If I Could 'Bop' My Way into the 50's

By: Robert Stedman

       The corner cafe is saturated with smoke, while voices mixed with the slurping of cherry coke echoes in the ears. Suddenly, a crisp, rockin' tune from Chuck Berry turns the jukebox into a celebrity. Couples hurl themselves onto the dance floor doing the ever so enticing bop. Twisting, twirling, spinning all take place as the beat moves on. Gazers smile as the petticoats swing in the air. Yep, this is the way I envision the 50's. If I could only transfer my parents to an earlier time, placing myself (hormones flying) into this decade of class.

     This was a time when society was more creative with their idle time. No Internet or Nintendo sucking the intelligence out from between the ears. A time when women were treated like ladies and children respected their parents. A time when politicians spoke the truth (kind of) and men were proud to serve their country. A time when life was simple, yet fun, and the dancing was oh so charming.

     Today just seems to lack the ingenuity. Yes, we have plenty of toys, entertainment, moon trips, and quick dinners, but most important to someone in their twenties, the nightlife lacks the charisma. Instead of Perry Como, Buddy Holly, Frank Sinatra, or Elvis Presley, we seem to get this techno junk that leaves you deaf. By the way, what does it mean to "get jiggy with it?" I don't necessarily take pleasure in wishing this decade were that of another. Yet, common sense informs me that life was so much more rewarding and pleasant.  Realizing, that of course, they had their problems too, but I can't imagine they closely resemble today's disasters. Children could skip into school without being hassled with gun checks. New neighbors were welcomed with apple pie and friendly conversation.  Marilyn Monroe was singing of diamonds rather than Marilyn Manson screaming about Satan. My arms are open for a reunion with this well missed decade. 

    Today's society has seemed to reverse itself from the "way back when" days. We anticipate the release of the new "blood and guts" movie instead of drooling over an innocent Audrey Hepburn in the atmosphere of a drive in theater. The nighty crime rate forces us to race (with mace in hand) toward the SUV, rather than take a moonlight stroll to the 57 Chevy. If I could only accept these changing times.

     Not to down talk today's society or even say it doesn't have intriguing moments. We have our good points, they just seem to be overshadowed by negativity. I just get jealous when the folks talk about the "good ole days." If Sinatra can have Ava and Bogey get Bacall, well then, I deserve the 50's. In my own little la-la land, the pendulum will swing back and "Mr. Sandman will bring me a dream."