; the mind listens
making this world a paradise
rancor will vanish, justice glistens.

My outlook of this high-tech globe
on that afternoon by the park
led me to renew, to get involved.

Yonder on a bench two lovers
enjoy the moment like a lark
and the vision of life hovers.

on bondage...  By: Greg In Trabanca

I still remembered distinctly my first flight to a big world beyond my small world. I have traveled to different places but this one pumped my adrenaline. In the mirror of my mind I could visualize the flashes of my dreams, the pictures of what will be but will it be?

What really clung to the very fiber of me on that day was freedom. I knew what that word meant but I have yet to savor the new beginning, the new changing, the new environment, the new me.

I was on a big plane , Northwest 747. I was blinded by excitement. What I was thinking was nothing but to savor freedom, to be free from the bondage of so many pressures that pester me and like an arrow ready to hit my Achilles heel.

I saw in my horizon looming questions.

Many questions. Will there be answers? Solutions? On this new frontier? I doubt it.

Deluged with these unknown feelings, I was. Now I am free. This territory that I have known through books, radio, and stories from people. Now it is real. I touched it. I felt it. My body tingled.

The years floated by like the birds of prey in the sea of my yearning-to-learn life. I love to learn. Life is full of hidden treasures.To me, learning stops when my new life begins.

Now I learn that I am still in bondage in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Like so many of us from foreign shores, and don't tell me you are not.

When we step the soil of this new found land, we are readily welcome with open arms by the media, the merchants, the advertisers, the car dealers, the real estate agents, the banks, the mortgage companies.They all want us to be in debt; we are chained to the debt bondage. We are not aware of that. And they like that.

Truth and the deadly consequence!

Are we really homeowners? condo-owners? townhome owners? Do we all hold the titles of home, the car? How about the things that gave us instant gratifications - the big TV, the furniture, etc. Are they not paid by checks and credit or debit cards?

That was April 5 of '74 when I glimpsed the beauty of Seattle because I was not sleepless on that trip. That was cool. Only a couple of questions on the port of entry. I passed as I only answered yes or no. I am a few word person. I hate long speeches.

Chicago, here I come. Al Capone. Carl Sandburg. Sears Tower. Daley City. And Chicago is the Windy City.  Later, I found out that the city is really windy and the politicians, too. Am I politically correct?

Freedom or bondage?