GIVING THE CLINTON WAY

Dear Readers,

It is September 18, 2007 and I am attending a book signing for the book, Giving by (President) Bill Clinton.

The event takes place at a very old book store called Vromans. As an independent store, it began in 1893. It is located in Pasadena, California and provides a wonderful setting for an excited audience who wait outdoors and in-line for over six hours for the appearance of "Bill." Some even camp over night on the sidewalks; reminding others of the night before the famous Rose Bowl Parades.

A few hours before the book signing, the Secret Agents show up in their dark grey suits, sun glasses, and of course their ears with the white plastic hearing devises. And just like in the movies, they are all business and very exacting. They seem a little out of place in the beautiful California sun. The day has a lightness about it with slight ocean breezes and large white fluffy clouds.

The waiting lines of people share chairs, bathroom break watches, food and drinks and stories of seeing other celebrities. A woman in front of me tells about setting beside a once famous femme fatal only a month ago at a nearby movie theater. She finds the woman, young like herself, attractive and quite charming. Her name is Monica Lewinsky.

Finally the time comes for the signing, everyone has their pink bracelets attached, all their belongings safely checked or left in cars, their vouchers authenticated and their bodies carefully searched with security wands by those Secret Agents. Helicopters hover in the sky. A broken down garbage truck gets hauled away and the paramedics come to help an elderly lady who faints while waiting in line.

Then President William Jefferson Clinton arrives early. Eager people moving through shelves and shelves of books proudly experience their historical moments shaking "Bill's" hand, saying "hello" and then receiving the autograph book, Giving. The famous writer holds every one's gaze as his bigger than life persona seems somewhat self conscious and shy. Occasionally he has short conversations or says "God Bless You." He appears much better looking, younger and more energetic than television, pictures, or newspapers portray him. I wonder if to be so famous means you must constantly wonder each time you shake a stranger's hand if you are safe.

I will read Giving and when I am through I will review the book and post it a.s.a.p. The above art piece is my own interpretation of the meaning of giving which I call the FIVE STAR GIVING PROGRAM. I will explain more after I review the book.

If you have any comments or questions, please e-mail me at ambersilverstar11@yahoo.com