Archive for the “Notebook” category
Confessions of a recovering asshole, or, how I learned to stop worrying (literally) and love prescription stimulants
by admin on April 29, 2011
This post is 40 years in the making, yet four weeks ago I had no idea it would exist. I have been delivered from distraction and freed from the crippling anxiety and depression that I always assumed was the typical (…)
An interesting practice
by admin on February 19, 2011
I recently re-watched the PBS documentary on the life of the Buddha and was reminded of a powerful practice. Poet Jane Hirshfield discusses The Buddha’s first attempt to teach after gaining enlightenment. He meets a wandering ascetic who asks Buddha, (…)
Twenty Ten in pictures
by admin on December 31, 2010
I had a lot of fun in 2010. In January, I… Started walking 30 minutes per day, took my son to get a haircut, saw my daughter tie her shoe for the first time without help, and played in the (…)
Advice for would-be pro bloggers
by admin on October 11, 2010
Prepare to work your ass off for a long, long time. Long time.
Paying attention now because someday I’ll be dead
by admin on September 27, 2010
I recently watched Flight From Death: The Quest for Immortality 1 and it has affected me. Specifically, the combination of the movie’s subject matter — my inevitable and ever-nearer demise — and Thích Nhất Hạnh‘s words allowed me to finally “get” (…)
Writing assignment – Your father’s music
by admin on September 18, 2010
Inspired by Patrick Rhone. “David, we’re late,” my mother says, stuffing me into cold weather clothes. Before I can reply she’s whirling around the kitchen grabbing lunchboxes, backpacks and her own coat and hat with the dexterity of a quick-change (…)
My vinyl
by admin on August 13, 2010
A brief exchange with my friend Lisa Johnson on Twitter got me thinking about my record library. It’s not a big collection, but I’m proud of it and I feel I’ve got some gems. What’s the use in keeping it (…)
Negative reinforcement is not punishment [Updated]
by admin on August 3, 2010
Update: Incredibly, the day after I published this post, Dr. Lovaas died. I devoted a large part of my professional life to his teachings and came away a better person for it. I met Dr. Lovaas once and found him (…)
A note to America’s cashiers
by admin on July 30, 2010
I interact with many of you daily. As I approach your workstation, purchases in hand, I’ve got to make a quick decision. It’s one that I’d rather avoid and, with your help, will disappear entirely. Much like the driver approaching (…)
