Mitch

I have been trying to find the time to squeeze this book in before I started school and I FINALLY finished it today. I have to give Mr. Albom some props, he writes really good books. That is, at least in my opinion. I have read every one of them and with each I take a little piece of it with me. Who knew a sports writer could have such fantastic insight and perspective on the world? He has a way of taking his own life experiences and puts them in a way for everyone to relate to.

With this book he tries to show how everyone, regardless of their faith, has the same ultimate goal. How people from completely different walks of life and backgrounds can be aiming for the same thing and how we can all reach it in harmony with one another.

I wish the world would remember this instead of religious group after religious group trying to force or convince others that their way is the right way. If people would let each other believe and worship as they wish and accept that we are all different, the world would be a better and a happier place. We are all striving for the same goal, ultimately happiness, and happiness to each person is different and very personal.

Here is a quote from the book that Mitch's Rabbi gave in a sermon that I especially took to heart:

"My friends, if we tend to the things that are important in life, if we are right with those we love and behave in line with our faith, our lives will not be cursed with the aching throb of unfulfilled business. Our words will always be sincere, our embraces will be tight. We will never wallow in the agony of 'I could have, I should have.' We can sleep in a storm."

Just Like Music

I have a bit of an infatuation with music. I love music. Love it, love it, love it. Did I say that I love it? I think I did. I also have a bit of an infatuation with going to concerts. Love it, love it ...(well you get the point). My most favorite music of all happens to be the fusion of rock and piano. If I could play any instrument it would be the piano, and it's something I kind of regret never learning. I think a piano has the most beautiful sound and there is something peaceful about it. Yet, on the other hand, it has the ability to be furious and energizing. An amazing instrument I think.


Now, when you mix it with rock music it creates a whole new sound, one that I can't get enough of. I have a great friend who introduced me to Jack's Mannequin a few years ago. And at the time I was loving the band The Fray and was in the process of discovering how much I love this kind of music. I kind of did things a little backward because I fell down-right head over heals with Jack's Mannequin without knowing much about a band called Something Corporate. Soon enough I discovered that Something Corporate was the forerunner for Andrew McMahon's solo project Jack's Mannequin and was immediately addicted.

Wow, long story shorter...some may laugh because I get a little emotional when I listen to some of these songs (some songs nearly bring me to tears). The sound of the music combined with my ability to relate to the lyrics has a profound effect on me. I was able to attend the Something Corporate concert in SLC last night with my very humorous sister Jessie (who macked on the drummer of the band, but that's another story), and it was amazing.

I really don't know how to put into words the importance of music in my life. I love how it has the ability to relate, to inspire, and to connect you to your innermost self, and to others. I also love how it has the ability to make you sit back and reflect on life, or on the other hand, to get up off your butt and shake what your mama gave you.

It's good stuff really. Really, really good stuff.

Bumbo

Bumbo's are really cool. Especially when your little guy hates being on his belly, it seems to be a good alternative. I think my little guy in the Bumbo is pretty cool, too.