Things I learned in 2011

Things I learned in 2011, or in some cases already knew but had reinforced.

Buying a 45 year-old car that doesn’t even run has been one of the best investments of my life. Even if I could remove the car from the equation, I’d gladly spend every dime again just to have all the memories of hanging out in the garage with my daughters, my wife, extended family members and good friends.

Most people don’t understand the difference between involvement and commitment. I sincerely thank those that do understand.

I have a whole lot more in common with my wife that I thought I did. Among other things, this is evidenced by the shocking number of times I’ve gone to the library and found that we both had the same book on hold.

Some people will still love and support you no matter how you disappoint them.

Some people will still disappoint you no matter how you love and support them.

Some people will never see the elephant in the room and insist on having nothing but superficial conversations.


Sitting in a living room while one child reads a book, another plays piano and my wife crochets is better than any entertainment a cable could ever bring into my home.

Living without a gall bladder is much nicer than living with a defective one. I really got tired of missing a whole night of sleep once a week.

Old friends will bend over backwards to make you feel welcome for no other reason than you happen to be on their side of the country.

Sometimes those who agree with you don’t understand when to speak up.

Sometimes those who disagree with you don’t understand when to shut up.

Sometimes those who agree with you don’t understand when to shut up.

Sometimes those who disagree with you don’t understand when to speak up.

This is by no means a complete list. I hope to add even more to it in 2012. Happy New Year.