When I created this blog, I entitled it "Time Teaches" because my intent was to include some things that I have learned throughout my life. It's often better to learn the easy way than to learn the hard way ... isn't it? Well, today will be one of those times, as I want to write about the tendency to take offense.
In the old days, those who quickly took offense were usually placed in a "kill or be killed" situation called a duel. Frankly, I think that probably kept the holding of grudges to a minimum.
Nowadays, people are so quick to take offense that they still shoot each other, although in road rage or gang-related incidents. But thankfully, not everyone reacts in a violent manner. Some just slowly poison themselves over time as the anger and bitterness eat away at them and turn them into shells of their former selves.
I have known people like that, and I have seen them change for the better. How did they do it? They looked inward. They realized that everyone, and I mean everyone, is imperfect. We all make mistakes. We all say things we wish we had not said. And we all get hurt from time to time. But when we take offense at something, do we really have reason to do so? Do we stop to think about the idea that a comment may have been innocent, directed elsewhere, a generalized commentary, or just a slip of the tongue? In those cases, it is always better to stop, think, and then put any hurt feelings aside.
What if the comment was intended to hurt? What if the person did direct it at us, or if they don't realize what they said? Instead of holding on to anger, couldn't we just talk it out?
In any case, those who study the effect of emotions on human health invariably come to the conclusion that anger that is not eliminated causes negative effects on the person holding on to the anger. It certainly doesn't hurt the one that the anger is being held against!
In the end, there are several options available to you if you feel anger towards, or hurt by someone.
1) Analyze it. Was it really important? Was it intended to hurt? Haven't you said something you regretted?
2) Talk it out. The Bible talks about regaining your brother. Isn't it best to clear the air in a calm manner?
3) Don't accuse. When you are talking it out, avoid generalizations like, "You always" and "You never".
4) Take a deep breath, and let it go. Why poison yourself? Why not put it behind you? When it all comes down to it, the person who caused the hurt, whether intentionally or accidentally, isn't going to be walking down the sidewalk, clutch his chest, and say, "I'm having a heart attack! I must have hurt the feelings of so-and-so! Oh the humanity!" Instead, you will probably be the one with stomach pain, negative emotions, and a sense of resentment that makes you a person no one wants to be around.
I learned this over the course of years, and it has served me well. I'm glad that I have the reputation as someone who doesn't hold a grudge. Yes, I can be hurt. Yes, I can be offended. But when I apply the ideas above, it doesn't last.
There's enough trouble and difficulty in this world. Why cause more to yourself by taking offense.
In the words of the great Sean Connery, "Indiana...let it go."
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Predictions
There is a pundit named Nate Silver who somehow defied conventional wisdom and used his intelligence and polling data to accurately predict the 2012 election results. Not just that Obama would win, but how every state would vote. Pretty impressive, right?
Small potatoes.
Today, I announce my sure thing predictions for the rest of 2013. Guaranteed to come true or they won't.
1) Justin Beiber will reveal that he is a complete idiot. Oh, wait.... FULFILLED
2) The Sacramento Kings will win more than 28 games. That's what they won last year, and I am convinced that the new management alone will add at least 2 - 3 games to that total. That doesn't seem like much, but it's a start.
3) The movie industry will announce that fully one-third of the releases in 2014 will either be sequels or remakes. OK....that's snarky. But come on! Just in the last couple of weeks we have seen Star Trek 2 and Iron Man 3 (sounds like a hockey score). Man of Steel, the new Superman film, is coming out, as is the next film in the Hobbit series, Monsters U. (from Monsters, Inc.), Wolverine, Despicable Me 2, Much Ado About Nothing, the new Spiderman film, Transformers 4, Star Wars 7....and so on, and so on....
4) The movie industry will also announce that the same percentage of their films will be rated "R".
5) American Idol will continue to tank, but shows of that ilk will continue to be produced ad nauseum.
6) Someone will write to the FCC and insist that the History Channel no longer be allowed to use "History" in its name, the Discovery Channel no longer to announce any discoveries, and AMC never use the word "movie" or "classic" when discussing its current incarnation.
7) BBC America will continue to gain viewers, and will cause Americans to begins spelling "color" and words of that sort with a "u", as in "colour".
8) A new cable channel will be announced. The Zombie Channel will debut, and some critic will state that it is "dead on arrival". (I continue to be fascinated as to why zombies are so popular these days. Maybe teenagers identify with their personalities.)
9) Scotland will not secede from the UK. (That's a real prediction.)
10) Fox News will continue to be a bunch of right-wing nuts who pay no attention to facts that might undermine their rants. (100% guarantee)
More to come!
Small potatoes.
Today, I announce my sure thing predictions for the rest of 2013. Guaranteed to come true or they won't.
1) Justin Beiber will reveal that he is a complete idiot. Oh, wait.... FULFILLED
2) The Sacramento Kings will win more than 28 games. That's what they won last year, and I am convinced that the new management alone will add at least 2 - 3 games to that total. That doesn't seem like much, but it's a start.
3) The movie industry will announce that fully one-third of the releases in 2014 will either be sequels or remakes. OK....that's snarky. But come on! Just in the last couple of weeks we have seen Star Trek 2 and Iron Man 3 (sounds like a hockey score). Man of Steel, the new Superman film, is coming out, as is the next film in the Hobbit series, Monsters U. (from Monsters, Inc.), Wolverine, Despicable Me 2, Much Ado About Nothing, the new Spiderman film, Transformers 4, Star Wars 7....and so on, and so on....
4) The movie industry will also announce that the same percentage of their films will be rated "R".
5) American Idol will continue to tank, but shows of that ilk will continue to be produced ad nauseum.
6) Someone will write to the FCC and insist that the History Channel no longer be allowed to use "History" in its name, the Discovery Channel no longer to announce any discoveries, and AMC never use the word "movie" or "classic" when discussing its current incarnation.
7) BBC America will continue to gain viewers, and will cause Americans to begins spelling "color" and words of that sort with a "u", as in "colour".
8) A new cable channel will be announced. The Zombie Channel will debut, and some critic will state that it is "dead on arrival". (I continue to be fascinated as to why zombies are so popular these days. Maybe teenagers identify with their personalities.)
9) Scotland will not secede from the UK. (That's a real prediction.)
10) Fox News will continue to be a bunch of right-wing nuts who pay no attention to facts that might undermine their rants. (100% guarantee)
More to come!
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
An App For This, An App For That ... But I Need An App For....
As I look at my iPhone, I notice that I have far too many apps. I have apps that I have used once or twice, and others that I have never used at all! (What the..?) I have games, translation apps, financial apps, apps that play music, apps that try to encourage me to exercise (but fail miserably). I need to go through and delete some. I need to delete a lot. But what apps would really help me on a daily basis?
Laundry For Guys: I'm a guy. Which means I stink at doing laundry. This goes in cold water, this in warm, this is hand wash, that is bleach.... Auuuuughhh! I need an app that uses my camera to scan my laundry and tell me which clothes go together in the laundry, and what settings to use to wash and dry them. No more reading tags that have print too small to read without an electron microscope. I want to hold up my phone to a bunch of clothes laid out on the floor, and then "click". I would pay real money for that app. (Fortunately, my wife knows what she's doing!)
Beer For Today: If you have gone to a BevMo or Total Wine recently, you may have noticed that the sheer number of beers has reached the ridiculous level. No, I'm not talking about Bud, Bud Light, Coors, Miller, etc. Those do not count as beers, and anyone trying to add them to that lofty title should be drowned in O'Doul's. Still, if you look down the aisles and try to figure out which beer to buy, you will, like me, wander the aisles like an Israelite in the desert. I think it took me 40 minutes (not years) on one trip. I want an app that will scan the local weather, consider my past purchases, perhaps scan my taste buds, allow me to input the friends who will be joining me (if any), and tell me which beer to buy that day. Think of the time savings alone! And if it picks Budweiser, the app designer gets put against the wall and has cans of Pabst thrown at his head.
Restaurant Marriage Saver: What do you want to eat? I don't know, why do I have to decide? I decided last time! How about here? No, I don't want that. (And on...and on....and now it's breakfast time.) My wife and I go through this whenever we need to pick up lunch or dinner. How about an app that both people have on their respective phones. Each person clicks a couple of check boxes as to what's acceptable that day, they bump their phones together, the data is computed, and the app chooses a nearby restaurant that will be acceptable to both. This can, and should be done immediately. I need an app designer, stat! Marriages throughout the U.S. would be saved!
Find a Non-crappy Movie: Is there anything sadder than scanning through Netflix and realizing that most movies are crap? The sheer crappitude is enormous! It's craptastic! And yet, instead of talking or reading a book or designing an app together, married couples argue, complain, and settle for a film or series that neither really wants to watch. And if one is actually agreed upon, it turns out to be crap. Using the Restaurant Marriage Saver app basis, do the same thing for films. Both people check they type of film or show they might be interested in viewing, bump the phones together, and voila! Films rated as crappy on sites such as Rotten Tomatoes would be automatically excluded, and they could be limited by age appropriateness as well! Another marriage saver!
Where are these apps? If anyone is reading this and designs one of these apps, I want a free copy.
And a cut of the profits.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Angst From the Blogger
So, here we are. We stand at a crossroads. To one side, we see the continuation of a blog. To the other, we see the final and total termination of the blog. Which shall it be?
I'm not good at web self-promotion. I really don't have time to do it, and definitely don't have the time to "do it right". Instead, I rely on friends and word of mouth to help things along.
I'll admit that my start-then-stop-then-start again method of blogging is partially responsible for the non-existent readership. That's fine. I accept that. But I have been writing regularly now, and only one person who shall remain nameless but red-headed has given any indication of reading.
Thus, I return to that fork in the road. Do I continue or do I cease writing this blog? Frankly, I am at the stage where I don't see a lot of point in moving forward unless I see readership increase. Therefore, I post this request:
Ask people to read, comment (and include suggestions for topics), and subscribe.
If that happens, I will keep this going. If not, I will stop. Simple, right?
A couple of thoughts for today:
Stupid: This is the definition of people who go down to a river to play on a holiday weekend and don't wear life vests. Every year ... every stinking year ... the Tuesday morning after Memorial Day news reports say that so-and-so and this-person and that-person drowned over the weekend in the American/Sacramento/Other River because they didn't wear a life vest. Idiots. Wear the vest so that your family doesn't have to identify your bloated corpse when the DART team pulls it lifeless from the water.
Kings: Sale was approved unanimously by the NBA Board of Governors to the Vivek group. So long Maloofs. It hasn't been fun.
Football (Soccer): Why won't the new Sacramento soccer team ownership just accept my brilliant idea of resurrecting the name Sacramento Surge and add an FC at the end? Colors of white, teal, and gold work, and I'm sure the NFL doesn't care about giving up the name. Come on! It's brilliant!
Athletes Who Drive Drunk: See stupid.
Justin Bieber: Stop driving. That's all. Just stop it. You're becoming the poster child for TMZ.
I'm not good at web self-promotion. I really don't have time to do it, and definitely don't have the time to "do it right". Instead, I rely on friends and word of mouth to help things along.
I'll admit that my start-then-stop-then-start again method of blogging is partially responsible for the non-existent readership. That's fine. I accept that. But I have been writing regularly now, and only one person who shall remain nameless but red-headed has given any indication of reading.
Thus, I return to that fork in the road. Do I continue or do I cease writing this blog? Frankly, I am at the stage where I don't see a lot of point in moving forward unless I see readership increase. Therefore, I post this request:
Ask people to read, comment (and include suggestions for topics), and subscribe.
If that happens, I will keep this going. If not, I will stop. Simple, right?
A couple of thoughts for today:
Stupid: This is the definition of people who go down to a river to play on a holiday weekend and don't wear life vests. Every year ... every stinking year ... the Tuesday morning after Memorial Day news reports say that so-and-so and this-person and that-person drowned over the weekend in the American/Sacramento/Other River because they didn't wear a life vest. Idiots. Wear the vest so that your family doesn't have to identify your bloated corpse when the DART team pulls it lifeless from the water.
Kings: Sale was approved unanimously by the NBA Board of Governors to the Vivek group. So long Maloofs. It hasn't been fun.
Football (Soccer): Why won't the new Sacramento soccer team ownership just accept my brilliant idea of resurrecting the name Sacramento Surge and add an FC at the end? Colors of white, teal, and gold work, and I'm sure the NFL doesn't care about giving up the name. Come on! It's brilliant!
Athletes Who Drive Drunk: See stupid.
Justin Bieber: Stop driving. That's all. Just stop it. You're becoming the poster child for TMZ.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Short on Time, Short on Things To Write
How do people do it? How do they find things to say every freaking day? When I say "say", I mean write, of course.
Anyway, it's a busy, busy Thursday, and I don't have a lot of time to write anything, so let's go with the following thoughts:
Kings Rally in Sacramento: New owners of the Sacramento Kings are holding a rally in mid-town to celebrate what some are calling Kings 3.0. Add to that a report from the University of the Pacific Business School that says that an arena in downtown Sac will increase jobs and revenue in the city, and the fans do have cause to party. Keep it under control, folks.
Riots in Sweden: What in the name of sanity makes people think that burning neighbors' cars will make things better? This is what happened in France! How did that go for y'all? Stop it. Just stop it. Leave other people's property alone. You want to protest? Fine. But if you want to destroy property, destroy your own.
Superhero films: None I want to see in the theater. Iron Man 3, Superman, etc. Cool. I'll see 'em on dvd, thanks.
Netflix: Good grief. Is there nothing I want to see that you have available on dvd or instant watch? Is that my problem or yours? In any case, I think I'll read a book.
Have a great day, all 3 (or less) of you who read this. I'll give it a better effort tomorrow.
Anyway, it's a busy, busy Thursday, and I don't have a lot of time to write anything, so let's go with the following thoughts:
Kings Rally in Sacramento: New owners of the Sacramento Kings are holding a rally in mid-town to celebrate what some are calling Kings 3.0. Add to that a report from the University of the Pacific Business School that says that an arena in downtown Sac will increase jobs and revenue in the city, and the fans do have cause to party. Keep it under control, folks.
Riots in Sweden: What in the name of sanity makes people think that burning neighbors' cars will make things better? This is what happened in France! How did that go for y'all? Stop it. Just stop it. Leave other people's property alone. You want to protest? Fine. But if you want to destroy property, destroy your own.
Superhero films: None I want to see in the theater. Iron Man 3, Superman, etc. Cool. I'll see 'em on dvd, thanks.
Netflix: Good grief. Is there nothing I want to see that you have available on dvd or instant watch? Is that my problem or yours? In any case, I think I'll read a book.
Have a great day, all 3 (or less) of you who read this. I'll give it a better effort tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Whatever Will I Do?
Well, the series that I watch regularly are on summer break now. I may seem like a tv addict, but in reality there are only a few shows that I watch weekly. Since these shows are done for the season, I have to consider what to do for a hobby while I wait for them to return.
1) Exercise: While my wife and son would like me to do this regularly, I can't find anything to keep me doing this with the frequency required for benefit. If anyone has reasonable ideas, I'd like to hear them, but remember that I have ADD and am easily frustrated and bored with exercise. Chances of this happening: 5%.
2) Alligator Wrestling: No. I hate reptiles.
3) Studying for a new career: Possible. I do have some continuing education units I have to finish, and once I get those done, a job change is a possibility, but not likely.
4) Writing: I should. I really should. Setting aside 30 minutes a day to write shouldn't be a big issue. Sigh...
5) Laziness: Chances - Very high
1) Exercise: While my wife and son would like me to do this regularly, I can't find anything to keep me doing this with the frequency required for benefit. If anyone has reasonable ideas, I'd like to hear them, but remember that I have ADD and am easily frustrated and bored with exercise. Chances of this happening: 5%.
2) Alligator Wrestling: No. I hate reptiles.
3) Studying for a new career: Possible. I do have some continuing education units I have to finish, and once I get those done, a job change is a possibility, but not likely.
4) Writing: I should. I really should. Setting aside 30 minutes a day to write shouldn't be a big issue. Sigh...
5) Laziness: Chances - Very high
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Oklahoma
Sometimes it's hard to visualize what a natural disaster looks like. We hear news reports and see video, but the immensity of it all can somehow fail to register. In many ways, one has to experience the forces of the environment to have any concept of what it might feel like.
In California we have earthquakes. It's funny, but when you talk to people from other states, they sound terrified of earthquakes. The thought of the ground suddenly rumbling and pitching back and forth frightens them to no end. For us, even though severe earthquakes are horrible disasters, the minor ones mention barely a peep on the news. It's just common here.
Oklahoma City was just pummeled with another tornado, this one a force 5 monster. Many of us have seen the videos; the time-lapse video taken from a news copter, the phone video taken outside a KFC, and others. We hear the stories of storm cellar doors being ripped from their hinges and glass and debris pouring down on those within. And yet, those of us here in California might not be able to fathom the sheer terror of such a catastrophe. We hear descriptions, of course, of how the noise sounds like a freight train bearing down on a person, or how the destruction was such that it was like a vacuum cleaner sucking up everything in a two mile wide berth. The photos and other images are heart-breaking, but those of us who have never (and hope to never) experience one cannot even begin to understand what it must be like. People in other states may be afraid of earthquakes, but the idea of a tornado like the ones that struck this week blow my mind. I can't imagine what it must feel like, especially at night, when the world literally turns upside down. I cannot begin to sense what the folks must feel who see their entire neighborhood simply vanished and transformed into rubble.
I can, however, hope that everyone is okay. I can pray for those who share my faith, and those who don't, to survive and recover their lives. People send donations of food, water, clothing and money through a variety of sources, hopefully honest ones.
And then, the people of Moore will rebuild. Again. Check the history books, and you'll see that this isn't the first time the people of Oklahoma City have experienced a tornado like this. This one followed a similar path to one that hit in 1999. Fourteen years, and they get hit again.
Earthquakes scare you? Me? I'd move the heck out of Oklahoma. But then, to them, these may be like earthquakes to us. A scary, but not unknown, result of a combination of natural forces and human climactic impact that can pile cars like toys. I'll keep California, thanks.
In California we have earthquakes. It's funny, but when you talk to people from other states, they sound terrified of earthquakes. The thought of the ground suddenly rumbling and pitching back and forth frightens them to no end. For us, even though severe earthquakes are horrible disasters, the minor ones mention barely a peep on the news. It's just common here.
Oklahoma City was just pummeled with another tornado, this one a force 5 monster. Many of us have seen the videos; the time-lapse video taken from a news copter, the phone video taken outside a KFC, and others. We hear the stories of storm cellar doors being ripped from their hinges and glass and debris pouring down on those within. And yet, those of us here in California might not be able to fathom the sheer terror of such a catastrophe. We hear descriptions, of course, of how the noise sounds like a freight train bearing down on a person, or how the destruction was such that it was like a vacuum cleaner sucking up everything in a two mile wide berth. The photos and other images are heart-breaking, but those of us who have never (and hope to never) experience one cannot even begin to understand what it must be like. People in other states may be afraid of earthquakes, but the idea of a tornado like the ones that struck this week blow my mind. I can't imagine what it must feel like, especially at night, when the world literally turns upside down. I cannot begin to sense what the folks must feel who see their entire neighborhood simply vanished and transformed into rubble.
I can, however, hope that everyone is okay. I can pray for those who share my faith, and those who don't, to survive and recover their lives. People send donations of food, water, clothing and money through a variety of sources, hopefully honest ones.
And then, the people of Moore will rebuild. Again. Check the history books, and you'll see that this isn't the first time the people of Oklahoma City have experienced a tornado like this. This one followed a similar path to one that hit in 1999. Fourteen years, and they get hit again.
Earthquakes scare you? Me? I'd move the heck out of Oklahoma. But then, to them, these may be like earthquakes to us. A scary, but not unknown, result of a combination of natural forces and human climactic impact that can pile cars like toys. I'll keep California, thanks.
Monday, May 20, 2013
The Name of the Doctor
So many things happened in the final episode of this season of Doctor Who. I can't even begin to touch on all of them, and frankly, I'm going to have to watch it again to catch everything. I just want to point out some quick things I noticed, and then give a theory about the 50th anniversary special.
River Song: Her timeline has always been confusing. We never find out why she seems to live backwards from the Doctor, and we have yet to experience the time where she first meets him (last time he meets her?). The implication is that she is dead, where she died in the library and David Tennant's Doctor saved her memories into the library computer. But why would she be dead here? Something's missing. I think that Moffatt has written himself into a bit of a corner with River.
Clara - the Impossible Girl: Good explanation as to why the Doctor met Clara on two other occasions. In fact, he has probably met her on thousands of other occasions because of her leap into the Doctor's timeline. It was a bit unsatisfying, though, in that I felt as though something really fascinating was going to happen with just those two instances (Dalek-Clara and Governess-Clara), but they just turned out to be two points on the timeline. I liked how she was trying to make a souffle again, though. I'm hoping that now that this mystery is solved, we can really start to know this Clara, the real Clara, and see how their relationship progresses.
The Doctor: Matt Smith keeps getting better and better. His range is far greater than just a gangly, goofy clown. These last couple of episodes have been sort of a coming out party for Smith, as his dual-personality chess match in the Cyberman episode, and his fear and tears over Trenzalore were spot on. And now the word is out that he has already signed on for season 8 of the show. So, those who thought the 50th would mean a regeneration: nyah, nyah, nyahhh.
CGI of the other Doctors: Loved it. Wish there had been more. I have to go back and see if I can see Paul McGann's Doctor. I didn't notice him, so I think I probably missed him. I really loved where Clara told the first Doctor to steal the other Tardis because he would have more fun in it. Fantastic. And to see the Tardis in its real shape (booooring) was great, too, because we understand how brilliant it was for the creators of the show to have made it a police box. Wouldn't it have been dull if it was just a tube? So much better as that beautiful blue box.
Theory for John Hurt: OK. Here's where I put my neck on the line. When they introduced John Hurt at the end as "The Doctor", people had to be going, "What? Huh?" But Matt's Doctor said that he didn't deserve the name; that he had brought shame to it. So, my theory is this:
This is the true 9th Doctor. Paul McGann was #8, and the Time War took place sometime between the point where McGann became the Doctor and Eccleston arrived to meet Rose. We know that during the Time War, the Daleks and the Time Lords were "destroyed", and that the Doctor bears the blame for that. He's constantly aware of that mark on his life, and is always distressed about it.
Somehow, McGann's Doctor either gets involved in the Time War and dies and regenerates, or dies before the Time Wars start. John Hurt's Doctor is the one responsible for the ultimate destruction of the two races, and that's the reason he doesn't deserve to be the Doctor or carry that name. He was responsible for genocide on a grand scale. So while Matt's Doctor doesn't acknowledge Hurt's Doctor due to the sins he committed, he is, nonetheless, one of the Doctor's regenerations. This changes the numbering of the Doctor's, and may have some meaning in the future, as in the old series we understood that the number of regenerations was limited to 13. That isn't set in stone, though, as the Master has now regenerated more than 13 times. Still, the numbering would go like this:
Paul McGann 8, John Hurt 9, Christopher Eccleston 10, David Tennant 11, Matt Smith 12.
What do you think? Buying this, or do you have another theory? Let me know!
River Song: Her timeline has always been confusing. We never find out why she seems to live backwards from the Doctor, and we have yet to experience the time where she first meets him (last time he meets her?). The implication is that she is dead, where she died in the library and David Tennant's Doctor saved her memories into the library computer. But why would she be dead here? Something's missing. I think that Moffatt has written himself into a bit of a corner with River.
Clara - the Impossible Girl: Good explanation as to why the Doctor met Clara on two other occasions. In fact, he has probably met her on thousands of other occasions because of her leap into the Doctor's timeline. It was a bit unsatisfying, though, in that I felt as though something really fascinating was going to happen with just those two instances (Dalek-Clara and Governess-Clara), but they just turned out to be two points on the timeline. I liked how she was trying to make a souffle again, though. I'm hoping that now that this mystery is solved, we can really start to know this Clara, the real Clara, and see how their relationship progresses.
The Doctor: Matt Smith keeps getting better and better. His range is far greater than just a gangly, goofy clown. These last couple of episodes have been sort of a coming out party for Smith, as his dual-personality chess match in the Cyberman episode, and his fear and tears over Trenzalore were spot on. And now the word is out that he has already signed on for season 8 of the show. So, those who thought the 50th would mean a regeneration: nyah, nyah, nyahhh.
CGI of the other Doctors: Loved it. Wish there had been more. I have to go back and see if I can see Paul McGann's Doctor. I didn't notice him, so I think I probably missed him. I really loved where Clara told the first Doctor to steal the other Tardis because he would have more fun in it. Fantastic. And to see the Tardis in its real shape (booooring) was great, too, because we understand how brilliant it was for the creators of the show to have made it a police box. Wouldn't it have been dull if it was just a tube? So much better as that beautiful blue box.
Theory for John Hurt: OK. Here's where I put my neck on the line. When they introduced John Hurt at the end as "The Doctor", people had to be going, "What? Huh?" But Matt's Doctor said that he didn't deserve the name; that he had brought shame to it. So, my theory is this:
This is the true 9th Doctor. Paul McGann was #8, and the Time War took place sometime between the point where McGann became the Doctor and Eccleston arrived to meet Rose. We know that during the Time War, the Daleks and the Time Lords were "destroyed", and that the Doctor bears the blame for that. He's constantly aware of that mark on his life, and is always distressed about it.
Somehow, McGann's Doctor either gets involved in the Time War and dies and regenerates, or dies before the Time Wars start. John Hurt's Doctor is the one responsible for the ultimate destruction of the two races, and that's the reason he doesn't deserve to be the Doctor or carry that name. He was responsible for genocide on a grand scale. So while Matt's Doctor doesn't acknowledge Hurt's Doctor due to the sins he committed, he is, nonetheless, one of the Doctor's regenerations. This changes the numbering of the Doctor's, and may have some meaning in the future, as in the old series we understood that the number of regenerations was limited to 13. That isn't set in stone, though, as the Master has now regenerated more than 13 times. Still, the numbering would go like this:
Paul McGann 8, John Hurt 9, Christopher Eccleston 10, David Tennant 11, Matt Smith 12.
What do you think? Buying this, or do you have another theory? Let me know!
Friday, May 17, 2013
It's Friiiiidaaayyyyy!
If you're a Sacramentan, it's a good day. The Kings are staying with new ownership and a new arena on the horizon. The sun is out and it's not too hot. The Maloofs are gone at the end of the month. The Kings are retiring Kevin Johnson's #7 to the rafters. (Kidding, but they should.)
Thus, I'm making this a tiny blog Friday.
Hope that everyone has a great weekend. (When I say everyone, I mean the one or two people who actually read this.) Your assignments ... get me more readers! (Please?)
Go forth and smell the flowers, look for the good, and recognize that it's all temporary! (Ha ha haaaaa!)
And if anyone asks you why you're smiling, don't tell them. Let them worry.
Thus, I'm making this a tiny blog Friday.
Hope that everyone has a great weekend. (When I say everyone, I mean the one or two people who actually read this.) Your assignments ... get me more readers! (Please?)
Go forth and smell the flowers, look for the good, and recognize that it's all temporary! (Ha ha haaaaa!)
And if anyone asks you why you're smiling, don't tell them. Let them worry.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Even If You Aren't a Fan...
Dallas, Texas. May 15, 2013. The renewal of a downtown begins.
OK, that sounds melodramatic, but I think that it's true. Once the NBA Board of Governors decided to deny the relocation of the Sacramento Kings to Seattle, the floodgates of possibility opened up for the city of Sacramento.
Imagine the following:
Kings Fan: You get off light rail near the new Kings Arena (to be named later). You walk among a crowd of people, some heading to the arena, others to the shops and restaurants surrounding the new downtown. It's a lovely fall afternoon, and you enter the arena to an ever-growing crowd of fans, waiting to get loud and cheer their team. The Kings have been revitalized by the new ownership group, and hopes are high for the team to challenge, not only to make the playoffs, but to make a real run for a championship.
After a Kings win and after the ringing in your ears begins to subside, you leave the arena and try to decide which restaurant or lounge to hit for a snack and a drink. The downtown is alive with activity, and as you look around you remember what it was like just a few short years ago, with a stagnant economy and little to do in this area. Now it is a centerpiece, with new hotels, new restaurants and clubs, and a million things to do in the city.
Non Kings Fan: You have to admit, there's a lot to do now. When you ever had cause to visit downtown Sacramento, it was usually for business or just to pass through. Now, there's a nightlife. Plenty of choices for amusement, dining, and social events. In fact, the new arena has hosted concerts and other events with regularity, and attending one recently was a blast. The sound was great, the commute via light rail was easy, and the fun afterwards made for a memorable day. No, you aren't a basketball fan. But what a change has taken place in the city. Maybe the Kings staying was a good thing after all.
Is this fantasy? No. In fact, I would be willing to bet that it is almost right on target. The people fighting the new arena should be ashamed. They aren't doing what is best for the city, and they certainly aren't in the majority. Sacramento has a chance to become something more than a cow town. It has a chance to be the capitol city of California. With a renewed downtown area, the cornerstone is there.
OK, that sounds melodramatic, but I think that it's true. Once the NBA Board of Governors decided to deny the relocation of the Sacramento Kings to Seattle, the floodgates of possibility opened up for the city of Sacramento.
Imagine the following:
Kings Fan: You get off light rail near the new Kings Arena (to be named later). You walk among a crowd of people, some heading to the arena, others to the shops and restaurants surrounding the new downtown. It's a lovely fall afternoon, and you enter the arena to an ever-growing crowd of fans, waiting to get loud and cheer their team. The Kings have been revitalized by the new ownership group, and hopes are high for the team to challenge, not only to make the playoffs, but to make a real run for a championship.
After a Kings win and after the ringing in your ears begins to subside, you leave the arena and try to decide which restaurant or lounge to hit for a snack and a drink. The downtown is alive with activity, and as you look around you remember what it was like just a few short years ago, with a stagnant economy and little to do in this area. Now it is a centerpiece, with new hotels, new restaurants and clubs, and a million things to do in the city.
Non Kings Fan: You have to admit, there's a lot to do now. When you ever had cause to visit downtown Sacramento, it was usually for business or just to pass through. Now, there's a nightlife. Plenty of choices for amusement, dining, and social events. In fact, the new arena has hosted concerts and other events with regularity, and attending one recently was a blast. The sound was great, the commute via light rail was easy, and the fun afterwards made for a memorable day. No, you aren't a basketball fan. But what a change has taken place in the city. Maybe the Kings staying was a good thing after all.
Is this fantasy? No. In fact, I would be willing to bet that it is almost right on target. The people fighting the new arena should be ashamed. They aren't doing what is best for the city, and they certainly aren't in the majority. Sacramento has a chance to become something more than a cow town. It has a chance to be the capitol city of California. With a renewed downtown area, the cornerstone is there.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Why I Hate Cliffhangers
So last night I did something really stupid; I watched the season finales of three different series. I started with Castle, moved on to NCIS, and finished with NCIS:LA. I have decided that from now on, I should just store season enders on my DVR until the new season starts so that I won't be hung out to dry so badly.
Warning: What may be considered SPOILERS ahead...
Castle: So, the writers added a pretty much useless case to intersperse with the real story, which was Beckett deciding if she wanted to take a big job in D.C. That would mean leaving her teammates, and leaving Castle. I'm not going to go into too many details, but I will list a few important aspects of the episode:
1) Kate didn't tell Castle she was going to Washington to interview. Kate, you chided Castle about trust in an earlier episode and then you pulled this? Bad move, girl.
2) Both Kate and Castle got advice from their parents as to what they should do.
3) Castle proposed to Kate.
And there's the cliffhanger. It isn't a case to solve or anything like that. The writers left us with Castle offering Beckett and engagement ring. Really? That's okay with you? Leaving that one until September or October just plain sucks. You could have let her answer, and then leave us waiting for the next steps. Instead, you use a lame plot device and just ticked everyone off. Grade: D
NCIS: We continued the two-part episode of Gibbs being threatened with a lawsuit by the government for his past actions, including shooting the man who killed his family among others. We got an irradiated head in a box (no ... really), the team turning in their badges, and Gibbs showing up four months later about to kill his ex-wife's ex-husband who is also a government agent. Screen goes black just as Gibbs is lining up his shot, and then we hear a "bang". Again, what?? So we have no idea what happens with the 3 who resign, where Gibbs is, why he is shooting someone he knows, and if that is really his target. Frankly, my guess is that he was waiting for the real target to get out of the car, and that's who he shoots. Still, lame way to end the season, although marginally better than Castle. Grade: C
NCIS:LA: The team is still trying to track down some stolen nukes. I'm not going to go into detail here, but the big thing is that we have numerous cliffhangers:
1) Sam's wife hanging out of a window by a tarp, trying not to fall to the pavement 20 floors down. Kenzie is in the room, but we don't know if she has seen her yet.
2) Callen has just been told that Sam was betrayed, and he can't do anything to help.
3) Sam has been tortured, but won't give up the info on his wife's agent status. Just unnecessary to show him being electrocuted to get him to talk. He is still strapped to the chair, watching,
4) Deeks in another chair outside, about to be tortured to get the information that Sam won't give. This was wholly unnecessary, as we see Deeks' mouth being locked open and a power drill about to be taken to his mouth. Come on now! Gratuitous at best! And this is after Deeks kissed Kenzie to show how he feels about her.
So, writers ... why isn't Hettie being tortured, too? Who else could you have put in danger? Didn't you leave some people unscathed?
So much unnecessary drama and violence. The torture scenes especially should have been eliminated, as they were just creepy. Grade: D-
Seriously....from now on, I think I'll pass on these finales.
Except for Doctor Who on Saturday.
What?
Warning: What may be considered SPOILERS ahead...
Castle: So, the writers added a pretty much useless case to intersperse with the real story, which was Beckett deciding if she wanted to take a big job in D.C. That would mean leaving her teammates, and leaving Castle. I'm not going to go into too many details, but I will list a few important aspects of the episode:
1) Kate didn't tell Castle she was going to Washington to interview. Kate, you chided Castle about trust in an earlier episode and then you pulled this? Bad move, girl.
2) Both Kate and Castle got advice from their parents as to what they should do.
3) Castle proposed to Kate.
And there's the cliffhanger. It isn't a case to solve or anything like that. The writers left us with Castle offering Beckett and engagement ring. Really? That's okay with you? Leaving that one until September or October just plain sucks. You could have let her answer, and then leave us waiting for the next steps. Instead, you use a lame plot device and just ticked everyone off. Grade: D
NCIS: We continued the two-part episode of Gibbs being threatened with a lawsuit by the government for his past actions, including shooting the man who killed his family among others. We got an irradiated head in a box (no ... really), the team turning in their badges, and Gibbs showing up four months later about to kill his ex-wife's ex-husband who is also a government agent. Screen goes black just as Gibbs is lining up his shot, and then we hear a "bang". Again, what?? So we have no idea what happens with the 3 who resign, where Gibbs is, why he is shooting someone he knows, and if that is really his target. Frankly, my guess is that he was waiting for the real target to get out of the car, and that's who he shoots. Still, lame way to end the season, although marginally better than Castle. Grade: C
NCIS:LA: The team is still trying to track down some stolen nukes. I'm not going to go into detail here, but the big thing is that we have numerous cliffhangers:
1) Sam's wife hanging out of a window by a tarp, trying not to fall to the pavement 20 floors down. Kenzie is in the room, but we don't know if she has seen her yet.
2) Callen has just been told that Sam was betrayed, and he can't do anything to help.
3) Sam has been tortured, but won't give up the info on his wife's agent status. Just unnecessary to show him being electrocuted to get him to talk. He is still strapped to the chair, watching,
4) Deeks in another chair outside, about to be tortured to get the information that Sam won't give. This was wholly unnecessary, as we see Deeks' mouth being locked open and a power drill about to be taken to his mouth. Come on now! Gratuitous at best! And this is after Deeks kissed Kenzie to show how he feels about her.
So, writers ... why isn't Hettie being tortured, too? Who else could you have put in danger? Didn't you leave some people unscathed?
So much unnecessary drama and violence. The torture scenes especially should have been eliminated, as they were just creepy. Grade: D-
Seriously....from now on, I think I'll pass on these finales.
Except for Doctor Who on Saturday.
What?
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Keep It Simple ... Keep It You
It's funny how many people can't figure out where their money goes each month. They make "x" number of dollars, and can't figure out why they have "negative z" dollars at the end of the month.
That's how it used to be for me, when I was young. I have never made a lot of money in any job. But when I was young, my credit card was my catch-all for things I thought that I needed. Turns out, I didn't really need what I was buying.
Now that I'm old, I try to hold to a few basic philosophies of spending. Some are well-known and well-used, others are mine.
1) Keep an honest budget. For income, don't list what you hope to get, but write down honestly what is a virtual lock. Then, make sure you budget for everything that you can: rent or mortgage, gas and electricity, insurance, etc. Add expenses for gasoline, food, and other items as realistically as possible. Remember, it's easier to put money in savings when you don't spend up to the budgeted amount than it is to find the money because you understated the amounts.
2) Pay yourself. This is an old standard, but it holds true. Make sure that you put a percentage in savings, and a percentage in retirement. Don't even include that as available funds. It should be a case of out of sight, out of mind. If you have to, open a savings account at an online bank and have funds direct deposited there every payday. It makes it less likely that you'll touch the funds unless it is an actual emergency. And that is also the point of paying yourself: if an emergency arises, it doesn't become a major crisis.
3) Be reasonable on entertainment. If there's something you like to do frequently, budget for it. If you want to get a gym membership, add it to the budget. If you like to eat out from time to time, budget for that as well. Then stick to it. It's fine to spend money on activities, but don't spend more than you budget. I've seen people schedule a vacation and not have the money to do it, then go anyway. If you don't need cable, don't have cable. Decide which "extras" are important to you and which ones aren't.
4) Keep it simple. Do you really need the 72 inch television, or can you make due with a 42" or smaller? Do you really need the racing bicycle, or can you be happy with an "ordinary" bike? We all have to make choices every day. But before purchasing anything, ask yourself if it will end up taking up space in a garage or storage shed, or if it will be used frequently. If it's going to end up stored most of the time, do you really need it?
5) Don't carry a balance on your credit card. Worst thing ever! You may decide that you want to keep your money in savings instead of paying off your card, but use logic! If you are earning .5 percent interest on a savings account (yes...one half of one percent), but are paying 20% interest on your credit card, why in the heck are you carrying any balance on your card? Pay it off! It's okay to have a credit card. I have a couple that pay me back for using them. But I budget for every dollar I put on the card so that I can pay it off each month. Easy peasy.
There are more rules, but the basic idea is a Scriptural one: keep your eye simple. By doing this, you can have what you need, help others who may need it, and not go into a state of panic when your car needs repairs. It took me a long time to learn these rules, but I'll never forget them.
That's how it used to be for me, when I was young. I have never made a lot of money in any job. But when I was young, my credit card was my catch-all for things I thought that I needed. Turns out, I didn't really need what I was buying.
Now that I'm old, I try to hold to a few basic philosophies of spending. Some are well-known and well-used, others are mine.
1) Keep an honest budget. For income, don't list what you hope to get, but write down honestly what is a virtual lock. Then, make sure you budget for everything that you can: rent or mortgage, gas and electricity, insurance, etc. Add expenses for gasoline, food, and other items as realistically as possible. Remember, it's easier to put money in savings when you don't spend up to the budgeted amount than it is to find the money because you understated the amounts.
2) Pay yourself. This is an old standard, but it holds true. Make sure that you put a percentage in savings, and a percentage in retirement. Don't even include that as available funds. It should be a case of out of sight, out of mind. If you have to, open a savings account at an online bank and have funds direct deposited there every payday. It makes it less likely that you'll touch the funds unless it is an actual emergency. And that is also the point of paying yourself: if an emergency arises, it doesn't become a major crisis.
3) Be reasonable on entertainment. If there's something you like to do frequently, budget for it. If you want to get a gym membership, add it to the budget. If you like to eat out from time to time, budget for that as well. Then stick to it. It's fine to spend money on activities, but don't spend more than you budget. I've seen people schedule a vacation and not have the money to do it, then go anyway. If you don't need cable, don't have cable. Decide which "extras" are important to you and which ones aren't.
4) Keep it simple. Do you really need the 72 inch television, or can you make due with a 42" or smaller? Do you really need the racing bicycle, or can you be happy with an "ordinary" bike? We all have to make choices every day. But before purchasing anything, ask yourself if it will end up taking up space in a garage or storage shed, or if it will be used frequently. If it's going to end up stored most of the time, do you really need it?
5) Don't carry a balance on your credit card. Worst thing ever! You may decide that you want to keep your money in savings instead of paying off your card, but use logic! If you are earning .5 percent interest on a savings account (yes...one half of one percent), but are paying 20% interest on your credit card, why in the heck are you carrying any balance on your card? Pay it off! It's okay to have a credit card. I have a couple that pay me back for using them. But I budget for every dollar I put on the card so that I can pay it off each month. Easy peasy.
There are more rules, but the basic idea is a Scriptural one: keep your eye simple. By doing this, you can have what you need, help others who may need it, and not go into a state of panic when your car needs repairs. It took me a long time to learn these rules, but I'll never forget them.
Monday, May 13, 2013
When You Have Nothing To Say
Wow. I've been keeping up to date on this blog recently, writing about whatever was on my mind. (I'll grant you, that can be a pretty empty space.) But today, my heart and mind aren't in it. Add a bad headache, stir well, and you've got a bad blog day.
So I have to ask myself: is it better to type something and keep the streak alive, or just give it a pass? I have decided on the former, if only to keep myself in the writing frame of mind.
I'm just going to throw a couple of thoughts out there for your perusal.
1) Bangladesh: Such an incredible tragedy and a horrifying loss of life. At this stage, isn't it about time that we ask ourselves how much we really need "designer" clothes? At least in the states, there are industry regulations designed to protect workers. When do we start paying more to prevent the loss of life? Frankly, I love some of the Adidas clothes I have, but I think I'm about ready to give up buying more until manufacturers in other countries step up and protect workers. Craziness.
2) Summer in California: It isn't even summer yet!! And we hit the high 90s!! Hate it, hate it, hate it!!
3) Doctor Who (again): Loved the cyberman episode, but I really wanted those kids to be upgraded and left that way. What a couple of lame characters. I hope I never have to watch them again. Can't wait for the finale on Saturday!
4) Castle got renewed! Burn Notice not renewed. Leverage gone but not forgotten. Two out of three isn't bad.
That's it. All done for today. Except for one more thing ...
I hate the Maloofs.
So I have to ask myself: is it better to type something and keep the streak alive, or just give it a pass? I have decided on the former, if only to keep myself in the writing frame of mind.
I'm just going to throw a couple of thoughts out there for your perusal.
1) Bangladesh: Such an incredible tragedy and a horrifying loss of life. At this stage, isn't it about time that we ask ourselves how much we really need "designer" clothes? At least in the states, there are industry regulations designed to protect workers. When do we start paying more to prevent the loss of life? Frankly, I love some of the Adidas clothes I have, but I think I'm about ready to give up buying more until manufacturers in other countries step up and protect workers. Craziness.
2) Summer in California: It isn't even summer yet!! And we hit the high 90s!! Hate it, hate it, hate it!!
3) Doctor Who (again): Loved the cyberman episode, but I really wanted those kids to be upgraded and left that way. What a couple of lame characters. I hope I never have to watch them again. Can't wait for the finale on Saturday!
4) Castle got renewed! Burn Notice not renewed. Leverage gone but not forgotten. Two out of three isn't bad.
That's it. All done for today. Except for one more thing ...
I hate the Maloofs.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Quick Thoughts of Randomness on a Friday
Is anyone else convinced that the writers of Castle don't actually write the character of Richard Castle? I think they just record Nathan Filion's life and write that down as Castle. He seems to be such a crazy, nerdy, cosplaying, hilarious guy, that the writers probably just say, "What did Nathan do this week? Really? OK, then that's what Castle will do, too."
I am beginning to think that Steven Mofatt is just playing with us. Three Sherlock episodes, split seasons of Doctor Who, lies and misleading comments... I wonder ... is Steven Mofatt really Brain from "Pinky and the Brain", and this is just his most successful effort to take over the world?
Can we change the Constitution so that Sir Patrick Stewart could run for President of the United States? Can you just imagine the State of the Union address? Not a single Republican or Democrat would have a rebuttal. Who could argue with that guy?
The Fiat 500T is absolutely the best car dollar for dollar. Loving it more every time I drive it.
I am having such feelings of deja vu when I see these teens today and how they dress and "groom"? They look so much like my classmates and I did back in the late 70s and early 80s. It wasn't a good look then, and it isn't a good look now.
They are opening an ABBA museum in Sweden. I didn't know Sweden went in for torture. Has anyone called Obama and suggested it for enemy combatants? Let's destroy the Geneva Convention entirely and make a New Kids on the Block torture center! (For you, Angela.)
What a letdown it would be if, on the episode "The Name of the Doctor", they announced that the Doctor's real name was Herbert. Or Horton. (That's for you Dr. Seuss fans out there. Get it?)
Finally, I can only imagine that property values in the Sacramento area are going to skyrocket in value ... once the Maloofs are out of town.
I am beginning to think that Steven Mofatt is just playing with us. Three Sherlock episodes, split seasons of Doctor Who, lies and misleading comments... I wonder ... is Steven Mofatt really Brain from "Pinky and the Brain", and this is just his most successful effort to take over the world?
Can we change the Constitution so that Sir Patrick Stewart could run for President of the United States? Can you just imagine the State of the Union address? Not a single Republican or Democrat would have a rebuttal. Who could argue with that guy?
The Fiat 500T is absolutely the best car dollar for dollar. Loving it more every time I drive it.
I am having such feelings of deja vu when I see these teens today and how they dress and "groom"? They look so much like my classmates and I did back in the late 70s and early 80s. It wasn't a good look then, and it isn't a good look now.
They are opening an ABBA museum in Sweden. I didn't know Sweden went in for torture. Has anyone called Obama and suggested it for enemy combatants? Let's destroy the Geneva Convention entirely and make a New Kids on the Block torture center! (For you, Angela.)
What a letdown it would be if, on the episode "The Name of the Doctor", they announced that the Doctor's real name was Herbert. Or Horton. (That's for you Dr. Seuss fans out there. Get it?)
Finally, I can only imagine that property values in the Sacramento area are going to skyrocket in value ... once the Maloofs are out of town.
Thursday, May 09, 2013
Where Would I Travel ... If I Could?
I used to hate the idea of travel. The whole "pack your bags, deal with the airport, deal with bad hotels, etc." routine never appealed to me. Of course, that's before I actually tried it. There is still an extensive list of things that stink about it (airplane seats designed for people under 5 1/2 feet, baggage claims, hotels that clearly lied in their ads), but once I allowed myself to enjoy another culture, I found that things weren't as horrible as expected.
On a side note, Americans who live up to the "ugly American" idea of tourism should, in my opinion, never venture outside of their house or KOA campground ever again. They mess things up for others wherever they go.
Now that I have visited France several times, I want to venture out elsewhere. But where?
Asia holds little interest for me. Although my wife visited the countries that were part of the Soviet Union in the past and still raves about her trips, I don't find myself putting those countries on the top of my list. Nor do I want to go to Japan, China, Vietnam, etc. Nor do I want to go to India or any of the countries of the African continent. Australia scares me a bit, not due to the long flight but rather the fact that every single animal, reptile or insect that can cause instant death seem to call that land home.
Am I limiting myself? A bit. Ok, quite a bit. But there are a few places that have made it to my list of "places I want to visit" in the near future.
Scotland, Ireland, England: These are the lands I now consider the lands of my ancestors. I have always had a desire to visit these countries, but as I get older, the interest level grows stronger. I especially want to see Scotland, as that seems to be where most of my ancestry comes from. The rocky hillsides, the independent spirit of the people, the history ... it all catches my imagination and in my mind I can see myself there.
Canada: Specifically, Quebec. Since my wife is of French origin, I want to see how the new "keepers of the language" live. I wouldn't mind taking the Trans-Canada Railroad either. (Why do people sneer at me when I mention that?)
Sicily: Not for me, but for my wife. She loves Sicily and would really like to return. Who am I to argue?
Where would you want to go? What would you want to see? The people who think that DisneyWorld is the do-all end-all of vacations annoy me, so don't suggest that. But if you could go, where would you go and what would you see? Frankly, the investment is worth it. A famous writer once said that you cannot visit another country and remain closed-minded. (Or something to that effect.) I agree with the sentiment, and feel that everyone should take money they put aside for a new big screen television and use it to see another country, experience another culture, and learn things you never knew. The experience will stay with you longer than last week's episode of Idol.
On a side note, Americans who live up to the "ugly American" idea of tourism should, in my opinion, never venture outside of their house or KOA campground ever again. They mess things up for others wherever they go.
Now that I have visited France several times, I want to venture out elsewhere. But where?
Asia holds little interest for me. Although my wife visited the countries that were part of the Soviet Union in the past and still raves about her trips, I don't find myself putting those countries on the top of my list. Nor do I want to go to Japan, China, Vietnam, etc. Nor do I want to go to India or any of the countries of the African continent. Australia scares me a bit, not due to the long flight but rather the fact that every single animal, reptile or insect that can cause instant death seem to call that land home.
Am I limiting myself? A bit. Ok, quite a bit. But there are a few places that have made it to my list of "places I want to visit" in the near future.
Scotland, Ireland, England: These are the lands I now consider the lands of my ancestors. I have always had a desire to visit these countries, but as I get older, the interest level grows stronger. I especially want to see Scotland, as that seems to be where most of my ancestry comes from. The rocky hillsides, the independent spirit of the people, the history ... it all catches my imagination and in my mind I can see myself there.
Canada: Specifically, Quebec. Since my wife is of French origin, I want to see how the new "keepers of the language" live. I wouldn't mind taking the Trans-Canada Railroad either. (Why do people sneer at me when I mention that?)
Sicily: Not for me, but for my wife. She loves Sicily and would really like to return. Who am I to argue?
Where would you want to go? What would you want to see? The people who think that DisneyWorld is the do-all end-all of vacations annoy me, so don't suggest that. But if you could go, where would you go and what would you see? Frankly, the investment is worth it. A famous writer once said that you cannot visit another country and remain closed-minded. (Or something to that effect.) I agree with the sentiment, and feel that everyone should take money they put aside for a new big screen television and use it to see another country, experience another culture, and learn things you never knew. The experience will stay with you longer than last week's episode of Idol.
Wednesday, May 08, 2013
Why Should Sacramento Care About the Kings?
You know, I've seen reports of a couple of attorneys trying to stop the building of a new downtown arena because they say that all of the information hasn't been presented to the public. OK. First off, is that your real reason, or is it that you're trying to get some air time for your firms? Second of all, why don't you do that for every budget item that the city puts into play? Why now? Third ... stop it. Stop your posturing and self-aggrandizing behavior.
There is nothing wrong with Sacramento investing in its downtown area. That part of town should be vibrant and filled with shoppers. Right now, it's nothing.
When people ask me what there is to do in Sacramento, my first answer is usually, "Uhhhhh. Old Sacramento? Crocker Museum?" What else? How about an arena to see a show or concert, restaurants and businesses that are modern and interesting, or just an area that isn't dying?
I have always cheered the Kings, mainly because they are the hometown team. I don't fault anyone else for cheering for their team or berate them for doing so. But it's nice to see "Sacramento" on jerseys. And it will be cool to point to a newly alive downtown and say that Sacramento is more than a cowtown. It's a city.
There is nothing wrong with Sacramento investing in its downtown area. That part of town should be vibrant and filled with shoppers. Right now, it's nothing.
When people ask me what there is to do in Sacramento, my first answer is usually, "Uhhhhh. Old Sacramento? Crocker Museum?" What else? How about an arena to see a show or concert, restaurants and businesses that are modern and interesting, or just an area that isn't dying?
I have always cheered the Kings, mainly because they are the hometown team. I don't fault anyone else for cheering for their team or berate them for doing so. But it's nice to see "Sacramento" on jerseys. And it will be cool to point to a newly alive downtown and say that Sacramento is more than a cowtown. It's a city.
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Whatever Happened to Failing?
When I was growing up, grades were important. Not just due to bragging rights or the ability to get into college, but because they honestly marked our progress in the various disciplines in school.
Nowadays, grades don't seem as important. Parents seem capable of affecting grades by yelling at teachers or complaining to the principal or petitioning the school board. It all hinges on the false idea that "a leads to be which leads to c", in this case meaning "my child needs to show good grades to get into a top university in order to have a successful life." There are numerous flaws with that progression, not the least of which is that a number of these students are overwhelmed in college because they haven't learned the lessons of school, or they leave college with enough school loans on their back to choke a horse. In addition, a degree doesn't guarantee material success. (See: graduates working at McDonalds.)
But there is something else troubling me these days; it is almost impossible for a student to get held back.
Looking back at my school years, the biggest embarrassment was the idea that we could get held back a year, and our classmates would move on the the next grade level while we had to repeat the same one over again. Talk about your motivational tool. And yet, holding the student back was sometimes the best option. If a student couldn't handle the work in 6th grade, what chance would he have in 7th grade? He would fall farther and farther behind, as if he was a drowning man being thrown an anchor.
Today, in speaking with teachers and aides, the idea of holding a child back and not advancing them to the next level is virtually impossible. Generally, teachers are badly underpaid, and don't want to have to deal with a "problem child" for another year, so they make them someone else's problem. Even if the teacher thinks holding a child back is the best option, the principal knows that it would raise too many difficulties with the parents or the district superintendent or with the school board. So the child moves on, and usually struggles mightily with ever more difficult work.
Who can be blamed for this? Perhaps we should start with a society that thinks that any kind of negative treatment is harmful for the child. This is the kind of attitude that says we shouldn't keep scores in games so there isn't a winner or loser? When I was young, that kind of thinking would have been seen as idiotic. There is a winner and a loser in every game! That's why you play the game!
Let's also blame parents and their "not my child" attitude. Every other child may misbehave, but "not my child." Other children may have learning problems, but "not my child." Punish other children for misbehaving, but "not my child." Why not your child? Why not any child who needs to learn a lesson?
Finally, to school officials and district members: let the teachers teach! Stop trying to press them all into a cookie-cutter style that focuses on how to make the kids test well. Let them teach so that students actually learn! Some of my best memories are of teachers who were a little bit different; those who did things their own way. I learned more from them than from other teachers, largely because they were motivated and passed that enthusiasm on to me. Let teachers be individuals who enjoy their jobs. (Pay them better, too, will you? I've seen what they get charged for insurance and such compared to what they get paid. It's a joke. There are teachers out there who are so deeply in debt with student loans that they can't even live an above-poverty-level life.)
Hold kids back when necessary. Make sure they have the tools they need to move forward. Make sure that when they reach high school that they can read at that level. Otherwise, by not failing them when necessary, you are virtually assuring them failure in their adult lives, which is a much longer period of time than a single year of elementary school.
Nowadays, grades don't seem as important. Parents seem capable of affecting grades by yelling at teachers or complaining to the principal or petitioning the school board. It all hinges on the false idea that "a leads to be which leads to c", in this case meaning "my child needs to show good grades to get into a top university in order to have a successful life." There are numerous flaws with that progression, not the least of which is that a number of these students are overwhelmed in college because they haven't learned the lessons of school, or they leave college with enough school loans on their back to choke a horse. In addition, a degree doesn't guarantee material success. (See: graduates working at McDonalds.)
But there is something else troubling me these days; it is almost impossible for a student to get held back.
Looking back at my school years, the biggest embarrassment was the idea that we could get held back a year, and our classmates would move on the the next grade level while we had to repeat the same one over again. Talk about your motivational tool. And yet, holding the student back was sometimes the best option. If a student couldn't handle the work in 6th grade, what chance would he have in 7th grade? He would fall farther and farther behind, as if he was a drowning man being thrown an anchor.
Today, in speaking with teachers and aides, the idea of holding a child back and not advancing them to the next level is virtually impossible. Generally, teachers are badly underpaid, and don't want to have to deal with a "problem child" for another year, so they make them someone else's problem. Even if the teacher thinks holding a child back is the best option, the principal knows that it would raise too many difficulties with the parents or the district superintendent or with the school board. So the child moves on, and usually struggles mightily with ever more difficult work.
Who can be blamed for this? Perhaps we should start with a society that thinks that any kind of negative treatment is harmful for the child. This is the kind of attitude that says we shouldn't keep scores in games so there isn't a winner or loser? When I was young, that kind of thinking would have been seen as idiotic. There is a winner and a loser in every game! That's why you play the game!
Let's also blame parents and their "not my child" attitude. Every other child may misbehave, but "not my child." Other children may have learning problems, but "not my child." Punish other children for misbehaving, but "not my child." Why not your child? Why not any child who needs to learn a lesson?
Finally, to school officials and district members: let the teachers teach! Stop trying to press them all into a cookie-cutter style that focuses on how to make the kids test well. Let them teach so that students actually learn! Some of my best memories are of teachers who were a little bit different; those who did things their own way. I learned more from them than from other teachers, largely because they were motivated and passed that enthusiasm on to me. Let teachers be individuals who enjoy their jobs. (Pay them better, too, will you? I've seen what they get charged for insurance and such compared to what they get paid. It's a joke. There are teachers out there who are so deeply in debt with student loans that they can't even live an above-poverty-level life.)
Hold kids back when necessary. Make sure they have the tools they need to move forward. Make sure that when they reach high school that they can read at that level. Otherwise, by not failing them when necessary, you are virtually assuring them failure in their adult lives, which is a much longer period of time than a single year of elementary school.
Monday, May 06, 2013
Books are Not Dead
I admit it. I own a Kindle. I also own an iPad. I use both to read e-books, and they are very convenient for that purpose.
I also admit that I purchase paperback and hardcover books. For that, I have been picked on by several friends who ask, "Why? Books are bulky and eBooks are easier."
First of all, be glad we aren't still carrying scrolls around. Nonetheless, I find a number of benefits to purchasing and owning normal, everyday books.
1) Electronic books aren't always cheaper. Now that may seem odd, since there is no paper or printing involved. Certainly, regular books purchased new in hardcover format are almost never cheaper than eBooks But if you are purchasing a book that never went through a hardcover printing, or are purchasing a hardcover book that isn't a new release, check the prices online. Many times the ink versions are cheaper, especially if you have free shipping.
2) Electronic books aren't always more convenient. My paper books have never used up their battery life.
3) You can't go to a bookstore and buy a used eBook There is a local used book shop nearby that has literally tens of thousands of books. I can almost always find an interesting book at a reasonable price. Please note, however, that this is not always the case. Sometimes used books are cheaper online via Half.com or Amazon.com. One still has to be a smart shopper.
I do like the immediacy of an eBook If I find a book online and I want it now (little impatient me), I can buy it and have it download to my reader instantly. That's convenience for you. But if I don't need it right now and can find it less expensive in a paperback or used format, why wouldn't I do that? Frankly, I have some books that I love to see on my shelves, not the least of which is my leather-bound Hitchhiker's Guide series.
There is also something satisfying about reaching the end of a particularly good book and hearing that "thump" as you close the book with a flourish. OK...not everyone does that, but it is still strangely satisfying.
The eBook may be the future or the present or the convenient. As a card-carrying geek / nerd, I have my share of them. But as a curmudgeon, I will never give up my regular paper and ink books until I have no other choice.
Even then, I may go down fighting.
I also admit that I purchase paperback and hardcover books. For that, I have been picked on by several friends who ask, "Why? Books are bulky and eBooks are easier."
First of all, be glad we aren't still carrying scrolls around. Nonetheless, I find a number of benefits to purchasing and owning normal, everyday books.
1) Electronic books aren't always cheaper. Now that may seem odd, since there is no paper or printing involved. Certainly, regular books purchased new in hardcover format are almost never cheaper than eBooks But if you are purchasing a book that never went through a hardcover printing, or are purchasing a hardcover book that isn't a new release, check the prices online. Many times the ink versions are cheaper, especially if you have free shipping.
2) Electronic books aren't always more convenient. My paper books have never used up their battery life.
3) You can't go to a bookstore and buy a used eBook There is a local used book shop nearby that has literally tens of thousands of books. I can almost always find an interesting book at a reasonable price. Please note, however, that this is not always the case. Sometimes used books are cheaper online via Half.com or Amazon.com. One still has to be a smart shopper.
I do like the immediacy of an eBook If I find a book online and I want it now (little impatient me), I can buy it and have it download to my reader instantly. That's convenience for you. But if I don't need it right now and can find it less expensive in a paperback or used format, why wouldn't I do that? Frankly, I have some books that I love to see on my shelves, not the least of which is my leather-bound Hitchhiker's Guide series.
There is also something satisfying about reaching the end of a particularly good book and hearing that "thump" as you close the book with a flourish. OK...not everyone does that, but it is still strangely satisfying.
The eBook may be the future or the present or the convenient. As a card-carrying geek / nerd, I have my share of them. But as a curmudgeon, I will never give up my regular paper and ink books until I have no other choice.
Even then, I may go down fighting.
Friday, May 03, 2013
Taking Time Away
Don't panic. (As if you would.) I'm not giving up the blog again. Instead, I'm here to give some advice. Take a day off. That's right. Take a day to do what you want to do.
I'm not talking about partying or doing something idiotic. Rather, I'm saying take a day off work from time to time to accomplish something and nothing.
For example: I took a day off today and resolved to accomplish tasks with half of the day. I actually took the months of bill and receipt filing off my desk and, miracle of miracles...filed it. I did my personal study, did some general cleanup, and finished with the sense that I actually accomplished something. Now, with the remainder of my day, I can goof off with impunity and without guilt. I earned it. (Sort of.)
My point is this: working is important. By doing our jobs we earn an income to pay for the necessities of life. But from time to time we need to step back and take a day to accomplish something for ourselves. So take that day off. Spend half of it doing something constructive, and the other half doing nothing at all. We all need it on occasion, and you deserve it, darn it!
I'm not talking about partying or doing something idiotic. Rather, I'm saying take a day off work from time to time to accomplish something and nothing.
For example: I took a day off today and resolved to accomplish tasks with half of the day. I actually took the months of bill and receipt filing off my desk and, miracle of miracles...filed it. I did my personal study, did some general cleanup, and finished with the sense that I actually accomplished something. Now, with the remainder of my day, I can goof off with impunity and without guilt. I earned it. (Sort of.)
My point is this: working is important. By doing our jobs we earn an income to pay for the necessities of life. But from time to time we need to step back and take a day to accomplish something for ourselves. So take that day off. Spend half of it doing something constructive, and the other half doing nothing at all. We all need it on occasion, and you deserve it, darn it!
Thursday, May 02, 2013
A Quick Salute to a Brave Man
I just read a news item today that said that Leopold Englietner died on April 21 at age 107.
You may be thinking: that's a long time to live. Is that why he was brave? Is that why you are posting this?
No. Mr. Englietner was the oldest known Holocaust survivor who was imprisoned and tortured, only because of his beliefs. Englietner was one of Jehovah's Witnesses; a group of people who were put in concentration camps because they would not renounce their faith and would not "Heil Hitler".
If you haven't done so, you can read his story in the book, "Unbroken Will". You can also read the article here:
Mail Online Article
Whether you agree with Jehovah's Witnesses or not, the history of Witnesses in the Nazi camps is important enough that it has a special section in the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. The Witnesses, who were identified by the purple triangle sewn on their clothing in the camps, were the only group that had the option of being released from the camp if they would just sign a document renouncing their faith. The vast majority refused to do so, including Brother Englietner. He toured and spoke for many years, telling his story and warning of the dangers of intolerance.
If you have a moment, read the linked article above. Don't worry...it's short. Far shorter than it should be. But this humble man left his mark, serving God through some of the greatest horrors imaginable and telling that story to many.
You may be thinking: that's a long time to live. Is that why he was brave? Is that why you are posting this?
No. Mr. Englietner was the oldest known Holocaust survivor who was imprisoned and tortured, only because of his beliefs. Englietner was one of Jehovah's Witnesses; a group of people who were put in concentration camps because they would not renounce their faith and would not "Heil Hitler".
If you haven't done so, you can read his story in the book, "Unbroken Will". You can also read the article here:
Mail Online Article
Whether you agree with Jehovah's Witnesses or not, the history of Witnesses in the Nazi camps is important enough that it has a special section in the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. The Witnesses, who were identified by the purple triangle sewn on their clothing in the camps, were the only group that had the option of being released from the camp if they would just sign a document renouncing their faith. The vast majority refused to do so, including Brother Englietner. He toured and spoke for many years, telling his story and warning of the dangers of intolerance.
If you have a moment, read the linked article above. Don't worry...it's short. Far shorter than it should be. But this humble man left his mark, serving God through some of the greatest horrors imaginable and telling that story to many.
Wednesday, May 01, 2013
Thoughts on Television
Whenever I have trouble coming up with an idea for a blog post, I tend to turn to television. Today is no exception. So, I just thought I would touch base on a few of the series that I watch regularly.
NCIS: We'll start here since I watched it last night. I'm not sure how long this series will go on, but it isn't letting up. Once in awhile the writers will throw in an episode that is less than stellar, but that's the exception rather than the rule. Who would have thought that a former college quarterback would end up as one of the most popular actors on television? The stories are still good, and the interactions work, although I think Palmer's character isn't working as well as it could. I, for one, liked Marina Sirtis as the new head of Israeli intelligence. I'm looking forward to the final two episodes of the season. Then I'll look forward to the 11th(!) season.
NCIS:LA: This series started slowly, but once they added Deeks, the show took off. It's very different than NCIS, but different in a good way. The characters make it work more than the stories, but it's still a very good show. I also can't help but admit that I'm a Hetty fan. How can such a tiny woman intimidate grown men? I don't know, but I buy it.
CASTLE: Wow. This show keeps going and getting better. Now that Castle and Beckett are together, I want them kept together. The writers took an impossible task and made it work. I also love that Chief Gates knew about their relationship all along. The show just humanized the character in one line, and that worked, too. If there is an actor out there that can convey more by just his facial expressions than Nathan Fillion, I challenge you to name one.
DOCTOR WHO: The second half of season 7 has been a bit uneven. I had high hopes for the new companion, Clara, but the episodes haven't worked so far, in my humble opinion. The one episode that did work well was Hide, which was creepy and a whole lot of fun. I just think that the "monsters in love" part at the end could have been eliminated. I'm curious how the mystery of Clara will work out, and I'm definitely looking forward to the finale and the 50th anniversary episode, but I have to say that this half of the season has been disappointing.
OTHER SHOWS:
Call the Midwife: My wife has discovered this show, which is a BBC series based in the East End of London in the 1950s. Graphic images of birth in the most horrendous of conditions, but this series works as well. It's just hard to watch sometimes.
Life on Mars (UK): I'm watching this series again, and it still works. Even though I've seen it before, I still like it. A lot. John Simm has become one of my favorite actors.
Sherlock: Want. New. Episodes. NOW!!
TV-Related:
IMDB: I don't know how I ever lived without this app, but if you love tv or movies, it is a required item on your smart phone. How often have you said, "Where do I know that actor from?" You can find out. Easily.
NCIS: We'll start here since I watched it last night. I'm not sure how long this series will go on, but it isn't letting up. Once in awhile the writers will throw in an episode that is less than stellar, but that's the exception rather than the rule. Who would have thought that a former college quarterback would end up as one of the most popular actors on television? The stories are still good, and the interactions work, although I think Palmer's character isn't working as well as it could. I, for one, liked Marina Sirtis as the new head of Israeli intelligence. I'm looking forward to the final two episodes of the season. Then I'll look forward to the 11th(!) season.
NCIS:LA: This series started slowly, but once they added Deeks, the show took off. It's very different than NCIS, but different in a good way. The characters make it work more than the stories, but it's still a very good show. I also can't help but admit that I'm a Hetty fan. How can such a tiny woman intimidate grown men? I don't know, but I buy it.
CASTLE: Wow. This show keeps going and getting better. Now that Castle and Beckett are together, I want them kept together. The writers took an impossible task and made it work. I also love that Chief Gates knew about their relationship all along. The show just humanized the character in one line, and that worked, too. If there is an actor out there that can convey more by just his facial expressions than Nathan Fillion, I challenge you to name one.
DOCTOR WHO: The second half of season 7 has been a bit uneven. I had high hopes for the new companion, Clara, but the episodes haven't worked so far, in my humble opinion. The one episode that did work well was Hide, which was creepy and a whole lot of fun. I just think that the "monsters in love" part at the end could have been eliminated. I'm curious how the mystery of Clara will work out, and I'm definitely looking forward to the finale and the 50th anniversary episode, but I have to say that this half of the season has been disappointing.
OTHER SHOWS:
Call the Midwife: My wife has discovered this show, which is a BBC series based in the East End of London in the 1950s. Graphic images of birth in the most horrendous of conditions, but this series works as well. It's just hard to watch sometimes.
Life on Mars (UK): I'm watching this series again, and it still works. Even though I've seen it before, I still like it. A lot. John Simm has become one of my favorite actors.
Sherlock: Want. New. Episodes. NOW!!
TV-Related:
IMDB: I don't know how I ever lived without this app, but if you love tv or movies, it is a required item on your smart phone. How often have you said, "Where do I know that actor from?" You can find out. Easily.
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