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Additional Text for the 08/07/04 Alumni Sandstorm 
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>>From: George "Pappy" Swan ('59)

Ponderings of a Puddle Pal
 
I have pondered by the puddle
our states of blissfulness and woes
to the point that lush green grass
grew up between my toes
 
I have arrived at my conclusion
its no longer worth the trouble
to try to understand the puzzling few
who live within a bubble
 
We offered time and space
and asked they please explain
what it is that we have said
to cause them so much pain
 
There are two sides to every story
it is indeed the American way
They know mine but what is theirs
they must have something, by now, to say
 
They fling short, sharp little taunts
that grumble and complain, yet
the real reasons for their discontent
they still refuse to explain
 
'tis really here nor there
if I'm simply disliked for what I write
just take your best shot--but also
stand up and shed a little light
 
Since they really would not explain
then I am afraid that it may be
they are bent on one main goal 
silencing the likes of you and me
 
So that is all I have to say
it is my final plain-talk chapter
now, its on to joy and fun, and
puddles, smiles, and laughter
 
As Denny Johnson ('62) so aptly put it in the 5 April Alumni
Sandstorm, "Well, that oughta just about do it for
"discussions" regarding Pappy's regular missives." Denny, 
I met - like many others - through writing to the Alumni
Sandstorm. And, I hope one day to meet all of them in person
(even those who refused to laugh).

And, today, I emerge from my self-imposed two-day silence
and "Vision Quest." Thus, from the shores of Pappy's Puddle,
I clear this turmoil from my mind and cast off in my little
imaginary vessel fueled with newfound enlightenment provided
by fellow Bombers and return to my original journey's intent
-- to write fun stuff that will hopefully make others laugh
-- Will yah' at least settle for a smile? 

Maren, I thank you for all you do and regret what this has
put you through. Maybe this great storm would not have 
blown through Bomber land if I had not dreamed up my little
puddle. For that initial little spark of imagination, I
accept full responsibility. It just seemed to grow from
there and flood over into so many lives. However, if making
people laugh when reading Sandstorm ever becomes a crime, I
shall undoubtedly be a repeat offender (until you, as
editor, tell me -- Enough!!).

-George "Pappy" Swan ('59)
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