2.263: Random Topics 002-A

Here's what I do to get myself out of a funk...

(1)  I determine what is the cause of my funk and then act accordingly to remedy the funk.

For example, if I am going through a writing slump, I force myself to write.  It was a writing funk that led to the idea for this column.

(2)  I remind myself that I am capable.

Believe it or not, I suffer from poor confidence and low self-esteem.  And while this sort of action is generally met with self-deprecation and opinions to the contrary, I have to remember that I am an entirely capable and above-average intelligent individual that has absolutely no reason to believe otherwise.

(3)  I count my blessings.

As I have often heard it said:  "It could be worse."  And while there are times, I refuse to believe that fact; I simply have to consider my surroundings to see how wrong I am.  I have a roof over my head, I comfortable bed to sleep on at nights, internet access, food on hand despite my selective tastes, and so much more that others do not have.

(4)  I go for a drive.

If all else fails, I drive.  I get behind the wheel of my car and drive and vent and think and clear my mind.  Most of the time this works and sometimes I wind up some place that makes me feel much better.

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Some of my favorite [vloggers] are...

I am going to change things up a bit because I really do not read many blogs.  Sadly, I do not read very much aside from comic books and graphic novels.  So, in the interest of giving me something to actually write about here, I am going to share with you some of my favorite video bloggers (or vloggers) because I watch way more YouTube than I read personal blogs.

(1)  Casey Neistat (www.youtube.com/caseyneistat)

All die hard YouTube viewers know (or know of) Casey Neistat or you have seen at least one of his viral videos:  Aladdin carpet ride through NYC (a collaboration with Jesse from Prank vs. Prank) or snowboarding through NYC during a winter storm.  Aside from the viral videos, Casey's daily vlogs are filled the daily ins and outs of his pretty awesome life as well as tidbits of positive life advice.

(2) Vlogbrothers (www.youtube.com/vlogbrothers)

Author John Green and brother / all-around nerd of all trades Hank Green make up the Vlog Brothers as well as the inspirations behind the Nerdfighter community.  Their, now, biweekly vlogs (John posts on Tuesdays and Hank on Fridays) cover a wide-range of topics from the less than serious (e.g., John attempts to prove that water is the best accompaniment to cereal) to the more serious and informative (e.g., Hank explains net neutrality) all while keeping things as casual and easy-to-follow as possible.  Along with their vlogs, John and Hank also make it a point to "decrease world suck" by hosting the Project for Awesome as well as promoting other important causes like the Syrian refugee crisis.  In the end, the mantra for their vlogs is simple and it's one I try to always make an effort to remember:  DFTBA (don't forget to be awesome).

(3) Jimmy Conrad (www.youtube.com/thejimmyconrad)

So, Jimmy is actually pretty new to the vlog scene, but it is clear that he is trying his best and he does not have an issue with sharing his growth with his viewers.  Fortunately, he has some prior in front of the camera experience as a former presenter for KickTV.  Oh, did I forget to mention that he was a professional soccer player?  A former United States men's national team player as well as the anchor and captain of the back line of the Kansas City Wizards, Jimmy has plenty of charisma and loads of charm.  For me, as a fan of his and as a consumer of copious amounts of YouTube, it is fun to see a channel start from scratch and hopefully grow into something amazing.

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That does it for this week's "Random Topics".  Hopefully, I was informative and insightful or at the very least, engaging enough to keep you reading up until now.  DFTBA and bye!

2.262: Pitch Notes (03.14)

Recent Results:

USWNT 2:1 Germany

#SheBelieves Cup | Wednesday, 9 March 2016 | FAU Stadium

Liverpool 2:0 Manchester United

UEFA Europa League | Thursday, 10 March 2016 | Anfield

Sporting KC 2:1 Vancouver Whitecaps

Major League Soccer | Saturday, 12 March 2016 | Children's Mercy Park

Manchester United 1:1 West Ham United

The Emirates FA Cup | Sunday, 13 March 2016 | Old Trafford

Notes:
Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to follow neither the USWNT and Sporting Kansas City matches this week since I was away from my computer during the USWNT match and I do not have a subscription to MLS Live.  But, from what I read, it seems as though Alex Morgan scored in the WNT's match against Germany and thus earning her the Golden Boot award as the tournament's leading scorer (2) and Dom Dwyer managed to bag brace to earn three points for SKC in a match that saw another opponent go down to ten men following a red card issued.

Perhaps, worse than missing the WNT and SKC matches is the fact that I had the misfortune of actually seeing most of the two Manchester United fixtures.  The Red Devils looked abysmal against their great rivals as they fell two goals behind heading into the return leg at Old Trafford on St. Patrick's Day.  The Europa League is, in my opinion, Manchester United's best (and possibly, last) chance to gain entry into next year's Champions League and they blew it against their greatest domestic rivals in their first-ever meeting in a European tournament.

And then, on Sunday, Manchester United struggled again to create and finish scoring chances as they managed to scrape out an FA Cup replay thanks to a fortunate goal from Anthony Martial.  Of course, I should mention that Dimitri Payet's free kick goal was something spectacular to behold and West Ham would have clearly deserved their ticket to the semifinal round had they managed to hold on to win.  As for Manchester United, The FA Cup is their best chance at earning any silverware this campaign as the only remaining clubs are: Everton, Reading, and Watford.  Yet, the Red Devils continue to put out rubbish performances that only speaks to their (1) inconsistency and (2) lack of truly quality players (real world beaters).

Of course, I should have expected this sort of display from the Red Devils given their topsy-turvy form this season.  At high points, Manchester United can go on a winning streak playing the sort of fun, attacking style of football supporters have come to expect from the club.  But when the streak is snapped, it appears as though their confidence is lost and they crawl into a hole and remain there while the opposition takes advantage.

It has been frustrating, to say the least.

2.261: WTF Job Hunts?

WTF Job Hunts?!

This is not a new topic for me.  In fact, the topics of unemployment and employment searches have featured heavily on this site.  And despite the many times have I ranted about these topics, I am never satisfied.  This past week has been just another week of frustrations as I struggle to reestablish myself in the workforce.  On 29 February, I interviewed for a position so suited for me one would have honestly believed that things were turning the corner for me:  WRONG!  As you know, the interview did not satisfy my meticulous standards for success (in fact, I wrote about the interview across the duration of two posts last week):  I stumbled on words, I went off on tangents, and I may have been too blunt for the tastes of my interviewers.  But I still felt confident in the fact that my strong resume and professional experience in related fields would carry me forward into the position; I was wrong again.

All my life, I have been told that employers would hire the "most qualified" person for the position and that our nation's workforce was built on a foundation of success based on merit.  And yet, I remain unemployed (and in many cases, I do not even garner an interview) while woefully underqualified individuals sit in positions that pay nearly twice as much as I have ever been paid.  Look, I am not looking for handouts and I am not looking for pity, but if you are one to feed a line of bullshit about merit and qualifications; then I am going to call you out for being full of shit and spreading lies to impressionable youths.  I am sick and tired of the endless games, faceless screeners, and bold-faced liars I have encountered during this employment search.  I am desperate to work in a position I love, but the doors keep being closed on me before I even have an opportunity to prove my worth.

So, seriously?  WTF?  How am I and millions of others in my situation supposed to believe in the "American dream"?  Simple, we are not.  The American dream is dead and even before it saw its own demise many decades ago, the "dream" was only accessible to a handful of people that met certain "qualifications".  Instead, rather than reach for a dream that was never within our grasp, we must strive to carry on and raise a middle-finger to the corporate shills and the purveyor of false hopes and lies.  The search for work continues, but the belief is diminished.

2.260: Drop a Like 001

What is up?  Welcome to the debut edition of a new feature on J+30:  Drop a Like.  I spend a lot of time on YouTube and throughout the course of any week (or two), I come across a number of videos that I genuinely like or are buzzworthy.  Anyways, Drop a Like is where a select a handful of videos from the week past (or since the previous edition of Drop a Like since I am considering making this a bi-weekly feature) that enjoyed and share them with you with some commentary on why I felt the need to share it with you.

Alright, the explanation is finished, let's get to the videos!

Personally, the most significant video to drop this week on YouTube was Marvel's latest trailer for Captain America:  Civil War.  In this latest trailer, viewers saw more Black Panther, more Captain America battling Iron Man, Ant Man being fired from one of Hawkeye's arrow shots, and FINALLY, MOTHERF-CKING SPIDER-MAN!  Yes, the wall crawler made his first appearance under the Marvel banner and it was brief but still pretty awesome.  In case you were not aware (and you probably were not since I probably have not mentioned it previously), Spider-man is my favorite Marvel superhero (or comic superhero in general--sorry, Batman).  But, let's slow our roll here because I feel as though I have too mention that while it was totally awesome to see most everyone's favorite web-slinger; I did have some reservations with his costume;  First, the eyes:  I am slowly coming around on the eyes--they are animated in similar fashion as Deadpool's eyes in Deadpool--but seeing Spidey's eyes move was still initially offputting and that is possibly the byproduct of my familiarity with the masks of Tobey Maguire's and Andrew Garfield's versions of Spider-man.  Second, the black trim on Spidey's arms and legs are awkward to me--stick with the traditional blue and red with minimal black trim color scheme.  And third, the CGI costume looks "flat".  (I am actually borrowing the term from Nerdist because I could not put my finger on what felt off about the costume until I heard them say it first.)  Seriously, where is the texture?  The costume looks as though it is some sort of frictionless leotard that if someone were to push Spider-man onto a smooth surface, he glide endlessly until someone stopped him.  Anyways, I am incredibly excited about this film and cannot wait to see it when it comes out.

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Unfortunately, I do not watch The Daily Show as much as I would like and it is not as though I dislike Trevor Noah; it is simply a case in which I did not watch the show frequently anyways.  I typically consume my late night talk shows in clip form and on YouTube thus explaining the reasoning behind this column.  Despite the infrequency of my Daily Show viewings, I am pleased to see that Lewis Black's "Back in Black" has remained following the transition from Jon Stewart to Noah.  Personally, "Back in Black" was always one of my favorite recurring segments on the show because it featured Lewis Black in his most comfortable setting:  PISSED!  This particular segment was no different as he eviscerated FOX News and other media's coverage of the last will and testament of Osama Bin Laden and in particular, the absurd notion that Bin Laden and President Barack Obama were "friends" because of their stances against global warming.  I could say something myself about this suggestion from the brain-dead numbskulls at FOX, but I will let the master of comedic outrage take it from here; enjoy.

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One of the best things about viral videos is that a new one can be discovered everyday.  I actually had another video queued to share with you and then came the video above.  In case you were wondering, I am trying to limit the number of videos I share to three per column.  Anyways, who does not love Sesame Street?  And as a child of the 90s and a consumer of mainstream rap music, I loved Bone Thugs 'N' Harmony's "Crossroads" despite never being able recite the lyrics in step with the track--they were spitting their rhymes too quick for this plebeian.  Regardless, this video, which is brought to us by the same group that brought us other viral video mashups like The Muppets x Biz Markie, is remarkably clever and simply fun to watch.

2.259: SMASH the Stash! 001

Greetings True Believers, Excelsior!  Actually, let's try again:  Hello friends and welcome to the first edition of a new feature that I call:  SMASH the Stash!  If you did not know, I am a novice collector of comics in digital and physical editions.  Unfortunately, I rarely make time to read any of the books I come purchase or come into possession of (thank you Marvel Digital Codes and thank you to my good friend, Billy, for sharing his codes with me), which means the backlog of items I need to read from my comic stash is formidable and long (and somewhat dated).  Anyways, with "Smash the Stash!", I am giving myself an excuse or, more accurately, a reason to read the comic books (and graphic novels) in my queue.

Let's get started with a comic book from Marvel's most recent universe-altering event: Secret Wars.

Secret Wars #6

Jonathan Hickman, Writer

Esad Ribic, Artist

Alex Ross, Cover

Before I begin, allow me to say that this will not be review in the traditional sense--I am not going to be breaking down each individual panel or trying to divine hidden meanings from the actions of characters--because most of the books I will be writing about have been out for some period of time and everything has already been spoiled. Okay, now I begin:

Personally, the most interesting thing I took away from this issue was the pairing of the survivors from the Marvel 616 and 1610 universes:  Black Panther and Namor, Reed Richards and The Maker (or 1610 Reed Richards), Thanos and The Thing (who is not actually a "survivor" but a pawn in Doom's reality from another universe in which the Fantastic Four featured Johnny's and Sue's father, Franklin Storm, instead of Reed), and Captain Marvel and Mr. Sinister (who already exists within Battleworld).  It is also intriguing to see how the eventual conflict that should resolve this event is coming together.  Oh, I should mention that Black Panther found a version of a completed Infinity Gauntlet within Stephen Strange's Sanctum Sanctorum.  Overall, it was a solid read that definitely advanced the plot though the start of the issue was a bit slower than I prefer.  Also, it may be because it has been some time since I read Issue #5, but what is up with Valeria and Black Swan?

Anyways, I am calling it here because this is an introductory column and much of the content was composed of me explaining the column and its purpose.  My plan for future columns is to cover at least three issues or one volume of a series.  Until then:  DFTBA!

2.258: Quick Blurbs 001-A

Again?  Sorry for the odd numbering, but I am still working it out.  Meanwhile, it's time for some Quick Blurbs.  Five "trending" topics from Facebook because Twitter trends are not too accommodating for banter, Google search trends are similar to Twitter trends, and I still do not "get" Reddit.  Here we go, I screen capped this image at approximately 12:30 EST:

Suicide Squad:  Hell yeah, Suicide Squad!  Hell yeah, tattoos (though I would never get one myself because I’m a pansy)!  Umm…okay to character-inspired tattoo promotional posters?  To be honest, all these posters are going to lead to is a lot of regrettable decisions.

Sharon Osbourne:  Look, I am all for women being comfortable in their own skin and for wanting to share their bodies with others.  Nudity:  it’s not for everyone.  The only thing I find annoying about this topic is that everyone seems so quick to judge or are incredibly petty.

Matt Flynn:  A simple rule of thumb for professional athletes, especially, football players:  Don’t throw shade because a player got paid.  The careers of football players are incredibly short and the amount of damage one will incur is immense.  Players need to get what they can while they can.

Xbox Live:  One of the basic rules of good customer service is to ensure the customer receives the goods or services for which they have tendered payment.  If this is not possible, then offer the customer proper compensation.  Today’s all about simplicity.

Christian Bale:  My major pet peeve in regards to comics and comic-related mediums (i.e., movies) is the existence of multiple “universes” or, more accurately, the lack of a singular continuity.  I am fine with rebooting stories when things become stale, but to cast someone simply to demonstrate this point is absurd.

2.257: A Side Project

From time to time and when I am bored, I dabble in side projects to either (1) give my restless hands and mind something to do or (2) take my mind off particular issues that are causing me trouble.  The following is a little something I put together in honor of Thursday's Europa League match between rivals Manchester United and Liverpool:

I wish Blogger allowed images to be expanded to their full sizes, but it does not or at least, I have not figured out how to enable such a feature.  Regardless, I created this image using GIMP (a free, open-source software similar to Photoshop) and the Retype app on my iPhone.  The base image of Anthony Martial was taken from Manchester United's Facebook page.

Update:  I was feeling extra creative last night so I created another graphic.  This one is for the Atlanta Silverbacks NPSL home opener against the Myrtle Beach Mutiny:

This graphic uses the same color scheme is the first graphic because both clubs use the same colors though the Silverbacks lean heavier on black while Manchester United features more white.  Anyways, the majority of the graphic was created with GIMP while the text was added using the Retype app.  I once again ripped the player image from the club's official Facebook page.

2.256: Random Topics 001-A

Ignore the odd numbering format, all will return to "normal" in two weeks!

For newcomers, Random Topics is where I draft a post based on a series of topics generated by the Blog Post Ideas Generator.  In other words, I ran out of ideas for new posts.

Lessons learned during my time at...college.

(1) Socialize.  You may have been a social outcast during high school, but nobody at your college will know unless you decided to attend college in your hometown.  Regardless, socialize (or more accurately, network) because the pathway toward your dream profession begins the moment you enroll in college.  I know that this sounds harsh, but the reality facing most recent college graduates is either an entry-level position at a job that is not even in your field of study or unemployment, but you can avoid this scenario by making an effort to make connections with others on campus.

Real Talk:  Being qualified for a position means very little to potential employers, especially, if you are competing for the same position against a less-qualified candidate that also happens to be best friends with the son of the boss.

Making connections is something I learned much too late and nowadays I find myself struggling with perpetual unemployment, insurmountable debt, and undiagnosed depression.  Okay, I am exaggerating (slightly).  Regardless, making lifelong social connections will go a long way to ensuring a more prosperous career.

(2) Take Your Studies Seriously.  Yes, you may have graduated from high school near the top of your class while barely turning a page in your textbooks, but that shit will not fly in college.  From the moment you arrive on campus and enroll in classes, take your studies seriously because the first couple of semesters of college will kick your ass if you are unprepared.  The first two years of college (or the core curriculum phase of your studies) are designed to weed out the weak and ill-equipped individuals from the pack.  Also, if you screw up your first couple of semesters and manage to right the ship enough to complete your studies, then it is still a long uphill climb to redeem your GPA.

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How to solve the biggest problem you had with...negative influences.

Now, I am certain that the "experts" will say that you should confront the negative influences in your life and attempt to resolve the issue or, even more, attempt to turn the negative into a positive.  Well, that is fine and I will let the "experts" have their beliefs, but my solution is to avoid the problem altogether.  Yes, simply ignoring the problem does not mean the problem will go away, but until you are prepared to undertake the massive task of confronting an issue that so consumes you that you become an irritable, hate-filled creature that lashes out at anyone or anything regardless of their actions; it is best to remove yourself from the situation.  I know that it can be difficult (and in some cases, damn near impossible) but you have to make the effort because no one else will look out for you except you.  Of course, I speak from personal experience and I know it is an incredibly difficult, but you will be better off for it and, perhaps, you may finally find yourself in a position where you are able to confront the problem or it could be an issue that is irreconcilable regardless do it for you!

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I think that is it for this week's Random Topics.  Join me (hopefully) next week as I tackle two more random topics generated by the Blog Post Ideas Generator.  Until next time:  DFTBA!

2.255: Pitch Notes (03.07)

Recent Results:

Manchester United 1:0 Watford

Barclays Premier League | Tuesday, 1 March 2016 | Old Trafford

USWNT 1:0 England

#SheBelievesCup | Thursday, 3 March 2016 | Raymond James Stadium

West Bromwich Albion 1:0 Manchester United

Barclays Premier League | Sunday, 6 March 2016 | The Hawthorns

USWNT 1:0 France

#SheBelievesCup | Sunday, 6 March 2016 | Nissan Stadium

Seattle Sounders 0:1 Sporting Kansas City

Major League Soccer | Sunday, 6 March 2016 | CenturyLink Field

Notes:
I am sensing a pattern developing in regards to the scoring prowess of the clubs and teams I support.

In regards to Manchester United, the week started off satisfactorily with a 1:0 win against Watford, who could have easily won the match if Odion Ighalo had successfully put away any of the scoring chances he created against a makeshift backline composed of a senior team debutante, an undersized Dutch center back whose best position is probably a central defensive midfielder, a recovering Argentinian just one game removed from missing about a month of action, and...I am guessing another young defender that was selected to demonstrate Louis van Gaal's proclivity to select and "develop" young talent.  I could easily chalk up the feelings of elation and euphoria over this underwhelming victory against a bottom-half side courtesy of a brilliant free kick from Juan Mata to the fact that (1) a similarly built side had just defeated an Arsenal side that was challenging for the league title and (2) Manchester United had just won its fourth consecutive match heading into a weekend match against another bottle-half side.

Of course, the match against West Bromwich Albion went awry early as, of all people, Juan Mata picked up a second yellow card within the first 26 minutes of the match thus leaving the side having to defend itself for 65+ minutes with only ten men.  Unsurprisingly, Manchester United was frantic in the first few minutes immediately following the Mata send off, but they eventually settled back into the game and even created a couple of opportunities prior to the break.  The second half found Manchester United on their backheels for a good portion of the half as they struggled with trying to find the right balance between attacking and defending.  In my opinion, Carrick did not look up for the match as he appeared out of step with the bevy of unfamiliar faces that now occupy the Manchester United side and he should have been substituted for Morgan Schneiderlein.  Schneiderlein did make an appearance in the match, but it was at the expense of Ander Herrera and Memphis Depay come on for Marcus Rashford during the latter stages of the match.  Of course, the decision to go with Carrick over Schneiderlein was not the biggest issue for Manchester United; it was Daley Blind.

I am sorry, but I cannot understand the continued reliance on him to play at a position that he is clearly not suited to play.  It was Blind's failed marking on an Albion forward that allowed said forward to freely receive a cross into the goalkeeper's box and slot away the match winner.  Then again, would any of Manchester United's available center backs fare better in the situation?

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Major League Soccer is back!  And the opening matchday was filled with exciting results with the exception of the Sporting Kansas City (SKC) match against Seattle Sounders; this matched ended a 0:1 result for SKC despite SKC playing the entire second half with a man advantage.  Also, SKC's came courtesy of a debuting center back's long range shot that skidded on Seattle's artificial surface under the outstretched arm of a diving Sounders goalkeeper.  In my opinion, SKC's back line looked solid despite Ike Opara's absence due to injury and Peter Vermes's decision to select Amadou Dia over Seth Sinovic at the left fullback position.  On the other hand, the midfield was definitely missing the creative playmaking abilities of Benny Feilhaber who did not travel with the side to Seattle because of an injury and the forwards failed to create a threatening presence to put the Sounders on their back line.  I believe that the midfield will sort itself out once Benny and Brad Davis (and Justin Mapp) return from injury, but it is the SKC attack that worries me most about the current side.  I am a supporter of Dom Dwyer, but there are moments in a match where he simply disappears for long stretches.  If Dom is our lone attacking threat, then we should be worried because while I fully believe he is capable of putting in another 15+ goal season; who will provide the cover when he needs a break?

Of course, this is only the first match of the season and I am pleased with the victory--SKC's MLS-leading thirteenth opening day win--despite their inability to put in more goals against a 10-man side.  There is still plenty of room for improvement.

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Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to catch either of the U.S. women's national team (USWNT) matches because (1) I was unavailable for their opening match of the #SheBelieves Cup on Thursday and (2) Sunday's match was only available via ESPN 3 and if given the choice of watching a match via online stream or satellite; I will choose satellite because my ISP is horrid and I would not be able to enjoy a consistent, high-quality stream.

All I noticed is that the USWNT left it late in both matches before claiming the wins.  But, I will chalk it up to the fact that the side is most likely featuring a few more "fringe" players in order to provide these players a chance to stake their claim for a spot on the Olympic team roster.

Anyways, that is it for the first edition of Pitch Notes.  Like SKC, there is still plenty of room for improvement, but there is still plenty of time to improve.  Until next time:  DFTBA.

2.254: WTF Donald Trump?

WTF Donald Trump?

Before I begin, I want to state that the opinions expressed in this post are mine and mine alone.  I would also like to state that nothing you read in this post will be groundbreaking or new.  In fact, you could say that the opinions expressed on the matter will be a rehashing of many of the same arguments that have already been used to attempt to discredit and delegitimize the candidacy of Donald J. Trump.  Regardless, he is the flavor of this Presidential election cycle and the presumptive Presidential nominee of the Republican Party and I want to express my opinions on this matter and then move on.

First, the man is the Presidential nominee equivalent of a circus sideshow.  Similar to the "Bearded Lady" or "Lizard Man of Bangladesh", Trump is a freak that piques our interests for a moment because there is a man shouting through a bullhorn:  "Come one, come all and see the freak of 2016 GOP Presidential nomination cycle!"  Only Trump is the freak and the man on the bullhorn that continuously shouts and yells at passersby to look and pay attention to him.  And if merely shouting through a bullhorn were not enough to garner your attention, then he will scream random lines of utter nonsense that, for one reason or another, intrigues someone ignorant to believe he makes sense.

Do you have a fear the illegal immigrants are out to steal your job?  Then Trump will say that he is going to build a wall (paid for by the Mexican government) along the southern border of the country.

Do you have a fear that Muslim jihadist will attempt to terrorize your favorite gentlemen's club?  Then Trump will tell you that he plans to ban all Muslims from entering the country while forcing Muslims already in our country to prove their loyalty to our country by registering their presence with the federal government.

Do you have a fear that your small hands will be seen by others to mean that you have a small penis?  Well, Trump will ensure you and millions of other Americans watching the most recent GOP Presidential Debate that his small hands (and thus, your small hands) do not mean he (you) has a small penis.  In fact, he will prove this point by clearly stating that he does possess a large penis.

So, seriously, WTF?  How has political decorum been denigrated to the level of immature teenagers?  Because we have allowed this occur through (1) the media's obsession with his crass, built-for-reality-television persona, (2) the public's shift in regards to the value of intellectual discourse, and (3) the GOP's ineptitude in smothering the issue long ago.

Of course, I would be doing an injustice if I did not include this clip from Last Week Tonight with John Oliver:

2.252: Things Ahead

Do you remember when I expressed my desire to reorganize this site?

Well, after two months of nothing substantive, I believe I finally have something tangible to share with you.

After a spontaneous but intense brainstorming session last night, I believe I finally have a basic framework for organizing the thoughts in my head into coherent and publishable posts.

Starting Monday (7 March 2016), I will begin publishing a series of new regular columns to this site. Here are some of the new (and not-so-new) columns I hope to introduce over the next week:

Pitch Notes

I love the game of soccer!  It is an incredible game that elicits a level of passion amongst its supporters that is unmatched by any other sports' supporters.  And while the game on its own is able to conjure feelings of immense joy and intense pain, these feelings are amplified when a supporter of the game directs he/her passion toward their national team or a domestic league club.  For me, my passion and support lie with the United States men's and women's national teams, Manchester United, Sporting Kansas City, and Atlanta United.  Pitch Notes will be a column dedicated to these clubs and teams focusing on recent results and current news related to each of these sides.  As of now, the plan is for Pitch Notes to be a weekly column that will publish on Mondays.

Random Thoughts and Quick Blurbs

Okay, neither one of these columns is new, but I am resetting the counts for both columns (even though neither column had more than two previous entries) because I want to and if The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl can have two Issue No. 1s in the same calendar year; why can't I?  Anyways, both columns will retain basically the same format as before though I may change the number of topics to discuss for both columns.

Smash the Stash

I love comics and I try to collect comics (finances-permitting), but I have a terrible habit of letting purchased comics fall by the wayside and before I know it; I have a massive queue of comic books I have yet to read.  Anyways, Smash the Stash is a column dedicated to helping me smash my queue of unread comic books and graphic novels.  Each week I will read a few issues (or all the issues I possess) of a series and I will share my thoughts on the individual issues.  Please, keep in mind that (1) my backlog of books goes a couple years back so many of the issues I read will have been released months (even years) ago and (2) I have no clue about the intricacies of the comic book industry so do not expect an expert opinion on any of the issues I write about in Smash the Stash.

For now, that is what I have and am willing to share, but rest assured knowing that I have few more ideas for regular columns for this site.  I am simply trying to hash out the ideas some more to ensure I am satisfied with them.  So look forward to some new content soon, but until then:  DFTBA!

2.251: Desperate Times

I am desperate.

In fact, I was so desperate that prior to writing this post, I was writing a desperate plea seeking “divine intervention” from whatever divine entity that would grant my request to be offered the position I interviewed for on Monday.

But, I stopped myself.

I stopped myself because (1) I know that it would be pointless, (2) I was creating an excuse (albeit, an implausible and ridiculous excuse), and (3) I was entering into the mindset that I am incapable of achieving goals on my own (i.e., I was devaluing myself).

If you could not figure it out, I struggle with issues of confidence, esteem, and self-image.  It is a problem that has plagued me my entire life and it is an issue that I must contend with on a daily basis.

I know that I am more than capable of not only filling the position I interviewed for on Monday but excelling at the position.  And yet, I find myself constantly short-changing myself and tapering expectations because of my previous failures.

I have to remind myself that I did my best and if I am not offered the position, then it is their loss. And I have to remind myself that there is a lesson in everything—successes and failures—and that one must always keep learning.

I know that there will be moments when I am overcome with anxiety and doubt, but during these moments; I have to remember that I am better today than I was yesterday and that I will be better tomorrow than I am today.

I made a commitment to be a better person this year and the years to come and while I will falter and be tripped up by hurdles, I can only move in one direction:  FORWARD!  I do not need “divine intervention” because everything I need is in me and what I lack today can be learned tomorrow.

Now, I am not attempting to degrade the individuals of faith that pray for divine intervention because if it gives them solace; who am I to judge?  Personally, I must learn to find solace from not only myself but from the experiences I encounter every single day.

DFTBA

2.250: More on Interviews

I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead of me.  Of course, the excitement could easily turn into bitter disappointment depending on the decisions of others.  Yesterday, I wrote about my disdain for interviews and I stand by opinion, but I will say that I am incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to even interview for a position.  The past four months have not been fruitful and I am on my last legs or to put things bluntly:  I desperately need a job by the end of the month or I am going to be hurting financially.  As for the interview that elicited my post from yesterday, I will admit that it did not go to plan.

This is not to say that it went poorly--I still firmly believe that I was able to exhibit my capabilities and knowledge; I simply wish that I had been able to articulate my points in a clearer manner.  I tried to be as casual as possible, but my nervousness shined as clear as the sun.  I attempted to be as honest and truthful in my responses as possible, but there were moments in which I came off as being too blunt.  (Another fine example of when "keeping it real goes wrong".  Please pardon The Chapelle Show reference, I still live in the early years of the 21st Century.)

Another point of personal contention was my inability to articulate points and avoid the use of filler words or noises in my responses to their inquiries.  I understand that the use of filler is commonplace in everyday conversations, but within the context of an employment interview, filler words can be an indication of unpreparedness and shine negatively upon a candidate for a position.  Of course, I have always been a more articulate writer than a speaker, but face-to-face conversations are incredibly difficult to avoid.

Anyways, I wish I had placed a greater emphasis on my actual experiences and skills rather than stray off into tangents.  But, as I said earlier, I may have done better than I believe.  What has been done is done and there is little else one can do about it now.  I can only hope that I am given strong consideration though I have been trying my best to taper expectations.

2.249: I Hate Job Interviews

I hate job interviews and I am certain that I am not alone.

I understand their "importance" in the hiring process, but I am so incredibly bad at speaking with strangers that interviews serve as more of a detriment than as an opportunity to showcase my qualifications and skills.

I have always suffered from anxiety when it comes to speaking with strangers.  Whether it is a job interview or when I have to address the public, I become overwhelmed with anxiety and my body becomes stiff and my brain grinds to a slow halt.

The only time I ever feel "relaxed" when speaking with a stranger or an audience is when they are laughing because I am acting "outside of myself" and behaving like an idiot.  It is my coping mechanism, but I am rarely in a situation in which such behavior is tolerable.

And a job interview is definitely a situation where behaving like the village idiot is not tolerated.  So, I suffer and my chance at being offered the position suffers.

I know in my mind that I am capable of amazing things if I am left to my own devices and that is why I have always preferred working "behind-the-scenes" and avoiding the spotlight.  This is why I could never be an actor (also, I lack the talent) or a public office holder.

I hate job interview, but until I am able to create an opportunity for me to be my own boss; I am stuck.

2.246: Wanted: Good Luck

Single, Asian Male Seeking Positive Vibes and Lots of Luck

Hello Universe,

I'm John and for most of my life, I have been a miserable individual that has been stricken with a string of negative karma and terrible luck, but I'm looking for a change if not long-term, then at least, short-term and specifically, in regards to an important life event that will be occurring on Monday.

People that know me will say that I can come off as arrogant, but I prefer to spin it as confidence though in reality; it is a facade.  The fact of the matter is this:  I'm a horribly self-deprecating individual with low self-esteem that is only capable of building himself up at the expense of tearing another down.

Yet, despite this major character flaw, I am intelligent and knowledgeable in regards to a number of topics.  I am also a law-abiding citizen with healthy respect (or fear) of authority figures that attempts to do as little ill-mannered actions as possible.  I am firm believer of the idea of treating others how you wish to be treated

So, Lady Luck or Karma, if you are looking to bestow upon someone your good grace, then I would be overjoyed to accept.

2.245: Quick Blurbs 001

I am going to try something different today.  If the title of this post did not already give it away, I am calling this new writing format, Quick Blurbs.  Basically, I pick between three or five (I will pick a more precise number at a later time) current topics and I have fifty words or less to express my opinion on the topic.  Now, I am seeking a source for determining what "hot" current topics to discuss, but I will figure that out as well at a later time.  For this initial Quick Blurbs, I will be drawing the topics from Facebook's Top Trends:

Screen Captured on 02/26/2016

Topic #1:  Cheryl Tiegs Hates Full-Sized Women

Honestly, who cares what Cheryl Tiegs thinks?  She had her time and if her time did not permit her to have a waistline over 35-inches, then too bad.  But for anyone to come out and attempt to criticize another person because they are comfortable in their own skin is lame.

Topic #2:  More Stupid $#!+ Comes from Raven-Symone's Mouth

If Raven-Simone wants to move to Canada because a Republican is nominated for President, then let her leave.  Clearly (or at least, I hope), she meant to say that if a Republican is elected President, but she is notorious for saying really stupid stuff (like a human being).

Topic #3:  A Rated R Dawn of Justice Blu-Ray/DVD Release?

If I actually purchased blu-rays, I would still have no interest in purchasing Dawn of Justice.  I rarely re-watch films much less purchase them so this announcement means nothing to me because I believe the film is going to be bad.  I am waiting for Suicide Squad.

Topic #4:  Ariel Winter's Smaller Breasts

Good for Ariel, but who is this person?  Again, if you feel comfortable with your body, then more power to you.

Topic #5:  #FreeKesha

I could go on a much longer rant about this situation, but I am not allowed.  If Sony were a person (and according to Citizens United, it is a person), then I would implore it to have a shred of decency and #FreeKesha.  Why torment her?

And there you have it, my first ever Quick Blurbs.  Personally, I enjoyed this format though I am distraught by what is considered important enough to be "trending".  I hope to do more of these in the future as well as more Random Topics, but until next:  take care and DFTBA!

2.244: Liga MX > MLS?

I voted today and I voted for...HA! GOT EEM!  But, seriously, it is not difficult to figure out which candidate received my vote.

Anyway, I have spent the past two nights watching (or trying to watch) the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals.  To be honest, I do not normally watch these matches because the matches typically pit Liga MX sides either against one another or against another side from Central America, but this year's quarterfinals are different; this year's quarterfinals feature FOUR Liga MX versus MLS matches.  Well, that was the angle MLS and most American soccer pundits decided to use in promoting the matches.  Unfortunately, it did not pan out as MLS had hoped as DC United fell 2:0 to Queretaro, Seattle Sounders twice floundered their advantage and had to settle for a 2:2 draw with Club America, Real Salt Lake also fell 2:0 to Tigres, and the Los Angeles Galaxy played to a scoreless draw against Santos Laguna.  Sadly, it is the scoreless draw from the Galaxy-Santos match that was the lone bright spot from an otherwise dim series of results, but even then, the Galaxy face an uphill battle to either win or draw against Santos away.

As for the remaining MLS sides, they face far more difficult tasks heading into their respective second leg matches:

DC United:  Yes, they will be at home for the second match of a two-match series, but they will not only need to score at least two goals (to even the aggregate score and force extra time and then penalty kicks) and not concede an away goal and given their performance during their first leg away in Mexico; it does not look promising.

Seattle Sounders:  Despite the draw, the Sounders face an even more difficult situation than DCU or RSL as they will need to head into Estadio Azteca and win.  Conceding two away goals to one of Liga MX's perennial powerhouse clubs has pretty much sealed the Sounders' fate.

Real Salt Lake:  See DC United

Now, there will be a number of articles published and discussions held over the next few days about why MLS continues to struggle in the region's premiere club tournament, but most of these articles and conversations will simply be regurgitating the same basic points:

1) Fitness Levels.  During the quarterfinal knockout stages of the CCL, Liga MX sides are well into their professional seasons while MLS teams are in their preseason.  For MLS supporters, the preferred method of remedying this issue would be to shift the tournament's schedule to begin and end within the same calendar year as opposed to using the FIFA club calendar.  Of course, there are detractors that believe MLS should be the ones to shift its schedule to match many of Europe's top domestic leagues.

2) Available Resources.  When it comes to club budgets, there exists a massive gap between Liga MX and MLS.  In Liga MX, all clubs are owned by private individuals or ownership groups that are permitted to spend as much as they are willing to spend on the purchase of players and their wages.  Meanwhile, MLS teams are severely hampered by the league's salary cap that is the result of the league being a single-entity organization in which the league owns the clubs and players while individuals invest in teams.  I saw a great tweet that made reference to the fact that even MLS teams "with cash" are forced to sell some of their top talents to Liga MX sides because they are unable to fit the player's wages under the salary cap while Liga MX sides do not share this worry.

There are plenty of other points to be made, but it is late and I have to be up early. So, take care and DFTBA!

2.236: Random Topics 002

Sorry, but I have not been feeling too creative today.  I have had a number of things on my mind and I have been unable to focus on coming up with an original topic to discuss.  So, here we go:

Topic #1

What you ought to know about One Punch Man.  Basically, OPM is the best anime series I have in some time, but I have not been watching much anime in recent years despite volunteering at an anime convention.  OPM is a fun series that features insane, over-the-top action sequences, easy to grasp humor, and heart-warming moments.  So, if you like that sort of thing, then you should check it out.  And now that I have mentioned it, I may go back and watch it again because I originally ran through the series on my iPhone.

Topic #2

What my dog taught me about finding comfort in simple things.  I have had many dogs in my life.  And the thing I love most about dogs is the fact that they are able to find such joy in simple things like finding the perfect shaded spot, eating almost everything that is thrown your way, and never worrying about human issues like debt.  Dogs are not high maintenance and they are loyal to the point of incurring personal harm, unlike cats.  Honestly, simply writing about dogs makes me miss my last dog.  She went missing around the turn of the year and I feel that I may have had a part in her disappearance.

I am going to stop it with two topics this evening because (1) I am getting tired and (2) the third topic I generated would require more brainpower than I am willing to commit at this moment.

2.235: Random Topics 1(?)

I am struggling to identify a topic to discuss for this post so I have decided to use a random topic generator to help inspire me tonight.  Here we go:

Topic #1

Oh, the irony.  I suppose one of the things I do to "beat" writer's block is to use random topic generators like "The Blog Post Ideas Generator" found at BuildYourOwnBlog.net.  To be honest, I am not entirely sure just how "random" this particular topic of discussion is, but it is a start and I am writing.  Success?

Topic #2

Since I am an expert at spotting the latest and greatest new trends, I am going to let you in on the next big thing.  Are you ready?  Here we go:  Funemployment!  Now, I know that there are some of those that are confused, but allow me to elaborate.  Funemployment is when a competent individual that actually fulfills the duties and responsibilities of his position is unjustifiably terminated from his position because small, petty individuals are incapable of handling opinions that are different from their own opinions.  Funemployment is fantastic!  It affords the funemployed countless hours to draft posts for blogs, tolerate ungrateful and despicable trolls that try to pass themselves off a relative, and wonder when and where one's next paycheck will originate.  Of course, I should warn you, funemployment is not for everyone, but if you want to earn hipster status; it may be the trend for you.

Topic #3:

To be honest, I am not sure how I am supposed to word this phrase (or question) regardless I am going to with the following:  Why I love to blame others for my shortcomings.  It is a simple answer: it is because it is typically someone else's fault.  I accept blame for my termination at the library, but I would be lying because who expects to be terminated from a position at which he excels and he goes above and beyond the call of duty?  Not me.  I could say it is my fault that I am seen as a poor older sibling for failing to care and support a troll, but why should I be expected to have any tolerance for an individual that cares little of himself and nothing of others?  Look, I am not a blameless individual.  I am at fault for a number of things (e.g., my aunt's income tax returns) though in many cases I still attempt to lay blame at the feet of others, but I know that I was wrong and it eats at me. I lose sleep at nights because of some slight I may have made at another, but I have come to realize that there are times when it is someone else's fault and I refuse to accept blame or lose sleep for it.

-----| J+30 |-----

I will admit that this approach to writing was good and I may utilize it more in the future, but I still intend on coming up with topics on my own.

2.231: Internal Politics

The Presidential primary election in Georgia is just over a half-month away and I still have not decided which candidate will receive my support and vote.  On Facebook, the majority of my "friends" are "click-and-share conservatives" (individuals that "share" contrived anti-Obama / anti-liberal headlines without taking a moment to see if the article has any basis in fact) that support either Cruz or Trump, but amongst my fellow liberals; there exists a steep divide between those who are "with [Hillary]" and those who are "feel[ing] the Bern".  And to be frank, I have observed the interactions between the two groups of supporters and it is discouraging.  The latest example of this degenerative banter amongst the two supporters groups centered around statements from Georgia Congressman and Civil Rights icon, John Lewis.  In his statement expressing support for Secretary Hillary Clinton, Congressman Lewis called into question Senator Bernie Sanders's participation in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s:

"I never saw him, I never met him. I was chair of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee for three years--1963 to 1966. I was involved in the sit-ins, the freedom rides, the March on Washington, the march from Selma to Montgomery. I directed the board of education project for six years. I met Hillary. I met President [Bill] Clinton."

Of course, every man is entitled to his own opinion, but given the amount of vitriol directed toward Congressman Lewis from supporters of Senator Sanders; it appears one's loyalties can cloud one's judgment and cause a normally rational individual to react ignorantly.  First and foremost, I have an immense respect for Congressman Lewis because of his role in the Civil Rights movement; the man literally had his skull cracked during the Selma march.  Congressman Lewis stood side-by-side with Dr. King and other luminaries of the movement and confronted the harassment, the threats, and the violence head on.  Congressman Lewis is the sole individual still alive that spoke at the March on Washington. It is one thing to simply disagree with Congressman Lewis about the candidate he has chosen to support, but it is an entirely different matter when an individual attempts to diminish his role in the Civil Rights movement, proclaim that he is a shill for the establishment (Congressman Lewis has been fighting the "man" for longer than many of his detractors have been alive), and insult his intelligence because he supports a candidate that is not your candidate. These individuals should be ashamed of their behavior. Yes, you are entitled to your position and you are free to voice your opposition, but when you hurl juvenile insults and profanities at a great man like Congressman Lewis; you have crossed a line.  Now, before I step too much further into the mire, let me simply say that this is merely an example of the sort of nonsense I have observed from both, the Clinton and Sanders, camps and it is disheartening.

It is one thing to engage in such behavior toward members of the Tea Party contingent of the GOP, but to act in such a manner toward members of the same party is harmful.  It is my hope that at the end of the nomination process, supporters of the non-nominated candidate would support the DNC's Presidential candidate despite one's initial beliefs.

2.229: Status Update and More

As some of you may or may not know, I have been unemployed for about five months now.  Initially, I joked about my predicament going so far as to call it "fun-employment".  At the time, I found comfort in the following assumptions: (1) I would easily find a new job, especially, because there was open position at a local library that is managed by the same individual that hired me at my previous library position and (2) if I did not get the position; I would be eligible for unemployment benefits.  Of course, neither of these things worked out:  I did not even receive a call in for an interview while an acquaintance of mine (a former part-time library co-worker that I actually trained) did receive an interview request (which he turned down because he had already accepted another position at the local state prison) and I was refused unemployment assistance because it was determined that I was at fault for my termination despite the fact that I was not afforded a proper opportunity to explain my side of the story (the Department of Labor reviewer made it clear through her tone and persistent requests for terse responses that she had no interest in hearing my case and had already determined how she would side).  I will not lie about the fact that I am still bitter about both incidences, but there is no point in continuing to dwell upon my past errors in judgment.  Rather, I have decided to take an opportunity to simply say that the search for employment continues and while the pace at which I am submitting applications and resumes is well below what one would expect from an individual in dire straits; I can only hope that something turns around for me sooner rather than later.

To be honest, I am uncertain of why I am writing this post aside from perhaps providing an update on my situation.  This is not a plea for pity because I have no desire to be pitied by anyone.  Instead, I believe it is simply a matter of me wanting to write and having nothing better to write about.

-----|| J+30 ||-----

Now, in a completely unrelated note:  Have you had an opportunity to see the new Columbus Crew kits?  Well, here it is (as modeled by MF Tony Tchani, left, and FW Kei Kamara, right):

SOURCE: Twitter | @TonyTchani23

My initial reaction:  "Wow, what a bold...choice?"  First, let's take a moment to commend the designers of this kit for attempting something different, but let's also take a moment to say that this design was a nice gesture that was executed horribly.  The kit is dubbed as the "For Columbus" kit and the designers drew their inspiration from the city of Columbus's flag, but at some point during the creative process; the designers decided to have one too many adult beverages and this led to a hangover that was never fully remedied.

Also, in one more soccer kit-related note (or more accurately, inquiry):  Who decided that it was a good idea to have New York City FC's secondary kits share a color scheme that is similar to that of the New York Mets?  I only ask because I could have sworn that NYCFC played its matches at Yankee Stadium.  Again, I'm curious.

2.228: (Unaffordable) Footy Swag

I don't often venture into the realm of fashion because I'm one of the least fashionable individuals you'll ever meet despite my personal fantasies of being named "World's Sexiest Man" by whatever magazine hands out that title.  But, I'm not discussing solely fashion, I'm discussing soccer fashion. On Sunday, the MLS club I currently support Sporting Kansas City released its secondary kit, here have a look:

SOURCE: Sporting Kansas City | www.sportingkc.com

Personally, I like it.  It's a simple design featuring alternating horizontal stripes of various width and shades of blue.  For me, a good soccer shirt is a shirt that could be worn in everyday situations without looking like a wanker.  Of course, this shirt will be priced out of my price range initially because everything is out of one's price range when you're unemployed, but I'm hoping that I'll be able to add this shirt to my collection of socially-acceptable, wearable soccer tops  Also, another positive with this top is how the corporate sponsor sits inconspicuously across the chest, drawing little attention unlike some shirt sponsorships and their logo placement (i.e., I'm looking at you Chevrolet).

2.227: Keep Dabbing!

Do you remember toward the end of 2015 and the start of 2016 when I said that I would be embarking on a journey to discover my one true focus?  Well, I failed or, more accurately, I failed to document it.  Now, I'm not saying that I embarked upon some sort of spiritual journey; it was more of an epiphany.  But, I have figured it out!  From here on out, I'm going to write about whatever I feel like writing about at the moment.  Of course, I'm going to say it right here and right now that a large number of my posts will be related to sports, but there will be moments when I feel like discussing books and films, cooking and dining, or politics and current events and I will write about these topics at will.  I realize that I am an incredibly complex and complicated individual and to attempt to define myself with a handful of descriptions is impossible.  So, I'm embracing the complexities, accepting the complications, and rolling with the punches to write about what I want to write about and when I write about them.

In fact, I'm going to start right now by discussing the relentless and unwarranted persecution of Cam Newton by sports journalists and football "purist" (or more accurately, racists).  I'll start by saying that Newton is the quarterback for the NFL team I support: the Carolina Panthers.  I'll also add that starting point for this particular post stems from last night's (7 February) Super Bowl post-game press conference in which Newton abruptly left the podium after being continuously questioned about his performance in the Panthers loss to the Denver Broncos.  The first bit to aggravate me was a retweet from Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre Foods notoriety of a tweet from Rob Lowe:

Wow. What a press conference from Cam Newton. So gracious!So classy! So humble! What an example to kids! Just like Peyton. #dab #SuperBowl

— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) February 8, 2016

So, here's the issue I have with this retweet and the series of tweets that followed on Zimmern's account:

1)  The belief that professional football players are required to provide a full account of their actions immediately following a game, especially, players on the losing team.  Journalists (or more accurately, pundits) and certain types of fans are always demanding authenticity and honesty from professional athletes and yet when professional athletes provide them with this authenticity (e.g., Cam walking out of the press conference because [and I am only speculating] he was emotionally hurt from having his worst performance of the season during the most important game of the season) they are quick to judge him as being classless or acting like a "spoiled brat" because Cam choose not to play nice with them.  Of course, the response to such a realization is that Cam is a professional player that is paid millions of dollars to play a game and he should understand his responsibilities and his position as a role model.  Sure, I could accept that argument if I accepted the belief that professional football players are merely overpaid assets within NFL's corporate structure, but I don't accept that premise because Cam and every other player in the league are human like me. Professional football players are human and they possess the same emotions that all other humans possess. So, for pundits and fans to expect otherwise from players is disingenuous, but that's not what is really desired, is it?

2) And this brings me to my second issue with Zimmern's tweets (by the way, please don't mistake this post as an attack on Zimmern as I really do like him and his show; it's just that it was his tweets I saw first): the idea that Cam shouldn't be allowed a passed because no one else "gets a pass".  To be honest, that's absolute (pardon my language) bullshit.  People, especially, celebrities get "passes" all the time. For example, a celebrity behaves irrationally (or in some instances, illegally) and yet after a few stints in rehab and a major public relations overhaul; all is forgiven and they go back (or continue) to make millions.  No one expects or should expect a person to have to be subjected to intense scrutiny immediately following one of the most difficult moments of their life; we typically "give them a pass".  And if for some reason one were to find himself in such a situation, then it would be reasonable to believe that he is well within his right to not be very cooperative with his interrogators, right?  So, why is Cam or any other professional athlete expected to behave in a manner that's any different what would be expected from ourselves?

3) And finally, Zimmern tweeted about how Cam asked for respect and that because Cam asked to be respected he is unable to "have it both ways" when he refused to subject himself to pointless scrutiny immediately following a loss in the Super Bowl. First, the issue is that Cam should have never had to ask for respect in the first place.  Let's be honest, did Peyton Manning have to ask for respect?  Did Tom Brady have to ask for respect?  And now let's be brutally honest, did any of Cam's successful white quarterback peers have to ask for respect?  I believe the answer would be:  "No."  Cam's white counterparts were immediately given widespread respect from the media following their successes whereas Cam has had to time and time again prove himself to the media despite his record-breaking on-field performances, his spectacular feats of athleticism, his unbridled joy and passion for a game that will undoubtedly shorten his lifespan and diminish his mental and physical faculties, and his caring and giving personality that his brought immeasurable to happiness to children.  One would believe that such acts and behavior would lead to immense respect from others but instead, Cam receives grief for his touchdown celebrations, criticism for fathering a child out of wedlock, and outrage for his immaturity because he has chooses to have and express emotions.

I have nothing but love and respect for Cameron Newton and it's not only because he's the quarterback of the professional football team I support, but because he's earned it.  Keep dabbing Cam and I'll #KeepPounding along with the rest of the Panther Nation.

2.222: Dying Inside

I am unable to put into words the amount of hatred I feel towards COVER LETTERS!  My god!  What is the point?!  Am I really going to miss out on a job because I am incapable of regurgitating my resume into a block-style letter format?

From the countless asinine tips from professionals to the vast multitudes of bland and generic templates for every industry known to man except for the one position I need, cover letters are redundant, ridiculous, stupid, and useless.  What does a cover letter offer that a resume does not or, better yet, a generic application of employment form?

Do hiring manager actually sit down and read any of these letters?  Honestly, the idea that an individual would rather read a cover letter over a bulleted list of professional experiences and academic achievements is baffling.  And yet, here I am--struggling to put together a series of words into a paragraph of sentences that will astonish yet not overwhelm, demonstrate confidence while exhibiting humility, and be dynamic yet not too over-the-top.

Read that last sentence again (I will wait) and reach the same realization that I reached many moons ago:  cover letters are contradictory pieces of garbage that serve the sole purpose of confusing rational individuals for the amusement of human resource managers and hiring managers.

I am honestly at the point of simply saying "FUCK IT!" and just writing whatever comes to mind (very similar to what I am doing at this moment), but I cannot.  Why?  Because I really need this job and I really want this job and because I have been conditioned to jump through hoops like a circus monkey in order to earn a treat.

If they want a cover letter, then I will give them a cover letter.  But, by god, if I am ever in a position in which I able to make hiring decision, then you can damn well believe that cover letter will NOT be necessary because despite being an asshole most of the time; I can be a nice guy too.

2.220: No Place to Hide

Tonight marks the beginning of the end of what has become a nearly two-year election cycle.  The Iowa caucuses took place tonight and as I draft this post, Ted Cruz of Canada has been declared the victor on the GOP side while the race between former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont remains neck-to-neck on the Democratic side with Clinton maintaining an advantage of less than half of a percentage point.  I could make the focus of this post politics, but there is plenty of time for punditry down the line instead I am going to speak about something more significant; my grandfather.

Today marks my grandfather's 85th birthday (that we are aware of) and as I sat on the couch across the room from him, I wondered about (1) would I make it to 85 and (2) would I want to make it to 85?  I understand that in the grand scheme of the universe, 85 years is a speck of dust in comparison to the unfathomable expanse of time (and I am being incredibly generous).  Regardless, I figured the answer to both of my questions would be a resounding NO!  For starters, I am morbidly obese, suffer from gum disease, poor eyesight, poor hearing, and likely, suffer from undiagnosed diabetes.  Of course, the aforementioned are only things that I am physically aware of and do not even include the mental frailties that reek havoc on my psychological health (e.g., depression).  But, I have gotten side tracked and gone off on a tangent.

My grandfather, despite his current appearance, is an interesting individual.  While he may only have 1.5 legs and dialysis tube protruding from his abdomen, his mind remains sharp and he is able to recall things that most people have long forgotten.  On top of his remarkable memory, he remains sharp though his physical handicaps make it appear as though his mental faculties have diminished as demonstrated by his ability to maintain a witty rapport with his children and grandchildren.  Anyways, I am at my limit for the day (time-wise), but my grandfather is an awesome individual and may he have many more birthdays after today.