Archive for February, 2009

During the past few presidential elections, there has been a lot of talk about having a beer with the candidates. Pollsters claimed that George W. Bush won both of his terms in part because he was the candidate that most Americans would prefer to make a toast with. Never mind that he doesn’t drink.

I just recently heard a bit on NPR about sipping suds with the President Obama. I get it – He is a cool cat. And, George Bush would surely make you laugh and spit beer out your nose with one of his Bush-isms.

How and when did we determine the measure of a president based on whether we want to get drunk with them? That’s what I don’t get.  I can think of plenty of people that I would love to have a beer with, but the president? Do people actually vote with that kind of thinking in mind? I can picture it now: Asking Mr. Candidate about his view on North Korea with Sweet Home Alabama blaring out of the jukebox, college girls “woo-ing” and slamming shots in the corner, and the cloud of smoke hanging just above your heads.

If so, I am afraid. Maybe a better “social” measure for a good president would be one you want to have a coffee with in your local coffee shop. At least the image of a coffee shop provides a more intellectual view: people playing chess, a local musician strumming at his/her guitar, people reading the latest books, conversations about current events and philosphy.

This beer buddy vs. coffee friend measure exemplifies this country’s divide between the intellectual elite and average joe. Frankly, I don’t want my beer buddies making the decisions that the President is required to make. I want a President who is surrounded by educated individuals who are willing to challenge him intellectually. Not those who want to challenge him to an arm wrestling contest.

Don’t get me wrong. I love to tip back a few, sing along to the cheesy jukebox music, and watch the local drunks act like fools. Shoot, I have been that fool. However, when it comes to the person running this country, I’ll take the guy that seems like a good coffee buddy that wants to get knee-deep in public policy. Even if some might call him “uppity” or elitist.

So, while I think President Obama might also be a good bar buddy, I’ll stick to the vision of sharing a cup of joe and a discussion on issues more pressing than whether or not OJ is guilty.

In April, Pepsi-cola is launching a new version of my favorite nectar containing real sugar instead of the evil high-fructose corn syrup.

I have rid myself of many bad habits and vices, but not that damn Pepsi. It’s an addiction. I practice restraint and limit myself, or I might still be sucking down a six-pack per day. Anyone who knows me would agree that in general, I am a pretty healthy eater. Pepsi is that one product that defies my healthy choices and my commitment to buying and eating local as often as possible.

That giant corporation makes a product that I can not resist, and their ads are a perfect compliment. I bought it – hook, line, and sinker. Come on, don’t tell me that you don’t smile when you remember Cindy Crawford and that vending machine in the dusty desert? It is definitely the taste of my generation.

It’s about time companies like Pepsi get back to the natural sweetener. It just sounds good – plain old sugar. I prefer my corn on the cob, not in my pop! And, you wouldn’t catch me dead consuming those lab-made artificial sweeteners.

Check the shelves for Mountain Dew Throwback to wash down those Doritos cravings.

By no means, am I suggesting that Pepsi will somehow become health food, but I might not feel as guilty about consuming it. I know where sugar comes from, and I believe that it is fine in moderation.

Pepsi with real sugar and skinny jeans on the fashion magazine covers – what more could a child of the 80’s ask for?! What’s next? Big hair and high-tops? Never say goodbye.

Now if only they would say they are only using fair-trade raw sugar…

Dear guy in seat 11F from MSP to SJC on February 13, 2009,

You may have studied and practiced law, but your behavior and language are representative of an immature frat boy. Your suit did nothing to make you seem respectable and intelligent.

As I sat next to the lovely couple from Fargo, the woman and I could not help but raise our eyebrows and scoff at your never-ending conversation with your seat neighbor about your apparently exciting life. Airplanes are small, enclosed spaces that we all must share. You do not share well.

Every other word was F**K, we heard about your “bareback” adventures, your drunkin stoopers, your gambling habits, and your expecting wife. We were happy to hear that you try to keep yourself controlled now that you are married.

I am sure the guy next to you appreciated all your advice about his relationship and life. Of course, you are well-qualified to give such advice to complete strangers. I am sure he will take it to heart.

You know, I was extremely annoyed by your use of f-bombs, which is strange. I am not easily offended by language. In fact, I have been known to drop a few strategically placed f-bombs of my own. It took me about 2 hours into my sleepless, loudly interrupted flight to figure it out.

Your volume and complete disregard for passengers around you is what was repulsive. You spoke loudly enough for 3 throws back and forward to hear you. You did not notice if there were children or others who might be sensitive to your choice of words. As a lawyer, I would expect you to have a more robust vocabulary, but then maybe that is why you are getting into sales now.

One thing I did learn from you is that I will always be aware of those around me on an airplane or in a close environment. Other than that, I relished in getting off that plane and away from your loud, obnoxious existence.

Oh, and yes, we all know that you “forgot” to turn your mobile phone off the entire flight. Just another example of your oblivious, self-absorbed approach to life.

My thoughts are with your wife and child on the way.

Once in a while I read a story that reminds me why I help people. I have never rescued someone from a fire and saved their life like William Carroll. To be honest, I’ll probably never be in that situation. If you have not already, please read this story from the Boston Globe and watch the video.

40 Years

These people are a reminder that every decision I make, and every second I give to another person may result in a life-changing experience.

We can’t all be firefighters and spend our lives helping and rescuing people, but we can make a difference in the lives of those around us. By giving a little of your time, or some spare change, or a few extra cans of tuna, you can change the course of someone’s day. Even looking someone in the eye and offering a friendly hello can mean a lot.

Aside from how you can affect those around you, there is no greater joy that giving.