Beauty and Complexity: Part 1

I remember when I was a youngster and marveling at the height of the Sears Tower. Like absolutely any person who stood at the base of the 110 story, sleek office building..... I was in awe. I believe it took some 4 years to complete.

According to the most read book in all of human history: the Bible; the world took all of six days to complete. Six days.

Stick with me. Please.

As a father of two children I can attest to the fact that the incubation period for one human life is nine months. Sometimes it can be less. The eyes you are using to READ this took less than one year to create. Thousands and thousands are made each day. The eyes are only as good as the brain used to interpret the images. I'm assuming your brain may possibly be attempting to interpret what I am am trying to convey.

It is true that I am a Christian and I am a bit biased when it comes to the whole intelligent design versus "chance."

Between 1508 and 1512, Michelangelo "created" the beauty which is known as the Sistine Chapel. The Chapel is located within the Vatican in Rome. Micahelangelo had 6,000 square feet of ceiling to paint. He painted while standing on a scaffold, laying on a scaffold, paintbrush high above his head. During the summer months he would utilize each of the 17 hours of sunlight given to him. He sweated profusely in the summer and shivered fiercely in the winter. Until the ceiling became no more.

"Never....Never Say Never."

Since my most recent occupational separation, I have had a bit more time on my hands to help with "Dad" related activities. Don't get me wrong, I love an opportunity to get close with the kids. Changing diapers, washing ketchup stains out of shirts and picking up the 'little guy' from a buddy's house however, don't exactly qualify. I have been complaining a bit too much about these 'meaningful chores' lately. The truth is, they are completely meaningful to my kids and therefore are meaningful to me.

I am reminded of Dick and Rick Hoyt and the tremendous story and love this father and son team share. Dick is a miracle unto himself. He has to be. This guy, who is approaching 70 years old, has participated in nearly 90 Iron Man events with his disabled son Rick. Rick was strangled by his umbilical cord at birth. This left him brain damaged and unable to speak. Dick has pushed Rick in his wheelchair some 26.2 miles, towed him 2.4 miles in a dinghy while swimming, and pedaled him 112 miles in a seat on the handlebars..............all on the same day! They are approaching their 100th such event together. Please visit this link to check out their video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRHxHapwirw&feature=channel .

I guess the point in all of this is quite simple. I have absolutely no excuse for not doing the "little" things which make life exactly what it is: a blessing.

TECHNICAL UPDATE

Will return on 03/30/09. CPU Spring cleaning

A Rarity

It's pose is familiar to sport fans across the country. The statue alone measures 14" long, 13 1/2" wide and weighs a bulky 25lbs. The base of the statue: 65 lbs. It's the prestigious Heisman Trophy which is awarded annually to college football's most outstanding player. The conception of the award dates back to 1935 and was the brainchild of the famed Downtown Athletic Committee of Manhattan. The award was originally named the DAC award after the Committee and was renamed the Heisman Memorial Trophy following the death of John W. Heisman, who was one of football's early pioneers.

The initial design of the trophy was modeled after New York University standout, Ed Smith. The commission for the design went to renowned sculptor Frank Eliscu. Eliscu collaborated with several players and coaches in determining the appropriate pose for such an award. The result was a combination of the side step, the forward drive and the strong arm thrust of the right arm.

I recently had an opportunity to hold Johnny Lattner's 1953 Heisman trophy. Lattner was awarded the trophy as a halfback for Notre Dame. Even though Lattner didn't lead Notre Dame in scoring or yards rushing, Lattner was a force to be reckoned with at only 195 lbs. Coming up huge for ND when it mattered most against key opponents. Picking off passes, recovering fumbles and returning punts were just a few of his specialities. Lattner showcased the trophy for years at his restaurant before it wound up in my hands and the hands of appraisers most recently. BTW: previous Heisman trophies have sold for as much as $325,000

"Look Out.....Van Horne."

I'm 6'1 and weigh a buck 85. After meeting Keith Van Horne, I can absolutely never think of myself as a 'big' guy. I even tried to stick my chest out a bit to fill out my side of the picture. Not a chance. I felt like a toy poodle next to a lion. Look at the guy. He even looks like a lion.

Keith Van Horne was among the 23 former Bears at the Chicago Sun-Times 38th sports and collectibles show. Van Horne was a member of the O line for the Chicago Bears during their glory years. A graduate of UCLA, Van Horne was probably best known for his relentless protection of Jim McMahon. McMahon's cockiness always made him a hefty target for opposing defenses. Late hits on McMahon almost always resulted in Van Horne getting pissed off. It was that type of dedication to his quarterback, that made Keith Van Horne my favorite Chicago Bear from the 1985 Super Bowl team.

Not So Wimpy

Paciorek now has my complete attention. He and I now have more in common than just our love of baseball. Paciorek and I are both officially out of work. Paciorek has been trying to land a gig since the Nationals decided not to renew his contract back in 2007. I, on the other hand was let go just before my lunch break today. Economy.....metrics...and some other BS that essentially means I, like the other 8% of Americans will be fighting to feed the kids.

When I talked to Tom on Saturday, he was more than adamant about his disdain for Jerry Reinsdorf and contempt for Harrelson. I don't blame him. People who toss others "under the bus" for the benefit of highlighting their resumes need to get a clue. From what 'Wimpy' told me, Ken Harrelson falls into this "clueless" category.

I asked Tom about the blue uniforms the White Sox wore back in 1982, and he mentioned that aside from the collar, they were quite comfortable. I talked to former Heisman winner Billy Cannon on Friday. I should have asked him about state issued prison uniforms. I digress.

'Wimpy' has the distinction of being the only player in MLB history to have 5 hits or more in a single game; having not started that game. Paciorek is one of three boys in his family to play professional ball. Jim played for the Brewers in 1987 and brother John played for the Colt .45's in 1963. Paciorek originally signed with the Dodgers in 1970. He found his way to the South Side of Chicago in 1982 and was part of 'Winning Ugly' in 1983. He batted over .300 his first two years at 35th and Shields and was traded to the Mets in 1985. Of course, the Mets won their second World Series in 1986, and by that time Paciorek was winding up his career in Texas.

Tom is one of the nice guys. He isn't pretentious. There is nothing fake or deceiving behind him. What you see is what you get. Nothing Wimpy.

85' Bears Reunion

OK, so I was MIA for a couple of days. Guilty as charged. I don't have to cough up excuses since I work for myself. However, since you are probably one of a handful of people who take the time to read this blog, I will extend a simple and 'heartfelt' apology. I will be taking one weekend off of writing per month. This weekend certainly seemed ideal since I was busy out in Rosemont capturing footage for the Mounted Memories website.

Sunday afternoon was billed as a reunion of the Super Bowl Champion 1985 Chicago Bears. The cast of players included 23 of the Bears from that magical year.

In addition, Mike Ditka and Buddy Ryan were on hand. Coach Ryan was such a gentleman to talk with. It is apparent that Coach's step is a bit slower than it once was, but he was such a pleasure to meet. Coach Ryan was so elated to see members of his bruising '46' defense. Among those he shared special moments with on Sunday were Otis Wilson, Steve McMichael, Dave Duerson, Richard Dent, Ron Rivera and Gary Fencik.

Mike Ditka was in a cordial mood considering he had hundreds of pieces to sign. Coach and I talked about his autograph collection which he says includes mostly signed baseballs. Among his favorites; Stan Musial, Mickey Mantle and Ted Williams single signed balls. Of course, if you visit any of his restaurants you can get a up-close look at his Bears and Cowboys memorabilia. His favorite Bears piece he said was Walter Payton's signed photo in which 'Sweetness' breaks the all-time rushing record. More Bears stuff to come tomorrow! And if you're wondering if Ryan and Ditka shared any moments.......the water is still safely above the bridge.