Ninja turtles! Teenagers actually, and mutants. Love 'em!

Back many ages ago, a crazy comic book came out featuring radical ninjas who were also teenage turtle mutants. I remember picking up the first copies and loving them instantly. They were pretty dark and edgy back then (not at all like the cartoon show) but they were pure awesomeness and I sure wasn't the only one who liked it. It was one of those amazing things where it suddenly caught on, growing fast into one of the biggest toy franchises in history. But, I've never seen the real style portrayed in anything other than the original comics. At least, until now.

 

 

Enter Michael Bay's "TMNT" and a totally new visualizing of the enduring characters. In my opinion, they are spot on. They are the devastating ninjas of the comics, yet have sparkling character and great teenage spunkiness. Sure, the plot is spaghetti and doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but so what? The Turtles never were high concept, but they sure are fun!

 

I love this new movie, and hope for a sequel. These Turtles are a blast to be around, and the rest of the characters are great for what they do as well. For all of you who grew up with the cartoons, let your brain off the chain and check out how awesome the Turtles really started out as. Give this movie a view. You won't regret a moment of it.

 

- M

Things that make you keep going forever

Ever had the feeling during a scary story when you cover your eyes but keep peeking out between your fingers? Or stay up all night just to watch a meteor shower? Or go on without sleep because you have to finish that jigsaw puzzle or else? Maybe I'm weird, but I've done all of those and much more. There are tons of times when I just don't want to stop, no matter the cost, because what I'm doing is so interesting that I'll just keep going on and on and on.

 

I think we seek out things like that all our lives. It's why scary movies are popular, and roller coasters, or bookshops, and tea parties. We want things to take our minds away so completely that we'll chase them without rest, chase them with smiles on our faces as our attention never diverts. It's a treasure to find anything like that and we tell everyone we know when we do.

 

Imagine how many people you've told about all the things that have kept you up at night? A restaurant so good you stuffed yourself silly and didn't mind at all. A girl who kept your heart fluttering until you lifted off the ground and left your shoes on the sidewalk. Or a poem so tender you sobbed enough to need a new handkerchief. These are things that make life special. Keep them close in memory and visit them often!

 

- M

Happy, happy, joy, joy!

Wow, what a week! We've had presents, snow, rain, and ... flu. The whole family is sick. I've lost 12 pounds, which is understandable since none of us have felt like eating much of anything. Well, except my lovely wife who is typically healthy and looking beautiful. I'm reminded of the old Ren and Stimpy song of "Happy, happy, joy, joy." It just feels appropriate right now.

 

What an incredible year it's been, and so quickly gone! When I was younger it felt like time crawled past, and now I turn around an wonder what happened to it all--time doesn't slip past, it absolutely vanishes. Age is an aspect I've studied for a long time, especially how perceptions change and the influence those perceptions have on our attitudes. It's been an interesting study. The most important thing I've taken from it is the view of patience. For a youngster, waiting 5 minutes is an eternity, but for an 60 year old waiting 5 years isn't much of a stretch. It's a matter of perspective, and age provides that.

 

I pray you all have a fabulous finale to this year and a successful 2015!

 

- M

Merry Christmas everyone!

Be safe. Be well. Be loved.

 

 - M
 

The siren call of the Prequel

Popular stories with strongly developed characters tempt author and distributors almost unfairly. Yes, I totally understand why an author wants to tell the story of how/why a beloved character came to be, but with the result already completely known it seems doomed to failure. However, comic books do it all the time with "origin" stories. History is already lived, yet nobody complains when people write about and document it. There is a wealth of information to be had when the past is combed through and understood better.

 

So why is it that prequel movies tend to do so badly? Maybe it's a sort of perception? The audience is expecting something different than it already knows? Speaking for myself, what I'm hoping for is much more depth of character (maybe even to the extent of a full on character study) and better understanding of the motivations. Essentially it's history, since we as the audience already know the outcome. The tension doesn't come from "what happens next?" but from "how did it happen?" Maybe it's just semantics and word-play, but there is a difference: it's answers rather than mystery.

 

Casting a prequel like a completely new story is a bit misleading. What's really taking place is a detailed history and revealing secrets and all kinds of tidbits that may have been hinted at in the source material but wasn't shown. It's an opportunity for exploration.

 

So, do I think prequels are bad? Not at all. They're another type of story that's just as valid as any other. But, they're tricky and seductive. Treat them with care.

 

- M

Wrapping Christmas presents

Wrapping presents is a chore for me. For some reason I end up with something like a lollipop no matter what I wrap. It's the ends that get me; I always have too much. And presents that aren't square frustrate the life out of me, because no matter what I do it's just a mess. So, I use a lot of boxes to hold the gift and wrap that instead. We all have our tricks, and mine is very basic.

 

Back when malls were still all over the place, they had services to gift wrap whatever you had purchased and they even did it free of charge for the most part. It was incredible watching these people whip the wrapping together and put a custom bow on it. Amazing! It was like watching a finely choreographed dance. People who are incredibly talented at what they do completely inspire me.

 

That brings me to a favorite series of web videos, and that's the "People are Awesome" series. These videos show people doing almost unbelievable things, one after another--in rapid-fire succession. Pretty much any athletic skill is represented, and what is shown will blow your mind. To see someone throw a basketball off a high-rise building and make a perfect bulls eye is hard to fathom, but so is watching a guy snuff a candle using a playing card from 10 feet away. Incredible.

 

Here's the video that started the sensation:

 

- M

Happy Birthday!

While it isn't my birthday, it certainly is for someone out there. So, Happy Birthday!

 

It's interesting how we choose to celebrate the day of our birth. It's a ceremony of excellence, commemorating the birth of someone very special: you. Think about it. We celebrate important events, and particularly events that are important for the greatest good. Sometimes we may forget just how valuable we are to each other, except for when we wish each other "Happy Birthday!"

 

Really, all life is a celebration. We are blessed to live in such prosperous times, with so much hope and such potential all around us. These days there are few things undreamt and even fewer undone. We've walked on the Moon, danced among the stars, and landed vehicles on distant worlds. Celebrating birth is a remembrance of out limitless possibilities and the joy those possibilities bring.

 

Happy Birthday! I'm glad you're here.

 

- M

Shelob, Queen of Spiders

Frodo and Shelob

Spiders have held a strange hold on me. On one hand they are nasty things that make my skin crawl (sorry to those who like them), but on the other hand they are nifty things in stories. My favorite spider is naturally Shelob from "The Lord of the Rings." She has one of the defining scenes in the entire Middle Earth series, and is one of the few things even non-readers know about. I'm not sure why that particular scene is so memorable, but I suspect it's because the spider is huge, intelligent, and pure evil that gets curb stomped in the end.

 

Tolkien came up with expansive mythology and history explaining Shelob and the spiders of Mirkwood. It's fascinating reading, but I'll admit I have a hard time spending such long thought on history that isn't real. However, I'm deeply impressed by it and tip my hat to anyone willing to learn it all. It was the work of many years, and definitely shows. Because of the immense amount of background information, Tolkien knew his characters and could better tell his story through them. There's a good lesson in that for anyone wanting to create a fictional world.

 

Shelob will remain on my top 10 list of best villains of all time. I really should write up a few top 10 lists; they do seem popular. Until then, though, I'm glad we got to see the spiders of Mirkwood in so splendid a fashion as in the 2nd Hobbit movie. They don't hold a candle to Shelob, but they were great anyway. I think I'll be reading the Lord of the Rings again soon. It's been too long...

 

- M

The Hobbit: The Five Armies

It's finally time. When nerds the world over will rejoice that at last we will see the Battle of the Five Armies from the Hobbit. Here's the poster in all it's glory:

 

 

This has been a key scene in fantasy for a very long time. I remember reading it in third grade and being in complete awe at the scale. I'm sure it set in motion my love of all epic fantasy, even though I was raised in Austria amongst all the great stories of old. This story is special; timeless. It remains a classic because it speaks to the human spirit in a way most stories do not.

 

And the end of that story is a massive battle, begun by a dragon and the untold lust of treasure. There are all sorts of moral lessons to be had, but what I'm wanting right now is a huge fight where the good guys win and the bad guys lose. And, it's got one of the greatest dragons ever to grace the Silver Screen! Smaug is incredibly realized, voiced, and used. This dragon is intelligent and vicious, which are two terrific things in a villain.

 

Sure, it probably is true that making The Hobbit into three films was extravagant, but so what? The extra material was part of Tolkien's world, and I don't mind it being used. If anything, I'm happy to see the Necromancer and Dol Guldur finally being shown. This final film should be unbelievable. It's the capstone for the story, the climax, and what we are expecting to fully satisfy. I doubt we'll be disappointed.

 

Get out there and enjoy it!

 

- M

Fighting dragons, and other normal things.

Like most kids, I dreamt of fighting dragons and flying through space. That's probably why I like fantasy and science fiction so much. The funny thing is, I never really grew out of that. I've always found time to spirit myself away and dig through a new book, fight a few beasties, and then return to whatever I was supposed to be doing. Vivid imaginings have played such a large part in my life I can hardly comprehend what it must be like without it.

 

One exercise I use to grow my imagination is to take a scene from a book and completely see it within my mind's eye. Not just to the point of what it might be like to see a movie version, but completely there where I can turn and see everything around me. I'm by no means a master at it, but it helps and offers up surprising vistas. I must say, it's really tough to imagine something entirely alien, but I keep trying. When it happens in the midst of reading, it's like stepping through the pages and into your own adventure. Because of that, I can say I've held the One Ring, and volleyed riddles with dragons, and flows space ships, and hunted the Great White Whale.

 

I've often read that the mind is a muscle, and needs exercise like any other. Reading certainly flexes those muscles, and so do other activities. But, there are few things you can do that are so actively impressive to the mind than finding a good story and pouring yourself into it. I think there's a longing inside everyone to be part of something majestic. Find it now. Grab a book and go for it!

 

- M

Tear, tear, two, too, to. Why is English so hard?

English can be a frustratingly difficult language. It doesn't help that even our basic vowels have exceptions... a, e, i, o, u, and sometimes y. Other languages do have words that are similar in sounds, spellings, or writing. Yet, it sure feels that English is goofy in how often words are impossible to understand without context. Take the word: tear. Now is that like, "a tear fell from my eye." Or, is it "My book has a tear in the cover." Without context, the word is arguably useless, because the meaning is lost.

 

A fast favorite song of mine is "Word Crimes" by Weird Al Yankovic. Here it is:

 

 

I love how he plays with the words, and demonstrates many difficulties English speakers have. I must say, my heart goes out to anyone learning English as a second language. It's not easy. There are tons of exceptions, a massive amount of flat out memorization, and rules that don't even make sense--"i before e, except after c" I'm looking at you. We can blame such nonsense on Old English and all the other places we've taken our words from.

 

But, despite all this, I love English. I find it has words and uses that still delight me. There are so many varieties and such various ways to say the same things that I am happy to know it. Every language expresses thoughts and ideas to others, and there is real beauty in the words. And how words flow from one to another in such intricate dances is a high form of art.

 

- M

Nowhere else to turn, no other way, no option, take the leap ... and fly!

Youth has the unparalleled ability to look at a problem, turn it on it's side and let go. Why bother figuring it out when you can drop it entirely and jump over it? Anything is possible, and nothing is too far beyond reach. I envy that attitude. Age jades us, dulls the thrill of risk, and makes us more concerned with risk ratios than throwing out any caution and going for it. But, anyone can still capture that desperate freedom of letting it all fall away and leaping past that cliff of doubt.

 

We see this happening a lot on the type of "live" reality shows such as X-Factor, The Voice, World's Got Talent (not just America, if you didn't know), and so many others. People going in front of the whole world and demonstrating their talents, for good or ill. Some truly have talent, while others don't. But, I admire the courage and the determination to fling it all out and see what happens. Go for it! Make the plunge. Leave nothing behind and step forward!

 

This happens in stories as well, and I do have a personal favorite scene from the movie, "Speed." The setup is this: a bus has a bomb on board, if the bus drops below 50 miles per hour the bomb detonates. Simple enough, but now they are on a highway that isn't finished. Yikes. All the police escort falls back as the bus hurtles toward an improbable leap with impossible hope. It's a breathless moment. The entire movie hinges on that single time, and it fulfills that yearning very well indeed. I'll never forget how I felt when I first saw it, because my heart quickened as I thought about all the things I was reaching out for... hoping... praying... pleading. To tuck your head down and rush forward, leaping into space without knowing for sure if there is anything on the other side.

 

Yes, there is. Trust me. It's worth the risk.

 

- M

Ouch, toothache!

Sigh, I'm about to lose another couple of teeth. I feel like I'm in a cartoon. Really, like one of those where the cartoon character gets a mouth full of broken teeth and spits them out like a machinegun. It's not the same fun. I'll just say, "owie."

 

 

We all have pains and aches, so why is it that characters in stories tend to be so healthy? My guess is because we don't generally like listening to people complain and even more so with our fiction. While having pains does create a more realistic character, there's a really fine line that's easy to cross over. Still, I do wish there were more characters with more realistically frail bodies. It's almost like our heroes are superpowered or something. Even Superman has a vulnerability (no matter how trite) because without some form of weakness, there isn't any tension of possible harm to the hero.

 

It's funny how fickle we are about such things. On one side we love gossiping about someone else's failures and yet we dislike hearing about them. But, this event in my life again teaches me some valuable lessons about making my written characters more believable. Character quirks are fine, but actual flaws/vulnerabilities are also a good idea. When the audience is able to sympathize with the characters because of believable flaws, then it upholds the story and brings it to a higher level.

 

- M

 

ps. --Owie--

Viruses, Malware, Trojans, and all kinds of nasty critters

 

I've spent a great deal of my life understanding computers, and one thing that has never changed is that there are rodents out there who enjoy causing pain and suffering through computer viciousness. Back in the beginning the main ones were viruses and trojan horses (time-delayed viruses essentially). There were a number of other things (like "worms") but they dropped out of the dictionary because nobody understood them anyway. Sadly, people are still doing it and are getting vastly better and more devious than ever before.

 

Sony suffered a major attack this past week, when a group called *G.O.P* (not the political party) stole 5 movies and threw them out to the Internet. Then there was Stuxnet which the United States intelligence community deployed into the Iraq manufacturing sector and destroyed a bunch of equipment. Now the FBI has issued a severe warning about destructive malware. The supposedly invulnerable "Blackphone" has already been successfully hacked.

 

So, what can be done? First, don't click on any web advertisements (unless you are sure they are what they appear to be). Second, arm your computer with some form of anti-virus (Malware Bytes & Spybot are free, but there are many other fine one to purchase). Third, be aware that threats are out there and be cautious. Fourth, do not click on any emailed links unless you absolutely trust the email's sender (even then, examine the link's address and make sure it goes where it says it does). It's ridiculously easy to spoof a link, so err on the side of caution.

 

I hope these tips help you out. There are lots more things to do, but awareness is where it all starts. If you want to know more, Microsoft has an excellent site: http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/protect-pc.aspx.

 

- M

Roleplaying games

I've played computer roleplaying games since the days of Akalabeth (look it up for a laugh!) and Zork, right on up to the newest and greatest online and single player extravaganzas. I've played pen and paper roleplaying, and thoroughly enjoyed bringing up a character and watching them gain power and skills. The greatest joy to me is defining a new character and disappearing into the role. Maybe that's how actors feel when they step into their movie roles? Probably.

 

The joy of roleplaying extends far beyond fantasy or science fiction. Therapists use role playing to foster understanding, while scientists use role playing to seek new theories. It's a useful exercise. Mostly it's used for games though, since taking on a fantasy role is loads of fun. Just imagine being a dragonrider, or shooting balls of flame from your hands, or maybe taking a trip to Pluto in your own personal spaceship.

 

My thoughts run to virtual reality. There are plenty of science fiction stories that explore the addictive effects of using virtual reality long-term. But, there are also lots of stories where virtual reality is a useful tool. I hope we get to try it out in the next few years, especially with the new Oculus Rift device showing real promise. Right now the entry point into virtual reality is just too expensive, but it will continue coming down. I can hardly wait to grip my imaginary staff in hand and ride the eagles with Gandolf!

 

- M

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday, but giving thanks most certainly isn't. Anyone, wherever you are in the world, may stop to give thanks for the many blessings in their lives. Go right ahead and celebrate with us! And, if you like, chow down on some nice roasted turkey while you're at it. The important thing is to give thanks.

 

Special days make a big difference in our lives: birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and even completely made up days (Valentine's day is a popular one to point at). Regardless, we measure our lives by such celebrations, and we wouldn't if they didn't matter. When we take time out of our busy lives to make something special, we elevate that thing to new meaning. And with new meaning comes responsibility to share that meaning. We do it joyfully for the most part, and it's neat to see children learning the process and passing it on to another generation.

 

We are planning our normal time of good food and better company. I think this time we'll try having ham for the main course, and doing a turkey the next day. Of course, we'll have all the side dishes like mashed potatoes and salad and dinner rolls. This also marks the time of year when I start thinking about making a specialty candy called "divinity." It's a marvelous candy that's like taking a bit out of a sweet and fluffy cloud. It's great stuff, but I can't make it while there's humidity and so this time of year is great for it.

 

Happy Thanksgiving all, and may your days be blessed with good food and great company!

 

- M

Computer generated imagery.

Since computers were invented, they have been used to display mathematical formulae. I remember getting my first computer--a little palm sized sucker that had a whopping 3kb of memory, and could store something on the order of 100 lines of computer code. It was a fancy calculator really, but it did print out a really neat visualization of a wormhole. Then came the personal computers--Apple II+ and the TI-80s and IBMs. It was a great time to watch graphics grow more and more impressive. I especially remember two pictures created by Silicon Graphics workstations... one of a billiard table with amazingly rendered balls (they even made a special process to put scuffs and dirt on the surfaces) and another of a wet mountain road. Such simple pictures are nothing these days, but were incredibly impressive back then.

 

Since those early days, computer graphics have accelerated to the point of absolute reality. Given a bit of time, modern graphics are capable of nearly perfect replication of reality. Even console gaming systems, like the PS4 or XBox One, are able to display live images that feel pretty real--they're even making the eyes seem far less fake now too. The time will come when we will finally get to the point where we won't be able to tell the difference.

 

Probably the final frontier is when movies have computer generated actors who are just as real as the real-live actors. Motion capture is highly developed now, giving us the phenomenal Gollum, as well as the Na'vi from Avatar. So, the foundation is there, and it'll only take a bit longer before we can create literally anything we can imagine. Virtual reality (still very far from being good) is the step afterward and then we'll have the Star Trek Holodecks we've all been craving! I can't wait. Pardon me while I do my happy dance...

 

- M

Lindsey Stirling, Peter Hollens, and Pentatonix

My taste in music is odd for sure, but I've really enjoyed these three groups. Lindsey Stirling is a current darling of YouTube (having chalked up well over half a Billion views!), and Peter Hollens (who does unbelievable a cappella) is an earlier collaborator with her. Pentatonix won a television competition and also do unaccompanied vocals--I especially enjoy their Daft Punk medley.. What fascinates me is how these three groups are able to succeed through the power of the Internet. They are reaching all over the world, and it's driven by people finding their videos online and supporting them. I love it!

It's fun trying to figure out how things go viral. Why do certain groups blast into stardom, while others muddle along? How is it that some books never have a following, despite being really good, yet others become sensations no matter their quality? Fads come and go, as all things do, but it doesn't stop us from guessing what's the next one. Look up the "Pet Rock" some time. That was pure genius, not because of the rock but because of the incredible instruction manual. Talk about creative use of advertising skill!

For me, I'll continue supporting new talent. My joy is watching their stars rise. Lindsey Stirling has been great fun to see go from her first shy videos to a seasoned performer who captures audiences with the wave of her violin. Check out her YouTube channel. And, while your at it, check out Peter Hollens and his wife. That's pure enjoyment right there.

- M

Goodbye is such ... a drag

I've heard the phrase, "parting is such sweet sorrow." It was written by a poetic mastermind named Shakespeare. Maybe you've heard of him. It's meant to say that yes, parting is harsh, but it's also sweet because of the care that follows. Both sweet and painful. Really, it's more than that. Life usually isn't so poetic. We don't always know we'll return or if they'll return.

Goodbye is expected, unwelcome, and a complete bummer. Still, life doesn't let us pity ourselves too long, because we get to say goodbye a lot. We learn to deal with it. Hopefully we learn to expect the opposite, which is "Hello." If we can force ourselves away from the negative and focus on the positive, then we can understand why some cultures don't even have a word for goodbye.

There is a phrase that I've heard a times, and perhaps I'll start using it now: "Until next we meet." There's hope in that statement. Hope for the future. Of course, saying, "Goodbye" can be broken down to "Good parting" and even more to "Bless your travels, and I really look forward to the next time we meet and all the good things we will do."

So, here's to the next "Hello." Until then...

- M

Oral histories, public storytelling, and epic tales.

Most of you have probably read the great old stories from long, long, long ago. Stories from like the "Iliad" or "The Odyssey" or "Beowulf." Those were originally spoken to audiences. Oral history is the ancient groundwork for all modern storytelling. The neat thing is that these histories were written down, but some are still told today. People still want to hear stories told to them, much like children want to hear their mother read out-loud bedtime stories.

Poetry isn't an easy thing for me, especially out-loud. But, public poetry has brought me to tears. At a writing conference I was babbling like a baby after a poetry recitation. It was magical, heart-warming, and intense. So, even my hard heart is softened by oral storytelling. I'm grateful. I'm inspired. And, I'm humbled.

One specific thing I hope continues to grow is epic stories. I hope people want more, ask for more, and demand more. We need more grand epics like my favorite "The Lord of the Rings" or the "The Ring Cycle" (which inspired my favorite epic), or also "Narnia" and so many others. What those stories do is to make life grand. With such stories there's hope for better things, better tomorrows, and better people. We deserve that optimism.

- M

Visiting relatives, in-laws, and *gasp* ... parents

My parents are here this weekend. Uh oh. Time for cleaning, vacuuming, taking out those incomplete improvement projects, and making everything seem perfectly fine. I know we aren't the only ones who do so. I'd wager most people don't want their relatives seeing dirty clothes laying around, or dusty plants, or even unmade beds. We are wired to impress.

 

 

Sadly, I had a couch littered with clothes I was putting on hangers when they showed up. And, I was also fixing our computers (actually had our internet cut off due to a pesky virus) so we could get back online--the cause of my lateness, I apologize. So, as always, my parents showed up when I wasn't ready for them. I'm sure my wife is rolling her eyes right now, but isn't it always true that parents look exactly at the precisely wrong time? They always seem to see what they aren't supposed to. I think it's eerie, almost mystical. Maybe it's parental superpowers? ... Oooh, so I'm a super-powered parent! Woohoo!

 

Hopefully my parents will forgive me, as I'm sure they will, and enjoy their weekend. That's my goal at least, to provide a comfortable place for them as they visit. We surprised them with a special meal, and are now watching football--and naturally our team is loosing. I want to show them a movie or two that they'll enjoy, and it'll be a great time.

 

In the end, I'm glad my parents are visiting. I'm glad to have visitors at all. It's nice knowing people want to come by and say hello. There's nothing quite like the feeling of being wanted. It's good to have family.

 

- M

Regional pride, national honor, and planetary joy.

It's interesting to note that we tend to be very proud of where we come from, where we live, where we work, where we study, and where we enjoy ourselves. It's not unusual for people to actually come to blows over something as simple as bad mouthing another person's home country. These things are important and are revered as such. So, why is it that in so many stories the characters seem a bit lost when it comes to pride for their places?

 

I think of the great story "The Hunt for Red October" which was a book turned into a movie. The main conflict isn't the submarine, but the fact that the home country of the main character (the USSR) was upset at losing an honored commander to a rival country (the USA). On the other hand, the USA was protecting itself against what they saw as a rogue submarine from the rival USSR. Both sides were protecting their own country, with tremendous pride in the act.

 

On the other hand, take the Star Trek universe. Planetary pride seems a quaint notion for the majority of the heroes. They are mainly concerned with everyone getting along. Perhaps I've missed it, but it seems only the villains are vigilantly proud of their home planet. Even in the newest movies, the pride of home turf doesn't seem to matter much--except again the villains, and Spock (who loses his to treachery).. The stories are great, but I miss the loyalist attitude of the older science fiction shows--Lost in Space may not have been great writing, but the characters desperately wanted to go home and I can sympathize with that.

 

Characters competing over who's home is better makes for fun entertainment. At least, I think so. The audience quickly understands the stakes, and then the author can get on with the action. Anything that helps the story get going is a good thing and using easily understood conflict is a fine way to do that.

 

And in America, Happy Veterans Day!

 

 

- M

I love songs I can't understand

 

Maybe I'm unusual in this, but I love finding catchy tunes where I have absolutely no idea what is actually being said--usually because it's not in English. I have a bunch of Japanese, Korean, Russian, and other language songs. Maybe it's because my interest in mainly in the rhythm and vocals but I really don't listen much to the words. My best friend will tell you that I actually have a sound check song on my playlist (it's title is "Nomad" though I have no clue why it even has a title). I rarely remember the lyrics, even songs I've heard a thousand times.

 

Classical orchestral music is what I grew up with, and being instrumentals they didn't have lyrics. The funny thing is that I do enjoy the lyrics to many songs, particularly musicals, but I simply don't remember them. Maybe it's because something wonderful happens as I listen... a story develops behind my eyelids. I've listened to Beethoven's 5th and created huge epics, but I've also listened to the Macarena and envisioned space battles. One of my best early short stories developed by listening to "Baby Elephant Walk" by Henry Mancini, and another favorite "Terms of Endearment." I wrote the story for a college writing class, and my teacher was surprised I had written it in one evening. The story bloomed from those two specific songs.

 

I talk about the magic around us, but it's just my label for the almost unbelievable creativity I see around me daily. It's the magic of the human spirit--and yes, that's a complete cliché, but I don't mind. What's important is that we seek out the exceptional wherever we can find it. And that brings me back around to songs where I cannot understand the words. Songs bring out such a wellspring of inspiration that I can't wait to find the next one. It's like finding buried treasure!

 

- M

Inspiration, the power of sudden imagination.

One of my favorite movies is a lesser known Steven Spielberg one called, "Always." I won't dare spoil even the beginning of this marvelous film, since every piece is tightly woven into the overall narrative, but I will say it deals with the concept of inspiration and where it comes from. The idea in the movie is that inspiration (or "divine breath" as used in the movie) is given at times of great need. More than that, inspiration is a gift, a loving touch... a blessing. I highly recommend the movie. It's a shame such a great movie hasn't gained more of a following.

 

 In our society, inspiration has rather drifted away as a concept. I'm sure I'm not the only writer who is asked, "Where do you get your ideas?" It's a simple question with a truly complex answer. Everybody is different. We draw inspiration from the worlds within us and around us. How can you put your finger on a single thing that created a story? I don't think it's possible. So, when people ask me where my ideas come from, I'll likely say, "Wal-mart." I just don't know. Regardless, inspiration is a curiously magical thing.. at times simply taken, and others drifting away like a Summer breeze.

 

One thing I do know is that you don't get inspired by sitting and doing nothing. You have to move, read, create, do, activate that brain, run your body, and make anything happen. Even sitting alone, in a dark room, if you allow your mind to wander you will find ideas flitting through your brain without struggling for them. Basically, live life and you will find your inspiration. Once again, there is magic in our lives, if you'll only open your eyes to see it. How else can I explain inspiration, but that it's a special kind of magic?

 

- M

Illusion and the Art of Misdirection

Magicians have understood the importance of getting people to look in the wrong place at the right time for centuries. Stage magicians use the concept to make sure the audience never glimpses what's really going on, what's behind the curtain, or creeping up behind. Illusion works the same way. I particularly love optical illusions, because they toy with our perceptions in ways that are nearly impossible to defeat even when you know exactly what's going on. Check this out...

 

Is it 2 or 3 prongs?

It's a classic illusion, but knowing all about it doesn't help. You still see the 3-pronged fork. Our brains are so well trained in seeing things that it doesn't know it's being fooled. There's another one that is typically called the "Dragon Illusion" which has to be seen to be believed (I've linked that to a YouTube video showing the magic).

 

Fooling audiences is fun for both sides, really. The performer is rewarded by gasps of awe, and the audience enjoys seeing magic come alive. It doesn't matter that it's all trickery. I think that's much of the joy, where both sides work together and create something greater than any of its parts. Poetic imagery aside, it's great fun. Enjoy it, and stop trying to figure out how the magician makes the rabbit appear out of a hat. Let the magic happen.

 

- M

Mazes, Labyrinths, and really tough puzzles.

 

Labyrinths are a special kind of maze, mainly because nobody uses the word anymore (and because it's where the Minotaur is kept). Mazes typically have one entrance and one exit, while labyrinths generally have one (or more) entrances, and contain a middle secret room (sometimes even more than one). Either way, the concept is a tough to navigate path that twists and winds all around and has an exit/prize at the end. Such things have a historic significance that I won't get in to, but they are now neat puzzles that can become insanely complex. My favorites are three dimensional puzzles that are in the shape of a cube, possibly with slices that can be pulled out and manipulated--in that sense, the Rubik's Cube is a type of maze.

 

The fascinating part of mazes is how often they appear in stories. I suppose there's something romantic about them because of the Minotaur, and maybe because it can demonstrate the high intellect of characters by letting them solve it. If you've ever had the joy of being in a hedge maze, or a cornfield maze, you know just how easy it is to get lost. Take a few quick turns without paying attention and you are hopelessly confused. I'd love to be up in a crane and watch people navigate such a maze. I think it'd be hilarious.

 

When I was young I drew quite a few mazes. I even made one on a roll of paper that was something like 6 feet long and 3 feet wide. I'm not sure how long it took to create, but I do know my brother never managed to solve it (well, at least not before he got bored and gave up). I was very proud of myself. The trick is making lots of fake paths and dead ends, and working backward from the exit to the entrance. I also made a computer program that created mazes as well, which was fun to do. Mazes are like secret codes to me... I can't get enough of them.

 

- M

Hot chocolate is so much more than a nice drink...

My absolutely favorite drink of all time: Hot Chocolate!

Hot chocolate is a drink most of us have had as children when there's snow on the ground and we've just come back inside from playing in the cold. Cheeks half frozen, nose falling off, and eyebrows coated with ice, we tear off our gloves and drink a cup of pure Heaven. If our mother really loves us, she'll put little marshmallows in too. Somewhere in the process, magic happens. A childhood memory creeps into our brains and grabs hold for eternity.

 

It's pretty well understood that smells and tastes can trigger powerful recall of our past. Drinking hot chocolate is an especially good trigger (at least in my opinion), and takes us on a whirlwind tour of the happiest times in our lives. After all, how can anyone be sad with a cup of hot chocolate in their hands? I don't think it's possible. Actually, I believe any bad day will become a great day with a single sip of hot chocolate. It's magical stuff. Ambrosia--the drink of the gods; so good regular humans can't have it. But, we have it now. And like the fire Prometheus brought, once we have it, we aren't about to let it go again.

 

Okay, silliness aside, I am so grateful to the inventors of hot chocolate. Other cultures have different versions, such as a little shot glass of sipping chocolate--a wonderfully thick version that isn't drunk in gulps, but sipped delicately and savored. More varieties abound, and I couldn't possibly list all the styles available. Here's a travel idea: go to places based on their different styles of hot chocolate; enjoy your world hopping!

 

Just a moment... mmmmm... ah, the sweet memories.

 

- M

Terrifying "Safe" Characters

By the time we are teenagers, we probably know that the main characters in any story are usually completely safe in whatever dangerous situations they are in. After all, if the main characters are killed off then what's left in the story to interest the audience? Some authors have done this, such as Steven King famously in "The Stand" where he blew apart half the character list because he'd written himself into a hole and couldn't figure out what else to do. George R. R. Martin also did this, but because he wanted the tale to seem real and in reality nobody is safe.

 

I'm more focused on how to truly safe characters are kept on the razor's edge. Think about the classic "Alien" movies... Ellen Ripley is the hero and completely safe and we all know she'll make it out just fine. *spoilers ahead* Then, she is on the escape capsule and changing out of her clothes to get into the cryo-freeze chamber and confronts the alien. She is in a completely vulnerable place, in her underwear, and facing the creature who single handedly defeated everyone else. It's terrifying (so much so that I still have a difficult time watching it with the sound on).

 

In moments of such vulnerability and helplessness, the audience completely forgets the thematic safety of the character and we are truly worried. Study that scene and you'll find a great roadmap on freaking out your audience. A similar scene happens in the first "Terminator" movie when Sarah Conner is in the dance club and all the main characters converge in a shootout where the audience still hasn't decided who lives and dies. It's a great moment, and has become an iconic image for the franchise.

 

Know your audience, but also know their expectations. Done well, no character seems safe--even when they truly are and the audience knows it.

 

- M

Excuses. Life happened. The dog ate it.

 

Sorry about being late on my blog... life happened, I suppose. Yup, terrible excuse. Excuses always are. It got me thinking about what I intended with this blog from the beginning. I wanted to get my ideas about books, stories, and storytelling out into the world. But, it's become much more than that. This is really a forum for my thoughts to come out and play. It's a place for observations and ideas. Limiting those wasn't really what I had in mind, so I'm modifying what I do a little bit... hope you don't mind.

Anyway, so how are excuses used within a story? Seems to me that it's mainly because someone is trying to get away with something; be it a slip of the mind, or not getting caught. Whatever the reason, the audience is nearly always aware of the excuse, and is eager to discover the outcome. We like to see someone being dishonest get punished for it. Perhaps it's because that so rarely happens in real life? Possibly.

Since I work in fiction, stories to me are less a reflection of reality than a hope for what could be. I like affirming stories, ones that inspire and direct. I want something that enriches me, pushes me to new heights, and gives me an example to strive toward. Stories are a great way of providing heroes and role models, just as much as demonstrating villainous behavior. It's no wonder that the "Lord of the Rings" is such a well-loved classic--it has heroes, villains, and good overcomes evil. In the end, I believe most of us want good to triumph.

Here's to bigger and greater things!

- M

Spots on the Sun.

Sunspot AR 2192, about the size of Jupiter

Sunspots are true marvels of our universe. They are somewhat understood, but there is so much more to discover about the why and how of their formation. My question is why they are needed? What processes are turning on the creation of these vast structures? I've been dazzled by these things since I learned of them as a child.

 

I suppose it's comforting to me to know there is still a lot that isn't understood. I like that. Discovery is part of the human condition, and I love hearing about some new tidbit scientists are only now understanding. I doubt we'll ever understand it all, although we won't stop trying. It's great fun to come across something nobody else knows.

 

There are hidden things in our universe, waiting for us to notice them. Dark matter, dark energy, and a whole host of strangely defined thingamajigs. We have ideas they are there, but finding them is a challenge. I look forward to the new discoveries. I'm eager to learn more, and find out more about the universe we all inhabit. The unknown isn't a scary place... it's an adventure.

 

- M

Battle of Genres

Genre is a fancy word that simply means category in the literary world. Fantasy is a genre and so is fiction, then there's history, biography, science fiction, and cooking. Those distinctions used to be very clear, sharply defined, and rigidly adhered to. That doesn't seem as true these days. I don't mind. There are now so many cross-over styles that saying something is fantasy isn't all that useful. We even have a vampire genre--sparkly ones included.

 

I think what this means is that stories aren't being restricted, that they are leaping past any boundaries and finding new places to bear fruit. Modern stories can be difficult to pin down because they pull from so many sources. It's like defining the shapes of clouds--in the end you throw up your hands and say clouds are "cloud shaped" and leave it at that. This is a good trend in my view. To me, stories matter far beyond the limited definition of their genre.

 

Now these are weird clouds!

Categories are useful though, if for no better reason than finding other similar things. We humans categorize everything, so it's only natural. But, thinking "outside of the box" is a good thing. Never be limited by definitions, or boundaries. Seek to break free to bigger things. Stretch. One of my new favorite tee shirts is one that shows a tic-tac-toe game with a typically tied setting... but this one has an X outside the box and connects that one with two inside the box, making Xs the winner. That is a great concept.

 

Here's a toast to taking things beyond their definitions!

 

- M

Cotton Candy Days.

Ever read a book that takes you back to your childhood? Or seen a movie that captures a moment so perfectly that you can't help but be drawn inside? Perhaps it's music that speaks to your soul and brings tears to your eyes...

 

 

 

Or, maybe it's sitting on a blanket with your children, watching clouds pass as you eat cotton candy?

 

Moments like that make life worth living. They really do. I've spent countless hours watching clouds, imagining them forming fun shapes, and talking. Many of my fondest memories are spending time with my wife (well, girlfriend then) looking at clouds and talking. Talking about important things. Talking about silly things. Talking about dreams. Talking about hopes. Talking about the past, and the future. We became close because we talked.

 

It's amazing how fast memories such as those brings goose bumps across my arms! And when I experience a story that does the same thing, I quiver with happiness. As I grow older, I search for times that recall simpler moments, without the stress of adult life. Of course, it's different for everyone but the effect is no less.

 

Cotton Candy Days... those blissful times when all you cared about was that glorious sugar confection which melts in your mouth.

 

- M

Friends. Close Friends. True Friends.

 

Friendships are the glue that holds human society together, and often keeps stories from falling flat. The question is are friends true or not? Literature is filled with fascinating sketches of friends who weren't but pretended to be, or friends who don't seem to be yet are. Severus Snape comes to mind from the recent Harry Potter books (and if you don't know, I'm not about to spoil it). Careful thought about character interactions can create fabulous friendships that surprise the audience again and again. Do that, and people will keep coming back for more.

 

I do think there is a distinction of between an acquaintance, friend, close friend, and true friend. True friends aren't necessarily close friends, but they remain true no matter the circumstances. Such friends can even be on the periphery, yet remain loyal and true. They can be used as literary foils (a neat concept, if you don't know already know it) where they are the bedrock of the story, yet aren't involved in more concrete ways.

 

Watching a character develop from a side note to a close and dear friend is marvelous. I enjoy it. There is a sense of progress, of development, and satisfaction that I love. It's a difficult trick to pull off, but when it works it is dynamite. Usually I see characters develop in a flash of smoke and magic, rather than slowly. Maybe our modern attention span doesn't hold up to slower development, but I'd like to see it more often.

 

Hopefully you have true friends in your own life, people who never let go and always hold you to a high standard. We need that encouragement and that accountability.

 

- M

Expectations, high or low.

 

Whatever we do, we have expectations. When we drive, we expect to arrive at our destination. When we eat, we expect the food to nourish our bodies. And, when we experience stories, we expect a good tale. Of course, we could be expecting the opposite and want something bad. Either way, we are looking forward to something deliberate.

 

There are many reasons something succeeds, particularly with stories. I think one of the most powerful reasons is that the author understood the expectations of the audience. I really doubt most horror audiences expect a happy ending, and I can't imagine a romance story being depressing overall. Sure, there are exceptions, but they are hopefully well thought out studies in audience manipulation. When people get what they expect, they tend to shell out cash to get it. Just look at the iPhone. Wow, do they shell out for that!

 

Right now I'm about to read the novelization of the movie "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes." My expectation is for more detail and more insight into the characters. I already love the story, but I expect to love it more. I'm sure I won't be disappointed, especially with the high ratings the book has received. Check it out.

 

Take a look at your own expectations. I'll bet you will be surprised at some of them, disappointed with others, and happy at most. Whatever the result, self-examination is a great exercise.

 

- M

The quintessential quest.

Random picture of our cat. Great picture, isn't it?

Questing is a common theme in fiction, especially fantasy. You put a nearly impossible task before the main characters, then make that task necessary because of some urgent reason. Like finding the Holy Grail to heal Britain, or crossing through a series of trapped rooms to save your true love, or perhaps finding the answer to a riddle. Whatever the quest, the majority of the story is typically centered around the journey to fulfill that quest.

 

This is actually just a structure that is used to prop up a story. The quest many times isn't the focus, but is a means to bring the characters into conflict and put them into situations that reveal their strengths and weaknesses. Without the quest, the characters would go about their lives without much interesting happening. It's an effective framework, and fun to play with. The final Harry Potter books use this as they are finding the evil pieces that will make the villain weak. Yes, it works very well.

 

I've often wondered if quests cross over into the real world. Certainly there are times when we see people going after a certain thing, but I doubt anyone ever says they are "questing" for it. What I hear is someone talking about their "dream" they wish to fulfill. Maybe saying you are going on a quest is a foreign thought, but it does provide a useful frame to hang dreams upon.

 

I like the idea. It's romantic. It's unusual. It makes people think.

 

What's your quest?

 

- M

The Flash, finally back on the small screen!

The Flash is back!

I love the Flash. He's my favorite superhero by a long shot. Now there is a new television series featuring the speedster. It's put out as a spinoff from the show Arrow, but the attitude of the series is frisky rather than dark and brooding. Here's a show that is pleased to have fun, enjoy itself, and thrill at the superhero game.

The premier episode contains a treasure trove of Easter eggs--more than enough to overfill a large basket for those of us who know what to look for. One to point out is that the Flash's father is actually the same actor who was the Flash in the 90's television show.  Besides those marvelous nuggets, the series is off with a bang. There's a lot going on, but it appears they aren't taking themselves too seriously and so the plot speeds along without taking a lot of time on deep characterizations or connections. This show was to get things started, and those deeper aspects will come as time goes by.

We meet the Weather Wizard, one of the Flash's more iconic villains, and see the Flash do his trademark anti-tornado dash. It's great fun. The Flash has had fantastic writers who created a wealth of background history, so the show has lots to draw on. And the producers are clearly going to go gonzo with that, mainly because of all the little tidbits included in the premier. I can hardly wait to see more.

Ride the lightning!

- M

Liar, liar, pants on fire!

Stories contain many characters who lie. The villains lie about their motivations, their plans, and their goals. Story narrators lie to shift attention away from important events that are meant to be less noticeable. Even heroes lie, but usually when dealing with someone they know is dishonest and so they do it to pretend. Whatever the reasons, stories are truly "tall tales" filled with exaggerations and outright fibbing. I'm sure readers expect it, and in mysteries it's actually a badge of honor to have lied well enough that the audience has no idea who the actual villain is.

Audiences don't seem to mind; I know I don't. Without the fanciful lies within stories, there isn't much of a story to tell (after all, fiction is completely untrue so that'd get rid of an entire genre if you could only write about complete truths). What does get audiences annoyed is when the fictional world doesn't match its own philosophy. There's a concept called "suspension of disbelief" which is a fancy way of saying you go along with whatever doesn't make sense. You give up making sense of a few things and then let the fictional world do as it likes. But--and this is a big but--the rest of the world must follow the new rules. When fiction doesn't play fair, the audience gets irritated.

I love fantasy and science fiction, and I've written many stories in both genres. Creating a whole new world to toy with is great fun. I love doing the writing, and doing the reading. Imagination is such a powerful tool! On the wings of tall tales I've talked with dragons, crossed the universe, and floated in the depths of the ocean. Let the stories lie a bit, enjoy the distraction, and let it all happen. It's okay to do that once in a while, isn't it?

- M

Pie. I like it.

I like pie. All pie. Every kind and color.

Well, maybe not the color of soot. And, actually, I don't like pumpkin all that much. Come to think of it, I really only eat apple pie or French silk pie. Well, just goes to show you that making blanket statements isn't a great idea much of the time, or any time for that matter. The point is, be careful what you say. Words matter. Ideas matter even more. Communicating those ideas in meaningful ways makes us special.

The funny thing about all this is, I really do like pie. I do my level best to try any new thing I'm given, and I've made my kids promise to at least try something once and then judge it. The truth is, sometimes it's really tough--I can only imagine how I'd respond if someone put a plate of snails in front of me. Yeesh. The thought is a bit up there for me. Here, have a look...it's called "escargot"...

Doesn't look all that bad really. I'll put it on my list of things to try.

Anyway, enjoy life today. Make the best out of what you've been given and give your all. Life is worth it. And, if you get the opportunity, have a nice thick slice of your favorite pie!

- M

Weird animals, strange creatures, and untold amusement

There are critters in this world that are so weird it's hard to believe they even exist. Take the woodpecker for instance--why is there a bird that bangs its head into trees in search of grubs? Or how about the platypus? Here's a mammal that lays eggs (mammals normally have live births), has a bill and lives mainly underwater (but, it can't keep its eyes open so it hunts blind), and it has poison toes (normally only seen in reptiles). It's like this creature's sole reason for existing is to toss expectation to the wind and buck the system.

A baby platypus

Mythology contains all sorts of strange creatures as well, and many are somewhat based on reality. I still feel that dragons have some kind of basis, otherwise why are they found in myths all over the world? Also, what about sea serpents? Certainly something brought about the stories. Experts have theories of course, and so do I, but stuff like this doesn't ever seem to be solved. That's fine with me, because, as a writer, I love coming up with reasons and letting my imagination run wild.

Sure, I'm easily amused, but taking the time to learn about these animals expands the world you live within. I thinks it's important to discover such things for yourself, and continue learning. Open your mind to new experiences, new information, and new joys. It's well worth the time and effort, and you'll learn more than you can imagine right now!

- M

Fun with Zero Gravity

I'll bet most everyone has thought about what zero gravity is like, what it would feel like, and if you'd enjoy it. You can get a taste of zero gravity by being underwater--in fact, astronauts train underwater in full space suits because it is so very similar. But, the aspect of being completely weightless is still a really foreign concept. I won't get into the idea that zero gravity is really just an illusion, since you are really falling rather than weightless. But, the point is how it feels and what it can do.

Sometime watch how a flame behaves in space. Or, water droplets. Or smoke. It's amazing to witness, and challenges our understanding of how things respond. People have been sending all sorts of things into space to see what happens, what survives, and what doesn't. Even so, my guess is people love to play in zero gravity. There's even special planes that make it possible for us ground bound slobs to experience small pieces of zero gravity for the price of a few years salary.

There are already small things manufactured in space, and I expect that at some point there will be many things created especially in space. Mirrors and micro-beads are two that I know of. As the process improves there will be breakthroughs making everything easier, and those advances will follow through into terrestrial manufacturing. It's an exciting time to be alive.

Come to think of it, skydiving is another simulation of zero gravity. I've seen vertical wind tunnels, where you basically are pushed up by a giant fan and can fall as long as you can drift. Looks like an incredible amount of fun! I'd love to do it sometime.

- M

Bionic humans, knee replacements and such.

I've had both of my knees replaced, making me a sort of bionic man. I enjoy the thought, since I absolutely loved the original "6 Million Dollar Man" show. It was fun, clever, and endlessly hilarious with its pseudo-science. So what if most of it made little sense? What mattered was the show followed its own mythology and made things fun.

Anyway, we are getting so far along the path of making a cyborg that it's actually believable. There are all sorts of story possibilities--many of which are already covered through the wealth of science fiction already created. But, there's still room for much more. My guess is the desire to explore the growing bonds between humans and technology will continue to grow as we get more and more comfortable. And, I don't mean more robots, but more humans augmented by machine parts--to the extent where it's difficult to determine the difference.

In the end, it's about wish fulfillment. I love robots, and I love people. What fun to put them both together! Besides, my new knees have given me back the exquisite ability to walk! It's still fresh in my mind how it feels to be unable to even stand or take a step. Now, I'm climbing stairs. What an incredible gift! I can only imagine how having bionic knees and arms would be... like becoming an incredible Hulk... unstoppable.

Hee hee. Hulk smash!

- M

The barely conceivable joys of children at play

I love watching children play. Sure, I'm a parent and that has colored my attitude, but the pure, unbridled joy of children at play is fascinating to watch. They have the capacity to throw themselves entirely into whatever they are doing, and that gives them joy we adults can barely conceive. It doesn't matter if it's watching an anthill, or pretending to be Superman, or having a dress-up tea party. Children know how to play with every core of their being.

Play is part of life, and it certainly trains children how to behave in settings far beyond their playtime. But, it's also straight up joy! Play is fun. I think we adults forget that having fun is still allowed. Encourage it. Go play in the backyard; take your brain off the hook and go run in circles. Whatever the play, take true part in it and have a blast doing it! It's part of life. Enjoy it.

Funny how in books, movies, and stories in general there are hardly any scenes of pure play. Perhaps it's difficult to describe, or even show, because most of the action takes place in the minds of the participants? I don't know. But, I know children are fantastic at it. After all, when was the last time some adult said to another, "Get out there and play." I'm scratching my head, thinking of all the stories I know, and I really can't come up with a single example of play in a story. Maybe I'm being myopic, but I am at a loss. Either way, I want to see it--to experience that pure joy of childhood one more time.

- M

Criticism and Critical Thinking

Being critical isn't a bad thing, and it isn't even necessarily negative. The concept is to judge deeply, to analyze, to find any flaws and examine them, and to really think about it. There's a strong element of logic to the exercise, of applying principled thought and detailed analysis to determine the worth of something. So, being critical of say a slice of cheese is to determine if it is a good representation of that brand, but it also entails noticing if it is spoiled or not.

Critical thinking is training your mind to be critical, to analyze, and to examine any evidence with a mind searching for truth. It doesn't come naturally to many people, and added training is always useful. This is particularly useful in scientific pursuits, but logical analysis will help you in nearly any area of life. It's good to be logical about things. That's one reason why debate is good, or games like chess, and, yes, even critics.

I believe one reason people are afraid of these concepts is because it's difficult to hear it addressed to yourself, like someone saying your cooking is bad. Especially if it's true. Yes, good manners comes into play as there's no reason to be offensive. Still, why should the truth be ignored? We should learn to accept constructive criticism as well as constructive praise. Both are necessary parts of logic.

- M

Hope. That incredible giver of peace and security.

Imagine you are tipping over the edge of a cliff, falling to your doom, and suddenly a firm hand grabs your arm. That emotion you immediately feel is called hope. Even before you know who saved you, the feeling of hope will flood your system with relief. That's one instance of the emotion, but there are certainly others as well as others equally strong or stronger.

Filled with hope for their future, youngsters leap into the world and expect the universe to bend to their wills. Sometimes it works, other times not so much. But, because of hope they try. Hope gives the prisoner the will to survive until the end where they see their freedom. Hope provides peace, comfort, security, and relief. Without hope, people perish. Without hope, people suffer. Without hope, people despair. Hope brings new life to broken things.

The neat thing is we can give hope to each other. It's easy to tear someone down in life, at work, or at play. What's tough is giving that same person hope that builds them up, encourages them to be better, and provides a sanctuary. That is difficult. I'm certainly no expert, and have sadly done my full share of tearing people down, but I do strive for better and to provide that hope. My goal is building up the hopes and dreams of others, for a better world and a better life.

- M

How it ends--thoughts on life and death

Great stories have great endings. There are many types of endings, but typically the story builds up to a climax. Most people understand what that means, but there is another ending called the anti-climax. It's basically what happens after the big events are over. Generally the anti-climax is fairly short--likely because it isn't usually that exciting and only wraps up the remains of the story. But, it also allows the unexpected jump to a possible new story.

Life is like that too. There are the beginnings and ends, life and death, and everything in between. What's interesting is how we celebrate the very beginning, but tend to leave out the enormity of a life well lived. In a sort of way the story of our lives starts with the climactic birth and the rest is anti-climax. But, there's another way to look at it, and that's to put death at the climax of everything we've done in our long lives. Why let the entirety of life be such a letdown? I appreciate the positive attitude that our lives mean something, are rewarding, and come to satisfying conclusions.

Perhaps I'm being introspective because my dear mother-in-law just died today. Possibly. But, many thinkers have compared life to a story. Shakespeare certainly did, and philosophers beyond number, and even scientists have done so. More than anything, I want my life to be good and wholesome, filled with epic moments and terrifying cliffhangers. The life of my wonderful mother-in-law was such a story. I'll always be grateful to her for bringing my wife into the world and nurturing her into the incredible woman she is now.

Here's to you, Margaret. Heaven is a brighter place now because of you.

- M

Amazing Spiderman 2 movie review

Spiderman is a great comic book hero. I think it's a great testimony to the longevity of the character that people are still interested enough in him that multiple movies have chronicled his adventures. Sure, they aren't completely accurate in regards to the source material, but the spirit is there.

That brings me on to the latest movie: "The Amazing Spiderman 2." I realize critics have given generally negative reviews, but I don't care. It's a fun movie. Spiderman is funny, carefree, and fights super villains. Maybe the plot isn't the most well knit thing, but so what? I daresay the comic books aren't Pulitzer prize material either. The main thing is they are fun, and so is this movie.

For me, what makes a movie worth watching is that you enjoy it.  "The Amazing Spiderman 2." fits my criteria well enough, since we rented it and will buy it. I'll happily watch it many more times, because I like the main characters of Gwen and Peter. I enjoyed the villain Electro, and loved the music. I doubt anyone went to this movie expecting a powerful examination of life and death. Why would you? Movies are an escape from reality, and this is exactly that.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. This movie is far more faithful to the comic book spirit of Spiderman than the others, and it has more fantastic moments than puzzling ones. I don't mind that the plot meanders around. The story is good enough for what it needs to do. Check it out, you won't be disappointed.

- M

Castles, those great structures of fantasy and history!

Arguably the most famous castle in the world is Neuschwanstein in Bavaria--a castle so bombastic that it basically bankrupted a whole country. It's an amazing place. I've been there several times and remember it well, especially the magical grotto and the incredible bedrooms. If you ever get the chance, go see it. You'll instantly recognize it, even if you've never seen it before, because Walt Disney totally ripped it off when he designed his Cinderella Castle. And, why not? It's a fairytale castle, and it's real.

I've loved castles since I learned about them. They are huge. Strong. Elegant. Confounding. If a prison, or a barricaded iron door can be gorgeous then they definitely fit the bill. I love them. I've designed them. I've played in them. And, I've enjoyed dreaming about them.

Castles are now part of our romantic notions of the Middle Ages. They foster images of chivalry, damsels, knights, and heroism. Sure, the reality is very different, but why spoil a good fantasy with clear thinking? In the end they are simply awesome. I'll never stop loving them. And, one of my dreams is to see the fantastic Welsh castles still standing. Actually, I'd enjoy going to castle ruins as well. Ah, whatever castle... let me at them!

- M

ps. There are hot air balloon tours of castle that go down the Danube river... hint, hint, hint... for anyone willing to drop cash on it... just a thought.

But, but, but, and but...

I'm going to admit something, I misuse the blazes out of the word, "but." I'm probably not the only one who does. The dictionary says it means, "on the contrary; yet." Then the dictionary goes on to mention another dozen ways it's used. These days, it seems to me that people use "but" as a synonym for "and" or just as something to join two sentences together. The two halves of the sentence don't even necessarily have to mean anything together.

"I love to eat, but I won't use my fork." (Why the "but?" The "but" isn't refuting anything, it's just there, taking up space, joining the two sentences together.)

Grammar has never been especially easy for me. I have to work at it all the time. I'm quite likely butchering it right now. The funny thing is, I feel that if the sentence is understood then why should it be incorrect? If the audience understands the meaning, then can it be wrong? That's the part I really struggle with, where on one hand it's correct and on the other hand it's clunky. To me words are like a fine flavoring to a rich and wonderful meat sauce. You can use all sorts of things to make it taste great, so why limit yourself to only the standard few?

Language is constantly changing. Sometimes it flows toward a more rigid system, and then it swims right over to a relaxed method. However it's used, I think the important part is everything making sense when it's used. Omnis traductor traditor. "Every translator is a traitor." In other words, check the meanings out yourself. Don't rely on someone else to tell you what things mean. Use that wonderful gift between your ears, deploy that gray matter, and think!

- M

Rocky Balboa. An iconic hero.

Some years back, Sylvester Stallone wrote, directed, and starred in a quirky movie titled, "Rocky." For some reason, the public latched onto the story of a common man fighting extraordinary odds and surviving. It's probably safe to say that the whole world knows the story of Rocky. I certainly grew up with it all around me, and the pulsing soundtrack of "Rocky III" brought us a classic hero song: "Eye of the Tiger."

Recently, Stallone decided it was time to return to the roots of that great story and give us the capstone piece of the Rocky saga. This one named, "Rocky Balboa." In it, Rocky is now a middle-aged father. He runs his own restaurant, filled with memorabilia of his boxing days, and spends time telling stories and visiting the grave of his dear wife. He has a son, who is working a high profile job but feels he is living in his father's mighty shadow. At the same time, Rocky is touched by a neighborhood mother and her son.

Yes, there is a boxing match, and yes, Rocky fights to the end. But, this movie is far more than only that. Stallone captures the essence of a true hero, in that this hero fights in every part of his life. He overcomes challenges constantly, but isn't afraid to admit his weaknesses. "Rocky Balboa" is an awe inspiring film. I think it's one of the very best hero movies ever made, and if you aren't crying at the end then you have no heart. I especially love how Rocky doesn't even wait to hear the results at the end, but takes his leave immediately after the match ends. What matters is he fought with everything he had inside him--he held nothing back--and the judges count meant nothing compared with that.

Rocky is a legendary hero, because he represents how much we desire to fight the good fight. Even when there doesn't seem any hope of success, he fights anyway. Courage. Honor. Respect. Rocky Balboa is worthy of admiration. I'm glad Sylvester Stallone remember, and put it on screen once more.

- M