There has been a grimness about politics which is hard to escape for me lately. Seems so gloomy with good reason, and here in the US looks like some political candidates seem to be doing their best to repudiate, well, seems like they keep looking for any number of things.
Where that seems to be something that describes Republican political candidates trying to get elected to be president. But why can they be so, well...can I characterize them as a group without sounding prejudicial?
In any event, one of those odd things in the United States which politically we are told splits Republican against Democrat is that MOST voters aren't registered as EITHER.
So let's say about 25% of the electorate is registered Republican, which is only 1 in 4.
Now have that 1 in 4 choose between a group of possible candidates, and you have an even smaller percentage with a HUGE say based on which of those possibles has the majority, especially with quite a few of them.
Which can lead to all kinds of wackiness.
But even if the MAJORITY of registered Republicans were united behind one person, which presumably will happen eventually, you'd still only have the opinion of 1 in 4 of the electorate!
That means 3 out of 4 Americans still aren't being represented yet, with the Republican nominee. Is it much better with the Democrats? Not really. There it's a bit under 1 in 3 of the electorate, so more than 2 out of 3 Americans are still not represented by the Democrat nominee.
But by the time of the election, the ENTIRE electorate must pick between a person chosen by about 1 in 4 for the Republican side, or a bit under 1 in 3 for the Democrat side, or go for some other candidate unlikely to win given historical perspective as registered voters tend to pick a side.
And given historical perspective--which doesn't mean it has to be--roughly fifty percent of the registered voters are likely to vote for a Republican or Democrat!
Such a wacky thing when you look at it that way, where the early choice is to minorities of the electorate.
And those people picking may pick for all kinds of reasons, as so many things can seem like good ideas until you try them, where in politics that can have such huge consequences.
Well, one thing we know is that the nation will choose.
And am thankful for perspective given the history of the nation with its highs and lows. The trendline has given us a modern America with lots of freedoms.
So this Thanksgiving when so many will be considering the history of this nation anyway in terms of stories way back, that can be a comfort I think.
James Harris
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Monday, November 23, 2015
Potential for new beginnings
If it begins your work week guess for many one of the potentials of Monday is for it to be like a new start. Though not much really new which when it DOES happen can be very stressful. Reality am sure for many is more like a new start of the familiar. Another opportunity to continue to progress with what you know, and stack more accomplishments onto a known pile.
Which is great. If the new week does start with very new things that can raise the possibility of stumbles, yeah, like when you start riding a bike. Or even come back to riding one after years of being off.
That cyclic reality of a new beginning of the familiar has a comfort to it.
Your work reality may shift in certain ways, but at best only in a few ways that can really vary, while so much will be well within the realm of the known and familiar with tools ready to get things done.
The rhythms of the workplace have their own special role and at times I would find myself pausing to feel the vibrations, gain a sense of the movement around me, like a breathing actuality with its own comfortable rules.
Even stepping out for coffee on a break was so much about the familiar. Standing in line gave an opportunity to get a feel for others, with a comradery shared, like at the table with the sugar and cream. As people deftly stepped around each other to reach, or politely said excuse me, as quickly withdrawing a hand when it wasn't clear who had first.
The rhythms of so many places in our lives can pulsate with a heartbeat all their own, which is like a comfort which is so there so much in our lives. Going back to the beginnings, like when an infant could gain comfort from that pulsing of the mother's.
The cycles of our lives are so important in defining them, as even as we see so much new in each beginning, like the beginning of the work week, we depend so much on knowing where it should go, and what to expect.
Happy Monday!
James Harris
Which is great. If the new week does start with very new things that can raise the possibility of stumbles, yeah, like when you start riding a bike. Or even come back to riding one after years of being off.
That cyclic reality of a new beginning of the familiar has a comfort to it.
Your work reality may shift in certain ways, but at best only in a few ways that can really vary, while so much will be well within the realm of the known and familiar with tools ready to get things done.
The rhythms of the workplace have their own special role and at times I would find myself pausing to feel the vibrations, gain a sense of the movement around me, like a breathing actuality with its own comfortable rules.
Even stepping out for coffee on a break was so much about the familiar. Standing in line gave an opportunity to get a feel for others, with a comradery shared, like at the table with the sugar and cream. As people deftly stepped around each other to reach, or politely said excuse me, as quickly withdrawing a hand when it wasn't clear who had first.
The rhythms of so many places in our lives can pulsate with a heartbeat all their own, which is like a comfort which is so there so much in our lives. Going back to the beginnings, like when an infant could gain comfort from that pulsing of the mother's.
The cycles of our lives are so important in defining them, as even as we see so much new in each beginning, like the beginning of the work week, we depend so much on knowing where it should go, and what to expect.
Happy Monday!
James Harris
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Thoughts on connection support
The connections that support our lives can be so important that we fail to see all of them, which is NOT a terrible thing. Like fish in water it can be overwhelming to always think of who and what you need to survive as you spend most of your time just living.
And then there can be shocks, which can make them flash at you so sharply, where I don't pretend to be able to give a best answer as to why one thing does and something else does not. Guess it is unique to each of us and our experience.
Relentless activity around our planet by human beings is what we know. And so much of that positive but then there are those who attempt to destroy the fabric of the lives of others, and even take their lives.
As sobering as that is, there is a reality that our lives will be defined by the best of times and the worst of them but also so much in-between, where it is so particular to every human what finds you. And not necessarily in our control. And so sad when completely out of our control if to harm or even death.
It is amazing how many of us are on this planet doing our thing though. Which is so hard to characterize. So much human activity, wish to believe most of it somehow works for the better. But can't say really know.
Do find comfort where I can though which so often involves those connections that matter, and best when feel positive with them.
Finding myself more appreciative of those positive things so many people do. Appreciating the art and the music. Appreciating the fellowship. Appreciating what I may take for granted, not occurring to me as I type. All of it together represents a support. Maybe not so visible most of the time, but there's a comfort there too.
People are going to do something, which of course is built into living, and I just want to choose to do things that help, and to be lucky enough to for the most part be around people who are building a better future.
Finishing out this week, balancing against the negatives, thinking of how much wonderful I'm sure got done, as people keep doing good things, come what may, day after day.
James Harris
And then there can be shocks, which can make them flash at you so sharply, where I don't pretend to be able to give a best answer as to why one thing does and something else does not. Guess it is unique to each of us and our experience.
Relentless activity around our planet by human beings is what we know. And so much of that positive but then there are those who attempt to destroy the fabric of the lives of others, and even take their lives.
As sobering as that is, there is a reality that our lives will be defined by the best of times and the worst of them but also so much in-between, where it is so particular to every human what finds you. And not necessarily in our control. And so sad when completely out of our control if to harm or even death.
It is amazing how many of us are on this planet doing our thing though. Which is so hard to characterize. So much human activity, wish to believe most of it somehow works for the better. But can't say really know.
Do find comfort where I can though which so often involves those connections that matter, and best when feel positive with them.
Finding myself more appreciative of those positive things so many people do. Appreciating the art and the music. Appreciating the fellowship. Appreciating what I may take for granted, not occurring to me as I type. All of it together represents a support. Maybe not so visible most of the time, but there's a comfort there too.
People are going to do something, which of course is built into living, and I just want to choose to do things that help, and to be lucky enough to for the most part be around people who are building a better future.
Finishing out this week, balancing against the negatives, thinking of how much wonderful I'm sure got done, as people keep doing good things, come what may, day after day.
James Harris
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Human beings can do what human beings can do
The web has helped with information in so many ways! We can just see so much more or read so much more or otherwise as information flows, which can help better understand human reality. Like I have an example from my life on what was, even in my own experience, in a world that has gone. As years ago, somewhere around twenty years ago I think, was surprised when talking to a nice woman and guess mentioned going to the beach and she said she thought Black people didn't swim.
As strange as that may sound, and have puzzled over it often through the years, the simplest way I think to think of fellow human beings and what they can or cannot do is that they can do what human beings can do.
Can human beings swim? Yes. So can people of any race or ethnicity swim? Yes.
Easy. And that is such a bizarre example I have to emphasize but race in the US was a lot about delusions, misinformation and people who just didn't know while maybe on some level not really seeing others as being human beings!
And it's a nice check for yourself, if there is something that humans do that you don't think members of some race or ethnicity can do. If there is anything, you're wrong.
Today of course you can just see all kinds of people doing all kinds of things all over the world as it's not about a select set of things allowed by gatekeepers like on television.
But still, how could anyone think that race had anything to do with the ability to swim?
When you probe into these things I think it can get very weird.
And that does have political relevance as well--doing politics is something humans do! And while some may have their doubts on it but seriously yes, getting elected involves humans voting for humans. And it is fascinating to consider how much has shifted in beliefs in recent years just because of what people have seen that before may have thought impossible.
Nothing like reality to check you on such things. And am thankful so much reality has been about what positive things people of all races or nationalities can do, regardless of race or ethnicity.
When people try to insist that human beings can't do something human beings do, then I strongly suggest you question their intellect. If they're using race for such a claim? Then strongly suspect they're questioning the humanity of their target.
And guess what? That human being is STILL human regardless.
Just like you! Be of good cheer fellow human!
James Harris
As strange as that may sound, and have puzzled over it often through the years, the simplest way I think to think of fellow human beings and what they can or cannot do is that they can do what human beings can do.
Can human beings swim? Yes. So can people of any race or ethnicity swim? Yes.
Easy. And that is such a bizarre example I have to emphasize but race in the US was a lot about delusions, misinformation and people who just didn't know while maybe on some level not really seeing others as being human beings!
And it's a nice check for yourself, if there is something that humans do that you don't think members of some race or ethnicity can do. If there is anything, you're wrong.
Today of course you can just see all kinds of people doing all kinds of things all over the world as it's not about a select set of things allowed by gatekeepers like on television.
But still, how could anyone think that race had anything to do with the ability to swim?
When you probe into these things I think it can get very weird.
And that does have political relevance as well--doing politics is something humans do! And while some may have their doubts on it but seriously yes, getting elected involves humans voting for humans. And it is fascinating to consider how much has shifted in beliefs in recent years just because of what people have seen that before may have thought impossible.
Nothing like reality to check you on such things. And am thankful so much reality has been about what positive things people of all races or nationalities can do, regardless of race or ethnicity.
When people try to insist that human beings can't do something human beings do, then I strongly suggest you question their intellect. If they're using race for such a claim? Then strongly suspect they're questioning the humanity of their target.
And guess what? That human being is STILL human regardless.
Just like you! Be of good cheer fellow human!
James Harris
Monday, November 16, 2015
Our primarily constructive world
Looking at a sobering Monday as the days move away from recent tragic events. And it is something to contemplate what hits home while wanting to respect too much tragic that happens on a daily basis. For me there is the sense that attacks on the most dominant cities in getting so much more attention, also point to a reality of a world where so much has been built by so many people with so much care and time.
It is not disrespectful to others to recognize when an attempt is made to attack the very foundations of our modern world with all its problems yes, but with so much possible for so many that would not be without the tremendous building that has gone into its creation.
Years can be necessary to build something that can be torn down in moments, which is not always a bad thing. That old building may come down to build something much better, or the area may even be turned into green space, like maybe a park. But the reality that so much that took so long can be taken away so quickly does not change the calculation that building is better.
And of course a human life is built over time. And each of us will find our way one way or another, maybe even pulled along it seems for the most part. But tasked with making decisions. Which for adults come after years of building towards adulthood, which is a necessity all who make it share.
For me here in this space already have talked about the wonder I have with so much we do as people working together maybe without necessarily thinking about it, as people going about their lives and so many starting their workweek today. Like a symphony of more cooperation than not, as so many whether they think of it that way or not, help build today, on which tomorrow depends.
While some may not feel that call to constructive action--and even worse some may turn to destruction, even daring to take the lives of others in senseless violence--a world will continue in its own way to make a music of sorts, whether you hear it that way or not. I like to think I do.
And I believe that the people who will really matter, who will make the difference are the ones constructing and building on a daily basis in so many ways.
Enjoying your life as much as you can I think is the best defense, as happy communities are better. Not just because of how people feel, but also about what they build.
As challenging as it may be wherever you are in the world, may your Monday be a day that you build on something good. And may that help for a better life for others, you, and if possible your world.
James Harris
It is not disrespectful to others to recognize when an attempt is made to attack the very foundations of our modern world with all its problems yes, but with so much possible for so many that would not be without the tremendous building that has gone into its creation.
Years can be necessary to build something that can be torn down in moments, which is not always a bad thing. That old building may come down to build something much better, or the area may even be turned into green space, like maybe a park. But the reality that so much that took so long can be taken away so quickly does not change the calculation that building is better.
And of course a human life is built over time. And each of us will find our way one way or another, maybe even pulled along it seems for the most part. But tasked with making decisions. Which for adults come after years of building towards adulthood, which is a necessity all who make it share.
For me here in this space already have talked about the wonder I have with so much we do as people working together maybe without necessarily thinking about it, as people going about their lives and so many starting their workweek today. Like a symphony of more cooperation than not, as so many whether they think of it that way or not, help build today, on which tomorrow depends.
While some may not feel that call to constructive action--and even worse some may turn to destruction, even daring to take the lives of others in senseless violence--a world will continue in its own way to make a music of sorts, whether you hear it that way or not. I like to think I do.
And I believe that the people who will really matter, who will make the difference are the ones constructing and building on a daily basis in so many ways.
Enjoying your life as much as you can I think is the best defense, as happy communities are better. Not just because of how people feel, but also about what they build.
As challenging as it may be wherever you are in the world, may your Monday be a day that you build on something good. And may that help for a better life for others, you, and if possible your world.
James Harris
Thursday, November 12, 2015
But is it a guilty pleasure?
To me the idea of suggesting people go out on Thursday night to get an early start on the weekend seemed somewhat pushing the edge. Which it may not be. Am sure plenty of people do it as I did it for decades, starting back in college.
Reality today is that how we look at work has to shift as work reality continues shifting.
More and more I think a workforce needs a certain mental well being, which means less of a feeling of being chained to a job. It's no longer a guilty thing to feel like you should feel well at your workplace. And more and more people expect it.
Having a quiet night out any day of the week, shouldn't be a big deal really.
Saw a key making machine at a major discount store, which of course will not name. Do wonder if this blog were at a place where an offer might be made, would I take it from this particular one? Talking it out though such an issue may never arise.
Actually talking it out just makes me realize why I'd feel uncomfortable if it were possible. Kind of makes me wonder then if that is even something that could work with me. Figure something that doesn't make me feel queasy will occur to me eventually.
And of course a key making machine is SO much more convenient if it works well as admit didn't check it out, as thankfully didn't need it. But have needed keys made in the past, and would go find where there was a person who would do it. And not that it was hard but it seems to me that a machine can just be more readily available.
In our times machines have changed so much about how we look at work. When robots of various kinds, including that key making machine which can be considered one, can do so much physical, twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
No human being would even wish to compete with such schedules.
Maybe for me it's still an adjustment to think of work as more empowering than drudgery. And there is kind of a sense of getting away with something with behavior that can be both adult, responsible and a great way to add to the quality of your life.
Maybe not for everyone, but being able to head out after a solid week of work on Thursday night, even to finish out the work week on Friday, and head back out again was usually for me just a better way to do it.
James Harris
Reality today is that how we look at work has to shift as work reality continues shifting.
More and more I think a workforce needs a certain mental well being, which means less of a feeling of being chained to a job. It's no longer a guilty thing to feel like you should feel well at your workplace. And more and more people expect it.
Having a quiet night out any day of the week, shouldn't be a big deal really.
Saw a key making machine at a major discount store, which of course will not name. Do wonder if this blog were at a place where an offer might be made, would I take it from this particular one? Talking it out though such an issue may never arise.
Actually talking it out just makes me realize why I'd feel uncomfortable if it were possible. Kind of makes me wonder then if that is even something that could work with me. Figure something that doesn't make me feel queasy will occur to me eventually.
And of course a key making machine is SO much more convenient if it works well as admit didn't check it out, as thankfully didn't need it. But have needed keys made in the past, and would go find where there was a person who would do it. And not that it was hard but it seems to me that a machine can just be more readily available.
In our times machines have changed so much about how we look at work. When robots of various kinds, including that key making machine which can be considered one, can do so much physical, twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
No human being would even wish to compete with such schedules.
Maybe for me it's still an adjustment to think of work as more empowering than drudgery. And there is kind of a sense of getting away with something with behavior that can be both adult, responsible and a great way to add to the quality of your life.
Maybe not for everyone, but being able to head out after a solid week of work on Thursday night, even to finish out the work week on Friday, and head back out again was usually for me just a better way to do it.
James Harris
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Question on direction
Of all the political questions that often get asked of the body politic the one that I like to see is: do you believe the country is moving in the right direction?
And of course the direction set is all about leadership.
Where are the people in charge leading us?
It's a great question to me as there isn't a lot of ways to go with the answer. Or many ways to distract from what it means when the majority takes a position.
As much as words like "leadership" and "leaders" are tossed around maybe it can get lost that we expect certain people to give a direction, behind which so many others will follow.
But then again in our world at times I wonder about people in positions of power where it is hard to take those labels seriously anyway. With it seeming to be more of just something you say by habit versus representing a clear actuality.
While there is a reality of a world with very rapid changes, and you gotta wonder, how would anyone know the right direction?
Which gets to the complexities of the reality of leadership, which is that people tend to know after the fact. A leader can point in a direction and a people can head off in that direction, but the value of the path will be seen over time.
And that's where it is actually very scary as it's built into the reality.
Yes, you can try to pick the best leaders. Give them the best support you have. But reality will tell over time.
How people feel about where their country is going is kind of like passengers on a train or bus looking out the window at times, guessing at progress to the destination.
And if it looks like the train is going backwards, who is going to like that?
Wherever we're going as a nation and in the bigger picture as a world, I think we can all agree that it should be towards better.
But who really knows exactly what "better" is? And who will set the best direction?
What we do know is that there will be people in certain positions, and others who will follow them. And time will give the answers.
Happy Veterans Day!
James Harris
And of course the direction set is all about leadership.
Where are the people in charge leading us?
It's a great question to me as there isn't a lot of ways to go with the answer. Or many ways to distract from what it means when the majority takes a position.
As much as words like "leadership" and "leaders" are tossed around maybe it can get lost that we expect certain people to give a direction, behind which so many others will follow.
But then again in our world at times I wonder about people in positions of power where it is hard to take those labels seriously anyway. With it seeming to be more of just something you say by habit versus representing a clear actuality.
While there is a reality of a world with very rapid changes, and you gotta wonder, how would anyone know the right direction?
Which gets to the complexities of the reality of leadership, which is that people tend to know after the fact. A leader can point in a direction and a people can head off in that direction, but the value of the path will be seen over time.
And that's where it is actually very scary as it's built into the reality.
Yes, you can try to pick the best leaders. Give them the best support you have. But reality will tell over time.
How people feel about where their country is going is kind of like passengers on a train or bus looking out the window at times, guessing at progress to the destination.
And if it looks like the train is going backwards, who is going to like that?
Wherever we're going as a nation and in the bigger picture as a world, I think we can all agree that it should be towards better.
But who really knows exactly what "better" is? And who will set the best direction?
What we do know is that there will be people in certain positions, and others who will follow them. And time will give the answers.
Happy Veterans Day!
James Harris
Monday, November 9, 2015
World bound by communication
There are SO many ways in which the ability to communicate rapidly around the globe binds us. For instance you can be doing something here in the US working with someone elsewhere in the world. Which means being aware of important things there like the time. And it can work either way, so maybe you have to come in at midnight or some other late hour to work with someone in a time zone where that is convenient.
That binding of the world through communication is of interest to me, and wonder how that shifts how people see each other.
It's one thing to see news stories about some foreign place. And another to see them when you've been communicating with someone from that same place, especially if working on something together.
These interactions can be on so many levels though. As it may not be all that formal at all.
Shared interests can link around the globe.
For me it became a pragmatic matter working in San Francisco with a lot of communication to the East Coast which was three hours ahead. So would have to be mindful as couldn't assume for instance that some business could be done at 4 pm my time, when it would be 7 pm say in New York.
There is something about that consideration and it does show. Doesn't take much to notice when someone somewhere far away just didn't think about where and when on the planet you were.
James Harris
That binding of the world through communication is of interest to me, and wonder how that shifts how people see each other.
It's one thing to see news stories about some foreign place. And another to see them when you've been communicating with someone from that same place, especially if working on something together.
These interactions can be on so many levels though. As it may not be all that formal at all.
Shared interests can link around the globe.
For me it became a pragmatic matter working in San Francisco with a lot of communication to the East Coast which was three hours ahead. So would have to be mindful as couldn't assume for instance that some business could be done at 4 pm my time, when it would be 7 pm say in New York.
There is something about that consideration and it does show. Doesn't take much to notice when someone somewhere far away just didn't think about where and when on the planet you were.
James Harris
Thursday, November 5, 2015
And what about that dance?
One of my favorite lines from my own writing, yes can sound wrong but hey need an intro here, has to do with dancing.
Quote from my blog post on my blog Beyond Mundane about Short Timeline Reachable Goals or STRG's for short.
Yeah, I love that power dance part.
And I think you can consider it literally or figuratively, though if you can physically move in some way that is about a sense of triumph I think that is so powerful as it just feels good when I do it.
Doing things that don't hurt you in any way that feel good just makes sense to me! And finding such things is great. Oh, so yeah, but should add that before you do any serious exertion might want to check with your medical provider.
But the privacy of your bedroom by yourself is so you can do it without fear of embarrassment.
While going out to dance, yes even on a Thursday night, can really work great, especially if you're not on the prowl to meet someone! Which I discovered later in life as early on felt like that was what you were supposed to be doing! But eventually as grew older more often found myself with a group of people who all knew each other and we'd be out just to have fun, and dance, without there being a pickup thing going on.
And it was so much fun. More fun actually, as was far less frustrating than so many other nights thinking I was on the prowl. So funny. Never was really good at that. But had vague ideas of what thought was supposed to do versus what was comfortable and enjoyable to do.
So I like to say now, if you like to dance, dance! And don't feel like you need an excuse. But if you stacked up lots of accomplishments, then yeah, I think you have a great reason.
So why not? Dance.
James Harris
Time management is important, but I prefer thinking of it as building on success. First you have a STRG, accomplish it. Cheer your success. Move on to the next one. Repeat till day is done. Celebrate accomplishment. Relax. Repeat next day. And every once in a while do a power dance by yourself in your bedroom, because life IS great.
Quote from my blog post on my blog Beyond Mundane about Short Timeline Reachable Goals or STRG's for short.
Yeah, I love that power dance part.
And I think you can consider it literally or figuratively, though if you can physically move in some way that is about a sense of triumph I think that is so powerful as it just feels good when I do it.
Doing things that don't hurt you in any way that feel good just makes sense to me! And finding such things is great. Oh, so yeah, but should add that before you do any serious exertion might want to check with your medical provider.
But the privacy of your bedroom by yourself is so you can do it without fear of embarrassment.
While going out to dance, yes even on a Thursday night, can really work great, especially if you're not on the prowl to meet someone! Which I discovered later in life as early on felt like that was what you were supposed to be doing! But eventually as grew older more often found myself with a group of people who all knew each other and we'd be out just to have fun, and dance, without there being a pickup thing going on.
And it was so much fun. More fun actually, as was far less frustrating than so many other nights thinking I was on the prowl. So funny. Never was really good at that. But had vague ideas of what thought was supposed to do versus what was comfortable and enjoyable to do.
So I like to say now, if you like to dance, dance! And don't feel like you need an excuse. But if you stacked up lots of accomplishments, then yeah, I think you have a great reason.
So why not? Dance.
James Harris
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Information fluidity and trust?
Information zips around the globe and it can be hard to process all the implications. But found myself watching a documentary about a troubling subject, and it was like, so someone can take a picture, share with someone else, and later find it go, well just about anywhere. But before the web would have been unthinkable I think for as many to even contemplate, with a physical photograph.
But why really?
And it's not so much the anonymity aspect either as typically if photos get shared or stolen people can figure out how that went. So what was it?
Lots of information can flow rapidly so in our times it pays to think carefully about what might be shared why. And it is good to be imaginative, but how imaginative can you be really? Or are so many people guinea pigs where others find out from their travails?
And where are governments? Seem way behind I think. Barely beginning to grapple themselves with reality of how information flows in the modern age, even when it bites them! Like with disclosure of secret information.
Which should be noted has had benefits with whistleblowers outing government abuses which I think trace back to small-minded individuals with positions of trust they've betrayed.
And that IS a huge part of it, isn't it? Betrayal of trust.
We're living in an age when trust is becoming more visible. Yes it has always been important but betrayal was less so often public. Today a person gets mad at an ex and it can end up making international headlines no matter who they are. Where that would have only been possible in the past with high status individuals or people connected to some in some way.
Today information flows so readily that just about any person can have some which in a certain context can interest a world, for good reasons, very bad ones, or simply embarrassing ones. Or for reasons hard to fathom.
Our world doesn't feel the need to explain itself to me, now does it?
There are no gatekeepers to decide that story is not news. As it can be so readily available that people can pick it up and yes, make it go viral.
So trust has become so upfront. And that to me is a good thing to take from all of it.
Your life I think will be very much defined by who you trust, which has always been true. But now also trust is what the web studies very closely.
James Harris
But why really?
And it's not so much the anonymity aspect either as typically if photos get shared or stolen people can figure out how that went. So what was it?
Lots of information can flow rapidly so in our times it pays to think carefully about what might be shared why. And it is good to be imaginative, but how imaginative can you be really? Or are so many people guinea pigs where others find out from their travails?
And where are governments? Seem way behind I think. Barely beginning to grapple themselves with reality of how information flows in the modern age, even when it bites them! Like with disclosure of secret information.
Which should be noted has had benefits with whistleblowers outing government abuses which I think trace back to small-minded individuals with positions of trust they've betrayed.
And that IS a huge part of it, isn't it? Betrayal of trust.
We're living in an age when trust is becoming more visible. Yes it has always been important but betrayal was less so often public. Today a person gets mad at an ex and it can end up making international headlines no matter who they are. Where that would have only been possible in the past with high status individuals or people connected to some in some way.
Today information flows so readily that just about any person can have some which in a certain context can interest a world, for good reasons, very bad ones, or simply embarrassing ones. Or for reasons hard to fathom.
Our world doesn't feel the need to explain itself to me, now does it?
There are no gatekeepers to decide that story is not news. As it can be so readily available that people can pick it up and yes, make it go viral.
So trust has become so upfront. And that to me is a good thing to take from all of it.
Your life I think will be very much defined by who you trust, which has always been true. But now also trust is what the web studies very closely.
James Harris
Monday, November 2, 2015
Like the tides? Ebbs and flows.
More I think about it more I realize that feel for me for these Monday posts are like tidal--as the flows go back and forth. And have talked flows quite a bit and realize is from that feeling.
And it has always been comforting to me. Routines can be comforting. Finding comfort in them I think is the silver lining that can alleviate a sense of tedium.
Where the smoothness to it always fascinated me. As much as it can seem to be a jumble at times people usually do a great job of actually flowing into and out on the commute.
Flow is such an important thing too. Like when words can just flow out and it's interesting as for me can almost step back to see as am curious! What's going to end up on the screen? Often can't wait to find out. As the words begin, part of me is anticipating.
As time continues and mind considers something it's just a matter of letting the words go, as they press to be released. And the black letters against the white have personality, and as they step out seem to begin to sing. Eventually together are like a song, with a growing orchestra.
Looking at the words sing is one of my favorite metaphors as they are a comfort as well. And coming into this world in this new way, new combinations together, maybe they can comfort others. But regardless they are your new friends of the moment.
The black letters on the white background could also be seen as talking. Soaring at times, or simply plodding along, but always moving.
Towards the end it is more full, rich, and vibrant. As race for the conclusion? Can it be rushed? Or is there so much more needs to be said? But a feeling of completeness can build as the chorus of words roar to full strength.
So many new friends, so much personality and why it can be hard to let some of them go! When you edit. Coming back to trim the music of the words to its best sound. Decisions have to be made. Objective. Be objective as you step away mentally to see it all more clearly.
Towards the end is the ebb as things die down. The volume diminishes. The words begin to peter out.
On the streets of so many cities the huge volume of traffic will thin somewhat, and so many people will settle down for so many tasks.
Another work week begins.
Happy Monday!
James Harris
And it has always been comforting to me. Routines can be comforting. Finding comfort in them I think is the silver lining that can alleviate a sense of tedium.
Where the smoothness to it always fascinated me. As much as it can seem to be a jumble at times people usually do a great job of actually flowing into and out on the commute.
Flow is such an important thing too. Like when words can just flow out and it's interesting as for me can almost step back to see as am curious! What's going to end up on the screen? Often can't wait to find out. As the words begin, part of me is anticipating.
As time continues and mind considers something it's just a matter of letting the words go, as they press to be released. And the black letters against the white have personality, and as they step out seem to begin to sing. Eventually together are like a song, with a growing orchestra.
Looking at the words sing is one of my favorite metaphors as they are a comfort as well. And coming into this world in this new way, new combinations together, maybe they can comfort others. But regardless they are your new friends of the moment.
The black letters on the white background could also be seen as talking. Soaring at times, or simply plodding along, but always moving.
Towards the end it is more full, rich, and vibrant. As race for the conclusion? Can it be rushed? Or is there so much more needs to be said? But a feeling of completeness can build as the chorus of words roar to full strength.
So many new friends, so much personality and why it can be hard to let some of them go! When you edit. Coming back to trim the music of the words to its best sound. Decisions have to be made. Objective. Be objective as you step away mentally to see it all more clearly.
Towards the end is the ebb as things die down. The volume diminishes. The words begin to peter out.
On the streets of so many cities the huge volume of traffic will thin somewhat, and so many people will settle down for so many tasks.
Another work week begins.
Happy Monday!
James Harris
Thursday, October 29, 2015
With me goals are like my friends
The week starts closing out and things are wrapping up, and what was accomplished through the week? If you were setting short timeline reachable goals means quite a few of them were done. And will admit there have been those times when kind of mentally wrap my arms around them and hug my achieved goals. They're my friends.
Actual human beings may be a lot more distant.
While part of me would like to talk as if lonely realize that was rarely the case. Thank God! People need people I firmly believe. And I know some people need people less, but am not one of them.
Goals can seem to make you lonely though even when surrounded by friends, if you feel like the oddball with yours.
But goals are very much about who YOU are, not someone else. They're your goals so you decide, and for me? They're like my friends who make me feel good, which is why reachable goals are best! Because you keep reaching them, which feels good.
And then you can kind of hang out with them. Thinking, like hey, yeah! Got that done, and that done, and oh, hey you! So good to see ya', got that done too!
But it can be trying when you don't have the people around you at some point who support your goals so you can go through those lonelier periods maybe. And find so many quiet times even with your thoughts. And even at times look out upon a spooky world.
It can be a scary world out there, even when not approaching a holiday dedicated to the fun of Fright Night. Where is that supposed to be fun? How do those words sensibly fit together? "fun" "Fright" and "Night"?
How do people come up with such things?
Maybe the reality is how we perceive things can vary so much, beyond the objective truth, which is maybe not as "fun". If you're surrounded by people but not sure how supported do you want to comfort yourself anyway with objective reality? Or realize what it's like if you really are mostly alone?
To me Halloween is that time of the year when I allow my thoughts to go more dark, like plenty of other people so in good company.
I guess that's healthy. So much in life is about perspective, and how you get it? Very important.
Please don't ever let loneliness get you down. Maybe some goals can be your friends. So you can mentally wrap your arms around them and feel cheerful no matter how dark the night.
Has worked for me.
James Harris
Actual human beings may be a lot more distant.
While part of me would like to talk as if lonely realize that was rarely the case. Thank God! People need people I firmly believe. And I know some people need people less, but am not one of them.
Goals can seem to make you lonely though even when surrounded by friends, if you feel like the oddball with yours.
But goals are very much about who YOU are, not someone else. They're your goals so you decide, and for me? They're like my friends who make me feel good, which is why reachable goals are best! Because you keep reaching them, which feels good.
And then you can kind of hang out with them. Thinking, like hey, yeah! Got that done, and that done, and oh, hey you! So good to see ya', got that done too!
But it can be trying when you don't have the people around you at some point who support your goals so you can go through those lonelier periods maybe. And find so many quiet times even with your thoughts. And even at times look out upon a spooky world.
It can be a scary world out there, even when not approaching a holiday dedicated to the fun of Fright Night. Where is that supposed to be fun? How do those words sensibly fit together? "fun" "Fright" and "Night"?
How do people come up with such things?
Maybe the reality is how we perceive things can vary so much, beyond the objective truth, which is maybe not as "fun". If you're surrounded by people but not sure how supported do you want to comfort yourself anyway with objective reality? Or realize what it's like if you really are mostly alone?
To me Halloween is that time of the year when I allow my thoughts to go more dark, like plenty of other people so in good company.
I guess that's healthy. So much in life is about perspective, and how you get it? Very important.
Please don't ever let loneliness get you down. Maybe some goals can be your friends. So you can mentally wrap your arms around them and feel cheerful no matter how dark the night.
Has worked for me.
James Harris
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Untaught perspectives and Halloween
Not so good with Halloween. Never got to do it as a kid. Just watched others. Why not? My parents.
There are those times of the year where similarity is easier to be found as many celebrate the same holiday. And childhood is that special time when you have to learn. Children need to be taught, a lot. What you learn as a child is what is to carry you forward as an adult.
Societies can vary on the sense of responsibility with that teaching with much put on parents where the responsibility is not total. But how much will society do if parents don't? In the US is a bit of a middle ground where for instance parents send their kids to school for quite some time without a direct fee. And society makes them. American children need to learn and American society works to ensure that happens.
Clearly society will not just let a parent determine a child's future, like by deciding that goofing off and just watching television is more fun than going to school. That's good of society.
And then there is religion. So glad to not name names so won't promote the religion of my parents, but it didn't celebrate holidays! Doesn't celebrate holidays. It is a unique difference for me which makes these issues personally relevant. But of course didn't impact things like earning potential. Still went to school, got an education. Not being taught Halloween has a very specific impact. And so it is this remarkable difference. Which means holiday postings for me have an awkwardness.
It is an interesting thing to think of the consequences of parental decisions on the life of their children. As an adult I can choose to celebrate Halloween and do! But there is an awkwardness that others might not understand even when explained as it's easy to take for granted things that are so natural in your life and the lives of most people you know.
Religious freedom is a political principle that is important to me, and am glad grew up in a country with it. Though do have a unique perspective on the boundaries, when one can question where freedom for a parent, steps over into an unnecessary constraint on the adult to be, who is so dependent on that parent to exist, as that child grows up.
So yes, as an adult I can go ahead and choose to celebrate and do, but there are those things most learn as kids which will just escape me. Same goes for all the other holidays. Oh yeah, and birthdays. Didn't get those either, so awkward with those too.
Rather than try to make some scary political post to fit with the holiday, which should have been easy, and give away my awkwardness decided to explain instead. But is still political! As subject has to do with some of the nuances of religious freedom.
And to what extent can the religious freedom of the adult parent impinge on the life of the adult to be? Maybe it is a scary post to ponder after all.
Happy Halloween!
James Harris
There are those times of the year where similarity is easier to be found as many celebrate the same holiday. And childhood is that special time when you have to learn. Children need to be taught, a lot. What you learn as a child is what is to carry you forward as an adult.
Societies can vary on the sense of responsibility with that teaching with much put on parents where the responsibility is not total. But how much will society do if parents don't? In the US is a bit of a middle ground where for instance parents send their kids to school for quite some time without a direct fee. And society makes them. American children need to learn and American society works to ensure that happens.
Clearly society will not just let a parent determine a child's future, like by deciding that goofing off and just watching television is more fun than going to school. That's good of society.
And then there is religion. So glad to not name names so won't promote the religion of my parents, but it didn't celebrate holidays! Doesn't celebrate holidays. It is a unique difference for me which makes these issues personally relevant. But of course didn't impact things like earning potential. Still went to school, got an education. Not being taught Halloween has a very specific impact. And so it is this remarkable difference. Which means holiday postings for me have an awkwardness.
It is an interesting thing to think of the consequences of parental decisions on the life of their children. As an adult I can choose to celebrate Halloween and do! But there is an awkwardness that others might not understand even when explained as it's easy to take for granted things that are so natural in your life and the lives of most people you know.
Religious freedom is a political principle that is important to me, and am glad grew up in a country with it. Though do have a unique perspective on the boundaries, when one can question where freedom for a parent, steps over into an unnecessary constraint on the adult to be, who is so dependent on that parent to exist, as that child grows up.
So yes, as an adult I can go ahead and choose to celebrate and do, but there are those things most learn as kids which will just escape me. Same goes for all the other holidays. Oh yeah, and birthdays. Didn't get those either, so awkward with those too.
Rather than try to make some scary political post to fit with the holiday, which should have been easy, and give away my awkwardness decided to explain instead. But is still political! As subject has to do with some of the nuances of religious freedom.
And to what extent can the religious freedom of the adult parent impinge on the life of the adult to be? Maybe it is a scary post to ponder after all.
Happy Halloween!
James Harris
Monday, October 26, 2015
Time to on time is important too
The alarm clock fascinates me. Such a common thing in the lives of so many. But consider the complexity of the relationship! Sure it's a very helpful and useful device for helping you get to where you need to go, on time. But have experienced that dread, when already awake early for some reason staring at those red numbers.
And there is that flashing dot...inexorable. You watch it, flash, flash, flash. And every once in awhile, one of those red numbers will change. And you know you're running out of time. Soon enough? The alarm WILL go off. Oh, unless you just go ahead and cut it off, since you're already awake.
So many need to be at work at a certain time where I don't think the time needed to get there on time should be taken for granted. And it's fascinating to me that work that needs to go into being at your workplace by, for instance, 9 am, or often earlier I'm sure. Actually don't think I ever had a job where that was the start time, was always earlier.
The phrase "working 9 to 5" is something I grew up with but I've never worked that schedule.
In any event if you were supposed to be someplace at a particular time there is that reality of what has to happen for that to always happen, which of course is, you get there before.
And consider what that can take! And it's best when you get credit for it.
For me better were jobs where I was expected to be there within a roughly half hour window.
So, for instance, might get to work ten minutes after. No big deal. Or ten minutes before. Also no big deal. And it took a lot of pressure off. Oddly enough, found I didn't need the snooze button on my alarm.
Lots of times would actually wake up, just before the alarm went off, and just go ahead and cut it off, without the blaring.
Would tend to get up comfortable. Step through a relaxed morning routine. Make the bus, and get to work, usually within the window.
If outside of it, they didn't care about that either within reason. Could call ahead. And would just work a little later to make up for it. Of course that required a job where none of that interfered with the actual work.
In the past I think the idea that you should be at work at a very precise time could be considered just the price you paid. But in our time I think more and more it will be considered an exceptional something for which you should be paid.
James Harris
And there is that flashing dot...inexorable. You watch it, flash, flash, flash. And every once in awhile, one of those red numbers will change. And you know you're running out of time. Soon enough? The alarm WILL go off. Oh, unless you just go ahead and cut it off, since you're already awake.
So many need to be at work at a certain time where I don't think the time needed to get there on time should be taken for granted. And it's fascinating to me that work that needs to go into being at your workplace by, for instance, 9 am, or often earlier I'm sure. Actually don't think I ever had a job where that was the start time, was always earlier.
The phrase "working 9 to 5" is something I grew up with but I've never worked that schedule.
In any event if you were supposed to be someplace at a particular time there is that reality of what has to happen for that to always happen, which of course is, you get there before.
And consider what that can take! And it's best when you get credit for it.
For me better were jobs where I was expected to be there within a roughly half hour window.
So, for instance, might get to work ten minutes after. No big deal. Or ten minutes before. Also no big deal. And it took a lot of pressure off. Oddly enough, found I didn't need the snooze button on my alarm.
Lots of times would actually wake up, just before the alarm went off, and just go ahead and cut it off, without the blaring.
Would tend to get up comfortable. Step through a relaxed morning routine. Make the bus, and get to work, usually within the window.
If outside of it, they didn't care about that either within reason. Could call ahead. And would just work a little later to make up for it. Of course that required a job where none of that interfered with the actual work.
In the past I think the idea that you should be at work at a very precise time could be considered just the price you paid. But in our time I think more and more it will be considered an exceptional something for which you should be paid.
James Harris
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Risk, reward and testosterone
There are differences between male and female with human beings, of course, where discussions about those can go all over the place. To me one of the more frustrating areas is with regard to differentiable reward. That is, when for instance men make more money than women for the same work.
Of course science is there to just put it out there that testosterone is the hormone that makes the difference in a lot of behavior associated with male. And one of the things it does is push a person to take more risks. See? Not complicated.
Which is a reason Mother Nature tends to have more males than females born, which compensates for the greater number of males that die-off taking those risks.
Which always kind of freaked me out that some kind of force or something does the math to balance that out. Think about it.
Going out to me presents fascinating behaviors when it comes to risk. But also I think it's where at least from what I saw male and female or in between didn't make much difference. Lots of people regardless of gender risking putting it out there in search of a reward, of one kind or other.
But is amazing to me the kinds of situations with which one can be faced without a lot of information about a person who is in front of you, with BIG decisions to make. Yet the world keeps turning, people do it all the time, and I guess it works more often than not.
Though of course if it really doesn't work well that can be very bad.
Which sounds like an arena where it pays to think things out, and I think that is also the way to get things more balanced in other areas. After all, yes, more risk taking can lead to greater rewards, but smart thinking can lower risk!
Which means that a man fueled by testosterone may take off wildly in some wrong direction while more thoughtful people, of any sex, may take a far more appropriate path, which leads to far greater reward.
Some people seem to think that using too much thought with relationships is cold, or takes the passion out. While I think the idea for anyone who considers it of anyone passionately beating the crap out of you in any way shape or form, is really not at all desired, by anyone, yup, who thinks it through!
Here's to thinking it through. Happy Thursday Out Night! If you choose to go out? Please do so carefully, and thoughtfully.
James Harris
Of course science is there to just put it out there that testosterone is the hormone that makes the difference in a lot of behavior associated with male. And one of the things it does is push a person to take more risks. See? Not complicated.
Which is a reason Mother Nature tends to have more males than females born, which compensates for the greater number of males that die-off taking those risks.
Which always kind of freaked me out that some kind of force or something does the math to balance that out. Think about it.
Going out to me presents fascinating behaviors when it comes to risk. But also I think it's where at least from what I saw male and female or in between didn't make much difference. Lots of people regardless of gender risking putting it out there in search of a reward, of one kind or other.
But is amazing to me the kinds of situations with which one can be faced without a lot of information about a person who is in front of you, with BIG decisions to make. Yet the world keeps turning, people do it all the time, and I guess it works more often than not.
Though of course if it really doesn't work well that can be very bad.
Which sounds like an arena where it pays to think things out, and I think that is also the way to get things more balanced in other areas. After all, yes, more risk taking can lead to greater rewards, but smart thinking can lower risk!
Which means that a man fueled by testosterone may take off wildly in some wrong direction while more thoughtful people, of any sex, may take a far more appropriate path, which leads to far greater reward.
Some people seem to think that using too much thought with relationships is cold, or takes the passion out. While I think the idea for anyone who considers it of anyone passionately beating the crap out of you in any way shape or form, is really not at all desired, by anyone, yup, who thinks it through!
Here's to thinking it through. Happy Thursday Out Night! If you choose to go out? Please do so carefully, and thoughtfully.
James Harris
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
World against us American Black folks?
There's an odd thing with being Black in America which to me is being relentlessly taught that the ENTIRE freaking world is against us, except maybe Africa, but sometimes not sure. Like what about those South Africans? And I think it good for me to go ahead and address race on my political Wednesday as let's face it, in this country, if you're Black people expect you to talk race.
Usually I just don't. Why not? Because I don't think about it that much.
So why do I say "Black" versus "African American"? Well I grew up with it. It's shorter, and reality is I think the other is less accurate anyway, as what about someone actually immigrating from Africa today? Technically the term can apply to a variety of races, as a person from the continent of Africa who emigrates here can really be any.
Though reality is my skin color is brown. But hey the "Black" for Americans who feel it is a proper designation is really not as much about skin color as some might wish to believe. I think that's just about convenience. People like to claim something against plenty of evidence it really isn't the most important thing. And there has been recent uproar on the issue as to what it means to be Black which I found enlightening.
Of course American Black people are not the only race or ethnicity who think the entire world is against them. Must of course mention Jews who have plenty of evidence to present as well. And could give other races or ethnicities. It is an unfortunate category where many can provide evidence.
There are aspects, however, to the variation from my country that Black people have an entire world against them coming from a peculiar American point of view, and I find it fascinating when wealthy Black people especially with celebrity will glumly talk about the horrors of racism in their lives...excuse me?
And not claiming that people all over the world who are actually black in skin color are not facing discrimination as well. Discrimination on the basis of skin color is an odd thing that human beings do. But there are so many ways some people pick to decide to discriminate against some human being. Skin color is just one.
In the United States being "Black" is more of an idea as is American racism which is increasingly speculative than a reality while for plenty of poor Black folks it is a crushing burden. I grew up in a lower middle class home. Which is not great. It's just ok. But isn't poor. Though have also experienced poor, like now. And at times I find myself falling into a certain defeatist way of conversing about my life, and realize it was trained.
And you know what? Having an entire world against you can be sort of depressing. Thank God it's not true. I think that would be a quick fight. Um, I know it would be.
Part of me is wary in discussing but it is too important. Even if a Black person wishes to chase defeat to play an expected role in a world supposedly against, society must say, no.
Society must say: you may think we hate you, but we do not. We will help you instead.
Is American racism just a thing of the past? I think not.
Does it in various ways greatly hamper the lives of a disadvantaged population? I think yes.
But can it also be about a mentality that expects failure, and can work to create it?
I fear, yes.
To me whatever continuing American racism exists sounds like a challenge to be overcome, where we can do it in our time with a lot less fear versus in the past when trying hard enough could be a death sentence, with Black people killed by angry mobs.
They faced death. And today some may wish to claim the same is true with regard to police action but to me that's problematic. In the past it wasn't even just fear of death from an angry mob as a successful Black person deemed "too successful" could be burned out of property. THAT physical fear is a huge burden.
Today, the most successful Black people do not appear to have that type of fear, while others struggle in a day to day, which too often involves violent clashes with the police.
Why does it matter? Because clearly then it's not about race.
Must be about something else.
Opportunity is not a terrible thing. And having it is not a horror. Too many Black folks I am certain are still convinced it does not exist, against all evidence, including plenty of Black people who are highly successful, who nonetheless often appear to get away with de facto claiming they are not. As if in a world against them, of course they can't really rest easy, you know? As if they too are crushed under a weight of racial oppression as they zip around in big black luxury cars, and fly in private jets from parties to corporate meetings. Or simply luxuriate in their mansions.
When a world is against you? Maybe you could still shudder at times as you munch thoughtfully on fine caviar, if you're Black in America.
As if there is a world against us and always will be.
Some Black folks actually say that, which does not make it true.
James Harris
Usually I just don't. Why not? Because I don't think about it that much.
So why do I say "Black" versus "African American"? Well I grew up with it. It's shorter, and reality is I think the other is less accurate anyway, as what about someone actually immigrating from Africa today? Technically the term can apply to a variety of races, as a person from the continent of Africa who emigrates here can really be any.
Though reality is my skin color is brown. But hey the "Black" for Americans who feel it is a proper designation is really not as much about skin color as some might wish to believe. I think that's just about convenience. People like to claim something against plenty of evidence it really isn't the most important thing. And there has been recent uproar on the issue as to what it means to be Black which I found enlightening.
Of course American Black people are not the only race or ethnicity who think the entire world is against them. Must of course mention Jews who have plenty of evidence to present as well. And could give other races or ethnicities. It is an unfortunate category where many can provide evidence.
There are aspects, however, to the variation from my country that Black people have an entire world against them coming from a peculiar American point of view, and I find it fascinating when wealthy Black people especially with celebrity will glumly talk about the horrors of racism in their lives...excuse me?
And not claiming that people all over the world who are actually black in skin color are not facing discrimination as well. Discrimination on the basis of skin color is an odd thing that human beings do. But there are so many ways some people pick to decide to discriminate against some human being. Skin color is just one.
In the United States being "Black" is more of an idea as is American racism which is increasingly speculative than a reality while for plenty of poor Black folks it is a crushing burden. I grew up in a lower middle class home. Which is not great. It's just ok. But isn't poor. Though have also experienced poor, like now. And at times I find myself falling into a certain defeatist way of conversing about my life, and realize it was trained.
And you know what? Having an entire world against you can be sort of depressing. Thank God it's not true. I think that would be a quick fight. Um, I know it would be.
Part of me is wary in discussing but it is too important. Even if a Black person wishes to chase defeat to play an expected role in a world supposedly against, society must say, no.
Society must say: you may think we hate you, but we do not. We will help you instead.
Is American racism just a thing of the past? I think not.
Does it in various ways greatly hamper the lives of a disadvantaged population? I think yes.
But can it also be about a mentality that expects failure, and can work to create it?
I fear, yes.
To me whatever continuing American racism exists sounds like a challenge to be overcome, where we can do it in our time with a lot less fear versus in the past when trying hard enough could be a death sentence, with Black people killed by angry mobs.
They faced death. And today some may wish to claim the same is true with regard to police action but to me that's problematic. In the past it wasn't even just fear of death from an angry mob as a successful Black person deemed "too successful" could be burned out of property. THAT physical fear is a huge burden.
Today, the most successful Black people do not appear to have that type of fear, while others struggle in a day to day, which too often involves violent clashes with the police.
Why does it matter? Because clearly then it's not about race.
Must be about something else.
Opportunity is not a terrible thing. And having it is not a horror. Too many Black folks I am certain are still convinced it does not exist, against all evidence, including plenty of Black people who are highly successful, who nonetheless often appear to get away with de facto claiming they are not. As if in a world against them, of course they can't really rest easy, you know? As if they too are crushed under a weight of racial oppression as they zip around in big black luxury cars, and fly in private jets from parties to corporate meetings. Or simply luxuriate in their mansions.
When a world is against you? Maybe you could still shudder at times as you munch thoughtfully on fine caviar, if you're Black in America.
As if there is a world against us and always will be.
Some Black folks actually say that, which does not make it true.
James Harris
Monday, October 19, 2015
Imagining wave world wake up
Many in the world wake up to work like a wave I'm thinking. Can imagine it in my mind, like now millions are up and about already at work on the East Coast. Some also up already on the West Coast but many more later on in the day as the Earth keeps on turning with the Sun moving across, lighting up all our days.
And that wave will continue sweeping around the globe. Though you get to Asia and they're ahead, so there is this split as they are a day ahead, at some arbitrary line some people put in place long ago.
Imagine this wave sweeps around the globe day after day where occasionally there are breaks, like with biggest holidays that have somehow gone international. While there can be other routine gaps in the wave for national holidays.
The communal nature of so much human activity fascinates me, especially here in the US with people so often certain of an independence which yes, is real. But often I like considering those things that are in the other direction where so many people are moving in various ways, together. With behaviors that bind in shared activity.
More than we may tend to realize think there are expectations without which society doesn't function well. Go about your Monday morning watching others and it can be clear how much works best as people behave as expected.
Reasonable expectations can drive so much of our behavior, which gets me to thinking about tipping.
Remember one time where am embarrassed to say, missed the tip, but was taken by surprise by taking a woman out to where she suggested. She knew it was valet as I found out as am pulling up thinking about, um, where do I park? And wouldn't you know! Some guy is at my door, and oh, valet service. That surprised me out of the gate.
And along with everything else on my mind, as did pay for both of us, and restaurant actually wasn't that expensive. Don't worry tipped inside as that was part of my usual experience, but still felt a bit intimidated by the new thing outside--had handed keys to my car to some guy to go drive it off, isn't that kind of odd to anyone?--and when car was brought back utterly had no clue. Was thinking on so many things, but not hey, gratuity! So did not tip.
To that guy years ago, my apologies. Was way out of my comfort zone without a clue.
And tipping reality can be so varied across so many things, I think you definitely need a guide, especially internationally am sure. Where it intrigues me to wonder if I had endorsements--still none--wouldn't now be one of those proper places to talk a product? Have discussed something I see as a need, where ran into a bit of a problem myself, and a decent tipping guide could be really useful.
Oh yeah so pondering this thing which I've never done, which is have product placement, as this blog is supposed to be seriously commercial. Can see how problematic it can be though. Even if readers could assume if a name were mentioned it was paid endorsement? Would they then doubt everything else? Did that really happen forgetting a tip? Or was it made up to try and sell a product? Of course not selling one, so no it was not made up.
And it was a bit of a jump too switching to tipping after talking about a world waking up. Which was natural enough for me. But yeah did want to talk tipping too. But not to sell anything.
Problems to ponder. Really then how do you do such things on the web in the best way? Or is it even possible?
Guess it does go to the trust you would want to build?
If I had the opportunity, which do not so can just talk it out, what kind of decision would it be? Or maybe not even put anything in a post anyway? But that could be convenient, actually mentioning a product name and saying, by the way, here's what I use, if had something.
Will not get an answer now. Just putting it out there as that helps me figure things out.
Happy Monday! Get some things done. Nothing like a set of quick accomplishments early in the week to set the tone.
James Harris
And that wave will continue sweeping around the globe. Though you get to Asia and they're ahead, so there is this split as they are a day ahead, at some arbitrary line some people put in place long ago.
Imagine this wave sweeps around the globe day after day where occasionally there are breaks, like with biggest holidays that have somehow gone international. While there can be other routine gaps in the wave for national holidays.
The communal nature of so much human activity fascinates me, especially here in the US with people so often certain of an independence which yes, is real. But often I like considering those things that are in the other direction where so many people are moving in various ways, together. With behaviors that bind in shared activity.
More than we may tend to realize think there are expectations without which society doesn't function well. Go about your Monday morning watching others and it can be clear how much works best as people behave as expected.
Reasonable expectations can drive so much of our behavior, which gets me to thinking about tipping.
Remember one time where am embarrassed to say, missed the tip, but was taken by surprise by taking a woman out to where she suggested. She knew it was valet as I found out as am pulling up thinking about, um, where do I park? And wouldn't you know! Some guy is at my door, and oh, valet service. That surprised me out of the gate.
And along with everything else on my mind, as did pay for both of us, and restaurant actually wasn't that expensive. Don't worry tipped inside as that was part of my usual experience, but still felt a bit intimidated by the new thing outside--had handed keys to my car to some guy to go drive it off, isn't that kind of odd to anyone?--and when car was brought back utterly had no clue. Was thinking on so many things, but not hey, gratuity! So did not tip.
To that guy years ago, my apologies. Was way out of my comfort zone without a clue.
And tipping reality can be so varied across so many things, I think you definitely need a guide, especially internationally am sure. Where it intrigues me to wonder if I had endorsements--still none--wouldn't now be one of those proper places to talk a product? Have discussed something I see as a need, where ran into a bit of a problem myself, and a decent tipping guide could be really useful.
Oh yeah so pondering this thing which I've never done, which is have product placement, as this blog is supposed to be seriously commercial. Can see how problematic it can be though. Even if readers could assume if a name were mentioned it was paid endorsement? Would they then doubt everything else? Did that really happen forgetting a tip? Or was it made up to try and sell a product? Of course not selling one, so no it was not made up.
And it was a bit of a jump too switching to tipping after talking about a world waking up. Which was natural enough for me. But yeah did want to talk tipping too. But not to sell anything.
Problems to ponder. Really then how do you do such things on the web in the best way? Or is it even possible?
Guess it does go to the trust you would want to build?
If I had the opportunity, which do not so can just talk it out, what kind of decision would it be? Or maybe not even put anything in a post anyway? But that could be convenient, actually mentioning a product name and saying, by the way, here's what I use, if had something.
Will not get an answer now. Just putting it out there as that helps me figure things out.
Happy Monday! Get some things done. Nothing like a set of quick accomplishments early in the week to set the tone.
James Harris
Thursday, October 15, 2015
How original is that?
Closing out another week! It's interesting how quickly time can pass which is fascinating in that sense that you got so many days, you know? Such things are great to bring up when continuing to push the notion that it can be great to enjoy yourself. Like on Thursday night when it is chill. Cool people know how to go out on Thursday I say, as I can write things of that nature.
There is no doubt in my mind that people who put things out public like I do often are trying to put ideas out there. And why not, as long as they're good ideas?
My feeling is that if there are any people whatsoever who just hadn't considered going out on Thursday night, but waited for Friday, just because, who now do and enjoy it, then that is a gift to the world.
But one can wonder, what if such powers to put out ideas were turned to less clearly admirable aims? Like I've often wondered, why don't really famous people who have massive followings on social media push silly phrases just to see if they can?
For instance, something like: "singin ain't swingin"
Why? Why not? So like if I had MILLIONS of followers I'd put up something like that every once in a while for people going out that night. And if someone recognized it, they'd say something in reply like: "you got that jack"
And everyone else who wasn't in on it, would get puzzled.
But just in case, other imitators arrived, and tried to go along, the final would be: "but it beats the alternative"
Which would be like some temporary thing, so like the next night, on Friday it wouldn't be cool any more, and people would just say, that's so old! It's so yesterday.
So maybe it's good I'm quietly puttering along without MILLIONS of followers on social media as I would SO try that out to see if people would like to try the fun.
James Harris
There is no doubt in my mind that people who put things out public like I do often are trying to put ideas out there. And why not, as long as they're good ideas?
My feeling is that if there are any people whatsoever who just hadn't considered going out on Thursday night, but waited for Friday, just because, who now do and enjoy it, then that is a gift to the world.
But one can wonder, what if such powers to put out ideas were turned to less clearly admirable aims? Like I've often wondered, why don't really famous people who have massive followings on social media push silly phrases just to see if they can?
For instance, something like: "singin ain't swingin"
Why? Why not? So like if I had MILLIONS of followers I'd put up something like that every once in a while for people going out that night. And if someone recognized it, they'd say something in reply like: "you got that jack"
And everyone else who wasn't in on it, would get puzzled.
But just in case, other imitators arrived, and tried to go along, the final would be: "but it beats the alternative"
Which would be like some temporary thing, so like the next night, on Friday it wouldn't be cool any more, and people would just say, that's so old! It's so yesterday.
So maybe it's good I'm quietly puttering along without MILLIONS of followers on social media as I would SO try that out to see if people would like to try the fun.
James Harris
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Politics, money, what reality?
People can say things that are SO vague, and repeat them until they think something must be true as they've heard it so much. Like what really is the deal with money in politics?
Many times I've heard it touted that money is so important in an election usually from reporters and I start wondering to myself why do I think they actually know anything?
But what is the biggest way money is spent? I feel confident that in the US can go with political ads.
Some reporter is looking at a difficult political race, and suddenly there is this number! It is how much money one candidate has versus the other! Easy. Reporter reports the advantage is with the one with more money. People think that's what matters, even when it clearly doesn't.
Why? I think it's because it's easy, and very hard for someone to argue with you, as so many people accept it, as they've heard it so much. And let's be honest, who doesn't like easy? Ok, maybe some people don't like easy. Actually am sure there are people who love hard, so they go out and do all these hard things. Which you know is actually an entirely different subject. Maybe there are reporters who like hard. Maybe even some who might wish to dig deeper than just how much money, but they're blocked by others?
How many even keep up with when a wealthier candidate vastly outspends a political opponent and loses anyway?
Well I love those stories, so I know I do.
James Harris
Many times I've heard it touted that money is so important in an election usually from reporters and I start wondering to myself why do I think they actually know anything?
But what is the biggest way money is spent? I feel confident that in the US can go with political ads.
Reality is political ads are made for, and targeted towards lazy people. Picking someone who actually represents you? Priceless.
— James Harris (@jstevh) April 20, 2015
But the appeal of the idea that money is so important is easy to understand.Some reporter is looking at a difficult political race, and suddenly there is this number! It is how much money one candidate has versus the other! Easy. Reporter reports the advantage is with the one with more money. People think that's what matters, even when it clearly doesn't.
Why? I think it's because it's easy, and very hard for someone to argue with you, as so many people accept it, as they've heard it so much. And let's be honest, who doesn't like easy? Ok, maybe some people don't like easy. Actually am sure there are people who love hard, so they go out and do all these hard things. Which you know is actually an entirely different subject. Maybe there are reporters who like hard. Maybe even some who might wish to dig deeper than just how much money, but they're blocked by others?
How many even keep up with when a wealthier candidate vastly outspends a political opponent and loses anyway?
Well I love those stories, so I know I do.
James Harris
Monday, October 12, 2015
Seasons, change and rain
That shift from the weekend to the week is one transition. For many that need to get to work on Monday gives a chance to watch others, like the seasons. But seasons give that other depending on where you are.
Starker transitions of the four seasons in the US are on the East Coast while there is the roughly two season reality of most of the West.
Like those days I'd find myself buying an umbrella in San Francisco!
Here's a picture from one of my favorite such days though it was in February, the rainy season could kind of wax and wane at times:
Days I would end up with a new umbrella would start the same. Walk out the door, see it was kind of cloudy but didn't really feel like it would rain? Go back and get an umbrella? Or no? Ok, would decide would risk it. And on the bus, where things are fine until your stop and then down it comes.
Rush to a store where they have a special rack out now full of umbrellas. Buy one, go out, walk a bit, and the rain stops.
And I went to Yerba Buena Gardens, and took a photo with my smartphone.
That was such a fun day.
James Harris
Starker transitions of the four seasons in the US are on the East Coast while there is the roughly two season reality of most of the West.
Like those days I'd find myself buying an umbrella in San Francisco!
Here's a picture from one of my favorite such days though it was in February, the rainy season could kind of wax and wane at times:
 |
| After some early morning rain. Photo mine. |
Rush to a store where they have a special rack out now full of umbrellas. Buy one, go out, walk a bit, and the rain stops.
And I went to Yerba Buena Gardens, and took a photo with my smartphone.
That was such a fun day.
James Harris
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Accomplished something I'm sure
Chasing goals can be frustrating if you make them too big! So I prefer to go in manageable steps with what I call short timeline reachable goals. To some extent it's like taking the easy route--lots of little goals stacked on top of each other, easily achieved.
But for instance this post can represent dozens of them.
If I were instead to see the entire post itself as my goal, then I could get swamped with the details, and find myself struggling to meet it. But with lots of little goals building to it, is MUCH easier.
As each of these little goals come together the result is something I have the nerve to present to the world.
There is a value in seeing a reward at the end of the week, or near the end of the week for those who have to work Friday, as it winds down. I say cheer your accomplishments and am certain they are there.
To get to peak I think you need to be celebrating accomplishment a LOT.
Why? Well if it's fun, then why wouldn't everyone do it? Accomplishing things gives me a thrill. With lots of little goals keep getting these little thrills constantly. By the end of week can consider a sizeable set of things! I like it that way.
And I think we're learning as a society to push a view that is leagues away from the old ideas of dragging yourself to something horrible to just do what you have to do--or else.
Anyone who checks the history books on work in the past, especially factory cultures where so many people, including children tragically, worked through 12 plus hour days in often horrible conditions with little regard for their safety can understand why work was considered an onerous task. For many work was a nightmare which shortened their lives or could end life suddenly.
Go back further and before machines, or even now with them, for those workers who do a lot of field work, like in picking fruits and vegetables, and you can also see how work can be considered this burden that must be carried until you can get a well deserved rest.
But, like, I'm typing. And I can type kind of fast, so yeah, my fingers can get kind of tired, you know? Where I can make light of it to some extent, but here the act of typing is necessary, but the real work is elsewhere.
In our times we can actually believe people who find extreme pleasure in their work! Can comprehend those who have to be pushed away from it to take vacations. It can make sense that some are so driven that work is the most dominant force in their lives as one of the great joys of their lives.
And accomplishment just makes it better.
There is a lag I think, as I remember decades ago when I was trying to find my way in the world of work, still getting messages to just do a job even when I hated it, and to just accept things even when had a bad boss, as if that was just the way things were. While today I say those are reasons to RUN, for your own good and to escape a company that may implode at any moment.
Yeah, I'm the writer so I get to write that and yeah I do believe it. The idea that bad business practices actually work is I think yet another fiction that people find interesting.
More and more humanity especially in the most advantaged countries is learning the benefit of work that empowers, inspires, and gives you immense satisfaction, as you get things done.
James Harris
But for instance this post can represent dozens of them.
If I were instead to see the entire post itself as my goal, then I could get swamped with the details, and find myself struggling to meet it. But with lots of little goals building to it, is MUCH easier.
As each of these little goals come together the result is something I have the nerve to present to the world.
There is a value in seeing a reward at the end of the week, or near the end of the week for those who have to work Friday, as it winds down. I say cheer your accomplishments and am certain they are there.
To get to peak I think you need to be celebrating accomplishment a LOT.
Why? Well if it's fun, then why wouldn't everyone do it? Accomplishing things gives me a thrill. With lots of little goals keep getting these little thrills constantly. By the end of week can consider a sizeable set of things! I like it that way.
And I think we're learning as a society to push a view that is leagues away from the old ideas of dragging yourself to something horrible to just do what you have to do--or else.
Anyone who checks the history books on work in the past, especially factory cultures where so many people, including children tragically, worked through 12 plus hour days in often horrible conditions with little regard for their safety can understand why work was considered an onerous task. For many work was a nightmare which shortened their lives or could end life suddenly.
Go back further and before machines, or even now with them, for those workers who do a lot of field work, like in picking fruits and vegetables, and you can also see how work can be considered this burden that must be carried until you can get a well deserved rest.
But, like, I'm typing. And I can type kind of fast, so yeah, my fingers can get kind of tired, you know? Where I can make light of it to some extent, but here the act of typing is necessary, but the real work is elsewhere.
In our times we can actually believe people who find extreme pleasure in their work! Can comprehend those who have to be pushed away from it to take vacations. It can make sense that some are so driven that work is the most dominant force in their lives as one of the great joys of their lives.
And accomplishment just makes it better.
There is a lag I think, as I remember decades ago when I was trying to find my way in the world of work, still getting messages to just do a job even when I hated it, and to just accept things even when had a bad boss, as if that was just the way things were. While today I say those are reasons to RUN, for your own good and to escape a company that may implode at any moment.
Yeah, I'm the writer so I get to write that and yeah I do believe it. The idea that bad business practices actually work is I think yet another fiction that people find interesting.
More and more humanity especially in the most advantaged countries is learning the benefit of work that empowers, inspires, and gives you immense satisfaction, as you get things done.
James Harris
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
What makes politics work
As valuable as perspective is, unfortunately people can get it on just how connected we all are, and how important it is for most of the time for most people to get along, when things get bad enough that no one will come to collect the garbage.
And I think I've seen that more happening elsewhere than here in the US, which is fine by me! Have a very clear understanding of how important all people are in the vast system that many may take for granted--unless they're holding their noses as they try to do things.
For most though politics is interesting where to me it's most boring: with conflict, arguing around differences, and focus on where people disagree.
That is such a tiny part of the political reality as if people were really so divided, yeah, routinely? You'd be trying to figure out how to do so many things you take for granted.
As human beings we're attracted to the excitement of drama. But it's best when mostly fiction, as when it's very real your life is going to get very uncomfortable, very quickly.
But that's why the nuts and bolts of politics seems behind the scenes to many as it's actually about where people agree. Politicians actually working are finding consensus and just getting things done.
Look into the reality of the people who got things done and it wasn't by being at each other's throats. Conflict tends to disintegrate things. Complex issues can't be figured out with people screaming at each other.
Too much emotion clouds judgement, and battles can build resentment.
For so many communities there can be a smoothness of their reality that people fail to notice. Which is great. How many people accept stability around them on the local level without thinking about how much it takes? How many people quietly just doing their jobs so that things just work?
Unless you have those instances when things DO fall apart, and it becomes very obvious. And even impossible to ignore, like when you're literally holding your nose.
At its best communities where things are going well can have people who can most of the time forget who their politicians are, until pushed upon them with elections. If they pay attention to the elections.
What makes politics work is when people are working together.
Which happens more than most may realize.
James Harris
And I think I've seen that more happening elsewhere than here in the US, which is fine by me! Have a very clear understanding of how important all people are in the vast system that many may take for granted--unless they're holding their noses as they try to do things.
For most though politics is interesting where to me it's most boring: with conflict, arguing around differences, and focus on where people disagree.
That is such a tiny part of the political reality as if people were really so divided, yeah, routinely? You'd be trying to figure out how to do so many things you take for granted.
As human beings we're attracted to the excitement of drama. But it's best when mostly fiction, as when it's very real your life is going to get very uncomfortable, very quickly.
But that's why the nuts and bolts of politics seems behind the scenes to many as it's actually about where people agree. Politicians actually working are finding consensus and just getting things done.
Look into the reality of the people who got things done and it wasn't by being at each other's throats. Conflict tends to disintegrate things. Complex issues can't be figured out with people screaming at each other.
Too much emotion clouds judgement, and battles can build resentment.
For so many communities there can be a smoothness of their reality that people fail to notice. Which is great. How many people accept stability around them on the local level without thinking about how much it takes? How many people quietly just doing their jobs so that things just work?
Unless you have those instances when things DO fall apart, and it becomes very obvious. And even impossible to ignore, like when you're literally holding your nose.
At its best communities where things are going well can have people who can most of the time forget who their politicians are, until pushed upon them with elections. If they pay attention to the elections.
What makes politics work is when people are working together.
Which happens more than most may realize.
James Harris
Monday, October 5, 2015
People flows
Flows of humanity fascinate me, where personally, when I had one, the commute into work was a great one for consideration. Of course it does help when involved in such things to look at the big picture here and there. Otherwise it could seem more like a burden. But I'd become fascinated with glancing looks at people's faces when riding the bus, or walking along the sidewalk as best I could.
Driving into work was an entirely different thing, but it is interesting how much you can notice when traffic slows to a snarl. But then again it was much easier to see as a stream, as on the freeway for instance, we're all going the same way--often way too slowly. But that gives more time to see what people are doing in their cars. Which could be a little bit of everything from eating, to things I think if I describe I fear I validate. Like there are things you ponder about what people will do, or try to do on the way to work in their cars.
However the way, and so many ways, but simply enough, so many people with a similar purpose--get to work.
Turns out there's this cool word for flowing together of two streams: confluence.
Maybe the commute is a confluence of activity with purpose. Along with all those people moving about is the purpose of that motion. Could feel it pulling everyone along? Including me?
Five days a week, twice a day, this chance to get a feeling of being a part of this massive stream of humanity.
My fascination with this confluence of humanity was at least partly with concern about the notion of how different we all are. So much focus on conflicts or disparities, but maybe it's more exciting to think on such, and less to consider when more similar than not.
There is a certain peace there as well, where I saw it more on the bus, or train or walking along the sidewalk. Actually walking the sidewalk is where I think you can feel the flow more than elsewhere. And there is something almost psychic about how well people moved. Those senses of how to do it, so much so that you can quickly tell when coming up on someone who is out of it. Out of flow.
Humanity flows around them on the sidewalk, where that can be something to ponder as well, and sometimes there is a decision point: do you stop? Is help necessary? But rarely was it.
How many find time to appreciate how often people are flowing together in some way?
That thing you have to do to get to that place you have to go, if you're going to make a living. But I often thought it was a beautiful thing. Comforting.
There are those things which are stable in our lives which can feel good to me, when things go awkward, or worse. A point of reference for a return to stability when jarred by life. The daily commute was one of them. Finding comfort in what was there. Not as just some necessary activity, but as a point of connection with so many others.
James Harris
Driving into work was an entirely different thing, but it is interesting how much you can notice when traffic slows to a snarl. But then again it was much easier to see as a stream, as on the freeway for instance, we're all going the same way--often way too slowly. But that gives more time to see what people are doing in their cars. Which could be a little bit of everything from eating, to things I think if I describe I fear I validate. Like there are things you ponder about what people will do, or try to do on the way to work in their cars.
However the way, and so many ways, but simply enough, so many people with a similar purpose--get to work.
Turns out there's this cool word for flowing together of two streams: confluence.
Maybe the commute is a confluence of activity with purpose. Along with all those people moving about is the purpose of that motion. Could feel it pulling everyone along? Including me?
Five days a week, twice a day, this chance to get a feeling of being a part of this massive stream of humanity.
My fascination with this confluence of humanity was at least partly with concern about the notion of how different we all are. So much focus on conflicts or disparities, but maybe it's more exciting to think on such, and less to consider when more similar than not.
There is a certain peace there as well, where I saw it more on the bus, or train or walking along the sidewalk. Actually walking the sidewalk is where I think you can feel the flow more than elsewhere. And there is something almost psychic about how well people moved. Those senses of how to do it, so much so that you can quickly tell when coming up on someone who is out of it. Out of flow.
Humanity flows around them on the sidewalk, where that can be something to ponder as well, and sometimes there is a decision point: do you stop? Is help necessary? But rarely was it.
How many find time to appreciate how often people are flowing together in some way?
That thing you have to do to get to that place you have to go, if you're going to make a living. But I often thought it was a beautiful thing. Comforting.
There are those things which are stable in our lives which can feel good to me, when things go awkward, or worse. A point of reference for a return to stability when jarred by life. The daily commute was one of them. Finding comfort in what was there. Not as just some necessary activity, but as a point of connection with so many others.
James Harris
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Is there a guy pack mentality for style?
In my experience, when I would run with a guy pack, there was lot more similarity I think in what we were wearing than differences.
Do wonder if in American culture many men work to stand in, versus stand out. And if so male uniformity in clothing is a style statement in and of itself.
Focus on the male perspective is natural for me, because, well, I'm a guy.
And am proud of a country which is increasingly focused on equality so will try to be careful here, but it's not my imagination thinking of cases where women talked about being aghast at wearing the same outfit as another woman, to an event. And I would just note that without really getting why it mattered. To me, such thing seemed like, hey cool, see you have the same high tastes as me! From my perspective? That's validation.
Not that it'd be necessarily a good or bad thing if men in American society tend to be pushed to uniformity in clothing. Though it could explain some things. As a guy when you're running with your crew, eliciting those stares of incredulity at something you're wearing is pressure. It's like, everybody here has on jeans and t-shirts, so why do you think you can wear loafers? Trying to make a statement? Ready to challenge the leader of the pack for dominance?
Ok last I just made that up. Thankfully I never did run with such a crew.
For me so much was long ago and wonder if things are much different now. Haven't really ran with a pack in a while I'll readily admit. So in my experience with the guy pack fashion was discussed less openly. And I think then it was because it would imply fashion differences.
People talking fashion don't sit around marveling at how...or do they? Do they sit around excited at how close each is to wearing very similar clothing to everyone else?
Or do they tend to celebrate differences?
Got things done this week?
I know I did. And there is a thing I think where people can decry a lockstep mentality, as if endless originality were all that worked, when so often getting things done can depend on lots of people pulling together.
Our world works great with lots of styles, not just in clothing but in behavior. So yeah, taking orders requires a certain mentality. But I think at its best, freedom is in the mind.
Of course, how others react to us is in their minds, and it is interesting that careful balance between personal choice, and how really you'll get things done in the real world.
There are places which require uniforms in life, and nothing wrong with same for those who make those choices.
If you go out tonight as you're deciding what to wear it might be interesting to consider two positions.
If you feel a push to be different--concern someone else might be wearing the same thing for instance.
Or feel pulled to uniformity--considering just how off can that basic style of your group can you be?
Call it a social experiment. There is no right answer either, only your reality.
James Harris
Do wonder if in American culture many men work to stand in, versus stand out. And if so male uniformity in clothing is a style statement in and of itself.
Focus on the male perspective is natural for me, because, well, I'm a guy.
And am proud of a country which is increasingly focused on equality so will try to be careful here, but it's not my imagination thinking of cases where women talked about being aghast at wearing the same outfit as another woman, to an event. And I would just note that without really getting why it mattered. To me, such thing seemed like, hey cool, see you have the same high tastes as me! From my perspective? That's validation.
Not that it'd be necessarily a good or bad thing if men in American society tend to be pushed to uniformity in clothing. Though it could explain some things. As a guy when you're running with your crew, eliciting those stares of incredulity at something you're wearing is pressure. It's like, everybody here has on jeans and t-shirts, so why do you think you can wear loafers? Trying to make a statement? Ready to challenge the leader of the pack for dominance?
Ok last I just made that up. Thankfully I never did run with such a crew.
For me so much was long ago and wonder if things are much different now. Haven't really ran with a pack in a while I'll readily admit. So in my experience with the guy pack fashion was discussed less openly. And I think then it was because it would imply fashion differences.
People talking fashion don't sit around marveling at how...or do they? Do they sit around excited at how close each is to wearing very similar clothing to everyone else?
Or do they tend to celebrate differences?
Got things done this week?
I know I did. And there is a thing I think where people can decry a lockstep mentality, as if endless originality were all that worked, when so often getting things done can depend on lots of people pulling together.
Our world works great with lots of styles, not just in clothing but in behavior. So yeah, taking orders requires a certain mentality. But I think at its best, freedom is in the mind.
Of course, how others react to us is in their minds, and it is interesting that careful balance between personal choice, and how really you'll get things done in the real world.
There are places which require uniforms in life, and nothing wrong with same for those who make those choices.
If you go out tonight as you're deciding what to wear it might be interesting to consider two positions.
If you feel a push to be different--concern someone else might be wearing the same thing for instance.
Or feel pulled to uniformity--considering just how off can that basic style of your group can you be?
Call it a social experiment. There is no right answer either, only your reality.
James Harris
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Where interest lies
Why would anyone want to be in politics? As someone who likes to comment on it, I think about that question a LOT, and guessing at reasons for politicians is kind of fun. However, it seems key to me that something simple should be true. And I tweeted about it:
Are they dumb enough to just blurt it out though if in reality their own interests are what really matters to them? Won't every politician claim to be for others first?
Watching political candidates in the news I often wonder where their focus is. Search for clues. Of course opinions are all over and how can you really know? Beyond the talking points, carefully prepared statements, or attempts at pretending at not giving them, where does the truth lie?
Where is their focus really? And if that focus is on self, then you gotta wonder, what are they doing there?
Ego? Ambition? Delusion of their own worldview?
Guess that's what is supposed to be up to the voters to figure out.
Where is the good for the country?
It is an interesting question to me whether or not most Americans think that puzzling it out is important or take it for granted that people at the highest rungs of politics are only in it for themselves.
I know I don't.
And I fear that can be a problem with our television and movies which are works of fiction, where the truth is not as important as the entertainment value. But what if people believe that's the way it really is?
So yeah, in movies, or on television all kinds of craziness can rule. But there writers can just write away the consequences too. Make up rules, ignore legalities and skirt realities of law enforcement, all in the name of entertainment. Or how voters would actually react. Writers can make it work out a certain way which pleases a particular viewing audience.
In reality though, writers are just some more people, still just workers among millions in the nation with no more power than anyone else. And if something really big happens they're as likely to be befuddled as everyone else. But unlike others they may be studying to learn and write that into their pale reflections.
If throughout this nation's history its leaders had ever for the most part been only in it for themselves then this country would be in a bad state. It might not even still be here.
That's reality. No human writer good enough to come close to writing a script that can handle it.
Politicians come and go. It's the nation that must last.
The needs of any particular politician today can be very important to that person, and dominate a life. On the national stage such personal interest can capture the attention of millions.
But in time, those needs will disappear like those of every other throughout human history, and what will be left behind?
I find it hard to believe that a selfish focus on one person, in a reality where the needs of millions, and even billions must be considered, can lead to anything other than ephemera of the moment. Such a brief burst that it might be hardly thought of as real once it's gone.
That such an empty life would be even more transient than our worst entertainment, something people wish were just a bad movie that had been kept in the can.
That is, something that should never have been released to the viewing world.
James Harris
Nations at their best require leaders who seek their nation's interest first. Their own? Not worth mentioning.
— James Harris (@jstevh) September 19, 2015
Are they dumb enough to just blurt it out though if in reality their own interests are what really matters to them? Won't every politician claim to be for others first?
Watching political candidates in the news I often wonder where their focus is. Search for clues. Of course opinions are all over and how can you really know? Beyond the talking points, carefully prepared statements, or attempts at pretending at not giving them, where does the truth lie?
Where is their focus really? And if that focus is on self, then you gotta wonder, what are they doing there?
Ego? Ambition? Delusion of their own worldview?
Guess that's what is supposed to be up to the voters to figure out.
Where is the good for the country?
It is an interesting question to me whether or not most Americans think that puzzling it out is important or take it for granted that people at the highest rungs of politics are only in it for themselves.
I know I don't.
And I fear that can be a problem with our television and movies which are works of fiction, where the truth is not as important as the entertainment value. But what if people believe that's the way it really is?
So yeah, in movies, or on television all kinds of craziness can rule. But there writers can just write away the consequences too. Make up rules, ignore legalities and skirt realities of law enforcement, all in the name of entertainment. Or how voters would actually react. Writers can make it work out a certain way which pleases a particular viewing audience.
In reality though, writers are just some more people, still just workers among millions in the nation with no more power than anyone else. And if something really big happens they're as likely to be befuddled as everyone else. But unlike others they may be studying to learn and write that into their pale reflections.
If throughout this nation's history its leaders had ever for the most part been only in it for themselves then this country would be in a bad state. It might not even still be here.
That's reality. No human writer good enough to come close to writing a script that can handle it.
Politicians come and go. It's the nation that must last.
The needs of any particular politician today can be very important to that person, and dominate a life. On the national stage such personal interest can capture the attention of millions.
But in time, those needs will disappear like those of every other throughout human history, and what will be left behind?
I find it hard to believe that a selfish focus on one person, in a reality where the needs of millions, and even billions must be considered, can lead to anything other than ephemera of the moment. Such a brief burst that it might be hardly thought of as real once it's gone.
That such an empty life would be even more transient than our worst entertainment, something people wish were just a bad movie that had been kept in the can.
That is, something that should never have been released to the viewing world.
James Harris
Monday, September 28, 2015
Considering that shift on Monday
That separation from the weekend, for those who have it off, into the working week, where for many it starts Monday, fascinates me. Maybe for most it seems too obvious a thing to consider the stark contrast. But then again is usually separated by a night of sleep.
However for those who have irresponsibly pushed the limits by staying up all night on Sunday, or been forced to do so for good reason--it can stare you right in the face.
Have done that before--though don't remember if it was for responsible or not reasons--and as you shower if you have time, brush your teeth, force yourself into your work attire, and get to the bus stop in time to ride your usual to work, it can be kind of eery.
People look just slightly different. It occurred to me how odd this thing that usually seemed so normal.
And on into work, and co-workers greetings like normal. Maybe even a bit of an affront if you realize they can't tell? Shouldn't I look tired? Worn-out? Or do I?
And get to work, and it just flows like before, or does it? Feels ok. Uh oh, but there's a mistake don't normally make. But caught it! So ok. It will be ok. Has to be, no choice.
Are you even really there or sound asleep dreaming you managed to get up to work anyway despite a wild night out when you should have just forced yourself HOME on time?
Uh oh, really at work? The question beings to really bother, though so silly. And so you pinch yourself as if you can't do that in a dream.
I mean, why can't you pinch yourself in a dream and STILL nonetheless be dreaming?
How does anybody know?
Has it really been tested? If so, how would you? Remember dreaming where you pinch yourself? And then later, you're like, oh hey! Was dreaming and pinched myself? So that doesn't work? Or it did, but then, it couldn't have. So maybe the key is you never think of doing it while dreaming? As if you did then it wouldn't really work, as then you'd be pinching yourself in your dream.
Who came up with this pinch yourself thing? Though will admit do not ever remember pinching myself in a dream. So how do I know it doesn't work?
Another mistake. Caught it. Catching them all, right? Stupid dream question, distraction. Must focus. Look at the clock. What? ONLY TEN MINUTES HAVE PASSED?
Yeah, been there, done that, no intentions of ever doing it again. Funny thinking about it though. Time can give you that gift. Back then, was just very stressful.
Will leap ahead to the end of such a Monday, when you're starting to drift when back on the bus. Stumble into your room, not bothering even to take off your clothes, and flop on the bed to go to blessed sleep.
Then oddly enough a sense of accomplishment, but still, don't do that, please.
If you DID stay up all night last night though, and are in the US, it's early going into Monday now! And good luck with the rest of of the day! You'll need it.
Happy Monday!
James Harris
However for those who have irresponsibly pushed the limits by staying up all night on Sunday, or been forced to do so for good reason--it can stare you right in the face.
Have done that before--though don't remember if it was for responsible or not reasons--and as you shower if you have time, brush your teeth, force yourself into your work attire, and get to the bus stop in time to ride your usual to work, it can be kind of eery.
People look just slightly different. It occurred to me how odd this thing that usually seemed so normal.
And on into work, and co-workers greetings like normal. Maybe even a bit of an affront if you realize they can't tell? Shouldn't I look tired? Worn-out? Or do I?
And get to work, and it just flows like before, or does it? Feels ok. Uh oh, but there's a mistake don't normally make. But caught it! So ok. It will be ok. Has to be, no choice.
Are you even really there or sound asleep dreaming you managed to get up to work anyway despite a wild night out when you should have just forced yourself HOME on time?
Uh oh, really at work? The question beings to really bother, though so silly. And so you pinch yourself as if you can't do that in a dream.
I mean, why can't you pinch yourself in a dream and STILL nonetheless be dreaming?
How does anybody know?
Has it really been tested? If so, how would you? Remember dreaming where you pinch yourself? And then later, you're like, oh hey! Was dreaming and pinched myself? So that doesn't work? Or it did, but then, it couldn't have. So maybe the key is you never think of doing it while dreaming? As if you did then it wouldn't really work, as then you'd be pinching yourself in your dream.
Who came up with this pinch yourself thing? Though will admit do not ever remember pinching myself in a dream. So how do I know it doesn't work?
Another mistake. Caught it. Catching them all, right? Stupid dream question, distraction. Must focus. Look at the clock. What? ONLY TEN MINUTES HAVE PASSED?
Yeah, been there, done that, no intentions of ever doing it again. Funny thinking about it though. Time can give you that gift. Back then, was just very stressful.
Will leap ahead to the end of such a Monday, when you're starting to drift when back on the bus. Stumble into your room, not bothering even to take off your clothes, and flop on the bed to go to blessed sleep.
Then oddly enough a sense of accomplishment, but still, don't do that, please.
If you DID stay up all night last night though, and are in the US, it's early going into Monday now! And good luck with the rest of of the day! You'll need it.
Happy Monday!
James Harris
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Upfront will work best am sure
Found myself reading something and was thinking to myself: this person better be getting paid to talk this much about this particular product. But I don't know. With me? If I talk a product on THIS blog, and only here, then yeah, I better be getting paid as those are the rules! I set them up. So without any endorsements, no mention of products or services. And even staying away from people, except myself. Can talk any of my own things, of course.
Things are going well. One month of postings down, and near closing to end of this month, and thinking about finally doing real promotion in October, and it's like, how? Will figure it out. And no, will not be buying ads or anything. I have a global readership through my non-commercial things--where again commercial to me is trying to build an audience as isn't that really usually to make money some kind of way?
Will not use my other three blogs, but there are places where can promote here, like already have tweeted out once, and also put a couple of posts on my public Facebook. Those are tests though.
The biggest shift here for me is having scheduled postings which represent a commitment to my readers: I will put up a post in a particular subject area on certain days. And also have certain times. So that gives me deadlines, and means I have to come up with ideas.
Reality though is you can want to do something, and just not quite have it in you to deliver, so the three months is a way for me, and others who are interested, to see if I can.
And will announce a two week break going into December, to process, and you need vacations. Of course have to get there. But with most of September done have learned a LOT more about what I can do. It's such a good feeling too. Yes, I can come up with ideas, and put up some writing which I think is decent. Of course what will really matter is if others agree.
And for my early readers--thank you for being here.
God willing will have the depths to keep getting the ideas. If not will put SOMETHING up anyway! Made a commitment. Am sticking to it.
Things are going well. One month of postings down, and near closing to end of this month, and thinking about finally doing real promotion in October, and it's like, how? Will figure it out. And no, will not be buying ads or anything. I have a global readership through my non-commercial things--where again commercial to me is trying to build an audience as isn't that really usually to make money some kind of way?
Will not use my other three blogs, but there are places where can promote here, like already have tweeted out once, and also put a couple of posts on my public Facebook. Those are tests though.
The biggest shift here for me is having scheduled postings which represent a commitment to my readers: I will put up a post in a particular subject area on certain days. And also have certain times. So that gives me deadlines, and means I have to come up with ideas.
Reality though is you can want to do something, and just not quite have it in you to deliver, so the three months is a way for me, and others who are interested, to see if I can.
And will announce a two week break going into December, to process, and you need vacations. Of course have to get there. But with most of September done have learned a LOT more about what I can do. It's such a good feeling too. Yes, I can come up with ideas, and put up some writing which I think is decent. Of course what will really matter is if others agree.
And for my early readers--thank you for being here.
God willing will have the depths to keep getting the ideas. If not will put SOMETHING up anyway! Made a commitment. Am sticking to it.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Talking to myself and my anxiety
Who really is going to get on your case about looking both ways to cross the road? But hey, that's fear folks. That is the appropriate word that best describes the proper emotion when you are carefully crossing a street. And I feel no shame about it! My fear of getting run over brings me no shame. And God help you if you tell people that's wrong, as then there is something wrong with you. So why does fear get such a bad rap?
People talk about anxiety and do that as if is distinctive from fear, but then again they'll put in the "fear" word as if, so to a lot of people seems like they talk as if mean the same thing. But to me there can be more of a question of validity with anxiety, is it real?
These are the kinds of things that can occupy my mind but claiming NO expertise as a medical anything whatsoever. Not a mental health professional. Am some guy talking out something that intrigues me on my blog.
And if you're heading out tonight, which can be so much fun, what, if anything, will rule you? A lot of people want to be sure and claim that fear will not, but hey, don't go running into the road without looking! Think maybe they really mean anxiety. Or yeah, fear in certain contexts, like that other people are watching them.
To me it's kind of strange when people will be amazed at how confident I've been in some situations, where the feeling is, just being myself. Having fun. What else was I supposed to do?
But then again I have the benefit of supposing other people really aren't paying as much attention to me, as some other people seem to think people do to them.
Of course what if they are? Um, talking me here. They weren't. But I guess if they are for someone, then why is it that most of those folks seem to handle it rather well? Or I guess they do a great job at hiding the fear? So yeah think that's the right word there and NOT anxiety as then very real. It isn't inappropriate but can still be faced I'm sure. People do seem to do it, all over the world.
So to me THAT is anxiety? Fear for something not quite real?
Possibly we understand when fear is going to be about something real, like you look both ways when you cross the road, to avoid being hit by cars. You're afraid of being hit which is smart.
But if you "fear" that people won't like you, when they may not even for the most part realize you're there as you're part of a crowd, then by saying that to someone can you manufacture that fear? Just by telling it to yourself and even worse others?
Wondering from my amateur position as not a mental health professional, as it is interesting to me to consider those times I just shut-up that voice inside my head and just DID something where that worked out ok. Like a quick mental dismissal, saying, hey these people are having a great time, as I should be, and are not wasting their time worrying about me!
Glad that worked when it did, though one's memory can play tricks on you. No doubt. (So glad don't mention names as certain famous figure comes to mind. If you know who, isn't that amazing? How little it takes to trigger that recognition? If want more clues, um, not giving any.)
Can it be that simple? I don't know. I just know the kinds of things I do. And one is to just ask myself: is my fear in this situation a way to feel more important?
For me that's a great question. Sometimes I really gotta wonder about the attitude, you know? Is it really about trying to put myself on a pedestal where all these people care how I look and behave?
If the answer in my mind is, maybe, then I can talk that down. Like when was in SF, it was like, are you kidding me? These cool, hip San Francisco folks are not impressed. Let's just have fun!!!
Worked for me.
For anyone for whom anxiety is a problem thankfully society is moving beyond the stigma associated with getting help. And there are mental health professionals who can be of great benefit. Science does have its bright spots, and better diagnosis and treatment in our modern age for a variety of mental health concerns is one of them. Talking to the right person could be the best thing.
James Harris
People talk about anxiety and do that as if is distinctive from fear, but then again they'll put in the "fear" word as if, so to a lot of people seems like they talk as if mean the same thing. But to me there can be more of a question of validity with anxiety, is it real?
These are the kinds of things that can occupy my mind but claiming NO expertise as a medical anything whatsoever. Not a mental health professional. Am some guy talking out something that intrigues me on my blog.
And if you're heading out tonight, which can be so much fun, what, if anything, will rule you? A lot of people want to be sure and claim that fear will not, but hey, don't go running into the road without looking! Think maybe they really mean anxiety. Or yeah, fear in certain contexts, like that other people are watching them.
To me it's kind of strange when people will be amazed at how confident I've been in some situations, where the feeling is, just being myself. Having fun. What else was I supposed to do?
But then again I have the benefit of supposing other people really aren't paying as much attention to me, as some other people seem to think people do to them.
Of course what if they are? Um, talking me here. They weren't. But I guess if they are for someone, then why is it that most of those folks seem to handle it rather well? Or I guess they do a great job at hiding the fear? So yeah think that's the right word there and NOT anxiety as then very real. It isn't inappropriate but can still be faced I'm sure. People do seem to do it, all over the world.
So to me THAT is anxiety? Fear for something not quite real?
Possibly we understand when fear is going to be about something real, like you look both ways when you cross the road, to avoid being hit by cars. You're afraid of being hit which is smart.
But if you "fear" that people won't like you, when they may not even for the most part realize you're there as you're part of a crowd, then by saying that to someone can you manufacture that fear? Just by telling it to yourself and even worse others?
Wondering from my amateur position as not a mental health professional, as it is interesting to me to consider those times I just shut-up that voice inside my head and just DID something where that worked out ok. Like a quick mental dismissal, saying, hey these people are having a great time, as I should be, and are not wasting their time worrying about me!
Glad that worked when it did, though one's memory can play tricks on you. No doubt. (So glad don't mention names as certain famous figure comes to mind. If you know who, isn't that amazing? How little it takes to trigger that recognition? If want more clues, um, not giving any.)
Can it be that simple? I don't know. I just know the kinds of things I do. And one is to just ask myself: is my fear in this situation a way to feel more important?
For me that's a great question. Sometimes I really gotta wonder about the attitude, you know? Is it really about trying to put myself on a pedestal where all these people care how I look and behave?
If the answer in my mind is, maybe, then I can talk that down. Like when was in SF, it was like, are you kidding me? These cool, hip San Francisco folks are not impressed. Let's just have fun!!!
Worked for me.
For anyone for whom anxiety is a problem thankfully society is moving beyond the stigma associated with getting help. And there are mental health professionals who can be of great benefit. Science does have its bright spots, and better diagnosis and treatment in our modern age for a variety of mental health concerns is one of them. Talking to the right person could be the best thing.
James Harris
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Our labels, what selves?
There is a natural human need to categorize and labels help us to do it. Like having a "Sugar" label on that container with, yup, the sugar. Yes, you could look into the container. Take some of the white substance out and taste it, to know what it is, but that label makes things quick and easy. Just read it and know, or think you know.
I don't think there is any doubt of the usefulness of labels with containers of sugar, and labels are there for so much in our lives. But what about those with regard to people?
Our politicians I'm sure must crave certain labels: brave, successful, leader, dignified
Just some I think are positive among many others.
And try to avoid others like: fake, disloyal, corrupt
Yes, so efficient in categorizing even people, even politicians, labels have an appeal and ease which makes their impact impossible to escape. And they can be so destructive too. So should emphasize am focused very narrowly here. Thinking about politicians. Am going to avoid digging too deeply into this subject!
Even before you meet a person for the first time those labels can determine so much of your behavior:
Rich person? Reporter? "Leader of the free world"?
Whether you believe them or not, put much stock in them or not, you will probably have to react to them, once given to you.
We can get so fixated on the labels with which we can try to categorize including with people. But the labels do not necessarily tell what is the most important reality. And can even be just wrong, like if some prankster has replaced the contents of that container for sugar. Or if someone accidentally put the label on the flour container.
It's worth remembering to focus scrutiny on the labels at times, to not just accept them. So a politician wishes to grab a particular positive label, does that make it true?
How do we know how to look behind the labels or when it is necessary?
As political season in the United States gets under way, I'm reminding myself to constantly keep checking labels attached to candidates
And there are definitely labels worth gaining, shifting to other areas beyond politics, being called "doctor" is supposed to be an indicator of expertise. And there one can see where there can be a problem with just the label, as how did the person get it really?
For a medical doctor, years of hard work in medical school are required, legally, and even more in training beyond is usually necessary. But what about someone who wishes the honor and tries to simply take it, with none of the above? Like some charlatan might counterfeit credentials and convince others. Such a person can be called the thing by misled people, but cannot perform at the level. And that can be a matter of life and death.
Which can maybe help in this regard, as a real doctor can be challenged on expertise and shine. And in fact that kind of challenge can be like rubbing brass to make it all shiny. Like if you're not sure the label on that container is correct, so then yes, you need to take some out and see that it IS sugar.
People with ability relish using it. People with real knowledge take it for granted that it is a tool at the ready in their daily lives.
Ultimately we will all probably find labels in life. Ready or not, others will put some on us. And while some must be fought against, or are divisive, others fit a social need. They're just so handy.
Labels are out there, whether we like it or not. Facing them has helped me through my life.
The complexities of the political process demand help in simplifying, so no doubt labels will continue to fly in American political campaigns. The real question for the careers of the politicians involved is, which ones will stick?
But regardless at times any should be challenged and tested. Make sure that person is more than just a label but is also the reality that should be behind it.
James Harris
I don't think there is any doubt of the usefulness of labels with containers of sugar, and labels are there for so much in our lives. But what about those with regard to people?
Our politicians I'm sure must crave certain labels: brave, successful, leader, dignified
Just some I think are positive among many others.
And try to avoid others like: fake, disloyal, corrupt
Yes, so efficient in categorizing even people, even politicians, labels have an appeal and ease which makes their impact impossible to escape. And they can be so destructive too. So should emphasize am focused very narrowly here. Thinking about politicians. Am going to avoid digging too deeply into this subject!
Even before you meet a person for the first time those labels can determine so much of your behavior:
Rich person? Reporter? "Leader of the free world"?
Whether you believe them or not, put much stock in them or not, you will probably have to react to them, once given to you.
We can get so fixated on the labels with which we can try to categorize including with people. But the labels do not necessarily tell what is the most important reality. And can even be just wrong, like if some prankster has replaced the contents of that container for sugar. Or if someone accidentally put the label on the flour container.
It's worth remembering to focus scrutiny on the labels at times, to not just accept them. So a politician wishes to grab a particular positive label, does that make it true?
How do we know how to look behind the labels or when it is necessary?
As political season in the United States gets under way, I'm reminding myself to constantly keep checking labels attached to candidates
And there are definitely labels worth gaining, shifting to other areas beyond politics, being called "doctor" is supposed to be an indicator of expertise. And there one can see where there can be a problem with just the label, as how did the person get it really?
For a medical doctor, years of hard work in medical school are required, legally, and even more in training beyond is usually necessary. But what about someone who wishes the honor and tries to simply take it, with none of the above? Like some charlatan might counterfeit credentials and convince others. Such a person can be called the thing by misled people, but cannot perform at the level. And that can be a matter of life and death.
Which can maybe help in this regard, as a real doctor can be challenged on expertise and shine. And in fact that kind of challenge can be like rubbing brass to make it all shiny. Like if you're not sure the label on that container is correct, so then yes, you need to take some out and see that it IS sugar.
People with ability relish using it. People with real knowledge take it for granted that it is a tool at the ready in their daily lives.
Ultimately we will all probably find labels in life. Ready or not, others will put some on us. And while some must be fought against, or are divisive, others fit a social need. They're just so handy.
Labels are out there, whether we like it or not. Facing them has helped me through my life.
The complexities of the political process demand help in simplifying, so no doubt labels will continue to fly in American political campaigns. The real question for the careers of the politicians involved is, which ones will stick?
But regardless at times any should be challenged and tested. Make sure that person is more than just a label but is also the reality that should be behind it.
James Harris
Monday, September 21, 2015
Step it out
One of those ancient sayings I love is: a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
And I've thought about it a lot, as it's forced upon anyone--any path we take depends first on taking that crucial first step. And for any success it had to be there.
Brings to mind for me an earlier skill a lot of people pick up old enough to really remember, which is learning to ride a bike. And distinctly remember my joy at getting a bicycle and my frustration that I couldn't immediately ride like the wind. Instead falling over was a reality check: learning required, practice necessary.
The necessity of practice with most activities that matter just cannot be escaped. And if something that can be understood as easily as riding a bike requires much, it makes sense that far more complicated activities require much as well. And in reality often much, much more.
Eventually got the hang of the bicycle, after more falls than seemed reasonable to me. And then could as far as I was concerned, ride like the wind. But to get there had to try.
Maybe it's harder to remember that necessity of just doing something, taking those initial steps to getting that thing done, when it's something you really wanted. Can seem like the joy was the point. We can gloss over the details and find our memory fades of the many little steps, and especially that first one.
Get on the bike. Pedal. Just do it. Fall over. Try again.
When you wish your life to move forward it is I think important to accept that you will need to DO something. And what needs to be done may be smaller than you think, but without it, nothing else happens.
One of those things I like to consciously do is find an area in my life where a positive change is wanted, figure out what that first step is, and then? Take it.
And to help, have instructions here and there for myself.
Monday's are great for new beginnings. Beginning this week I'm thinking about the steps to take in my life, and continuing on in those areas where so much has already been done.
Each step may seems small, but without taking a step? You're not going anywhere.
James Harris
And I've thought about it a lot, as it's forced upon anyone--any path we take depends first on taking that crucial first step. And for any success it had to be there.
Brings to mind for me an earlier skill a lot of people pick up old enough to really remember, which is learning to ride a bike. And distinctly remember my joy at getting a bicycle and my frustration that I couldn't immediately ride like the wind. Instead falling over was a reality check: learning required, practice necessary.
The necessity of practice with most activities that matter just cannot be escaped. And if something that can be understood as easily as riding a bike requires much, it makes sense that far more complicated activities require much as well. And in reality often much, much more.
Eventually got the hang of the bicycle, after more falls than seemed reasonable to me. And then could as far as I was concerned, ride like the wind. But to get there had to try.
Maybe it's harder to remember that necessity of just doing something, taking those initial steps to getting that thing done, when it's something you really wanted. Can seem like the joy was the point. We can gloss over the details and find our memory fades of the many little steps, and especially that first one.
Get on the bike. Pedal. Just do it. Fall over. Try again.
When you wish your life to move forward it is I think important to accept that you will need to DO something. And what needs to be done may be smaller than you think, but without it, nothing else happens.
One of those things I like to consciously do is find an area in my life where a positive change is wanted, figure out what that first step is, and then? Take it.
And to help, have instructions here and there for myself.
Don't think you can. MOVE.
— James Harris (@jstevh) June 18, 2012
Monday's are great for new beginnings. Beginning this week I'm thinking about the steps to take in my life, and continuing on in those areas where so much has already been done.
Each step may seems small, but without taking a step? You're not going anywhere.
James Harris
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Building foundations is fun work
Thanks for the readers already! So glad you're here.
Liking this idea about it just being understood that if products or I guess services get mentioned that there would be compensation involved which means now, no such mentions!!! Keeps it simple I think.
Though I could slip, so I'll note that if any such occurred would also have it mentioned on the page for endorsements. So should emphasize that seeing a product or service mentioned does NOT prove am getting paid for that--in case I slip-up--as there would also be a note of it on the endorsements page.
Things now are the fun part, as there are things I know now I can do that I didn't know as hadn't tried. Of course not necessarily what a reader wants to hear, but I think things are upfront enough that readers are within their expectations which is my job--to always deliver up to or greater than my reader's expectations.
By creating a deliberately commercial space, for my writing, I'm using it to focus any such here. Elsewhere? Nope.
Pageviews still going up! So still moving forward. Tried out a little self-promo yesterday. But still not in full promotion yet. That is on my to-do list for some time in October.
Liking this idea about it just being understood that if products or I guess services get mentioned that there would be compensation involved which means now, no such mentions!!! Keeps it simple I think.
Though I could slip, so I'll note that if any such occurred would also have it mentioned on the page for endorsements. So should emphasize that seeing a product or service mentioned does NOT prove am getting paid for that--in case I slip-up--as there would also be a note of it on the endorsements page.
Things now are the fun part, as there are things I know now I can do that I didn't know as hadn't tried. Of course not necessarily what a reader wants to hear, but I think things are upfront enough that readers are within their expectations which is my job--to always deliver up to or greater than my reader's expectations.
By creating a deliberately commercial space, for my writing, I'm using it to focus any such here. Elsewhere? Nope.
Pageviews still going up! So still moving forward. Tried out a little self-promo yesterday. But still not in full promotion yet. That is on my to-do list for some time in October.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Clothing communicates, always
Walk out the door and more than likely you are wearing something, unless you are at a nudist colony. And whether we like it or not, clothing tells people things about us. LOTS of things, which may be why some people claim disdain for fashion.
Fashion will tell on you, like it or not.
Which makes clothing one of those important areas for understanding humanity. But even better, one of the best ways to express ourselves, and not even feel guilty about it.
Wish to talk to strangers? Don't worry, you do it everyday when you walk outside, unless you're in a commune, I guess. And no one is a stranger. Then of course you'd still be talking to your commune people.
Which begins to raise the question, how do we decide really?
When thinking about what to wear, what are you trying to say? And do you realize it, suffer through the necessity, or just do it without really thinking?
And so utilitarian that word "fashion". It's such a useful word. What's in fashion? What's your fashion? Rhymes with passion.
But maybe for some people there is a concern if you want people to look at you. As if there is something grand about wishing you could be invisible? Or maybe it's the idea of those people who supposedly demand attention. Like billboards on the sidewalks of life, flashing--look at me, look at me, you know you better look at me?
Reality while you may think some people are demanding attention that is probably rarely the case. Being well-dressed can communicate status, but it's also something I think most would do if they could. Most important thing is being comfortable in your put on extra layers of de facto skin.
We humans are so lucky! Our ancestors learned how to make more covering--so glad they were so smart--which is like a convenient second skin. Which lets us go all over the world, even the freezing Arctic. Which goes to the functional reality locked into our clothing as well that can even take some of us into space which is the ultimate expression of clothing utility.
Oh yeah, out there in space? No one is really looking at your clothes. But how do I really know? Possibly aliens are pondering the fashion tastes of our astronauts?
Imagine one day an alien approaches one of our surprised astronauts in space and asks--by telepathy as sound doesn't travel in space: Who are you wearing?
We wear clothes for many purposes, which also tells a lot about us.
So you walk into a hospital? Doctors like to look different from others, which is functional and about status. Those white coats of doctors tell you something. Reminds me of one of my favorite television characters who eschewed them. And will not name the show as have what I call a commercial blog here where I have given myself a rule not to mention certain things without some kind of monetary compensation. Which now, with no such deals, leads I think to some interestingly clean writing, with no product mentions.
For guys in this country talking fashion is traditionally strewn with difficulty though things are evening up as we get to a more equal world. Though I think many believe fashion is easy for guys. But that makes no sense! It's just as hard for men as women, and anyone in between.
Fashion is a great equalizer as guess what? It TELLS things about you. And yes I'm repeating, but that should be repeated. And why wouldn't any person not wish to express well?
So fashion is not a gender issue. No way it could have been really. As long as there have been clothes the people wearing them have been concerned about how they look in them, whatever they say on the subject.
But expressing yourself is one thing, but what about the wishes of your partner: what does that special person in your life wish to see?
Luckily for a lot of guys I think that's where we do maybe get it a bit easier as I'm sure, she will tell you.
But for a woman asking her guy I think there can be a bit more of a risk, as he for some bizarro reason may put her into some version of a male fantasy which if he thought it through he would realize he does NOT want other guys considering. And yeah dudes, we can tell, right? So it's like, you can almost count it out--so she listened to him and he has her in basic male fantasy #29. Tells you more about him than her.
And will admit not as sure about other variations like for women paired with women or men with men, or transgender and beyond. But I am sure things are just as interesting.
Closing out the week either today or tomorrow--for those who are finishing up with a more traditional work week--it's interesting to note that if you go out tonight you will EXPRESS YOURSELF.
Isn't that wonderful? Smile with me. Telling who you are is a great thing.
Believe it, it's true! Express you.
And I think going out on Thursday is a nice way to relax. Then you are expressing yourself not just with your fashion but your cool.
But if you must go to work tomorrow, please make it to work on time, and if you don't or are hopelessly hung-over despite my SAYING keep it in control?
Then don't you know to be careful about taking advice from the Internet?
And my commercial writing week is done. Am I supposed to note that? I'm sure I'll quit noting that but feel so good! Got a lot done. Always celebrate reaching your goals, no matter how big or small. Which yes, is more advice from the Internet. Oh well. I'm out.
Have a great weekend!
James Harris
Fashion will tell on you, like it or not.
Which makes clothing one of those important areas for understanding humanity. But even better, one of the best ways to express ourselves, and not even feel guilty about it.
Wish to talk to strangers? Don't worry, you do it everyday when you walk outside, unless you're in a commune, I guess. And no one is a stranger. Then of course you'd still be talking to your commune people.
Which begins to raise the question, how do we decide really?
When thinking about what to wear, what are you trying to say? And do you realize it, suffer through the necessity, or just do it without really thinking?
And so utilitarian that word "fashion". It's such a useful word. What's in fashion? What's your fashion? Rhymes with passion.
But maybe for some people there is a concern if you want people to look at you. As if there is something grand about wishing you could be invisible? Or maybe it's the idea of those people who supposedly demand attention. Like billboards on the sidewalks of life, flashing--look at me, look at me, you know you better look at me?
Reality while you may think some people are demanding attention that is probably rarely the case. Being well-dressed can communicate status, but it's also something I think most would do if they could. Most important thing is being comfortable in your put on extra layers of de facto skin.
We humans are so lucky! Our ancestors learned how to make more covering--so glad they were so smart--which is like a convenient second skin. Which lets us go all over the world, even the freezing Arctic. Which goes to the functional reality locked into our clothing as well that can even take some of us into space which is the ultimate expression of clothing utility.
Oh yeah, out there in space? No one is really looking at your clothes. But how do I really know? Possibly aliens are pondering the fashion tastes of our astronauts?
Imagine one day an alien approaches one of our surprised astronauts in space and asks--by telepathy as sound doesn't travel in space: Who are you wearing?
We wear clothes for many purposes, which also tells a lot about us.
So you walk into a hospital? Doctors like to look different from others, which is functional and about status. Those white coats of doctors tell you something. Reminds me of one of my favorite television characters who eschewed them. And will not name the show as have what I call a commercial blog here where I have given myself a rule not to mention certain things without some kind of monetary compensation. Which now, with no such deals, leads I think to some interestingly clean writing, with no product mentions.
For guys in this country talking fashion is traditionally strewn with difficulty though things are evening up as we get to a more equal world. Though I think many believe fashion is easy for guys. But that makes no sense! It's just as hard for men as women, and anyone in between.
Fashion is a great equalizer as guess what? It TELLS things about you. And yes I'm repeating, but that should be repeated. And why wouldn't any person not wish to express well?
So fashion is not a gender issue. No way it could have been really. As long as there have been clothes the people wearing them have been concerned about how they look in them, whatever they say on the subject.
But expressing yourself is one thing, but what about the wishes of your partner: what does that special person in your life wish to see?
Luckily for a lot of guys I think that's where we do maybe get it a bit easier as I'm sure, she will tell you.
But for a woman asking her guy I think there can be a bit more of a risk, as he for some bizarro reason may put her into some version of a male fantasy which if he thought it through he would realize he does NOT want other guys considering. And yeah dudes, we can tell, right? So it's like, you can almost count it out--so she listened to him and he has her in basic male fantasy #29. Tells you more about him than her.
And will admit not as sure about other variations like for women paired with women or men with men, or transgender and beyond. But I am sure things are just as interesting.
Closing out the week either today or tomorrow--for those who are finishing up with a more traditional work week--it's interesting to note that if you go out tonight you will EXPRESS YOURSELF.
Isn't that wonderful? Smile with me. Telling who you are is a great thing.
Believe it, it's true! Express you.
And I think going out on Thursday is a nice way to relax. Then you are expressing yourself not just with your fashion but your cool.
But if you must go to work tomorrow, please make it to work on time, and if you don't or are hopelessly hung-over despite my SAYING keep it in control?
Then don't you know to be careful about taking advice from the Internet?
And my commercial writing week is done. Am I supposed to note that? I'm sure I'll quit noting that but feel so good! Got a lot done. Always celebrate reaching your goals, no matter how big or small. Which yes, is more advice from the Internet. Oh well. I'm out.
Have a great weekend!
James Harris
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Women showing women
Having a human body is of course basic to being human. While depictions of that body seem to put one into a vast world of restrictions, confusion and control.
For some it's a religious issue. For others it's just something not discussed. For me it is an arena of endless fascination for many reasons. And while an artistic appreciation for the human form inspires my attention, will readily admit a tendency to focus on the female.
When it comes to depictions of women to me the gender differences seem to go in an odd direction, where males seem to behave as if certain female parts must be treated very differently than others, while in contrast women seem to be more accepting of all a woman's parts including a far more accepting view of female sexual equipment.
Which makes sense. Why wouldn't they?
But then again, why would there be a variation here?
Lots and lots of smoothed out art can be very confusing I'm sure, even for women.
With video it intrigues me when there is nudity involved and the camera does a peculiar dance, which makes certain that certain parts of a woman are either completely missed, or given a glancing view, or--a tease. In the opposite direction there can also be an ogling feel, or a shameful signal as the camera betrays what the operator, I think, feels.
It really can disrupt things to me as at best there is an artistic flow, which gets disrupted for me as the camera has to jump around this insistence that the natural is not.
But I've seen none of that happen in other situations where I was able determine was a woman behind the camera.
In those situations women were just matter-of-fact. They wouldn't ogle on certain parts, nor would they run from them, but would simply depict women as they are. And why wouldn't everyone?
What's with men who see female genitalia as nasty or depictions of them as demeaning? How do they get that view?
And as a guy will admit this subject has me more hesitant than normal, but why? And as attitudes shift and the female body is accepted as it is, I feel more of a relief.
It's like a weight has been lifted and for me that was for the most part done by women showing women. While men seemed to push the tease, or the ogle, push the idea of the forbidden, and push the idea that nudity in and of itself could be degrading for women, though not usually, for men.
For me the bodies of women were for the most part hidden.
And something simply being hidden does not necessarily make it nasty. With the modern web where depictions of the human body are not hard to find do not get that sense that there is something repulsive about the human form in and of itself. Which is great! After all, all us humans have one.
So where do some men get that sense of nasty? And why do they become camera operators?
Or do most men? Or do most camera operators who are men, but am I too focused on this one arena? Find my mind running in circles as it chases complexity I think is really not there.
And do women really make better camera operators when it comes to depictions of women? Or is an idea I find satisfies me?
Does remove any remaining guilt!
But that guilt is so silly. I wasn't born with it, but was taught it. Now I'm so glad to unlearn it!!!
Maybe as time goes forward and useless ideas fall to the side, swept away by the sheer level of content, gender of the person behind the camera won't matter. And if what I think I see is there, it will drift away with a new generation, brought up differently than I was.
And it's not a minor issue. Healthy body image depends on seeing the wide range of human variability, and learning to not only accept it, but be thankful for it.
Now that the human form is not in and of itself considered offensive under laws at least in this country, I'm almost wondering, is this issue really political?
And I think it is, as women fully gain their proper place in society as equals, which includes legal and economic issues, it's surprising to note that is still an ongoing process. It should have been finished by now. And part of maintaining older systems, including politically, was in pushing women off into a special status, where options were limited under the guise of protecting a woman's sensibilities and dignity.
Women themselves have been vocal in this area, with movements like Free The Nipple. And in fighting for the rights to breastfeed in public.
In an equal world it does make sense that we'd have equal bodies despite their differences.
And today greater equality is in respecting the inherent dignity of her and her body, and all its parts.
James Harris
For some it's a religious issue. For others it's just something not discussed. For me it is an arena of endless fascination for many reasons. And while an artistic appreciation for the human form inspires my attention, will readily admit a tendency to focus on the female.
When it comes to depictions of women to me the gender differences seem to go in an odd direction, where males seem to behave as if certain female parts must be treated very differently than others, while in contrast women seem to be more accepting of all a woman's parts including a far more accepting view of female sexual equipment.
Which makes sense. Why wouldn't they?
But then again, why would there be a variation here?
Lots and lots of smoothed out art can be very confusing I'm sure, even for women.
With video it intrigues me when there is nudity involved and the camera does a peculiar dance, which makes certain that certain parts of a woman are either completely missed, or given a glancing view, or--a tease. In the opposite direction there can also be an ogling feel, or a shameful signal as the camera betrays what the operator, I think, feels.
It really can disrupt things to me as at best there is an artistic flow, which gets disrupted for me as the camera has to jump around this insistence that the natural is not.
But I've seen none of that happen in other situations where I was able determine was a woman behind the camera.
In those situations women were just matter-of-fact. They wouldn't ogle on certain parts, nor would they run from them, but would simply depict women as they are. And why wouldn't everyone?
What's with men who see female genitalia as nasty or depictions of them as demeaning? How do they get that view?
And as a guy will admit this subject has me more hesitant than normal, but why? And as attitudes shift and the female body is accepted as it is, I feel more of a relief.
It's like a weight has been lifted and for me that was for the most part done by women showing women. While men seemed to push the tease, or the ogle, push the idea of the forbidden, and push the idea that nudity in and of itself could be degrading for women, though not usually, for men.
For me the bodies of women were for the most part hidden.
And something simply being hidden does not necessarily make it nasty. With the modern web where depictions of the human body are not hard to find do not get that sense that there is something repulsive about the human form in and of itself. Which is great! After all, all us humans have one.
So where do some men get that sense of nasty? And why do they become camera operators?
Or do most men? Or do most camera operators who are men, but am I too focused on this one arena? Find my mind running in circles as it chases complexity I think is really not there.
And do women really make better camera operators when it comes to depictions of women? Or is an idea I find satisfies me?
Does remove any remaining guilt!
But that guilt is so silly. I wasn't born with it, but was taught it. Now I'm so glad to unlearn it!!!
Maybe as time goes forward and useless ideas fall to the side, swept away by the sheer level of content, gender of the person behind the camera won't matter. And if what I think I see is there, it will drift away with a new generation, brought up differently than I was.
And it's not a minor issue. Healthy body image depends on seeing the wide range of human variability, and learning to not only accept it, but be thankful for it.
Now that the human form is not in and of itself considered offensive under laws at least in this country, I'm almost wondering, is this issue really political?
And I think it is, as women fully gain their proper place in society as equals, which includes legal and economic issues, it's surprising to note that is still an ongoing process. It should have been finished by now. And part of maintaining older systems, including politically, was in pushing women off into a special status, where options were limited under the guise of protecting a woman's sensibilities and dignity.
Women themselves have been vocal in this area, with movements like Free The Nipple. And in fighting for the rights to breastfeed in public.
In an equal world it does make sense that we'd have equal bodies despite their differences.
And today greater equality is in respecting the inherent dignity of her and her body, and all its parts.
James Harris
Monday, September 14, 2015
When writing needs to be ON
There are those times when an idea grabs you, as found myself thinking about writer's block, a subject on which I've often been dismissive. How can one possibly find it hard to write? Words just flow. And usually for me they do, but then again I've never had such a schedule as I've given myself here, with constant set and known deadlines. Though am my own boss here, and editor, which is actually kind of harsh as I should give myself more leeway. And sometimes those editorial decisions...you know I write those words for a reason, and to watch them just relentlessly tossed away....
The thoughts that can run through your head.
And it is comforting to know the world is starting up again, as Monday builds forward. But of course the world was also going LAST Monday while here in the US many could snooze that day without guiltily hitting the actual snooze button. Though have hit that thing anyway in the past on a holiday, only to quickly feel silly.
But then there is the joy of rolling over and pulling the covers back over your head.
For me in recent years the weekend came into focus in an odd way as across my various web efforts my readership is LESS on the weekends than during the week, which I'm sure has to do with a lot of what I have being useful to people.
So I can look at worldwide trends in terms of readers and see weekends, and holidays and other drop-offs visible to me as a pattern to ponder. Seeing the ebb and flow of activity around the globe dimly reflected, and it gives this fascinating feel for our world of human activity. And that shifted the way I looked at that time off, through the years. And eventually found I liked the work week more because it was more validating for me.
Actually I should be more concerned with that creativity thing. Maybe shouldn't joke about writer's block! As creativity does not actually work on demand. Coming up with a subject to discuss even within a known focus zone--like starting up the work week again--has to have lots of possibility or one would run through them all, quickly.
Which would lead to repetition. And saying the same thing over and over again. Which could get tedious very quickly, as you repeated...and am just filling space. The more I stress over the possibility the worse it gets! What would happen? What if I'm staring at the screen some morning when I'm supposed to have a post done by my own self-imposed schedule, and have NOTHING?
Will I just start babbling to myself...or just type endless words on the screen wondering where am I going with this thing...or freeze?
But I love whitespace. It's pretty. And when you fill it up with those words, the contrast with the black is so beautiful.
Of course could also throw in a picture. Will try that out just to see.
Oh well, who knows. Will cross that bridge when I come to it. Luckily have a great babble reflex when stressed, so am not really worried. But for now, isn't it wonderful that feeling of an entire week of accomplishment ahead? Sure is for me.
Think about it--soon enough you'll be contemplating the wonder of how much you got done in a week of accomplishment. Or at least that's typically what I do by Thursday.
With the week starting can once again look across my websites to see evidence of people using things.
Guess that's addicting. But I think it's a healthy addiction. Means you have useful information so it gets used. So in a way that is bragging rights! Having your work used more during the week than the weekend, or holidays.
So much in life is how you look at things. Finding the positive isn't even wrong. It's just smart, as the positives are so much about heading in the right direction.
Ever met anyone who wanted to go in the wrong one?
That sense of heading in the right direction is a lot more attractive, as it feels better. Heading the wrong way should feel wrong.
Writing week is in full gear for me. Switch is fully flipped to ON.
Time to get things done.
Let's all get it done.
It's a better direction.
James Harris
The thoughts that can run through your head.
And it is comforting to know the world is starting up again, as Monday builds forward. But of course the world was also going LAST Monday while here in the US many could snooze that day without guiltily hitting the actual snooze button. Though have hit that thing anyway in the past on a holiday, only to quickly feel silly.
But then there is the joy of rolling over and pulling the covers back over your head.
For me in recent years the weekend came into focus in an odd way as across my various web efforts my readership is LESS on the weekends than during the week, which I'm sure has to do with a lot of what I have being useful to people.
So I can look at worldwide trends in terms of readers and see weekends, and holidays and other drop-offs visible to me as a pattern to ponder. Seeing the ebb and flow of activity around the globe dimly reflected, and it gives this fascinating feel for our world of human activity. And that shifted the way I looked at that time off, through the years. And eventually found I liked the work week more because it was more validating for me.
Actually I should be more concerned with that creativity thing. Maybe shouldn't joke about writer's block! As creativity does not actually work on demand. Coming up with a subject to discuss even within a known focus zone--like starting up the work week again--has to have lots of possibility or one would run through them all, quickly.
Which would lead to repetition. And saying the same thing over and over again. Which could get tedious very quickly, as you repeated...and am just filling space. The more I stress over the possibility the worse it gets! What would happen? What if I'm staring at the screen some morning when I'm supposed to have a post done by my own self-imposed schedule, and have NOTHING?
Will I just start babbling to myself...or just type endless words on the screen wondering where am I going with this thing...or freeze?
But I love whitespace. It's pretty. And when you fill it up with those words, the contrast with the black is so beautiful.
Of course could also throw in a picture. Will try that out just to see.
 |
| Western span of the Bay Bridge. Taken Dec. 4, 2008. Photo mine. |
Oh well, who knows. Will cross that bridge when I come to it. Luckily have a great babble reflex when stressed, so am not really worried. But for now, isn't it wonderful that feeling of an entire week of accomplishment ahead? Sure is for me.
Think about it--soon enough you'll be contemplating the wonder of how much you got done in a week of accomplishment. Or at least that's typically what I do by Thursday.
With the week starting can once again look across my websites to see evidence of people using things.
Guess that's addicting. But I think it's a healthy addiction. Means you have useful information so it gets used. So in a way that is bragging rights! Having your work used more during the week than the weekend, or holidays.
So much in life is how you look at things. Finding the positive isn't even wrong. It's just smart, as the positives are so much about heading in the right direction.
Ever met anyone who wanted to go in the wrong one?
That sense of heading in the right direction is a lot more attractive, as it feels better. Heading the wrong way should feel wrong.
Writing week is in full gear for me. Switch is fully flipped to ON.
Time to get things done.
Let's all get it done.
It's a better direction.
James Harris
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