It's been a long time since I wrote a cigar story - it was such a good idea when I started it early this summer. And then I let it slip away. I'll try to explain why in the podcast that accompanies this post. I hope maybe you listen - and maybe subscribe, while you're at it.
I retreated to the pergola with a Perdomo Champagne Reserve tonight. It was the last one in my humidor. I'm not worried, because Nick Perdomo will make more and I will buy them. But the symbolism is rich, and I will try to explain it in the podcast. JJ was with me, and so was Bella. and we had Manhattans. Julie and I. I wouldn't give the dog good bourbon. It was melancholy. As the sun set, it got cold, and I knew I had to record this podcast.
It’s been too long since I recorded a ScottCast – as you have constantly reminded me. Thank you for that reminder. As much as I have talked in my life, you might find it odd that I enjoy writing a little more. I get to craft my thoughts. Be intentional. Edit myself. Because words matter. I still have to write that post.
When I do these “half blog post/half podcast” deals, like what I am typing now, the post becomes my “show notes” in a vain and futile effort to keep me from rambling when I turn on the mic.
I’ll comment on some commentary I recently posted – about Dan Haley, Tina Peters, the Denver Natural Grocers closing, Jon Caldara on Roads, and on the Denver Slaughterhouse ban.
We’re in a political season – perhaps “the most important of our lives”, but it doesn’t feel like it locally. You cannot avoid it on TV, but it doesn’t seem like it “on the ground.” Maybe it’s the lack of signs. I will explain my theory in the podcast – you should listen.
My pastor and close friend, Jonathan Wiggins at Rez.Church, is in the middle of his God and Country series right now. You should listen to these messages online. My friend absolutely nails it – the correlation between God and this great land. All of them are readily available on YouTube. I would HIGHLY suggest you watch last week’s message on the Abrahamic Covenant and how the founders had that in mind when they drew up the good, ole’ U S of A.
You can’t just read this and have it make sense – you must listen to the podcast – these are my show notes…
In that sermon, Jonathan defines the relationship between God and His people and this country – and the responsibility we have to self govern and make ourselves better and right in the eyes of God.
Approximately 30% of Americans regularly attend religious services, with 21% attending every week and 9% almost every week. This data reflects a decline from previous decades, where about 42% attended regularly two decades ago. The decline is largely due to an increase in Americans with no religious affiliation.
Sources
Church Attendance Has Declined in Most U.S. Religious …
Just three in 10 US adults regularly attend religious services
Data shows even fewer people than we think attend church
Attendance at religious services by state
30 Church Trends You Need to Know for 2024
I spoke at the Common Grounds monthly meeting for the Greeley Chamber of Commerce. The main topic was homelessness. I’ll comment on that in the podcast.
Finally, let me leave you with some pictures that I casually took this summer of my happy place. What a glorious summer it has been. But there is change in the air, and I feel it is more than just the seasons.
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