We All Can't Be Sheep...

What would the world be like if all of his waited for instructions on how to proceed? If all of us were followers and no one took the lead? Well it would suck, we'd all be running around with out heads cut off. This was brought to light by Far Side, one of my favourite cartoons.

I'm reminded of this today because last night I caught the news, something I never do, but the first story was on global warming so I watched. Low and behold I hear this "Breaking News, Global Warming is Real and True".... You've got to be kidding me Lloyd. Now, global warming and climate change have been issues of contention, but to come out with a statement like this, well I just don't have the words.

Our recent weather conditions have had people asking why it is that this is happening and global warming is the answer. What's more disturbing however is that this news cast made reference to how Canadians are demanding of the government to come with mandates to address global warming...

We all can't be sheep!! Why do we need the government to come up with methods of addressing these issues... we don't need to sit around and wait for them to up gas tax and prices, start charging more for water and electricity, ban cars from downtown cores or the purchasing of SUVs. Really, is that what we want?

We don't need anyone and their policies to tell us how to lead our lives. But, if we are conscious individuals which I hope that we all are, we can take it upon ourselves to address climate change.

It doesn't take much, PLANT TREES!! It starts there, don't pave over your front lawn to get more parking space, plant more grass, what a difference vegetation makes, especially for your mental health. It's not just about driving less.

1/4 Century Approaches

As I sit here with a half hour to go to the 1/4 century mark of my life, I can't help but look back and see all that I've accomplished...

I got over my fear of swimming pools when I was 5 and now try and keep me out of the water. Its impossible. If I could be any animal it would be a dolphin, I could spend the rest of my life in the sea.

I graduated from highschool, University with Honours, and I am now in the middle of my Masters. I think that's fantastic. Oh and I also have my TESOL certificate, who knows if I'll be able to put it to use, but we'll see.

I won the championships for my soccer league, I believe it was North Mississauga's under 16? under 18? maybe. Which reminds me, now that I'm back here I need to register to play again.

I've vacationed to some pretty cool places, New York City, the Dominican Republic, Maryland, Florida, California, and Las Vegas. I have also seen some wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon and Niagra Falls.

I've seen people born, I've seen people die, and I've met some pretty cool people. A special shout out to my girl Jamie, she's been my neighbour and friend since I moved in to this house when I was 8, thanks for being there. Trust when I say we've been through some ups and some serious downs, but true friends always find their way back to each other.

I've lived on my own, for 5 years.. and I learned alot in that time. I've always been independent, but when you're alone you realize how much your parents do for you. I've met some pretty cool people at Western, Val, Ski, Dave, Heather, Thank You Thank You Thank You, for sharing those university experiences with me.

I've gone through some phases: There was the tom boyish one when I wore things that were 2 sizes too big, then there was the club hoe phase when I wore clothes that were 2 sizes too small. I was once totally into the skater/rock scene at one point, checking out some awesome concerts, Silverchair, foo fighters, and Marilyn Manson 3 Times!! Im pretty sure after all that I've discovered myself and I'm happy with where I'm at right now. Head on straight, eye on the prize...

There has been just so much good and bad in my life, as much as I can remember for the last 24 years, and with just 20 minutes left now, I can't help but wonder what the next 25 will bring me. Will I get married? Will I have kids? Will I live in Toronto or Canada? *Knock on wood, will I stay healthy... But most importantly, will I be happy? Will I remain positive and content with whatever life brings me. I sure do hope so.

I can vote, I can gamble, I can drink in Canada and I can drink in the U.S., and in 20 minutes I will be able to rent a car with out rediculous insurance rates, in fact my own personal insurance comes down, oh joy!

Here's to 25 years, and my one wish is to accomplish every last goal on my 25 things to do this year.

Cheers

25 Things for 2007

It's that time of year again when everyone drinks themselves into oblivion, wakes up with the worst hangover of their lifetime, and says from this day forward I vow to do or not to this...
The 'this' is usually quit smoking, lose weight, save money.

Me on the other hand, I prefer goals. Something that is visibly achieved and encourages taking the year to do it. Lets face it, who gives up smoking cold turkey or loses 20 pounds in under a month.

This year is different for me however. On the 24th of January, I turn 25. That's a 1/4 of my life gone by. Myself along with many of my friends are experiencing the 1/4 life crisis and I realised that there's alot that I need to do quick before it is senseless for someone in their 30s.

So... In keeping with the Goals/Resolution tradition seeing that my bday is so early in the year, I decided that I would set 25 goals for myself. In no particular order of course, and 95% are completely within my control, I will vow to do these things before my 26th birthday. So basically starting now, giving myself practically an extra couple of weeks to accomplish my goals.

I won't be telling you what my goals are because some of them are personal but I will give you a sneak preview...

Now, these things I always wanted to do and just never got around to it or made up an excuse, but I guess my top resolution is to seize the day, live the moment, assume there is no 'next time'.

In no particular order here are a few of my 25 things to do...

1. Get a Tattoo
2. Learn to play the guitar
3. Travel to another continent (Mexico, the Caribbean, and Hawaii do not count).
4. See New York City at Christmas Time
5. Write at least 1 blog a week.

#5 is important for me, I really hate coming to this thing and seeing it so spaced out. Im hoping Ill be able to encourage more people to explore my mind.

Here's to 2007, may it bring me everything I want in life, and may you find peace and satisfaction in your lives this year.

Cheers!