2007 went by in a flash. It seems like only yesterday that it was the start of a new year, that I was starting my final semester at CSUN. I've talked to others about this, and I'm not the only one that has felt the last year fly by. I can't say this has been the best year, there have been times when it's was downright awful. But then, as things tend to do, there were things that were wonderful that evened out the year. I made new friends that are quite special to me, and lost others. Which brings me to my Father's death.
My Dad died a week ago as I write this sentence. He suffered from numerous health problems, but it was his weak heart that felled him. I can't say that I felt anything extraordinary for the man, but he was my father and that's something. I'll miss him.
As a result of all the stuff that's been going on this month's update is modest. Vista Drive gets a few new pictures, and that's pretty much it for this month. I hope you like the new pictures.
Afterthoughts : Favorite Photo of the Year
I've taken a lot of pictures this year, but I think my favorite is one I entitled "My 'Maxfield Parrish' Attempt." I took it on a resent trip to San Francisco. There's something magical about the Palace of Fine Arts. Being there feels like going back in time and experiencing something grand. I called this photograph "My 'Maxfield Parrish' Attempt" because it reminds me of his work, the colors, the positions of the people, and the setting.
Editorial : We Can Do Better
People suck. This is a statement I've been making all year, and it's because people suck. Be it when I go shopping, go to work, or just go out and have fun, people ruin everything. I blame the loss of civility for the decline of our civilization. People are only out for themselves, they never care to put themselves in someone else's shoes for a moment. Because if they did they would realize that we're all in the same boat, and there's no use in trying to drown the other person. Because, we're all the other person. It would be a great world if more of us would stop for a moment and think about how our actions contribute to the overall suckiness of this world. Our greed, our lust, our stupidity, all contribute to someone else being miserable. If we could just treat someone else the way we want to be treated this world would be closer to heaven. But it is the all or nothing for oneself mentality that dooms us. If everyone is trying to buy a certain thing, or get that last parking space, or get the most money, then the great majority will not get those things. Really the root of the problem is want. We want so many different "things" because our lives are so empty. We try to fill that hole in our lives with material things, the more shiny the better, because nothing within us shines. So we substitute a material thing that shines for our own selves shining from within. I see it more every day, empty people rushing through stores trying to find that perfect thing that will make them whole. But the wholeness only lasts for a short time, because it's not real. Then the search begins again, and once again that feeling wanes because it's just not real.
What we need is to understand that everything we have is a blessing. There are so many that have nothing, and only wish they could have what you and I have. We are truly lucky to be where we are, and to have an abundance of things. But we also need to know that they're just things. And that last parking space is just a thing, another one will open up. That last coat that you're wrestling an old woman for is just a coat, it won't bring you joy. We need to rededicate ourselves to the understanding of our fellow beings. Understand that everyone out there is in the same position you are. They want to be happy, they want to find love, to grow old and to enjoy life. By not being so selfish we can assure that that other person will be happy, find love, grow old, and enjoy life. And we can also be assured that that person is us, and that everyone of us is our to make the world better for each other. Because it is in that that we find the true meaning of this Christmas season. If you believe or don't believe that the messiah was born on Christmas day is not important. What is important is to know that the sentiment of brotherhood is a good one to hold year round.
Etcetera : Pick me, Choose me, Love me
One of my favorite shows is "Grey's Anatomy." It's a bit soap opera-ish at times, but then there are times when it's really poignant. This scene is one of those moments when the honestly is so sick that it makes me shiver.
The End : Well Wishes
I want to wish everyone that takes the time to read this a happy new year. May 2008 be a happy year filled with good change and good times.
