Getting It

I seemed to have always "gotten it." Even today, I have the gift of being able to reframe things - to put things into the proper perspective. My father had this very same gift. Others see it, feel it, and appreciate it. However, some, those closest to me, grow tired of it.

To think on things from a unique perspective - arrive at an inspired thought from the other direction - expresses an idea that raises controversy. All for the sake of providing comfort and counsel, opening eyes to new thought, or creating debate and argument. I relish each moment as an opportunity. An opportunity at exercise - genuine and real each time. An exercise in creating or causing comfort when others realize the truthfulness. An exercise of thought and speech - inspired by the moment - inspired by a still small voice. And sharing from my heart while not worrying about possible criticism.

My heart swells as I watch others understand a new thought or concept. It can literally be a humbling and/or alarming experience for everyone. Often followed with moments of silence, new thought creates a moment of 'now' as contemplation proceeds. Sometimes for discussion later and occassionally to be avoided if ever brought up again.

Occassionally, I will intentionally create an argument for the sake of raising the blood pressure. Intentionally making someone angry...purposefully cause discontent with the intent to cause discomfort. All with purpose, not neccessarily from a position that I agree with, simply to motivate a fight - just because!

What motivation am I drawing from to cause anger and discomfort within another's mind and heart?

Hunter-Gatherer

At Dog Beach in Ocean Beach, California, we were shocked and embarrased as we feigned attention elsewhere. Our dogs, two bassets and one shepherd mix each took a healthy "dump" shortly after we reached the beach.

I know mankind is typically the hunter-gatherer, but really! I understand that mankind is a warmongering creature and yet mankind can be meek, humble, and obedient. Obedience can be a necessary trait - "stop" - "go" - "thou shalt not" - and "do not litter" - all ring the bell of the basics. As a warrior, I possess those survival skills critical to daily life whether I'm first in line or sharpening those negotiation skills. My goal is "survival of the fittest," but a hunter-gather? Sure, I can comprehend a duck hunt in a grocery store or the pursuit of a soda pop. I can understand growing herbs, spices, and vegetables for a garden salad to set at a greatful table. I can even picture organizing my home, yard, and desk such that I'm neat, tidy, and presentable. But, wait just one minute! Why must I feel shocked and embarrased when my dogs take a healthy movement on the sandy beach... Just because I won't and don't "gather" the hot turd! And to see the others...inserting their hands into a plastic Walmart bag - an ineffective attempt to improvise a glove - bending low and close as they reach for their canines crap. I can only imagine: the object suddenly within their grasping "gloved" hand must actually be hot! 98.6 degrees hot to be approximate...What must the dog be thinking? I sincerely want to know what the dog is thinking, "Oh, dog-god, this is embarrassing! The gatherers are at it again...picking up my poop!"

I'll tell you what...My dog has never been shocked - embarrassment never felt - all because I AM NOT A GATHERER OF DOG POOP!

You know, perhaps you can help me with my question. How does poop decompose - en masse - in an organized landfill: individually wrapped and knotted safely in a not-so-dainty plastic Walmart-type bag? Resting not all that far from a mountain of amply filled plastic diapers and never perused AT&T Yellow Pages.