Sunday, December 7, 2008

Note to Self #1

"Reserve judgment until further information is received."

I'm a social extrovert but an internal processor. I usually don't publicize my reflections, but I have become a bit attached to my dear Spielog (you're a good Spielog, yes you are :o)

The above quote is a principle that I'd like to incorporate into my life, gradually (because that's how principles are incorporated.) For the sake of goodness, the Golden Rule, and for my sanity, I'd like to become more thoughtful in my reactions to things. I don't know if it's because of nature or nurture, but I find myself springing to immediate judgments quite often. Emotional reactions 1) Are far easier than rational ones, 2) Feed the delicious sense of self-vindication 3) Are a human curiosity.

I plan on tackling #1 by continuing to develop intellectually and, of course, trying my best to hold myself to the same standard by which I judge "the other." #2 is more difficult, but I will try to realize that being right or wrong is relevant to a situation, but not to my ability to become better (more logical, more tolerant, more understanding.) In other words, proving myself right doesn't accomplish anything in the long run unless I see the big picture. Also, being wrong just makes me a human being. Which brings me to point 3. Emotional reactions will always be a part of the human race. It's not changing, so we might as well make the best of it. Use our powers for good.

I understand I haven't outlined a complete and cohesive worldview here, but it's all I got right now.

Please, if you see me slide on these principles, let me know. That's what friends do, right?

Thoughts?

Jester

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Greetings, bloglings!

After a lengthy hiatus, I have decided to once again traverse into the underworld of internet bloggage. Knowing well that a three year old could exceed my attention span, I wisely abstain from making any sort of promises regarding the length of my stay.

But enough of the formalities. I have returned from the physical world so that I can share some of my newfound treasures. Yes, we bloggers are known to venture outside of our basements, leave our laptops in their spiffy cases, and even travel beyond the borders of wi-fi coverage!

One of my hobbies is city-exploring. I love downtown. I love Paseo. I love Hefner Lake. Yes, even within the confines of our endearingly-mediocre metropolis, one can find a haven. OKC.gov has a website promoting a few of such places.


http://www.okc.gov/to_do/index.html



A few weeks ago, Josh and I boarded an OKC River Cruise (not to be confused with the Bricktown Canal Cruises.) It was one of their themed-cruises--"Taste of Italy"--and we had the privilege of feasting upon Italian hors d'oeuvres while crusing down the Oklahoma River. During the one and a half hour cruise, we laughed, sang and mingled with 28 other passengers, including a group of singers from a Methodist choir. The boat was warm and cozy inside, and outside was delightfully brisky. The coolest part was when our boat was locked into a little chamber that filled with water to elevate us across the dam. All in all, a splendid time.


I will periodically update my "Spielog" with new discoveries, rants, and other random musings.


Stay tuned mes amis,


JC