I have been doing a lot of thinking lately. I have had an idea running through my head for some time now. I have been laying the ground work for actually writing something on the subject. I had a basic outline in my head already. It was based on my own personal experiences as well as observation of others actions.
I was narrowing down the idea of what it takes to be successful in anything. There are countless experts out there talking about and teaching this subject. I have read and listened to more experts than I can count.
I had pretty much completed my research on the subject. I was actually going to sit down and write out my outline today. It was going to be a short work. I had it down to three points. Nice, neat and easy to explain. Probably one of my better works if I do say so myself.
For some strange reason, before I actually started working I decided to look at the news. I really don't know why. Usually when I decide to get to work I try to avoid doing things that will distract me. But this time I didn't. This time I read this story. It hit me like a ton of bricks.
I has missed the one part that really counted. The one thing that really makes all those other things I was thinking about come in second place at best. the underlying reason for everything else I was planning to write. This is one of the few times I think answering the question why really matters.
I have always been much more of a How does it work kind of guy. Why it works doesn't really matter too much for me as long as it works and I know how to make it work. If I have to move around in a dark room. Knowing How to turn on the light is much more important than knowing why the light works. If I only know why the light works I am still stuck bumping my way around a dark room.
But this story made me realize the entire concept of success requires a why. Without that why there really is no success. If you do not have the answer to this why you will never be successful. You may become wealthy yet without this you will never truly feel successful.
You want to know that why? Here it is.
Help Others
That's it, You can be wealthy and still not see yourself as successful. You can be wealthy and live a miserable life feeling unfulfilled the entire time. Or you can be poor and miserable with the same feelings.
Money, Fame, celebrity status, none of those things come close to the feeling of success you will ever reach by simply helping someone else. Not because you have to, Not because you expect anything from it, Not for any reason but because it is the right thing to do.
If you can get this down nothing else will really matter as much any more. If you do not get this down then nothing else you do will make a difference. And in the end tru success is all in your mind. In the end when you look back on your life it will not be money or things or fame you will regret. It will those times you knew you could make a difference in someone elses life and you chose not to that will be your biggest regrets.
And isn't being able to look back at your life in the end and have the fewest possible regrets the best measure of success possible?
In case you are interested and I have no idea how long this story will be up but HERE is the story I read that prompted all of this in the first place.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
What are you doing to remain vigilant post 9/11/01
I saw this question on Facebook and planned to write a short answer but found I had too much to say to be able to post it there so I will put it here.
This is a very interesting question in my mind. You hear a lot of the never forget, always remember kind of stuff as 9/11 comes around but seldom this question.
I think we have a great example to follow from that very day. There are countless examples of first responders who were going up the twin towers trying to save people and lost their lives. There are also many examples of people in the pentagon that risked their lives and safety trying to help victims of that attack as well.
But in my mind the very best example of average people taking action was on the United flight 93. The passengers on that plane knew the risks and still took action. They knew the likely hood was great the plane would not be able to stay in the air as they went towards the cockpit. Yet they still went quickly and with the purpose to try and save the passengers on that plane and also to save people they never even saw on the ground where that plane was heading.
I have nothing but respect and gratitude for the fire and police personnel that died that day in the twin towers. But I still feel the passengers on flight 93 showed greater bravery by taking the action they took with the knowledge that even if they succeeded they were very likely not going to survive.
This is difficult for me to put into words but I will try. the first responders in NY that went bravely into those towers never considered that possibility those towers would completely fall. Certainly there was a risk, certainly there was the "chance" that one or more of them could die while fighting the fire and trying to save people. It takes a special kind of bravery to run towards something everyone else is running away from and I in no way mean to belittle that courage those brave souls showed going into those towers. But at the same time they never really thought they all would die and that always gives you a sense of hope that you will be the one to "make it".
Those people on flight 93 KNEW, they knew they would likely die in the attempt. These were not trained first responders, these were as average a group of people you can find. These average people stood up and went above and beyond to not only try and save themselves, which they knew was unlikely. But to be certain they saved unknown people that just had the bad luck to in the target of that particular plane.
This in my mind is the answer to the question of what being vigilant is for the average person. To be prepared to take action when and where you are, if you ever are faced with a similar situation. Step up and do what has to be done without counting the cost, but thinking only of the outcome and the greater good from that outcome.
We can do this today, in our everyday lives. We may never have to face that most difficult decision those passengers on Flight 93 did. Or those first responders in the twin towers faced as well. BUT there are things we may see every day, points in our own experience where we have to make a choice. That choice may not be as monumental in scope but it is still a choice and we have to make it.
Today is 9/11/12 it has been 11 years since those brave few were faced with their moment of decision. Today is a good day to reflect...not on what we would "HAVE DONE" in that position but on what we "WILL DO" whenever we are faced with a choice, be it however small and insignificant seeming at the time. Remember those who have gone before and then make your choice.
This is a very interesting question in my mind. You hear a lot of the never forget, always remember kind of stuff as 9/11 comes around but seldom this question.
I think we have a great example to follow from that very day. There are countless examples of first responders who were going up the twin towers trying to save people and lost their lives. There are also many examples of people in the pentagon that risked their lives and safety trying to help victims of that attack as well.
But in my mind the very best example of average people taking action was on the United flight 93. The passengers on that plane knew the risks and still took action. They knew the likely hood was great the plane would not be able to stay in the air as they went towards the cockpit. Yet they still went quickly and with the purpose to try and save the passengers on that plane and also to save people they never even saw on the ground where that plane was heading.
I have nothing but respect and gratitude for the fire and police personnel that died that day in the twin towers. But I still feel the passengers on flight 93 showed greater bravery by taking the action they took with the knowledge that even if they succeeded they were very likely not going to survive.
This is difficult for me to put into words but I will try. the first responders in NY that went bravely into those towers never considered that possibility those towers would completely fall. Certainly there was a risk, certainly there was the "chance" that one or more of them could die while fighting the fire and trying to save people. It takes a special kind of bravery to run towards something everyone else is running away from and I in no way mean to belittle that courage those brave souls showed going into those towers. But at the same time they never really thought they all would die and that always gives you a sense of hope that you will be the one to "make it".
Those people on flight 93 KNEW, they knew they would likely die in the attempt. These were not trained first responders, these were as average a group of people you can find. These average people stood up and went above and beyond to not only try and save themselves, which they knew was unlikely. But to be certain they saved unknown people that just had the bad luck to in the target of that particular plane.
This in my mind is the answer to the question of what being vigilant is for the average person. To be prepared to take action when and where you are, if you ever are faced with a similar situation. Step up and do what has to be done without counting the cost, but thinking only of the outcome and the greater good from that outcome.
We can do this today, in our everyday lives. We may never have to face that most difficult decision those passengers on Flight 93 did. Or those first responders in the twin towers faced as well. BUT there are things we may see every day, points in our own experience where we have to make a choice. That choice may not be as monumental in scope but it is still a choice and we have to make it.
Today is 9/11/12 it has been 11 years since those brave few were faced with their moment of decision. Today is a good day to reflect...not on what we would "HAVE DONE" in that position but on what we "WILL DO" whenever we are faced with a choice, be it however small and insignificant seeming at the time. Remember those who have gone before and then make your choice.
Friday, July 13, 2012
More on the Lennox and Belfast City Council story
The more I see about this story the more I am convinced Belfast City Council Had their minds made up from the very beginning to simply kill Lennox to further their own purposes. Actions speak much louder than words and the actions of the Belfast City Council have spoken volumes of cruelty and abuse of power.
Here is a true experts opinion that is based on readily available video footage of the test Lennox was subjected to by another professional behaviorist.
http://canineaggression.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/lennox-gloves-come-off.html
Both of these experienced dog behavior specialist opinions were completely ignored by the ruling council of Belfast and an unqualified individual's flawed opinion was accepted simply because that was the evidence that allowed the council to continue with their predetermined course of action.
It is obvious to me and most of the world this was completely mishandled from the beginning. This situation reeks of official misconduct and abuse of power by a government that should know better. While the rest of us who are not residents of Belfast can only look on and make our voices heard. It now falls to the people of Belfast itself to take action and redress this injustice.
It is now time for the citizens of Belfast to show the rest of the world that they are not the cruel heartless people their representatives have shown themselves to be. It is time for the people of Belfast to deal with this injustice and show they are truly deserving of the rest of the worlds respect and confidence.
Use the power of the populace and take steps to lawfully remove these representatives that has besmirched your name to the entire world. remember silence is acceptance and acceptance of this injustice will only serve to confirm the worst suspicions that have been voiced. People of Belfast speak out, answer the question, does this decision of your City Council actually speak for you, is this the way you want the rest of us on this planet to view your city?,br />
If you truly wish for your home to view with such contempt and despite then you have my pity and fully deserve all the scorn that has been directed to your City Council and bear the responsibility for your governments actions.
If you do not support the City Councils actions then it is incumbent upon you to take the corrective actions that are at your disposal and let your voices be heard. Remove the government that does not properly represent you when the elections give you the opportunity.
Speak now, and take actions at the next elections or forever have your homes name live in infamy and disgrace. Scorned by the rest of the civilized world. The entire world is waiting and watching with hope that you will take the correct action and hold your representatives accountable for their horrendous actions of late.
Here is a true experts opinion that is based on readily available video footage of the test Lennox was subjected to by another professional behaviorist.
http://canineaggression.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/lennox-gloves-come-off.html
Both of these experienced dog behavior specialist opinions were completely ignored by the ruling council of Belfast and an unqualified individual's flawed opinion was accepted simply because that was the evidence that allowed the council to continue with their predetermined course of action.
It is obvious to me and most of the world this was completely mishandled from the beginning. This situation reeks of official misconduct and abuse of power by a government that should know better. While the rest of us who are not residents of Belfast can only look on and make our voices heard. It now falls to the people of Belfast itself to take action and redress this injustice.
It is now time for the citizens of Belfast to show the rest of the world that they are not the cruel heartless people their representatives have shown themselves to be. It is time for the people of Belfast to deal with this injustice and show they are truly deserving of the rest of the worlds respect and confidence.
Use the power of the populace and take steps to lawfully remove these representatives that has besmirched your name to the entire world. remember silence is acceptance and acceptance of this injustice will only serve to confirm the worst suspicions that have been voiced. People of Belfast speak out, answer the question, does this decision of your City Council actually speak for you, is this the way you want the rest of us on this planet to view your city?,br />
If you truly wish for your home to view with such contempt and despite then you have my pity and fully deserve all the scorn that has been directed to your City Council and bear the responsibility for your governments actions.
If you do not support the City Councils actions then it is incumbent upon you to take the corrective actions that are at your disposal and let your voices be heard. Remove the government that does not properly represent you when the elections give you the opportunity.
Speak now, and take actions at the next elections or forever have your homes name live in infamy and disgrace. Scorned by the rest of the civilized world. The entire world is waiting and watching with hope that you will take the correct action and hold your representatives accountable for their horrendous actions of late.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
DO NOT BUY an LG Product
We bought a new LG french door refrigerator model # LFX25974ST on 4/7/12 from Home Depot. On 7/1/12 it stopped cooling. We notified Home Depot on 7/2/12 the morning we discovered the problem and they arranged a service appointment through the local LG authorized service company. They said they needed to order parts and it would be 2 to 4 business days for those parts to be delivered. They also advised us there was a "Known Issue" with the computer board that controlled the system. It took 10 days for the service tech to arrive to repair the system and when He did it turns out they had ordered the wrong part as it would not fit the refrigerator.
We have been without a working refrigerator for 12 days now and still have no idea exactly when a repair will be completed. LG's customer service had "no record" of the service call or request and has so far offered no solution to this problem.
I am beyond the point of anger at this and I will never buy another LG product willingly ever again. The lack of service is appalling and the fact they had a known issue and did not have the proper replacement parts available is just one of many problems I have experienced with the company.
Believe me you would be much better off buying a refrigerator from any other company than LG. Be warned LG's products are substandard and they have no desire to offer a reasonable solution when they break. DO NOT BUY AN LG FOR ANY REASON.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
RIP Lennox Shame on the city of Belfast
Today a great injustice was done by an overreaching governmental body that refused to take even a common sense approach to law enforcement. Today the city government of Belfast Ireland murdered a family pet. A mixed breed family pet named Lennox was killed by the Belfast City Council in cold blood. I have lost much esteem I once held for the UK in general and for Belfast specifically. To use a tape measure to determine whether a Dog is dangerous is the height of insanity and to then kill an animal that has caused harm to no one is tantamount to murder and should be treated in exactly the same manner.
Hasn't the world learned through bitter experience that judging anything based solely on racial/breed traits is the refuge of the most vile and evil humans that have set foot on this planet? There are too many examples in humanities past of the use of the very same logic to perpetrate some of the most horrendous crimes against humanity to choose the one to which the Belfast City Council is most similar.
It is a truism that one can tell much about a civilization by how it treats its animals. Unfortunately today's actions by the city of Belfast speak volumes about the character of the leaders of that city and brings shame on the people of Belfast and the entire UK for allowing this to continue. This is truly a black mark on the honor of the entire country.
Today is the day all the people of the UK should take action to redress this issue. You should speak to your government and tell them they need to find another way, a way that does not punish the innocent for the crimes of the guilty. Whether those innocents are human or animal it is simply wrong to take an innocent life for no good reason. Particularly a life that had shown itself gentle and kind in ways many humans have yet to understand or at least it seems the Belfast City Government has yet to understand.
Shame, Shame,Shame that is really all that can be said about this and it is hoped that the so called humans that made this decision will come to the realization of their error and find a better way to address this issue in the future.
I write this with great sadness at the loss of an innocent life and with great hope that the good people of Belfast and the rest of the UK will rapidly find a way to keep this from happening again.
Hasn't the world learned through bitter experience that judging anything based solely on racial/breed traits is the refuge of the most vile and evil humans that have set foot on this planet? There are too many examples in humanities past of the use of the very same logic to perpetrate some of the most horrendous crimes against humanity to choose the one to which the Belfast City Council is most similar.
It is a truism that one can tell much about a civilization by how it treats its animals. Unfortunately today's actions by the city of Belfast speak volumes about the character of the leaders of that city and brings shame on the people of Belfast and the entire UK for allowing this to continue. This is truly a black mark on the honor of the entire country.
Today is the day all the people of the UK should take action to redress this issue. You should speak to your government and tell them they need to find another way, a way that does not punish the innocent for the crimes of the guilty. Whether those innocents are human or animal it is simply wrong to take an innocent life for no good reason. Particularly a life that had shown itself gentle and kind in ways many humans have yet to understand or at least it seems the Belfast City Government has yet to understand.
Shame, Shame,Shame that is really all that can be said about this and it is hoped that the so called humans that made this decision will come to the realization of their error and find a better way to address this issue in the future.
I write this with great sadness at the loss of an innocent life and with great hope that the good people of Belfast and the rest of the UK will rapidly find a way to keep this from happening again.
Endangered Dogs Defence & Rescue: Peaceful Anti-BSL Protests - UK
Endangered Dogs Defence & Rescue: Peaceful Anti-BSL Protests - UK: These peaceful protests have been organised through the facebook social networking site (not by us) where you can find a group/page for each...
Monday, May 7, 2012
A picture of my new SWTOR pet
Friday, May 4, 2012
I'm Baaack
Hi there,
I am back for a quick breather from the deep dark hole that has occupied quite a bit of my time. I must admit I have fallen off the wagon and I am now back addicted to MMORPG's. I have been spending almost all my free time playing Star Wars the Old Republic or as I like to call it Pixel Crack. I'm really not too sure how often I will be checking in here as you can see it's been almost 5 months since my last post. SWTOR has me firmly in its force enhanced grip and I'm not really sure I want it to let go just yet. I have been busy leveling characters, Crafting items and just running rampant across the galaxy. I guess I have to admit I am a big SWTOR Fan and just leave it at that. I would suggest anyone who likes online MMO's give this one a try. I have played almost all the really big ones and I think I like this one the best so far.
I am back for a quick breather from the deep dark hole that has occupied quite a bit of my time. I must admit I have fallen off the wagon and I am now back addicted to MMORPG's. I have been spending almost all my free time playing Star Wars the Old Republic or as I like to call it Pixel Crack. I'm really not too sure how often I will be checking in here as you can see it's been almost 5 months since my last post. SWTOR has me firmly in its force enhanced grip and I'm not really sure I want it to let go just yet. I have been busy leveling characters, Crafting items and just running rampant across the galaxy. I guess I have to admit I am a big SWTOR Fan and just leave it at that. I would suggest anyone who likes online MMO's give this one a try. I have played almost all the really big ones and I think I like this one the best so far.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday.....Friday.....Friday...blah blah blah
Fri Sep 16, 2005
Updates: The political prisoners are all moved out to the gulags and the holding area has been renovated for other uses. The Feline tried to lay claim to the area but was removed by security personnel. The canines didn't seems to show much interest in the change at all. The canines are rather oblivious to most things I've noticed. The move was made without incident and completed easily all the prisoners moved are doing well in their new homes. There was one casualty in this although the medical staff say the loss was due to natural causes as the prisoner was not doing well to start with.
With the coming of autumn it is hoped things will cool down in the workers paradise and perhaps there will be more issues to report between the canines and the feline. As it sits right now the canines have the feline outnumbered and the feline has the canines outclassed. Which leaves us in a bit of a stalemate situation. Minor attacks have been carried out on both sides but neither has taken an obvious advantage. I had hoped with the coming of cooler weather the canines will come out of the dog days of summer and do something but so far its not happening.
I fear the stalemate will continue and my boredom with the situation will lead to drastic measures being taken. But for the time being I am simply enjoying some time off and having no political prisoners to have to manage is quite enjoyable. I think I will have to incarcerate one of the canines soon just to give the security/death squad troops something to do but we will deal with that in its time. Bored security/deathsquad troops is not a good thing, right now I have the different squads reporting on each other just to keep them busy.
So I think I will close this report on this note. Remember..I have crazy bored security/deathsquad troops and I'm not afraid to use em. So please for the sake of the monitors in this society speak clearly while your plotting. I mean mumbling is just rude and it gives the monitors a little too much leeway in reporting what you say and trust me you don't want them getting creative. Till next time remember We know what your up to........ and we wont tell if the check is big enough.
(Editors Note: This is the last of the historical record. I am not certain but I think I may be able to convince the Beloved Patriarch\Revered Leader\ President for Life to send me more updates as I understand there have been some changes to the workers paradise since these were written. You may have noticed a change in title for the author He informs me the addition was "forced" upon him by the insistence of his loving subjects...err fellow citizens. We will see if I can get him to give us any more updates in the future.)
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday....Big freakin whoop.
Fri Aug 12, 2005
OK ENOUGH OF THAT........
Lets just say SSDF this week and move on. I'm sure you all have something much more important to do than read this issue of the reports from the workers paradise and say to yourselves " Self, this looks the same as the last report." So in the interest of brevity which a far better writer than myself has already pointed out, "is the soul of wit". I will leave you gentle reader with this thought...... Tune in next week when you can hear the Feline say......
Friday, November 18, 2011
Its Friday..according to Mr. Spocks tricorder at least
Fri Aug 05, 2005
The Political Prisoner that was removed to the medical facility has not been having a good week. The staff have reported several times it was feared he would not survive the night. Well it is becoming obvious this little malcontent wont up and die. He is playing some twisted power trip and only pretending to die just to cause turmoil in the staff caring for him. After one of his "attacks" he will be back up within a few hours and things will be as normal as they can be with him. The Feline is convinced he is doing all this for the attention and to spite the Feline. Of course the Feline has a very self-centered view of things, go figure. The Canines have not expressed any opinions one way or the other. Although I am convinced an opinion form the Canines would be overly taxing on their mental abilities so I don't expect any from them.
The Feline is still failing miserably in his de-mousification attempts. I have tried to explain to him even if he could catch a mouse it would only kick his ass and that would be embarrassing to him. I suspect deep in his ego ridden little heart he is aware of this fact and will never actually confront a rodent but will continue making a big production about how hard he's trying. I take great pleasure in pointing out to him if he's trying that hard and failing the mice are not only stronger than him but smarter as well, He ignores these as best he can but I know the truth.
The canines are like the Special Olympics here in the workers paradise. Always out there giving it their best and having a lot of fun...but still just a step or two behind. Bless their pointy headed little hearts. I sometimes think it must be nice to be so happy just running in circles or shouting at the water hose. Then I remember these are also creatures that sniff and lick each others and their own asses for fun and any thought of how nice it must be to be them quickly fades.
Well other than that there's not really a lot going on here. Summer is progressing as summer always does and things tend to work themselves out in the long run without too much interference from me. A little talk to the Canines about how the Feline is always attacking them, a whisper to the Feline how the canines believe they are superior to him. These things keep the balance of my little world in check.
So I think this will wrap up my report for this week. I remain the Benevolent Leader/ Dictator for Life of the Workers Paradise. OHHHH...One more thing. The security police/death squads have brought to my attention that many of you are still trying to defeat the security/monitoring devices in place. I feel I must remind you these devices are merely there to protect you from harm. And to help you live a more comfortable life. Please just go on about your normal activities and if your not doing anything subversive you have nothing to worry about....."You have my word on it"
Friday, November 11, 2011
Veterans Day Thoughts
Well here we are at the close of Veterans day. I think back on family and friends who have served us all. Some risking everything, some paying with everything they have, others offering everything should the need arise. Everything we have in this country today, everything we seem to squabble about on a daily basis sometimes we owe to those brave souls willing to put their very lives on the line if needs be. Whether there was actual fighting or not the risk of every service member is equal.
These are the very best of us, the ones who willingly offered their very lives if needed to protect the principals this country was founded on. The same freedoms many of us use regularly to belittle and denigrate the selfless offer made by these brave souls. Each and every one of us here owe a debt to the selfless few that answered the call of liberty and freedom.
Today is a day set aside to remember those people that stood in our place when things were darkest and most dangerous. Standing bravely even for those same people that use the freedom they defended to criticize and belittle the souls standing between them and the loss of the very same freedom. One day is never enough to repay these people some of whom gave everything to see the rest of us had the ability to continue living our lives as we see fit. The kind of selflessness displayed deserves much more than we are able to give back.
I would like to take this time and remember. My memories include a young paratrooper in the 101st, The screaming eagles, a division renowned in the history of WW2. Willing to fight to the last man in the defense of our country, facing seemingly insurmountable odds and yet prevailing. Not just one or two but an entire division of heroes joined by an entire generation of heroic Americans willing to risk everything.
Or a young Marine rifleman celebrating his 21st birthday on a troop transport ship sailing across the pacific with the intentions of landing on hostile shores and facing death daily. Meeting each day not knowing how the day will end and willingly going forward into the face of deadly firepower. Knowing from the very first the odd were stacked against them and still answering the call. Storming the beaches in three major campaigns in the pacific with the first Marine division. Places many of us have never heard of these days. Names like New Britain, Peleliu, Okinawa battles known through the history of the US Marine Corp as some of the most difficult conditions and most determined enemy action.
Family members I had the distinct privilege of knowing and learning from, people who by their example taught me things I am still discovering depth in. Men who answered a call to defend the life we all live today and take for granted. The few days we as a country set aside to honor those veterans from the past and the current active members of the US armed forces are simply not enough to equal the price paid and continuing to be paid on all our behalf's. From the memory of the past to the thought of the present and the expectations of the future my undying respect and gratitude goes out to anyone that has offered themselves as a defender of our way of life and the freedoms we take for granted each and every day. As inadequate as it might be all I can offer is my gratitude to anyone brave enough and willing to put on a uniform and accept the risk of defending us all. Thank you veterans and current members of the military.
You are not forgotten.
FRIDAY...Unlike any other day of the week
Fri Jul 29, 2005
CANINES: Still stupid, Talking a lot with the rapidly growing but still mini canine. Attacked the Feline waste disposal unit.
FELINE: about worthless, Failing miserably in the De-Mousification program. Still attacking Canines whenever possible. Deathly afraid of the sickly Political Prisoner in the medical ward. The self same prisoner(AKA Weasel) that on his daily walks still kicks the Felines butt with ease.
POLITICAL PRISONERS: I almost gave them the responsibility for the De-Mousification program but they are less trust worthy than the Feline. Hence their position as political Prisoners.
BENEVOLENT LEADER/DICTATOR FOR LIFE: I have given a rousing speech stating how we will never give in to the terrorist that are attacking our infrastructure. The Terrorist responsible for the attack met this speech with great support and applause as they were I'm sure the only ones in attendance. I have taken over the De-Mousification program because sometimes if you want the job done right you have to do it yourself.
Well that about wraps up this truncated report. I look forward to a more in depth report next week. Now I'm off to repress the masses and oppress the little people.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Why Penn State got it WRONG.
If you have been following the situation at Penn State then you should be aware that Head Football coach Joe Paterno was fired last night in the most humiliating way possible. Today seems to be full of boot licking sports reporters going on and on about how Penn State "got it right". It is sad to see so many professional sports writers assisting Penn State in damage control by compounding bad decisions by upper management with another stupid and self-serving attempt to avoid the obvious truth that someone seriously dropped the ball in this sad situation.
Could Joe Paterno have done more? There is no doubt with the advantage of hind sight the answer is yes. However did Joe Paterno follow the rules that were in place for handling a situation like this and the only answer possible is YES He did. As is painfully obvious to any observer Joe Paterno followed the correct procedure that was set in place by the very institution that later turned on him in the most cowardly way possible.
Joe Paterno did in fact report this allegation to his proper chain of command and further up the ladder of responsibility the criminal actions of his superiors failed to carry things to the next and proper step. Those who were responsible for that failure have been properly fired and are now facing criminal charges for their failure to act.
This failure to act stands in stark contrast to the proper actions of coach Paterno. It is the height of cowardice and stupidity to blame the person who actually did follow the procedure He was supposed to follow for the subsequent failure of others who had a responsibility to act and did not.
The actions of the board of Regents in this matter is nothing but a shallow and obvious attempt to deflect blame back on the more popular name and best nationally known person in this entire sad series of events. I for one hope this dastardly action by the board costs them heavily when it comes to support of the alumni, boosters and fans of the Penn State football program for years to come.
I know this much if I had a son who was considering multiple options for a college football program I would strongly advise He avoid Penn State and choose another more worthy and honorable option. Quite frankly I find the actions of the Penn State upper management disgusting and cowardly and lacking in any moral courage or conviction. This self serving action announced last night is just another example of how wrong Penn States highest leadership is and I am forced to wonder now at this moment if that storied institution of higher learning is even capable of teaching even the basic idea of following the procedures that are set in place to report and resolve situations that arise from time to time.
I am not now nor have I ever been a big fan of the entire college football system as it is now structured. Don't get me wrong I love the game and I love the joy of competition one sees in college level sports that is sadly missing at the professional level. However the hypocrisy that is rampant in the management of the entire national system is simply too wide spread and ingrained for me to do much more than lament the missed opportunity for true greatness the college football and other sports programs is capable of but seems to miss with intentional purpose.
As it is obvious to anyone who observes almost any big college football program that the colleges and universities are simply using the system as a cash cow and have little to no concern for anyone involved in the system unless they can find some way to profit for their involvement. This current situation is just another example of cowardly pandering to the perceived bottom line that I for one hopes will come back and prove extremely costly to Penn State.
This is truly as sad day in college football history. A storied career ended in a despicable and cowardly fashion. Coach Joe Paterno had already announced his retirement and there was one game left to play and an institution with more class and courage would have let Coach Joe Paterno play out his last game with some semblance of dignity and allowed the Penn State football program move on to a new era in an orderly fashion. Were I a current member of this Penn State football team I would refuse to play the last game and let it end in a forfeit as a message to the Penn State board of regents that tradition and courage actually have meaning and trampling on them publicly as they have done is not in the best interests of anyone involved.
Shame on the Penn State board of regents for taking the only person who actually followed the procedure set in place for the proper handling of this type of situation and throwing him under the bus. Cowards each and every one of them and deserving of nothing but scorn and contempt. Sending the message that even those who follow the rules are not safe from the craven actions of an attempted saving of face and avoidance of further scrutiny is a revolting message and worthy of scorn and nothing to hold as an example for other to follow.
A sad situation all the way around that serves as an example of the worst kind of cowardice from people who are only concerned with saving their own skin and have no interest in supporting someone the only person in fact that followed the rules. Today I am very happy to have no connection to Penn State whatsoever as the actions of the board of regents have besmirched a fine and honorable man who has devoted years of his life to the institution. Shame on Penn State.
Could Joe Paterno have done more? There is no doubt with the advantage of hind sight the answer is yes. However did Joe Paterno follow the rules that were in place for handling a situation like this and the only answer possible is YES He did. As is painfully obvious to any observer Joe Paterno followed the correct procedure that was set in place by the very institution that later turned on him in the most cowardly way possible.
Joe Paterno did in fact report this allegation to his proper chain of command and further up the ladder of responsibility the criminal actions of his superiors failed to carry things to the next and proper step. Those who were responsible for that failure have been properly fired and are now facing criminal charges for their failure to act.
This failure to act stands in stark contrast to the proper actions of coach Paterno. It is the height of cowardice and stupidity to blame the person who actually did follow the procedure He was supposed to follow for the subsequent failure of others who had a responsibility to act and did not.
The actions of the board of Regents in this matter is nothing but a shallow and obvious attempt to deflect blame back on the more popular name and best nationally known person in this entire sad series of events. I for one hope this dastardly action by the board costs them heavily when it comes to support of the alumni, boosters and fans of the Penn State football program for years to come.
I know this much if I had a son who was considering multiple options for a college football program I would strongly advise He avoid Penn State and choose another more worthy and honorable option. Quite frankly I find the actions of the Penn State upper management disgusting and cowardly and lacking in any moral courage or conviction. This self serving action announced last night is just another example of how wrong Penn States highest leadership is and I am forced to wonder now at this moment if that storied institution of higher learning is even capable of teaching even the basic idea of following the procedures that are set in place to report and resolve situations that arise from time to time.
I am not now nor have I ever been a big fan of the entire college football system as it is now structured. Don't get me wrong I love the game and I love the joy of competition one sees in college level sports that is sadly missing at the professional level. However the hypocrisy that is rampant in the management of the entire national system is simply too wide spread and ingrained for me to do much more than lament the missed opportunity for true greatness the college football and other sports programs is capable of but seems to miss with intentional purpose.
As it is obvious to anyone who observes almost any big college football program that the colleges and universities are simply using the system as a cash cow and have little to no concern for anyone involved in the system unless they can find some way to profit for their involvement. This current situation is just another example of cowardly pandering to the perceived bottom line that I for one hopes will come back and prove extremely costly to Penn State.
This is truly as sad day in college football history. A storied career ended in a despicable and cowardly fashion. Coach Joe Paterno had already announced his retirement and there was one game left to play and an institution with more class and courage would have let Coach Joe Paterno play out his last game with some semblance of dignity and allowed the Penn State football program move on to a new era in an orderly fashion. Were I a current member of this Penn State football team I would refuse to play the last game and let it end in a forfeit as a message to the Penn State board of regents that tradition and courage actually have meaning and trampling on them publicly as they have done is not in the best interests of anyone involved.
Shame on the Penn State board of regents for taking the only person who actually followed the procedure set in place for the proper handling of this type of situation and throwing him under the bus. Cowards each and every one of them and deserving of nothing but scorn and contempt. Sending the message that even those who follow the rules are not safe from the craven actions of an attempted saving of face and avoidance of further scrutiny is a revolting message and worthy of scorn and nothing to hold as an example for other to follow.
A sad situation all the way around that serves as an example of the worst kind of cowardice from people who are only concerned with saving their own skin and have no interest in supporting someone the only person in fact that followed the rules. Today I am very happy to have no connection to Penn State whatsoever as the actions of the board of regents have besmirched a fine and honorable man who has devoted years of his life to the institution. Shame on Penn State.
Friday, November 4, 2011
FRIDAY...its not just for breakfast anymore
Fri Jul 22, 2005
The Canines are continuing for the most part the ignore the Feline policy and are having mixed results. There have been several minor altercations between the Canines and the Feline in the last few days. Although the Canines do seem to be taking a great interest in the Mini-Canine that moved in next door and many meetings are taking place along the fenced border. Security has been upgraded and there have been no border crossings as of yet.
The Feline I'm afraid is totally insane and therefore mostly hopeless. There seems to be one small glimmer of hope in that he does recognize the squirt gun of you have pissed me off for the last time today so perhaps there is a little hope for him still. The problem is he doesn't remember it till you point it at him so its not really a good deterrent yet. As the Feline has begun to show some interest in his prior bad acts and started trying to chew cables again I am seriously considering upgrading the security status to the Paintball gun of I really mean it....DAMMIT. But we will have to see this could just be a phase he going thru.
There have been talks of acquiring some nonlethal forms of ...umm...communications shall we say? The Taser of mental health has been considered as a possible therapeutic tool to combat the Felines mental instability. We are exploring many options and this is one, another less costly option the car battery of shock and awe is also being considered. Although it is less portable it does have some advantages to consider.
Either way I'm sure I will keep you informed of any decisions made in that area as they become available.
On another note. One of the political prisoners has been moved to the infirmary and I wanted to take this opportunity to emphatically deny that it was due to any mistreatment by the current staff of the holding facility. This prisoner is being held for observation due to what is suspected to be a congenital defect and there are no other status updates available in his case. But the rumors of abuse by the facility personnel are totally untrue and should be disregarded.
Well I think that's about all I have to say today except to remind you......Please remember in your day to day conversations to always speak clearly and directly into the hidden mic's if your not sure where those microphones are just speak loudly and they will be sure to pick you up. The monitoring staff would like to thank you for your cooperation. While they assure me they report everything I suspect they have some favorites that tend to make their job easier and they will sometimes I suspect turn a blind eye to things as repayment. So you never know if you help them they MAY help you. Not that I have any official knowledge of this.....but graft and gratuity does make the world go round.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Its Friday....Again
Fri Jul 15, 2005
It seems the neighboring country has imported a Mini-Canine and he has made contact thru the security fences with our canines. Many messages have been sent back and forth since the Mini-Canine is quite young I am concerned that our Canines will corrupt the poor lad. I've called all three of the canine in for conferences and reminded them that it is an offense to import/export sedition or any other "dangerous" ideas. I hope they will take that to heart. I have also instructed the secret police/death squads to pay close attention to any interaction between them. On the upside at least it seems to have gotten the Canine partially out of the doldrums or the "dog days of summer" hehe.(A little benevolent leader/dictator for life humor there...you WILL laugh or pay the consequences.)
The Feline has continued his terrorist attacks on the Canines or at least one of the Canines. The feline it seems has discovered the one pacifist Canine in the group and is attacking her at all hours with seeming impunity. I have counseled the aforementioned Canine that all she need do is bite the Feline one good bite and he would leave her alone as the feline is actually rather cowardly in nature.
The Feline has also fallen back into some very risky behaviors and was seen chewing on cables again. Luckily for him he hasn't destroyed anything yet. I have informed the Feline that the new punishment law that went into effect last month calls for the strictest of penalties for such behavior. The new law was named after one of the great lawgivers of the ancient world. I call it the "Draconian amendment to the law of Feline death for chewing my headphone cables one more damn time" I think it has a nice ring to it....Don't you? I doubt if the Feline has the wit to see the historical allusions but one can hope.
This law was also joined by the squirt gun of you have pissed me off for the last time today. Which I think is a wonderful tool for Feline control should the Squirt gun of you have pissed me off for the last time today prove ineffective I plan on adding the Paintball gun of I really mean it...DAMMIT to the arsenal. If neither of those work I will be sorely tempted to get the 12 gauge of That's the last straw you little *&#@!*. But I'm hoping to avoid actual firearms as they are smelly and leave GSR when fired.
Oh well enough for today. I am signing off and wishing you all a gloriously wonderful (even if it is a well observed) weekend.
Friday, October 21, 2011
FRIDAY FRIDAY
Fri Jul 08, 2005
I have real fears about the Felines sanity. He has begun staring off into space with a blank look in his eyes and the running into any glass surface nearby. I think he's doing what the voices tell him to do and they're screwing with him. This happens mostly at night when he's staring out the windows. I guess I shouldn't be surprised by this behavior as I think its rather obvious he's mental anyway.
I have given up hope for the Canines. They seem to have given up on anything resembling self respect or plotting against the Feline and have instead just taken to laying around and complaining especially late at night. Disturbing my sleep by their protest outside my official residence. I am about to turn loose the secret police/death squads on them if they continue this nocturnal annoyance.
The situation with the political prisoners has yet to be finalized we are waiting on transportation to the gulags and we will be updating you in the near future on any movements in that area.
Other than the oppressive heat not much to report I think the heat has a lot to do with the Canines disposition. As they seem to get lethargic with the heat. Either way its less for me to worry about as the Beloved leader/Dictator for life anything that keeps the masses quiet is a good thing.
Well I will finish up for this report with the usual of its quiet and we intend on keeping it that way. I am considering following the British lead and installing security cameras in every conceivable place....just to keep things safe and live up to our national motto " We know what your doing " (and you should be ashamed). See you all next week.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Another Friday has pounced upon us
Fri Jul 01, 2005
It seems all I have to do is take some time off for things to pick up around here since there was an attempted escape last week along with the usual hijinks.
The feline has begun attacks on the waste management supplies stored near his facility. We are considering options for resolving this issue among the top ranking options right now is boiling in oil.(I'm feeling a little nostalgia for the good old days.)but I suspect we will just increase security at the site. The secret police/death squads need something to keep them occupied.
The Canines it seems have decided to continue the campaign to totally ignore the Feline. In all honesty I didn't really expect a plan of such elegance and simplicity with such a deep understanding of Feline Psychology and motivational issues from the Canines. As the Canines are a rather dull lot without much imagination I am surprised they actually found a way to really torment the Feline in this manner.
As anyone who really understands the devious mind of a Feline will be able to tell you felines really don't deal well with being ignored especially if they are trying to make their presence known. This seems to be working for the Canines and we will have to see if the Feline will be able to counter this tactic in the future.
The big news of this update is the escape attempt. Well it would appear the Canines had found a weakness in the security fences and rather than exploit those weaknesses themselves they simply pointed them out to the Feline. Well of course the Feline decides to use this good fortune and promptly ran for it. The Feline not being aware of our defense in depth policy here in the workers paradise was ill-equipped to deal with the realities outside the safety of the security zone. The reports from witnesses all agree to the Felines total shock and fear of whatever it was he encountered during this excursion. Security personnel were called in to rescue the Feline and return him to the security zone.
The second part to this story is how the Canines who were quite busy celebrating the Felines predicament became confused and in their celebratory cavorting found themselves outside the security zone as it had been opened for the security personnel to rescue the Feline. The security forces were again called upon to escort more residents back into the secure "green" zone.
It seems security was given a little workout last week but they seemed up to the task at hand. Either way things are back to normal and that's a good thing.
Well I think that about wraps up this weeks update. Remember "an observed society is a well behaved society" for the most part that is. Till next time this is the Beloved leader/dictator for life saying.......... "I know what your doing ....and you should be ashamed."
Friday, October 7, 2011
Yea its Friday...
Fri Jun 03, 2005
Aside from one attack by the Feline on the aquatic habitat there is really nothing to report. This attack caused some minor damage and I suspect it frightened the Feline much more than he expected.
The Canines have settled into the summer doldrums early this year it seems. As they have completely stopped any actions against the Feline and seem to be just laying around with nothing better to do than stare at him now and again.
All in all this makes for a very slow time in the workers paradise. Leading to the question ..Should I liven things up or should I just let well enough alone for now. being the benevolent leader has its advantages but sometimes the peace and quiet is a good thing. Besides all this peace and quiet means they're not out acting out on their plots against me. If they keep plotting but never acting out that's fine with me. As long as they pretend to be happy little citizens I can pretend to care for their wants.
Well to wrap things up all is quiet and nothing to report. But always remember......When its quiet its just that much easier for the mic's to pick up what your saying. So please speak clearly the secret police/death squad personnel will appreciate the gesture.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
RIP Steve Jobs
It is a sad day in the tech world and the world at large today. I just saw the news Steve Jobs has passed away. Unless you have been living under a rock or in a cave somewhere it is nearly impossible to not have been affected by Steve Jobs and the company He helped found and run. Anyone who knows me knows I am in no way a fan of the Apple company or their products or way of doing business. None the less I do understand the impact Steve Jobs and Apple has had on the world.
I have a great respect for anyone who looks around and says "there's got to be a better way" and then goes out and makes one. Whether you liked Him or didn't like Him Steve Jobs was that kind of person. Driven to find a better way to do things and bringing that better way to the world. Truth be told without Steve Jobs and the Apple company you might not even be reading this message today.
Granted I did not always like the way Apple did things, I would much rather focus on the things I liked about Apple and Steve Jobs. The leadership, the innovation bringing ideas to the rest of us. Those were all things Steve Jobs and Apple did well. Allowing ideas to advance and spurring on innovation were hallmarks of both the Man and the company. Even when I would disagree with some of the methods I could always admire the can do attitude and forward thinking that went into the advances Steve Jobs and Apple were responsible for.
It is sad day indeed, the day we lost one of the worlds great forward thinkers and role models for countless people that followed. When you use almost any computer when you listen to MP3's on almost any type of player when you use your cell phone you are benefiting in some small way from the work Steve Jobs dedicated his life to. Even if you never use an Apple product there is very little in our modern world that did not benefit or be impacted by the work Steve Jobs and Apple did.
When I think back I can only remember owning one Apple product, I am about as non-Apple as you can get and yet I realize the great contribution Steve Jobs and the Apple company have made to our society and the world in general. I just wanted to pause and reflect on the loss of Steve Jobs today and pay tribute to a great person who directed the world into the future and has now left us to carry on.
So thank you Steve Jobs and may you rest in peace.
I have a great respect for anyone who looks around and says "there's got to be a better way" and then goes out and makes one. Whether you liked Him or didn't like Him Steve Jobs was that kind of person. Driven to find a better way to do things and bringing that better way to the world. Truth be told without Steve Jobs and the Apple company you might not even be reading this message today.
Granted I did not always like the way Apple did things, I would much rather focus on the things I liked about Apple and Steve Jobs. The leadership, the innovation bringing ideas to the rest of us. Those were all things Steve Jobs and Apple did well. Allowing ideas to advance and spurring on innovation were hallmarks of both the Man and the company. Even when I would disagree with some of the methods I could always admire the can do attitude and forward thinking that went into the advances Steve Jobs and Apple were responsible for.
It is sad day indeed, the day we lost one of the worlds great forward thinkers and role models for countless people that followed. When you use almost any computer when you listen to MP3's on almost any type of player when you use your cell phone you are benefiting in some small way from the work Steve Jobs dedicated his life to. Even if you never use an Apple product there is very little in our modern world that did not benefit or be impacted by the work Steve Jobs and Apple did.
When I think back I can only remember owning one Apple product, I am about as non-Apple as you can get and yet I realize the great contribution Steve Jobs and the Apple company have made to our society and the world in general. I just wanted to pause and reflect on the loss of Steve Jobs today and pay tribute to a great person who directed the world into the future and has now left us to carry on.
So thank you Steve Jobs and may you rest in peace.
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