Patience, patience, you will arrive in time...

There are a breed of sayings I like to place under the heading of: "Pithy." They don't mean a whole lot, though they could I suppose, but mainly they are said to make the speaker sound wise. Stuff like that drives me crazy, especially in books and movies. The words typically seem good enough, but once you take a moment to consider they are only swollen cotton candy.

"Get out there and win!" is a personal favorite from sports stories. Usually pronounced by a couch, with great seriousness, and I have to wonder why they say this? As though the team were to aim to lose? Naturally, someone wins and someone loses, but why point out the obvious? Much better would be to say, "I believe in you. Now get out there and prove it!" It's the empty platitudes I dislike, not the sentiments behind them.

Writers are always cautioned to avoid clichés, and this is probably the reason. Using common sayings like these doesn't really do much, other than be instantly recognizable hogwash. It takes effort to come up with something new, but the effort is worthwhile. Having a wise man saying fluff doesn't make them wise, but having them give actually intelligent insight is wonderful. For example, Yoda's wonderful phrase in response to Luke Skywalker saying it was impossible said, "That is why you fail." Impressive insight, that because you don't believe it's even possible prevents your attempting it anyway. Providing actual wisdom is well worth the effort, and the audience, I believe, appreciates it.

- M

Children make life better.

My wife and I are blessed with three children. I love children, and am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of raising these three. What is endlessly fascinating is how you see the world all over again through a new set of eyes. Everything is experienced all over again, especially the things you figured were common and normal. Like mud.. what is the deal with mud? Children practically roll around in it, eat it, make pies from it, and love to show you their creations. Weird.

In stories, children are somewhat of a hit-or-miss aspect. While they can be charming, they can also be annoying. I think the reason is because of their innate immaturity (which is clearly expected) that gets them into trouble. I still cringe at the little girl in the book form of "Jurassic Park" (the movie changed it up and made the little boy the annoying one), yet one of my favorite stories is "The Neverending Story" which features many kids and is incredibly charming. There's quite a lot of discussion on the topic of children in movies, but I think it's overall a good thing. We naturally relate to children, because we all were one at some point (even if we don't admit it), but the lack of maturity can easily trample the film.

Children are a blessing to us, no doubt about it. I admire anyone with more than six these days; it must be difficult keeping control of the chaos. With children, parents quickly learn responsibility of a whole new type and grow up even more. And, we get the pleasure of watching young minds grow and prosper under our tutelage. Big responsibility, but also a very big payoff.

- M

Whistling. Working. Why not put them together?

Ever tried whistling more than a single note? I grew up whistling, and have been told I'm pretty good at it. I don't deny it. I love whistling songs, and having a good time by myself. It's relaxing, and let's me sing my favorite songs without having the vocal range to do it by voice. Even more, it let's me play with music and that's something I believe very strongly in. Music makes life better in every way.

Disney popularized "Whistle while you work" and it stuck in the popular imagination, not that I've ever seen anyone whistling at work really. Actually, I used to do that as a janitor when I thought I was alone (apparently not always, since people commented about it). The concept is a good one though, because it speaks about being happy about what you're doing. That's a great idea. We should all enjoy our work, even when it's hard and backbreaking.

I suppose the conclusion is to ask: What do you do to make your life happy? Whistling is only one thing we can do, but there are many options available to us. Enjoying what you do is more than an emotion, it's a commitment. Life is like that, rewarding our commitments with joy. Maybe not jump in the air joy, but a satisfaction of something done well.

- M

Reading books ... by ear

I love listening to books. Not that I can't read them, but because voice acting gives books a fresh quality I enjoy. There are lots of other people who simply don't have time to read and listen to books on their commutes to work and so on. It's another way to enjoy books, and sometimes is even better than reading it yourself--at least, I hope I'm not the only one who can't do voices justice in my own head.

My oldest daughter enjoys turning on her Kindle's voice reading system. It's pretty good, and she loves it, but I like a human being doing the reading. However, as technology progresses the quality of electronic reading will continue to more closely approximate the human voice. I suppose there will be a time when you really won't notice the difference. Sadly, that'll be the end of the voice acting industry in regards to audiobooks, but it will also open the galaxy of books to people unable to read for themselves.

The short story is especially suited to audiobooks, mainly due to the short form, and because it's easy enough to listen to an entire story in one sitting. Most full audiobooks go on for a number of hours (a dozen or more) and so must be broken down into smaller chunks. However, the experience is worthwhile and I think expands the book for the audience. Hopefully, it isn't the only way the books are read, but even if so, the books are being read and that is the important point.
- M

Things I leanred from my parents

When I was a little boy, my parents were the wisest and most all-knowing people on the planet. As I grew older, my opinion shifted to believe I was a fool to listen to these old-as-dirt folks. Now that I have children of my own (who probably think I'm just as useless), I want to know what my parents think about most things. You see, I finally actually grew up and value the great experience and wisdom of my parents. They are a treasure beyond any sought after by Indiana Jones types.

There's a phrase we hear a lot, "Experience is the best teacher." Sure, that's true to a point, but I'd much prefer having someone teach me who's already suffered through actual experience. My parents never held back their wisdom; I was sadly too arrogant to accept their advice. Sure, they aren't right about everything, but who is? I value what they have to say, even if it did take me my whole life to realize it.

The truth is, modern America doesn't value our elders as we should. They are lifetimes of experience on tap, happy to give it freely, and yet are mostly ignored. That's a real shame. What better way to understand history than to ask those who lived through it? How many are still alive who passed through World War 2, or the various regional wars? Open your minds and your hearts, then keep your mouths shut and listen. Learn.

- M

Gone fishing

Have you ever gone out fishing? Or, as my father would say, "Drown some worms." For those of us who aren't professionals, we fish mainly for the joy of occasionally catching something and the companionship of spending time with a friend or two. There's very little brain work required in fishing, so it leaves plenty of time to chat and goof around. Plus, you get out in the sun, enjoy watery breezes, and generally fall in love with nature.



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We do a lot of things for the joy of being with others. Picnics. Barbeques. Church socials. Weddings. Book clubs. There's a never ending list of gatherings. Why? Sure, not everyone enjoys being in a crowd, but not every gathering is large. Pick the size that makes you comfortable and experience those. There's no right or wrong about it. We all need connections to those around us, and what better way than to have fun while you're gathering.

One of the things my teachers drilled into me during elementary school was, "If you want a friend, be a friend." There's a lot of truth there. It goes hand-in-hand with, "No man is an island." We aren't alone in life, no matter how hard we try. Since we can't completely avoid everyone, at least have some fun. Go out in nature, rent a boat, take along some worms, and build some memories.

- M

Heroes change the world

Why do we need heroes? Is it important to have people who pass beyond role models and into the stratosphere of living legends? If so, what purpose do they serve? Can one person change the world?

Yes, we want heroes. Without heroes, our world fades into darkness and despair. I believe heroes give us hope. Hope we can be better than we are. Hope we have bright futures ahead of us. Hope that the world isn't such a scary place after all. And, with such hope, we strive harder and better. Heroes are inspirations. Consider the upsurge of interest in athletes whenever the Olympics swing into worldwide attention. Or, the incredible power of heroism during a tragedy and how we instantly gravitate toward the courageous few.

I want to live in a world with heroes. There's plenty of villains, far too many indeed, and who will fight them? Who will slay the dragons? Who will tame the wilderness? Who will save us? Sure, real heroes aren't knights in shining armor, bearing huge swords. Heroes can be meek, unsure of themselves, or cringing with fear, yet they don't allow circumstances to dictate their actions. Case in point is the Clint Eastwood movie, "Hacksaw Ridge," where an ordinary bloke rises far beyond expectation to perform almost superhuman feats. His actions inspire everyone around him to be greater that they previously believed possible.

Heroes are the best of us. Actually, they're paragons--the absolutely finest human beings possible to be. Sure, their heroism may be momentary, their lives otherwise uninspired, and future actions aren't tied to those temporary moments ... however, those actions move into popular thought. Heroes grow beyond themselves, becoming ideas and ideals. Without heroes, such positive movements won't happen. I need heroes; I think we all do.

- M

Crafting heirlooms to last generations

My wife creates beautiful quilts and cross-stich projects. We have a home decorated with many examples, and new ones all the time. I'm dazzled by her art. What makes me love them even more, is how they are sure to be cherished by our grandchildren. I know my wife will make more for every one of them, it's part of the fun for her. Crafting something that lasts is a real pleasure.

A marvelous quilt my wife made for a music teacher friend.

We humans create incredible art from the most insignificant objects, even objects which melt within a few hours, and only get better at the crafts with time. How much would a sketch Da Vinci drew on a napkin be worth today? Yet it perhaps took the master only a few quick minutes of doodling to fashion. Then, move to heirlooms--many taking years to complete--and watch the value skyrocket! Sentimental value is frequently far greater than any actual monetary value.

Heirlooms are passed on to the next generations, as treasures to keep within the family. Isn't it interesting how things with such high value aren't spent? Yes, we do value memories much more than money, despite what popular culture may say about it. I have my grandfather's old Bible, and I'll never part with it simply because it's a connection with him--a physical heirloom I can hold and remember. I'll bet that years down the line, our children will cuddle up underneath one of my wife's quilts and smile with warm memories. Ah, it's good to have heirlooms!

- M

Time keeps slipping past ...

Another year has breezed past my grasping fingers, leaving me another year older and hopefully wiser. I do feel proud that this year I at least noticed it was my birthday. If you've ever seen the movie, "Groundhog Day," you'll understand how fun it would be to rewind the days and maintain your own learning ... I could learn languages, teach myself to paint, read all the books on my shelves, and loads of other things! However, since reality constantly slaps me across the jaw, I will trudge along and cram as much into my brain as possible.

Thinking about time naturally brings me to time travel. Would I want to use it, if time travel were available? Absolutely, yes! I think it would be fun, exciting, and every bit as crazy as Doctor Who would suggest. But, there's the inevitable issue of someone messing up the time stream. Well, there's lots of theory about what would actually happen, and I have my own favorites too. Safe to say, I doubt time travel will ever happen to the extent science fiction has shown. Pity. I'd love having my own pet triceratops.

The real question becomes, "what are you doing with the time available to you?" Not to get too philosophical here, but it's hard not to be. Time is a resource we'll never have any more of, nor any less of. Love the moment. Try to live with few regrets. Work hard and play hard. Use suntan lotion...

- M

What starts at the beginning gets things moving.

Many stories (especially the visual kinds, such as movies and television) get things moving with a short vignette that sets the mood. Consider "Raiders of the Lost Ark," where Indiana Jones demonstrates his skill not only as an archaeologist but as a tomb raider. This is known as a "cold open" and serves to get the audience ready for the main story. This opening doesn't need to connect with the overall story, but provides the rules of the universe and how characters behave.


"Policeman Being Tripped" by Tom Frantzen (Brussels, Belgium)

By using this method, you can avoid delivering backstory through exposition and narration. Audiences don't tolerate loads of narration, so by using a cold open you demonstrate character qualities, motivations, and even possible backstory without interrupting the burgeoning pace of the story--the James Bond movie "Goldeneye" shows this very well. Naturally, there's plenty of room for improvisation and creativity, which makes this technique so much fun.

What I find most fun about storytelling is there's no wrong way to go about it. If your audience is following along, then how can it be a problem? Sure, there may be better ways to do it, but the essence is the story. As I've grown, I've realized this more and more. Focus on telling a good story. Let the story dictate how it's told, then adjust from there. The most enjoyable books I've read are the ones where the narrator disappears right into the background, and the story comes through naturally. Whatever method you choose, use it with gusto!

- M

Birthdays ... strangely accepted.

What is it about birthdays that makes people either celebrate or ignore them? At the beginnings of life, birthdays are pure celebration and joy. Then, birthdays are celebrations of growth and swiftly turn to graduations of strength. At some point in the process, people may begin resenting the celebrations entirely--I'm not entirely sure why. Finally, at the ends of our lifetimes, birthdays become victory celebrations and are triumphs once again.

Sometimes, it's best not to overdue the candles ...
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This reminds me of the ancient sphinx riddle: What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs at night? The answer is a man (crawling as a baby, walking as an adult, and using a cane as an elder). Life is all about changes. We grow, learn, and move on. The trouble is when we stop. We human beings are not meant to sit and gather moss. We are designed to constantly grow, to adapt, and to learn. Birthdays are like milestones, giving us an easy measure of hopeful growth. It's a simple gauge of maturity--usually fairly accurate.

Birthdays are our way of honoring such growth. It's a good thing. I just don't understand why some people are squeamish about their age, or celebrating another year of life. In many cultures it's inappropriate to discuss age at all. That's sad, as I find great value in advancing age. The virility of youth is wonderful, but the wisdom of age is treasured.

So, in honor of everyone else's birthday, I won't be noticing my own this year ... just kidding. I'm sure I have a birthday sometime this year--I just need to check my driver's license to find out when it is.

- M

They never really grow up, do they?

We have three marvelous children who are growing up far too quickly. I've often told them I won't allow it any more, and they must immediately stop growing up, but they haven't listened. I'm growing concerned that they actually have no intention of stopping, and want to become adults whether I approve or not. Maybe I should ground them?

At the same time, I do understand that my children will remain my children no matter how old they become. It's the tragedy of parents. We want our children to become fine men and women, yet hate to see them leave. We love their childish innocence, yet hope to see maturity and wisdom. We yearn for them to strike out on their own, yet fear for their safety. It's like being a parent is an exercise in contained terror, mixed with overwhelming emotions of love and laughter. Or, maybe I'm just going insane?

We all know the story of Peter Pan, the boy who wouldn't grow up. Throughout the story, Peter refuses to change, while the Darling children mature. It's a great story because the audience is faced with the inevitability of growing up, yet can still pretend to fight it. Sure, I joke about banning my children from getting older, but I sure don't mean it for real. My deepest desire is to watch with pride as they face the world, prepared and confident in their decisions.

Although ... maybe they could stay children for a little longer ...

- M

The impressive power of legends

Why do the construction of the Pyramids in Giza still capture worldwide interest? Why does the story of the Titanic sinking make us hold our breath? Do dragons set your mind ablaze? All these things are legends, which means they are based on fact but may not be entirely true. Yes, the Pyramids are obviously true constructions, but how were they made? The Titanic was a real ship and definitely sank, yet how did it all happen? King Arthur is a real historical figure, but are all the tales accurate?

The Great Pyramids

I think the reason these legends have such appeal is due to their inherent mysteries. Legends generally aren't solved beyond all doubt, leaving plenty of room for theories and wild speculations. This makes people want more, whatever the reliability, to gain a better understanding. And so, the legends grow greater and more grand. After a while it's difficult to separate legend from outright myth. What wonderful resources for aspiring authors!

I collect all sorts of reference materials, but particular anything regarding folktales and old stories. You never know when something will jump out at you and demand to be told. The more you pay attention, the greater your ability to draw from experience to fashion your own legends. Plus, you will educate yourself in the process ... it's a win-win scenario!

- M