Whatever Happened To Empowerment and Accountability?

Do you remember the days when those two words were used incessantly?

I do. There was a point in time when one would hear those two words an average of every 30 seconds. A few years ago, we were being empowered to do many things, or someone was speaking of empowering someone else to do some thing.

As to accountability, from politicians to ad men, from high to low, everyone sought accountability, but how many were truly held "accountable?"

Have we reached the point where we treat our language, our words, our thoughts like last year's fashion throwaways -- to be used for the moment and tossed aside to make way for current year's fashions?

Have those two words lost meaning since achieving the status of "has-been buzzwords?"

I certainly hope not!!

The Changing Seasons

Slowly, we are moving towards the season of snow and ice, which is ushered in by the annual autumn festival of color provided by the leaves of trees. The vivid greens of summer give way to the bright oranges and reds of fall. It is the beginning of the gradual descent of leaves from branch to earth floor whose music is only heard when there are footfalls.

It is the time to put away the summer whites and dig up the clothing suitable for nippy mornings. It is the time when that favorite sweater takes its place at the front of the closet. It is the time when those warm, fuzzie slippers feel wonderful when one takes the first steps of a new day. It is the season of football and basketball and homecoming for many.

Although I shall miss the days of summer, I look forward to the new season and its pagentry of oranges, reds, and browns. It is a pleasant interlued before the ascent of the icy white of winter.

The Joy of ....

... a cup of hot apple cider.

Today started rather unceremoniously. Upon awakening, I made my usual trek to the coffee maker only to discover -- gasp -- No Coffee!!!!

How am I to start my day without that wonderful aroma which awakens my senses and helps each eye to open and focus??? I dare not race to the store. That requires more effort than I am prepared to put forth at such an early hour.

So, the hunt through the kitchen cabinets commenced. After a brief search, I happened upon a packet of Apple Cider, which was an amazing discovery, you might say, since I don't recall purchasing any apple cider.

After carefully following the directions on the packet -- pour water into cup, place cup in microwave, press button for "hot water," place contents of packet in cup, and stir -- I enjoyed my first cup of hot apple cider.

What a delight!!! Hence, the title "The Joy Of." Will hot apple cider replace my beloved coffee as my early morning companion???

Stay tuned to find out!!