Sandals and a Stick

Chicago Walmart Takeaways

Sometimes, the tiniest of actions can have enormous consequences. All it takes is an openness to see, an ability to recognize, and the willingness to act. In those few seconds of interaction with the grocery carts, it seems that I was able to brighten someone’s day. Only moments later, the woman and her two-dollar donation bumped into me. She gave me the courage and excitement to look forward to SOS2009’s fundraiser. She brightened my day and the pathway ahead.

Effortless Adaptation – Short Version

If I let go so effortlessly in this get-to-where-you’re-going-at-all-cost scenario, what other moral and ethical commitments might also be subject to unconcerned termination?

Effortless Adaptation – Storied Version

This Awooga issue becomes merely a sad question, “That too?” It is a sign of resignation based on the underlying thing-beneath-the-thing: Me before you – at every intersection of life.

Entitlement Trap

The broken golf simulator provided lessons significantly more important than the immediate results of a traveling golf ball on a flat screen. I was taught to pay attention to the thing beneath the thing. I was instructed to appreciate the upside of an underlying benefit. I discovered the downside of technological privilege. I came away with an understanding that joyful living is far greater than demanded entitlement.

We Become – a New Mantra

No matter the size or the perceived impact of any decision, all are significant. Not looking for a philosophical discussion, I simplified this as a self-spoken training mantra, “We become the decisions we make.” And yes, I admit this is too often forgotten in the busyness of life.

A Blanket Cover-up

People disappear under blankets in both images. But this second sketch forces the walker to see them. One at a time, he is adjacent to those he might wish to ignore. He is unable to avoid glancing at their faces. He might even be forced to lock eyes. He will find it easier to ignore the many, but it will challenge him to brush aside the person. It’s no longer a faceless group, but a face-included individual.