Usually their are certain days of the year when I try to keep my criticism and comments to myself, in the interest of the great holiday I will try not to be too provocative. Regardless of the origins of the traditional holidays we have in western society, I have always found it pathetic how they have been exploited and corporatized to make a profit. The Holiday Racket is out of control, and I've been wondering if people are aware of this, or if they simply don't care. I must admit, I love the holidays, I love seeing family and friends. At the same time I would never walk up to a Native American and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving. I'm sure it's all about perspective, and mine being a liberal one, I see a lot of the negative that goes in, and comes out Holidays.
Having a natural interest in ancient religions and spirituality, I have always studied the life of famous deities, prophets, truth seekers, etc. etc. Jesus being the most popular of them all, I studied a lot about his life, the lost years spent in India, I even researched some of the theories that Jesus visited the Americas and brought healing and a philosophy of love to the Native Americans. (http://www.wolflodge.org/sananda/walked-america.htm). Surely such an important figure to Western Society deserves a day to celebrate his life, I don't believe that message is lost at all on Christmas. What I'm really questioning is the date surrounding this very holiday. There are a lot of people that believe Christmas is simply a Pagan holiday marking the sun being reborn, and that the story of Jesus is a Roman myth intended to keep the status quo of the time. Very possible, although the more research I do into the subject, the more uncertain I am. One thing I am certain about, this very day, December 25th, and the annual celebration did not originate with the birth of Jesus. Almost all scholars on the subject have Jesus being born around September 11th 3 AD. What it most likely did originate from, was the ancient Roman festival called "Saturnalia" ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturnalia) held in honor of the Roman God Saturn.
The point of all this? I dunno, nothing maybe? Surely one can live there life completely happy not knowing that what they're celebrating on a specific day was a lie to them. The Ancient Romans, whom we in the Western world have adopted the majority of our customs from, had an agenda for the people at the top to keep the people on the bottom in a subservient-slave mentality. The Council of Nicea, was directed by Constantine and religious leaders at the time changed around Christianity to what we know of it now. A Christianity that better served the agenda of the Roman leaders.
The point of this is not to belittle, or destroy anyone's beliefs. I simply think it's important for people to do their research into things. I certainly think there's a possibility that I could be wrong on a lot of things, but I still put time into research and investigate to do my best at making an informed opinion or perspective. Given the paradoxical nature of the universe, one can prove their beliefs with one word, so clearly I've been wasting my time...
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
12/21/2010
So it's the winter equinox 2010 and I'm in a reflecting mood. I'm finding a lot of irony in this day right now, this day represents the sun reaching it's lowest trajectory, making this the shortest day of the year (in the Northern hemisphere). It also represents the subsequent rebirth of the sun and the movement back towards higher trajectory, making warmer weather and longer days. I also did some numerology calculations 1+2+2+1+2+0+1+0=9, nine is an interesting number in numerology as it represents the ending of something and the new beginning. Fitting that all this is going on in the universe, whether you believe in it or not, I find it interesting.
I'm experiencing a rebirth of my own, as this week I started a new job with a good company called Paychex. Although it's not what I see myself doing for the rest of my life, it is definitely a more challenging step up from my previous job. I feel like this is definitely a time in my life when I have to move in a different direction. I always believed the best change comes when you're most open to it, and not when it's forced. I don't know what exactly that means for the future, but I'm strapped in for the ride.
In the short term, the universe spoke a small message to me when Full Tilt Poker's server crashed while I was in the middle of 12 tabling sit and goes. I'm not sure if this means I should quit poker, but it's safe to say I'm done for the night. With that being said, I'm going to the YMCA to get a workout in...
I'm experiencing a rebirth of my own, as this week I started a new job with a good company called Paychex. Although it's not what I see myself doing for the rest of my life, it is definitely a more challenging step up from my previous job. I feel like this is definitely a time in my life when I have to move in a different direction. I always believed the best change comes when you're most open to it, and not when it's forced. I don't know what exactly that means for the future, but I'm strapped in for the ride.
In the short term, the universe spoke a small message to me when Full Tilt Poker's server crashed while I was in the middle of 12 tabling sit and goes. I'm not sure if this means I should quit poker, but it's safe to say I'm done for the night. With that being said, I'm going to the YMCA to get a workout in...
Monday, December 13, 2010
Why politics is a joke...
I spent some time today reading over online poker forums about the possibility of legalizing online poker. I learned more of what I already knew, politics in America is a joke and I actually pity anyone who thinks otherwise. Apparently Harry Reid the Senator from Nevada wants to legalize online gaming in America, heavily supported by the poker player's alliance, seems like a good thing. After reviewing this further, all the speculation at the time is showing that his interest lies more with the Casino industry lobbyists that funded him, than with the people that elected him. Not surprising, such is usually the case. It was the case with Bush helping Oil Companies, and now Obama bailing out Wall Street. More and more it becomes obvious that the two-party system is an utter failure that only gives the people an illusion of choice. Unfortunately, the people of this country do not hold the power they think, or even should have. Most do not even understand how much their opinions and beliefs are forced upon themselves since the time of their birth, and all through out their life. I wonder if most even know why they call themselves a Democrat or a Republican.
This reminds me of a time I was sitting in the breakroom at my job at the Apple Store in Las Vegas. It was election day, and I was pretending to listen to my Ipod while listening to people talk about the Presidential election. A kid that worked there came in after he voted, he showed everyone a picture he took from his phone while voting for Obama, the consensus popular pick of the breakroom. Next I heard somebody utter "Who is Cynthia McKinney? Who would vote for her?" To the eruption of the peanut gallery in laughter I sat there and thought to myself "I wonder what is worst, the fact that he is not well informed of all the candidates running in his countries election? Or the fact that he somehow finds his ignorance funny?" I wonder who should really be held more accountable, the person that can't think straight, or the media indoctrination of that person. I guess that's another Democrat/Republican question,.,.errr not...
This reminds me of a time I was sitting in the breakroom at my job at the Apple Store in Las Vegas. It was election day, and I was pretending to listen to my Ipod while listening to people talk about the Presidential election. A kid that worked there came in after he voted, he showed everyone a picture he took from his phone while voting for Obama, the consensus popular pick of the breakroom. Next I heard somebody utter "Who is Cynthia McKinney? Who would vote for her?" To the eruption of the peanut gallery in laughter I sat there and thought to myself "I wonder what is worst, the fact that he is not well informed of all the candidates running in his countries election? Or the fact that he somehow finds his ignorance funny?" I wonder who should really be held more accountable, the person that can't think straight, or the media indoctrination of that person. I guess that's another Democrat/Republican question,.,.errr not...
Friday, December 10, 2010
Perpetual Stagnation
I'm not sure what it is; frustrating job, bitter winter, losing at poker, could be a mixture of a lot of things. The problems compiling at this moment doesn't change the fact that they have been here for the past year and a half, to two years. Actually there hasn't been real progress in my life since I came home from Las Vegas. I remember a time when the answers to a problem came to me from every where, books, omens, meeting new people, I lived a carefree life where anything I wanted came to me. Being a minimalist at heart, I never wanted a lot, but what I desired was always obtainable. Times seem different now, I feel like I'm Bill Murray in "Groundhogs Day" and nothing I seem to do can stop it. Sometimes I wonder if another two years will pass and I will still be grinding online poker tournaments on a meager bankroll, still not coming close to paying off the debt I built on myself.
I remember when I saw the movie "Inception" and I heard the famous quote "Ideas are like viruses", I thought how true that really was. It's happened plenty of times with me, I let a thought creep into my head that did damage to my psyche. Sort of like when an achievement is made that was once thought to be impossible, it happens consistently there after once the critical mass gets the idea that it's possible, well the opposite happens with me. Once I realized I could fail, or I didn't have control over a situation the floodgates opened. The truth is, I'm the only one to blame. I should have never thought bliss would last forever, that I would always win at poker, always have positive relationships, continue to attract into my life everything I need, or simply to believe that the peaks would always significantly outweigh the valleys. They haven't, not even close. As much as I think of my lack of progress the last two years, I feel this is all necessary. I can only imagine how hard it would be if I was not prepared for a big fall. What if I went to be 35 with out any significant deterrents in my life? Would I be a better person? Still humble? One thing is for sure, things have to change. I know I can grind, know I have a strong work ethic, and can make sacrifices. But, the fact is, NONE of that has worked. I feel like it was my destiny in life to fail the past two years, so many things in my life that I held sacred have disappeared. I've lost friends, had numerous failed poker backing arrangements, forced to leave Vegas because of my financial woes, had my heart broken, broke somebody else's heart. I feel like the first 26 years of my life never prepared me for what I've encountered the past two years. I wish life was always as easy as it was before 2009, that I could do all the things I want, with no worries.
I'm realizing now just how much of a turning point I am in my life, I was told by a friend I worked woth at the "Kabbalah Centre" that Saturn Returns to the degree occupied at the time of your birth between the ages of 27-30, and at that time major changes happen in your life. I've never been 100% sold on Astrology, but I'm certain all that is happening is no coincidence. It's time,I have to initiate change, and I have, but it's difficult to know what to change and what not to. I think it's time to let fate worry about all of that, in a time of growth there will always be things left behind, incapable of growing with you. It's none of my business who or what can or will grow with me, it is my business to plant my own seeds, cultivate them, and watch them grow and blossom. What I need is a glimmer of hope to turn it around, an idea to spread wildly, hope that there is a bright shining light at the end of the tunnel for me to run to. That's all I need...
I remember when I saw the movie "Inception" and I heard the famous quote "Ideas are like viruses", I thought how true that really was. It's happened plenty of times with me, I let a thought creep into my head that did damage to my psyche. Sort of like when an achievement is made that was once thought to be impossible, it happens consistently there after once the critical mass gets the idea that it's possible, well the opposite happens with me. Once I realized I could fail, or I didn't have control over a situation the floodgates opened. The truth is, I'm the only one to blame. I should have never thought bliss would last forever, that I would always win at poker, always have positive relationships, continue to attract into my life everything I need, or simply to believe that the peaks would always significantly outweigh the valleys. They haven't, not even close. As much as I think of my lack of progress the last two years, I feel this is all necessary. I can only imagine how hard it would be if I was not prepared for a big fall. What if I went to be 35 with out any significant deterrents in my life? Would I be a better person? Still humble? One thing is for sure, things have to change. I know I can grind, know I have a strong work ethic, and can make sacrifices. But, the fact is, NONE of that has worked. I feel like it was my destiny in life to fail the past two years, so many things in my life that I held sacred have disappeared. I've lost friends, had numerous failed poker backing arrangements, forced to leave Vegas because of my financial woes, had my heart broken, broke somebody else's heart. I feel like the first 26 years of my life never prepared me for what I've encountered the past two years. I wish life was always as easy as it was before 2009, that I could do all the things I want, with no worries.
I'm realizing now just how much of a turning point I am in my life, I was told by a friend I worked woth at the "Kabbalah Centre" that Saturn Returns to the degree occupied at the time of your birth between the ages of 27-30, and at that time major changes happen in your life. I've never been 100% sold on Astrology, but I'm certain all that is happening is no coincidence. It's time,I have to initiate change, and I have, but it's difficult to know what to change and what not to. I think it's time to let fate worry about all of that, in a time of growth there will always be things left behind, incapable of growing with you. It's none of my business who or what can or will grow with me, it is my business to plant my own seeds, cultivate them, and watch them grow and blossom. What I need is a glimmer of hope to turn it around, an idea to spread wildly, hope that there is a bright shining light at the end of the tunnel for me to run to. That's all I need...
Monday, November 29, 2010
What is defense, exactly?
So the other day, in the midst of six tabling micro sit n goes, I happened to catch the ending of the Miami Heat/Dallas Mavericks basketball contest via internet stream. Although I hate to relish in the downfall of other human beings, the sadistic side of me finds it hilarious when the Heat lose. Not even because it's fashionable to hate on those guys, but more because you never know what kind of ignorant post-game quote you will get from one of their Big 3. So with about a minute or so left in the game, I caught a break from poker to focus in on a play, Jason Kidd had the ball on the left wing and Caron Butler cut right across the middle of the paint from the opposite elbow, caught the pass and made a lay-up to extend the lead. The importance of this was King James happened to be chasing behind him, completely out of position, when Butler made this uncontested lay-up.
The first thing that came to my mind was, "I'm glad I don't coach that team, he probably would have knocked me out for all of the expletives I would yell at him after he let the dude get a free lay-up."
The second thing that came to my mind was, "Does this guy understand anything at all about off the ball defense?"
The third thing that came to my mind was, "I feel bad for Erik Spoelstra, not only does he have to manage all of these egotistical sub-mentals, but he has to teach NBA players how to play proper off the ball defense, they should learn that in eighth grade."
To put it plainly, his defense on that play was atrocious. It's not like he got out muscled, outwitted, or somebody set a pic on him, Lebron pretty much watched the dude cut right in front of him, seal off his body, catch a pass and make a lay-up. Isn't one of the main tenets of defense to stay between your guy and the guy with the ball? Maybe the 'King' has his own idea on what effective defense is. I must say it's ironic that his idea of defense goes hand in hand with what David Stern wants the NBA to be, no substance, all flair, a league run by the superstars. How else can one explain a guy getting beat on routine plays like this one being a multiple all-defensive pick. I'm sure it has a lot to do with his highlight come from behind blocks that he gets once a game. I bet those blocks are set up off the transition opportunities the opposing team gets from one of his ill-advised 25 foot jump shots he throws at the rim. Yeah the dude might make a miraculous out-of-nowhere block once in a while, but does that make him a great defender? No, it doesn't. To refer to Lebron as a Blue-Collar defender, like I've heard a few times is blasphemous at best.
So if you don't believe me, look for yourself at about the 2:00 minute mark is the play in question.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCcK-KgYwXE
While I am being critical what happened at the :47 second mark when his defensive rotation was to slow to seal off Shawn Marion from getting an easy put back? How about at the 1:18 mark when he took a few seconds admiring his brick that he couldn't get back on defense to stop Caron Butler from getting a lay-up? These points add up!! 1:33 good close out on the shooter!! I feel bad for the people out there that think he's a good defender, there's a few of you. Then again, the stats don't support my feelings on his defensive ability, or lack of. But, as the axiom goes, "numbers don't lie." Or do they? I'm sure I'm the crazy one here...
PS:
I'm curious as to what would happen if you put Lebron with a defensive coach like Greg Poppovich? Would he learn all the finer points of defense, as well as still be able to make the highlight-reel plays? Or would he do the same thing he did in Cleveland with Poppovich's protege and not listen to him? I guess this is the problem with naming somebody the 'King' before they finish puberty, as my man Deuce would say "can't tell him shit!"
PS*2:
I think it's time to admit, the game of basketball is deteriorating. I think Jordan might have punched one of his teammates in the face if they played defense like that. Where was Bosh to smack Lebron? Oh, I forgot, Bosh can't even stop Rajon Rondo from dunking on him, quite the inside presence.
The first thing that came to my mind was, "I'm glad I don't coach that team, he probably would have knocked me out for all of the expletives I would yell at him after he let the dude get a free lay-up."
The second thing that came to my mind was, "Does this guy understand anything at all about off the ball defense?"
The third thing that came to my mind was, "I feel bad for Erik Spoelstra, not only does he have to manage all of these egotistical sub-mentals, but he has to teach NBA players how to play proper off the ball defense, they should learn that in eighth grade."
To put it plainly, his defense on that play was atrocious. It's not like he got out muscled, outwitted, or somebody set a pic on him, Lebron pretty much watched the dude cut right in front of him, seal off his body, catch a pass and make a lay-up. Isn't one of the main tenets of defense to stay between your guy and the guy with the ball? Maybe the 'King' has his own idea on what effective defense is. I must say it's ironic that his idea of defense goes hand in hand with what David Stern wants the NBA to be, no substance, all flair, a league run by the superstars. How else can one explain a guy getting beat on routine plays like this one being a multiple all-defensive pick. I'm sure it has a lot to do with his highlight come from behind blocks that he gets once a game. I bet those blocks are set up off the transition opportunities the opposing team gets from one of his ill-advised 25 foot jump shots he throws at the rim. Yeah the dude might make a miraculous out-of-nowhere block once in a while, but does that make him a great defender? No, it doesn't. To refer to Lebron as a Blue-Collar defender, like I've heard a few times is blasphemous at best.
So if you don't believe me, look for yourself at about the 2:00 minute mark is the play in question.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCcK-KgYwXE
While I am being critical what happened at the :47 second mark when his defensive rotation was to slow to seal off Shawn Marion from getting an easy put back? How about at the 1:18 mark when he took a few seconds admiring his brick that he couldn't get back on defense to stop Caron Butler from getting a lay-up? These points add up!! 1:33 good close out on the shooter!! I feel bad for the people out there that think he's a good defender, there's a few of you. Then again, the stats don't support my feelings on his defensive ability, or lack of. But, as the axiom goes, "numbers don't lie." Or do they? I'm sure I'm the crazy one here...
PS:
I'm curious as to what would happen if you put Lebron with a defensive coach like Greg Poppovich? Would he learn all the finer points of defense, as well as still be able to make the highlight-reel plays? Or would he do the same thing he did in Cleveland with Poppovich's protege and not listen to him? I guess this is the problem with naming somebody the 'King' before they finish puberty, as my man Deuce would say "can't tell him shit!"
PS*2:
I think it's time to admit, the game of basketball is deteriorating. I think Jordan might have punched one of his teammates in the face if they played defense like that. Where was Bosh to smack Lebron? Oh, I forgot, Bosh can't even stop Rajon Rondo from dunking on him, quite the inside presence.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Matt VS Food!!
Dedicating this blog to my everlasting love for food. The great philosopher, Divya Rao, once said "some people live to eat, others eat to live, I do both!" Finding a balance in food can be one of the single hardest things for a person to do, I myself once adhered to a Vegan diet for roughly a year and a half. For a few reasons, I am no longer as rigid in my dietary practice but I still enjoy healthy wholesome food. I believe that one can both, live to eat, and eat to live at the same time.
After I finished the Master Cleanse this weekend, I knew I would need to fill my body with nothing but nutrient dense foods for a week or so, thus no meat, dairy, or sugary snacks. Since I work Monday - Friday, I wanted to make something that I can have for lunch the whole week. After a little deliberation I decided to make a salsa that I can put over rice. This would be easy, and efficient. The recipe was taken from the "Complete Vegan Cookbook" by Mindy Toomay, with my own additions.
Ingredients used:
6 Tomatoes
1 Onion
1/4 cup minced cilantro
2 cloves minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can of corn
2 avocadoes (my addition)
1 can of black beans (my addition)
I made this, as well as two cups of long-grain-jasmine rice. It should cover my lunch time meal this week, and save me the monotony of five dollar foot longs at Subway...
After I finished the Master Cleanse this weekend, I knew I would need to fill my body with nothing but nutrient dense foods for a week or so, thus no meat, dairy, or sugary snacks. Since I work Monday - Friday, I wanted to make something that I can have for lunch the whole week. After a little deliberation I decided to make a salsa that I can put over rice. This would be easy, and efficient. The recipe was taken from the "Complete Vegan Cookbook" by Mindy Toomay, with my own additions.
Ingredients used:
6 Tomatoes
1 Onion
1/4 cup minced cilantro
2 cloves minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can of corn
2 avocadoes (my addition)
1 can of black beans (my addition)
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
11-3-10
I realized how hard it is to manage this blog; no updates in two weeks leaves me pondering all of the subtle changes that have happened in my life during that time, wondering which one's are even worthy to note. To start off, I got sick last week, first time in a few years it seems. When I started getting a little better I decided to start the Master cleanse, this is my third time doing it, I am currently in my sixth day debating if I should stop after tomorrow or not depending on how my supplies look. One of my favorite things about doing the cleanse is the anticipation of eating again. This weekend I plan on going through my vegan cook book and making some interesting, healthy food. Of course coming off of the fast is very important, last time i don't think I eased the transition from liquid to solid foods as I should. Either way my body feels good, and I'm looking forward to getting back to weight lifting and having more energy. I realized tonight that I feel good, but not good enough to play a competitive basketball game. Hopefully, coming off of the cleanse my body will feel a lot better and my energy will be better.
A bigger occurrence in my life over the past few weeks is me being let go from my backing arrangement. I was told it was completely a business decision, which is understandable. I have always done what I could to keep a positive relationship with anyone backing me, after being let go a few times I was always able to find someone else willing to back me. I realize I'm at a point in my life when things have to change. I'm not sure what kind of a role poker will play in my life, but I've decided that I would not seek any more backing arrangements for poker. It's time to change things around completely in my life, I am excited to have more time to do things I want to do. Eventually I might put some money online and try to grind out a bankroll, but right now I'm considering finding a second job to earn more money.
With all of the things that seem not to be going my way the last few months my spirits are high, as cliche as it is, when one thing ends it's the start of something better. I'm happy to be in this moment, which is well past my bedtime, but this time of the night will always have good west coast NBA basketball. My favorite team to watch, the Phoenix Suns, just lost a well-fought game to the Spurs. Now I'm watching a little bit of the Lakers Vs. Sacramento before going to sleep. Hopefully, next week I will have more positives...
A bigger occurrence in my life over the past few weeks is me being let go from my backing arrangement. I was told it was completely a business decision, which is understandable. I have always done what I could to keep a positive relationship with anyone backing me, after being let go a few times I was always able to find someone else willing to back me. I realize I'm at a point in my life when things have to change. I'm not sure what kind of a role poker will play in my life, but I've decided that I would not seek any more backing arrangements for poker. It's time to change things around completely in my life, I am excited to have more time to do things I want to do. Eventually I might put some money online and try to grind out a bankroll, but right now I'm considering finding a second job to earn more money.
With all of the things that seem not to be going my way the last few months my spirits are high, as cliche as it is, when one thing ends it's the start of something better. I'm happy to be in this moment, which is well past my bedtime, but this time of the night will always have good west coast NBA basketball. My favorite team to watch, the Phoenix Suns, just lost a well-fought game to the Spurs. Now I'm watching a little bit of the Lakers Vs. Sacramento before going to sleep. Hopefully, next week I will have more positives...
Monday, October 18, 2010
Journal Entry 10-18-10
From now on I am going to dice my blog posts into two categories, journal entries that give perspectives on my life's events, and articles written written on a topic, such as my previous post regarding Carl Paladino's homophobic tirade.
So far this month seems to be stuck on neutral, typically I have noticed a correlation between the fall in temperature and daylight brought about by the fall and winter months, and my morale and energy. Last year around this time I hit a massive downswing with poker that got worst resulting in my backer, at that time, letting me go and me starting over from the beginning. I feel that measures have been taken to counteract that trend. This fall I have a full-time job, a gym membership, as well as playing in a basketball league that help keep me balanced and centered. I have found in the past, getting caught up and immersing myself 100% in poker has not lead to the most success for me. Hopefully these changes will pay dividends in my poker success.
That leads me into this week starting today, October 18th. I felt the previous weeks that I was due for a week away from poker. Typically during a week off I recharge myself with exercise, watching a few training videos, reading a book, and prepping and cooking healthy food. I usually decide to take a week off when my luck is running worst than a fat man carrying an elephant, and my frustrations build to a boiling point. That hasn't been the case as I have had many near misses that could have turned into nice payouts. Specifically, in the PStars 50+5, 500 cap tourney I busted out 12th when I lost blind vs blind with 88vs A6, and the weekly 200k Guarantee 20+2 on FTilt where I finished 12th out of over 10,500 people. Both tourneys, with a little (more) luck could have turned things around for me. I certainly don't think my woes so far this month comes entirely from me playing bad. Although a week off at this time would be good for me, I do have incentive to continue playing this week. My friend from New York City has invited me out to his place for Halloween weekend festivities, a trip that i definitely feel I need extra money to make. Since I can never take the last week of a month off from poker when I am down money, taking next week off is definitely out if I don't turn things around this week. At the very least, the first week of November is time for a break.
More into poker, I have been contemplating going off my backing deal and playing with my own money once I turn things around and get out of the red. Although I think most poker players would like to play with their own money and keep all of their winnings, that is not always a feasible scenario. I do enjoy playing backed and being able to buy into all the allotted tourneys I can. It definitely feels good to buy into tourneys without looking at the cashier lobby to make sure your BR can handle another tourney. Although backing has a lot of positives, I feel it is time for a change after being mostly backed for the last two years. Some things I am looking forward to would be more freedom to play a variety of games, no pressure to play, being able to play shorter sessions with less multi-table tournaments and more sit and go tournaments. Working a steady job also plays into my decision as I am not too worried about going busto, as I have been in the past. This plan of mine could come sooner or later, as I have a positive backing scenario and am in no hurry to leave it unless an ideal situation pops up.
Either way, I think right now is a time for a change for me. As well as making changes with poker, I am considering one of many personal and professional options for myself, such as looking for a new, more challenging job, going to Graduate school for a Teaching certificate, and even joining the Peace Corps has come into mind. For now it's all WGP (work/gym/poker) for me...
So far this month seems to be stuck on neutral, typically I have noticed a correlation between the fall in temperature and daylight brought about by the fall and winter months, and my morale and energy. Last year around this time I hit a massive downswing with poker that got worst resulting in my backer, at that time, letting me go and me starting over from the beginning. I feel that measures have been taken to counteract that trend. This fall I have a full-time job, a gym membership, as well as playing in a basketball league that help keep me balanced and centered. I have found in the past, getting caught up and immersing myself 100% in poker has not lead to the most success for me. Hopefully these changes will pay dividends in my poker success.
That leads me into this week starting today, October 18th. I felt the previous weeks that I was due for a week away from poker. Typically during a week off I recharge myself with exercise, watching a few training videos, reading a book, and prepping and cooking healthy food. I usually decide to take a week off when my luck is running worst than a fat man carrying an elephant, and my frustrations build to a boiling point. That hasn't been the case as I have had many near misses that could have turned into nice payouts. Specifically, in the PStars 50+5, 500 cap tourney I busted out 12th when I lost blind vs blind with 88vs A6, and the weekly 200k Guarantee 20+2 on FTilt where I finished 12th out of over 10,500 people. Both tourneys, with a little (more) luck could have turned things around for me. I certainly don't think my woes so far this month comes entirely from me playing bad. Although a week off at this time would be good for me, I do have incentive to continue playing this week. My friend from New York City has invited me out to his place for Halloween weekend festivities, a trip that i definitely feel I need extra money to make. Since I can never take the last week of a month off from poker when I am down money, taking next week off is definitely out if I don't turn things around this week. At the very least, the first week of November is time for a break.
More into poker, I have been contemplating going off my backing deal and playing with my own money once I turn things around and get out of the red. Although I think most poker players would like to play with their own money and keep all of their winnings, that is not always a feasible scenario. I do enjoy playing backed and being able to buy into all the allotted tourneys I can. It definitely feels good to buy into tourneys without looking at the cashier lobby to make sure your BR can handle another tourney. Although backing has a lot of positives, I feel it is time for a change after being mostly backed for the last two years. Some things I am looking forward to would be more freedom to play a variety of games, no pressure to play, being able to play shorter sessions with less multi-table tournaments and more sit and go tournaments. Working a steady job also plays into my decision as I am not too worried about going busto, as I have been in the past. This plan of mine could come sooner or later, as I have a positive backing scenario and am in no hurry to leave it unless an ideal situation pops up.
Either way, I think right now is a time for a change for me. As well as making changes with poker, I am considering one of many personal and professional options for myself, such as looking for a new, more challenging job, going to Graduate school for a Teaching certificate, and even joining the Peace Corps has come into mind. For now it's all WGP (work/gym/poker) for me...
Monday, October 11, 2010
Why So Much Hate?
A string of hate crimes the past few months, including eight kids being arrested in the Bronx for assaulting and kidnapping three gay men, has culminated in the Republican Governor candidate of New York State attempting to take his homophobic beliefs to public office. The candidate, Carl Paladino, was quoted as saying he vowed to "oppose the Homosexual agenda" in his speech to a group of Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn. This rhetoric, especially coming after the hate crimes, is really unfortunate and a step back in progress for humanity, in my opinion. I am curious as to what actual agenda Paladino believes Homosexuals are pushing? From what I see, and experienced from gay friends, they have no agenda except wanting the same rights as everyone else has enjoyed in America. Is that even an agenda? If it's considered an agenda it shouldn't be.
This brings me to the question of these hate crimes. Should we be surprised? Unfortunately, no. I pity those who have committed hate crimes against homosexuals, for the reason that they are only followers mimicking their leaders. When the Government of the Country considers Homosexuals to be second-class citizens (don't ask don't tell, no right to marriage in many states), you can't expect the citizens of this country to act any different. Surely if these rights were restricted to any racial, ethnic, or religious group it would be an atrocity. How are homosexuals any different? The change I see as needed has to start from the top. These hate crimes are only a microcosm of a lot of Government leaders that are still very homophobic. You can't expect the people to have tolerance and understanding when their leaders set such a horrible example.
This leads me to Carl Paladino. His remarks about gays should not be tolerated by anybody, especially somebody running for political office. If he openly came out and spoke about any other group of people the way he did about Homosexuals(except maybe Muslims), he probably would have been forced to withdraw from his candidacy. I personally think a push should be made for him to resign, having a person with this much hate representing the State of New York scares me. All that is needed is more impressionable, bottom feeders to feel their hate towards another human being is justified. I hope the citizens of this state take note and vote against him. To vote for somebody that has feelings this harsh towards other human beings, is only a step backwards for humanity at a time when we desperately need to move forward.
This brings me to the question of these hate crimes. Should we be surprised? Unfortunately, no. I pity those who have committed hate crimes against homosexuals, for the reason that they are only followers mimicking their leaders. When the Government of the Country considers Homosexuals to be second-class citizens (don't ask don't tell, no right to marriage in many states), you can't expect the citizens of this country to act any different. Surely if these rights were restricted to any racial, ethnic, or religious group it would be an atrocity. How are homosexuals any different? The change I see as needed has to start from the top. These hate crimes are only a microcosm of a lot of Government leaders that are still very homophobic. You can't expect the people to have tolerance and understanding when their leaders set such a horrible example.
This leads me to Carl Paladino. His remarks about gays should not be tolerated by anybody, especially somebody running for political office. If he openly came out and spoke about any other group of people the way he did about Homosexuals(except maybe Muslims), he probably would have been forced to withdraw from his candidacy. I personally think a push should be made for him to resign, having a person with this much hate representing the State of New York scares me. All that is needed is more impressionable, bottom feeders to feel their hate towards another human being is justified. I hope the citizens of this state take note and vote against him. To vote for somebody that has feelings this harsh towards other human beings, is only a step backwards for humanity at a time when we desperately need to move forward.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
10-10-10
Recently I caught myself complaining about not having time to do things I enjoy. My ideal day would consist of a multitude of activities that probably would not be possible if our Earth day was 48 hours. Most people would not consider picking up another hobby to be a remedy for not having enough time for hobbies, but since I spend so much time in front of my computer I don't think this will be a bad idea.
Myself in a nutshell: I'm 28 years old, I have 5 sisters, 2 brothers, a nephew, and a niece. I consider myself very lucky to have a big, loving family. I also consider myself lucky to have great friends. I grew up in Rochester, New York, I lived here until I was 24 years old, at that point I packed up and moved to Las Vegas where I lived for two years. I have always enjoyed sports, playing more than watching. I play Basketball a few days a week, the majority of my close friends I met from playing basketball it's a good way to stay healthy, connected, and keep up the camaraderie with friends at the same time. While I was in College at SUNY Cortland I learned how to play poker, that was a life changing experience. I was caught by the simplicity of the game, the mystique, the adventure, but really I just wanted to make as much money as I can. I know a lot of things I experienced in life would not be possible if I never learned how to play, although, almost every day I play I get annoyed with the volatility of the game. I consider Poker to be the gift and curse of my life. Although I enjoy playing Poker, I am not sure if it's something I am passionate about. During my time in Las Vegas, I worked for a NPO called Success For Kids. My time spent with this program helped me uncover my gifts relating to children, I definitely exuded a passion for helping children that is an unmatched passion so far in my life. I think when the time is right, the ideal opportunity will present itself.
Back to the real moment: I've decided I need a forum to express how I feel about things. The world could use my opinion, there are so many opinions out there I'm sure one more won't mess up the space-time continuum. I also want to use this to keep people updated on my life, more for me than you actually, I thought that maybe if I took an interest in my poker playing it might help me perform better. So as it goes on lucky 10-10-10 I make two final tables, and i'm still down 3,628 dollars on the month. Gift and the Curse as I told you...
Myself in a nutshell: I'm 28 years old, I have 5 sisters, 2 brothers, a nephew, and a niece. I consider myself very lucky to have a big, loving family. I also consider myself lucky to have great friends. I grew up in Rochester, New York, I lived here until I was 24 years old, at that point I packed up and moved to Las Vegas where I lived for two years. I have always enjoyed sports, playing more than watching. I play Basketball a few days a week, the majority of my close friends I met from playing basketball it's a good way to stay healthy, connected, and keep up the camaraderie with friends at the same time. While I was in College at SUNY Cortland I learned how to play poker, that was a life changing experience. I was caught by the simplicity of the game, the mystique, the adventure, but really I just wanted to make as much money as I can. I know a lot of things I experienced in life would not be possible if I never learned how to play, although, almost every day I play I get annoyed with the volatility of the game. I consider Poker to be the gift and curse of my life. Although I enjoy playing Poker, I am not sure if it's something I am passionate about. During my time in Las Vegas, I worked for a NPO called Success For Kids. My time spent with this program helped me uncover my gifts relating to children, I definitely exuded a passion for helping children that is an unmatched passion so far in my life. I think when the time is right, the ideal opportunity will present itself.
Back to the real moment: I've decided I need a forum to express how I feel about things. The world could use my opinion, there are so many opinions out there I'm sure one more won't mess up the space-time continuum. I also want to use this to keep people updated on my life, more for me than you actually, I thought that maybe if I took an interest in my poker playing it might help me perform better. So as it goes on lucky 10-10-10 I make two final tables, and i'm still down 3,628 dollars on the month. Gift and the Curse as I told you...
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