Thursday, August 21, 2008

Giving


Driving back from Highlands Sunday, I don't think we've ever seen as many instances of blue flashing lights: state patrolmen pulling over transgressing motorists. Jimmy says it was six or seven, but I'd say closer to nine. What a depressing way to spend your day, ruining other peoples' by handing out speeding tickets. It's got to be a tough job.

At the other end of the job spectrum would be that of Mike, an agent of millionaire John Beresford Tipton in the old 1950's TV show "The Millionaire." Mike, at the instruction of Mr. Tipton, would hand out checks for one million dollars apiece to people he'd never met. It was a strange hobby, but probably more satisfying than passing out traffic tickets.

The studio audience for another old show,"Queen For A Day," also got to be benevolent. Four unfortunate women tearfully related the harsh circumstances of their lives, then an "applause meter" determined which of them had the biggest sob story. After the winner was crowned with a glittering tiara and draped with a red velvet robe, she was given a dozen roses and usually a new washing machine, and sent on her way with a heart less burdened.

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