Bunker Mulligan "Let us endeavor so to live that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." ~Mark Twain

Posted some photos from Birdie on his page last night.

We’re watching Radio with Cuba Gooding, Jr., in the title role.

Gooding, as always, is very good. What struck me tonight, though, was his ability to embody the characters he plays. He is a black Dustin Hoffman. I know, that sounds racist. Hoffman varied in appearance and mannerisms in every role he played, especially early in his career. Gooding has the same qualities.

It is a rare talent. Most actors, even those I consider very good, tend to play the same person, regardless of role. All that changes is the dialog and costuming. Even that sometimes stays the same (John Wayne, for example). Tom Hanks and Denzell Washington are two terrific actors who come to mind that carry any role they have, but always bring much of the same to each role.

Hoffman, and now Gooding, bring life to the character beyond their own personalities.

The movie is based on a true story, and is pretty predictable, but well worth watching just for Gooding’s performance.

Yesterday I began thinking about why I started this blog in the first place. I wanted to give my writing mind some exercise.

My intent was to spend some time each day sharing my brilliant thoughts with the world, not caring whether the world gave a damn about my brilliant thoughts or not. I did not want to become the kind of blogger who copied a link, said a word or two, and left it at that. The purpose was to write.

I see now how easy it is for someone to become a linker. As my day goes by, I check different news sites and blogs. Eventually, something will make me laugh, make me think, or piss me off. I must comment. Rather than simply taking the time to comment on that blog, I go off and try to express myself on my own. It usually turns out poorly because I’m in a rush. If it’s a news item, I’ll link and make a post, but that’s typically just an echo–Glenn, or Trunk, or Eugene has already told the world about it.

Perhaps it’s because the internet is a place for sharing. We all spread emails around like confetti–jokes and parables alike. Blogs drift that direction naturally. Some of the better ones can keep a focus, Steven at USS Clueless, Wretchard at Belmont, and James at Porphyrogenitus are three I read regularly. But, it can take a toll. SDB took a week off, and does so ocassionally to keep his mind fresh. James is headed to Basic Training, and will be full of new ideas when he gets out.

Personally, it cuts down on my reading. No, I still read plenty each day, but most of it is on screen. My books keep piling up. I’ve always tried to keep three or four books “in the game”, rotating through as I finish one. Generally I’ll be reading a novel, a biography, and some non-fiction essay collection or history. All at the same time. But if you look at my Current Reading list right now, there are a few more. And there are even more sitting on the night stand I haven’t had a chance to look at except for a quick glance as I decided to buy them.

Writing is the issue. I need to write. But I need to do it in a more coherent way. If I can keep from getting pissed at some “drive-by” opinion monger.

I hope to write things that make people think. I don’t really care whether people agree with what I have to say or not. That’s what I enjoy about Harry’s Place–lots of well-reasoned opinion. And a faithful clientele who discuss differences. And if nobody ever reads my writing, I’m okay with that. Staff Sergeant Billy Webb destroyed any ego I showed up with on the first day of Basic Training (I still remember his name after 30+ years).

If what I write is worth reading, people will remind me to get my mind right when I stray. If not, nobody will and it won’t matter.

I forgot all about Texas Independence Day. What other state has one of its own?

Go to Blog o’RAM and check out Any Questions? and Touch of Power. The guys have some things that will make you think, if you brain is capable.

If you are a hockey fan, you will enjoy this from the Onion!

Even if you hate hockey, take a look!

I came across this one, and had to add it to my list to check from time to time.

Why?

“The blog for those conservatives who share some libertarian leanings, but cannot muster the undying faith in mankind that a proper libertarian must have.”

Kinda like me.