We see them everywhere. We often enjoy riding along and trying to decipher the plates as the cars pass by. There are some we see regularly in our commute to and from work that still do not make sense.
As a child, I used to watch Adam-12. I remember how one of the officers would call out license plate numbers for the dispatcher to run down. The officer would state ILX-555 as "Indigo" "Lima" "X-ray" for the letters to ensure clarity and then cite the numbers.
In today's world, I wonder how the officer would convey "Teach LV" which I saw over the weekend or "MRPH2U" (does this translate into "Murphy to you" or "Mr. PH to you?") which I see in our parking deck from time to time.
And, how about plates that display numbers but from different organizations? This morning, I saw the number "3" from an organization I could not quite see. It was not a government official's car or plate. Can the same number "3" be issued by multiple organizations? How does a policeman track those down when in hot pursuit?
Resistance to Change
It is a common proclivity amongst us baby-boomers. I believe we all have varying forms of such resistance. Myself, I do not like to change my daily routine. Not sure why but once I get a routine down pat, I don't like to change it.
Others may resist change in terms of a route they take to work or where they may sit in church. Sounds a bit silly but I have fallen into these tendencies in the past.
So, why do we resist change? I suspect some of it is attributable to giving up the certain for uncertain. Some may call that fear. Some resist change for having to learn something new or give up something with which they are comfortable. Psychologists probably have many other thoughts and theories on this.
From personal experience, I can think of numerous times in recent years in which I resisted change out plain old stubborness. Once I made the change, I would ask myself why I waited so long and why I resisted it so much.
As much as I loathe change in some areas of my life, I realize that change is necessary in other parts. As we boomers move into the latter stages of our current working careers we have to consider (i) whether someone overseas can do our job cheaper (ii) whether automation can do our job faster and (iii) whether we have skill and mindset to adapt to constant and rapid change. Given these and other demographic shifts, I realize more now than ever that I cannot resist change but rather embrace it and learn to grow from it.
There are several major industries that have resisted the change wrought by the internet. They include: newspapers; book publishing; recorded music; and TV news. Wonder where they will be 10 years from now? I suspect that some may go by the way of the Dodo bird or will certainly look different than they do today.
The message to me, like these stagnant industries seems quite simple and ominously clear: resist change to one's own peril. As Tom Peters wrote in "Re-Imagine!" seek to make yourself distinct lest become extinct. Foreboding words.
Others may resist change in terms of a route they take to work or where they may sit in church. Sounds a bit silly but I have fallen into these tendencies in the past.
So, why do we resist change? I suspect some of it is attributable to giving up the certain for uncertain. Some may call that fear. Some resist change for having to learn something new or give up something with which they are comfortable. Psychologists probably have many other thoughts and theories on this.
From personal experience, I can think of numerous times in recent years in which I resisted change out plain old stubborness. Once I made the change, I would ask myself why I waited so long and why I resisted it so much.
As much as I loathe change in some areas of my life, I realize that change is necessary in other parts. As we boomers move into the latter stages of our current working careers we have to consider (i) whether someone overseas can do our job cheaper (ii) whether automation can do our job faster and (iii) whether we have skill and mindset to adapt to constant and rapid change. Given these and other demographic shifts, I realize more now than ever that I cannot resist change but rather embrace it and learn to grow from it.
There are several major industries that have resisted the change wrought by the internet. They include: newspapers; book publishing; recorded music; and TV news. Wonder where they will be 10 years from now? I suspect that some may go by the way of the Dodo bird or will certainly look different than they do today.
The message to me, like these stagnant industries seems quite simple and ominously clear: resist change to one's own peril. As Tom Peters wrote in "Re-Imagine!" seek to make yourself distinct lest become extinct. Foreboding words.
Replacing "but" with "and" by Daniel H. Pink
I just finished Mr. Pink's book entitled "A Whole New Mind". I commend to you this and his other book "Drive".
Here are some common lamentations involving "but":
1. I want to spend more time with my family BUT my job requires me to be out of town often.
2. I want to read more BUT I just can't seem to find the time.
Here is what happens when we replace "but" with "and":
1. I want to spend more time with my family AND my job requires me to be out of town often so I need to find ways to take my family with me and combine business trips with family mini-vacations over the weekends instead of heading home dog-tired on Friday evenings.
2. I want to ready more and I just can't seem to find the time so I joined audible.com, download books, and listen to them during my commute, while at the gym, and while cutting grass and other yard work.
I think that Mr. Pink is on to something. I am very much looking forward to his next available book "Free Agent Nation" as soon as I finish a few other books in progress.
By the way, my wife introduced me to audio books back in 1993. Thanks to technology, a long commute, and trying to make time pass while at the gym, I was able to listen to over 40 audiobooks last year covering history, business, and mystery fiction. I just wish that audio books had been around when I was in high school and college.
Here are some common lamentations involving "but":
1. I want to spend more time with my family BUT my job requires me to be out of town often.
2. I want to read more BUT I just can't seem to find the time.
Here is what happens when we replace "but" with "and":
1. I want to spend more time with my family AND my job requires me to be out of town often so I need to find ways to take my family with me and combine business trips with family mini-vacations over the weekends instead of heading home dog-tired on Friday evenings.
2. I want to ready more and I just can't seem to find the time so I joined audible.com, download books, and listen to them during my commute, while at the gym, and while cutting grass and other yard work.
I think that Mr. Pink is on to something. I am very much looking forward to his next available book "Free Agent Nation" as soon as I finish a few other books in progress.
By the way, my wife introduced me to audio books back in 1993. Thanks to technology, a long commute, and trying to make time pass while at the gym, I was able to listen to over 40 audiobooks last year covering history, business, and mystery fiction. I just wish that audio books had been around when I was in high school and college.
Life's Fallacies - Part 6 - Life Is Supposed To Be Fair
In sports, there are rules to maintain fairness. There are referees to enforce those rules. In society, there are laws and there are law enforcement officials who attempt to enforce them.
From a very early age, we are taught to obey rules and be fair with one another.
Despite other realms in life that are supposed to be fair, life itself, is not. This is difficult for many to accept particularly those who are inflicted with illness or physical disabilities that keep them from living a normal life.
I believe that to spend time bemoaning the unfairness of life is counterproductive and a waste of time. Rather, I believe we need to accept that life is not fair and develop a mindset around that reality.
For example, many people are born with dyslexia. The disease impacts one's ability to read and learn. It can cause personal frustration and social ostracism. However, there is a long of list of individuals who overcame this disability and lived beyond a normal life. The list includes: Winston Churchill; Robert F. Kennedy; Richard Branson; and, Charles Schwab.
It would have been easy for these individuals to lament the unfairness of their disease. Yet, they overcame and contributed to society despite unfair treatment at the hands of dyslexia.
From a very early age, we are taught to obey rules and be fair with one another.
Despite other realms in life that are supposed to be fair, life itself, is not. This is difficult for many to accept particularly those who are inflicted with illness or physical disabilities that keep them from living a normal life.
I believe that to spend time bemoaning the unfairness of life is counterproductive and a waste of time. Rather, I believe we need to accept that life is not fair and develop a mindset around that reality.
For example, many people are born with dyslexia. The disease impacts one's ability to read and learn. It can cause personal frustration and social ostracism. However, there is a long of list of individuals who overcame this disability and lived beyond a normal life. The list includes: Winston Churchill; Robert F. Kennedy; Richard Branson; and, Charles Schwab.
It would have been easy for these individuals to lament the unfairness of their disease. Yet, they overcame and contributed to society despite unfair treatment at the hands of dyslexia.
Life's Fallacies - Part 5 - Not Everyone is Self-Aware
I have seen it so many times, yet it still baffles me. A colleague will come into my office, shut the door, and start railing against another colleague's work ethic, attitude, or overall behavior.
As I sit there and try to listen attentively, I find myself thinking that the same person who is criticizing their colleagues engages in similar behavior themselves and has the same shortcomings. Thinking that this person will admit that they, too, do the same thing, I find myself often kicking myself afterwards for not saying the obvious. My shortcoming in these interactions is that thinking that everyone is self-aware of their actions, words, and gestures and their impact on others.
Over the years, my father was one who would quickly point out the same failings in me that I found in others. Thus, I have tried over the years to be better in tune with my words, actions, and attiudes and their impact on others. Sometimes, I fall short and allow my moods to get the better of me.
My new mindset needs to be that everyone is not self-aware and it is our responsbility to point this out to them. Most reasonable people, once confronted with this, may ponder and reach the same conclusion. Those who don't will get defensive, belligerent, and even vindictive at worse; at best, they will quit coming into your office, shutting the door, and railing against others.
Seriously, if we do not challenge this, those who lack self-awareness will continue to drift through life wreaking havoc and leaving damaged relationships in their wake.
As I sit there and try to listen attentively, I find myself thinking that the same person who is criticizing their colleagues engages in similar behavior themselves and has the same shortcomings. Thinking that this person will admit that they, too, do the same thing, I find myself often kicking myself afterwards for not saying the obvious. My shortcoming in these interactions is that thinking that everyone is self-aware of their actions, words, and gestures and their impact on others.
Over the years, my father was one who would quickly point out the same failings in me that I found in others. Thus, I have tried over the years to be better in tune with my words, actions, and attiudes and their impact on others. Sometimes, I fall short and allow my moods to get the better of me.
My new mindset needs to be that everyone is not self-aware and it is our responsbility to point this out to them. Most reasonable people, once confronted with this, may ponder and reach the same conclusion. Those who don't will get defensive, belligerent, and even vindictive at worse; at best, they will quit coming into your office, shutting the door, and railing against others.
Seriously, if we do not challenge this, those who lack self-awareness will continue to drift through life wreaking havoc and leaving damaged relationships in their wake.
Something a little less serious
Time for a short break from the seriousness of life's fallacies.
Today while shopping, I observed a very sweet and kind moment. A sister, who looked to be about 10 or so, reached into the shopping cart to pick up and hug her toddler brother. While the act itself may not seem that particularly special, the wide smile and bright face of that young girl as she picked up her brother was priceless. It was a spontaneous and true reflection of sibling love. And, the little boy smiled and giggled back to his sister.
Wish I could have captured that moment on video. I would have loved to have shared it with those with whom I have had differences in recent months and say: shouildn't we emulate these children? Why is it that we adults somehow forgot how to extend such spontaneous human love toward one another?
As I walked away, I remember wishing silently that those two may always have a special bond between them that will sustain and help them to transcend the challenges, frivolities, and pettiness that life will throw at them; may they always love and support each other.
Today while shopping, I observed a very sweet and kind moment. A sister, who looked to be about 10 or so, reached into the shopping cart to pick up and hug her toddler brother. While the act itself may not seem that particularly special, the wide smile and bright face of that young girl as she picked up her brother was priceless. It was a spontaneous and true reflection of sibling love. And, the little boy smiled and giggled back to his sister.
Wish I could have captured that moment on video. I would have loved to have shared it with those with whom I have had differences in recent months and say: shouildn't we emulate these children? Why is it that we adults somehow forgot how to extend such spontaneous human love toward one another?
As I walked away, I remember wishing silently that those two may always have a special bond between them that will sustain and help them to transcend the challenges, frivolities, and pettiness that life will throw at them; may they always love and support each other.
Life's Fallacies - Part 4 - Placing Too Much Faith in Humans
It was November, 1994. The Republicans had just taken control of the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in a generation. The Republicans were touting their "Contract with America" which even included term limits and a balanced budget. I remember feeling that perhaps the American people would regain the reins on a renegade Congress that had pretty done what it wanted with impunity.
A local minister at a church we attended at the time cited this historic event as a reason for hope to many. He cautioned, however, to refrain from placing too much hope and particularly trust in men, a political party, or even a movement inspired by humans. The minister went on the cite that a human will more than likely "let you down".
I have fallen prey to this human fallacy often, particularly relative to political figures, and bosses whose authority, eloquence and demeanor caused me to feel as if they could do no wrong. I fear that many today may hold a similar views of their political, civic, and spiritual leaders. Like us, they are not infallible.
I, too, have let down family, colleagues, and friends as a result of my human folly.
History is replete with groups which have placed their trust in a humans only to experience bitter disappointment or even tragedy. The Rev. Jim Jones quickly comes to mind. Likewise, for Jimmy Swaggart and Jim Baker and their fallen ministries.
I once held an unrealistic view of our country's Founding Fathers as larger than life statemen who were noble, patriotic, and magnanimous. Later study revealed to me that they, too, were prone to human frailities and failings like the rest of us.
The lessons for me include (i) recognizing that human failings exist in all of us (ii) not to hold anyone to unduly high expectations (iii) forgive those who have let us down even those who have been called to positions in the ministry and political leadership (iv) while forgiving we must hold these leaders accountable so that they commit to overcome their failings.
A local minister at a church we attended at the time cited this historic event as a reason for hope to many. He cautioned, however, to refrain from placing too much hope and particularly trust in men, a political party, or even a movement inspired by humans. The minister went on the cite that a human will more than likely "let you down".
I have fallen prey to this human fallacy often, particularly relative to political figures, and bosses whose authority, eloquence and demeanor caused me to feel as if they could do no wrong. I fear that many today may hold a similar views of their political, civic, and spiritual leaders. Like us, they are not infallible.
I, too, have let down family, colleagues, and friends as a result of my human folly.
History is replete with groups which have placed their trust in a humans only to experience bitter disappointment or even tragedy. The Rev. Jim Jones quickly comes to mind. Likewise, for Jimmy Swaggart and Jim Baker and their fallen ministries.
I once held an unrealistic view of our country's Founding Fathers as larger than life statemen who were noble, patriotic, and magnanimous. Later study revealed to me that they, too, were prone to human frailities and failings like the rest of us.
The lessons for me include (i) recognizing that human failings exist in all of us (ii) not to hold anyone to unduly high expectations (iii) forgive those who have let us down even those who have been called to positions in the ministry and political leadership (iv) while forgiving we must hold these leaders accountable so that they commit to overcome their failings.
Life's Fallacies - Part 3 - Disagreement is Not Always a Bad Thing
We are taught in our early years to get along with one one another. How many times have we heard "play nice" or "don't fight" from our parents?
Along the way, many of us came to believe that disagreement is a bad thing. Yes, disagreement that turns into violence or life-long rifts is a bad thing. Disagreements, however, that cause individuals to listen to each other and "seek first to understand, then be understood" (Steven R. Covey), can be a good thing.
Healthy disagreement between individuals with differing views can produce much better results so long as everyone treats each other with dignity and respect in discussing them and seeking a middle ground, if possible. Often times, however, disagreements can turn ugly as individuals take comments personally, get defensive, stake out unyielding positions, engage in personal attacks, or assume their own view is the only correct view. With that behavior manifesting itself, it is no wonder why many of us avoid disagreement altogether.
We can, in fact, disagree with each other on a topic without that difference of opinion becoming a wedge. I recall a conversation almost two years ago in which I had a completely different view than that of one of my dear friends. We calmly talked about the issue, heard each other's thoughts, asked questions, and sought to understand each other. Sadly, I have had many other conversations involving disagreement which did not go as well.
In short, disagreements do not have to be a zero-sum game. Ferreting out differing views will ensure that a team, organization, or family have considered all the issues prior to making a decison. Often tiimes, when disparate views are sought and considered, the decision is far superior than those made in a silo.
So, perhaps the corollary to our parents' "play nice" admonition should have been "disagree nicely". Just a thought for the future Dr. Spocks to ponder and perhaps write about one day.
Next blogs: not everyone is self aware. Life is supposed to fair. Putting too much faith in individuals.
Along the way, many of us came to believe that disagreement is a bad thing. Yes, disagreement that turns into violence or life-long rifts is a bad thing. Disagreements, however, that cause individuals to listen to each other and "seek first to understand, then be understood" (Steven R. Covey), can be a good thing.
Healthy disagreement between individuals with differing views can produce much better results so long as everyone treats each other with dignity and respect in discussing them and seeking a middle ground, if possible. Often times, however, disagreements can turn ugly as individuals take comments personally, get defensive, stake out unyielding positions, engage in personal attacks, or assume their own view is the only correct view. With that behavior manifesting itself, it is no wonder why many of us avoid disagreement altogether.
We can, in fact, disagree with each other on a topic without that difference of opinion becoming a wedge. I recall a conversation almost two years ago in which I had a completely different view than that of one of my dear friends. We calmly talked about the issue, heard each other's thoughts, asked questions, and sought to understand each other. Sadly, I have had many other conversations involving disagreement which did not go as well.
In short, disagreements do not have to be a zero-sum game. Ferreting out differing views will ensure that a team, organization, or family have considered all the issues prior to making a decison. Often tiimes, when disparate views are sought and considered, the decision is far superior than those made in a silo.
So, perhaps the corollary to our parents' "play nice" admonition should have been "disagree nicely". Just a thought for the future Dr. Spocks to ponder and perhaps write about one day.
Next blogs: not everyone is self aware. Life is supposed to fair. Putting too much faith in individuals.
Life's Fallacies - Part 2 - Believing That Everyone Has the Greater Good in Mind
I continue to fall prey to this fallacious thinking. Often times at work or elsewhere, I believe that a collective group which spends significant time together and is tasked with an assignment is truly in it for the organization's betterment. Not so.
Often times, some members may have their own hidden agenda or self-aggrandizing goals. What perplexes me is how that one hidden agenda or desire for self-aggrandizement is totally opposite of what the group or its leaders want to achieve.
In the past year, I was involved in a matter, outside of work, in which I had allowed myself to believe that all individuals truly had the greater good at heart. I deluded myself into thinking that all would put their personal preferences aside, refrain from taking sides, and seek to a unified, or 3rd alternative, solution. Such was not the case and group became splintered. This, too, can happen in our professional lives.
How can we prevent this? In retrospect and subject to my further study into this, I believe that anyone designated to lead a group needs to clearly delineate and articulate the goals and expectations. That individual must have the courage of their convictions to ensure that the greater good is kept in the forefront always by reminding the group incessantly of this. That individual must be willing to call others out who are demonstrating, either visibly or surreptiously, a straying from the greater good. In short, one must ensure that everyone clearly understands the rules and plays by them. Infractions must be addressed decisively and swiftly.
Next blogs: the fallacy that disagreement is bad and that everyone is self-aware.
Often times, some members may have their own hidden agenda or self-aggrandizing goals. What perplexes me is how that one hidden agenda or desire for self-aggrandizement is totally opposite of what the group or its leaders want to achieve.
In the past year, I was involved in a matter, outside of work, in which I had allowed myself to believe that all individuals truly had the greater good at heart. I deluded myself into thinking that all would put their personal preferences aside, refrain from taking sides, and seek to a unified, or 3rd alternative, solution. Such was not the case and group became splintered. This, too, can happen in our professional lives.
How can we prevent this? In retrospect and subject to my further study into this, I believe that anyone designated to lead a group needs to clearly delineate and articulate the goals and expectations. That individual must have the courage of their convictions to ensure that the greater good is kept in the forefront always by reminding the group incessantly of this. That individual must be willing to call others out who are demonstrating, either visibly or surreptiously, a straying from the greater good. In short, one must ensure that everyone clearly understands the rules and plays by them. Infractions must be addressed decisively and swiftly.
Next blogs: the fallacy that disagreement is bad and that everyone is self-aware.
Life's Fallacies - Part 1 - Playing by The Same Rules
In reflecting upon my life, how I have chosen to interact with others, and my approach to life's issues, I have discovered many things over the years. Perhaps you can empathize with some of these discoveries. Others may be just the random and odd musings of this blogger. I would like to begin a series on aome of these discoveries.
One of these fallacies include my inclination to believe that others are playing by the same rules. For example, to the extent possible, I try to let waiting cars in when traffic is backed-up. My rationale is that I am doing that waiting person a favor and feeling better about myself. Often times, however, I find that such gestures are not reciprocated by others when I am the driver of a waiting car. It is not that I am being unreasonable or the other drivers are insensitive, they are not playing by the same rules of driving etiquette and everyday kindness.
Another example is my belief that, in most instances, it is far better to be forgiving and empathetic rather than being highly critical and judgmental. This is fine so long as the other person operates by the same rules for themselves. Guess what? The don't always.
Finally and much to my chagrin, I fall into the trap often of believing that we all have the greater good in mind, not necessarily what's best for us. In reality, the greater good is often, but fortunately not always, sacrificed at the altar of succcess and financial gain.
Next blog: assuming that others in your organization have the same goals and motives.
One of these fallacies include my inclination to believe that others are playing by the same rules. For example, to the extent possible, I try to let waiting cars in when traffic is backed-up. My rationale is that I am doing that waiting person a favor and feeling better about myself. Often times, however, I find that such gestures are not reciprocated by others when I am the driver of a waiting car. It is not that I am being unreasonable or the other drivers are insensitive, they are not playing by the same rules of driving etiquette and everyday kindness.
Another example is my belief that, in most instances, it is far better to be forgiving and empathetic rather than being highly critical and judgmental. This is fine so long as the other person operates by the same rules for themselves. Guess what? The don't always.
Finally and much to my chagrin, I fall into the trap often of believing that we all have the greater good in mind, not necessarily what's best for us. In reality, the greater good is often, but fortunately not always, sacrificed at the altar of succcess and financial gain.
Next blog: assuming that others in your organization have the same goals and motives.
A House of Cards
First, there was the tax rebate designed to stimulate the economy. Then, there was TARP designed to keep the financial industry from collapsing. A few months later, there was was another massive stimulus package. I won't quote the numbers because they are mind boggling.
Tax receipts are falling and unemployment benefits are getting extended as the economy continues to drag along. Hence, the deficit continues to widen. Interest on our debt far exceeds the annual GDP of many foreign nations. We continue to sell our debt to the Chinese and Arabs. I just shudder when politicians talk about taxpayer money. Sadly, we have blown through that taxpayer revenue and are relying upon foreign credit to perpetuate our financial house of cards.
Now, though, we have health care reform being trumpeted to reduce the deficit. Wish I could take that promise to the bank. Somehow, I do not feel as sanguine.
Tax receipts are falling and unemployment benefits are getting extended as the economy continues to drag along. Hence, the deficit continues to widen. Interest on our debt far exceeds the annual GDP of many foreign nations. We continue to sell our debt to the Chinese and Arabs. I just shudder when politicians talk about taxpayer money. Sadly, we have blown through that taxpayer revenue and are relying upon foreign credit to perpetuate our financial house of cards.
Now, though, we have health care reform being trumpeted to reduce the deficit. Wish I could take that promise to the bank. Somehow, I do not feel as sanguine.
An Ignoble History - The Forgotten Americans
One of these days, I very much would like to delve into studies of our Native Americans. My brief personal studies thus far have only scratched the surface of this people who roamed our fields and forests long before white settlers arrived.
The book "Mayflower" touched upon how the pilgrim settlers eventually turned against the Indians, who befriended them, yet sought to eliminate the original inhabitants of America. Were it not for the benevolence and courage of Captain Benjamin Church, there could have been sustained genocide. I suspect that there are tomes of literature on this topic that would probably sadden, outrage, and perhaps surprise me.
The movie "Wind Talkers" chronicles how the Navajo Indian language was used as code by which to communicate surreptitiously and proved impregnable to the Japanese during WWII's Pacific Campaign. Navajo Indians were recruited out of their reservations to help their country vanquish the Japanese. I am very curious as to how these Navajo were treated after the war. I suspect I know the answer.
Yet, we have had American presidents take other nations to task for "human rights violations" while ignoring our own ignoble history.
The book "Mayflower" touched upon how the pilgrim settlers eventually turned against the Indians, who befriended them, yet sought to eliminate the original inhabitants of America. Were it not for the benevolence and courage of Captain Benjamin Church, there could have been sustained genocide. I suspect that there are tomes of literature on this topic that would probably sadden, outrage, and perhaps surprise me.
The movie "Wind Talkers" chronicles how the Navajo Indian language was used as code by which to communicate surreptitiously and proved impregnable to the Japanese during WWII's Pacific Campaign. Navajo Indians were recruited out of their reservations to help their country vanquish the Japanese. I am very curious as to how these Navajo were treated after the war. I suspect I know the answer.
Yet, we have had American presidents take other nations to task for "human rights violations" while ignoring our own ignoble history.
What used to matter the most...
now seems a like distant thoughts. As I have watched my mother-in-law decline in recent weeks, I have often reflected upon my own mortality. In so reflecting, I think back on how things that used to be so important to me rarely enter into my thoughts. For instance, in the 80's when Larry Bird played for the Boston Celtics, watching them play was close to an obsession for me. Now a days, though I still pull for the Celtics, I rarely watch a game or peruse the box scores. Likewise is the case for my beloved Boston Red Sox.
I used to read the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) faithfully and would stack them up until I could get to every cover story that caught my interest. Invariably, I would pass up lunch invitations from colleagues so that I could use that time to read the WSJ. It has been years since I have perused the WSJ.
As I am firmly ensconsed in the final 1/3 of my life, good Lord willing, it seems that these things, which once meant so much to me, hold so little value now. These thoughts bring me back to the words of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe who wrote so long ago yet pervades my thoughts these days:
I used to read the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) faithfully and would stack them up until I could get to every cover story that caught my interest. Invariably, I would pass up lunch invitations from colleagues so that I could use that time to read the WSJ. It has been years since I have perused the WSJ.
As I am firmly ensconsed in the final 1/3 of my life, good Lord willing, it seems that these things, which once meant so much to me, hold so little value now. These thoughts bring me back to the words of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe who wrote so long ago yet pervades my thoughts these days:
"Things which matter the most in life should not be at the mercy of things which matter the least.”
Conspiracy Theories
Many Americans seem to like a good conspiracy. I suspect it raises one's CPQ (cocktail party quotient). Of course, there are countless conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy. In some tragic events, like the Titanic's sinking, there always seems to be conspiracy theorist lurking.
I am particularly amused as to how conspiracy afficianados like to delve into those who allegedly faked their deaths such as: Elvis; John Wilkes Booth; and, Jesse James.
Even science draws its share of naysayers like those who believe that Neil Armstrong's moon landing was staged and never occurred. Yet, these folks spend countless hours searching for evidence and eye witnesses accounts will miss the most obvious non-truths or accept them as truth. For example, here is some background on a very famous portrait depicting an event that never took place. Click here for details.
I am particularly amused as to how conspiracy afficianados like to delve into those who allegedly faked their deaths such as: Elvis; John Wilkes Booth; and, Jesse James.
Even science draws its share of naysayers like those who believe that Neil Armstrong's moon landing was staged and never occurred. Yet, these folks spend countless hours searching for evidence and eye witnesses accounts will miss the most obvious non-truths or accept them as truth. For example, here is some background on a very famous portrait depicting an event that never took place. Click here for details.
Far from transparent....
Yesterday's House vote on health care reform and reports now that the bill is going to President Obama's desk for signing has me a bit confused. Our Congressional process is so fraught with parliamentry procedures and processes that those outside of it are left confused and scratching our collective heads.
Seems to me that the whole process is so far from transparent that it conveys to me that our elected officials are trying to hide much from the electorate. I understand that the health care bill contains thousands of pages of legislative language.
No wonder the majority of the Americans don't vote and stay out of touch. And, Congress likes it that way.
Seems to me that the whole process is so far from transparent that it conveys to me that our elected officials are trying to hide much from the electorate. I understand that the health care bill contains thousands of pages of legislative language.
No wonder the majority of the Americans don't vote and stay out of touch. And, Congress likes it that way.
"Grant & Sherman: The Friendship That Won the Civil War"
One can draw many personal and professional lessons from this book. For a book review, click here.
Each man came to the other's defense during critical junctures of the Civil War. After master minding the successful Union victory at Vicksburg, Grant was ready to resign given the impending demotion at the hands of glory and power hungry General McLernand. It was Sherman who contacted his US Senator brother beseeching him to intervene to ensure that President Lincoln was fully aware of Grant's contributions.
It was Grant who provided the necessary political cover and assurances to President Lincoln while Sherman made his infamous "march to sea" from Atlanta to Savannah, GA. It was Grant, once again, who assured Secretary of War Stanton that Sherman had not been overly lenient in negotiating peace terms with General Johnston citing similar terms he had made with General Lee at Appomattox.
While so many generals and politicians were staking out positions for their own personal and professional gain, both men focused on winning the war knowing that they had each other's back.
Each man came to the other's defense during critical junctures of the Civil War. After master minding the successful Union victory at Vicksburg, Grant was ready to resign given the impending demotion at the hands of glory and power hungry General McLernand. It was Sherman who contacted his US Senator brother beseeching him to intervene to ensure that President Lincoln was fully aware of Grant's contributions.
It was Grant who provided the necessary political cover and assurances to President Lincoln while Sherman made his infamous "march to sea" from Atlanta to Savannah, GA. It was Grant, once again, who assured Secretary of War Stanton that Sherman had not been overly lenient in negotiating peace terms with General Johnston citing similar terms he had made with General Lee at Appomattox.
While so many generals and politicians were staking out positions for their own personal and professional gain, both men focused on winning the war knowing that they had each other's back.
Interesting facts...
According to Daniel H. Pink in his book "A Whole New Mind", the author cites that America's abundance has created an industry of self-storage with surprising facts. These units enable us to store our "stuff" for which we don't have room in our homes. This industry generates over $20B per year.
It begs the question: if we can't store "our stuff" in our homes, why do we even have it in the first place?
Software engineers in India make $15K per annum which is 20x more than what most Indians make per year. Contrast that with the starting pay of US software engineers in the $70-80K range; hence, the continued movement toward offshore outsourcing.
It begs the question: if we can't store "our stuff" in our homes, why do we even have it in the first place?
Software engineers in India make $15K per annum which is 20x more than what most Indians make per year. Contrast that with the starting pay of US software engineers in the $70-80K range; hence, the continued movement toward offshore outsourcing.
"The Crisis of Capitalist Democracy" by Judge Posener
Bloomberg's Tom Keene interviewed this wonderfully insightful judge and discussed his new book "The Crisis of Capitalist Democracy".
I was most taken by the Judge's views that the current health care reform debate and process clearly shows that our current democratic process in out of touch, in disarray, and prone to pass harmful legislation.
Many congressional democrats will vote their party line despite opposition from their constituents and knowing that they will consequently lose in the November elections.
Judge Posener concluded the interview sharing his concerns over our current fiscal state and likening it to that of a Third World Nation.
I have decided that in November, I plan to vote against all incumbents regardless of party affiilation. Can you imagine the message that the American people will send if every incumbent was voted out of office? Our founding fathers gave us this right and power. Let's exercise it and encourage our friends and colleagues to do likewise. The incumbents are running our country into the ground. Let's vote out all incumbents, send them packing, and start over.
I was most taken by the Judge's views that the current health care reform debate and process clearly shows that our current democratic process in out of touch, in disarray, and prone to pass harmful legislation.
Many congressional democrats will vote their party line despite opposition from their constituents and knowing that they will consequently lose in the November elections.
Judge Posener concluded the interview sharing his concerns over our current fiscal state and likening it to that of a Third World Nation.
I have decided that in November, I plan to vote against all incumbents regardless of party affiilation. Can you imagine the message that the American people will send if every incumbent was voted out of office? Our founding fathers gave us this right and power. Let's exercise it and encourage our friends and colleagues to do likewise. The incumbents are running our country into the ground. Let's vote out all incumbents, send them packing, and start over.
Deja Vu (all over again)?
In "FDR's Folly", Cato Institue's Jim Powell attempts to debunk how President Roosevelt's "New Deal" programs brought America out of the Great Depression. He makes a compelling case citing how FDR's "alphabet soup" programs really created uncertainty and employment costs to the point that many companies were reluctant to hire new employees.
Thanks to the insight of many, particularly Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke, we avoided a repeat of the Great Depression in 2008. Mr. Bernanke, a scholar of the Great Depression, was determined to keep his Federal Reserve from repeating the mistakes that precipated a financial liquidity crisis in the late 1920's.
President Hoover, who initiated some recovery measures, felt that given enough time, the economy would recover without massive government intervention. He cited the administrations of Grover Cleveland and Warren Harding who presided over serious financial crises by allowing the markets "to clear" on their own with some government action and stimulus.
Now fast forward to 2010. The current health reform bill has created such uncertainty that employers, who need to hire more help, are holding off. They just don't know how much it will cost to hire new employees. Sound eerily familiar?
Thanks to the insight of many, particularly Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke, we avoided a repeat of the Great Depression in 2008. Mr. Bernanke, a scholar of the Great Depression, was determined to keep his Federal Reserve from repeating the mistakes that precipated a financial liquidity crisis in the late 1920's.
President Hoover, who initiated some recovery measures, felt that given enough time, the economy would recover without massive government intervention. He cited the administrations of Grover Cleveland and Warren Harding who presided over serious financial crises by allowing the markets "to clear" on their own with some government action and stimulus.
Now fast forward to 2010. The current health reform bill has created such uncertainty that employers, who need to hire more help, are holding off. They just don't know how much it will cost to hire new employees. Sound eerily familiar?
Government "even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one."-- Thomas Paine
Blogger Notes
My dear wife recently pointed out that my blogs have become far too verbose. I will strive to be more succint.
In times of crises...
people tend to rally around their leaders. Despite presiding over double digit inflation and 13% mortgage rates, the nation rallied around President Jimmy Carter when the Iranians seized the US Embassy in Tehran in 1979. A few years later, Americans embraced President Ronald Reagan as he narrowly escaped death and displayed tremendous grace and courage throughout the ordeal. The nation provided an outpouring of support to the man who comforted and assured his shocked wife with words "honey, I forgot to duck".
I have observed how this same behavior happens in our homes, jobs, and elsewhere. Crises fosters a circling of the wagons to fend off the enemy or source of the crisis. This happens despite the many reservations and issues that the followers may have had previously with the leader. The crisis takes center stage. Everything else, including the character warts, seem far less important.
Once the crisis dissipates and normalcy returns, however, the followers must carefully evaluate and scrutinize their leader to ensure that he/she learned from the experience, makes the necessary changes, and does not revert back to old behavior. Otherwise, the leader can mistake the support during the crisis as a complete endorsement and delude themselves into a sense of invincibility. Ulitmately, another crisis may arise sooner and more virulent than before.
In the midst of the recent financial crisis, it has been written "a crisis is a terrible thing to waste".
I have observed how this same behavior happens in our homes, jobs, and elsewhere. Crises fosters a circling of the wagons to fend off the enemy or source of the crisis. This happens despite the many reservations and issues that the followers may have had previously with the leader. The crisis takes center stage. Everything else, including the character warts, seem far less important.
Once the crisis dissipates and normalcy returns, however, the followers must carefully evaluate and scrutinize their leader to ensure that he/she learned from the experience, makes the necessary changes, and does not revert back to old behavior. Otherwise, the leader can mistake the support during the crisis as a complete endorsement and delude themselves into a sense of invincibility. Ulitmately, another crisis may arise sooner and more virulent than before.
In the midst of the recent financial crisis, it has been written "a crisis is a terrible thing to waste".
"Drive" by Daniel H. Pink
He is a trained lawyer and economist. He has published books such as "A Whole New Mind" and "Free Agent Nation". The premise of his book "Drive" is that today's management practices, which he calls Motivation 2.0, need a new operating system. Like our computers whose operating systems are upgraded more frequently than we would prefer, Mr. Pink asserts that modern day management needs an upgrade to Motivation 3.0.
This new operating system introduces new concepts such as R-O-W-E which translates into Results Only Work Environment. There is a local company, Meddius, based in Charlottesville that is cited for its R-O-W-E practices in "Drive". For more information on Meddius, click here.
Mr. Pink rails against modern day managers who control, manipulate, exploit, coerce, and intimidate their direct reports in pursuit of higher productivity or self gain. He believes that if Andrew Carnegie and/or John D. Rockfeller were to come back to life today, they would see very little change from the management techniques practiced when they were alive.
Mr. Pink further asserts that behavioral science has the knowledge and information to foster better management in today's businesses. It is just that business is far behind the science and has not embraced a much needed upgrade.
According to Mr. Pink, the key for today's managers is to hire the best people possible and get out of their way. It is incumbent upon today's managers to foster in these employees the necessary purpose, provide them autonomy, and encourage mastery.
What I really like about Mr. Pink's book is that he spent the last few chapters recommending additional books that encompass Motivation 3.0 principles, individual mastery recommendations, and organizational mastery exercises.
Now it is onto "A Whole New Mind" which discusses the skills need to work effectively in today's Information Age. Hopefully, it will be as insightful as "Drive".
This new operating system introduces new concepts such as R-O-W-E which translates into Results Only Work Environment. There is a local company, Meddius, based in Charlottesville that is cited for its R-O-W-E practices in "Drive". For more information on Meddius, click here.
Mr. Pink rails against modern day managers who control, manipulate, exploit, coerce, and intimidate their direct reports in pursuit of higher productivity or self gain. He believes that if Andrew Carnegie and/or John D. Rockfeller were to come back to life today, they would see very little change from the management techniques practiced when they were alive.
Mr. Pink further asserts that behavioral science has the knowledge and information to foster better management in today's businesses. It is just that business is far behind the science and has not embraced a much needed upgrade.
According to Mr. Pink, the key for today's managers is to hire the best people possible and get out of their way. It is incumbent upon today's managers to foster in these employees the necessary purpose, provide them autonomy, and encourage mastery.
What I really like about Mr. Pink's book is that he spent the last few chapters recommending additional books that encompass Motivation 3.0 principles, individual mastery recommendations, and organizational mastery exercises.
Now it is onto "A Whole New Mind" which discusses the skills need to work effectively in today's Information Age. Hopefully, it will be as insightful as "Drive".
"Thunder & Lightning"
They both were rookies on the '75 Red Sox team. They both were multi-sport athletes. That is where the similiarities ended.
Jim Rice, an African-American, was from South Carolina and a track star. Fred Lynn, a Caucasian, from Illinois attended USC on a football scholarship. Rice batted right-handed, Lynn from the left. Rice struggled in the field starting off as a designated hitter, while the graceful Lynn won 4 Gold Glove awards as a Center Fielder. Rice was the ultimate power hitter with short compact swing and a dead pull hitter while Lynn had a smooth, graceful swing reminiscent of the great Stan Musial. Rice rarely hit to the opposite field while Lynn mastered hitting doubles off of Fenway Park's Green Monster. Rice had a great rookie year while Lynn won both MVP and Rookie of the Year honors '75. Rice was unable to play in the World Series due to an injury while Lynn hit 3 HRs against the Cincinnati Reds.
Lynn was traded to the California Angels and ended up playing for several teams. Rice played his entire career for the Red Sox. Lynn, who aggressive play often resulted in his crashing into outfield walls, caused him to have an injury-filled career, missing good portions of several seaons. Rice was relatively healthy and played 16 seasons.
Though Lynn had the meteoric rise to superstar status, injuries limited his production. Though he had a solid career, his career numbers will not get him into Baseball's Hall of Fame. Rice was inducted into the Hall of Fame, just last year. Rice eventually became a fixture in Fenway's left field in replacing another Hall of Famer Carl Yastremski who had succeeded the great Ted Williams. Over a span of 50 years, from 1939 until 1989, the Red Sox had only three men play left field: Williams; Yastremski; and, Rice.
Given their left-right combination, they posed a tremendous offensive threat to opposing pitchers. A fellow teammate once dubbed them "Thunder & Lightning". Others referred to them as the "Gold Dust Twins". Lynn's first love was football but gave up his full scholarship at USC and transferred to baseball after suffering a concussion in going head on to stop Sam "the bam" Cunningham during goal line stand practice session.
I recall how fun it was to watch them on TV and hawk the boxscores each morning. It is not often that a team can have two rookies come up the same year and contribute so much to a team.
Jim Rice, an African-American, was from South Carolina and a track star. Fred Lynn, a Caucasian, from Illinois attended USC on a football scholarship. Rice batted right-handed, Lynn from the left. Rice struggled in the field starting off as a designated hitter, while the graceful Lynn won 4 Gold Glove awards as a Center Fielder. Rice was the ultimate power hitter with short compact swing and a dead pull hitter while Lynn had a smooth, graceful swing reminiscent of the great Stan Musial. Rice rarely hit to the opposite field while Lynn mastered hitting doubles off of Fenway Park's Green Monster. Rice had a great rookie year while Lynn won both MVP and Rookie of the Year honors '75. Rice was unable to play in the World Series due to an injury while Lynn hit 3 HRs against the Cincinnati Reds.
Lynn was traded to the California Angels and ended up playing for several teams. Rice played his entire career for the Red Sox. Lynn, who aggressive play often resulted in his crashing into outfield walls, caused him to have an injury-filled career, missing good portions of several seaons. Rice was relatively healthy and played 16 seasons.
Though Lynn had the meteoric rise to superstar status, injuries limited his production. Though he had a solid career, his career numbers will not get him into Baseball's Hall of Fame. Rice was inducted into the Hall of Fame, just last year. Rice eventually became a fixture in Fenway's left field in replacing another Hall of Famer Carl Yastremski who had succeeded the great Ted Williams. Over a span of 50 years, from 1939 until 1989, the Red Sox had only three men play left field: Williams; Yastremski; and, Rice.
Given their left-right combination, they posed a tremendous offensive threat to opposing pitchers. A fellow teammate once dubbed them "Thunder & Lightning". Others referred to them as the "Gold Dust Twins". Lynn's first love was football but gave up his full scholarship at USC and transferred to baseball after suffering a concussion in going head on to stop Sam "the bam" Cunningham during goal line stand practice session.
I recall how fun it was to watch them on TV and hawk the boxscores each morning. It is not often that a team can have two rookies come up the same year and contribute so much to a team.
"My pleasure..."
This is the acknowledgement that one will receive at Chic-Fil-A when saying "thank you" to one of the employees taking your order. I understand that this is part of their training in dealing with customers. I can only recall one time in which I did not receive this acknowledgement from a Chic-Fil-A employee.
Though Chic-Fil-A employees are trained to do this, it is nevertheless a nice gesture. Yes, sometimes the words are uttered in a perfunctory manner; nevertheless, it is good to hear, particularly when delivered with genuine sincerity.
To me, Chic-Fila-A is a vestige of an America that is slowly dissipating: retail establishments closed on Sundays; well-mannered employees; and, a family-oriented company ownership.
I have noticed lately that employees at the Taco Bell, in Short Pump, and down the street for Chic-Fil-A have begun saying "my pleasure" though not as consistently.
Though Chic-Fil-A employees are trained to do this, it is nevertheless a nice gesture. Yes, sometimes the words are uttered in a perfunctory manner; nevertheless, it is good to hear, particularly when delivered with genuine sincerity.
To me, Chic-Fila-A is a vestige of an America that is slowly dissipating: retail establishments closed on Sundays; well-mannered employees; and, a family-oriented company ownership.
I have noticed lately that employees at the Taco Bell, in Short Pump, and down the street for Chic-Fil-A have begun saying "my pleasure" though not as consistently.
Whither the baby-boomers?
It is the largest demographic group to work its way through our society in US history. It includes Americans born after WWII, from 1946 to 1964, an estimated 76 million people in the US alone. Other countries experienced a similar boom after the War.
As this major group works its way toward retirement, it will send shockwaves through Social Security and Medicare systems. Boomers will live longer and healthier lives placing greater financial stress on a system that was projecting problems even in a healthy economy. A major question looms: will the social safety net be strong enough to withstand their sheer weight?
Perhaps one way to lessen burden is for boomers to work a little longer. After all, the 65 retirement age is based upon Germany's Otto Von Bismarck's decree in the 1880's when work was truly labor intensive. I believe things have changed a bit since Bismarck's decree some 130 years ago. Like the 9-month school year, based upon when we were an agrarian society, the 65 retirement age is an anachronism our society continues to honor as the norm. At least the 1984 Social Security Commission brought some semblance of modernity into the mix by adjusting the retirement age to 68. But, this is much too little for such a large problem.
Back to the boomers working longer. There are many jobs in our nation's retail and fast food establishments that could use the wisdom, self confidence, and maturity of a boomer. I am often amazed as to why so many retailers hire and deploy introverts to work the registers. These cashiers are the last person a customer encounters before leaving the store. They are the face and voice of the retailer. Shouldn't that encounter be warm, pleasant, and such that the customer wants to return for another visit? Often times, my experience has been that I felt like a burden to the cashier -- not even a "hello" or "thank you". This shouldn't be!!
If I was a retail owner, I would not want that impression to be what my customers leave with. Rather, it would be good business to hire an extroverted boomer who makes the customers feel appreciated and glad they came in. Our current generation which relies on social networking, computers, cell phones, and texting does not bode well for the cashier of tomorrow. I may just resort to on-line retailing as much as possible rather than dealing with someone lacking interpersonal skills. Call me old-fashioned but I like feeling appreciated at the establishment where I spend my hard-earned and highly-taxed income.
So, I recommend hiring the boomer, pay them a good wage, and offer some form of health insurance to offset the increasing healthcare costs not covered by Medicare. To me, this is a classic win-win. Unfortunately, I fear that our business inept and economically illiterate Congress has probably built so many disincentives into the current laws, this may not work out financially for some boomers.
It goes back to what some scholars have long said: the major problem with economics is politics. Thanks to ill-conceived policies and political machinations since the Great Depression, the chickens will be coming home to roost sooner than later and right smack in the middle of the Baby Boomers.
As this major group works its way toward retirement, it will send shockwaves through Social Security and Medicare systems. Boomers will live longer and healthier lives placing greater financial stress on a system that was projecting problems even in a healthy economy. A major question looms: will the social safety net be strong enough to withstand their sheer weight?
Perhaps one way to lessen burden is for boomers to work a little longer. After all, the 65 retirement age is based upon Germany's Otto Von Bismarck's decree in the 1880's when work was truly labor intensive. I believe things have changed a bit since Bismarck's decree some 130 years ago. Like the 9-month school year, based upon when we were an agrarian society, the 65 retirement age is an anachronism our society continues to honor as the norm. At least the 1984 Social Security Commission brought some semblance of modernity into the mix by adjusting the retirement age to 68. But, this is much too little for such a large problem.
Back to the boomers working longer. There are many jobs in our nation's retail and fast food establishments that could use the wisdom, self confidence, and maturity of a boomer. I am often amazed as to why so many retailers hire and deploy introverts to work the registers. These cashiers are the last person a customer encounters before leaving the store. They are the face and voice of the retailer. Shouldn't that encounter be warm, pleasant, and such that the customer wants to return for another visit? Often times, my experience has been that I felt like a burden to the cashier -- not even a "hello" or "thank you". This shouldn't be!!
If I was a retail owner, I would not want that impression to be what my customers leave with. Rather, it would be good business to hire an extroverted boomer who makes the customers feel appreciated and glad they came in. Our current generation which relies on social networking, computers, cell phones, and texting does not bode well for the cashier of tomorrow. I may just resort to on-line retailing as much as possible rather than dealing with someone lacking interpersonal skills. Call me old-fashioned but I like feeling appreciated at the establishment where I spend my hard-earned and highly-taxed income.
So, I recommend hiring the boomer, pay them a good wage, and offer some form of health insurance to offset the increasing healthcare costs not covered by Medicare. To me, this is a classic win-win. Unfortunately, I fear that our business inept and economically illiterate Congress has probably built so many disincentives into the current laws, this may not work out financially for some boomers.
It goes back to what some scholars have long said: the major problem with economics is politics. Thanks to ill-conceived policies and political machinations since the Great Depression, the chickens will be coming home to roost sooner than later and right smack in the middle of the Baby Boomers.
Hubris among entertainers
While listening to a CNET podcast on tech news for the week, I heard a piece on how the groups Pink Floyd and AC/DC are unhappy with music distributor EMI. One of these groups either has or plans to sue EMI over its unbundling and selling its music as single offerings.
Before going further, let's think back to how we used to purchase music prior to iTunes, iPods, and MP3 players. In the days of CDs and further back to vinyl LPs, we consumers had to purchase the entire album as opposed to just the individual songs we wanted. Of course, there were the old "45's" and single cassettes that never seemed to have the selection. Some albums, like Fleetwood Mac's "Rumors" was chocked full of great songs. My experience, however, was to await a group's greatest hits album which was more cost effective and yet in some cases still contained "filler" songs.
Now back to EMI, Pink Floyd, and AC/DC. Both groups find having to sell their songs as singles "distasteful". From a profit and pride standpoint, they want their fans to purchase the entire album. My response to these entertainers is this:
1. what if we don't want to purchase the entire album, CD, etc.?
2. wouldn't be better if consumers purchased some of the songs as opposed to not buying anything due to the price of the entire CD? haven't these companies and celebrity agents ever studied economics and learned the concept of "opportunity costs"?
3. why can't the musicians and music industry listen to its customers and provide selections and the options they want as opposed to suing consumers over illegal downloads or each other over packaging?
4. wouldn't it be better if consumers can purchase music for $0.99 per song, like on iTunes, and store only the songs they want on the computers and iPods?
It baffles me that this industry just thumbs its collective nose at consumers. It irritates me when I go to iTunes looking to purchase one song only to discover that I have to purchase the entire album. Typically, I just skip the purchase altogether. A $12.99 CD/album is far much more than a $0.99 single. If I really want the song, I go to other services.
Like the newspaper, automobile, retailing, book publishing, TV news, and others, the music industry needs to realize that the internet has changed everything. Wouldn't it be easier to embrace the change versus fighting it? Wouldn't everyone come out okay in the end?
Before going further, let's think back to how we used to purchase music prior to iTunes, iPods, and MP3 players. In the days of CDs and further back to vinyl LPs, we consumers had to purchase the entire album as opposed to just the individual songs we wanted. Of course, there were the old "45's" and single cassettes that never seemed to have the selection. Some albums, like Fleetwood Mac's "Rumors" was chocked full of great songs. My experience, however, was to await a group's greatest hits album which was more cost effective and yet in some cases still contained "filler" songs.
Now back to EMI, Pink Floyd, and AC/DC. Both groups find having to sell their songs as singles "distasteful". From a profit and pride standpoint, they want their fans to purchase the entire album. My response to these entertainers is this:
1. what if we don't want to purchase the entire album, CD, etc.?
2. wouldn't be better if consumers purchased some of the songs as opposed to not buying anything due to the price of the entire CD? haven't these companies and celebrity agents ever studied economics and learned the concept of "opportunity costs"?
3. why can't the musicians and music industry listen to its customers and provide selections and the options they want as opposed to suing consumers over illegal downloads or each other over packaging?
4. wouldn't it be better if consumers can purchase music for $0.99 per song, like on iTunes, and store only the songs they want on the computers and iPods?
It baffles me that this industry just thumbs its collective nose at consumers. It irritates me when I go to iTunes looking to purchase one song only to discover that I have to purchase the entire album. Typically, I just skip the purchase altogether. A $12.99 CD/album is far much more than a $0.99 single. If I really want the song, I go to other services.
Like the newspaper, automobile, retailing, book publishing, TV news, and others, the music industry needs to realize that the internet has changed everything. Wouldn't it be easier to embrace the change versus fighting it? Wouldn't everyone come out okay in the end?
Passion for what we do...
I started out at Hunton & Williams as a Word Processor working the 4-12 shift. Often, lawyers would come in late at night to drop off their documents or pick up completed work. I often marveled at their work ethic and drive. In 1983, I was working with a Public Finance lawyer who was juggling many bond deals due to an upcoming tax law change. He shared with me that he gotten about 2 hours of sleep per night for about two weeks. He also shared with me how it took him a few months to regain his strength as he was neither a young nor fit man at the time.
What struck me most about these observations was the passion that drove these lawyers. Former IBM CEO Lew Gerstner once wrote about the need for today's leaders to recruit, hire, and maintain individuals who have a passion for their work. Finding the right individual with the right level of passion for the right job is the challenge.
The late VCU Professor, Dr. Wally Johnston, once stated that he never met a person who could not find time to do something they really wanted to do. Conversely, if one really does not want to do something, they will find and cite all the reasons not to do it.
I believe that regardless of the level or stature one attains in their work life, they must still match that work with a sense of passion or purpose. Otherwise, it is just a job that consumes at least 40 hours of their life per week.
Finally, I believe it is important to find tasks and assign them to individuals who have a passion for it. The results should not be surprising but are amazing. Recently, we had a data project at work that languished a bit due to its mere magnitude and size of over 36,000 records. Well, one of my colleagues, who has a passion for data, focused in on it and moved the task along. Why? She loves data and willing spends hours evaluating, slicing, and dicing it.
What struck me most about these observations was the passion that drove these lawyers. Former IBM CEO Lew Gerstner once wrote about the need for today's leaders to recruit, hire, and maintain individuals who have a passion for their work. Finding the right individual with the right level of passion for the right job is the challenge.
The late VCU Professor, Dr. Wally Johnston, once stated that he never met a person who could not find time to do something they really wanted to do. Conversely, if one really does not want to do something, they will find and cite all the reasons not to do it.
I believe that regardless of the level or stature one attains in their work life, they must still match that work with a sense of passion or purpose. Otherwise, it is just a job that consumes at least 40 hours of their life per week.
Finally, I believe it is important to find tasks and assign them to individuals who have a passion for it. The results should not be surprising but are amazing. Recently, we had a data project at work that languished a bit due to its mere magnitude and size of over 36,000 records. Well, one of my colleagues, who has a passion for data, focused in on it and moved the task along. Why? She loves data and willing spends hours evaluating, slicing, and dicing it.
Flight from Miami
The trip took place just before 9/11, the date which is now etched in American history. I was invited to our Miami office to conduct a training session to the partners there on billing policies, procedures, and ethics. The trip and sessions went very well.
There was a hurricane approaching Miami and with a little juggling, I was able to get an early flight out. Despite this, I missed my connection from Atlanta to Richmond. It was not even close. Apparently, the weather had already wreaked havoc on the air travel system. Knowing that I had missed the connection, I looked up at the flight board and aspied to my surprise and delight that another flight to Richmond was scheduled to leave in another hour.
I remember thinking that I had to get on that flight, recognizing that it could already be full given the weather conditions. I recall walking up to the reservations/check-in counter only to see the representative looking up with a tired and weary look. She must have felt the brunt of the missed flights, angry passengers, and who knows what else.
I remember putting down my bag and saying something to the effect that she must have had a rough shift. She smiled and nodded. She said that weather conditions like this really upset the flight schedules. I told her that I did not want to add to her burdens but would be extremely grateful if I could get on the flight to Richmond if there was any room. I did not demand anything. I just wanted to be gracious and get home to my wife. She took my ticket and advised that there was room. I was so delighted.
She took the extra step of upgrading me to first class. I would have flown in freight area just to get home.
On 9/11 like most others, I was shocked and horrified at what happened. Sometime that day, I could not help but think of that very nice representative who assisted that day in Atlanta, wondering how her day must been so soon after that day of trying weather conditions.
It has always amazed me how some Americans tend to believe that giving someone, who is in position to assist them, a piece of their mind or lashing out at them will facilitate getting their way. Such behavior can result in achieving the complete opposite of we wanted in the first place. If I had been brusque, agitated, and condescending to that representative in Atlanta, I probably would still have gotten on the flight as there were many empty seats once on board. However, I am quite certain that I would not have flown back in first class.
There was a hurricane approaching Miami and with a little juggling, I was able to get an early flight out. Despite this, I missed my connection from Atlanta to Richmond. It was not even close. Apparently, the weather had already wreaked havoc on the air travel system. Knowing that I had missed the connection, I looked up at the flight board and aspied to my surprise and delight that another flight to Richmond was scheduled to leave in another hour.
I remember thinking that I had to get on that flight, recognizing that it could already be full given the weather conditions. I recall walking up to the reservations/check-in counter only to see the representative looking up with a tired and weary look. She must have felt the brunt of the missed flights, angry passengers, and who knows what else.
I remember putting down my bag and saying something to the effect that she must have had a rough shift. She smiled and nodded. She said that weather conditions like this really upset the flight schedules. I told her that I did not want to add to her burdens but would be extremely grateful if I could get on the flight to Richmond if there was any room. I did not demand anything. I just wanted to be gracious and get home to my wife. She took my ticket and advised that there was room. I was so delighted.
She took the extra step of upgrading me to first class. I would have flown in freight area just to get home.
On 9/11 like most others, I was shocked and horrified at what happened. Sometime that day, I could not help but think of that very nice representative who assisted that day in Atlanta, wondering how her day must been so soon after that day of trying weather conditions.
It has always amazed me how some Americans tend to believe that giving someone, who is in position to assist them, a piece of their mind or lashing out at them will facilitate getting their way. Such behavior can result in achieving the complete opposite of we wanted in the first place. If I had been brusque, agitated, and condescending to that representative in Atlanta, I probably would still have gotten on the flight as there were many empty seats once on board. However, I am quite certain that I would not have flown back in first class.
You Never Know....
who we encounter in our daily lives and how that encounter may impact our life in the future.
I recall living in the barracks while assigned to and living in Germany. Often times, we would encounter individuals in the community bathroom and shower area and not know their rank. There was one individual who was very quiet and kept to himself. The one thing about military life in Germany is that most of the guys would reach out, introduce themselves, and make you feel part of the unit. For some reason, folks did not reach out to this individual. I would always make it a point to say "hello" to him. In time, some of the others pretty much stopped acknowledging him and even chose to ignore him.
Well, fast forward 6 months and we're all at the track for our annual physical training test. One component of the annual tests was the 2-mile run which had to be completed in less than 20 minutes. There was a pack of about 20 guys. We had numbers affixed to our back and we had to yell out our number to the scorer each time we completed a lap. And who was the scorer? None other than the quiet guy in the community bathroom/shower area. This time, though, he was wearing his fatigues to which Sergeant First Class strips and Combat Infantry Badge were affixed. He was a Viet Nam war vet who served in the Infantry.
Some of my fellow runners were shocked and dismayed at his sight. I remember huffing and puffing around the track yelling out my number to this scorer who would nod and jot something down on his clipboard as he did for everyone else. At the end of my eight laps, he nodded and acknowledged that I was done. Some other guys in the pack who were slightly behind me and thought they were done were told by this scorer that they had another lap to go, that they weren't done. Interestingly, these were the guys who took to completely ignoring this stranger turned lap counter.
The lesson I learned that day is to always be mindful of our encounters with others. Always reach out to and acknowledge the new person in your organization and treat him/her with dignity and respect. You never know whether those encounters can one day come back to haunt or help you. On that day on the track, I saw several of my barracks mates have to run an extra lap and exceed the allotted time for completing the 2-mile run.
I recall living in the barracks while assigned to and living in Germany. Often times, we would encounter individuals in the community bathroom and shower area and not know their rank. There was one individual who was very quiet and kept to himself. The one thing about military life in Germany is that most of the guys would reach out, introduce themselves, and make you feel part of the unit. For some reason, folks did not reach out to this individual. I would always make it a point to say "hello" to him. In time, some of the others pretty much stopped acknowledging him and even chose to ignore him.
Well, fast forward 6 months and we're all at the track for our annual physical training test. One component of the annual tests was the 2-mile run which had to be completed in less than 20 minutes. There was a pack of about 20 guys. We had numbers affixed to our back and we had to yell out our number to the scorer each time we completed a lap. And who was the scorer? None other than the quiet guy in the community bathroom/shower area. This time, though, he was wearing his fatigues to which Sergeant First Class strips and Combat Infantry Badge were affixed. He was a Viet Nam war vet who served in the Infantry.
Some of my fellow runners were shocked and dismayed at his sight. I remember huffing and puffing around the track yelling out my number to this scorer who would nod and jot something down on his clipboard as he did for everyone else. At the end of my eight laps, he nodded and acknowledged that I was done. Some other guys in the pack who were slightly behind me and thought they were done were told by this scorer that they had another lap to go, that they weren't done. Interestingly, these were the guys who took to completely ignoring this stranger turned lap counter.
The lesson I learned that day is to always be mindful of our encounters with others. Always reach out to and acknowledge the new person in your organization and treat him/her with dignity and respect. You never know whether those encounters can one day come back to haunt or help you. On that day on the track, I saw several of my barracks mates have to run an extra lap and exceed the allotted time for completing the 2-mile run.
Being a smoker
At Riverfront Plaza, they congregate under a canopy between the East and West towers. Like the erstwhile Postal Service motto "neither ran, nor sleet, nor snow..." they still stroll into the elements and huddle under the canopy to light up a cigarette. The arrive in pairs, sometimes solo. They are lawyers, secretaries, stock brokers, accountants, technicians, etc.
There is one gentleman, who I believe to be a stockbroker, who takes a smoke under the canopy, comes into the gym, takes off his suit coat, exercises in his shirt and tie on a few weight machines, and then goes back out for another smoke. To date, that has been the most bizzare behavior I have witnessed.
The addiction to nicotine must be very strong. I have heard of individuals, suffering of emphyzema and using oxygen machines, unhooking from the machine long enough to smoke a cigarette. I recall once attending my uncles funeral in Boston in early December. Having been a life long smoker, he had passed away due to lung cancer. After the funeral, I noticed my uncle's two children outside smoking cigarettes while shivering in the mid-20's temperature.
Having observed smokers for years and witnessed their behavior, I have concluded that it is all about the addiction to nicotine. It can't be for the rancid smell that lingers on their clothes or the hacking in between puffs. One day I was in Food Lion behind a gentleman who spent $70 on two cartons of cigarettes. Not being a smoker myself, I did not realize how expensive cigarettes have gotten.
Despite the well-documented links to various cancers and heart disesase, yet many still smoke. As some of these smokers are now into their 50's and 60's, I often wonder if anyone of them will fall victim to one of the dreaded diseases that smoking causes. I do not wish this upon them though I don't feel comfortable lecturing to them about their unhealthy habit. I would feel judgmental. However, I often wonder whether I am just cowering by not encouraging them to stop by saying something to the effect of "I really care for you and want to see you live well into retirement. Please stop smoking". When I saw a colleague, who I really admire and did not know had this habit, smoking one day, I almost uttered such words to them only to walk by. Maybe one day, I will summon the courage to be more bold, not in a judgemental way but out of concern.
I suspect that most humans have some form of addiction or another. Perhaps like most smokers, we don't think that we will fall prey to the side effects or consequences of our addictions whether they be mild or sever.
There is one gentleman, who I believe to be a stockbroker, who takes a smoke under the canopy, comes into the gym, takes off his suit coat, exercises in his shirt and tie on a few weight machines, and then goes back out for another smoke. To date, that has been the most bizzare behavior I have witnessed.
The addiction to nicotine must be very strong. I have heard of individuals, suffering of emphyzema and using oxygen machines, unhooking from the machine long enough to smoke a cigarette. I recall once attending my uncles funeral in Boston in early December. Having been a life long smoker, he had passed away due to lung cancer. After the funeral, I noticed my uncle's two children outside smoking cigarettes while shivering in the mid-20's temperature.
Having observed smokers for years and witnessed their behavior, I have concluded that it is all about the addiction to nicotine. It can't be for the rancid smell that lingers on their clothes or the hacking in between puffs. One day I was in Food Lion behind a gentleman who spent $70 on two cartons of cigarettes. Not being a smoker myself, I did not realize how expensive cigarettes have gotten.
Despite the well-documented links to various cancers and heart disesase, yet many still smoke. As some of these smokers are now into their 50's and 60's, I often wonder if anyone of them will fall victim to one of the dreaded diseases that smoking causes. I do not wish this upon them though I don't feel comfortable lecturing to them about their unhealthy habit. I would feel judgmental. However, I often wonder whether I am just cowering by not encouraging them to stop by saying something to the effect of "I really care for you and want to see you live well into retirement. Please stop smoking". When I saw a colleague, who I really admire and did not know had this habit, smoking one day, I almost uttered such words to them only to walk by. Maybe one day, I will summon the courage to be more bold, not in a judgemental way but out of concern.
I suspect that most humans have some form of addiction or another. Perhaps like most smokers, we don't think that we will fall prey to the side effects or consequences of our addictions whether they be mild or sever.
Green Shoots and the Rule of the Harvest
With the recent warm temperatures, I noticed today that bulbs I planted last fall are beginning to shoot through the ground indicating that spring is near. Plus, it is a feeling of self-satifaction in seeing the efforts of months ago generate growth after a harsh and snowy winter in Virginia.
Last year, in working through Dr. Steven R. Covey's "The 8th Habit", I was particularly taken by the "Rule of the Harvest". In this, Dr. Covey discussed that to reap the harvest, one must prepare the ground, plant the seeds, fertilize, water, and care for the crop in order to reap the harvest. One cannot plant and expect to harvest in a few days or a few weeks. It takes months and understanding the laws of nature.
In our "microwave" and "fast food" society, many expect things to be done without much planning, effort, and preparation. Some things do lend themselves to this mentality. However, most things like fostering trust, building relationships, maintaining relationships, and building character must follow the rules of the harvest.
As the renowned leadership professor Warren Bennis once stated "you cannot simply put a person in a microwave and after 30 seconds pops out a leader".
Last year, in working through Dr. Steven R. Covey's "The 8th Habit", I was particularly taken by the "Rule of the Harvest". In this, Dr. Covey discussed that to reap the harvest, one must prepare the ground, plant the seeds, fertilize, water, and care for the crop in order to reap the harvest. One cannot plant and expect to harvest in a few days or a few weeks. It takes months and understanding the laws of nature.
In our "microwave" and "fast food" society, many expect things to be done without much planning, effort, and preparation. Some things do lend themselves to this mentality. However, most things like fostering trust, building relationships, maintaining relationships, and building character must follow the rules of the harvest.
As the renowned leadership professor Warren Bennis once stated "you cannot simply put a person in a microwave and after 30 seconds pops out a leader".
Words of the Wise.....
Ecclesiastes 10:12 - Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious
Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips. - Ecclesiastes 10:12 (NIV)
Our words reveal our character (Matthew 12:34) and we should choose our words wisely.
The fool makes false assumptions and therefore even more errant conclusions. He babbles on and on without thinking. (Ecclesiastes 10:14)
Let's be gracious with our words today, praying and reflecting before sharing and speaking.
Source: The Daily Bible Verse [dailybibleversehelp@yahoo.com] March 10, 2010
Lincoln's 2nd Inaugural Address & Lessons Therefrom
I continue to find so much wisdom in the writings and spoken words of President Abraham Lincoln.
His 2nd Inaugural address, spoken just a few months before his untimely death, speaks volumes as to the man's compassion, wisdom, and what Professor Jim Collins refers to as "Level 5 Leadership".
In the midst of a personal conflict last year, I often reflected upon Lincoln's words from this addrerss:
Like those in Lincoln's time who took opposite views on slavery, it just seems paradoxical to me that Christian men and women today, who profess to read the same Bible, worship and pray to the same God, are often at odds with each other and advocate for their own wishes and pursuits at the expense of others and that of the greater good. I harken back to President Lincoln's words that "The Almighty has His own purposes" which may be antithetical to ours.
Over the years, I have often heard many utter the words "the Lord has laid on my heart...." to preface what someone may believe and advocate. Yet, two different people may have entirely different views on the same issue despite professing that the Lord has laid that view on their heart. I do not believe our God to be contradictory so as to lay two different views on the hearts of two different people. So, who is right ? Perhaps neither. Perhaps what one may perceive or believe to be Divine inspiration is merely a deep human preference or desire.
I do not believe that such words should be uttered with casual regularity.
This is not a criticsm or a judgement, but rather just an observation of human behavior and a reminder that perhaps we all must keep the greater good in mind. We should strive to seek a middle ground, not necessarily a compromise, but rather agreement that furthers the greater good and minimzes pain and hurt that our actions may inflict upon others. Sadly, too many of us believe that life, work, and even church life is a zero-sum game with one winning at the expense of another losing.
Finally, Lincoln's words remind me that, as often is the case, I am not always right and need to temper my actions and words accordingly.
His 2nd Inaugural address, spoken just a few months before his untimely death, speaks volumes as to the man's compassion, wisdom, and what Professor Jim Collins refers to as "Level 5 Leadership".
In the midst of a personal conflict last year, I often reflected upon Lincoln's words from this addrerss:
"Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God’s assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men’s faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered. That of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes."Professor Jay Winik in his masterful "April 1865" work cites that President Lincoln had a Bible on the podium as he spoke that day. Upon conclusion of his final and famous words from that speech of "with malice towards none and charity towards all" he bent down, kissed the Bible, and softly uttered "so help me, God".
Like those in Lincoln's time who took opposite views on slavery, it just seems paradoxical to me that Christian men and women today, who profess to read the same Bible, worship and pray to the same God, are often at odds with each other and advocate for their own wishes and pursuits at the expense of others and that of the greater good. I harken back to President Lincoln's words that "The Almighty has His own purposes" which may be antithetical to ours.
Over the years, I have often heard many utter the words "the Lord has laid on my heart...." to preface what someone may believe and advocate. Yet, two different people may have entirely different views on the same issue despite professing that the Lord has laid that view on their heart. I do not believe our God to be contradictory so as to lay two different views on the hearts of two different people. So, who is right ? Perhaps neither. Perhaps what one may perceive or believe to be Divine inspiration is merely a deep human preference or desire.
I do not believe that such words should be uttered with casual regularity.
This is not a criticsm or a judgement, but rather just an observation of human behavior and a reminder that perhaps we all must keep the greater good in mind. We should strive to seek a middle ground, not necessarily a compromise, but rather agreement that furthers the greater good and minimzes pain and hurt that our actions may inflict upon others. Sadly, too many of us believe that life, work, and even church life is a zero-sum game with one winning at the expense of another losing.
Finally, Lincoln's words remind me that, as often is the case, I am not always right and need to temper my actions and words accordingly.
Hope Amid the Doom and Gloom
A steady diet of economic and business news can dampen the mood of the most optimistic among us.
One of greatest examples of downright stupidity is our country's dependence on foreign energy sources. In essence, we are paying money for foreign oil only to see some of those dollars used to fund terrorist activities against us. That's analagous to handing a perpetrator the gun with which to rob or even shoot us.
But, there are signs of promise and hope emerging; and they are not emanating from Washington, DC. Rather, the private sector is bringing forth new sources of power such wind farms, battery-powered vehicles, compressed natural gas from shale, and Bloom energy. The latter is fascinating as Bloom boxes eventually may be the energy source one day to power our buildings and homes.
Necessity truly is the mother of invention. Even someone as diabolical as Adolph Hitler had his German engineers develop air-cooled engines, eventually used in Volkswagens, to foster greater fuel efficiency and develop the process of liquifaction to extract oil from coal to develop a new source for fuel.
Despite the decrease in the number of graduates coming out of our engineering schools, America can be a major player in the new energy era. For unlike other cultures, our country promotes and rewards innovation, entrepreneurship, and risking taking. Though some of the energy initiatives cited above may require government support and funding, knowing that our country's creative thinking is still at work is both reassuring and promising.
Finally, like the great minds that collaborated on the "Manhattan Project", which produced the dreaded atom bomb, this effort will require the best and brightest from many nations and cultures.
One of greatest examples of downright stupidity is our country's dependence on foreign energy sources. In essence, we are paying money for foreign oil only to see some of those dollars used to fund terrorist activities against us. That's analagous to handing a perpetrator the gun with which to rob or even shoot us.
But, there are signs of promise and hope emerging; and they are not emanating from Washington, DC. Rather, the private sector is bringing forth new sources of power such wind farms, battery-powered vehicles, compressed natural gas from shale, and Bloom energy. The latter is fascinating as Bloom boxes eventually may be the energy source one day to power our buildings and homes.
Necessity truly is the mother of invention. Even someone as diabolical as Adolph Hitler had his German engineers develop air-cooled engines, eventually used in Volkswagens, to foster greater fuel efficiency and develop the process of liquifaction to extract oil from coal to develop a new source for fuel.
Despite the decrease in the number of graduates coming out of our engineering schools, America can be a major player in the new energy era. For unlike other cultures, our country promotes and rewards innovation, entrepreneurship, and risking taking. Though some of the energy initiatives cited above may require government support and funding, knowing that our country's creative thinking is still at work is both reassuring and promising.
Finally, like the great minds that collaborated on the "Manhattan Project", which produced the dreaded atom bomb, this effort will require the best and brightest from many nations and cultures.
Schilling Manor Days - Final Thoughts
My father returned safely from Viet Nam in November, 1968. I recall my youngest brother, who was only three, did not know who he was for a while.
During the '68 Tet Offensive, the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong almost overran Tan San Knut airbase. Years later, my father shared how touch and go things really were until the complete security was restored. As a result of Tet and its lasting impact on us, my mother decided to have family prayer for my father each night. We offered up the rosary every night after dinner and homework. To this day, I believe that God honored our prayers for my father's safe return.
I understand that Schilling Manor eventually closed though the housing units are still in use today. The streets have been renamed and many other things, like our society, have changed. But, one could say that it served an important purpose during a trying time for many military families. For our family, it was home and we felt safe as we awaited the ultimate and safe return of our father.
We lived in Schilling Manor for approximately 13 months. I know that my mother could quote the specific dates of arrival and departure. Though it was only for a short time, the place, the experiences, the people, the commond bond, and the mere community feeling had a significant impact on me. Like my older brother who has gone back to visit, I would like to return one day and walk those grounds that we called home for that season in our life that brought forth many memories. If there was such a thing as a time machine, this would be the place and this would be the time in my life to which I would like to return and relive. After all, this is the place that my brother and I were able to shake the hand of then-Vice President Hubert H. Humphery. Little did I know at the time that I would eventually vote Republican in most elections.
A few years ago, my father came across a book about a family which lived in Schiling Manor. I ordered a copy for the both of us which we did not find very interesting. Perhaps one day, I will attempt to write such a book about our experiences there but juxtapose them against those of our country and the world.
During the '68 Tet Offensive, the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong almost overran Tan San Knut airbase. Years later, my father shared how touch and go things really were until the complete security was restored. As a result of Tet and its lasting impact on us, my mother decided to have family prayer for my father each night. We offered up the rosary every night after dinner and homework. To this day, I believe that God honored our prayers for my father's safe return.
I understand that Schilling Manor eventually closed though the housing units are still in use today. The streets have been renamed and many other things, like our society, have changed. But, one could say that it served an important purpose during a trying time for many military families. For our family, it was home and we felt safe as we awaited the ultimate and safe return of our father.
We lived in Schilling Manor for approximately 13 months. I know that my mother could quote the specific dates of arrival and departure. Though it was only for a short time, the place, the experiences, the people, the commond bond, and the mere community feeling had a significant impact on me. Like my older brother who has gone back to visit, I would like to return one day and walk those grounds that we called home for that season in our life that brought forth many memories. If there was such a thing as a time machine, this would be the place and this would be the time in my life to which I would like to return and relive. After all, this is the place that my brother and I were able to shake the hand of then-Vice President Hubert H. Humphery. Little did I know at the time that I would eventually vote Republican in most elections.
A few years ago, my father came across a book about a family which lived in Schiling Manor. I ordered a copy for the both of us which we did not find very interesting. Perhaps one day, I will attempt to write such a book about our experiences there but juxtapose them against those of our country and the world.
Schilling Manor Days - Part 4 (Sundays)
Both Catholics and Protestants worshiped at the same chapel. I do not recall specifically, but, I believe the Catholics worshiped at 11am though it might have been at an earlier time. Years later, I now wonder where members of the Jewish faith worshiped, perhaps not on Schilling Manor.
The Catholic services were conducted by an Army Chaplain. After Sunday Mass, we took a shuttle bus to Catechism class (Sunday School). Each class was based upon class grade. Some of my classmates in school were also in this class. I remember our classroom being in the basement that also served as a bomb shelter or least had the markings and signs for such.
I recall being confirmed at this Schilling Chapel. The Chaplain and his staff took care of everything including selecting each confirmee a sponsor/witness. As there were very few Catholic men on base, the Chapel brought in civilians from the offbase to serve a sponsor/witness. I did meet my sponsor/witness in advance. Rather, I turned a got a glimpse of him prior to encountering the Catholic bishop. He simply smiled and nodded his head. It was the first and last time I ever saw him.
At the Schilling Chapel, we were introduced to Catholic Folk music as part of the Sunday worship service. The musicians had guitars and tambourines and the music was upbeat. Much to the chagrin of many traditional Catholics, this folk music became popular in the 70's.
I cannot recall any particular sermon that stood out in my mind. I believe my lack of attention is the main cause for this. I do recall how the Chaplain did not like the wine he had to drink as part of the Eucharist. He would grimace when taking an obligatory sip.
As for Sunday afternoons, I recall getting ready for school by doing homework and writing letters to my father and other family. My older brother used to get and share a magazine from his catechism class that featured animated histories on the lives of famous Americans such as Dwight Eisenhauer, Charles Goodyear, and others. Perhaps this fueled my interest in history. My big brother, who is now a high school teacher, loved teaching me things in those days. I just wish that I had been a better student.
Next blog, final thoughts on our Schilling Manor days.
The Catholic services were conducted by an Army Chaplain. After Sunday Mass, we took a shuttle bus to Catechism class (Sunday School). Each class was based upon class grade. Some of my classmates in school were also in this class. I remember our classroom being in the basement that also served as a bomb shelter or least had the markings and signs for such.
I recall being confirmed at this Schilling Chapel. The Chaplain and his staff took care of everything including selecting each confirmee a sponsor/witness. As there were very few Catholic men on base, the Chapel brought in civilians from the offbase to serve a sponsor/witness. I did meet my sponsor/witness in advance. Rather, I turned a got a glimpse of him prior to encountering the Catholic bishop. He simply smiled and nodded his head. It was the first and last time I ever saw him.
At the Schilling Chapel, we were introduced to Catholic Folk music as part of the Sunday worship service. The musicians had guitars and tambourines and the music was upbeat. Much to the chagrin of many traditional Catholics, this folk music became popular in the 70's.
I cannot recall any particular sermon that stood out in my mind. I believe my lack of attention is the main cause for this. I do recall how the Chaplain did not like the wine he had to drink as part of the Eucharist. He would grimace when taking an obligatory sip.
As for Sunday afternoons, I recall getting ready for school by doing homework and writing letters to my father and other family. My older brother used to get and share a magazine from his catechism class that featured animated histories on the lives of famous Americans such as Dwight Eisenhauer, Charles Goodyear, and others. Perhaps this fueled my interest in history. My big brother, who is now a high school teacher, loved teaching me things in those days. I just wish that I had been a better student.
Next blog, final thoughts on our Schilling Manor days.
Schilling Manor Days - Part 3
They all had a common bond in that their husbands were assigned overseas. Most had husbands in Viet Nam.
I recall how some did not drive while others could drive but did not have vehicles. In our neighborhood, mothers who could drive would carpool with those who could not drive or loan their vehicles out.
I recall how one of our neighbors whose mother was British took care of us when my mother went to Wichita, KS for the day to be naturalized as a US citizen. It was the only day I remember that our mother was not home when we returned from school. I recall that afternoon coming to our neighbor's home for TV dinner and watching the news until our mother returned for us.
Those families with teenagers would babysit for the younger children while mothers went shopping.
I do not remember mothers getting together to socialize much. I suspect they were too busy trying to keep their households going. Though I do remember an evening when one of the mothers, sitting under a tree and talking with others, got hit by a long fly ball from our softball game. Fortunately, she was only dazed and did not delay our game too long. I think it was her daugher's neighborhood boyfriend who hit the long flyball. I think they broke up shortly thereafter.
Tomorrow, Sundays in Schilling Manor.
I recall how some did not drive while others could drive but did not have vehicles. In our neighborhood, mothers who could drive would carpool with those who could not drive or loan their vehicles out.
I recall how one of our neighbors whose mother was British took care of us when my mother went to Wichita, KS for the day to be naturalized as a US citizen. It was the only day I remember that our mother was not home when we returned from school. I recall that afternoon coming to our neighbor's home for TV dinner and watching the news until our mother returned for us.
Those families with teenagers would babysit for the younger children while mothers went shopping.
I do not remember mothers getting together to socialize much. I suspect they were too busy trying to keep their households going. Though I do remember an evening when one of the mothers, sitting under a tree and talking with others, got hit by a long fly ball from our softball game. Fortunately, she was only dazed and did not delay our game too long. I think it was her daugher's neighborhood boyfriend who hit the long flyball. I think they broke up shortly thereafter.
Tomorrow, Sundays in Schilling Manor.
Schilling Manor Days - Part 2
School was in walking distance. There were no such thing as snow days. Our parents equipped us with snow boots, hats, scarves, and gloves to endure the wintry elements. I recall walking over a foot bridge that spanned a small creek. This was the half point between school and home.
We crossed the major road into Schilling and across which the school stood under the watchful eye of a Saline County Sherrif's deputy. To me, it was reassuring to see a strong male presence watching over us. There just were not a lot of adult men around Schilling. We got to know them by face, the friendly ones and and the stern ones. Nevertheless, they were always a welcome sight.
Having attended Catholic schools up to then, it was a real treat to attend school that had a gym with basketball hoops, volley ball courts, and plenty of athletic equipment. I recall being introduced to tether ball, soccer, volley ball, and softball during recess which always encompassed athletic activities.
There was plenty of educational media to accompany our books. We must have watched educational film strips several times a week. Once a week, an art teacher came in as well as a music teacher who pushed in her portable piano.
I have to say that these were my happiest days of attending school. Very little peer pressure, great teachers, abundant resources. I could not wait to get to school in those days to be greeted by the warm and friendly smile of our teacher as we entered class.
Such idyllic surroundings made it easy to forget that our fathers were in far away places, some in greater proximity to harm's way than others. That was until we would head home and occassionally see an official military vehicle parked in front of a home. The assumption was that the officials who arrived in that vehicle had bad news to convey. Most of us would just keep walking quickly past the vehicle. I recall that I actually had a classmate whose father did not return alive from Viet Nam. She did not finish the school year with us.
On occasion, I would come home to find my mother somewhat preoccupied. Eventually, I came to realize that this preoccupation was the result of hearing that Tan San Knut had been the target of another rocket attack and that U.S. casualities had been incurred.
Tomorrow, more on how the "waiting wives" supported each other.
We crossed the major road into Schilling and across which the school stood under the watchful eye of a Saline County Sherrif's deputy. To me, it was reassuring to see a strong male presence watching over us. There just were not a lot of adult men around Schilling. We got to know them by face, the friendly ones and and the stern ones. Nevertheless, they were always a welcome sight.
Having attended Catholic schools up to then, it was a real treat to attend school that had a gym with basketball hoops, volley ball courts, and plenty of athletic equipment. I recall being introduced to tether ball, soccer, volley ball, and softball during recess which always encompassed athletic activities.
There was plenty of educational media to accompany our books. We must have watched educational film strips several times a week. Once a week, an art teacher came in as well as a music teacher who pushed in her portable piano.
I have to say that these were my happiest days of attending school. Very little peer pressure, great teachers, abundant resources. I could not wait to get to school in those days to be greeted by the warm and friendly smile of our teacher as we entered class.
Such idyllic surroundings made it easy to forget that our fathers were in far away places, some in greater proximity to harm's way than others. That was until we would head home and occassionally see an official military vehicle parked in front of a home. The assumption was that the officials who arrived in that vehicle had bad news to convey. Most of us would just keep walking quickly past the vehicle. I recall that I actually had a classmate whose father did not return alive from Viet Nam. She did not finish the school year with us.
On occasion, I would come home to find my mother somewhat preoccupied. Eventually, I came to realize that this preoccupation was the result of hearing that Tan San Knut had been the target of another rocket attack and that U.S. casualities had been incurred.
Tomorrow, more on how the "waiting wives" supported each other.
Schilling Manor Days - Richmond Court - Salina, KS - Part 1
In 1967, it was called Schilling Manor. Previously, it had been Schilling Air Force Base. The Air Force closed it down a few years earlier. I seem to recall a sign either at the entrance or on the base referring to Schilling Manor as "Home of the Waiting Wives".
In those days, its purpose was to house the families of military service members serving overseas, particularly Viet Nam. It was self-contained community of schools, playgrounds, church, community center, commissary, post exchange, and medical center. For those who did not drive, there was some shuttle bus service to these facilities. We arrived in November, 1967 and lived on Richmond Court. Though we lived there about 13 months, it was memorable time for both internal and external events.
There are many recollections of those 13 months. In particular, I recall the diversity of our neighbors which included mothers who were: American Indian, German, British, Japanese, Korean, as well as American. It was a veritable cornucopia of diversity. We live in military housing yet the house had a garage and basement. As this was Kansas, tornadoes were a threat though I do not recall one while we lived there.
School was in walking distance and we came home for lunch consisting typically of PBJ and Lipton chicken noodle soup which was perfect for those cold Kansas winter days. My 4th grade teacher's fiance was serving in Viet Nam. I enjoyed school very much in those days. I recall the principal who, much to the chagrin of teachers, played Game 7 of the '68 World Series over the school's PA system. In those days, the World Series was played during the day. Our teacher proceeded with instruction despite this. I have no idea what she covered that afternoon as I had focused soley on the Tigers' Mickey Lolich pitching his team to victory despite going on short rest from his Game 5 win a few days earlier.
I recall that the local paper, the Salina Journal, an afternoon edition did not publish baseball boxscores daily, just on Sundays. I felt out of touch with my Red Sox.
In those days, some fathers sent back jackets from their assigned places. Most kids my age wore such jackets emblazened on the back with the names: Da Nang, Mekong Delta, Pleiku, Cam Rahn Bay, etc.
The move from Land Avenue in Tampa to Richmond Court in Salina seemed to be a natural progression. There was a common bond among families: their fathers were serving overseas. As I reflect upon this, we were living in a community of single parent households though temporary in nature. I realized then that Viet Nam had impacted the lives of many others besides my family.
More on the Schilling Manor days tomorrow.
In those days, its purpose was to house the families of military service members serving overseas, particularly Viet Nam. It was self-contained community of schools, playgrounds, church, community center, commissary, post exchange, and medical center. For those who did not drive, there was some shuttle bus service to these facilities. We arrived in November, 1967 and lived on Richmond Court. Though we lived there about 13 months, it was memorable time for both internal and external events.
There are many recollections of those 13 months. In particular, I recall the diversity of our neighbors which included mothers who were: American Indian, German, British, Japanese, Korean, as well as American. It was a veritable cornucopia of diversity. We live in military housing yet the house had a garage and basement. As this was Kansas, tornadoes were a threat though I do not recall one while we lived there.
School was in walking distance and we came home for lunch consisting typically of PBJ and Lipton chicken noodle soup which was perfect for those cold Kansas winter days. My 4th grade teacher's fiance was serving in Viet Nam. I enjoyed school very much in those days. I recall the principal who, much to the chagrin of teachers, played Game 7 of the '68 World Series over the school's PA system. In those days, the World Series was played during the day. Our teacher proceeded with instruction despite this. I have no idea what she covered that afternoon as I had focused soley on the Tigers' Mickey Lolich pitching his team to victory despite going on short rest from his Game 5 win a few days earlier.
I recall that the local paper, the Salina Journal, an afternoon edition did not publish baseball boxscores daily, just on Sundays. I felt out of touch with my Red Sox.
In those days, some fathers sent back jackets from their assigned places. Most kids my age wore such jackets emblazened on the back with the names: Da Nang, Mekong Delta, Pleiku, Cam Rahn Bay, etc.
The move from Land Avenue in Tampa to Richmond Court in Salina seemed to be a natural progression. There was a common bond among families: their fathers were serving overseas. As I reflect upon this, we were living in a community of single parent households though temporary in nature. I realized then that Viet Nam had impacted the lives of many others besides my family.
More on the Schilling Manor days tomorrow.
Land Avenue in Tampa Florida
My parents purchased a house on Land Avenue in Tampa, Florida in 1965. I remember many things about this house, mainly that it did not have central a/c. In the summer time, I recall how either crop planes or trucks dumped heavy anti-misquito spray throughout the neighborhood creating a dense fog-like atmosphere. Most memories of mine from that period were far from idyllic.
I can trace back my earliest memories of baseball at this time. In those days, the Cincinnati Reds held their spring training at Al Lopez Field which was located next a lot that eventually became Tampa Stadium. I recall how one of my neighbors had gotten the autograph of Pete Rose on their baseball bat. My father purchased my brother Mike and me our first baseball gloves. I believed his was autographed by Gil McDougald.
While race riots broke out in Detroit, Watts, and other areas, Tampa, too, had its own experience with riots. Those hot summers ushered in the calling in of the National Guard in these cities to bring normalcy back to race-torn neighborhoods.
I also remember that many military families lived in our neighborhood given its proximity to McDill Air Force Base which at the time was headquarters for the Tactical Air Command and Strike Command. The Viet Nam war was escalating at that time. LBJ was President and was given much leeway on running the war via the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution.
Here is what I recall about hour neighbors and how the war impacted their lives:
1. facing the street, our neighbors to the right had a father who served 2-3 tours in Da Nang
2. to our left, lived an Air Force military policeman who worked McDill's busy front gate
3. to their left lived a family whose father was an Army Lieutenant missing in action; they had a German shepard guard dog, named Newton, who we feared would jump the fence and attack us
4. three houses to their left lived the wife of an Air Force pilot who had been shot down and missing in action
5. right across the street from us lived a Naval pilot had been shot down and missing in action
6. there were several more military households which were not as adversely impacted by the war at that time
7. in 1967, my father received orders to Viet Nam and was assigned to Tan San Knut Air Base in Saigon
Years later, I watched a "Wonder Years' episode in which Winny Cooper's brother had been killed in the Viet Nam war and chronicled the Cooper family's travails afterwards.
In reflecting back on those days, I cannot help but think of the families impacted by the wars in Irag and Afghanistan today. History seems to be repeating itself as our country is mired in another war, actually two, where there seems to be neither victory nor successful exit.. Yet, our soldiers continue to get killed or wounded and families greatly impacted.
Tomorrow, from Land Avenue in Tampa to Richmond Court in Kansas.
I can trace back my earliest memories of baseball at this time. In those days, the Cincinnati Reds held their spring training at Al Lopez Field which was located next a lot that eventually became Tampa Stadium. I recall how one of my neighbors had gotten the autograph of Pete Rose on their baseball bat. My father purchased my brother Mike and me our first baseball gloves. I believed his was autographed by Gil McDougald.
While race riots broke out in Detroit, Watts, and other areas, Tampa, too, had its own experience with riots. Those hot summers ushered in the calling in of the National Guard in these cities to bring normalcy back to race-torn neighborhoods.
I also remember that many military families lived in our neighborhood given its proximity to McDill Air Force Base which at the time was headquarters for the Tactical Air Command and Strike Command. The Viet Nam war was escalating at that time. LBJ was President and was given much leeway on running the war via the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution.
Here is what I recall about hour neighbors and how the war impacted their lives:
1. facing the street, our neighbors to the right had a father who served 2-3 tours in Da Nang
2. to our left, lived an Air Force military policeman who worked McDill's busy front gate
3. to their left lived a family whose father was an Army Lieutenant missing in action; they had a German shepard guard dog, named Newton, who we feared would jump the fence and attack us
4. three houses to their left lived the wife of an Air Force pilot who had been shot down and missing in action
5. right across the street from us lived a Naval pilot had been shot down and missing in action
6. there were several more military households which were not as adversely impacted by the war at that time
7. in 1967, my father received orders to Viet Nam and was assigned to Tan San Knut Air Base in Saigon
Years later, I watched a "Wonder Years' episode in which Winny Cooper's brother had been killed in the Viet Nam war and chronicled the Cooper family's travails afterwards.
In reflecting back on those days, I cannot help but think of the families impacted by the wars in Irag and Afghanistan today. History seems to be repeating itself as our country is mired in another war, actually two, where there seems to be neither victory nor successful exit.. Yet, our soldiers continue to get killed or wounded and families greatly impacted.
Tomorrow, from Land Avenue in Tampa to Richmond Court in Kansas.
Person of Influence
He stood six feet and 5 inches. As a graduate of Virginia State on a ROTC scholarship, he became an infantry officer who served in Viet Nam. As a mere 19-year old Army Specialist, I will admit to being intimidated by this towering officer.
I first encountered Lt. Colonel Samuel Edward Simmons upon being called into his office. Being a bit nervous, I answered his questions and must have uttered "Sir" at least 2 times for every word I spoke. Relieved that the interaction was almost over but before I could leave, he asked "where are you from in the world?" (the question used by us assigned to Germany for where are you from in the USA?)
My response was "Sir, I am from a small town that you probably never heard of called Hopewell, VA". To which, he responded excitedly "I'm from Petersburg, VA.!" This provided us with a common bond. In the military, the world gets much smaller.
I came to respect Colonel Simmons greatly. Like, Omar Bradley, he was a soldier's officer always taking time to talk with the enlisted, share a smoke break, and always watching out for their well being. Despite having risen to the rank of Lt. Colonel, he often experienced discrimination for being African-American, not being a graduate of West Point, and having left the Infantry for the Adjutant General's Corps (administration). That discrimination he experienced enabled him to empathize with the enlisted and provided him with a unique bond with others. He practically knew, addressed, and referred to all of us enlisted by our first names.
As my assignment in Germany was concluding, Colonel Simmons asked me where I wanted to be reassigned. I had clear idea. So, he suggested Carlisle Barracks, PA which was home of the Army's War College. His plans were to return to Carlisle Barracks, finish out his time, and then retire. He assured me that this was done deal as he had contacts. Well, his contacts weren't as solid as he thought. We both ended up at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. I concluded my enlistment working for Colonel Simmons at Aberdeen.
Colonel Simmons taught me much in the realm of interacting with others. He had a self-deprecating humor that disarmed others and drew people close to him. In retrospect, I believe he had natural charisma that transcended his physical presence. I wish that I could have worked with him longer to learn more and emulate him.
I first encountered Lt. Colonel Samuel Edward Simmons upon being called into his office. Being a bit nervous, I answered his questions and must have uttered "Sir" at least 2 times for every word I spoke. Relieved that the interaction was almost over but before I could leave, he asked "where are you from in the world?" (the question used by us assigned to Germany for where are you from in the USA?)
My response was "Sir, I am from a small town that you probably never heard of called Hopewell, VA". To which, he responded excitedly "I'm from Petersburg, VA.!" This provided us with a common bond. In the military, the world gets much smaller.
I came to respect Colonel Simmons greatly. Like, Omar Bradley, he was a soldier's officer always taking time to talk with the enlisted, share a smoke break, and always watching out for their well being. Despite having risen to the rank of Lt. Colonel, he often experienced discrimination for being African-American, not being a graduate of West Point, and having left the Infantry for the Adjutant General's Corps (administration). That discrimination he experienced enabled him to empathize with the enlisted and provided him with a unique bond with others. He practically knew, addressed, and referred to all of us enlisted by our first names.
As my assignment in Germany was concluding, Colonel Simmons asked me where I wanted to be reassigned. I had clear idea. So, he suggested Carlisle Barracks, PA which was home of the Army's War College. His plans were to return to Carlisle Barracks, finish out his time, and then retire. He assured me that this was done deal as he had contacts. Well, his contacts weren't as solid as he thought. We both ended up at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. I concluded my enlistment working for Colonel Simmons at Aberdeen.
Colonel Simmons taught me much in the realm of interacting with others. He had a self-deprecating humor that disarmed others and drew people close to him. In retrospect, I believe he had natural charisma that transcended his physical presence. I wish that I could have worked with him longer to learn more and emulate him.
Industrial Age Work Habits
We are all inundated with literature talking about the Information Age in which we now live. The proliferation of data is mind boggling. The terminologies are mind numbing.
Yet, I find myself befuddled with human behavior, including my own, particularly in the workplace. We have modern servers that can house terabytes of data and front-end user interfaces to facilitate the capture of electronic notes. Yet, I still see the ubiquitous 3M sticky notes everywhere, including on my desk.
We have on-line banking yet some folks still deposit their checks on pay day.
We can file our taxes electronically, yet, some of us (including me) still file via the US Mail.
We still employ Industrial Age work habits in this Information Age. I see this as analagous to me using the old manual lawn mower to cut my grass instead of a Briggs-Stratton gas powered riding mower or a swing blade to trim instead of a gas powered or electric weed eater.
Later blogs to cover the "Digital Divide" and "Industrial Age Management" in this Information Age.
Yet, I find myself befuddled with human behavior, including my own, particularly in the workplace. We have modern servers that can house terabytes of data and front-end user interfaces to facilitate the capture of electronic notes. Yet, I still see the ubiquitous 3M sticky notes everywhere, including on my desk.
We have on-line banking yet some folks still deposit their checks on pay day.
We can file our taxes electronically, yet, some of us (including me) still file via the US Mail.
We still employ Industrial Age work habits in this Information Age. I see this as analagous to me using the old manual lawn mower to cut my grass instead of a Briggs-Stratton gas powered riding mower or a swing blade to trim instead of a gas powered or electric weed eater.
Later blogs to cover the "Digital Divide" and "Industrial Age Management" in this Information Age.
A Daughter's Love and Devotion
For almost 4 years now, I have witnessed how my wife honors her mother daily. Prior to and since her father's death, my wife has been a devoted daughter to her mother.
She takes care of all her mother's financial matters: bills; taxes; investments; and, property. She consults the hospice officials regarding her mother's health and treatments. She keeps her mother's prescriptions organized and up to date as well as other supplies. During this time, she has become well-versed in medications I have never heard of and knows how to administer them. She maintains detailed and meticulous daily charts on her mother's medications, meals, and other statistics. While her mother was in assisted living, Lynn had to fight her mother's battles over care issues.
She oversaw the addition to our home and kept the builder in line and on time.
I have witnessed how her own health has been impacted in this caregiver role. Her sleep is sporadic. She has aches and pains from lifting and pulling on her mother. Coupled with her job, she has much stress in her life and no time for herself.
Yet, she runs her mother's affairs and household with the skill of a trained military quartermaster. I affectionately refer to her as "the General".
In short, she has put her life on hold for the sake of her mother. What devotion! She is an inspiration to me and others. I am very proud to have a wife who is so devoted to her mother and honors her daily. While I have witnessed some many elderly parents relegated to assisted living arrangements with very little visits from children, I am so very mindful as to the burden and labor of love my wife has taken on her shoulders. It truly is a rarity in this day and age.
She takes care of all her mother's financial matters: bills; taxes; investments; and, property. She consults the hospice officials regarding her mother's health and treatments. She keeps her mother's prescriptions organized and up to date as well as other supplies. During this time, she has become well-versed in medications I have never heard of and knows how to administer them. She maintains detailed and meticulous daily charts on her mother's medications, meals, and other statistics. While her mother was in assisted living, Lynn had to fight her mother's battles over care issues.
She oversaw the addition to our home and kept the builder in line and on time.
I have witnessed how her own health has been impacted in this caregiver role. Her sleep is sporadic. She has aches and pains from lifting and pulling on her mother. Coupled with her job, she has much stress in her life and no time for herself.
Yet, she runs her mother's affairs and household with the skill of a trained military quartermaster. I affectionately refer to her as "the General".
In short, she has put her life on hold for the sake of her mother. What devotion! She is an inspiration to me and others. I am very proud to have a wife who is so devoted to her mother and honors her daily. While I have witnessed some many elderly parents relegated to assisted living arrangements with very little visits from children, I am so very mindful as to the burden and labor of love my wife has taken on her shoulders. It truly is a rarity in this day and age.
Profit versus Purpose
"Greed is good" is how Gordon Greco, played by Michael Douglas, in the movie "Wall Street" described his view of capitalism.
In business schools, many courses are devoted to profit maximation. Taking a loss is a sign of failure (except for tax purposes).
In Daniel H. Pink's book "Drive", he stresses that those who pursue purpose (intrinsic rewards) are prone to be happier, richer, and more fulilled than those who are purely driven by profit (extrinsic rewards). Some innovative entrepeneurs, like TOM's shoes operate under "One for One. TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need." What a dual purpose!
But, what about the rest of us? What is our purpose for getting up everyday? We all need to have purpose in our every day lives lest our activities are simply going through the motions. Then, ruts appear.
I recall when many of us devoted practically every Saturday for a few years ago in building Bethlehem Walk. Knowing that I had much to do at home and at work, I was able to keep myself going by one thing: the purpose of helping to build Bethlehem village would enable the gospel of salvation to be shared by many throughout the community. That is what kept me and many others going through long hours of, what was for me, hard labor. That purpose further kept me and the cast going through sometimes five consecutive nights of being out in the elements until close to midnight.
I have a dear friend who works daily with the purpose that his efforts may result in employer-provided bonuses that will enable him to help fund the Christian education of those who cannot afford it. What an altruistic purpose for us to emulate. His example reminds me to assess my purpose daily.
In business schools, many courses are devoted to profit maximation. Taking a loss is a sign of failure (except for tax purposes).
In Daniel H. Pink's book "Drive", he stresses that those who pursue purpose (intrinsic rewards) are prone to be happier, richer, and more fulilled than those who are purely driven by profit (extrinsic rewards). Some innovative entrepeneurs, like TOM's shoes operate under "One for One. TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need." What a dual purpose!
But, what about the rest of us? What is our purpose for getting up everyday? We all need to have purpose in our every day lives lest our activities are simply going through the motions. Then, ruts appear.
I recall when many of us devoted practically every Saturday for a few years ago in building Bethlehem Walk. Knowing that I had much to do at home and at work, I was able to keep myself going by one thing: the purpose of helping to build Bethlehem village would enable the gospel of salvation to be shared by many throughout the community. That is what kept me and many others going through long hours of, what was for me, hard labor. That purpose further kept me and the cast going through sometimes five consecutive nights of being out in the elements until close to midnight.
I have a dear friend who works daily with the purpose that his efforts may result in employer-provided bonuses that will enable him to help fund the Christian education of those who cannot afford it. What an altruistic purpose for us to emulate. His example reminds me to assess my purpose daily.
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