I recently read an article by Mortimer Adler entitled "Education for All." This article made clear for me something that I had long had a sense of, but was unable to articulate. The vision of Truth in Fiction is essentially to "sophisticate" people to the principles and concepts of the classics, but to start them at a level accessible to the average American (i.e.: movies and television). Team, the community building system that CTIF is plugged into runs parallel to these efforts with easy-to-read non-fiction paired with audio learning in the form of expository storytelling. That is why the Team system is an invaluable asset to us as we seek to build our consortium. Our writers and creators need to be well-versed in classical learning for this idea to gain traction.
One of the reasons that I'm so excited about this article is that it confirms my belief in the importance of ABC's "LOST." If there's a shining ray of hope for television it's "LOST." I'll cut right to the point: the Executive Producers, Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse are avid readers. Though, not everything they've cited as influential to this story is a classic, there certainly is a wealth of philosophy embodied in the show. In fact, as an ode to their scholarship, they've even named key characters after philosophers: John Locke, a man who feels he's found his purpose on the Island, named for the English philosopher and originator of Natural Law theory; Jeremy Bentham, an alias, named for the father of Utilitarianism; and Edmund Burke, named for the founder of modern conservatism. Also referenced in names are Jean-Jaques Rousseau, David Hume, Jane Austen, C.S. Lewis, Michael Faraday, and Stephen Hawking.
Told in a non-linear fashion with flashbacks, the show is about the survivors of a plane crash on a mysterious island, their lives leading up to the crash, and the tangled web of relationships between them. The integrity of the story is dependent upon the viewer watching every episode in order, as it's more like a long movie than a TV series. But, you can easily find a promotional synopsis for that info. What's difficult to market to the masses is that it has a character-driven story, rather than a plot-driven story, and that it deals with such subject matter as leadership, destiny, fate, faith, and the conflict between science and faith. While it is not genre-fiction, LOST plays heavily upon themes of pseudo-science (or lite SCI FI) and mystery to tell its stories.
The show's producer, J.J. Abrams is quoted as saying, "Mystery is the catalyst for imagination." A story that evokes the viewer's imagination, set in a universe where nearly anything is possible, creates a platform for discussion. Pair that with a firm knowledge of truth through classic literature, and you have a POWERFUL, important body of contemporary fiction. I think it's fitting to consider Einstein's quote, "Imagination is more important than knowledge." The viewer needn't know the truth to become a fan, but through watching, his curiosity and imagination will lead him to the truth in the story, and I believe, foster a hunger for more. So do the show's producers, apparently, as they have made available for the show's uberfans (such as I am) a LOST reading list, which suggests further READING.
The most amazing thing about the show, and the reason it ties so well into what I see happening with networking and independent film in the future, is that my wife and I actually felt compelled to aggressively share this experience with people. We grew a small following, and had weekly get-togethers to watch and DISCUSS the show. And it's not just us. Across the world, the same thing is happening organically. Imagine that! Television that actually encourages networking, discussion, and THINKING! I'm convinced it's because the writers are avid readers.
After I finished my first film (which wasn't important or literary), I was armed with the belief that ANYONE could make a film by simply using what is already available and some creativity. I still believe that today, however, when I got into college (to pursue my liberal education) I found I no longer had the time to write, much less produce, another film. As you can imagine, this caused some distress: how was education supposed to help me make films, if it was able to do it before, but unable during and after college.
I was aware that networking was imperative to making films independently. Even when I found enthusiastic people, I also found they had little time outside work and school. I was sure that if we could just make a film, a grass-roots effort could make us all money. I knew a little about the concept of network marketing, and had the thought that it would be great if we could get paid for the promotional work we were doing for LOST naturally! It was at that time, that I had gotten involved in Team's community building system, and saw its potential. Then along came MonaVie, a company which is dominating the wellness industry with it's healthy acai blend beverage. Team's community building efforts plugged into MonaVie's network marketing plan, and proved that a great product would spread like wildfire if the customers (or fans) were allowed to earn compensation for the sharing they would naturally do anyway!
I see a connection between quality, literary fiction; endorsing a great product like MonaVie; and the natural formation of communities around both products that will INCREASE our national economy AND national intelligence quotient. The reality is that this is the Information Age way to operate the media, rather than government's subsidization of business failures and advertising's subsidization of entertainment failures. I think a consortium of leaders as passionate as I am about this, can duplicate these profound results.
Let us change the future.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
GIVE ME LIBERTY OR GIVE ME DEATH
Let me tell you a story.
In a time long ago, things were simpler. A boy went to school, got good grades, then got a safe, secure job with benefits. It was then that he was called a man. He was able to support his family, and the MAN for whom he worked PROMISED to take care of him if he put in his time. In this way, he became comfortable. He began not to look toward the future; there was no need, no purpose.
Silently, this man became uneasy, which grew into dismay. He was told he was contributing, that he was successful. Even so, the man's dismay grew. He distracted himself with "recreation" and other diversions. His time was spend chasing pleasure, in the name of pursuing happiness. But he was not happy. He was desperate.
Quietly, he heeded the advice that things would get better; that the next big bonus, the next raise would come. In his despair, he spent that money before it came, or allowed his family to draw upon the savings. He was doing everything right. His pride would not allow him to admit defeat to his family, who DESERVED the life to which they had become accustomed. The man felt the walls pressing in upon him.
Several investments he had made were beginning to sink. He sold them (at a LOSS) to fund an addition to the house... his family was growing, after all. He began to spend more time at work, seeing less of his family. He tells them this is so they can have a vacation, a promise he now knows he will never have the money to keep.
He is given a promotion! With it comes a warm handshake, a corner office with a secretary, a raise, and salary. He is also asked to put in more work. For awhile, things are looking up, but soon the feeling creeps up again. He feels empty, purposeless, and stressed. He is soon spending so much time at work (on salary) that he is making less hourly than he made before the promotion. He receives an award! Can he tell his wife that he's failing them? Pride and separation drive him to blame his family for their spending habits. He uses this to justify evenings out with his secretary.
At home, he has become a distant, shell of a man. During his only free time he sits, lifeless on the recliner, watching television. He can no longer look into the eyes of his family for the memory of the time spent with other women. And the TV tells him it's just what everyone's doing. It will get better, it's not his fault. He's a victim of his circumstance. It's his wife's reckless spending, why do we need another kid? We can't afford this pregnancy. I've given my company my life, I'm ENTITLED to a solution.
Soon, it will be election year.
Upon the pulpit stands a man, eloquent of speech, seemingly godlike in stature. He announces that he will bring the change we need. This man says he will fix the economy. He will take money from the rich and give money to the struggling poor. He will close the gap between the middle class and rich. He makes examples of a few, dishonest heads of corporations, and tells us this is what ALL RICH PEOPLE DO. He says he will freely print money, handing it out evenly, to STIMULATE the economy. Albeit, he suggests we might to good with this money; give to charity, invest, help our neighbors.
Our shell of a man, knows this isn't right. No one will do anything good with the money. They will spend it, waste it. Instead, people should downsize their homes, live within their means, and take a risk or two. They should build, create, and develop new things. But that is HARD and he is not a strong man, and the promise of a financial solution that satisfies his NEED for status is too much to bear. His emotions applaud this man, the savior of a country.
Our broken man is not alone, dear reader! The vast majority of people in this once-great nation have fallen into broken selfishness, blaming anyone who's not suffering, calling them "greedy." You want to talk about the basics of economics: NO ONE will give you anything without something in return.
This is such an overplayed story in history. Things are great, we prosper. Then we get comfortable, and things slow their growth. We get selfish, and begin to manage, rather than lead. We feel the pressure, and, like a drowning victim, try to drown everyone else in our panic. We cut investments when we should cut expenses, and we look to anyone who has a PAINLESS solution. Our actions cause economic collapse, and our actions are the result of our thinking. The economy does not have a life of its own. It's only temperamental because WE ARE. No single man can fix it, even if he GIVES money to those at the bottom. But aren't they the key to the economy? YES! But they have to be compelled to act with purpose. Give a man a fish and he eats today, TEACH a man to fish and he eats every day.
If you give a man a fish, he is forever a slave to the man with the food. In this way tyrants seize power. We need to take responsibility for our OWN independence. If freedom is having choices, independence is MAKING choices. Difficulty is not even a factor, this is what MUST happen if we are to have liberty and justice FOR ALL.
Do what you think is right, but question everything and stand by the TRUTH. As for me, GIVE ME LIBERTY OR GIVE ME DEATH.
In a time long ago, things were simpler. A boy went to school, got good grades, then got a safe, secure job with benefits. It was then that he was called a man. He was able to support his family, and the MAN for whom he worked PROMISED to take care of him if he put in his time. In this way, he became comfortable. He began not to look toward the future; there was no need, no purpose.
Silently, this man became uneasy, which grew into dismay. He was told he was contributing, that he was successful. Even so, the man's dismay grew. He distracted himself with "recreation" and other diversions. His time was spend chasing pleasure, in the name of pursuing happiness. But he was not happy. He was desperate.
Quietly, he heeded the advice that things would get better; that the next big bonus, the next raise would come. In his despair, he spent that money before it came, or allowed his family to draw upon the savings. He was doing everything right. His pride would not allow him to admit defeat to his family, who DESERVED the life to which they had become accustomed. The man felt the walls pressing in upon him.
Several investments he had made were beginning to sink. He sold them (at a LOSS) to fund an addition to the house... his family was growing, after all. He began to spend more time at work, seeing less of his family. He tells them this is so they can have a vacation, a promise he now knows he will never have the money to keep.
He is given a promotion! With it comes a warm handshake, a corner office with a secretary, a raise, and salary. He is also asked to put in more work. For awhile, things are looking up, but soon the feeling creeps up again. He feels empty, purposeless, and stressed. He is soon spending so much time at work (on salary) that he is making less hourly than he made before the promotion. He receives an award! Can he tell his wife that he's failing them? Pride and separation drive him to blame his family for their spending habits. He uses this to justify evenings out with his secretary.
At home, he has become a distant, shell of a man. During his only free time he sits, lifeless on the recliner, watching television. He can no longer look into the eyes of his family for the memory of the time spent with other women. And the TV tells him it's just what everyone's doing. It will get better, it's not his fault. He's a victim of his circumstance. It's his wife's reckless spending, why do we need another kid? We can't afford this pregnancy. I've given my company my life, I'm ENTITLED to a solution.
Soon, it will be election year.
Upon the pulpit stands a man, eloquent of speech, seemingly godlike in stature. He announces that he will bring the change we need. This man says he will fix the economy. He will take money from the rich and give money to the struggling poor. He will close the gap between the middle class and rich. He makes examples of a few, dishonest heads of corporations, and tells us this is what ALL RICH PEOPLE DO. He says he will freely print money, handing it out evenly, to STIMULATE the economy. Albeit, he suggests we might to good with this money; give to charity, invest, help our neighbors.
Our shell of a man, knows this isn't right. No one will do anything good with the money. They will spend it, waste it. Instead, people should downsize their homes, live within their means, and take a risk or two. They should build, create, and develop new things. But that is HARD and he is not a strong man, and the promise of a financial solution that satisfies his NEED for status is too much to bear. His emotions applaud this man, the savior of a country.
Our broken man is not alone, dear reader! The vast majority of people in this once-great nation have fallen into broken selfishness, blaming anyone who's not suffering, calling them "greedy." You want to talk about the basics of economics: NO ONE will give you anything without something in return.
This is such an overplayed story in history. Things are great, we prosper. Then we get comfortable, and things slow their growth. We get selfish, and begin to manage, rather than lead. We feel the pressure, and, like a drowning victim, try to drown everyone else in our panic. We cut investments when we should cut expenses, and we look to anyone who has a PAINLESS solution. Our actions cause economic collapse, and our actions are the result of our thinking. The economy does not have a life of its own. It's only temperamental because WE ARE. No single man can fix it, even if he GIVES money to those at the bottom. But aren't they the key to the economy? YES! But they have to be compelled to act with purpose. Give a man a fish and he eats today, TEACH a man to fish and he eats every day.
If you give a man a fish, he is forever a slave to the man with the food. In this way tyrants seize power. We need to take responsibility for our OWN independence. If freedom is having choices, independence is MAKING choices. Difficulty is not even a factor, this is what MUST happen if we are to have liberty and justice FOR ALL.
Do what you think is right, but question everything and stand by the TRUTH. As for me, GIVE ME LIBERTY OR GIVE ME DEATH.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Ignorance, Confusion, Enlightenment
A story is a process, whether we're talking about the story of our lives or the story of our characters' lives. We begin with a simplistic view. We are ignorant of anything outside our perspective. As we accumulate knowledge and experiences, our eyes are opened to the complexity of the world. Complexity leads to confusion because we don't yet possess the wisdom to understand the connections between the tangible elements of our story. As we gain wisdom, the complexity becomes simplified again and we become enlightened.
If you think about it, this arc applies to everything wherein learning is involved. Ignorance is not knowing. Not only do we not know the details of life, but we don't always know there are details to be known. As the saying goes, "You don't know what you don't know." Our perspective on life is determined by our personal experiences, what's called our "field of experience." The less we learn about the rest of the world, the more we rely upon the assumption that the rest of the world is like us. What would cause us to think otherwise?
As we associate with other people and learn about them, our perspective widens to encompass the new information. The faster we learn knowledge, the more confused we can become. Our brains begin to fill with what appears to be separate, if not random pieces of information. This process is difficult, even painful, because it expands our mental capacity. This is why many choose to remain ignorant. As they say, "Ignorance is bliss." But clearly, ignorance only limits our freedom. Without a adequate view of the elements of our story (again, be it life or fiction) we cannot hope to take command of our circumstances.
Like the water lily, these "pads" of information seem separate, but are actually connected. The process of deciphering the randomness of life gives us wisdom. As we begin to understand connections between separate areas of life, we find that our story once again becomes simplified. However, this time our perspective is one of truth and unity rather than self-centered autonomy. We understand that freedom must respect boundaries, and that we live in a world with other individuals.
Rather than blunder through life selfishly, we must think our way through life selfLESSly. In this way, we become enlightened enough to see the big picture, and understand the benefits of fitting ourselves into society on purpose.
If you think about it, this arc applies to everything wherein learning is involved. Ignorance is not knowing. Not only do we not know the details of life, but we don't always know there are details to be known. As the saying goes, "You don't know what you don't know." Our perspective on life is determined by our personal experiences, what's called our "field of experience." The less we learn about the rest of the world, the more we rely upon the assumption that the rest of the world is like us. What would cause us to think otherwise?
As we associate with other people and learn about them, our perspective widens to encompass the new information. The faster we learn knowledge, the more confused we can become. Our brains begin to fill with what appears to be separate, if not random pieces of information. This process is difficult, even painful, because it expands our mental capacity. This is why many choose to remain ignorant. As they say, "Ignorance is bliss." But clearly, ignorance only limits our freedom. Without a adequate view of the elements of our story (again, be it life or fiction) we cannot hope to take command of our circumstances.
Like the water lily, these "pads" of information seem separate, but are actually connected. The process of deciphering the randomness of life gives us wisdom. As we begin to understand connections between separate areas of life, we find that our story once again becomes simplified. However, this time our perspective is one of truth and unity rather than self-centered autonomy. We understand that freedom must respect boundaries, and that we live in a world with other individuals.
Rather than blunder through life selfishly, we must think our way through life selfLESSly. In this way, we become enlightened enough to see the big picture, and understand the benefits of fitting ourselves into society on purpose.
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Parable of the Skyscraper
It is my mission in everything I do to keep three aspects of life in mind at all times: freedom, integrity, and truth. Freedom to me is control of one's time and resources. No one should ever have to answer to another about how he uses his money, where and when he chooses to travel, and what he holds in the highest priority. However, we are on this earth with other people. Those people occasionally have need of our resources. Integrity is about doing what is right. If someone needs what we have, truly needs it, and we have the freedom to decide, integrity is choosing to give. Even if we are free from the control of other people, we still are subject to the bounds of truth. Violating or manipulating truth undermines integrity, and collapses our freedom.
Think of these three components in the building of a skyscraper. As the saying goes: "Sky's the limit." A skyscraper makes use of limitless vertical space. It can turn a city block into hundreds of times the space with vast possibilities for use. Skyscrapers hold shopping centers, apartments, offices, etc. Business within those walls invests in new technologies, builds retirement plans, manages international trade, puts together travel packages, promotes local events, finds cures for diseases, aids the poor, and promotes creative thinking. This vertical space is freedom... limitless space for anything we dream of.
None of this freedom is possible without integrity. What does integrity mean? It means that something is solid and trustworthy. It is something in which we can place our faith; it is something which we can rely upon. When space was at a premium in the first large, industrial cities, engineers began to look to the sky for a solution. They began to build upward with the materials of the day: namely, brick. They soon found out that brick could only support its own weight up to five stories. If they built any higher, the lack of integrity would cause the whole building to collapse. If a greedy housing mogul instructed the builders to disregard this fact, or hired builders who were unaware of this fact, he is doomed to catastrophic failure. He may get away with it for a while, but when the first tremor or severe windstorm occurs, things could get ugly.
Truth is what one starts with: the bare city block. Of course, it is limited in two dimensions (the very reason to build upward). It is usually above underground mains and subway tunnels. The soil has a certain makeup which might restrict the height and materials to be used. The weather or seismic activity may become a factor. Certain ordinances and restrictions might come to bear because of what is nearby. All things considered, a plan must be put in order. The proposed building must be envisioned and drawn out in painstaking detail. This process goes on for some time before a single block is laid.
With expert planning and a detailed understanding of the facts, a building can be raised in the most efficient manner, maintaining stability for years. However, brick is not the only building material possible. Outside of the specific building project, experts are also be engaged in developing new materials with which to build. Eventually, steel was invented, taking the lid off the height of buildings. An increase in the integrity of the structure lead to a vast increase in the amount of freedom.
What does this all mean? Each of us is born a vacant city lot. Over the years, we hold playgrounds, art displays, stage events, and family functions. Eventually, we hold a museum, a store, or a restaurant. Then the need for something greater prompts us to grow. We reach for our potential. We may lay dormant for a while, a hole in the ground, shrouded by a wooden fence. But we are being built. Then, when we have an understanding of the truth, we stop playing small and begin to reach for the heavens. We grow up and leave a legacy for thousands to use.
Realize the truth, do what is right, and you will earn your freedom.
Think of these three components in the building of a skyscraper. As the saying goes: "Sky's the limit." A skyscraper makes use of limitless vertical space. It can turn a city block into hundreds of times the space with vast possibilities for use. Skyscrapers hold shopping centers, apartments, offices, etc. Business within those walls invests in new technologies, builds retirement plans, manages international trade, puts together travel packages, promotes local events, finds cures for diseases, aids the poor, and promotes creative thinking. This vertical space is freedom... limitless space for anything we dream of.
None of this freedom is possible without integrity. What does integrity mean? It means that something is solid and trustworthy. It is something in which we can place our faith; it is something which we can rely upon. When space was at a premium in the first large, industrial cities, engineers began to look to the sky for a solution. They began to build upward with the materials of the day: namely, brick. They soon found out that brick could only support its own weight up to five stories. If they built any higher, the lack of integrity would cause the whole building to collapse. If a greedy housing mogul instructed the builders to disregard this fact, or hired builders who were unaware of this fact, he is doomed to catastrophic failure. He may get away with it for a while, but when the first tremor or severe windstorm occurs, things could get ugly.
Truth is what one starts with: the bare city block. Of course, it is limited in two dimensions (the very reason to build upward). It is usually above underground mains and subway tunnels. The soil has a certain makeup which might restrict the height and materials to be used. The weather or seismic activity may become a factor. Certain ordinances and restrictions might come to bear because of what is nearby. All things considered, a plan must be put in order. The proposed building must be envisioned and drawn out in painstaking detail. This process goes on for some time before a single block is laid.
With expert planning and a detailed understanding of the facts, a building can be raised in the most efficient manner, maintaining stability for years. However, brick is not the only building material possible. Outside of the specific building project, experts are also be engaged in developing new materials with which to build. Eventually, steel was invented, taking the lid off the height of buildings. An increase in the integrity of the structure lead to a vast increase in the amount of freedom.
What does this all mean? Each of us is born a vacant city lot. Over the years, we hold playgrounds, art displays, stage events, and family functions. Eventually, we hold a museum, a store, or a restaurant. Then the need for something greater prompts us to grow. We reach for our potential. We may lay dormant for a while, a hole in the ground, shrouded by a wooden fence. But we are being built. Then, when we have an understanding of the truth, we stop playing small and begin to reach for the heavens. We grow up and leave a legacy for thousands to use.
Realize the truth, do what is right, and you will earn your freedom.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
The Story is the Product
I love movies! It's as simple as that. If you ask me what stirs my soul, I'd say it's a meaty, well-planned, well-refined story about what life as it actually is. Unfortunately, that is not always a fish that you can catch. I've written at length on this blog about how current incentives place priority on the entertainment "value" of a story, rather than the true value of truth. I also think that freedom in storytelling tends to reveal truth, especially when the authors of the story are inspired to do right by others.
What it comes down to is that, in our current entertainment model, the story is the attraction whose purpose is to get people to buy products (be it through commercials or product placement). Therefore, they only need you to watch it; it does not necessarily need to be quality. However, since truth in fiction is not based upon surface plots, but upon character relationships, it is not easily marketed to the masses. I imagine that bureaucratic studio executives see this sort of depth as a waste of time and effort. According to their thinking, they are right.
The conceptual framework for the entirety of the motion picture industry needs to be reworked. Fiction is an art form, which must express truths of life in order to be relatable and valued by the viewer. The idea is that works of fiction must be the product that is being marketed, and therefore must have value to succeed. The only way to effectively market stories whose value is in depth, is to KNOW the PERSON you are marketing to. The only way to market to the masses when you have to know them individually is through relational marketing.
If I know a few people who would pay to see a movie I made, I can make some money. But if they tell a few friends, shouldn't they have a share in the market? If I can pay people to spread the word, then the stories can be related to individuals rather than sold to people in general. It's just vastly more efficient. Also, this solves the basic clash between artist and studio. Typically, the artists want to excel, while the studio wants a timely, marketable product. In a c-commerce model, the studio would be replaced by promoters who WANT the artists (or developers) to excel, because their reputation is directly on the line for the product which IS THE STORY.
C-commerce or "commerce through community" is a way of bringing people together for a common purpose. Some are fans of the stories, and simply act as consumers. Their lives are enriched by the quality life lessons in the stories, and they get their money's worth (win-win). Some will aspire to spread the word about the quality of the stories, and will become promoters. Not only will their lives be enriched by the stories, but they will enrich others. They will be paid for their efforts, getting their money's worth and so much more. Others have the skills to be developers, and will be active in creating the stories, they too will be paid for their efforts in developing, but will also have the opportunity to promote. And a select few will have the vision to take the helm and sew a quilt of a new entertainment landscape. One of struggles and of heartaches, but also of inspiration, wisdom, and perspective.
What it comes down to is that, in our current entertainment model, the story is the attraction whose purpose is to get people to buy products (be it through commercials or product placement). Therefore, they only need you to watch it; it does not necessarily need to be quality. However, since truth in fiction is not based upon surface plots, but upon character relationships, it is not easily marketed to the masses. I imagine that bureaucratic studio executives see this sort of depth as a waste of time and effort. According to their thinking, they are right.
The conceptual framework for the entirety of the motion picture industry needs to be reworked. Fiction is an art form, which must express truths of life in order to be relatable and valued by the viewer. The idea is that works of fiction must be the product that is being marketed, and therefore must have value to succeed. The only way to effectively market stories whose value is in depth, is to KNOW the PERSON you are marketing to. The only way to market to the masses when you have to know them individually is through relational marketing.
If I know a few people who would pay to see a movie I made, I can make some money. But if they tell a few friends, shouldn't they have a share in the market? If I can pay people to spread the word, then the stories can be related to individuals rather than sold to people in general. It's just vastly more efficient. Also, this solves the basic clash between artist and studio. Typically, the artists want to excel, while the studio wants a timely, marketable product. In a c-commerce model, the studio would be replaced by promoters who WANT the artists (or developers) to excel, because their reputation is directly on the line for the product which IS THE STORY.
C-commerce or "commerce through community" is a way of bringing people together for a common purpose. Some are fans of the stories, and simply act as consumers. Their lives are enriched by the quality life lessons in the stories, and they get their money's worth (win-win). Some will aspire to spread the word about the quality of the stories, and will become promoters. Not only will their lives be enriched by the stories, but they will enrich others. They will be paid for their efforts, getting their money's worth and so much more. Others have the skills to be developers, and will be active in creating the stories, they too will be paid for their efforts in developing, but will also have the opportunity to promote. And a select few will have the vision to take the helm and sew a quilt of a new entertainment landscape. One of struggles and of heartaches, but also of inspiration, wisdom, and perspective.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Elders, Christmas, and the Community
It used to be, in days gone past, that youth would sit before their elders and listen to the tales of experiences from their lives. Lessons were learned from the mistakes the elders had made in a lifetime. Therefore, the youth could approach life armed with years of wisdom they would never need to live through. Think about it, even in tribal days, where 50 might have seemed old, a trio of elders would yield 150 years of experience. Much of those years would be unimportant, of course, but the elders (especially those who would be defined as successful) would know what was of interest and what was not. They could customize their stories to fit emerging situations in the youths' lives, guiding them in the proper direction with more confidence.
Our "elders" today, it seems to me, are seeking desperately to be like the youth. Instead of going through struggles and finding a purpose in helping the youth, they have spent their lives dodging risk and responsibility. Many are so afraid of failure that they are left with no understanding of what failures teach. They live the same year over and over again, waiting for their ship to come in, never realizing that it's only the beginning. Great sailors are not made on calm seas. It is our choice to live the next year better than the last.
As the New Year rolls around think about what you mean to change. Decide to change it, and, here's the tricky part: actually FOLLOW THROUGH! Many start great things, few ever finish. The result of this process is a world where 95% of us are fighting like dogs for the scraps that fall from the master's table. Life is not supposed to be that way. Someone harvested the feast on that table and someone will enjoy it, why not you or me? Even a smart dog knows there's more food on the table. So let's be the masters. If GREAT is an option, why settle for GOOD?
Imagine a world where we stop thinking we're trapped by our class or circumstances. Freedom is out there, but you have to take it. While it is even given, no one CAN force you to be free if you don't want to be. Imagine a world where the young have the guts to chase what sets their hearts on fire. Imagine caring enough about something that you would suffer the slings and arrows that are going to come whenever you step up and dare to think differently. Imagine if we failed enough to learn what the truth is, then taught that truth to those who are new to the battle. This is out there. Mentorship can be found.
Imagine a community that formed like this, those that had the truth about life leading those who are lost to the truth. Imagine if those who were once lost could see fit to help their kin. Do you think these people on this journey would have something to say? Do you think those stories would have value?
We can take back the media, using for our purposes and spread the truth about life rather than a false lifestyle of self-indulgence and greed. When you think of Christmas, do you think more about giving or getting? The true elders give. The youth want to get. Who are you? If you're a youth, then your journey is just beginning, if you're an elder, welcome! we still have a long way to go.
God Bless, Happy Holidays!
Our "elders" today, it seems to me, are seeking desperately to be like the youth. Instead of going through struggles and finding a purpose in helping the youth, they have spent their lives dodging risk and responsibility. Many are so afraid of failure that they are left with no understanding of what failures teach. They live the same year over and over again, waiting for their ship to come in, never realizing that it's only the beginning. Great sailors are not made on calm seas. It is our choice to live the next year better than the last.
As the New Year rolls around think about what you mean to change. Decide to change it, and, here's the tricky part: actually FOLLOW THROUGH! Many start great things, few ever finish. The result of this process is a world where 95% of us are fighting like dogs for the scraps that fall from the master's table. Life is not supposed to be that way. Someone harvested the feast on that table and someone will enjoy it, why not you or me? Even a smart dog knows there's more food on the table. So let's be the masters. If GREAT is an option, why settle for GOOD?
Imagine a world where we stop thinking we're trapped by our class or circumstances. Freedom is out there, but you have to take it. While it is even given, no one CAN force you to be free if you don't want to be. Imagine a world where the young have the guts to chase what sets their hearts on fire. Imagine caring enough about something that you would suffer the slings and arrows that are going to come whenever you step up and dare to think differently. Imagine if we failed enough to learn what the truth is, then taught that truth to those who are new to the battle. This is out there. Mentorship can be found.
Imagine a community that formed like this, those that had the truth about life leading those who are lost to the truth. Imagine if those who were once lost could see fit to help their kin. Do you think these people on this journey would have something to say? Do you think those stories would have value?
We can take back the media, using for our purposes and spread the truth about life rather than a false lifestyle of self-indulgence and greed. When you think of Christmas, do you think more about giving or getting? The true elders give. The youth want to get. Who are you? If you're a youth, then your journey is just beginning, if you're an elder, welcome! we still have a long way to go.
God Bless, Happy Holidays!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The Natural Result
Where does Hollywood's incentive lie? Butts in seats. That's all. If they can get you to buy a ticket, the quality of the movie does not matter. And so the quality of movies suffers. Now granted, there are artists in Hollywood who do care about the quality of the film and most studio executives know enough about business to know that the studio's name is on the line if the audience doesn't have a good time, but what long term value is there in just having a good time?
What I'm talking about is a short-sighted perspective. Many people, companies, and industries are to blame, but sources of fiction propagate this negative trend by portraying it as reality. While what's in front of you might be the truth, it may not be the whole truth.
Our culture today has some significant problems. We are an unhealthy people, facing heart disease, obesity, and cancer. We are in an economic crisis; many of us are unable to get out of debt, much less accumulate wealth. Our relationships are in peril: divorce rates are high, family members aren't speaking, and everyone shifts blame.
Health is the natural result of our bodies functioning properly. Key distinction: you may be HEALTHY right now, but if your body isn't functioning PROPERLY, you won't be for long. Our bodies function properly when they are properly maintained. Like a car, we need the proper intake of certain chemicals to keep our parts working smoothly. Is it fair to say that we don't eat properly? Is it fair to say that few, if any, of us follow the FDA's scientifically backed food pyramid? Many believe that health food is a lot of expensive hype, that as long as they're full, it doesn't matter what they consume. Many would rather watch TV than go for a jog because it's easier. The truth is there are things you need to do now to prevent health problems in the future.
Wealth is the natural result of living within our means. You see, wealth is not about how much you make, despite popular opinion. It is about how much you keep. Not budgeting your money is like trying to build a house without a blueprint. And red-lining your income (or spending every cent you make), is like driving on a narrow bridge with no guard rails. Many think it's just too hard to budget, or that they need to spend money to make money. The truth is the vast majority of millionaires in America are very frugal, and the people that look like a million bucks are broke.
Solid relationships are the natural result of putting other people first. People who feel respected are more likely to respect you. Could it be that sometimes the other person needs more from you than you can get from them? What would happen if you chose to invest in people? Many have a "take care of number one" or a "look out for me and mine" mentality. They figure other people's problems are none of their business and they are happy that is the case. The truth is, it's not. People need people. Relationships both build and crumble by small acts compounding over time.
Is Hollywood causing this? No. The only one I can blame is me. You and I are the community of people who consume these movies, what we buy is what we support. As a society, we are in love with the idea that we are victims of our environment. Hollywood, TV, and other mass media simply caters to this want. The natural result of enabling victim-thinking is the death of progress.
What if we formed a different kind of community? One where there is incentive in the teaching of truth? Stories (true or fictitious), have historically been used to teach lessons about life. Many are still with us in some form today. I believe that classic films are those that hold the most truth, because truth lasts. The films that continue to be watched hold the greatest long-term value and create the greatest residual incomes for their creators (the studios included.)
What if we learn the truth about these three areas? What if we teach the truth by bringing people into an association of like-minded people? What if we banded together to create truthful media that we could proudly promote? What if we inspired people to found organizations of their own, and create truthful media from their unique perspective? What if the process perpetuated?
Let's solve problems, build a community, and put Truth in Fiction!
What I'm talking about is a short-sighted perspective. Many people, companies, and industries are to blame, but sources of fiction propagate this negative trend by portraying it as reality. While what's in front of you might be the truth, it may not be the whole truth.
Our culture today has some significant problems. We are an unhealthy people, facing heart disease, obesity, and cancer. We are in an economic crisis; many of us are unable to get out of debt, much less accumulate wealth. Our relationships are in peril: divorce rates are high, family members aren't speaking, and everyone shifts blame.
Health is the natural result of our bodies functioning properly. Key distinction: you may be HEALTHY right now, but if your body isn't functioning PROPERLY, you won't be for long. Our bodies function properly when they are properly maintained. Like a car, we need the proper intake of certain chemicals to keep our parts working smoothly. Is it fair to say that we don't eat properly? Is it fair to say that few, if any, of us follow the FDA's scientifically backed food pyramid? Many believe that health food is a lot of expensive hype, that as long as they're full, it doesn't matter what they consume. Many would rather watch TV than go for a jog because it's easier. The truth is there are things you need to do now to prevent health problems in the future.
Wealth is the natural result of living within our means. You see, wealth is not about how much you make, despite popular opinion. It is about how much you keep. Not budgeting your money is like trying to build a house without a blueprint. And red-lining your income (or spending every cent you make), is like driving on a narrow bridge with no guard rails. Many think it's just too hard to budget, or that they need to spend money to make money. The truth is the vast majority of millionaires in America are very frugal, and the people that look like a million bucks are broke.
Solid relationships are the natural result of putting other people first. People who feel respected are more likely to respect you. Could it be that sometimes the other person needs more from you than you can get from them? What would happen if you chose to invest in people? Many have a "take care of number one" or a "look out for me and mine" mentality. They figure other people's problems are none of their business and they are happy that is the case. The truth is, it's not. People need people. Relationships both build and crumble by small acts compounding over time.
Is Hollywood causing this? No. The only one I can blame is me. You and I are the community of people who consume these movies, what we buy is what we support. As a society, we are in love with the idea that we are victims of our environment. Hollywood, TV, and other mass media simply caters to this want. The natural result of enabling victim-thinking is the death of progress.
What if we formed a different kind of community? One where there is incentive in the teaching of truth? Stories (true or fictitious), have historically been used to teach lessons about life. Many are still with us in some form today. I believe that classic films are those that hold the most truth, because truth lasts. The films that continue to be watched hold the greatest long-term value and create the greatest residual incomes for their creators (the studios included.)
What if we learn the truth about these three areas? What if we teach the truth by bringing people into an association of like-minded people? What if we banded together to create truthful media that we could proudly promote? What if we inspired people to found organizations of their own, and create truthful media from their unique perspective? What if the process perpetuated?
Let's solve problems, build a community, and put Truth in Fiction!
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