The Ides Of March

We begin the ides of March, a date dramatized in Shakespeare's Julius Ceasar. Though it is over 2000 years after the events and politics of the Roman empire, we still recognize the date and the gloomy foreshadowing in our culture today. I don't profess to be an expert in ancient Roman history, but I do remember some things from high school and college literature class. As I recall, Ceasar was warned to be on guard during this time. In fact, I believe the line was, "Beware the Ides of March." Ceasar was subsequently killed in the Senate that day.

Through the drama of literature we can experience life, death, and all that lies between in history. This leads us to where we find ourselves today. We're in the midst of a rough patch at the moment. Economic upheaval and political unrest are the main news stories every day. Now, I don't expect any kind of modern day Shakespearean drama at any time in the near future. Yet there is no way to tell what the future holds at any time. Though, I just can't seem to get rid of this ominous feeling. . .

See ya.

The Lost Hour

This post is quite timely, since I'm writing it during that one lost hour that occurs every year. I am, of course, referring to that time when we move our clocks forward by an hour for daylight savings time. Changing the clock is one of the rituals that many of us endure. Even if you don't change your clocks twice a year, there is an indirect impact if you know or work with anyone who does.

Time and I have a strange relationship. In the past, I recall working against time for many deadlines. This is still true today. I disappear and reappear from this column from time to time due to all of the factors that make up my work and personal life. Before I realized that aging actually does have some sort of impact, I prided myself in stating that I could always find a way to make things happen. Although, I still try to make things happen, I finally realized that I don't always need to do everything. Most recently, I decided to take a month hiatus from my podcast, which was quite nice. I don't think I've taken a break in over three years.

There's a lot to be said about taking some time for yourself. Someone recently reminded me that time is something no one can borrow. However, there's nothing that says you can't claim time for yourself, or make time for those things that are important to you. In recent months, I decided to make some time to visit a few friends, past and present. I've also scaled back on trying to save the universe through volunteering. Don't get me wrong -- I'm still out there with all of the causes that I support. I just came to the realization that I need some time for myself, too.

I've got to make some time now to recover from this cold. May you all find your lost hour. See ya.