We Tend to Think When Terrible Things Happen It's the End, but It's Always a New Beginning

2004 E! Entertainment Television ^ | January 1, 2003 | Ben Stein

[Former Military Chick]

But around the menorah or Christmas tree, it is always a new beginning.

There are some writings that although they are dated they are still timely. I very much enjoyed this writing by Ben, and thought others might like to read it this holiday season.

If you are fan of Ben, his intellect, his savvy know how, his wit and his candor of being a republican then you to will understand why I think Ben shoots the moon.

Happy Holiday's

[Former Military Chick]

Ben Stein **ping**

[EggsAckley]

Ben Stein rocks. He is ONE celebrity that I would be thrilled to meet.

[CharliefromKS]

Good essay and certainly not out of date.

[Former Military Chick]

A previous writing of Ben's *ping**!

[Strategerist]

I've heard him as a guest on Loveline a couple of times. Brilliant and intelligent guy.

Other interesting fact is he was badly injured in a Civil Rights protest in Cambridge, MD in the 1960s...some redneck hit him with a truck and he ended up with a badly injured...rear end.

I always sort of wondered why he didn't run for elective office but as it turns out he had some pretty serious long term problems with drug abuse he discussed on Loveline (now beaten) that would probably cause him problems in a campaign.

[nickcarraway]

On the other hand, why would he want to run for elected office?

[Lazamataz]

We Tend to Think When Terrible Things Happen It's the End, but It's Always a New Beginning

This headline encapsulates so much truth. When I had the two worst things to-date happen to me -- a divorce and an arrest for cocaine possession -- it turned out to be the best two things that ever happened to me. The arrest was shown to be made in error, and the divorce got my attention, and I changed just about everything in my life.

Now my life is better than it has ever been. My serenity is great; my happiness and joy is complete. My connection with G-d the strongest it has been in my entire life. The 'terrible things', in fact, were a new beginning.

[risk]

...is a marvel of America's growth in diversity and tolerance.

I was enjoying this piece until I read the word "diversity" in it.

[GeorgeW23225]

I too, am a Ben Stein fan. Therefore, nothing he writes can ever be "out of date". They are all priceless, ageless gems. The above article proves my point.

[Former Military Chick]

I thought by saying that although dated it was timely in comment 1 said just that, it was not out of date. The reason I had added that, some folks get a little miffed if we misrepresent the date in an article. Was just not wanting anyone to get their panties in a bunch over the date, January 1, 2003. Glad you both enjoy Ben's writings.

[Former Military Chick]

Thank you for sharing such a moving post. Indeed there are some who would agree with you, and I applaud you for changing your life's course.

Some folks have to fall flat to realize that there is much more to their lives then where they are at, at that time.

[Viking2002]

I love reading Ben's work. That man is a welcome guest at my house anytime, as are all good Freepers. Merry CHristmas.

[Choose Ye This Day]

Please add me to your Ben Stein PING list. Please? Pretty please....?

Bueller...?

[weenie]

and I changed just about everything in my life.

Have had a similar experience in my life...

Had to change d@mn near everything...but now I am a human being.

As I say, I used to be a "hot dog"...now I'm just a "weenie" (but infinitely better for it).

[OldFriend]

The very best thing is that today's college kids love Ben Stein's show.

Perhaps he captured them with Ferris Buehler's Day Off.

[cricket]

Thanks FMC. . .I agree he is so special; he is a 'glass of good wine' reading experience. . .so to speak ;^)

[Former Military Chick]

I think that is the most fabulous way to describe how one feels as he reads his essay's. He indeed has a gift.

[rodguy911]

Ditto

[Quix]

Well chosen. Thanks.