It'd be foolish for me to sit here and question Douche's talent level. However, I am very confident in saying that he is nowhere close to being the balla that Michael Jordan was. Furthermore, I firmly believe (and hope) LeBron James will have EASILY surpassed Douche as the greatest player next to MJ by the time both Douche and Bron Bron's careers are over.
Sadly for Douche and his faker fans (but a blessing to the rest of us decent human beings), Douche has a glaring weakness in his game, and it's more of a mental than physical liability. Because of his inability to connect with people, he is limited in elevating his teammates' level of play.
Just look at highlights (see below) of Game 6 between the Rockets and Lakers - Douche condescendingly rubbing Pau Gasol's head during a first quarter timeout like Pau's his little beyatch OR Douche getting in Sasha Vujacic's ear as they head off the court for halftime. It's one thing to motivate your teammates so they play better, but it seems like Douche's teammates are intimidated and fearful of Douche more than anything else. Think about it - most of us have never even talked to Douche yet we still despise him. His body language and dirty smirks alone show us an insecure, arrogant douche of a dude. Just imagine the poor lads who have to spend an 82-game season acting like they actually like Douche.
We've all had a boss or two whom we can't stand. Yet we suck it up, pretend everything is okay, and continue collecting checks to underperform. After all, why take pride in your work when you know the douche above you has the most to win or lose from your performance? Maybe this is why the Rockets, led by likeable guys like Yao, Shane, and Ron-Ron look like they care about this series so much more than the Fakers. One team has young guys happy to play hard for the veterans above them (see Celtics last year as well), while the other team just saunters along, more worried about escaping Douche's wrath than simply playing loose and making plays.
There is Douche, and then there are the good superheroes - LeBron James and MJ. LeBron connects with EVERYONE. Thus, no surprise that he's been lifting his teammates' level of play from the day he stepped onto a basketball court. MJ, on the other hand, didn't necessarily lift his teammates from the moment he entered the NBA, but you know he understood "team" from his days at UNC and was eventually able to translate his leadership abilities into six rings. Furthermore, look back at the Bulls championship runs. How many times did other guys (Steve Kerr, John Paxson, etc) hit huge game-winning shots? Can you ever imagine Douche's teammates having enough confidence to take those shots? Personally, I don't see it.
With top NBA players playing well into their mid-thirties these days, I think its safe to say Douche has another five to six years in the league. I'm hoping he walks away at that time still stuck on three rings and becomes remembered as an incredible talent who couldn't go all the way unless he had another guy (Shaq) lifting the spirits of those around him.
The Rockets and LeBron, on the other hand, will have split a few rings between them and made Douche nothing more than a miniscule fragment of our collective memories. Hallelujah baby, hallelujah.
PS - This post is dedicated to a coffee-sipping, Astros-loving, cardigan-wearing, New York Times-reading, Biggie Smalls-bumping, speed-walking contradiction. Please don't go.
"Grab the keys to the five, call my niggaz on the cell
Bring some weed I got a story to tell."
-Biggie Smalls
Friday, May 15, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Game 2: Kobe the Douche
Anyone else sick of Kobe Bryant making those ridiculous faces everytime he scores a basket? In real-life, see a guy strutting around with such arrogance, and you call it as you see it - DOUCHE BAG. Not surprisingly, Los Angeles is the city that has come to love and adore such a douche of a dude.
Htowners, and most of the country, on the other hand...well, we like to rally around guys who have a little more substance - Hakeem the Dream, Clyde the Glide, Rudy T, Yao, Ron-Ron, Shane, Luis, and pretty much every other player on the current Rockets roster.
That's why this series means so much to Houston fans. Sure, we want to advance to the next round of the playoffs, but wiping that evil smirk off of Douche's face would just make the accomplishment that much sweeter. Just like Detroit and Boston before us, we'd prevent Douche from obtaining his fourth ring and sustain our faith in good over evil. High the stakes are indeed.
Speaking of Douche, my friend had a freakin' brilliant (yet sick) idea for games 3 and 4 in Houston. Find the Colorado girl who accused Douche a few years ago, and place her courtside for both games. Again, definitely a sick idea and possibly one I should be avoiding like the plague but simply too brilliant to not share on my blog. Just imagine Douche's face upon seeing her!
Otherwise, we can settle for a "Douche Bag" chant everytime Douche touches the ball.
Finally, according to ESPN's J.A. Adande, Douche should be suspended for the elbow he threw at Ron-Ron. Here is his explanation:
"Most significant is an elbow Bryant threw that caught Artest in the throat as they were jockeying for position under the basket. The NBA rulebook states that a player must be ejected for 'An elbow foul which makes contact above shoulder level.' By the standard that's been set in these playoffs, Bryant should be suspended. Orlando's Dwight Howard was when he elbowed Philadelphia's Samuel Dalembert in the head. Superstar or not, the head and neck have been deemed off-limits for elbows."
Either way, Rockets aren't backing down from anybody...
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Game 1: Fake Faker Fans
Game 1: Rockets beat Lakers 100-92. In other news...
Rockets 96 - Lakers 90. 26 secs left. And the Faker crowd continues to sit silently in their seats. HAHAHA. Fake-ass celebrities posing as Lakers fans couldn't spare their "coolness" factor long enough to at least wear purple and gold to Staples Center (see pics below). Thus, no surprise they're completely clueless to the fact this is still a ballgame. As a Rockets fan, I thank you fakers for providing absolutely no home-court advantage for your team.
Last time a Texas team stomped into southern California and left Los Angelenos feeling this lousy, a guy by the name of Vince Young was running circles around their hometown team. This time around, speedy Aaron Brooks was the man causing a commotion.
Fakers, welcome to the real world - Htown Texas beyatches! Well, everyone except for the lady sitting with Mario Lopez. She stays in fantasy land.
Rockets 96 - Lakers 90. 26 secs left. And the Faker crowd continues to sit silently in their seats. HAHAHA. Fake-ass celebrities posing as Lakers fans couldn't spare their "coolness" factor long enough to at least wear purple and gold to Staples Center (see pics below). Thus, no surprise they're completely clueless to the fact this is still a ballgame. As a Rockets fan, I thank you fakers for providing absolutely no home-court advantage for your team.
Last time a Texas team stomped into southern California and left Los Angelenos feeling this lousy, a guy by the name of Vince Young was running circles around their hometown team. This time around, speedy Aaron Brooks was the man causing a commotion.
Fakers, welcome to the real world - Htown Texas beyatches! Well, everyone except for the lady sitting with Mario Lopez. She stays in fantasy land.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Game 2: Rockets @ Blazers
5:39 left in 1st quarter: Rockets 17 - Blazers 15.
Damn, refs are calling this one tight. Blazers fans are getting pissed and rowdy, which is ruining my vision of Portland being a calm, bike-friendly, pot-smoking, progressive city. C'mon Portlandians. For the sake of my sanity, please toke up and tone down a little bit.
Bad news - Deke just went down. Doesn't look pretty at all. Heading out on a stretcher, at which point Portland fans offer support via a standing ovation. My sanity is back, but my heart goes out to the heart and soul of our team. Wishing Deke the best.
Just like that, we return to live action.
End of 1st Quarter. Blazers 28 - Rockets 26.
With that, I'm done blogging about this particular game for a little while. Need to just sit back and enjoy this game after dealing with a fairly nasty cold virus for the last two days.
3:39 left in 2nd quarter: Rockets 48 - Blazers 44.
Wow, great 2nd quarter for Rockets so far. I haven't looked at a box score for exact minutes played, but it seems like we've been able to take a small lead with several starters (Yao, Scola, Battier, and Brooks) on the bench for most of the quarter. I love how Adelman is keeping Yao on the bench as long as possible, especially now that Deke is probably gone for the game. We need Yao to be as fresh as possible in second half.
Halftime. Blazers 53 - Rockets 51.
Yao scored 5 points in 12 minutes yet we stayed in the game on the backs of Artest (15 pts), Lowry (6 pts), and Wafer (12 pts). If we can reestablish post game with Yao, I really like our chances.
Not sure we can do anything differently to stop Aldridge. Just play him man-up with Scola, Hayes, or Landry and hope he cools down. Despite being a fellow Longhorn, I don't see him carrying a team for an entire game. Roy, on the other hand, can carry a team on his back, just not when Artest or Battier is chasing him around all game long.
End of 3rd quarter: Rockets 72 - Blazers 72
Hell fu*k yeah! Brooks hits a huge 3 followed by Artest slamming it home to send the game into the 4th quarter tied at 72. Still need to get Yao involved in this game, but what a way to end 3rd quarter. Let's do it!
Damn it, Rockets end up losing a tight one 107-103. Hopefully we can head back to Portland next week with a controlling 3-1 lead. Need sleep, peace.
Damn, refs are calling this one tight. Blazers fans are getting pissed and rowdy, which is ruining my vision of Portland being a calm, bike-friendly, pot-smoking, progressive city. C'mon Portlandians. For the sake of my sanity, please toke up and tone down a little bit.
Bad news - Deke just went down. Doesn't look pretty at all. Heading out on a stretcher, at which point Portland fans offer support via a standing ovation. My sanity is back, but my heart goes out to the heart and soul of our team. Wishing Deke the best.
Just like that, we return to live action.
End of 1st Quarter. Blazers 28 - Rockets 26.
With that, I'm done blogging about this particular game for a little while. Need to just sit back and enjoy this game after dealing with a fairly nasty cold virus for the last two days.
3:39 left in 2nd quarter: Rockets 48 - Blazers 44.
Wow, great 2nd quarter for Rockets so far. I haven't looked at a box score for exact minutes played, but it seems like we've been able to take a small lead with several starters (Yao, Scola, Battier, and Brooks) on the bench for most of the quarter. I love how Adelman is keeping Yao on the bench as long as possible, especially now that Deke is probably gone for the game. We need Yao to be as fresh as possible in second half.
Halftime. Blazers 53 - Rockets 51.
Yao scored 5 points in 12 minutes yet we stayed in the game on the backs of Artest (15 pts), Lowry (6 pts), and Wafer (12 pts). If we can reestablish post game with Yao, I really like our chances.
Not sure we can do anything differently to stop Aldridge. Just play him man-up with Scola, Hayes, or Landry and hope he cools down. Despite being a fellow Longhorn, I don't see him carrying a team for an entire game. Roy, on the other hand, can carry a team on his back, just not when Artest or Battier is chasing him around all game long.
End of 3rd quarter: Rockets 72 - Blazers 72
Hell fu*k yeah! Brooks hits a huge 3 followed by Artest slamming it home to send the game into the 4th quarter tied at 72. Still need to get Yao involved in this game, but what a way to end 3rd quarter. Let's do it!
Damn it, Rockets end up losing a tight one 107-103. Hopefully we can head back to Portland next week with a controlling 3-1 lead. Need sleep, peace.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Nuggets-Hornets Game 1 Observations
1. Why does the media always laud Chris Paul for playing so well for being such a small player? He doesn't look that small to me. Look at him standing next to Billups, maybe an inch or two shorter at most. Am I the only one that feels this way?
2. Denver is a lot better than I thought. Billups, Melo, JR Smith can light it up at anytime. Nene, Martin, and Chris Anderson are fairly physical inside. Ok, maybe they're not that great but still better than I thought.
3. Dos Equis commercial. "I don't always drink beer, but when I do...I prefer Dos Equis." My life sucks!
4. This is a very physical game. I predict a fight before the series is over. Tyson Chandler will definitely be involved from the Hornets side. Nene, Melo, or Kenyon Martin from the Nuggets.
5. Speaking of fights, remember when Van Gundy held onto Zo's leg for dear life?!! Never would I have imagined him being one of my favorite NBA personalities at that time of my life (which he now is).
6. As I watch the NBA Playoffs, I wonder how anybody can like watching baseball better than basketball.
7. On that note, the NBA Playoffs beats March Madness by a landslide. Yeah, I said it.
8. Okay, back to the Nuggets-Hornets game. 94-69 Nuggets with 9:06 left in the game. Nothing to report here.
9. Just saw a commercial with Charles Barkley. Have met him twice and love the fact that he's a friendly, funny, down-to-earth guy but still find it funny that he aspires to be Governor of Alabama. If there is a state where he can make those dreams happen, states like Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana are definitely the ones to do it in. See Bobby Jindal.
10. Having just thrown Arkansas under the bus, I must say I am always perplexed that both Bill Clinton and Wal-Mart, two American icons, sowed their roots in such a crap hole of a state. What does this say about our country? Arkansans, don't mind me...I've never even been to your state. I'm just from Texas and have been told your state sucks.
2. Denver is a lot better than I thought. Billups, Melo, JR Smith can light it up at anytime. Nene, Martin, and Chris Anderson are fairly physical inside. Ok, maybe they're not that great but still better than I thought.
3. Dos Equis commercial. "I don't always drink beer, but when I do...I prefer Dos Equis." My life sucks!
4. This is a very physical game. I predict a fight before the series is over. Tyson Chandler will definitely be involved from the Hornets side. Nene, Melo, or Kenyon Martin from the Nuggets.
5. Speaking of fights, remember when Van Gundy held onto Zo's leg for dear life?!! Never would I have imagined him being one of my favorite NBA personalities at that time of my life (which he now is).
6. As I watch the NBA Playoffs, I wonder how anybody can like watching baseball better than basketball.
7. On that note, the NBA Playoffs beats March Madness by a landslide. Yeah, I said it.
8. Okay, back to the Nuggets-Hornets game. 94-69 Nuggets with 9:06 left in the game. Nothing to report here.
9. Just saw a commercial with Charles Barkley. Have met him twice and love the fact that he's a friendly, funny, down-to-earth guy but still find it funny that he aspires to be Governor of Alabama. If there is a state where he can make those dreams happen, states like Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana are definitely the ones to do it in. See Bobby Jindal.
10. Having just thrown Arkansas under the bus, I must say I am always perplexed that both Bill Clinton and Wal-Mart, two American icons, sowed their roots in such a crap hole of a state. What does this say about our country? Arkansans, don't mind me...I've never even been to your state. I'm just from Texas and have been told your state sucks.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Rockets 108 - Blazers 81 - YES!
Great start for the Rockets in Game 1 of the 2009 NBA Playoffs. Besides winning the game, they were able to rest Yao the entire fourth quarter and must've sucked just a tad but of life out of the Blazers. Even after Yao got off to such a great start, I love how Adelman decided to stick Mutumbo in the game and gave him plenty of minutes tonight (I advocated for this on both Facebook and an earlier blog post this week). Landry and Hayes are great, but we need a guy who can control the defensive paint like Mutumbo. Other than that, all of the Rockets really stepped up, even after the Blazers put up a very good fight in the first half. I assume Game 2 will be tougher but love seeing the Rockets turning it up a notch in the playoffs.
Also happy that I stuck to my plan and started to blog about NBA Playoffs by writing about the 1st quarter. By doing so, I learned a very important lesson - no way in hell I can do live basketball blogging. In addition to being boring, it's way too time-intensive for the writer in question. Furthermore, it's hard as hell to watch the game and type at the same time. Having said that, I'm not throwing in the towel for my NBA playoff blogging. Instead, I'm simply adjusting. I'll be looking for interesting stories to follow throughout the NBA playoffs and add a little touch of Vilasinator Analysis to equation. One way or another, I just want to practice writing and give myself something productive to do. Okay, maybe not productive, but you get the point.
Game 2 is Tuesday, 9 PM CST. Let's do it!
Also happy that I stuck to my plan and started to blog about NBA Playoffs by writing about the 1st quarter. By doing so, I learned a very important lesson - no way in hell I can do live basketball blogging. In addition to being boring, it's way too time-intensive for the writer in question. Furthermore, it's hard as hell to watch the game and type at the same time. Having said that, I'm not throwing in the towel for my NBA playoff blogging. Instead, I'm simply adjusting. I'll be looking for interesting stories to follow throughout the NBA playoffs and add a little touch of Vilasinator Analysis to equation. One way or another, I just want to practice writing and give myself something productive to do. Okay, maybe not productive, but you get the point.
Game 2 is Tuesday, 9 PM CST. Let's do it!
Live from...Houston, Texas
Covering Houston Rockets vs Portland Trailblazers. Game 1 of 2009 Playoffs in Portland, OR.
8:41 left in 1st quarter: Yao already has 9 points. They're going to him early and often. McMillian calls timeout. Expect them to adjust, possibly front Yao. How will the Rockets respond? Gotta minimize dribbling, maximize passing. Swing it to man at top of key, look for passing lanes to get it into Yao inside. Nothing there? Swing again to man on weakside, again look for passing lane to Yao, who should be moving back and forth between the lane. Here we go...
Coming out of timeout, Blazers go straight to Roy, who responds with 4 relatively easy buckets, going right by Artest each time. As good as Ron-Ron is, maybe we should switch Battier on him?
2:03 left in 1st Quarter: Blazers came hard, Rockets weathered the storm. Despite giving up quite a few buckets to Roy (who is a lot better than I thought), Artest looks a lot faster than he looked during regular season. Rockets are playing at a very high level. Coming out of this timeout, Rockets' bench will need to keep it up because Blazers are young and deep.
End of 1st Quarter: Wow, high-flying first quarter. This is intense. The way the Rockets have played on offense, they'd be destroying most teams during a typical regular season game. Kind of worries me. In other news, I'm realizing how hard blogging a freakin' basketball game is. Ready for a nap but will settle for a little break during 2nd quarter. Be back soon!
8:41 left in 1st quarter: Yao already has 9 points. They're going to him early and often. McMillian calls timeout. Expect them to adjust, possibly front Yao. How will the Rockets respond? Gotta minimize dribbling, maximize passing. Swing it to man at top of key, look for passing lanes to get it into Yao inside. Nothing there? Swing again to man on weakside, again look for passing lane to Yao, who should be moving back and forth between the lane. Here we go...
Coming out of timeout, Blazers go straight to Roy, who responds with 4 relatively easy buckets, going right by Artest each time. As good as Ron-Ron is, maybe we should switch Battier on him?
2:03 left in 1st Quarter: Blazers came hard, Rockets weathered the storm. Despite giving up quite a few buckets to Roy (who is a lot better than I thought), Artest looks a lot faster than he looked during regular season. Rockets are playing at a very high level. Coming out of this timeout, Rockets' bench will need to keep it up because Blazers are young and deep.
End of 1st Quarter: Wow, high-flying first quarter. This is intense. The way the Rockets have played on offense, they'd be destroying most teams during a typical regular season game. Kind of worries me. In other news, I'm realizing how hard blogging a freakin' basketball game is. Ready for a nap but will settle for a little break during 2nd quarter. Be back soon!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
NBA Playoffs
Yesterday, I questioned my blog and searched for a central theme. Saturday, the NBA Playoffs begin. How convenient. I'm set! I'm covering the playoffs, beyatches.
For starters, here is my Facebook status today:
Playoffs have arrived. Rockets. Blazers. Please post Yao up over and over again. If fronted, please swing the ball to weak side. Please give Barry (composure for 2nd unit), Deke (intensity), and Cook (shooting) just a little bit of court time to keep other guys fresh. Yes, I just pushed for a 12-man rotation. It's do or die! Please, please advance to round 2.
This is second time I've referenced a Facebook status on my blog. Wonder if this will be the norm of the world one day. We be gettin' dumbed down everyday this world turns. Don't believe me...just yesterday, there were tea parties all across our country, probably organized by same people who supported a trillion dollar war in Iraq. Something's gotta give, geniuses.
Ok, went off tangent, but I'll be focusing on NBA Playoffs during next few weeks. Rockets baby!
For starters, here is my Facebook status today:
Playoffs have arrived. Rockets. Blazers. Please post Yao up over and over again. If fronted, please swing the ball to weak side. Please give Barry (composure for 2nd unit), Deke (intensity), and Cook (shooting) just a little bit of court time to keep other guys fresh. Yes, I just pushed for a 12-man rotation. It's do or die! Please, please advance to round 2.
This is second time I've referenced a Facebook status on my blog. Wonder if this will be the norm of the world one day. We be gettin' dumbed down everyday this world turns. Don't believe me...just yesterday, there were tea parties all across our country, probably organized by same people who supported a trillion dollar war in Iraq. Something's gotta give, geniuses.
Ok, went off tangent, but I'll be focusing on NBA Playoffs during next few weeks. Rockets baby!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Questioning my Blog
Recently, I've had a very difficult time coming up with things I want to write about. Sooo, I asked a close friend what he thought about my dilemma and my blog in general. His response - "There's no structure. Nothing that pulls me in or leaves an impression." Ouch. Thanks Katutu.
In all honesty, I agree with Katutu. Just like my life, my blog needs structure. A central theme that holds it all together during thick and thin. Kind of like Phil Jackson's triangle offense.
When I find the theme I'm looking for, I'll be challenged to stick to the script. Let's see what happens...
PS - Suggestions are welcome.
In all honesty, I agree with Katutu. Just like my life, my blog needs structure. A central theme that holds it all together during thick and thin. Kind of like Phil Jackson's triangle offense.
When I find the theme I'm looking for, I'll be challenged to stick to the script. Let's see what happens...
PS - Suggestions are welcome.
Monday, March 30, 2009
A 36 Minute Wake-up Call
Ten days ago, Sumon ran three miles in 24 minutes - apparently his fastest time ever. He also happened to be racing me. Gee, thanks.
Needless to say, he beat me in the race...by a landslide. While I had no chance of beating 24 minutes, I definitely could've done better than the 36 minutes that I was clocked at. So, in addition to the embarassment of having to make eye contact with Sumon and Bindie at the finish line (where they had a full twelve minutes to celebrate his victory before I showed up), I also had to spend my drive from Memorial Park back to Sugar Land reflecting on the debacle that had just happened. I looked in the rearview mirror (symbolism!) and vowed to begin exercising and eating healthier once again.
Ten days later, and I am doing much better. The day after our race, I picked up bananas, apples, oranges, and wheat bread from the grocery store. Also, after not stepping inside a gym for more than a year, I started lifting weights again. Must admit that weights help me with posture and flexibility more than I tend to give them credit for. They just make me more aware of the form/functionality of my various muscle groups which helps me stretch them out.
Next up, Sumon and I will take part in a leisurely game of tennis. From there, we'll move to the football field to find out who can pump their quads faster in a spirited 40-yard dash. After completing two events in our epic 10-month decathlon, we have each been embarassed once. Time to turn up the heat!
Needless to say, he beat me in the race...by a landslide. While I had no chance of beating 24 minutes, I definitely could've done better than the 36 minutes that I was clocked at. So, in addition to the embarassment of having to make eye contact with Sumon and Bindie at the finish line (where they had a full twelve minutes to celebrate his victory before I showed up), I also had to spend my drive from Memorial Park back to Sugar Land reflecting on the debacle that had just happened. I looked in the rearview mirror (symbolism!) and vowed to begin exercising and eating healthier once again.
Ten days later, and I am doing much better. The day after our race, I picked up bananas, apples, oranges, and wheat bread from the grocery store. Also, after not stepping inside a gym for more than a year, I started lifting weights again. Must admit that weights help me with posture and flexibility more than I tend to give them credit for. They just make me more aware of the form/functionality of my various muscle groups which helps me stretch them out.
Next up, Sumon and I will take part in a leisurely game of tennis. From there, we'll move to the football field to find out who can pump their quads faster in a spirited 40-yard dash. After completing two events in our epic 10-month decathlon, we have each been embarassed once. Time to turn up the heat!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Zen and the Art of Disassembling a Bike
A year or two ago I read Robert Pirsig's "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance". Overall, I enjoyed the book but admit that it was REALLY confusing at times. Rather than dismiss the dude as a whack-job, I left the book thinking that I might've been missing some of the points he was trying to make. Maybe our brains were just on different wavelengths, or maybe I just needed to go through experiences more similiar to his in order to better grasp his ideas. This weekend...just a little part of that mission accomplished.
On Saturday, I woke up around noon with what wasn't really a hangover but more of a "sluggish feeling" from drinking into the wee hours of the previous night. Despite this, I was focused on getting up and making it to Workshop Houston (http://www.workshophouston.org/), where I had committed to an hour of volunteering in their bike shop. Slowly but surely, I bathed, got dressed, ate brunch, and made my way (with Jennifer, poor thing) over to the shop.
Ok, after telling them I'd be there at 1 PM, I didn't actually show up until 3 PM. But at least I made it, right?
Anyways, after brief introductions, I started off by disassembling one of their donated bikes under the guidance of a more experienced volunteer. Slowly but surely, I completely stripped the old, raggedy bike down to its core. Off came the gears, handlebars, brakes, tires, everything! We threw ALL of the parts into a bucket and then arranged them into their rightful spots around the workshop so that they can be used to build new bikes in the future.
Seriously awesome experience that provided me with a deeper appreciation for the art of bike-design and only furthered my interest in getting more involved in the "bike-world". If this does develop into a full-fledged passion, I already have visions of being a bike advocate in Houston, both educating citizens on the benefits of biking and pushing for city government to make the city more bike-friendly. I might even want to open my own bike shop down the road. Dreamin' again...I like it!
Last, but surely not least, there was a moment in the workshop, when I was simply loosening a screw of all things, that I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness. I was just really thrilled with the idea of learning about bikes, an engineering marvel, so up close and personal. And no joke, I thought back to "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" and what I perceived to be part of Pirsig's message. Rather than just consuming "final products", take time to play around with the very tools and machinery that produce that product. Get right into the middle of a bike or motorcycle, meddle around a little, and you just might find your mind settling into a peaceful, meditative state. Aha!
On Saturday, I woke up around noon with what wasn't really a hangover but more of a "sluggish feeling" from drinking into the wee hours of the previous night. Despite this, I was focused on getting up and making it to Workshop Houston (http://www.workshophouston.org/), where I had committed to an hour of volunteering in their bike shop. Slowly but surely, I bathed, got dressed, ate brunch, and made my way (with Jennifer, poor thing) over to the shop.
Ok, after telling them I'd be there at 1 PM, I didn't actually show up until 3 PM. But at least I made it, right?
Anyways, after brief introductions, I started off by disassembling one of their donated bikes under the guidance of a more experienced volunteer. Slowly but surely, I completely stripped the old, raggedy bike down to its core. Off came the gears, handlebars, brakes, tires, everything! We threw ALL of the parts into a bucket and then arranged them into their rightful spots around the workshop so that they can be used to build new bikes in the future.
Seriously awesome experience that provided me with a deeper appreciation for the art of bike-design and only furthered my interest in getting more involved in the "bike-world". If this does develop into a full-fledged passion, I already have visions of being a bike advocate in Houston, both educating citizens on the benefits of biking and pushing for city government to make the city more bike-friendly. I might even want to open my own bike shop down the road. Dreamin' again...I like it!
Last, but surely not least, there was a moment in the workshop, when I was simply loosening a screw of all things, that I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness. I was just really thrilled with the idea of learning about bikes, an engineering marvel, so up close and personal. And no joke, I thought back to "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" and what I perceived to be part of Pirsig's message. Rather than just consuming "final products", take time to play around with the very tools and machinery that produce that product. Get right into the middle of a bike or motorcycle, meddle around a little, and you just might find your mind settling into a peaceful, meditative state. Aha!
Monday, March 16, 2009
A Seamlessly Drunk Transition
2:48 A.M. I admit, I'm drunk. Shoot me. It's the easiest time to sit down and write, especially when you know the whole world is going to read your thoughts. Fine, in my case, maybe 5 people at most. But still, this is life beyatch! Damn, maybe I'm succumbing to the pressures of being a blog writer and throwing in the towel right now. I don't know.
Anyways, I'm the first to admit that I've done a lousy job keeping up with this blog. In all honesty, I'm barely writing at all these days. Even my personal, leather-bound journal (yes, I just said that) has been collecting dust during the last few weeks, and I think I know why. Quite simply, life is a lot easier in Htown, Texas than in Brooklyn, NY. Down here, I got my family (love you Mom!), my woman (hi Jenn!), my boys (wat up OKG!), and no rent (holy toledo!).
Less stress = less need for escape = less writing. I just don't have as much stress to release anymore. Ok, there are other things too. For one, it was much easier writing on the subway (NYC) versus writing while driving (Htown). Also, per my recent Facebook update, I'm taking my future seriously again. Thus, a reallocation of time to job search, grad school apps, and networking.
I'd like to sit here and say I'm somewhat perplexed about the situation, act like I'm a little down about being in a more "comfortable", less creative state. But honestly, for now at least, I'm not. I feel like I spent a good chunk of my four years in New York City running away from stability and, through that, learned a lot of great life lessons. In a strange way, I wanted chaos, though I admit I could only handle so much (freakin' pus*y!). However, eventually I reached a point where it felt like I was just running in place. Same way I felt at the end of my five years in Austin. Knew it was time to bounce.
Not sure this makes any sense to anyone besides me, but I don't really give a sh*t. Ok, ok, I do. Otherwise, I wouldn't be writing this blog. Either way, I am really happy in Houston, Texas. In a weird way, I feel more liberated here than I did at the end of my time in New York City, which is really strange for me to grasp at times. Doubt I would've felt like this had I never left Texas in the first place, so hallelujah for NYC! Love that damn city and still haven't gotten over it completely, but I've definitely moved on much quicker than I thought I would. I'm a born-again H-towner looking forward to continuing to move forward here. Holla!
Anyways, I'm the first to admit that I've done a lousy job keeping up with this blog. In all honesty, I'm barely writing at all these days. Even my personal, leather-bound journal (yes, I just said that) has been collecting dust during the last few weeks, and I think I know why. Quite simply, life is a lot easier in Htown, Texas than in Brooklyn, NY. Down here, I got my family (love you Mom!), my woman (hi Jenn!), my boys (wat up OKG!), and no rent (holy toledo!).
Less stress = less need for escape = less writing. I just don't have as much stress to release anymore. Ok, there are other things too. For one, it was much easier writing on the subway (NYC) versus writing while driving (Htown). Also, per my recent Facebook update, I'm taking my future seriously again. Thus, a reallocation of time to job search, grad school apps, and networking.
I'd like to sit here and say I'm somewhat perplexed about the situation, act like I'm a little down about being in a more "comfortable", less creative state. But honestly, for now at least, I'm not. I feel like I spent a good chunk of my four years in New York City running away from stability and, through that, learned a lot of great life lessons. In a strange way, I wanted chaos, though I admit I could only handle so much (freakin' pus*y!). However, eventually I reached a point where it felt like I was just running in place. Same way I felt at the end of my five years in Austin. Knew it was time to bounce.
Not sure this makes any sense to anyone besides me, but I don't really give a sh*t. Ok, ok, I do. Otherwise, I wouldn't be writing this blog. Either way, I am really happy in Houston, Texas. In a weird way, I feel more liberated here than I did at the end of my time in New York City, which is really strange for me to grasp at times. Doubt I would've felt like this had I never left Texas in the first place, so hallelujah for NYC! Love that damn city and still haven't gotten over it completely, but I've definitely moved on much quicker than I thought I would. I'm a born-again H-towner looking forward to continuing to move forward here. Holla!
Monday, March 2, 2009
Mickey Rourke - Interesting Dude
Just finished watching one of my favorite programs, The Tavis Smiley Show, on PBS. Tonight's guest was Mickey Rourke. Great interview and very interesting dude.
In all honesty, I was fairly ignorant of Rourke's story before tonight. Other than remembering a short clip about him in a movie, Tupac: Resurrection, I don't remember watching any of his movies or knowing much about his history. After watching the interview tonight, I was intrigued in learning more about him and his recent, highly-acclaimed movie, The Wrestler.
Sooo, after a little Wikipedia researching and Youtube perusing, I came to learn that the talented actor left show business in 1991 after declining several major roles, rubbing certain directors the wrong way, and hoping to feel better about himself by switching from acting to boxing (his childhood sport). 39 years old and starting a boxing career - wow.
During his hiatus from acting, Rourke lost his wife, career, and money. Even after trying to return to acting in 1995, it wasn't until 2008, with The Wrestler, that he really returned to the glory days of yesteryear. THIRTEEN YEARS to get back on top. In the interview with Tavis, Rourke talks about always believing he'd get his life back but never realizing it'd take so long.
In the end, Rourke is just an actor returning to the top of a glamorous world. Nonetheless, I'm intrigued, as I usually am with people like him. Besides loving his story of redemption, I'm fascinated by people who run away from their "God-given talent" in the first place. In so many ways, I admire the human spirit that becomes so petrified of "stable life" that it does everything in its power to avoid it. Bumps, bruises, and emotional pitfalls take the stage, just so that person can continue experiencing the thrill of jumping off cliffs and having no clue how his or her story may end.
Having said all of this, there is a potentially depressing reality of running from talent - the chance one never regains it and simply fades into oblivion. But maybe that's just life.
PS - You can catch interview here - http://www.pbs.org/kcet/tavissmiley/archive/200903/20090302.html
In all honesty, I was fairly ignorant of Rourke's story before tonight. Other than remembering a short clip about him in a movie, Tupac: Resurrection, I don't remember watching any of his movies or knowing much about his history. After watching the interview tonight, I was intrigued in learning more about him and his recent, highly-acclaimed movie, The Wrestler.
Sooo, after a little Wikipedia researching and Youtube perusing, I came to learn that the talented actor left show business in 1991 after declining several major roles, rubbing certain directors the wrong way, and hoping to feel better about himself by switching from acting to boxing (his childhood sport). 39 years old and starting a boxing career - wow.
During his hiatus from acting, Rourke lost his wife, career, and money. Even after trying to return to acting in 1995, it wasn't until 2008, with The Wrestler, that he really returned to the glory days of yesteryear. THIRTEEN YEARS to get back on top. In the interview with Tavis, Rourke talks about always believing he'd get his life back but never realizing it'd take so long.
In the end, Rourke is just an actor returning to the top of a glamorous world. Nonetheless, I'm intrigued, as I usually am with people like him. Besides loving his story of redemption, I'm fascinated by people who run away from their "God-given talent" in the first place. In so many ways, I admire the human spirit that becomes so petrified of "stable life" that it does everything in its power to avoid it. Bumps, bruises, and emotional pitfalls take the stage, just so that person can continue experiencing the thrill of jumping off cliffs and having no clue how his or her story may end.
Having said all of this, there is a potentially depressing reality of running from talent - the chance one never regains it and simply fades into oblivion. But maybe that's just life.
PS - You can catch interview here - http://www.pbs.org/kcet/tavissmiley/archive/200903/20090302.html
Monday, February 16, 2009
Close Call
This past Friday, before my trip to Austin, I witnessed a pretty scary car accident in Houston...
I was on the very inside, left lane at a red light waiting to turn left. On my right, there was a truck also waiting to turn left (both lanes could turn left).
So, I'm looking down at my radio when I notice the truck moving in the corner of my eye (he's beginning to turn left from the outer lane). This causes me to look up and realize the protected left green arrow has come on. So, I take my foot off the brake and begin turning as well (in the inner left lane).
Next thing I see, right in front of me, is a white sedan slamming into the truck. The truck flies into the air, crashes into the road, and then flips onto its driver side. So, the driver is pinned on the ground, with the driver-side door the only thing between him and the concrete. My brain is absolutely racing right now - what the fu*k just happened?!?
A few of us ran out of our cars, called 9-1-1, and did our best to get the situation under control (comfort the truck driver through his windshield, direct traffic, etc) as we waited for police and rescue crews to come. After arriving, firefighters cut through the truck's windshield to pull the driver out and luckily, other than being in shock and trying to make sense of what had just happened to him, the guy seemed to be okay for the most part. We then provided eyewitness testimonies to police that we definitely had a protected left, which meant the white sedan had probably driven through a red light...and then went on our way.
Anyways, just wanted to share this to remind people to be very careful driving. Even when a light turns green, please take a second to make sure no cars are racing through the intersection, and more importantly, please don't try to beat yellow lights - it's just not worth it.
So relieved that I was looking down at my radio for a split second when our light turned green and hope the truck driver is doing okay wherever he is.
I was on the very inside, left lane at a red light waiting to turn left. On my right, there was a truck also waiting to turn left (both lanes could turn left).
So, I'm looking down at my radio when I notice the truck moving in the corner of my eye (he's beginning to turn left from the outer lane). This causes me to look up and realize the protected left green arrow has come on. So, I take my foot off the brake and begin turning as well (in the inner left lane).
Next thing I see, right in front of me, is a white sedan slamming into the truck. The truck flies into the air, crashes into the road, and then flips onto its driver side. So, the driver is pinned on the ground, with the driver-side door the only thing between him and the concrete. My brain is absolutely racing right now - what the fu*k just happened?!?
A few of us ran out of our cars, called 9-1-1, and did our best to get the situation under control (comfort the truck driver through his windshield, direct traffic, etc) as we waited for police and rescue crews to come. After arriving, firefighters cut through the truck's windshield to pull the driver out and luckily, other than being in shock and trying to make sense of what had just happened to him, the guy seemed to be okay for the most part. We then provided eyewitness testimonies to police that we definitely had a protected left, which meant the white sedan had probably driven through a red light...and then went on our way.
Anyways, just wanted to share this to remind people to be very careful driving. Even when a light turns green, please take a second to make sure no cars are racing through the intersection, and more importantly, please don't try to beat yellow lights - it's just not worth it.
So relieved that I was looking down at my radio for a split second when our light turned green and hope the truck driver is doing okay wherever he is.
Friday, February 13, 2009
At Peace in Austin, TX
I'm in Austin this weekend for a very chill weekend with Jennifer and her siblings. I love coming back here, a place where I learned so much about life, especially the art of striving to be free as a bird :)
Despite my love for Austin, I must admit that I've been a little over-cynical during post-college trips back here. Sure, I still love this city inside-out, but I also tend to overanalyze and be critical of how much the city has changed from when I lived here. This time around, I'm finally being a good sport and just accepting the fact that this city has moved on without me (sniff, sniff). Quite simply, Austin has a new (and bigger) flock of Austinites and will continue to grow and reinvent itself with each passing day, just as it did while I was here.
Tomorrow, we're planning to run at Town Lake, waste an hour or two at one of my favorite coffee spots (Jo's), and then grab a simple dinner somewhere in north Austin. After all is said and done, we'll probably be home for the night an hour or two before midnight. So, just as Austin has evolved, so have I, and I'm coming to realize I should be happy that neither of us remained too stagnant over the years.
Ahh, at peace in Austin, Texas - just the way I remember this place...
- Peeing next to dumpsters behind Sixth Street bars
- Puking next to aforementioned dumpsters so that I could return to bars and drink more
- Taking a dump inside the women's bathroom at Aquarium. Wait. What? Huh? Nevermind.
- Running out of gas and trying to jump in an Accord while pushing it down a hill with three of my closest and dumbest friends
Hmm, maybe I was one of the people bringing Austin down. Thus, time to sit back, shut my mouth, and just enjoy this city for all of its natural and man-made beauty.
Long live Austin, Texas & Hook 'Em!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Obama's Economic Stimulus Package
Just watched Obama's video on Economic Recovery plan - http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/recoveryvid
How impressive has this guy been? Coming into our living rooms via internet to keep us updated on what's going on in our nation's capital?!! Truly incredible.
Furthermore, he says there will be a site, http://www.recovery.gov, that goes live as soon as the bill is passed.
Contrary to what my previous blog post may have suggested, I am for the stimulus package. Just hope our country focuses on "smart growth", in which fair labor, fair trade, and environmental standards take precedence over big corporations controlling everything.
Speaking of environmental friendliness, I visited Discovery Green for the first time this weekend. Very exciting to see Houston moving in such a positive direction. I hope to explore the park and maybe even write about it more in the future.
How impressive has this guy been? Coming into our living rooms via internet to keep us updated on what's going on in our nation's capital?!! Truly incredible.
Furthermore, he says there will be a site, http://www.recovery.gov, that goes live as soon as the bill is passed.
Contrary to what my previous blog post may have suggested, I am for the stimulus package. Just hope our country focuses on "smart growth", in which fair labor, fair trade, and environmental standards take precedence over big corporations controlling everything.
Speaking of environmental friendliness, I visited Discovery Green for the first time this weekend. Very exciting to see Houston moving in such a positive direction. I hope to explore the park and maybe even write about it more in the future.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Is more growth really the answer?
I know the U.S. economy has gone through some ups and downs, but I don't remember it ever being as bad as it is right now. When a recession hits, conventional thought tells us that righting the ship involves getting our economy back to a "growth phase".
Maybe I'm being a little naive here, but I tend to question how much more growth is really possible in both our country and certain parts of the world (remote, third-world areas excluded).
Breaking it down in real-life, practical terms, I'll provide a small glimpse into some of the things I see when roaming around the concrete slab we like to call Houston:
Maybe I'm being a little naive here, but I tend to question how much more growth is really possible in both our country and certain parts of the world (remote, third-world areas excluded).
Breaking it down in real-life, practical terms, I'll provide a small glimpse into some of the things I see when roaming around the concrete slab we like to call Houston:
- Strip mall
- Megafreeway
- Infinite number of street lights
- Megamall
- Gigantic houses
- Strip mall next to megamall
- Countless number of bars and restaurants
- Endless array of cars and gas stations pumping them up
- Coffee shop dwellers and their laptops
- List goes on and on....
Creating and sustaining these different entities already takes up a lot of energy and manpower. At some point, it was only natural to think we'd reach a saturation point where there would be less need/consumption of them.
For starters, we'll look at megamalls. Current news and consumer spending reports show that malls are empty right now. Quite simply, consumers aren't buying anything. Hasn't this retail slowdown been long overdue? How long could our nation's kids continue buying designer-name clothing in the name of "back-to-school" shopping? Aren't there already enough clothes in circulation that our closets have reached their tipping points?
Ok, ok, obviously I'm a big mall hater, but let's move the argument against malls and "growth" even further. Who does a mall really serve? Land developer - check. Fast food owners in food court - check. Donald Trump (selling his line of clothes inside department stores) - check. Owner of Visible Changes - check.
Why is it so important for us to re-grow our retail sector so that the aforementioned parties make more money and build more megamalls on our precious land?
Ok, ok, now you're thinking I'm completely oblivious to all of the people losing jobs when a mall or corporation shuts down. Believe me, I care about people losing their jobs, but I also wonder if we've been living one way for so long that we have trouble seeing the long-term benefits of letting these companies fail and replacing them with "alternative" models that benefit more people (including those losing their jobs).
Just imagine that mall being one big and juicy organic farm that feeds a whole community of people fresh fruits and vegetables, both making us healthier and eliminating the waste of fuel that occurs everytime foods are shipped cross-country or store-to-store. With self-sustaining communities, maybe our whole idea of "jobs" and "employment" gets thrown out the window. Instead, we stop caring about designer clothes, start eating healthier, and build closer-knit communities in the process.
Maybe I'm a dreamer...maybe I'm a socialist...maybe I'm just way over my head in trying to figure out this economy. In the end, I'm just not convinced that "growth", in the conventional sense, is the answer to our country's current economic dilemma. A shift to conservative, self-sustaining communities that better utilize and distribute resources might be a better long-term solution for all of us.
For now, that's all I got. Wrapping one's head around the U.S. economy is no easy task. I just know I prefer organic tomatoes over kung pao chicken. Well, sometimes.
Friday, January 30, 2009
20 DVDs recommendations in under 2 minutes
For the second time in my last three blog entries, I am resorting to cutting and pasting from an old email to keep this blog going. Survival is key!
This time, I present 20 DVDs that have my stamp of approval. In parentheses, my one-line review/thoughts of each video.
This time, I present 20 DVDs that have my stamp of approval. In parentheses, my one-line review/thoughts of each video.
- persepolis (awesome and enlightening comic strip. dvd extra = press conference = A+)
- into the wild [don't we all wanna escape sometimes? soundtrack (lots of vedder) is incredible - especially if you're lost in life!]
- american gangster (denzel and crowe at their finest - powerful stuff)
- michael clayton (clooney takes on corporate giant with beautiful northeast feel/backdrop)
- 25th hour (few capture nyc's spirit like spike lee. ed norton's frustration-infested diatribe is classic)
- march of the penguins (ok, mother nature is seriously freakin' amazing)
- juno (amazing cast and dialogue. cast interviews on youtube are cool too - who knew jason bateman was so funny?!)
- gone baby gone (bean town thriller)
- arthur (dude is a straight alcoholic - cracked me up! superb acting and cool 80s nyc feel)
- batman begins (just rewatched it - so inspiring!)
- born into brothels (kids from the motherland. so sad yet so empowering. human spirit is amazing. cried at end.)
- sicko (america's healthcare fiasco - get rid of private health insurance companies!)
- saving face (lesbians/asian americans/generation struggle/nyc. light and funny. joan chen is gorgeous.)
- arrested development - tv series (who knew jason bateman was so funny?!)
- weeds - tv series (mary-louise parker - who said suburbia can't produce strong, beautiful women?)
- devil wears prada (nothing wrong with a good chick flick. hathaway is brilliant.)
- hoop dreams (long but good. hardwood struggle in chitown)
- menace II society ('what the fu*k you say about my mama?!' made 10-year old vilas want to be a gangster).
- fellowship of the ring (life-changer. at some point, you just gotta get out there and run for your life!)
- garden state (sometimes, we spend so much time trying to build new, fairy-tale lives in faraway lands that we simply overlook all the great people and things lurking around our own childhood backyards)
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Democracy - WHOA
It's official. Obama is Prez!
As exciting as that is, I must say that seeing Bush fly off in a helicopter was one of the more remarkable scenes I've ever witnessed. This dude was as Big Brother as they come, but even he and his cronies couldn't beat out democracy. During the last eight years, there were times, especially when most of our country fanatically supported an invasion of Iraq, that I truly thought our country was heading down an ignorance-infested path of no return.
To me, U.S. democracy had become a big lie, just another marketing slogan in a country already watered down by corporate interests and big money. If our country's citizens were uneducated enough to support an Iraq war, Guantanamo Bay, and the Patriot Act, how in the world were we ever going to right this ship? I thought there was a very good chance the dumb would get dumber, the rich would get richer, and right-wing, neo-conservatives would continue to use these two principles plus fear-invoking propaganda to run our country in the same fashion for the next 40-50 years. Heck, I even wondered if George W. might, in the name of the "War on Terror", extend his term limits to become a 50-year ruler (see Mayor Bloomberg of New York).
In the end, Obama is in, Bush out. Up to this point in my life, today offered the most clear-cut picture of democracy at work. As Sachin said to me, "Peaceful transfer of power. Pretty amazing concept."
Now, let's get these next eight years right...
As exciting as that is, I must say that seeing Bush fly off in a helicopter was one of the more remarkable scenes I've ever witnessed. This dude was as Big Brother as they come, but even he and his cronies couldn't beat out democracy. During the last eight years, there were times, especially when most of our country fanatically supported an invasion of Iraq, that I truly thought our country was heading down an ignorance-infested path of no return.
To me, U.S. democracy had become a big lie, just another marketing slogan in a country already watered down by corporate interests and big money. If our country's citizens were uneducated enough to support an Iraq war, Guantanamo Bay, and the Patriot Act, how in the world were we ever going to right this ship? I thought there was a very good chance the dumb would get dumber, the rich would get richer, and right-wing, neo-conservatives would continue to use these two principles plus fear-invoking propaganda to run our country in the same fashion for the next 40-50 years. Heck, I even wondered if George W. might, in the name of the "War on Terror", extend his term limits to become a 50-year ruler (see Mayor Bloomberg of New York).
In the end, Obama is in, Bush out. Up to this point in my life, today offered the most clear-cut picture of democracy at work. As Sachin said to me, "Peaceful transfer of power. Pretty amazing concept."
Now, let's get these next eight years right...
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Palin scared the hell out of me!
With America only one day away from history, I thought it would be fitting to simply cut and paste an email written by me to a fellow "liberal" on Sept 3, 2008 (one day after Palin caused mass hysteria at the RNC Convention). As you can see, I was terrified.
your reply is littered w/ logic - doesn't really account for much w/ certain segments of this country's population.
seeing how quickly GOP was able to shift some of the nation's chatter from economy/war to abortion issue by bringing in a VP w/ a pregnant teenage daughter scares me a little and makes me wonder what else they have up their sleeves.
and we're only 5 days into the palin selection. somewhere down the road, you know abortion issue is going to be front and center in presidential debate, and i think it's safe to say mccain knew this could happen w/ palin. unfortunately, there is still a HUGE segment of the population ready to vote on nothing else but abortion. GOP will be ready to use it to their advantage and know it will be very difficult for two men (obama/biden) to pose much of an opposing dialogue against palin on the issue.
as far as having a child w/ down's syndrome and then trying to juggle responsibilities of being VP - again, too much logic. GOP can crush that argument pretty easily - "look at these democrats, always talking about equality...yet they can't handle a mother in the white house. don't tell us what a mother can or can't do - this is america!" - yes, its that easy.
finally, texted you last night while watching segments of republican convention. intro video was about a soldier in iraq. obviously, they were painting him as a war hero who sacrificed his life for his country, then they came back to convention and gave a standing ovation for soldier's sister and brothers who were in attendance. i realized how much this war crap still resonates with people, and they can still grab people's attention with it.
PS - While the end of my email may sound harsh, in no way do I mean to belittle a soldier or any other person's life. Instead, I was referring to the manner in which RNC glorified war in their campaign and the particular video in question.
your reply is littered w/ logic - doesn't really account for much w/ certain segments of this country's population.
seeing how quickly GOP was able to shift some of the nation's chatter from economy/war to abortion issue by bringing in a VP w/ a pregnant teenage daughter scares me a little and makes me wonder what else they have up their sleeves.
and we're only 5 days into the palin selection. somewhere down the road, you know abortion issue is going to be front and center in presidential debate, and i think it's safe to say mccain knew this could happen w/ palin. unfortunately, there is still a HUGE segment of the population ready to vote on nothing else but abortion. GOP will be ready to use it to their advantage and know it will be very difficult for two men (obama/biden) to pose much of an opposing dialogue against palin on the issue.
as far as having a child w/ down's syndrome and then trying to juggle responsibilities of being VP - again, too much logic. GOP can crush that argument pretty easily - "look at these democrats, always talking about equality...yet they can't handle a mother in the white house. don't tell us what a mother can or can't do - this is america!" - yes, its that easy.
finally, texted you last night while watching segments of republican convention. intro video was about a soldier in iraq. obviously, they were painting him as a war hero who sacrificed his life for his country, then they came back to convention and gave a standing ovation for soldier's sister and brothers who were in attendance. i realized how much this war crap still resonates with people, and they can still grab people's attention with it.
PS - While the end of my email may sound harsh, in no way do I mean to belittle a soldier or any other person's life. Instead, I was referring to the manner in which RNC glorified war in their campaign and the particular video in question.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Staying the Course
Man, I started off 2009 so well. Stayed in by myself on New Year's night, then had very deep meditation sessions on both January 1st and 2nd. I've realized that meditation is probably the highest priority in my life. Few things put me in such a peaceful and sometimes euphoric state of mind. Today, I skipped meditation in the morning to eat brunch with my sisters and family friends, then explored Htown some before settling into drunken fun for Keval's birthday. Good times indeed.
Nonetheless, something is missing. I need to meditate and be away from alcohol for a longer period of time than just three or four days. I know myself well enough to know that my soul is yearning for a purpose right now. Furthermore, I think that abstaining from alcohol and reaching deep meditative states give me the best opportunity to find what I'm looking for and be the person that I truly I want to be. Back to square one tomorrow...grrr, life's always a little bigger beyatch than I can handle.
Nonetheless, something is missing. I need to meditate and be away from alcohol for a longer period of time than just three or four days. I know myself well enough to know that my soul is yearning for a purpose right now. Furthermore, I think that abstaining from alcohol and reaching deep meditative states give me the best opportunity to find what I'm looking for and be the person that I truly I want to be. Back to square one tomorrow...grrr, life's always a little bigger beyatch than I can handle.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)