journal features

the boy has figured out the Easter bunny

the journal of Michael Werneburg

twenty-seven years and one million words

Toronto, 2017.04.17

A friend made a comment about hiding Easter eggs, within earshot of my son; this led to something unexpected.

First, of course: he demanded to know the truth. That led directly to the Tooth Fairy, and then Santa Claus. All as one might expect. But then he said, "So you bought the train set this Christmas? I'm only going to ask for cheap things from now on."

He's also vowed to help let his little sister enjoy her childhood believing in the magical aspect of it all.

And then, at dinner with two other families, he decided against sitting at the child's table (with five girls all under the age of seven) and ate the adult fare with the adults.

A big day for a nine year old.

rand()m quote

Naturally the common people don't want war: Neither in Russia, nor in England, nor for that matter in Germany. That is understood. But, after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine the policy and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the peacemakers for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country.

—Hermann Goering