I respect the need to admire and recognize those with whom we share some common group characteristics. It seems natural to root for those who are members of specific groups defined by race, religion, creed, nationality, region, profession, hobby, or some similar criterion.

As a human being, I too often give kudos to those who share some group membership with me along those lines, and who do something commendable.

As a writer, I also look at the larger picture, and see myself first and foremost as a Universal Human Being. It is to this group that I give the most salutations, for it is made up of the Universal Man and the Universal Woman.

All human beings are members of this group and we all share the need for food, clothing, housing and the desire to self-actualize and to attain the maximum we can in our sojourns on this planet.

Here’s my salute to the Universal Human Being! May we all come together to make this planet the best it can be for ourselves and our progeny. May we join hands to combat the common threats we all face and to ensure a rising tide that lifts all boats, rather than a receding one that capsizes all vessels.