I used to do complex math problems problems using a slide rule. Not only that, I could do them quickly.

The other day, I wanted to do a very simple problem in my head. It was something of a wishful problem. I was trying to figure what a hundred acres would cost at a thousand dollars an acre.

I suddenly got a mental block and couldn’t figure it. Worse, as I tried to force it, it began to make my head hurt. I said to myself, “Self, you can do it. you don’t need a calculator. You don’t need a computer. It is simple.”

Finally, I gave up. I was getting a head ache. It did sort of give me a little understanding for Old Joe when he said he cut the national debt in half. You must not be so judgemental, you see. When you get past 75, doing math does begin to hurt the brain, especially that complex national debt math.

By the way, I did finally figure out the problem I was working on. Now all I need is someone willing to sell 1000 acres at a hundred dollars an acre. Or wait. I think that was the other way around. Actually, it does not matter one iota. I can’t afford the taxes anyway. Old Joe and his friends will see to it.