I had an interview at Lowe's today. Sure, not the most glamorous job, but they are the ones who called me back, which is more than the truckload of other companies I have applied to has done. I interviewed with two separate people, and then had to take a drug test. I was then informed that I would find out about the job in one to three weeks. Why such a long time? Well, quite possibly because for the two open positions, they have 150 applications to sort through. So I am up against at least 149 other people for this job. This is the problem job seekers are facing everywhere right now. My odds are not good.
You might think I would be having a bad day because of that, but in fact, I feel just the opposite. Today is an amazing day and I feel great. Why? I feel great because I woke up this morning. It is a great day because I got out of bed. The entire world is waiting for me, and I am alive to experience it. So maybe I won't get this job, but you know what? That just means there is something even better for me waiting out there. Heck, maybe my writing thing will start to pay off!
So what did I do on this rainy, yet perfect day? After my interview I went running. Since I am a new runner I have been training up by running for a set amount of time, then walking, then running again, and so on for about 30 minutes. Not even two weeks ago my run/walk ratio was 60seconds/90seconds. Today my ratio was 4minutes/2minutes. In less than two weeks I quadrupled my run time and am running for twice as long as I walk. Let me tell you, it feels damn good.
Everyone becomes conditioned to feel certain emotions, and those emotions soon become habit. For a long time my habitual emotion was that of sadness, pessimism, and desperation. I am retraining my emotions, so that my first response is not to focus on the negative, but to look on the bright side, to feel good, and to be happy. I looked at myself in the mirror today and smiled. Nobody else was anywhere around, nothing funny had happened, but I smiled, because I am me. I dare you to find a better reason to be alive.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Look there, it's a post!
I'm running empty on ideas for today's blog, so I think I'm just going to start typing and see what kind of ramblings I can spew out.
"How are you?" is the first thing everyone asks when striking up a conversation with another person. The look on someone's face when met with anything other than "fine, how are you?" is quite entertaining to me. It's so funny to realize that the majority of people in this world could not care less about how you really are, but ask the question anyway because society has brainwashed them into thinking this is how all conversations should go. The average person is probably on autopilot during the first few minutes of any conversation, as the questions and responses are always scripted. It's no wonder miscommunication is so commonly a cause of stress in relationships and life in general. We are so trained as to the polite way to hold a conversation, we don't even need to be mentally present. Perhaps we should all try and muster up some genuine curiosity in the other person's well-being when having a discussion.
It drives me absolutely crazy when someone says "I could care less" when he really means "I couldn't care less". Just stop and think about the words you are saying for a second. "I could care less" means that there is indeed more room for less caring! You are not yet at the absolute point of indifference. Perhaps this is, in fact, the stance you are attempting to portray, but I doubt it. I am fairly certain the phrase you seek is, "could NOT care less", meaning the subject in question holds no interest for you.
I would like to make sure everyone is aware of what the presence if an apostrophe (') signifies. Look at words that have an apostrophe, such as "they're" or "it's". That crazy little symbol hovering up there means that one or more letters are missing (with the exception of possessiveness, which should be Googled if you don't understand). The apostrophe's job is to save that hole so that one day those letters will have a nice warm home to return to. The apostrophe's job is thankless! All day long it sits there, knowing that one day the letters may return and the apostrophe will be homeless and unemployed. Show some respect for the poor little apostrophe. Don't stuff it in places where it doesn't belong. If you write "It's face is missing because of the acid," you have placed that poor apostrophe in a horrible situation. It shows up to work on Monday and the letters around it begin shouting and demanding to know what it thinks it is doing there! No letters are missing, you idiotic apostrophe! You can't fit here! Go back to where you came from! You have just ruined the life of that poor little apostrophe. If you've been paying attention, you will notice I employed several apostrophes in this paragraph. Let me tell you, it feels good knowing I'm giving their lives some meaning. Now let's say you slept through English, and you write, "Their coming over for dinner". That's WRONG. You don't mean "their", you mean "they're". Now that poor apostrophe is shivering outside as he stares in at your warm little ignorant sentence. Don't you feel bad? Well you should! Learn to write the language you speak!
"How are you?" is the first thing everyone asks when striking up a conversation with another person. The look on someone's face when met with anything other than "fine, how are you?" is quite entertaining to me. It's so funny to realize that the majority of people in this world could not care less about how you really are, but ask the question anyway because society has brainwashed them into thinking this is how all conversations should go. The average person is probably on autopilot during the first few minutes of any conversation, as the questions and responses are always scripted. It's no wonder miscommunication is so commonly a cause of stress in relationships and life in general. We are so trained as to the polite way to hold a conversation, we don't even need to be mentally present. Perhaps we should all try and muster up some genuine curiosity in the other person's well-being when having a discussion.
It drives me absolutely crazy when someone says "I could care less" when he really means "I couldn't care less". Just stop and think about the words you are saying for a second. "I could care less" means that there is indeed more room for less caring! You are not yet at the absolute point of indifference. Perhaps this is, in fact, the stance you are attempting to portray, but I doubt it. I am fairly certain the phrase you seek is, "could NOT care less", meaning the subject in question holds no interest for you.
I would like to make sure everyone is aware of what the presence if an apostrophe (') signifies. Look at words that have an apostrophe, such as "they're" or "it's". That crazy little symbol hovering up there means that one or more letters are missing (with the exception of possessiveness, which should be Googled if you don't understand). The apostrophe's job is to save that hole so that one day those letters will have a nice warm home to return to. The apostrophe's job is thankless! All day long it sits there, knowing that one day the letters may return and the apostrophe will be homeless and unemployed. Show some respect for the poor little apostrophe. Don't stuff it in places where it doesn't belong. If you write "It's face is missing because of the acid," you have placed that poor apostrophe in a horrible situation. It shows up to work on Monday and the letters around it begin shouting and demanding to know what it thinks it is doing there! No letters are missing, you idiotic apostrophe! You can't fit here! Go back to where you came from! You have just ruined the life of that poor little apostrophe. If you've been paying attention, you will notice I employed several apostrophes in this paragraph. Let me tell you, it feels good knowing I'm giving their lives some meaning. Now let's say you slept through English, and you write, "Their coming over for dinner". That's WRONG. You don't mean "their", you mean "they're". Now that poor apostrophe is shivering outside as he stares in at your warm little ignorant sentence. Don't you feel bad? Well you should! Learn to write the language you speak!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Sawyer's Day
Wow, the peanut butter on this rubber bone is amazing. It's on every corner! This is the best thing ever! I can't lick fast enough. Oh, there is even some on the inside! Getting that out will be a super fun game.
What a shame, all the peanut butter is gone now. Wait a second, where are the humans? They were right here just a second ago. The tall one brought me this peanut butter bone. I can't hear them or smell them. This is not good. I'd better whine to let them know I'm here. Maybe they will realize they forgot me and come running.
Well the whining hasn't worked. I guess I should explore some. This is a fairly big room. There is plenty of space for me to move around. There is probably more space where the humans are though. Oh look, there are all my toys and my bed. Those things could be entertaining but I'd better figure out where the humans are first. I am sure they are having more fun than I could ever have here with all my toys. Let's see, I seem to remember entering this room from over here. There seems to be some sort of gate blocking my path now. I'd better push on it to try and open it. No good, it's not letting me through. Well, I'm pretty sure the humans will be mad at me for this, but I really need to get out of here so I can see what exciting and amazing things they are doing. Time to chew on the gate! Yuck, this wood doesn't taste so good, but I'd better keep chewing anyway.
I've gotten some very large chunks out of the bottom of the gate but I still can't get through. I think it's time to chew on the upper part. This isn't working much better. I'd better claw at this carpet under the gate; perhaps I can tunnel through. That's not working either! I'd better lick the carpet under the gate so it gets good and wet. Maybe that will allow me to escape! Wait! What the blazes is that next to me? It's a chair! I bet it tastes great! I'd better chew that now. I don't know why, but it seems like my best course of action. Yummy, this is one heck of a tasty chair. I wonder why nobody else has eaten it yet?
Those humans are still gone. I really have to pee. I'm going to hold it though, because I know I'm supposed to go outside. What's that sound? The door is opening! The humans are home! I'd better whine super loud so they can find me again! The gate is opening. Here comes the tall one! Uh-oh, he looks upset. I bet he wanted to eat that chair. Oh gosh, I should have left it for him. To make it up to him I'd better go ahead and pee all over the carpet so he won't have to take me out. I know I've held it all day, but the best option is definitely to go now. Wow, he looks angry!
What a shame, all the peanut butter is gone now. Wait a second, where are the humans? They were right here just a second ago. The tall one brought me this peanut butter bone. I can't hear them or smell them. This is not good. I'd better whine to let them know I'm here. Maybe they will realize they forgot me and come running.
Well the whining hasn't worked. I guess I should explore some. This is a fairly big room. There is plenty of space for me to move around. There is probably more space where the humans are though. Oh look, there are all my toys and my bed. Those things could be entertaining but I'd better figure out where the humans are first. I am sure they are having more fun than I could ever have here with all my toys. Let's see, I seem to remember entering this room from over here. There seems to be some sort of gate blocking my path now. I'd better push on it to try and open it. No good, it's not letting me through. Well, I'm pretty sure the humans will be mad at me for this, but I really need to get out of here so I can see what exciting and amazing things they are doing. Time to chew on the gate! Yuck, this wood doesn't taste so good, but I'd better keep chewing anyway.
I've gotten some very large chunks out of the bottom of the gate but I still can't get through. I think it's time to chew on the upper part. This isn't working much better. I'd better claw at this carpet under the gate; perhaps I can tunnel through. That's not working either! I'd better lick the carpet under the gate so it gets good and wet. Maybe that will allow me to escape! Wait! What the blazes is that next to me? It's a chair! I bet it tastes great! I'd better chew that now. I don't know why, but it seems like my best course of action. Yummy, this is one heck of a tasty chair. I wonder why nobody else has eaten it yet?
Those humans are still gone. I really have to pee. I'm going to hold it though, because I know I'm supposed to go outside. What's that sound? The door is opening! The humans are home! I'd better whine super loud so they can find me again! The gate is opening. Here comes the tall one! Uh-oh, he looks upset. I bet he wanted to eat that chair. Oh gosh, I should have left it for him. To make it up to him I'd better go ahead and pee all over the carpet so he won't have to take me out. I know I've held it all day, but the best option is definitely to go now. Wow, he looks angry!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Exercise!
I was thankfully blessed with a metabolism that allows me to eat almost anything without gaining a pound. However, just because I'm thin doesn't mean I'm necessarily healthy or physically fit. A little over a week ago I decided it was time for some life changes. One of these changes, or goals rather, was to get myself in shape. Now that I think about it, that is a very weird statement. What shape? Certainly not a circle. A trapezoid perhaps? Maybe I'll aim to become a triangle. Sorry, what was I saying? Oh yes, it was exercise time!
The first thing I decided to do was start each day with some push-ups and sit-ups. That was easy enough, but I needed to do something more. I soon decided I would like to take up running. There has always been a part of me that had some desire to be a runner. In high school I ALMOST joined the cross country team, but I eventually decided I didn't want to put in the time and effort that would require. Now, I am ready to give running its fair shot. I have been out running every morning for over a week, with the exception of an extremely rainy day. It was super hard to start with, of course, but I can already see a huge improvement in myself. It feels great to accomplish something like this. Every morning I push myself to the limit and am able to look back when I'm done, and feel proud. I am bettering myself both physically and mentally, as I gain strength and the realization that I am capable of this. Exercise is an amazing way to feel better about yourself, and I highly recommend that anyone physically able takes up running.
An area I know I have always been weak in is flexibility. I have been doing stretches before and after running of course, but I wanted to take it a step further. Today I started yoga. Anyone who thinks yoga isn't a real workout has obviously never done it, or at least not done it properly. Yoga involves placing your body in seemingly simple positions, and then holding it there. After doing this for a while you would be surprised how hard it is to even keep your arms pointed straight up above your head. I actually started the P90X version, YogaX, today. Trust me, the workout was nothing to sneeze at. To be honest, I know I should have probably started at a more basic level than P90X, but the intense workout was a pretty big rush. I wasn't able to finish the entire video (over an hour and a half), but I hope to soon work myself up to that point.
I have never really gotten enough exercise in my life, and now that I finally am, it feels great. My appetite is better, I have more energy, and I feel good about myself. I'm definitely sore, but it's a good kind of sore. I can feel my aches and pains and be happy, knowing how hard I'm working to improve myself.
The first thing I decided to do was start each day with some push-ups and sit-ups. That was easy enough, but I needed to do something more. I soon decided I would like to take up running. There has always been a part of me that had some desire to be a runner. In high school I ALMOST joined the cross country team, but I eventually decided I didn't want to put in the time and effort that would require. Now, I am ready to give running its fair shot. I have been out running every morning for over a week, with the exception of an extremely rainy day. It was super hard to start with, of course, but I can already see a huge improvement in myself. It feels great to accomplish something like this. Every morning I push myself to the limit and am able to look back when I'm done, and feel proud. I am bettering myself both physically and mentally, as I gain strength and the realization that I am capable of this. Exercise is an amazing way to feel better about yourself, and I highly recommend that anyone physically able takes up running.
An area I know I have always been weak in is flexibility. I have been doing stretches before and after running of course, but I wanted to take it a step further. Today I started yoga. Anyone who thinks yoga isn't a real workout has obviously never done it, or at least not done it properly. Yoga involves placing your body in seemingly simple positions, and then holding it there. After doing this for a while you would be surprised how hard it is to even keep your arms pointed straight up above your head. I actually started the P90X version, YogaX, today. Trust me, the workout was nothing to sneeze at. To be honest, I know I should have probably started at a more basic level than P90X, but the intense workout was a pretty big rush. I wasn't able to finish the entire video (over an hour and a half), but I hope to soon work myself up to that point.
I have never really gotten enough exercise in my life, and now that I finally am, it feels great. My appetite is better, I have more energy, and I feel good about myself. I'm definitely sore, but it's a good kind of sore. I can feel my aches and pains and be happy, knowing how hard I'm working to improve myself.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Book Recommendations Day 4: Miscellaneous
Today will be my final book recommendations post, and I thought I would suggest some books from several different authors instead of focusing on just one. I'm going to try and list a wide variety of genres as well, so hopefully everyone can find something they might enjoy. Let's get started!
If you've never heard of the late Douglas Adams, shame on you! Adams is best known for his science fiction comedy series, kicking off with The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
. There has been a television show, a computer game, comic books, and even a movie based on this story. I have seen both the television series and the movie, and am of course convinced that the book is still the best way to enjoy Hitchhiker's Guide. The series follows Arthur Dent and his colorful companions on their adventures through the galaxy, following the destruction of Earth. The link above is actually to an omnibus edition that includes the entire series (which I wish I owned), but you can also buy the books individually. If you're looking for a good laugh, you can't go wrong with this one.
My next recommendation may seem daunting to some, shall we say, "inexperienced" readers. Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead
follows the story of an architect, Howard Roark, as he struggles to express his creativity during a time when originality and alterations from the norm are frowned upon and shunned. The novel also contains elements from Rand's own philosophy, Objectivism. This is not an easy read by any means, but the compelling story and philosophical elements could quite possibly give you a new outlook on life. Next on my own personal reading list is Atlas Shrugged
, considered to be Rand's crowning work. I am looking forward to the read!
Battle Royale
by Koushun Takami is quite a thrill ride. If you are the squeamish type, you may want to just skip over this now. Battle Royale is the story of a class of junior high school students that are ripped from their normal lives and sent to a deserted island where they are forced to kill each other until only one remains. The novel explores the varied reactions of the students as they come to the realization that there will be no escape if they don't play the game.
My final recommendation is The Time Traveler's Wife
by Audrey Niffenegger. There is a movie, which admittedly captured the story fairly well, but if you have not yet seen it, please read the book first. Henry DeTamble has a unique condition that causes him to involuntarily travel through time. He cannot control whether he goes into the past or future any more than he can control when it happens. The novel is actually a love story between Henry and Clare Abshire. Clare first meets an adult version of time traveling Henry during her childhood. This is the most touching story of love and commitment I have ever experienced and I'm not embarrassed to say, it brought me to tears. Even if you don't normally go for love stories, you should check this one out.
I hope I've been able to provide some decent reading recommendations this week. It's been pretty fun for me to talk about my favorite authors. I think I may have another week in the future where I recommend some of my favorite comics, so if you're into that, keep an eye out for it!
If you've never heard of the late Douglas Adams, shame on you! Adams is best known for his science fiction comedy series, kicking off with The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
. There has been a television show, a computer game, comic books, and even a movie based on this story. I have seen both the television series and the movie, and am of course convinced that the book is still the best way to enjoy Hitchhiker's Guide. The series follows Arthur Dent and his colorful companions on their adventures through the galaxy, following the destruction of Earth. The link above is actually to an omnibus edition that includes the entire series (which I wish I owned), but you can also buy the books individually. If you're looking for a good laugh, you can't go wrong with this one.My next recommendation may seem daunting to some, shall we say, "inexperienced" readers. Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead
follows the story of an architect, Howard Roark, as he struggles to express his creativity during a time when originality and alterations from the norm are frowned upon and shunned. The novel also contains elements from Rand's own philosophy, Objectivism. This is not an easy read by any means, but the compelling story and philosophical elements could quite possibly give you a new outlook on life. Next on my own personal reading list is Atlas Shrugged, considered to be Rand's crowning work. I am looking forward to the read!Battle Royale
by Koushun Takami is quite a thrill ride. If you are the squeamish type, you may want to just skip over this now. Battle Royale is the story of a class of junior high school students that are ripped from their normal lives and sent to a deserted island where they are forced to kill each other until only one remains. The novel explores the varied reactions of the students as they come to the realization that there will be no escape if they don't play the game.My final recommendation is The Time Traveler's Wife
by Audrey Niffenegger. There is a movie, which admittedly captured the story fairly well, but if you have not yet seen it, please read the book first. Henry DeTamble has a unique condition that causes him to involuntarily travel through time. He cannot control whether he goes into the past or future any more than he can control when it happens. The novel is actually a love story between Henry and Clare Abshire. Clare first meets an adult version of time traveling Henry during her childhood. This is the most touching story of love and commitment I have ever experienced and I'm not embarrassed to say, it brought me to tears. Even if you don't normally go for love stories, you should check this one out.I hope I've been able to provide some decent reading recommendations this week. It's been pretty fun for me to talk about my favorite authors. I think I may have another week in the future where I recommend some of my favorite comics, so if you're into that, keep an eye out for it!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Book Recommendations Day 3: Orson Scott Card
On Tuesday I told you my favorite author was Alastair Reynolds. That being said, my favorite book, Ender's Game, is actually written by Orson Scott Card. Card's bibliography is massive and covers several genres, but he is most well known for his science fiction work. Card is an extremely decorated author, and is the only science fiction writer to win both the Hugo and Nebula awards for two years back to back.
Card has an extremely relatable style of writing. He has an uncanny understanding of human emotion and thought processes, and can expertly convey this through his characters. Card has a way of describing complex situations eloquently and intelligently, but also in a way that everyone can instantly grasp. I have often said that reading Card's work just makes me feel smart.
Ender's Game tells the childhood story of prodigy, Andrew Wiggin (Ender), as he is chosen for battle school and trained to lead a military force against an alien species that threatens all of humanity. If you haven't read Ender's Game before, you need to do so now. I think I would be hard pressed to find someone who didn't enjoy at least part of this book. Go read, I will wait.
Now that you've read Ender's Game, you are no doubt desperate for more Ender. You are in luck! There are several sequels and even a spin-off series available. Just recently, a direct sequel to Ender's Game was released, but I suggest you wait to pick it up. If you fall as deeply in love with this universe as I did, you will want to read all the other books before this one. The spin-off series follows Bean, a character from Ender's Game. The first Bean novel actually takes place concurrently to Ender's Game. After that, the Ender and Bean novels split off and each character has his own story. So here is my suggestion on the order you read these books:
You really can't go wrong with any of these books. Be aware that the Ender series drastically changes after Ender's Game, but stick with it, it's worth it.
As I said, Card has written a LOT of books. I'm sure you will be entertained by anything of his you pick up, but let me also recommend a couple other books outside the Ender universe that I particularly enjoyed.
Pastwatch
follows the story of a group of future scientists who discover the technology to go back in time. They make the decision to return to the time of Christopher Columbus to attempt to alter our past for the better.
In The Worthing Saga
, people have discovered the means to continue living indefinitely. The world eventually becomes completely corrupt and humanity almost destroys itself. Ships are sent out to far away planets, carrying the means to start new civilizations. Jason Worthing is in charage of one of these ships and The Worthing Saga is his story.
Gosh, reading back over all this I'm beginning to wonder if maybe Orson Scott Card really is my favorite author. I guess it depends on the day! Anyway, do yourself a favor and check out this amazing author if you haven't already.
Card has an extremely relatable style of writing. He has an uncanny understanding of human emotion and thought processes, and can expertly convey this through his characters. Card has a way of describing complex situations eloquently and intelligently, but also in a way that everyone can instantly grasp. I have often said that reading Card's work just makes me feel smart.
Ender's Game tells the childhood story of prodigy, Andrew Wiggin (Ender), as he is chosen for battle school and trained to lead a military force against an alien species that threatens all of humanity. If you haven't read Ender's Game before, you need to do so now. I think I would be hard pressed to find someone who didn't enjoy at least part of this book. Go read, I will wait.
Now that you've read Ender's Game, you are no doubt desperate for more Ender. You are in luck! There are several sequels and even a spin-off series available. Just recently, a direct sequel to Ender's Game was released, but I suggest you wait to pick it up. If you fall as deeply in love with this universe as I did, you will want to read all the other books before this one. The spin-off series follows Bean, a character from Ender's Game. The first Bean novel actually takes place concurrently to Ender's Game. After that, the Ender and Bean novels split off and each character has his own story. So here is my suggestion on the order you read these books:
Ender Series
Bean Series
Ender's Game Direct Sequel
You really can't go wrong with any of these books. Be aware that the Ender series drastically changes after Ender's Game, but stick with it, it's worth it.
As I said, Card has written a LOT of books. I'm sure you will be entertained by anything of his you pick up, but let me also recommend a couple other books outside the Ender universe that I particularly enjoyed.
Pastwatch
follows the story of a group of future scientists who discover the technology to go back in time. They make the decision to return to the time of Christopher Columbus to attempt to alter our past for the better.In The Worthing Saga
, people have discovered the means to continue living indefinitely. The world eventually becomes completely corrupt and humanity almost destroys itself. Ships are sent out to far away planets, carrying the means to start new civilizations. Jason Worthing is in charage of one of these ships and The Worthing Saga is his story.Gosh, reading back over all this I'm beginning to wonder if maybe Orson Scott Card really is my favorite author. I guess it depends on the day! Anyway, do yourself a favor and check out this amazing author if you haven't already.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Book Recommendations Day 2: Charlie Huston
Next up for my author week is Charlie Huston. Let me start off by saying, if you are faint of heart, Charlie Huston is definitely not the author for you; his stories are gritty and violent. If you can deal with that, then you will find Huston's books to be edge-of-your-seat thrilling and engrossing.
Huston has written two book series; the first is a trilogy of crime novels following the life of Hank Thompson, and the second is a five book story of a vampyre named Joe Pitt inhabiting New York City. He has also written a couple stand-alone novels. In addition to novels, Huston is also a comic book writer. Unfortunately, I have not read any of the comics he has worked on, but I have no doubt they are quite good.
If you are like me, you are sick of vampires. They seem to have been integrated into all forms of entertainment lately. Every time I turn around there is a new vampire movie or television show being released. Charlie Huston's vampyres are different; they are not the romanticized pretty boys filling the screens today. They are dark, ruthless, and not afraid to get their hands dirty. Even the protagonist, Joe Pitt, doesn't have clear redeeming qualities. The story follows Joe Pitt as he attempts to remain independent from the warring vampyre clans of the city. Even though he claims to be unaffiliated, the clans know that Joe is a tough, get-the-job-done kind of guy, and often torture, coerce, and otherwise strong-arm him into doing their bidding. The series starts off with Already Dead
, and continues through No Dominion
, Half the Blood of Brooklyn
, Every Last Drop
, and My Dead Body
. If you're looking for a dark gritty tale, you can't go wrong with these books. Even if you aren't a fan of vampires, I think these books are worth the read.
Alright, maybe you just can't get over the vampire hurdle right now. In that case, I would recommend checking out the Hank Thompson trilogy. I do have a confession to make; I have not read the final book of the series. I finished the second not too long ago and haven't had a chance to pick up the third. After the first two books though, I have little trouble blindly recommending the entire set. These are crime novels, and like the Joe Pitt series, they are very dark and gritty. The story begins with Hank being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He ends up with a bag full of money as he is chased around New York by Russian mobsters and crooked cops. The series follows Hank as he tries to fix things, but just ends up getting deeper and deeper into trouble. The trilogy consists of Caught Stealing
, Six Bad Things
, and A Dangerous Man
. If you questioned the vampire thing before, maybe these books will convince you to give the Joe Pitt story a shot.
Charlie Huston is a fantastic author who knows just how to grab his audience and make them hold on for dear life. Once you start reading his books you just can't put them down. If the subject matter is your kind of thing at all, I promise you'll be clawing at the pages to find out what happens next.
Huston has written two book series; the first is a trilogy of crime novels following the life of Hank Thompson, and the second is a five book story of a vampyre named Joe Pitt inhabiting New York City. He has also written a couple stand-alone novels. In addition to novels, Huston is also a comic book writer. Unfortunately, I have not read any of the comics he has worked on, but I have no doubt they are quite good.
If you are like me, you are sick of vampires. They seem to have been integrated into all forms of entertainment lately. Every time I turn around there is a new vampire movie or television show being released. Charlie Huston's vampyres are different; they are not the romanticized pretty boys filling the screens today. They are dark, ruthless, and not afraid to get their hands dirty. Even the protagonist, Joe Pitt, doesn't have clear redeeming qualities. The story follows Joe Pitt as he attempts to remain independent from the warring vampyre clans of the city. Even though he claims to be unaffiliated, the clans know that Joe is a tough, get-the-job-done kind of guy, and often torture, coerce, and otherwise strong-arm him into doing their bidding. The series starts off with Already Dead
, and continues through No Dominion, Half the Blood of Brooklyn, Every Last Drop, and My Dead Body. If you're looking for a dark gritty tale, you can't go wrong with these books. Even if you aren't a fan of vampires, I think these books are worth the read.Alright, maybe you just can't get over the vampire hurdle right now. In that case, I would recommend checking out the Hank Thompson trilogy. I do have a confession to make; I have not read the final book of the series. I finished the second not too long ago and haven't had a chance to pick up the third. After the first two books though, I have little trouble blindly recommending the entire set. These are crime novels, and like the Joe Pitt series, they are very dark and gritty. The story begins with Hank being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He ends up with a bag full of money as he is chased around New York by Russian mobsters and crooked cops. The series follows Hank as he tries to fix things, but just ends up getting deeper and deeper into trouble. The trilogy consists of Caught Stealing
, Six Bad Things, and A Dangerous Man. If you questioned the vampire thing before, maybe these books will convince you to give the Joe Pitt story a shot.Charlie Huston is a fantastic author who knows just how to grab his audience and make them hold on for dear life. Once you start reading his books you just can't put them down. If the subject matter is your kind of thing at all, I promise you'll be clawing at the pages to find out what happens next.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Book Recommendations Day 1: Alastair Reynolds
A few days ago a friend of mine asked for some reading recommendations. I thought it might be fun to write some short articles here about a few of my favorite authors, both for him, and anyone else who might be looking for a good read. I plan to discuss a new author every day for the remainder of the week.
I decided to get things started with a bang and first recommend a man who is quite possibly my favorite author ever, Alastair Reynolds. Reynolds is a science fiction writer. He is a former astrophysicist with a PhD in astronomy, so as you might imagine, he knows his stuff. The books he writes are epic space operas, with most spanning vast amounts of outer space over staggering amounts of time.
One of my favorite things about Reynolds' work is his ability to make the technology of his far-future stories seem so plausible. He describes things, that to today's world, are impossible due to our current technological limitations, but nonetheless feel real and believable. I attribute this to his background, having firsthand experience with current technology and being able to extrapolate on the progression we will make. His knowledge also allows him to accurately describe space phenomena in thrilling ways.
So, what should you read first? Reynolds does have a series of books based in the same universe. The first of which is Revelation Space
. Other books from this universe are Chasm City
, Redemption Ark
, Absolution Gap
, and The Prefect
. While a few characters do have recurring roles in some of the stories, and you wouldn't really want to read the books out of order, each of these books is still a fantastic read just by itself. A whole series of books might still seem daunting to some, so I would recommend starting with the first Reynolds book I ever read, Pushing Ice
. It is a completely standalone story and a great first step into the world of Reynolds. Another good standalone choice, and the most recent of his works that I have read, is House of Suns
. In my opinion you just can't go wrong by picking up anything he has written.
If science fiction isn't your thing, or if you enjoy it, but only on occasion, this author might not be for you. Most of Reynolds' books are so heavily laden with science fiction elements that it might be intimidating to someone new to the genre. I can still recommend one of his books to you, however! Check out Century Rain
. It is still science fiction, but a majority of the story takes place in an ever so slightly altered version of 1959 earth. This book would probably be a great place for people who have never read science fiction to start. I feel like it will ease you into the genre, and with any luck, make you fall in love with Alastair Reynolds' work as I did.
I decided to get things started with a bang and first recommend a man who is quite possibly my favorite author ever, Alastair Reynolds. Reynolds is a science fiction writer. He is a former astrophysicist with a PhD in astronomy, so as you might imagine, he knows his stuff. The books he writes are epic space operas, with most spanning vast amounts of outer space over staggering amounts of time.
One of my favorite things about Reynolds' work is his ability to make the technology of his far-future stories seem so plausible. He describes things, that to today's world, are impossible due to our current technological limitations, but nonetheless feel real and believable. I attribute this to his background, having firsthand experience with current technology and being able to extrapolate on the progression we will make. His knowledge also allows him to accurately describe space phenomena in thrilling ways.
So, what should you read first? Reynolds does have a series of books based in the same universe. The first of which is Revelation Space
. Other books from this universe are Chasm City, Redemption Ark, Absolution Gap, and The Prefect. While a few characters do have recurring roles in some of the stories, and you wouldn't really want to read the books out of order, each of these books is still a fantastic read just by itself. A whole series of books might still seem daunting to some, so I would recommend starting with the first Reynolds book I ever read, Pushing Ice. It is a completely standalone story and a great first step into the world of Reynolds. Another good standalone choice, and the most recent of his works that I have read, is House of Suns. In my opinion you just can't go wrong by picking up anything he has written.If science fiction isn't your thing, or if you enjoy it, but only on occasion, this author might not be for you. Most of Reynolds' books are so heavily laden with science fiction elements that it might be intimidating to someone new to the genre. I can still recommend one of his books to you, however! Check out Century Rain
. It is still science fiction, but a majority of the story takes place in an ever so slightly altered version of 1959 earth. This book would probably be a great place for people who have never read science fiction to start. I feel like it will ease you into the genre, and with any luck, make you fall in love with Alastair Reynolds' work as I did.
Monday, September 20, 2010
AFK
I have obviously not posted in about a week. I believe I am now ready to get back to normal posting, and I apologize for my absence. Most of my readers are close friends and family anyway, so I felt like it might be appropriate to post a little about why I haven't been writing, even though it is somewhat personal.
I have been unhappy for quite some time. I have posted a little about this before, but there are other reasons that I'm just not going to go into here. A little over a week ago I reached my breaking point and fell into, what I believe was, the darkest moment of my life. I reached a point where I did not want to go on. The thought of having to make the hours of yet another day pass was unbearable. I finally realized that I had to go somewhere with family and friends. I gathered a few things, stuck the animals in the car, and went home.
I surrounded myself with friends and family all last week and I am happy to say I am in a much better place today. I thank those people from the very bottom of my heart. You may have seen me last week and still not know exactly what was wrong. You may feel like you didn't do anything to help me. That could not be further from the truth. I was reminded that I was loved. No matter how bad things get, I know there are people out there who care about me. More than anything else, that was what I needed.
For a long time now I have not been happy with me. I have known it on some level, but up until a few days ago I was blind to exactly how huge of an impact this was having on my life. I came to the realization that I had to make changes. I need to be able to look in the mirror and like the person I see. Before I can hope to accomplish anything of value in this world, I need to love me. I am working on a plan to make this happen. I have a long way to go, but I have already begun taking steps in the right direction. I came back down to my apartment in North Carolina today. Some people wanted me to stay longer, knowing that I had been so broken only a week ago. This is something I need to do though. I have the reassurance I need from my family and friends and now I need to figure some things out by myself. Please try not to worry, as I believe I am on the right track.
I want to say one last thing before I end this. I realize that this is an extremely personal post and some may think it doesn't belong here for the world to see. While you may be right to some degree, I do have my reasons for posting things like this. I have always had an extremely difficult time expressing my emotions in spoken words. I tend to keep everything bottled up inside and don't tell people what I'm going through because I don't want to appear weak. After starting this blog I realized it could be a good outlet for my feelings. There are people in my world that need to know what I'm going through, but maybe I don't have the courage to tell them face to face. While I work on finding that courage, I am able to shine a little light on my life here. I guess this is like a first step for me on my path to understanding myself and allowing others to know what I'm experiencing.
I have been unhappy for quite some time. I have posted a little about this before, but there are other reasons that I'm just not going to go into here. A little over a week ago I reached my breaking point and fell into, what I believe was, the darkest moment of my life. I reached a point where I did not want to go on. The thought of having to make the hours of yet another day pass was unbearable. I finally realized that I had to go somewhere with family and friends. I gathered a few things, stuck the animals in the car, and went home.
I surrounded myself with friends and family all last week and I am happy to say I am in a much better place today. I thank those people from the very bottom of my heart. You may have seen me last week and still not know exactly what was wrong. You may feel like you didn't do anything to help me. That could not be further from the truth. I was reminded that I was loved. No matter how bad things get, I know there are people out there who care about me. More than anything else, that was what I needed.
For a long time now I have not been happy with me. I have known it on some level, but up until a few days ago I was blind to exactly how huge of an impact this was having on my life. I came to the realization that I had to make changes. I need to be able to look in the mirror and like the person I see. Before I can hope to accomplish anything of value in this world, I need to love me. I am working on a plan to make this happen. I have a long way to go, but I have already begun taking steps in the right direction. I came back down to my apartment in North Carolina today. Some people wanted me to stay longer, knowing that I had been so broken only a week ago. This is something I need to do though. I have the reassurance I need from my family and friends and now I need to figure some things out by myself. Please try not to worry, as I believe I am on the right track.
I want to say one last thing before I end this. I realize that this is an extremely personal post and some may think it doesn't belong here for the world to see. While you may be right to some degree, I do have my reasons for posting things like this. I have always had an extremely difficult time expressing my emotions in spoken words. I tend to keep everything bottled up inside and don't tell people what I'm going through because I don't want to appear weak. After starting this blog I realized it could be a good outlet for my feelings. There are people in my world that need to know what I'm going through, but maybe I don't have the courage to tell them face to face. While I work on finding that courage, I am able to shine a little light on my life here. I guess this is like a first step for me on my path to understanding myself and allowing others to know what I'm experiencing.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Remember Them With A Smile
I am well aware that what I'm about to talk about is a very touchy subject. Some may instantly disagree with my words, but I hope everyone will at least take the time to read and think about what I have to say. I think the United States needs to move on from the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It was a horrible day in this country's history, to be sure, but continuing to linger on it, year after year, isn't helping anything. Tomorrow will be the ninth anniversary of the attacks that took place in 2001. By not moving on from this tragedy I believe we are giving the terrorists exactly what they want.
It's been nine years and memorials, protests, and other inane activities are still being planned. First, let me make it clear that I am not lumping those who would attend the somber memorials in with the lunatics playing with matches. I'm also not suggesting that we forget those who died. I do, however, think we should attempt to move ahead and be that much more driven to succeed in our lives. The memories of loved ones should not be tarnished by the atrocious acts committed by al-Qaeda. I can only speak for myself of course, but I know if I had been a victim, I would wish for my family and friends to go out and do something to make them smile instead of mourning my loss every September 11th.
The groups that attempt to use 9/11 to excuse their reprehensible activities make me sick. If we resort to violence and protests we are no better than the terrorists. The memories of 9/11, instead of fueling hatred, should be a sobering reminder that there is already enough violence in the world. One definition of the word “human” according to dictionary.com is “sympathetic; humane”. If we are ever to consider ourselves truly human, our first response to violence must not continue to be more violence. The phrase “fighting for peace” should not exist. While these human imposters are out there burning copies of the Qur’an and persecuting religions different from their own, real humans are helping others and working towards peace.
I understand the need for us as a nation to pay homage to those we have lost, but instead of tear-filled memorials, perhaps survivors could speak of the good things they have done since the attack. One person might rise and tell of how he has become the head of his very own successful company. Another might speak about the volunteer work she has done for the sick or homeless. Still another person might simply need to say that he has gotten out of bed every morning, planted a garden, or walked his dog. These things show that the terrorists have not won. September 11th was a tragedy, but we can move on. No act of cowardly violence can stop us from continuing to live and thrive. I ask that tomorrow the tears be wiped away by smiles and we sing joyfully the fact that we are still here and we are strong.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Alone I Break
What can you do,
When love leaves you cold,
When your heart empties out,
Left with no one to hold?
The hurt and the pain,
Push out everything else.
You think back on your life,
And start hating yourself.
Without her there,
The world is dark.
The loneliness,
Will tear you apart.
Your soul always aches.
The pain just won’t stop.
You find yourself wishing,
You’d never wake up.
She’s what made you whole.
How can you go on?
Your life has no meaning,
Now that she’s gone.
You beg and you plead,
For any reprieve.
What could you have done,
To make her not leave?
At the end of the day,
You close your eyes,
And picture her face,
One more time.
The flame of your love,
Is the only light left.
It burns alone,
Within yourself.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Deep Bellied Cats and Dental Wizardry
I'm pretty tired today because I didn't sleep so well last night. I'm visiting my parents this week and I brought my pets with me. That means, when it is time for sleeping, I share my old bedroom with two cats and a dog that is big enough for a child to ride. Surprisingly, Sawyer (the dog), is the quietest of the three. He flops himself down in a corner and is asleep fairly quickly. Kat (aka Justice), the smallest of my cats is also fairly quiet. Now Tucker, on the other hand, is quite large and quite loud. When I come into the room he seems to feel the need to show me just how much he is capable of eating. While his eating accomplishments are indeed quite impressive, the middle of the night is just not the time to showcase them. After about the third trip to the food bowl in only twice as many minutes last night, I decided he would not starve before morning and moved the food bowl out of his reach. Tucker was unfazed by this and moved on to a new activity: attempting to set a record for the most ruckus caused while in a litter box. So I put up with his banging and digging for several minutes until he finally finished his business. I thought that maybe then I could finally get some quiet. I got settled down in bed, closed my eyes, and then what felt like at least 17 cats ran across me. Tucker had decided that my bed was the quickest route to travel from one window to the other, and apparently he was following something outside because he kept the path hot. By this time, all the commotion had caused it to become quite warm in my room. I finally gave up and Sawyer and I moved to the couch in the den to let Tucker have his wild party in the bedroom.
This afternoon I had the pleasure of going to the dentist. It was just a routine checkup, but I certainly wouldn't call it fun. Nothing particularly bad happened, I just hate the dentist. I admit that I used to hardly ever floss, so a trip to the dentist meant bloody gums and flossing lectures. In recent years I have changed my ways. I have become diligent in my flossing endeavors, and floss almost every day. The dentist refuses to believe this. He looks down upon me with doubting judgmental eyes, even though the positive effects of my flossing shine bright and clear. It's like he suspects me of using some form of dark magic to remove debris from between my teeth. "Are you flossing?" he asks. "Almost every day!" I reply. "Hmmmm," he responds, jealous of my mystical arcane abilities. Anyway, I made it through another checkup, and thankfully no problems were found.
This afternoon I had the pleasure of going to the dentist. It was just a routine checkup, but I certainly wouldn't call it fun. Nothing particularly bad happened, I just hate the dentist. I admit that I used to hardly ever floss, so a trip to the dentist meant bloody gums and flossing lectures. In recent years I have changed my ways. I have become diligent in my flossing endeavors, and floss almost every day. The dentist refuses to believe this. He looks down upon me with doubting judgmental eyes, even though the positive effects of my flossing shine bright and clear. It's like he suspects me of using some form of dark magic to remove debris from between my teeth. "Are you flossing?" he asks. "Almost every day!" I reply. "Hmmmm," he responds, jealous of my mystical arcane abilities. Anyway, I made it through another checkup, and thankfully no problems were found.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Hatred Burns Hotter Than Any Flame
You may have seen this in the news lately. A Florida pastor, Terry Jones, and his congregation are planning to burn Qur'ans to protest the September 11, 2001 attack, and also because they are uninformed simpletons. The U.S. Embassy had to issue a statement separating the rest of the country from this heinous act. The congregation has even been warned that their actions could endanger troops stationed in Afghanistan because of the retaliations this could cause. Even after being shunned by the rest of their country they are still willing to go through with their plan.
I fail to see the fascination religious fanatics have with burning things. If there is anything they perceive to be the slightest bit contrary to their interpretation of the Bible, or if there is something they simply do not understand, the only option seems to be to burn it. These people have no idea what the Qur'an contains. The majority of the congregation probably didn't even know it was the religious text of Islam until their attention starved pastor told them it needed destroying. Jones even admits to having not read the Qur'an. If I was head of a congregation and felt it was my duty to spread my views to the world, I think I would certainly want to read everything I could to know what I was up against.
The thing that really makes me mad is that this United States of America is supposed to be a harbor for religious tolerance and acceptance, no matter how you choose to worship. Yet we still have imbeciles like this who abuse the freedoms provided by this country to peddle their hate and slander and attempt to deny others the right to worship as they see fit. Jones has the gall to say that the burning of the Qu'ran is "not a message of hate". How is the burning of something that millions of people hold dear and sacred anything but a message of hate? He says it is only targeted toward the "radical element of Islam". How can he justify that? If a Bible was burned, would the whole of Christianity not be enraged? In addition, Jones has no right to place Christianity on such a high pedestal, and pass judgment on what sects of a religion have a right to exist. The Ku Klux Klan practiced Christianity after all.
Terry Jones interprets the Bible as he sees fit. Sadly there are many people out there who are quick to manipulate their own religions to help validate their actions. Perhaps Jones should spend a little more time studying his own religious book. The Bible does say the world will be destroyed by fire after all. Perhaps this is the first step.
I fail to see the fascination religious fanatics have with burning things. If there is anything they perceive to be the slightest bit contrary to their interpretation of the Bible, or if there is something they simply do not understand, the only option seems to be to burn it. These people have no idea what the Qur'an contains. The majority of the congregation probably didn't even know it was the religious text of Islam until their attention starved pastor told them it needed destroying. Jones even admits to having not read the Qur'an. If I was head of a congregation and felt it was my duty to spread my views to the world, I think I would certainly want to read everything I could to know what I was up against.
The thing that really makes me mad is that this United States of America is supposed to be a harbor for religious tolerance and acceptance, no matter how you choose to worship. Yet we still have imbeciles like this who abuse the freedoms provided by this country to peddle their hate and slander and attempt to deny others the right to worship as they see fit. Jones has the gall to say that the burning of the Qu'ran is "not a message of hate". How is the burning of something that millions of people hold dear and sacred anything but a message of hate? He says it is only targeted toward the "radical element of Islam". How can he justify that? If a Bible was burned, would the whole of Christianity not be enraged? In addition, Jones has no right to place Christianity on such a high pedestal, and pass judgment on what sects of a religion have a right to exist. The Ku Klux Klan practiced Christianity after all.
Terry Jones interprets the Bible as he sees fit. Sadly there are many people out there who are quick to manipulate their own religions to help validate their actions. Perhaps Jones should spend a little more time studying his own religious book. The Bible does say the world will be destroyed by fire after all. Perhaps this is the first step.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Buying My Way To Perfection
What's with all my physically fit posts lately? Who knows! Anyway...
I am convinced that people will buy anything. If enough advertisements bombard us with how amazing some new product is, we can't help but run out and purchase it. No matter what time of day you turn on the television you are bound to see at least one commercial advertising a spectacular new exercise tool, guaranteed to give you the body of your dreams in a few short weeks. These commercials catch the eyes of people as they think that maybe they too can obtain the chiseled bodies shown on the screen. Commercials wouldn't lie to us after all, right?
Apparently commercials would indeed lie to us. You have no doubt heard about exercise shoes, the latest trend in staying physically fit. These shoes are designed with specially padded soles to tone your lower body as you walk. "Why, that's amazing!" you might say. "I could strengthen my legs while walking, and I walk every day! Wait, didn't walking already do that anyway?" The shoe companies would then answer, "Quiet you naysayers, these shoes are special. Traditional walking won't get you the shapely figures portrayed by these television models." Well, studies have shown otherwise. I came across this article today. A study performed at the University of Wisconsin showed the benefits of these fancy exercise shoes to be the same as those from regular sneakers. Many people have said they feel sore after wearing the exercise shoes, so it must be doing something, right? The study goes on to explain that any soreness felt is simply from the different padding provided by these shoes and it will go away once your body becomes accustomed to it.
Along with exercise shoes, many other breakthroughs in exercise technology fight for our monetary attentions. These crazy creations allow us to wheel, gallop, ski, and who knows what our way to physical perfection. One such product that I find endlessly entertaining is the Shake Weight. I don't think I even have to comment on this one. Go check out the website. The ridiculousness of this device speaks for itself.
The fact that all these 'exercise tools' are purchasable blows my mind. I picture households littered with discarded contraptions that were supposed to be the keys to a movie star body. I also picture crushed dreams and people sitting on couches drowning their sadness with another bag of potato chips.
I am convinced that people will buy anything. If enough advertisements bombard us with how amazing some new product is, we can't help but run out and purchase it. No matter what time of day you turn on the television you are bound to see at least one commercial advertising a spectacular new exercise tool, guaranteed to give you the body of your dreams in a few short weeks. These commercials catch the eyes of people as they think that maybe they too can obtain the chiseled bodies shown on the screen. Commercials wouldn't lie to us after all, right?
Apparently commercials would indeed lie to us. You have no doubt heard about exercise shoes, the latest trend in staying physically fit. These shoes are designed with specially padded soles to tone your lower body as you walk. "Why, that's amazing!" you might say. "I could strengthen my legs while walking, and I walk every day! Wait, didn't walking already do that anyway?" The shoe companies would then answer, "Quiet you naysayers, these shoes are special. Traditional walking won't get you the shapely figures portrayed by these television models." Well, studies have shown otherwise. I came across this article today. A study performed at the University of Wisconsin showed the benefits of these fancy exercise shoes to be the same as those from regular sneakers. Many people have said they feel sore after wearing the exercise shoes, so it must be doing something, right? The study goes on to explain that any soreness felt is simply from the different padding provided by these shoes and it will go away once your body becomes accustomed to it.
Along with exercise shoes, many other breakthroughs in exercise technology fight for our monetary attentions. These crazy creations allow us to wheel, gallop, ski, and who knows what our way to physical perfection. One such product that I find endlessly entertaining is the Shake Weight. I don't think I even have to comment on this one. Go check out the website. The ridiculousness of this device speaks for itself.
The fact that all these 'exercise tools' are purchasable blows my mind. I picture households littered with discarded contraptions that were supposed to be the keys to a movie star body. I also picture crushed dreams and people sitting on couches drowning their sadness with another bag of potato chips.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Can't Fit Through the Kitchen Door
Americans are fat. This is a problem that is getting no way but worse. Go to the store and I guarantee you will see at least five people who are unhealthily large. I'm not talking about the people with a little extra weight around the edges here, but the full blown elephants. You've seen them. They have seven chins, their bellies sag so low they could act as pants, and they have knees on the back of their calves. We, as a country, continue to gain more and more weight, and something should be done about it.
It saddens me to go out to eat and see overweight people stuffing their faces. A short while ago I was dining at Pizza Hut and a lady was sitting close by who easily weighed 500lbs. She was alone, but certainly didn't need any help polishing off her meal. No carryout box was required when she was ready to leave. I'm certainly not saying people shouldn't be allowed to eat what they want, but if you look like that, is going into public and scarfing down an entire pizza really the best thing to do? It shows the world that you've given up. Maybe that woman would say she was happy with herself, but even so, her life expectancy has to be drastically reduced by all that extra weight.
I was fortunate enough to be able to take a trip to China a couple years ago. I do not remember seeing a single overweight person during my entire two weeks there. The Chinese just generally eat healthier. Their lives don't revolve around junk food and quick meals. Not to mention, they walk and bicycle a LOT. Even in the smaller cities I visited, people could be seen outside walking or riding their bikes to their destinations. The majority of people in this country wouldn't even consider walking to the store, even if it was right down the street. You might argue that people walk all the time in larger cities like New York, but just look at the streets. The streets are flooded with bumper to bumper traffic almost 24 hours a day. There may be those who walk, but there are just as many, if not more, out there in cars and taxis.
Even the army is feeling the burdens of overweight America. I ran across this article today. New recruits are entering the army increasingly overweight. The army is in the process of completely altering its training program, eliminating sit-ups and running so that these physically unfit recruits can survive. Granted, from what they say in the article, it sounds as though the training program was ready for a few changes, but should overweight and unhealthy recruits really be the driving force behind such change?
Some people may think it is easy for me to sit here and preach in my buck fifty body and metabolism that wouldn't let me gain weight if I tried, and you are certainly right. Believe me when I say I feel for those working hard to drop a few pounds. I've never had to lose weight, but I have no doubt it is a daunting task. Instead of working so hard to promote weight loss programs and diet pills, maybe this country should focus more on fighting obesity before it happens. Parents today are quick to toss their child a hamburger from the fast food restaurant on the way home from work because it is quick and easy. Instead, they should be taking the time to prepare something for their children that is actually healthy and contains the nutrients for proper growth. With every generation becoming more and more overweight, if nothing changes, you have to wonder what we'll be like a few years down the road. In my head I picture a nation of Rascal Scooter riding lard buckets who no longer wear clothing because it takes too much effort to dress. Let's try and avoid that shall we?
It saddens me to go out to eat and see overweight people stuffing their faces. A short while ago I was dining at Pizza Hut and a lady was sitting close by who easily weighed 500lbs. She was alone, but certainly didn't need any help polishing off her meal. No carryout box was required when she was ready to leave. I'm certainly not saying people shouldn't be allowed to eat what they want, but if you look like that, is going into public and scarfing down an entire pizza really the best thing to do? It shows the world that you've given up. Maybe that woman would say she was happy with herself, but even so, her life expectancy has to be drastically reduced by all that extra weight.
I was fortunate enough to be able to take a trip to China a couple years ago. I do not remember seeing a single overweight person during my entire two weeks there. The Chinese just generally eat healthier. Their lives don't revolve around junk food and quick meals. Not to mention, they walk and bicycle a LOT. Even in the smaller cities I visited, people could be seen outside walking or riding their bikes to their destinations. The majority of people in this country wouldn't even consider walking to the store, even if it was right down the street. You might argue that people walk all the time in larger cities like New York, but just look at the streets. The streets are flooded with bumper to bumper traffic almost 24 hours a day. There may be those who walk, but there are just as many, if not more, out there in cars and taxis.
 |
| Bicycle parking lot in China |
Even the army is feeling the burdens of overweight America. I ran across this article today. New recruits are entering the army increasingly overweight. The army is in the process of completely altering its training program, eliminating sit-ups and running so that these physically unfit recruits can survive. Granted, from what they say in the article, it sounds as though the training program was ready for a few changes, but should overweight and unhealthy recruits really be the driving force behind such change?
Some people may think it is easy for me to sit here and preach in my buck fifty body and metabolism that wouldn't let me gain weight if I tried, and you are certainly right. Believe me when I say I feel for those working hard to drop a few pounds. I've never had to lose weight, but I have no doubt it is a daunting task. Instead of working so hard to promote weight loss programs and diet pills, maybe this country should focus more on fighting obesity before it happens. Parents today are quick to toss their child a hamburger from the fast food restaurant on the way home from work because it is quick and easy. Instead, they should be taking the time to prepare something for their children that is actually healthy and contains the nutrients for proper growth. With every generation becoming more and more overweight, if nothing changes, you have to wonder what we'll be like a few years down the road. In my head I picture a nation of Rascal Scooter riding lard buckets who no longer wear clothing because it takes too much effort to dress. Let's try and avoid that shall we?
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Here's My Sign, Here's My Slogan, Ignore Me Now, Cuz I'm a Moron
Human beings are filled with rage. It amazes me how people are not content to keep their anger to themselves, but must enter into the world with signs and slogans to spread their hatred with the masses. Not a day goes by that you don’t find news of a picketing group somewhere. Is it really necessary to make such fools of yourselves, simply because something displeases you? Well you know what? You people make me angry and I feel like posting about it. Call me a hypocrite if you like, but at least when I express my feelings here, people have the opportunity to leave my blog if they don’t agree with what I say. When you stand in the streets, blocking paths and shouting at passersby, people have little way of avoiding you.
One of the things I find most irritating is when people use religion in an attempt to validate their malice toward a particular subject. In reality, all you are doing is using religion as a shield to hide your ignorance. A good example of this is the religious outcry heard in response to the release of the Harry Potter books and movies. Uneducated morons picketed and even got these books banned in some places because they are about witches and wizards. Really? Is this the 16th century? Had any of these people actually read the books? Of course not! The Harry Potter series, at its core, is a story of good triumphing over evil. Is that really what these religious zealots should be fighting to stop? For the first time in generations, America’s youth could be seen out in the world with books in their hands. Harry Potter introduced kids to the joys of reading, yet religious bigots wanted these fantastical tales off their shelves.
Picketer tactics are to pester and annoy until someone gives in to them, or forcefully drives them off. Is this really the best means to an end? Obnoxious complaints don’t get real results. You haven’t changed any minds. Instead, people give in to your outrageous demands just to make you go away. Picketers are like flies, nothing more than common pests. Money is thrown at them or decisions are made simply to swat them away.
There is enough anger and sadness in the world without everyone running to the streets with their signs when they disagree with something. In the long run these people have accomplished nothing. Maybe they’ll get what they want for now, but no opinions have been changed. How much harm has been done during these idiotic crusades for an empty victory?
One of the things I find most irritating is when people use religion in an attempt to validate their malice toward a particular subject. In reality, all you are doing is using religion as a shield to hide your ignorance. A good example of this is the religious outcry heard in response to the release of the Harry Potter books and movies. Uneducated morons picketed and even got these books banned in some places because they are about witches and wizards. Really? Is this the 16th century? Had any of these people actually read the books? Of course not! The Harry Potter series, at its core, is a story of good triumphing over evil. Is that really what these religious zealots should be fighting to stop? For the first time in generations, America’s youth could be seen out in the world with books in their hands. Harry Potter introduced kids to the joys of reading, yet religious bigots wanted these fantastical tales off their shelves.
Picketer tactics are to pester and annoy until someone gives in to them, or forcefully drives them off. Is this really the best means to an end? Obnoxious complaints don’t get real results. You haven’t changed any minds. Instead, people give in to your outrageous demands just to make you go away. Picketers are like flies, nothing more than common pests. Money is thrown at them or decisions are made simply to swat them away.
There is enough anger and sadness in the world without everyone running to the streets with their signs when they disagree with something. In the long run these people have accomplished nothing. Maybe they’ll get what they want for now, but no opinions have been changed. How much harm has been done during these idiotic crusades for an empty victory?
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The Day of Expiration
Chuck was driving home from work one day when a giant refrigerator parachuted out of the sky and landed on the road in front of him. Chuck slammed on his brakes, but couldn’t stop in time. His car collided with the giant fridge.
The fridge let out an unearthly roar. “Nooooo! My door will no longer shut properly! I must use extra energy to preserve my insides!!” The refrigerator began to hum as his motor cooled that which dwelled within the great white behemoth.
Chuck was unharmed and quickly exited his car. He ran towards a nearby payphone to call the police. To his dismay a sign hung from the payphone which read: ‘I am out of order. Do you really not have a cell phone anyway?’ Alas, Chuck did indeed lack a cell phone.
“Oh no, what can be done?” wailed Chuck. “We are being invaded by a disgruntled refrigerator and there is no one who can help me!”
“Fear not!” came a cry from a nearby bush. Out jumped a blue raccoon toting the largest flamethrower Chuck had ever seen. “I am here to unleash fiery fury!” he screamed. He bounded off towards the giant fridge, flamethrower in tow.
“Be gone blue beast!” boomed the fridge. “I am here to conquer all!”
“Fat chance!” screamed the raccoon. He lit up his flamethrower and began torching the base of the refrigerator.
“Let them eat toast!!” screamed the fridge.
Suddenly toasters began raining from the sky. Their metallic bodies pelted the sidewalk and dented up things quite horribly. The raccoon was forced to retreat under a nearby tree.
Chuck ran to join the raccoon under the tree. “I should have known! Why, just this morning I passed a man with a sign reading, ‘The frigidation is nigh!’ I thought him simply another lunatic!”
The raccoon laughed maniacally. “Oh Chuck, I am but a raccoon. I know not of such things!” The blue raccoon ran off into the bushes from whence he had come, shooting fire into the sky and spouting nonsense.
Chuck realized there was nothing to be done. He sat down under the tree, prepared to meet his chilly fate.
That night, the streets became stained with condiments.
The fridge let out an unearthly roar. “Nooooo! My door will no longer shut properly! I must use extra energy to preserve my insides!!” The refrigerator began to hum as his motor cooled that which dwelled within the great white behemoth.
Chuck was unharmed and quickly exited his car. He ran towards a nearby payphone to call the police. To his dismay a sign hung from the payphone which read: ‘I am out of order. Do you really not have a cell phone anyway?’ Alas, Chuck did indeed lack a cell phone.
“Oh no, what can be done?” wailed Chuck. “We are being invaded by a disgruntled refrigerator and there is no one who can help me!”
“Fear not!” came a cry from a nearby bush. Out jumped a blue raccoon toting the largest flamethrower Chuck had ever seen. “I am here to unleash fiery fury!” he screamed. He bounded off towards the giant fridge, flamethrower in tow.
“Be gone blue beast!” boomed the fridge. “I am here to conquer all!”
“Fat chance!” screamed the raccoon. He lit up his flamethrower and began torching the base of the refrigerator.
“Let them eat toast!!” screamed the fridge.
Suddenly toasters began raining from the sky. Their metallic bodies pelted the sidewalk and dented up things quite horribly. The raccoon was forced to retreat under a nearby tree.
Chuck ran to join the raccoon under the tree. “I should have known! Why, just this morning I passed a man with a sign reading, ‘The frigidation is nigh!’ I thought him simply another lunatic!”
The raccoon laughed maniacally. “Oh Chuck, I am but a raccoon. I know not of such things!” The blue raccoon ran off into the bushes from whence he had come, shooting fire into the sky and spouting nonsense.
Chuck realized there was nothing to be done. He sat down under the tree, prepared to meet his chilly fate.
That night, the streets became stained with condiments.
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