The last week or so and been an interesting learning experience, more because of my awareness of what is occurring than what is actually occurring.
It may sound like I'm coming down with a bit of schizophrenia (is that like being a bit pregnant?), but fear not. I think it's more a new understanding of the duality. I am the watcher and the watched. I've been able to take on and look at both perspectives consciously while going through this new learning process. I've understood when and how I'll be able to grasp some of these new concepts as well as when I'm spinning my wheels. At the same time, I am pushing myself to understand this new material to the point that I feel frustrated at times (usually a good indicator for a break).
I'm sure there the reactions to this may range from: "What are you on buddy? And can I have some?" to "Duh! Doesn't everybody do this?" to "You are heading for the looney farm!".
Well, I stopped by the looney farm, and they wouldn't take me. :-) I'm not taking anything so blame it on the air if you want to attribute it to something. As for me, I think this is just an awareness issue rather than a new thing I'm doing. I'm sure my brain has played dual roles many a time, but the be consciously aware of it is something new, at least for me.
What does it all mean? I want be solving cancer, but I do think that it helps me better realize that I am growing into a new understanding. If none of this makes sense, well that's OK -- not sure I completely understand it myself or that I properly expressed it. Still -- like a new trick on a bike or skis or snowboard, it adds to the enjoyment of life.
Monday, December 13, 2004
Sunday, December 12, 2004
We teach people how to treat us
Borrowing one of Dr. Phil's Life Laws, sometimes we have to force the issue.
Life Law #8: We teach people how to treat us.
Strategy: Own, rather than complain about, how people treat you. Learn to renegotiate your relationships to have what you want.
You either teach people to treat you with dignity and respect, or you don't. This means you are partly responsible for the mistreatment that you get at the hands of someone else. You shape others' behavior when you teach them what they can get away with and what they cannot.
If the people in your life treat you in an undesirable way, figure out what you are doing to reinforce, elicit or allow that treatment. Identify the payoffs you may be giving someone in response to any negative behavior. For example, when people are aggressive, bossy or controlling — and then get their way — you have rewarded them for unacceptable behavior.
Because you are accountable, you can declare the relationship "reopened for negotiation" at any time you choose, and for as long as you choose. Even a pattern of relating that is 30 years old can be redefined. Before you reopen the negotiation, you must commit to do so from a position of strength and power, not fear and self-doubt.
Life Law #8: We teach people how to treat us.
Strategy: Own, rather than complain about, how people treat you. Learn to renegotiate your relationships to have what you want.
You either teach people to treat you with dignity and respect, or you don't. This means you are partly responsible for the mistreatment that you get at the hands of someone else. You shape others' behavior when you teach them what they can get away with and what they cannot.
If the people in your life treat you in an undesirable way, figure out what you are doing to reinforce, elicit or allow that treatment. Identify the payoffs you may be giving someone in response to any negative behavior. For example, when people are aggressive, bossy or controlling — and then get their way — you have rewarded them for unacceptable behavior.
Because you are accountable, you can declare the relationship "reopened for negotiation" at any time you choose, and for as long as you choose. Even a pattern of relating that is 30 years old can be redefined. Before you reopen the negotiation, you must commit to do so from a position of strength and power, not fear and self-doubt.
Enter without fear
Having just finished Osho's Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously, it was time to put it into practice.
Commit as many mistakes as possible, remember only one thing: don't commit the same mistake again. And you will be growing
Fear traps us. Fear of the unknown. It keeps us from growing. To grow we must jump into the unknown, the future. Explore new areas.
And that takes me to The Fall of Advertising and the Rise of PR. This was a book recommended to me. Now I'm not a big fan of Marketing, PR or advertising -- this to jump into this book is definitely new territory.
I blazed through the book, partially because I wanted to use what I might learn as quick as possible but also because I'm not examining my innermost being with each chapter.
I'm definitely heading into new territory here. The book helped me understand why I don't like advertising in general. Makes a lot of sense to me now. It also lets me know that I'm mostly on the right track -- as in not thinking that spending thousands of dollars on advertising would be the way to increase sales.
So what does it all mean? I could answer with a "The hell if I know" response, but I think what it really means is that I need to not just jump into my new business, but dive in, head first. Macworld is coming in January. I think I can have enough things that will give my some public relations coverage on textSOAP. Stepping onto an unknown path, I find something new to use. It reaffirms some things I knew, but introduces new ideas that I might never have had if I didn't wander off. I can usually tell when this happens, as there is a ton of energy flowing through my system (and it's more than can be attributed to the caffeine).
Commit as many mistakes as possible, remember only one thing: don't commit the same mistake again. And you will be growing
Fear traps us. Fear of the unknown. It keeps us from growing. To grow we must jump into the unknown, the future. Explore new areas.
And that takes me to The Fall of Advertising and the Rise of PR. This was a book recommended to me. Now I'm not a big fan of Marketing, PR or advertising -- this to jump into this book is definitely new territory.
I blazed through the book, partially because I wanted to use what I might learn as quick as possible but also because I'm not examining my innermost being with each chapter.
Side note: I find it very interesting that I can zip through certain kinds of books (such as industry books) so quickly, but the pace of reading a deep book or a good novel is much slower. I'll have to give this more thought.
I'm definitely heading into new territory here. The book helped me understand why I don't like advertising in general. Makes a lot of sense to me now. It also lets me know that I'm mostly on the right track -- as in not thinking that spending thousands of dollars on advertising would be the way to increase sales.
So what does it all mean? I could answer with a "The hell if I know" response, but I think what it really means is that I need to not just jump into my new business, but dive in, head first. Macworld is coming in January. I think I can have enough things that will give my some public relations coverage on textSOAP. Stepping onto an unknown path, I find something new to use. It reaffirms some things I knew, but introduces new ideas that I might never have had if I didn't wander off. I can usually tell when this happens, as there is a ton of energy flowing through my system (and it's more than can be attributed to the caffeine).
Thursday, December 09, 2004
Oh Barbarella!
We interrupt this search for enlightenment for a brief Duran Duran promo.
Duran Duran is playing on Tony Danza's show
Friday, Dec 10, 2004.
Duran Duran: Wall to Wall special on VH-1 airs on
Tuesday, December 14, 2004.
Duran Duran is touring across America in 2005. Destinations include Austin, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City, Portland, San Diego (there are lots more). So apparently no matter where I'm at, they'll be playing.
Click HERE for complete list of shows.
We now return you to your path of enlightenment.
Duran Duran is playing on Tony Danza's show
Friday, Dec 10, 2004.
Duran Duran: Wall to Wall special on VH-1 airs on
Tuesday, December 14, 2004.
Duran Duran is touring across America in 2005. Destinations include Austin, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City, Portland, San Diego (there are lots more). So apparently no matter where I'm at, they'll be playing.
Click HERE for complete list of shows.
We now return you to your path of enlightenment.
Just Be
Don't say to yourself that you are ugly, wrong, a sinner. Don't condemn. Whatsoever you are, you are. Don't be guilty don't feel guilty. Even if there is something wrong, you are not wrong. Maybe you have acted wrongly, but your being is not wrong because of that. Some action may be wrong, but the being is always right.
-- Osho, Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously
I came across this today while continuing my read of this very interesting book. I've wondered why Eastern Philosophy seemed to fit so well with my REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy) training. The above statement is the same the idea of Unconditional Self Acceptance (USA) that is part of REBT. There is you, and then there is your actions and attributes. These are separate entities and while your actions may be bad, the core -- you -- will always be accepted unconditionally.
I find it interesting how multiple paths begin to intersect. Which path to choose? Does it matter? Perhaps all paths will intersect, or perhaps it's just a sign that I am traveling on my path when more and more things intersect.
-- Osho, Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously
I came across this today while continuing my read of this very interesting book. I've wondered why Eastern Philosophy seemed to fit so well with my REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy) training. The above statement is the same the idea of Unconditional Self Acceptance (USA) that is part of REBT. There is you, and then there is your actions and attributes. These are separate entities and while your actions may be bad, the core -- you -- will always be accepted unconditionally.
I find it interesting how multiple paths begin to intersect. Which path to choose? Does it matter? Perhaps all paths will intersect, or perhaps it's just a sign that I am traveling on my path when more and more things intersect.
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
Love is a state of being
Love is not a relationship. Love is a state of being; it has nothing to do with anybody else. One is not in love, one is love. And of course when one is love, one is in love--but that is an outcome, a by-product, that is not the source. The source is that one is love.
And who can be love? Certainly, if you are not aware of who you are, you cannot be love. You will be fear. Fear is just the opposite of love. Remember, hate is not the opposite of love, as people think. Hate is love standing upside down, it is not the opposite of love.
The real opposite of love is fear.
In love one expands, in fear one shrinks.
In fear one becomes closed, in love one opens.
In fear one doubts, in love one trusts.
In fear one is left lonely.
In love one disappears; hence there is no question of loneliness at all.
When one is not, how can one be lonely?
-- Osho : "Courage, the Joy of Living Dangerously"
And who can be love? Certainly, if you are not aware of who you are, you cannot be love. You will be fear. Fear is just the opposite of love. Remember, hate is not the opposite of love, as people think. Hate is love standing upside down, it is not the opposite of love.
The real opposite of love is fear.
In love one expands, in fear one shrinks.
In fear one becomes closed, in love one opens.
In fear one doubts, in love one trusts.
In fear one is left lonely.
In love one disappears; hence there is no question of loneliness at all.
When one is not, how can one be lonely?
-- Osho : "Courage, the Joy of Living Dangerously"
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Pumpkin Pie Squared
Not everything that counts can be counted and not everything that can be counted counts.
--Albert Einstein
Many thanks to Heather for sending me this.
--Albert Einstein
Many thanks to Heather for sending me this.
Let them Eat Cake
I'm amazed that I'm already at Thanksgiving.
While I will miss the opportunity for a great get together with friends this year, I am thankful for the new adventure I'm on. I can't say where it will ultimately end, other than it being further along my path than I am now. Regardless, I am thankful for being on the journey, one which I don't think I was ready to take a few years ago; and I am thankful for the family and friends that offer me support on this adventure.
I wish all of you a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving.
While I will miss the opportunity for a great get together with friends this year, I am thankful for the new adventure I'm on. I can't say where it will ultimately end, other than it being further along my path than I am now. Regardless, I am thankful for being on the journey, one which I don't think I was ready to take a few years ago; and I am thankful for the family and friends that offer me support on this adventure.
I wish all of you a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving.
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Not Dead Yet!
Ah the Birthday -- a celebration of life, or at least a celebration of the fact that we ain't dead yet!
Ultimately we're only another day older than the day before our birthday -- but as with all things it seems, we like to create these milestones for ourselves to help us mark progress.
As kids we counted the days in-between birthdays. We were 6 1/2 years old, 6 3/4 years old. But as adults, many forget about even the decades behind us. And at some point, some of us even dread the birthday that approaches.
I personally subscribe to the fact that we are only as old as we feel. That's good -- 'cause I've always felt my immaturity to be a problem, but rather it is a gift.
Seriously, we do know life will end eventually (death is a fact of life). We can dwell on it, worry about it, and completely lose track of what the purpose of life is about. Or we can realize that it will happen, try not to bring the onset of death early, but at the same time live a wonder filled life to the best of our ability, seeking joy where we can.
Ultimately we're only another day older than the day before our birthday -- but as with all things it seems, we like to create these milestones for ourselves to help us mark progress.
As kids we counted the days in-between birthdays. We were 6 1/2 years old, 6 3/4 years old. But as adults, many forget about even the decades behind us. And at some point, some of us even dread the birthday that approaches.
I personally subscribe to the fact that we are only as old as we feel. That's good -- 'cause I've always felt my immaturity to be a problem, but rather it is a gift.
Seriously, we do know life will end eventually (death is a fact of life). We can dwell on it, worry about it, and completely lose track of what the purpose of life is about. Or we can realize that it will happen, try not to bring the onset of death early, but at the same time live a wonder filled life to the best of our ability, seeking joy where we can.
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
What Strange Land?
It was pointed out by a friend that my Stranger in a Strange Land post could lead one to think I had no connections in Salt Lake City. The initial feelings I had to inspire the post was more about the cultural differences that became so clear. I have many friends that still live in Salt Lake City area, but the culture clash is so great that I don't think I ever felt at home.
The one exception to that really is the time I spend with my Yoga family (and I do consider it a family -- you ain't gettin' rid of me no matter what you try).
In fact, I was just talking to someone last night and said "I won't miss anything in Salt Lake City except for my Yoga family." I think of Soma Yoga Studio as an oasis in the desert. it is the one thing that I miss from Salt Lake City and is likely one of the big reasons to visit Salt Lake City in the future.
The one exception to that really is the time I spend with my Yoga family (and I do consider it a family -- you ain't gettin' rid of me no matter what you try
In fact, I was just talking to someone last night and said "I won't miss anything in Salt Lake City except for my Yoga family." I think of Soma Yoga Studio as an oasis in the desert. it is the one thing that I miss from Salt Lake City and is likely one of the big reasons to visit Salt Lake City in the future.
Monday, November 01, 2004
Goodbye Cruel Corporate World
Effective today, I quit my job at Intuit after six years. While I immensely enjoyed the company of my immediate coworkers at the Orem office, ultimately I had enough of the corporate life.
I've had difficulty dealing with the corporate life more this past year than ever before. You can blame the Yoga to some degree. Arbitrary deadlines are pulled out of thin air so that the citizens of the corporate world can live in a constant state of stress. And by arbitrary, I mean arbitrary -- no valid reasons are used to determine these dates (vs. another date) on a project, but the dates always were sooner rather than later.
Ultimately I think this will be our undoing in the U.S. Our society is so focused on work, that we Living to Work, rather than Working to Live. The result is burnout. And what happens when everyone burns out at the same time? I don't know.
So now I'm officially striking out on my own. unmarked software has been around for quite some time (since April 1998) and has done OK for itself considering it was a part time venture.
Well, for better or worse, I've decided to focus all my energies on it now to see if it can help me move along my path.
The main software product I have is textSOAP, a productivity utility that ungarbles those email messages you get (polluted with "e;>"e; characters, broken in the middle of lines). In fact, it can ungarble just about any text you run across. It's available for both Mac OS X and Windows XP.
So I ask you to check out the software, encourage friends/coworkers to check out the software. If you like the software, please buy a license. If you don't like it, let me know why by writing.
I've had difficulty dealing with the corporate life more this past year than ever before. You can blame the Yoga to some degree. Arbitrary deadlines are pulled out of thin air so that the citizens of the corporate world can live in a constant state of stress. And by arbitrary, I mean arbitrary -- no valid reasons are used to determine these dates (vs. another date) on a project, but the dates always were sooner rather than later.
Ultimately I think this will be our undoing in the U.S. Our society is so focused on work, that we Living to Work, rather than Working to Live. The result is burnout. And what happens when everyone burns out at the same time? I don't know.
So now I'm officially striking out on my own. unmarked software has been around for quite some time (since April 1998) and has done OK for itself considering it was a part time venture.
Well, for better or worse, I've decided to focus all my energies on it now to see if it can help me move along my path.
The main software product I have is textSOAP, a productivity utility that ungarbles those email messages you get (polluted with "e;>"e; characters, broken in the middle of lines). In fact, it can ungarble just about any text you run across. It's available for both Mac OS X and Windows XP.
So I ask you to check out the software, encourage friends/coworkers to check out the software. If you like the software, please buy a license. If you don't like it, let me know why by writing.
Friday, October 29, 2004
Stranger in a Strange Land
Having returned to Salt Lake City for a few days, I find myself in an interesting state of mind. After just two months away, I already find myself more a stranger here than I could have imagined.
That's not to say I'm not happy to see many of my friends again while I'm here, but more a feeling about the differences in cultures between Utah and Austin (or perhaps Utah and the world).
While the roads and pathways were certainly familiar, the connections were less so. One of the first things I thought of when I arrived was that I'm mostly a stranger to this city now. What's more strange is not that feeling (because that's natural after a while), but rather just how quickly it came about.
And thus I'm reminded of one of my favorite author's books: Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein. That reminds me, I need to go back and read that book again. I read it when I was in high school and was truly boggled by it (it was a difficult read because of that). I think it's time to revisit it.
That's not to say I'm not happy to see many of my friends again while I'm here, but more a feeling about the differences in cultures between Utah and Austin (or perhaps Utah and the world).
While the roads and pathways were certainly familiar, the connections were less so. One of the first things I thought of when I arrived was that I'm mostly a stranger to this city now. What's more strange is not that feeling (because that's natural after a while), but rather just how quickly it came about.
And thus I'm reminded of one of my favorite author's books: Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein. That reminds me, I need to go back and read that book again. I read it when I was in high school and was truly boggled by it (it was a difficult read because of that). I think it's time to revisit it.
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
Only change will bring, You out of the darkness
No deep thoughts here, just a Duran Duran plug -- although you may find many a deep thought hiding in the lyrics of their new album.
Back Together Again: Original Duran Duran
Yes -- they've released their album and you'll see lots more coverage now. Look for them on:
Oct 19 - the Tonight Show (that's tonight)
Oct 21 - Ellen DeGeneres Show
Oct 25 - the Late Late Show
Back Together Again: Original Duran Duran
Yes -- they've released their album and you'll see lots more coverage now. Look for them on:
Oct 19 - the Tonight Show (that's tonight)
Oct 21 - Ellen DeGeneres Show
Oct 25 - the Late Late Show
Monday, October 18, 2004
Paths that Cross
As we are all on a path, we find it sad when one path takes us away into a new direction. We're not sad that we're heading off towards a new direction - but we do feel the sorrow of leaving friends and even those we see as "family" behind so that we may continue along our path.
But just as it is sad to see paths diverge in new directions, it is also a joy and pleasure when those paths cross again.
At the end of this month, my path will once again cross the path of many in my yoga family as well as my friends who are in Salt Lake City. I will be in Salt Lake City from October 29th through November 3rd where I hope to see many of my friends while I'm there.
Namasté
But just as it is sad to see paths diverge in new directions, it is also a joy and pleasure when those paths cross again.
At the end of this month, my path will once again cross the path of many in my yoga family as well as my friends who are in Salt Lake City. I will be in Salt Lake City from October 29th through November 3rd where I hope to see many of my friends while I'm there.
Namasté
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Astronaut has Landed
Yes, it's time for a little Duran Duran promotion
Astronaut landed on store shelves today. There is a regular CD and a special-edition CD + Bonus DVD which contains concert footage from a recent performance.
Overall, the album is very upbeat, hopefully will bring about many single releases. The songs have a bit of funkiness, but not so much that you get lost in it. The funky atmosphere makes the songs more interesting and great for listening to again and again (giving you the opportunity to discover new aspects of a song).
Now -- I want to say that when I heard Bedroom Toys, I immediately thought: "Nile Rodgers must have produced this track. It's got his signature all over it." Nile Rodgers was part of CHIC and produced The Reflex, Wild Boys, and the Notorious album back in the day. When I checked the credits, sure enough - Nile produced track #5 ("Bedroom Toys").
As a fan dating back to the days of "The Reflex" and seeing them through their mostly uncommercial period (Big Thing, Liberty, Pop Trash, Medazzaland) -- it is great to seem them back in the lime light. I wish them the best of success and hope that we will hear many more new songs from them in the future.
Astronaut landed on store shelves today. There is a regular CD and a special-edition CD + Bonus DVD which contains concert footage from a recent performance.
Overall, the album is very upbeat, hopefully will bring about many single releases. The songs have a bit of funkiness, but not so much that you get lost in it. The funky atmosphere makes the songs more interesting and great for listening to again and again (giving you the opportunity to discover new aspects of a song).
Now -- I want to say that when I heard Bedroom Toys, I immediately thought: "Nile Rodgers must have produced this track. It's got his signature all over it." Nile Rodgers was part of CHIC and produced The Reflex, Wild Boys, and the Notorious album back in the day. When I checked the credits, sure enough - Nile produced track #5 ("Bedroom Toys").
As a fan dating back to the days of "The Reflex" and seeing them through their mostly uncommercial period (Big Thing, Liberty, Pop Trash, Medazzaland) -- it is great to seem them back in the lime light. I wish them the best of success and hope that we will hear many more new songs from them in the future.
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
The running trail
Some things that came across my mind this morning while running. You'll find many common themes among this and that of the Yoga path. They are in no particular order.
- You must look ahead to insure you don't fall off the trail, but you must look down at where you are at, lest your feet become immersed in dog crap.
- Trails are circular in nature, bringing you back to where you started, but with new experiences. Being circular, there is ultimately no beginning and end, only arbitrary markers we set for ourselves.
- Goals we make are just to keep our mind occupied, to allow us to measure change. Reaching the goal never ends the journey.
- No matter how fast you run, there will always be someone that can run faster.
- On the running trail, you will encounter many ages, old and young.
- You may never have the stride of someone that is 6'2" or 6'5". Accept it and enjoy the stride you have.
- You'll come across many signs along the trail -- slow, keep right -- if we all try to adhere to them, we'll pass each other without incident. Pass on the left when possible, always check behind you so you don't cut someone else off.
- Sometimes there are obstacles on the trail that you must go around.
- The mind is ready to give up much sooner than the body, we need to be able to listen careful to distinguish the difference between the illegitimate complaints of the mind and the legitimate complaint of the body
- You need to remember to breath if you want to get anywhere
- Some turns make the trek longer than initially expected, but you will still get to wherever you set out to.
Thursday, September 30, 2004
The Conspiring Universe
"And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." -- Paulo Ceolho, The Alchemist
"Beginners Luck" as it is sometimes referred to.
That was the thought that came to mind tonight. Admittedly, it has been a bit more of a struggle than I had hoped or imagined building a new network of friends and associates. Perhaps my expectations were just a little too high about how quickly I could build a group of folks around me.
I'm at more a disadvantage than the average Joe. We often times use our work associates to help us build up our associations outside of work. A friend or friends of a co-worker comes along and now you know 4 new people. But because I am not going to the office, I don't have that.
So I've been a little frustrated with the situation but have tried to remind myself that more time is needed.
[fast forward]
So tonight, a group called dana (downtown austin neighborhood association) had a little gathering in the park a few blocks from here. I decided I would go to it (actually I've decided to go to as many events in the area as I can). Met a couple people. Met a local bartender at the Lucky Lounge, bumped into a couple folks from the complex and got to listen to a great beatbox group (very entertaining -- and they play every Tuesday night at the Lucky Lounge, (ask me how I know that)).
So, overall -- it was good to get out even though I wasn't 100% up for it. But wait, there is more to this story. I signed up to be a member of dana. As part of it, they had a raffle. Well, long story short, I won a $50 gift certificate at a local pub. The membership was $25, so I came out $25 ahead.
Perhaps the Universe does conspire to help us along our path -- if we let it.
"Beginners Luck" as it is sometimes referred to.
That was the thought that came to mind tonight. Admittedly, it has been a bit more of a struggle than I had hoped or imagined building a new network of friends and associates. Perhaps my expectations were just a little too high about how quickly I could build a group of folks around me.
I'm at more a disadvantage than the average Joe. We often times use our work associates to help us build up our associations outside of work. A friend or friends of a co-worker comes along and now you know 4 new people. But because I am not going to the office, I don't have that.
So I've been a little frustrated with the situation but have tried to remind myself that more time is needed.
[fast forward]
So tonight, a group called dana (downtown austin neighborhood association) had a little gathering in the park a few blocks from here. I decided I would go to it (actually I've decided to go to as many events in the area as I can). Met a couple people. Met a local bartender at the Lucky Lounge, bumped into a couple folks from the complex and got to listen to a great beatbox group (very entertaining -- and they play every Tuesday night at the Lucky Lounge, (ask me how I know that)).
So, overall -- it was good to get out even though I wasn't 100% up for it. But wait, there is more to this story. I signed up to be a member of dana. As part of it, they had a raffle. Well, long story short, I won a $50 gift certificate at a local pub. The membership was $25, so I came out $25 ahead.
Perhaps the Universe does conspire to help us along our path -- if we let it.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
I'm the Gingerbread Man!
I went for my first run along the Town Lake Trail. It's a great trail - but I've got a long ways to go to make it around the entire 10 miles. I haven't run all summer (which means the last time I ran was the summer of last year). I left at 9:30 am -- it was cool, perfect weather.
Within 15 minutes, the combination of running and the sun coming out from behind the clouds make it super hot. We're talking not even 10 am and hot weather. After a little under 1.5 miles, I turned around. Better to run <3 miles today and be able to come back tomorrow (or some such).
Not that it was unexpected -- but often times we imagine ourselves a little more ready than we might be. That's OK though -- we deal with the rough waves of the ocean and make it through, hopefully growing in the process.
So my goals are now to get back to around a strong 3 miles a day in the next couple weeks and then start building up to 4 and 5 miles. Run, run as fast as you can! You can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man!
Within 15 minutes, the combination of running and the sun coming out from behind the clouds make it super hot. We're talking not even 10 am and hot weather. After a little under 1.5 miles, I turned around. Better to run <3 miles today and be able to come back tomorrow (or some such).
Not that it was unexpected -- but often times we imagine ourselves a little more ready than we might be. That's OK though -- we deal with the rough waves of the ocean and make it through, hopefully growing in the process.
So my goals are now to get back to around a strong 3 miles a day in the next couple weeks and then start building up to 4 and 5 miles. Run, run as fast as you can! You can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man!
Saturday, September 18, 2004
The Alchemist
I have just finished The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
It was recommended to me by a friend of mine. "Get this right away" she said. I did. Putting aside all other books in my collection. I went out, got the book in the store the next day. Now I'm not as fast a reader, so it took me a couple days to complete, but it was definitely worth it.
If you're seeking, you need to read this book.
It was recommended to me by a friend of mine. "Get this right away" she said. I did. Putting aside all other books in my collection. I went out, got the book in the store the next day. Now I'm not as fast a reader, so it took me a couple days to complete, but it was definitely worth it.
If you're seeking, you need to read this book.
Friday, September 17, 2004
We shouldn't believe, but we want to (sometimes)
MY HOROSCOPE
Quickie: Once again, the road has split. Only you can decide which route to take.
Overview: Better rest up, because the evening hours look busy -- and quite strenuous. You're radiating confidence, control and a very quiet, very sexy power. Definitely wear something sleek.
Most of us don't really believe the horoscopes we read are real, but we read them anyway. We try to put them in the best light, believing them if they sound good and calling them foolish if they say something negative.
I'm not qualified to say whether or not Astrology is valid. But I think by our very human nature, it has an implicit validity. We are naturally suggestible beings, what we might call self-fulfilling prophecies. Think something bad will happen to you, and you'll find something bad that has happened to you. Think something good is coming, and you'll see something good. The events don't necessarily change, but our perception of them does. And that's all it really takes.
Quickie: Once again, the road has split. Only you can decide which route to take.
Overview: Better rest up, because the evening hours look busy -- and quite strenuous. You're radiating confidence, control and a very quiet, very sexy power. Definitely wear something sleek.
Most of us don't really believe the horoscopes we read are real, but we read them anyway. We try to put them in the best light, believing them if they sound good and calling them foolish if they say something negative.
I'm not qualified to say whether or not Astrology is valid. But I think by our very human nature, it has an implicit validity. We are naturally suggestible beings, what we might call self-fulfilling prophecies. Think something bad will happen to you, and you'll find something bad that has happened to you. Think something good is coming, and you'll see something good. The events don't necessarily change, but our perception of them does. And that's all it really takes.
Struggle with the Best
It's hard to deny yourself "The Best". We are taught in our society to always strive for the best, never settle for less than the best. And Madison Avenue uses this against us.
Would you like Model A, or Model A-Deluxe. Well, of course I should have the most, best that I can possibly afford, so bring on Model A-Deluxe. But wait, we just got in the Model A-Supreme -- is that something you're interested in? Why yes, I can see the need for having a Model A-Supreme, not sure what the need is, but I'm sure I have it.
Stepping away from this mentality is extremely difficult. Intellectually, I am well aware that I really don't need the A-Supreme, but it's only $50 more. What if I find I need one of the features it has? What then? Even as I intellectual try to move away from having to have the absolute best, I get sucked back in. It's a very clever trick.
I had to buy a microwave for the apartment. Do I buy the .8 cubic ft microwave, the 1.0 cubic ft, or the 1.2 cubic ft (thankfully I had ruled myself out of the 2.0 / 2.2 cubic ft microwave ovens). The .8 is adequate. The 1.2 is actually mid-range and the 1.0 is the top of the line here. Stainless steel, industrial design. Lots of options.
After an extremely long struggle (I think I went back and forth at least 4-5 times), I thought I had settled that all I really "needed" was the .8 cft microwave. But was it big enough? What if I couldn't fit my plate in it? And it had half the power of the 1.2 cubic ft micro. I ended up getting the 1.2 microwave. 1.2 cubic ft, 1300 W, black, lots of options. It was at least $10 cheaper than the 1.0 cubic ft stainless steel microwave, but $30 more than the .8 (which is probably all I needed).
Let me restate: Stepping away from this mentality is EXTREMELY difficult. I felt like at least I didn't get the most expensive one. That's a positive step in the right direction.
Would you like Model A, or Model A-Deluxe. Well, of course I should have the most, best that I can possibly afford, so bring on Model A-Deluxe. But wait, we just got in the Model A-Supreme -- is that something you're interested in? Why yes, I can see the need for having a Model A-Supreme, not sure what the need is, but I'm sure I have it.
Stepping away from this mentality is extremely difficult. Intellectually, I am well aware that I really don't need the A-Supreme, but it's only $50 more. What if I find I need one of the features it has? What then? Even as I intellectual try to move away from having to have the absolute best, I get sucked back in. It's a very clever trick.
I had to buy a microwave for the apartment. Do I buy the .8 cubic ft microwave, the 1.0 cubic ft, or the 1.2 cubic ft (thankfully I had ruled myself out of the 2.0 / 2.2 cubic ft microwave ovens). The .8 is adequate. The 1.2 is actually mid-range and the 1.0 is the top of the line here. Stainless steel, industrial design. Lots of options.
After an extremely long struggle (I think I went back and forth at least 4-5 times), I thought I had settled that all I really "needed" was the .8 cft microwave. But was it big enough? What if I couldn't fit my plate in it? And it had half the power of the 1.2 cubic ft micro. I ended up getting the 1.2 microwave. 1.2 cubic ft, 1300 W, black, lots of options. It was at least $10 cheaper than the 1.0 cubic ft stainless steel microwave, but $30 more than the .8 (which is probably all I needed).
Let me restate: Stepping away from this mentality is EXTREMELY difficult. I felt like at least I didn't get the most expensive one. That's a positive step in the right direction.
The Small Tree
[Sent to me by my sister]
I hired a plumber to help me restore an old farmhouse, and after he had just finished a rough first day on the job: a flat tire made him lose an hour of work, his electric drill quit and his ancient one ton truck refused to start.
While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands.
When opening the door he underwent an amazing transformation. His tanned face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss.
Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier.
"Oh, that's my trouble tree," he replied. "I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, those troubles don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them. Then in the morning I pick them up again." "Funny thing is," he smiled," when I come out in the morning to pick 'em up, there aren't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before."
I hired a plumber to help me restore an old farmhouse, and after he had just finished a rough first day on the job: a flat tire made him lose an hour of work, his electric drill quit and his ancient one ton truck refused to start.
While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands.
When opening the door he underwent an amazing transformation. His tanned face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss.
Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier.
"Oh, that's my trouble tree," he replied. "I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, those troubles don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them. Then in the morning I pick them up again." "Funny thing is," he smiled," when I come out in the morning to pick 'em up, there aren't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before."
Monday, September 13, 2004
Provoke Thought!
Well, it had to happen some time. I've decided to create another blog to do my venting. So I've created Provoke Thought.
I would have called it ""Rants" -- but that was already taken! :-)
Hopefully it will provoke some thought over the course of time -- I don't expect every posting to provoke a thought, but it gives me a good venting opportunity.
I would have called it ""Rants" -- but that was already taken! :-)
Hopefully it will provoke some thought over the course of time -- I don't expect every posting to provoke a thought, but it gives me a good venting opportunity.
Friday, September 10, 2004
Relevency?
As I write this before heading out to see what is happening on a Friday night in downtown Austin, I have wondered about what topics are appropriate for this blog.
You'd think with a name like Yoga Path, I should focus on spiritual thoughts and insights. And if that's the case, what's with the earlier Duran Duran promo I squeeze in?
Well -- for me, I think the Yoga Path is the path of life. It includes not only the spiritual insights, but all the little tangents and distractions along the way. So, if you thought I'd post some breakthrough thought or some such, you'll have to move on.
That said, I don't see myself posting my political views of the world here (stay tuned, I've been thinking of creating a parallel blog for that). Instead, I see this as a place to have thoughts about the simple joys of life (whether it be listening to music, a TV show, movie, Yoga practice, or a bike ride -- well, you get the picture).
Just so we're clear on what you're seeing. Not that I expect a ton of people to read this -- but it does help me start the practice of journaling and getting back to writing.
You'd think with a name like Yoga Path, I should focus on spiritual thoughts and insights. And if that's the case, what's with the earlier Duran Duran promo I squeeze in?
Well -- for me, I think the Yoga Path is the path of life. It includes not only the spiritual insights, but all the little tangents and distractions along the way. So, if you thought I'd post some breakthrough thought or some such, you'll have to move on.
That said, I don't see myself posting my political views of the world here (stay tuned, I've been thinking of creating a parallel blog for that). Instead, I see this as a place to have thoughts about the simple joys of life (whether it be listening to music, a TV show, movie, Yoga practice, or a bike ride -- well, you get the picture).
Just so we're clear on what you're seeing. Not that I expect a ton of people to read this -- but it does help me start the practice of journaling and getting back to writing.
Profitasana
Very interesting article about a couple guys that are looking to sick capitalism on Yoga in the article titled Assuming the Profit Position.
Will this ultimately end Yoga as we know it? Probably not. Yoga seems to have survived many of the trendy fads it has been associated with, but the landscape could be much different in a few years from now. As much as I have to credit YogaFit for getting me started in the teaching process of Yoga, I feel that YogaFit seems to promote more the feeding of the body, leaving the soul hungry with no source of nourishment.
Sadly, Yoga Works could do the same (at least in the short term). Ultimately, the hunger of the soul will need to satisfied and so journey that is Yoga will continue on.
Will this ultimately end Yoga as we know it? Probably not. Yoga seems to have survived many of the trendy fads it has been associated with, but the landscape could be much different in a few years from now. As much as I have to credit YogaFit for getting me started in the teaching process of Yoga, I feel that YogaFit seems to promote more the feeding of the body, leaving the soul hungry with no source of nourishment.
Sadly, Yoga Works could do the same (at least in the short term). Ultimately, the hunger of the soul will need to satisfied and so journey that is Yoga will continue on.
Thursday, September 09, 2004
(Reach Up for the) Sunrise
For those that don't know -- I'm a huge Duran Duran fan (and have been for a very long time -- since 1985). The original gang is back with a new album and their first radio single since Ordinary World & Come Undone (in 1993-1994).
The song is getting good reviews and as I've always done in the past, I continue to push the Duran agenda!!
Here is a link to the VIDEO
The song is getting good reviews and as I've always done in the past, I continue to push the Duran agenda!!
Here is a link to the VIDEO
Wednesday, September 08, 2004
On your mark, get set, ...
The movers arrived yesterday. Most things made it intact. Unfortunately, a dining room chair and a plant stand did not survive, breaking beyond any repair.
Cable is sort of hooked up -- they claim it is on, but it doesn't work (the building is supposed to be wired such that they don't need to send out a technician, turning it on and off from the central office). A technician is coming out tomorrow. So much for technology.
You don't realize just how much crap you've accumulated until after you've packed it, shipped it, and unpacked it. I've managed to get about 80% unpacked. Only a handful of boxes left. It's starting to feel like home.
One of the nice things about moving is that you can see just how much baggage you have as a person (because they weigh it). It turns out I've got about 6700 pounds of baggage. I blame it on the Italian furniture that I bought. Pressed wood is always heavier. That's my story and I'm sticking with it.
Cable is sort of hooked up -- they claim it is on, but it doesn't work (the building is supposed to be wired such that they don't need to send out a technician, turning it on and off from the central office). A technician is coming out tomorrow. So much for technology.
You don't realize just how much crap you've accumulated until after you've packed it, shipped it, and unpacked it. I've managed to get about 80% unpacked. Only a handful of boxes left. It's starting to feel like home.
One of the nice things about moving is that you can see just how much baggage you have as a person (because they weigh it). It turns out I've got about 6700 pounds of baggage. I blame it on the Italian furniture that I bought. Pressed wood is always heavier. That's my story and I'm sticking with it.
Sunday, September 05, 2004
Moving sucks
It's been over a week since my stuff was packed up and shipped off. Unfortunately, I still have nothing to show for it. The movers are supposed to be here Tuesday morning. It's been a very frustrating experience, magnified by the dollar cost of the whole process.
And at this point, I'm at their mercy. They'll hold my stuff hostage unless I meet whatever demands they come up with. I don't like the Federal Gov't getting involved on most things, but interstate movers is the exception. They are now completely unregulated and to make things worse, you are powerless to go after them because they may be from another state (keeping it out of the courts jurisdiction). The whole point of movers is to make things easier. So far, I don't think they're doing a great job -- especially for the cost involved.
And at this point, I'm at their mercy. They'll hold my stuff hostage unless I meet whatever demands they come up with. I don't like the Federal Gov't getting involved on most things, but interstate movers is the exception. They are now completely unregulated and to make things worse, you are powerless to go after them because they may be from another state (keeping it out of the courts jurisdiction). The whole point of movers is to make things easier. So far, I don't think they're doing a great job -- especially for the cost involved.
Melting
It's 6:48pm. The temperature is 94 degrees (but it feels like 97 with the humidity). It's definitely going to take some getting used to this weather. Hopefully my blood will thin out in the coming months to make the next some much easier to handle. It's almost like having Bikram yoga built-in to everything you do. :-)
Friday, September 03, 2004
My Empty Home
Well, my stuff won't arrive until next Tuesday, so the weekend will be spent in an echoey apartment. It's starting to hit me that I may have actually done this. Go figure.
I won't be able to oder Cable until after my stuff arrives. They definitely make it hard to get cable (you'd think they'd want to make it easy -- but no, the goal is to make it as difficult as possible, or at least that's how it appears).
Slowly beginning the process of settling in..
I won't be able to oder Cable until after my stuff arrives. They definitely make it hard to get cable (you'd think they'd want to make it easy -- but no, the goal is to make it as difficult as possible, or at least that's how it appears).
Slowly beginning the process of settling in..
Thursday, September 02, 2004
Yoga! Yoga!
It's as though the Universe heard I was arriving and offered me a taste of Yoga in Austin.
http://www.freedayofyoga.com
On Monday, September 6th, Austin has having dozens and dozens of free classes throughout the city. It printed up as 12 pages worth of classes [ed. no, I don't plan to take every one of the classes ].
http://www.freedayofyoga.com
On Monday, September 6th, Austin has having dozens and dozens of free classes throughout the city. It printed up as 12 pages worth of classes [ed. no, I don't plan to take every one of the classes ].
Where's my groove?
It's hard getting into the groove of things, especially when you don't have any of your belongings yet. They should be arriving soon, so hopefully that will help.
Spending most of my time filling in the items I didn't have (or needed to replace) as part of the move. I tell myself I should be doing more, but the reality is that there's not a lot that can be done at the moment. It's hard to go about your normal, daily, routines when you're living out of a suitecase.
It will be nice when my internet connection is available in the apartment (and I have a chair that I can sit on), I find it strange to spell out my thoughts on a stranger's computer.
Spending most of my time filling in the items I didn't have (or needed to replace) as part of the move. I tell myself I should be doing more, but the reality is that there's not a lot that can be done at the moment. It's hard to go about your normal, daily, routines when you're living out of a suitecase.
It will be nice when my internet connection is available in the apartment (and I have a chair that I can sit on), I find it strange to spell out my thoughts on a stranger's computer.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
First Day is Done
Well, I'm finishing off my first day here. Getting a little bit of the worries, but that is to be expected. I know I'm spending a lot of money to do this adventure. I think setting the money aside and making it a non-issue will be the solution I need to deal with it.
Wandered through the outskirts of town. Trying to find a Bed, Bath & Beyond or Linens-n-Things had me going all over the place. The roads take some real getting used too.
Still, not too bad for the first day.
Wandered through the outskirts of town. Trying to find a Bed, Bath & Beyond or Linens-n-Things had me going all over the place. The roads take some real getting used too.
Still, not too bad for the first day.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Welcome, You've got LOFT!
I'm actually writing this in the business center of the AMLI Downtown apartments. I checked in today and so it marks the official beginning. Lots of stuff to do still -- don't have cable/internet in the apartment (and that's very important!!)
Sunday, August 29, 2004
Get your kicks on Route 66
Over 1,000 miles behind me and it seems there is another 500 miles to go, according to the navigation computer. A pit stop in Amarillo, Texas. The journey will be mostly complete tomorrow. Not sure how the math is working out -- seems longer than I had original calculated.
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Welcome to Wyoming
You would think I could have made it beyond 465 miles to Cheyene, WY -- but you'd be wrong.
Actually, it is partly due to getting an even later start than expected. I didn't leave the house until 9:30 am. It's much harder to gather everything in your life and leave than to just take a week-long or month-long trip. There is no going back [it's really not that bad]. So you take everything with you.
Actually, it is partly due to getting an even later start than expected. I didn't leave the house until 9:30 am. It's much harder to gather everything in your life and leave than to just take a week-long or month-long trip. There is no going back [it's really not that bad]. So you take everything with you.
Goodbye Utah
As with most things in my life, I'm running a little behind. I was hoping to be on the road by 6am. But I always like to compare myself to the tortoise in the tortoise and hare story. Slowly, but surely, I make my way to the destination.
The car is packed up and I'm heading out. The adventure begins NOW!
The car is packed up and I'm heading out. The adventure begins NOW!
Explore. Dream.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream.
- Mark Twain
- Mark Twain
Friday, August 27, 2004
My bags are packed and I'm ready to go
The packers picked up everything this morning. It was strange watching my home be deconstructed. As the contents emptied into the truck waiting outside, the echoing of the walls be more and more apparent.
While there is a certain sadness that comes, at the moment I just feel anxious. But anxiety is a two edged sword [it is?]. On one side is the excitement for the new adventure that is about to begin. The other side is the fear of truly venturing out away from my comfort zone.
[ed. for those that have heard this analogy, you can skip it]
It's much like the experience I had sky-diving. As I moved toward the door (getting ready to jump out), I said to myself "Oh Shit -- why the hell am I leaving a perfectly good, working plane." However, as soon as you jump out, the fear goes away and the excitement is the only thing you think about. On my last evening as a Utahn, I find myself also saying "Oh Shit", but I know that as soon as the jump is made, fear will turn into excitement.
While there is a certain sadness that comes, at the moment I just feel anxious. But anxiety is a two edged sword [it is?]. On one side is the excitement for the new adventure that is about to begin. The other side is the fear of truly venturing out away from my comfort zone.
[ed. for those that have heard this analogy, you can skip it]
It's much like the experience I had sky-diving. As I moved toward the door (getting ready to jump out), I said to myself "Oh Shit -- why the hell am I leaving a perfectly good, working plane." However, as soon as you jump out, the fear goes away and the excitement is the only thing you think about. On my last evening as a Utahn, I find myself also saying "Oh Shit", but I know that as soon as the jump is made, fear will turn into excitement.
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