Frustration

It's annoying, isn't it?

Some days, I feel as though no matter what path I take, the universe conspires against me, mocking my every move. It's a very uncomfortable feeling -- you know what I'm talking about.

So we rely on family and friends to help validate us, to give us some encouragement. But sometimes even this backfires, and they are unable to provide us with any wise counsel, or even a vote of confidence.

Finally, the realization that "this, too, shall pass" kicks in. And it is apparent that we're deep in the middle of the fray, like a giant, cosmic game of chess, except we are every piece on the board from pawn to King. Our opponent only wants us to believe we are losing. It is his last desperate attempt to undermine our confidence, and hence, our good judgement. His only hope of prevailing waiting for you to blunder.

What's your move?

Babies & Funerals

We're drawn to them both.

They are subtle reminders of the interconnectedness of all our lives. In babies, we experience the awesome sense of possibility, the limitless potential; the miracle of life. With funerals, no matter whether we know the departed well or only casually, we feel as though we should be there. We seem to know, somewhere deep down inside us, that our lives affect all the other lives around us. Even when we are unaware of it.

I've been thinking about these and other things lately, especially after having read a poignant entry in my friend Tara's blog, where she speaks of a young boy she knew named David. Although David's life was tragically difficult and short, he had a tremendous impact on the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Even know, his story and his spirit continue to impact the lives of we who are of this life.

So the next time you feel alone, scared, uncertain, abandoned, or otherwise disenchanted, rest assured knowing that your life has made others possible. That your life has made others easier. That your life has made others worth living. Rest assured in the all the reasons we're drawn to babies and funerals.

From the Mouths of Babes

My cousin Diane is 10 years old, and had the following conversation with me at our big family dinner yesterday evening:

Diane: "Was it *really* a flat tire which made you three hours late to our house today?"

Walter: "Yes, of course. Why?"

Diane: "Well, I thought maybe you were really on the internet. . . y'know looking for a date or something."

Walter: "Really? What makes you think you can find dates on the internet?" [She doesn't have an internet conection at home]

Diane:"Oh, I dunno. Maybe some [in a snarky voice]technology-girl thinks you're cute."

You just can't make this stuff up.

Sick As A Dog

Twice a year, usually around the time allergy season peaks, it visits me -- that itchy-scratchy feeling in the back of my throat. Within a few days, its traveling companions, watery burning eyes, pesky cough, and swollen glands follow.

I'll have to put my new crockpot to use and make some chicken soup or something. That is, if I can muster up the motivation to do much else besides lie in bed and sleep.

Finally, a belated Happy 31st Birthday to my old friend (you know who you are.) Okie-dokie-hokie-pokie. . .

Beach House Self-Portrait

Beach House Self-Portrait
Originally uploaded by walterhertman.

I recently visited with my dear long-time friend, Tara Kekahuna Parks to shoot some photos and hang out. Make sure you visit her excellent blog (if you don't already.

We ended up at Seaside Heights boardwalk, opting for some saltwater taffy, crabcakes, and Kohr's ice cream.

I'll write later about our adventure at the game tables!