Musing

Hoping this brings some comfort... Blessings and healing thoughts to you and your dad.

Poem: "65" by William Shakespeare. (Public domain.)

Since brass, nor stone, nor earth, nor boundless sea,

But sad mortality o'ersways their power,

How with this rage shall beauty hold a plea,

Whose action is no stronger than a flower?

O! how shall summer's honey breath hold out

Against the wrackful siege of battering days,

When rocks impregnable are not so stout,

Nor gates of steel so strong, but Time decays?

O fearful meditation! where, alack,

Shall Time's best jewel from Time's chest lie hid?

Or what strong hand can hold his swift foot back?

Or who his spoil of beauty can forbid?

O! none, unless this miracle have might,

That in black ink my love may still shine bright.

From HSJ, CT

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So sorry, Mark, about your Dad. When our family went through those difficult times, a nurse friend told me the last thing to go is hearing, so, if it comes to that part of the journey, heed the words, and keep talking with him about all the wonderful things, the positive things, knowing he WILL hear you. None of us are ever prepared for the eventuality ... no matter how hard we try; however, it IS a part of the journey of living and your memories will keep you strong, B?, Calgary

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Hi Mark, Thank you for your musing today. I continue to enjoy very much your insights into daily life. Like so many of your readers, I too am thinking of you and your Dad. From the Wet Coast.... Regards, BM, Victoria, BC

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I’m sorry I haven’t written before now. Please know that my thoughts are with you and I hope your Dad recovers. It’s a slow process but I don’t think it’s his time yet. The body is tough if the spirit is there and it sounds like your Dad has that in spades. Like father, like son. Take care, SB, Calgary

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-1C/13F (high 10C), calm, dark; golden retriever pulling power is average for a big dog I suppose, but when the right combo of rabbit scent, direction and light breeze arrive, then shoulder ripping are the only words to describe Gusta’s lunges

arranging words on a page – fridge magnet poetry style – seeking the economical combo to convey any meaning at all, guiding principles to accept reality’s coming harshness - life’s value and shortness lost on us when we are young - so much on our minds, on our plates, self-absorbed frisky explorers we were; mid-life arrives - the future sill looks bright, stretched out long, decades in front of us, curves far from view but we know they are out there – we accept that reality we cannot yet see, we know it, thirst for it and certainly accept it; I WILL still embrace life in 30 or 40 years – but maybe I’ll say ‘not so soon’

vulnerable, frail, weak - my dad faces his daily risks from the safety of his hospital bed, surrounded by much medical science stuff and staff - risks beyond my level of comfort or acceptance; HK is improving (he asked me to thank those who have called and written), moved to a regular heart ward, he looks stronger (but not strong) each day; as for me, encountering the business end of a much lauded health care system is very frustrating; not sure about the ultimate lesson will be, but I know I am being taught something

wrapped in a confusing blend of regrets of the past, fear of the future - accepting the inevitable is hard; resisting the stupid, fighting the ridiculous, confronting the bone-headed – easy things I can do, my skills practiced, techniques for railing against the ridiculous or an obstacle is easy, not always real easy, but easy compared to this acceptance thing

accepting the inevitable, things we cannot possibly change; not giving in but at least acknowledging facts, realities that cannot be altered - inevitable that life goes on, that life will end – but not so soon please, not so soon

nothing I can do holds hands of the clock in place, no critique or complaint will fix the unfixable, prevent what cannot be prevented – no tool available to stretch days into weeks or months into years or the next year into ten; not angry as much as I am sad, I am not lost as much as I don’t like this place I’ve found

Mark Kolke
339,812
197.0

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Beautiful writing Mark. Eloquent and touching. May you and your father enjoy many beautiful days together. LG, Calgary

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Pleased to hear that your Dad is moving out of CCU and hope that he will get stronger every day. Remember to take time out for you.....that is the only way you can be there for him!, BP, Calgary

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So sorry to hear about your Dad; you will both be in my thoughts and prayers. I share your thoughts and concerns re the depersonalization of the healthcare system. I do hope, that at an appropriate time, you will take those concerns to the person in charge of the unit where your Dad is #9, as well as to the 'powers that be' within Calgary Health. Every once in awhile caregivers, along with those charged with providing leadership within the system, need a reality check! Take care and my best to both of you, SD, Devon, AB

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So sorry to hear about your dad... I've been out of pocket for the last few days. Want you to know that he is remembered in all my prayers as well as you too for strength and for the doctors and all his caretakers to do the best they can for him. I was never an outspoken person until I had loved ones hospitalized. Then... holy cow... I learned pretty fast that the squeaky wheel gets the grease... maybe it's the same story in Canada as in the U.S.... not enough caretakers and they are all overworked. But, I sincerely hope your dad is being well taken care of which will make you feel a little easier about where he is. Take care, CFT, Houston, TX

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I hope the "guy in 9" and his son are both doing ok. The health care system can seem cold at times, my experience is that as your dad makes progress through "the system" the personal side of the healthcare will become warmer! Make sure your dad know lot's of people are praying for him (and you) Regards, MW, Calgary

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"The Guy in 9" hit a chord with me. I think we need to realize there not much kindness in many of these places. I really believe you should have someone with you when you are in a place like a hospital. A close friend woke up after an operation and she had a terrible burning and pain on her right leg and side while her left leg was totally numb. She'd been operated on the RIGHT side but someone had put the painkillers into the LEFT side! Unfortunately I don't think this is a rare incident. I repeat I think you need someone with a loved one in the hospital. Not saying that everyone is bad at their jobs just that some are certainly better than others. Personally we've had great care whenever needed. Hope that's your case too, B?, Regina, SK

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

0C/31F (high 6C), as we walked the ridge path, the only sounds were paws and feet crunching a fresh layer of snow that fell overnight, white coated branches and tall grass sooth the unsettled mind in pre-dawn light

strong wind of change; change of season, change of weather - walking Lake Waterton’s edge, town mostly deserted for winter – wind, without regard for us or that fat bighorn sheep (full curl) sitting on someone’s sidewalk – wind kept blowing hard, immenseness of it so daunting, scenery so beautiful, so perfect, so inviting to us, to stay in the sunshine taking it all in just a little while longer; with Gusta & PB in tow I went to Lethbridge yesterday for a meeting, to do some market research, to get away from reality for a little while; we took the long long long way back via Pincher Creek, via Waterton and via the Longview highway

return to city busy, complexity, impersonality of a health care system which, in the midst of science, equipment and organization seems to have lost its human empathy – a place of being reduced to numbers, patients referenced by ailment or the bed occupied rather than being called by name; ‘he’s not my patient’, she said; then told her colleague, ‘someone’s here to see your guy in 9, the one who moved from 5; he has congestive heart failure; the neutrality of hearing it described as ‘its not as bad as it sounds’; well, it is – and we know what it means; asleep he seems so frail, his breathing jerky, body trembling – awake, his demeanor slightly cranky (a good sign), he’s doing a little better, expected to leave CCU for the regular heart ward (I wonder if that means staff there have regular hearts?) in the next day or two, they say he’s doing well, but that is what they say, don’t they?; I read him some of the responses readers have sent . . to you all, a big smile and a thank you from Hubert, a.ka. the guy in 9

fragile balance, in nature, in our lives – of the mind, of the body - the margin between healthy life and inevitable decline is not very wide; a momentary lapse behind the wheel, the subtleties of the body’s complex systems managed by medication and machines, the mental state and resolve of the guy in 9; each holds life in the balance

Mark Kolke
339,980
197.0


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Sorry to hear your Dad is having more health problems. All a part of growing old I guess as each of us sees the role of parent becoming the role of dependant...life in full circle. It is hard for a proud man to accept that he needs the help of his child. It is hard for the child to realize that the life clock is ticking and we can only live one moment at a time, savour life one moment at a time, be thankful for one moment at a time. I wish you peace and perspective Mark. Re: mostly - It took me a long time to realize I needed to make myself a priority in my life. I was always looking after everyone else first and leaving virtually nothing for myself. I wasn't growing as a person (except in weight) and my personal relationships weren't what they could be. I had to learn that I was worthy of making time for myself, of being able to say no to make that time, to choose what I wanted to do and then being able to relax enough to enjoy myself. SL, Calgary

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Hope both you and your Dad are well. Take care, JM, Calgary

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Re: mostly - Great writing in the latest piece! Very close to my life perceptions. Although, I always encourage people to push themselves down "the list.", and be more preoccupied with the needs of others. Nevertheless, the point is well-made. Thanks, GMM, NYC, NY

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Hello Mark, Sorry to hear about your Dad. I too know the pain and anguish of having a close family member being afflicted with a sudden health issue like this. Fortunately, you have been blessed with a little better luck than I was. I wish you and your family the best of luck on this one. MB, Calgary

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Hi Mark, So sorry to hear about your Dad. I will remember you both in my prayers, DM, Calgary

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I guess the ultimate truth is that it all gets taken away. Everything we have thought and fought so hard for.... The big outcome is to become out, not, nothing, hopefully elsewhere - but we have to learn to balance that with our constant seeking to be better, smarter, richer, kinder, thinner, all the whatevers that we concentrate on while we are forgetting that ultimate outcome. It's a tricky consciousness to achieve that balance and we tend to let the everyday overshadow spiritual realities and forget the universal ultimatum when there is so much to live for. ch, Chimaum, WA

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Mark: Keeping you close in thought and prayer. It is heart wrenching to see those we love unwell. Fondly, JH, Kelowna, BC

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Hi – I am happy to hear your father is improving and stabilizing. Please know my thoughts are with you and prayers for your father. It’s a difficult time in their lives. Mom is recovering from a virus. All I can do is listen …. To her words and to her breathing. There is much she needs to say. I know you will be there with an ear for your Dad. I hope your pretty butterfly helps. Cheers, DB, Red Deer, AB

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You have always been eloquent and elegant in speaking about your father. All parents dream that their children will show what you have shown him and do what you are doing for him now. My thoughts are with you both. Also, a quote that makes sense to me, as applied to hospital time: "Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off the goal." - Hannah More, VJP, DeWinton, AB

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

7C/45F (high 15C), full moon lit us from overhead as we strolled the ridge path this morning, my pace quickened a bit as Gusta sniffed mystery droppings; no critters, people or cars in sight . . just a few billion spots of light above us

I sipped coffee, read a paper and pondered my day ahead over a bowl of granola and raspberries – momentary perishable experiences; I was pondering things we take for granted – like electricity, seasons, hair loss and government bureaucracy – things we never expect anything special from, other than that they will be themselves, be predictable and always be there; other things are more fallible whether or not they have best-before dates on them

but, with things we have acquired, like knowledge, abilities and memory – we don’t have to remember how to walk, breath, make a phone call or to ask a question – these are things we learn how to do and we never have to learn them again, we just repeat our own experience

ability to remember is really important, perhaps as important as the ability to forget; I remember why that matters, but right now I forget whether it is better to lose an ability or a memory, or a memory of an ability . . . . each gets left behind along the way

“We do not remember days, we remember moments. The richness of life lies in memories we have forgotten.” – Cesare Pavese

it doesn’t matter if I will always remember to ride a bike, but I don’t want to forget who taught me to ride one, it doesn’t matter if I ever skate again but I don’t want to forget who taught me to skate . . etc.

little acts of kindness are more significant than the grandest gesture; thanks to all who called or wrote regarding my dad’s health – I am pleased to report he is getting great care and doing as well as can be expected just now; he is a little loopy on his sleep medication, now finally convinced he doesn’t have to get up to go to work . . for now, terms like congestive heart failure sound much more ominous than ‘fluid around his lungs makes his heart have to work too hard’, for now, I’ve not lost him - I’ve found him in some new ways

ability ‘to do things’ inevitably declines - not sure it matters to me that I will always be able to do everything – what scares me most is the idea of not remembering being able to do things, which would probably be coupled with an absence of worrying about what I couldn’t remember because I wouldn’t know anymore

there’s more, but I forgot it

Mark Kolke
340,004
198.0


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Hi Mark – we are thinking of you. Tell your Dad he has the softest hands I’ve ever had the privilege of shaking. No doubt, an indication of the total man – soft, warm and caring. Look after yourselves, SA & DA, Edmonton, AB

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Oh Mark, I am sorry to hear about your Dad .. I know how much he means to you and I wish him well. Take care .. , CCC, Calgary in Key West, FL

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Mark: My thoughts are with you and your Dad. Hope to hear that he is back home soon, AW, Calgary

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I know this tenuous place with our aging parents and I send good thoughts to you and your Dad. Take care, JH, Calgary

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Sorry to hear about the upset last night. My dad had heart problems and I'm well acquainted with what you're going through. : ( Take care of you, OK? To: LR (Irvine), yes, all of my family -- four-leggers included – are safe. By the way, all of their animals are rescue pets. Of the many employees evacuated, only one that I've heard of lost his house. To Mark and PD (Vancouver/Edmonton), blessings and peace to you and your loved ones in your current trials. To all Musers far and near: Thanks for the So. Cal. well wishes -- be they silent prayers or relief funds -- sent our way. Each is appreciated. -- JH, Los Angeles, CA

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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad. Take care of each other, KK, Calgary

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Mark...a smile for you and a prayer for your dad, LR, Irvine, CA

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Mark: I am very sorry to hear about your dad. I hope for and will pray for his fast and full recovery. You make sure to take care of yourself as well. Regards, MW, Calgary

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Hi Mark, sorry to hear about your dad. Take good care of you and him! LG, Calgary

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

Hi Mark – we are thinking of you. Tell your Dad he has the softest hands I’ve ever had the privilege of shaking. No doubt, an indication of the total man – soft, warm and caring. Look after yourselves, SA & DA, Edmonton, AB

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Oh Mark, I am sorry to hear about your Dad .. I know how much he means to you and I wish him well. Take care .. , CCC, Calgary in Key West, FL

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Mark: My thoughts are with you and your Dad. Hope to hear that he is back home soon, AW, Calgary

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I know this tenuous place with our aging parents and I send good thoughts to you and your Dad. Take care, JH, Calgary

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Sorry to hear about the upset last night. My dad had heart problems and I'm well acquainted with what you're going through. : ( Take care of you, OK? To: LR (Irvine), yes, all of my family -- four-leggers included – are safe. By the way, all of their animals are rescue pets. Of the many employees evacuated, only one that I've heard of lost his house. To Mark and PD (Vancouver/Edmonton), blessings and peace to you and your loved ones in your current trials. To all Musers far and near: Thanks for the So. Cal. well wishes -- be they silent prayers or relief funds -- sent our way. Each is appreciated. -- JH, Los Angeles, CA

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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad. Take care of each other, KK, Calgary

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Mark...a smile for you and a prayer for your dad, LR, Irvine, CA

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Mark: I am very sorry to hear about your dad. I hope for and will pray for his fast and full recovery. You make sure to take care of yourself as well. Regards, MW, Calgary

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

6C/43F (high 13C), light overcast and breezy, Gusta explored new territory while I tagged along mindlessly, aimlessly, hopelessly distracted; Sunday plans altered – forks appear in a straight road, life rears its head to say ‘hello, I’m going to change some things’

truth is not an emergency - sometimes we need emergency to see truth – to focus on changes that are happening, inevitable changes – truth otherwise masked in some naive expectation that things will be fine a good deal longer, that decline and death concepts for dealing with in the future . . the distant future, but not today

tuning in last night – live, not previously recorded, amid party people injuries, stressed, obsessed and distressed folk, weird and weirder still - a few normal people, but the cuckoo’s nest was cause for déjà vu in the world of triage that makes me cringe, nurse Mildred Ratched in charge, eventually her ER nurse protégé indicated this was not a ‘check you out, send you home’ exercise; home to sleep by 4:30AM was best, his full assessment would take several hours

ER is part farce, part drama, morning after ER brings test-pattern numbness home to roost; frail and shrunken man, gentle man, gentleman, parent, dad, model who played his role so solidly, stoic, unwavering; he gave me a name, gave me life – in distress, there is nothing I can do; 1:30AM. alarm company called, paramedics rolled; as I got there they were getting loaded for his ride to hospital – I gathered his essentials for the return trip (socks and shoes and keys etc.)

no call overnight - good news I suppose – they only would have called if he could go home or if he got worse, so no call was good; when I got up I called the hospital – he’s resting well after being admitted, mild heart attack the apparent cause of his distress; I must go now to visit the cardiac care unit, return items in the front seat for now, likely not needed today

Mark Kolke
340,028
198.0

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

Today’s message , Bingo. I've known for a while that I am one of these people. My mother passed away two weeks ago and I am a mess. But I am in Edmonton where my mom lives holding it together and getting everything organized with one special needs adult brother and another special needs adult brother. There is so much to do. I love them both and many challenges are ahead. I live and work in Vancouver, life has changed forever, we are now orphans. There is an old house full of two parents life time of stuff. You know what is next. Months of worry and work while I'll be the wish bone between two peoples needs. I have to turn this over to a higher power. I'm going home tomorrow after being here two and a half weeks. Memory is funny two weeks ago my Mom died and it is already in the past and the emotion has changed. No wisdom today on how to fix, if life were only that simple, PD, Vancouver, BC (currently Edmonton)

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Well said, JH. I agree and will personally take up a "Spread a Goodwill Smile" torch (pardon the choice of word, in light of the current situation!) Your thoughts have resonated with me. Hope your mother, sister, and employees are well and safe, LR, Irvine, CA

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To subscribe to Mark's Musings daily email distribution, write to musing@maxcomm.ca
©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-4C/25F (high 11C), clear, feeling the sound as our chests pushed hot air into frosty stillness, Gusta frenetic over rabbit smells to chase, I’m ecstatic that my left foot is working so well; remnants of snow silent on frozen turf

in your life, on your landscape – there is at least someone who is not getting to the front of the line who ought to, someone who deserves to be taken care of, planned for and thought about as a #1 priority . . look around you may find them . . look hard, I’ll help you if you can’t find them

week sped by, barely a wave hello; sunny suburban Saturday morn – time to catch breath, to think, to let a mind wander and wonder – I suppose there is a better peace than this; surely a resort getaway or hotel room service might make it more luxurious but not better; the world outside the door is mostly safe, the landscape is mostly fair, the opportunities are mostly open to all, the society is mostly kind, the air is mostly clean, the laws are mostly just, the smiles are mostly genuine

we give and do and work, mostly for others; I look around and see so many people doing so much so selflessly – while laudable, mostly, these saintly servants of bosses and families and friends put others first so often they almost always put themselves further down the list a few places or at the end or not at all; what a shame it is – for all of us – when we fail to recognize people who matter so much are so often left out; I don’t mean forgotten, but taken for granted as less than what they deserve, left with less than they richly deserve, left down the line or at the end of the line or with their place in line forgotten or closed up, leaving them on the sidelines

if you’ve looked all around your life and cannot find someone from ‘down the list’ who ought to be in first place, if you’ve wracked your mind for the ah+ha moment of truth that has you saying, ‘oh yeah, that’s the forgotten person in my life, that’s the person whose needs are always pushed aside to make room for everyone else in their life’ – well, if you’ve looked all around and cannot find them, I’ll give you a clue

first, go into your bathroom, stand in front of the mirror, and turn on the light – voila

Mark Kolke
340,052
198.0


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this was one of your best yet, SH, Calgary

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Due to the fires and their impact on me personally (my mother, sister and their nine pets were in a fire's path) and professionally (we have had many employees evacuated), I'm just catching up on this week's Musings. LR's (Irvine, CA) comments are strongly resonating with me. The "resulting" ash in our air, on our cars... the gray-brown haze and red-pink sun areconstant reminders of the tremendous losses to our wild places and their innocent inhabitants, the people who don't have homes to return to or lost loved ones or priceless keepsakes... and the bizarreness of arson. As the week has progressed, and the fire situation expanded from one or two on Sunday night to more than 25 separate fires (many of which have beenattributed to arson or are under investigation), I've wondered how someone gets to this point of decision... what personal pain or need for acknowledgement (even if only to one's self) engaging in arson assuages...childhood abuse? anger over the death of a loved one or physicaldisfigurement from an accident? revenge in the wake of devastating financial ruin? the wild card of mental illness? However, the taking of appropriate legal action aside, whether we personally choose to blame or forgive doesn't really matter at this point. The damage is done, and we Californians move on like we always do. We rebuild after fires and earthquakes and we plant new trees (FYI, Tree People is a good LA-based group: http://www.treepeople.org/?gclid=CKCN2dCzrY8CFQ6kHgodlAinLA). Earthquakes will happen, droughts will return. The strong, hot "Santa Ana" winds are as much a part of our fall season as the shorter days. There's a lot we can't control, and all the soul searching I've done about this and similar tragedies has led me to the same place -- how important small acts of kindness are. I've heard countless stories about the kindness of a stranger preventing someone from committing suicide or how a teacher's patience and attention helped balance a child's poor home environment and led to the kid growing up strong and healthy. Can we prevent arson or a school shooting? I don't know, but it seems worth a try. Minimally, I think a little more patience, a little more love, a few more smiles and hellos to those on the street, and a little extra tender guidance for those who are confused or lost can make the world a better place. -- JH, Los Angeles

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It would be nice to be able to predict how the Royalty tax will affect our economy, but as you say...we all could be wrong. For myself, it doesn't affect me directly, but could in the ripples of the local economy and job market. I won't spend my days worrying about it...life moves forward no matter how much we worry. I will just savour the positive things in my life! SL, Calgary

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Mark – I noticed you didn't answer KN's question from yesterday... I am, as I am sure all of your friends are, very happy about your new relationship. I continue to look forward with much anticipation to each day’s Musings. Simply put, always food for thought - they never get old or boring to me. Take care? CFT, Houston, TX

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Yup, you’re wrong. Aside from your anecdotal comments the world has changed today in Alberta. No matter how you slice it, the costs for oil and gas exploration just went up. The end result will be less investment in Alberta which will have an immediate impact on all of us. I can’t say much about the oil sands economics since I’m not an expert in that field. However, the natural gas business is on the verge of collapse. The industry has gone into one of its typical slowdown cycles to try and control costs and wait until the gas price improves. The significant increase in natural gas royalties will make this a prolonged downturn which in all likely can tilt the province into a full blown recession. Remember, natural gas royalties account for over half of the provincial take. If I were to make an off the cuff remark I would say the average Calgarian just lost $100,000 in house value and the average Albertan likely lost $50,000. I wonder if your letters will be able to consol people when they start to lose their jobs and their homes, SK, Calgary

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-5C/22F (high 7C), half melted snow blanket still hanging around, full moon was hanging on the shoulders of last night, waiting to see a spectacular sun rising to an empty blue Alberta sky; school buses rolled by to collect kids, Gusta chasing frozen eau de mole or something

things will be tough for some in the coming year or two for reasons that really have nothing to do with yesterday’s announcement; but most will prosper, most will continue to work hard and earn fairly; we the free, we the governed have no appreciation of what it might be like to make decisions for a populace, making choices with far-reaching implications for today’s entrepreneurs, for tomorrow’s newborns and for a legacy we all want to see protected, but, I could be wrong about that

freedom to create prosperity, not a certainty, but our birthright; as Canadian as canoes, maple syrup or hockey, we hiss and moan; Canadians (Albertans too) blow off steam and cling to ideas whether fed to us or views rooted in who we are, how we have lived and what we have seen – and, like seasons, time passes

soil under my feet feels permanent, my Canadian birthright and Albertan freedom intact; I could be wrong - I did not feel a quake, I went outside to confirm the sky had not fallen; listening to and reading news coverage suggests changes, bluster about wholesale capital moves - noise of the ill informed listening to the ill conceived tossing half-baked ideas about in the hope they might be right and later thought clairvoyant

a Wall Street guy saying this, half-flaked economist from socialist organization says that - each has little relevance at most breakfast tables; we are a calm and serious people, we count on leaders to lead, innovators to innovate, street sweepers to sweep and accountants to count; I live in a land of plenty, a place that welcomes people and ideas, a place of freedom and opportunity like few on earth, a place of change and innovation, a place of frontier spirit and pick-up truck straight talkin’

“We cling to our own point of view, as though everything depended on it. Yet our opinions have no permanence; like autumn and winter, they gradually pass away.” – Chuang Tzu

no one shoo’ed off the porch or the property; within days reasonable captains of industry and talking heads will measure real results as markets adjust to new realities, to a different view of opportunities and constraints; a steady leader assessed a situation and made choices we will learn to live with and benefit from - that’s what leaders do

yesterday’s announcements did not shake the world or destroy an economy, neither did they create nirvana; a year or two from now some Toronto economist will fly into town to tell us how smart they are – they will announce there is no better place to be; when that happens cowboys will grunt, kids will laugh and play, most of us will smile and let the silly economist have his day – because we’ve known it the whole time

yesterday’s changes did not kill a people or an industry or a golden goose; yesterday’s announcements made for stories above the fold and air time and sound bytes and minor adjustments like the grinding of the earth’s plates against one another; signs there will always be friction and tension – steam and tremors now and again are necessary but major earthquakes don’t happen very often; a politician got it partly wrong, industry and investors cried fowl, pundits wrote about it because it was the news du jour and commentators commented because that is what commentators do, but, I could be wrong

dire predictions, one viewpoint swamping another, overblown, out of context; yesterday, a Thursday – a nice day but no more spectacular or dismal than any other Thursday – a day when life went on, babies breathed their first, some old notions breather their last, anglers began angling as rule changes did not make the prize go away; as predicted some spoiled kids will take their ball and go play somewhere else; most won’t because this is where they live and there is no better place to be Albertan than in Alberta; I could be wrong about many things, but about this I am certain

Mark Kolke
340,956
109.0



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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

Nice. Thanks. I needed your gentle reminder today about the wonder and beauty of the world around me. LG, Calgary

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hi Mark, Vision and foundation - to use an old-fashioned phrase, right on!, LHE, Calgary

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With your morning’s subject line, I thought you were getting married........are you? We are off (28 of us) to Vegas this morning for my 3rd son's wedding.......it'll be great fun! Talk soon, KN, Camrose, AB

...

©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

1C/33F (high 5C), blazing full moon-light paints everything white - warm steady breeze from the west will quickly melt this first blanket of snow; sticky wet and so much fun, Gusta had a good romp again this morning, primed by a 1 AM appetizer – fresh, wet, her snout pushing through it like a snow shovel

I am moved easily by simple things; not many things, but more than a few – I am moved by experiences and places and by courage that lives in people; most of all, I am moved by simple kindness, simple truth and simple understanding, for better, for worse

what is best, what is right, what is empowering and wise for others plays such a small role; accountability, responsibility, vision, wisdom – often vacuous, too often we breath a sigh when disaster is averted, when the train stops short of falling over the cliff

expediency drives decisions; for the CEO to ride herd, for newly-weds to have hope, for the politician to hold power’s reigns, for parents to hold children on course, each examples of how long term vision underpins success; striving to richer instead of poorer, to be healthier than before, to be happier than ever – short term vision is not vision alone is not vision at all, it is short-sighted

the world seems to notice grand gestures and great disasters – the rest of the time the world is not standing by watching, the world is pre-occupied with other things; people everywhere are focused on their own backyard – burning brush, scorched earth or burning desire – each leave their paths of blazing glory or wanton destruction

we need to keep one eye on what is right in front of us, one eye on that place in the future where values, economics, timing and good fortune are intended to intersect – to lay a foundation for anything we build requires preparation of the site, a plan, careful construction, good management and containment of variables – yet without a grand vision, a beautiful result is as likely as a lottery win – not very

yesterday I was reminded that relationships I have make me rich beyond measure, colleagues new and old make me proud of things we’ve done together, my family makes me joyful and my butterfly makes me want to a better grasshopper

Mark Kolke
340,980
198.8

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Thank you for remembering my Birthday! I just got back from 2 weeks in Italy so I wanted to have dinner at Mercado tonight but they are closed for a private function tonight - so I made reservations at Centini - just wanting to continue the Italian feeling. A friend from Vancouver is in town and is hosting Robert and I. Are you at the Real estate forum today? Will I see you tomorrow? Wish us well! Having a great day, SM, Calgary

...

This universe was born of fire. It burns on and drives us to ever greater challenges of learning. Thank you Mark for sharing your most intimate thoughts, TF, Calgary
Glad to hear about LR... able to return home. Another friend yesterday was getting ready to leave when the fire moved more southerly and they were able to stay in their home. I was going to email you this morning to ask about LR... thanks for keeping everyone updated. Take care. Thank you, CFT, Houston, TX

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Mark - I have moved to BC but still want my thoughtful musings - so can I have them sent to XXXXX? Thanks Mark - you make my days, JM, Red Deer, AB

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My sister is currently in a camp ground in Borrego Springs with many of her friends. Their town has not burned yet but the fires are very close. It's been a crazy couple of days but she is safe. At this point, she just doesn't know when she can go home or what she will find, DL, Calgary

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Good Morning Mark, You found me - that is great! I was married this summer and my e-mail address at work changed. I kept meaning to let you know and didn't. Anyway, thanks for re-directing your musing to this address. Have a great day!, LK, Fairview, AB

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Being a science teacher, I know that fire is life. It can scrub the forest clean of undergrowth and reignite dormant life. Occasionally, it's good for the land. Once winter rains begin, (if the ground actually stays put), the hills around our home will turn green again...new buds, new saplings, animals will return. But for now, for as far as I can see, including right in my own backyard, everything is covered in a fine layer of ash. Inches deep in places. It occurs to me that something animal or vegetable had to die in order to wind up on my patio. And my heart hurts for those things. We have so few natural places in Orange County. To watch as they burn away is heartbreaking, especially knowing that someone out there put a deliberate match to the life... But we are all well, intact, and have suffered no measurable loss.., LR, Irvine, CA

...

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

9C/49F (high 19C), magenta band of fire lifts clouds on the horizon, the lagoon silent, no fowl in sight, light breeze ruffles the quiet

LR called from Irvine last night to advise she and family are back home, the wildfires having come within 40 yards. of the house, yesterday was 6 months since I met PB . . dinner last night with BB - nice to see you; SM has a birthday today, congrats; tempus fugit

man did not invent fire, cannot harness fire, cannot manage it, cannot live without it, loves it, hates it, thrives on it; it gives life and takes life – it is all and it can reduce us to nothing

some days (I had this type yesterday) - not anxious, a day when many things moved an inch forward, some a foot; some things come together, some came home to roost, some came full circle, some felt warm, some felt red-hot, some felt better than ever expected; in short, a very good day, an exceptional day, a fine day, a happy day

today, pundits and headlines tell us, will be one of the most significant in a generation – here in Alberta for many that will be true; in the great scheme of things it is just another day, no greater or less than any other; no one is being sent to war or jail or the poorhouse, the worst is already a reality, the best will not be captured in a politician’s speech; in response citizens will want to praise or fire – no middle ground there, sink or swim, triumph or fail, right or wrong; as if anyone can get something completely right or completely wrong when trying so hard to do right; will our Premier walk through fire, will his party want to fire him in any case? walking through fire is not the same as surviving the heat in the kitchen . . though so much of what is important gets reduced to cliché

easy to see life and opportunity through a headline or sound-byte; when headlines report gloom trouble has already hit and hurt, when they report good news it is already old news; sitting on the edge of seats to hear announcements of spin-doctoring is hype to make us feel good about the mistakes government (usually) has already made but reporting to us has become an art form of spreading blame, of hording credit

some times, individually or collectively, we are wholly distracted putting out fires, sometimes we start some, sometimes we have fire in our eyes, sometimes we have fire in our belly, sometimes we light birthday cake candles, or a single one; what will today bring?

Mark Kolke
341,004
198.4


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Life in the adventure lane.... it's all in your attitude, JB, Klamath Falls, OR

...

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

1C/33F (high 19C), last night’s warmth and moonlight gone now; walk around the lagoon, homes waking, kitchen light power bounced off wet stillness – lit our way

ideas pile, word jam traffic, pinch point, no signal, no signs, mind racing feels like a freeway nighttime photo - time lapse – caught endless tracking headlights show where I was going, endless taillight trails show where I’ve been

time lapse photography applied to recent years, trips near and far, down alleys, near and far, forays into darkness, near and far, in search of dreams, near and far, right in and right out, on ramp or off, fast lane, slow lane - few lights truly bright, butterfly brilliantly lights my way – safety and risk and hopes and dreams – no time to waste

safety and security – free from risk – does not exist; some seem blind to it or oblivious, but it is always there; no safety net of comfort, no reward without risk, no joy without sweat, no life without value, no value without life; doing without adventure is safe, so very safe, so very dull; doing without safety, is such adventure, with or without the illusion that safety is something anyone can hold more than for the moment

spun faster, faster still, then slow, steady now . . pace . . step . . step . . faster than plodding, slowed down so thinking, deciding, deliberateness can happen

go slow? no, fast is better

thoughts - memory’s after-taste

experience - sensory time-lapse photography

doing without [insert your passion/butterfly here] is a choice that time does not wait for; time goes on without caring or feeling; time, enemy of all things good, cannot be stopped

no half measure, time zips, waits not, wants not, has no opinion, offers no resistance, offers no help; quick or slow it does not care; if we fail to speak, fail to act, fail to think, fail to try, time ticks on just as fast whether we taste life or simply sit wishing we could

when all life’s been snuffed, when my body is dust, I hope it can be said of me:

lived life flat-out, loved life flat-out, never looked back

Mark Kolke
341,028
196.4


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OK, I chose to leave behind some precious things in the interest of survival...but we have our family, our important documents, pictures of everyone's growing up, and the dog. Our "trial by fire" began last night at 10:30pm. I used to think of the hills behind our home as an ethereal place to romp, hike, contemplate, and discover. Now they hold only the terror of a raging fire, thick smoke, and blackened terrain. For now, I choose to hope our home is still standing when we return from a safe haven in Newport, and I will say a prayer for the 400 firefighters on the front line who are bravely fighting this inferno. Will email when we know more, LR, Irvine, CA

...

Like your change it up plans for Monday. Caffeine-driven mayhem hitting us hard in the face as we start our day requires an equal and opposite force like the attitude you put forth. Hard to apply when you get a late start, hustle and bustle, phone calls and looking for a break but surely a pursuit worth our time. How about inviting someone who has no friends over for dinner? Find a nature trail on the way home from work and take an unscheduled walk. Tip someone who waits well on you a $20 bill and tell them how nice it feels to be treated with kindness and respect. It may start an epidemic of kindness and generosity. Friday morning I saw a homeless guy with a sign that said stranded. Although already late, I turned around, stopped and asked him his story. He said he was trying to get back to Ohio to see his sons first child due any day. I ask how he was doing raising the money and he said he only had raised $4. I looked at him and he looked pretty honest and I asked him if I gave him money would he spend it on booze or really use it. He said he drank very little as he needed all the money he gets for food. So I gave him a $50 bill and said I hope this is enough to get you a long bus ride in the direction you’re going. He looked the bill and me and started to cry. I said I wish you well and God speed you on your journey. This is not the first time I have done this and each time I have seen the same reaction. Later, I regretted I had not give the exact right amount for that bus ride and something additional for food during the trip but I am still very glad I stopped. Changing someone’s circumstances for the better may be the greatest change we can do, ML, Stuart, FL

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Reminds me of a course in the Stress Management Program...Happiness is a Choice. We can all do things to be proactive, to enrich our lives...live life to the fullest! SL, Calgary

...

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

4C/40F (high 15C), expectations of sunshine met, view to the north is dark cloud, expect changes; one duck family remains on the lagoon, invaded by boorish gulls, Gusta wanted to swimming while I yearn for a beach walk

change your answer, change your week, change your pace, change your day, change yourself, change to yes - expect changes, not ones that meet or exceed your expectations but ones that blow your expectations completely out of the water

we don’t say no to fear, we say no to what we don’t know

one day, one time, all it takes to reverse anything – or everything, change is your answer, so change your answer – easiest thing you do all week; thousands of opportunities, solicitations, advertisements bombard us everyday - we answer most with silence, some with no, some an emphatic no, some with an invitation to get lost; we tell friends who cannot shed controlling behavior to JUST SAY NO; NO is everywhere, we all know ‘just say NO’

every day we have opportunities to change our answer, to say YES; YES to those easy things requires no effort, thought, wrestling or conscious change, but saying YES to a question that takes us outside some box, stretches our head around some idea, offers a risk/reward formula we don’t know; some challenge of consequence, however small, is bigger than any NO we muster

pregnant couples are asked – when are you expecting? at that point in our lives the future looks bright, thoughts of 10 tiny fingers and all the expectations unfold in our minds long before the delivery date; the future is dreamy, the notions magical; at what other point do we have such bold and bright expectations?

I look around my world and see such boldness lacking, such hope absent, such color pale; in the corridors of power or the corridor outside my door there is an absence of that positive energy; it is time for change, change a word, change your life; life expectancy is not about life as much as it is about expectancy

what do you expect, what is in store, what experiences are around the next bend, this week or next, this year or next; it is all about expectations in our life – but what if we injected some life into our expectations? say yes man, be a yes man or a yes woman; say yes, say it over and over – say it loud, sing it out, be different, be outrageous, be contrarian, be bold, be your actions - YES - one syllable, one word, one vowel; a different word but just as simple

this morning, we all have a choice moment, a choice; make this Monday like the 51 other Mondays of the year or choose change - choose yes rather than no, choose risk for reward, choose choice over chance, choose to know something new

nothing to lose but another forgettable Monday, everything to gain – like the most fantastic day of your life – go ahead, choose

Mark Kolke
341,052
198.4

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-5C/23F (high 10C), sunshine expected in about an hour, fading stars overhead as we walked quiet cul-de-sacs, black squirrels and rabbits turning white occupied Gusta while I walked faster, ankle/heel nearly mended now

I saw it, there it was – just what I wanted - I bought a saw and then I bought work gloves, I see/saw it, much work to do, I saw/see it, finding balance of need and time to do it all

trimming and pruning are not things done with prunes; the grass meets the flower bed, some leakage occurs but it must be cut back – fertile ground becomes concrete when dry, tangled roots are often so deep or spread they cannot be dug out, cannot be removed from the equation – like history, old stuff, old ways, old growth – old wood, deadwood must be cut away to make room for next season’s new shoots, fresh buds and blossoming future, places for birds to nest, dogs to play and butterflies to light

relationships and yard work both mix hard work with tranquility, struggles and sweat, sense of pride and accomplishment – both are therapy, both distract us from all other things – when peace and tranquility meet nature naturally – I saw the light, I saw the wood, I saw the end of the season, I saw the new beginning in my mind, I feel new growth, I imagined it so it must be so

I saw balance and need and time working out – not yet, but in my mind I see it, saw it, have seen it, will see it again

Mark Kolke
341,076
197.5

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Nope!, JB, Klamath Falls, OR

...

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

4C/39F (high 8C), brilliant sunshine, warmer now than when we walked, when heavy frost coated every windshield, every roof – Gusta found an old white-haired retriever to bother by the park, quiet is everywhere

Saturday morning sleep-ins prove many things, among them that it was a wearying week from which downtime is the only cure; pouring coffee, pouring over papers, pouring through stories and lessons learned – I wonder how much of what goes off course in life, in society, in relationships, in the entire world is attributable to how we get things done

getting anything done – done right that is, does not happen by accident any more than it happens only because logic and reason was applied to a set of facts and a list of objectives; getting it right ought to be universal, measurable, felt and understood – getting it right ought to consider all values and value systems, not to pander to any or all of them, but to be considered in the light that any decision, reasoned or knee-jerk, will be felt in many ways for a long time

sober thought belongs in its place on a sunny autumn weekend – the frost is on the pumpkin, the devil is in the details and generations from now the history books will look on this coming week as a pivotal time or as a nothing; the choices are clear but the vision has not been articulated – the objectives are clear, but the route has not been chosen, the streets will be paved with good intentions mixed with political expediency and our

the time for arguing, lobbying and shouting is over now – somber choices, leadership bends to expediency as it so often does, long-term vision is sadly just a little longer than a news cycle, just a little shorter than the time till an election call;

a week from now – just seven days away – there will be a new way of life unfolding here; for some it will be because a key government policy announcement will foster the future – somewhere between unbridled unlimited prosperity and complete disaster; the acumen of a few will decide for the many, the resolve of the powerful will build or squander political capital and with it the fortunes of a very nervous populace

I see something happening that happens often, I believe, in businesses, clubs, groups, families and relationships of all kinds – so much pressure to get it done, too much cogitation to get it right; more than an analysis of ethics or professionalism, I wonder about the subtle differences between ‘getting it right’ and ‘getting it done’

these concepts can be so near, or so far - the defensible ways politicians change course with enormous impact on all of us, the defensible positions taken by parents and spouses and neighbors and bosses, the defensible positions taken by wise men and women – easily they/we can defend what we have done as justifiable, supported by reasoning, facts and research – but, is getting it done on such a basis any reason to conclude we got it right?

Mark Kolke
341,100
197.0


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You refer to: 'being who I am vs. being something others might wish to see'. We all spend too much time trying to be, look or seem like something others wish to see ... we really just need to be ourselves and the best we can be. I look to the past and people were individuals...now we seem so much like clones, trying to fit the image.Here's to our differences, our intricacies, our opinions, here's to you. SL, Calgary

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Re: from the sidelines - too true, Dear, just too true! Hugs, JB, Klamath Falls, OR

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Hi Mark - Thanks for you call a few weeks ago – it was good to hear your voice. DA has meetings in the West and East over the next few weeks, and I am going with him – we are back on terra firma the week of November 12th. Do let us know when you are next in Edmonton, and we’ll plan to get together. S #3, SA, Edmonton, AB

...

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-2C/29F (high 10C), steady breeze, frost on the tall grass this morning made the walk around the lagoon cool and refreshing for Gusta, the water level well down from drainage; the sky best described as mixed-media, toque time soon

I need to see clearly what I am not looking for – I need to be more of an objective observer, like a gnat on a wall – seeing myself as others might; whatever I am looking for, I will find it, whatever I am not looking for will elude me even when it is sitting right in front of me

challenging as it is to find understanding of self, I think I look hardest to find a better understanding of others – and in that looking, I see myself more clearly; not so much a matter of ‘frustration vs. pleasure’ as it is ‘being who I am vs. being something others might wish to see’; introspection, often disguised as a quest for understanding, most often is a quest to validate what I hope for or to give evidence to my fears

when I look in my mirror, looking hard, when brow furrows, when a smile is absent – there is usually a reason that has nothing to do with an ache or a pain; I look to validate some assumption, make some wish come true or for some idea to work – I know I do; most of us are – looking to prove something or disprove it, to find a new way or prove which ways won’t work, to find what is missing, lost or forgotten

observing happiness in others is so much easier than understanding it in ourselves; looking is not thinking, thinking is not feeling, feeling is not knowing – and knowing is a concept that, at its best, is an uncomfortable state but not so uncomfortable as not knowing

Mark Kolke
341,124
197.0

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

-2C/29F (high 11C), my feet are much more solid beneath me now, the pain/tingle/limp nearly gone, pace quickened. another moonless night coming to an end, Gusta’s nose and twinkling stars led us around the lagoon

what you do is 100% up to you, but ask this – what percentage of the things I do today are the result of a conscious decision, what percentage are ‘a little different just to shake things up’ and what percentage are ‘hey, lets do this!’ material?

you are in idea, I am an idea, we each have an idea – lets set it loose today; we have it; I have it and you have it too - it is your turn, it is your next move; no need to tell anyone - making a change in how you do something, what you do or when you do it need not be public, need not be recorded or held up to anyone’s scrutiny

most of us never spring an idea into an invention or articulate some new idea producing earth shaking ideas in social science, health care or business - but by making today different - turning head and thoughts in new directions - each of us – THIS MEANS YOU – will alter the course of the world; it might not be this morning or tomorrow, but you will; major development in mankind’s past or your future is never a single brilliant event, but the tally of a thousand little ones, a hundred hurdles to overcome/avoid, ten key elements and one common ingredient - YOU

I don’t mean the creative streak – that’s a given – we’ve had it since the sandbox was our office and toys were our communications tools, where inventing a new game could happen at any minute with the simple prelude ‘hey, lets do this!’; adulthood brings out the humdrum and suppresses our playful and creative nature;

what I mean is the potential to change the landscape, change the agenda, make things happen, prevent things from happening – at the speed of thought – simply by taking some action; these actions can be as mundane as putting in a load of laundry, emailing an old friend we’ve not connected with for a while, calling a stranger to say ‘would you be interested in _____?, reading the newspaper backwards or walking a different route

the moment I rise, opportunities flood – most deflected or avoided by routine; I stumble to bathroom, then follow habit for one hour before I strike a keystroke - routine requires little deduction, morning tasks aside, push of caffeine in arteries, awakens creative process; as I approach my keyboard, I see these words taped to the picture frame above my desk: ‘It’s always your next move.’ – Napoleon Hill

more than likely it was a thousand tiny things – connected to making a move of some kind, an action of some consequence, a comment to someone along the way or an idea set loose; I had a breakthrough yesterday; it was one of those subtle things, not sure if it was the culmination of many little things coming together on one day, spontaneous diversion from plans, electricity of this combined with that, ringing phone or some cosmic seismic event

do these kinds of mental exercises – they are as important as physical ones; whether I listen to a creative genius speak on their latest book, movie, invention or business success or if I simply get my brain to alter its internal pathways to explore some new possibility – this keeps me lively, keeps me quick, lights my day, lightens my load, sets ideas loose

Mark Kolke
341,148
197.0


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Well said when you said "in most levels of government or large organizations of any kind, the game seems to be more about power, manipulation of issues, and what those behind the scenes really want rather than altruistic service of citizens, of community, of stakeholders". in my experience most of the time the most important factor is what those behind the scenes really want. Some people know that if they create enough fuss and insinuate negatives and threats of exclusion about opposing points of view, then most people will melt away. Here's a theory about the lack of engagement you mentioned. Some in the generations previous to me chose points of view that seemed good to them and then those engaged people were treated with disrespect in the changes of the late sixties. There began a pattern of disrespecting individuals whose points of view did not match the causes celebre of the times. That basic disrespect in public discourse was one among many factors that led some in the baby boom generation to retreat into their cocoons. We should not be surprised that the next generation has retreated even further, LHE, Calgary

...

Mark, Your comments about apathy were scary but true where I live. Many people, especially the younger generation (45 and under) don't feel their votes count for anything. In fact, many young people do not even vote. How can we get them to realize it is important to vote? What can we do to insert excitement in politics? I think it should be done in schools but schools have so many social problems to deal with now that putting something else on them is perhaps too much. I remember, as a young person, my mother kept a scrapbook of photos of all the political candidates in our area, maybe candidates for the whole province. She was very involved in her own personal way. Politics was discussed around the house and table especially after a relative entered politics. The politics in our house were very one sided for a few decades. Slowly and surely changes occurred and the family politics changed totally from left to right. Unfortunately I believe you're right in talking about the "...game of politics; it seems too often to be more about 'right or left' than it is about 'right or wrong...." I shake my head at the 'game' being "...more about power, manipulation of issues..." than service and love of the country. Re: Toastmasters - I was a Sergeant-at-arms at the contest I attended in October. I couldn't consider a contest speech- my mouth would 'dry up and blow away' just before I opened my mouth to speak! Good on you that YOU had a humorous speech. We need all the humor we can get in this old world, B, ?,Sask.

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Well, we in the United States currently have a president who is criticized incessantly because he won't make policy decisions based on public opinion polls. While I have supported many of his decisions, President Bush has obviously gotten some very poor advice from some of his closest advisors along the way. Whatever one may think about George W. Bush, it is apparent that he believes state-sponsored terrorism exists and that belief caused him to go into Iraq. We can all only pray how the situation in Iran will play out. For those of us who live another 20 years, we may learn what are the root causes of Islamic terrorism and who has financed it since 1990. In the meantime there will be lots of noise from all over - and hopefully lots of silent prayer as well, JE, ?

...

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today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

6C/43F (high 10C), a short walk under moonless inky dark; background sound-masking on a large scale , early traffic hums softly in the distance

thinking strategically – on a large scale – is the game of politics; it seems too often to be more about ‘right or left’ than it is about ‘right or wrong’; in most levels of government or large organizations of any kind, the game seems to be more about power, manipulation of issues, and what those behind the scenes really want rather than altruistic service of citizens, of community, of stakeholders

in Canada we are seeing a high-level game of chicken playing out; we understand it because we have seen the muck being stirred so much we tend to feel part of it; our American cousins would find it surreal – but then we find the reality-show view of their primary and presidential politics equally bemusing

from where I sit, it is in peril; we see leaders and handlers of leaders making decisions based on how we polled on some survey taken during the dinner hour whereby those who did not hang up on the pollster gave hasty answers to the caller’s skewed questions, the results of which appear on page one as de-facto facts - what is fact, what is opinion and how can we tell them apart?

evidence is apathy, low voter turnout, self-serving politicians and parties who too often have forgotten they are elected to serve their electorate rather than the other way ‘round; I hope democracy in its pure sense is something we might get back to one day (imagine if we all voted on every issue electronically!)

I often read op-ed pieces about the leadership void, public interest apathy and malaise, as if no one is interested; we live in the smartest of times, we have the greatest amount of knowledge at our fingertips with keystroke access to just about anything that has ever been known but collectively we are too comfortable, too unengaged – we don’t feel our way of life, our freedom or our prosperity are in jeopardy – we sit on the sidelines as spectators in a reality show, passing the popcorn and passing the buck

we rely, too heavily on media and watchdog organizations to be vigilant on our behalf, too much on wise guys in convention hallways to run our organizations, our NGOs, our governments – too easily we sit on our hands, sit on our mouths and watch as people we don’t know, people who would not listen to us if we spoke up, making choices about what is to be done, the consequences of which creates generational change we are powerless as individuals to right

I think the lack of leadership is less of an issue than the issue of followership, the issue of engagement of youth (I mean anyone under 40); life in our society or our organizations, our clubs and our neighborhoods is not driven by law or public opinion – it is driven by policy – public policy – and our engagement in the policy making process is where we all need to invest a few brain cells

Mark Kolke
341,172
198.5



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Hmmmmm... Point of view. Perhaps we are all looking out of the wrong eyes. Our eyes tend to see only what we point them toward. Perhaps if we saw in 360 degrees we could get a better view of reality. I think if we just keep in mind that our "views" are limited by a reference point - ourselves.... we could see things as more integrated; perhaps a web of reality at which point we experience most significantly those people and things which most directly connect to our point of reference "ME", CH, Chimacum, WA

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Re: About points of view-I have a friend who has been known to spout, "There's the right way and there's the (she inserted her family's name) way." I find it interesting that she found her relatives so domineering that she continues in adulthood to be haunted by it yet, perhaps forever. Food for thought for all those families out there: do try and use kindness while raising your own family so your children don't end up lonely and bitter. She is not alone and she might be the last person to announce that she was bitter but she comes across as very bitter to me., B. ?, Saskatchewan

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In South America, when they look at the moon, they see a bunny in the moon, not a man's face. When someone's POV is different, it is because they are looking through their own filters, from different angles than mine creating a unique difference than mine. The gift we give when we allow room for someone else's POV without having to make it right or wrong, or take the difference personally, is to say, "I accept you exactly the way." Disagreement does not equal rejection. It just means we see things from different perspectives, LG, Calgary

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Sometimes one's point of view isn't worth arguing...isn't worth the trouble...isn't worth the strife. Sometimes we have to listen to the inner voice telling us to be silent, to stop and listen, to keep our differing opinion to ourselves. We are all different...something to rejoice in, not revoke or revile. SL, Calgary

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park

4C/40F (high 16C), blazing balls of fire lifting off the horizon as we returned from our walk – only one sun, but looking right into it, it seemed to multiply, many balls a’fire; as I looked away yellow leaves were more ochre, blue sky striped with grey streaks came alive

I’m not tired today, not cranky this morning, but sometimes opinions of others rankle me, the style/posture of their irritations (that kind, the kind that build to resentment) surface; when I see these, hear them, I want to listen and react, thrust and parry, rebuff, argue and sometimes fight about it - but why, what possible purpose could be served by telling someone else that their feelings are invalid, that their view is not in sync with someone else’s, most particularly, mine?

maybe I should just blithely smile, let it pass, let it go, let it slip from view, let it drop, let it subside, let it simmer on the back burner at least, let it sit out of sight and out of mind a while, let it be, just let it . .

from where I sit, from my point of view, the world is spectacular – more so because my butterfly is around; she is not pleased with me at the moment which is not to say she is mad or flying away; her point of view different from mine, maybe I should just let it be, recognizing the true troublemaker is within me

“A point of view can be a dangerous luxury when substituted for insight and understanding.” – Marshall McLuhan

“We cling to our point of view, as though everything depended on it. Yet our opinions have no permanence; like autumn and winter, they gradually pass away.” – Chuang Tzu

I want to smile and say ‘here it is, such a wonderful day, and all I want to do is tell you how much I respect your opinion, value your point of view, appreciate your feedback, thanks, yup sure, you bet, etc…’

feedback, critique, commentary, alternate points of view, different vantage points – we all need it and most of the time I would say I want it - that is, of course, until someone gives me their feedback, critique, commentary, alternate point of view from a different vantage point . .

yesterday’s blueberry pancake start with GD - we’ve not visited in a while – we talked politics (fitting on election day), about issues, future, bringing about change; he interrupted himself in the middle to tell me how much his wife enjoys musings, to observe how happy he sees me these days, clearly the butterfly landed on my shoulder; he is observant, I enjoyed his comments, point of view, the view from where he sits – not exactly like mine but very much aligned

like GD, I want everyone to agree with me, to see my point of view – not because I am right (of course I feel I am right about everything - so do most people) but because I want my vision of how things ought to be to come about – it should not matter whether I am talking about the problems of our city, a business or my personal social calendar – I want it my way, see it my way, feel it my way - so, how can there be another way?

point of view - it sounds like a spot – a place – a location, from which we see things, but more often I believe we use the term ‘point of view’ to mean our opinion, language to support the argument that ‘this is not just my thought, idea or opinion – but, rather, this is my point of view’

I looked directly into the blazing sun – I was not burned or consumed or wrecked, but there were changes to what I saw and how I saw them, a fresh look, new point of view, different point of view, widened point of view, new hues point of view, changed . . just a little

Mark Kolke
341,196
198.2

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Nice chatting with you. I can hear the bounce in your step and the pounding in your heart over the phone. Good for you!!, ML, DeWinton, AB

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I think you know they say success is 90% inspiration and 10% perspiration...how we view our day, our abilities, our choices, our situation(s) puts the slant on it. SL, Calgary

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Re: stage time - October 13 musing I'm hoping for an answer to my question: Where do you go to Toastmasters? Hoping to hear where, please. Sincerely, B, Saskatchewan . .. Thanks for your quick reply. I am usually not so swift but this time it's going to be a quick turnaround for me too. Yes, I am a Toastmasters but only ONE club- Moose Mountain Toastmasters in southeast Saskatchewan. I still prefer the written or typed word that you have been doing and I'm just finishing right now. I will read your latest "Musing" anon.

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A quick email to say I thought your speech on Saturday was excellent ! I was really impressed with your smooth delivery and your pace, not to mention your humour! I just wanted to pass congratulations on and to say I thought your speech was a winner! Have a great week and see you on the 25th, MB, Calgary

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

today’s Musing written and published from south Calgary, near Fish Creek Park


2C/36F (high 19C), breezy, a brisk romp around the lagoon in the dark; Gusta over-filled with energy this morning, me too

energy is attitude, attitude is energy; attitude is the primer, the starter, the fuel the kick-starts an engine; that fuel can be positive energy, or rancorous venom . . each will start your day, but will take you down very different paths

there are few things that point us as well or as clearly in one direction than that of a person of influence in our lives who sets such a tone; if that is true – and I believe that it is – then in turn, each of us can set the tone, direction and path for someone else or for everyone else . .

when you roll over this morning to say g’mornin mate, when you greet that first smile or first call, you – only you – set that tone; I’m off to a breakfast meeting with GD, one of those great tone-setters, always a positive attitude, always someone who is clear in his footsteps, someone who does not have to look over his shoulder to see where he has been to know where he is going – it will be nice to catch up and learn where he is headed now

. . fuel, blueberry pancakes at Nellies, beckon . . gotta run

Mark Kolke
341,220
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Morning Mark, I'm just back from the UK where the crowds, expense and abundant angst of aworld too cramped and intolerant feels wearying even in the celebration and comfort of my family and old friends. Your reflection on the question of 'what do women want' - is noted, endorsed and I expect you'll receive mixed and lively input. My experience has been that what I want and need varies during life stages. Oh the times of begging for solitude - a trip to the bathroom without pudgy miniature fingers wiggling beneath it seeking me out. Then times looking for strength and clarity of decision through hot tears rocking silently on bathroom floor – a husband once again missing in action. Later building career (post divorce settlement funded education) and wishing to not feel life a fuzzy-slipper-wearing-imposter as I stood among (and counseled) colleagues and clients. Today, as I reflect on my return from 'home'- my Mum's sad 80-year-old eyes as the car drew me away from her. She: a woman wanting herdaughter's permanent return after 30 years to now keep her safe as she increasingly feels vulnerable and anxious... and me: wanting to return to my Calgary pod, my work ... this brief moment content to be single, adult children launched... a possible fleeting chapter when I am fully in choice and loving my journey (even if at times lonely and uncertain). In a favourite movie, Enchanted April, a young British society woman vacations with strangers in a villa in Italy. As she retreats to the garden lounger rejecting company and intrusion, she states 'it' so well for so many women: "I just want to get my feathers smooth." Thanks for letting me share, JH, Calgary

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©2007 MaxComm Communications, all rights reserved.

7C/44F (high 16C), brilliant sunshine crossing rooftops to light leaves against a cloudless blue canvas, crisp moistness fills nostrils, Gusta frenetically sniffing every path, meeting new dogs, cats and rabbits – albeit only by their smelly trail

sleepy Sunday, sunshine streams in to welcome the day, first it stirs, stimulates, warms, wakes . . bidding adieu to a week passed – frenetically we leapt Monday to Monday, a step ahead of the clock, one task lock-step with the next, falling, heaped, spent

yesterday was a day of near triumph for me, coming second is nicer in a field of six is not sweeter than coming first in a field of two, but competition was spirited; a great morning of laughs gave way to some wonderful quiet time with PB punctuated with smiles like that; you know the kind of smile, the kind that warms you from cold, lights rooms in the dark, fills you up when you hunger, that touch you softly as you sleep – that kind

we all toil each day, mostly during the work week, but when we work to make a dollar or progress or a deal or a niche or a business, we must do it more for some reason or driving force than just for the value or worth of the doing, more for some internal measuring tool that drives our spirit; some strive for money, power, esteem – some work for the greater good, for society, for the downtrodden and the weak, some do it all for a noble cause, some do it just to get through the week

“The great question that has never been answered, and which I have not yet been able to answer, despite my thirty years of research into the feminine soul, is ‘What does a woman want?’ “ – Sigmund Freud

Sigmund, I’ve been researching just as long and I think I’ve found the answer the eluded you, the answer is simply: a Sunday morning like this one that caps a week of time spent, drained, tangled mangled mussed and weary of everything and nothing at one moment; life leaves us tangled like spaghetti, work creates a bundle of curves and obstacles that jumble, leaving us in need of being smoothed soothed and stroked

maybe she wants more or less or different, maybe she wants different things on different days, but as long as PB smiles like that, I’ll consider myself smarter than Freud, luckier than most men and happy today

Mark Kolke
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