Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001

Subject: Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 May 01 - 12:05 AM

So many deaths of late. I have heard this from several people. To explain it, we comfort ourselves with shaking our heads and saying there must be some heavy-duty esoteric events going on, a metaphysical colliding of stars or something to cause so many transitions. Our minds take flight at odd moments, thinking of those we know have gone or are going...John Hartford; the old lady at the Hospice I played for this week; little Bella, the 5 year old who drowned; Sam Sherry.

I think it offends me, in some ways, this ending of earthly incarnation amidst the Springtime swelling of life. Alas, I know there is no stalling, no matter the time of year. Even as the flowers push up, even as we bury seeds for later growth this summer, somewhere, something or someone is passing on, in an everlasting balance of nature, I suppose.

I know for some it will be a blessed relief, no matter the time of year, so I am grateful for them. It just seems there are too many. Either that, or I've just become much more aware, or it comes of living more years and being touched by more lives as a result.

Time for a respite, I think.

Subject: RE: Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 May 01 - 12:30 AM

On second thought and offered as an antidote. (Spaw, I will hold your hand, but forgeddabout the urinal dumping!**BG**):

THINGS I WISH I'D KNOWN BEFORE I WENT OUT INTO THE REAL WORLD

1. Any and all compliments can be handled by simply saying "Thank you" though it helps if you say it with a Southern accent.

2. Some people are working backstage, some are playing in the orchestra, some are on-stage singing, some are in the audience as critics and some are there to applaud. Know who and where you are.

3. Never give yourself a haircut after three margaritas.

4. When baking, follow directions. When cooking, go by your own taste.

5. Never continue dating anyone who is rude to the waiter.

6. Good sex should involve laughter. Because it's, you know, funny.

7. You need only two tools. WD-40 and duct tape. If it doesn't move and it should, use WD-40. If it moves and shouldn't, use the tape.

8. If you tell a lie, don't believe it deceives only the other person.

9. The five most essential words for a healthy, vital relationship: "I apologize" and "You are right".

10. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

11. When you make a mistake, make amends immediately. It's easier to eat crow while it's still warm.

12. The only really good advice that I remember my mother ever gave me was "Go! You might meet somebody!"

13. If s/he says that you are too good for him/her-believe him/her.

14. I've learned to pick my battles; I ask myself, Will this matter one year from now? How about one month? One week? One day?

15. At hard times I ask myself, "How do I feel? What do I want?" I use it whenever I'm at loss for words or thoughts.

16. Never pass up an opportunity to pee.

17. If you woke up breathing, congratulations! You have another chance!

18. If you move far from your family when you're young, consider choosing a career with an airline. Your need to see your family will last a lifetime, as will your travel benefits.

19. Living well really is the best revenge. Being miserable because of a bad or former relationship just proves that the other person was right about you.

20. Be really nice to your friends because you never know when you are going to need them to empty your bed urinal and hold your hand.

21. Work is good but it's not that important.

22. Never underestimate the kindness of your fellow man.

23. And finally... Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect, it just means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections.

Subject: RE: Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001
From: Mudlark
Date: 12 May 01 - 02:21 AM

Dear Kat...

Thanks for your TFTD and for your good advice. My husband died unexpectedly last month, and altho my heart tells me I will never sing again, my head assures me there are still songs out there for me...just might take a while to fnd them.

Since John's death I have been involved with a lot of construction to bring some of our pottery outbuildings up to code...which brings me to an addendum to No. 22 on your advice list: it is impossible to underestimate the kindness of bureaucrats. But thank god for the rest of the world....

nancy

Subject: RE: Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001
From: flattop
Date: 12 May 01 - 02:27 AM

'It is impossible to underestimate the kindness of bureaucrats.'

I think you nailed it, Mudlark. You created a new proverb.

Subject: RE: Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 May 01 - 03:43 PM

Nancy/Mudlark, I am sorry for your loss. It must be difficult, but you are right...there are songs out there for you, when your heart is ready.

In the meantime, please do join us. You've got a knack for putting things right and I agree with flattop (now there's a scary thought!)you've come up with a great new proverb!

Good luck with your buildings and getting on.

Thanks,

kat

Subject: RE: Thought for the Day - May 12, 2001
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 May 01 - 04:10 PM

Thanks, Kat. John Hartford's illness has really thrown me. I find my self tearing up in odd places at odd times. Death gives life meaning. Without it, there would be no driving force to get things done. It is normal and natural and awaits each of us. Sometimes, I am just not ready to let go.