In the Middle of Everything

The Big Three

2011-11-14T20:51:00.007-05:00

The poem in this post came to me in a blur. It started as a quick tweet before bedtime a few nights ago in a form very close to how it appears here. The thing is, I grew up Catholic, did the Communion thing, and for whatever reason I picked a Saint Christopher pendent all those years ago. A pendent I never go anywhere without actually. Fitting seeing that he is the Saint of Travelers. In the course of my life so far, Ive picked up a few ideas about how I see the world and as such, a pair of saints to accompany Christopher. I've discovered Anthony, the Saint of All Things Lost, and Isabelle, the Saint of Peace and Charity. Hence the title of this post and poem:

The Big Three

My own personal saints,
I've got three.
They say everything always comes in comes threes.
First is Saint Christopher,
For my soul's travels,
My "shotgun" saint on the peddle to the metal.
What do you say Chris? Want to see what she can do?
Saint number two: Anthony.
For those times I'm lost,
Without a map,
Up Shit's Creek without a paddle.
Last, but not least: Isabelle.
My model of peace and charity,
To remind me, that no matter what,
Even when life knocks my teeth out,
That the world is much bigger than me,
And that everyone is in the fight of their lives.

Thanks for reading. That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Three Poetic

2011-11-04T18:07:00.012-04:00

I'm not sure what a proper introduction to this post is, so I'll just say that it's three more of my poems, each its own creature, with its own inspiration.

Poetic #1: This one is my attempt at a sonnet. Minus the iambic pentameter, I kept to the rules of rhyme scheme and number of lines. It should be said that I am NOT a good rhymer, that despite my love of hip hop, it's not my easiest path to a poem. It must also be said that this is a direct response to a challenge from one of my favorite students. I don't back down from a challenge. This poem is for all of my students, but especially Ashley Cate.

My Students

Every morning I come through the B hallway door.
Not sure what or who will challenge me.
Strolling along. saying, "hey." Hoping my belongings don't drop to the floor,
Seeing students seeing me fumbling for my keys.

First period is a trip, truly is.
I am far more awake than any of these kids.
Inevitably, one or two of them will jump head first into a dis,
But basically, it's up to me to help them avoid these kinds of skids.

The game I play is all about turning on the lights,
Turning on tunes, planning plus improv equals learning.
Showing them what they know, but think is beyond their sights,
I'm trying to turn trudges and tribulations into yearning.

I see it, tomorrow is not just a new day,
It is a view into doing this a brand new way.

**Special thanks to Freya for scribing the first draft of this, I originally had this written on the board.**

Poetic #2: This one is also a response to a challenge of a student, in this case, it was to shut a smartass up. In fact, this student didn't even complete his poem in the end. That irony didn't go without notice or comment from his classmates, so I guess he lost twice. This poem directly takes its form and inspiration from the hip hop duo Blackalicious and their song "Alphabet Aerobics." This one was very fun to write.

Alphabet Enlightenment

Activate my attention, my aural plane.
Be the beat in my brain, banging that bass drum.
Catch the cascade, cool my canopy.
Deal the downbeat on a dime, don't dare stop.
Everything is everything, everlasting when I emotionally connect. Electric.
Fantastical, further than free, footing not the final figure.
Greatness only given when the good gets going, going keeps growing.
Heavens, hells, heroes, heals. Hello to it all, hoping for a clear difference between halos and horns.
Intelligence for strength internal, independence, Iconic identification.
Jumping on the wings of joy. Joining the joy, jockeying for forever. Jubilation.
Kindness is my religion, killing that hate that Klans live in. Kinetic flow.
Letting loss live again as lessons for living, for loving.
Mountains can be moved, maneuvered, made massive, made miniature, my mood makes and breaks them.
Never give up; never give in, not for negative. No one. Never. Not once.
Operate on other planes, optimism can obliterate oppression.
Power is found in peace, punctuation, paragraphs, poems.
Quandaries, questions, quizzes, quests, never stop questioning.
Rest when revelry is reached. Rocky roads won't rope me down.
Still, never stop the surge that strikes, sustenance for my soul.
Timid, trepidation, torrential, traffic. Terms that tempt the topple of my temple.
Understanding, uncompromising, unwavering, unstoppable.
Vital signs vivaciously making new vectors. Venting vexations.
Wandering to start wondering, wondering to welcome words.
X-ray visions creating extraordinary spirit that can't be found at Xavier.
Yours is your world. You, for you. Yourself alone. You.
Zenith, one day, the zenith.

Poetic #3: This last one stemmed from a prompt for my classes as well. This time I wanted them to write about a favorite childhood toy. For the longest time, I've wanted to write about mine. Finally, the muse sang to me. Above my Star Wars toys, beyond my Transformers, my G.I. Joes, my you name it, the subject of this poem is what mattered most to me. This is what I came up with.

Easier To Be Green
As a kid, I had more ear infections than I could count.
To the point I drank more antibiotics than water.
At the least, I was at Boston Eye and Ear monthly.
New tubes, another earplug fitting, yet another procedure.
From the house, to the T, to the specialists.
Not how I wanted to miss school,
I never played sick, my ears made sure of that.
It was such a routine.
Until one day -

I lived with The Muppets, I lived on the street,
Sesame Street.
Do you know how to get there?
You should.

There was this one day,
Routine as all the other visits to eye and ear were,
I'm put under for new tubes, I still hate the smell and taste of that gas.
I awake and the first face I see is green.
Kermit is waiting for me.
Ping pong ball eyes and green felt body and all.
From that day on there would be no hurdle too tall,
Kermit was there.
All other ear procedures, right there with me.
Kermit lived for the road too.
He was my road trip buddy.
From Beantown to the Green Mountains, and back to Beantown,
Always right there, ready for the ride.

As a kid I faced more tests than I could count.
Kermit was my shield.
My partner in crime,
My space ship co-pilot.
The galaxies we'd reach so far, far away.
A long way from Samoset Street.
A long way from Sesame Street.
But, always a shortcut to the heart of my childhood,
To the heart of me.
Thank you Kermit, for making it easier to be green.

Thanks for reading, that's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Work in Progress (A Poem by Me)

2011-05-27T16:41:00.005-04:00

I love poetry. I love to read it, write it, hear it. I just love it! I wrote this poem about a year ago. For some reason the first two lines kept ringing in my ears. In large part autobiographic, in small part tongue in cheek sarcastic bastardry. Or is it the other way around? In truth, the poem is me at that moment it came together. And beyond. I hope you enjoy.

Work in Progress

He is a good guy,
Somewhere between Jesus Christ and John Lennon.
Living righteously, as much as he can anyway,
Though there is always Saturday night.
But it's Saturday that makes the work for Sunday.
A good guy, really, I mean, really he is.
A heart like the Grinch's,
After he heard the Who's singing without the presents and fixings,
After he carved the roast beast.
Reaching out to pull people closer,
To protect,
To share the sanctity of love.
Oh the backslide!
Backsliding is the fun of it!
Like I said, got to have something to do come Sunday.
In the end, He will judge him,
He will say, "Come on up, kick back,
Beer is in the fridge."
See, I'm telling you,
He's a good guy, really, somewhere between Jesus Christ and John Lennon.

Dreaming Out Loud

2009-01-12T22:05:00.007-05:00

Here it is, my first post of 2009. Personally, I even surprised myself on this one, only 12 days in after all.

In all seriousness, I do have a point in posting, and it has a name: Wall-E. I had the chance to watch the movie this past weekend and completely fell in love with that little tin can. By all rights, Pixar is on a roll, they haven't put a dud out yet and Wall-E is no exception. In a recent e-mail "conversation" with a friend/colleague of mine, we discussed the layering Pixar is so apt at accomplishing and how this type of writing truly delivers a final product that just may have something for everyone. In my opinion, Wall-E is the epitome of this. To say this movie is just a cute story about an adorable little robot's adventures would dramatically sell this movie short. It is in its multiplicities that Wall-E really takes stride.

To me, the great story, the humor, and warnings of the trappings of consumerism combine to create a movie that should rightfully stand out above the crowd. In 96 minutes, Pixar has delivered what few movies have done so effectively, pure entertainment mixed with pure purpose. Like I said, Wall-E very blatantly cries foul on rampant consumerism; however, it never even begins to be too preachy. This is where the character of Wall-E himself comes into play. With such a childlike innocence, all he ever tries to do is help others. Through both his programming (he's a trash removal robot) and his giving and selfless personality, Wall-E is more of a celebration of the human spirit than any of the movie's human characters.

In my mind, this is the true triumph of both the movie and the title character. Wall-E serves as an extremely profound, though deceptively (and cutely) simple, example of what will and determination can bring. He never gives up, period. In that he teaches his lesson. For a little robot, his humanity is gigantic. So gigantic that I can't figure out how to stop gushing about this movie. I've said it before and I'll say it again: Very few movies offer such a total package of genuine story, humor, and message. Wall-E never steers off-course or misses a beat for even a second, this movie is an honest celebration of all that is good in life and the world.

At risk of getting on a soapbox myself, we can all stand to learn more about ourselves and our capabilities. We can all find that will and determination to make ourselves, others, and the world what we want it all to be. It's time to celebrate the best things in life and realize that they are not things at all. To quote Bono, it's time to "dream of the world we want to live in and dream out loud." All of this from a binocular-eyed tin can with tank-tread feet named Wall-E.

That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

In Retrospect...A Look at 2008

2008-12-29T23:41:00.012-05:00

Having no idea of how to start this post, let me quote the late, great Groucho Marx, "Time flies like birds, fruit flies like bananas." That sums up how up and down the Oh-to-the-eight really was in my mind, never really predictable, yet somehow, comfortable. I've always wanted to write a poignant "look back" reflection and "promise ahead" type thing, so come along for the ride, I most likely won't achieve poignant, but it's worth a try.

When I began looking back at 2008, my first thoughts centered on the changes I had seen happen on what seemed like an hourly basis. In short, my daughter. In just 365 days I had seen her start crawling, walking, gibbering, and talking. The evolution of Peanut the Destroyer has been a marvel that my mind has had trouble keeping up with, say nothing about grasping. She's an amazing little girl that just stupefies my noggin when I watch her grow. In fact, I can't think of a confusion as truly beautiful as watching this kid change, I love it.

Also, on a personal note, my wife and I have officially been together for 10 years! Yup, that's a decade for all the year groupers out there. It's crazy to think that 10 years have gone by so quickly, 10 years. In 1998, if someone had said to me that I'd be a husband and a father, I may have laughed in his or her face. Hell, if I went back in time to tell my past self this tid-bit, I'd expect a loud laugh...that is, after the 1998 me got over the freakiness of the 2008 me paying a time warping visit. 10 years together and counting, 6 years married and counting. Pretty cool from where I stand. I love it.

My other thoughts were a mix of the serious and not-so-serious. I think I'll start on the not-so side. I'll state it loud and proud, I'm a music addict, I can't go anywhere without it, there are always vast numbers of songs in my head, so this bit will be a tribute to the music that got mad props from me this year. For starters, a long time favorite of mine(14 years) released yet another self-titled album, Weezer. Simply put, the "Red Album" rocks! I defy anyone to say differently. No band has been quite as successful at writing pop rock ditties as Rivers and Co. "If you don't like it, you can shove it. But, you don't like it, you love it!" says Rivers. 2008 is also the year I rediscovered one of my top 10 bands, by their doing as well. Radiohead put out In Rainbows, and I'm hooked again. My favorite since 1997's OK Computer! Metallica came back into form, loud as hell, with Death Magnetic. Tom Morello (of Rage and Audioslave fame) continued what he started last year with One Man Revolution releasing his newest solo project as The Nightwatchman with The Fabled City. Not since the days of Woodie Guthrie has revolution sounded so good to the ears. Speaking of sounding good to the ears, Jack Johnson gave us a new album, Sleep Through the Static. Jack even "plugged in" and went electric on us on this record. Fear not if you haven't heard it, it's electric guitar Jack Johnson style, and damn good to boot! Another strong set, in five albums (including Curious George) I am yet to be disappointed. Lastly, the album I believe can't go without mention is Coldplay's Viva la Vida. I am a huge fan of Coldplay, especially their A Rush of Blood to the Head record. To me, they are a band that has taken the influence of U2 and made their own way. X & Y is a very good album, but it doesn't reach for the stars the same way Viva la Vida does. Because it is so very different from Coldplay's earlier work I can't get enough. The title track's line, "for some reason I can't explain, I know Saint Peter will call my name," always strikes a chord with me. It's an unapologetic anthem, optimistic, and just plain good music. Simply a great album from start to finish.

In the world of movies, my list is very short...not because I'm a snob (though the argument can be made at times), but because I just don't get to the movies often enough. *see earlier posts regarding Peanut the Destroyer. However, the 3 movies I had the chance to see are movies I just couldn't miss the opportunity to see on the big screen. The first movie is U2 3D, which was also my first I-MAX experience by the way. All I can sufficiently say to describe it is, "WOW!" If this movie was cited as the reason I-MAX theaters were invented, I would whole-heartily agree. U2 3D isn't like going to a concert, it's like being in the concert, with U2! When Bono reaches out his hand, you seriously believe he's about to touch you. Incredible! Secondly, Hellboy II: The Golden Army. The comic geek in me couldn't wait for this one. I've been a Hellboy fan since my first glimpse at Mike Mignola's simple, yet stunning artwork years ago and both movies pay the comic series great respect. Hellboy II really delivers the darkness and humor that has made Mignola's creation so great. Lastly, The Dark Knight was just incredible from anticipation to actual viewing. I'm not sure I can say anything that hasn't already been said, but I will say every part of the movie works for me and I could hardly wait to own it on DVD.

On a more serious note, thinking of The Dark Knight makes me think of the people who have passed away in 2008. To name some: Heath Ledger, Paul Newman, George Carlin, Bo Diddly, Tim Russert, Bernie Mac, Bettie Page, Charlton Heston, Arthur C. Clarke, Sydney Pollack, Estelle Getty, Issac Hayes, Studs Terkel, Michael Crichton, and Eartha Kitt. Also, much respect to all I have missed. May they all be in a better place, my heart and thoughts go to their loved ones.

To end my little endeavour into retro-thinking, I look back at 2008 with mixed feelings. 2008 has been a year of great emotions throughout the spectrum. This is the year economics really took some scary turns, the year the Tampa Bay Rays looked to be taking over the baseball world, a year of many worries and many fears. Through it all however, I see hope. We Americans, at least us left winged liberal types anyway, elected Barrack Obama as our next President of the United States! How cool is that? Not only did we elect an able-minded candidate, but we made history while doing it! All in all, to be cliche', it has been a year to remember, if for nothing else, the history lessons embedded throughout. Here's to you 2008! For that matter, you too 2009!

For hope and possibilities, that's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

That's No Lady, That's My Wife

2008-11-24T21:08:00.006-05:00

As indicated in earlier posts, in my profile, and other places throughout this here blog, I'm married. For six years and some change I have been a husband, and for the last twenty plus months a daddy too. So, by this time I should know a thing or two about women right? Ah, not really.

That doesn't mean that I have given up my fruitless quest to understand the female mind, our daughter is a fresh start...I hope. That being said, I've been with my wife since the fall of 1998, ten years baby! It has been an extremely blurred time, very fast in other words. That means to me that I've enjoyed myself for most of it as far as I can see. That still doesn't mean that I "get it" any more than I did ten years ago, or for that matter, when I was a teenager either.

Here's what I do understand: Life is indeed better for me for the last ten years or so. I have someone that always challenges me to be true to myself and never hesitates to call me on not doing so. Despite how cranky I get when this happens, I know it comes from a place that's good for me. That's just my way of saying, "you're right." In those moments I know I have "the one" next to me, you know a person that can be the slice of reality you need from time to time.

On the other hand, that's the easy part, the rest is the confusing part... I'll never understand how things outside of my control are things that can get me killed. Losing her own keys for instance, or any other universe controlled phenomena that can not otherwise be explained or blamed on me. That's what I'll never, ever get. If it's out of her hands, it's gotta be out of mine right? Not always, but who am I to argue? Speaking of arguments, I have learned that they're stupid and I will never truly claim any sort of victory for any of them, that my friends would make me stupid. Despite some moments, er, any day that ends with 'y,' I fancy myself a smart guy that has some k-nowledge (yeah, I just dropped a Beastie Boys reference right there). With that, I will say that I honestly do try hard to stay out of those damned arguments, even if it does look like I am diving head first into them.

Enough about that nonsensical nonsense, back to good stuff... I have honestly had a good time all the while I've been married. I can't picture a better way to be. The good outweighs the bad by a long shot. I'm proud of my relationship and I hope that shows when I talk about her. I know that she knows that I take great pride in her being the mother of our daughter, I wouldn't want anyone else for that job for sure. All in all, we're a great team, before Peanut the Destroyer and even more so raising her. No person knows me better, or treats me better (yes you, that is true). She's also stronger than she ever gives herself credit for being. Somewhere in her heart and mind she knows that, but that's my job to remind her. Hence, this post.

Of course there have been bumps and bruises, but I believe that the better is the bigger part of our marriage. In short, I wouldn't trade this in, never.

That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Another Reason I Haven't Been to Church in Some Time

2008-11-13T22:40:00.002-05:00

I have just recently read an article on Yahoo News about a priest in Columbia, South Carolina( Rev. Jay Scott Newman ) that has refused Holy Communion to anyone that voted for Barak Obama. Citing President-Elect Obama's views on a woman's right to choose as "constituting material cooperation with intrinsic evil" he withholds the body of Christ from many of his congregation. He also went on to say, "Voting for a pro-abortion politician when a plausible pro-life alternative exists constitutes material cooperation with intrinsic evil, and those Catholics who do so place themselves outside of the full communion of Christ's Church and under the judgment of divine law. Persons in this condition should not receive Holy Communion until and unless they are reconciled to God in the Sacrament of Penance, lest they eat and drink their own condemnation."

Damn! Whatever happened to that Christian saying "judge not lest ye be Judged?" It has been said that there is a world of difference between being a Christian and being Christ-like, seems to me that this Padre has lost his way to Christ-like living. I thought God was supposed to be talking to people in his position directly. If this is the case, God's sending a fair share of mixed messages on what it is he wants exactly.

The problem as I see it is that, intrinsically, Rev. Newman is dealing too deeply in absolutes here. Any time someone says that there is only one way to interpret something I shudder, especially when it comes to God's Word. To re-state what I said earlier, God is talking to many people. Be it through The Bible, messages to "men of the cloth," or prophets, one thing is clear...the message is not always the same song and dance. There has been too much left to interpretation to have any one true, clear, or decisive avenue to travel.

When Rev. Newman says, "Voting for a pro-abortion politician when a plausible pro-life alternative exists constitutes material cooperation with intrinsic evil," he is missing a very serious mark. The pro-life candidate he speaks of is most obviously John McCain and though it is true that he takes a pro-life stance on the issue of abortion, his miss comes in the form of McCain's support of the Bush administration's push to go to war with Iraq (on the premise of the WMD lie), as well as his own wishes to enter into war with Iran. For some reason, war does not seem very pro-life to me. Nor does it seem very Christ-like to enter a war on reasons proven to be built on lies and deceptions. Isn't there a Commandment about lying? Says something about not doing it if I remember right.

Does that mean that you are pro-lying Rev. Newman? I hope not. Here's the thing though, I'm not going to let some religious hypocrite ruin my hopes for the future and my happiness in electing a candidate that deserves the presidency on many levels. Barak Obama is an intelligent, well-spoken, and able-minded successor to our present presidential predicament. The icing on the cake here is that we made history this election year and no Catholic priest is going put a damper on that.

That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Happy Anniversary!!!

2008-09-28T13:26:00.005-04:00

On a lighter and happier note, today is my 6th anniversary! That's right, 6 years! Feels more like 6 months! I love it though. Happy Anniversary Mrs. Today'sTheDayForHomerJ!

Age? When it matters...Or Does It?

2008-09-28T12:45:00.006-04:00

My first post in more than a month, hopefully it's a good one.
Through a debate/conversation I had many thoughts slam into my brain at the speed of a bullet train. Some centered on many issues relating to the state of things, most on my age. I think I can do them justice, so here goes.

I got "reminded" again that my age, as long as I am younger than others, will forever mean that I'm a naive, idealistic, know-it-all a-hole who goes through life second guessing his elders. My age was brought up again as a "shut up kid, what do you know?" dismissing that sometimes makes me wonder why I ever bothered registering to vote some 13 plus years ago. Obviously, I have no idea what I'm ever talking about, so I guess I'm wasting a vote every time.

Honestly, what I really thought was the opposite. Presently I am 31 and some change and the last time I checked, eligable to run for president in less than four years. Hell, I believe I can already be a congressman, senator, or some sort of local elected official. With that said, let me ask this: Why can't I have an opinion on things that matter to me, my life, my daughter, and the rest of the world? I may be half the age of the person in mind, but does that mean I haven't seen and experienced the world in a way that allows me to have and express my convictions?

Like I said, I'm 31, I work (therefore pay taxes), I'm a father, I've educated myself to vote in every election since I've been a legal and registered voter. In short, I think it may be my turn now. If not, when? I like to think that I keep myself informed and educated and that I have a viable point of view here and there and that age should not matter.

The catch is this though, and what a catch it is...As long as I'm younger than someone and my viewpoint doesn't match up, I have no right, not even in America. A country that has allowed my the right to vote since the age of 18, a country that has been taking income taxes from me since my first job at 15, a country that despite its current leadership and its mistakes, I stand by and love. To close, no matter my age, I loath the word "queer" unless it's used in its correct context, I will always oppose this war and support my troops, I will always have my opinions, and my hopes are that my daughter can someday feel the same.

That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Five People I'd Love to Have a Beer With

2008-08-23T00:11:00.009-04:00

I was just recently asked this question, "If you could have a beer with any five people; living, deceased, or fictitious, who would they be and why?" A hard question to answer, I even have honorable mentions. Being in a Deadwood frame of mind, three characters come to mind; Calamity Jane, Seth Bullock, and Al Swearengen. It was difficult to narrow it down. In short, here is my attempt to answer that question.

Out of the gate I'll say the late and great Kurt Vonnegut. For starters, there is no author on the planet I have read more of. Of my large book collection, no author takes up more room on my shelves. Though, his books don't stay long as I am always re-reading my favorite passages, if not entire books. American literature was certainly changed for the better with his arrival and surely there is an unfillable hole since his departure. Talks of politics, society, humanity, all over good beer. What could be better? God Bless You Mr. Vonnegut!

Here's the thing, Vonnegut is a no-brainer for me, come to think of it, this guy is too. The Eyeball Kid, the Nighthawk at the Diner, Mr. Tom Waits. I'm hard pressed to think of another musician that has his unique brand of gusto. I heard an NPR interview Tom Waits did on Fresh Air a few years back. This man is a walking, talking metaphor. In the same interview, he also gave me two (amongst numerous others) of my favorite quotes of all time. "Music is a powerful thing. It can often be beautiful melodies telling you terrible things." And, "If you hit your baseball into my yard, you have to earn getting it back. You have to share some stories." Based on his songs and attitudes about life itself, how could having a beer with this guy be boring?

On a different end of interesting, I would love to share some suds with Robin Williams. How much fun would that be? I'm not sure how much beer I would be able to drink in this case. In fact, I might miss quite a bit if I were to drink too much. This guy is so quick that even lightning stands back and says, "What did he just say? What did he just do?" Every time I see Robin Williams perform I am in absolute awe of his wit and genius. He is nothing less than a hero to me.
In all the books I have read there have many characters I have loved. Holden Caulfield, Simon from Lord of the Flies, Atticus Finch, Kilgore Trout, Max from Where the Wild Things Are, to name a few. Seeing that some of these characters are underage and some just not the go out get a beer type, I'm going with someone different. From Joseph Heller's Catch 22, Yossarian. I also think he would be the most likely to come out with me too. Let's face it, he would be much more content going out for a beer with me than partaking in bombing missions. Though that would make him sane, therefore, he would have to fly. Which is insane. Which would mean his only clear choice would be beers with me. But...I think you get it. At least I hope you do.

Lastly, though certainly not leastly (it's a word to me), I think a beer with this guy would be very fitting. One Irish guy to another, my last pick would be Bono. To dismiss him as a pompous self righteous rock star would make whoever is labeling him as such those very things (minus the rock star). He has, perhaps more than any celebrity, an honest and earnest desire to not only change the world, but save it. How could anyone really be against that? Or him? Say what you will about the music of U2, after all, there is no accounting for taste (I'm a huge fan by the way), but Bono really is making the world a better place. If for nothing else, his tireless efforts. He's using his celebrity for good, he's living the Spider-Man mantra, "with great power comes great responsibility," and he also exemplifies the "Golden Rule." He makes my Irish heart proud. We need more rock stars like him. We need more people like him.

There it is, my wish list of beer buddies. Some variety, but for those who know me, probably not a surprise. That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Peanut the Destroyer Goes to the Zoo

2008-08-18T23:16:00.007-04:00

Here I am again, in the middle of everything if you will.
I have just returned from a long needed venture to my 'rents. After all, it has been a little too long since they have seen my daughter, their grand-daughter, who will here by be dubbed "Peanut the Destroyer." Yup, an Ant Bully reference. Funny movie, but that's beside the point, that is if you can find one.
Anyway, the missus, Peanut the Destroyer, and yours truly flew down to the D.C. area on a aeroplane (Peanut the Destroyer loved the flying thing) and hung out with the family. One of the highlights in hands down fashion was Peanut the Destroyer's first visit to a Zoo. However, this was no ordinary zoo, it was the National Zoo! Man, is she an awesome kid to bring into public! Not only was she super excited to see each and every animal, but she made many efforts to talk to them. Lions? Tigers? Bears? Elephants? Hippos (of regular and pygmy variety)? Sea lions? Fish? Gorillas? Pandas? It didn't matter, she showed no fear and tried making friends with them all by making their sounds. I think it worked too! Well, at least she and I thought so.
What was even cooler was that no matter where we went, she said "hi" to everyone she met. People would just stop in their tracks to say "hi" back and strike up a conversation with a 17 month old! I loved it!
She's every bit as outgoing as I am now, I think she even puts me to shame. She even has that healthy degree of "stranger danger" too. But, as long as mom or dad are around, she'll ham it up and draw 'em in for the show. I love being a daddy to the world's youngest and most beautiful comedian! I could go on forever, but I won't. I'll save more daddy bragging for another time. She makes it easy, that's for sure.
And that's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Check This!

2008-08-12T00:49:00.001-04:00

Like the title implies, just click the link provided here! It's a cool pic!
http://4jaarabudhabi.blogspot.com/

Manny Being Manny...Encore Edition

2008-08-09T23:29:00.007-04:00

Just when you think enough is enough and a saga is over, a jackass swoops in to save the day. In true Manny Ramirez fashion, just about a week after the Red Sox office finally gave him what he's asked for on an annual basis, right after he says he wants to retire in a Dodgers uniform, Manny reportedly announces that he wants to file for free agency in the off season so he can sign with the Yankees.
Of course, this means Hank and George Steinbrenner will go crazy to placate his statements and sign him, just to prove they can. If for nothing else, to make yet another stupid dig on the Red Sox and us fans. An effort to turn the screw if you will. Johnny Damon anyone?
Since I'm on the the subject of the Steinbrenners I believe it necessary to mention two blatant nuggets of Red Sox envy. To quote Hank, "Red Sox Nation, what kind of s**t is that?" Sounds like he's a little worried about us to me. Secondly, I saw in a MLB catalogue, a shirt that simply said, "Yankee Universe." Here's how I picture the Yankees front office meeting that landed on that little goldmine... "Let's think people! What's bigger and better than a Red Sox Nation? I got it! Yankee Universe! There's nothing bigger than the universe!" Sounds like that guy who buys a Lamborghini to compensate for shortcomings in...ah, personality. I know you hear me on this one ladies.
OK, tangent aside, Manny going to the Yankees would only prove one thing as far as Manny is concerned. No matter what he says about not being a fan of the media, he has certainly made a one man circus of himself recently. To me, this further proves that regardless of how great a hitter he is, he is only in the game for himself. He finally gets what he has said he's asked for repeatedly over the years and he's still flinging muck at the Sox. Does he want us to hate him? Despite all good that he has said about us fans, going to the Yankees by his choice is a slap in the face of Red Sox fans everywhere. By the way, that is why we boo Johnny Damon, he's in serious denial if he thinks he hears cheers when he comes to Fenway.
As I said in my last Manny related post, good luck L.A. I like you guys and I understand the frustration you must be feeling already and can only sympathise. But, if Manny lands in the Bronx, that will most certainly be a case of "you two deserve each other" as far as I'm concerned. The Yankees and Manny might be a perfect fit. Where else would a player with an over-inflated self worth go? At this point, I'm thinking about putting Manny in the same bucket as A-Rod, Damon, and Clemens. In other words, lumping him with players who somehow think that they are more important than the rest of the team.
Go where you may Manny, at least you're not our headache anymore.
That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Bittersweet

2008-08-08T21:50:00.004-04:00

Have you ever worked the skin off of your hiney, all the while having the sensation of running a marathon, felt like only a coma sized nap will cure your exhaustion and yet, somehow, said to yourself and others, "hell, I can do another five to ten miles?" If so, that's where my mental state is at right now.
I've just completed the latest of seven, count 'em seven, summer therapeutic programs I have led and I can't seem to shake this feeling that I've only just begun. Crazy, I know. Here's the thing though, despite the tone of my last post I actually saw evidence that the skills I was trying to teach these kids were taking hold. Some of it stuck after all!
For the last few days, leading up to the program's last, I caught myself thinking I wanted more. I even dared say it out loud.
See, the thing is, I'm a very social person and socializing is my fuel for fun. Basically, if you can't find me, I'm talking to strangers. I love people and being around them. So the end of camp (the summer program's unofficial non-Medicaidese name) brings the Webster's definition of "bittersweet" to life. Yeah, I'm freakin' tired. Yeah, those kids frustrated me on a regular basis and at break-neck speed. Yeah, I hated the Jeep Commander I had to drive 100 plus miles a day this summer for reasons too numerous to count, most notably that its MPG is hovering in the low to mid teens. And yes, the rancid blueberry muffin that almost snuffed the life-force out of my trusty co-pilot and myself on yesterday's camp kid pick-up run quickly became my least favorite culinary experience of late. However and honestly, minus the the harbinger of death that was that muffin, this type of work was made for an extrovert like myself. I'm completely in my element and though it's not humanly possible to love every minute, I love most. I already miss it and will til next summer.
That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

What I Can't Understand

2008-08-06T22:41:00.004-04:00

As the title implies, this is a post about what I can't understand. Trust me, that's a ton of stuff. I think my saving grace is that I don't pretend to even have the slightest snowball's chance in hot, hot hell of an idea when it comes to a many of things. Example, astrophysics, I won't venture even the smallest guess. Calculus? Not a chance! Rocket surgery, don't even think about handing me that scalpel!
All of that aside, here is my most recent confusion about life as I know it...why others think they are somehow punishing me by doing, or in some cases, not doing something. This is especially prevalent amongst teenagers. The whole idea of "I'm not going to do my homework, that'll show him" just baffles my mind. After all, any teacher has already been there and done that school thing.
Most recently, I have had experiences with a therapeutic summer program where quitting seems to be the one avenue for revenge on us "a-hole" adult types. I actually had a kid say to me, and I quote, "You'll be sorry when I don't come back tomorrow!" Huh? You mean to tell me that you're going to punish me for your crappy behavior by not showing up to the next day of the program? Oh please, don't hurt me like that! Don't give me a day without your unprovoked drama! I'm begging you, whatever you do, do not leave me alone in my peace of mind! Oh the horror! To put it bluntly, I'm not running a therapeutic group because I need to practice my social and coping skills.
I told you, I don't get it.
I also don't, for the life of me, understand how anyone of any age can be an absolute jackass and still somehow believe that they are in the right by putting the blame for a conflict on the people they piss off. Almost as if they mean to tell me that it is somehow my fault that they are acting offensively, rudely, and all-out mean. That's not even taking the fact that I have almost nothing to do with the choices they make into account. I guess I'm just confused.
All in all, I really try to do my best to be responsible for all of my choices and actions. I also make sure to only call a spade a spade, to call it as I see it in other words. What else am I to do? Well, for starters, I think I'll go to sleep...
and that's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Manny Being Manny...In L.A.?

2008-08-04T22:18:00.001-04:00

Those who know me for even a minute know that I am an insanely proud Red Sox fan. Being born in Dorchester, Massachusetts comes with certain fringe benefits, being a citizen of Red Sox Nation most importantly. As such, it is not only my privilege to watch and follow the most dramatic baseballers in the history of the game, but to criticize the hell out of even my most favorite players. Hey, I've taken my knocks, the 1986 World Series and the 2003 ALCS come to mind quickest. For a few moments back in 2004 (and 2007 for that matter) it looked as if I had the Sox of my 1986 memories back, going down three games to none against the dreaded Yankees (and three games to one to the Indians in '07). But alas, my boys handed the Evil Empire the biggest choke in the choking history of chokers as they came back and stunned the world with an unprecedented comeback (and gave the Indians a similar spanking). So yeah, I deserve a crack as a Sox analyst.
This brings me to Red Sox Nation's former beloved Manny Ramirez. Once again he begins his seemingly annual plea for a trade, but this time he turned u.g.l.y. with no alibi. Two weeks ago he started an all out smear campaign against the front office all the while making an ass of himself. What evidence is there? Well, his constant loafing on grounders when he should have legged them out, his admiring his own power when the ball didn't even leave the yard, and most recently a mystery knee injury that couldn't be found on an MRI. Let's not forget the other countless, yet too many to list, "Manny being Manny" moments the Sox put up with to get 30 plus homers, 100 plus RBI, and a near .300 average every season.
Even with those numbers, enough is enough! Despite the fact that Cooperstown already has a spot for him, despite the fact that he just may be one of the best hitters in baseball history, despite these facts, the drama and drag he brought to the Sox had become just too much. Good luck Dodgers and Dodgers fans, I hope he truly is happy out there. If not, you may get the same story we got here in New England, to paraphrase, "I'm happy man. This is a dream come true man. I want to retire in a Red Sox uniform." Then half way through the season he turns on us. Oh wait, that's how his L.A. story has started...like I said good luck L.A.
That's me, right now, in the middle of everything.

Double Standards and Other Out-Right Inconsistantcies

2008-08-02T22:57:00.000-04:00

Well, well, well. I have always been one to try my damndest to stay consistant and true to me, so I guess it bothers me deeply when others do not. I shouldn't let it get to me, I know that much, but I just can't help it.
Most specifically, when others turn their enjoyment of various things on and off depending on who's around. Or, in some cases to inflate some false sense of high and mighty for people they will in all likelihood never know in any real or meaningful way. Like I said, it bothers me despite my better judgement. I just wish people would admit to enjoying something like Finding Nemo around more people than "safe" people, a.k.a. the folks they saw it with. What the hell is so wrong about enjoying the same things no matter the company you presently keep?
To prove my point... I consider Demolition Man, The Karate Kid, and Robocop some of the best movies of all time! I also believe that U2 gets better with age and that Zooropa and Pop are damn good albums! So there! For whoever wants to read this, friends or otherwise, I have stated facts about my tastes that I'm proud to admit, regardless the company I keep. If you have known me for 15 minutes or 15 years, those truths about me are hereby self-evident!
That's me, in the middle of everything.

A Movie I Love...

2008-05-29T23:20:00.001-04:00

I have very recently watched Juno. Simply put, I loved it! To me, movies that just "arrive" are some of the best around. Meaning, movies that are just themselves, no gimmicks, just solid stories with solid characters. A movie that is what it is and nothing more or less. This is exactly what Juno is. As a bonus, it's about a teenage girl who makes, in my humble opinion, a responsible choice regarding a unplanned pregnancy...cool. Did I mention that the title character Juno is also the most endearing, honest, and I dare say realistic teenage girl I have seen on film to the best of my memory? Well, she is. I defy anyone to poke holes in what I've said. Yeah, I said it, and I didn't stutter either. ;)
In any case, this is a true gem of a film. An honest look at life as an accidental mom. If you haven't seen it yet, do so soon.
That's me right now, in the middle of everything.

2008-04-30T11:39:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been thinking. I know, always a dangerous proposition, but it is what it is. These thoughts however, have been ringing in my brain for years.
Recently, I've been working a great deal with literature, reading and discussing it with high school students. Many themes repeat. By repeat I mean, they never leave. Honesty, loyalty, friendship, family, stereotypes, and choices. In a glance, it's a very daunting to even look at, but at the heart of it all, it's a reminder of how human literature is.
In a nutshell, honesty and loyalty have seriously come into question in my life. Specifically, friends doing things they ought not do, then telling me I "can't" be disappointed...What? Last I checked, they have known my style for more than a decade. In short, they know what to expect from me. How can they dare blame me? People making stupid choices is in one word, stupid. It kills me to see people I love hurt, then cause more hurt for themselves. I have the right as a human being to feel disappointed. Feel, feelings, emotions. I can't turn them off, so don't ask me to. Believe me, I would love to have the power to do so, but I'm the "live out loud" type, the type who's sometimes honest to a fault, the type friends typically come to for the raw and real. Not this time though, they wanted to hear that infidelity is fine by me, that even though there's a kid involved, it's all gonna be OK. Well, it's not, and I'm not. Like Ben Harper said, "If you don't want to hear the truth, don't ask me how I am."
So, that's me right now, in the middle of everything.