LGBTQI
The House That Heals: A Story of Acceptance and Memory
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The House on Brookfield Lane
Ethan was only a few miles from home when it happened. A sudden dizziness swept over him, the road blurred, and he pulled his car to the side. When the fog lifted, he realized he couldn’t remember who he was, or where he had been going. All he had was a backpack, a half-filled journal, and the overwhelming instinct that he needed to find shelter.
He wandered until he reached Brookfield Lane, where an old house loomed against the evening sky. As a child, Ethan had feared this place. It was where shadows seemed darker, where kids whispered about ghosts and curses. Though he didn’t remember that fear, his body did—a chill ran through him as he stepped onto the porch. Still, with nowhere else to go, he knocked.
An elderly woman opened the door. “Come in, child,” she said softly, as though she had been expecting him. Ethan stayed, helping with small chores, sharing meals, and slowly growing comfortable in the quiet warmth of the house. In the evenings, they talked. She asked about his life. Even though he couldn’t remember, fragments began returning. He recalled his laughter with friends, the smell of campus coffee shops, and the long nights of studying. Then, something deeper surfaced. It was the secret he had held since high school. He thought he’d never say it aloud. He told her he was gay. Instead of fear or judgment, she smiled. “Love,” she said, “is never something to be ashamed of. It’s what keeps this house alive.”
When his memory finally returned, it shocked everyone. Ethan’s parents had always thought of Brookfield Lane as cursed, a place to avoid. They couldn’t understand how the son they worried about had found comfort, truth, and acceptance there. For Ethan, though, the house became more than a place of fear. It became the place where he embraced who he was. He learned that what we fear most sometimes holds the power to set us free.
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025
Statues, Highways, and History: Keeping Hate Visible as a Warning
Statues and names aren’t just honors—they’re reminders. By keeping the names of hate in public view, we offer the right context. This turns symbols of division into warnings for the future.
2–3 minutes
Why We Should Keep the Names of Hate in the Public Eye
We’re living in a time of debate across the country. Communities are considering whether to remove statues and rename highways. There’s also discussion on erasing the public memory of people who promoted hate, bigotry, and division. It’s an understandable impulse: why honor those who harmed others? But erasure carries a hidden risk—forgetting.
History teaches us that forgetting the darkest chapters makes it easier for them to repeat. When names are scrubbed away, the context can be lost. Future generations will not know the full weight of what those people stood for. Worse still, without clear memory, others try to rehabilitate these messages. Some try to whitewash them. Others rebrand the hateful messages into something even more dangerous.
Keeping those names visible—in the right way—turns them from tributes into lessons. A highway named after a segregationist can become an outdoor museum. A statue of a tyrant can stand in a public square. A plaque can explain exactly what they did. It can also explain why it was wrong. By preserving their presence as warnings, not celebrations, we turn the symbols of hate into tools for education.
This is not about reverence. It’s about responsibility. Public memory should hold two things at once. First, the good we want to emulate. Second, the evil we must never repeat. We can’t do that if we pretend the evil never existed.
The Takeaway
We remember the names of those who promoted hate and division. By doing so, we deny them the chance to be rebranded as something they were not. Their actions stay tied to their identities. Their legacy becomes a constant, unavoidable reminder of how close we once came to tearing ourselves apart. If we truly want a brighter, more united future, we need both inspiration—and warning signs along the way.
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025
Warning Signs: What Recent Shootings Reveal About America’s Pressures
4–6 minutes
When Politics Turns Deadly: What Recent Shootings Reveals About America’s Pressures
Political Violence in the U.S.: A Historical Lens Political Pressure Pots That Are Exploding
On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. The attack shocked audiences nationwide and revived a painful question: Is political violence becoming more common in the United States? While the details of this case continue to unfold, history offers context. The Kirk shooting is tragic, but it’s not unprecedented—political assassinations and attacks have occurred before. Understanding that history can help us prevent future violence.
Political Violence in the U.S.: Then and Now
Throughout U.S. history, public figures have been targeted for their beliefs, activism, or positions of power. These events—though rare—often show deep social, political, or cultural tensions. Below is a timeline of key moments, followed by how they compare to today.
Timeline of Notable U.S. Political Murders/Assassinations
Year / Victim / Role / Context / Motive
On April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln, the U.S. President, was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathizer.
1901 William McKinley, U.S. President, was killed by anarchist Leon Czolgosz.
1935 Huey Long, U.S. Senator / LA Governor, was shot by Carl Weiss amid political turmoil in Louisiana.
1963 Medgar Evers, a Civil Rights Activist, was shot outside his home for his activism in Mississippi.
In 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while riding in a motorcade in Dallas, Texas. Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested for the crime. He was shot and killed by Jack Ruby before standing trial. The official record names Oswald as the lone gunman. The motive has remained an issue of widespread debate and speculation for decades.
1965 Malcolm X, a Civil Rights Leader, was killed during a public speech in Harlem.
1968 Robert F. Kennedy, the Presidential Candidate, was shot after a campaign rally in Los Angeles.
On April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—American Baptist minister, civil rights leader, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate—was assassinated. He was standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee when it happened. James Earl Ray, an escaped convict, was arrested for the murder two months later and later pleaded guilty. Ray claimed he was part of a larger conspiracy. He later tried to recant his confession. Nonetheless, the official record names him as the assassin. The motive remains the topic of debate. King led the civil rights movement. He opposed systemic racism. These actions made him a frequent target of threats and hostility.
1969–70s Various bombings & shootings Political & protest-related Weather Underground, far-right and far-left extremist groups.
2011 Gabrielle Giffords (survived), U.S. Representative, was shot at a constituent event in Arizona; six others were killed.
High profile, targeted instances of political violence
Charlie Kirk shooting*
Killed
Orem, Utah
Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University. Kirk was a well-known conservative activist who founded Turning Point USA.
Sept. 2025
*Officials have not confirmed that the shooting was politically motivated.
*Officials have not confirmed that the shooting was politically motivated.
Minnesota lawmaker shootings
2 killed, 2 injured
Minneapolis, Minnesota
A gunman targeted several Minnesota election officials. He killed Minnesota House of Representatives member Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in their home. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman were shot and injured in their home.
June 2025
Minnesota lawmaker shootings
Two killed, two injured
Minneapolis, Minnesota
A gunman targeted several Minnesota election officials. He killed Minnesota House of Representatives member Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in their home. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman were shot and injured in their home.
June 2025
Minnesota lawmaker shootings
Two killed, two injured
Minneapolis, Minnesota
A gunman targeted several Minnesota election officials. He killed Minnesota House of Representatives member Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in their home. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman were shot and injured in their home.
June 2025
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home arson
No injuries
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence was set on fire while Shapiro and his family slept inside.
April 2025
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home arson
No injuries
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence was set on fire while Shapiro and his family slept inside.
2025 Charlie Kirk, Conservative Activist, was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University; investigation ongoing.
Patterns and Parallels
- Public Rhetoric Matters: In nearly every case, rhetoric and polarization preceded the violence.
- Violence Rarely Comes From Nowhere: These events are almost always linked to broader grievances, social tensions, or extremist ideologies.
- Modern Amplifiers: Today’s social media, 24/7 news, and intense partisanship can supercharge grievances faster than in past eras.
Lessons for Today
The Kirk shooting reflects how quickly divisions can escalate. This happens when marginalized or politically active groups feel threatened. It also occurs when public discourse frames opponents as existential enemies. Left unchecked, the result can spill over from online posts and protests into public spaces and deadly attacks.
History shows that violence rarely ends the debate—it deepens it. The antidote is not silence but inclusion, dialogue, and guardrails on how we treat one another, even when we disagree.
Closing Thoughts
The U.S. is not doomed to repeat its worst moments, but it does need to recognize them. Political violence grows where alienation and fear fester. The Charlie Kirk tragedy, like earlier assassinations, should not only shock but also instruct. By confronting polarization and reinforcing democratic norms, communities can prevent these cycles from repeating.
About the Author:
Benjamin Groff is a former police officer and radio news anchor. He has hosted programs for CNN and ABC News affiliates in Colorado and Wyoming. His career in law enforcement began in 1980 and lasted more than two decades. This gave him firsthand insight into the criminal mind and public safety. Moreover, it provided him with an understanding of the human stories that often go untold. His writing draws on these experiences, blending street-level truth with a journalist’s eye for the bigger picture.
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025
The Undermining Of Civil Rights In 2025
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QUESTION FROM READER
Will Americans loose more Civil Rights With Republicans In control? Mike Lee, Trump, and others are pushing the Project 2025 Playbook. It sure looks like the Constitution’s articles are under threat and today’s GOP will lead to its undoing.
THE RESPONSE
You’ve raised a critical concern. The answer is: yes. Under a Republican administration, there is influence exerted through tools like Project 2025. Many observers, civil‑rights organizations, and news outlets warn of significant threats to civil liberties and democratic norms.
What Is Project 2025?
- Project 2025 is a policy blueprint authored by The Heritage Foundation. Contributions from former Trump staffers are included. It advocates for a sweeping restructuring of the executive branch. The plan expands presidential control over key agencies like the DOJ, FBI, DHS, and Department of Education. It seeks to install ideologically vetted loyalists, dismantle agency independence, and extend power across the executive branch.(1)
- Critics label it an authoritarian and Christian-nationalist roadmap. It threatens civil rights protections. It also endangers democratic checks and balances and the rule of law.(2)
Key Threats to Civil Rights
- Dismantling DEIA and Affirmative Action Safeguards
- Executive Orders signed in January 2025 have abolished government DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) initiatives, rescinded affirmative action mandates (e.g., EO 11246), and set in motion mass firings of employees affiliated with DEIA roles.(3)
- Eroding Oversight of Discrimination
- Project 2025 proposes ending the collection of race and gender data by the EEOC. This decision would cripple the government’s ability to detect and tackle employment discrimination. (4)
- Weakening Voting Rights and Census Equity
- The plan promotes a citizenship question on the census, which will suppress representation and resources for immigrant and minority communities. It also proposes limiting the DOJs role in election protection. Additionally, it suggests reforms to the FEC that would shift power to politically appointed commissioners.(4a)
- Suppressing LGBTQ+, Black, Immigrant, and Other Communities’ Protections
- Policies aim to curtail reproductive freedoms, strip LGBTQ rights, and dismantle educational protections—particularly in schools and public institutions. (5)
- Consolidating Executive Power and Undermining the Courts
- Project 2025 advocates for weakening independent oversight, firing Inspectors General, and enforcing loyalty tests—subverting professional integrity and rule of law.(6)
- Shifting Federal Civil Rights Enforcement
- Politicizing Justice Leadership
- Appointments like that of Pam Bondi raise concerns about fairness in civil and voting rights enforcement. Their lack of independence from political influence is particularly worrisome.(7)
Broader Repercussions Reported by News Sources
- Project 2025 has already sparked real-world impacts, like:
- Mississippi implementing stricter abortion bans, voting restrictions, education rollbacks, and book censorship—reflecting Project 2025’s influence.(8)
- Cancellation of Latino cultural festivals due to intensified ICE enforcement, demonstrating an atmosphere of fear in immigrant communities.(9)
- A marked rollback on civil rights enforcement and protections in education and beyond. (9a)
In Summary
- There is clear, mounting evidence.Republicans are in positions of control. They are involved in Project 2025. This involvement poses an existential threat to several pillars of civil rights. Republicans are in positions of control. Project 2025 is a concern. There is a threat to several pillars of civil rights. This threat includes dismantling DEI programs. It involves undermining federal oversight. Additionally, it consolidates executive power and targets marginalized communities across voting, education, employment, and beyond.
What You Can Do
- Support and amplify the work of:
- Civil rights organizations: ACLU, NAACP LDF, Urban League—many are actively litigating (e.g., National Urban League v. Trump contesting anti-DEIA executive orders) (10).
- Voting and immigrant rights groups tracking suppression and census issues.
- Local advocacy and grassroots movements fostering solidarity and resistance.
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025
THE TRUTH IS THE HARDEST THING TO LOOK AT AND ACCEPT
When I first wrote this piece during election season, I thought it spoke to a particular moment. But the truth has a way of staying relevant. Looking around today, it feels just as necessary—maybe even more so.
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THE TRUTH IS THE HARDEST THING TO LOOK AT AND ACCEPT
There was a time in American politics. Back then, slinging mud was considered the lowest, most dishonorable act a candidate would commit. Those who spread lies were branded untrustworthy. Decent people would never cast a vote for them. Back then, communities had a different rhythm. You knew your neighbors. You checked on the widow down the street. You went out of your way to support local businesses because of family ties. Courtesy was second nature. You didn’t blare your horn because someone hesitated at a stop sign. You didn’t sneer at people who looked different from you. When you traveled to another town for a ballgame, you were respectful. You treated their facilities with the same respect you expected for your own.
Politics, too, carried that sense of respect. When someone won an election—whether at the local, state, or national level—it wasn’t the end of the world. It simply meant they had earned the right to represent their community for a set term. Neighbors didn’t conspire to punish one another for “voting the wrong way.” They did not claim elections were fraudulent just because their candidate lost. They accepted the truth, even when it was difficult, because truth was what held the fabric of the community together.
What’s striking is that no one sought to destroy the lives of those who disagreed with them. Debate can be sharp, but it stopped short of hatred. People understood that democracy required trust. It required trust in the process. It required trust in one another. It also required trust that truth—no matter how uncomfortable—would endure. That same truth remains today. Still, it asks something of us. It requires the courage to look it in the eye. We must accept it and live by it.
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025
The Comfort of Routine: Breakfast in Mesa, Arizona
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Breakfast, Community, and the Comfort of Routine
After weeks of rehab after my back surgery, I finally treated myself to breakfast at my favorite spot—Christina’s Wildberry Diner. It didn’t disappoint. It never does. The place is everything a diner should be. It’s a mix of friendly faces. The menu is full of home-cooked favorites. It has the atmosphere that makes first-timers wish they would come back again and again.
Of course, I ordered my usual. Our waitress Christine is our favorite server, not the owner. She knows my routine so well. She brings drinks to the table before we’ve even settled in. She’ll look at me with a grin and ask, “Having your normal with gravy this week?” And my answer is always the same: “Of course!”
My better-half, Steve, makes his order. But it is never quite as predictable. Pancakes one week, toast the next—it keeps Christine on her toes. But no matter what we order, our glasses are never empty. That’s part of what makes this place special. Christine remembers. The staff notices. After four years of showing up on weekends, the diner has come to expect us. If we’re going to be out of town, we let them know. Here, being seen and known is part of belonging.
After breakfast comes the next stop in our routine: Superstition Ranch Market. It’s a no-frills produce market where farmers bring in fresh fruits and vegetables by the bulk. We’ve honed our shopping to an art. We’re in and out in under ten minutes. The savings are worth the trip. The produce is second to none. The clerks know us, too. One cashier in particular likes us at her lane, and when she’s there, that’s where we go. They check on our health. They also check on our recovery. This care says everything about the community we’re lucky to live in.
What makes it remarkable is this: Mesa, Arizona, isn’t a small town. It’s the second-largest city in the state, part of a metro area of more than five million people. And yet, somehow, in the middle of all that, we’ve found a community that feels small, familiar, and deeply connected.
For more than 24 years, we’ve lived in Arizona, and the last 12 in Mesa. Of all the places we’ve called home, this city is one of the most special. It has a blend of people from everywhere. It has a rhythm of routines and unexpected kindness.
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025
What Will Happen If PLANS To End Social Security Happens?
3–4 minutes
If Social Security were eliminated, the effects would be wide-ranging. It would touch nearly every part of American life. This is especially true for retirees, people with disabilities, and survivors of deceased workers. Here’s how it would unfold:
1. Immediate Loss of Income for Millions
Social Security now provides monthly benefits to over 70 million Americans, including retirees, disabled individuals, and surviving spouses or children. Without it, many of these households would lose their main or only source of income overnight.
- Retirees: Many older Americans rely on Social Security for the bulk of their income—especially those without significant savings or pensions.
- Survivors: Widows, widowers, and children who now get survivor benefits would lose critical support.
- Disabled workers: People incapable of work due to disability would lose a major safety net.
2. Surge in Poverty Rates
Before Social Security, poverty among the elderly was extremely high—estimates put it at around 35–50%. The program cut that rate dramatically. Without it, poverty rates among older Americans will return to pre-1935 levels.
3. Strain on Families and Local Communities
The financial burden of caring for elderly or disabled relatives would shift heavily to families. Those without family support be forced into underfunded state programs or charitable care.
- Families need to delay retirement, take on extra jobs, or house multiple generations under one roof.
- Local charities and churches would see rising demand for basic necessities like food and shelter.
4. Ripple Effects on the Economy
Social Security benefits aren’t just “checks”—they fuel spending in local economies. Without those payments:
- Rural and small-town economies (which often have higher percentages of retirees) see sharp declines in consumer spending.
- Certain industries—especially healthcare, retail, and housing—would feel immediate impacts.
5. Political and Social Fallout
Because Social Security is one of the most popular federal programs, ending it would be politically explosive. It would lead to intense public backlash, large-scale protests, and significant shifts in voter behavior.
- States try to create their own replacement programs, but poorer states struggle to fund them.
- The wealth gap would widen sharply. Those without private retirement savings would be left with little to no safety net.
POLITICS
Social Security has existed for 90 years. Why it is more threatened than ever
Click above headline for AP Story on how Social Security is threatened now more than ever!
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025
The Social Security Administration (SSA) stands proud according to a press release by the Trump Administration.
August 2025 commemorates its 90th anniversary. It marks its unwavering commitment to the financial security and dignity of millions of Americans. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law on August 14, 1935. Since then, the program has grown into one of the most successful and trusted institutions in American history.
“For 90 years, Social Security has stood as a promise kept. It ensures that older Americans have the support they need. It also aids people with disabilities, as well as families facing loss,”
said Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano.
“As we honor this legacy, we are also building a future. This future is where service is faster, smarter, and more accessible than ever before. Through President Trump’s vision, we are protecting and preserving Social Security. We achieve this by delivering extraordinary customer service through technological improvements. Enhanced process engineering also plays a crucial role.”
In an open letter to the American people, Commissioner Bisignano emphasized the importance of Social Security. He highlighted his commitment to strengthening the agency. He also mentioned the significant improvements to customer service achieved in his first 100 days in office.
Read the Letter: Commissioner Bisignano’s Open Letter to the American People
Today, Commissioner Bisignano also joined President Donald J. Trump at the White House. The President issued a presidential proclamation. He recommitted to always defend Social Security. He recognized the countless contributions of every American senior. They have invested their time, talent, and resources into our Nation’s future.
Read the Proclamation: Presidential Proclamation: 90th Anniversary of the Social Security Act
Branded You Are Now – Marked!
When the law decides you no longer exist, freedom isn’t about where you live.
It’s about how far you’re willing to lose yourself to survive.
2–3 minutes
Getting Marked – Freedom at a cost
What if you belonged to a group that the government suddenly decided was a problem?
Not because of anything you did. Not because of a crime. Not even because of your beliefs. You were placed quietly and without your knowledge. The current leaders decided that the category was “unjust.”
Illegal.
It didn’t matter that you’d lived here your whole life. That your parents and grandparents had, too. It didn’t matter your race, your sex, your creed, your record. None of that mattered anymore. The only thing that mattered was that you had been identified.
The rules you thought protected you suddenly didn’t apply.
Your home wasn’t yours. Your job will vanish with a keystroke. The bank will empty your account without notice. You weren’t even a “person” anymore, not in the legal sense described by the Constitution you once believed in.
It happened so fast you couldn’t trace the moment when it began. At first, it was a news story about “reforms.” Then, “temporary measures.” Then, new identification cards, “to streamline services.” People told themselves it was nothing — until the cards became color-coded. Until the colors meant everything.
Now the world feels smaller every day. Friends stop calling, not because they don’t care, but because they’re afraid to be seen caring. Even strangers look at you differently, as if they’re silently choosing whether to turn away or turn you in.
You start making plans. Options. But they’re illusions. Leave the country? Borders are closed to you. Fight back? With what? Every avenue seems to end at the same locked door.
Then one night, in the quiet of your apartment, you find a letter slipped under your door. No name. No return location. Just a single sentence:
“There’s a way out, but you can’t take anything with you.”
Your heart pounds. Hope flares in your chest — real, breathing hope for the first time in months. You imagine stepping across a border, leaving all this behind, starting over somewhere no one knows your name.
But then the weight comes crashing back. You can’t take anything with you. Not your family, if they’re marked. Not your home. Not even the history that made you who you are.
The choice is yours. Stay and lose everything slowly, or leave and lose it all at once.
It’s hope. And it’s despair.
And tonight, both feel exactly the same.
Will you let this country get to this point? Is the United States already there? Is it too late to turn around?
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025
The Show Must Go ON! Miss Ethel Waters Leads First-Ever Screen Sing-Along
1–2 minutes
🎬 MEMORIES FROM MEMORY LANE — “ON WITH THE SHOW!” STRIKES A NEW NOTE 🎶
From Our Entertainment Desk — May 29, 1929
Ladies and gentlemen, the talkies have gone and done it again! Moving pictures with sound became a reality on August 6th, 1926. Just three short years later, Warner Bros. has given the public something new to hum about—literally.
This week, cinema-goers were treated to On with the Show!—a Technicolor extravaganza. It boasted the peerless pipes of Miss Ethel Waters. She delivered the lilting tune Am I Blue with such warmth that even the ushers were swooning. But here’s the rub: for the first time in motion picture history, audiences were invited to sing along!
That’s right, folks—words flashed upon the screen as Miss Waters crooned, urging patrons to join in from their seats. And join they did! Voices rang out from the front row to the peanut gallery. Some were as sweet as a songbird. Others were a touch off-key. All were in the spirit of merriment.
Picture it—gentlemen in their finest straw boaters. Ladies fanning themselves in the glow of the projector. Everyone is swept up in the chorus together. Why, one might call it the first karaoke moment in show business history. We’ve yet to invent such a word!
If this is the future of the pictures, we say—bring on the music! After all, the best part of a song is not just hearing it… it’s singing it together.
Before It Gets Ignored By Governing Bodies – History Should Be Reported Far And Wide – Like the Camp Logan Disgrace In Texas
Sharing the history that some would rather hide, destroy, or deny is important. This truth must be told. It’s the very principle on which these United States were founded.
4–5 minutes
largest court martial in U.S. history, the first of three that followed
the Houston riot of 1917. In total, 110 men out of 118 were found
guilty, and nineteen were sentenced to death by hanging.
Red Paint, Red History: Camp Logan’s Vandalized Truth
In the wake of Hurricane Harvey’s devastation in September, Houston crews were still hauling out debris. They were drying soaked walls when they stumbled upon something different. Red paint was smeared in thick defiance across a freshly rededicated historical marker at the former site of Camp Logan.
The vandals knew what they were doing. The paint wasn’t random—it covered the part of the inscription that told the uncomfortable truth:
“The Black Soldiers’ August 23, 1917, armed revolt in response to Houston’s Jim Crow Laws and police harassment…”
That single sentence holds a century of pain, prejudice, and the stubborn refusal to forget. It’s the story of the Third Battalion, 24th United States Infantry. These were Black soldiers sent to guard the construction of Camp Logan. This happened shortly after America joined World War I.
great uncle of Angela Holder
These men were not strangers to segregation; most had grown up in the Jim Crow South. But in uniform, with the eagle on their buttons and rifles in their hands, they expected something closer to equality. Houston didn’t see it that way.
White residents and police officers saw armed Black soldiers as a threat. They were considered a dangerous example. This can inspire local Black citizens to demand the same respect. The insults were constant. Slurs were shouted from sidewalks. “Whites Only” signs were on streetcars. There was harassment for daring to walk where white men didn’t think they should.
Tensions reached a breaking point on August 23, 1917. That is when police arrested a Black soldier for intervening in the arrest of a Black woman. A Black military policeman went to inquire about it. There was an argument, gunfire, and rumors. False ones—that he had been killed and that a white mob was heading for the camp.
In a world already wired with racial hostility, that was enough. Over 100 soldiers grabbed rifles and marched into Houston. Two hours later, sixteen white people were dead—five policemen among them-and four Black soldiers had been killed. It was one of the few riots in U.S. history where more white people died than Black people.
The army’s response was swift and merciless. Martial law. The unit was shipped back to New Mexico. Courts-martial—the first one, the largest in U.S. military history.
Of 118 indicted Black soldiers, 110 were found guilty. Nineteen men were hanged, fifty-three sentenced to life in prison. No white civilians were charged. Two white officers faced trial and were released.
Families have carried the weight for generations. Jason Holt still has a 100-year-old letter from his relative, Private Hawkins. It was written to his mother the night before his execution. In it, he tells her not to grieve. He claims his innocence. He also says he is ready to “take his seat in heaven.”
Charles Anderson spoke bluntly. His relative, Sergeant William Nesbit, was among the hanged. “They sent those soldiers into the most hostile environment imaginable. The riot was a problem that arose from community policing in such hostility.”
“They sent those soldiers into the most hostile environment imaginable. The riot was a problem that arose from community policing in such hostility.”
Even some descendants of those killed admitted the trial was a travesty. “I have no doubt that the men executed were innocent. They had nothing to do with the deaths,” says Sandra Hajtman, great-granddaughter of a policeman who died that night.
In Houston, the story was buried for decades. Newcomers often know nothing about it. That’s changing—slowly—thanks to historians, museums, and family members pushing for recognition, even pardons. Angela Holder, great-niece of Corporal Jesse Moore, has fought for marked graves and posthumous justice. “We tried during the Obama presidency for a pardon… we can try again.”
And then there’s the final image—December 11, 1917—thirteen ropes swaying from a scaffold. The condemned men were silent, unresisting. Nesbit, moments from death, calling to his men: “Not a word out of any of you men now!”
The red paint on that marker wasn’t just vandalism—it was an effort to silence history. But the truth doesn’t scrub away that easily.
If you strip away the paint, you’ll see the exact words that got buried for decades. It serves as a reminder that justice denied is never fully past. The lessons of 1917 are still waiting to be learned.
The Progressive Magazine originally published a report on this topic and in fact has an extended piece on this incident. You can learn more by visiting Progressive Magazine to read the entire report here.
Sharing the history that some would rather hide, destroy, or deny is important. This truth must be told. It’s the very principle on which these United States were founded.
There Are Different Ways To Preserve America’s Freedom – We Are Taught Lessons From The Past
The Day the Flag Stood Still: The Forgotten Fourth of July on Wake Island, 1942
On July 4, 1942, Americans back home celebrated Independence Day with cookouts and parades. Meanwhile, a small group of American civilian contractors and U.S. Navy personnel held a defiant but somber celebration under Japanese captivity on a tiny Pacific atoll called Wake Island.
Just months earlier, in December 1941, Wake Island had made headlines when a handful of U.S. Marines, Navy men, and civilian construction workers miraculously repelled a much larger Japanese force. This was one of the only successful defenses during the early days of World War II. But eventually, Wake fell. Hundreds of Americans were captured and held as prisoners.
Despite their grim reality, the spirit of independence didn’t die. On July 4, 1942, many had celebrated the day at home a year prior. A group of prisoners marked the holiday. They secretly stitched together a makeshift American flag from scraps of clothing and parachute fabric. They hid it under a floorboard in their barracks. That night, after roll call, they quietly raised the flag. It was up for just a few moments. That was long enough for the men to salute it and whisper a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
The penalty for such defiance was death. For those men, risking their lives to honor the flag was worth it. The freedom it stood for—even behind enemy lines—justified their risk.
The flag was never discovered. The war ended in 1945. One of the surviving POWs smuggled the flag fragment home. He had sewn it into the lining of his jacket. It now resides in a museum in Kansas as a silent but powerful witness to patriotism under pressure.
Closing Thought:
Freedom isn’t always loud. It isn’t always celebrated with sparklers and song. Sometimes, it’s whispered in the dark. Saluted in secret. Hidden beneath the floorboards. And yet, even in those moments, it shines just as bright.
We Shall Come Rejoicing Marrying Only The He’s And The She’s
The Baptists Try To Say Who Can And Can’t Enter Into A Civil Contract!
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
1–2 minutes
The Baptists are at it again. They are raising a protest over who should be allowed to marry. It is as though they alone have the final word.
Yet, let us be clear: They are opposing who can walk into a county or state office. They do not want everyone to ask for a marriage license or enter into a legally recognized civil contract. That is not a religious rite. It is a legal agreement—filed, signed, and validated by the state. What the Baptists are trying to do is assert control over who can enter into that civil contract. Moreover, that is where their argument starts to fall apart.
One can understand a church’s wish to define marriage for its faith tradition. For example, it only performs holy matrimony for male-female couples. That is their theological prerogative. Furthermore, the LGBTQI+ community is better served by choosing faith institutions that embrace and affirm their unions. Those places do exist. They conduct beautiful, sacred ceremonies filled with love and meaning.
The Baptists alleged to be upset over same-sex couples marrying are not fighting for “Holy Sanctioned” marriage. Their effort is a thinly veiled effort to legislate bias. They aim to stir up fear and rally support for political agendas. When the current battle over trans rights no longer generates the same heat, they will seek another issue. This will be the next fire they try to stoke. It will be another wedge to deepen divisions. They will build up the offering plate and feed the partisan machine.
Trying to impose a ceremony on a church that fundamentally rejects it leads to resentment. Such an action only reinforces division. It is counterproductive. The real problem arises when religious institutions try to dictate who can access civil marriage through the state. That is not about faith. That is about politics, prejudice, and, frankly, power.
Braums Dairy’s Bold Move: Embracing Pride with Unexpected Gains
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
2–3 minutes
🌈 How Braums Dairy Supported Pride — Weathered Criticism, Reaped Major Rewards
1. Context: Logo on Plaza Sponsorship
In June 2025, Braums Dairy was unexpectedly in the spotlight. It is a beloved Oklahoma-based chain of ice cream shops, fast-food restaurants, and grocery markets. Their logo appeared on promotional flyers for “Pride on the Plaza,” a local Pride celebration in Oklahoma City (1). It served as part of a broader “Live on the Plaza” sponsorship package.
2. Initial Backlash
Conservative commentator and former state lawmaker Gabe Woolley reacted to the logo’s appearance. He tweeted that he would boycott Braums for allegedly funding a drag event. (2). His claims quickly gained traction among right-leaning Oklahomans, prompting calls for political reaction to this perceived advocacy.
3. Rebuttal & Clarification
Soon, voices with marketing skill pushed back. Braums was not directly sponsoring the Pride party. Instead, they were supporting the venue’s broader summer programming. Further investigation revealed that their sponsorship covered the entire weekend. This included the LGBTQ+ event. Still, it was not explicitly targeted at Pride.
This nuance shifted the framing dramatically: what was initially cast as a partisan act became clear as simple venue support.
4. The Social Media Surge
After the dust settled, reactions flipped. Social media buzz exploded on TikTok:
“@Braums could not have ENGINEERED this kind of positive publicity if they tried #oklahoma #braums #braumsicecream #drama” (3)
Citizens applauded the company’s unintended but visible support, demonstrating powerful brand alignment.
5. Tangible Business Upside
This wave of exposure translated into real-world gains:
- Brand lift & awareness: Braums featured in news cycles, social feeds, and community conversations—as a business unafraid to be inclusive.
- Customer engagement: LGBTQ+ supporters and allies publicly shared plans to patronize Braums. As a result, many new customers discovered the brand. Community loyalty soared.
- Earned PR: Local outlets like The Lost Ogle covered the story. They humorously defended Braums. They also criticized the boycott efforts (4).
It became a textbook example of inclusive marketing with unexpected ROI.
6. Takeaways for Brand Strategy
Insight Lesson
Intersectional sponsorships matter. Even general licensing contracts (e.g., “Live on the Plaza”) can effectively link your brand to meaningful causes.
Backlashes can pivot positively When critics amplify your message, clear and direct messaging helps turn controversy into resonance.
Public support matters TikTok, and community praise can vastly outperform first negative attention.
Organic PR beats paid media. Media coverage and word-of-mouth about your brand can have a lasting impact and longevity that outlasts short campaigns.
7. Conclusion
Braums experience offers a powerful case study for businesses. Even inadvertent support of social causes can yield significant goodwill. It also brings loyalty and profitability. Through smart, clear communication and customer engagement, you can transform backlash into business-building buzz.
Building Peace: Steps Toward a Better Tomorrow
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
2–4 minutes
A Plan for Peace: One Step at a Time
I’ve been thinking a lot about peace lately.
Not the peace that lives only in headlines or history books—the grand treaties, the ceasefires, the official proclamations. I’m talking about the peace we build in our daily lives. This peace begins around kitchen tables. It is found in community meetings. It happens in the quiet moments when we choose to listen rather than shout.
What would it take to create a more peaceful world? That question sits heavy on my heart.
I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I believe peace isn’t something we wait for others to deliver. It’s something we shape, step by step, together. And maybe, just maybe, it starts with a plan. Its not a perfect plan, but it’s a real one. It’s something we can reach for and return to, like a compass in uncertain times.
Step One: Start With Listening
Peace begins with the willingness to hear someone else’s story—especially when it challenges our own. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we do have to care enough to listen.
Imagine what would change if we listened without preparing to argue back. If we asked “What is it like to be you?” and waited long enough for a real answer.
Step Two: Make Room for Justice
There can be no true peace where injustice lives unchecked. That means looking closely at the systems around us—schools, courts, hospitals, policing, housing—and asking, “Who is being left behind? Who is being harmed? And what can we do to fix it?”
Justice isn’t about blame. It’s about repair. Peace doesn’t ask us to forget the past. It asks us to heal from it—together.
Step Three: Practice Kindness Like It’s a Skill
We talk about kindness like it’s something we either have or don’t. But I think it’s more like a muscle. You build it every day—with patience, with humility, and with a little humor when things get hard.
Sometimes, peace looks like biting your tongue. Sometimes, it looks like reaching out. And sometimes, it’s just not walking away.
Step Four: Educate for Empathy
To give the next generation a better shot at peace, we must teach them differently. Not just math and reading—but empathy, conflict resolution, critical thinking, and how to talk across differences without losing our humanity.
We should teach history honestly, too—not just the polished parts, but the painful truths that still echo today. Healing begins with honesty.
Step Five: Be Brave Enough to Hope
Hope can be a radical thing. Especially when the news is bleak and the divisions feel endless. But hope is not weakness. It’s strength disguised as belief. It’s faith in what we can build, even if we haven’t seen it yet.
A plan for peace isn’t a single event. It’s not something we sign and file away. It’s a lifelong effort. It’s showing up, over and over, with open hands and an open heart.
We will never achieve a perfect peace. But if we can bring peace into one more conversation, one more neighborhood, one more generation—then it’s worth everything.
So here’s my plan. It starts with me. It starts with you. And it keeps going—as long as we keep walking ahead, one small, hopeful step at a time.
How Mother’s Day Became a Global Celebration
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
2–3 minutes
The Forgotten Fight Behind Mother’s Day
Information for this report provided through ChatGPT
Every year, in nearly every corner of the world, people buy flowers. They write cards and call their mothers to say “thank you.” But few know that Mother’s Day wasn’t always a celebration of brunches and bouquets. It began with a fight. It wasn’t with fists or fire, but with letters and marches. It involved the relentless will of one determined daughter.
The story starts in the United States in the late 1800s. It begins just after a brutal civil war tore the country apart. Ann Reeves Jarvis lived in a small town in West Virginia. She was a mother who believed that motherhood was more than just raising children. It was about strengthening communities. She organized “Mother’s Work Clubs” to teach women how to care for their families and treat illness. During the war, she crossed enemy lines to care for wounded soldiers. Being a mother meant healing, even in a time of hate for her.
When Ann died in 1905, her daughter Anna Jarvis was devastated. But in her grief, she found purpose. Anna believed that mothers—their love, their sacrifices, their invisible labor—deserved to be honored privately and publicly. She envisioned a day when everyone would pause to recognize the power of a mother’s influence.
In 1908, Anna held the first official Mother’s Day in her mother’s church. She sent 500 white carnations—her mother’s favorite flower—for the guests. But that was just the beginning. Anna wrote thousands of letters to politicians and ministers, urging them to create a holiday for mothers. She battled for six years until 1914 when the U.S. president made it official: the second Sunday of May would be known as Mother’s Day.
The idea spread across borders and oceans, and countries worldwide adopted it—each adapting it in their way. In Thailand, it aligns with the queen’s birthday. In Ethiopia, it’s celebrated with a family feast. But at its heart, it remains the same: a day to honor the women who shape our lives.
Ironically, Anna later grew furious at how commercialized Mother’s Day had become—filled with store-bought gifts rather than heartfelt thanks. But she couldn’t even stop its global march. The world had embraced the idea, and the spirit of that first small ceremony had taken root.
The next time you give your mother a flower or a call, remember. This day began not with marketing. It also did not start with tradition. It started with one woman’s vow to never let the world forget what mothers truly do.
Challenges and Resilience in the LGBTQI+ Community Today –– Beyond PRIDE With A New Pope!
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
5–7 minutes
Navigating the Crossroads: Challenges and Resilience in the LGBTQI+ Community
In recent years, the LGBTQI+ community has observed both significant strides toward equality and alarming setbacks that threaten these advancements. As societal acceptance grows in some areas, legislative and social challenges persist, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and awareness.
Mental Health: A Silent Crisis
Mental health disparities continue to be a critical issue within the LGBTQI+ community. According to The Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey, 39% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. The rates rise to 46% among transgender and nonbinary youth. Factors contributing to this crisis include discrimination, lack of access to affirming care, and societal stigma. (1)
Intersex youth face even more pronounced challenges. A study highlighted troubling findings about intersex respondents. It showed that 77% had someone try to change their sexuality or gender identity. Over 10% had undergone conversion therapy. (2)
Healthcare Access: Barriers and Disparities
Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, yet many LGBTQI+ individuals face significant obstacles. The Center for American Progress reported that in 2024, 45% of transgender adults postponed medical care due to affordability issues. Additionally, 60% of intersex adults faced the same issue. Additionally, 37% of transgender adults avoided seeking care out of fear of discrimination. (3)
The political landscape further complicates access to necessary care. A survey by FOLX Health revealed that 90% of trans and nonbinary Americans feared the 2024 presidential election. They were concerned it would negatively impact their healthcare access. Notably, 20% had already lost access due to anti-LGBTQ policies. (4)
Legislative Challenges: A Double-Edged Sword
Legislation plays a pivotal role in shaping the experiences of LGBTQI+ individuals. In 2024, nearly 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed across the United States, with 46 enacted into law. These laws have had profound effects, with over 70% of LGBTQ+ adults reporting negative impacts on their mental health.
Conversely, there have been positive legislative developments. Thirty-seven pro-equality bills were signed into law, focusing on areas like parenting rights and health and safety. (5)
Community Initiatives: Resilience and Support
Amid these challenges, community-led initiatives have emerged as beacons of hope. In Connecticut, drag performances educate on health and suicide prevention. They create inclusive spaces for dialogue and support. (6)
The introduction of the Pride in Mental Health Act aims to bolster mental health resources for LGBTQ+ youth. It recognizes the unique challenges they face. The act highlights the importance of affirming care. (7)
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The LGBTQI+ community continues to navigate a complex landscape of progress and adversity. While strides have been made in visibility and rights, significant work remains. We need to guarantee fair access to healthcare. Protection under the law is also necessary. Furthermore, societal acceptance must be achieved.
Allies, policymakers, and community members must advocate for inclusive policies. They should support mental health initiatives. It’s essential to foster environments where LGBTQI+ individuals can thrive without fear of discrimination or harm.
Recent Developments Impacting the LGBTQI+ Community
Posted by Movie and Television Show Writer and Actor Del Shores on Facebook –
LGBTQ+ Rights Under Attack in 2025 — And the Fight Continues! But we, as a community, stand firm and resilient.
I posted it many years ago before we could legally marry someone we loved. Before United States v. Windsor struck down DOMA in 2013, and before Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, we finally gave our love full legal recognition nationwide.
And it became one of the most shared things I’ve ever posted.
WHERE WE ARE NOW, 2025!
2025 has seen an alarming surge in anti-LGBTQ+ bills, with over 500 introduced in the U.S. alone.
Over 774 are specifically anti-trans, and 700 of those are still active.
Texas leads the charge with 127 of these hate-fueled bills.
Many of these bills are pushed by the GOP, wrapped in the Bible, and weaponized with false righteousness. It’s the same tactic — just a different year with more hateful rhetoric than ever.
When I wrote “Southern Baptist Sissies” in 2000. I dreamed it would one day feel like a period piece — a snapshot of a fight we’d won. And yet, in 2025, my character Mark’s words still guide me as I fight for and with my LGBTQ+ family and our beautiful allies:
“Sometimes I close my eyes, and I create a perfect world. A world of acceptance and understanding and love. A world where there’s hope. Even if the hope is just whispered, I hear it.”
To the trans community: we see you, love you, and stand with you in unwavering solidarity.
To the so-called Christians using the Bible to harm: you’re using it wrong.
Romans 13:10 — “Love does not harm its neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.”
Let’s love louder, let’s love more, and let’s love without boundaries.
Let’s keep whispering — and shouting — that hope.
“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because. God is love.” 1 John 4: 7-8.
#ProtectTransKids #LGBTQHistory#SouthernBaptistSissies#HopeIsARevolution#TransRightsAreHumanRights#FaithNotFear
A NEW POPE
The election of Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—marks a historic moment. He becomes the first American to lead the Catholic Church. His choice follows the death of Pope Francis. Pope Francis was noted for his progressive stances on social issues. These included LGBTQ+ inclusion .(1)
Implications for the LGBTQI Community
Pope Leo XIV’s past statements suggest a more conservative approach to LGBTQ+ issues compared to his predecessor. In 2012, he expressed concern about popular culture. He believed it was fostering “sympathy for beliefs and practices that are at odds with the Gospel.” He specifically cited the “homosexual lifestyle” and “alternative families comprised of same-sex partners and their adopted children.” He has opposed the inclusion of teachings on gender in schools. He describes the promotion of gender ideology as confusing. (2)
Pope Leo XIV has not publicly addressed LGBTQ+ issues since his election. His earlier positions show a potential shift from the more inclusive tone set by Pope Francis. Pope Francis had endorsed civil unions for same-sex couples. He also allowed blessings for same-sex unions. This signaled a more welcoming approach. (3)
Awaiting Future Developments
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, the global Catholic community will be observing his leadership closely. This includes LGBTQ+ members. They will watch how it will shape the Church’s stance on inclusion and diversity. His actions in the coming months will offer clearer insights. His statements will reveal the direction he intends to take on these critical issues.
Sources – References:
Senator Ed Markey. CT Insider HRC+1HRC+1 Axios+2Center for American Progress+2KUNC+2HRC+6Teen Vogue+6The Trevor Project+6. Center for American Progress. euronewsThem+1Center for American Progress+1. The Trevor Project+4American Art Therapy Association+4Brittany Bate+4.
Tribute to Edy Star: The Groundbreaking Brazilian Artist
By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
1–2 minutes
Edy Star, Trailblazing Brazilian Artist and Queer Icon, Dies at 87
April 25, 2025 – São Paulo, Brazil
Edy Star was a flamboyant and fearless Brazilian artist. He was a singer, actor, and visual artist. He broke ground as one of the country’s first openly gay performers. Edy Star died on April 24 in São Paulo. He was 87.
A Singular Life
Born Edy Nunes in Salvador, Bahia, Edy Star became a singular presence in Brazilian culture. His career spanned music, theater, television, and visual arts. He carved a space for himself that defied convention. He also challenged the mainstream.
He is best remembered for his work on the 1971 cult album. Sociedade da Grã-Ordem Kavernista Apresenta Sessão das 10 gained significant attention. It is a psychedelic, satirical collaboration with Raul Seixas, Sérgio Sampaio, and Miriam Batucada. The album blends rock, samba, and theatrical flair. It was initially pulled from circulation. But, it later became a defining artifact of Brazil’s counter cultural movement.
Fearless Expression in Dangerous Times
Edy Star was known for his irreverent stage presence, extravagant costumes, and unapologetic queerness. Brazil was under a military dictatorship. During this time, LGBTQ+ voices were often silenced. His bold performances stood as acts of defiance.
By challenging gender norms and pushing social boundaries, he became a symbol of artistic freedom, resistance, and queer pride.
A Multidisciplinary Force
Moreover to his musical legacy, Edy Star was a visual artist, television presenter, and seasoned stage actor. His multidisciplinary approach made him a beloved figure across Brazil’s creative scenes.
He brought the same vibrant energy and passion to every medium he touched. His work left a lasting impression on audiences and fellow artists alike.
A Peaceful Farewell
Edy Star passed away peacefully in a São Paulo hospital due to complications after a domestic accident. According to a statement from his press office, he died “without pain, while receiving medical treatment.”
An Enduring Legacy
Edy Star’s legacy lives on in the bold, boundary-breaking art he championed. He inspired generations of LGBTQ+ artists to live and create without compromise.
He didn’t just execute. He transformed.
The Legend of Bick Bickerstaff: Ticketing Liberace in Oklahoma
Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
3–4 minutes
The Man Who Wrote Liberace a Speeding Ticket
When I was young, I had the privilege of working alongside some genuinely seasoned police officers. These were men who had been in the profession for decades. They carried with them a wealth of stories and experience. One of the most unforgettable among them was my Captain, Loyd “Bick” Bickerstaff.
Captain Bickerstaff was the first person I met when I interviewed for the job. He pulled for me to get hired, though I never quite knew why. Maybe he saw himself in me. He was around sixty when we met. At the time, I didn’t know much about his background. I quickly learned through stories from others that he was a legend in Oklahoma law enforcement.
Officers came from various places. If they stopped by our agency, they either knew Bickerstaff or had heard of him. He had that reputation. And if he happened to be off-duty during their visit, they left visibly disappointed.
I remember one particular day when I was on desk duty. A reporter from Time-Life came in. He said he was working on a piece about Route 66. He asked if he could interview Captain Bickerstaff. I told him to wait while I went to get the Captain.
Now, Bick wasn’t the type to jump at the chance to talk to the press—unless he had something to say. But when I mentioned a Time-Life reporter was here to see him, he promptly came out into the booking lobby and, in classic Bick fashion, boomed:
“I bet you want to ask me about that son of a bitch I wrote a ticket to back in the 1950s!”
At that moment, I thought, Well, this will be a PR nightmare. But to my surprise, he and the reporter hit it off. They wandered around the station talking and laughing. They even went outside. The photographer snapped pictures of Bick behind the wheel of a patrol car.
Maybe this won’t turn out so bad after all, I thought.
Still, I couldn’t help but wonder. What kind of ticket did someone get back in the ’50s? It still had reporters chasing the story.
When Bick returned, he shook the reporter’s hand, sent him off, and then strolled back to where I was working.
“I can tell your brain’s buzzing,” he said with a grin. “You want to know what that was all about?”
I nodded.
“Yeah, I’d say so. Stuff like this doesn’t happen every day.”
And so he told me.
In the 1950s, Bick was a trooper with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. In those early days, he patrolled on a motorcycle. One night, near Elk City, Oklahoma, a flashy car with California plates sped by him on Old 66. It was doing over 75 miles per hour or more.
He took off after it and got the car pulled over. It was late, and as he walked up to the driver’s window, the man inside said:
“Surely, you’re not going to write me a ticket. Don’t you know who I am?”
To which Bick famously replied:
“I don’t care if you’re Liberace—you’re driving like a bat out of hell. Yes, I’m writing you a ticket!”
And as it turned out, it was a Liberace. Liberace’s Brother George!
Bick wrote the ticket anyway. George Liberace followed Bick to the courthouse, paid it on the spot, and went on his way.
A few weeks later, Bick’s supervisor got a call from one of Liberace’s agents. They wanted to fly Bick to Hollywood to be on The Liberace Show. They thought it would be significant: the highway patrolman who dared to ticket a star. Bick said he couldn’t say no. The department thought it was good publicity, and it was.
Years later, people still talk about it. Unknowingly, I worked with the man who once wrote Liberace’s brother a speeding ticket. Bick told me –––
“Liberace brought me out on stage. He announced that I was the highway patrolman who wrote his Brother George a speeding ticket!”
Embracing Honesty in Self-Reflection
Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©
2–3 minutes
On Writing a Sincere Self-Analysis
Writing the most sincere self-analysis is no small undertaking. It asks something of us that we’re not always ready to give. It demands honesty, and not just the kind we wear on our sleeves when trying to be humble or modest. It demands the raw kind. The kind that doesn’t flatter or soften but still doesn’t condemn. A self-analysis worth anything must go beyond the stories we’ve rehearsed for friends. It must also reach deeper than the traits we like to highlight on good days. It must ask: Am I willing to know myself, truly? And, more difficult still: Am I willing to share that knowledge with others, even if it unsettles or embarrasses me?
There’s always a temptation to curate the truth—to include only what paints us in a light we can tolerate. We must focus on growth, accomplishments, and kind-heartedness. We should downplay the envy, impatience, and regrets that tug at us when we’re alone. But sincerity demands more. It asks for balance. The glad moments don’t mean as much without the unhappiness that gives them context. Our kindness shines brighter when we own the times we’ve neglected to be kind. Our strength becomes more meaningful when we admit we’ve been weak.
A true self-analysis is like holding up a mirror. It’s not the forgiving kind in your hallway that you glance at before heading out. It’s the close-up, unfiltered reflection you find under harsh light. There, we meet the layers. First, there’s the child we were. Then, comes the adult we became. Finally, there’s the person we are still trying to be. We see the love we gave and the love we withheld. We know the courage and the fear, the moments of pride and the nights of doubt. And in that space, there is room for grace—because sincerity isn’t about judgment but clarity.
So when you write your self-analysis, ask yourself: will I tell it all? Or just the things I like? Will I dare trace the lines that run through my contradictions, triumphs, and failures? The work isn’t in choosing between the good and the bad. It’s in holding them together and saying,
This is who I am—flawed and hopeful, broken in places but still reaching toward something better.
That’s when you know it’s sincere—not because it sounds perfect, but because it doesn’t try to be.
benandsteve.com 