I finished my first book of 2009 last week. Team of Rivals, the Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin was a phenomenal book and it planted Abraham Lincoln firmly into my tight circle of political heroes (including Benjamin Franklin and Martin Luther King, Jr.).
Although the book detailed some of Lincoln's biographical information, the focus was on his political skill. I found reinforcement for many life lessons in the book. The tasks of managing relationships and juggling varying interests impact all aspects of our lives (in professional, social or any other station of life). How we handle those challenges can impact our lives deeply and impact effectiveness and even happiness.
As a brief summary, Lincoln appointed his political rivals to his closest quarters. He did so to take advantage of the best talent available in the newly-formed Republican party (which looks nothing like the party of today) and to keep himself honest and accountable by turning cabinet meetings into runs through a political gauntlet. Lincoln managed to apply the best talent in the nation to a common task, refine his own thinking through the filter of a blunt cabinet and exerted his own dominion thereover all at the same time. In a word, it was a remarkable feat at a perilous time in our history. And he pulled it off beautifully.
This book has been present in every grocery store in the nation for the simple reason that our new president has cited its teachings as an inspiration for his cabinet. I cannot help but be impressed by the undertaking, and I wish our president the best of luck in handling such strong personalities and conflicting interests with the unique grace of our 16th president. What Lincoln did could not be duplicated by just anyone.
I found a number of basic lessons from the book that anyone can use in life. They are all self-evident lessons, and none of them are new, but they are each presented under the unique and withering pressure of the Civil War. Those simple lessons, applied by a president, saved the union. That example was powerful to say the least. Those same values and techniques, I think, can apply to anyone in daily life.
First, anyone should be willing to listen to the arguments of those who disagree. I read recently that, as our politics have polarized, many people have entrenched themselves into one or the other ideological camp. Many listen to and speak to only those with whom they agree. The resulting "us" vs. "them" mentality deepens the problem.
This book reinforced my belief that we should never be afraid to consider that any of us could be mistaken on any given topic. We can also find a greater truth to a belief once that belief survives strong contemplation.
Second, never judge a book by its cover. Lincoln's political rivals all underestimated Lincoln, some severely so. He was referred to as an "ape," and a "country lawyer." It turns out that the awkward Illinois lawyer who struggled to find fitting clothing, taught himself to read and practice law and moved as if always stumbling was a run-away intellectual superior even to those in his cabinet. It is fair to say we have all been guilty of flash judgements, and everyone has experienced the surprise of being wrong.
Finally, this book reinforced the time-honored Golden Rule. By treating even adversaries with respect, humility and compassion, rivals can become willing allies. It also does not hurt to have a sense of humor, especially about one's self. Nothing disarms quite like self-deprecation, humility and a good laugh.
Although Lincoln made the political tactic of providing enough rope for one to hang himself into a beautiful art, he remained gracious. Although capable of twisting opponents into political knots, Lincoln wielded his abilities gracefully and without malice or vengeance.
We all face challenges in life, at work and in the home. But, I try to remember that if such basic core values as those practiced by our nation's greatest president can save the Union, they can get anyone through the trials in life or at least grant us some comfort in dealing with daily struggles.
Every other book I read this year will be chasing Team of Rivals for the title of best book I read in 2009.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
A Fork in the Road
Jen and I discussed the importance of preserving family history recently. She liked the short book my grandmother finished before her recent death and decided to write down her memories. Obviously, that same motivation led me to create this blog. I hope it can one day be turned into a book to help my family know our little chapter.
I started to think about how individuals are seen differently from various perspectives. Stories I have heard from my father's colleagues have painted a unique picture that I could never have experienced. The best stories of all, however, are heard from the first-person perspective. Take, for instance, my father's letter the the editor of CHEST magazine regarding the very serious illness he suffered when we moved to Loveland from Virginia. You can read that here:
http://www.chestjournal.org/content/106/1/328.2.full.pdf?ck=nck
With that in mind, I thought of some stories I could tell that may interest Jacob when he's older. The contemplation led me to revisit an interesting and fun time in my life that, I now know, was a fork in the road, but not at all what I expected. I thought at the time that I was on a fast track, but, in reality, life took a more subtle change that I now only recognize in retrospect.
I long considered 1998 the best year of my life. It is now second to 2006, but I will always fondly remember 1998. It started with a bang because I got engaged on Valentines Day of '98. I chose well and Jen is still as precious to me as she was when we were still in school.
My school year began with concern about how I would come up with money for my fifth and final year of college. My parents helped me with one-half of my tuition/room and board for four years, but my decision to pursue two degrees, and the resulting fifth year in school, left me with that cost to bear alone. I worked at the Campus Press and delivered newspapers on campus to keep my gas tank full, but it didn't do much else. I vaguely remember my editor's pay to be about $187.00 every two weeks or so. It actually seemed like plenty at the time, but it wasn't going to cover the year and my summer work money was never a whole lot (and was usually gone paying my share of tuition and housing anyway).
Then, the floodgates of opportunity opened. I went from debating the wisdom of a chosen fifth year in school to weighing two great opportunities. First, I received a scholarship and internship from the Colorado Press Association that provided most of my tuition and a job at $6.25 per hour. Then, I received a paid internship through Time Inc. at Sports Illustrated for Kids. All of a sudden I had a decision to make. What a change of fortunes, huh?
I worked out an agreement that allowed me to have the scholarship, take the New York gig over the summer and perform my internship as a night reporter during the school year. Everything was just perfect! I even found enough smaller grants and scholarships available to finish off most of the rest of my expenses. I guess not going to parties and hunkering down paid off afterall.
Even my sports fortunes were amazing. The year began with Denver's first Super Bowl title in January of '98, which I celebrated with gusto after suffering with the team since memories began. To top it off, Denver began the '98 season 13-0 on their way to the best single season in team history and another title. I attended most of the games that year and enjoyed Terrell Davis' brilliance on his way to 2,000+ yards. I managed to gain access to the Denver Bronco locker room in Dove Valley as the team prepared to play the Steelers in the AFC championship game.
I was in New York for the entire summer of that year and had a blast in Manhattan. I ended up working for NBA INSIDE STUFF magazine (the official teen magazine of the NBA). My housing was paid for (thank God because it's beyond expensive) and I received enough money from the job to keep me entertained. I saw two Broadway plays (Les Miserable and Miss Saigon), visited the world trade center, climbed to the top of the Statue of Liberty for a look from inside the crown, and just basically saw the sights. It was my best summer ever, hands down.
I still remember hitting softballs with all my buddies in the rain at a park the night before I left and having a blast. My longtime friend Wally traveled up from Virgina to spend a long weekend with me. My year was on an absolute roll.
I made a point of walking an hour to work most days just so I could see the vibrant life of NYC and save $1.50 per subway trip. Even though I was there for sports journalism, however, I now know I went there with another purpose.
Shortly before my trip, a favorite professor of mine (Edward Rozek) discussed the importance of goals in life and said that I should write a goal on a piece of paper, laminate it and attach it to a key chain to keep the goal ever in mind. My goal had always been to write for Sports Illustrated. I remember making plans to make the key chain.
Funny thing happened. I could not bring myself to put that goal on my key chain. I even remember telling myself while in my car, "I can't put that as my goal for the whole world to see."
I then saw the movie 13 Days with some friends and (Costner's performance aside) remembered why I had decided on that fifth year of college. I am most driven to the study of the bettering of society. I had added political science as a means to an end I could not then contemplate or explain. Journalism was not an intellectual challenge as much as the honing of a craft. Although a noble craft, that just wasn't all that I wanted. I most desired to study the systematic change of our world and hoped to somehow contribute to a greater good in a more direct sense rather than as an observer.
(Interestingly enough, it was my father who pushed me away from medicine [my first choice coming out of high school] and encouraged me to have a "fun" job. I now know that working in the toy department for me [I am a big fan of sports] was not going to satisfy my need for something else. Nevertheless, I worked in journalism for three years before I felt the tug toward that "something else" and dragged Jen through law school.)
So, I had packed some books and resolved to read them while trying to ignore the sirens of NYC. I read "A Bright and Shining Lie," "Profiles in Courage," and a few others. On weeknights after work, I read the books and got lost in their depth. It was a feast.
While in New York, I was forwarded an e-mail that asked a number of questions, like "mustard or mayo?." Two memorable and related questions asked (With my very confident answers in parenthesis) as follows:
1. Where are you now? (New York, NY)
2. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? (New York, NY)
I answered certain I'd be in the same Time, Inc. building. Well, it's been now more than 10 years. I am not in New York, nor do I want to be. My chosen profession gives me the chance to feel a part of things and spend time with family and friends. I could never have known it at the time, but 1998 was the first time I routed my path away from the point I thought certain to be my final goal.
But, as I said before, that goal never made it to my key chain.
I started to think about how individuals are seen differently from various perspectives. Stories I have heard from my father's colleagues have painted a unique picture that I could never have experienced. The best stories of all, however, are heard from the first-person perspective. Take, for instance, my father's letter the the editor of CHEST magazine regarding the very serious illness he suffered when we moved to Loveland from Virginia. You can read that here:
http://www.chestjournal.org/content/106/1/328.2.full.pdf?ck=nck
With that in mind, I thought of some stories I could tell that may interest Jacob when he's older. The contemplation led me to revisit an interesting and fun time in my life that, I now know, was a fork in the road, but not at all what I expected. I thought at the time that I was on a fast track, but, in reality, life took a more subtle change that I now only recognize in retrospect.
I long considered 1998 the best year of my life. It is now second to 2006, but I will always fondly remember 1998. It started with a bang because I got engaged on Valentines Day of '98. I chose well and Jen is still as precious to me as she was when we were still in school.
My school year began with concern about how I would come up with money for my fifth and final year of college. My parents helped me with one-half of my tuition/room and board for four years, but my decision to pursue two degrees, and the resulting fifth year in school, left me with that cost to bear alone. I worked at the Campus Press and delivered newspapers on campus to keep my gas tank full, but it didn't do much else. I vaguely remember my editor's pay to be about $187.00 every two weeks or so. It actually seemed like plenty at the time, but it wasn't going to cover the year and my summer work money was never a whole lot (and was usually gone paying my share of tuition and housing anyway).
Then, the floodgates of opportunity opened. I went from debating the wisdom of a chosen fifth year in school to weighing two great opportunities. First, I received a scholarship and internship from the Colorado Press Association that provided most of my tuition and a job at $6.25 per hour. Then, I received a paid internship through Time Inc. at Sports Illustrated for Kids. All of a sudden I had a decision to make. What a change of fortunes, huh?
I worked out an agreement that allowed me to have the scholarship, take the New York gig over the summer and perform my internship as a night reporter during the school year. Everything was just perfect! I even found enough smaller grants and scholarships available to finish off most of the rest of my expenses. I guess not going to parties and hunkering down paid off afterall.
Even my sports fortunes were amazing. The year began with Denver's first Super Bowl title in January of '98, which I celebrated with gusto after suffering with the team since memories began. To top it off, Denver began the '98 season 13-0 on their way to the best single season in team history and another title. I attended most of the games that year and enjoyed Terrell Davis' brilliance on his way to 2,000+ yards. I managed to gain access to the Denver Bronco locker room in Dove Valley as the team prepared to play the Steelers in the AFC championship game.
I was in New York for the entire summer of that year and had a blast in Manhattan. I ended up working for NBA INSIDE STUFF magazine (the official teen magazine of the NBA). My housing was paid for (thank God because it's beyond expensive) and I received enough money from the job to keep me entertained. I saw two Broadway plays (Les Miserable and Miss Saigon), visited the world trade center, climbed to the top of the Statue of Liberty for a look from inside the crown, and just basically saw the sights. It was my best summer ever, hands down.
I still remember hitting softballs with all my buddies in the rain at a park the night before I left and having a blast. My longtime friend Wally traveled up from Virgina to spend a long weekend with me. My year was on an absolute roll.
I made a point of walking an hour to work most days just so I could see the vibrant life of NYC and save $1.50 per subway trip. Even though I was there for sports journalism, however, I now know I went there with another purpose.
Shortly before my trip, a favorite professor of mine (Edward Rozek) discussed the importance of goals in life and said that I should write a goal on a piece of paper, laminate it and attach it to a key chain to keep the goal ever in mind. My goal had always been to write for Sports Illustrated. I remember making plans to make the key chain.
Funny thing happened. I could not bring myself to put that goal on my key chain. I even remember telling myself while in my car, "I can't put that as my goal for the whole world to see."
I then saw the movie 13 Days with some friends and (Costner's performance aside) remembered why I had decided on that fifth year of college. I am most driven to the study of the bettering of society. I had added political science as a means to an end I could not then contemplate or explain. Journalism was not an intellectual challenge as much as the honing of a craft. Although a noble craft, that just wasn't all that I wanted. I most desired to study the systematic change of our world and hoped to somehow contribute to a greater good in a more direct sense rather than as an observer.
(Interestingly enough, it was my father who pushed me away from medicine [my first choice coming out of high school] and encouraged me to have a "fun" job. I now know that working in the toy department for me [I am a big fan of sports] was not going to satisfy my need for something else. Nevertheless, I worked in journalism for three years before I felt the tug toward that "something else" and dragged Jen through law school.)
So, I had packed some books and resolved to read them while trying to ignore the sirens of NYC. I read "A Bright and Shining Lie," "Profiles in Courage," and a few others. On weeknights after work, I read the books and got lost in their depth. It was a feast.
While in New York, I was forwarded an e-mail that asked a number of questions, like "mustard or mayo?." Two memorable and related questions asked (With my very confident answers in parenthesis) as follows:
1. Where are you now? (New York, NY)
2. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? (New York, NY)
I answered certain I'd be in the same Time, Inc. building. Well, it's been now more than 10 years. I am not in New York, nor do I want to be. My chosen profession gives me the chance to feel a part of things and spend time with family and friends. I could never have known it at the time, but 1998 was the first time I routed my path away from the point I thought certain to be my final goal.
But, as I said before, that goal never made it to my key chain.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Thoughts on the book challenge
I've just finished my final book of the year to hit the goal Book and I set.
I enjoyed the book challenge this year and look forward to doing it again in 2009. We have slightly altered some of the rules, but, by and large, it will remain the same. This year we will assign each other a few books to read. We still have to have at least one epic book on the year. Mine will be Team of Rivals for 2009 and I'm getting a minor start on it now.
I am going to be a little better about choosing books this time around, though. I ended up reading some books I wish I could have back. "I May Not Get There With You" was written like an academic paper and focused on comparisons between MLK and Tupac. Half-way through it I wished I could just have a do-over. I also really did not enjoy "Catch-22," even though it is apparently widely regarded as a great book. Just not my style.
"Turning of the Tide" was great for 150 pages and then turned absolutely unbearable. The last 100 or 150 pages seemed like various random sports updates stapled to the back of the books with conclusions stating how it just shows that black players played in those various games. Entire chapters were just transcripts of interviews with people who really had nothing to add to the story. It's a shame because if that book ended on about page 150, it would have been one of my favorites of the year.
This year I am going to try to avoid many of the political books. I think the more I read about the Bush administration, the more generally angry I became and I kinda burned out my outrage switch. This year, any political books will be carefully chosen. Of course, I'm already compiling my list and a few are on there, but I'll at least try to mitigate them. Obama 2012!!!
HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2008
I really enjoyed "The World Without Us." I didn't expect it to be as interesting as it was. "'77," which was about the 1977 Broncos, was a really fun read. I also got intesely into "Bringing Down the House," which was about some MIT students who could count cards and took Vegas for millions.
I'm generally not a fiction reader, but I liked "Angels and Demons." Still, the book "jumped the shark" at the end, which disappointed me. That is usually why I don't read a lot of fiction. Still, the book was entertaining.
By far the best book was "Bearing the Cross" because I think I will take the lessons of the civil rights movement into the rest of life with me. Unbelievably great book. It was worth the time it took to read. I'm still amazed at the spying done on MLK and how much infighting made the struggle one that went up hill.
Barack Obama's two books were extremely good, although "Faith of My Fathers" was far superior and was in the discussion for favorite book of the year.
I enjoyed "the Great Derangement" very much. It was quite sarcastic and snarky, but also hilarious. The guy infiltrated the Hagee church (before his controvercial endorsement of McCain) and the 9/11 Truthers to show just how nuts many people can be and how impressionable as well.
"The Nine" was very interesting about the Supreme Court and how it functions behind the scenes. It confirmed my suspicion that the politics of a justice absolutely impact decisions about the hot-button issues of the times.
Finally, nothing made me laugh like "I am America and so Can You!" I read that one twice.
2009 LIST
Some of the books on my list for 2009:
Soldat
Team of Rivals
Southern Storm
Born Standing Up (Steve Martin)
Me of Little Faith (Lewis Black)
Stranger in a Strange Land
How to Rig an Election
The Express (About Ernie Davis)
Da Vinci Code
Seabiscuit
American Lion (Andrew Jackson)
Stories of blood and sweatsocks (Mankind)
As always, the list can change and I'm always open to suggestions. I am still awaiting my assignments from Book, so who knows where it will go. I'm just glad to be doing it again.
I enjoyed the book challenge this year and look forward to doing it again in 2009. We have slightly altered some of the rules, but, by and large, it will remain the same. This year we will assign each other a few books to read. We still have to have at least one epic book on the year. Mine will be Team of Rivals for 2009 and I'm getting a minor start on it now.
I am going to be a little better about choosing books this time around, though. I ended up reading some books I wish I could have back. "I May Not Get There With You" was written like an academic paper and focused on comparisons between MLK and Tupac. Half-way through it I wished I could just have a do-over. I also really did not enjoy "Catch-22," even though it is apparently widely regarded as a great book. Just not my style.
"Turning of the Tide" was great for 150 pages and then turned absolutely unbearable. The last 100 or 150 pages seemed like various random sports updates stapled to the back of the books with conclusions stating how it just shows that black players played in those various games. Entire chapters were just transcripts of interviews with people who really had nothing to add to the story. It's a shame because if that book ended on about page 150, it would have been one of my favorites of the year.
This year I am going to try to avoid many of the political books. I think the more I read about the Bush administration, the more generally angry I became and I kinda burned out my outrage switch. This year, any political books will be carefully chosen. Of course, I'm already compiling my list and a few are on there, but I'll at least try to mitigate them. Obama 2012!!!
HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2008
I really enjoyed "The World Without Us." I didn't expect it to be as interesting as it was. "'77," which was about the 1977 Broncos, was a really fun read. I also got intesely into "Bringing Down the House," which was about some MIT students who could count cards and took Vegas for millions.
I'm generally not a fiction reader, but I liked "Angels and Demons." Still, the book "jumped the shark" at the end, which disappointed me. That is usually why I don't read a lot of fiction. Still, the book was entertaining.
By far the best book was "Bearing the Cross" because I think I will take the lessons of the civil rights movement into the rest of life with me. Unbelievably great book. It was worth the time it took to read. I'm still amazed at the spying done on MLK and how much infighting made the struggle one that went up hill.
Barack Obama's two books were extremely good, although "Faith of My Fathers" was far superior and was in the discussion for favorite book of the year.
I enjoyed "the Great Derangement" very much. It was quite sarcastic and snarky, but also hilarious. The guy infiltrated the Hagee church (before his controvercial endorsement of McCain) and the 9/11 Truthers to show just how nuts many people can be and how impressionable as well.
"The Nine" was very interesting about the Supreme Court and how it functions behind the scenes. It confirmed my suspicion that the politics of a justice absolutely impact decisions about the hot-button issues of the times.
Finally, nothing made me laugh like "I am America and so Can You!" I read that one twice.
2009 LIST
Some of the books on my list for 2009:
Soldat
Team of Rivals
Southern Storm
Born Standing Up (Steve Martin)
Me of Little Faith (Lewis Black)
Stranger in a Strange Land
How to Rig an Election
The Express (About Ernie Davis)
Da Vinci Code
Seabiscuit
American Lion (Andrew Jackson)
Stories of blood and sweatsocks (Mankind)
As always, the list can change and I'm always open to suggestions. I am still awaiting my assignments from Book, so who knows where it will go. I'm just glad to be doing it again.
Holiday pictures
Here are some pictures from our Christmas party, from Christmas morning, and a few in between.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Grasping the End
My grandmother Ruth died early Saturday morning after a battle with cancer. As I posted a few weeks ago, I thought a lot of my grandmother and will miss her very much.
Her death, however, was more a relief, which feels wrong to say, so allow me to explain. This was my first adult experience with such a circumstance and I didn't know what to expect when she was diagnosed with cancer more than nine months ago. It feels wrong to say, but her battle with cancer had become so uncomfortable (and obviously so hopeless for recovery), that I even wished for her death on her behalf. She wanted it to end and said so when she could.
I used to wonder if I was robbed of my chance to say goodbye to my father, who was taken from us unexpectedly and instantly. But, after now experiencing the sadness of a prolonged and very uncomfortable and slow regression before death, I can honestly say that neither is preferable. Considering its an inevitability, preference might be the wrong word, but I think you get my meaning.
The end result remains the same because we all miss her and hate to lose her from our lives. However, because her fate was mapped out for us to see, my family has been more able to turn the expected end into a celebration of her life. I think the reason is that the actual loss was confronted as we came to accept the inevitable.
She is already sorely missed, and her influence in our lives has never been more deeply felt.
BOOK UPDATES
-- I've just finished "The World Without Us" by Alan Weisman. It's a great book about what would happen to the world if humans disappeared overnight. It is an "imaginative" non-fiction in that it contemplates a hypothetical based on scientific facts. Very well done. It's just so interesting.
My reaction was more pronounced toward the delicate balance we walk even WITH us here. For example, our use of nuclear energy (even non-bomb atomic energy) produces some extremely nasty stuff and our disposal methods leave much to be desired. The book explains what happens to those materials and how they would escape, but it also illustrates how fine a line exists between "containment" of radioactive waste and "rampant cancer-causing plumes stretching for miles around."
Most unnerving is how plastics accumulate. The chain reactions that result from the most seemingly-mundane things (like plastic toys) are just plain bothersome. It's a real cringe-inducing experience. Try googling "North Pacific Gyre" sometime if you want specifics. (Hint: it's where our trash accumulates in the ocean.)
Also, after reading this book, I will not be living in Manhattan. Ever. Apparently 700+ pumps (many pumping against gravity) are all that separates that huge city from being a marsh. Big trouble can happen within an hour of loss of power. Yikes.
-- I finished my "epic" book of the year, "Bearing the Cross" by David Garrow. Amazing look at MLK and the civil rights movement. The turmoil, the hurdles, and the courage displayed were all painstakingly broken down.
I've said it before, but MLK, to me, is the greatest citizen this country has ever produced. King's deeds, more than any other personal experience or person I've known, inspire me toward spirituality. A reverend who took to the streets to assist in deed to eliminate the most shameful element of post-slavery America: Segregation.
Most illuminating were the lengths to which the government (even Kennedy) went to spy on King. He was a marked man, his every move was watched, and yet he was able to accomplish real change for the betterment of people. One of the best books I've read in a very long time.
Her death, however, was more a relief, which feels wrong to say, so allow me to explain. This was my first adult experience with such a circumstance and I didn't know what to expect when she was diagnosed with cancer more than nine months ago. It feels wrong to say, but her battle with cancer had become so uncomfortable (and obviously so hopeless for recovery), that I even wished for her death on her behalf. She wanted it to end and said so when she could.
I used to wonder if I was robbed of my chance to say goodbye to my father, who was taken from us unexpectedly and instantly. But, after now experiencing the sadness of a prolonged and very uncomfortable and slow regression before death, I can honestly say that neither is preferable. Considering its an inevitability, preference might be the wrong word, but I think you get my meaning.
The end result remains the same because we all miss her and hate to lose her from our lives. However, because her fate was mapped out for us to see, my family has been more able to turn the expected end into a celebration of her life. I think the reason is that the actual loss was confronted as we came to accept the inevitable.
She is already sorely missed, and her influence in our lives has never been more deeply felt.
BOOK UPDATES
-- I've just finished "The World Without Us" by Alan Weisman. It's a great book about what would happen to the world if humans disappeared overnight. It is an "imaginative" non-fiction in that it contemplates a hypothetical based on scientific facts. Very well done. It's just so interesting.
My reaction was more pronounced toward the delicate balance we walk even WITH us here. For example, our use of nuclear energy (even non-bomb atomic energy) produces some extremely nasty stuff and our disposal methods leave much to be desired. The book explains what happens to those materials and how they would escape, but it also illustrates how fine a line exists between "containment" of radioactive waste and "rampant cancer-causing plumes stretching for miles around."
Most unnerving is how plastics accumulate. The chain reactions that result from the most seemingly-mundane things (like plastic toys) are just plain bothersome. It's a real cringe-inducing experience. Try googling "North Pacific Gyre" sometime if you want specifics. (Hint: it's where our trash accumulates in the ocean.)
Also, after reading this book, I will not be living in Manhattan. Ever. Apparently 700+ pumps (many pumping against gravity) are all that separates that huge city from being a marsh. Big trouble can happen within an hour of loss of power. Yikes.
-- I finished my "epic" book of the year, "Bearing the Cross" by David Garrow. Amazing look at MLK and the civil rights movement. The turmoil, the hurdles, and the courage displayed were all painstakingly broken down.
I've said it before, but MLK, to me, is the greatest citizen this country has ever produced. King's deeds, more than any other personal experience or person I've known, inspire me toward spirituality. A reverend who took to the streets to assist in deed to eliminate the most shameful element of post-slavery America: Segregation.
Most illuminating were the lengths to which the government (even Kennedy) went to spy on King. He was a marked man, his every move was watched, and yet he was able to accomplish real change for the betterment of people. One of the best books I've read in a very long time.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Black Friday 2
Well, last year I spent Black Friday watching Colorado vs. Nebraska with Book and we had such a grand time documenting the experience via duelling-running-diaries that we did it again. Although, considering that Book and I debated whether I can call this season a disaster or not, it was probably a poor choice on my part. We brought the Fuzz along, so this should be fun.To make matters worse, we chose Jackson's as the setting. Jackson's featured many tractors-full of Husker fans and even a Nebraska-themed "raffle" giving away various signs you might be a redneck. I should have known what lay ahead when I saw riding mowers with sidecars in the parking lot, but I plowed ahead anyway.
Must be time for some football! (Time stamp denotes official game time in the indicated quarter).
FIRST QUARTER
14:25 -- CU's first possession ends in a 68-yard TD pass to TE Geer. Color me shocked. Once again, the Buffs are trying to reel me in. I'm not yet fooled (yet) because I know the Buff defense stinks. Still, nice start.
7-0 CU
11:07 -- After forcing a punt, CU goes 80-yards in two plays for another TD. Demitrius Sumler rumbles 36 yards untouched to give CU a 14-point lead. I know he was untouched because he was standing when he reached the endzone. That's the farthest Sumler has run without falling down since the IHOP opened near his dorm. I guess what I'm saying is if Sumler goes 36 yards, maybe NU's defense can keep the Buffs' hopes alive!
CU capitalizes by kicking a squib kick and handing the Huskers wonderful field position.
14-0 CU
14-0 CU
5:46 -- Nebraska scores when its TE failed to drop a pass because of sun glare. He was so alone, the sun was CU's only defense. NU celebrates with a mass-release of red balloons. State of the art stadiums and jumbo trons may be the new thing, but the locals apparently remain puzzled by the mystery of floating rubber.
This seem like a good time to mention that the Jackson's Husker fans cheer wildly for every first down. It must really stink to have nothing else to look forward to in life but wind and corn stalks. These folks haven't been this happy since they successfully welded a sidecar onto a riding mower.
The broadcast just showed a tractor of some sort shooting grain of some sort into another truck on a dreary day as it transitioned to commercial. "Visit Nebraska, where tractor rides and boredom happen." I'm bitter.
14-7 CU
4:04 -- After a CU three-and-out, Nebraska scores on one play. I knew it would happen, but I was hoping CU could hold the lead for an entire quarter. Apparently #47 for CU is the nephew of one Tony Lilly because of his unique ability to squander the angle with his special lack of speed. I think he was 10 yards behind the TE 25 yards down the field. (For those not "in the know" about Mr. Lilly, he's the Bronco safety who can be seen on NFL films chasing at least four different Redskin receivers from no closer than 10 yards away in SB XXII).
14-14 tie (that was quick)
Above: The only time Tony Lilly has ever touched Art Monk (It must be in the end zone).
1:56 -- Cody Hawkins has a pass deflected by one Husker and picked by another. NU has the ball in the red zone. Uh oh. I openly wonder how the heck that happens and Book lays down the truth. "That's what happens when your QB is 5-7." My response? (bleep).
SECOND QUARTER
12:14 -- Nebraska kicks a field goal.
17-14 NU.
9:05 -- After a great kickoff return by Josh Smith of CU, the Buffs proceed to go gimmicky and bring in the running QB (Hansen). This leads to my pounding on the table and becoming essentially combative. Hansen (the running QB with no arm) proceeds to run two straight QB draws (who knew?). Cody comes back in to get the first down on third-and-long and then each QB takes a turn at being sacked. CU has been experimenting with QB rotation this year and it makes me crazy.
CU's 5-of-16 kicker who was run out of Laramie for incompetence manages to tie the game leading to Book and Fuzz being subjected to my all-time frustration rant. The kicker must possess pictures of a naked Dan Hawkins flirting with a bunch of rodeo clowns. There is no other reason for him to be the starting kicker. I mean, this guy missed (MISSED!!!) an XP in OT to give UVA a victory over UW a few years back. I guess he isn't all bad.
A two-minute drive has accomplished 15 yards and, against all odds, three points. I'm officially upset.
(By the way, the QB-rotation-during-a-game-to-keep-them-off-balance trick has NEVER worked in the history of humanity. Dan Hawkins, we need to have a talk. If I were the AD, any coach I hire would have only one rule -- If you ever rotate QBs in any one game, you are FIRED!!!! I don't ask for much.)
17-17 tie (against all odds, the kick was good).
DO NOT TRY THIS ON YOUR FOOTBALL TEAM!!!
6:04 -- Book and Fuzz are still talking me down from my epic rant regarding QB shuffles. I think I'm making surrounding patrons uncomfortable. (Does no one remember when the Broncos shuffled Shawn Moore and Tommy Maddox? Anyone? )
2:03 -- Nebraska finishes a textbook long, grinding drive. They used the same QB for the duration and he never got tired. Like a tractor cutting through tall grass, the Huskers would not be denied.
24-17 NU.
2:00 -- Nebraska accidentally recovered an onside kick when their short kick hit #32 for CU right in the face. Nebraska is looking to end it right here.
1:11 -- A stroke of luck! Nebraska lines up for what would be a long field goal, but the snapper flips the ball over his head to the kicker, who is awaiting the blind-pitch. A CU player intercepts it and takes it to the house for an improbable TD right before the half. Amazing play. CU managed to tie the game without taking a snap on offense for what seems like days.
24-24 tie at the half.
THIRD QUARTER
9:49 -- Nebraska took more than 5 minutes to march the length of the field and take the lead with a field goal. It feels like forever since CU was on offense. This is what you get for taunting the football Gods with blasphemous QB rotations.
27-24 NU
5:39 -- CU responds with a nice drive of its own that includes some huge third-down conversions. Sumler rumbles for another TD. Someone get that man some pancakes!
31-27 CU
1:31 -- Nebraska is marching down the field slowly again. The Buff defense has got to be spent. Nebraska now holds a 64-26 advantage in offensive snaps and a 34-12 time-of-possession advantage. Somehow, CU still leads.
FOURTH QUARTER
12:45 - 8:55 -- After a long march, Nebraska fumbles on the Buff 5. Unfortunately, CU manages four plays before punting again. I am now being restrained by Book and Fuzz. NU gets the punt and starts at the CU 25. This is asking an awful lot from a defense that has been on the field all game. Still, CU holds the Huskers to another FG.
31-30 CU (inconceivably)
8:03 -- CU gets the ball back. They have learned their lesson with alternating QBs, but they run two-straight QB draws with the one who can't run. I give up. Book says "isn't that Hansen in at QB now just to test my tolerance for rapid blood-pressure spikes. "No, I guess that's still Cody... I wonder why they ran it with him twice. Oh well." That was mean.
An improbable third-and-long conversion prompts Book to state that the Buffs have entered the "twilight zone" where everything goes right for them. I stare a hole through him.
4:43 -- CU punts and Nebraska will have another shot at winning the game against a CU defense as punch drunk as Gerry Cooney in a 1980s title fight. This should be nerve-wracking. (On a side note, the announcer just said that Nebraska needs a point to tie. Chew on that one for awhile).
2:28 -- After Nebraska gutted CU's defense to get into easy scoring range, CU comes up with an improbable sack at the CU 40, setting up a fourth-and-twenty-five with the game on the line. Looks like CU holds on. At this point, Book decides to say we should do this every year since it's a good luck charm now that CU has won.
1:43 -- A Nebraska fan shouts "NOOOOOOOO!!!!" as the kicker lines up for a 57-yard field goal. The 57-yarder goes through with about 4 yards to spare and Jackson's erupts. I again stare a hole through Book. I then beat him over the head with my chair... in my mind.
Fuzz then intentionally piles on by pointing out that CU has avoided turnovers to this point.
33-31 NU
1:24 -- Another tipped pass is picked off and, this time, returned for a TD. Fuzz is now very proud of himself and takes full credit for the pick-6. It's deserved. I am now thinking of beating the riding mower traffic out of the establishment. The mass-clicking of overalls into place signals the coming rush for the door.
40-31 NU FINAL
Just for the record, I think there is NO WAY FSU (Book's favorite team) could EVER give up 70 points to Florida. How's that for a reverse jinx?
Well, at least I didn't get trampled at the mall by crazy Black Friday shoppers. Rather, I subjected myself to a herd of Buffalo trampling my heart.
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