Keeping appointments--are your early, late, or exactly on time?

As a child, I was always taught: "If you aren't early, then you're late." Most people of my generation were taught similar things. We expected people to be responsible, without being constantly reminded by alarms and cell phones. Most people wore watches. And, dirt was a new discovery. These days, I see such a relaxed attitude about appointments, it makes me wonder where we all went wrong? Television and movies reinforce being late, because there's so many commercials at the beginning (the last movie we went to started 15 minutes after the posted start time).

So, here's the question: why be early? To me, it demonstrates that I also think the appointment is important. Usually, when you make a schedule, you are agreeing with someone about the times and places. Having worked in a doctor's office, it surprised me how many people would arrive extremely late (sometimes over an hour late) and then be upset when they were asked to reschedule. Maybe it was a surprise appointment? Just found out about it? I doubt it.

I've been thinking of how to have fun with this attitude. You could write something on the calendar with no meaning. Scribble down a time and date, but spill coffee on it so it blurs. Leave off the final two digits of a phone number. Those are only funny if they're made up, though. Actually, jokes with appointments are only funny if they are to hide surprise birthday parties. I don't think anyone would actually laugh about a missed job interview. Okay, never mind. Carry on, folks. Nothing to see here...

- M

Life is tough, so chew slowly and take small bites

I haven't eaten a real steak in years. I don't have enough molars in my mouth to chew steak. Yesterday, I had my last set of usable molars extracted. Still, I'm grateful that food isn't completely denied me. There are lots of people far worse off than me. Life has a way of keeping us on our toes. Like the old saying, "When life hands you lemons, make lemonade." Yes, it's trite and overused, but the principle holds even now. Adapt, change, work out a new way of doing things. But, don't give up.

I suppose there are some people who haven't ever had a thing go wrong, but I've never met one. So, we can all relate to one another, and yet everyone's pain is unique and unknowable. Yup, life is crazy. Yet, we toddle around and make the best of it. Humans are like that--we take a beating and get up and find a way through anyway. Maybe we should keep a tally of our falls, just for fun? Perhaps we could give awards, and celebrate the triumphs? Sure, there are already awards for excellence, but why not for stubborn resilience? Just a thought.

 

So, here I am, encouraging you all to press on and finish what you started. Yes, we all get knocked down, face fears, suffer countless agonies, and basically get pounded on. Despite all this, I hope you know that it's worth it in the end. Fight for your dreams; keep them alive, no matter what. And, never give up!

 

- M

3D movies, here to stay or only a gimmick?

1950's advertisement about the new gizmo

Being colorblind prevented me from partaking in the early days of 3D movies (those red/blue lenses did nothing but darken the double image for me). And, the distance between my eyes is very narrow, so the 3D effect didn't work until the new shuttering technology came around. So, I've watched this field as an unbiased outsider for years (it actually started in the 50's, but saw a resurgence in the 80's and on). Now, I'm able to see what others have been talking about. And, so I ask, is it adding something we didn't have before? I'm not against the idea at all, however I'm curious why it's being pushed so forcefully.

 

There is a darkness issue, but I'm certain they'll work that bug out. What I really wonder is do audiences want to be actually immersed in scenes? 3D movies do enjoy the "poke you in the eye" scenes. 3D is similar to watching a stage play, though at distance it has very little "depth" to it. Human eyes tend to lose the 3D effect after around 10 feet (though large objects still produce a slight version). Beyond the technicalities, does 3D improve aspects of movies not utilized before?

 

One of my favorite memories of childhood is going to Disney's Epcot Center and seeing this incredible 3D sampler. It wasn't a movie, but a technical achievement demonstrating the impressiveness of the technology. There were two scenes in particular: a field of flowers with butterflies going all around the theatre, and the Wicked Witch of the West coming on screen and shooting lightning from her fingertips that raked right across my eyeballs. Wow, what a memory! Incredible!

 

Yet, in movies using heavy 3D the effect seems like a parlor trick. Is the story different with the addition of 3D, or is 3D a feature of the experience and not serving the story in any significant way? I vividly remember when we watched "Tron: Legacy" in 3D, there was a preview for "Prometheus" and when they showed the sleep capsules, I was astounded by the depth of field--I could see the holographic displays floating inches over the capsules. Wow, that looks like it's actually there! Perhaps 3D is a technology still searching for it's place in the world of entertainment?

 

- M

Cats just don't like taking their medicine ...

Having pets is a great part of growing up. Children learn to care for something that's actually totally dependent on them. Also, kids get to enjoy the incredible love pets have for their owners. I think it's one of the very best things for helping children become adults. I grew up with dogs, and my own kids have had cats. It's been great, and the cats have developed amazing bonds with all three of my children. I'm happy.

 

However--

image source

When these curious little creatures need medicine for ailments, they turn into vicious bobcats. I swear I have been chewed on, scratched, mauled, and near blind so many times I've lost count. What's so hard about taking a pill, or taking a bit of medicine? I hate cough syrup, but I'll down it if I must. Cats just don't let you explain it to them. It's not a difficult concept, after all. They just shut off and ignore my comforting pleading. Hey, I'm doing it for their own good--don't they know that?

 

I think it's high time my kids get the joy of this adventure. After all, it's part of animal ownership, right? Of course, I'll be there to enjoy the fireworks. I would be a terrible father if I didn't laugh at the plight of both parties (one of the perks of being a parent, I think). All in good fun, certainly. I'll be there to bandage wounds and pat the little darlings on the head. Hey, growing up is tough, so may as well get a tough skin early. It's for your own good. Honest.

 

- M

Trying new things and turning ideas upside down

Some ideas are such fun to toy with. Take time travel for instance. We've all seen movies, or read stories, or wondered how fun it would be. Yet, I've only really seen ideas where you either move forward or backward in time. Well, what if you compress it? Such that you could begin a trip and instantly be where you wanted. Or, expand it, so you could accomplish an enormous amount and have it take no real time at all. What about shifting out of reality all together, by means of isolating yourself from time? There's all sorts of fun to be had there.

Dr. Who TARDIS
image credit

How about cakes? I remember when I thought you could only follow standard recipes, or use a cake kit. Now, I know I can use diet soda to make a sugar-free cake! Wow, what a concept! And, you can scramble an egg while it's still in its shell! I love new ways of doing things. But, why are we so surprised when we discover new ways? Probably we wished we had come up with them, right?

 

There's a great thinking concept, called "lateral thinking," which exercises your brain in coming up with innovative solutions. For instance, a manufacturer of metal ball bearings is ending up with dents because the balls are hitting the conveyer belt too hard from the upper level. How can it be fixed? Lots of ways, sure. The way the manufacturer used was to make many small drops on the way down, which didn't cause dents. Okay, now figure out another dozen ways to accomplish it... that's lateral thinking and you've just exercised your brain!

 

- M

My wife's father; a true treasure.

Norm, my wife's father



My wife's father is a remarkable man. He is kind, loving, soft-spoken, wise, and beyond reproach. His example still challenges my wife--and me. One aspect I admire, is how patient he is. That's something I struggle with constantly, and the frustrations that come from the impatience. Maybe it's because he loves golf so much (he's accomplished a hole-in-one!). Going up to visit is one of the highlights of our year.

 

These days the importance of fathers is not as celebrated, oddly, like mothers are. I really don't know why. I think we do a disservice as a culture to portray them as buffoons and slobs. Fathers are key parts of our maturity, just as mothers are. I'd love to see more fathers like my wife's father, Norm. He is an example we can all look up to.

 

I've heard it said that you can tell the measure of a man by how his children behave. By that measure, Norm is a great success. He and his wife, Margaret (another treasure, waiting for us in Heaven), raised marvelous children, and I love them as I do my own brother. He is a wonderful man, and I'm grateful to know him and be a part of his life.

 

Happy Father's Day!

 

- M

Why are some combinations odd?

Isn't it strange that some things are just not commonly put together? I heard a wonderful silliness long ago, which was "Crazy as a soup sandwich" (coined by Harlan Ellison in the New Twilight Zone episode of the same name). It's a great phrase. But, we've all heard someone tell us that such and so doesn't go with this and that. I've often wondered where these rules come from, but people seem to know them. Like, why don't sandals and socks, or apples and sardines, or television and snorkeling, work out? What if I don't agree? Do I get my hand slapped, or something worse?

Ferrari and a pickup truck -- both enjoying the dirt

Knowing this, why are we amazed when we see rich and poor getting together, or country and city meeting up? Life is a constant experience of opposites and contrasting things working themselves out. When you think about it, wouldn't it be truly strange if they didn't? I suspect it'd create some sort of time vortex that would instantly suck out all life and replace it with a completely reversed and incomprehensible substitute (this may have already happened ... if you've read "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" you'll laugh).

 

Interestingly, children have no problem with any combinations. They're still experimenting and finding out from personal experience what they like or don't. I wish that kind of thinking would sustain a bit longer into adulthood. We become pretty unmovable as we age, and I'm not sure that's a good thing. It's good to keep a bit of flex in your outer shell. Let your imagination out now and again to see what new things spark the old, forgotten, excitement.

 

- M

Such a tragic weekend.

 

We pray and remember our fallen.

Ticking clock, the importance of deadlines

In storytelling, there's a concept known as the "ticking clock." The idea is something will happen, and the time is specific and unalterable. Sort of like a bomb timer. It doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing, but it does need to be extremely important and have a huge impact on the current plot. The neat thing is the audience is fully aware of the clock (and probably the consequences), but the characters don't necessarily need to know. It depends on why the clock exists. Using a ticking clock creates tension, and, if used well, incredible tension.

 

Some examples are: in Star Wars the Death Star about to fire; old cowboy movies with a lady tied to train tracks; and of course the Lord of the Rings with Frodo destroying the ring (not as specific, but absolutely a ticking clock). You see, these clocks drive the plot forward, providing no chance for meaningful rest and also ratchet up the tension as the deadline approaches. Without it, then there's no reason for rush or panic. Can you imagine how boring it would be to watch a James Bond film where he has all the time in the world to foil the evil plot?

 

Nearly anything can be a ticking clock; it's all in how it's used. How many ways can you think of to use a glass of water? See, it's that easy. Of course, it does require a plan for the story, as it's pointless to throw in a timer without having a plan in motion. Having a clear consequence is key, as is the purpose of the clock. But, all rules can be broken. Having a character facing a countdown, with no understanding of how or why does create tension, due to the mystery of it, and the audience will then be desperately trying to figure out what's going on. That creates interest and is always a good thing.

 

After all, one of the biggest maxims in writing is: leave the audience wanting more!

 

- M

Movie review: Zootopia

 

Sometimes you just have to let it yourself have a couple of hours of absolute fun. "Zootopia" is absolutely great fun! I loved it. My family loved it. Some movies are instant classics--the kind you'll want to see again and again--and this sure is one of them. Yes, it's an animated movie. Yes, it's aimed at kids. Yes, it's silly, about a bunch of animals, and full of puns. So what? The point is, this movie is pure fun.

 

What I particularly appreciate is how knowingly the movie pokes at it's own foolishness. This is a movie happy to make fun of everything, while at the same time telling a compelling story about not accepting your status and doing what's right despite your circumstances. Yup, this movie has morals to tell--sort of like an animated "Aesop's Fables" actually. But, don't worry, you'll enjoy every bit of it.

 

So, you have a tough, eager, idealistic bunny as the hero. A sly fox as a sidekick. And, a mystery to be solved. If you haven't seen it, don't worry, I didn't give anything away ... everyone dies in the end ... just kidding ... one survives. The plot isn't very deep or difficult, because it doesn't have to be. This movie is content to be fun and imaginative. Plus, the scene with the sloths is one of the funniest I've seen in a very long time (worth the price of admission just for it alone).

 

In short: go see "Zootopia" right now!

 

- M

Lightning bugs--childhood magic set free

There is a magical flying insect I grew up calling "lightning bugs," but are correctly termed, "fireflies." If you've never seen one, then imagine a house fly with a tiny light bulb attached to its bottom. The light winks on and off randomly as the bug flies around (usually at dusk and early night). To a child, they're astonishing. Actually, they're more than that. Fireflies represent fantasy and reality combining into one place. Let any child run around and catch them, and you'll witness wonder beyond adult belief.

 

I love the way children see the world. There's such innocence and purity, but also a willingness to believe anything can be real. Let even a moderately good slight-of-hand magician entertain a child, and the child will tell you how coins truly disappeared and reappeared everywhere at the magician's touch. Lightning bugs are real magic you can hold in your hand, then let go and watch fly out into the night. Then, sit back and watch your whole backyard light up in little flashes!

 

Tonight I did exactly that. I sat and watched the little bugs light up my yard. I couldn't help but smile. I felt like a kid again. I could have torn my shoes off, rushed through the grass on my bare feet, and caught a whole jar of the curious little critters. I was sorry to break the illusion. Perhaps, one day, I won't need to ...

 

- M

Shouldn't heroes be worth idolizing?

In our modern age, we've gravitated toward heroes who are like us--flawed, broken, and sometimes outright miserable. Batman and Daredevil are two of my favorite superheroes, yet they are also two of the darkest and moodiest heroes. They teach us that we can still be heroes, despite our downfalls. That's a great lesson to teach. But, I also love the Flash and Superman. In contrast, these are heroes who aren't broken and live happy lives. When I was little, I wanted to be the Flash. I looked up to the ideal of being so honest and trustworthy.

Hercules from the Disney movie

I bring this up, because I think we need more heroes we want to emulate. In ancient times, heroes were above reproach and practically gods themselves. That's a bit much, but why not try for heroes who are upright and courageous? Does every hero have to have a dark side? Captain America (in the films at least) is bringing this concept back, and I love it. Even when he was tempted, it was more about loss than a dark side. That is a hero to be copied! Wouldn't every parent be happy to see their kids with that sort of moral fiber and values? (Note: yes, I'm aware of current comics, but that story isn't finished and may not be as it first appeared.)

 

Also, heroes have villains, so it's good writing to draw a stark contrast between the two sides. In the recent "Batman v Superman" I would ask, what's the difference between the heroes and villains? They cause enormous destruction, death, and use untold violence to fit their ends. Not much difference really. Compare that to the Christopher Reeves Superman, or the campy Adam West Batman. True, they were from different days (and even the villains weren't all that vicious), yet there is a big gap between the good guys and bad guys.

 

I am constantly in search of a new hero to support. I think we are seeing a revitalization of the field, due especially to the Marvel movies. And, I hope we continue seeing heroes who value life and liberty far above force and brutality. Hope, faith, and love. Let me put a hero up for display, proudly lauding their courage and good deeds.

 

- M

Being humbled (or humiliated) is all in how you take it

When I was taking martial arts (Taekwondo to be specific), I learned many valuable life lessons. One particularly painful one was on my path to black belt. I was a green belt at the time, and had zero experience with sparring (practice fighting, with minimal contact) and was eager to test myself. I had the opportunity when a more senior student wanted a sparring partner. I'm still not sure why, but he apparently wanted to punish me. The sparring was completely one-sided. I didn't have a hope of competing with him, yet he pulverized me. I was hopelessly out-classed. By the end of the experience, I was a sobbing mess, and totally humiliated.

 

Yet, I view this experience as one of the most formative events in my life. Why? Well, it taught me several things. One, don't pick a fight with someone way better than you. Two, learn your own limits. Three, don't be upset if someone knows more than you. Finally, some people are jerks, no matter what you do. There are more lessons, but those were the big ones. It took a long time for me to understand the scope of the lessons, and perhaps I still don't. Either way, I learned fast and pretty soon I was so much better than the guy, he never even tried for a rematch. I didn't asked for one.

 

Life has a lot of times like that, when we face situations which totally overpower us. However, we are the ones who choose to be humiliated or humbled. It's all in the way you look at it. On one hand, it can be defeating, while on the other it's only a set back. A good dose of humility can keep you from showing off and being an idiot. I wish life made such lessons easier, but so be it.

 

So, if you find yourself up against a twenty-foot bulldog, suck it up and smile. Just a little helpful advice.

 

- M