When Mickey Mantle passed away in 1995, I vividly recalled a poignant eulogy delivered by that great sportscaster Bob Costas.
You can view the text to this eulogy by clicking on this blog's title.
This eulogy evokes such strong and lasting emotions and memories. Though I am not a Yankee fan and was too young to see Mantle play in his prime, his career obviously had an impact on many. My boyhood hero was Carl Yastremski who held his bat high over his head and took a "ferocious cut" at a pitch to his liking. I, too, emulated his stance, his mannerisms, his home plate routine, and that "ferocious cut" as described by Curt Gowdy. I used to enjoy watching the great Hank Aaron bring his batting helmet to the plate and put it on there. How about Willie Stargell's twirling his bat as a timing mechanim? Or, Joe Morgan's flapping his left arm as the pitcher went into his delivery motion? There so many other lasting memories of great players.
Maybe it's just me, but I feel as if baseball and perhaps professional sports overall has lost some of its allure.
Baseball, to me and like many things in life, has some lost its nostalgia, its allure, and its magic. In reality, it is hard to root for millionaires when some live extravagant and sometimes controversial lifestyles. I recall hearing that the Yankees cut Mantle's salary a year after he won the coveted Triple Crown of baseball because his numbers went down. That does not happen in today's world of guaranteed contracts. Hard to believe that some of these millionaires charge top dollar for autographs at card signing shows.
Yet, I still find myself reaching for that box score, actually surfing for that boxscore and perusing the Boston Globe for player updates. Maybe I am clinging to baseball like I am clinging to my youth knowing that it is fleeting yet clinging anyway.
Happy New Year to all! And, to the baseball fans everywhere: 49 days until pitchers and catcher report.
"The Times They Are a-Changing" by Bob Dylan
If one reflects upon the changes that the internet and technology has fostered on our society, it is truly remarkable: decline of the newspaper and magazine industry; reduced usage of first class mail; the reduction in use of land phone lines; musical CDs replaced by music downloads; e-commerce; smart phones; iPods; Amazon's Kindle; Hallmark e-cards; on-line banking; etc. Some believe that on-line shopping will dramatically impact the shopping malls as we know them.
US industry giants such as GM and IBM have been truly humbled. In Richmond, Circuit City has fallen, S&K is practically gone. Ukrops has been sold.
The pace of change is just as dramatic. Take Dell computers which ascended meteorically as the top PC maker status only to drop back behind HP a few years later.
Many lament and fear the change. That is understandable. But, inside change there is such opportunity. I see a tremendous opportunity for entrepreneurs once the electric car displaces cars powered by fossil fuels. Can you imagine a rest stop along the interstate to charge your electric car battery, recharge your mobile devices, and sit in a WiFi cafe to enjoy a cup of coffee or a bit to eat? Think of the possibilities!
And, think of how we can impact our environment by finally ridding ourselves of carbon emitting vehicles.
2009 was a very difficult year. But, the American innovative spirit and opportunity for entrepeneurs will enable us to develop that new technology to usher in a new era of growth and prosperity. We, as individuals, just need to have the right mindset and prepare ourselves to embrace those changes instead of resisting them.
US industry giants such as GM and IBM have been truly humbled. In Richmond, Circuit City has fallen, S&K is practically gone. Ukrops has been sold.
The pace of change is just as dramatic. Take Dell computers which ascended meteorically as the top PC maker status only to drop back behind HP a few years later.
Many lament and fear the change. That is understandable. But, inside change there is such opportunity. I see a tremendous opportunity for entrepreneurs once the electric car displaces cars powered by fossil fuels. Can you imagine a rest stop along the interstate to charge your electric car battery, recharge your mobile devices, and sit in a WiFi cafe to enjoy a cup of coffee or a bit to eat? Think of the possibilities!
And, think of how we can impact our environment by finally ridding ourselves of carbon emitting vehicles.
2009 was a very difficult year. But, the American innovative spirit and opportunity for entrepeneurs will enable us to develop that new technology to usher in a new era of growth and prosperity. We, as individuals, just need to have the right mindset and prepare ourselves to embrace those changes instead of resisting them.
How about an asterisk here?
When Roger Maris broke Babe Ruth's regular season home runs record by hitting 61 in 1961, there was call for the asterisk in the records books. Babe Ruth hit 60 HRs when teams played 154 games. Maris 61 HRs spanned 162 games.
Being a lifelong RedSox fan, I naturally look to find issues with the Yankees. The RedSox have certainly spent their share of money over the years and have incurred a luxury tax a few times themselves. The 2009 World Champions have to pay a hefty luxury tax for amassing such a huge payroll this year. Click the link embedded in the title, above, for the details.
Seems to me that there should be an outcry for "the asterisk" indicating the 2009 championship incurred a substantial luxury tax.
Further, the NFL has a hard salary gap that fosters parity so that small market teams such as Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis are major contenders and championship winners (Pittsburgh and Indianapolis). The Yankees are the poster child that cries for a MLB salary cap.
Barry Bonds has disappeared from sports world as his breaking the revered Hank Aaron's all-time HR record was tainted and overshadowed with doubt. Though spending tons of money to win a championship does not rise to the level of steroid use, doesn't such behavior turn fan away from the game?
Teams should NOT be allowed to spend at will to buy a championship in any sport. There should be a level playing field. After all, Americans tend to stress fairness and favor the underdog.
If MLB does not want to impose a hard salary cap, they should at least consider the asterisk for the Yankees or any other team that wins a championship by thumbing their nose at spending limits.
Being a lifelong RedSox fan, I naturally look to find issues with the Yankees. The RedSox have certainly spent their share of money over the years and have incurred a luxury tax a few times themselves. The 2009 World Champions have to pay a hefty luxury tax for amassing such a huge payroll this year. Click the link embedded in the title, above, for the details.
Seems to me that there should be an outcry for "the asterisk" indicating the 2009 championship incurred a substantial luxury tax.
Further, the NFL has a hard salary gap that fosters parity so that small market teams such as Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis are major contenders and championship winners (Pittsburgh and Indianapolis). The Yankees are the poster child that cries for a MLB salary cap.
Barry Bonds has disappeared from sports world as his breaking the revered Hank Aaron's all-time HR record was tainted and overshadowed with doubt. Though spending tons of money to win a championship does not rise to the level of steroid use, doesn't such behavior turn fan away from the game?
Teams should NOT be allowed to spend at will to buy a championship in any sport. There should be a level playing field. After all, Americans tend to stress fairness and favor the underdog.
If MLB does not want to impose a hard salary cap, they should at least consider the asterisk for the Yankees or any other team that wins a championship by thumbing their nose at spending limits.
"Teach Your Children..." by Crosby, Still, Nash & Young (not a law firm)
I first heard this song at one of many high school graduation events in 1976. You can view the history of this song via clicking on "Teach Your Children...", above.
Recently, I was at a local Subway buying subs for my mother-in-law and me. As I was approaching the door, a family of about 7 got up and headed for the door as well. As I was waiting for all family members to clear and get out through the door, the youngest child, a boy, pushed in front of me to discard something in the trash bin. I was waiting for an "excuse me" from the child or at least one of the parents to instruct the child to say "excuse me". Much to my disappointment, particularly attributable to the parents, no "excuse me" ever came.
In the parking lot, I heard another child, a girl, arguing with her parents but the both of them seemed to have found her amusing.
It saddens me that our society has lost some or perhaps much of its graciousness toward one another. We see it in the malls, on our roads, and elsehwere. Some parents, as in this case I experienced, seem to have forgotten to teach manners to their children. Also, I regret not saying anything to the parents for this oversight.
I believe it all starts with the parents to "teach your children" well.
Recently, I was at a local Subway buying subs for my mother-in-law and me. As I was approaching the door, a family of about 7 got up and headed for the door as well. As I was waiting for all family members to clear and get out through the door, the youngest child, a boy, pushed in front of me to discard something in the trash bin. I was waiting for an "excuse me" from the child or at least one of the parents to instruct the child to say "excuse me". Much to my disappointment, particularly attributable to the parents, no "excuse me" ever came.
In the parking lot, I heard another child, a girl, arguing with her parents but the both of them seemed to have found her amusing.
It saddens me that our society has lost some or perhaps much of its graciousness toward one another. We see it in the malls, on our roads, and elsehwere. Some parents, as in this case I experienced, seem to have forgotten to teach manners to their children. Also, I regret not saying anything to the parents for this oversight.
I believe it all starts with the parents to "teach your children" well.
"Sunday Will Never Be the Same"
Spanky (McFarland) & the Gang recorded this song in the late 60's. It became an advertising jingle for a major automaker as well ("Driving will never be the same").
I recall growing up in an era of Sunday blue laws restricting retail activity on Sundays. I further recall driving home after Sunday Mass and feeling the peace and quietude of a Sunday morning when all businesses were closed. Families then went home for Sunday brunch. It may have been my imagination, but it felt as if not going to a Sunday worship service was the exception, not the norm.
Though I certainly have done my share of Sunday shopping over the years, I often reflect upon how I miss the quietude of Sundays when retailers were closed, families spent more time together, and we reflected upon Sundays as a day of rest and worship.
Truly and sadly, Sundays will never be the same.
I recall growing up in an era of Sunday blue laws restricting retail activity on Sundays. I further recall driving home after Sunday Mass and feeling the peace and quietude of a Sunday morning when all businesses were closed. Families then went home for Sunday brunch. It may have been my imagination, but it felt as if not going to a Sunday worship service was the exception, not the norm.
Though I certainly have done my share of Sunday shopping over the years, I often reflect upon how I miss the quietude of Sundays when retailers were closed, families spent more time together, and we reflected upon Sundays as a day of rest and worship.
Truly and sadly, Sundays will never be the same.
Admiration for my brother-in-law
In November 2009, my brother-in-law, Rob, retired from the US Air Force after 28 years of service. Having served as a C-130 Crew Chief, Rob was certainly in "harm's way" many times over the years. He served in Qatar during the first Gulf War and has spent time in Afghanistan and other overseas "hot spots". Rob attained the rank of Chief-Master Sargeant which is the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force. His men and commanding officers refer to him as "Chief".
In addition to his many service accomplishments, Rob and my sister adopted his niece, Kristine, from a broken family and raised her as well as their son, Jakob. They have a strong marriage and family. Also, Rob just recently completed the requirements for his Master's Degree.
I must say that Rob has much to show for his 28 years of service and his life. I have a tremendous amount of respect for him and was so proud that he was the best man at my wedding. He is an inspiration to all of us as someone who has worked hard and diligently.
In addition to his many service accomplishments, Rob and my sister adopted his niece, Kristine, from a broken family and raised her as well as their son, Jakob. They have a strong marriage and family. Also, Rob just recently completed the requirements for his Master's Degree.
I must say that Rob has much to show for his 28 years of service and his life. I have a tremendous amount of respect for him and was so proud that he was the best man at my wedding. He is an inspiration to all of us as someone who has worked hard and diligently.
Merry Christmas!!
Hard to believe that snow is still on the ground from last week's storms. But it is a white Christmas. I cannot recall many white Christmases over the years in Virginia.
I want to extend a very heartfelt holiday greeting to the founders of the GCF who were side-by-side with me this past year. I very much respect your character, values, and courage in founding a new fellowship for Goochland. I know that you have been and will be blessed for taking such a bold step of faith rather than sitting back and accepting things as they were.
I want to mention my wonderful work colleague, Nancy, who never ceases to amaze me with her enthusiasm and zest for life. She is a rare individual who is always looking for new experiences in life. This Christmas, she took a "Christmas Train" from Richmond to NC and garnered some wonderful experiences. See link above on David Baldacci's "Christmas Train" (click on Merry Christmas, above).
I need to mention another extraordinary woman: my wife. It was she who promised her dying father that she would not put her mother in a nursing home. Not only has she kept that promise but has taken sole responsibility for mother's health, welfare, and business affairs often putting her self and needs second. I greatly admire and respect her strong spirit of commitment.
Finally, I ask that we all pray for the Zbinden family during this holiday time with Karen's health much a concern.
I am very much richer and a better person for knowing all of you -- blessings to you and your families!
I want to extend a very heartfelt holiday greeting to the founders of the GCF who were side-by-side with me this past year. I very much respect your character, values, and courage in founding a new fellowship for Goochland. I know that you have been and will be blessed for taking such a bold step of faith rather than sitting back and accepting things as they were.
I want to mention my wonderful work colleague, Nancy, who never ceases to amaze me with her enthusiasm and zest for life. She is a rare individual who is always looking for new experiences in life. This Christmas, she took a "Christmas Train" from Richmond to NC and garnered some wonderful experiences. See link above on David Baldacci's "Christmas Train" (click on Merry Christmas, above).
I need to mention another extraordinary woman: my wife. It was she who promised her dying father that she would not put her mother in a nursing home. Not only has she kept that promise but has taken sole responsibility for mother's health, welfare, and business affairs often putting her self and needs second. I greatly admire and respect her strong spirit of commitment.
Finally, I ask that we all pray for the Zbinden family during this holiday time with Karen's health much a concern.
I am very much richer and a better person for knowing all of you -- blessings to you and your families!
The Joy of Learning
Today's technology is so fascinating to learn, enjoy, and share with others. There is so much out there to learn and leverage. To me, the internet is a playground of learning.
Sent from Blackberry
Sent from Blackberry
Complacency & Fear of Change
Holidays are a time of reflection for us. This past year, I realized that I often times accepted the same bad behaviors of people, tolerated the same organizations and its failings, and did nothing to change things out of complacency or fear of change. This fear can serve to immobilize us so that we do nothing except complain or vow to make changes, yet knowing deep down that change was not imminent. There were many changes this past year for me personally. I know that I have grown from these changes and the experiences. The lessons from 2009 to apply in 2010: (1) don't let fear of change restrain you (2) address bad behavior of others (3) if you are unhappy about a situation, do something -- don't just sit back and complain and (4) look upon fear and complacency as restraining forces keeping us from growing.
Criticism
I find it quite interesting how individuals who do the least in an organization are often those who are the most critical, the most vocal, and offer very little, but lip service, to a problem. It is further enlightening how these individuals will not step forward to offer assistance even when asked by several people.
Use of Merry Christmas in holiday greetings
In recent years, I have noticed how folks tended to use the politically correct "Happy Holidays" as opposed to the traditional "Merry Christmas" in both verbal and written greetings. It is sad that such a happy and joyful term as "Merry Christmas" has fallen into the grips of political correctness. It has given me to joy this year to hear more of the traditional holiday greetings. I have made it a personal point to use "Merry Christmas" in my daily interactions. Let's bring back "Merry Christmas" and jettison the "Happy Holidays". Political correctness during the holidays? Bah, humbug!
Movies
Recently, I watched the movie "Julie and Julia". Though I did not particularly enjoy the movie, I found the lead character's use of a blog quite fascinating. It goes to show that we can either learn something from movies or be inspired to embark upon something new; in my case, this blog.
Life-long learning
I find that listening to podcasts, reading, learning new technologies, learning more about others' experiences and backgrounds keep me mentally fresh and alert. Thomas Friedman discusses this as a 21st century mindset in his book "The World is Flat".
50-something
Interesting that guys in their 50's tend to reflect more on the simplicity of their childhood. It is as if there is an internal yearning to return back to a simpler time free of adult stress. Perhaps it is an early recognition as to our mortality and that 60-something is not that far away.
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