‘Twere the days before Christmas, and all through the land Many people were busy, last chores still at hand
Arrangements for family, for travel near and far Whether by transit or by train, air, or car
Whatever the weather, neither snow, sleet, nor rain Would stop the festivities to come, this is plain
Decorations appearing from those late to the mood Helped ensure time would be left to get beverage and food (more…)
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Art of Communication, Humour, Social & political humour, Uncategorized
Very much tied into modern life and communication is the precept of getting messages across in a timely, i.e. brief and abbreviated, manner.
A few decades ago, frequently based on clever, easy-to-remember terms for technology, acronyms became resplendently immersed in our societal landscape. One of the early favourites was ‘laser’, the one word short form for ‘light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation’, the longer version not a favourite of non-scientists. (more…)
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Art of Communication, Humour, Social & political humour, Uncategorized
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(with apologies & deference to The Outlaws, ‘Green Grass & High Tides’)
In ‘honour’ of Cyber Monday…
At a time we really count on
When the shipping may be free
Silver ear phones, golden earrings
Fill the orders, plain to see (more…)
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Arts commentary, Humour, Social & political humour, Uncategorized
‘Vernacular’ refers to language commonly used in regions or countries. It seems that such a loose parameter allows for the use of words or expressions which, at times, can test the patience of lexophiles.
George Carlin, probably the best stand-up comedian ever, certainly the most observant about the foibles of language, spent much of his career pointing out glaring issues in our lexicon, often involving clever observations about human behaviour. (more…)
Part Two of a series of mini-articles under the umbrella of ‘Life Lessons’ in October’s Psychology Today focuses on what is called ‘Facing Adversity’.
Once again, the comments of the contributing authors collectively can provide valuable insights for our own lives: (more…)
Under the general umbrella of ‘Life Lessons’, the October issue of Psychology Today has a series of mini-articles metaphorically spreading from branches of the life tree. The perspectives attempt to clarify what is deemed a paradox – our instincts can be flawed biases that science attempts to overcome, meanwhile, personal wisdom emerges from lived experiences.
Thus, here are some thoughtful comments under the heading of ‘Shaping Your Life’: (more…)
You know how sometimes you’re reminded of a tune, which then gets in your head, and it seems to stay there awhile, especially if connected to a personal memory or time-frame?
Nineteen years before the advent of the new millennium, one of my favourite pop songs was born, 8675309/Jenny, by artist Tommy Tutone. Really, quite a catchy, upbeat tune, it is still can be heard on radio stations with variations of soft rock formats playing tracks from the latter decades of the 20th century. (more…)
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Not long ago we were hearing and seeing examples of virtual reality technology in testing stages. Now, for example here in Ottawa, there is at least one popular shopping centre which has limited virtual reality gaming in one of its stores.
We have also become exposed to video games, in person, through advertising, or on TV or movie screens. Many games not only exhibit a dramatic range of scenarios putting the player’s POV (point of view) into the action, but also have hugely expanded the dimensions of war and other fighting themes, complete with reams of carnage. (more…)
We have seen, perhaps participated in, debates in one format or another over the years. (I can recollect my first was while a youngster in school.) In the political arena this has become a vital part of the election process.
As we get older, and especially if the stakes get higher, we should expect to incorporate life experiences or lessons to handle ourselves more effectively. Making a positive connection while speaking is paramount to feeling confident and performing better, whatever the stage. (more…)
the watch of time
‘Headlines Revisited’
There is a famous long-standing saying that ‘Those who do not learn from history are bound to repeat it’. Sadly, there is anecdotal and other evidence this is true.
When reflecting on this, many will tend to focus on larger, national and international episodes, some on personal experiences. It applies to instances of daily life, little events or communiqués which slip by in newspapers or on newscasts, subjects varying from actual life to advertising poseur. (more…)
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Art of Communication, Business Commentary, Humour, Social & political commentary, Social & political humour, Uncategorized
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