Sunday Night Television

It's not often I wake up wanting to share what I watched on TV the night before.

60 Minutes (CBS)  Last night's program was an interesting mix of stories.  The first segment pointed to the number of long-term unemployed Americans and a program in Connecticut designed to help them get back to work.  The number of mature, competent men and women out of work and the prejudices they encounter as they search for jobs are alarming.  However, the Connecticut program offered a strong ray of hope for those able to participate, many of whom are now employed. Even just watching this story felt encouraging as it showed that some people do care about and some employers will hire the more "seasoned" worker.

In the second part of the program, a Harvard scientist says that drugs used to treat depression are effective, but for many it's not the active ingredient that's making people feel better. It's the placebo effect (see www.cbsnews.com).  With 17 million Americans taking these drugs, this is an interesting - if controversial - statement, and there is sure to be further research.

The final segment was about a 21-year-old Norwegian chess champion with a phenomenal memory.  Not only can he play ten games of chess at the same time, he can do it with his back turned to the chess boards.  (I sometimes have trouble remembering my zip code!)  Magnus Carlsen is a gifted young man who also enjoys soccer and tennis and is in demand as a model.

Downton Abbey (OPB)  I found the conclusion of the second season extremely satisfying (even with a few weak moments around a Ouija board!), and comments on the web seem to agree.  If you are not watching this series, you are missing out on some intriguing characters living in a sumptuous setting in early 20th century England.  I believe the third season will not be aired until 2013, so there is plenty of time to catch up - or watch the first two seasons again!

Don't Go Back To Sleep

We had a generous dose of sunshine recently here in the Portland area.  Somehow it made getting up in the morning a little easier.  It seemed easier to believe something good could happen on such a day.

A friend of mine told me that she visited the Japanese Gardens during the good weather and was impressed by the clear view of Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Hood.  Even though it was still daylight, she could see the moon rising in the blue sky.  I could tell from my friend's voice that she was still excited about the experience and eager to share it with others.

When it's gray and damp out, getting out of bed came seem a little more difficult.  It seems there is less possibility or less anticipation that the day will bring good things.  Lingering in the warm bedclothes to sleep a little longer can be extremely tempting.

Could I be missing an opportunity by giving in to that temptation?  Here is a poem sent to me by another friend this week.

The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.
Don't go back to sleep.
You must ask for what you really want.
Don't go back to sleep.
People are going back and forth across the door sill

Where the two worlds touch.
The door is round and open.
Don't go back to sleep.

                    - Rumi