Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer discuss some newly emerging history on mostly women and children that were deported and imprisoned in the Civil War.

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/17/2012 -- By Gordon Mercer and Marcia Gaines Mercer

"I repeat my orders to you that you arrest all people male and female connected with those factories, no matter what the clamor and let them foot it, under guard to Marietta, whence I will send them by [railroad] cars to the North." William Sherman, Major-General

The Civil War was raging. General Sherman had begun a scorched earth policy of destroying industry and civilian property in hopes of breaking the will of the South. Homes were targeted. Sherman believed that terrorizing civilians was the best way to destroy the South's morale and ability to wage war.

It was a dark period in our history; slaves were bought and sold and families separated. We were not long out of arresting Native American and forcing them out West.

Earlier when Union troops arrived in Roswell, Georgia in 1864; General Garrard, under orders from Sherman, destroyed the operating textile mills. The mills, though attempting to appear neutral by flying the French flag, were making uniform material for the Confederacy. Sherman ordered everyone connected with the mill arrested and charged with treason. As the Factory owners had already fled to safer havens, it was the 400 millworkers, mostly women, who were arrested and transported to Kentucky and Indiana. A similar fate befell approximately 300 millworkers of the neighboring New Manchester Mill on Sweetwater Creek. Arrested women workers were allowed to bring their children. Male workers arrested were mostly too young or too old to fight in the war.

The Northern newspapers were outraged, "… all for the offense of weaving tent-cloth," wrote one correspondent. Indiana's "New Albany ledger" wrote sympathetically of the refugees' plight; describing them as "thinly clad," living in "hovels," with some dying from starvation or exposure.

This incident was never fully researched until Michael Hitt wrote, "Charged with Treason: Ordeal of 400 mill workers during military operations in Roswell, Georgia, 1864-1865." Gordon talked with author Michael Hitt, a police officer in Roswell. Michael thought Sherman feared that the skilled workers would shift to other factories, if not transported and charged with treason.

Mary Petite's book, "The Women will Howl," gives an account of the workers fate. Some died of freezing and starvation on the banks of the Ohio River; many gave children up for adoption to keep them from starving. Requests by local agencies for assistance from the Federal government were denied. Requests for seed for starving women and children to plant gardens were denied. The lucky ones did obtain jobs in factories and some made it back to Georgia. Once back in Georgia, however, some were denied work in Roswell as factory owners blamed them for not defending the mills against Union troops. Many workers, unable to return, stayed in the Northeast.

Why was this story lost in history? Hitt points out that the workers were illiterate and did not keep diaries or write letters. The women and children, along with a few men, could not present their case. Michael Hitt worked for ten years to find the truth.

Thanks to Michael Hitt's research and that of Mary Petite and others, the story of the millworkers has been brought to light. A monument in the workers honor has been erected in Roswell. The Sweetwater Creek State Conservation Park Visitors Center and the museum in Lithia Springs, Georgia help tell the tragic history of the Manchester Mill workers.

Michael Hitt told us there were no movie plans yet, but he thought that the stories of transported factory workers charged with treason for making cloth were compelling. We all agreed it would make a haunting movie. As with many tragedies, resilience of the human spirit prevailed and workers and children made the best of the situation. Most workers survived in spite of abuse, imprisonment, being thrown out on the streets, freezing weather, lack of shelter and starvation in a location far, far from home.

Are we dealing with the other side of "Gone with the Wind," as the imprisoned workers and children suffered in imprisonment and afterwards. We suggest that citizens in the Atlanta, Georgia area form a blue ribbon committee to begin negotiations with Hollywood for a major film and script. Perhaps in history and films, it is true that the truth will set us free. Sherman is often quoted as saying, "War is Hell." Perhaps, he was right.

Dr. Gordon Mercer is past president and on the Board of Trustees of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a published author and columnist.

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By Dr. Gordon Mercer and Marcia Gaines Mercer

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/03/2012 -- Sometimes major and significant historical events are lost. "Several Southeastern tribes have long said that their ancestors received immigrants from Mesoamerica and that these immigrants introduced many cultural changes. Far too few anthropologists were listening," according to Richard Thornton

As the Maya civilization began to collapse around 800 AD, Maya cities were being deserted. It was a period of great disruption. Drought, volcanic activity, and famine resulted in a severe decline in population of several Maya regions. Scholars have long debated the question, where did they go? Richard Thornton's book, "Itsapa: The Iza Mayas in North America," provides an interesting answer. He thinks some of the Maya migrated to Southeastern North America.

Richard Thornton, a Creek Indian, is an architect and city planner, who studied Mesoamerican architecture with archeologist Dr. Roman Pina Chan of the Museo Nacional de Anthropolgia de Mexico. When Thornton was a student, Dr. Pina Chan called Thornton's attention to similarities between ruins, petroglyphs, early stone carvings and pottery designs from the United States and Maya cultures and asked him to consider the implications. Even though Thornton's career took many paths, these probing questions influenced his research.

While Thornton has his critics, his findings are intriguing. His research is wide ranging but has focused on Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest mountain and the Track Rock Gap area, near the base of the mountain. Thornton found ruins of around 154 masonry walls, terraces, rock ruins, retaining walls and also signs of irrigation systems that are similar to Maya ruins and indicate early Maya presence. He studied petroglyphs at Track Rock Gap, where he found evidence of Maya designs. Judaculla Rock, which predates the Cherokee and is near the campus of Western Carolina University, has Maya designs on it, according to Thornton.

Thornton's research is multidisciplinary. He cites DNA findings, oral history of the Creek Indians and similarities in architecture, art and linguistics to reach conclusions about early Maya migration. He found that by using huge sailing rafts, the early Maya traveled great distances and engaged in extensive trade.

Significantly, Thornton found the Central American Itza Mayas and the Southeastern Hitchiti Creeks and many other early Native American communities in the Southeast used the word "Itsate," which means Itza Maya people. He also found considerable linguistic overlap in early words used by the Maya and Native Americans of the Southeast.

Thornton's critics are firing away. Dr. Mark Williams, Director of the Laboratory of Archeology at the University of Georgia, calls Thornton's theories, "total and complete bunk." James O'kon, author of "The Lost Secrets of Maya Technology," examined pictures of the Georgia ruin sites and found no evidence of Maya jadeite carving tools, no signs of mortar usually present in Mayan architecture and ruins that he thought were too disorganized to be Maya. Thornton counters that it was the commoners and merchants, not the elites of Maya civilization, who came to North America. He also presents evidence of very similar ruins within Maya civilization. Critics have not refuted Thornton's DNA evidence, linguistic studies or his use of Creek oral history to reach his conclusions.

We visited Brasstown Bald in Georgia and talked with officials at the Museum. One official was visibly irritated at the mention of Thornton's book and told us loudly that the area had no ruins influenced by Maya cultures. Gordon speculated that she was upset because if Thornton's research turns out to be correct, the museum would need a major makeover. Neither Thornton's book nor mention of his research could be found in the museum or bookstore.

Hiking the Arkaquah Trail, which is open to the public, we saw some terrace structure ruins. Then we drove to Track Rock Gap to see the petroglyphs mentioned in Thornton's book.

Did the early Maya migrate to the Southern Highlands of the Southeast? We don't know for certain but the implications are far reaching and history and Native American texts would need to be rewritten. Thornton's challenge to conventional wisdom has stimulated considerable debate, which often signals major breakthroughs ahead.

Dr. Gordon Mercer is past president and on the Board of Trustees of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a published author and columnist.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical.” Yogi Berra

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/14/2012 -- This quote is by Lawrence Peter "Yogi " Berra, a veteran of D Day in World War ll and one of the greatest baseball catchers of all time. In his nineteen years of playing for the New York Yankees, he helped them go to fourteen World Series. He also played a major role in the success of his team through his ability to lead pitchers, hit the ball in clutch situations and as an all around athlete. Due to his leadership skills, he managed the New York Yankees and New York Mets and was selected to the baseball Hall of Fame in 1972.

Noted for his humorous quips of wisdom, he advised us well beyond the confines of baseball. In the above quote he reminds us (despite the math) that life's outcomes are not a result of skill alone but are a reflection of our thoughts, of all that is in our mind. It is true that much of life revolves around what we expect will happen. If we expect to win we increase our chances of winning, though this also involves work and preparation. In difficult moments, if we believe there is a solution to our problem it is easier to prepare ourselves to find it.

In 1973 the New York Mets trailed the Chicago Cubs. Everyone thought it was over for the Mets but Berra, who declared defiantly, "it ain't over till it's over," which became perhaps his most famous quote. Berra had an eighth grade education but he knew something most leaders often forget and that is you never, ever give up on your dreams. The New York Mets won the division title that year but the victory had evolved first in the mind of Yogi Berra.

Today we face a world where many of us are struggling, especially financially. Is the way out as simple as positive thinking? Probably not (but it is a helpful start.) From his own words we know that Yogi Berra was a positive thinker. He also possessed determination, humor, resolve and an indomitable spirit. He was as certain of his team's ultimate victory as others were of their failure. He knew the roots of success or failure are up to us and mostly involve what we expect and think will happen.

Here are a few of our ideas on leadership. Leadership and winning deal with the large picture as well as repairing the leaks in the boat. Our national leaders have been quite content to watch as a great deal of our manufacturing and Made in America products leave; leaving unemployment , deficits and community breakdowns in the wake of their default of leadership. They can neither deal with the big picture of the wealth of nations through manufacturing or fixing the leaky boat.

As our leaders fail, our nation is long over-due for local, state and national Citizens' Conventions to set our nation on the right course. Our nation can win again, jobs can be created, and manufacturing can thrive again. Lee Iacocca had it right; "Where Have All the Leaders Gone?" How much longer can we wait before local, state and national Citizens' Conventions are called?-Not Long!

Dr. Gordon Mercer is international president emeritus of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and Professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a published children's author and writer. Our columns are featured in newspapers across the United States and globally. Let us know if you are a publisher or editor and would like to receive our columns. edison@myfrontiermail.com

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“The Indians set a high value on their white earth: however I sent for a linguist, and after strong talk which lasted near four hours, we settled matters….” Thomas Griffiths, 1767

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/27/2012 -- It was 1987 and we were riding our horses along highway 28, when we first saw the marker: "Wedgwood….several tons of clay taken on 1767 from a nearby pit by Thomas Griffiths….." Intrigued, we talked about someday visiting the white clay mine. We didn't know finding the mine would not be easy.

Historically, Macon County was a center of Cherokee Kaolin clay mining and our first step was reading a copy of the Thomas Griffiths 1767 original journal, which is in the Macon County Public Library. Thomas Griffiths came over from England in 1767, as a representative of Josiah Wedgwood. Kaolin clay was needed by Wedgwood to make his fine Porcelain. Griffiths, however, left no map on where he got the 5 tons of clay he took back to England.

We talked with Russell Townsend, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and he explained the importance of Kaolin clay to the Cherokee. It was used, Townsend said, for game tiles, tobacco pipe production and as slurry for the interior and exterior of homes. Mica deposits nearby meant mica frequently got into the slurry mix. The mica made the Cherokee homes sparkle like diamonds.

Josiah Wedgwood in England dreamed of large scale manufacturing of the best pottery in the world. He used unique glazes and classical designs from Roman and Greek periods. Orders for Wedgewood came from the rich and royal. Empress Catherine and Queen Charlotte were customers and Wedgewood labeled one of his lines, "Queens Ware." He had found the best Kaolin clay came from the mine in what would become, Franklin, NC. Several years later, he found a source of clay in England but "White Unaker" from Franklin had already revolutionized Wedgwood pottery.

There is disagreement about the original location of the Cherokee mine that supplied Griffiths Kaolin but most think it to be in the Iotla area. After studying maps and talking to those with extensive family history in Macon County, Gordon located a disabled veteran, whose relatives had worked the mine. Following the veteran's directions, Gordon found himself at Jerry Anselmo's place, "Great Smoky Mountain Fish Camp and Safari's" on the Little Tennessee River. Anselmo became aware of the Kaolin mine on his property, when he moved to Franklin 22 years ago. Thomas Rickman of Rickman's store told him about the mine, and believed it was the original Cherokee mine and the source of Kaolin for some early Wedgwood pottery.

Jerry drove us near the mine site in his jeep and we hiked the remaining distance. Large quartz boulders line the way and stand at the entrance of the mining area. At the mine site, we were enchanted by the white clay cliffs and ground sparkling with mica and Kaolin. It was a perfect Indiana Jones movie setting.

Jerry Anselmo is a gracious host and we were impressed with his conservation orientation. Before moving to Franklin, he worked with Jacques Cousteau on the Save the Dolphins Project. He has partnered with the Little Tennessee Land Trust on development rights on some of his land holdings linked to the Cherokee. As we were leaving, Jerry promised a tour for our grandchildren and gave us samples of Kaolin for our mantle.

Did we find the lost mine? We are certain we did. Jerry Anselmo had also received confirmation through conversations with some of the relatives of the first Europeans to arrive in Franklin, who knew many Cherokee Indians.

Displays of early Wedgwood pottery would be nice in our region. For more information, Barbara McRae's extensive research on Franklin's Kaolin clay history and links to Wedgwood pottery can be found at the Franklin Historical Museum. We enjoyed comparing our ideas and notes with Barbara's on whether Franklin area Kaolin clay arrived in England before the 1767 Wedgwood expedition. We all agreed this is very probable and will be an interesting area for future research.

Dr. Gordon Mercer is on the Board of Trustees of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society. He is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University and a published author. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a writer and published author.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“Not only was he a great athlete, but he has been an absolute gentleman in his behavior since, a characteristic not always found in sports heroes after a big fuss has been made of them.” Hugh Morton

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/02/2012 -- We were in Chapel Hill for the 'cousin's dinner,' a family event taking place every year at a local restaurant near Marcia's family farm. Her uncle, Larry Cheek, a former sports writer for the "Greensboro Record" and "The Roanoke times" and columnist for 27 years with the "Fayetteville Times" was chatting with Gordon and reflecting on the Charlie Justice era of football at the University of North Carolina. All-American tailback Justice, Larry and Gordon agreed, put University of North Carolina athletics on the map and gave it a national reputation.

"His style was captivating," Larry asserted. "He could pass, run, kick and fake his opponents and if he could get any running room, he was gone for a touchdown. The nation was ready for a hero." Gordon remembered as a boy his neighborhood friends gathering around the radio to listen to the UNC football games. The boys were all secretly Charlie Justice as they played back-yard football. While at UNC, Justice did his teaching internship at Chapel Hill High School. Larry was in Justice's class and remembers the students being electrified as they recognized their new student teacher.

As football tailback for UNC from 1946 to 1949, Justice came in second for the Heisman Trophy two years in a row, was named All-American and broke the school record for offense with 4,883 total yards. Coach Carl Snavely and the Tar Heels attained national prominence and rank and invitations to the Cotton Bowl and two Sugar Bowls. "The Baltimore Sun" gave Charlie the nickname, "Choo Choo," while he played for the U. S. Navy at Bainbridge Naval Center. Like a train he was characterized by brilliant open field running unmatched in football history.

Football, however, was not all there was to Charlie Justice. Justice became a legend because of talent but also because of character and sportsmanship. Bob Terrell, the late writer and columnist for the "Asheville Citizen Times," captures this in his book, "All Aboard: The Fantastic Story of Charlie 'Choo Choo' Justice," which includes highlights of Justice's time as a football star at Asheville High as well as his time with the Washington Redskins.

The Junior Women's Club encouraged him to speak to schools on sportsmanship. Terrell's coverage of these speeches and our own study of Justice led us to some findings we wanted to share. Charlie Justice lived and taught rules of sportsmanship relevant to life as well as athletics and these are as follows:

Have confidence in yourself. Remember you are learning how to think on your feet, compete, win, deal with defeat and then immediately pick yourself up for the next play.

Have respect for linemen and other players. You will not get anywhere without them.

Do all you can to build up the team. Sports and life are about teamwork.

Academics and education come first. (Justice turned down a professional football contract with the Chicago Bears to go to college.)

Take practice seriously. Develop a serious work ethic. Set high standards for yourself and other players and do not break rules.

Work hard to gain the respect of your teammates.

Never, ever let fame go to your head.

Get along with and be considerate of others.

Taking what you learned in athletics into other professional careers will help you succeed in life. Life is about sportsmanship, fairness and treating others with respect.

The next day, we drove across UNC campus in search of the statue of Charlie Justice at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Charlie "Choo Choo" Justice's statue stood tall at Kenan Memorial stadium. The wall behind the statue held several plaques devoted to him. We silently remembered his love of the mountains at Lee Edwards High (now Asheville High); where as a high school football player he began to teach sportsmanship on and off the playing field.

Charlie Justice died in 2003. He often said he wanted to be remembered for more than athletics. Justice was a hero both on and off the field, and an example to others. We think his wish was granted.

Gordon Mercer is past president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a children's book writer and columnist. Her new children's book, "When I Woke up the World Was Yellow" came out recently.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“Alice’s hand went to her heart. With this ring….” Nancy Rhyne, 1926-

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/14/2012 -- The sun was setting near Pawleys Island and it was cold.

"I'm going to the car to warm up. You look for it," Marcia pleaded. Hurrying past tombstones and Spanish moss and hoping the gate would open easily from this side, she headed for the warmth of the car. As she thawed, the phone rang; our daughter was checking in.

"What are you all doing," she asked?

"We are in All Saints Cemetery looking for Alice's grave," Marcia answered.

"Oh, well, that's nice mom…….I'm um……real glad you all are having fun……who is Alice?"

"Everybody knows about Alice Flagg," said the mournful looking woman giving us directions to the cemetery. "Alice was 16 when she died and the most beautiful girl at the Charleston debutante ball. She wore a long white flowing dress." Her voice dropped to a whisper, "she still wears that dress…."

The story of Alice is a ghost story as well as a love story. Romeo and Juliet, as well as Heathcliff and Catherine could do no better. Taking place, or not as some argue, around the Wachesaw Rice Plantation in what is currently Murrells Inlet, it is based on some historical fact. Like many legends, it involves adventure, difficulty and forbidden love. We decided to check it out.

It began on the Wachesaw Rice Plantation and The Hermitage plantation home in the 1840's. Alice's father, patriarch of the wealthy Flagg family, passed away and Alice and her mother went to live with Alice's brother, Dr. Allard Flagg. Dr. Flagg was a serious minded young physician and was less than pleased, when young Alice began seeing a man in the lumber and turpentine business. Alice's mother also felt he was an unsuitable suitor for the rice plantation aristocracy. Alice was forbidden to see him again.

Alice met with her suitor in secret and an engagement and ring soon followed. Alice wore the ring on a ribbon hidden under her clothing. Her brother and mother, in an effort to help Alice forget her love interest, sent Alice to boarding and finishing school in Charleston.

At school, a forlorn and heartbroken Alice began to lose weight and became increasingly very ill. She was comforted by the engagement ring on a ribbon around her neck. After urgent messages and braving days of travel in stormy weather; Dr. Flagg brought Alice back home to The Hermitage. There, he discovered the hidden ring and angrily threw it in an inlet creek. Alice died and was temporarily buried at The Hermitage until her mother could return from the mountains of North Carolina. Alice was then placed in the cemetery at All Saints Church.

Many claim to have seen Alice's ghost. They report a young girl in a white gown clutching for something around her neck or searching for her ring. The sightings occur at The Hermitage or around All Saints Church Cemetery.

Author Nancy Rhyne has written a novel, "Alice Flagg," for which she did extensive research. She is experiencing health problems but we were able to speak with her son Gary Rhyne. Gary, as a young boy, traveled with his mother on research and remembered Clarke Willcox, a previous owner of The Hermitage, being very gracious to his mother and enthusiastic about her novel about Alice. Gary has a porcelain doll that Mr. Willcox gave his mother that once belonged to Alice. The doll is missing one eye. Gary quipped that his wife is not entirely enthused about their ownership of Alice's doll.

Alice's marble grave with the simple word, "Alice" inscribed on it was covered with offerings of flower petals and metal and plastic rings. The ground around the grave was bare. The legend states, with many variations, that walking around the grave backwards 13 times will invoke Alice. We decided not to try.

Visitors come in the thousands to visit the grave of Alice. They pass the graves of James Dickey, author of "Deliverance," and former South Governor Carroll Campbell without notice. The story of Alice touches a timeless chord. We interviewed several people about Alice and were amazed at the emotion in their voice. The theme of the Alice story is simple and universal. What matters most is love and unfulfilled love is the most tragic story of all.

Gordon Mercer is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University and a published author. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a writer, jewelry designer and published author. They reside in Franklin, North Carolina and their columns appear in many newspapers.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“If every American spent just $64 more than normal on USA made items per year, it would create something like 200,000 new jobs.” Diane Sawyer, ABC News

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/01/2011 -- ABC News recently cited statistics showing that in 1960 only 6 percent of products purchased in the United States were manufactured abroad. Today around 60 percent of our purchases are manufactured abroad. With these figures there is little need to wonder, what happened to our jobs? Our political parties can't seem to agree on a solution. Can our media and citizens succeed in bringing our jobs back, as our political system keeps dropping the ball?

ABC News in its program, "Made in America" has become something of a pace setter. According to ABC News, if we all spent pennies more per day on products made in America, it could make a huge difference. A dollar more per day would create over a million new jobs. Transportation costs as well as higher wages in other countries are making made in America products very competitive. Many small businesses are experiencing a turn around because of the media campaign encouraging citizens to buy American made products. Companies like Vaughan-Bassett furniture and L. J. Gascho are up in sales and are hiring new employees. For the first time in many years selected corporations are actually insourcing jobs and bringing jobs back home.

Do we overlook the role of local media when we think about job creation? Newspapers, radio stations, local TV stations are all vital. Local media provide advertising, which builds businesses and creates jobs. They play an important role in educating people about community projects, encouraging citizen ideas and reporting on organizations that build jobs and improve communities. They are involved in community development and help create thriving communities. Often we do not appreciate or understand the role of local media in economic development, job creation and community building. As columnists, we are firm believers in the power of media to help turn America around.

We began wondering, what if media began to monitor purchases of U. S. Federal agencies in a kind of 'media audit' to determine the percentage of agency spending on made in America products? What if the U. S. Congress had the courage to follow the lead of media? Similar watches could be made on state and local governments. The government purchase of American computers, copiers, furniture, construction materials and other items would greatly benefit our economy and, American made products are very competitive on price and quality.

We wondered about the organization of large scale 'Made in America' trade shows and expositions, where 'Made in America' products, technology and services could be displayed and sold. If these were held across the United States and highly publicized, we would begin to turn job creation and our economy around.

In the early history of democracy, citizens gathered to govern in Athens. Governance was deemed the responsibility of citizens and 'citizenship' meant the responsibility to govern. Have we, at times, forgotten? Lessons of history tell us that civilizations begin to decline when citizens default on their responsibility to govern and lead.

It is the role of citizens and of the media to turn our economy around in the United States. Hopefully our elected governmental leaders will follow! The American spirit can never be defeated, especially with American citizens and American media working together to restore our jobs.

Gordon Mercer is a global columnist, professor emeritus at Western Carolina University and a published author. Marcia Gaines Mercer is a writer, published author and global columnist. The Global Digital Post goes where others only dream about going.

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“Bring my life out of prison, that I may confess, praise, and give thanks to your name; the righteous will surround me and crown themselves because of me, for you will deal bountifully with me." Psalm 142:7

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/09/2011 -- Fame and fortune are often fleeting. David was in a critical period. He had killed Goliath, proving himself a worthy warrior, but fate had taken a bad turn. Now, he is a fugitive hiding in a cave and King Saul is plotting to kill him. Emotionally, he is in the depths of sorrow, believing all have deserted him. David responds to this crisis by giving thanks to God. He has faith God will deal with him bountifully. Family and friends gather in support and David eventually becomes King of Israel. Under David's leadership, the nation of Israel prospers. The Bible paints King David as having many human transgressions but he always manages to give God thanks and his life is bountiful.

We call this Biblical principle: 'The law of Bounty and Giving Thanks.' We believe it may be one of the more violated concepts in today's world.

We live in an age where it is considered a sign of weakness to show appreciation to anyone, much less a higher power. Some call this the age of narcissism. We focus so much on ourselves and our accomplishments; we forget or are unwilling to give thanks. David understood that he could not get out of the cave without help. In life, don't we need help with most of our problems? Determination, direction, and persistence are important but few things are accomplished without help.

We counted over 174 verses in the Bible advising us to give thanks. We are sure there are many more. Is it like the trees and forest, we wondered? We see the individual verses but fail to see the magnitude.

Messages all around us tell us about vanity. If we used the right soap or beauty cream, we will be beautiful; if we buy the latest style of clothing people will admire us. Our society encourages us to take vanity too far.

Many biblical leaders found themselves symbolically locked in a cave, as did David in the Bible. Moses was locked into royal power but gave it all up to free the Israelites. He often retuned thanks. Mary Magdalene gave thanks as her life was transformed. Paul, who was filled with hatred, was later transformed on the road to Damascus. Paul gave thanks for his new mission, which included building new churches.

There are three reasons we need to see the forest and practice the Law of Bounty and Giving Thanks. Giving thanks assures us of bounty. It may not be the exact type of bounty we were expecting but our lives are often blessed in unexpected ways. Being thankful prepares us to move into the future with a positive attitude. When we are thankful, our attention is drawn to positive aspects of a situation and this creates more harmony and less conflict. David had discovered cursing the darkness of the cave was getting him nowhere. He gave thanks, for everything and balance, harmony and more were restored.

Most of us are not destined to be king. For most of us, however, harmony, abundance and peace inside ourselves and in our lives would be wonderful. Gratitude helps us make sense of darkness and return to the light.

Go to our newsroom at http://9955.hostednr.com to mention your experiences in using this Biblical Law. Practicing this law takes a few minutes a day.

Dr. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist and her children's book "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow" has just been published. Dr. Mercer served as pastor of Mount Zion United Methodist Church from 1973- 1976. He was recently invited back to give the homecoming sermon. The views expressed in this column are our own and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Book Quote: “We need all the colors! We can’t tell what’s what! I want all the colors back when I wake up.” Marcia Gaines Mercer, When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/25/2011 -- Franklin, NC-With the horrific tragedy in Norway and the discovery of the suspect's anti-multiculturalism webpage and neo-Nazi beliefs, educators around the world again emphasize the need to teach children the value of diversity.

We were surprised to find Marcia Mercer's children's book, "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow" being sold in so many countries. What is it about the children's book that has captured the interest of readers in so many nations? She has answered a few questions in the following interview. Her new children's book has been out a little over a month and keeps selling out.

"When I Woke Up the World Was yellow" is about a feisty heroine who loves yellow, but everything yellow is too much. She misses blue but when blue takes over, everyone looks like zombies. How many single color takeovers will there be before our heroine can put the world right? Like all heroines, she struggles ahead on her unique mission, which in her case is diversity.

We were interested in children's (age3-9) comments about the book. Samantha thought the book was cool and she liked the pink colors best. Mikey liked the book because the world keeps changing colors and he especially liked the red takeover because, "it looks like blood." Wyatt liked the orange world with the sheets of orange falling from the sky. Children's eyes light up with Juan Colla's magical art.

The children were undecided about a world filled exclusively with their favorite color. At first they thought it might be a good idea. As they thought about it and discussed it, a light bulb seemed to go off in their head that diversity creates beauty. Our heroine learns that diversity is a gift that we seldom appreciate, until it is lost!

We asked Marcia Gaines Mercer, the author of "When I woke Up the World Was Yellow," some questions about her book.

Question: Could you comment on the massacre in Norway?

Marcia Mercer: It is tragic and it shows educators will be more challenged than ever to teach values that respect diversity. The neo-Nazi belief structure is one of racism and it is better to deal with this when children are young. My children's book is only one way children can discuss diversity in a way they understand. Conversations with children on the book seem to influence attitudes but I think it is a fun book. Our heroine will fight for diversity in her own unique way.

Question: How do you go about writing a children's book on diversity?

Marcia Mercer: Most of my books have simply come to me. I wake up and they are in my head, planted there. If they are dreams, they don't come with a visual, just words. I write everything down over the next day or so, and then tweak it.

Question: Could you tell us something about the meaning of the book from an author's perspective?

Marcia Mercer: I don't see it as a book about colors, although it is fine if others do. I see it as a book about diversity. Gordon, when asked about politics and which side he is on, will sometimes reply that he believes in the two party system. He will then explain what would happen to politics and how much worse it could be if we only had one view of things. I like to think in some simple way the book helps children see that we need more than one way of looking at the world and need ALL the colors when we wake up!

Question: What are your hopes for the book?

Marcia Mercer: I would love for it to be used as a teaching tool on diversity.
Question: Most children's eyes light up as they read a story about a world of changing colors. Little boys, especially, see the possibilities. Do you see your children's book being adapted to the world of movies?

Marcia Mercer: I think it would make a great film! If readers like it and see possibilities for a movie, let me know.

Question: Where can children and parents buy the book? It sold out in the United Kingdom on Amazon Books but they have ordered more copies. It is being sold in China, India, and Australia. Why do you think your book has global appeal?

Marcia Mercer: The theme is universal. Differences are good and essential to well being and happiness. It is difficult to get word out if you are a new author. Some bookstores have it but Amazon Books and Barnes and Noble and Books Unlimited are where most are buying it.

Question: What have been the challenges of working with a publisher and illustrator?

Marcia Mercer: Mirror publishing and the illustrator Juan Carlos Colla are great to work with and I appreciated Barbara McRae of the "Franklin Press" editing it.

Question: What will be the name of your next children's book and when will it come out?

Marcia Mercer: My next children's book, if all goes well, will be "Burley Tree." Burley Tree is a young Yuppa Tree who believes he is not as beautiful as the thin and stately trees around him. He learns how valuable he is and how wonderful it is to be Burly Tree. Like all new children's book writers, I get many turn downs before I get published. I worked on getting published for over 10 years, so perhaps I have payed my dues; I wished many times before my children's book came out!

Dr. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Her children's book, "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow," has been published by Mirror Publishing.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Book Quote: “The World was so different the world was so changed it was all one color it was all the same!” Marcia Gaines Mercer, “When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow”

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/19/2011 -- We were surprised to find Marcia Mercer's children's book, "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow" being sold in so many countries. What is it about the children's book that has captured the interest of readers in so many nations? She has answered a few questions in the following interview. Her new children's book has been out a little over a month and keeps selling out.

"When I Woke Up the World Was yellow" is about a feisty heroine who loves yellow, but everything yellow is too much. She misses blue but when blue takes over, everyone looks like zombies. How many single color takeovers will there be before our heroine can put the world right? Like all heroines, she struggles ahead on her unique mission, which in her case is diversity.

We were interested in children's (age3-9) comments about the book. Samantha thought the book was cool and she liked the pink colors best. Mikey liked the book because the world keeps changing colors and he especially liked the red takeover because, "it looks like blood." Wyatt liked the orange world with the sheets of orange falling from the sky. Children's eyes light up with Juan Colla's magical art.

The children were undecided about a world filled exclusively with their favorite color. At first they thought it might be a good idea. As they thought about it and discussed it, a light bulb seemed to go off in their head that diversity creates beauty. Our heroine learns that diversity is a gift that we seldom appreciate, until it is lost!

We asked Marcia Gaines Mercer, the author of "When I woke Up the World Was Yellow," some questions about her book.

Question: How do you go about writing a children's book?

Marcia Mercer: Most of my books have simply come to me. I wake up and they are in my head, planted there. If they are dreams, they don't come with a visual, just words. I write everything down over the next day or so, and then tweak it.

Question: Could you tell us something about the meaning of the book from an author's perspective?

Marcia Mercer: I don't see it as a book about colors, although it is fine if others do. I see it as a book about diversity. Gordon, when asked about politics and which side he is on, will sometimes reply that he believes in the two party system. He will then explain what would happen to politics and how much worse it could be if we only had one view of things. I like to think in some simple way the book helps children see that we need more than one way of looking at the world and need ALL the colors when we wake up!

Question: What are your hopes for the book?

Marcia Mercer: I would love for it to be used as a teaching tool on diversity.

Question: Most children's eyes light up as they read a story about a world of changing colors. Little boys, especially, see the possibilities. Do you see your children's book being adapted to the world of movies?

Marcia Mercer: I think it would make a great film! If readers like it and see possibilities for a movie, let me know.

Question: Where can children and parents buy the book? It sold out in the United Kingdom on Amazon Books but they have ordered more copies. It is being sold in China, India, and Australia. Why do you think your book has global appeal?

Marcia Mercer: The theme is universal. Differences are good and essential to well being and happiness. It is difficult to get word out if you are a new author. Some bookstores have it but Amazon Books and Barnes and Noble and Books Unlimited are where most are buying it.

Question: What have been the challenges of working with a publisher and illustrator?

Marcia Mercer: Mirror publishing and the illustrator Juan Carlos Colla are great to work with and I appreciated Barbara McRae of the "Franklin Press" editing it.

Question: What will be the name of your next children's book and when will it come out?

Marcia Mercer: My next children's book, if all goes well, will be "Burley Tree." Burley Tree is a young Yuppa Tree who believes he is not as beautiful as the thin and stately trees around him. He learns how valuable he is and how wonderful it is to be Burly Tree. Like all new children's book writers, I get many turn downs before I get published. I worked on getting published for over 10 years, so perhaps I have payed my dues. "When You Wish Upon a Star"…………I wished many times before my children's book came out!

Dr. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. The Global Digital Post was founded in 2009 and is read in over 36 different countries.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

However [political parties] may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterwards the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion. George Washington, Farewell Address, Sep. 17, 1796

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/19/2011 -- Increasingly the debt ceiling dominates U.S. news. Debate is heated. Should Congress raise the ceiling to cover U. S. debt obligations and borrowing? How should we deal with budget cuts and increasing revenues? Neither debt nor raising the debt ceiling is new in the United States; our country was founded in debt. During the American Revolution, Washington was unable to adequately pay, feed or clothe the soldiers. With many of the wealthiest Americans remaining loyal to England, we became increasingly in debt to other countries, especially France, a debt we did repay over time.

Falling in the "believe it or not" category, Congress has raised or revised the debt ceiling 78 times since 1960. Both parties are guilty.

Today we have much at stake including, Veteran's programs, Social Security and the stock market. The credit standing of the United States of America is guaranteed in the 14th Amendment of our Constitution: "The validity of the public debt of the United States……shall not be questioned." Should we default, the U. S. Congress will have defaulted on the U. S. Constitution, which guarantees the public debt of the United States.

Our debt is 14.2 trillion dollars, roughly 98 percent of gross domestic product. The huge debt exists because we lost wealth when free trade was no longer defined as exchange of goods and services but rather defined as taking manufacturing abroad. Our manufacturing and technology had created our wealth. Our wealth has also been spent on foreign petroleum and on wars fought with borrowed money.

We have elected Congressional leaders more loyal to their political party than to the public welfare. If they cannot reach an agreement, a collapsing stock market, economy and huge job losses may follow.

How did we get here? Was George Washington right? We have been a fan of political parties. They balance each other; they keep each other honest, at least to a certain extent. The goal of political parties, however, is to control and gain power in government. They are not necessarily good at formulating policy. They are certainly not good at objectivity. Our nation is in crisis because our partisan controlled U. S. Congress is not working.

Is our current crisis a symptom that political parties are not working? According to recent Gallup polls, we are 30 percent Republican, 29 percent Democrat and 38 percent Independents. According to Roper polls, a majority of those polled have an unfavorable view of both political parties.

Counties and municipalities have increasingly moved to non-partisan elections. People fed up with the petty bickering concluded there was no Republican or Democratic way to pave a street or fix a sewer line.

It has been estimated that in the U.S. about half of elections are nonpartisan. Nebraska has a nonpartisan state legislature elective system that is ranked highly. Nonpartisan elections do not do away with political parties; rather they attempt to diminish damage political parties can cause.

Some of our founders, notably George Washington, believed that political parties were not in our best interest. Read his prediction carefully with an eye on our current state of affairs. A partisan controlled U. S. Congress passed huge budgets and tax cuts that got us in unmanageable debt, sent our manufacturing and jobs overseas, and developed policies leading to economic crisis.

We need objective, fair and intelligent leaders. The evidence is mounting that partisan politics is not what we need. We need to restore government by and for the people. Voters are not giving political parties high marks. George Washington may be proven right.

Dr. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. The Global Digital Post is read in over 38 different countries. The views expressed in this column are our own and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

"If we don't work to preserve and understand our folk heritage, what will be left of the bonds and shared ways that hold our community together? The world would be a dull place without our folk heritage traditions." Theresa Ramsey

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/05/2011 -- We were certain last year's outstanding Franklin Folk Festival could not be improved. Recently Gordon interviewed some of the organizers of the 8th Annual Franklin Folk Festival on WFSC. Arriving home, he realized how captivated he was by their enthusiasm, hard work and many ideas to make this year's festival the best yet.

The 2011 Franklin Folk Festival is Saturday July 16th with start-up activities beginning on Friday, July 15th. The 2010 Festival had visitors from about half of the states indicating incredible outreach and economic impact. In a world filled with emails, text messages and digital images, people long for the authentic and real. People will travel to find it.

Theresa Ramsey, chair of the Franklin Folk Festival, explains that folk heritage includes crafts, trades, history, agriculture, music, dance, culture and other past ways of doing things. According to Margaret Ramsey, chair of the Folk Heritage Association, there will be 100 plus heritage demonstrations including; quilting, weaving, pottery, shingles, split rails, hand-hewn bowls, doll making, moonshine stills, and Chinquapin jewelry that were in many cases, "serious life necessities" in earlier periods. "Unless demonstrations are authentic and part of our community heritage," said Theresa, "they are not included." Barbara McRae, Editor of the Franklin Press, felt authenticity and connectivity to mountain culture were stand out features of the Franklin Folk Festival. This is an authentic celebration of our heritage culture, they all asserted.

Whether you are interested in mountain music, mountain dancing, heritage demonstrations, parades, antique tractors, antique cars, front porch storytelling, lost and existing trails, or want to know more about the skills, dedication and design work behind some of the world's best known quilts (made in Franklin!) or want to visit with Civil War reenactors camp; plan to attend!

Mountain music, gospel singing, mountain music jammers and mountain dancing will be back on stage. The High Mountain Squares and The Flat Possum Hoppers will be performing. Tom Estes will be on the Banjo and Tim Lynch will play the Dulcimer. Expect great performances by the Sweet Tater Band, Deitz Family Band and Men Macon Music. The Dendy Family, Seeds of Faith, Nikwasi Dulcimer Players, The Five O'Clock Shadows and Rye Hollow Bluegrass & Gospel Band will be there to perform. All performers will be demonstrating authentic mountain music and singing including Pauline Marr, who will be teaching mountain clogging. These are only a few of the outstanding performers.

We owe a great deal to the organizers of the Franklin Fold Festival. A sense of sameness, of blandness envelopes the world, when folk cultures are lost. Our traditions and heritage support us, helping us express our uniqueness, our individuality, and providing us with a secure foundation from which to transition into the future.

Without those who work to preserve our heritage, a rich and authentic part of mountain living would be lost. Wouldn't it be a boring world without our living heritage? As we look forward to the upcoming 2011 Franklin Folk Festival, we reflect on how fortunate we are to have the music, dance, trades and cultural folkways of our shared heritage. With our folk heritage inspired in part by the majesty of mountains, streams, rivers, forests and ever present wild life, authenticity is never far away in Franklin.

*North Carolina Now on UNC-TV will feature the Franklin Folk Festival with scenes from last year on Thursday, July 7 at 9: 00 p.m. and again on Friday, July 8 at 8: 30 p.m.

Dr. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. The Global Digital Post is read in over 38 different countries.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Book Quote: “I’m sorry, I said sighing, it’s just, I never knew, how much you need green to appreciate blue!” Marcia Mercer, “When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow”

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/23/2011 -- It was Saturday morning and time to head over to Taste of Scotland in Franklin, N. C. Marcia had the 10 to 12 slot at Books Unlimited and was signing her new children's book, "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow." We enjoyed the book signing. Gordon browsed and bought some books and Marcia enjoyed chatting with everyone.

"When I Woke Up the World Was yellow" is about a feisty heroine who loves yellow, but everything yellow is too much. She misses blue but when blue takes over, everyone looks like zombies. How many single color takeovers will there be before our heroine can put the world right?

We were interested in children's (ages 3-9) comments about the book. Samantha thought the book was cool and she liked the pink colors best. Mikey liked the book because the world keeps changing colors and he especially liked the red takeover because, "it looks like blood." Wyatt liked the orange world with the sheets of orange falling from the sky.

The children were undecided about a world filled exclusively with their favorite color. At first they thought it might be a good idea. As they thought about it and discussed it, a light bulb seemed to go off in their head that diversity creates beauty.

We asked Marcia Gaines Mercer, the author of "When I woke Up the World Was Yellow," some questions about her book.

Question: How do you go about writing a children's book?

Marcia Mercer: The truth is weird but it's how most of my books have come to me. I wake up and they are in my head, like they have been planted there. If it was a dream, it didn't come with a visual, just words. I write everything down over the next day or so, and then tweak it. I was sure that since this one, was in rhyme, I was doomed, even if Jamie Lee Curtis does write in rhyme.

Question: Could you tell us something about the meaning of the book from an author's perspective?

Marcia Mercer: I felt like since the book was planted in my head, it was left to me to interpret. I don't really see it as a book about color, although it is perfectly fine if others do. I see it as a book about diversity. Gordon, when asked about politics and which side he is on, will sometimes reply that he believes in the two-party system. He will then explain what would happen to politics and how much worse it could be if we only had one view of things. I like to think in some simple way the book helps children see that we need more than one way of seeing things and that we need ALL the colors when we wake up!

Question: What are your hopes for the book?

Marcia Mercer: I would love for schools to use it on teaching diversity.
Question: Most children's eyes light up as they read a story about a world of changing colors. Little boys, especially, see the possibilities. Do you see your children's book being adapted to the world of movies?

Marcia Mercer: I think it would make a great film!

Question: Where can children and parents buy the book? It sold out in the United Kingdom on Amazon Books but they have ordered more copies. Were you surprised?

Marcia Mercer:
It is really hard to get word out if you are a new author. Some bookstores have it but Amazon Books and Barnes and Noble and Books Unlimited are where many of my friends are buying it. Australian readers are buying it and that is such a beautiful country in terms of colors.
I don't exactly take full credit for it as the words were there when I woke up. Mirror publishing and the illustrator Juan Carlos Colla have been great to work with and I appreciated Barbara McRae editing it. My next children's book, if all goes well, will be "Burley Tree." It came to me about 7 years ago.

Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. The Global Digital Post columns are read in over 36 different nations. Our columns also appear in the "Franklin Press"
and "Smoky Mountain Times."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Enlightened Quotes: “Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.” Anais Nin

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/20/2011 -- It was Saturday morning and time to head over to Taste of Scotland. Marcia had the 10 to 12 slot at Books Unlimited and was signing her new children's book, "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow."

"Have you thought of anything yet?" Marcia asked Gordon. "Working on it," Gordon replied. We were supposed to turn our column in on Friday but couldn't find a topic we were enthused about. Gordon, relishing an excuse to leisurely browse through the bookstore, disappeared. Thankfully the sight and smell of so many books began to kick our minds into gear.

Newt Gingrich recently came under fire in his own party by lecturing the political right and left on social engineering. His dismayed staff resigned. He had diverged from the political correctness of his party. Whatever we may think of some of Newt's past actions, that remark took courage.

We can do little in life without courage. Courage enables us to move ahead despite criticism and fears. It enables us to take risks and move out of our comfort zone. It means acting on ideas. Without the courage to risk failure, even death; most things we hold dear would be gone.

We are in an age of ideological political machines. Political leaders that propose reform are instantly battered. The two parties have not been able to reach agreement on the debt ceiling, budget cuts or job programs. Large sums are spent in the media by both right and left, to discredit the other side. Studies show those on the far right and far left at times control nominations because they are more likely to participate. People in the center are left without a candidate or representation, even if they are the majority. Carefully reasoned compromise becomes increasingly difficult.

We are optimistic, glass half full kind of people. But, are we in an impossible situation with our leaders unwilling or unable to reach across party lines? Our problems must be dealt with by clear non-ideological thinking that finds common sense solutions.

We need leaders with courage. We need leaders who come together on job creation, the return of made in America, leaders who can agree on a debt ceiling with revenue increases as well as cuts to balance the budget. We need leaders who will address the fact that about half of U. S. households pay no federal income taxes, which places a heavy burden on the rest of us.

One lesson of history is that voters from the silent majority do not speak up until it is too late. Ecclesiastes advises us there is "a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silent and a time to speak." We need to demand leaders who champion jobs. Job creation may be voters' top priority but where are the political leaders with the courage to tackle the problem head on? We need leaders who can reach agreement on a debt ceiling before we default on our debt and good credit and cause an even greater economic collapse.

One of our Founding Fathers, Thomas Payne, advised: "The most formidable weapon against errors of every kind is reason." We need reason and courage from our political leaders.

Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and is professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Our columns are read in over 36 different nations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lost Quote: “Never forget that only dead fish swim with the stream.” Malcolm Muggeridge

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) --06/14/2011 -- Rugged Individualism. The term is, for Americans almost patriotic, certainly romantic. We see images of John Wayne, Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone, Harriet Tubman, Teddy Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan and other American heroes. A "Time Magazine" essay by Roger Rosenblatt somewhat sarcastically stated that: "if you would win over a crowd of Americans, use the term rugged individualism; they will salute it like the flag." We plead guilty.

Is individualism dead? Individualism places emphasis on independence and assuming responsibility for actions. Individualism is linked with the "rugged individuals" who developed the West as our nation expanded. We associate the cowboy culture of self reliance and initiative with individualism. Who hasn't dealt with the question of whether they should go along with the crowd or object to something they consider unconscionable?

Our constitutional legacy of individualism dates back to the Philadelphia Constitutional Convention of 1787. The delegates, charged with amending the Articles of Confederation, decided instead to draw up a new U. S. Constitution. Certain they would be hailed as heroes, they returned home. Instead, citizens were outraged, furious because the delegates had forgotten about individual rights. Realizing the Constitution, as it stood, would never be ratified; they promised to add a Bill of Rights that included the individual rights of freedom of assembly, freedom of speech and press, religious freedom, rights to petition government, jury trial and the right to bear arms and others. Individualism had prevailed!

Individualism means the right to stand up to power and for freedom. Individualism means that a single person can make a difference. Individualism means we can petition government. It means the right to go into business and engage in commerce. It also means individuals have the right to be protected from crime in their communities and the right to a quality education.

WFSC through "Citizens Making a Difference" hosted by Gordon goes out to seven counties and demonstrates the important things citizens do to create a great community. Volunteerism stands out each week, as many individuals work together.

Is it time for a rebirth of individualism in the United States? Letting freedom ring does not mean giving up freedoms the citizens demanding a Bill of Rights fought to preserve. It is self initiative, energized through free enterprise that sets our nation apart. We need leaders that energize this spirit and do not fear protest, when government or organizations veer off the path

Most importantly, individualism and cooperation are not opposites. Novelist and political philosopher Ayn Rand asserts: "An individualist is a man who recognizes the inalienable individual rights of man-his own and those of others."

In the Middle East people are waking up to the proposition that freedom is more than the right to agree; it is also the right to disagree. As the people of the world struggle to replace their bonds with individual rights, let us keep our spirit of individualism alive at home.

Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and was recently honored by being named professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist and her children's book on diversity, "When I Woke Up the World Was Yellow," has just been published by Mirror Publishing in Wisconsin

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“History records the march of nations and the courage that propelled them to the top. History also teaches us that nations without advancing manufacturing and technology will not long survive.” Gordon Mercer

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/26/2011 -- Philosophers, economists, theologians and historians have all tried to explain the rise and fall of nations. Is rise and fall inevitable? Must nations, in some spiral of destiny ordained by a higher power, take turns with poverty and prosperity? Political leaders, especially those seeking office, are certain the nation is on a downhill slide. Religious leaders tell us we are in a state of moral decay. Are we stuck on a downhill run with a service economy and little U.S. manufacturing to sustain us? Can we change direction?

What constitutes a nation's greatness?

Ancient Rome was one of the largest empires of the ancient period. Rome's greatness began with technology, engineering and effective agriculture. This translated into economic and military success. Rome built roads, invented cement and flushing toilets, constructed bridges, amphitheaters, and coliseums, and developed cranes for lifting and ships for trade. Water power, aqueducts and plumbing were sophisticated even by today's standards. Rome engineered metals for armor and weapons and had professionally trained soldiers.

U.S. global wealth and power are based on new technology, manufacturing success and a superior educational system. Most modern technologies, from computers to tractors and bulldozers, from nappies (waterproof diapers) to global positioning systems and the internet, were invented and initially utilized in the United States. Until recently, they were also manufactured in the United States. The list is endless and impressive; the Mars Rover, supersonic Jets, advanced satellite systems, lasers, transistors, integrated circuits, weather satellites and advanced computer programming, all developed in the U.S.

Wikipedia provides a chronology of significant inventions. From this list we were able to tabulate the average number of major inventions for three time periods. According to our calculations, from the years 1929 to 1945, a period which included the depression and World War ll, the United States averaged 4.2 significant inventions a year. From 1946 to 1991, we rose to an average of 4.4 significant inventions a year. Then from 1992 to 2009 the index dropped to 1.76 significant inventions a year. What happened?

There are almost as many theories about the fall of the Roman Empire as there are American inventions. Rome had many problems, notably the constant fighting because of borders continually attacked by Germanic tribes. One of the striking things about the fall, however, was that it was preceded by inflation and overspending by the Roman government. Invention and innovation ceased as they struggled with lack of money. Taxes rose driving smaller operations out of business. Where are we on this grid?

Free trade as initially defined in the United States focused on free exchange of manufactured goods. This definition expanded to include technology and manufacturing leaving the country on a huge scale. Post industrial economists argue for service and information economies with very little manufacturing.

With the new definitions of free trade and post industrial society ideas left unchallenged, huge trade deficits, budget deficits, a declining dollar and few items made in America became the norm. Economic tragedy for many has become a way of life as we become a service economy with few made in America products left to sell or create wealth and jobs.

Our leaders debate two ways to deal with our huge deficits…. cuts in spending and increases in taxes. There is a third way. We need to call our nation back to greatness with restoration of American made products, manufacturing, technology and more significant inventions.

Our technological leadership and global power are at risk. In a recent column we wrote about ABC news segments on 'Made in America'. ABC news reported that if we focused on buying American, whenever possible; it would bring huge, positive change to our economy.

The surprising thing about a Made in America movement is its directness. If we purchase more Made in America products, it will become more profitable for manufacturers to produce goods here than abroad. As manufacturing returns, money for research on advanced technologies and significant inventions return and Jobs return along with U.S. global wealth and power.

More products stamped, "Made in USA" create wealth, jobs and get us back on the sustainable economic path our voters seek.

The Global Digital Post columns are read by readers in over 38 nations. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations. The Global Digital Post travels around the world.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “Love in your heart wasn’t put there to stay-Love isn’t love ‘til you give it away!” Oscar Hammerstein II

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/12/2011 -- We were talking to Jimmy Hornsby of Westminster, who was telling us a compelling story about his friend Jim Scarborough's last request. His friend was dying. He was in a medical facility and wanted to spend some time with his dog buddy, before he died. He knew cigarettes were a bad habit but, well, what did it matter now, he also wanted a cigarette. Both wishes were against the rules of the hospital. Jimmy talked with the nurse who agreed not to see what was happening. He fetched Buddy and arranged for Jim to step out the side door of the hospital. Buddy yelped with joy at seeing his master. Jim smoked a cigarette and held his pet Buddy for the last time. He died the next day.

Last requests usually involve people and things that mean the most to us in life. Anthony Napoleone's story was in many newspapers including the "Bangor Daily News." Anthony was a hospice patient in Salina, Kansas. His wish was to return home to Raymond, Maine to see his two sons and step children who were living with his ex-wife. An anonymous donor made the medical flight possible. He is staying at his aunt's house as visits with his children are arranged. He and his parents are very happily reunited.

Sometimes, we can not anticipate what our last wish might be. Kathryn Hawkins tells the story of eleven year old Brendan Foster, who was diagnosed with Leukemia. He had little mobility and was near death but on the drive home from a medical appointment, he noticed a group of homeless people. Moved by their plight, he wanted to help. He asked his friends to carry food and sandwiches to the camp. They granted his wish and went to feed the homeless in honor of their dying friend.

Fiona Roberts on, "Mail Online" tells the story of 97 year old Everett Potter. Mr. Potter always made it clear that his wife Betty was very dear to him in life, but he had a regret. Throughout their marriage, he had never given her a diamond ring. As he was in hospice care, he arranged a special church service for Betty ('Honey Bunch') to give her a diamond ring and show her how much he loved her. She mattered most.

Perhaps Shakespeare says it best, describing who or what we will long for as our days are numbered. "For thy sweet love remembered such wealth brings That then I scorn to change my state with Kings."

Maya Angelou tells us a lot about the people that mean the most to us when she says: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

It is never too early to think about what matters most to us. In the end, with few exceptions, we wish to be with those we love. When the bell tolls, we want to leave our loved ones no doubt how much we care.

The Global Digital Post columns are read by readers in over 38 nations. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations. The Global Digital Post travels around the world.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “Why do people still farm? The local- food revival, it seems to me, runs on passion: people’s desire for connection to the seasons, to the soil that feeds them, to powerful flavors that can’t be manufactured with chemicals or preserved over 1,300-mile delivery hauls. The problem facing local food production isn’t lack of demand: it’s lack of infrastructure.” Tom Philpott

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/29/2011 -- It is spring. Even our goat Elsa is impressed enough to leave the daffodils alone. She has, however, munched on every green shoot the rose bushes have offered. Elsa sees opportunity in spring and many communities are seeing opportunity for economic development in the megatrend back to local agriculture.

Spring means gardening. For us, perhaps, Gordon puts it best, "Marcia and I have not been blessed with the gift of agriculture."

Our grandparents had green, very green, thumbs and would surely chuckle at our notion that we could quickly learn a craft they had been learning for a lifetime.

Gordon's paternal grandparents farmed in Shannon, N.C., raising tobacco, cotton and a huge vegetable garden. Marcia remembers her grandmother's yard in St Augustine, Florida was filled with flowers and herbs. Her parsley, snipped with the cleanest of kitchen shears, gave an intoxicatingly fresh taste to her coleslaw.

Marcia's maternal grandparents' were dairy farmers in Chapel Hill. Dairy farmers have a horticultural advantage; they have fertilizer, lots of fertilizer. Along with alfalfa hay for the cows they grew rows of deeply colored vegetables and acres of silver queen corn. The tomatoes were the stuff songs are made of. Gordon's other grandparents in nearby Raleigh raised hay, corn and garden vegetables. By the end of summer, freezers and pantries were filled with the winter store.

We have tried vegetable gardening. We have two freezers and for years attempted to raise and freeze our own vegetables. The local farm produce stands were pleased that didn't turn out so well. We usually ended up purchasing our bushels of vegetables to freeze from them. We consoled ourselves, knowing were helping the local economy.

Fruit trees were one of our projects. This resulted in a 'beat the birds to the cherries' game we lost for years in a row. The cherry tree is very tall. To throw bird netting over it would take a scaffold. Every summer we watched with pride and awe as the cherries ripened. Every summer there came a day when the cherry tree, laden with exquisite pinkish- orange fruit, became a cherry tree laden with ……………nothing. Well, three maybe four cherries were left dangling.

"They weren't even ripe!" Marcia would shriek.

Last year we finally beat the birds to the cherries. We don't know how or why. But we are grateful and the cherry jam from that tree is unsurpassed.

We have been successful with okra. It is tall and stands above the weeds. We have had limited success with tomatoes, squash and sunflowers. We flunked potatoes. We flunked cabbage. Do we remember one of our grandmothers saying cabbages like used coffee grounds? Our soil seems to be just right for peppers and we did make and freeze some (antioxidant rich!) red pepper soup.

We have had complete success with wild azaleas, mountain laurel and wild roses. The squirrels love our walnut trees. Friends, however, casually mention that these do not require agricultural skills and neither do our wild blackberry plants. (Gee thanks!)

Still, our grandchildren love searching through our garden each year. They fill their baskets with vegetables we missed and are proud. They like to dig in the dirt. They like to plant seeds. They like climbing stepladders to stare in the face of sunflowers. They love fried squash and okra.

It is spring and time to plant again. We are having our soil tested. Our grandchildren are helping us start our indoor seeds. We are checking the compost to see if it is ready. We are putting in another raised bed.

And we are thinking that this year Alan Durden's veggie gardening class given through the NC Cooperative Extension Center in Macon County, NC might be a really good idea. We plan to brush up on soil selection, insect and disease control and soil testing.

There are global and national trends back to gardening and local agriculture. According to the Piedmont Environmental Council, we get a greener economy and stronger economy when we support local farmers. Communities are building new agricultural infrastructures as fuel prices rise and consumers want fresher vegetables without the high costs of shipping added. Since 2009 food prices have risen 26 percent according to the Food and Agricultural Organization. As oil prices go up we can expect more food price shocks that will require emphasis on local agriculture.

54 percent of those gardening say they are trying to save money, according to the "Vegetable Star." Fresher, better food is also at the top of reasons more of us are gardening. Smart commissioners and local leaders are beginning to discuss community infrastructures on agriculture, as well as local organic farming and relate this to local economic development.

In Franklin, NC during harvest season we have a Saturday morning Farmers Market for farmers and gardeners to sell produce, plants and other agricultural products. Each year more farmers have roadside stands, selling directly to the public. These trends build our local economy and help us retain sustainable beautiful agricultural land.

Local courses given by the NC Cooperative Extension Center in Master Gardening help certify volunteers to strengthen our agricultural knowledge. Community gardening and agricultural projects help build our community infrastructure and help new generations become more involved in agriculture and gardening. Our annual Macon County Fair and Fairgrounds are an important part of our local agricultural infrastructure. Our September Macon County Fair theme is usually, "Sow It. Grow it. Show It."

You can get more information on the Franklin, NC area by reviewing our recent column: "Franklin, North Carolina-A Touch of Global." To find out more about Franklin's agricultural infrastructure in a global economy contact, Alan Durden, County Extension director in Franklin, NC. We will be attending one of his courses soon.

We all seem to be watching our past and future merge and we try to remember a few things our grandparents tried to teach us about agriculture as more local agriculture becomes the norm once again and restaurants express a preference for local vegetables. Marcia remembers, as a teenager, carrying her parent's tomatoes into supermarkets to sell. She never thought it would help her understand and cope in future economies. It is interesting Steve Jobs, chief executive officer of Apple Corporation, is building a home with a garden inside of it.

The trend in local agriculture is a megatrend that is so prevalent that, like the fish that can't see the water, many local leaders are so locked into models of the past that they are missing a major opportunity for economic development in their community by not providing leadership and resources for thinking through an infrastructure that responds to new needs for local agriculture in their communities. For example, if you are a local leader, would you encourage or expect grocery stores and restaurants to post whether they buy from local farmers? While local governments spend a great deal of money on economic development, how much support is provided for local farmer markets in your community?

Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Her new children's book, "When I Woke up the World Was Yellow" will be out soon. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in the column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations. Global news originates from local news and you heard this first on the "Global Digital Post."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “Each time you choose to buy an American made product, you help save or create an American job.” Michele Nash-Hoff

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/15/2011 -- A recent ABC News program featured a Texas family having their house stripped of everything not made in America. While most of us could predict how that was going to turn out, it was still a shock to see the empty house and visually realize nearly all their household goods were made in another country. ABC News found it difficult to replace these items with made in America products.

One of the most objective measures of success and failure of a nation's leadership is trade and whether we have a trade surplus or deficit. If we have a trade surplus, we export more monetary value in goods than we import.

Let's review the cases of Germany and the United States. The United States had a trade deficit of $497 billion for 2010. Germany had a trade surplus of 178.56 billion dollars for 2010. Germany has 'made in Germany' products other countries want. According to "Business World" their unemployment rate is 7.4 percent. We have an unemployment rate of 8.9 percent.

What have German leaders done differently? German leaders emphasize the importance of "made in Germany." Their leaders did not define free trade to mean giving up manufacturing. Agreements were reached between the German government and corporations that they would not take all their manufacturing abroad and would keep a high level of manufacturing jobs in Germany. Many medium size family manufacturing businesses in Germany flourish, and have created trade surpluses. Germany blunted the blow of the deep recession by encouraging corporations to lessen work hours but keep people employed. German leaders also make it difficult for unlimited imports to come into their country.

What do we need to manufacture to remain a world power? Professor Don Livingston at Western Carolina University writes that our leaders seem to think leadership is mostly about the latest press conference. Is image more important to them than leadership, he questions? Are our leaders focused on manufacturing?

Huge sums of wealth are leaving our country as we buy goods from other countries but lack made in America products to sell other countries. But there is something we as individuals can do. ABC News Diane Sawyer reported that if each of us spent just $3.33 more on items made in America around 10,000 new jobs would be created. Michele Nash-Hoff on the ABC news website, and the author of our title quote writes, "There is a ripple effect in that every manufacturing job creates three or four other jobs…."

American goods have lost none of their prestige. We noted that ABC's last 'Made in America' segment featured a young German couple who had traveled to New York specifically to buy American made clothing. They carried their brand name shopping bags with pride. They had spent a lot of money. When ABC news caught up with them at the airport, the couple were shocked to learn none of their purchased clothing was made in America.

What is still made in America? Websites are springing up featuring made in America goods. stillmadeinusa.com, buyamerican.com, MadeinUSAForever.com are a few sites. "The Saturday Evening Post," July/August 2010 issue has an article listing many companies who manufacture in the U.S. including Caterpillar, New Balance shoes, Hershey's chocolate and Intel Corporation.

We need a new generation of leaders committed to bringing back American manufacturing and made in America. Made in America goods are vital to our future as a global power. As Michele Nash-Hoff points out, "It takes money to protect our freedom."

What is the good news? The good news is that there is something we as individual citizens can do to make a difference. It is a simple solution and it will create jobs. We can encourage stores to feature American made products. We can demand that our U. S. Congressional leaders create programs and incentives for more made in America products. We can insist our political leaders promote a "Made in America" buying campaign. And, we can support corporations who step forward and manufacture more American made products. We can buy American.

Leadership matters and is about action……what will you do? America needs a few good leaders.

The Global Digital Post columns are read by readers in over 38 nations. Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

“Luck is when opportunity knocks and you answer.” Author Unknown

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/01/2011 -- It is striking that most languages around the world have words or phrases meaning "Good Luck." In Norwegian we would say "Lykke til," in Russian, "Udachi" and in Chinese, "Fu." "Good Luck" is a universal sentiment of wishing another good fortune or a successful outcome.

Some people claim they have mostly bad luck; saying things like, "with my luck the train will go off the track" and other predictions of a negative outcome. Some individuals consider themselves lucky, others not so lucky and some believe there is no such thing as luck.

Most cultures have traditions or superstitions of things which bring either bad or good luck. Walking under a ladder, breaking a mirror, a black cat crossing your path, four leaf clovers are Western symbols of future fortune. Cultures differ on what is and isn't lucky. Chirping crickets are good luck in many cultures and some think it bad luck to kill them. This may stem from earlier times when families depended on crickets to warn them of danger. At night, if crickets suddenly stopped chirping, something was amiss.

Some seem blessed with good luck and fortune. Others don't understand why so many unlucky things happen to them. To some there is no such thing as good luck but most of us would accept it if it came. Gordon admits he equates cardinals with good fortune. Marcia prefers the small blue birds. Until recently only limited research had been done on 'luck.' What brings us good fortune?

We were at a market in Florida when we noticed a book on "The Luck Factor" by Richard Wiseman. "You can have that for a few dollars," the vender said. Wiseman, author of "The Luck Factor," is a psychologist and professor at the University of Hertfordshire in Britain, where he holds the chair in Public Understanding in Psychology. He did extensive studies on those who define themselves as lucky or unlucky. According to him, "Lucky people meet their perfect partners, achieve their lifelong ambitions, find fulfilling careers, and have happy and meaningful lives."

Wiseman found major differences between the way lucky and unlucky people approach life. People who defined themselves as lucky expected good things to happen. Optimism, he found, creates its own reality. Unlucky people did not expect things to turn out well and tended to create the reality of things not going well. Do we all have an inner thermostat which regulates how much good fortune we expect and can accept?

According to Wiseman's research lucky people have larger networks of friends and are more inclined to talk with strangers. If you are in a waiting room do you talk with others? When we are open to new experiences and people we get new ideas, new job opportunities and more inspiration for creativity. Lucky people are more likely to act on new opportunities and are more likely to follow their gut feelings about a situation, according to Wiseman's research.

The most compelling finding was how lucky and unlucky people dealt with misfortune. Lucky people viewed difficulties as short term and moved ahead, believing they could overcome any adversity. Their glass was half full instead of half empty.

Marcia's grandmother, Ola Cheek, had a favorite saying; "I tried to look for the good." She believed in looking for the good in everyone and everything. The irony of looking for good is that even though there is bad stuff, we also find the good stuff. In life it is what we dwell on that matters.

While a young child, Marcia remembers her grandmother teaching her to look for four leaf clovers. It seemed impossible at first as the yard was a carpet of three leaf clover. Her grandmother had a quiet certainty that four leaf clovers were there. Marcia remembers….they always found them.

What we focus on in life expands.....especially good fortune!

Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Her new children's book, "When I Woke up the World Was Yellow" will be out in 2011. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. The Global Digital Post is a global column. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.” David Brinkley

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/15/2011 -- David Brinkley was most noted for co-hosting the Huntley-Brinkley Report on NBC and as a news commentator for NBC and ABC. He began his career as a high school student reporter for the "Wilmington Star" and later attended University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His career spanned over 50 years and is summarized in the title of his memoir: "David Brinkley: 11 Presidents, 4 Wars, 22 Political Conventions, 1 Moon Landing, 3 Assassinations, 2,000 Weeks of News and Other Stuff on Television and 18 Years of Growing Up in North Carolina." His quote on success in life is possibly not the way we typically view the road to success.

Let's think about this quote on several levels. If you stand for anything in life and especially if you challenge the way things are done, a few proverbial bricks may be thrown you way. In the early 1900's Albert Einstein challenged major assumptions of science with his theories of relativity and his new theory of gravity and quantum theory. When he gave public lectures on his findings in Germany, hecklers tried to shout him down; prominent scientists accused him of plagiarism and hurled anti-Semitic slurs. He was accused of un-German Science. Einstein was vindicated with the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921. He stood firm in his new scientific theories in the face of the many bricks thrown at him.

A second way of dealing with proverbial bricks thrown our way is to learn from them and build a firm foundation. Thomas Jefferson was nearly impeached as Governor of Virginia. During the American Revolution, British troops made an attack on Charlottesville, Virginia and the Virginia Legislature barely escaped. Many wanted to establish a dictatorship to deal with the crisis but Jefferson argued vehemently and successfully for democracy to prevail. He had learned that liberty is fragile in crisis. Later Jefferson fought for a Bill of Rights as the cornerstone of our American Democracy. Jefferson learned from the attacks and criticism. Critics can seldom defeat us if we are willing to get back up, and, we usually emerge stronger.

We also learn to persevere from painful experiences or the bricks we have to step around or remove along the way. President Lincoln over came more obstacles than most political leaders. He was defeated once for the U.S. Congress, twice for the U. S. Senate, and once failed to gain the nomination for U. S. Vice-President before being elected U. S. President. The Civil War was a difficult painful war with more than a few bricks thrown and Lincoln was not a popular leader as the Civil War was fought. Through his leadership and perseverance the United States was preserved and slavery ended.

Lincoln's assassination was painful in the South as well as the North. Lincoln fought for a just and non-vindictive conclusion to the war, a belief not always shared by those around him. Few would have been able to withstand the criticism he endured to preserve the United States. Historians today rank him as the best U. S. President our nation has ever had in U. S. Presidential rankings.

Bricks are a part of life. Whether we build on them or not determines our future. Gordon's father was not inclined to give a lot of advice, thinking it wiser to let his children learn on their own. Occasionally, however, he would philosophize. "Son, in life, if somebody isn't criticizing you, you aren't doing very much."

When we think of the people we admire, those who have made a positive difference in the lives of others and perhaps shaped history, we note that they are standing on a firm foundation. Standing up for our ideas and beliefs and learning from criticism are positive responses. It takes courage but those bricks thrown at us can help us build a successful foundation.

Gordon Mercer is international president of the Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor of political science at Western Carolina University (WCU). He holds a Ph.D. degree in organizational development, founded the Public Policy Institute at WCU in 1999, and has held the position of associate dean of research and graduate studies at the university. Marcia Mercer is a writer and published columnist with the Franklin Press. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: Is it time to once again apply the first law of leadership that started us on the path to becoming a great nation?

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/02/2011 -- As we examined George Washington's revolutionary experience along with his later leadership experiences, we found he always dealt successfully with the negative things first in terms of his leadership approach and then succeeded in creating a positive path ahead. While we will explore his revolutionary experiences in this column, Washington was instrumental in dealing with the failing Articles of Confederation and creating a new U. S. Constitution, turning an inexperienced Continental Army into a force that defeated the British and later in dealing with state debts and other economic problems to create a thriving economy in a new United States.

What if our U. S. Congress, U. S. President and Governors used this approach today and dealt successfully with our failing K-12 educational system, huge deficits, the loss of manufacturing and technological leadership and the huge amounts of wealth leaving the United States on oil as we lack energy independence. Dealing successfully with negative things first may not be a popular style but then again we need great leaders more than ever before. Like many leadership principles our great principles develop out of experiences that overcome great obstacles. Some of today's leaders talk about negatives but unlike Washington simply lack the ability to formulate and carry out successful plans to deal with them.

Things did not look good for George Washington. The year was 1777 during the time of the American Revolution. The Valley Forge winter was harsh with over 2,400 of the troops stationed there dying of disease and hunger. Soldiers were mostly volunteers and often left to take care of matters back home. Armaments and weapons were lacking and food was scarce. Washington remarked that the path to their winter camp at Valley Forge was covered with the blood of troops without boots or clothing.

Members of the Continental Congress were not happy. Commander in Chief Washington had lost the Battle of Brandywine and British General Howe occupied Philadelphia, the revolutionary capital, leaving the Continental Congress to leave in panic. The British had previously taken New York City. Washington's previous victories at Trenton and Princeton in New Jersey were fading in memory. A conspiracy was formed to replace the Commander in Chief.

Thomas Fleming, in his book Washington's Secret War, reveals that the plot was started by disgruntled revolutionary officers including Colonel Thomas Conway, General Horatio Gates, and General Charles Lee. They began calling Washington weak and wrote letters to the Continental Congress explaining why Washington was not the right person for the job. The Continental Congress responded by curbing Washington's power and reviving an old Board of War with the hidden agenda of eventually replacing Washington. General Gates, one of Washington's worst critics, was appointed to head the Board of War and Conway, another critic, became Inspector General. Earlier, General Gates, after his major victory at Saratoga deliberately bypassed Washington, reporting the victory to the Continental Congress and not the Commander in Chief.

Washington was out flanked politically and his troops lacked food, clothing and supplies. However, his troops were loyal to him and he was experienced politically. Also, he had astute judgment skills and courage.

The damaging letters began to leak back to Washington. He confronted the conspiring officers, putting them on the defensive. He contacted leaders of the Continental Congress and threatened to resign, if they did not stop putting obstacles in his way. Washington employed on his military staff four full time communications officers, which in 1777-78 meant letter writing. He charged them with writing many, many letters to better his relationship with the Continental Congress and with the leaders in the states. Washington and Henry Laurens, president of the Continental Congress became close friends. He began to work with the states to obtain more troops and with the Continental Congress for more shipments of food and supplies. His efforts were successful.

When Conway who had been part of the conspiracy, arrived at Valley Forge to inspect Washington's troops, Washington snubbed him and refused the inspection. Washington arranged for General Freidrich Von Steuben to be appointed Inspector General. Stueben was a brilliant general and trained the troops well in drill, tactics, and military discipline. Leaving Valley Forge with enough men and with troops who were well trained and supplied, Washington got what he needed most, a victory over the British at Monmouth, New Jersey.

British General Henry Clinton and his troops retreated at Monmouth and fled in the night. Ironically, the officers who had plotted against Washington did not fare well. One was court marshaled, one investigated by the Continental Congress, others resigned, or were reassigned to lesser roles. George Washington and his troops along with the French allies would defeat the British at Yorktown in 1781 causing public support for the war to collapse in Britain. The Treaty of Paris was signed on September 3, 1783, ending the war.

The above principle of leadership dealing successfully with negatives before a positive path develops is based on the experiences of George Washington during his time at Valley Forge and as he led his troops to victory. Coming out of Valley Forge Washington dismantled a strong plot against his leadership, forged a national army out of state militia and defeated the strongest military in the world. Valley Forge was a pivotal point in the birth of a new nation. It was there that Washington demonstrated the courage and the will to confront and deal with the negatives and turn the negatives into positives to gain future victory.

Our crisis today relates to an erosion of leadership in the public and private sectors. We hope George Washington's first law of leadership will inspire leaders in all walks of life. Until we successfully deal with the negatives, positive things on U. S. Jobs, economy, debt, technology leadership, trade and education will not happen.

Gordon Mercer is international president of the Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor of political science at Western Carolina University (WCU). He holds a Ph.D. degree in organizational development, founded the Public Policy Institute at WCU in 1999, and has held the position of associate dean of research and graduate studies at the university. Marcia Mercer is a writer and published columnist with the Franklin Press. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “Here in America we are descended in blood and spirit from revolutionists and rebels –men and women who dare dissent from accepted doctrine.” Dwight Eisenhower

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/01/2011 -- We were pleased our last column on "The Making of a Legend: Charlie "Choo Choo" Justice" was featured on "Silobreaker News" with offices in London and Stockholm. The graphics and visual content connected the University of North Carolina, Charlie "Choo Choo" Justice and Hollywood. Does this mean a film on North Carolina's All-American football tailback, Charlie "Choo Choo" Justice is being planned? When it comes to global news, the 2011 State of the Union address with two rebuttals got the attention of global media around the world.

The State of the Union address has evolved. George Washington delivered his in the form of a talk to the U. S. Congress. The ever precise Thomas Jefferson delivered his messages in writing. President Obama's recent State of the Union address, Congressman Paul Ryan's rebuttal and Congresswoman Michele Bachmann's Tea Party views presented three distinctive visions of our nation's future. Whatever our political affiliation, we all probably agree the United States has lost ground in trade, outsourced jobs, manufacturing, national debt and global leadership in education. Our rapid shifts in elected leaders signal that voters are looking for leaders with solutions. As Dwight Eisenhower indicated, we need dissenting views that move us beyond doctrine.

Dr. Mercer gave a survey to 49 students in his American Government classes at Western Carolina University following the State of the Union message. They were asked: "Can we recapture the future in trade, manufacturing, education and jobs?" Surprisingly 82 percent of those surveyed believed we could start trends going our way. Also, 18 percent were pessimistic, thinking we could not turn trends our way in the future. During discussion, students stated that creating this favorable path would take time and determination. Even the most optimistic did not see an easy path ahead.

Next students were asked to name three things the United States should do to lead the world in education, technology and trade. The most often cited areas were working to build up technology and manufacturing. Students recognized in a follow-up discussion that we had lost much of our manufacturing during a period we were the only nation practicing free trade. One student reflected that even Adam Smith, who was a proponent of a free market economy, realized trade could never be without some restraint. Another student pointed to Germany who refused to give up their manufacturing and currently has low levels of unemployment. The current generation realizes that strong service economies are based on technology advances and manufacturing.

The second most prioritized area by students was the need to balance the budget. Our debt stands at 14.03 trillion according to Wikipedia, which is about 95.6 percent of our gross domestic product. This is higher than any recent period except World War II. Students worry that debt held by other governments, including China, puts our nation at risk. Deep debt produces declining currency, higher prices, and less ability to invest in the technology, research and development required for us to be globally competitive.

A third priority of students was the need to overhaul education. According to "The New York Times," The Programme for International Student Assessment found 15 year olds in the United States ranked 17th among other nations in science and 25th in math. We were once the leader in 25-34 year olds with college degrees but have dropped to 12th among developed nations. Students suggested that towering costs of college education were a barrier for students wanting to obtain a degree. Most thought we could regain our global leadership but it would require more quality and higher standards in U. S. education and new ways of implementing much higher standards.

According to students, a balanced budget, technological leadership, quality educational systems and wealth building through manufacturing and trade constituted the four-pronged approach to recapturing our nation's future.

Finally students were asked about barriers to recapturing our future. It was striking how many mentioned "attitude" as the biggest barrier. Students hoped we possessed the will and "can do" attitude to sustain new programs. They worried about apathy and lack of knowledge in public policy.

We were impressed with student ideas at Western Carolina University. It is refreshing that students understand the vital importance of manufacturing and technology in global leadership. The students believe we can and we will recapture the future for the United States in trade, manufacturing, education and jobs. We are glad they are preparing for their turn.

Gordon Mercer is international president of the Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor of political science at Western Carolina University (WCU). He holds a Ph.D. degree in organizational development, founded the Public Policy Institute at WCU in 1999, and has held the position of associate dean of research and graduate studies at the university. Marcia Mercer is a writer and published columnist with the Franklin Press. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.” Ben Franklin

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/14/2010 -- When over thirty five digital news networks covered our last column on "Franklin, North Carolina-A Touch of Global," we realized that global connectivity in small towns is an interesting topic. Silobreaker News in London and Stockholm featured our column and their global technology included a pictorial network of Franklin, North Carolina. Silobreaker's network of Franklin, North Carolina included Caterpillar, global and wholesale distribution networks, New York City, mining networks, Western Carolina University, Drake Enterprises, broadband, groundwater and watershed research, and Paris, France. Silobreaker also considered our "Global Digital Post" as a global factor in Franklin, since we have readers from over 35 counties. As we will explore in this column, connectivity and happiness are related.

We were intrigued when a recent survey by faculty at the London School of Economics ranked Bangladesh as the happiest Country in the world. The same study ranked the British 32nd and the United States 46th. The survey found the people of Bangladesh got more enjoyment out of the little money they had than did people in wealthier countries. The study also cited an "emotional poverty" brought on by "consumerism" in the wealthier countries.

As we approach the holiday season, we reflect on what makes us happy. We remember a Christmas when our children were small and were given some rather large gifts. We don't remember what the gifts were and they must not have made much of an impression on our children either. Our children along with the rest of the children in the neighborhood spent most of that day playing in a fort they had built with the empty boxes.

This story relates to an earlier column of ours about happiness. British researchers Dimitris Ballas and Danny Dorling found most of our happiness comes from the supportive relationships we have with friends and family. In poorer countries like Bangladesh strong supportive family groups and friends helping friends are the norm. We noticed shrieks of laughter coming from the children as they played in the box fort with all their friends. We often sing when we are happy and Gordon's brother James Mercer once reminded us that people do not sing about their new cars.

Pioneering Psychologist Abraham Maslow found that creativity makes people happier. He was not only speaking of works of art but of creative ways of performing everyday tasks. In our lives, when our budget is tightest we become more creative. While we do not think true suffering is helpful for happiness, a problem solved creatively makes us proud of ourselves. Liking ourselves is important to happiness.

Helping others was also found as important to happiness. People in poorer countries help each other by necessity. There is more of a sense of group responsibility over individual responsibility, being responsible for each other. Giving to others is important to happiness. There are many studies that found helping others activates the 'good mood' center in the brain.

This Christmas how can we apply happiness studies to our own lives? Valuing what we already have in terms of family, friends and possessions is important. Creativity, music and adventure can abound at Christmas. We do not have to drive far to go somewhere we have never gone before. Adventure is important to happiness with any leap out of familiar routine defined as adventure. We love the hidden treasures and books found at secondhand stores. These stores usually are charity run so we can feel good about spending our money there.
During this holiday season we hope, as Ben Franklin said, you catch happiness. And, we wish you a merry and happy holiday.

Gordon Mercer is international president of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor at Western Carolina University. Marcia Mercer is a writer and columnist. Her new children's book, "When I Woke up the World Was Yellow" will be out in 2011. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Gordon Mercer and Marcia Mercer Global Digital Post: “Franklin is a progressive community and increasingly has global connections.” Margaret Ramsey

Franklin, NC -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/01/2010 -- As we began writing this column on Franklin, NC having a global touch, Dr. Suzan Cheek, a political scientist living in Chapel Hill, NC, pointed out to us that in 1773 as the original Tea Party rebels threw British tea into the harbor to protest the Tea Tax, the British Crown probably received news of revolt while drinking tea from Wedgwood tea sets made from kaolin clay mined in Macon County, North Carolina. We were discussing globalism with her after our last "Franklin Press" column was featured on "Silobreaker," a global news service based in the United Kingdom that features news of global relevance. When we think about global places, we think of Rome, London, Paris or New York City. How globally connected is Franklin, NC? We could not find much research about globalism in small towns and decided this area needed exploration.

After getting some ideas from Barbara McRae, editor of the "Franklin Press," we conferred with Margaret Ramsey, a key leader of the Folk Heritage Association of Macon County. Margaret Ramsey helped Franklin become designated the "Quilting Capital of the World," and provided the quote. Internationally recognized quilts from Franklin have included: The Original World's Largest Quilt, The Cabarrus Quilt, The Celebrate America Quilt, and The World's Fair Quilt.

We learned that community rating sites do not consider global connectivity in designating communities as a place to retire or visit. Is globalism important?

Globalism includes global historical sites, business connections, global impact and influence, and global activities. Franklin is exemplary on all counts.

The Scottish Tartan Museum retains our Scottish heritage and connection with the Scottish immigrant experience. The annual Taste of Scotland Festival brings Scottish music, dance and culture and attracts visitors from around the world.

With James Conley listing over 23 gems in Macon County in his well known publication, "Mineral Localities of North Carolina," Franklin's title as the "Gem Capital of the World" is well earned. Franklin mines fire the imagination with pigeon blood rubies, sapphires and rhodolite garnets that attract international tourism. The international Tiffany owned a mine in Cowee Valley the 1890's. Kaolin clay from today's Macon County was shipped to England for Wedgwood pottery in 1768.

Visiting the gem festivals here and the Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum are like opening a window to rare and beautiful treasures from around the world. The Macon County Gemboree and Gem and Lapidary wholesale shows attract international gem dealers and buyers.

Macon County is a world of wonder with stunning mountains, rivers, gorges, and waterfalls. The Appalachian Trail, Little Tennessee River Greenway, Nikwasi Mound and so much more, all give Franklin a global reputation for natural beauty.

Caterpillar, an international corporation, makes Precision Seals for global distribution. Franklin is a wholesale point for Caterpillar equipment.

Tom Quigley, who resides in Franklin, was an architect of DOCSIS, which has impacted countries around the world developing broadband capabilities. You may read about his contributions in "Broadband Last Mile," edited by Nikil Jayant. "Randolph's Shop" and "Building Shop" by Franklin's Randolph Bulgin are used internationally as excellent references to metal working and CNC machining. Phil Drake and Drake Enterprises develop software used by over 38,000 tax preparers. Their early innovations in software have had global impact.

Many medical staff and selected physicians from Angel Medical Center along with churches and individuals in Franklin traveled to Haiti to help with medical relief after the earthquake.

The work of the Coweeta Hydrologic Lab has had a global impact. Dr. Charles Hursh and Wayne Swank along with other scientist's research on sources of water supply, water quality watersheds, movements of ground water, acid rain and erosion control have influenced ecological science around the world.

Educational programs in our schools help youth adapt to global challenges and future jobs. Finally there is a strong veterans community in Franklin.Their experience in defending freedom in global wars gives Franklin a valuable global perspective on service.

We found it impossible to identify all global connections in Franklin. But we found that global connectivity is not just for large cities. A touch of globalism builds communities economically and adds excitement and adventure. Globalism enhances the value of cultural heritage and traditions. Visitors come to Franklin looking for the depth of something different whether it is our natural beauty, gems, festivals, historical sites or unique folk heritage events.

The interaction between local and global is important in history. Looking closely at some of Franklin's finest quilts you will see regional and global influence in the complex geometric designs. Is it in our nature? Thousands upon thousands of years ago, our ancestors traveled over many continents. We cannot easily escape our shared global heritage.

We encourage small towns around the world to explore their global connectivity. Students at colleges and universities around the world might want to take on this project of researching global connectivity in their towns and communities and alert local press of their findings.

Gordon Mercer is international president of the Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society and a professor of political science at Western Carolina University (WCU). He holds a Ph.D. degree in organizational development, founded the Public Policy Institute at WCU in 1999, and has held the position of associate dean of research and graduate studies at the university. Marcia Mercer is a writer and published columnist with the Franklin Press. Go to http://9955.hostednr.com to get to our Global Digital Post Press Room. Views expressed in this column are the views of the authors and do not reflect the views of other organizations.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm