It's pretty exciting to see your 14-year old niece swish one from the left corner of her JV basketball game against a talented team like Bloomington Central Catholic. Her catch-and-shoot release time was quicker than a hot potato. Then to see her power dribble left-handed down the sideline, and later take an aggressive dribble drive around a pick and pop from the free throw line. This is not the woman I saw a couple years ago!
Dena and I were glad that she didn't run into the walking mountain that was #45 on Central.
She climbed into the stands behind us after the game and apologized for being a little gamey. "Hey, it's the smell of hard work" I thought, though I also thought "But no one works as hard as the smell I'm detecting..." Later Dena pointed out that it was probably the gym bag, which I hadn't noticed. But I think we have an idea for her next birthday present...
Saturday, January 31, 2009
If There Were An American Idol For Backup Dancers...
...this guy would make the "rewind" edition. It just goes to show that you don't need clay or watercolor to make art, just the right combination of beer gut, back hair, and tights.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e83C9SWt0Tc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e83C9SWt0Tc
Leggo My Ego!
"We all want to be famous people, and the moment we want to be something we are no longer free." - Krishnamurti
Guess that puts a little backing behind the interpretation of last post's quote...
Guess that puts a little backing behind the interpretation of last post's quote...
Who Cares?
"How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone." - Coco Chanel
I suppose that means that if we worry about building our identity through our job or our involvements, or what others think of us, then we lose. And we win when we focus on doing our best, or our best for others.
I suppose that means that if we worry about building our identity through our job or our involvements, or what others think of us, then we lose. And we win when we focus on doing our best, or our best for others.
Not To Say That You Were An Accident, But...
"We are not constrained by the accident of birth, but can make of our lives what we will." - Barack Obama (or someone that Barack Obama quoted)
Family Math-ers
On her "25 random things" list, Dona had mentioned about the strong condition of our family. Dena's one of seven kids, five of whom are married. None have divorced. While Hidden Blog keeps math to a minimum in the interest of public health, the likelihood of American marriage surviving is around 50%. That puts the odds of five lasting marriages at 1/32, or 3%. So this family isn't one in a million, but it's among the nation's best!
Friday, January 30, 2009
25 Random Things About Me
Lately there's been a wave of "25 things about me" posts going around Facebook. The idea is that you post 25 things about yourself and then invite 25 people to do the same. Of course Hidden Blog tops the list! So here are the others:
2. You can learn more about me through the "About Me" section to the lower left of this site, things I won't repeat here.
3. I tend to do things "all out" - I used to be a 20% church tither and spent 250 hours a year in service there, not including a brief seminary stint. Discovering my more natural calling, that time is now devoted to Leadership McLean County (not the money, though I do habitually tip at least 30% no matter how good the service).
4. What's Leadership McLean County? Its mission is to identify and develop future leaders. Which is good, because I could sure use more development... A limited number of applicants get in, earning personal tours of wind farms, government offices, principals' offices, hospital CEO panels, social service agencies, etc.
5. What do I do with LMC? Sort of the homeroom teacher. Lots of other talented people coordinate the speakers. I say hi, bye, take attendance at each of the 13 sessions, collect homework assignments, do ice breakers and generally try to make sure people have a good time.
6. I love to write, and so love to e-mail. I sent 900 of them via LMC last year. As a kid I had a poem published nationally.
7. On a related note, I think I was "born to teach." I love public speaking, planning, organizing, using analogies, and the challenge of putting things in simple terms.
8. Of course, teaching requires that you actually know something. In my case, that would be math, and two of my greatest hobbies - sports and leadership. I coached a year of middle school basketball at the YMCA in hopes of using the natural gifts to be something of a positive male role model for kids who might not have them.
9. One of my "wasted" gifts is music. I have written, directed, played and recorded original songs (one for my grandmother's 90th birthday)... sung in a wedding... and I play Beatles' song chords on the electric/acoustic guitar almost every day. But I have no desire to learn to read music, and my main inspiration for music is the thought of leading an audience in some kind of rocking fashion. I have this persistent sense that I'm destined to play in some kind of amateurish group someday.
10. I consider myself a recovering pessimist due to a streak of selfishness and impatience. Fortunately, my highest-ranking strength based on the trendy Marcus Buckingham "Now Discover Your Strengths" survey is "positivity."
11. Ignoring my bachelor party when I scored 40, my highest scoring basketball game was 19 in a summer league game, 17 in the State Farm league, and 15 in high school.
12. One of my fondest memories was being announced as a varsity starter on the hoops team in senior year, under the spotlight and all - after being at the end of the freshman "B" team's bench years before. It was the first time that I truly pulled myself up by my bootstraps through sheer hard work.
13. My high school foreign language was Spanish. I'm more fluent than the average American who took high school Spanish, which did little for me the only time I ever visited Mexico for 1993 spring break.
14. I'd describe myself as an introvert, but I loved living in college dorms, and the closeness of condo neighbors.
15. My most important value is freedom. I have almost no interest in the responsibilities of home ownership, or raising living things like lawns, pets or kids. I enjoy building memories (gotta blog something!), but not a legacy.
16. I've written, directed, and acted in skits, videos, and radio commercials. I am currently the "answering machine voice" of Mid Central Community Action - (309) 829-0691. I was briefly a T.V. sideline reporter for local high school football.
17. With a few notable exceptions, my relationships with people are fleeting. Until Facebook, I hadn't been in touch with anyone from grade school or high school since graduation. The only thing that puts me in touch with college friends is that we live in the same town and occasionally cross paths.
18. Little cars are for me. Good gas mileage, and you can park them anywhere. I thought I'd be in a "50 Year Customer" commercial for Saturn, celebrating an American record for consecutive years with the same model of car... but now they've discontinued the SL1.
19. I used to keep track of every penny, kept every receipt, logged the amount of gas and gallons I bought at each fill-up so I could track the miles per gallon. Now I'm completely the opposite, I don't even balance my checkbook. Like I said, freedom.
20. My father and both grandfathers died by the age of 70. I'll be retiring as young as I possibly can!
21. I'm pretty comfortable in my masculinity - enough to enjoy yoga, Swedish massage, and pedicures.
22. They say younger generations are more fickle, but at 15 years this May I'll have worked for one employer longer than either of my parents.
23. The sound that thrills me most is a cheering crowd. I enjoy being the center of attention, but the only time I ran a half marathon was up and down the empty streets of my neighborhood.
24. Things I've dreamed of but not done - yet - include writing a book (got an idea, just haven't started typing) and doing stand-up comedy.
25. I voted for Obama, but I avoid labels as much as I can so as to be in harmony with as many people as possible. I don't belong to a political party or religion, nor do I think of myself as Illinoisan, Caucasian, or American so much as human.
2. You can learn more about me through the "About Me" section to the lower left of this site, things I won't repeat here.
3. I tend to do things "all out" - I used to be a 20% church tither and spent 250 hours a year in service there, not including a brief seminary stint. Discovering my more natural calling, that time is now devoted to Leadership McLean County (not the money, though I do habitually tip at least 30% no matter how good the service).
4. What's Leadership McLean County? Its mission is to identify and develop future leaders. Which is good, because I could sure use more development... A limited number of applicants get in, earning personal tours of wind farms, government offices, principals' offices, hospital CEO panels, social service agencies, etc.
5. What do I do with LMC? Sort of the homeroom teacher. Lots of other talented people coordinate the speakers. I say hi, bye, take attendance at each of the 13 sessions, collect homework assignments, do ice breakers and generally try to make sure people have a good time.
6. I love to write, and so love to e-mail. I sent 900 of them via LMC last year. As a kid I had a poem published nationally.
7. On a related note, I think I was "born to teach." I love public speaking, planning, organizing, using analogies, and the challenge of putting things in simple terms.
8. Of course, teaching requires that you actually know something. In my case, that would be math, and two of my greatest hobbies - sports and leadership. I coached a year of middle school basketball at the YMCA in hopes of using the natural gifts to be something of a positive male role model for kids who might not have them.
9. One of my "wasted" gifts is music. I have written, directed, played and recorded original songs (one for my grandmother's 90th birthday)... sung in a wedding... and I play Beatles' song chords on the electric/acoustic guitar almost every day. But I have no desire to learn to read music, and my main inspiration for music is the thought of leading an audience in some kind of rocking fashion. I have this persistent sense that I'm destined to play in some kind of amateurish group someday.
10. I consider myself a recovering pessimist due to a streak of selfishness and impatience. Fortunately, my highest-ranking strength based on the trendy Marcus Buckingham "Now Discover Your Strengths" survey is "positivity."
11. Ignoring my bachelor party when I scored 40, my highest scoring basketball game was 19 in a summer league game, 17 in the State Farm league, and 15 in high school.
12. One of my fondest memories was being announced as a varsity starter on the hoops team in senior year, under the spotlight and all - after being at the end of the freshman "B" team's bench years before. It was the first time that I truly pulled myself up by my bootstraps through sheer hard work.
13. My high school foreign language was Spanish. I'm more fluent than the average American who took high school Spanish, which did little for me the only time I ever visited Mexico for 1993 spring break.
14. I'd describe myself as an introvert, but I loved living in college dorms, and the closeness of condo neighbors.
15. My most important value is freedom. I have almost no interest in the responsibilities of home ownership, or raising living things like lawns, pets or kids. I enjoy building memories (gotta blog something!), but not a legacy.
16. I've written, directed, and acted in skits, videos, and radio commercials. I am currently the "answering machine voice" of Mid Central Community Action - (309) 829-0691. I was briefly a T.V. sideline reporter for local high school football.
17. With a few notable exceptions, my relationships with people are fleeting. Until Facebook, I hadn't been in touch with anyone from grade school or high school since graduation. The only thing that puts me in touch with college friends is that we live in the same town and occasionally cross paths.
18. Little cars are for me. Good gas mileage, and you can park them anywhere. I thought I'd be in a "50 Year Customer" commercial for Saturn, celebrating an American record for consecutive years with the same model of car... but now they've discontinued the SL1.
19. I used to keep track of every penny, kept every receipt, logged the amount of gas and gallons I bought at each fill-up so I could track the miles per gallon. Now I'm completely the opposite, I don't even balance my checkbook. Like I said, freedom.
20. My father and both grandfathers died by the age of 70. I'll be retiring as young as I possibly can!
21. I'm pretty comfortable in my masculinity - enough to enjoy yoga, Swedish massage, and pedicures.
22. They say younger generations are more fickle, but at 15 years this May I'll have worked for one employer longer than either of my parents.
23. The sound that thrills me most is a cheering crowd. I enjoy being the center of attention, but the only time I ran a half marathon was up and down the empty streets of my neighborhood.
24. Things I've dreamed of but not done - yet - include writing a book (got an idea, just haven't started typing) and doing stand-up comedy.
25. I voted for Obama, but I avoid labels as much as I can so as to be in harmony with as many people as possible. I don't belong to a political party or religion, nor do I think of myself as Illinoisan, Caucasian, or American so much as human.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Hidden Blog Reaches 1,000th Post
I just looked back at post #1, from back on July 1, 2007:
http://joemcdonald.blogspot.com/2007/07/lets-go.html
Blogs had been a start-and-stop affair for me before Hidden Blog finally took root. Who'd have thought that barely more than a year and half later we'd crack four digits? Or that people would actually be reading Hidden Blog regularly?
Blogging has been a therapeutic outlet, an exercise in fun, creativity, and optimism. It also forms a neat scrapbook to look back on years from now. Life is so short... last night Grandma's life nearly ended after 92 years, and it's not expected to last 93. How sad would it be to lose into darkness those moments in life that burned brightly? We live, we love, we struggle, we celebrate. We bloom like flowers in a creator's garden, shine like a spark that fades softly into the night. Not to be remembered, but to make a difference, and all the while to bask in the warmth of the journey.
http://joemcdonald.blogspot.com/2007/07/lets-go.html
Blogs had been a start-and-stop affair for me before Hidden Blog finally took root. Who'd have thought that barely more than a year and half later we'd crack four digits? Or that people would actually be reading Hidden Blog regularly?
Blogging has been a therapeutic outlet, an exercise in fun, creativity, and optimism. It also forms a neat scrapbook to look back on years from now. Life is so short... last night Grandma's life nearly ended after 92 years, and it's not expected to last 93. How sad would it be to lose into darkness those moments in life that burned brightly? We live, we love, we struggle, we celebrate. We bloom like flowers in a creator's garden, shine like a spark that fades softly into the night. Not to be remembered, but to make a difference, and all the while to bask in the warmth of the journey.
Les Miserable
This seemed perfectly timed for the great transition in the McLean County Chamber of Commerce this year.
"None of us is ready. I wasn't. What you need to know, you have to experience. I'm the type who never anticipates transition being easy. In fact, I anticipate it being miserable. But with that misery can come great gain if you embrace the change."
- Mike Tomlin, who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Super Bowl in just his second season
"None of us is ready. I wasn't. What you need to know, you have to experience. I'm the type who never anticipates transition being easy. In fact, I anticipate it being miserable. But with that misery can come great gain if you embrace the change."
- Mike Tomlin, who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Super Bowl in just his second season
The Quietest Pitchman On Television
Think long and hard before going to the library with this guy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3KEkBqDahg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3KEkBqDahg
Endless Love
An e-mail to me from Dena, who recently built her Facebook page:
"This message appeared when I edited my facebook profile to add your name as the person to whom I am married:
'We will notify Joe McDonald, who will have to confirm that you are in a relationship.'
Just in case you were thinking this was merely a roommate arrangement thing. If we're not married, well, all bets are off, baby! I'm gonna start scamming for some men!"
"This message appeared when I edited my facebook profile to add your name as the person to whom I am married:
'We will notify Joe McDonald, who will have to confirm that you are in a relationship.'
Just in case you were thinking this was merely a roommate arrangement thing. If we're not married, well, all bets are off, baby! I'm gonna start scamming for some men!"
Monday, January 26, 2009
United Wayward
NFL star Peyton Manning touches the lives of children - literally! A hilarious spoof.
Note: No children were harmed in the making of this video.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/1603/saturday-night-live-united-way
Note: No children were harmed in the making of this video.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/1603/saturday-night-live-united-way
Campaign Pledge-O-Meter
President Obama evidently made at least 509 promises on the campaign trail. How's this for accountability? I love it!
http://politifact.com/truth-o-meter/promises/
http://politifact.com/truth-o-meter/promises/
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Long Life And Chunky Monkeys
Thanks to Brandi for the reference to this article!
(CBS) Seventeen years ago, 60 Minutes first examined the so-called French paradox, which suggested that the French - despite a high fat diet and high consumption of wine - had a remarkably low incidence of heart disease, compared with Americans. Most researchers agreed that there was something in the wine that offered protection, and a few years later, even the highly cautious federal dietary guidelines say that moderate consumption of red wine can be beneficial.
Now, scientists across the country have identified a substance in red wine called resveratrol that they believe might do more than just protect the heart, but could - in very high concentrations - significantly extend life by preventing a number of age related illnesses. If they're right, we all may soon be taking a pill that could give us an extra decade or two of healthy old age.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"If the promise holds true, I think this has the chance to change healthcare," Dr. Christoph Westphal tells correspondent Morley Safer.
Dr. Westphal says we all may soon be taking a drug that just might beat the clock, a simple pill that could delay the inevitable. "Our goal is to prevent and forestall many of the diseases that strike us as we reach 50, 60, and 70. All with one pill."
Asked if he's suggesting that it's some kind of a rejuvenation drug that would turn a 70-year-old into a 35-year-old, Westphal tells Safer, "That might be pretty hard to do. But I think if we're on a train heading one direction, we can slow down that train. I think we can slow down these genes that control the aging process."
That quest to put death on hold began in 2003 when Westphal met David Sinclair, a biochemist at Harvard who was studying the genetic components of aging. "Five years ago I met David. And he had shown that you could extend life span in yeast. That’s pretty exciting," Westphal recalls.
Yeasts are one thing. Human beings are more complicated. So Sinclair focused on a gene present in almost all life forms: the sirtuin gene. It's normally inactive, but when it is active, Sinclair believes it triggers a survival mechanism that extends life.
Convinced that something in nature could activate that gene, Sinclair randomly tested thousands of compounds and got a hit: resveratrol.
"When I Googled this resveratrol, I was shocked to find that red wine was the top hit," Sinclair remembers.
Red wine is brimming with resveratrol. It is found in high concentrations in the skin of the grape, and seems to play a role in protecting it from invading bacteria and fungi.
Sinclair says he was aware of research into red wine and certain health benefits. "I mean, that's why I almost fell off my chair when the link was made. And I thought that this was a potential explanation for the benefits of red wine."
Convinced they were on the verge of a major scientific breakthrough, Sinclair and Westphal launched Sirtris, a Cambridge, Mass. research company. They, along with a handful of other cutting-edge biotech companies, are developing resveratrol-based drugs that they believe zero-in on the longevity gene.
"The important news here is not that we'd found something in red wine. The important thing is that we passed a milestone where we can now make drugs based on this knowledge and we can potentially slow down aging itself," Sinclair explains.
Everyone from plastic surgeons to your friendly snake oil salesman have been promising a ticket to eternal youth for some time, so the prospect of a prescription pill based on red wine that could trigger a longevity gene sounds too good to be true. And yet scientists have actually known for years of one surefire of doing that: stay hungry.
"Eating a lot of food turns that off. Dieting, extreme dieting turns it on," Sinclair says.
In one experiment, a group of rhesus monkeys is on a major diet. For nearly two decades they have been taking in a good 30 percent fewer calories than their well-fed brothers and sisters.
They are the centerpiece of a National Institutes of Health study at the University of Wisconsin on whether or not CR- calorie restriction - makes them healthier and extends their lives. To maintain their sterile environment, the 60 Minutes team had to suit up to visit them with Ricki Colman, the "project leader."
The control animals are nearing the end of a typical monkey lifespan, about 27 years, and major differences in their overall health are becoming clear. The skinny monkeys actually look younger, their coats are shinier, and fewer have arthritis.
And the chunky monkeys? Many have diabetes, and a significantly higher number have cancer and heart disease.
Pound for pound, Colman says the lighter monkeys do better.
(CBS) Seventeen years ago, 60 Minutes first examined the so-called French paradox, which suggested that the French - despite a high fat diet and high consumption of wine - had a remarkably low incidence of heart disease, compared with Americans. Most researchers agreed that there was something in the wine that offered protection, and a few years later, even the highly cautious federal dietary guidelines say that moderate consumption of red wine can be beneficial.
Now, scientists across the country have identified a substance in red wine called resveratrol that they believe might do more than just protect the heart, but could - in very high concentrations - significantly extend life by preventing a number of age related illnesses. If they're right, we all may soon be taking a pill that could give us an extra decade or two of healthy old age.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"If the promise holds true, I think this has the chance to change healthcare," Dr. Christoph Westphal tells correspondent Morley Safer.
Dr. Westphal says we all may soon be taking a drug that just might beat the clock, a simple pill that could delay the inevitable. "Our goal is to prevent and forestall many of the diseases that strike us as we reach 50, 60, and 70. All with one pill."
Asked if he's suggesting that it's some kind of a rejuvenation drug that would turn a 70-year-old into a 35-year-old, Westphal tells Safer, "That might be pretty hard to do. But I think if we're on a train heading one direction, we can slow down that train. I think we can slow down these genes that control the aging process."
That quest to put death on hold began in 2003 when Westphal met David Sinclair, a biochemist at Harvard who was studying the genetic components of aging. "Five years ago I met David. And he had shown that you could extend life span in yeast. That’s pretty exciting," Westphal recalls.
Yeasts are one thing. Human beings are more complicated. So Sinclair focused on a gene present in almost all life forms: the sirtuin gene. It's normally inactive, but when it is active, Sinclair believes it triggers a survival mechanism that extends life.
Convinced that something in nature could activate that gene, Sinclair randomly tested thousands of compounds and got a hit: resveratrol.
"When I Googled this resveratrol, I was shocked to find that red wine was the top hit," Sinclair remembers.
Red wine is brimming with resveratrol. It is found in high concentrations in the skin of the grape, and seems to play a role in protecting it from invading bacteria and fungi.
Sinclair says he was aware of research into red wine and certain health benefits. "I mean, that's why I almost fell off my chair when the link was made. And I thought that this was a potential explanation for the benefits of red wine."
Convinced they were on the verge of a major scientific breakthrough, Sinclair and Westphal launched Sirtris, a Cambridge, Mass. research company. They, along with a handful of other cutting-edge biotech companies, are developing resveratrol-based drugs that they believe zero-in on the longevity gene.
"The important news here is not that we'd found something in red wine. The important thing is that we passed a milestone where we can now make drugs based on this knowledge and we can potentially slow down aging itself," Sinclair explains.
Everyone from plastic surgeons to your friendly snake oil salesman have been promising a ticket to eternal youth for some time, so the prospect of a prescription pill based on red wine that could trigger a longevity gene sounds too good to be true. And yet scientists have actually known for years of one surefire of doing that: stay hungry.
"Eating a lot of food turns that off. Dieting, extreme dieting turns it on," Sinclair says.
In one experiment, a group of rhesus monkeys is on a major diet. For nearly two decades they have been taking in a good 30 percent fewer calories than their well-fed brothers and sisters.
They are the centerpiece of a National Institutes of Health study at the University of Wisconsin on whether or not CR- calorie restriction - makes them healthier and extends their lives. To maintain their sterile environment, the 60 Minutes team had to suit up to visit them with Ricki Colman, the "project leader."
The control animals are nearing the end of a typical monkey lifespan, about 27 years, and major differences in their overall health are becoming clear. The skinny monkeys actually look younger, their coats are shinier, and fewer have arthritis.
And the chunky monkeys? Many have diabetes, and a significantly higher number have cancer and heart disease.
Pound for pound, Colman says the lighter monkeys do better.
Canadian Shakin'
From Comedy Central:
"I love Canada. They've got an army, they just don't give them guns or anything. I mean, look at the Canadian flag. A real symbol of power... it's a LEAF! 'Don't mess with us... we'll dry up and blow away.'"
"I love Canada. They've got an army, they just don't give them guns or anything. I mean, look at the Canadian flag. A real symbol of power... it's a LEAF! 'Don't mess with us... we'll dry up and blow away.'"
Mitch Hedberg
Today there's a stand-up comedy contest going on. From Mitch Hedberg:
"Wearing a turtleneck is like being strangled to death by a really weak guy. All day."
"Pringles was supposed to be a tennis ball company, but on the day the balls were supposed to arrive a truck showed up and it was potatoes. So they said 'To heck with it, cut 'em up.'"
"Wearing a turtleneck is like being strangled to death by a really weak guy. All day."
"Pringles was supposed to be a tennis ball company, but on the day the balls were supposed to arrive a truck showed up and it was potatoes. So they said 'To heck with it, cut 'em up.'"
Grandma :(
From Mom:
HI Guys........ Grandma is in the hospital. She has pneumonia, MRSA and cellulitis which are all infections in her body. She's been in there since her birthday, Wednesday, and except for Thursday has been hallucinating and unaware of who we are. With any kind of luck, this will all clear up with the antibiotics she is getting, but then she is 92 and very weak. Will keep you updated.
HI Guys........ Grandma is in the hospital. She has pneumonia, MRSA and cellulitis which are all infections in her body. She's been in there since her birthday, Wednesday, and except for Thursday has been hallucinating and unaware of who we are. With any kind of luck, this will all clear up with the antibiotics she is getting, but then she is 92 and very weak. Will keep you updated.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
What's More Important Than A Web Site?
This week I learned that Leadership McLean County's web site was excluded from the Chamber of Commerce's upgrade. In other words, the Chamber decided not to spend money to update the web site.
The question is, how does that make me feel?
No one likes to lose resources, of course. But the most precious resource of all is teamwork, and the beauty is that this is one of life's many situations where all parties share a common goal, which will be reached as long as we put that ahead of those feelings of entitlement that have plagued me too often through the years.
If LMC is a revenue source for the Chamber that demands a certain return on investment, we can all rally behind that - these are businesses after all! If it generates some softer returns like publicity as well, super. LMC's stated purpose is to develop McLean County's future leaders, and that's not incompatible with a thrifty budget. As I've written before, that purpose is noble enough that I think LMC could even survive independently of the Chamber if it needed to (though that's no genius insight by me, really - Google points out several national examples of self-sustaining programs). But the partnership with the Chamber is mutually beneficial - and optimally so as long as there's fluid communication between all parties.
So does a web site really matter? Of course. If nothing else, we need to eliminate all out-of-date information (which might mean shutting down the whole site), to prevent any perception of incompetence or negligence. But a web site is not the higher purpose. Higher purposes inspire life.
The question is, how does that make me feel?
No one likes to lose resources, of course. But the most precious resource of all is teamwork, and the beauty is that this is one of life's many situations where all parties share a common goal, which will be reached as long as we put that ahead of those feelings of entitlement that have plagued me too often through the years.
If LMC is a revenue source for the Chamber that demands a certain return on investment, we can all rally behind that - these are businesses after all! If it generates some softer returns like publicity as well, super. LMC's stated purpose is to develop McLean County's future leaders, and that's not incompatible with a thrifty budget. As I've written before, that purpose is noble enough that I think LMC could even survive independently of the Chamber if it needed to (though that's no genius insight by me, really - Google points out several national examples of self-sustaining programs). But the partnership with the Chamber is mutually beneficial - and optimally so as long as there's fluid communication between all parties.
So does a web site really matter? Of course. If nothing else, we need to eliminate all out-of-date information (which might mean shutting down the whole site), to prevent any perception of incompetence or negligence. But a web site is not the higher purpose. Higher purposes inspire life.
Punk'd
I saw a commercial for the show Punk'd, featuring Aston Kutcher and a series of practical jokes played on celebrities.
My stream of consciousness went something like this...
"They sure looked freaked out!"
"Wouldn't I be freaked out too, if someone pretending to be a federal agent showed up at my door with a warrant for my arrest on tax evasion?"
"If I were a celebrity, I should just walk around expecting to be Punk'd at any time. That way when crazy things happen I'd be closer to laughing it off than panicking. It'd help me keep my cool."
"I'm not a celebrity, but I could come up with some things in the past month that have rattled me too. Surprises are the 'Punk'd' of everyday life. The thing is, at this moment I feel great. So even the worst of surprises has passed, and life goes on."
"How do I remember this lesson?"
"Hidden Blog, here I come!"
My stream of consciousness went something like this...
"They sure looked freaked out!"
"Wouldn't I be freaked out too, if someone pretending to be a federal agent showed up at my door with a warrant for my arrest on tax evasion?"
"If I were a celebrity, I should just walk around expecting to be Punk'd at any time. That way when crazy things happen I'd be closer to laughing it off than panicking. It'd help me keep my cool."
"I'm not a celebrity, but I could come up with some things in the past month that have rattled me too. Surprises are the 'Punk'd' of everyday life. The thing is, at this moment I feel great. So even the worst of surprises has passed, and life goes on."
"How do I remember this lesson?"
"Hidden Blog, here I come!"
Economic Recovery
I'm interested to see how good President Obama is at team-building to get results. Are there any elements of it in this article on stimulating the economy?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090124/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_economy
As I read these things, I try to focus on facts - his quotes, his actions - rather than the subjectivity which necessarily slips into any one-person written account.
For example, the title reads "pitches his plan." Now generally my preference is for leaders to be more about setting vision (say, reducing unemployment as a top priority, or more riskily, reducing employment by 1%) than managing the details of how. Also, in government or most teams, it's hard for a "his plan" to work nearly as well as an "our plan." Finally, even though there is some "pitching" in most aspects of life, I'd rather see plans form by an inclusive process of research, feedback and tinkering. Still, this is merely a title, not an Obama quote or anything.
"He invited Democratic and Republican leaders to the White House to hear their ideas on the economy." Good!
"At that visit, he did not share the details he released Saturday." Not good! Transparency builds relationships.
"Obama also plans to travel to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to meet with Republican leaders, his latest move to bring along his rival party to pass an economic package that has GOP support." Better to err on the side of too much communication, at least this early in the term.
Trust means everything, especially for a team consisting of 500 people (White House, House and Senate). We keep an eye on how things flow...
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090124/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_economy
As I read these things, I try to focus on facts - his quotes, his actions - rather than the subjectivity which necessarily slips into any one-person written account.
For example, the title reads "pitches his plan." Now generally my preference is for leaders to be more about setting vision (say, reducing unemployment as a top priority, or more riskily, reducing employment by 1%) than managing the details of how. Also, in government or most teams, it's hard for a "his plan" to work nearly as well as an "our plan." Finally, even though there is some "pitching" in most aspects of life, I'd rather see plans form by an inclusive process of research, feedback and tinkering. Still, this is merely a title, not an Obama quote or anything.
"He invited Democratic and Republican leaders to the White House to hear their ideas on the economy." Good!
"At that visit, he did not share the details he released Saturday." Not good! Transparency builds relationships.
"Obama also plans to travel to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to meet with Republican leaders, his latest move to bring along his rival party to pass an economic package that has GOP support." Better to err on the side of too much communication, at least this early in the term.
Trust means everything, especially for a team consisting of 500 people (White House, House and Senate). We keep an eye on how things flow...
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Double Alley-Oop
Hoops fans... watch it... love it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8SKdQYAB2I&eurl=http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Video-Designed-double-alley-oop?urn=nba,136223&feature=player_embedded
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8SKdQYAB2I&eurl=http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Video-Designed-double-alley-oop?urn=nba,136223&feature=player_embedded
Life Savor
"A promising body of new research shows that, with a little mental effort, recalling good events from the past can boost well-being. Psychologists have begun studying 'savoring,' the process of active enjoyment of the present, and of using active appreciation to enjoy a past success. They ask subjects to spend some minutes reminiscing about a specific past event in a positive way. The savoring subjects report feeling happier than those in a control group. The key component to effective savoring is focused attention. By taking the time and spending the effort to appreciation the positive, people are able to experience more well-being."
"Begin thinking more intentionally:
- Direct your focus, where possible, to the positive aspects of life.
- Pay attention to how you interpret daily events and actively challenge and alter unhelpful thinking patterns.
- Savor happy moments, concentrate on recognizing them, and take the time to remember and bask in them later.
- Notice the good things that others do, and express your gratitude to them."
If thoughts were like money, the cumulative time I've spent dredging up unpleasant past thoughts in my lifetime would have me further in debt than the federal government! Negativity for me is like an allergy, to be treated deliberately. Daily journaling (and of course, Hidden Blogging) has been a fabulous antidote from the challenges of the past. Life is just too short to spend it wallowing in historical muck!
"Begin thinking more intentionally:
- Direct your focus, where possible, to the positive aspects of life.
- Pay attention to how you interpret daily events and actively challenge and alter unhelpful thinking patterns.
- Savor happy moments, concentrate on recognizing them, and take the time to remember and bask in them later.
- Notice the good things that others do, and express your gratitude to them."
If thoughts were like money, the cumulative time I've spent dredging up unpleasant past thoughts in my lifetime would have me further in debt than the federal government! Negativity for me is like an allergy, to be treated deliberately. Daily journaling (and of course, Hidden Blogging) has been a fabulous antidote from the challenges of the past. Life is just too short to spend it wallowing in historical muck!
Pelvis Is Not Dead!
This week in yoga I learned a couple of helpful tidbits.
1. When you stand with your feet pointed outward, it compresses the lower back by tilting the pelvis forward. By making sure the outsides of the feet are parallel, the pelvis stays level and the spine says "thanks"! Delightfully I found this to be true... the most painful back strain I feel is when I'm balancing on my left leg for whatever reason. Lately I've been experimenting with turning my left foot more toward center when I reach these positions, with comforting strength.
2. Locking knees is also bad. I tend to stand that way since my hamstrings are more flexible, which means that the knees are slightly hyperextended. Good health follows those who keep 'em slightly loose while in normal posture.
Someone asked me if I'm the only guy in class. Well... yeah... but I'm getting valuable orthopedic advice for $3.50 an hour. Unless Dena changes careers, I'm never going to find this kind of bargain!
1. When you stand with your feet pointed outward, it compresses the lower back by tilting the pelvis forward. By making sure the outsides of the feet are parallel, the pelvis stays level and the spine says "thanks"! Delightfully I found this to be true... the most painful back strain I feel is when I'm balancing on my left leg for whatever reason. Lately I've been experimenting with turning my left foot more toward center when I reach these positions, with comforting strength.
2. Locking knees is also bad. I tend to stand that way since my hamstrings are more flexible, which means that the knees are slightly hyperextended. Good health follows those who keep 'em slightly loose while in normal posture.
Someone asked me if I'm the only guy in class. Well... yeah... but I'm getting valuable orthopedic advice for $3.50 an hour. Unless Dena changes careers, I'm never going to find this kind of bargain!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Properly Placed Pebbles
From Lou Tice:
Here in the United States, we inaugurate a new President today. As I write
this, it is early morning, and the ceremony is several hours away. It is a
memorable day in American history, and there is a fair amount of pressure on
one man to solve the problems of the world. I'm here today to remind all of
us that one person cannot solve the challenges of the world. That is the
work for each one of us.
If you want to, you can find problems in every part of the globe. Set your
mind to find them, and it won't take you long to fill a very large piece of
paper, perhaps an entire notebook. Personally, I prefer to look for
opportunities to change the way things "are" by asking the question, "What
would it look like if it was fixed?" Then I ask myself, "What can I do to
help?"
When I was very young, I looked for ways to make "the big-time." How could I
make the big splash and solve a problem, and I would wait to find the "big
deal." It was more ego than anything else. As I matured - especially after I
learned the information I impart to you - I learned that you can't wait
around for the big-splash opportunity. If you do, you will accomplish
nothing.
Each of us needs to look for solutions to the challenges around us, no
matter how small. If you walk past the small things, you will never be in a
position to make a bigger difference. We also deny the opportunity for the
"ripple effect" to go to work. You know the ripple effect: drop a pebble in
a pond and watch the ripples moving out from where you dropped the pebble.
Eventually these ripples touch every part of the pond. You and I, each of
us, has the potential to be that pebble, hopefully for the good of all.
So today, let's start taking accountability for our little corners of the
world. Be the pebble for positive change in what you see. With enough
pebbles, we'll see a wave of positive change sweep around the globe.
Here in the United States, we inaugurate a new President today. As I write
this, it is early morning, and the ceremony is several hours away. It is a
memorable day in American history, and there is a fair amount of pressure on
one man to solve the problems of the world. I'm here today to remind all of
us that one person cannot solve the challenges of the world. That is the
work for each one of us.
If you want to, you can find problems in every part of the globe. Set your
mind to find them, and it won't take you long to fill a very large piece of
paper, perhaps an entire notebook. Personally, I prefer to look for
opportunities to change the way things "are" by asking the question, "What
would it look like if it was fixed?" Then I ask myself, "What can I do to
help?"
When I was very young, I looked for ways to make "the big-time." How could I
make the big splash and solve a problem, and I would wait to find the "big
deal." It was more ego than anything else. As I matured - especially after I
learned the information I impart to you - I learned that you can't wait
around for the big-splash opportunity. If you do, you will accomplish
nothing.
Each of us needs to look for solutions to the challenges around us, no
matter how small. If you walk past the small things, you will never be in a
position to make a bigger difference. We also deny the opportunity for the
"ripple effect" to go to work. You know the ripple effect: drop a pebble in
a pond and watch the ripples moving out from where you dropped the pebble.
Eventually these ripples touch every part of the pond. You and I, each of
us, has the potential to be that pebble, hopefully for the good of all.
So today, let's start taking accountability for our little corners of the
world. Be the pebble for positive change in what you see. With enough
pebbles, we'll see a wave of positive change sweep around the globe.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
The Hole Story
Six hundred medical patients were asked the question: Which is the worse colonoscopy?
"Patient A has the usual painful procedure that lasts thirty-five minutes. Patient B has the identical procedure, except that five more minutes are added to the end, which are not very painful because the colonoscopy is very slowly removed during the extra period."
[Personal note: So how the heck do they "usually" remove it? "Don't worry Mr. Carter, just like starting a lawnmower."]
The data actually showed that patients A were happier overall, because of the way we remember things.
"Folks tend to remember and overemphasize the peak (best and worst) moment and the last moment. Patient A, getting the shorter procedure, would remember the most painful moment and also the last moment (which was also painful) and mentally average these experiences when recalling the colonoscopy. Patient B, by contrast, would remember the most painful moment, and also the end of the procedure, which was less painful, and average these two experiences."
So remember, for healthier overall memories:
1. The peak can be an ally. That means mellow when things get tough, and an extra dose of smile when things are going right.
2. Depart at high tide, or if at low tide, at least with genuine thanks. Everyone's contributed something to be thankful for.
3. Donate generously to probe-free colon exam research!
"Patient A has the usual painful procedure that lasts thirty-five minutes. Patient B has the identical procedure, except that five more minutes are added to the end, which are not very painful because the colonoscopy is very slowly removed during the extra period."
[Personal note: So how the heck do they "usually" remove it? "Don't worry Mr. Carter, just like starting a lawnmower."]
The data actually showed that patients A were happier overall, because of the way we remember things.
"Folks tend to remember and overemphasize the peak (best and worst) moment and the last moment. Patient A, getting the shorter procedure, would remember the most painful moment and also the last moment (which was also painful) and mentally average these experiences when recalling the colonoscopy. Patient B, by contrast, would remember the most painful moment, and also the end of the procedure, which was less painful, and average these two experiences."
So remember, for healthier overall memories:
1. The peak can be an ally. That means mellow when things get tough, and an extra dose of smile when things are going right.
2. Depart at high tide, or if at low tide, at least with genuine thanks. Everyone's contributed something to be thankful for.
3. Donate generously to probe-free colon exam research!
Obama's Fake Inaugural Address
http://www.theonion.com/content/news/obama_inauguration_speech_ruined
Obama's Inaugural Address
It's nice to hear someone talk about befriending nations around the world and finding more efficient energy. Here's to four years of hope and optimism!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=305aYAAOUFk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=305aYAAOUFk
You Want Fries With That?
Dena's started her own blog! It's in the links at left and also here:
http://mcdonaldsfries.blogspot.com/
Didn't take her long to claim the award for "Best Blog Design" in our house!
http://mcdonaldsfries.blogspot.com/
Didn't take her long to claim the award for "Best Blog Design" in our house!
100th Facebook Friend
My niece Macie became my 100th friend on Facebook tonight. It's funny how many people you meet in life. It's also funny how broad the definition of "friend" can be. Some would look at the guy from grade school who was close to me only in the sense that he once put me in a headlock that left me unable to breathe, and claim that "friend" is a watered-down term. I call it redemption!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Dejection Pile
In one study, participants were pre-screened for indicators of general happiness. Then they were formed into teams of four to solve puzzles in a relay competition. After playing a little while, researchers gave them artificial feedback, such as another team had one, or giving individuals a low ranking within their team.
"People who, earlier in the study, had scored in the lowest 25 percent on measures of happiness - that is, those folks who were naturally less happy to begin with - tended to take the social comparison feedback hard, and felt depressed or dejected." - Ed Diener
Gotta confess that criticism sets me back more than it should, when it's something I should be thankful for. I mean, when I struggle to lift an average amount of weight in the gym I don't get down, I see it as progress since resistance eventually leads to success. Why must it be any different in relationships? The learning's a little trickier - it takes study of what just happened in order to mine the lessons, and focus to prevent backsliding. The other part is dropping the ego and replacing it with the peace of our own personal purpose, and the greater good.
"People who, earlier in the study, had scored in the lowest 25 percent on measures of happiness - that is, those folks who were naturally less happy to begin with - tended to take the social comparison feedback hard, and felt depressed or dejected." - Ed Diener
Gotta confess that criticism sets me back more than it should, when it's something I should be thankful for. I mean, when I struggle to lift an average amount of weight in the gym I don't get down, I see it as progress since resistance eventually leads to success. Why must it be any different in relationships? The learning's a little trickier - it takes study of what just happened in order to mine the lessons, and focus to prevent backsliding. The other part is dropping the ego and replacing it with the peace of our own personal purpose, and the greater good.
New Year's Revolutions
I was invited to write an article for the Leadership McLean County alumni newsletter. Here it is.
The more things change, the more they stay the same, right?
New President... new Governor? Closer to home, the Chamber has a new Executive Director, and LMC has its fifth Chamber Staff member in five years.
Sometimes the wheels of transition spin in place while gaining traction up a steep learning curve. Visitors to the LMC web site can rest assured - the class of 2008 did graduate, and once the Chamber's site overhaul is done, you'll see what an attractive bunch LMC '09 is!
Already 15 of last year's graduates have given back this year in some fashion, especially to the Marketing and Alumni Committees. If the LMC "product" nearly sells itself on its own, what might happen once these committees get rolling?
There's a strong core of seasoned volunteers too. In fact, alumni from nine of the last ten classes serve this year's class. What keeps us together? Our bond is more unique than the typical friendship. Leadership and community passion are powerful unifying forces for good. Web sites, staff, and facilitators come and go... but we'll always be part of the LMC alumni family.
For 2009 why not "resolve" to contact me (joe_lmc@yahoo.com) or someone else, to let it be known - perhaps again - that you'd like to help shape LMC's future, and what resources you bring? We can make a one-of-a-kind difference, and have a lot more fun doing it than trying to lose weight at the gym!
The more things change, the more they stay the same, right?
New President... new Governor? Closer to home, the Chamber has a new Executive Director, and LMC has its fifth Chamber Staff member in five years.
Sometimes the wheels of transition spin in place while gaining traction up a steep learning curve. Visitors to the LMC web site can rest assured - the class of 2008 did graduate, and once the Chamber's site overhaul is done, you'll see what an attractive bunch LMC '09 is!
Already 15 of last year's graduates have given back this year in some fashion, especially to the Marketing and Alumni Committees. If the LMC "product" nearly sells itself on its own, what might happen once these committees get rolling?
There's a strong core of seasoned volunteers too. In fact, alumni from nine of the last ten classes serve this year's class. What keeps us together? Our bond is more unique than the typical friendship. Leadership and community passion are powerful unifying forces for good. Web sites, staff, and facilitators come and go... but we'll always be part of the LMC alumni family.
For 2009 why not "resolve" to contact me (joe_lmc@yahoo.com) or someone else, to let it be known - perhaps again - that you'd like to help shape LMC's future, and what resources you bring? We can make a one-of-a-kind difference, and have a lot more fun doing it than trying to lose weight at the gym!
Valkyrie
This movie was the story of the last failed attempt by German insiders to assassinate Adolph Hitler during World War II. I suppose that gave it all the excitement of Titanic without the love story. Watch it only if you're a die hard history buff.
Nazi soldiers swore a personal oath to Hitler himself, pledging their life in the process. In the end, the rebels were executed for treason.
What cause would we take a bullet for? May we never have to know!
Nazi soldiers swore a personal oath to Hitler himself, pledging their life in the process. In the end, the rebels were executed for treason.
What cause would we take a bullet for? May we never have to know!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Dare To Be Naive
What does that R. Buckminster Fuller quote mean? My take on it is to thrust ourselves into new situations, that staying in the comfort zone leaves greater possibilities right outside our door, and that life is just more interesting as things change. If we take comfort in being naive for a spell, and fearlessly ask simple questions for understanding, then we gain.
Friday, January 16, 2009
A Really Meat Story
A story says that a man was walking through a market when he overheard a customer ask a butcher for the best piece of meat he had. "Every piece in my shop is the best," the butcher said. The man was enlightened.
Is one better than the next? Yes, in some way. No, in another. Choosing to see the best in all is choosing life.
Is one better than the next? Yes, in some way. No, in another. Choosing to see the best in all is choosing life.
The End Of Life
"Without staring death in the eye, as the perpetually reverse side of life, we cannot live fully and completely." - Soko Morinaga
So one life ends, and another begins! Change is hardest when we least expect it.
So one life ends, and another begins! Change is hardest when we least expect it.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
On Target
As expected, I hit my target heart rate of 160 beats per minute today thanks to the elliptical machine at the health club. The thirty minutes of action ended a multiple-month hiatus from aerobic exercise of any kind, so my aim was modest - just establish some benchmark settings of resistance and difficulty in order to reach the magic number. Due to extreme cold causing a snow day, Four Seasons was packed with students ejected from their parents' homes to relieve some cabin fever. It was pleasing to note that even under those unusually crowded circumstances, there were plenty of open machines to choose from. Each one had its own built-in cable T.V. with headphone jack, with reading ledge for holding a paper or small magazine. I got to thinking that I could probably print off a few e-mails from work to catch up on if this settles into a routine. In an hour, I think I could fit in a 350-calorie workout, a quick shower, and travel time to return home. Will reality meet theory?
Easter Seals
A friend from Leadership McLean County invited me to sit in on a "VIP" lunch as Easter Seals kicks off its local fund raising drive for $225,000, culminating with a phone-a-thon in May. These lunches function like in-person infomercials - the food is free, the stories are compelling. National examples are here:
http://www.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=ntl_stories_of_hope
Today we heard the story of a boy who was born with "brain bleed" which included symptoms of extreme sensitivity to light, touch and sound. At 18 months he still wasn't talking or communicating verbally at all. They brought him to Easter Seals, and their therapist brought him to the point where he finally had a breakthrough - his mom choked up while describing the surge of emotion that she felt the first time he called her "Mom," and learned to say "love you." Other therapists were added, as life dealt him more cruel blows like epilepsy and eating problems. And yet, there he stood as quietly as could be while Mom told the story, looking as healthy as a normal 3-year old.
I may not be a VIP, but I sure felt crazily fortunate and humbled to watch and listen to this story of courage and the kindness of humanity working together!
http://www.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=ntl_stories_of_hope
Today we heard the story of a boy who was born with "brain bleed" which included symptoms of extreme sensitivity to light, touch and sound. At 18 months he still wasn't talking or communicating verbally at all. They brought him to Easter Seals, and their therapist brought him to the point where he finally had a breakthrough - his mom choked up while describing the surge of emotion that she felt the first time he called her "Mom," and learned to say "love you." Other therapists were added, as life dealt him more cruel blows like epilepsy and eating problems. And yet, there he stood as quietly as could be while Mom told the story, looking as healthy as a normal 3-year old.
I may not be a VIP, but I sure felt crazily fortunate and humbled to watch and listen to this story of courage and the kindness of humanity working together!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
You Should've Seen Their Chess Matches
In one famous football matchup between academic powerhouses Ivy League schools Dartmouth and Princeton in 1951, both starting quarterbacks were knocked out of the game with broken body parts. After Princeton won the highly physical contest, students from both schools were shown game film and asked to make an objective study of which players started the rough housing. Which team initiated post-play shoving, or cheap hits from the blind side?
The answers: 64 percent of Dartmouth students said it was Princeton, and 86 percent of Princeton students said it was Dartmouth.
"A universal truth we've all experienced: people interpret the same objective events around them based on their own personal values, biases, selective attention, and sense of identity." - Ed Diener
Said another way, people instinctively form answers in their head to most every question, whether it's as broad-based as religion or politics, or as objective as who pushed first in a shoving match. Consensus (which is different from unanimity) builds by drawing those answers out, paying them respect, supplementing them with information, and empowering each person to make a final choice.
The answers: 64 percent of Dartmouth students said it was Princeton, and 86 percent of Princeton students said it was Dartmouth.
"A universal truth we've all experienced: people interpret the same objective events around them based on their own personal values, biases, selective attention, and sense of identity." - Ed Diener
Said another way, people instinctively form answers in their head to most every question, whether it's as broad-based as religion or politics, or as objective as who pushed first in a shoving match. Consensus (which is different from unanimity) builds by drawing those answers out, paying them respect, supplementing them with information, and empowering each person to make a final choice.
Time To Focus
"Life without zazen is like winding your clock without setting it. It runs perfectly well, but it doesn't tell time." - Shunryu Suzuki
You can look up "zazen" - it essentially means meditation. "Reflection" or "focus" suits me as a substitute there. Why risk charging in the wrong direction for months, days or even hours, when we can step back and think for a while about where we really want to be, and what really matters most? Is it money? Or reputation? Or charity? Or health? Or peace?
You can look up "zazen" - it essentially means meditation. "Reflection" or "focus" suits me as a substitute there. Why risk charging in the wrong direction for months, days or even hours, when we can step back and think for a while about where we really want to be, and what really matters most? Is it money? Or reputation? Or charity? Or health? Or peace?
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Aiming Small
"Develop hunger by taking responsibility for your life. Know that it is up to you to accomplish your dreams. Get the feel for this at first by setting small goals and accomplishing them. Set a goal of walking, jogging or riding a bicycle for a half hour every other day. Do it for a week and then increase the time. Feel the satisfaction it gives you and notice the effect it has on your weight and your overall sense of self-control and self-approval. Nobody cares as much about you and your dream as you do." - Les Brown
I've read about "big hairy audacious goals," but I prefer "realistic goals." With so much of people's motivation coming from within, goals act for me like a way to stay focused. I find more momentum in attaining a full set of reasonable goals and surpassing some of them greatly, then by developing a set of great goals and reaching a few.
I've read about "big hairy audacious goals," but I prefer "realistic goals." With so much of people's motivation coming from within, goals act for me like a way to stay focused. I find more momentum in attaining a full set of reasonable goals and surpassing some of them greatly, then by developing a set of great goals and reaching a few.
Donut Shop Cops Have The Right Idea
"One last suggestion about improving your important decisions: eat a healthy breakfast before you make them. Recent research shows that people have better 'executive functioning,' which includes planning and self-control, when glucose and glycogen in the brain are at high levels. You don't want to be making big decisions when fasting, unless you chug some sweetened lemonade first." - Ed Diener
Monday, January 12, 2009
Map Quest - Literally!
Check out the story behind this work of art by my friend Tonya! These signs are arranged in the geographic shape of McLean County, including the relative location of the towns.
"As part of a volunteer assignment to capture positive images in McLean County for the January 9th session on “Planning & Sustainability on the Prairie”, I took the opportunity to drive to every two in the county. To determine what all the towns in the county consisted of, I took a look at an Illinois State Map and then looked at the following website: http://illinois.hometownlocator.com/il/mclean/ I was quite surprised to learn of towns that I’d never hear of before. I’ve lived in this area for 20 years now and thought that I was very familiar with the surroundings. Upon visiting each of the towns, I was able to take photos of available signs and in some instances stopped to have a bite to eat in a local restaurant. I struggled with not being able to find signs or in some instances more than one house for all the towns listed. This was a bit of a disappointment, but the advantages to the activity have been wonderful. Besides being able to capture positive images, I was able get away with an increase in self for the areas of knowledge, relationship, and creativity.
Knowledge: I now have an understanding of where others are living and what the town looks like. Also, some history of the county was obtained. I’ve heard Carolynne Saffer (fellow classmate) mention her town of Cropsey, but I had no idea where it was in the county or the size of the community. It was really nice to see children riding their bikes from one house to another picking up friends along the way to just hang out together. The community is small, but felt inviting. Did you know that at one time there were 55 towns in McLean County? I was able to capture images of 42 listed signs for listed towns. I used to wonder where Barnes was located on Towanda Barnes Road, now I know. Having this understanding of where towns are in the county will be helpful in building relationships with co-workers and business partners.
Relationships: I was able to spend quality time with my husband while taking the tour of the county. We talked about each others bucket lists, goals, missions, and state of being. This time was well spent and would never be able to be replaced by anything more important.
Creativity: I cropped the photos to create a collage of images making an image of the county. Besides providing this to the facilitator, Mercy Davison (Normal Town Planner), I had a copy printed for framing to place in my own house. My husband and I are planning to work on others like it of the counties we were born in and have lived in."
Ice Breakers
Here's a good-looking site if you're running a meeting, a party, or feel a spontaneous urge to bond with the other people in the subway.
http://wilderdom.com/games/Icebreakers.html
http://wilderdom.com/games/Icebreakers.html
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Mental Hygiene
Today Dena told me that she'd bought me a new tube of toothpaste (we use different types, due to the effect of different ingredients on our mouths). Honestly, I hadn't thought about needing toothpaste in a few days. When someone meets needs you didn't even know you had - that's love!
Make Things Happen
"When people have that kind of motivation, when obstacles are not a factor, when only the dream matters, they MAKE things happen. The universe has no choice but to yield to that sort of energy." - Les Brown
The More, The Scarier?
"As incredible as it sounds, having more choices can actually detract from happiness." - Ed Diener
Diener goes on to talk about two types of people: "satisficers" who have a minimum threshold for what is acceptable to them, and "maximizers" who strive to get the very best out of every decision.
"The funny thing is, although maximizers sometimes achieve better outcomes than satisficers - getting a bit more money for that recording contract, for instance - they also tend to be less happy with their achievements. In fact, they turn out to be less happy in general. Maximizers, according to a series of studies, are lower than satisficers in happiness, optimism, self-esteem, and life satisfaction, and higher in depression and regret!"
"Satisficers want good doctors and good cars as well, but they understand that there is a personal threshold that will be acceptable to them. They also understand that there is often little difference between the 'best' and alternatives, and that there are costs in searching for the very best."
Diener goes on to talk about two types of people: "satisficers" who have a minimum threshold for what is acceptable to them, and "maximizers" who strive to get the very best out of every decision.
"The funny thing is, although maximizers sometimes achieve better outcomes than satisficers - getting a bit more money for that recording contract, for instance - they also tend to be less happy with their achievements. In fact, they turn out to be less happy in general. Maximizers, according to a series of studies, are lower than satisficers in happiness, optimism, self-esteem, and life satisfaction, and higher in depression and regret!"
"Satisficers want good doctors and good cars as well, but they understand that there is a personal threshold that will be acceptable to them. They also understand that there is often little difference between the 'best' and alternatives, and that there are costs in searching for the very best."
Whether Vain
My friend Brandi shared a fable about vanity. How true - if we are self-serving, in time there will be no one around us left to serve!
"So, long ago when the Creator created everything on this earth, He created it with certain duties and responsibilities. The men were responsible for hunting and fishing and providing shelter for the families, and the women were responsible for working in the gardens and cooking the food and taking care of the children.
When the parents were out doing their responsibilities, the children were being left alone and getting into trouble. The boys might shoot their arrows into the woods and they'd go to find them and get lost. And, the girls were getting into trouble, or they might get too close to the fire and get burned. The parents were having a hard time doing their responsibilities and taking care of the children, so they went to the Creator and they asked the Creator for help - to make something to take care of the children.
So the Creator made the cornhusk doll, and it was one of the most beautiful creations ever made. The doll had a beautiful face and had the power to walk and talk. Cornhusk doll's responsibility was to take care of the children, so the parents could get their work done.
The Corn Husk doll did a really good job of taking care of the children and taught them many things. Corn Husk doll taught the little boys to hunt and the little girls to cook. Corn Husk doll loved the babies and told them many stories.
One day, a rain storm came to the village. Grandfather Thunder came and he shook his head and rain drops would fall from his hair. Lightning would come from his eyes. Thunder would roar through his mouth. Corn Husk doll gathered all the children into the long house and told them stories. When Grandfather Thunder decided to move to another village, Corn Husk doll took the children outside to play.
Corn Husk doll found a pool of water and when she looked in the pool, she saw her reflection. Corn Husk doll saw she was very beautiful and became vain about her good looks.
From that day on instead of watching the children, Corn Husk doll would only look at her reflection in the water. She gathered flowers to put in her hair and Corn Husk doll sewed seashells on her dress to make herself look more beautiful.
Corn Husk doll was spending so much time looking at her reflection that she was not watching the children. They children were getting into trouble and getting hurt. The parents were upset and told the Creator that the Corn Husk doll was not watching the children. The Creator called Corn Husk doll and scolded her for not watching the children. As a punishment, he sent the Owl to take away her face and her power to walk and talk.
From then on, the Oneida make corn husk dolls without faces to remind us that we must not be vain and we have a duties and responsibilities that must be done."
"So, long ago when the Creator created everything on this earth, He created it with certain duties and responsibilities. The men were responsible for hunting and fishing and providing shelter for the families, and the women were responsible for working in the gardens and cooking the food and taking care of the children.
When the parents were out doing their responsibilities, the children were being left alone and getting into trouble. The boys might shoot their arrows into the woods and they'd go to find them and get lost. And, the girls were getting into trouble, or they might get too close to the fire and get burned. The parents were having a hard time doing their responsibilities and taking care of the children, so they went to the Creator and they asked the Creator for help - to make something to take care of the children.
So the Creator made the cornhusk doll, and it was one of the most beautiful creations ever made. The doll had a beautiful face and had the power to walk and talk. Cornhusk doll's responsibility was to take care of the children, so the parents could get their work done.
The Corn Husk doll did a really good job of taking care of the children and taught them many things. Corn Husk doll taught the little boys to hunt and the little girls to cook. Corn Husk doll loved the babies and told them many stories.
One day, a rain storm came to the village. Grandfather Thunder came and he shook his head and rain drops would fall from his hair. Lightning would come from his eyes. Thunder would roar through his mouth. Corn Husk doll gathered all the children into the long house and told them stories. When Grandfather Thunder decided to move to another village, Corn Husk doll took the children outside to play.
Corn Husk doll found a pool of water and when she looked in the pool, she saw her reflection. Corn Husk doll saw she was very beautiful and became vain about her good looks.
From that day on instead of watching the children, Corn Husk doll would only look at her reflection in the water. She gathered flowers to put in her hair and Corn Husk doll sewed seashells on her dress to make herself look more beautiful.
Corn Husk doll was spending so much time looking at her reflection that she was not watching the children. They children were getting into trouble and getting hurt. The parents were upset and told the Creator that the Corn Husk doll was not watching the children. The Creator called Corn Husk doll and scolded her for not watching the children. As a punishment, he sent the Owl to take away her face and her power to walk and talk.
From then on, the Oneida make corn husk dolls without faces to remind us that we must not be vain and we have a duties and responsibilities that must be done."
Saturday, January 10, 2009
What Do You See?
“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” - Winston Churchill
Overcoming Perceptions
Someone asked me if I'd read any books on overcoming perceptions.
One book I'm reading but haven't blogged from yet actually has a chapter called "How to Stop a Rumor before Your Reputation Pays a Price," with three concrete suggestions:
1. If you know who is responsible for the rumors, go to that person and explain that you're aware what he/she is doing.
2. You want to humanize yourself. Let the person know that there is a real person behind the rumors.
3. Instead of trying to deny, defend, or minimize the rumor, which can make you appear more guilty, simply spread a more outrageous rumor that overshadows that one, but incorporates it as well.
That last one is about putting some humor around the situation, which occasionally has its place but I can't say I've used it much, if ever. Other, personal thoughts:
1. It is practically impossible to force people to change (and what means there are, are mostly illegal). What we can control is our attitude, and how we respond to the perception.
2. Is the perception really worth my attention or not? The book "Anger Kills" by Redford and Virginia Williams suggests that we reason with ourselves first. Is the perception truly interfering with my path to happiness such that the best use of my time is to address the perception, rather than taking another route? What's the difference if someone thinks I drive too slowly? A lot, if it's the owner of the NASCAR team I drive for. Otherwise, we can probably blow it off.
3. Actions speak louder than words, and facts louder than generalities. So if I must talk about the subject, I'm presenting specific actions that contradict the perception. But first I'd like to try to learn the actions that cause the perception.
4. Humility helps. My interest must be in the greater good - the team's - whichever team includes us all. That's what I love about Abraham Lincoln's approach to the slavery issue. He freely admitted his distaste for it, but he put the Union ahead of his preferences - openly saying that he'd rather that we be all slave or all free, since a "house divided against itself cannot stand." When your motivation is compassion toward something other than yourself, and in fact toward something that benefits the other person, what could put the conversation more at ease? "What types of things might I stop doing or start doing in order to eliminate that perception?" "I see. I didn't realize that people saw it that way. Thanks for helping me understand."
5. As people open up with me about the actions that are causing the perception, I may learn something shocking about myself that I want to change immediately. At the other extreme, I might find that we will always disagree since our values are different. At that point I'll try to respect your position. I may even learn that I simply don't fit the current environment because my values are out of step with the culture, and the best way for me to help the team is to clear out so that someone can step in who will! Can you help me find another place so that we're both better off?
6. At the end, I may still be unclear what I'm doing to cause the perception, unwilling to change my values, and/or unable to change my situation. Except that I actually have changed my situation, however slightly, by making a humble attempt to examine myself with others, showing respect for their situation. If I've learned anything about my actions, they will probably be modified, however slightly, such that I don't accidentally inflame the relationship. And I can always count my blessings, rather than my curses!
One book I'm reading but haven't blogged from yet actually has a chapter called "How to Stop a Rumor before Your Reputation Pays a Price," with three concrete suggestions:
1. If you know who is responsible for the rumors, go to that person and explain that you're aware what he/she is doing.
2. You want to humanize yourself. Let the person know that there is a real person behind the rumors.
3. Instead of trying to deny, defend, or minimize the rumor, which can make you appear more guilty, simply spread a more outrageous rumor that overshadows that one, but incorporates it as well.
That last one is about putting some humor around the situation, which occasionally has its place but I can't say I've used it much, if ever. Other, personal thoughts:
1. It is practically impossible to force people to change (and what means there are, are mostly illegal). What we can control is our attitude, and how we respond to the perception.
2. Is the perception really worth my attention or not? The book "Anger Kills" by Redford and Virginia Williams suggests that we reason with ourselves first. Is the perception truly interfering with my path to happiness such that the best use of my time is to address the perception, rather than taking another route? What's the difference if someone thinks I drive too slowly? A lot, if it's the owner of the NASCAR team I drive for. Otherwise, we can probably blow it off.
3. Actions speak louder than words, and facts louder than generalities. So if I must talk about the subject, I'm presenting specific actions that contradict the perception. But first I'd like to try to learn the actions that cause the perception.
4. Humility helps. My interest must be in the greater good - the team's - whichever team includes us all. That's what I love about Abraham Lincoln's approach to the slavery issue. He freely admitted his distaste for it, but he put the Union ahead of his preferences - openly saying that he'd rather that we be all slave or all free, since a "house divided against itself cannot stand." When your motivation is compassion toward something other than yourself, and in fact toward something that benefits the other person, what could put the conversation more at ease? "What types of things might I stop doing or start doing in order to eliminate that perception?" "I see. I didn't realize that people saw it that way. Thanks for helping me understand."
5. As people open up with me about the actions that are causing the perception, I may learn something shocking about myself that I want to change immediately. At the other extreme, I might find that we will always disagree since our values are different. At that point I'll try to respect your position. I may even learn that I simply don't fit the current environment because my values are out of step with the culture, and the best way for me to help the team is to clear out so that someone can step in who will! Can you help me find another place so that we're both better off?
6. At the end, I may still be unclear what I'm doing to cause the perception, unwilling to change my values, and/or unable to change my situation. Except that I actually have changed my situation, however slightly, by making a humble attempt to examine myself with others, showing respect for their situation. If I've learned anything about my actions, they will probably be modified, however slightly, such that I don't accidentally inflame the relationship. And I can always count my blessings, rather than my curses!
Long Live The Earth
I was at a presentation yesterday discussing the future sustainability of the earth:
- 87% of traffic in my city consists of vehicles being driven by one passenger
- If every household in Illinois replaced one bulb with an 18-watt Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) the results would be equivalent to removing 74,000 vehicles from the roads annually, or planting 39.4 million trees
Since I haven't got room to plant too many trees in my yard, and until I become part of a carpool, I think I'll buy one of those bulbs!
- 87% of traffic in my city consists of vehicles being driven by one passenger
- If every household in Illinois replaced one bulb with an 18-watt Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) the results would be equivalent to removing 74,000 vehicles from the roads annually, or planting 39.4 million trees
Since I haven't got room to plant too many trees in my yard, and until I become part of a carpool, I think I'll buy one of those bulbs!
Life's Palette
This morning I spent some time working on Leadership McLean County stuff, then switched over to some guitar practice when I sensed my energy for LMC fading a bit, then found that I was in the mood to catch up on some blogging. I came to wondering if keeping a variety of life activities handy was like an artist with a palette of colors to choose from while painting. How good would the result be if red were the only option? Plus, painters don't always proceed in a linear fashion... they not only move around the canvas but they mix colors as inspiration strikes them. If you're like me, your energy for certain things has its own rhythm like the tide. I've found it personally healthy to match my activities with those moments when I'm most ready to do them. For a fixed obligation, that means keeping a mental eye on its approach so that when it gets here I'm ready to roll. For softer things, I flow with my impulses and do what grabs me most at the moment. My personality type is such that in the big picture, it's been helpful when I'm careful to keep a balanced collection of commitments and optional activities on the table so that life feels more like a work of art, and less like a burdensome drive down a black tunnel.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Target Practice
So yesterday I noted that my "target heart rate" is about 160 beats per minute. To feed my curiosity, I strapped on a couple layers in the dark of winter night and found a couple-hundred-yard street-lit stretch of sidewalk. I should note that I did my usual twenty minutes of leg stretching before heading out. I should also note that 19 degree temps negate stretching. Armed with a stopwatch, I ran the distance and then checked my pulse. Because of my mathematical giftedness, it took me only ten sprints to finally figure out how fast I actually ran (since precious oxygen cells my brain needed to do the math was needed to quiet the starved screaming of my lungs).
Turns out that I need to run about three strides per second to hit my target rate. I kind of guessed this would be the case, though I have never moved that fast for 30 consecutive minutes except by car. I suspect that the scientists who came up with this "target heart rate" formula had revenge on their minds, gleefully envisioning an infield littered with mean ex-high school jocks clutching their chests in an act of fatal, breathless poetic justice.
The soccer fitness program says to do this twice per week. Meaning that tomorrow I'll check to make sure my life insurance is paid up.
Turns out that I need to run about three strides per second to hit my target rate. I kind of guessed this would be the case, though I have never moved that fast for 30 consecutive minutes except by car. I suspect that the scientists who came up with this "target heart rate" formula had revenge on their minds, gleefully envisioning an infield littered with mean ex-high school jocks clutching their chests in an act of fatal, breathless poetic justice.
The soccer fitness program says to do this twice per week. Meaning that tomorrow I'll check to make sure my life insurance is paid up.
Marley And Me
Need a good cry? Me neither, but go see this movie anyway.
It's a sermon about the joys and struggles of marriage, disguised by a story about the life cycle of a rambunctious but highly lovable dog. When we make choices, we often give something up - a career, free time, a home - to gain the thrill of new opportunity. Some (like the surprisingly charming Owen Wilson and his purpose-driven wife Jennifer Aniston) choose the road of greater family responsibility, and some (Wilson's friend Sebastian) choose that of career and independence.
Despite the occasional death, loneliness, or conflict, life is well-lived in the end when we choose the path that suits us.
It's a sermon about the joys and struggles of marriage, disguised by a story about the life cycle of a rambunctious but highly lovable dog. When we make choices, we often give something up - a career, free time, a home - to gain the thrill of new opportunity. Some (like the surprisingly charming Owen Wilson and his purpose-driven wife Jennifer Aniston) choose the road of greater family responsibility, and some (Wilson's friend Sebastian) choose that of career and independence.
Despite the occasional death, loneliness, or conflict, life is well-lived in the end when we choose the path that suits us.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Target Heart Rate
I downloaded a book on soccer fitness today, with the spring soccer season a few months away and my fitness level close to that of a newborn.
Continuous aerobic training is a good way to begin after a long off-season. Continuous training (such as running) for 30-45 minutes near one's target heart rate gets the job done.
Target heart rate is calculated like so:
Maximum heart rate = 220 - age = 184.
Heart rate reserve = maximum heart rate - resting heart rate = 128.
Target heart rate = 80% x heart rate reserve + resting heart rate = 158.
The training target zone is within ten blood pressure points of that, or 148-158.
So in other words, my pulse count for 15 seconds ought to be around 40 beats per minute.
Continuous aerobic training is a good way to begin after a long off-season. Continuous training (such as running) for 30-45 minutes near one's target heart rate gets the job done.
Target heart rate is calculated like so:
Maximum heart rate = 220 - age = 184.
Heart rate reserve = maximum heart rate - resting heart rate = 128.
Target heart rate = 80% x heart rate reserve + resting heart rate = 158.
The training target zone is within ten blood pressure points of that, or 148-158.
So in other words, my pulse count for 15 seconds ought to be around 40 beats per minute.
Dangling Chads Weren't So Bad
"[Researchers] collected relevant data from the George Bush - Al Gore presidential election in 2000. Gore voters predicted they would be unhappy after a Bush win, and Bush voters predicted the opposite. When they surveyed voters later, they were far less unhappy (in the case of the Gore voters) than they had predicted. The truth is, while electing a Commander-in-Chief is important, it has less bearing on our everyday lives than most folks think...
...A major reason we overestimate the impact of the things that will happen to us just around the bend is that we underestimate our own resilience. Most of us discount our ability to bounce back from hard times and cope with problems."
- Ed Diener
Last night I tried to skate by without taking Sudafed, testing whether my system was on the recovery. Test failure woke me up around 2:00 in the morning with a three-alarm cough that took about an hour to soothe with drops and a pill. While I was groggily sitting in the living room waiting for the meds to kick in, I wondered what I'd be like after waking up today. So far so good!
...A major reason we overestimate the impact of the things that will happen to us just around the bend is that we underestimate our own resilience. Most of us discount our ability to bounce back from hard times and cope with problems."
- Ed Diener
Last night I tried to skate by without taking Sudafed, testing whether my system was on the recovery. Test failure woke me up around 2:00 in the morning with a three-alarm cough that took about an hour to soothe with drops and a pill. While I was groggily sitting in the living room waiting for the meds to kick in, I wondered what I'd be like after waking up today. So far so good!
2009 Resolutions
Here they are... the resolutions for 2009, in no particular order:
The holdovers from 2008:
- 50 Hidden Blog posts per month. Pretty self-explanatory.
- Read ten books. Ditto.
- Smile. That's the name I've given to the daily chart I carry with me, since I use those hourly entries to keep me focused on the reasons to smile. There were dramatic increases in the number of entries per week since I started it up in December: 23 in week 1, then 17, 34, and 85.
New in 2009:
- 14% body fat by June 1 and by December 31. Better give myself a little cushion toward my age 55 goal of 15%!
- Volunteer for at least one hour with 12 organizations I've not served before.
- Explore how to become a community college math teacher, another step of progress toward my retirement goals.
Last year was fun meeting and beating most all the resolutions I set. Honestly, 2008 was a happier year for me than at least the last three before it. This one's looking better still!
The holdovers from 2008:
- 50 Hidden Blog posts per month. Pretty self-explanatory.
- Read ten books. Ditto.
- Smile. That's the name I've given to the daily chart I carry with me, since I use those hourly entries to keep me focused on the reasons to smile. There were dramatic increases in the number of entries per week since I started it up in December: 23 in week 1, then 17, 34, and 85.
New in 2009:
- 14% body fat by June 1 and by December 31. Better give myself a little cushion toward my age 55 goal of 15%!
- Volunteer for at least one hour with 12 organizations I've not served before.
- Explore how to become a community college math teacher, another step of progress toward my retirement goals.
Last year was fun meeting and beating most all the resolutions I set. Honestly, 2008 was a happier year for me than at least the last three before it. This one's looking better still!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Sugar Bowl Provides Background Noise Of Fun Outing
Coach Nick Saban agreed to stage a college football scrimmage against the undefeated Utah Utes Friday night in order to give the Youngs and McDonalds an excuse for fun.
With Dena needing something to occupy her mind quietly at home while recovering from Nyquil-induced loopiness, Dona and Joe contacted the University of Alabama's recently crowned Coach of the Year about the possibility of a season-ending matchup of two highly successful yet lightly regarded teams. Saban immediately embraced the idea, working quickly with Utah administration, the NCAA, Fox Television, and about 100,000 fans to arrange three hours of something resembling football.
"This game isn't about winning," said Saban, who suspended a key offensive lineman, talked several players into "injury" breaks, and set up a clownish game plan featuring shaky-footed Leigh Kiffin trying 50-yard field goals, defenders making fake tackles, and an offense consisting mainly of John Parker Wilson running away from five unblocked defensive linemen. "It's about chips and dip in Goodfield. Period." Nonetheless, Saban at times appeared genuinely angry about something, likely the humor of the commentators coming through his headset.
The images of the game fit nicely onto the Youngs' old and brand-spanking-new televisions. Each T.V. hosted the game for one half, with a halftime ceremony disconnecting the old T.V. for reassignment as a downstairs game screen. Meanwhile, amidst the smell of freshly cleaned carpets and the joyful cries of Utah fans, the family focused on the brighter side of Crimson Tide life, with topics such as hometowns and ages of Alabama players, movie analyses, home improvement, Wii, Facebook, local sports, rednecks teaching mules to drag logs through the forest, and puppies.
After watching the Tide's performance, the Youngs changed the channel to the Tonight Show with Robin Williams as guest, in order to see something less comical.
The success of the event, named the "Sugar Bowl" by Lane since the idea was so "sweet," prompted speculation of a future one involving the NFL. Although the scrimmage atmosphere of Friday's game was amusing, the new concept would add excitement by pitting two teams against each other for the title of world champion. "That'd be super," Troy noted.
With Dena needing something to occupy her mind quietly at home while recovering from Nyquil-induced loopiness, Dona and Joe contacted the University of Alabama's recently crowned Coach of the Year about the possibility of a season-ending matchup of two highly successful yet lightly regarded teams. Saban immediately embraced the idea, working quickly with Utah administration, the NCAA, Fox Television, and about 100,000 fans to arrange three hours of something resembling football.
"This game isn't about winning," said Saban, who suspended a key offensive lineman, talked several players into "injury" breaks, and set up a clownish game plan featuring shaky-footed Leigh Kiffin trying 50-yard field goals, defenders making fake tackles, and an offense consisting mainly of John Parker Wilson running away from five unblocked defensive linemen. "It's about chips and dip in Goodfield. Period." Nonetheless, Saban at times appeared genuinely angry about something, likely the humor of the commentators coming through his headset.
The images of the game fit nicely onto the Youngs' old and brand-spanking-new televisions. Each T.V. hosted the game for one half, with a halftime ceremony disconnecting the old T.V. for reassignment as a downstairs game screen. Meanwhile, amidst the smell of freshly cleaned carpets and the joyful cries of Utah fans, the family focused on the brighter side of Crimson Tide life, with topics such as hometowns and ages of Alabama players, movie analyses, home improvement, Wii, Facebook, local sports, rednecks teaching mules to drag logs through the forest, and puppies.
After watching the Tide's performance, the Youngs changed the channel to the Tonight Show with Robin Williams as guest, in order to see something less comical.
The success of the event, named the "Sugar Bowl" by Lane since the idea was so "sweet," prompted speculation of a future one involving the NFL. Although the scrimmage atmosphere of Friday's game was amusing, the new concept would add excitement by pitting two teams against each other for the title of world champion. "That'd be super," Troy noted.
Jumping Off The Treadmill
"The problem is that pay raises, new lovers, new jewelry, and new jobs can all seem exciting an rewarding at first, but over time you adjust, and their emotional luster dims. What was once thrilling eventually seems no moare than mildly pleasant. Brickman called this phenomenon - the idea that people can chase emotional highs but adaptation will drag them back to a neutral mood - the 'hedonic treadmill.'" - Ed Diener
The passage goes on to tell the story of man whose euphoria over beating cancer lasted just a few days! As far as I can tell, the mind needs constant refreshment, people need change in order to rediscover truly lasting happiness. Just this morning I briefly found myself stewing over a comment made at work last week. Lately my hourly journaling has nipped these kinds of mental pity parties in the bud. Why play around in the tired old moments of the past? Today and tomorrow are filled with opportunity to do something different - read something funny, run an errand by taking a new route, watch some news for current events, buy a new magazine, take a jog, organize something that's been disorderly for a while. Why be a "hedonist"? Why not make the next hour be a unique gem all its own?
The passage goes on to tell the story of man whose euphoria over beating cancer lasted just a few days! As far as I can tell, the mind needs constant refreshment, people need change in order to rediscover truly lasting happiness. Just this morning I briefly found myself stewing over a comment made at work last week. Lately my hourly journaling has nipped these kinds of mental pity parties in the bud. Why play around in the tired old moments of the past? Today and tomorrow are filled with opportunity to do something different - read something funny, run an errand by taking a new route, watch some news for current events, buy a new magazine, take a jog, organize something that's been disorderly for a while. Why be a "hedonist"? Why not make the next hour be a unique gem all its own?
Around The Horn
Yesterday we had lunch with our friend Dave Horn, who lives with his wife Jen out in Arizona since last summer. In upbeat way, he explained a pretty challenging environment that they're working in.
- Shortage of statewide funds has resulted in his workload expanding from Social Studies to Language Arts.
- Three prisons are in the vicinity.
- The children are heavily minority: Hispanic, African-American, Native American. The parents often show bitterness toward the "white" orientation of the textbooks on history; the students are prone to physical fights with each other.
- Dave estimates that 85% of his time is spent disciplining the class. That leaves about 10 minutes in every hour for actual teaching.
- Children of migrant workers leave for months at a time, as the parents bring them to Texas or Florida to help farm crops.
- Children openly admit their drug use or illegal immigration status.
- The person who hired Jen left shortly thereafter, and doesn't provide much support in disciplining the kids.
On the upside, the parents are taking an interest in their kids' performance. Still, it's a quick reminder how easy even a "stressful" 9-to-5 job really is.
- Shortage of statewide funds has resulted in his workload expanding from Social Studies to Language Arts.
- Three prisons are in the vicinity.
- The children are heavily minority: Hispanic, African-American, Native American. The parents often show bitterness toward the "white" orientation of the textbooks on history; the students are prone to physical fights with each other.
- Dave estimates that 85% of his time is spent disciplining the class. That leaves about 10 minutes in every hour for actual teaching.
- Children of migrant workers leave for months at a time, as the parents bring them to Texas or Florida to help farm crops.
- Children openly admit their drug use or illegal immigration status.
- The person who hired Jen left shortly thereafter, and doesn't provide much support in disciplining the kids.
On the upside, the parents are taking an interest in their kids' performance. Still, it's a quick reminder how easy even a "stressful" 9-to-5 job really is.
Happy New Day
"Renew thyself completely each day; do it again, and again, and forever again." - Chinese proverb
I once read from famed motivator Tony Robbins that anyone can turn his life around in an instant. How many people can point to one or two moments in their life that were pivotal for them? And we do have the power to overcome any trend that our attitude is taking - for better or worse. Whether it's first thing in the morning, right after work, or whenever it suits, why not pause a second and realize how good we have it?
I once read from famed motivator Tony Robbins that anyone can turn his life around in an instant. How many people can point to one or two moments in their life that were pivotal for them? And we do have the power to overcome any trend that our attitude is taking - for better or worse. Whether it's first thing in the morning, right after work, or whenever it suits, why not pause a second and realize how good we have it?
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Bedtime Stories
The newest Adam Sandler movie had some intriguing previews about a bedtime storyteller whose silly story ideas came true the following day. The beginning was unusually slow, but once the stories started flowing it turned into a satisfying bundle of laughs. The initially despondent Sandler character, whose father was a storytelling genius before his death, makes a feeble attempt for his estranged niece and nephew but it ends with "...and then he jumped in the moat and died. The end." But by the end of the film, the family jells, fortunes turn around, and a tidy moral emerges: When things seem most bleak, that's the time that heroes make their own ending by doing something remarkable.
You can safely wait until this one comes out on video or made-for-TV.
You can safely wait until this one comes out on video or made-for-TV.
Phlegm-Buoyant
It's the season for head colds, and Dena and I are bonding through a shared germy experience together. I'll tell you why this is so great. In the mornings I wake up thinking "If I can get my feet on the floor, I'm going to feel a heck of a lot better in an hour than I feel right now." The human body is a remarkable thing. Somehow once I start ambling around the house - no matter what speed - it's like my respiratory system panics like a lazy babysitter when then the parents get home and starts sweeping all the accumulated crud out the door. So a half hour, ten tissues, and several emphatic guttural noises later I've transformed from a nasal kazoo to my normal human form. Coupled with the wearing off of last night's alcohol-laden Nyquil and a fresh morning dose of Sudafed PE, I feel like the answer to a riddle: "What gets higher the emptier it gets?" With momentum like that, what could possibly stop me the rest of the day?
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