isn't it? I don't know about ya'll, but 2008 at this blessed spot of glorious emptiness is getting a lively start. And to set the crazy mood, here's a funny Talking Heads video that fits the title. The Americana performativity (and, GAWD, I love that word) is fantastic. I'm on my second glass of wine - a rare occasion - and life seems so much lighter. The blood of Christ, given for you. So, cheers to a bright year. I hope this one brings lightness and love to you and all.




So, what's so wild?
1) I interviewed for a new role at my place of employment on New Year's Eve and got hired on the spot, despite having been out on worker's comp for three months. It's a promotion, it doesn't require being tied to my desk and it's an infinitely more rewarding position. Three huge points in favor of this job, especially the "not tied to my desk" part, because...
2) I had cortisone injections two days after Christmas; the effects were not a miracle cure. I've had about a 20% reduction in pain, which is just enough to enable me to return to work and not be miserable. This desk job has got to go, but that has to wait until Melissa graduates and gets a teaching job, and I...
3) am still in the process of applying for grad school. My psych professor, who I also know through one of our social circles, wrote one recommendation letter that was a revision of the letter he wrote for me last year. My "informal" zen teacher has graciously agreed to write the second, and it's coming down to the wire: The priority deadline is January 15th. I've finished my statement of goals. I'm a third of the way through the autobiographical essay. Three out of four transcripts are in hand.
4) My father is out of the hospital (got out right before Xmas), but he's not doing well, despite a wonderful holiday with all siblings present and happiness instead of drama (we're maturing and everyone knows Dad's fragile state).
5) Oh, and:  Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton won New Hampshire's Democratic primaryTuesday night in a startling upset, defeating Sen. Barack Obama and resurrecting her bid for the White House. Sen. John McCain powered past his Republican rivals and back into contention for the GOP nomination.

This is going to be a good year. Even though I'm in a career that is not aligned with my intention for contribution, nor the best use of my talents, it's with a fantastic organization with a great mission and fantastic people whom I've known for three years... and the pay ain't half bad (more than I've ever made). My health is improving, and I've got a plan of action to see more gains. My wife is smart, beautiful and endlessly fascinating and our relationship is the best I've ever had. The pain? Eh, it's just more grist for the mill. It's actually enhanced my practice. Fuck, now I know that I've changed. This practice shit...it's the bomb. It's savin' my lily white, balding, spiritually rockin' transsexual ass. And it don't get no better than this. Thanks for joining me on this wild, wild ride. Keep surfin' those waves.