RIFLE RANGE BOY

Black Mirror (Seasons 1-3; 2011-2014) This TV series from the UK boast of its story being twisted much like Rod Serling's 'Twilight Zone' of the 60s. So far the first two seasons had 3 episodes of an hour each and the third one had only one episode. It is set at various times in the future without appearing too much out of this world. The subject matter seems to be deeply thought provoking and questions the direction that we, mankind, as a race are heading to. Media and public involvement in decision making had taken the world to dizzying heights. 'American Idol' of reality show seem to have permeate people's day to day living. In one episode, it is the only reason for our existence. In most episodes, the female characters are the dominant strong one whilst their counterparts are weak and prone to indecisiveness. S1E1.  A lunatic man kidnaps the Princess to demand the Prime Minister to perform a bizarre sexual act.  As the time ticks before the Princess...

Like my father who carries on his whole life with blinkers, minding his own work and not wanting to know other people's problems, I seem to have fallen into the same trap (or is a blessing?). Feeling that I have enough on my plate, the last thing I want to be dragged into is other people's melancholy. However, every now and then, I do get sucked into this quicksand. The best I can do is walk around the quicksand and maintaining my foot rooted on solid ground. And believe you me, it is an art.  Two individuals had things going on fine in their business venture. After umpteen years of smooth sailing, their yacht hit a rough patch. Their term of the deal appears unsavoury to both parties.  The justification in supporting their side of the bargain is the typical textbook description of mirror image conflict. I am no skilled negotiator or arbitrator. So, the most I can do is lent them my ears and utter the occasional nods, Ummm, 'oh!', 'is it so?' and the occasio...