I’m feeling a great sense of accomplishment this week because I made it through another episode of American Idol.  Though I used to be excited and at times even riveted by the performances, over the past few weeks I've found myself wandering off to wash dishes, bother the dogs, or work at the computer.  For years my wife and I have enjoyed this program but this year has left me wanting to change the name to, “American Mediocrity”.

Webinars gone bad.  I’m sure you’ve suffered through at least one.  Most recently I was subjected to a panel of experts who were the most inarticulate experts I’ve ever heard. They were ill-prepared, unpracticed and unable to express themselves without lots of “ummmm’s,” “ahhhh’s” and other word whiskers. Add their excruciatingly slow delivery and you have what I remember as a complete waste of time.

Mum's the Word

Like most people, I’m very fortunate to have good friends. One particular friend is a great listener. He gets to hear my rants. No judgment is passed about me, or the object of my rant, and I can trust that said rant will not be shared with others. My friend listens and sympathizes and then we enjoy a good laugh and its his turn to rant. All is well once again, and the world is in balance. No harm, no foul.