Just when I thought I wasn't happy with my country any more, Michelle Obama has created an event that makes me smile. She is attempting to help kids set a new world record for the largest number of people 'jumping jacks' at one time. This takes little time, it's good for us and it brings light hearted purpose at a time when we need to stand together.
Go Michelle!
Check out the National Geographic website for details
http://kidsblogs.nationalgeographic.com/lets-jump-community/
Friday, October 7, 2011
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Meditations from 100 Feet in the Air
One of the great joys in my life is living 100 feet in the air over a gorgeous green park with mature hardwood trees, a wildlife pond (yes, there are blue herons) and a major body of water. I like to call it Lake TV as a friend mentioned that I have a wide screen! There is always something to view and think upon. It brings together nature and commerce in the most interesting of intersections.
The nature part of the advantage is obvious. With such an active body of water (color change and conspicuous wave action), bird life and cloud formation, there are literally changes every minute. Clouds at this time of year bring special beauty and challenge with both color and shape, and especially the storms they contain. A couple of times every year there is the magic of a double rainbow, a rain display in a single, tiny location or a glasslike body of blue/grey water to soothe the most troubled spirit.
With the shipping lane, trolleys in the park and cars, scooters and packs of cyclists, the commercial element might be less obviously full of artistic display. Yet, the removal of 100 feet gives energy and structure to the display. This is a world that diminishes any personal or inward trauma. The magesty of size reduces my personal imprint. This is a wonderland that can really dish it out with downed trees, instant lagoons and the thrash of post natural stress-syndrome, not unlike the stuff we small mammal types experience.
Here is a sense of purpose out of time. The rhythm is macro-dimensional, I can react, but there is not instant need. As an artist best grounded in sound, the advantage of having immediate and constant access to such visual grandeur is astounding and forces me to grow, even if it comes with a bout of tears or stirs yearning I cannot stem or escape. Viewed from the safety of 100 feet, structural steel and cement and the knowledge the I am a speck, this is a new version of symphonic awakening that gives something new every hour, every day and certainly every season.
The nature part of the advantage is obvious. With such an active body of water (color change and conspicuous wave action), bird life and cloud formation, there are literally changes every minute. Clouds at this time of year bring special beauty and challenge with both color and shape, and especially the storms they contain. A couple of times every year there is the magic of a double rainbow, a rain display in a single, tiny location or a glasslike body of blue/grey water to soothe the most troubled spirit.
With the shipping lane, trolleys in the park and cars, scooters and packs of cyclists, the commercial element might be less obviously full of artistic display. Yet, the removal of 100 feet gives energy and structure to the display. This is a world that diminishes any personal or inward trauma. The magesty of size reduces my personal imprint. This is a wonderland that can really dish it out with downed trees, instant lagoons and the thrash of post natural stress-syndrome, not unlike the stuff we small mammal types experience.
Here is a sense of purpose out of time. The rhythm is macro-dimensional, I can react, but there is not instant need. As an artist best grounded in sound, the advantage of having immediate and constant access to such visual grandeur is astounding and forces me to grow, even if it comes with a bout of tears or stirs yearning I cannot stem or escape. Viewed from the safety of 100 feet, structural steel and cement and the knowledge the I am a speck, this is a new version of symphonic awakening that gives something new every hour, every day and certainly every season.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Closure as a Device to Resist Change
Recently I read an excellent article about Agile methodology (this is software speak) and in it the author really got up my nose with the topic of change. I routinely seek out change, sometimes at the cost of deeper exploration because I'm too quick to jump on the change bus. Our author said that uncertainty, being a state that many humans seek to avoid, leads to a longing for closure. But that closure is actually a hedge against change.
Then a friend commented on closure in a personal way that really brought my quest into focus. He said he disliked the drive for closure as a false thing and used a striking example, the loss of his brother. He commented that he found friends who stated that old chestnut, "at least you have closure," superficial and unhelpful. He did not have any kind of closure even after numerous years. And I'm certain their mother did not find closure with the loss of her child.
At the time we had this conversation I never dreamed I too would lose a brother (early). This loss has led me to redefine my thinking on change, loss and recovery. Imagine a chilling of the planet and that would describe my feelings on this topic six months on.
Ever read a book with an ending that is so bad you wished you could unread it? I am never comforted just because I know the ending. If I hated the conclusion, I find myself longing for a loophole, something more open ended that lets me participate or just dangle in the breeze with thoughts about what might have been. So you can see why I might prefer the end of the story to continue on a path with an unknown ending, my heart can continue to hope.
Then a friend commented on closure in a personal way that really brought my quest into focus. He said he disliked the drive for closure as a false thing and used a striking example, the loss of his brother. He commented that he found friends who stated that old chestnut, "at least you have closure," superficial and unhelpful. He did not have any kind of closure even after numerous years. And I'm certain their mother did not find closure with the loss of her child.
At the time we had this conversation I never dreamed I too would lose a brother (early). This loss has led me to redefine my thinking on change, loss and recovery. Imagine a chilling of the planet and that would describe my feelings on this topic six months on.
Ever read a book with an ending that is so bad you wished you could unread it? I am never comforted just because I know the ending. If I hated the conclusion, I find myself longing for a loophole, something more open ended that lets me participate or just dangle in the breeze with thoughts about what might have been. So you can see why I might prefer the end of the story to continue on a path with an unknown ending, my heart can continue to hope.
Monday, February 21, 2011
The Noise from Protest Central
Having settled into my second day of life at the Capitol, it seems that noise levels can act as an excellerent for the crowd. Or is it just group think? Midday inside the Capitol the decibels were toward the top of the charts according to my iPhone voice memo app (the debut on this tool for me; this will be an excellent device next time I need to break up a dull workplace meeting). Place yourself here, listen for drums, chanting, metal whistles, the occasional harmonica. It feels so good, but without the mud and stink of Woodstock.
We had a quick discussion with a gentleman who had been an activist at the Pentagon protests in Washington in the 60's. He recalled his anti-war stance at the time but expressed well formed concerns about being swept up by the fever pitch (literally the sound levels) in this instance. As my ribcage pounded with the reverb from a 6 story, fully marble clad rotunda with the hint of a tear headed toward my eyes, I could see his point. It's like the movies! But I didn't feel quite as stirred about standing in the sleet outside the Capitol minutes later. Guess I'm not so tough now.
Noontime special:
In one of many rallies that purport to continue into Monday, local firefighters joined state workers in a march inside the Capitol building beginning on the ground floor rotunda and heading up to the second and third floor balconies. Fire fighting gear ran the gamut from '90's gear to looks from the 60's (much the best looking in terms of the toughness factor, but probably not great protection post 9/11). I admit television ads for insurance feature better equipment bling (okay, helmuts with clear visors), but the firefighters were exempt from Gov W's cuts...gotta' give 'em credit for coming out and the crowd LOVED them, as did I. what is with the emotion thing?
Check out the picture.
Heard around town:
List of things to bring to a rally (strait from a rally supporter)
- Posters
- Markers
- A fifth of whiskey (ok, not really, but those teachers like to feel hip)
- Wet scarves (great for tear gas protection, but not required here in the Heartland)
- Lipgloss, because it is oh so dry in February in the hinterlands
Signage at the UW bookstore has new meaning
- "Special on markers, big and small"
- Printed "Kill the Bill" posters (free, which is great when you have used up your markers)
- "Rally sandwich special (includes a handmade chocolate truffle)
As much as I try to summon up my inner curmudgeon, the events this weekend in Wisconsin's Capitol are considerably more stirring than anything I have read or seen as distilled through secondary sources. Speaking for a passive generation, this has thrilled me like nothing else and I'd like to think those nice Midwestern folks might open the door to some talking or at least a reasonable chat rather than the usual snarkiness which just leaves me wishing I still drank coffee. I always think of the best response at 2am.
We had a quick discussion with a gentleman who had been an activist at the Pentagon protests in Washington in the 60's. He recalled his anti-war stance at the time but expressed well formed concerns about being swept up by the fever pitch (literally the sound levels) in this instance. As my ribcage pounded with the reverb from a 6 story, fully marble clad rotunda with the hint of a tear headed toward my eyes, I could see his point. It's like the movies! But I didn't feel quite as stirred about standing in the sleet outside the Capitol minutes later. Guess I'm not so tough now.
Noontime special:
In one of many rallies that purport to continue into Monday, local firefighters joined state workers in a march inside the Capitol building beginning on the ground floor rotunda and heading up to the second and third floor balconies. Fire fighting gear ran the gamut from '90's gear to looks from the 60's (much the best looking in terms of the toughness factor, but probably not great protection post 9/11). I admit television ads for insurance feature better equipment bling (okay, helmuts with clear visors), but the firefighters were exempt from Gov W's cuts...gotta' give 'em credit for coming out and the crowd LOVED them, as did I. what is with the emotion thing?
Check out the picture.
Heard around town:
List of things to bring to a rally (strait from a rally supporter)
- Posters
- Markers
- A fifth of whiskey (ok, not really, but those teachers like to feel hip)
- Wet scarves (great for tear gas protection, but not required here in the Heartland)
- Lipgloss, because it is oh so dry in February in the hinterlands
Signage at the UW bookstore has new meaning
- "Special on markers, big and small"
- Printed "Kill the Bill" posters (free, which is great when you have used up your markers)
- "Rally sandwich special (includes a handmade chocolate truffle)
As much as I try to summon up my inner curmudgeon, the events this weekend in Wisconsin's Capitol are considerably more stirring than anything I have read or seen as distilled through secondary sources. Speaking for a passive generation, this has thrilled me like nothing else and I'd like to think those nice Midwestern folks might open the door to some talking or at least a reasonable chat rather than the usual snarkiness which just leaves me wishing I still drank coffee. I always think of the best response at 2am.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Protest Central
I'm here in Madison, WI early Sunday after a very stimulating day in the Capitol with what was purported to be 65,000 protesters (and 150 police professionals). The demonstrators outside the capitol building appeared to be slightly more in favor of the governor, with the stroller brigade bringing in the union position and support for collective bargaining. We met friends who reported being jostled, but otherwise everything was very civil and reasonable. Yes, they are 'nice' in Wisconsin.
Wave after wave of new protesters arrived at Capitol Square throughout the afternoon, but the crowds really thinned out by 5:30 when darkness revealed a large moon and we went in search of dinner in what felt more like apres-ski crowds. Life on the square continued to get quiet, but not entirely empty, so at 8:30 we headed over to the Capitol building to check out what a third day of action 24/7 might look like indoors.
It was astonishingly powerful. Inside the capitol building were three floors of mostly young and middle-aged protesters, generally against support of the bill. There were students with sleeping bags, families, pizza and lots and lots of drums. The beat made the marble vault hum with power and dignity. Gallery after small gallery tucked away in this beautiful building was full of people who clearly planned to stay the night. At one point the Star Spangled Banner broke out and for the first time in my recent experience liberals were unapologetically providing at least the appearance of patriotism without being self-conscious.
What's with the pizza reference? In one interesting twist, the State Journal reported that Ian's Pizza on State has suspended in-store operations to concentrate on taking orders for the protesters. "Donations have come in from 30 states and 5 countries including Egypt, Korea and Canada." Later when I tried to check the reference, I was without creditable citations. I am wondering if this means Egyptian UW students were behind this effort? (an internet search queried "did you mean egyptians?" when my vain search for egypt + pizza failed to deliver)
Pictures include viewing the rotunda from above and signs posted by protesters as reminders of civil behavior.
Instructions for keeping it cool with Teapartyers
Wave after wave of new protesters arrived at Capitol Square throughout the afternoon, but the crowds really thinned out by 5:30 when darkness revealed a large moon and we went in search of dinner in what felt more like apres-ski crowds. Life on the square continued to get quiet, but not entirely empty, so at 8:30 we headed over to the Capitol building to check out what a third day of action 24/7 might look like indoors.
It was astonishingly powerful. Inside the capitol building were three floors of mostly young and middle-aged protesters, generally against support of the bill. There were students with sleeping bags, families, pizza and lots and lots of drums. The beat made the marble vault hum with power and dignity. Gallery after small gallery tucked away in this beautiful building was full of people who clearly planned to stay the night. At one point the Star Spangled Banner broke out and for the first time in my recent experience liberals were unapologetically providing at least the appearance of patriotism without being self-conscious.
What's with the pizza reference? In one interesting twist, the State Journal reported that Ian's Pizza on State has suspended in-store operations to concentrate on taking orders for the protesters. "Donations have come in from 30 states and 5 countries including Egypt, Korea and Canada." Later when I tried to check the reference, I was without creditable citations. I am wondering if this means Egyptian UW students were behind this effort? (an internet search queried "did you mean egyptians?" when my vain search for egypt + pizza failed to deliver)
Pictures include viewing the rotunda from above and signs posted by protesters as reminders of civil behavior.
Instructions for keeping it cool with Teapartyers
Sunday, January 9, 2011
What Is the Purpose of Habits
In trying to describe a habit I think of anything that I lean to naturally, any behaviors that lead to known quantities or expected outcomes. In doing any sort of body work (yoga, deep breathing, anything related to singing are examples) the efficiencies provided by our physical systems are meant to assist in ease of completion, yet over time, they provide negative benefits. Even habits of discipline can aid lack of mindfulness, blinkered thinking or stuffiness when looking at new material.
Donna asks, "what are helpful habits and what are not, and what makes up the difference? Where do these habits come from...what kind of habits are actually going on inside and/or are characteristic of "the big middle?" Does one have to identify habits in order to bust out of them...." (see her comments attached to the transformation post for the full monte).
The big middle is the ideal 'location' to challenge habits because getting those pesky bad habits exposed to sunlight and examination reduces the likelihood they can do lasting damage. However some habits are of a friendly nature and need nurturing. Which are the weeds and which the flowers?
One place to start is where I am now, what exactly is the big middle?
- of the country
- my possible existence
- a transitional spot or the main event
- is my big middle full of the same artifacts and milestones as it is for others (hunting for universality)
Examination of habits invites a review of roles. A feature of the big middle is where there is room for pre-defined roles to be set aside for more rewarding, dimensional and bespoke behaviors and processes. Recent writings on mass behavior suggest that American men returning from the horrors of WWII sought structure and predictability and laid out the suburban landscape that directs family life in this country since the 1950's up to today (see this week's Economist magainze). Well defined roles do enable hard work, stability and goal setting. They also occasionally stifle creativity, hinder innovation and at worst provide the backdrop for atrocity as smothered individuals thrash about.
As we assume a role, we acquire habits to suit. This is where danger lurks, definition becomes hardened and the imposition of external expectation leaves us in a strait jacket. Stieg Larsson's thoughts on girls with dragon tattoos exemplifies the unpleasantness of society that imposes views on individuals without flexibility or attention to room for individuality.
So dump all habits and bust out of our roles? Like all of creative conundrums, it's never that easy.
Donna asks, "what are helpful habits and what are not, and what makes up the difference? Where do these habits come from...what kind of habits are actually going on inside and/or are characteristic of "the big middle?" Does one have to identify habits in order to bust out of them...." (see her comments attached to the transformation post for the full monte).
The big middle is the ideal 'location' to challenge habits because getting those pesky bad habits exposed to sunlight and examination reduces the likelihood they can do lasting damage. However some habits are of a friendly nature and need nurturing. Which are the weeds and which the flowers?
One place to start is where I am now, what exactly is the big middle?
- of the country
- my possible existence
- a transitional spot or the main event
- is my big middle full of the same artifacts and milestones as it is for others (hunting for universality)
Examination of habits invites a review of roles. A feature of the big middle is where there is room for pre-defined roles to be set aside for more rewarding, dimensional and bespoke behaviors and processes. Recent writings on mass behavior suggest that American men returning from the horrors of WWII sought structure and predictability and laid out the suburban landscape that directs family life in this country since the 1950's up to today (see this week's Economist magainze). Well defined roles do enable hard work, stability and goal setting. They also occasionally stifle creativity, hinder innovation and at worst provide the backdrop for atrocity as smothered individuals thrash about.
As we assume a role, we acquire habits to suit. This is where danger lurks, definition becomes hardened and the imposition of external expectation leaves us in a strait jacket. Stieg Larsson's thoughts on girls with dragon tattoos exemplifies the unpleasantness of society that imposes views on individuals without flexibility or attention to room for individuality.
So dump all habits and bust out of our roles? Like all of creative conundrums, it's never that easy.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Transformation
To bring 2010 to a close I signed up for transformation. Really? Yup, I made a plan, I told a couple of people, I set off. That's a big word, what's the idea here?
I wanted to know if it is possible to pursue real change actively, alone or with assistance. Within the big middle does change only arrive as a kick in the head or on the crest of some unwonted disaster? I have defined 'the big middle' as a time for semi-affluent types that spans 30-65 (the Heartland says 38-70, so I'm in the ball park; Jonathan Franzen also has ideas on this topic). The idea is to explore how we behave when we step outside what is required and play in the space known as what is possible with a bit of extra effort.
I have become increasingly averse to risk taking, hesitating to state a sketchy goal that might require inconvenient follow up. I find I never get after myself in ways that hold me fully accountable or skirt the possibility of humiliation, can I share my privacy if it means later awkwardness. How can I unload this behemoth of mindset, behavior pattern and limiting construct? Is this a safe haven or a nice box with what looks like a control panel painted in pastels that drip down the wall when it rains?
With only a few days left in the calendar, I headed off to the Midwestern hinterland, literally the Heartland (which is a place, not a concept; check the reference using: Illinois, Gilman). I had a few stated goals, mostly less well conceived, hazy hopes. Sounds like my favorite bad dream on the day before school starts.
Since this is just a lighthearted post, I feel the need to post disclaimers. This isn't a recipe for anyone else, I can't repeat it, there is no pattern for good luck or happiness. It's just a reminder to myself not to be so lacking in initiative or, better yet, in courage. Lots of help is out there but a small request is the first order of the day. It turns out that the instant I ask for assistance help is at hand.
I wanted to know if it is possible to pursue real change actively, alone or with assistance. Within the big middle does change only arrive as a kick in the head or on the crest of some unwonted disaster? I have defined 'the big middle' as a time for semi-affluent types that spans 30-65 (the Heartland says 38-70, so I'm in the ball park; Jonathan Franzen also has ideas on this topic). The idea is to explore how we behave when we step outside what is required and play in the space known as what is possible with a bit of extra effort.
I have become increasingly averse to risk taking, hesitating to state a sketchy goal that might require inconvenient follow up. I find I never get after myself in ways that hold me fully accountable or skirt the possibility of humiliation, can I share my privacy if it means later awkwardness. How can I unload this behemoth of mindset, behavior pattern and limiting construct? Is this a safe haven or a nice box with what looks like a control panel painted in pastels that drip down the wall when it rains?
With only a few days left in the calendar, I headed off to the Midwestern hinterland, literally the Heartland (which is a place, not a concept; check the reference using: Illinois, Gilman). I had a few stated goals, mostly less well conceived, hazy hopes. Sounds like my favorite bad dream on the day before school starts.
Since this is just a lighthearted post, I feel the need to post disclaimers. This isn't a recipe for anyone else, I can't repeat it, there is no pattern for good luck or happiness. It's just a reminder to myself not to be so lacking in initiative or, better yet, in courage. Lots of help is out there but a small request is the first order of the day. It turns out that the instant I ask for assistance help is at hand.
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