I recently streamed a new series where the term ‘indistinct chatter’ featured prominently in the auto-generated captions. Like, constantly. To the point that it became a punchline. And the inspiration for this column, or the title anyway
Two Modes. One Button. Zero Tolerance.
I’ve got two modes — and acceptance ain’t one.
I can recall penning several columns back in my days as a journalist of sorts, speaking to what I assume is the fairly common phenomenon of being averse to any sudden change, upheaval, uncertainty… all things that tend to make those who favor routine a bit uneasy.
Is this the most constructive approach to life? Certainly not.
Hitting Snooze • and other self-made walls.
Anyone else in that precipice-of-spring rut, or just me?
One would think the lingering daylight hours and sun streaked landscapes beckoning blossoms and blades of grass would be a welcome respite from what has been, despite a somewhat disappointing lack of snowfall, a seemingly endless winter slumber. And yet, there’s this feeling of nearly one quarter of the year being over, with little to show for it.
Fun {in the} City
‘This train isn’t going anywhere.’
So barked the conductor as we attempted to set off on our journey into the city this past weekend. And with those five words — and a last minute change to the departing track number — the dye was cast for the day.
Scanning the Socials • and other ways to waste a day.
Social media can be a cesspool, this much is true. But lately, it’s the predictability that gets me. The blatant toxicity as people scurry into their established respective camps to dig in and defend whatever the accepted perspective of the day might be.
Burning Bridges {with three burners}
I recently shared a humorous {in retrospect} story with a friend, where I felt compelled to leave a raged-induced voicemail {at 1 o’clock in the morning, no less} meant for the maintenance department who handles {‘handles’ being a very generous term} work orders in my apartment complex. Problem was, it wound up in the main corporate mailbox, and was fielded by probably the nicest, most competent woman employed by said corporation. Whoops.
Wait for It • a random rambling
Waiting. It’s something we spend a great deal of our lives doing, whether we realize it or not.
Waiting for return phone calls and text messages. Waiting for acknowledgements, whether of material gifts or those more subtle talents we wish to share with the world. Waiting for plans to be finalized, commitments to be made, progress.
Face Planting Into 2023 • a mini musing
Two types of people have emerged in this first week of 2023.
Fine Lines • Fresh Starts
First thought, best thought… a phrase I’ve only recently become aware of, as echoed by none other than Mr. Johnny Depp, in speaking of his profound admiration for poet Allen Ginsberg. But more on that in a moment.
Feedback is a funny thing. Sometimes, quite literally humorous; but often, it provides just the sort of objective perspective you’re seeking. Short of one rather significant piece penned this year {again, hold that thought}, it’s been just about a full revolution around the sun since I’ve managed to craft anything resembling a column. No particular reason; but also, no particular inspiration.
Pitch-Perfect Performance at The Paramount
While some may have raised an eyebrow at the prospect of a Jeff Beck and Johnny Depp musical collaboration, it’s safe to say any lingering doubt was erased the moment the guitar legend was joined onstage by the film icon and co-founder of rock supergroup The Hollywood Vampires, at The Paramount in Huntington on Oct. 14 and 15.
Mood of the Moment
Days unfold. Weeks evolve. Months seem to draw to their respective conclusions with little fanfare or warning. And before we know it, the holiday decor is being pulled down from the attic, and plans are being outlined for next year.