We are more than a figure of speech; we have substance, and we have appeal.
It’s been said that comparing apples to oranges is not possible because they have nothing in common. So you can’t compare them. It’s like comparing walnuts to zebras. No way can you compare the two because they are completely different.
As a phrase, ‘apples to oranges’ is a figure of speech, an idiom, that is used in reference to two other incomparable things.
So why not compare them anyway? The only thing they have in common is that they are fruit, so they say. But what else do they share? An apple is not an orange, and an orange is not an apple. That’s a known fact.
Are they alike, and how are they different?
First of all, we need to know what an apple and an orange are. What are the distinct characteristics of each?
An apple is tender, crisp, sweet, and mild in flavor. An orange is sweet-tart in flavor and high in vitamin C.
An apple is an edible fruit produced by an apple tree. An orange is an edible fruit produced by an orange tree.
The apple fruit is celebrated for its sensory appeal, nutritional density, and deep-rooted cultural symbolism.
The visual appeal of an orange lies in its vibrant, warm color, which is universally associated with energy, health, and sunshine.
Apple to Orange, “We have substance.” Orange to Apple, “Yes, we do. I have a thick skin, but juicy inside.” “I may be thin-skinned, but I have a crunchy, edible flesh inside, high in fiber, and vitamins too,” said Apple proudly.
“You know, Apple, come to think of it, we have appeal,” said Orange amusingly. “For being so different, we have visual appeal,” said Apple.
This appeal of an apple is characterized by a combination of vibrant, glossy skin and a range of appealing colors. Frequently, the red apple is depicted in, and symbolizes, themes of freshness, nutrition, and wellness
The appeal of the orange lies in its bright, vivid color, which is considered joyful, optimistic, and stimulating to the senses.
Although the apple and the orange share some similarities, they are not alike. They are in contrast to each other. The best comparison is in their differences.
They are fruits of choice and are usually displayed next to each other at a produce stand or in a supermarket case. Yes, their contrast in a produce case makes them very appealing.
Yes, apples and oranges are used in other figures of speech. Let’s allow Apple and Orange to boast about themselves.
Apple to Orange: “Many expressions include my name. For example, ‘you are the apple of my eye’ and ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away.’ Favorable impressions about me. What about you?”
Orange to Apple: “Some favorable sayings in reference to me. ‘The squeeze of the day,’ meaning get the most out of the day. ‘As bright as an orange’ means very bright or eye-catching. By the way, ‘orange is the happiest color,’ according to Frank Sinatra. Pretty impressive, if I might say so myself.
Isla del Sol is an uninhabited island and is protected to keep it in its natural state. A very tropical feel to the island with its abundance of mangoes, fanned palmetto palms, and awesome wind-blown oaks. It is believed that the island was originally occupied by the Mango Tribe, who worked in the mango groves there. The island is also nicknamed Mango Island. Today, descendants of explorers live in a nearby village on the mainland. Isla del Sol is only accessible by canoe or raft. Visitors must paddle across a small inlet to the island, as did the island dwellers long ago. Abandoned and weathered canoes still rest upon its shore. The island is managed by a farm cooperative. Members who grow their own natural fruits and vegetables share them at a marketplace on the island twice weekly.
“Good morning, members. Another delightful day in our marketplace. I decided to add some color to make it look more festive and tropical. I have the usual six carts. They are now painted with a variety of pastels. I hope you like them. Thank you, Ernesto,” said Magdalena, manager of Mango Market. “Let’s see what you have, Diego.” “Mama, I have the finest coffee, tea, cocoa, and apple cider. The coffee today is 100% Colombian. I have English tea, the best Swiss chocolate, and fresh-squeezed apple cider. I have four decanters, one for each. Piping hot, ready to serve,” said Diego. “Load your items on this cart. It’s mocha brown. Place your cart at the end of the path on the left. The aromas will radiate throughout the market.” “I will, señora. And I have my earthen clay mugs and wooden spoons. Natural everything. Raw honey, fresh cream, and brown sugar cane,” said Diego.
“The breads, come ahead. Rosa, what a wheat wagon you have. Mmm, hot crusted French, Italian, and Cuban. Oh, the aromas will blend well with the coffee cart,” said Magdalena with delight and a smile. “Buenos días, Magdalena. Fresh from the oven. Spreads of butter, cream cheese, and apple butter. Clove and cinnamon sprinkles. These will awaken the senses,” said Rosa as she fans her hand across the baskets. “Take this cart. It’s painted with a pastel of clay yellow. Please, set up on the left, up front next to Diego’s mocha brown coffee cart. A nice contrast of color.” said Magdalena.
Feel the breeze, the warmth of the sun.
“Need fruit. Need fruits and juices. Come on up, Juan,” said Magdalena. “I got the fruits, señora, and I got the juice. Is tropical okay?” said Juan. “Of course, they look so luscious. The juice boxes are fine, as long as they are fresh squeezed,” said Magdalena. “I have papaya, guava, and ripened mangoes,” said Juan proudly. “I hope those are my mangoes. They don’t look like my mangoes. Are they organic and not supermarket?” said Magdalena with suspicion. “Not supermarket, but farmer’s market and I was told that they are organic. All natural,” said Juan. “Well, they’ll do, but please, do not tell anyone about them. They all come here for my mangoes, as you know, grown here on the island. Here, take the aqua marine cart. A nice contrast of color. On the left, right here, up front. Gracias, Juan,” said Magdalena.
“I need a hot food cart. Benito, I smell your tamale pies and burritos and sizzling sausage. Do you have sauce and cheese?” “Yes, I do, señora. And I have hot cheese sticks and nachos.” “I’ll be the first in line for your cheese sticks. I hope you have a blazing hot sauce for the nachos. Need mild too. Oh, your cart. Take this one, the pastel palmetto green. At the end, on the right, across from Diego’s coffee cart,” said Magdalena as she views the set up of the carts.
Feel the breeze, the warmth of the sun.
“Let’s see, the pastries. Ah, the smell of yeast, vanilla, chocolate, sugar and spice. I know you are here, please come forward,” said Magdalena with anticipation. “I have the cart already. Loaded and ready to go,” said Anna Maria. “Oh, my goodness, what a display. A bakery cart adds flavor to a marketplace. This is the perfect cart. Raspberry is the right color for you. Up this way, on the right, next to Benito’s hot food cart. Mmm, the blend of coffee, sizzling sausage, and pastries will compliment each other.”
“One last cart, a vegetable cart, please. Señora Alvarez, good morning. Your vegetables look so fresh. All organic, I hope,” said Magdalena. “Yes, indeed, señora. I have fresh golden corn in their husks, ripened cherry tomatoes, green and red peppers, red onions, and crisp lettuce,” said Señora Alvarez. “This cart is for you, brilliant orange. On the right, up front, here.”
Feel the breeze, the warmth of the sun.
Magdalena, with her arms crossed, looks at the marketplace on the yellow clay path, under the shade of the wind blown oaks. The sun is beaming through providing the light of day. She bends back breathing in the flavors of the market and she delights in the pastels of color she has created. “Everyone, this is the day, this is the place, this is the time for us to celebrate. Moments away before our first guests arrive. Are you ready? Do you all have mangoes?” “We are ready,” said by all the vendors in the marketplace. “And yes, Magdalena, we all have mangoes, plenty of them!” said Juan. All laugh.
“We are ready, then. I need two greeters at the entrance. Carlos and Alicia, can you assist me here? Remember to check their membership cards. All guests must be accompanied by a member. Must do a count. We only allow twenty five into the marketplace per hour. On each side of you, there are two tables of my fresh mangoes. Give one of each to our members and guests may have one, too. Oh yes, tell them about our sunrise market. It’s the day after tomorrow. Must be here at predawn before sunrise. I know it’s early, but that’s what it’s all about, the sunrise. It’s a two hour market open to only twenty five. That way, there will be room to casually roam, allow time and space to gather, and to enjoy the flavors of our food and drink.”
“Good morning, all. Welcome to Mango Market. A mango for you and a mango for you,” said Carlos wearing his straw hat with a colorful red band. “This way, please. Straight ahead. Enjoy your time in the market,” said Alicia wearing a long melon tunic belted at the waist with a yellow braided tie. On her feet are simple leather sandals.
Magdalena said to those entering the market, “Good morning, buenos días. Have a great time. We have everything for you. All fresh and natural.”
Just before noon when the market closes, Magdalena walks through the market talking with each vendor. “Everything good, Diego?” “Yes, used four decanters of each today.” “Benito, all your food is gone. Did you run out?” “Yes, Magdalena. I was raided,” laughingly said Benito.
“Rosa, you still have breads. What happened?” “Not too many bread lovers today. Everyone seemed to like the bagels which I don’t normally have much of a demand. And the cream cheese. Went like ice cream!”
“I know the pastries did well and I see they did, Anna Maria.” “Everyone wanted every one of them. The sweet breads were the most popular, conchas and, believe or not, the German chocolate cake.” “This is an island market, you would think,” said Magdalena. Anna Maria continue, “The frosted apple turnovers went like fresh apples picked from the tree.” “Did you save me a couple? You know what I like,” said Magdalena with a smile. “Yes, I did. The concha and the German chocolate cake.” Shh!” said Magdalena.
“All right, give me your score, Juan.” “I did well, all stopped here first because I’m at the front of the market. The most popular fruit was the Georgia peach. The most favored juice was pineapple,” said hesitantly by Juan. “What do you mean, no mangoes sold? How did the Georgia peach get in here? And the pineapple juice? This is not Hawaii!” said Magdalena, a little distressed. Juan to Magdalena, “They were requested, and I had a few under the counter. Yes, I got them at the farmer’s market, too.” “Aye Yai Yai! Next time, all mangoes, my mangoes!” said Magdalena, shaking her finger with a smile.
“Mrs. Alvarez, I know you came through for me, you always do. Vegetables. Everyone needs vegetables. How did you do?” said Magdalena hoping for a home run. “I sold a few tomatoes, and the husks of corn are always popular, but the rest are still here. I’m sorry no home run,” said Señora Alvarez, then said “I sold mangoes, many of them. Fresh from your grove.” “That really delights me, you did make a home run! You win the prize,” said Magdalena. “Prize, I get a prize?” said Señora Alvarez. “Yes, you sold mangoes. Above the rest! Here’s a bag of mangoes to go,” said Magdalena with a grin and a wink.
“Thank you folks for coming, the market closes in five minutes. Remember the sunrise market in two days. Only twenty five are allowed and must be here before the break of dawn. Reservations are required,” said Magdalena as she directs Carlos to close the gate.
What do truckers and sunflowers have in common? They have a cultural connection. Sunflowers are a symbol of the open road. They are often associated with agricultural landscapes and “big trucks” traveling through rural areas. Lastly, sunflowers contribute to truckers’ identity as a group. There seems to be a natural affinity between them.
Did you know that sunflower seeds are among the most popular snacks among truckers? They are easy to carry, contain the vitamins they claim to, and are affordable.
Another thing about sunflower seeds is that they give the driver something to do. Believe it or not, chewing sunflower seeds helps the driver stay focused. Actually, the way a truck driver eats them is essential. Cracking the shell open, usually with his teeth, he removes the kernel and disposes of the shell by spitting it out. This process, while simple, can help the driver stay focused by providing a small, repetitive task to do mindlessly.
You know, there are two kinds of truck hauling: short haul and long haul. Short hauls use smaller trucks and are usually local, with daily pickup and delivery, traveling fewer miles and spending less time on the road. Long-hauls use larger trucks, also known as “18 wheelers,” that travel “over the road,” meaning truckers travel long distances and spend long hours hauling heavy loads of freight.
A trucker’s time on the road can be physically and mentally taxing. Driving an 18-wheeler can indeed be monotonous, often leading to fatigue, reduced focus, and long-lasting boredom. To counter this, a driver may chew on, you guessed it, some sunflower seeds. As mentioned before, sunflower seeds can be easily carried and are an affordable way for a driver to stay focused and less distracted.
What is the real life of a long-haul truck driver? One who particularly likes to chew sunflower seeds and spit them out to keep himself occupied as he travels over the road. Chester finds sunflower seeds a dandy treat because they are tasty and keep his mind occupied. “It’s something to do, and I don’t have to think about it.”
“Yeah, I’m a real-time sunflower, I mean, I enjoy a couple of sunflower seeds as I travel over the road. They are clean, healthy, and crunchy, and I like them salty.” By the way, what is your name? “I’m Sunflower Sadie. It’s my CB handle. It’s how I identify myself with other truckers. When on long hauls, I sing to Jesus. He is always with me wherever I go. By the way, do you know Jesus?” Thank you, Sadie. I will remember you.
Hello, Sir, are you a Sunflower Seed Connoisseur? “I crave them particularly on long hauls across the road. They relieve stress, combat fatigue, and give me the energy to stay focused and alert.”
Hello folks, are you long-haul truckers? “I guess you could say that. We are retired and take turns at the wheel. Since we have been together for a long time, we found long-haul trucking suited to us,” said Jack. Do you enjoy sunflower seeds? “Yes, we do. I like to crack, chew, and spit them out,” said Rosie, and Jack nodded in agreement. How do you identify yourselves with other truckers? “I’m known as Cracker Jack,” and Rosie says, “I’m Crackin’ Rosie.” Appropriate names since you like to crack, chew, and spit.
So, it seems to prove true that truckers do have an affinity for sunflowers. It’s a cultural identity that promotes camaraderie among them. But consuming sunflower seeds is a unique habit for them. Whatever the reason, crack, chew, and spit is a practical habit that helps them to stay focused and safe on the road.
“José, tienes que limpiar las mesas. Los clientes están esperando. Pronto!”
“José, you have tables to clear. Customers are waiting. Pronto!”
“I’ll be right there, Carmina. Four tables are ready.”
Carmina to Diego, “Four pressed Cubanos. All the way. Pronto!” “Yes, Carmina, orders are up.” “Senors, there’s a booth over there. All set and ready for you,” said Carmina.
“Hello, I’m Alana, your beverages?” “Mango Tango.” “Cafe con Leche.” “Primo water.” “A Coconut Creme, please.” “Thank you, gentlemen.” “Here you are. Mango Tango, Cafe con Leche, Primo water, and a Coconut Cream. I see your sandwiches are ready. Cubano, Cubano, Cubano, and Cubano. Enjoy!”
“José, tienes que limpiar las mesas. Los clientes están esperando. Pronto!” “
“José, you have tables to clear. Customers are waiting. Pronto!”
José is a busboy. He’s the only busboy. He has three things to do. He clears the tables. He washes the dishes, and he sets the tables. And he does whatever he’s told to do. He never complains. Always greets customers with a smile. He has class. He has finesse.
Alana is the hostess and server. She greets guests, seats them, and is very attentive to their needs. She greets all guests with “Welcome, I’m Alana. May I have the honor of serving you? ” She is friendly. She has class. She has finesse.
Diego is the cook and sandwich maker. Prepares sandwiches custom to order. He does it well and the customers know it. Never forgets to make the sandwiches just right to the customer’s delight. He takes orders well.
Carmina knows how to yell them out to him. “Hey, Diego. We have eight guests waiting. Cubano, chilli. Cubano, gazpachos. Cubano, avocado. Cubano, salad. Cubano, pressed and cut. Cubano, vegetables, no meat, and two Cubano, Cubano. Got it?” “Yes, Carmina.”
Diego thinks to himself, She’s a bossy thing. So demanding. I don’t know how much longer I can take her. She’s obnoxious. But, I have a job to do. So get to it, Diego. Pronto! By the way, he has class and he has finesse, too. He knows how to take good care of the luncheon guests.
Now, there’s Carmina. She is the owner and the manager. Some finesse, but loses it when the pressure is on. She panics when the luncheon crowd increases. She gets overwhelmed by their demands and needs to get them in and out and on their way. She yells out orders, she rings up sales. It’s up to her to keep the patrons moving at a steady pace.
She is very dependent on José, Alana, and Diego. Without them, she would be a nervous wreck, but she already is. She can lose her patience and can be rude to demanding customers. No longer a friendly greeting. Just herding the cattle in and out the door. Always makes sure no one leaves without paying, even if the service is bad. She ain’t in business for nothing. No free food. Always thinking, no free lunch on me. This ain’t the soup kitchen. These people, all dressed in business attire, think they can run my business. Oh no, I run this show.
“José, tienes que limpiar las mesas. Los clientes están esperando. Pronto!”
“José, you have tables to clear. Customers are waiting. Pronto!”
“Hey, José, can you help me out? I have eight guests to seat. I need two tables pulled together, now! Please hurry up. Customers are waiting. Pronto!” Now, Alana is feeling the pressure. José to Alana, “Right away, boss. Pronto!” Both laugh.
José to Alana, “Just look at her. She’s about to crack up. About ready to snap at any moment.” Alana says, “If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen.” “José, I need to tell you something. I’m leaving after this shift. Start at the Barcelona on Friday. Carmina doesn’t know. I will wait till the rush is over, and before I leave at three, I will tell her. I have to leave, the Barcelona is a big step up for me.” “The Barcelona? You’re going to work there? Can you take me with you? It makes me sad, but I’m glad for you. You deserve to be at the Barcelona, you have class and you have finesse. l will miss you.” Alana hugs José and gives him a kiss on the cheek. She holds his hands and says, “Your day will come. I know you have a dream. It will happen for you. Dreams do come true.”
It’s just past noon, the line grows in size and many are waiting outside the door. Carmina sees them through the smudge filled glass. The name “Havana Cafe” is painted on the glass and it has peeled and cracked over the years. So has Carmina. Peeled and nearly cracked for good.
Carmina is ringing up sales at the register. She says, “Is your lunch satisfactory? Thank you.” “Is your lunch satisfactory?” “Yes, Carmina. Are you okay? You really look stressed. I’m concerned about you,” said Anna Marie. “Oh, I’m fine. Just a bit nervous. That’s all.” In a low voice to Anna Marie, “I have issues, and I’m seeing the doctor. He’s really helping me out. He’s pushing me to shut this place down. But, it’s Harry’s dream. That was forty-five years ago. Got to keep the business going for him.” “Just concerned, Carmina. Glad you are getting help. Love you dear.” A quick hug and Anna Marie is on her way.
“Senora, please, my client and I have to sign some papers. Only twenty minutes, then we must go. A table for two?” “Yes, senor, right over there in the corner. It’s private and quiet there.”
A very impatient businesswoman says, “What’s taking so long? You are so disorganized.” ”Do my best, lady.” “Don’t you know anything about time management? Is the manager here?” “You’re looking at her.” “This is ridiculous. I want to talk with the owner.” “You’re looking at her.” The lady leaves in a huff, saying to customers waiting in line, “Hey, you others, it’s not worth the wait. I’d leave, if I were you.”
“I need a table now!” said irritated, demanding man. Carmina responds, “Well, is that so? Seat yourself at that dirty table over there. Someone may be with you soon.”
“José, tienes que limpiar las mesas. Los clientes están esperando. Pronto!”
“José, you have tables to clear. Customers are waiting. Pronto!”
José responds, “Okay, Carmina, okay.” Carmina is feeling more pressure at the front counter. Continues to take orders and ring up sales. “That will be ten dollars and ninety-nine cents. Gracias, come back soon.” “Don’t think so. You are so slow. Can’t you speed it up? Here’s a quarter. Next time, you may get a dime.” “You are too kind, sir. Thank you for the tip. Have a mint on me.” Next in line, a man throws money on the counter, saying, “It’s all there. I know you can’t count.” He leaves and curses as he goes out the door.
It’s the end of the lunch rush. Carmina, with heart pounding and feeling dizzy, sits in a chair and says, “Maybe my doctor is right. This has become too much for me. I just hate to disappoint, Harry.” Alana sits down at table with Carmina. “I need to tell you something. I’m leaving. Start at the Barcelona on Friday. It’s been great working here, but I must move on.” Carmina shocked at the news, starts shaking and says to Alana, “What am I going to do? I depend on you and José so much. Please don’t leave.” “I’ve got to go. Good luck.”
“José, it’s just me and you and Diego, now. I need you to do Alana’s job, too. So, please don’t let me down.” “I won’t, Carmina, I promise.” So weeks go by, and they manage to get the customers taken care of as best they could.
Two gentlemen are waiting to be seated. Carmina greets them and beckons to José to assist.
“José, tienes que limpiar las mesas. Los clientes están esperando. Pronto!”
“José, you have tables to clear. Customers are waiting. Pronto!”
“Come this way sirs, welcome to the Barcelona, I mean, to the Havana. I have a table over there.” José starts to daydream, I need to move on, too. I have to go to a better restaurant where I can use my finesse. I have class and know how to take good care of the customers. I want to go to the Barcelona, too. Maybe my dream will come true. I will pray to the Virgin. She will intercede for me. Thank you, holy mother of God. He continues to do as he is told. He greets all guests with a genuine smile. He says it again,” Welcome to Barcelona, I mean, Havana. This way, please.”
“Please, senora, seat us now. We don’t have much time.” “Alana, it’s you. Welcome back. Ready to work?” Alana replies, “No, Carmina, my friend and I just need two cafe con leches and flans.”
“José, we have special guests, seat them now. They are already over there. Treat them nice.” “Yes, ladies, welcome to the Barcelona, I mean, Havana.” Both women laugh. “Alana, it’s you. So good to see you, and you, ma’am, welcome as well. The best dining experience for you. At your service.”
“We’re actually here to see you. I wanted Maria to see you in action.” Maria to José, “You are just what I need at the Barcelona. You do your job so well. You have class. You have finesse.” José to Maria, “Thank you so much. I do my best.” Maria to José, “Here’s my card, come see me.” José looks at the business card. Barcelona. Maria Barcelona, General Manager. “Wow,” said José. “I’m Maria Barcelona. It’s our family name and business. Established for nearly fifty years. Excuse me, I have a phone call to make. I’ll be right back.”
”Alana to José, “I brought Maria here to see you in action. I can tell she is pleased. She would never give anyone her business card, unless she is serious about hiring them. I’ll see you soon at the Barcelona.” José smiles, gives Alana a hug, then holds her by her hands saying, “You came through for me.” “Yes, I did, José. I planned it all along that you would go with me.”
Maria returns, “José, I’ll see you on Wednesday. We will talk about what you will do at the Barcelona. You will fit in well. Welcome to the Barcelona.” José gets hired and is working at the Barcelona. He is so happy and taking good care of the guests. All done with class and finesse.
By week’s end, Carmina tells customers, particularly the regulars, “I’m closing the restaurant. Next Friday, I will close the doors for good. My doctor and Harry would want me to do it. I’m taking their advice.” Patrons, each, tell Carmina, “Thank you so much for being here for us.” “It’s been my pleasure. Harry would be so proud to hear your kind words.” All applaud. “By the way, you all, I’ll see you at the Barcelona. Not to work, but to enjoy a delicious meal, their sensational service, all done with class and finesse.”
José gets his dream. Dreams do come true. “Welcome to the Barcelona,” José with a bright smile. He made his dream come true with the help of Alana, Maria, and Carmina. They prepared him to become his very best.
Occasionally, José would fondly remember…
“José, tienes que limpiar las mesas. Los clientes están esperando. Pronto!”
“José, you have tables to clear. Customers are waiting. Pronto!”
Being mindful is the ability to be fully aware of who we are and our surroundings. It’s the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.
Being grounded means experiencing the textures of the earth, whether it’s the grass, the soil, or the sand. It’s simply going outside, taking off your shoes, and placing your bare feet on the surface of the earth.
Touching the earth can help us to be mindful in the present moment. It can be a calming and pleasant experience. One that may become a healthy habit to return again and again for more.
Have you experienced being mindful? Have you experienced being grounded? If so, you may have encountered something unique to yourself.
Take Mary, she enjoys basking in the sun. She feels a renewed sense of vitality and energy after spending a short time in the sunlight, saying, “I’m taking in some rays of sunshine. I feel the energy and warmth of the sun.”
Mike is a Zoom driver. He transports passengers back and forth during the work week. He enjoys a predawn walk. It’s a unique, peaceful experience for him. It allows him to be mindful of himself and offers a direct connection with the natural world as it transitions from the darkness of night to the light of day. Mike says, “An early morning walk helps me to slowly awaken my senses. It helps me to become alert and focused. Most of all, it’s the only time I have for myself.”
Benjamin enjoys surfing and immersing himself in the ocean’s waves. Feeling the raw power of the ocean is a rush of adrenaline combined with the intensity of the moment and the need to be fully mindful and focused on the task at hand. He must be skillful and balanced on his board to avoid a wipeout. “Riding a wave helps me to be mindful of who I am and to be fully focused on the natural flow of the wave.”
Josephine is a twenty-year veteran high school teacher. Every day is a challenge for her in the classroom. She never knows what to expect, but has to be ready and able to engage students who would rather be somewhere else. “Every day I have to look into my bag of tricks to find some way to keep them interested. I always feel like I have to do all the work, but I’ve realized that I don’t have to; I can let them teach. Let them become a part of the learning process. They can learn by teaching each other. This has really worked for me.”
“I know I’ve been long-winded about this, but it takes a lot of energy to be a teacher. I have to develop a mindset every day. Now it’s time for me to be mindful of myself. I’ve heard about this grounding concept. I’m not entirely sure how it works, but some of my friends are into it. They feel grounded to the earth. Some take nature walks, others thrive in the sun, while others draw energy from the ground itself. More than anything, it’s okay to take care of me.”
“Perhaps I’ll learn to surf, not on the web, but on the actual waves themselves. I hear that riding a wave can be quite invigorating and refreshing. That Zoom driver, Mike, always talks about it. He has a friend named Benjamin, who surfs frequently. Actually, Mike often talks about Ben and frequently uses surfing terminology. Maybe Mike could tell him about me. He could tell Ben that I’m somewhat knowledgeable about surfing and that I have a keen interest in it, with an enthusiastic desire to learn. Hopefully he will agree to teach me the skills to surf.”
“I need to learn how to talk the talk. I need to expand my surfing terminology. Let’s take a look inside the surfer’s glossary.”
Aloha — Hawaiian greeting. “I need to know that word. How can you talk about surfing without Aloha?”
Amped — excited or stoked before, during, or after a surf session. “That’s me. I’m very enthusiastic.”
Hang loose — a Hawaiian expression for a relaxing, easy-going, and carefree attitude. “I’ve heard of that expression. I’m ready to hang loose.”
Hang Ten — to surf a wave with all ten toes on the nose of the surfboard. “How can anyone surf with all ten toes on their nose?”
Ho-dad — a wannabe surfer, someone pretending to be a surfer. “That sounds like me.”
Kook — a beginner surfer, an inexperienced surfer, or a bad surfer. “I am not a kook. I will forget that word.”
Mental — crazy or radical. “What’s crazy have to do with surfing?”
Shaka — a Hawaiian hand gesture used to say “hello,” “great,” “cool,” and “alright.” “I need to practice before I meet Ben.”
Wipeout — an unexpected fall off a surfboard while surfing a wave or a surfing accident. “I will never wipeout. A term I don’t need to know.”
“Well, that’s enough words to know. I’m ready to catch a wave. I need to arrange a ride with Zoom driver Mike.”
“Hello Mike, this is Josephine. Can you pick me up? I’m so excited about my first surfing lesson with Benjamin.” “On my way, see you soon. Hang loose, Hang Ten, Aloha.”
“Good day, Mike, thanks for your quick pickup. I’m ready for you to zoom me to my first lesson. I have been learning new surfing words. Would you like to hear? Of course, you would, be ready to be impressed. I have rehearsed my script to engage with Ben.”
“Aloha, Ben. I’m amped about my first lesson today. I’m ready to hang loose with you. My toes are ready to hang ten on my nose. Can’t wait to Ho-dad on that board. I know you may think I’m a kook, but I’m eager to learn. Shaka and Aloha.”
“Josephine, you have certainly broadened your surfer’s vocabulary. I think, for now, don’t try to impress Ben with words, all you need to do is say Aloha.” “I don’t want him to think I’m a wannabe, but I guess I am. But I am not a kook. I need to be mindful of who I am and focus on learning a new skill.” “You got it, relax and enjoy the experience of surfing. Hang loose, but no Hang Ten till later.”
“Here comes Rex. He thinks he’s king of the hill, but he is no king. A regal name, but the title doesn’t fit him,” says Pete, the cat. Pete goes on to say to Repeat, the other cat, “A lot more of us, cats, here than dogs. So, cats should rule.” “Yeah, cats rule!” says Repeat.
Pete and Repeat have been part of the household for a very long time. They are two chubby cats with yellow marbled eyes. They look exactly alike. Thus, their names, Pete and Repeat.
Rex is a stately and sturdy golden retriever. He is a very regal-looking dog with a golden coat that just glistens in the sun. Rex sets the standard of pedigree, and most dogs look up to him. He is a leader, for his proud stature defines him as such. A proud and stately dog.
One thing about dogs and cats is that most of them don’t get along. Dogs don’t like cats, and cats could care less about dogs. Dogs tend to be more sociable because they like to run with the pack. Cats are a bit more independent and can live alone, if necessary. But cats can be social but usually only with other cats. Will Pete and Repeat allow Rex to share their space? Can Rex give up some of his dominant behavior to get along with Pete and Repeat? Let’s just watch how all this plays out. There will be rivalry, no doubt about it.
Rex is new to the household and is claiming his throne. Rex says to Pete and Repeat, “I’m king of this house. I rule this place. I’m top dog. I am the boss, and don’t you forget it.” Pete says, “You’re not the boss, and you are not over us. We were here first. We are the favored pets and don’t you forget that, too.”
“I know it’s hard for you lazy housecats to submit to my reign, but you must; otherwise you will be deported. Not abroad but to the local pound, which is only a phone call away,” said Rex in a delightful yet threatening tone of voice.
“It’s either shape up or ship out. The reason I am king is because I have purpose. I’m the watchdog. That makes me the top dog. I do something, but you lazy cats do nothing. Well, this is exactly how I see you two cats…” Pete says quietly to Repeat, “Here come the insults and the putdowns. Don’t say anything. I’ll handle this first round.”
“Hey, lazy housecats, anything going on? Probably not. All you do is laze around all day long doing nothin’.” Pete responds, “We do have something to do. Nothin’! That’s what us housecats do is nothin’. Our purpose is to be lazy, do-nothin’ housecats. Nothin’ more.”
Rex says to Pete, “I am of the highest breed. We, retrievers, are smarter than most other dogs. Certainly smarter than any cat. I’m one smart dog and you’re two dumb cats. Look at you two. Dumb and Dumber. Maybe too dumb to learn anything. But I’ll give you a chance to prove yourselves, if you can.” Rex shakes his head and laughs out loud.
Pete says, “We are smart too. We know how to hunt. It’s just our nature. We can survive alone if we need to. I have never seen you dogs do much alone. Always running with the pack. There are two of us, and we are twice as smart as you. We were fierce cats at one time. We were lions once!”
Rex laughingly says, “You two, lions once? Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha. I don’t think so. You’re fat and lazy. What happened to your roar? All I hear is meow, but no roar. Come on, roar for me, lions once. Pete, let’s hear it from you first.” Pete attempts. “Meow, roar, meow.” “So, that’s your roar? What a fierce sounding cat! I bet all the mice are laughing too. They’re all running in fear from that ferocious roar. Come on, Pete, bellow it out. I’m waiting.” Pete opens his mouth and sounds ‘Roar, Roar, Roar, Roar!” “Now, that sounds like a lion,” said Rex.
“Repeat, you’re up next. Come on, show me the lion in you.” Bashfully, Repeat loudly and fiercely bellows, ” Roar, Roar, ROAR!” “Now, that’s a lion’s roar for sure. Repeat, you may be more of a lion than Pete. Sorry, Pete.”
Children are told from an early age to be nice to everyone, especially to those who are nice to them. Being nice means being kind, friendly, and respectful towards others.
Mom Jaylene reminds her children to use their manners at the family gathering this afternoon, “Both of you, Mary Ellen and Billy Bob, mind your manners. Gram is hosting the event. It’s a reunion with her brothers and sisters. Many of them will be there. Show them respect and use your manners. They’ll be watching, and it will be a reflection of me. So, please be nice.”
“Mary Ellen, I know it’s hard for you to be polite. Please try not to talk over others in conversation. Allow others to speak as well. Otherwise, it implies that you aren’t listening or that their thoughts are less important.”
“Yes Mom, but it’s hard to talk to Aunt Hilda. I feel like she’s not interested in me. She’ll say ‘bless your heart dear,’ then turns her head and continues her conversation with her sister, Aunt Maggie.” “Yes, she can be rude, but acknowledge her respectfully with a polite nod of your head, then move on to someone else.”
“Billy Bob, use the table manners I taught you: sit up straight in your chair, keep your elbows off the table, place your napkin in your lap, and use the utensils provided while eating.” “Yes Mom, I will do my best.”
“Both of you, use table manners, place your napkins in your laps, and be courteous in passing plates of food to others. Remember to say please and thank you. These are simple tasks, but are important, know that I’ll be watching and will be proud to see you using proper etiquette.” Both reply, ” Yes Mom, we will make you proud.”.
Mary Ellen says, and Billy Bob nods his head in agreement, “I noticed that many of these elder relatives don’t use much etiquette in conversation. All I hear them say ‘Is that right and bless her or bless his heart.'” Billy Bob says, “They seem to talk at each other and not to each other. One sister would say something not nice about another sister and the sister next to her would agree saying bless her heart, but doesn’t seem to mean it.”
Mom responds, “Yes its not nice, not good manners, to say something unkind about another. Better to say nothing at all, if you can’t say anything nice. We can learn from others what not to do. I’ve taught you good manners. Be nice.”
“Mom, I don’t mean to say it, but these relatives are old and seem only interested in each other and their memories of long ago. I don’t understand,” said Billy Bob as he scratched his head.
Mom explains, “For most elderly people, memories are all they’ve got. Many have fond memories of past events with each other and enjoy reminiscing about them. It’s only natural. Even though both of you have memories of recent events you have enjoyed together, you will one day reminisce about them.”
“Well, are you prepped and ready for the family gathering this afternoon?,” said Mom enthusiastically. Mary Ellen and Billy Bob respond, “Yes, we’re ready to get it over with, we mean, we’re ready to have a delightful time at Grams being nice to everyone there.”
Good manners are important across most cultures. In the South, manners are held to the highest importance. It’s a learned social grace. Being nice is to be polite, respectful, and considerate toward others.
There has been so much talk about A.I. We’re talking about artificial intelligence. What exactly is it, what is its purpose? It’s a bit perplexing; some seem to know more about it than others. It’s the talk everywhere, among students, corporate officials, gym patrons, and last but not least, at home.
Let’s take a look at who’s engaged in conversation about it. I hear there’s a lot of talk about it at Shady Palms Leisure Retirement Community. A place where upscale living is desired, but provides its residents with just the bare essentials. Shady Palms fosters an engaging and active community with planned social and recreational activities. One of the favorite amenities is Social Connections where neighbors can meet neighbors and talk just about anything. Sam and Helen Nelson are friends with their next-door neighbors, Abe and Doris Smith. They check in with each other daily, even if it’s just a friendly hello or a minimal chat about everyday occurrences or concerns. They are good neighbors and helpful when needed.
Sam enjoys his morning with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and his toasted bread spread with strawberry jam and sprinkled with cinnamon. Two important appliances are his vintage electric coffee pot and toaster. Sam is particularly fond of his old stainless steel two-slot toaster. A pass down from his Mom who served him toast every morning as a youngster.
Sam gives a call to his neighbor, Abe. “Mornin’ Abe, I can’t seem to fix my toaster. It’s part of my morning routine. I perk my coffee, then pop my toast. Can you help me out? That’s all I need.” Abe to Sam, “Be right over, should be an easy fix, no need to fray your nerves.”
“Come on in Abe, the toaster is on the countertop in the kitchen. Right this way.” They walk through an open area, then into the kitchen. “What an upscale kitchen. So state of the art,” said Abe as his eyes scanned the appliances and decor in amazement. “Yes, it is state-of-the-art, and I don’t know how to use it. Helen said she needed an update, was tired of living a mundane life, and wanted something to give her life purpose. She said it makes her feel brand new. A new woman with purpose. I don’t understand it, but she is just enthralled with it.”
“Here it is, see, it’s not working.” ” Show, me, Sam, show me, demonstrate.” “It’s not working. It won’t do anything. Sometimes it pops up, sometimes it stays down.” “Sounds normal to me, that’s what toasters do, pops up, stays down, pops up again,” said Abe. “When I press this lever, the bread goes down into the slots, but it stays down and my toast gets charred.” “Not good, Sam, not good. I see there’s a sliding lever at the bottom with a panel marked from light brown to dark brown. Have you adjusted it lately?” “No, Abe, see it’s set in the middle so it doesn’t toast too light or too dark, but just right.” “Hmm, I understand. What makes the toast pop up and stay down?” said Abe. Sam replies, “I think it has a spring mechanism. When you press down the spring, the toaster toasts the bread. When it’s done, it pops up, simple.” “Sam, I think you’re onto something. It stays down, and your toast gets burnt. The question is, why is the spring not releasing the toasted bread?” Could the bread be causing the malfunction?”
“You know, Abe, there’s a tray underneath that catches loose crumbs from the toast. Haven’t checked it lately. Let’s see.” Sam pulls out a tray full of crumbs and says, “That might be a clue to the problem.” Abe suggests, “Unplug the toaster, get a flashlight, and let’s take a look inside.” Sam shines the light into the toaster slots and discovers what appears to be crumbs resting on the heating coils. Abe locates the section in the toaster operation manual. Looking at the index, finds troubleshooting and reads aloud to Sam, “Removal of debris inside toaster. Caution: Ensure that the toaster is unplugged before removing debris. Clean crumbs from the tray. Reinstall the tray. Turn the toaster over and gently shake to release loose bread crumbs.” Sam followed instructions, and the remaining lodged crumbs dropped out. Plugged back in, inserted two slices of bread, pressed the lever, bread toasted, and the spring action pops up with perfectly toasted bread.
Abe to Sam, “Your kitchen is really impressive. You said you don’t know how to use it.” “Helen, calls it her smart kitchen. It does everything, all A.I. controlled. She gave me an instruction manual. It has two sections, Artificial Intelligence For Dummies and Artificial Intelligence For The Sophisticated. She suggested that I read A.I. for Dummies first and, as I progress, move up to A.I. for the Sophisticated.”
Abe to Sam, “You know, whenever some new trend or state-of-the-art technology emerges, many are fascinated by it, so am I, but after a while, it loses its novelty and normalcy returns until the next new trend or gadget comes along. But we have a choice, you can go with the change or remain content with wherever you are in life.”
“She knows I prefer to have our life remain simple and not sophisticated. Like my toaster, it’s simple to use and gives me much satisfaction. As I said, it’s part of my morning routine. It makes my day. I don’t need a sophisticated life. I’m happy and content and wouldn’t have it any other way. Maybe Helen will return to her authentic self. I know she will. She’s enjoying her euphoria over her new state-of-the-art kitchen, and that’s okay. She has purpose now, whatever that is.” Both Abe and Sam laugh.
“Now, Sam, back to your toaster. It seems to give you a purposeful life, one of simplicity and contentment. I prefer that too.” “You’re right, Abe, it does give me purpose. My old percolator still percolates and my old toaster still toasts. It may seem mundane, but it makes my day and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
