Contrast Brings Clarity

I've been lucky to compete in two local races over the last two weekends. As usual, the vibe at these events has been positive, the spirits upbeat, and the attitudes, "can-do" or "I'll give it my best." Volunteers, spectators, and racers support, encourage, compliment, and thank each other before, during, and after the events. Sure there is competition and not everyone is best friends, but there's very little whining or wasted emotion on negativity. High fives and "way to go" are the not-so-secret handshake among the active people surrounding these events. Sometimes a smile as you turn the corner past a lone spectator says it all. I feel you--thanks.

I wish it could be this way everywhere. At work, I have to listen to some guy rattle off his title and pontificate on everything that is wrong with the business planning process (which he doesn't understand) and why the company is screwed up (but no one respects his opinions and he can't get a better job). Meanwhile, he offers no alternatives, either (because he doesn't have any or hasn't studied it). In the end, he agrees that the current process and tools are the best option, but for the record, "It's no good."

Thank you Mr. Marketing Director of the most important thing in the world. Your belittling lecture and 20-minute nonsensical tirade has earned you a permanent Deactivation. Don't come calling when you need last-minute analysis because your boss suspects you are clueless and you want to appear otherwise. My advice: Go to a race and notice that life is a lot more fun and productive when you are constructive and positive.

And in traffic: Maam, is it necessary to curse and point at me as if I just insulted your entire family in the worst way imaginable, when, in reality, you did not stop at the stop sign and I had the right of way? Even if you were truly convinced that I was in error proceeding around your car in the intersection, is it worth pushing your heart rate into the danger zone as you head into Circuit City? Holy cow. I'm sorry you hate your life so much that a meaningless five-second delay would spin you into outrage. I don't even need to Deactivate you. That would be an upgrade you don't deserve.