Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Commuter Rules

Today is August 31, 2010, and my commute has just increased by about 10 minutes. The reason: all those teachers and students heading back to school.

Many of you have probably noticed the increase in car volume on the road today, but have you figured out how to remain calm? I listen to music on the ride in to work, as it has the affect of mellowing out ones actions. It does not matter what the music is, just that I can follow the melody. I have also put away any distractions that may exist to keep me from seeing trouble. No phone (which is a new law in Massachusetts), no coffee in the car, and eat breakfast before getting behind the wheel.

It is about focus. Yesterday I was behind a car, and the car was increasing and decreasing speed by 15 miles per hour, plus swerving in the lane. I passed the car, and as I looked at the driver I found it was a young woman applying make-up in her visor mirror. I have seen people working on laptops, reading newspapers, and the worst of all, scrolling though e-mails and texts on the phone. There is no reason to endanger the people around you in such a way. If you need more time in the morning, sleep less. If you are already sleeping less, then it is time to evaluate what you can accomplish in the day because these items should not be done in the car.

There are too many people cramming into too little space for us to be driving without a clear head.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Online College Courses

There seems to be mixed reviews on the value of degrees earned through online universities. News agencies have run stories about different programs, which sometimes miss the full story. The truth about the value of the degree lies with each person and each program.

I recently graduated with an MBA from Walden University, and at times during the program I questioned the value. It seemed that I was putting forward effort that was not being recognized by the faculty, or that may not be accepted by the community in which I lived and worked. But I came to some very clear understandings as I progressed through the program.

The faculty was there to help guide me if I needed help and to answer questions that the students presented. Ownership over the learning was up to me, and the value of the knowledge was what I carried away with me. It was up to me to recognize that I was learning and growing into a more educated individual, and that praise from the faculty was far secondary to my own wealth of knowledge.

And as for the community in which I live and work? The majority of the community is not concerned with what letters follow my name. Only that I am a productive part of that community.

First Post

After much thought, I have decided to try my hand at writing a blog. I am not sure exactly what direction I will be taking with my writing. Initially I think I will try to just simply put my thoughts on paper, no matter what they are, and see what flows from there.

It would seem that I have a lot to learn, but some lessons are best learned by doing. I am certain that readers of my blog will be more than willing to let me know when I am making mistakes, and I welcome all levels of criticism.

We will see you all soon!