It eludes the Cubs so far, as the Brewers just put the winning run across in the bottom of the 13th inning. However, it's been a good month for the Cubs, within a game of first place, and for Hidden Blog, which stands at #1 on the Google charts for "joe mcdonald hidden blog" and registered 50 entries in its first month. There have even been three posts made in reply, meaning that Hidden Blog has officially been discovered by the world.
Celebrate!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Mac a Wish
This might be the most emotional 6 minutes of basketball you'll ever see. Grab a tissue and get ready to smile!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngzyhnkT_jY&mode=related&search=
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngzyhnkT_jY&mode=related&search=
Vader Minute
Enter here, all ye who know Darth Vader and love satire...
http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/14773/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wGR4-SeuJ0 (watch the whole series)
http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/14773/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wGR4-SeuJ0 (watch the whole series)
Monday, July 30, 2007
Who Gives a Crop?
... or more specifically, a crop circle...
http://science.howstuffworks.com/question735.htm
I suppose if computer virus creators toil in anonymity for the pleasure of damaging others, then others might have enough passion to damage crops, but still...
http://science.howstuffworks.com/question735.htm
I suppose if computer virus creators toil in anonymity for the pleasure of damaging others, then others might have enough passion to damage crops, but still...
Franklin's 13-Step Program
Here's a list of the virtues that Ben Franklin sought in his own life.
1. Temperance. Don't overeat or overdrink.
2. Silence. Speak only that which benefits people. [my note: ditch sarcasm, pessimism, and back-stabbing]
3. Order. Let all things have their places. [i.e. remove physical clutter, and mental clutter -- one thing at a time]
4. Resolution. Do what you say you'll do.
5. Frugality. Waste nothing.
6. Industry. Do useful things. Waste no time.
7. Sincerity. Think innocently and justly.
8. Justice. Wrong none, by doing injuries or omitting benefits.
9. Moderation. Avoid extremes.
10. Cleanliness.
11. Tranquility. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.
12. Chastity.
13. Humility.
1. Temperance. Don't overeat or overdrink.
2. Silence. Speak only that which benefits people. [my note: ditch sarcasm, pessimism, and back-stabbing]
3. Order. Let all things have their places. [i.e. remove physical clutter, and mental clutter -- one thing at a time]
4. Resolution. Do what you say you'll do.
5. Frugality. Waste nothing.
6. Industry. Do useful things. Waste no time.
7. Sincerity. Think innocently and justly.
8. Justice. Wrong none, by doing injuries or omitting benefits.
9. Moderation. Avoid extremes.
10. Cleanliness.
11. Tranquility. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.
12. Chastity.
13. Humility.
No Limits, or Know Limits?
A favorite speaker of ours is Joel Osteen. Whether you're religious or not, he talks about optimism which might seed a better day.
http://joelosteen.lakewood.cc/site/PageServer?pagename=JOM_homepage
This week:
Do you feel pressure to have a certain position or possession in order to feel secure? What would happen if you resisted the temptation to compare, and devoted that time to finding comfort in yourself? In particular, if you can get a handle on your limits, then you can spend your time more effectively.
Osteen is the pastor of a large church and was once asked to teach about the Biblical book of Revelation. When he declined to do so, it defied (and no doubt disappointed) the expectations of his company. But Osteen knows himself. "I'm not a theologian. I'm not a debater. I'm an encourager." Perhaps he could be a theologian if he applied himself. Perhaps a label of "encourager" seems less impressive or intelligent than "scholar." But Osteen's impact on ten thousand lives in congregation and millions more on international television is undeniable. He knows his limits, focuses his time, and bears fruit.
"Know your limits" is easily said. But how do we look that boss or volunteer in the eyes and say "Sorry, it's not for me" with confidence? Here are some things that I consider.
- Take a long view past the excitement of saying "yes." What do I love about the opportunity (besides the honor of being asked), and what doesn't fit? Someone recently asked me if I wanted to be a sideline reporter for a high school football television program. I love public speaking. But if I lack passion for the sport, and for the disorganization that can plague low-budget operations...
- Have I tested the "limit" to make sure it's legit? What I may think is an incompetence, may just be a lack of experience. Playing basketball in high school felt like a limitation when I was riding the end of the bench in freshman year. After toughing out a summer of open gyms against seniors, I eventually arrived as a varsity starter. What a shame it would have been to give in so easily! In the case of the TV opportunity, I did say "yes" the first year, to give it a fair try, and was able to give an informed response in year 2.
- Why say "no" instead of "not right now"? The latter's just as accurate in most cases. None of us knows exactly how we'll feel in a year (or even in a day), especially if key circumstances change.
- What's plan B? The future lies ahead as an infinite combination of decisions and circumstances. There is one out there which will bring at least as much happiness. It might be as simple as looking at my current path from the bright side.
In short: we follow our passion until we reach "limits"; we test them if we can; we move on gracefully and peacefully from them.
http://joelosteen.lakewood.cc/site/PageServer?pagename=JOM_homepage
This week:
Do you feel pressure to have a certain position or possession in order to feel secure? What would happen if you resisted the temptation to compare, and devoted that time to finding comfort in yourself? In particular, if you can get a handle on your limits, then you can spend your time more effectively.
Osteen is the pastor of a large church and was once asked to teach about the Biblical book of Revelation. When he declined to do so, it defied (and no doubt disappointed) the expectations of his company. But Osteen knows himself. "I'm not a theologian. I'm not a debater. I'm an encourager." Perhaps he could be a theologian if he applied himself. Perhaps a label of "encourager" seems less impressive or intelligent than "scholar." But Osteen's impact on ten thousand lives in congregation and millions more on international television is undeniable. He knows his limits, focuses his time, and bears fruit.
"Know your limits" is easily said. But how do we look that boss or volunteer in the eyes and say "Sorry, it's not for me" with confidence? Here are some things that I consider.
- Take a long view past the excitement of saying "yes." What do I love about the opportunity (besides the honor of being asked), and what doesn't fit? Someone recently asked me if I wanted to be a sideline reporter for a high school football television program. I love public speaking. But if I lack passion for the sport, and for the disorganization that can plague low-budget operations...
- Have I tested the "limit" to make sure it's legit? What I may think is an incompetence, may just be a lack of experience. Playing basketball in high school felt like a limitation when I was riding the end of the bench in freshman year. After toughing out a summer of open gyms against seniors, I eventually arrived as a varsity starter. What a shame it would have been to give in so easily! In the case of the TV opportunity, I did say "yes" the first year, to give it a fair try, and was able to give an informed response in year 2.
- Why say "no" instead of "not right now"? The latter's just as accurate in most cases. None of us knows exactly how we'll feel in a year (or even in a day), especially if key circumstances change.
- What's plan B? The future lies ahead as an infinite combination of decisions and circumstances. There is one out there which will bring at least as much happiness. It might be as simple as looking at my current path from the bright side.
In short: we follow our passion until we reach "limits"; we test them if we can; we move on gracefully and peacefully from them.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Franklin and Christianity
Franklin grew up initially in Christian churches and questioned it as he matured.
"In England a number of deists rejected a god who condemned most of mankind to eternal torment because of what a supposed ancestor had supposedly done... Their God... revealed Himself to human beings only by what He visibly did in His visible universe, not through any direct revelation in the Bible and not through any incarnation in a son named Jesus."
Our eyes can be deceived by that which is visible, but aren't visible things generally more trustworthy than the unseen?
"In England a number of deists rejected a god who condemned most of mankind to eternal torment because of what a supposed ancestor had supposedly done... Their God... revealed Himself to human beings only by what He visibly did in His visible universe, not through any direct revelation in the Bible and not through any incarnation in a son named Jesus."
Our eyes can be deceived by that which is visible, but aren't visible things generally more trustworthy than the unseen?
The Ultimate Cub Fan Essay
Here's what was in my application for the contest, thanks to a little playing around to make it fit within 150 words. For non-insiders: Recall that the contest has two rounds (see the American Idle entry earlier in this blog), hence the two trips. They said that the winner would be based in part on talent and passion for the Cubs, so I made passing mention of my singing experience as well as references to broadcaster Steve Stone's very competent history of singing the song, as well as Ozzy Osbourne's legendary trashing of it during his attempt (instead of singing "I don't care if I ever get back, he sang "I don't know what I'm supposed to do.").
In 1984 the Cubs clinched the division championship against the Pirates (a.k.a. the Bucs), triggering the Cubs' first playoff appearance in 39 years.
Why would I make a 250 mile round trip -- twice -- just for an outside chance to be a Guest Conductor? Is it because I'm a great singer? No, though I've sung in a wedding and can hit the notes like Stoney (and much better than Ozzy). Mainly, it's because growing up as a kid, the mod in our house rose and fell with the Cubbies, and I can't wait for Dad to look down from heaven and see me leading Wrigleyville in cheers when we clinch the division against the Bucs just like in 1984!
In 1984 the Cubs clinched the division championship against the Pirates (a.k.a. the Bucs), triggering the Cubs' first playoff appearance in 39 years.
Why would I make a 250 mile round trip -- twice -- just for an outside chance to be a Guest Conductor? Is it because I'm a great singer? No, though I've sung in a wedding and can hit the notes like Stoney (and much better than Ozzy). Mainly, it's because growing up as a kid, the mod in our house rose and fell with the Cubbies, and I can't wait for Dad to look down from heaven and see me leading Wrigleyville in cheers when we clinch the division against the Bucs just like in 1984!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
7th Inning Stretch Competition
Yesterday I competed against 2,000 other Chicago Cub fans for the chance to lead the singing of Take Me Out to the Ball Game during the 7th inning stretch on September 22.
During my 3 hour trek up north, I mulled over strategy. Having interviewed 40 people in the last week alone, I tried to put myself in the judges' shoes. What would they be looking for?
7th inning stretch conductors visit with the Cubs' radio announcers during the top half of the 7th, then with the TV announcers during the bottom half. I figured they'd want someone who was passionate but not hyper, so that the guys could count on fun conversation.
I also needed a "hook" of some kind, so as to stand out; something quick enough to fit inside of a typical 15-second intro to the song. At first I thought about highlighting my sacrificial 250-mile round trip, but it'd be easy for someone else to come from farther away so I ditched that one (a good thing, as I learned that several contestants also come from Bloomington). Eventually I chose something of a surprise tactic, saying a few deadpan words and then launching into a sing-song cry of "I LO-OVE, my CUBS!" I envisioned the fans screaming that phrase along with me from the booth at the game, and who knows, maybe the Cubs marketing gurus would even pick it up as slogan for 2008. I'm not picky. After trying out a few deadpan phrases on Jack, we decided on "Hey Cub fans. I'm an insurance actuary. And..."
When we got there, my excitement swelled with the Cubs' legal affidavit claiming that I was over 8 years old, that I'd reimburse the Cubs for their contest expenses if I lied along the way, submit to a background check if asked, let the Cubs do pretty much whatever they wanted with my audition tapes, and enough other rights-yielding oaths to fill an attorney's playground. With a 5-digit number proudly pinned to my chest, we strolled into the sunlit abundance of Wrigley's seats along the left field foul line and settled in to enjoy the view.
As a heavily-caffeinated, electronically-amplified Cubs staffer tossed trivia questions to the hundreds of us scheduled for the 1:00 time slot (evidently running in 1-hour shifts over two days), Jack and I sized up the competition nearby. Adorable 8-year olds. Shuffling, twinkly-eyed grandparents. Model-perfect young ladies with certain sparsely-clothed features. No props or signs were allowed, but that didn't preclude wearing the Cubs footie pajamas & suspenders, or dressing entirely in Wrigley outfield wall ivy with green face paint. Somewhere, no doubt, someone sported a Cubs tatoo on an unmentionable body part.
When my number came up, we were led past throngs into the bowels of the stadium to our waiting area. We sat on a worn, wooden bench in a long cement hallway. Locked behind a gate we could see spare bases that had seen some game action. Perhaps they'd been trampled by Derrek Lee or Barry Bonds, or even heaved angrily by Cubs skipper Lou Piniella during a tirade. Nearby sat one of the wire grates used to drag the field during the games like a dust-spewing zamboni. Echoing towards us were the muffled, strained, off-key notes of Take Me Out to the Ball Game from a previous contestant. I noticed that there was no musical accompaniment. That ought to be an advantage for me, I concluded, having crooned in the shower on a daily basis and had done some singing in bands and choirs in the past.
At last a short, stocky grinning woman named Mary chatted me up as she led me into the interview room -- one in which Cubs broadcasters, players and managers had actually used for decades. I met the other two judges, one of whom led me to an X on the floor. They merrily asked about the ride from Bloomington as they positioned the mike in front of me.
Then the digital camera started rolling.
They asked me to explain why I thought I was the ultimate Cub fan, and I launched into the content of my essay, explaining the mood in our house as it rose and fell during our youth by the Cubs' winning percentage, reliving the tragic 1984 playoffs in particular. Then I settled into my deadpan face and trademark cry, followed by a decent, enthusiastic and (fortunately) on-key version of the song, gesturing with "1-2-3 strikes you're out" and pumping my fist at the end as I shouted to the "stadium" to bring it home.
The judges' panel burst into applause at the end, and one complimented my voice. What a rush!
Jack and I made our way to the car and homeward. He said that my voice was louder than prior contestants and mentioned that others waiting their turn in the hall grew a little nervous as they listened, stirring my competitive juices gleefully. For a while we let ourselves dream about making the cut to the 50 finalists who would be featured on the internet for fan voting, however remote the chances might be. Then we settled back, just two brothers and baseball junkies, relishing the summer afternoon off work and talking about old times past and good times to come.
During my 3 hour trek up north, I mulled over strategy. Having interviewed 40 people in the last week alone, I tried to put myself in the judges' shoes. What would they be looking for?
7th inning stretch conductors visit with the Cubs' radio announcers during the top half of the 7th, then with the TV announcers during the bottom half. I figured they'd want someone who was passionate but not hyper, so that the guys could count on fun conversation.
I also needed a "hook" of some kind, so as to stand out; something quick enough to fit inside of a typical 15-second intro to the song. At first I thought about highlighting my sacrificial 250-mile round trip, but it'd be easy for someone else to come from farther away so I ditched that one (a good thing, as I learned that several contestants also come from Bloomington). Eventually I chose something of a surprise tactic, saying a few deadpan words and then launching into a sing-song cry of "I LO-OVE, my CUBS!" I envisioned the fans screaming that phrase along with me from the booth at the game, and who knows, maybe the Cubs marketing gurus would even pick it up as slogan for 2008. I'm not picky. After trying out a few deadpan phrases on Jack, we decided on "Hey Cub fans. I'm an insurance actuary. And..."
When we got there, my excitement swelled with the Cubs' legal affidavit claiming that I was over 8 years old, that I'd reimburse the Cubs for their contest expenses if I lied along the way, submit to a background check if asked, let the Cubs do pretty much whatever they wanted with my audition tapes, and enough other rights-yielding oaths to fill an attorney's playground. With a 5-digit number proudly pinned to my chest, we strolled into the sunlit abundance of Wrigley's seats along the left field foul line and settled in to enjoy the view.
As a heavily-caffeinated, electronically-amplified Cubs staffer tossed trivia questions to the hundreds of us scheduled for the 1:00 time slot (evidently running in 1-hour shifts over two days), Jack and I sized up the competition nearby. Adorable 8-year olds. Shuffling, twinkly-eyed grandparents. Model-perfect young ladies with certain sparsely-clothed features. No props or signs were allowed, but that didn't preclude wearing the Cubs footie pajamas & suspenders, or dressing entirely in Wrigley outfield wall ivy with green face paint. Somewhere, no doubt, someone sported a Cubs tatoo on an unmentionable body part.
When my number came up, we were led past throngs into the bowels of the stadium to our waiting area. We sat on a worn, wooden bench in a long cement hallway. Locked behind a gate we could see spare bases that had seen some game action. Perhaps they'd been trampled by Derrek Lee or Barry Bonds, or even heaved angrily by Cubs skipper Lou Piniella during a tirade. Nearby sat one of the wire grates used to drag the field during the games like a dust-spewing zamboni. Echoing towards us were the muffled, strained, off-key notes of Take Me Out to the Ball Game from a previous contestant. I noticed that there was no musical accompaniment. That ought to be an advantage for me, I concluded, having crooned in the shower on a daily basis and had done some singing in bands and choirs in the past.
At last a short, stocky grinning woman named Mary chatted me up as she led me into the interview room -- one in which Cubs broadcasters, players and managers had actually used for decades. I met the other two judges, one of whom led me to an X on the floor. They merrily asked about the ride from Bloomington as they positioned the mike in front of me.
Then the digital camera started rolling.
They asked me to explain why I thought I was the ultimate Cub fan, and I launched into the content of my essay, explaining the mood in our house as it rose and fell during our youth by the Cubs' winning percentage, reliving the tragic 1984 playoffs in particular. Then I settled into my deadpan face and trademark cry, followed by a decent, enthusiastic and (fortunately) on-key version of the song, gesturing with "1-2-3 strikes you're out" and pumping my fist at the end as I shouted to the "stadium" to bring it home.
The judges' panel burst into applause at the end, and one complimented my voice. What a rush!
Jack and I made our way to the car and homeward. He said that my voice was louder than prior contestants and mentioned that others waiting their turn in the hall grew a little nervous as they listened, stirring my competitive juices gleefully. For a while we let ourselves dream about making the cut to the 50 finalists who would be featured on the internet for fan voting, however remote the chances might be. Then we settled back, just two brothers and baseball junkies, relishing the summer afternoon off work and talking about old times past and good times to come.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Fish!
I read the book Fish! today. Written in 1995, it's the fictional story of a very real and world-famous Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle. Here are their secrets to transforming a "toxic energy dump" into a more joyful place:
1. Choose your attitude. If you don't love dishwashing, then bring love to dishwashing. If nothing else, force yourself to smile -- in time, it will become natural. And renew your faith in yourself. You can do this!
2. Play. Be serious about business while having fun with the way you conduct business. Be a bunch of adult kids having a good time, but doing it in a respectful manner.
3. Make their day, that is, create great memories for your customers.
4. Be present. This means to be there physically, when customers need you, and to be focused on your work rather than daydreaming.
Game update:
Lemonade Stand: Money $121.90, 100% Satisfaction & Popularity
Fantasy Baseball Team 1 (Pure Hustle IX): 101.5 points, 1st place
Team 2 (Test): 84.5 points, 2nd place
1. Choose your attitude. If you don't love dishwashing, then bring love to dishwashing. If nothing else, force yourself to smile -- in time, it will become natural. And renew your faith in yourself. You can do this!
2. Play. Be serious about business while having fun with the way you conduct business. Be a bunch of adult kids having a good time, but doing it in a respectful manner.
3. Make their day, that is, create great memories for your customers.
4. Be present. This means to be there physically, when customers need you, and to be focused on your work rather than daydreaming.
Game update:
Lemonade Stand: Money $121.90, 100% Satisfaction & Popularity
Fantasy Baseball Team 1 (Pure Hustle IX): 101.5 points, 1st place
Team 2 (Test): 84.5 points, 2nd place
Planning Ahead: 1/20/09 - 4/30/09
God bless America. Here's your chance to run the country for 100 days. All you have to do is convince a few of your friends to go along with you in Winter 2008 (February or March, yet to be finalized) and check the box of your choice.
If you want to:
1. Re-establish American alliances and show that we are strong and just, then check "John Edwards."
2. Bring the troops home from Iraq, then check "Hilary Clinton."
3. Bring the troops home from Iraq, then check "Barack Obama." (hey, I just transcribe)
4. Upgrade schools, offer full-day kindergarten to all, and set teacher minimum wage to $40,000, then check "Bill Richardson."
For more information, see:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU5ecOx8NLo (starting at 5:40)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyoB7QMTrTI&mode=related&search=
If you want to:
1. Re-establish American alliances and show that we are strong and just, then check "John Edwards."
2. Bring the troops home from Iraq, then check "Hilary Clinton."
3. Bring the troops home from Iraq, then check "Barack Obama." (hey, I just transcribe)
4. Upgrade schools, offer full-day kindergarten to all, and set teacher minimum wage to $40,000, then check "Bill Richardson."
For more information, see:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU5ecOx8NLo (starting at 5:40)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyoB7QMTrTI&mode=related&search=
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Monday, July 23, 2007
Look The Other Weigh
A friend of mine recently received a compliment about a photo from her daughter's wedding reception. She disagreed:
"The camera adds ten pounds, and I had four of them pointing at me!"
"The camera adds ten pounds, and I had four of them pointing at me!"
Everybody Loves a Clone
My company offers a formal peer review process with anonymous feedback. One of the secrets of my success is a natural talent for charging past the criticisms and frolicking in the praise:
"Joe is an absolute delight to work with. He has a great depth of technical knowledge; he is a wonderful communicator, and he is highly organized in everything that he does. He has clear ideas about what he is trying to accomplish, is able to draw others into his efforts, and can build a consensus in a very gentle way. He is inspiring, and can explain complex concepts in simple terms. He exudes competence and trust, and wraps up the whole package with a delightful sense of humor. In truth, I would be hard pressed to find anything of substance lacking in him. Once medical science solves the technical problems of cloning a human, I would nominate Joe as our first State Farm management prototype to be copied."
"Joe is an absolute delight to work with. He has a great depth of technical knowledge; he is a wonderful communicator, and he is highly organized in everything that he does. He has clear ideas about what he is trying to accomplish, is able to draw others into his efforts, and can build a consensus in a very gentle way. He is inspiring, and can explain complex concepts in simple terms. He exudes competence and trust, and wraps up the whole package with a delightful sense of humor. In truth, I would be hard pressed to find anything of substance lacking in him. Once medical science solves the technical problems of cloning a human, I would nominate Joe as our first State Farm management prototype to be copied."
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Grandma's Diagnosis
Mom's update on Grandma:
Tried to call but you were out. Grandma has a huge stomach ulcer, which they biopsy'd but found cancer free, ulcerated esophagus, a diseased lung and pneumonia. There's a name for her lung disease but don't remember what it is, guess it's not all that uncommon in the elderly. They're going to do a couple of breathing tests with her tomorrow morning, but she may go home later in the day. She was told she should use oxygen when walking any distance, like to her lunchroom or exercise class, but knowing Grandma she won't. The only problem if she doesn't use it is that she could get dizzy and lose her balance. Of course a fall could break something, but she's stubborn enough not to use the oxygen anyway.
Have a good week. Luv ya's
Tried to call but you were out. Grandma has a huge stomach ulcer, which they biopsy'd but found cancer free, ulcerated esophagus, a diseased lung and pneumonia. There's a name for her lung disease but don't remember what it is, guess it's not all that uncommon in the elderly. They're going to do a couple of breathing tests with her tomorrow morning, but she may go home later in the day. She was told she should use oxygen when walking any distance, like to her lunchroom or exercise class, but knowing Grandma she won't. The only problem if she doesn't use it is that she could get dizzy and lose her balance. Of course a fall could break something, but she's stubborn enough not to use the oxygen anyway.
Have a good week. Luv ya's
Fan-tastic!
Well, look what showed up in my inbox today! For more info, check the American Idle entry earlier this month.
Chicago Cubs are very excited to have you participate in the first-ever Ultimate 7th Inning Stretch Competition at Wrigley Field! The following details are in regard to your audition at Wrigley Field.
Your date, time slot, and check-in information are as follows:
Date: Friday, July 27th
Time Slot: 2:00 PM
Check-in Time: 1:00 PM
Identification Number: 11273
Due to the terrific response, we have added Thursday, July 26th as a second date for participants. Please check carefully your information to make sure you are joining us on the proper day.
The time slot indicated is reserved for you. If you arrive late, you will run the risk of forfeiting your audition opportunity. Please arrive early, as there will be a strict timeline for the day.
Check-In and Registration will be located near Gate K, which is located on the Waveland Avenue side of Wrigley Field. Gate K is located to the north of Wrigley Field across from the firehouse.
If you need parking for the event, the Green Lot will be open at no charge. The Green Lot is located at 1126 W Grace St, two blocks north of Wrigley Field.
Please print out this email and bring it with you, along with a photo ID, to the ballpark. We are honored that you will be part of this historic event at Wrigley Field. Thank you for your continued loyalty to the Chicago Cubs, and we hope that you enjoy your participation in the Ultimate 7th Inning Stretch Competition.
Chicago Cubs are very excited to have you participate in the first-ever Ultimate 7th Inning Stretch Competition at Wrigley Field! The following details are in regard to your audition at Wrigley Field.
Your date, time slot, and check-in information are as follows:
Date: Friday, July 27th
Time Slot: 2:00 PM
Check-in Time: 1:00 PM
Identification Number: 11273
Due to the terrific response, we have added Thursday, July 26th as a second date for participants. Please check carefully your information to make sure you are joining us on the proper day.
The time slot indicated is reserved for you. If you arrive late, you will run the risk of forfeiting your audition opportunity. Please arrive early, as there will be a strict timeline for the day.
Check-In and Registration will be located near Gate K, which is located on the Waveland Avenue side of Wrigley Field. Gate K is located to the north of Wrigley Field across from the firehouse.
If you need parking for the event, the Green Lot will be open at no charge. The Green Lot is located at 1126 W Grace St, two blocks north of Wrigley Field.
Please print out this email and bring it with you, along with a photo ID, to the ballpark. We are honored that you will be part of this historic event at Wrigley Field. Thank you for your continued loyalty to the Chicago Cubs, and we hope that you enjoy your participation in the Ultimate 7th Inning Stretch Competition.
We're #42!
This blog began with a dream: that someday this ordinary person with an ordinary name would rise up within the cavernous kingdom of Joe McDonald Google searches (population, 3.2 million) against its e-tyrant Country Joe McDonald.
As I write this entry, three weeks after its inception from nothingness, Hidden Blog sits at #42.
Savor the link if you will. Or taste fear, Country Joe, for we are resolute. Our passion swells. Our grasp has never been so long, nor so determined to extend.
http://www.google.com/search?q=joe+mcdonald&hl=en&start=40&sa=N
Mektoub!
As I write this entry, three weeks after its inception from nothingness, Hidden Blog sits at #42.
Savor the link if you will. Or taste fear, Country Joe, for we are resolute. Our passion swells. Our grasp has never been so long, nor so determined to extend.
http://www.google.com/search?q=joe+mcdonald&hl=en&start=40&sa=N
Mektoub!
What's Your Sign?
It's been a multiple-movie night here in the Love Shack (named for the odd coincidence that most everyone who lived here with me either met their future spouse or began dating them during their stay).
M. Night Shyamalan's Signs is another flick that goes beyond its stereotype (in this case, alien invasion) and probes us with deeper meaning. To paraphrase Mel Gibson's character, a priest who lost his wife and then his faith in bitter resentment toward God:
"There are two kinds of people. There are those who believe that everything happens for a reason and that we are not alone; and there are those who believe that we live in metaphysical solitude based on luck."
We're left to look at ourselves, present and past, and determine which we believe, and in so doing, to shape who we will become.
Rent it today!
M. Night Shyamalan's Signs is another flick that goes beyond its stereotype (in this case, alien invasion) and probes us with deeper meaning. To paraphrase Mel Gibson's character, a priest who lost his wife and then his faith in bitter resentment toward God:
"There are two kinds of people. There are those who believe that everything happens for a reason and that we are not alone; and there are those who believe that we live in metaphysical solitude based on luck."
We're left to look at ourselves, present and past, and determine which we believe, and in so doing, to shape who we will become.
Rent it today!
Harvey
Dena and I rented the 1950 Jimmy Stewart film Harvey. I figured that it would be 104 minutes of corny old-time comedy. In reality, it was more like 50. Then, almost imperceptibly at first but powerfully by the end, what appeared to be insanity on the part of Stewart's character Elwood P. Dowd is revealed to be a truly grounded choice of lifestyle. By the end we realize that we've been watching a parable.
Here's my favorite line:
"My mother told me 'In this world, Elwood, you must be oh, so smart or oh, so pleasant.' For years I was oh, so smart. I recommend pleasant."
That hits me right where I live. Would you rather live in a society where everyone is smart, or where everyone is pleasant? Would you rather die feeling smart, or feeling pleasant? While brains have limits, what's to stop us from being pleasant in every moment?
Here's my favorite line:
"My mother told me 'In this world, Elwood, you must be oh, so smart or oh, so pleasant.' For years I was oh, so smart. I recommend pleasant."
That hits me right where I live. Would you rather live in a society where everyone is smart, or where everyone is pleasant? Would you rather die feeling smart, or feeling pleasant? While brains have limits, what's to stop us from being pleasant in every moment?
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Leadership McLean County
Next week I'll help interview 51 applicants for Leadership McLean County, the program that I went through in 2004. About 35 are accepted each year.
http://www.leadershipmcleancounty.com/
Participants commit to all-day sessions on about 13 Fridays from September through April. Much of the course involves learning about the community, such as:
- An hour with the mayors of Bloomington and Normal to discuss current issues
- An hour with the school superintendents
- A slide presentation of coming improvements for Uptown Normal
- A tour of the many facets of farming, including technology
- A trip to Springfield and visit with government officials
- An update on crime and tour of the city jail
- Visits from several social service agencies like Boys & Girls Club
Graduation requirements include community service projects, attending town and school board meetings, among others.
Some stats:
27 of the applicants are from State Farm.
5 are from banks.
4 are from Country/Growmark.
4 are from health care.
4 are from education.
2 are from nonprofits.
2 are from technology.
1 from each of AFNI, WHOI, and government.
I serve as class facilitator, or "homeroom teacher." Collect assignments, emcee the sessions, that sort of thing. This year my role will expand to include discussion of specific leadership topics from the book "Lincoln on Leadership." It's about as well-suited for me as a volunteer role can be: well organized, well-defined roles, and team members who hold themselves accountable.
I expect it's a gig that will last another year or two, if only because I've never held a volunteer role for more than three years in a row, and I'm not much of a "board" person which is mostly what all of the other LMC roles are. So I'm enjoying it while it lasts, including the perks of essentially hand-picking a group of friends with a heart for others.
http://www.leadershipmcleancounty.com/
Participants commit to all-day sessions on about 13 Fridays from September through April. Much of the course involves learning about the community, such as:
- An hour with the mayors of Bloomington and Normal to discuss current issues
- An hour with the school superintendents
- A slide presentation of coming improvements for Uptown Normal
- A tour of the many facets of farming, including technology
- A trip to Springfield and visit with government officials
- An update on crime and tour of the city jail
- Visits from several social service agencies like Boys & Girls Club
Graduation requirements include community service projects, attending town and school board meetings, among others.
Some stats:
27 of the applicants are from State Farm.
5 are from banks.
4 are from Country/Growmark.
4 are from health care.
4 are from education.
2 are from nonprofits.
2 are from technology.
1 from each of AFNI, WHOI, and government.
I serve as class facilitator, or "homeroom teacher." Collect assignments, emcee the sessions, that sort of thing. This year my role will expand to include discussion of specific leadership topics from the book "Lincoln on Leadership." It's about as well-suited for me as a volunteer role can be: well organized, well-defined roles, and team members who hold themselves accountable.
I expect it's a gig that will last another year or two, if only because I've never held a volunteer role for more than three years in a row, and I'm not much of a "board" person which is mostly what all of the other LMC roles are. So I'm enjoying it while it lasts, including the perks of essentially hand-picking a group of friends with a heart for others.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Make a Stand!
I decided to start my own business, sort of.
Check it out. Try to beat these results in 30 days:
Money: $109.73
Customer Satisfaction: 100%
Popularity: 99%
http://www.bored.com/lemonadegame/index.html
Check it out. Try to beat these results in 30 days:
Money: $109.73
Customer Satisfaction: 100%
Popularity: 99%
http://www.bored.com/lemonadegame/index.html
Hate Makes Waste
I admit it, I am able to name the person whom I like the least. If this person is in my midst, I act differently. Laughter comes less easily. When I think about this person, my mood turns however slightly toward the worse.
What to do? There are options.
1. Move on. General (and President) Dwight Eisenhower: Let's not waste a moment thinking about people that we don't like. Confucius: To be wronged is nothing unless you continue to remember it.
2. Forgive. Abraham Lincoln: We're all children of circumstances.
3. Be strong. Bernard Baruch, advisor to six presidents: No man can disturb me, I won't let him. Joe McDonald: You're never defeated until you stop smiling.
What to do? There are options.
1. Move on. General (and President) Dwight Eisenhower: Let's not waste a moment thinking about people that we don't like. Confucius: To be wronged is nothing unless you continue to remember it.
2. Forgive. Abraham Lincoln: We're all children of circumstances.
3. Be strong. Bernard Baruch, advisor to six presidents: No man can disturb me, I won't let him. Joe McDonald: You're never defeated until you stop smiling.
Grandma's Stomach
My last living grandmother is 90 years old and lives in an assisted living facility. She checked in to a hospital yesterday with stomach pains, and she was diagnosed initially with bowel obstruction and pneumonia, at least.
Today a note from Mom:
They found a large ulcer in her stomach, which they took pieces of to check for cancer. Dr. said anything that large makes them cancer wary. She is undergoing another test Saturday for her esophagus. Will keep you posted. Luv ya's.
Today a note from Mom:
They found a large ulcer in her stomach, which they took pieces of to check for cancer. Dr. said anything that large makes them cancer wary. She is undergoing another test Saturday for her esophagus. Will keep you posted. Luv ya's.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
What Would Jesus Don't?
WWJD is a fashionable conscience-checker. When deciding whether to run that red light, keep the wallet you found in the parking lot, or eat another chocolate eclair, "What Would Jesus Do?" reminds us to ponder Biblical guidance. But sometimes it pays -- in time and energy -- to read what the Jesus says he wouldn't do.
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
[From the Book of Matthew, Chapter 6]
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
[From the Book of Matthew, Chapter 6]
Yippee, Fatalism!
From Carnegie's How to Stop Worrying and Start Living comes a moral that's pacified people for ages.
A fierce, burning windstorm seared the Sahara desert for days. An American lived among the Muslims. His eyes burned constantly. His throat was parched. His teeth were full of grit. His sanity teetered. The Muslims' did not. You see, many practicing Muslims are fatalists. They believe that all which happens is God's will. Their mantra is "Mektoub," which means "It is written."
As we learn to accept the uncontrollable tolls of life, we can more calmly focus upon the treasures and opportunities that remain.
A fierce, burning windstorm seared the Sahara desert for days. An American lived among the Muslims. His eyes burned constantly. His throat was parched. His teeth were full of grit. His sanity teetered. The Muslims' did not. You see, many practicing Muslims are fatalists. They believe that all which happens is God's will. Their mantra is "Mektoub," which means "It is written."
As we learn to accept the uncontrollable tolls of life, we can more calmly focus upon the treasures and opportunities that remain.
Bonds Away!
Jack subscribes to a site called uwritesports.com. For a fee he gets to write all the articles he wants, and be read by others who frequent the site. Being the working, family man he is I noticed that the presses had been slow. So I put together something for him using a style that mixes him and some of the pundits on ESPN.com.
I am glad that Barry Bonds is going to break Hank Aaron's home run record.
You read that right. I think that it's good for baseball that Barry Bonds hits his 756th home run later this year.
Those of you who've ever watched the soap opera in speedos that is professional wrestling may recall names from a different era than me. In his heyday, Hulk Hogan -- yes kids, that guy from the reality show used to wrestle -- was the golden boy of the World Wrestling Federation. Every wrestler, of every nationality and of every bulk, who stepped into the ring with the Hulkster eventually fell.
Eventually, since Earth hadn't yet colonized Mars, the WWF and Hogan ran out of worlds to conquer. So the WWF script writers reached into American entertainment's timeless bag of tricks and pulled out the "dark side"angle (see also: Jekyll and Hyde, Spiderman 3), as"Hollywood Hulk Hogan" became public enemy number one.
Contrast is drama. Good versus evil rivets our attention in cartoons, capitols and church pews. And now Bonds, the most successful and controversial player in a generation, rivaling Muhammed Ali among all generations, is about to move the esteemed Aaron to 2nd place by this measure of slugger's immortality.
We cringe in slow agony. Magazines don't lie! The man's a steroid user! He commits adultery! He's probably found a way to cheat at tic-tac-toe! He demands his own locker room recliner! Snipes at reporters, teammates and fans! Lectures us on his greatness and victimization! Is this fair?
You bet it is. And we're going to love it way more than we realize. Bonds will retire, in his own mind, as the best hitter in baseball history. He will have accomplished what his godfather Willie Mays did not, and in that way he will have honored his family, including his late father Bobby, himself a pioneer of the 30-30 club. He probably won't stick around long after he breaks it -- what, after all, would be the motivation? His Giant teammates are better suited for bingo than baseball. Sadaharu Oh's world record 868 home runs is at least another four years away and less venerable in the States than Aaron's. Bonds is as likely to hit his775th home run as Cy Young is to crawl out of his grave and win his 512th game.
And after politely applauding Bonds' retirement and torching his recliner, we'll sigh and take a look around our bold new steroid-reduced surroundings. We'll realize that we're standing in Mr. Rodriguez's Neighborhood. Alex Rodriguez is America in the flesh. Young and talented, then powerful and popular, and now restless and sullen in the limelight. But the man is flat-out productive, even if his supremacy is doubted.
Soon,those doubts will fade. We're talking about a man who was an All-Star shortstop, and gave it up for the good of others. First, he nudged Cal Ripken from third to short to enjoy one last Midsummer Classic in the hole, and later he deferred to Derek Jeter's captaincy on the Yankees. A-Rod has cranked 42 homers a season in his first ten full ones. At that rate he'll treat us to a five-year victory parade, passing Bonds around 2013 as a thirtysomething. He'll have persevered through the glaring lights and "failure" of seasons past in New York, maybe even gained a World Series ring or three.
Somewhere, Aaron will congratulate Rodriguez as he is doing for Bonds. Bonds will devalue Rodriguez for a variety of incredulous reasons. We will celebrate this home run record as a Nation, rather than as a Vast Territory Outside of San Francisco. And then maybe Bonds will come back and hit a pinch grand slam for the Cubs in the World Series, fulfilling the wish of a boy dying of steroid poisoning. Off a Hulk Hogan fastball.
Stay tuned. The best script is yet to come.
I am glad that Barry Bonds is going to break Hank Aaron's home run record.
You read that right. I think that it's good for baseball that Barry Bonds hits his 756th home run later this year.
Those of you who've ever watched the soap opera in speedos that is professional wrestling may recall names from a different era than me. In his heyday, Hulk Hogan -- yes kids, that guy from the reality show used to wrestle -- was the golden boy of the World Wrestling Federation. Every wrestler, of every nationality and of every bulk, who stepped into the ring with the Hulkster eventually fell.
Eventually, since Earth hadn't yet colonized Mars, the WWF and Hogan ran out of worlds to conquer. So the WWF script writers reached into American entertainment's timeless bag of tricks and pulled out the "dark side"angle (see also: Jekyll and Hyde, Spiderman 3), as"Hollywood Hulk Hogan" became public enemy number one.
Contrast is drama. Good versus evil rivets our attention in cartoons, capitols and church pews. And now Bonds, the most successful and controversial player in a generation, rivaling Muhammed Ali among all generations, is about to move the esteemed Aaron to 2nd place by this measure of slugger's immortality.
We cringe in slow agony. Magazines don't lie! The man's a steroid user! He commits adultery! He's probably found a way to cheat at tic-tac-toe! He demands his own locker room recliner! Snipes at reporters, teammates and fans! Lectures us on his greatness and victimization! Is this fair?
You bet it is. And we're going to love it way more than we realize. Bonds will retire, in his own mind, as the best hitter in baseball history. He will have accomplished what his godfather Willie Mays did not, and in that way he will have honored his family, including his late father Bobby, himself a pioneer of the 30-30 club. He probably won't stick around long after he breaks it -- what, after all, would be the motivation? His Giant teammates are better suited for bingo than baseball. Sadaharu Oh's world record 868 home runs is at least another four years away and less venerable in the States than Aaron's. Bonds is as likely to hit his775th home run as Cy Young is to crawl out of his grave and win his 512th game.
And after politely applauding Bonds' retirement and torching his recliner, we'll sigh and take a look around our bold new steroid-reduced surroundings. We'll realize that we're standing in Mr. Rodriguez's Neighborhood. Alex Rodriguez is America in the flesh. Young and talented, then powerful and popular, and now restless and sullen in the limelight. But the man is flat-out productive, even if his supremacy is doubted.
Soon,those doubts will fade. We're talking about a man who was an All-Star shortstop, and gave it up for the good of others. First, he nudged Cal Ripken from third to short to enjoy one last Midsummer Classic in the hole, and later he deferred to Derek Jeter's captaincy on the Yankees. A-Rod has cranked 42 homers a season in his first ten full ones. At that rate he'll treat us to a five-year victory parade, passing Bonds around 2013 as a thirtysomething. He'll have persevered through the glaring lights and "failure" of seasons past in New York, maybe even gained a World Series ring or three.
Somewhere, Aaron will congratulate Rodriguez as he is doing for Bonds. Bonds will devalue Rodriguez for a variety of incredulous reasons. We will celebrate this home run record as a Nation, rather than as a Vast Territory Outside of San Francisco. And then maybe Bonds will come back and hit a pinch grand slam for the Cubs in the World Series, fulfilling the wish of a boy dying of steroid poisoning. Off a Hulk Hogan fastball.
Stay tuned. The best script is yet to come.
Sawing Sawdust
You'll learn that one of my most oft-read authors is Dale Carnegie, writer of How to Win Friends and Influence People, and How to Stop Worrying and Start Living. I read the former book for the first time as a teenager, and it's become a reference book for me at various times over the years. The latter was a purchase after I married (though the two events are not related!)
Today my eye caught How to Stop Worrying during an idle moment, and it rekindled some lessons that I easily forget, yet benefit from greatly if I take the time to reinforce them.
So here we go...
Is it foolish to try to go back in time as if we could change it? Of course. Yet how much time do people spend replaying the negative splices of life with the volume turned up as loud as it can go?
George Washington Carver lost $40,000 in a bank crash. When someone asked if he knew he was bankrupt, he simply said "Yes, I heard" -- and went on with his teaching.
Don't cry over spilled milk!
When people dwell in the past, they're like those who try to saw sawdust. What's the point? The only way to profit from it is to analyze the mistakes, and then forget them.
Why not be like the former heavyweight boxing champion George Tunney, whose career ended by two knockout defeats? He immersed himself in the next stage of his life, building a restaurant, doing exhibitions, and keeping busy to the point where he claimed that those ten years had been the best yet.
So you messed up today. Set up tomorrow for greatness!
Today my eye caught How to Stop Worrying during an idle moment, and it rekindled some lessons that I easily forget, yet benefit from greatly if I take the time to reinforce them.
So here we go...
Is it foolish to try to go back in time as if we could change it? Of course. Yet how much time do people spend replaying the negative splices of life with the volume turned up as loud as it can go?
George Washington Carver lost $40,000 in a bank crash. When someone asked if he knew he was bankrupt, he simply said "Yes, I heard" -- and went on with his teaching.
Don't cry over spilled milk!
When people dwell in the past, they're like those who try to saw sawdust. What's the point? The only way to profit from it is to analyze the mistakes, and then forget them.
Why not be like the former heavyweight boxing champion George Tunney, whose career ended by two knockout defeats? He immersed himself in the next stage of his life, building a restaurant, doing exhibitions, and keeping busy to the point where he claimed that those ten years had been the best yet.
So you messed up today. Set up tomorrow for greatness!
Monday, July 16, 2007
Wistful Thinking
Mom turned 66 today. While we were talking on the phone she mentioned that the Indian Lakes golf course on the fringes of her home had been bought out by Hilton (the chain, not the ex-convict). The two 18-hole golf courses will be replaced by some 9-hole courses and a training area. But the holes closest to the backyard had actually been bought out by the town, to be converted to a public walking area.
As she started to remark about the impact on property values and how the locals weren't asked for their input, my mind wandered momentarily. Maybe Jack and I should get out there and try to play those holes one last time before they're gone forever.
The right side of my brain then kicked the left side of my brain into submission, reminding me that I hadn't held a golf club since last century. It'd be even money which would last longer if I tried - the memories or the slipped disc.
The point is, if the thought of losing something that we don't care about can make us yearn for it, how much more would we appreciate what we love, if we stopped to imagine life without it?
Suddenly, I'm off to give Dena a kiss...
As she started to remark about the impact on property values and how the locals weren't asked for their input, my mind wandered momentarily. Maybe Jack and I should get out there and try to play those holes one last time before they're gone forever.
The right side of my brain then kicked the left side of my brain into submission, reminding me that I hadn't held a golf club since last century. It'd be even money which would last longer if I tried - the memories or the slipped disc.
The point is, if the thought of losing something that we don't care about can make us yearn for it, how much more would we appreciate what we love, if we stopped to imagine life without it?
Suddenly, I'm off to give Dena a kiss...
Star Gazing
On Saturday night a friend of mine brought us along to help her complete a homework assignment for her astronomy class. Buried inaccessibly in the heart of a golf course in downtown Peoria, Illinois is an observatory. This isn't a planetarium, mind you, with its painted sky. This is a bullet-shaped building like the Deep Impact-variety disaster films, with a vertical slit just wide enough for a high-powered telescope to search the heavens. The task was to spend an hour there and record whatever you see.
Some of the things that she didn't record were:
1. All the finest visitor accommodations a haunted mansion could offer. To reach the parking lot we drove through a half mile of pure gravel road that would decapitate a bobblehead doll. The lot was pitch black, but fortunately there was a trickle of stagger-tripping humans from a grove of nearby trees as a clue. After a couple hundred yards the structure loomed in the distance atop a hill, emitting a weak yellowish glow from a single light bulb ten feet off the ground. Despite the best ankle-lashing efforts of the guardian weeds, we arrived safely.
2. The telescope operator who was living his boyhood dream. Armed with the stereotypical scientist's high-pitched voice, he talked anxiously (to us or to the telescope, it wasn't clear) about the drama of catching Saturn just before it dipped below the horizon. He urged Saturn to show itself with the enthusiasm of a six-year old, as if he hadn't done this a hundred times in the last two weeks. He now holds the distinction of being the only man I've ever encountered without seeing his face.
Regardless of your thoughts on the origin of the universe, it is humbling to think of our tiny size in the vastness of space. If you find yourself in a country setting some time, away from the shroud of light pollution, take a few minutes and let your eyes wander across the sky.
Some of the things that she didn't record were:
1. All the finest visitor accommodations a haunted mansion could offer. To reach the parking lot we drove through a half mile of pure gravel road that would decapitate a bobblehead doll. The lot was pitch black, but fortunately there was a trickle of stagger-tripping humans from a grove of nearby trees as a clue. After a couple hundred yards the structure loomed in the distance atop a hill, emitting a weak yellowish glow from a single light bulb ten feet off the ground. Despite the best ankle-lashing efforts of the guardian weeds, we arrived safely.
2. The telescope operator who was living his boyhood dream. Armed with the stereotypical scientist's high-pitched voice, he talked anxiously (to us or to the telescope, it wasn't clear) about the drama of catching Saturn just before it dipped below the horizon. He urged Saturn to show itself with the enthusiasm of a six-year old, as if he hadn't done this a hundred times in the last two weeks. He now holds the distinction of being the only man I've ever encountered without seeing his face.
Regardless of your thoughts on the origin of the universe, it is humbling to think of our tiny size in the vastness of space. If you find yourself in a country setting some time, away from the shroud of light pollution, take a few minutes and let your eyes wander across the sky.
Friday, July 13, 2007
American Idle
My ears perked up when I heard that fans could enter a contest for a chance to lead Wrigley Field in song during the 7th innning stretch. I wrote a dazzling 150 word essay with all the right ingredients -- a reference to my not-too-formal experience singing in a band, to the contrast between Steve "Stonie" Stone and Ozzy Osbourne's past stretch performances, to the fact that I'm a lifelong Cub fan willing to drive 250 miles round trip to compete. In fact, there are actually two rounds of American Idol style auditions in Wrigley a month apart where contestants are videotaped, put online and voted upon by the fans to determine the winner. I would do it!
I sent my entry in three weeks ago. And here I sit... and wait... at the proverbial altar... Like my beloved Cubbies, it looks like I'll have to wait 'til next year.
I sent my entry in three weeks ago. And here I sit... and wait... at the proverbial altar... Like my beloved Cubbies, it looks like I'll have to wait 'til next year.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Newest Baby Bull
So the Bulls picked up Joakim Noah with the #9 pick in this year's NBA draft.
The good news here is that, as I've admired multiple times within this blog, the Bulls have chosen a philosophy and are sticking to it. In Kirk Hinrich, Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas, Chris Duhon and now Noah, the Bulls pick players with grit, hustle, and big-game experience. It's an extension of coach Scott Skiles and general manager John Paxson. Passion and success sells tickets.
Does it win championships? The Bulls' current makeup lacks some height, bulk and (so far) the presence of a superstar. I think it's a recipe with potential, but it's of the Cinderella variety. The recent model of consistency in the Eastern Conference has been the Detroit Pistons, themselves without a true center or player with unquestionable Hall-of-Fame credentials.
History will eventually rate this team. The results of the maximum investment in aging, non-scoring Ben Wallace will be closely watched. The organization will reach a day of reckoning within the next few years: Whether to preserve their abundantly talented young core, or to take a risk in selling off key pieces in the hope of landing the final missing ingredients, a la Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant of the Jordan era. The recent multi-year deal handed to role player Andres Nocioni suggests the former.
In the meantime, I'm psyched for the 2007-08 version of the Running of the Bulls, armed with their latest long, lean, leaping college grad and another year of success under their belts.
The good news here is that, as I've admired multiple times within this blog, the Bulls have chosen a philosophy and are sticking to it. In Kirk Hinrich, Ben Gordon, Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas, Chris Duhon and now Noah, the Bulls pick players with grit, hustle, and big-game experience. It's an extension of coach Scott Skiles and general manager John Paxson. Passion and success sells tickets.
Does it win championships? The Bulls' current makeup lacks some height, bulk and (so far) the presence of a superstar. I think it's a recipe with potential, but it's of the Cinderella variety. The recent model of consistency in the Eastern Conference has been the Detroit Pistons, themselves without a true center or player with unquestionable Hall-of-Fame credentials.
History will eventually rate this team. The results of the maximum investment in aging, non-scoring Ben Wallace will be closely watched. The organization will reach a day of reckoning within the next few years: Whether to preserve their abundantly talented young core, or to take a risk in selling off key pieces in the hope of landing the final missing ingredients, a la Scottie Pippen and Horace Grant of the Jordan era. The recent multi-year deal handed to role player Andres Nocioni suggests the former.
In the meantime, I'm psyched for the 2007-08 version of the Running of the Bulls, armed with their latest long, lean, leaping college grad and another year of success under their belts.
Moneyball
I wish there were good news to write about regarding the All-Star break, but it was pretty tame. Unsung Alex Rios of Toronto slugged his way impressively into the final round of the home run derby, then sputtered to a 2-HR finish in succumbing meekly to Vladmir Guerrero. The game itself was a generally sterile affair, with the NL teasing us die-hard fans via a 9th inning 2-out rally before leaving the winning run on second base.
This former math major took a liking to the book Moneyball by Michael Lewis. It dismisses the traditional notions of baseball scouting, including its obsession over speed and arm strength, and relies heavily on analytics. In other words, Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane surrounded himself with Harvard-educated technocrats to determine the most cost-efficient statistics to buy in order to succeed with a league-low payroll. Some of their maxims based on their research:
- On-base percentage is the gold standard for hitters. He who gets on base, scores runs. He who scores the most runs, wins games.
- Fielding is overrated. In one case a first baseman was thrust into left field, where he fielded comically but was an on-base machine. Studies showed that one of the worst outfielders of this generation, Albert Belle, more than made up for the runs allowed through his hitting prowess.
- Base stealing is an unnecessary risk.
- Strikeouts, walks, and home runs allowed are the measures of a pitcher. These are the statistics that a pitcher has complete control over. Forget smoothness of the delivery, speed of the fastball, or ERA.
He orchestrated two of the winningest second-half teams in baseball history, notching over 100 wins in consecutive years.
I like that the A's embedded on-base percentage into the organization's DNA. No OBP, no promotion. The greatness of Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin emerged from their rigorous belief in core principles (the Union/Constitution for Lincoln, usefulness for Franklin). We should all hope to be so focused.
This former math major took a liking to the book Moneyball by Michael Lewis. It dismisses the traditional notions of baseball scouting, including its obsession over speed and arm strength, and relies heavily on analytics. In other words, Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane surrounded himself with Harvard-educated technocrats to determine the most cost-efficient statistics to buy in order to succeed with a league-low payroll. Some of their maxims based on their research:
- On-base percentage is the gold standard for hitters. He who gets on base, scores runs. He who scores the most runs, wins games.
- Fielding is overrated. In one case a first baseman was thrust into left field, where he fielded comically but was an on-base machine. Studies showed that one of the worst outfielders of this generation, Albert Belle, more than made up for the runs allowed through his hitting prowess.
- Base stealing is an unnecessary risk.
- Strikeouts, walks, and home runs allowed are the measures of a pitcher. These are the statistics that a pitcher has complete control over. Forget smoothness of the delivery, speed of the fastball, or ERA.
He orchestrated two of the winningest second-half teams in baseball history, notching over 100 wins in consecutive years.
I like that the A's embedded on-base percentage into the organization's DNA. No OBP, no promotion. The greatness of Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin emerged from their rigorous belief in core principles (the Union/Constitution for Lincoln, usefulness for Franklin). We should all hope to be so focused.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Good News for President Bush
Each day when I log onto the Internet the My Yahoo! home page gives me any number of news flashes, mostly ranging from sad to tragic and often involving President Bush. Doesn't the man get some good press, somewhere?
His approval rating's hovering just below 30%. Desperate, I Googled "good news for bush" using I'm Feeling Lucky. In sum, the article suggests that Sunni Muslims, especially young men, are dying so rapidly that the insurgence in Iraq is bound to run out of steam:
http://www.economist.com/blogs/freeexchange/2006/11/good_news_for_mr_bush.cfm
Well, OK. Let's give the 2nd Google result a try. Here we go, Mr. Bush has a commanding lead... in the '04 election.
Come on, America! When your teen's acting stubbornly, what would you really expect to happen if you wrote scathing articles about him in your local Daily Gazette every morning? "Gee, sorry Mom, I'll start developing an exit strategy for Iraq and investing in education right now!" What we need is some positive reinforcement to get this thing turned around. We must redouble our efforts to get this blog Googlable, so that we can get this message in front of the eyes of our embattled leader to rekindle his spirit, so as to start rekindling our national pride!
Good news, Mr. Bush, only 557 days till retirement!
His approval rating's hovering just below 30%. Desperate, I Googled "good news for bush" using I'm Feeling Lucky. In sum, the article suggests that Sunni Muslims, especially young men, are dying so rapidly that the insurgence in Iraq is bound to run out of steam:
http://www.economist.com/blogs/freeexchange/2006/11/good_news_for_mr_bush.cfm
Well, OK. Let's give the 2nd Google result a try. Here we go, Mr. Bush has a commanding lead... in the '04 election.
Come on, America! When your teen's acting stubbornly, what would you really expect to happen if you wrote scathing articles about him in your local Daily Gazette every morning? "Gee, sorry Mom, I'll start developing an exit strategy for Iraq and investing in education right now!" What we need is some positive reinforcement to get this thing turned around. We must redouble our efforts to get this blog Googlable, so that we can get this message in front of the eyes of our embattled leader to rekindle his spirit, so as to start rekindling our national pride!
Good news, Mr. Bush, only 557 days till retirement!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Back in the Saddle
My back hurts! A slow-growing, pinched-type feeling in my lower left back. Let's consult Dr. Internet:
"When individuals have one-sided lower back pain, they often can feel that their bodies are tilted to one side, as described above. If you suspect this to be true, it’s essential to correct the problem at it’s core following a two-pronged approach:
1) First, the postural distortion must be corrected. Osteopathic physicians, chiropractors, and structurally trained therapists, like Neuromuscular Therapists, are trained in this area. A Neuromuscular Therapist will not employ high-velocity adjustments, but will achieve the correction by re-patterning the soft tissues.
2) Second, the painful muscles must be directly treated in order to improve blood flow and assist in healing the tissues."
OK, so how about this?
1) First, the postural distortions will be corrected. Sit up straight! Sleep on your back!
2) Second, the painful muscles will be directly treated. Sportscreme, anyone?
Wish me luck!
Fantasy baseball: 96 points, 1st place at the All-Star break.
"When individuals have one-sided lower back pain, they often can feel that their bodies are tilted to one side, as described above. If you suspect this to be true, it’s essential to correct the problem at it’s core following a two-pronged approach:
1) First, the postural distortion must be corrected. Osteopathic physicians, chiropractors, and structurally trained therapists, like Neuromuscular Therapists, are trained in this area. A Neuromuscular Therapist will not employ high-velocity adjustments, but will achieve the correction by re-patterning the soft tissues.
2) Second, the painful muscles must be directly treated in order to improve blood flow and assist in healing the tissues."
OK, so how about this?
1) First, the postural distortions will be corrected. Sit up straight! Sleep on your back!
2) Second, the painful muscles will be directly treated. Sportscreme, anyone?
Wish me luck!
Fantasy baseball: 96 points, 1st place at the All-Star break.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Citizen Kane
The first time that I watched Orson Welles' critically-acclaimed masterpiece (it was nominated for 9 Oscars in 1941) -- well, I actually didn't watch it. My high school English teacher put it on the VCR, and I was so underwhelmed by the opening scenes that I spent the rest of the 2 hours doing whatever it is that teenagers do in class when they're bored. I was so dulled that I can't even recall what that was.
Recently Dena decided that she wanted to watch it, so we rented it from Blockbuster, where it sat on the stairs, inspiring us through its unopened case for a few days. Tonight while Dena was off to her church meetings I popped it in.
Is it the best movie of all time, as some suggest? Without doubt, it's the best 1941 movie I've ever seen. Being the philosophical guy that I am, it raised some questions. What can life be like if your only conviction, your only love, is yourself? What happens if you try to gain love without giving it?
The main message I took away is that it's easy to spend life longing for the past. Why not cherish what we have right now, starting at this very moment?
Recently Dena decided that she wanted to watch it, so we rented it from Blockbuster, where it sat on the stairs, inspiring us through its unopened case for a few days. Tonight while Dena was off to her church meetings I popped it in.
Is it the best movie of all time, as some suggest? Without doubt, it's the best 1941 movie I've ever seen. Being the philosophical guy that I am, it raised some questions. What can life be like if your only conviction, your only love, is yourself? What happens if you try to gain love without giving it?
The main message I took away is that it's easy to spend life longing for the past. Why not cherish what we have right now, starting at this very moment?
Sunday, July 8, 2007
JFK
Newsweek's July 2 edition ran a series of articles on John Kennedy. So as not to let it slip lightly by, here are some memorable bits from them:
- He was known to refrain from the Soviet-bashing of his time. His inauguration speech extended an invitation to the enemy to join us in a new "quest for peace, before the dark powers of destruction unleashed by science engulf all of humanity."
- "All war is stupid," he wrote home from his PT boat in the Pacific battleground of WWII. "There is nothing inevitable about us."
- "We're not going to plunge into an irresponsible action just because a fanatical fringe in this country puts so-called national pride above national reason."
- When Khrushchev got the news that JFK had been shot in Dallas in November 1963, he broke down an sobbed in the Kremlin, unable to perform his duties for days. Such was the level to which their mutually respectful quest for peace had grown.
- His famous "Peace Speech" humanized the enemy, basically pointing out that we're on the same team. "We all inhabit this small planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children's future. And we are all mortal."
- He felt that the most effective way to demonstrate America's strength was not to threaten its enemies, but rather to live up to the country's democratic ideals and "practice what it preaches about equal rights and social justice."
- No Catholic had ever been elected President. He stood before a rally of the Greater Houston Minsterial Association and said "I do not speak for my church on public matters, and the church does not speak for me." So laid to rest were the misgivings that the Roman papacy might in some way rule America.
- He was known to refrain from the Soviet-bashing of his time. His inauguration speech extended an invitation to the enemy to join us in a new "quest for peace, before the dark powers of destruction unleashed by science engulf all of humanity."
- "All war is stupid," he wrote home from his PT boat in the Pacific battleground of WWII. "There is nothing inevitable about us."
- "We're not going to plunge into an irresponsible action just because a fanatical fringe in this country puts so-called national pride above national reason."
- When Khrushchev got the news that JFK had been shot in Dallas in November 1963, he broke down an sobbed in the Kremlin, unable to perform his duties for days. Such was the level to which their mutually respectful quest for peace had grown.
- His famous "Peace Speech" humanized the enemy, basically pointing out that we're on the same team. "We all inhabit this small planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children's future. And we are all mortal."
- He felt that the most effective way to demonstrate America's strength was not to threaten its enemies, but rather to live up to the country's democratic ideals and "practice what it preaches about equal rights and social justice."
- No Catholic had ever been elected President. He stood before a rally of the Greater Houston Minsterial Association and said "I do not speak for my church on public matters, and the church does not speak for me." So laid to rest were the misgivings that the Roman papacy might in some way rule America.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
The Beach
We sit on the beach,
You and I, side by side,
Seeing endless expanses,
Opportunities abounding,
Legacies to build.
But we are grains of sand,
Immobile,
To be reclaimed by the ocean,
Forgotten,
As billions before and after.
So let us rest in our destiny,
Set aside the roar of the surf,
And here quietly shine,
Enjoying our moment in the sun.
You and I, side by side,
Seeing endless expanses,
Opportunities abounding,
Legacies to build.
But we are grains of sand,
Immobile,
To be reclaimed by the ocean,
Forgotten,
As billions before and after.
So let us rest in our destiny,
Set aside the roar of the surf,
And here quietly shine,
Enjoying our moment in the sun.
Give Peace A Chance
Much has been made of President John Kennedy's experiences during the 13-day Cuban missile crisis, facing the potential of launching nuclear war with Russia.
I knew that, following a futile invasion of Cuba known as the Bay of Pigs, Kennedy faced intense pressure from his high-ranking military advisers to escalate the attack to a fuller scale. Ultimately, Kennedy resisted, raising a tremendous uproar of unpopularity within his own administration. The gesture of weakness was distasteful and mocked by many.
What I didn't know, nor did Kennedy's advisers at the time, was that the Russian commanders stationed in Cuba were authorized to respond with tactical and strategic nuclear missiles. In fact, the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff had assured Kennedy at the time that "no nuclear warheads were in Cuba at the time." So it goes that the most popular decision could have cost the southeastern part of the nation millions of lives' worth of nuclear destruction.
Kennedy's policy has been described as "peace through strength" at the height of the Cold War. He placed the common good of humanity over the manifold temptations of war, just as Lincoln had elevated the salvation of the Union over the issue of slavery a hundred years before.
May we all pause to think of the small- and large-scale "wars" currently being waged within us, and try applying a generous dose of peace to see what results!
I knew that, following a futile invasion of Cuba known as the Bay of Pigs, Kennedy faced intense pressure from his high-ranking military advisers to escalate the attack to a fuller scale. Ultimately, Kennedy resisted, raising a tremendous uproar of unpopularity within his own administration. The gesture of weakness was distasteful and mocked by many.
What I didn't know, nor did Kennedy's advisers at the time, was that the Russian commanders stationed in Cuba were authorized to respond with tactical and strategic nuclear missiles. In fact, the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff had assured Kennedy at the time that "no nuclear warheads were in Cuba at the time." So it goes that the most popular decision could have cost the southeastern part of the nation millions of lives' worth of nuclear destruction.
Kennedy's policy has been described as "peace through strength" at the height of the Cold War. He placed the common good of humanity over the manifold temptations of war, just as Lincoln had elevated the salvation of the Union over the issue of slavery a hundred years before.
May we all pause to think of the small- and large-scale "wars" currently being waged within us, and try applying a generous dose of peace to see what results!
Thursday, July 5, 2007
New On Shelves: The iRack
Check this out! Good satire, regardless of your political views...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcjLEwZqcQI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcjLEwZqcQI
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Scoutmaster's Approval Rating Plummets
Chapman at Speedo Photo NightDecember, 2006
On the heels of a series of ill-fated programs, Ducktrap, Maine Scoutmaster Ken Chapman saw his approval rating plunge to 28.9% in a free fall unprecedented in the history of the Boy Scouts of America.
Re-election pressure, which mounts with the approach of each quadrennial jamboree, is a hallowed tradition of scouting's notoriously smarmy politics. Chapman, thrice elected to head Troop 158's 13 members in unopposed campaigns, has wilted conspicuously since popular bus driver Glenn Mosely suggested as an afterthought following the 2003 election that he "might think about running" in 2007, when his son Gary would be 12.
The ensuing 3-year stretch has been characterized by a series of questionable activities in an apparent ploy to boost Chapman's leadership moxy. Staple events like "Frisbee Bridge," "Group Pushup," and "Patrol Spirit Competition" were removed. The 11-17 year olds' schedule instead featured riskier Chapman creations such as "Bomb Squad," "Bear Racing," and "Stab Your Way to Freedom."
Chapman initially weathered the howls of protest from concerned parents by invoking BSA's "Be prepared" motto, and asserting that the boys, not the parents, would ultimately judge the quality of the programming.
The scouts have spoken. A national BSA headquarters official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Chapman's rating is the lowest of the nation's 50,996 troops currently, and the steepness of the drop is unmatched in the organization's 97-year history.
"He's got to be stopped," said Mark Franklin, whose day job is as Chapman's deputy sheriff in this town of 313 residents isolated deep in the dark northeastern timberland. "Thank goodness our boys are showing the courage to vote him down."
"He keeps saying that the word 'safe' doesn't appear in Scout Law," added Danielle Hill, who lost her son Cody shortly following "Bottle Rocket Bonanza" and prior to "Pine Box Night." "What happens once he realizes that 'eat' is missing too?"
"At first, he was kind of fun," said 20-year old Gabe Kessler through a computerized voice program that he's used since participating in "Hangman's Escape" in 2004. "But it's time for a change."
Gettysburg Address
The greatest terrorist attack in the United States may have been the 5,000 killed at the World Trade Center. But the attack which killed the most Americans in history was the Battle of Gettysburg from July 1-3, 1863. Today we ask "why" when pondering September 11, 2001. And as the cemetery at Gettysburg was being dedicated on November 19, 1863, it's easy to imagine the same question on people's minds in the wake of 51,112 deaths, at the hands of our own countrymen no less. Would this radical nation founded on democracy, still young enough for living grandparents to recall when there was no Union, survive much longer? Here are the words that President Lincoln spoke on that somber day.
Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But in a larger sense, we can not dedicate--we can not consecrate--we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.
It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion--that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But in a larger sense, we can not dedicate--we can not consecrate--we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.
It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion--that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Steve Carell Quote
Steve's the star of the sitcom "The Office," which I've grown fond enough of that I refuse to watch it during the season. Then I'll snap it up from Blockbuster once the entire season's released. It reduces inter-episode angst and makes for a marathon weekend of laughs!
Anyway, here's a question from a recent interview:
Interviewer: You seem like one of those comedians like Will Ferrell. There's no baggage, no "My dad used to hit me."
Carell: You know what's ironic? Will Ferrell's dad used to hit me.
Anyway, here's a question from a recent interview:
Interviewer: You seem like one of those comedians like Will Ferrell. There's no baggage, no "My dad used to hit me."
Carell: You know what's ironic? Will Ferrell's dad used to hit me.
Growing or Dying?
One of the books I've read is Awaken the Giant Within, by Tony Robbins. This guy who went from being a school janitor to a multi-millionaire is a mountain of energy. He's both practical and story-telling, two appealing ingredients for me.
Recently I listened, for a second time, to a 20-minute video clip of his performance at TED, the Technology, Entertainment and Design Conference featuring 1,000 of some of the world's most influential leaders. He pointed to six basic needs of humans.
The needs of the personality
1. Certainty that they can at least be comfortable.
2. Uncertainty (variety). Too much certainty is boring!
3. Significance: The need to feel more important via money, spirituality, power, or other.
4. Connection (love). Most people settle for connection because love is too scary. Through relationship or prayer.
The needs of the spirit
1. Growth. If you're not growing in some way, you're dying.
2. Contribute beyond ourselves. The secret of living is giving.
Robbins highlights the last two as particularly critical. I'm most touched by that first one.
We're lucky that there are millions of ways to grow. Growth is about adding or building up. For example, today I:
- Sat quietly outdoors for a half hour, taking in some breezy fresh air and sunshine.
- Read Newsweek magazine, learning about the presidential candidates, global warming, the role of women in movies, and various other conversation-starters.
- Shot some hoops, dropping a pound of water weight in the 90+ heat (today's 50 Time: 16 minutes)
- Showered and shaved (more like addition by subtraction here!)
- Analyzed with Dena whether it'd be more effective to keep our current land line long distance phone carrier, or become a full-blown cell phone household (the jury's still out). In addition to the mental exercise of analysis, I think that shared conversation about even small pieces of our future like this adds to our relationship.
- Practiced guitar and singing.
- Wrote to you!
Whether or not they produce immediate, long-lasting, tangible benefits or not, there's happiness in devoting some time each day to inches of personal growth.
Recently I listened, for a second time, to a 20-minute video clip of his performance at TED, the Technology, Entertainment and Design Conference featuring 1,000 of some of the world's most influential leaders. He pointed to six basic needs of humans.
The needs of the personality
1. Certainty that they can at least be comfortable.
2. Uncertainty (variety). Too much certainty is boring!
3. Significance: The need to feel more important via money, spirituality, power, or other.
4. Connection (love). Most people settle for connection because love is too scary. Through relationship or prayer.
The needs of the spirit
1. Growth. If you're not growing in some way, you're dying.
2. Contribute beyond ourselves. The secret of living is giving.
Robbins highlights the last two as particularly critical. I'm most touched by that first one.
We're lucky that there are millions of ways to grow. Growth is about adding or building up. For example, today I:
- Sat quietly outdoors for a half hour, taking in some breezy fresh air and sunshine.
- Read Newsweek magazine, learning about the presidential candidates, global warming, the role of women in movies, and various other conversation-starters.
- Shot some hoops, dropping a pound of water weight in the 90+ heat (today's 50 Time: 16 minutes)
- Showered and shaved (more like addition by subtraction here!)
- Analyzed with Dena whether it'd be more effective to keep our current land line long distance phone carrier, or become a full-blown cell phone household (the jury's still out). In addition to the mental exercise of analysis, I think that shared conversation about even small pieces of our future like this adds to our relationship.
- Practiced guitar and singing.
- Wrote to you!
Whether or not they produce immediate, long-lasting, tangible benefits or not, there's happiness in devoting some time each day to inches of personal growth.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Hoop Shootin'
I've a long and largely undistinguished basketball career, dotted with a few spectacular moments that would stifle your yawns for several minutes. In recent years I've played with a group of guys on Saturday mornings in an non-air-conditioned health club gym. It's sort of a society that you join gradually -- at first you hang around, keep your mouth shut, and play hard, and eventually you just "belong."
Some of these guys have played for 10-15 years or more. Take Rick, the six-foot 225 pound fiftysomething who's too old to be my brother and too young to be my dad. He hangs around the three point line as if he physically lacked the energy to move any closer to the basket. He's tired like a fox. You put a new guy on him defensively, and suddenly Rick's draining 3-4 treys to end the game, after lulling New Guy into thinking he's useless. If you switch a top defender on him, then he lounges around half-court to draw you away from helping New Guy, who's left to pat players on the back as they giggle their way past him for easy layups.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. Today is about a new stat: 50 Time. This is the amount of time that it takes me to make 50 baskets -- 5 shots from 10 spots each. Imagine five evenly-spaced spots arcing around the three point line from corner to corner, then imagine five more spots that are two steps closer to the hoop, and there you go. Shots have to be made sequentially, no fair shooting out of order just because you happened to rebound the ball near a shooting station.
I've played three times so far. Day 1: 19 minutes. Day 2: 26 minutes. Day 3: 13 minutes.
Beat me!
Fantasy Baseball Update: 94 points, 1st place by 9.5. Daisuke Matsuzaka's dominating the Tampa Bay Devil Rays tonight so things are looking up.
Some of these guys have played for 10-15 years or more. Take Rick, the six-foot 225 pound fiftysomething who's too old to be my brother and too young to be my dad. He hangs around the three point line as if he physically lacked the energy to move any closer to the basket. He's tired like a fox. You put a new guy on him defensively, and suddenly Rick's draining 3-4 treys to end the game, after lulling New Guy into thinking he's useless. If you switch a top defender on him, then he lounges around half-court to draw you away from helping New Guy, who's left to pat players on the back as they giggle their way past him for easy layups.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. Today is about a new stat: 50 Time. This is the amount of time that it takes me to make 50 baskets -- 5 shots from 10 spots each. Imagine five evenly-spaced spots arcing around the three point line from corner to corner, then imagine five more spots that are two steps closer to the hoop, and there you go. Shots have to be made sequentially, no fair shooting out of order just because you happened to rebound the ball near a shooting station.
I've played three times so far. Day 1: 19 minutes. Day 2: 26 minutes. Day 3: 13 minutes.
Beat me!
Fantasy Baseball Update: 94 points, 1st place by 9.5. Daisuke Matsuzaka's dominating the Tampa Bay Devil Rays tonight so things are looking up.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Band of Brothers
Having a bad day?
Think of the coldest that you've ever been (maybe holding an ice cube in your bare hand or taking a cold shower will help out). Then imagine a winter evening outside. Start by digging a hole in the frozen ground -- it's going to be your bed (try sleeping sitting up tonight). You've no winter clothing. And somewhere nearby, hidden from view, someone's firing bullets in your direction who knows right where you are. You're not allowed to retreat.
You may now have an inkling of the life of the soldiers of Easy Company during World War II as they pursued the German army. You just have to multiply the German infantry by 1,000, and plan to stick it out for another 70 consecutive days. You won't be under a roof for two months.
Watching HBO's 10-hour special "Band of Brothers" has been a remarkable experience.
On many days over the course of this privileged life I've drowned myself in a pool of my own self-induced sorrow. Would Easy Company be ashamed to see the sacrifice of their lives wasted on those of us who sulk within our boundless freedom, and retreat from the meekest challenges?
Cheer up and give thanks!
Think of the coldest that you've ever been (maybe holding an ice cube in your bare hand or taking a cold shower will help out). Then imagine a winter evening outside. Start by digging a hole in the frozen ground -- it's going to be your bed (try sleeping sitting up tonight). You've no winter clothing. And somewhere nearby, hidden from view, someone's firing bullets in your direction who knows right where you are. You're not allowed to retreat.
You may now have an inkling of the life of the soldiers of Easy Company during World War II as they pursued the German army. You just have to multiply the German infantry by 1,000, and plan to stick it out for another 70 consecutive days. You won't be under a roof for two months.
Watching HBO's 10-hour special "Band of Brothers" has been a remarkable experience.
On many days over the course of this privileged life I've drowned myself in a pool of my own self-induced sorrow. Would Easy Company be ashamed to see the sacrifice of their lives wasted on those of us who sulk within our boundless freedom, and retreat from the meekest challenges?
Cheer up and give thanks!
Fantasy Baseball
Quick tidbit: I play fantasy baseball, the game where you get points based on your players' statistical performance. Here's the routine: Each day, pick the nine batters and five pitchers that you think will do the best from your 21-person roster. Their stats for the day are tabulated in each of ten different categories: Runs, Home Runs, Runs Batted In, Batting Average, and Stolen Bases for batters; Wins, Strikeouts, Saves, Earned Run Average and Walks/Hits Per Inning Pitched for pitchers. Twelve teams are in the league. The statistics are accumulated throughout the season. So if you are leading a category, you get 12 points, and 1 point for last place. In all, 10 categories x 12 points = 120 points maximum. This is my sixth season playing, and each year the teams are formed completely randomly and anonymously, so that my opponent teams are completely different from the year before. For all I know, I'm competing against a bunch of 12-year olds. The fact that I've won the league for the last two years running supports that notion.
My team's name is Pure Hustle IX. It stems back to an intramural college basketball team I played on for a few years, named Pure Hustle, then II, then III. That team knew that its days were numbered when we reacted with horror to the fact that we'd made the playoffs.
As of today Pure Hustle IX has rallied from sixth place to first and has 93 points, opening up a pleasant 8.5 point lead. I spend a half hour to an hour per day in research. One year it paid off especially well when one team suddenly quit, spilling all of its talent into the free agent market, while I was sitting online. Think piranha.
Later!
My team's name is Pure Hustle IX. It stems back to an intramural college basketball team I played on for a few years, named Pure Hustle, then II, then III. That team knew that its days were numbered when we reacted with horror to the fact that we'd made the playoffs.
As of today Pure Hustle IX has rallied from sixth place to first and has 93 points, opening up a pleasant 8.5 point lead. I spend a half hour to an hour per day in research. One year it paid off especially well when one team suddenly quit, spilling all of its talent into the free agent market, while I was sitting online. Think piranha.
Later!
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Let's Go!
Welcome to this blog. I've built about a half dozen of them over the last couple of years, including one on "Islam for Idiots" (since I am an idiot when it comes to Islam). Each has been slightly different, but there are a couple of key similarities:
1. I got tired of them after a few posts.
2. I deleted them yesterday.
It's a new half-year, so why not try again?
I'm not sure what direction this will take. I'd like this blog to be Googlable, and have no beef with Country Joe McDonald the singer, but the old crooner's burying me. I even Googled an obscure Islamic phrase from my blog, along with my name and my city -- nothing.
Help!
I did some research. The answer might be volume. A pal of mine is a minister and when I Google his name, his blog jumps right to the top. Of course, he's not competing with Country Jason Woolever. Still, he averages about a post per day, slightly ahead of my post-per-new-moon rate.
Apart from myself (notice the sickening number of I's and my's in here already), I think about often about sports, comedy, leadership so brace yourself in the days to come. In fact, I've got a softball game to jet to right now. Later!
1. I got tired of them after a few posts.
2. I deleted them yesterday.
It's a new half-year, so why not try again?
I'm not sure what direction this will take. I'd like this blog to be Googlable, and have no beef with Country Joe McDonald the singer, but the old crooner's burying me. I even Googled an obscure Islamic phrase from my blog, along with my name and my city -- nothing.
Help!
I did some research. The answer might be volume. A pal of mine is a minister and when I Google his name, his blog jumps right to the top. Of course, he's not competing with Country Jason Woolever. Still, he averages about a post per day, slightly ahead of my post-per-new-moon rate.
Apart from myself (notice the sickening number of I's and my's in here already), I think about often about sports, comedy, leadership so brace yourself in the days to come. In fact, I've got a softball game to jet to right now. Later!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)