Remembering the old days

Looking back on our recent (20th century) history reveals a varied past. It seems like there have been certain decades during that time that have had their own unique identities. Then there are some that are like the “same old, same old.”

Certainly there are some that we would not, undoubtedly, like to go back to. The first decade that comes to my mind (long before I was born, by the way) is the 1930’s and the depression. People were out of work everywhere. Hunger was commonplace. Just living was a struggle.

Then there was the 1940’s which brought World War II. Young men from every family were going off to war. Some commodities were scarce because the raw materials and the factories, were being used to make stuff for the war. I don’t really remember those years either.

Do you remember the 60’s? Oh my-gosh, I do! The Vietnam War protests and the civil rights movement happening at the same time. Half of the young population became hippie-fied, and the other half were acting like it.

Also, a cool thing was taking place: A unique bunch of terms and words were developing. Some are still being used today, and some are long gone. Looking back, I remember a few.

How about when the word “fuzz” meant the police? Do you remember that? And, the strange word, “scratch” was another way of saying money.

“Right on Brother” was the cool way to say “I agree with you”, and “Keep the peace baby” was a universal greeting.

When you wished to shake hands with someone, you said, “Give me some skin Brother”. And “Flower Power” was a way to describe the influence of protest. “Out of sight” is still used and means something is so unusual that it is hard to believe.

Watching the “boob tube” (another word for the television) was considered to be a real “bummer.” And how about, he was a real “Cat”, and hanging out with him was “way out”?

Do you remember “Lay it on me?” How about that thing is so “Grungy” it is just too “Far out”. But I do “Dig it” when I see you “Hanging tough” whenever the situation gets too “Hairy”.

So it’s been a blast talking to you cat, but now I’d better cut out. So hang tough brother. I’m going out to catch some rays.