Fascination

In this episode, Fascination . . .

Why do people experience boredom? Have you ever pondered this question? I searched my dictionary for the word “bored," but it appears to have no meaning. Or maybe someone tore that page out? Anyway–

Some may argue, "Come on, be realistic; surely there are moments when you can't find anything engaging to do."

Obviously, we all experience times every day when we sit and stare with a glassy gaze, contemplating our world.

When you decide to schedule some free time, I challenge you to pick up a book outside your usual reading habits. Lately, I've been intrigued by Isaac Asimov's short stories from the book Nightfall, which I mentioned in last week's On the Fly podcast.

Today, I read the 1954 story “It's Such a Beautiful Day." The story is set in a futuristic society (2117) where transportation is primarily done through teleportation devices called “Doors."

The tale follows Dickie Hanshaw, a young boy who lives in a world where outdoor activities are rare due to the convenience of these Doors. One day, his family’s Door malfunctions, forcing him to walk – to school for the first time. This unexpected and traumatic experience (according to his mother) introduces him to the beauty of the natural world: the sun, the wind, the flowers, and the trees.

Dickie becomes fascinated by the outdoors and starts to spend more and more time exploring. His behavior becomes increasingly unusual, leading his mother to worry and seek help from a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist, however, begins to understand Dickie's perspective and realizes that the boy's connection to nature is a healthy and valuable experience.

Asimov masterfully intertwines suspense, fear, creativity, and joy. This story unequivocally explores themes of societal conditioning, the vital importance of human connection with nature, and the potential for unexpected discoveries, even in the most familiar surroundings. Fascinating–An inspiring testament to the human mind's ability to break free from the monotony of daily life and discover the thrill of creative expression.

So, my listening friends, I ask again: 'Are you bored?'

I'm Patrick Ball; thanks for listening. See you in the next episode.

Comments

Don Hanley said…

And I fine moving my little finger a marvel. How do I do this?

September 13, 2024 at 10:56 AM

Dr. Vo, the Solar Pro

In this episode, The Solar Pro . . . Have you ever considered your impact on people? Whether in a group or individual setting, do you think about the impression you make? In previous podcasts, I've honored my friend, Doan Vo, highlighting the enduring impact of seemingly small actions that make lasting impressions. Recently, a birthday luncheon was hosted for Dr. Vo at the Phoenix Renewable Services (PRS) headquarters in Carlsbad, CA., with a staff of about 30 present. I was invited to attend, working from home that day. As we greeted the employees with a warm smile and a handshake, the question kept coming up: “Are you going to sing another song for this event like last time?” I was somewhat shocked–you see– the "Take Me Home" song (click the link for those who missed it) was written and performed over two years ago. Despite feeling a bit silly at the time and experiencing some embarrassment while performing it, I was surprised that the staff remembered it, especial

Sierra Reflections October 2024

“Oh NO, not again!” In this episode, Sierra Reflections 2024 . . . This was my immediate and pressing thought as I squirmed in my camp chair at Trout Lake in the Eastern Sierra. A glance at my watch–4:45 a.m. on day three, Tuesday, October 1, 2024, of this year's Sierra adventure. There was no time to waste. Stumbling through the dark with my headlamp, “Hurry–gotta find that spot to dig yet another hole.” Without getting too graphic, it was day two of the “trots”– a colloquial expression for diarrhea. But let's start from the beginning . . . As autumn descends upon Little Lakes Valley, the landscape becomes a canvas of vibrant hues as we ascend Rock Creek Road off the Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway (Route 395). The aspens, once a shimmering sea of green, now blaze with fiery gold. Like falling stars, their leaves dance in the gentle breeze, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Fall has arrived, bringing crisp, refreshing air carrying the scent of pine and fallen leaves. The lakes sh

Silent Grid - Introduction

In this episode, The Silent Grid . . . In the sleepy town of Greenwood, where life unfolds at a predictable pace, a quiet revolution is brewing. A seemingly innocuous smartphone, a gift from the future, is slowly infiltrating the minds of its residents. Marvin Gellborn, a man who values his independence, soon realizes that his new device is more than just a tool; it's a weapon, a silent, insidious force that's erasing individuality and turning his neighbors into mindless drones. As the grip of the Silent Grid tightens, Marvin must race against time to save his town and break free from the clutches of this unseen enemy. Welcome back to On the Fly. Please click the link in the blog post to read the beginning of Marvin's thrilling journey to save his town and break free from the grip of the Silent Grid . This is my first attempt at crafting science fiction, inspired by a legendary figure in the genre: Isaac Asimov. He is known for his prolific writing and ability to make com

The Silent Grid - GridBot

Marvin Gellborn lives in Greenwood, a quiet Midwest town with just over a thousand residents. The village has one main street, a country diner that doubles as the town's social hub, a town square, and an old grain elevator that looms over the fields like a sentinel from another time. Marvin is a young, confident, single man with a strong jawline, sandy-brown hair, and piercing brown eyes. He radiates energy, and his practical common sense, positive attitude, and friendly demeanor make him a joy to be around. Ask any neighbor, and they say, “Marvin is the town's Renaissance man, fixing everything from leaky faucets to glitchy gadgets. He is known for his practicality, creativity, and dislike of unnecessary frills.” So, no one was surprised that he kept his ancient, beat-up phone until it finally gave out. When he bought his new smartphone, though, everything changed. This smartphone was different from the others Marvin had reconditioned. It was the latest model, sleek and fast,

On The Fly

Search This Blog