Oh! America a Day of History and Reflections Post Presidential Elections

It was a historic Wednesday in America. Former President Donald J. Trump took the stage to deliver a victory speech, while Vice President Kamala Harris gave a concession speech at her alma mater, Howard University.  It was a good speech. This was for the second time in U.S. history, following Hillary Clinton in 2016, that a woman came close to leading the more than 200 plus years-old republic. 

The 2024 campaigns were intense, defined by fierce debates, name-calling, and deep division. Deep. Now, as the election dust settles, Americans across the country are hoping that these political battles can be left behind, replaced with unity and a renewed focus on the needs of the nation. On "We the People".

The campaigns also revealed just how polarized the country has become. Ideologies clashed on every front—red versus blue, conservative versus liberal, right versus left. But as we reflect on this divisive journey, there’s an essential truth rooted in the American anthem: “One nation under God.” It’s a call for unity that transcends party lines, reminding us that our true strength comes from standing together, not apart. Moving forward, Americans of all perspectives are hoping that the focus will shift from agendas and political rivalries to the needs and welfare of the people. I have spoken to a handful full of patients and family members and have seen the mixed reactions and I must say it's always interesting to hear what people have to say. Very interesting. 

For Mr. Trump, this victory represents a second chance. Having held the office once before, he now has the opportunity to apply the lessons learned from his first term or Trump 1.0 and potentially "right the wrongs" of Trump 1.0 for a successful Trump 2.0. That alone is history. This moment offers a chance at redemption, a chance to deliver on his promises with the benefit of experience. Many are hopeful that this time, the approach will bring more stability and progress.

These are just my reflections, and I know the coming days, months, and even years will bring plenty of opportunities to discuss and analyze the unfolding impact of this election. 

As a nation, we can now turn our focus to the future, hoping to bridge divides and address the real issues facing our country and the ordinary every day people. 

Stay tuned, and as always, I remain your pal,  

Ronnie

2024 U.S. Election Results

 

Source: New York Times

Here are the result above so far: it appears Mr. Trump may be heading back to Washington in January. Ready for Trump 2.0? 

Time for me to go to work. Stay tuned.

I remain your pal, Ronnie 

Today Church Homily, Election Day and the Reflection on the Banquet of Life

In today’s Gospel at Church, the homily was on the parable of a man who prepares a great feast and invites many guests. Yet, when the time for the banquet arrives, those invited begin making excuses. One says he has bought a field and must go see it, another that he has just bought oxen and needs to try them out, and a third that he just got married and therefore cannot come. Jesus concludes by saying that the master, angered by these excuses, tells his servant to go out and invite “the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.” The ones who accepted this invitation became the true guests of the banquet (Luke 14:15-24).

This passage strikes a deep chord in my heart. It’s all too easy to imagine myself among the guests who find reasons to say, “not now.” I can think of so many times in my own life when I’ve let excuses get in the way of responding to God’s invitation to His banquet. Maybe it’s been because of comfort, inconvenience, or busyness. “It’s too cold out. It’s raining. I have a date. There’s a football game on” the list is endless and recognize myself in some of these excuses, in my desire to hold onto my plans and my comfort, even when God is inviting me to something better, something more fulfilling.

The banquet in this parable isn’t just a feast in heaven, but an invitation to experience God’s presence, His goodness, and love here and now. Every day, God offers us the “banquet of life”, a chance to grow closer to Him, to live out our faith, to serve others. And like the invited guests, we too can turn away, wrapped up in the distractions of this world. Yet Jesus’ words serve as a reminder that these excuses, which seem so urgent and necessary at the moment, pale in comparison to the beauty of truly accepting God’s invitation.

This Gospel comes at a fitting time as we approach Election Day today. The homily also serves as a reminder to us all: “No excuses, let's go out and vote. Our faith promotes life. Go out and vote and do so for life.” This invitation calls us not only to participate in the banquet of God’s love but also to take action in ways that uphold and respect life in all its forms, which is central to our faith. In voting, we have an opportunity to influence our world according to our values and God’s teaching. And it’s a powerful reminder that faith isn’t just about our inner life, it calls us to engage with the world, to make choices that reflect love and justice.

So, today, I pray for the strength to let go of excuses and distractions. I ask God’s forgiveness for the times I’ve turned away from His invitation, and I ask for the grace to embrace it fully. Whether it’s in small daily sacrifices, acts of service, or in the way I cast my vote, may I choose to participate wholeheartedly in the banquet of life that God has prepared for me and you.

I remain your Pal, 

Ronnie Law

Election 2024: Be Informed and Be a Smart Voter

As the 2024 election day is upon us today, I can't help but feel the weight of the choices we're going to be making. At this point, it is clear that people already know what they will be voting for or against. Notice I didn't say "who" would be voted for or against, but instead I said "what". When we vote in actuality we are voting for or against something a candidate of their party stands for or against. This is not personality issue. It will be too shallow to vote against somebody just because of their person.

Anyway, this election is my second time casting a ballot, and as a taxpayer and someone working in a profession heavily impacted by public policy, I realize just how critical it is to be an informed voter. I want my vote to reflect what I genuinely believe will be best for my future, my family, and my community. 

Yet, I’m concerned about the state of our electorate-the voting public. A significant number of people, it seems, cast their ballots with limited information, influenced by soundbites, social media, or family traditions rather than a true understanding of the issues and policies on the table. This lack of awareness could have long-term consequences. With a literacy rate of nearly 100% in America, every voter should ideally be reading about the candidates, thinking critically about their positions, and weighing what each choice means for their own life and community. Voting shouldn’t be based on party loyalty alone or on who presents the best image. Instead, it requires a thoughtful and informed decision.

Inflation is a massive concern for many Americans today. The money we earn is losing value fast, making it difficult for the average person to get ahead or even make ends meet. As I look at candidates, I’m considering which of them understands this problem and has actionable ideas to address it. We need leaders who can bring about real solutions that will stabilize the economy and protect the purchasing power of everyday Americans. Strong, good leadership can help us regain control over an economy that currently feels like it’s slipping through our fingers.

But it’s not just economic stability that I want in a candidate. Morals and values have taken a hit in recent years, across the board. While I believe in the importance of growth and change, I also think we’re in desperate need of leaders who promote honesty, respect, and responsibility. We should choose representatives who will advocate for positive change without compromising essential values.  

One of the most liberating things we can do as voters is to recognize that we don’t owe loyalty to any political party or ideology. Instead, our loyalty should be to ourselves, our families, and our futures. No voter should feel pressured to stick with a party that no longer aligns with their evolving beliefs or needs. If the policies another candidate or party promotes will genuinely improve your life, don’t be afraid to cross party lines. Voting should always be about what’s best for you and the people you love.

As we cast our votes this year, let’s make sure we’re voting with purpose and awareness, not just reacting emotionally. This is our opportunity to make choices that will impact the future, and I truly believe God has us here to protect and maintain what’s under our care. This election, vote smart, vote informed, and let’s keep America strong. God bless.

When America Goes to the Polls

God bless America. I am sure that many of us say it without necessarily backing that up with the faith that God will do as we pray and ask Him for. God has blessed this nation and it’s no secret that this nation emerged as the world's sole superpower after WWII, and as such, America has attracted and amassed a tremendous amount of influence. 

Think about its military might and strength, economic power, technological advancements. At the same time, America has made many people around the world unhappy, and that means it’s made enemies, perhaps permanently. Yet, despite it all, this land is undeniably blessed. Whatever happens here affects the entire planet, whether directly or indirectly. When this country experiences blessings and abundance, it spills over to the rest of the world.

Living here, you quickly realize just how diverse this place is, especially in areas like New York and California. Almost every nation in the world has people living in the United States. One of the things that became painfully clear after 9/11 was the sheer diversity of those affected

 There were victims from over 100 countries who lost their lives in that tragedy at the World Trade Center in Manhattan.

That’s why, when there’s a shift in political leadership here at home, the whole world pays attention. As America approaches another election, all eyes will be on us. Nations everywhere are watching and preparing to adapt to whoever emerges as the next leader of the free world after November 5. What moves are they preparing to make like the game of chess? 

So, are you ready for some change? Are you going to be a part of this change, or just a spectator? If you have the opportunity to participate, don’t waste it, go out and be part of this all important civic engagement. My thing is, whether we participate or not, politics will affect us. If we do not vote, whatever or whoever we get we will have to live with and forever hold our peace. I want to be able to criticize the outcome so I voted. You go do that too, and when you’re done, take a moment to pray, “God bless America.”

I remain your Pal, 

Ronnie Law

Tale of the Two Presidential Candidates: Mr. Trump and Ms. Harris

If Trump wins, it will be Trump 2.0 back at the White House. We may get bombarded with information daily, but most Americans still remember vividly the events leading up to the 2020 election and now the 2024 election. 

Before 2019 ended, a mysterious virus outbreak took the world by storm. At the time, who was the de facto leader of the world? Yes, Mr. Trump 1.0. Governments worldwide, including the United States, struggled to handle this health crisis. Eventually, the 2020 election arrived. We had Trump vs. Biden. Many still believe Trump won that election. It was apparent that Biden didn’t campaign as actively; fear of the virus led to calls for mail-in voting. A process like that, on such a large scale, created space for all kinds of speculation about election integrity. When the results came in, especially the next morning with Biden pulling ahead with thin margins in some battleground states, chaos erupted.

To this day, in 2024, Trump has not officially conceded the 2020 election, and I doubt he ever will. The fallout from that election ultimately led to Trump’s second impeachment—a historic moment, as no president had ever been impeached twice. January 6th, the day the election was to be certified in Congress, resulted in an insurrection that’s still fresh in our minds, with many of Trump’s supporters imprisoned. Trump’s first term or Trump 1.0, was plagued by constant leaks from within his administration. Contrast this with the Biden administration, where leaks have been far less frequent, we barely heard anything from that administration in the last four years. If that doesn’t seem like sabotage to some, I don’t know what would.

One thing Trump’s first term accomplished, though, was a period of no new wars for America. Remember, America is an empire, and empires are almost always engaged in conflict. Going four years without entering a new war is a feat worth noting.

Turning to Kamala Harris, we saw Biden come to power with her as his vice president. Many believe this was planned for a long time. When Biden ran in the primaries, it was a tough race, with Harris as one of his opponents. Their debates are still up on YouTube, showing their early competition. But when Biden clinched the nomination, the Democratic machine rallied behind him, and Harris was selected as his running mate. Like most Americans, I vividly remember the moment. 

In these past four years, Harris has served as Biden’s VP, but many feel things haven’t gone well for the country. Remember the southern border ? I often hear this sentiment from patients, their families, and colleagues. Very few people I encounter express genuine enthusiasm for her leadership. It’s worth noting that during the Democratic primaries, Harris didn’t win a single delegate, dropping out early to support Biden. Party politics can be complicated, it’s how people tend to view a nation. 

Come November 2024, Harris has now emerged as the party’s candidate, facing Trump 2.0. How did this happen? As recently as July, Biden, now in his 80s, was still seeking re-election. But after an abysmal performance during the debate with Mr. Trump, it became clear he was struggling. He appeared frail and cognitively declined. Observing him as a clinician, I could see he was unwell. No mal intentions intended. So, the party quickly moved forward without him, realizing that a head-to-head race against Trump would be unwinnable. So overnight, the party rallied hard behind Ms.

 Harris, and orchestrated a massive convention in Chicago, where Harris received endorsements from top Democrats, officially kicking off her campaign.

In less than 24 hours, her campaign raised over $100 million in contributions, a testament to the momentum and support she now commands. 

Both candidates have already made history. If Trump wins, he will be the first U.S. president with two impeachments, two assassination attempts, and multiple indictments. If Harris wins, she’ll be America’s first female president, reaching this office without winning a single primary delegate in 2020 and somewhat in 2024. Many Americans are uneasy about Harris as president, saying they didn’t vote for her rise to this level. But one thing is certain: America is an endlessly fascinating place when I sit back and analyze everything I see.

God bless America.

And I remain your humble friend, Ronnie Law

Life, Politics, and Mortality: What Truly Matters

It was a fairly calm day at work, and I had a patient under my care whose dance with mortality was growing more intense by the hour. On my way out of the patient room, the TV flashed news about the two leading presidential candidates in the U.S. that is Mr. Trump and Ms. Harris, were both headed to Pittsburgh, PA, for the final leg of their campaigns. Man, at this point, we’re all weary and exhausted of the ads, the fear, the attacks, the noise of it all. But the end is almost in sight. By midnight tomorrow, November 5th, it will all finally be behind us, and I think most of us just can't wait for that.

But as I left this patient in silence, I couldn’t help but wonder: what does all of this political spectacle these past few months mean to a dying person who, according to medical science, will depart this world in flesh soon? What does the outcome, the new president, the promises of policy shifts even mean when one is so close to their final days? I’m sure this person won’t be able to vote tomorrow, not even the mail-in ballot. I imagine this individual’s only concern now would be the world that would be left behind, the world that their loved ones will inherit.

And that brings me to a much larger reflection: without life, none of this: the left, the right, and or the center of the political divide would truly matter. All the noise would fade, and what we’re left with are the real things: love, kindness, and the legacy of our being, things that are at the center of our very being and that which we choose to create. Moments like these also remind me that our time here on earth is very brief, and the most precious thing we have is life itself.

If you have been following this blog, you know by now that I like to share more than just my reflections, but these reflections I share, I do so with the hope that they might add something to your day or to gently remind you of what’s truly important. You don’t have to see the world exactly as I do, but maybe, only maybe, a moment of reflection can help all of us refocus our attentions on what truly matters. 

I remain your Pal,  

Ronnie Law

Sunday, November 3rd, 2024 Daylight Saving Time

Today, Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, we had to turn our clocks back an hour, marking the end of Daylight Saving Time or DST for this year. 

DST is the practice of adjusting clocks forward by one hour in spring "spring forward" and setting them back an hour in the fall "fall back". The overall goal was to extend evening daylight during warmer months. In the New York area, we make this shift twice a year: once in March and once in November. So today we “fell back” an hour. That means an extra hour of sleep. Not fun when you are on night duty.  

Historically speaking , DST was first suggested by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to save on candle usage by utilizing longer summer daylight hours. 

However, modern DST was officially introduced during World War I, mainly to conserve fuel by reducing the need for artificial lighting. Then Germany became the first to implement it in 1916, followed by other countries, including the U.S. The practice was standardized across the U.S. in 1966 with the Uniform Time Act, though not all states observe it. This has led to calls in recent years to eliminate DST altogether.

In the United States, the following states and territories do not observe Daylight Saving Time:

Arizona (except Navajo Nation)

 Hawaii

American Samoa

Guam

Northern Mariana Islands

Puerto Rico

U.S. Virgin Islands

These states and territories all remain on Standard Time year-round and do not adjust their clocks forward or back like we do in the majority of the States.

Originally, DST’ main objective was energy conservation, but recent studies have shown mixed results on its effectiveness. Although it can reduce the need for evening lighting, it may also lead to increased use of heating or cooling, which can offset any energy savings. DST can also impact people’s health and well-being, as the time shifts disrupt sleep patterns, potentially leading to productivity issues and higher accident rates, especially after the spring forward shift. People often run late that day, forgetting to adjust their clocks, both physical and internal. 

In a nutshell, DST is intended to make better use of daylight, but its overall impact remains hard to assess, especially when balancing energy use, health, and economic effects. Hopefully, there’ll be more discussion on this in the future, and maybe even a decision to do away with it for good.

Now we know more and I hope that helps. 

I remain your Pal 

Ronnie

Why Love is the Greatest Commandment from God

Today’s gospel and homily at church was centered around a profound theme: love. During mass today, the church displayed relics of saints at the front, allowing us to approach and view/venerate those holy men and women who have come before us right after the mass. It is our faith. Among these sacred relics were some of the Apostles of Jesus, like St. Luke the physician who walked with our Lord, witnessed His truth, and recognized Him as the very embodiment of love. In their devotion, these saints even went on and gave their lives as martyrs. All these experiences served as a powerful reminder of the depth and strength of love in our faith. 

Reflecting on love, from the gospel and homily alike, it was also a reminder of the Ten Commandments from the Old Testament. The first three commandments are concerned with our relationship with God, while the remaining seven focus mostly on our relationships with each other. When Jesus was asked which commandment was the greatest, He responded, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:37-40). This teaching from Christ points to love as the ultimate foundation for all that God asks of us.

In today’s world, it seems that love is the only remedy we need more than ever. There is so much hatred and division all because of a lack of love. Self-preservation and self-centeredness often take precedence over compassion and kindness. Genuine love leaves no room for hatred, premature judgment, or division. If we truly loved one another, we would see our differences as unique expressions of God’s creation, not as reasons for hostility or fear.

God’s love for us is at the core of our faith. Out of love, He sent His Son to offer His life for our sins, an act of ultimate sacrifice. As the Bible tells us, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The blood Jesus shed on Calvary purifies and renews our hearts, which can often be darkened by selfish desires. Historically, sacrifices were often made to purify the hearts of people in families by a priest, as in the days of Moses, and many traditions still practice this today. In the Catholic faith, the Sacrament of Reconciliation offers forgiveness and renewal, drawing us back to a life aligned with God’s love.

The need for love is not merely a suggestion, it is essential. We are created to love, but that love can become distorted when we feel unloved or unappreciated. So much of the violence, anger, and indifference we see in society today stems from a lack of love. People who grow up in nurturing, loving environments are far less likely to hurt others. As 1 John 4:7-8 reminds us, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

When we live in love, compassion and empathy follow. Next time you’re out in the world, try extending love to those around you, without worrying about what you might receive in return. Any small act of kindness and love, both at home and in our communities, can create a ripple effect we may never fully see. In its truest form, love is more than just an emotional bosh or a fleeting feeling; it is a commitment and a way of life that draws us closer to God and to one another.

May God bless you abundantly on this beautiful Sunday.

I remain your Pal,  

Ronnie

Today's Mass Reflection on Life, Death, and the Hope of Resurrection

“And Jesus wept” (John 11:35). This verse, the shortest in the Bible, captures the depth of Jesus’ compassion, humanity, and love. As He mourned the loss of His dear friend Lazarus, Jesus demonstrated His deep love and empathy for our human suffering. Being a practitioner in healthcare, I witness human suffering every day at work. Being a first hand witness of these visible sufferings, and perhaps the invisible, too, strengthens my faith in our Lord. And this moment of our Lord's weeping was not the end. Soon after, Jesus revealed His power over death by raising Lazarus from the tomb, embodying His promise: “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live.” (John 11:25-26).

When Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha, saw Jesus, they expressed their grief and faith: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). Yet, Jesus reassured them, strengthening their faith even as they faced the finality of death. This encounter reminds us that death, as sorrowful as it is, is part of God’s plan, a gateway rather than an end.

The great St. Augustine reflected deeply on this and once noted that Christ’s actions point to the eternal life promised to all who believe. In his words, “Christ did not come to do away with suffering, but rather to fill it with His presence.” In the story of Lazarus, we see that life’s trials, including death, are imbued with a divine purpose, and faith in Christ transforms sorrow into hope.

Just as Jesus brought Lazarus back, we all experience “Lazaruses” in our lives. With faith, we know our loved ones are alive with Christ. Indeed, the people we loved, cherished, and ultimately had to let go are now with Him. These moments also remind us that, while we may grieve, our hope is not in holding on to this world but in the eternal life Christ promises. St. Thomas Aquinas, a doctor of the Church, teaches us that “for the faithful, death is but a passage, the beginning of life eternal”.

As we commemorate All Souls’ Day, let us trust in God’s divine plan. May we face our mortality with the hope of resurrection, believing that, in the end, we shall be united with Him and our loved ones in eternal joy. “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his” (Romans 6:5).

Happy All Souls’ Day. 

May God bless and grant peace to all the faithfully departed souls in your family. 

God bless 🙌 

I remain your pal,  

Ronnie