Sunday, September 21, 2008

A geeky dream come true

I got to do something very, very cool today. I got to watch Star Wars with my kids. I know that most you are scratching your heads, going "So?" but Star Wars is one of those movies that impacted my life in a very real way (indeed as it did with most people my age). I'm a big fan of science fiction because of that movie. And so, it was a real treat to see my children's eyes grow wide when they saw the Star Destroyer roll across the screen for the first time, to hear their intake of breath at the sight of Darth Vader, to cheer on Luke as he took on the Death Star. Reliving nostalgia is fun, but it is exponentially more enjoyable when I can do it with my children who are living it for the first time.

On a side note, there will be a dearth of pictures on the blog for awhile. I no longer have the digital camera (consider it a parting gift for a contestant that left the show) so unfortunately, until I can gather enough funds to purchase one, you will have to use your imagination to go along with my words (unless, of course, someone wants to be very generous and get one for me).

Monday, September 15, 2008

A reflection of change

I found this poem today in the doctor's office. I had no idea how famous it was. But it struck me as quite relevant. Y'see, things are changing here at the sweetens. No, you'll still get updates every now and again and you will still have my smart ass humor. I meant at the sweetens personally. Am I going to go into it? Prolly not because if you are a regular reader (or even semi-regular) you will already know what's going on. Maybe someday I'll share the news. Maybe. Until then, enjoy this poem.

Desiderata
Max Ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let not this blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.