Three Lessons From an Afternoon of Moviemaking

A week ago, several friends of mine and I got together to make short movies.  We really didn’t expect to get much done because when we get together we don’t tend to be very focused.  Yet, we all really wanted to get some things accomplished. We had only one complete script and two ‘improv’ type …

Defending My Life – Epilogue of Facing My Fears

I had hoped when I started the Defending My Life series that I would be able to have it culminate in some wonderful moment, a reveal, that would be cathartic and symbolic.  If I were truly a smart person, I would have timed it to lead right up to my 20th high school reunion.  I …

Defending My Life – The Ninth (but not last) Day of Facing My Fears

If we listened to our intellect, we’d never have a love affair. We’d never have a friendship. We’d never go into business, because we’d be too cynical. Well, that’s nonsense. You’ve got to jump off cliffs all the time and build your wings on the way down. – Annie Dillard Day Nine: Practicing what I …

Defending My Life – Day Eight of Facing My Fears

A thousand fearful images and dire suggestions glance along the mind when it is moody and discontented with itself. Command them to stand and show themselves, and you presently assert the power of reason over imagination. -Sir Walter Scott Day Eight: Putting skin in the game Teetering on the edge of finishing this little project.  …