Ya know, yesterday was a really odd(and somewhat crappy) day. Had a painter try to gouge me(or at least run a scam), found out the largest investment I've ever made(our house) had the mortgage sold w/o anyone telling me(wasted a good five hours trying to find out who I'll be paying for the next 30 years), then had to deal with some technological ninny who works in the blind services field, but didn't know how to serve anyone who is blind. Yeesh. See yesterday's ranting session, if you missed it.
Tonight, once again, I got on www.markdewalle.com to hear of Mark's progress. Read back a few posts and you'll see Mark is a 20 something in STL with terminal cancer. Earlier this week, he made the choice to halt all treatments. Tonight, I've been reading over the guest book on Mark's site. Wow, the guy has tons, TONS of support...humbling amounts, I hope.
First, I feel like a bum for having a BMW session about my crappy Wednesday. But aside from that, I'm just flat overwhelmed at the guy's guts. Do any of us have the experience of saying enough is enough? Hardly. And he did it with grace and style. I can only hope that I will some day have a portion of the courage as Mark. And, if you get a chance, please consider dropping him a note. Trust me, to a patient, support, no matter where it comes from, is priceless.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
A Confederacy of Dunces
In 1995, I got my first E mail address. Chances are, within a year or so, you, too, may have gotten your first E mail. Remember the thrill? Something that was instantaneous and (gasp!) free?
Now, take that excitement and multiply it times 100 for me. E maill made it possible for me to once again communicate in total privacy. I didn't have to rely on someone to look at the document I printed out, address and stamp an envelope and then direct me to a mail box. It was, in short, probably one of the greatest days of my life.
Today, however, I ran into someone who doesn't quite "get" how important the net/E mail is to me and other blind individuals. The thing is, this person actually works at a library for the blind! Yep, after finally getting situated enough in Florida to have time for leisure reading, I contacted my branch of the library with talking books. I explained I had a four page of books on my "to read" file and asked if I could send them. Nope! Uh, why not? Because I don't want to receive any spam. Spam? All I want is books-the books my tax dollars pay for. Can't you just send it? In hard copy? Sure, if you'd like me to give up the independence that the modern technology the world utilizes and set me back to the mid 90s.
With much ado, I finally was able to convince her to give me her E mail address, but not without her first reitterating, "Don't send me anything dirty."
Folks, ignorance is acceptable and treatable. But when someone works in a field to serve those with specialized needs and they still don't get it? Well, welcome to the 90s...I'll be your tour guide. Ffirst stop? Compact discs. Second sstop? The net. Third stop? cell phones...do we really want to return to these times? Apparently, some workers want us to. Thank you kindly, but I'll live in 2007.
Now, take that excitement and multiply it times 100 for me. E maill made it possible for me to once again communicate in total privacy. I didn't have to rely on someone to look at the document I printed out, address and stamp an envelope and then direct me to a mail box. It was, in short, probably one of the greatest days of my life.
Today, however, I ran into someone who doesn't quite "get" how important the net/E mail is to me and other blind individuals. The thing is, this person actually works at a library for the blind! Yep, after finally getting situated enough in Florida to have time for leisure reading, I contacted my branch of the library with talking books. I explained I had a four page of books on my "to read" file and asked if I could send them. Nope! Uh, why not? Because I don't want to receive any spam. Spam? All I want is books-the books my tax dollars pay for. Can't you just send it? In hard copy? Sure, if you'd like me to give up the independence that the modern technology the world utilizes and set me back to the mid 90s.
With much ado, I finally was able to convince her to give me her E mail address, but not without her first reitterating, "Don't send me anything dirty."
Folks, ignorance is acceptable and treatable. But when someone works in a field to serve those with specialized needs and they still don't get it? Well, welcome to the 90s...I'll be your tour guide. Ffirst stop? Compact discs. Second sstop? The net. Third stop? cell phones...do we really want to return to these times? Apparently, some workers want us to. Thank you kindly, but I'll live in 2007.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
No Wonder I'm A Whack Job!
So, I think there may be a smidge of accuracy to the whole idea of astrology. After all, if the phases of the moon can govern the tides AND send more people to the E.R. and jail when it's full, well, it may have some power over lives, too. Today, a friend sent me a link to a site where you can enter your birthdate and see what the #1 song was when you were born, graduated, got married, etc. It pains me to admit that I was born under the ssign of Tony Orlando's, "He Don't Love You Like I Do." THIS and only this is the best reason I can find why I enjoy lima beans and diet soda.
Quitting Vs. Acceptance
Over the last few months, I've asked readers of Engel's Ensights to throw out some prayers and good energies for a guy named Mark DeWalle. Mark is the 26 year old son of Barb, the wonderful nurse many of you met through "After This..." and "Stethoscope." Mark was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer a few years back. He did the chemo, got better, got worse, did the chemo, repeat over and over and over. The brother has tenacity and drive to keep fighting the poison.
I received an E mail from Mark's aunt today. She said that after a lot of soul searching, Mark has decided to refuse any more chemo. As you might expect, unless there is some sort of miracle, Mark has chosen to take control of his own life. And his own death.
When he spoke to his Mom about it, he said he was afraid everyone would think he was a quitter. Not sure about anyone else on this planet, but fighting cancer for this long doesn't show any traits of a quitter. Now, acceptance is sometimes even harder to fight, but Mark has made that choice. It's one that no one, NO ONE can make but Mark. And I give the dude props for choosing to control his life, the way he wants.
Still, if you're the praying type, throw a few out for Mark and Barb and their family. And if you're so inclined, check his web site and see the tremendous impact this guy has had on his world:
www.markdewalle.com
Thanks, folks...I appreciate it.
I received an E mail from Mark's aunt today. She said that after a lot of soul searching, Mark has decided to refuse any more chemo. As you might expect, unless there is some sort of miracle, Mark has chosen to take control of his own life. And his own death.
When he spoke to his Mom about it, he said he was afraid everyone would think he was a quitter. Not sure about anyone else on this planet, but fighting cancer for this long doesn't show any traits of a quitter. Now, acceptance is sometimes even harder to fight, but Mark has made that choice. It's one that no one, NO ONE can make but Mark. And I give the dude props for choosing to control his life, the way he wants.
Still, if you're the praying type, throw a few out for Mark and Barb and their family. And if you're so inclined, check his web site and see the tremendous impact this guy has had on his world:
www.markdewalle.com
Thanks, folks...I appreciate it.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do?
For the first time in a long, long time, I caught a few minutes of Cops. Maybe it's my redneck nature, but Cops is kinda like a car crash on the highway-you just can't look away. At least, I can't.
Tonight's episode showed an officer responding to a citizen complaint about teenage boys next to her home. The complainer(is that a word?) was an elderly woman who seemed like she had nothing to do but do the crochety old person role. The teenage boys were barely into their teens and seemed like they were doing nothing but playing some pick up Bball on the court next to the old woman's home. The officer listened to the old woman's complaint, questioned her, questioned the boys, explained to the woman that the boys had committed no crime and, as you'd expect from a crochety old woman, she walked away mad at the world...and the youth of the world. After smoothing things over with the woman, the officer went to the boys playing ball.. He told them they were doing nothing wrong, that they should just keep doing what they were doing. Then, with a quick smile, he said, "Any of you guys think you can outshoot me?" The boys all laughed, slapped high fives and passed the ball to the cop. The scene ended with the officer taking a few jump shots over the heads of the boys before hopping into his cruiser.
Now, had the world had interaction with a cop like this for their first ticket, maybe there'd be less hatred of law enforcement. Maybe Killa Cam and Ice T would be less stubborn about accepting the role of cops in the community. That short interaction with a cop will probably make the boys have less animosity towards the boys in blue for their entire lives.
Tonight's episode showed an officer responding to a citizen complaint about teenage boys next to her home. The complainer(is that a word?) was an elderly woman who seemed like she had nothing to do but do the crochety old person role. The teenage boys were barely into their teens and seemed like they were doing nothing but playing some pick up Bball on the court next to the old woman's home. The officer listened to the old woman's complaint, questioned her, questioned the boys, explained to the woman that the boys had committed no crime and, as you'd expect from a crochety old woman, she walked away mad at the world...and the youth of the world. After smoothing things over with the woman, the officer went to the boys playing ball.. He told them they were doing nothing wrong, that they should just keep doing what they were doing. Then, with a quick smile, he said, "Any of you guys think you can outshoot me?" The boys all laughed, slapped high fives and passed the ball to the cop. The scene ended with the officer taking a few jump shots over the heads of the boys before hopping into his cruiser.
Now, had the world had interaction with a cop like this for their first ticket, maybe there'd be less hatred of law enforcement. Maybe Killa Cam and Ice T would be less stubborn about accepting the role of cops in the community. That short interaction with a cop will probably make the boys have less animosity towards the boys in blue for their entire lives.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Is This Really a Texan Saying?
Friday night I attended a graduation ceremony. The keynote speaker for commencement was a Texan who shared what he claimed wass a "saying we have in Texas." I have yet to find a Texan who will corroborate his claim, but here's the bit:
If you see a turtle on a fence post, he didn't get up there by himself.
His point was that no one can reach heigths alone...what he failed to mention was...if a turtle ends up on top of a fence post, said turtle is SCREWED!
His point is a valid one, but even more profound is the idea that once one is at the top, if they don't have help, they are completely helpless.
Whether you're a graduate or a turtle, be willing to help those who need a hand up, but also be willing to step in and run a rescue mission when the situation calls!
If you see a turtle on a fence post, he didn't get up there by himself.
His point was that no one can reach heigths alone...what he failed to mention was...if a turtle ends up on top of a fence post, said turtle is SCREWED!
His point is a valid one, but even more profound is the idea that once one is at the top, if they don't have help, they are completely helpless.
Whether you're a graduate or a turtle, be willing to help those who need a hand up, but also be willing to step in and run a rescue mission when the situation calls!
Friday, May 25, 2007
Let's See...Who Else Can I Sue?
Last month, my hometown St. Louis Cardinals suffered a tragedy. Josh Hancock, a relief pitcher, was killed in a car crash in St. Louis. Sympathy turns to a bit of disgust when you learn that Hancock's blood alcohol concentration was nearly twice the legal limit. Here's a quick synopsis:
Driver is driving down the highway and his car stalls out. While this is happening, a tow truck just happens by, sees the stalled vehicle and stops to help. A few minutes later, Hancock comes along and runs into the back of the tow truck, ultimately killing himself in the wreck.
Authorites reported later that Hancock was drunk, speeding, not wearing a seat belt andd talking on a cell phone. Marijuana was also found in his vehicle.
When you learn the facts of the case, again, sympathy and sadness turn to disgust...at least, that's the case with me.
Hancock's father is now suing the restaurant where his son got intoxicated, the manager of the restaurant, the tow truck AND the driver of the original stalled car.
I hate, HATE that restaurants and bars will serve individuals who are already intoxicated. Yet, that is very, very difficult to monitor. There probably is some justification for legal action against a restaurant that knowingly served an intoxicated patron. But the tow truck company? The tow truck driver? The guy who's car stalled? Those all seem ridiculous.
Let's not forget that Hancockk did not HAVE to get drunk. He did not have to get in his car. He did not have to speed. He had the option to put on his belt. He had the option of NOT being on a phone...who's really to blame?
I feel for any family member who loses a loved one, especially in such a sudden way. But let's not forget who is really at fault here, people.
Driver is driving down the highway and his car stalls out. While this is happening, a tow truck just happens by, sees the stalled vehicle and stops to help. A few minutes later, Hancock comes along and runs into the back of the tow truck, ultimately killing himself in the wreck.
Authorites reported later that Hancock was drunk, speeding, not wearing a seat belt andd talking on a cell phone. Marijuana was also found in his vehicle.
When you learn the facts of the case, again, sympathy and sadness turn to disgust...at least, that's the case with me.
Hancock's father is now suing the restaurant where his son got intoxicated, the manager of the restaurant, the tow truck AND the driver of the original stalled car.
I hate, HATE that restaurants and bars will serve individuals who are already intoxicated. Yet, that is very, very difficult to monitor. There probably is some justification for legal action against a restaurant that knowingly served an intoxicated patron. But the tow truck company? The tow truck driver? The guy who's car stalled? Those all seem ridiculous.
Let's not forget that Hancockk did not HAVE to get drunk. He did not have to get in his car. He did not have to speed. He had the option to put on his belt. He had the option of NOT being on a phone...who's really to blame?
I feel for any family member who loses a loved one, especially in such a sudden way. But let's not forget who is really at fault here, people.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Campus Safety, back in the news
If you're a college student, or if you have close ties to a college student, please take a look at:
www.campussafetymonth.org
Campus Safety Month doesn't officially happen until the fall '07 semester, but it's a great time to start preparing. Thanks to this web site for linking to :
www.marcusengel.com
www.campussafetymonth.org
Campus Safety Month doesn't officially happen until the fall '07 semester, but it's a great time to start preparing. Thanks to this web site for linking to :
www.marcusengel.com
Finally! Relief for Carson's Bladder!
Dog Guide Friendly Airports
A few airports around the country have created fully landscaped pooch-parks. The following are some of the country's most canine-friendly facilities.
In December 2004, Reno-Tahoe International Airport celebrated the opening of the Gate K-9 Bark Park. Paw prints stamped on the sidewalk outside the terminal
lead to the enclosed Bark Park just north of the baggage claim area. The park is landscaped with trees and a canopy for shade and stocked with fresh drinking
water and plastic mitts for quick clean-ups. They even have a fire hydrant for pet dogs who like to do their business the old-fashion way.
In Texas, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has a small park with a figure-eight-shaped dog walk located outside the lower level, just past the
east end of the terminal. Landscaped and lighted at night, the park has stone benches, shade trees, grassy areas, a pet-level drinking fountain and plenty
of mitts and trash receptacles for clean-ups.
The folks at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport maintain two park areas for pooches. The 2,000 square-foot Bone Yard is just outside the baggage claim
level at the west end of Terminal 4, the airport's busiest terminal. This finced-in area is shaded in the day and lighted at night and has a bone-shaped
patch in the center filled with kitty litter and surrounded by crushed gravel. Pet owners and dog guide teams can use the park's faucets and buckets to
cool off and the plastic mitts to clean up.
The Phoenix airport's second pet-relief area, the Paw Pad, is located just west of Terminal 3 inside a framed archway and a fence decorated with paw prints.
This pet-relief area offers pet owners and working teams the same amenities as the Bone Yard, but instead of gravel and kitty litter, the Paw Pad has grass.
consult the list of pet-friendly airports on the
www.PetFriendlyTravel.com
website
A few airports around the country have created fully landscaped pooch-parks. The following are some of the country's most canine-friendly facilities.
In December 2004, Reno-Tahoe International Airport celebrated the opening of the Gate K-9 Bark Park. Paw prints stamped on the sidewalk outside the terminal
lead to the enclosed Bark Park just north of the baggage claim area. The park is landscaped with trees and a canopy for shade and stocked with fresh drinking
water and plastic mitts for quick clean-ups. They even have a fire hydrant for pet dogs who like to do their business the old-fashion way.
In Texas, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has a small park with a figure-eight-shaped dog walk located outside the lower level, just past the
east end of the terminal. Landscaped and lighted at night, the park has stone benches, shade trees, grassy areas, a pet-level drinking fountain and plenty
of mitts and trash receptacles for clean-ups.
The folks at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport maintain two park areas for pooches. The 2,000 square-foot Bone Yard is just outside the baggage claim
level at the west end of Terminal 4, the airport's busiest terminal. This finced-in area is shaded in the day and lighted at night and has a bone-shaped
patch in the center filled with kitty litter and surrounded by crushed gravel. Pet owners and dog guide teams can use the park's faucets and buckets to
cool off and the plastic mitts to clean up.
The Phoenix airport's second pet-relief area, the Paw Pad, is located just west of Terminal 3 inside a framed archway and a fence decorated with paw prints.
This pet-relief area offers pet owners and working teams the same amenities as the Bone Yard, but instead of gravel and kitty litter, the Paw Pad has grass.
consult the list of pet-friendly airports on the
www.PetFriendlyTravel.com
website
For A Neighbor?...Nothing!
Since the grass in the back yard is so high a toddler could get lostt back there, we figured it was time to get a yard service. Just a few houses down, our neighbor has a lawn maintenence service. Since it was a beautiful night last night, we walked down to talk to him about being our yard guy.
Not only did he and his wife walk down to take a look at our yard, but in the dark, he walked around and adjusted every sprinkler head. He then offered to take a look at every aspect of our home to be sure the builder did everything they said. When we asked how much this inspection service would cost, in broken English, he said, "For a neighbor?...Nothing!"
Without aany agreement, without a dollar being paid, he already helped us improve some aspects of our home. I'm not sure if this is a Venezuelan work ethic, the fact they're just nice people, that we're neighbors or what, but either way, this kind of friendly service is what would make him a valueable resource, no matter what biz he's in. We could all learn from this gentleman.
Not only did he and his wife walk down to take a look at our yard, but in the dark, he walked around and adjusted every sprinkler head. He then offered to take a look at every aspect of our home to be sure the builder did everything they said. When we asked how much this inspection service would cost, in broken English, he said, "For a neighbor?...Nothing!"
Without aany agreement, without a dollar being paid, he already helped us improve some aspects of our home. I'm not sure if this is a Venezuelan work ethic, the fact they're just nice people, that we're neighbors or what, but either way, this kind of friendly service is what would make him a valueable resource, no matter what biz he's in. We could all learn from this gentleman.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
When My Brain Turns to Mush
The library from whence I have received books over the last dozen years, the Wolfner Library, sends out a weekly list of suggested readings. Sometimes the topic is historical fiction, sometimes world affairs, sometimes romance. Pretty much, if there's a category, they cover it. Through the years, I've gleened many, many book selections from their suggestions.
Today's mailer talked about fine arts. Folks, I'm a big ol' redneck and ballett, purty paintings and classical music don't hold a ton of interest for me. Still, I read through the list...and I'm glad I did.
One of the books listed was called, "Beyond The Tunnel: The Arts and Aging in America" by Joan Hart. Hart is an art educator and uses paintings to stimulate the elderly into activating their mind with memories. She likens the "tunnel" the elderly are in to a long corridor with doors that no longer open.
In the last several years, the baby boomers have continued to age(duh! Like anyone isn't aging!). Nintendo has created a gaming system specifically to stimulate the minds of the elderly, we are constantly barraged with supplements, quizzes, games, computer programs, etc. that all help ward off Alzheimers and the inevitable decline of the human brain...and all the technology the 20th century has created still doesn't add up to paintings created since the Renaissance.
Hey, whatever floats your boat-Michaelangelo or Mozart or MTV-just be sure you're doing SOMETHING to not let your brain turn to mush!
Today's mailer talked about fine arts. Folks, I'm a big ol' redneck and ballett, purty paintings and classical music don't hold a ton of interest for me. Still, I read through the list...and I'm glad I did.
One of the books listed was called, "Beyond The Tunnel: The Arts and Aging in America" by Joan Hart. Hart is an art educator and uses paintings to stimulate the elderly into activating their mind with memories. She likens the "tunnel" the elderly are in to a long corridor with doors that no longer open.
In the last several years, the baby boomers have continued to age(duh! Like anyone isn't aging!). Nintendo has created a gaming system specifically to stimulate the minds of the elderly, we are constantly barraged with supplements, quizzes, games, computer programs, etc. that all help ward off Alzheimers and the inevitable decline of the human brain...and all the technology the 20th century has created still doesn't add up to paintings created since the Renaissance.
Hey, whatever floats your boat-Michaelangelo or Mozart or MTV-just be sure you're doing SOMETHING to not let your brain turn to mush!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Mere Seconds
Caught some show on the History Channel today about gigantic events that happen in mere seconds. This episode was about a flight leaving D.C. during a snowstorm in 1982. I don't remember this plane crash, but from the winter of 82, about all I DO remember is the snow being so deep my sister and I made a tunnel. But, apparently that was a pretty harsh winter all across the eastern half of the country.
As the plane took off, it couldn't gain altitude and, as the seconds ticked by, it begaan to fall from the sky. Many people were killed and lives were changed...again, in mere seconds.
It made me think how precarious life really is. I mean, I could walk out the front door tomorrow morning and a meteorite may push me 50 feet into the ground. Unlikely, but the passengers on the flight thought the same thing. With so many potential accidents, I walk a fine line of philosophy: being safe...or being so in love with life that you never even worry about anything but the moment you're in. Oh, what to say, what to say!
Obviously, I'm a safety minded person. Yet, that's as much for the people who love me. I don't want to do anything stupid that could cause them harm. By that same token, I love life so much that I wouldn't want to risk losing this awesome time I'm currently having. Be safe, but only to the extent you don't hurt or kill yourself. Past that? Emotional safety? Hey, don't worry about that! Those times when one's comfort level is put to the side are the times we enjoy most in life!
As the plane took off, it couldn't gain altitude and, as the seconds ticked by, it begaan to fall from the sky. Many people were killed and lives were changed...again, in mere seconds.
It made me think how precarious life really is. I mean, I could walk out the front door tomorrow morning and a meteorite may push me 50 feet into the ground. Unlikely, but the passengers on the flight thought the same thing. With so many potential accidents, I walk a fine line of philosophy: being safe...or being so in love with life that you never even worry about anything but the moment you're in. Oh, what to say, what to say!
Obviously, I'm a safety minded person. Yet, that's as much for the people who love me. I don't want to do anything stupid that could cause them harm. By that same token, I love life so much that I wouldn't want to risk losing this awesome time I'm currently having. Be safe, but only to the extent you don't hurt or kill yourself. Past that? Emotional safety? Hey, don't worry about that! Those times when one's comfort level is put to the side are the times we enjoy most in life!
Nice Day for a White Wedding
Marvelyne and I havve done a few updates to our web site for the wedding. Feel free to check out the changes and leave a message on the guest book. Thanks to all who've been so supportive of this relocation and our wishes for our wedding!
www.mywedding.com/marcusandmarvelyne
www.mywedding.com/marcusandmarvelyne
Monday, May 21, 2007
Passion-It's Not Just for the Bedroom Any more!
Welp, it's graduation time again. Congrats to all my friends who are moving from one stage in their education into another(and if you say you're done being educated, well, unless you plan on dropping dead as soon as the diploma is in hand, you're wrong).
A couple of dozen CEOs of some of the biggest corporations in America were asked what advice they'd give to grads. It was almost uncanny the similarity of responses, especially those including the word "passion." Of the first 10 I read in USA Today, well more than half encouraged grads to find their passion and cultivate it.I couldn't agree more. One CEO even went so far as to suggest grads take their dream job, even if it's for less money. After all, they're working their dream job and that is compensation of another kind!
It's true-finding one's passion is one of the aspects that can lead to the fullest and richest life imaginable.
A couple of dozen CEOs of some of the biggest corporations in America were asked what advice they'd give to grads. It was almost uncanny the similarity of responses, especially those including the word "passion." Of the first 10 I read in USA Today, well more than half encouraged grads to find their passion and cultivate it.I couldn't agree more. One CEO even went so far as to suggest grads take their dream job, even if it's for less money. After all, they're working their dream job and that is compensation of another kind!
It's true-finding one's passion is one of the aspects that can lead to the fullest and richest life imaginable.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
A Strange Card
A few weeks ago, I received a strange and obscene greeting card. I'll spare you the details, but the beginning said, "Horray, horray, it's the 10th of May..." Then, underneath, there were pictures of bunnies. No return address, no name, no signature, nothing personal, postmarked from Minnesota. Any of my peeps send this expecting me to get a joke I obviously have forgotten? Or, did anyone else receive something like this?
Pain
Currently reading Christopher Moore's "A Dirty Job." Quick summary: Charlie is a San Francisco thrift store owner who has just lost his wife. He is left with an infant daughter, a few neurotic, goth employees and, strangely, the new task of being an understudy to the grim reaper. Charlie is mourning his wife. Seeing everything of hers in his apartment causes him to break into sobs. His sister is consoling him, doing the best she can for a man who has just lost everything. He's blubbering, sobbing and blurts out, "Maybe I should just move! Get out of here, get away from all her stuff..." His sister made a profound observation: You can do whatever you want, but pain usually travels well." Pain usually travels well. Wow. Beautiful.
People pull that tridck all the time; I hate my life, so I'm going to try to get away from myself with booze. Or I hate my existence, so instead of confronting my problems, I'll buy items for comfort. Or I'll eat myself into oblivion every day, because that is, at least, SOME pleasure, if only temporary. You can't run from pain. Trust me, I've tried. the only true way to move on from pain is to fully embrace it, let it run it's course and don't expect anything unrealistic-like it'll go away completely. Remember, pain usually travels well.
People pull that tridck all the time; I hate my life, so I'm going to try to get away from myself with booze. Or I hate my existence, so instead of confronting my problems, I'll buy items for comfort. Or I'll eat myself into oblivion every day, because that is, at least, SOME pleasure, if only temporary. You can't run from pain. Trust me, I've tried. the only true way to move on from pain is to fully embrace it, let it run it's course and don't expect anything unrealistic-like it'll go away completely. Remember, pain usually travels well.
...Yet!
Yesterday I attended an awesome meeting of the Natl. Speakers Assoc. Central Florida chapter. The speaker, Jeff Tobe, was an incredible help with marketing and promotion and, if you're so inclined, check out his web site:
www.jefftobe.com
So, back at the ranch...I was standing in line behind a gentleman at the meeting who was telling a story to another fellow. Being nosey, I pulled my super secret FBI espionage trick, also known as eavesdropping. He said, "Ya know, sometimes you just have to wake up and realize how luckky you are. Last month, my wife and I were on vacation in the Carolinas, staying in this beautiful mountain cabin. I woke up, looked out over the valley, saw the fog start lifting through the trees and realized how blessed I am. I have a great career, a wonderful wife, I'm in a beautiful place, none of my kids are in jail...yet..."
Ya know, he IS lucky...and if not having relatives in prison is a blessing, so be it!
www.jefftobe.com
So, back at the ranch...I was standing in line behind a gentleman at the meeting who was telling a story to another fellow. Being nosey, I pulled my super secret FBI espionage trick, also known as eavesdropping. He said, "Ya know, sometimes you just have to wake up and realize how luckky you are. Last month, my wife and I were on vacation in the Carolinas, staying in this beautiful mountain cabin. I woke up, looked out over the valley, saw the fog start lifting through the trees and realized how blessed I am. I have a great career, a wonderful wife, I'm in a beautiful place, none of my kids are in jail...yet..."
Ya know, he IS lucky...and if not having relatives in prison is a blessing, so be it!
Friday, May 18, 2007
Annoying Commercial Jingles
Don't you just hate it when you get a song stuck in your head? Sucks, doesn't it? What's worse is getting a BAD song stuck in your head! Yesterday, I had the old Folgers TV commercial jingle rolling around my grey cells: The best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup!
I have no idea if Folgers is even using this jingle any more, but it'll be stuck in my memory forever. Yep, even the verse about decaf Folgers. So, of course, while this song is on auto rewind, I'm thinking about what it says: The best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup. Uh, no it's not. The best part of waking up is....WAKING UP! Ask any dead person what's the best part of waking up and they're darned sure not going to say coffee! Okay, they're not going to say anything, but they won't say Folgers, either!
I have no idea if Folgers is even using this jingle any more, but it'll be stuck in my memory forever. Yep, even the verse about decaf Folgers. So, of course, while this song is on auto rewind, I'm thinking about what it says: The best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup. Uh, no it's not. The best part of waking up is....WAKING UP! Ask any dead person what's the best part of waking up and they're darned sure not going to say coffee! Okay, they're not going to say anything, but they won't say Folgers, either!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
The Smartest Guy Ever?
I just read one of the most interesting articles in a long, long time. See, when I was a wee lad of 19 at the Colorado Center for the Blind, students and teachers kept talking about this thing called, "The Kurzweil." Not being the least bit interested in computers or technology (keep in mind this was over a year before I got my first E mail address), I didn't pay it much mind.
Since then, I've heard the Kurzweil name come up now and then, but it wasn't until I read the following article until I realized just how brilliant this Kurzweil guy is. Enjoy! Oh, and don't forget to take your supplements!
http://money.cnn.com/2007/05/01/magazines/fortune/kurzweil.fortune/index.htm
Since then, I've heard the Kurzweil name come up now and then, but it wasn't until I read the following article until I realized just how brilliant this Kurzweil guy is. Enjoy! Oh, and don't forget to take your supplements!
http://money.cnn.com/2007/05/01/magazines/fortune/kurzweil.fortune/index.htm
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Fat Mayors
In a tiny village in England, today marked a ceremony that has gone back to medival times: weighing the mayor. What? Yes, weighing the mayor.
In the olden days, it was tradition to weigh the mayor every year to be sure he wasn't getting fat off the taxpayers' dollars. More for tradition now, that practice continues to this day. And we're all left wishing there was something so tangible and accurate as a way to measure the misuse of tax dollars.
In the olden days, it was tradition to weigh the mayor every year to be sure he wasn't getting fat off the taxpayers' dollars. More for tradition now, that practice continues to this day. And we're all left wishing there was something so tangible and accurate as a way to measure the misuse of tax dollars.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Our Favorite Drunks
A few days ago, I read an article on how Whitney Houston made an appearance at Stevie Wonder's birthday party. And, as you and I have come to expect, Whitney was red-eyed and showing all sorts of signs of intoxication. Tonight, I watched American Idol(I know, I know...I'm pathetic). Since this is the first season I've given more than a passing glance to an episode, I missed all the past episodes of Paula Abdul being drunker than a barrel full of monkies. In Houston's case, it is well, WELL documented of just how bad of a substance abuse problem she has. PSo, reading the article, I blew it off as just another Whitney Houston binge.
Then there's Anna Nicole. Dead. Chances are, of a drug overdose. Now, she's immortal. As is Janis Joplin. As is Hendrix. As is Belushi.
It seems that while people with substance abuse problems are alive, we disregard them as nothing more than worthless users...but once someone dies of an overdose, they reach immortal status. Does this make sense?
Then there's Anna Nicole. Dead. Chances are, of a drug overdose. Now, she's immortal. As is Janis Joplin. As is Hendrix. As is Belushi.
It seems that while people with substance abuse problems are alive, we disregard them as nothing more than worthless users...but once someone dies of an overdose, they reach immortal status. Does this make sense?
Monday, May 14, 2007
Does No One Think?
This morning, I happened upon an article about an "incident" that took place last week in Tennessee. A class of 6th graders were on a week long field trip to a park. During the evening, the teachers and staff staged a "drill" of an attacking gunman. The staff started spreading word to the kids that a gunman was on the loose, that there'd been a random shooting and this was an emergency. All the kids were made to lie down, get under their bunks and keep quiet-like that's going to happen!
The staff even went so far as to have an adult in a hooded sweatshirt beating on the door of the cabin, trying to get in. And why? To try to get the kids prepared if something like this really would happen. Fair enough-but let's think how many idiots, er, staff this needed to take place. There were over 60 students involved. This means there were probably a minimum of 10 adults in leadership roles. Not all could have been teachers, but some had to be. And teachers should know better than to think scaring the beejesus out of kids will prepare them for anything except anger at the offender. I mean, this was a fairly well planned out "drill"...during the planning, did no one stop and say, "Uh, is this really a good idea to scare the hell out of kids?" Apparently not.
I'm all for preparing our students to live in today's world. After all, we do fire drills, tornado drills and terrorism drills...many schools, in the wake of Collonbine, also do school emergency drills. This is fine, but to pull a prank like this just after Virginia Tech's recent tragedy was just insane.
The staff even went so far as to have an adult in a hooded sweatshirt beating on the door of the cabin, trying to get in. And why? To try to get the kids prepared if something like this really would happen. Fair enough-but let's think how many idiots, er, staff this needed to take place. There were over 60 students involved. This means there were probably a minimum of 10 adults in leadership roles. Not all could have been teachers, but some had to be. And teachers should know better than to think scaring the beejesus out of kids will prepare them for anything except anger at the offender. I mean, this was a fairly well planned out "drill"...during the planning, did no one stop and say, "Uh, is this really a good idea to scare the hell out of kids?" Apparently not.
I'm all for preparing our students to live in today's world. After all, we do fire drills, tornado drills and terrorism drills...many schools, in the wake of Collonbine, also do school emergency drills. This is fine, but to pull a prank like this just after Virginia Tech's recent tragedy was just insane.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Why It's Good I'm Not A Mom
Cupcakes-never made 'em, never will.
I can barely do my own laundry, much less that of children.
I'm not good at soothing others after they have nightmares.
One word: puke.
Scouts would go hungry if I was the Den Mother.
I do not feel funerals are necessary for goldfish.
I'd sing "Born to Run" as a lullabye instead of "Rock-A-Bye Baby"
I keep tools that are dangerous to farm animals on coffeetables for conversation pieces-things that attract little hands.
Breast feeding and Marcus do not go together.
I'd let kids have Kool Aid any time they want.
Two words: dirt bikes!
As you can tell, I'm probably not fit for parenthood, but definitely, DEFINITELY not for mommyhood. This is why it's so so so good that there are moms to fill those roles. To clean up scraped knees, to give unconditional love, to crawl into bed with when a headcold takes over, to tell where babies come from, to be sure discipline happens without belts and flyswatters, to break up arguments while respecting the feelings of the participants-just to be Mom. To all of you who do these things, thank you...and especially to my own!
I can barely do my own laundry, much less that of children.
I'm not good at soothing others after they have nightmares.
One word: puke.
Scouts would go hungry if I was the Den Mother.
I do not feel funerals are necessary for goldfish.
I'd sing "Born to Run" as a lullabye instead of "Rock-A-Bye Baby"
I keep tools that are dangerous to farm animals on coffeetables for conversation pieces-things that attract little hands.
Breast feeding and Marcus do not go together.
I'd let kids have Kool Aid any time they want.
Two words: dirt bikes!
As you can tell, I'm probably not fit for parenthood, but definitely, DEFINITELY not for mommyhood. This is why it's so so so good that there are moms to fill those roles. To clean up scraped knees, to give unconditional love, to crawl into bed with when a headcold takes over, to tell where babies come from, to be sure discipline happens without belts and flyswatters, to break up arguments while respecting the feelings of the participants-just to be Mom. To all of you who do these things, thank you...and especially to my own!
Stop Snitchin'
A few weeks ago, you may have seen the 60 Minutes episode about snitchin', the street lingo for informing and cooperating with law enforcement when a crime has occurred. Specifically, the hip hop world has coined the phrase, "Stop Snitchin'" and encourages those with info on crimes to keep it to themselves and not tell the cops. Rapper Cam'Ron(Killa Cam) was interviewed on 60 Minutes and said he simply will never cooperate with police-on anything...even if he's living next door to a serial killer.
This sorta fascinated me. Cam'Ron has a reputation to protect; that of being gangsta thug, participating in criminal activity, all things illegal. If he WOULD cooperate with police if he knows info on a crime, it really hurts his credability as a thug. Yet, for him to encourage average citizens to keep their traps shut seems irresponsible. Unfortunately, those living in the economically deprived areas of the inner cities idolize rappers like Cam'Ron and NOT true minority leaders like, oh, Bill Cosby. Thus, we have the entire "stop snitchin'" movement.
Now, I again have some sympathy/understanding of Killa Cam's position-he's a thug. If he acts like a responsible citizen, he hurts his rep. So, for weeks, I've been trying to think of scenarios where Cam'Ron could inform on someone where it wouldn't infringe on his persona.
Earlier this month, a California State University-Sacramento student was killed by a stray bullet outside a night club, right across the street from campus. This student, a service sorority member, was the sober driver for her friends. Gang activity in the club spilled out onto the street and a bullett intended for another found it's way into her. Dead. 20 years old. Innocent. Would Killa Cam inform on who did this? He says no. But would it hurt him? Doubtful. Anyone who can hear of an innocent dying in the line of gang fire and NOT want to inform is a fool. Killa Cam included.
This sorta fascinated me. Cam'Ron has a reputation to protect; that of being gangsta thug, participating in criminal activity, all things illegal. If he WOULD cooperate with police if he knows info on a crime, it really hurts his credability as a thug. Yet, for him to encourage average citizens to keep their traps shut seems irresponsible. Unfortunately, those living in the economically deprived areas of the inner cities idolize rappers like Cam'Ron and NOT true minority leaders like, oh, Bill Cosby. Thus, we have the entire "stop snitchin'" movement.
Now, I again have some sympathy/understanding of Killa Cam's position-he's a thug. If he acts like a responsible citizen, he hurts his rep. So, for weeks, I've been trying to think of scenarios where Cam'Ron could inform on someone where it wouldn't infringe on his persona.
Earlier this month, a California State University-Sacramento student was killed by a stray bullet outside a night club, right across the street from campus. This student, a service sorority member, was the sober driver for her friends. Gang activity in the club spilled out onto the street and a bullett intended for another found it's way into her. Dead. 20 years old. Innocent. Would Killa Cam inform on who did this? He says no. But would it hurt him? Doubtful. Anyone who can hear of an innocent dying in the line of gang fire and NOT want to inform is a fool. Killa Cam included.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
More Marcus Ranting On Paris Hilton!
I know, I know, I should just let her skinny butt rot in the can for her 45 day sentence. That would be too easy. Instead, for this person I already find dispicable, I have decided to use my power for evil, not good, and add to her public embarrassment and shame.
Okay, as if this useless waste of humanity didn't annoy me enough already, now she has an on line petition directed at Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger that says(and I quote), " the American public who support Paris are shocked, dismayed and appalled by how Paris has been the person to be used as an example that drunk driving is wrong."
Okay, as if this useless waste of humanity didn't annoy me enough already, now she has an on line petition directed at Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger that says(and I quote), " the American public who support Paris are shocked, dismayed and appalled by how Paris has been the person to be used as an example that drunk driving is wrong."
Really? She's an example? No one else who's driven on a suspended license has ever been jailed? It's a Paris witchhunt? Puh-leeze!
Ah-Nold's response was pretty priceless, I must say. Basically, Conan said, "Uh, yeah, I've got better things to do with my time than listen to this kinda crap." Okay, I sorta made that up, but he was just a little nicer about it.
Do the crime, do the time, girlie. Example or not, you did it and you should be punished. So should Mel Gibson. So should Congressman Kennedy. So should every other person who receives a conviction for DUI. We have over 15,000 Americans killed by DWI every year in this country. THERE is the example for the public why Paris' sentence should stick.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Trust Me!
This morning, I sat at breakfast with the most obnoxious woman on earth. No, not Marvelyne...but she was there, too. The woman was actually a total stranger and sitting across the aisle, but she was one of those loud talkers who, due to her volume, is having her meal with everyone in the joint. She's telling her meal mate about all the business deals and biz partners who have screwed her over in the past. "I used to trust everyone until they gave me reason not to. Now? I don't trust anyone until they earn my trust."
Do you know anyone who thinks like this? Do you? I'm just the opposite-I feel that you attract what you respect. So, if I walk around distrustful of everyone, always fearing I'm going to get hosed, then I'll probably get hosed! However, if I act confident and competent, friendly and courteous, then I'll get those sentiments returned.
But, aside from that philosophy, can she really be serious? She doesn't trust anyone until they earn her trust? So, she doesn't believe the guy behind the counter at QT when she goes in to ask for directions? She doesn't trust the waitress when she tells her the soup of the day? Stupid.
Being distrustful of the world will certainly accomplish one thing-the creation of a world where there is no trust. Leave it alone, treat others as you'd like to be treated and watch your world expand.
Do you know anyone who thinks like this? Do you? I'm just the opposite-I feel that you attract what you respect. So, if I walk around distrustful of everyone, always fearing I'm going to get hosed, then I'll probably get hosed! However, if I act confident and competent, friendly and courteous, then I'll get those sentiments returned.
But, aside from that philosophy, can she really be serious? She doesn't trust anyone until they earn her trust? So, she doesn't believe the guy behind the counter at QT when she goes in to ask for directions? She doesn't trust the waitress when she tells her the soup of the day? Stupid.
Being distrustful of the world will certainly accomplish one thing-the creation of a world where there is no trust. Leave it alone, treat others as you'd like to be treated and watch your world expand.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Go Royals!
Okay, being a St. Louis Cardinals fan, I'm a sworn enemy of the American League Royals on "the wrong side of the state." But, gotta give K.C. Royals some major props. The small town in Kansas that was destroyed last week by the biggest tornado America has seen in over half a decade not only lost almost all the town's homes, but also their baseball field. This week, players from the Royals loaded up, went to this small town and helped re-build the town baseball diamond.
In times of tragedy, we see some of the best attributes of humanity. Thanks to the Royals for giving us a glimpse of this during this horrible time. And folks in Kansas...the rest of the country is sending prayers and good energy your way!
In times of tragedy, we see some of the best attributes of humanity. Thanks to the Royals for giving us a glimpse of this during this horrible time. And folks in Kansas...the rest of the country is sending prayers and good energy your way!
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
I'm A Loser Baby, So Why Don't Ya Kill Me?
Ya know, for someone who really hates reality TV, I seem to have watched a lot of it lately. Have you seen "The Biggest Loser?" Here's the long and short of it...
Two teams, one male, one female. Each member of the team is overweight. Obese, in fact. The members signed up to change their lifestyle with coaches, personal trainers and nutritionists. Every week there is a weigh in and whichever team wins gets something; phone calls home, etc. The weight lost is measured in percentages so the male/female weight losses are fair.
As with any good reality TV based show with teams, someone gets voted off the island, er, fat farm. Last night, when the voting began, I was struck by the two different personalities of voters on the men's team: compassionate and jerk.
The first man to vote said, "Seth, you're the youngest here, you've consistently lost weight, you've showed discipline. I think you'll have the most success in the real world trying to reach your weight loss goals." I thought that was sweet-voting him off the fat farm because they know he'll succeed anyway. However, the next men to vote were the typical jerks with the typical reasons: Nick, you didn't lose weight like you said, Bob you lost four lbs., but you should have lost 10, you're the weakest link. That sorta stuff.
This is one of the very few shows I've come across that is actually healthy, has a realistic end and does NOT make the person voted off feel like a big idiot. It's doubtful I'll ever watch this show again, but for the one time I did, it gave me a bit of a new perspective on people.
Two teams, one male, one female. Each member of the team is overweight. Obese, in fact. The members signed up to change their lifestyle with coaches, personal trainers and nutritionists. Every week there is a weigh in and whichever team wins gets something; phone calls home, etc. The weight lost is measured in percentages so the male/female weight losses are fair.
As with any good reality TV based show with teams, someone gets voted off the island, er, fat farm. Last night, when the voting began, I was struck by the two different personalities of voters on the men's team: compassionate and jerk.
The first man to vote said, "Seth, you're the youngest here, you've consistently lost weight, you've showed discipline. I think you'll have the most success in the real world trying to reach your weight loss goals." I thought that was sweet-voting him off the fat farm because they know he'll succeed anyway. However, the next men to vote were the typical jerks with the typical reasons: Nick, you didn't lose weight like you said, Bob you lost four lbs., but you should have lost 10, you're the weakest link. That sorta stuff.
This is one of the very few shows I've come across that is actually healthy, has a realistic end and does NOT make the person voted off feel like a big idiot. It's doubtful I'll ever watch this show again, but for the one time I did, it gave me a bit of a new perspective on people.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
45 Days in the Hole
Due to being on a bit of a vacation lately(if you call moving a vacation), I've been out of the loop with current happenings. Last night, after watching the re-run of South Park's episode with Al and the Boy Scout troop, I happened to catch a few minutes of headlines. Color me unsurprised when Paris Hilton was one of the top stories. People who are famous for being famous annoy me. People who have such celebrity and choose to use it for nothing more than self promo annoy me even more. People who have that power and then actually do harmful and dangerous stuff to get more publicity are even more annoying than the previously two stated annoyances. Thus, I hate Paris Hilton.
Paris gets a DWI? Same as for anyone-she deserves the fullest extent of punishment the law will allow. And since she took the softball thrown at her for her DWI sentence and totally disregarded it, she gets 45 days in jail. Good. Not just because I can't stand her, but because once again it shows such a disgusting example of entitlement. A total disregard for the law, then another total disregard for taking responsibility for one's mistakes is dispicable. Have fun, Paris...hope you learn something this time!
Paris gets a DWI? Same as for anyone-she deserves the fullest extent of punishment the law will allow. And since she took the softball thrown at her for her DWI sentence and totally disregarded it, she gets 45 days in jail. Good. Not just because I can't stand her, but because once again it shows such a disgusting example of entitlement. A total disregard for the law, then another total disregard for taking responsibility for one's mistakes is dispicable. Have fun, Paris...hope you learn something this time!
The Power of Now
"Power over others is weakness disguised as strength"
-Eckhart Tolle, "The Power of Now"
This is the book I've been trying to read for the last couple of weeks. While there's nothing in here I haven't learned from other books with the same theme, Tolle boxes it up in a quotable way that makes the light bulb over my head flash on. I thought this quote was especially appropriate, so I share it with you.
-Eckhart Tolle, "The Power of Now"
This is the book I've been trying to read for the last couple of weeks. While there's nothing in here I haven't learned from other books with the same theme, Tolle boxes it up in a quotable way that makes the light bulb over my head flash on. I thought this quote was especially appropriate, so I share it with you.
Monday, May 07, 2007
The Things Folks Remember...
As an alumni of the Mu Rho chapter of Kappa Sigma at Missouri State, any time I'm back at the old school, I try to meet the new members and pledges. One of the duties of a pledge was(several years ago, at least) to collect interviews from as many brothers as possible. An interview consisted of learning year born, year pledged, pin number, favorite movies/books/beer, etc.
This afternoon, I got an E mail from a brother who pledged seven years ago. His message said, "Engel, remember when you gave us your interview? Scottie asked you if they magically found a way to restore your sight, would you want it done? You said no, that you'd already gone through one major life's trauma and the next big change might not be welcome."
I'm not sure those were my exact words, but they do have some of my thoughts. Most people can't fathom why, if the medical community would have knowledge to restore my sight, why I wouldn't do it. Well, there are lots and lots of things to ask before considering this: is it permanent? Would it be a 100% restoration? What is the process? How much recovery? Is there any chance of a loss reoccurring? So many questions that can't be answered now in May of 2007. In 10 years, maybe we'll know those answers, but today we don't. Thus, I'll cross that bridge when/if the medical community has that breakthrough.
After telling me what I said, the brother forwarded an article about the new breakthroughs in embryonic stem cell work that has restored sight to some blind mice(three of them? I dunno!) It was an interesting article with some work that sounds promising...but I put so very little stock into this.
It seems people are forever giving me articles on how new research is coming up with new and improved medical hopes for the future. That's all good and fine, but to state for the record-I love my life! I do not need my sight back to have a perfectly happy and fulfilled life! And I don't spend my time falsely hoping for docs to come up with something new. I just don't. If it happens in the future, well, we'll worry about it then! Until then, I'm pretty darned content with who I am(though I would like to lose about 20 lbs.) and I'm content with my life(though I would like to get some of these moving boxes unpacked soon)...if you're interested in the article, it can be found in Reuters.
This afternoon, I got an E mail from a brother who pledged seven years ago. His message said, "Engel, remember when you gave us your interview? Scottie asked you if they magically found a way to restore your sight, would you want it done? You said no, that you'd already gone through one major life's trauma and the next big change might not be welcome."
I'm not sure those were my exact words, but they do have some of my thoughts. Most people can't fathom why, if the medical community would have knowledge to restore my sight, why I wouldn't do it. Well, there are lots and lots of things to ask before considering this: is it permanent? Would it be a 100% restoration? What is the process? How much recovery? Is there any chance of a loss reoccurring? So many questions that can't be answered now in May of 2007. In 10 years, maybe we'll know those answers, but today we don't. Thus, I'll cross that bridge when/if the medical community has that breakthrough.
After telling me what I said, the brother forwarded an article about the new breakthroughs in embryonic stem cell work that has restored sight to some blind mice(three of them? I dunno!) It was an interesting article with some work that sounds promising...but I put so very little stock into this.
It seems people are forever giving me articles on how new research is coming up with new and improved medical hopes for the future. That's all good and fine, but to state for the record-I love my life! I do not need my sight back to have a perfectly happy and fulfilled life! And I don't spend my time falsely hoping for docs to come up with something new. I just don't. If it happens in the future, well, we'll worry about it then! Until then, I'm pretty darned content with who I am(though I would like to lose about 20 lbs.) and I'm content with my life(though I would like to get some of these moving boxes unpacked soon)...if you're interested in the article, it can be found in Reuters.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Fifteen Pounds of Smugled Spanish Mat
Men of the Hochs/Engel bachelor weekend in Athens: thank you. For the good times, the Hee Haw donkey, the Kentucky special, mommies, the 15 lbs of Spanish cured meats compliments of Senor Lucas, etc. etc. etc. Special thanks to the large one for hosting our stinky selves and for showiing us what it means to live in a college town once again! Again, gentlemen, my gratitude is immeasureable for your friendship and fellowship this weekend and in the future. Welp, see ya later!
Friday, May 04, 2007
Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?
Last night, I happened upon a show by the title of this post. In it, trivia buffs are pitted against the knowledge of an average 5th grader. I felt more than a little stupid since, well, one of the questions was about the square root of something and I hadn't thought about what a square root is since, oh, fifth grade!
While I was watching the show, I got a call from my mom-a woman who really WAS a fifth grade teacher for many years. Even though she taught the stuff, I'm sure she'd also have to brush up on some of the items on the quiz show. And, if you ask some of the biggest and brightest leaders in the business world, chances are, many of them also would not do so hot on this show.
It kinda makes me sad that we sit there ripping on a 45 year old man for not knowing little bits of trivia that is considered 5th grade knowledge. Who is to say this gentleman doesn't routinely work in a field where he saves livves? Or that he leads America's young leaders? Granted, there is a certain amount of knowledge I think we all should havve, but the whole purpose of this show seems to be to try to get adults to look like idiots, just so the folks at home can get their jollies by knowing answers the contestant didn't get right.
While I was watching the show, I got a call from my mom-a woman who really WAS a fifth grade teacher for many years. Even though she taught the stuff, I'm sure she'd also have to brush up on some of the items on the quiz show. And, if you ask some of the biggest and brightest leaders in the business world, chances are, many of them also would not do so hot on this show.
It kinda makes me sad that we sit there ripping on a 45 year old man for not knowing little bits of trivia that is considered 5th grade knowledge. Who is to say this gentleman doesn't routinely work in a field where he saves livves? Or that he leads America's young leaders? Granted, there is a certain amount of knowledge I think we all should havve, but the whole purpose of this show seems to be to try to get adults to look like idiots, just so the folks at home can get their jollies by knowing answers the contestant didn't get right.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Hold Onto ...32...As Long As You Can?
Growing up in central Missouri, I tell folks I honestly lived every song John Cougar Mellencamp ever wrote. Small town, mid-America, young love, racing cars, all that stuff. In Mellencamp's "Jack and Diane", I also took a good bit of my philosophy on young life: Hold onto 16 as long as you can, changes come around real soon and make us women and men."
I can honestly tell you I dreaded-flat hated turning 17. Why? Because I could no longer hold onto 16.
So, today is my birthday. And 16 has now doubled to 32. Freaking 32. Part of me asks, "Where has time gone?" and the other part of me says, "The last 32 years have been one hell of a ride!" Somewhere in the middle, I find what I now know; something I could not have fully known as a 16 year old. That is, life is a choice. I choose my life to be filled with good. Therefore, it is. It's all a choice.
If anyone doesn't believe that, then they've purposefully chosen to close their eyes to all the good life can(and does) offer.
Thanks to my fiance, Marvelyne, and my soon-to-be married into family for such a great day! A bunch of new biz clothes, a great lunch at a place with "Jimmy Buffett for President" shirts hanging in the lobby, a fat nap this afternoon, getting my name mentioned on the Dave Glover Show, and then cooking a birthday bananas foster....ah, life is good!
I can honestly tell you I dreaded-flat hated turning 17. Why? Because I could no longer hold onto 16.
So, today is my birthday. And 16 has now doubled to 32. Freaking 32. Part of me asks, "Where has time gone?" and the other part of me says, "The last 32 years have been one hell of a ride!" Somewhere in the middle, I find what I now know; something I could not have fully known as a 16 year old. That is, life is a choice. I choose my life to be filled with good. Therefore, it is. It's all a choice.
If anyone doesn't believe that, then they've purposefully chosen to close their eyes to all the good life can(and does) offer.
Thanks to my fiance, Marvelyne, and my soon-to-be married into family for such a great day! A bunch of new biz clothes, a great lunch at a place with "Jimmy Buffett for President" shirts hanging in the lobby, a fat nap this afternoon, getting my name mentioned on the Dave Glover Show, and then cooking a birthday bananas foster....ah, life is good!
Denny Crane-Cuckoo or Cocoa Puffs
Last night was Tuesday, which around here means Boston Legal night! I am so so so not a fan of TV in general, but Boston Legal has some of the best writing I've heard in a long, long time(other than South Park and Reno 9-11). Plus, they often work in some serious and current legal topics into theirr line-up. Several weeks ago, I blogged about the sorority at DePauw University where members had been kicked out due to their appearance(supposedly). Last night, Boston Legal used this as one of their mini-storiess. The name of Boston Legal's fictious sorority? Gamma Kappa Tau. The city wwhere DePauw University is located? Greencastle, Indiana. Other than K, "Kappa" can be used to make words that start with "C" in the Greek alphabet. So, GCT would bbe the fictious sorority's letters. Mere coincidence that translates to an abbreviated version of Greencastle? Maybe-but with the cleverness of Boston Legal's writers, I doubt this was anything other than a brain teaser for those who care to think a little deeper.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
REK, The Month From Hell and Feelin' Good
If you've ever moved, you know what a colossal pain in the arse it is. But, have you ever bought a new house? Even bigger pain. Or sold a house? Still painful. Ever planned a wedding? Yep, pain. Or a reception? A honeymoon? Had movers take possession of every earthly thing you own, then tell you they have criminal records? Yeah, this was April for me. Even things as joyful as planning a wedding becomes, well, a big ol' headache.
So, last Thursday, the headache went away. The house in Orlando had been closed on two weeks earlier, the sale of my home in STL went through after a few roadblocks set up thanks to the idiotic IRS, the movers delivered my stuff with minimal damage to our new home in FL AND everyone had received their invitations to our wedding in July. Did all these combine to be one ginormous load off my shoulders? You bet your criminal record!
Meanwhile, last week a bud sent me the link to the MySpace page of one of my favorite artists, Robert Earl Keen. Keen is a kick butt singer/songwriter out of Texas and, if you haven't heard of him, chances are, you're not a Texan. If you're a Texan and you still aren't familiar with REK, then you're lame! But, I don't know any lame Texans, so I'm pretty sure that's about the same as Sasquatch or Nessie.
On REK's MySpace profile, he has the song(my fav Keen tune), "Feelin' Good Again." Not only was it a treat to hear this pop up on my CPU this morning, but I thought, "Ya know, now that April is over, I AM feelin' good again!"
So, here's to May 07 being a less stressful, more joyful and even better time filled with my fiance, Marvelyne, my new almost stepkids and the beginning of my new life in Florida! Bring on the Buffett!
So, last Thursday, the headache went away. The house in Orlando had been closed on two weeks earlier, the sale of my home in STL went through after a few roadblocks set up thanks to the idiotic IRS, the movers delivered my stuff with minimal damage to our new home in FL AND everyone had received their invitations to our wedding in July. Did all these combine to be one ginormous load off my shoulders? You bet your criminal record!
Meanwhile, last week a bud sent me the link to the MySpace page of one of my favorite artists, Robert Earl Keen. Keen is a kick butt singer/songwriter out of Texas and, if you haven't heard of him, chances are, you're not a Texan. If you're a Texan and you still aren't familiar with REK, then you're lame! But, I don't know any lame Texans, so I'm pretty sure that's about the same as Sasquatch or Nessie.
On REK's MySpace profile, he has the song(my fav Keen tune), "Feelin' Good Again." Not only was it a treat to hear this pop up on my CPU this morning, but I thought, "Ya know, now that April is over, I AM feelin' good again!"
So, here's to May 07 being a less stressful, more joyful and even better time filled with my fiance, Marvelyne, my new almost stepkids and the beginning of my new life in Florida! Bring on the Buffett!
What's Your Dark Tower?
Last week, I completed the seventh(and final) book in Stephen King's "Dark Tower" series. Nevermind the 30 or 40 hours I've invested in reading this series, King's masterful storytelling sucked me in once again with the best character development in modern American lit. Not unlike the story of the Hobbits crossing the foreign lands with the ring, King's characters are on the quest to find the Dark Tower, specifically Roland. Roland has crossed a multitude of lands and ages in his quest for the tower, but yet we never really learn what will happen -when- he reaches the tower.
As the seventh and final book drew to a close, we find Roland standing outside the tower, gazing up at the thing he has hungered for since the first word of the first volume. Then, in a way only King can, he breaks in with his own(King's) voice, basically saying, "Shame on you, reader...we all know it's the journey, not the destination. We've loved Roland and the crew since the first sentence, can't you just accept that he's here, but not desire to actually mount the tower with him?" Obviously, we readers cannot! Thus, King begrudgingly allows you/me, the reader, to follow Roland to his final quest. Since no one spilled the beans to me as to what happens from there, I won't spoil it for you either, MY faithful reader.
Still, this whole scenario made me think-Roland's entire life was spent in search of the Dark Tower. It motivated him, fed him, it became his number #1 desire and carried him through situations so dire that, even though we know are fiction, still scare the beejesus out of us.
What's your Dark Tower? What is that thing that drives you? What makes you put one foot in front of the other every morning? What makes you not give up, even when it feels like the earth is crumbling in on top of you?
Everyone has their own answer to this...and DT #7 made me do some soul searching for mine. What is that? Another time, faithful reader...another time.
As the seventh and final book drew to a close, we find Roland standing outside the tower, gazing up at the thing he has hungered for since the first word of the first volume. Then, in a way only King can, he breaks in with his own(King's) voice, basically saying, "Shame on you, reader...we all know it's the journey, not the destination. We've loved Roland and the crew since the first sentence, can't you just accept that he's here, but not desire to actually mount the tower with him?" Obviously, we readers cannot! Thus, King begrudgingly allows you/me, the reader, to follow Roland to his final quest. Since no one spilled the beans to me as to what happens from there, I won't spoil it for you either, MY faithful reader.
Still, this whole scenario made me think-Roland's entire life was spent in search of the Dark Tower. It motivated him, fed him, it became his number #1 desire and carried him through situations so dire that, even though we know are fiction, still scare the beejesus out of us.
What's your Dark Tower? What is that thing that drives you? What makes you put one foot in front of the other every morning? What makes you not give up, even when it feels like the earth is crumbling in on top of you?
Everyone has their own answer to this...and DT #7 made me do some soul searching for mine. What is that? Another time, faithful reader...another time.
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