Sal's Reflections

I watched the HBO program “Newsroom” last night and was hooked on the dialogue. There was a scene where a News anchor responds to the question of what makes America exceptional that is riveting. He basically says we were exceptional but have lost that nomination because of the lack of leadership and parochial thinking dominates our political system.We are still a nation that is capable of meeting
the challenges of the 21st century but I believe it has to be from a bottoms up movement.We need to find common ground on infrastructure, education,immigration,job creation and the
revamping of antiquated energy and transportation policies. Our history is replete with daunting periods when the future looked bleak. I refuse to accept our current status and will commit myself to changing what ever small issue is within my grasp.

I am constantly reminded of the valuable role that friends play in our lives.They keep the memory of treasured past alive and are always there when we need them.It is their openness to us that allows the freedom to share our fears and dreams. It is they who stand by us in moments that shatter the human spirit
and raise their glass in joyous celebration at the peak moments we enjoy.They are the true blessings of life that enable each decade to be as fulfilling as the prior ones.

Everyone is current regarding the “Bucket List” concept but I think too many are postponing the list to some future date. It is never too soon to address some of the goals and experiences that enhance the human experience. It could be something simple or a mammoth goal that has always been lurking but never specified. My suggestion is to write the desired goals down, and today start at least the journey toward one of them.I have found real joy and fulfillment in achieving many experiences that once were only pure fantasy. My wish for you is that today you have the wonderful experience of the first steps toward your list.

Spent the evening with a variety of people who are friends of my brother and sister
in Vermont. Part of the night was spent in deep discussion about the beauty and value of those that work in the non profit world.Often, with limited resources,they who work caring for those who are marginalized, have such tremendous societal value. Having worked with many of these individuals I have found them to be as talented as those I have worked with on th profit side of the fence.The big difference is that often in the non profit world there is a dearth of assistance with regard to the growth and development of those who bear tremendous responsibilities. It is imperative that we find ways to provide ongoing training and coaching so that “burnout” can be minimized.

In the serene setting of Vermont we had a fascinating discussion about leading an”intentional” life.
Some opined that few have a conscious meaning or intention to their daily life and in a sense go through the motions.
As usual I have a contrary view that many if not most have meaning and purpose. It is not something that is at the forefront
of consciousness and certainly would benefit from regular periods of reflection.Caring for others,providing the ability for family members to have the basics required for growth,meaningful work and a host of other intentions that get us up in the morning.There are endless opportunities for every purpose to make a dent in one way or another. This personal quest to have our lives make a difference is not some idle task but rather the foundation that makes each life special .

Last night we had a fascinating discussion about health care. I was on the side that it is a right
and others believe that it is a privilege. My view is colored by the fundamental principle that
all citizens have the right to life ,liberty and the pursuit of happiness.Without proper health care
I do not see how any citizen can fully live the American dream. There are millions through no
fault of their own that have inadequate coverage and others have no coverage at all. The new
law is probably filled with major issues that need to be addressed but the goal in my mind is
correct.Dealing with illness is difficult even when you have phenomenal coverage. I hope that
the conversation in the future focuses more on solutions than the iron clad posturing that is currently
in vogue.

Yesterday at Minneapolis airport while waiting for the flight to Boston
I observed a beautiful young woman walking in front of me.She was
moving rather slowly because she had some sort of major handicapping
condition. Despite the difficulty of walking she had this radiant smile on her face.
I thought that so much of what i take for granted is a constant challenge to so
many others. The ability to see,hear, walk without major difficulty are not
the every day reality of millions.I am so grateful that I have those gifts and
appreciate the courage and determinism that it requires to live life fully
despite handicapping conditions

Sad news about Nora Ephron . She wrote and directed some of the most
memorable movie scripts that have become classics. Her
brilliant mind and uncanny ability to develop characters in such a way
that they were lovable despite human failings, resonated with people
of all ages.”Harry and Sally” still brings laughter though I have seen it many times.
She is gone physically but her work from the serious “Silkwood” to the
sentimental “Sleepless in Seattle”touches us and buoys the human spirit.
The power of film and the written word are her lasting gifts to all
that knew and loved her work.

Saying yes to each day does not mean that life then becomes
a fairy tale with endless happy endings. Rather it affords the opportunity
to see the myriad moments when we can make a difference in those that
cross our path.There will be opportunities today when our presence can make
a positive difference in the lives of loved ones,co-workers or even strangers.
The smile,positive word,email to a friend or an offer to lighten someone’s
burden may seem insignificant, but it will spawn further acts of kindness that will
ripple through the lives of others.

I laughed until my sides hurt yesterday while
attending the Broadway show”One Man,Two
Guvnors”.There is something wonderful about a thousand
people laughing hysterically for two hours. Burdened with
the often tragic tidal wave of news on the daily broadcasts
it is refreshing to see the wonderful part that humor plays
in the human experience.For two hours that audience
parked their cares and woes in the back of their minds.
It was a worthwhile lesson to again realize the powerful
part that humor and laughter play in all of our lives.When
laughter visits us the notion of community has stronger
roots in our hearts and minds.