Rings on finger, sweat marks under control, we were called through to reception area. The food, like day, was immaculate. Disappointingly, reception was dry. I think I had uncovered some rum in cheesecake, but was far from break dancing when band came on. We respected family’s religion, and I mingled with guests discussing how smoothly day had run.

Suddenly, conversation quieted, and all attention turned to groom. I became very concerned why he had pulled what looked to be 3 to 4 sheets of handwritten paper from his pocket. Confused at how many people he could possibly have to toast, I pulled empty lining of my pockets to indicate how many sheets I didn’t have.

If looks could kill, I would have made a widow of his bride before he’d put down his punch. Hastily, I scribbled down some thoughts on a napkin, but knew it would take a miracle to pull this off.

50 minutes and 7 sheets of handwritten paper later, I was asked to take floor to a rapturous applause. All fruit punch in Florida couldn’t have stopped my mouth from drying up as I confronted room full of 200-strong unsuspecting guests, all thirsty for a good laugh.

I have chosen not to reiterate what was actually said that day. I have also chosen not to watch wedding video, or speak to groom again. If there was a spade to hand, I would have first struck groom with it, and then proceed to dig a hole large enough to climb in. But there wasn’t. What there was however, were coughs, sighs, and one heckle requesting that I “got on with it”, because that particular gentlemen didn’t have all day. This was of no comfort to me, nor were my words of any comfort to bride, groom, or anyone else. I will remain thankful however, to waitress who let out one solitary clap at end of my speech, and to inventor of hotel mini-bar.

I learned some valuable lessons that day. For one, Americans don’t understand northeastern accent, nor do they appreciate sarcastic comments in jest about a groom’s sexuality. But most important lesson learned that day, was to prepare and research for a speech. Not just your words, but also your audience. Until you do that, do not even consider mentioning time you discovered your best friend burping his worm over Yasmine Bleeth, unless your absolutely sure it will get a laugh.

Do I believe weapons of mass destruction may be in place for remote detonation? If I believe anything can be planted anywhere, will you think me fool? If Capitol is destroyed as thoroughly as Trade Center, what will life be like in rest of country? If two or three other cities are destroyed at same time, what will life be like for survivors? Is it all too horrible to consider? What will happen to first responders? What will happen to you and me and those we love? What should we be doing to prepare for what leaders have made inevitable? I have published my answers to these questions. No one has contributed additional suggestions or ideas, although I don't think I am only one with these ideas.

I was disappointed that a small circle of friends had no interest in lifesaving. I can understand this. Alarmists have been shouting warnings for centuries, back to biblical times. Sometimes destruction came after warnings. Sometimes it did not. What do you think of odds today? Has our reaction to Al Qaeda's attacks discouraged them? Has it prevented them from planning bigger and better things? Has anyone seriously diminished their will or capability? Why haven't they deployed weapons of mass destruction yet? Have they misplaced them? Are they storing them near you?

I know there is tremendous resistance to thinking in a way that poses such questions. We have a guiding philosophy in West that never SEEMS to fail us. Just pretend nothing is wrong. Even leaders aren't doing that anymore! In fact, it is that very philosophy which has perched us on edge of abyss. We can't afford it another day more.

We plan our self defense. We plan for our survival. But we don't wait for situation to execute plan. We ask hard questions. What would America be if it was simultaneously unplugged from its electrical umbilical and Internet communications, globally? We spread word that a survival of fittest situation is possible and probable. Who will prepare for terror not yet imagined in a nation slated for destruction by those capable of success?

And why is it we want to survive, anyway? It is to help others. Is that now a strange idea in America? Can this idea outlive government help? As America goes, so goes rest. Can we possibly point America in a better direction? Does it all have to be destroyed before we can start over? We can start now. If we prepare for end of Western Civilization (You have my word something better will replace it, when we LET GO) and all is wine and roses; were we fools? Not really. We learned things about us better known early than late. We learned a little independence in land of free. Who should be embarrassed?

If you want to take up lifesaving hobby, just say and write truths that can save lives. If you have no thoughts of your own, borrow some from others and pass them along. The idea is to spread word. We are not trying to create a secret survivor society. We'd just like to see that everyone knows they have made choices. If poor choices have been made, new choices are in order. Last, but not least, why don't I get feedback on thoughts I share?

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