What Have I Learned This Past Year - 2004
December 31, 2004
Every year I try to write about the events that have changed my life. Anything from daily trivial insights to significant events. Here we go again.
I learned about the generosity of complete strangers and the magic sports has in bringing people together. EWU tied Oklahoma State (number 3 in the nation) at 36 before halftime during the first round of 64 in KC. After a painful loss, OK State fans treated me a round of beers after the game. Eastern had earned their respect. I am still amazed at their generosity.
This past year we saw: the city of Salt Lake desperately search for Lori Hacking and cheer on hometown favorite KenJen; the US Men's Basketball team fall from the top; a nation unite behind the legs and arms of Michael Phelps and we shook our heads when he was arrested; and two ladies named Kerri and Misty gave us two great reasons to watch volleyball; we gained solace when Scott Peterson was found guilty; we cried when over 1300 Americans were killed in "securing" our freedom - and we were disgusted when insurgents hung the charred bodies of fallen Americans from a bridge in Iraq; we campaigned for Dean and supported Kerry; we were reminded of terrorism with the train blast in Spain; and Boston held the eyes of the world twice this year - and babies born in October were being named Manny, Pedro, Kurt, and Johnny; we coined the term "wardrobe malfunction;" we saw the acts of Lynndie England in the Abu Ghraib prison; Florida saw the destruction caused by Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne and finally, for better or worse, we said goodbye to Tillman, Brando, Arafat, Dangerfield, Ray, Reeves and Reagan
I learned to make deposits to the Karmic bank. I learned how to graduate - again. I learned that hard work is its own reward and it will be noticed. I learned the importance of a handshake and a smile. I learned that four diamonds does not make a flush, but it may be the best hand. I learned about philanthropy, memos and game theory. Finally, I learned how to leave everything I have ever known, pack my possessions, drive the truck toward the horizon and not stop until I reached the coast.
I wish I could end this annual letter on a high note but I must speak about the recent events in Southeast Asia. To put it simply, financial aid is needed. It is easy for one to think that philanthropy is for your parents or people should be able to take care of themselves; however, that is not the case. Philanthropy is needed by many people and is given by people of all ages. And we can make a difference not matter how small. Over 75 percent of all philanthropy is given by individuals. Please help the relief effort in Asia by making a small contribution - it can be the cost of a cup of coffee or a night at the bar, every donation helps. Over 5 million people are displaced and over 150,000 are already dead. Here are some web addresses to make an online contribution:
As I wait for my festivities to start tonight, I can see fireworks from my apartment on this rare, dry Seattle night. Maybe everything will be all right. Remember to live life to the fullest, dream, wonder and explore because, you never know. To everyone, Happy New Year!