The Death March

On By scottpetersenIn Workout categoriesLeave a comment

[A repeat from March 25, 2017] I go to the local fitness center a few times a week. When I come home, I often get the question “how was your workout?” And my response – for the longest time – was “fine.” And that was it.

But my workouts vary. Sometimes it’s a quick in and out. Other times, I’ll be there for a while – punishing my body. Grunting, groaning, lumbering and lurching through all manner of cardio, weights, stretches and contortions. So one day when I got home and Donna asked “how was your workout?” – I responded “I did the puppy dog.” I got the look . . . . “What’s that?” Donna asked. “I was only able to work out for 45 minutes.” “Oh.” Later that week, I went home, got the question and responded “I did the Gorilla.” Nearly 90 minutes of exercise. And so it goes. I have now identified four distinct categories of workout:

The Puppy Dog — A workout of less than 45 minutes

The Regular — An hour

The Gorilla — An hour to an hour and a half

The Death March — Pushing two hours

“Death March” workouts are rare but they happen. While on vacation a few weeks ago, ta dahhhh I set a modern day record . . . . .

Japan

On By scottpetersenIn Chiran Peace Museum, Genbaku Dome, Shogun by James Clavell1 Comment

One of my favorite books was the 1975 historical novel – Shogun by James Clavell (1921-1994). The book details the dawn of the Edo Period (1603-1868) but more importantly provides a semi-factual account of the gradual influx of Western influence. Since reading the book, I have read other books on Japan and years ago had a year-long course in Japanese. Since then – I have wanted to visit the Land of the Rising Sun. Fast forward to April 2025. . . . .

Donna and I just completed a 12 day Regent cruise around Japan (with one day in Korea). We flew in to Tokyo and spent 3 days on a “pre-cruise” tour. We visited temples, shrines and gardens. Once on board the ship – each day was a new area and tours of gardens, temples and shrines. Sometimes it was shrines, gardens and temples. . . . .

Seriously folks, our trip to Japan was an amazing foray around Nippon. Apart from the jet lag, we were up and at ’em every morning – hopping on a bus and heading off to see the sites in new ports of call. Years ago I learned to sing the iconic 1963 hit “Sukiyaki” by Kyu Sakamoto – in Japanese. I would occasionally warble “Sukiyaki” only to find surprised guides and locals joining in to sing. Maybe I have a future on “Japan’s Got Talent”. . . . .

The most memorable part of the trip was going to Hiroshima – and actually spending time at “ground zero” of that fateful August day in 1945. We visited the Peace Memorial Park and saw the Atomic Bomb (Genbaku) Dome – the only structure left standing where the bomb fell (which actually detonated at an altitude of about 2,000 feet). Nagasaki also provided a somber memorial. Finally – we went to the Chiran Peace Museum — a legacy to the 3,800 young men who died as Kamikaze pilots. Photos of most adorn the walls along with display cases with original letters home – to their mothers – expressing their sadness at leaving them.

All in all, a great trip. What would I do differently? I would spend a few more days in Tokyo to arrange a private guide or two. I would take the “bullet train” to Kyoto and I would check out the subway system. Maybe next time. . . .

Motorized Vehicles

On By scottpetersenIn E-bike regulation, Hoverboards, Motorized scootersLeave a comment

I was under the impression that a person needed a drivers license to use a motorized vehicle on the street. There was a requirement for “driver’s ed,” then acquire a learners permit and finally – following a written test and an on the road assessment — you got your drivers license. Well apparently my understanding of driving protocol is incorrect. Enter battery-powered scooters, hoverboards and motorized bicycles.

I am seeing more and more young people – and we’re talkin’ the 8, 9 and 10 year olds – who are zooming along streets and sidewalks pushing 20 and 30 mph. They don’t stop for traffic lights or stop signs. They’re often on sidewalks – weaving in and out around pedestrians. From what I understand, these new drivers have no licensed authorization to “drive” electric scooters, bicycles and hoverboards on the street. Do they have insurance? Helmets? Eye protection? Legal justification? From what I understand, their rights come from mommy or daddy’s okay. . . . .

Illinois has some hazy requirements for motorized scooters and bikes but I’m not sure any of them are followed. According to an article in Forbes Magazine (July 23, 2024), E-scooter and E-bike accidents are “surging” across America. Serious injuries. And worse. Am I an outlier on my belief that such motorized vehicles should at least have some regulation — and at least age restrictions? Mom and dad – if your little Mario Andretti runs into a tree or crushes some old lady – just remember. You asked for it. . . . .

Night

On By scottpetersenIn Anti-Semitism, Elie WieselLeave a comment

[Timely repeat of May 13, 2020] It’s a Wednesday evening.  You’re at home having dinner with your family.  Smiling.  Hearing stories from your children about their day.  And the doorbell rings.  Again.  Again.  Sharp banging on the door.  You put your napkin on your chair – get up and answer the door.   Seven hard-looking men in uniform, carrying guns, push their way in.  One, an officer, spits out the words “you have one hour to pack.   Be outside in one hour.”  He turns on his heel while the six men press into your home.  Guns leveled.  And your dinner begins to cool. . . . .

This scenario happened over.  And over.  And over again from 1939 to 1945 for those in Europe who were Jewish.  Once outside the door, families were often separated.  Sobbing children dragged away from hysterical parents.  Occasional shots rang out.  An infant might be tossed in the air and used for target practice.  Families stuffed into trucks or trains.  And transported to their death.  During the Holocaust, 6 million Jews – two thirds of Europe’s Jewish population – were murdered.  Elie Wiesel’s classic Night recounts a small chapter of the horror.  

The United Nations gives a smiling pass to China, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and other totalitarian governments.  The United Nations Human Rights Council includes Sudan, Pakistan, Somalia, Libya and Venezuela.    Who do they condemn?  Israel.  A lone democracy in a troubled region.  A nation trying to survive despite the violent networks that surround them. 

Increasing numbers of people – supposedly educated elites in academia – rise up and spew hatred at Israel and the Jewish community. I mean really?  

There are 2.1 billion Christians in the world.  1.8 billion Muslims.  One billion Hindus.  And 14 million Jews.   And who gets it in the neck – from increasing numbers of people in Europe, the Middle East and even America?  Read my post on antisemitism (June 1, 2019). 

It’s a Wednesday evening.  You’re at home having dinner with your family.  And there’s a knock at the door. . . . . .  

Night. 

The New Testament

On By scottpetersenIn I Corinthians, I Corinthians 3, New TestamentLeave a comment

[A logical segue – from November 11, 2013]

In my last post, I talked about reading the Old Testament.  I referenced some favorite verses therein (especially a quote from my father of the bride speech at Lauren’s wedding).  I just finished reading the New Testament.  Again.  Quite a trip.  The Gospels are interesting and inspiring as they have been forever.  The essence of Christianity. The Resurrection. Salvation. But there are some verses which I just had to write down.  Because sometimes one needs “special” inspiration.   

I Timothy 5:23 gives sage counsel:  “Drink no longer water but a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.”    So who doesn’t feel obliged to have a nice pinot noir now and then? 

I Timothy 4:8 admonishes that “. . . bodily training is of some value.”  So I (sigh) feel the push to go to the local fitness center a few times a week.

Which leads to the whole reason for a personal trainer.  I mean it’s right there in Hebrews 12:12 “Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees. . . .” 

But seriously, there is one chapter I discovered on a gray day in 1969.  I Corinthians 3.  For me, much of my faith seems to distill in these 23 verses.  The words are old friends.  I find peace.  Calm.  And faith.  Do you have a favorite Bible verse?  

The Old Testament

On By scottpetersenIn Old Testament, TanakhLeave a comment

[A repeat from June 11, 2012] I just finished reading the Old Testament.  Took me about 15 months (between other books).  What a journey.   Powerful.  Occasionally inscrutable.  Sometime scary. But also encouraging.  I did not come upon any Old Testament comedians though the word “laugh” does appear 96 times in 93 verses. . . .

There was a lot to relish in this literary endeavor.  Here are a few favorite verses:

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might.”   Ecclesiastes 9:10.  I keep this on a 3″ x 5″ card.

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying ‘who shall I send?  Who will go for us?’ and I said ‘here am I.  Send me.’”  Isaiah 6:8.  This one too. . . .

Isaiah 9:5 and 6 provides the refrain from Handel’s “Messiah.”   And Isaiah 40:1 and 2 gives the opening lines of Handel’s masterpiece.   

Isaiah 40:4 and 5 offer famous lines from Martin Luther King’s “I have a Dream” speech.

There is Psalm 17:8 which I quoted in my Father of the Bride speech at my daughter’s wedding:  “She will always be the apple of my eye and in the shadow of my wings.” 

And of course there’s Proverbs 17:28 — “Even a fool when he holdeth his peace is counted wise.  And he that shutteth his lips is deemed a man of understanding.”   This passage tracks my father’s not-entirely-Biblical counsel when I was young “better to keep your mouth shut and have people think you’re a fool, than to open your mouth and have them know you’re a fool.”   

Anti-Semitism

On By scottpetersenIn Anti-Semitism, Deborah LipstadtLeave a comment

[An appropriate update of June 1, 2019] Donna and I went to a local synagogue to hear James Carroll speak about his book The Cloister. The presentation was on a Saturday following Shabbat services. As we approached the entrance, we were greeted by a heavily-armed security guard – wearing body armor. We looked okay so we entered the temple.  And I donned my kippah. . . .

Mr. Carroll, a former Catholic priest (who remains a devout Catholic), discussed his book — and the love story of Heloise and Abelard.  But then he began discussing the issue of anti-Semitism which has roots going back more than a thousand years. 1.8 billion Muslims.  2.18 billion Christians.  14 million Jews in the world.  And who today gets an uneven distribution of hatred?    Yep. . . . .

I just finished the book Anti-Semitism – Here and Now by Deborah Lipstadt.  Read it.  Please.  Most of us are aware of anti-Semites from alt-Right jerks.  But there is anti-Semitism from illiterate progressives and those on the left. We see bigotry and hatred of Israel and Jews in American colleges and universities. For the latter, it is pointless to ask why they do not protest the bloodshed and human rights abuses in China, Russia, Syria, Saudi Arabia, North Korea, Sudan, Zimbabwe. Oh no. It is Israel that is in the cross hairs of the left.  And because many Israelis are Jewish, it is their faith that take the heat. 

In Europe it can be dangerous for a man to wear a kippah in public.  Synagogues are guarded by police (as now in the U.S.).  And Jews feel concerns for safety from the moment they arise in the morning.   Anti-Semitism.  Making a comeback.  But did it ever leave?   

Randy Rosenthal’s Chicago Tribune review comments and quotes Lipstadt’s work “And so if we think ourselves to be liberal, or progressive, or simply decent, ‘we must insist that anti-Semitism be treated with the same seriousness as racism, sexism, homophobia and Islamophobia.'”  Let me hear an “Amen.”

Donna’s favorite meal

On By scottpetersenIn Donna's favorite mealLeave a comment

Some years ago, Donna mentioned that her favorite meal as a little girl was meat loaf, fresh beets and mashed potatoes.  Soooo I made a mental note (I use 3″ x 5″ cards and a pen).   A few weeks later on a Sunday afternoon, I snuck off to Fresh Market and secured the ingredients for the “favorite meal.”  I drove home, donned my red “Mister Excitement” apron and put on the eye of the tiger.  Iron Chef Petersen. Grrrrrr. . . . . .  

Fresh beets are pretty straightforward – clip the long stems, wash and boil for 25 to 50 minutes depending on size.  Remove, peel and slice (yes, they will be HOT!). 

Then a small bag of organic yellow (or red) potatoes.  Boil for 30 minutes, drain and mash into 1/4 stick of butter, a half cup of milk and about 5 ounces of chopped garlic cheddar cheese.  Salt, garlic powder and pepper.  

Meat loaf has always been tricky.  Finely chop a Vidalia onion and saute the pieces in olive oil.  Roll that into 2 pounds of lean ground round [I am aware that some recipes include ground pork and/or ground chuck].  Add an egg or two, 3/4 cup of Italian bread crumbs, I like to add 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Donna now suggests I add a squidge of onion soup which I have done. Then shape and bake the mix for an hour at 375.  A rack is probably better than a meat loaf pan to drain juice.

While the meat loaf seems to be a work in progress, I score major points with this meal every time I make it (which over time is more often).  Love those points. . . .    

The Gutenberg Bible

On By scottpetersenIn Boca Grande, Gutenberg BibleLeave a comment

[A repeat from October 26, 2017] No book has received the attention or acclaim as the Gutenberg Bible.  The first example of mass-produced printing using “movable type,” the Gutenberg Bible is surely the rarest and most unique example of the printing art.  The Gutenberg Bible was first produced by Johannes Gutenberg in the 1450’s with the financial backing of Johann Fust.  The Bible was completed in an “edition” of approximately 180 two volume sets (Old Testament/New Testament) with perhaps 100 on vellum (no one is quite sure).  The great curiosity is that today only 48 are known.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gutenberg_Bible

When I acquired the rare book room of the Boca Grande Library in 1984, the one rarity they would not sell was a page from an original 42 line Gutenberg Bible (grrrrr).  While it is speculated that the remainder of Gutenberg’s Bibles have been destroyed over the centuries, I have my own theory.  I believe that somewhere – out there waiting – is a copy or two of the Gutenberg Bible.  Lying undiscovered, layered with dust, laced with cobwebs and swarming with dust mites.  My daughter has long suggested that I take a sabbatical to hunt for this treasure.  I may still do this. . . . 

The last Gutenberg Bible (Old Testament volume only) sold in 1987  for $5.5 million.  Today, one might fetch $30 million.  Individual leaves sell well into five figures.  If and when I find a Gutenberg Bible, I may then go on a quest – to seek out the yet undiscovered ships’ logs from that 1492 voyage of the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria . . . . .

Sermons

On By scottpetersenIn Benedict Groeschel, Erwin Lutzer, Rabbi Peter Rubinstein1 Comment

[A repeat from October 20, 2021] In my post of January 19, 2012, I mentioned “favorite radio stations” including WBBM (news); WFMT (classical music); and WMBI (religious). At the local gym, I listen to TED Talks, language lessons, speeches or sermons. On the “sermon” end of things, here are five ecumenical examples that I have enjoyed.

Dr. Erwin Lutzer is the former senior pastor of the Moody Bible Church in Chicago. His sermons are meaty and meaningful. See for example – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luSsQ_KgpAg&list=RDLVluSsQ_KgpAg&start_radio=1&rv=luSsQ_KgpAg&t=64 

EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network) is the global Catholic radio and television network. Years ago, on Sunday evenings, I would frequently watch Fr. Benedict Groeschel (1933-2014) – a Franciscan friar who devoted his life to working with the poor. His program “Sunday Night Prime” was not exactly a sermon but involved interviews and commentary. See  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EV8U2j1hVEM

On September 16, 2013, Rabbi Peter Rubinstein delivered a Rosh Hashanah sermon (titled “Choosing your Legacy”) that knocks it out of the park. There is nothing he said that one cannot agree with. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DaSqibU0aU Your life is a work of art. . . .

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the Mormon Church) has a number of interesting offerings. There is a wonderful series on Biblical teaching. One powerful example is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTO7-Jarl-E

Eboo Patel – a Muslim (and founder of Interfaith America) offers a TED Talk on the value of building bridges among faith communities (see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYLesUKHPGc ).

Wherever you are on your religious journey, the presentations above — can be educational and inspiring. We are all here for a reason. Presentations like these can help us to understand why . . . .