From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

The second mile in life

April 20, 2010

As a parent - we are always seeking to teach our children the right way of doing things. It is only natural, particularly for teenagers, to do the minimum.

My soon-to-be 19 year-old daughter is a social butterfly. She is very thoughtful and caring, but she also has a mind of her own. If she wants to do something - she will go to whatever lengths to get her way.

One of the few chores (a term used by old people from childhood) is to do the dishes. That means once a day...not when she feels like it or when both sinks are piled full and we are having to look for paper plates.

There are times she is walking out the door and I remind her she isn't leaving until the dishes are done -- which means I get to hear the purse slam on the floor and a few huffs and puffs. But at the least the dishes get done.

The phase “going the second mile” has found its way into our modern jargon. It has its roots in first-century Palestine. The Romans had conquered much of the known world. One of the marvels of their conquest was a vast system of super highways which they had built to and from their conquered territories. There were over 50,000 miles of these Roman roads throughout the empire. At each mile was a stone marker.

The New Oxford English Dictionary calls them “guide stones.” These guide stones pointed direction, determined distance, warned of dangers and each one of them had the miles to Rome etched upon them. Hence the phrase, “all roads lead to Rome.”

By Roman law a Roman citizen could compel a subject from one of the conquered lands to carry his backpack, or load, for him for one mile, but one mile only.

• Guide Stone #1 - The mandated mile – motivated by law

The first mile is always the hardest. Ask the distance runner for example. But if it were not for the first mile, there would be no possibility of the second mile. We live in a world where many do not even make it to the first mile marker. That is, they do not even do what is required of them at the office, at home, at church, at school, or wherever. The first mile is vitally important. It is what makes us function. It is that which is required of us.

• Guide Stone #2 – the miracle mile – motivated by love

This mile is motivated by love and respect. What is it that separates some from others in the world of athletics? The second mile, doing what is required and then some. What separates some from others in the arts or in education or wherever? It is this principal of the second mile.

You may be required to carry someone's load the first mile. You have the right to stop. But the true act of love for others is going the extra mile when you don't have to. Why not try it? The one you help will be grateful and you will have joy in your heart that the world can't give.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

A gift to be shared all year round

April 13, 2010

One of the "Happy Days" episodes that I will always remember was when the Fonz made a mistake and was faced with having to say he was sorry to Richie. Each time he would build up his courage to say he was "wrong" -- but as he got ready to say the word his mouth wouldn't allow him to formulate the word -- no matter how hard he tried.

The reason why was that the Fonz was never "wrong" - or so he thought. He did his best to say "wrooooooooogggggg" -- but it never would come out clearly.

For the past five months we have been pounded with the Tiger Woods scandal. For one - I am tired of hearing about it. When you really think about it -- there is only one person that he has to acknowledge his mistake. He doesn't owe the rest of the world anything. He certainly didn't sin against me. Did he sin against you?

Disappointed? Sure! But I am not his judge! The fact is - we all make mistakes and to those we have offended -- we need to seek their forgiveness. When I get myself straightened out - then maybe I will be qualified to help someone else.

I believe I have lived long enough to be qualified to say the following.

Because we all fail at times in life -- I believe it should be our posture in life to be willing to forgive before we condemn. The way the sports media has dealt with Tiger has been unrelenting -- as if those same people have never made a mistake. I agree that those in the limelight have a little more responsibility as to their actions, but we all fail no matter the size of our audience.

In the third round - Tiger allowed his competitive anger to show and they blasted him the next day as if they want to completely squelch his competitive nature and turn him into an emotionless figure.

Do I approve of his on-the-air, off-the-air cursings? No, but anyone who has ever gone to a golf course knows what kind of language you may hear. You can go to a little league or high school sporting event and hear language that will curl your toes!

It seems that we live in a world where forgiveness is not a high priority in life.

One of those lessons is dealing with forgiveness. Mark Twain once said, "Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it."

I have found that 'forgiveness' is a word that applies to me in seeking and granting it. There are times that I have to seek the forgiveness of those I have offended. At other times, I must grant forgiveness to those who request it from me. Pity the person who does neither; who thinks they have wronged no one or are above righting a wrong they may have created.

I believe it is time for all of us to move on and allow someone, who has faced the world's media, confessed his sin, and asked for forgiveness, to accept his confession. Perhaps we would all feel better if we would say in return, "I forgive."

As a reminder -- didn't we just celebrate Easter to hear those eternal words spoken in love from the cross, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." Those words still echo across the heavenly skies.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

We may never see another like him

March 23, 2010

I grew up during the prime time of the UCLA Bruins unbelievable run in the world of college basketball. There weren't any other teams, for 10 years, who could compare to the great teams coached by the legendary John Wooden. He coached at UCLA from 1948 to 1975.

We are now in the midst of March Madness and the men's teams have been reduced from 65 to the Sweet Sixteen.

Although he is now 99, John Wooden, the Wizard of Westwood, still has a presence as no other in the sporting world.

Coach Wooden led the Bruins to four 30-0 seasons (1963-64, 1966-67, 1971-72, 1972-73). In his 27 years as UCLA's coach, Wooden compiled a 620-147 record and won 10 national titles, including seven in a row from 1967-73. Nobody has ever come within six of him. He led the Bruins to 19 PAC 10 championships. He won 88 straight games between January 30, 1971, and January 17,1974. Nobody has come within 42 since.

I recently read parts of the following penned by Steve Hanshaw that I felt was worth sharing. Hanshaw wrote after a personal visit with coach Wooden.

"There has never been another coach like Wooden, quiet as an April snow and square as a game of checkers, loyal to one woman, one school, one way, walking around campus in his sensible shoes and Jimmy Stewart morals.

He would spend a half hour the first day of practice teaching his men how to put on a sock. Wrinkles can lead to blisters, he would warn. These huge players would sneak looks at one another and roll their eyes. Eventually, they would do it right. Good, he would say. And now
for the other foot.

Of the 180 players who played for him, Wooden knows the whereabouts of 172. Of course, it is not hard when most of them call, checking on his health, secretly hoping to hear some of his simple life lessons so that they can write them on the lunch bags of their kids, who will
roll their eyes.

`Discipline yourself, and others will not need to,` Coach would say. `Never lie, never cheat, never steal,` and `Earn the right to be proud and confident.`

If you played for him, you played by his rules, `Never score without acknowledging a teammate. One word of profanity and you are done for the day. Treat your opponent with respect.`

He believed in hopelessly out of date stuff that never did anything but win championships. No dribbling behind the back or through the legs. `There is no need,` he would say. No UCLA basketball number was retired under his watch. `What about the fellows who wore that number before? Did they not contribute to the team?` he would say.

No long hair, no facial hair. `They take too long to dry, and you could catch cold leaving the gym,` he would say. That one drove his players bonkers.

One day, All-America center Bill Walton showed up with a full beard. `It is my right,` he insisted. Wooden asked if he believed that strongly. Walton said he did. `That is good, Bill,` Coach said. `I admire people who have strong beliefs and stick by them, I really do.

We are going to miss you.` Walton shaved it right then and there. Now Walton calls once a week to tell Coach he loves him.

It is always too soon when you have to leave the condo and go back out into the real world, where the rules are so much grayer and the teams so much worse. As Wooden shows you to the door, you take one last look around. The framed report cards of his great grandkids, the boxes of jellybeans peeking out from under the favorite wooden chair, the dozens of
pictures of Nellie (his late wife).

He will be 100 on October 14. He is a little more hunched over than last time. Steps a little smaller. You hope it is not the last time you see him. He smiles. I am not afraid to die, he says. Death is my only chance to be with her again. Problem is ... we still need him here."

"There is only one kind of a life that truly wins, and that is the one that places faith in the hands of the Savior. Until that is done, we are on an aimless course that runs in circles and goes nowhere. Material possessions, winning scores, and great reputations are meaningless in the eyes of the Lord, because He knows what we really are and that is all that matters." - John Wooden

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

The world of useless information

March 2, 2010

Never in our world's history are we as connected by technology as we are today. You can't walk in a store, drive down the street, go to a movie, attend a sporting event, etc. without seeing people either talking on their cell phone or texting to someone.
As I travel around the area -- I am seeing more and more signs that say, "We will be glad to help you when you are finished texting or finished with your phone conversation."
Recently, I came across an organization called The Useless Information Society which was formed by some of Britain's best-loved journalists, writers, and entertainers. They meet regularly to swap new nuggets of trivia.
They now have eight books published with collections of their absorbing, hilarious, and wholly useless facts.
So - since so many people are hungry to communicate with others -- I thought this might be a good time to share some useless information with you. In fact - I think we will start posting at least three or four each day on our website at: www.reporternewssports.com so you can have something to consider regarding things in life.
Now sit back and read a few of these informing tid bits of useless information.

• •  52 percent of American drink coffee.
• •  If the population of China walked past you in a single file, the line would never end because of the rate of reproduction.
• •  The Bible is the number-one book to be shoplifted in America. (Thou shalt not steal?)
• •  The longest Monopoly game ever played was 1,680 hours long - that's 70 straight days.
• •  The average US adult male is 5 feet, 9.1 inches tall, but 3.9 percent of US men are 6 foot 2 inches or taller.
• •  The only two days of the year in which there are no pro sports games in the USA (MLB, NBA, NHL, or NFL) are the day before and the day after the Major League All-Star game.
• •  You share your birthday with at least 9 million other people in the world.
• •  There are 1 million ants for every person in the world.
• •  On average, there are 178 sesame seeds on each McDonald's Big Mac bun.
• •  If you played all of The Beatles' singles and albums that came out between 1962 and 1970 back-to-back -- it would only last for 10 hours and 33 minutes.
• •  The average person makes about 1,140 telephone calls each year.
• •  On average - Americans eat 18 acres of pizza every day.
• •  A can of Spam is opened every four seconds.
• •  The peach was the first fruit eaten on the moon.
• •  Caesar salad has nothing to do with any of the Caesars. It was first concocted in a bar in Tijuana, Mexico in the 1920s.
• •  Most car horns honk in the key of 'F.'
• •  Levi Strauss make the first pair of blue jeans in 1850. They were intended as work trousers for American miners looking for gold.
• •  The average American receives their first romantic kiss at age 13.
• •  In 1948, 2.3 percent of American households had televisions. Today, 99 percent do.

Check out more Useless Information on our website.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Court shows have taken over afternoon programming

February 24, 2010

I haven't taken the time to do a complete research of the court shows that are presently on TV - but I can say with certainty that there is over a dozen of them that come into our homes each afternoon.

Sparked by Judge Joseph Wapner, who is now 90 years old and the People's Court, we have every kind of personality sitting on the bench, raking in big bucks, while entertaining every obnoxious lawsuit to be found anywhere in the country.

Each year - the Stella Awards are presented for some of the most ridiculous lawsuits ever heard of in the American court system. However - they are true. The "Stella Awards" got its name from Stella Liebeck. In 1992, Stella, then 79, spilled a cup of McDonald's coffee onto her lap, burning herself. A New Mexico jury awarded her $2.9 million in damages.

Anyway - here a few of the true cases you might find entertaining.

     #5: Marcy Meckler. While shopping at a mall, Meckler stepped outside and was "attacked" by a squirrel that lived among the trees and bushes. And "while frantically attempting to escape from the squirrel and detach it from her leg, [Meckler] fell and suffered severe injuries," her resulting lawsuit says. That's the mall's fault, the lawsuit claims, demanding in excess of $50,000, based on the mall's "failure to warn" her that squirrels live outside.

     #4: Ron and Kristie Simmons. The couple's 4-year-old son, Justin, was killed in a tragic lawnmower accident in a licensed daycare facility, and the death was clearly the result of negligence by the daycare providers. The providers were clearly deserving of being sued, yet when the Simmons's discovered the daycare only had $100,000 in insurance, they dropped the case against them and instead sued the manufacturer of the 16-year-old lawn mower because the mower didn't have a safety device that 1) had not been invented at the time of the mower's manufacture, and 2) no safety agency had even suggested needed to be invented. A sympathetic jury still awarded the family $2 million.

     #3: Robert Clymer. An FBI agent working a high-profile case in Las Vegas, Clymer allegedly created a disturbance, lost the magazine from his pistol, then crashed his pickup truck in a drunken stupor -- his blood-alcohol level was 0.306 percent, more than three times the legal limit for driving in Nevada. He pled guilty to drunk driving because, his lawyer explained, "With public officials, we expect them to own up to their mistakes and correct them." Yet Clymer had the gall to sue the manufacturer of his pickup truck, and the dealer he bought it from, because he "somehow lost consciousness" and the truck "somehow produced a heavy smoke that filled the passenger cab." Yep: the drunk-driving accident wasn't his fault, but the truck's fault. Just the kind of guy you want carrying a gun in the name of the law.

     #2: KinderStart.com. The specialty search engine says Google should be forced to include the KinderStart site in its listings, reveal how its "Page Rank" system works, and pay them lots of money because they're a competitor. They claim by not being ranked higher in Google, Google is somehow infringing KinderStart's Constitutional right to free speech. Even if by some stretch they were a competitor of Google, why in the world would they think it's Google's responsibility to help them succeed? And if Google's "review" of their site is negative, wouldn't a government court order forcing them to change it infringe on Google's Constitutional right to free speech?

     #1: Allen Ray Heckard. Even though Heckard is 3 inches shorter, 25 pounds lighter, and 8 years older than former basketball star Michael Jordan, the Portland, Oregon, man says he looks a lot like Jordan, and is often confused for him -- and thus he deserves $52 million "for defamation and permanent injury" -- plus $364 million in "punitive damage for emotional pain and suffering", plus the SAME amount from Nike co-founder Phil Knight, for a grand total of $832 million. He dropped the suit after Nike's lawyers chatted with him, where they presumably explained how they'd counter-sue if he pressed on.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

How precious is love?

February 9, 2010

Only a few days before Valentine's Day. It has always been amusing to go to Kroger's around 10:00 p.m. on February 13 to see the number of men standing in line with flowers.

As I did last week - I want to share some additional comments made by children describing their definition of love.

"Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell  each other." Karl - age 5
"Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK."  Danny - age 7
"If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate," Nikka - age 6 - (we need a few million more Nikka’s on this planet)
"Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, and then he wears it everyday." Noelle - age 7
"Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken." Elaine-age 5
"Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Brad Pitt." Chris - age 7 
"I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones."  Lauren - age 4
"You really shouldn't say ‘I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget." Jessica - age 8

And here is the final one that really describes what true love is in life.

There once was an elderly couple who lived next door to a young family. The husband and wife, who had been married for over 50 years, enjoyed having their young neighbors -- especially getting to be kind of adoptive grandparents to a sweet little four-year-old boy.

On occasions - they would have him over for milk and cookies and he really grew to love them.

One day, the call came to the young couple's home that their neighbor's wife had died.

Several days passed and the young couple tried to explain to their small child what had happened.

About two weeks later, the mother was doing some house work when she noticed that little Jason wasn't in the front yard playing. She stood on the porch for a few minutes and then saw him walking back to the house with his head down -- picking at a flower.

"Where have you been sweetheart?" the mother asked.

"I went over to see papa," was the little boy's reply.

Thinking that her little boy didn't fully understand about what had happened, she said, "You know that mama doesn't live there any more don't you?"

"I know mommy," said little Jason. "I went to talk to papa."

Again, the young mother asked, "What did you say to him?"

"Oh, I didn't say anything to him," little Jason said. "I just crawled up into his lap and cried with him."

And now you know at least one true form of love.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

What is love?

February 3, 2010

We are just a little over a week before Valentine's Day. Of course, that is when people express their love to those closest to their heart. It is a shame when time erodes young love. For some, love grows stronger and stronger with each passing year.

It is interesting to know what love is to a child. In fact - they somehow see love at a different dimension than us older folks. They see it through acts of love more so than just hearing the words.

I don't think there is anything that melts the heart than hearing your child or grandchild say those magic words. I know how I feel when my three-year-old grand twins, Cooper and Kayla say, "I love you Pops!"

Or to hear those words from a wife/husband, son/daughter.

I received an E-mail several years ago that I have kept in a folder in my computer labeled - "Treasure Chest." Perhaps these children will give you their perspective about love.

•      "When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore.  So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love." Rebecca- age 8
•      "When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth." Billy - age 4
•      "Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell  each other." Karl - age 5
•      "Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more.  My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss." Emily - age 8
•      "Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well." Tommy - age 6
•      "During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling.  He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore." Cindy - age 8
•      "When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you." (What an image) Karen - age 7 

Perhaps you have some that you would like to share...if so - then send me an E-mail. Love is in the air!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

We can learn much from our dogs

January 28, 2010

I traveled to Oklahoma last week to see my ??-year-old mother. She doesn't like getting older anymore than I do. I don't usually get up there during the Christmas season -- so I usually wait until the latter part of January to deliver some goodies to share with her and my sister's family.

One conversation we had was regarding our dogs. She had a little dog that had to be put to sleep a couple of years ago. It brought back sad memories of when Samson, my 12-year-old St. Bernard, had to be put down in 2009.

We still have two dogs...Princess and Shay...who are American Eskimos. They are fluffy white, sisters, and great watch dogs. They do love each other and are very protective. You don't want them snarling their teeth at you!

A couple of weeks ago - the Brazoria County Animal Control knocked on my door asking if I had two pit bulls? They said someone had called giving my address. I told the officer that my two dogs were in the house, but I would be glad to show them the two "pit bulls." The officer stood at the back of driveway -- I let the girls out into the backyard -- and the officer started laughing and said, "What lunatic could have confused those dogs for pit bulls?"

My little girls weren't out roaming the neighborhood, but the officer and I had a good laugh over someone's stupidity as no pit bulls were ever seen.

One thing for sure - dogs can teach us much about life. I sometimes wish that more people had a dog's disposition -- unless you are like Princess who barks at everything...typical woman. Just kidding!

Someone sent me some great quotes.

• The average dog is a nicer person than the average person. - Andy Rooney
• I wonder if other dogs think poodles are members of a weird religious cult. - Rita Rudner
• If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you; that is the principal difference between a dog and a man. - Mark Twain
• If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then give him only two of them. - Phil Pastoret
• If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went. - Will Rogers
• A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself. - Josh Billings
• The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue. - Anonymous
• Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful. - Ann Landers
• Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea. - Robert A. Heinlein

I must add that we have one of the greatest cats on the planet. Layla is our Cat/Dog - she follows you around the house, begs at the table, and sleeps in your lap. I think she learned to act like Princess and Shay -- without the barking!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Another new decade

January 19, 2010

It seems like only yesterday that the major topic of conversation was the Y2K dilemma. Will planes fall out of the sky? Will the bank computers get a virus that would not allow people to get money at an ATM?

Do you remember the books that hit the stands giving you all the reasons why the computer age was going to send the entire world into technological failure causing mass confusion and hysteria?

While the authors got rich because of people's fear -- the truth is -- there were very few clitches. Planes didn't come crashing down to earth and the ATM's still worked just fine.

Have you considered the changes that have taken place in only 10 years? Quite frankly - it is mind boggling. In fact - there are some things that took place that you may not have even heard of during this 10-year period.

Let me share some things with you beginning in 2000.

• 2000 - Dean Kamen invented the Segway Human Transporter, the first self-balancing, electric-powered transportation machine ~ a personal transport device that uses five gyroscopes and a built-in computer to remain upright.

• 2001 - Artificial liver invented by Dr. Kenneth Matsumura and Alin Foundation. Also - on October 23, 2001 Apple Computers publicly announced their portable music digital player the iPod, created under project codename Dulcimer.

• 2002 - Phone tooth invented by James Auger and Jimmy Loizeau.

• 2003 - Toyoto's Hybrid Car. Also - the No-Contact Jacket invented by Adam Whiton and Yolita Nugent, protects the wearer by electric shocking any attackers.

• 2004 - A firm in New Zealand developed a sensor that detects when pears are ripe by analyzing the aromas emitted by the fruit. Attached to the inside of the fruit's plastic wrapping, the sensor goes from red to orange to yellow as the fruit ripens. Sensors for avocados, kiwis, melons and mangoes are in the works

• 2005 - YouTube - the online video sharing and viewing community - was invented in 2005 by Steve Chen, Chad Hurley and Jawed Karim.

• 2006 - Flat-rate billing has enabled texting to maintain its substantial volume. Nintendo invented a video game you control with a magic wand.

• 2007 - Invention of the iPhone. Also - a portable GPS unit collects data when you're driving or Wi-Fi when you're at home.

• 2008 - The camera pill can be swallowed by a patient. A doctor can move the camera pill by a magnetic remote control. The steerable camera pill consists of a camera, a transmitter that sends the images to the receiver, a battery and several cold-light diodes which briefly flare up like a flashlight every time a picture is taken.

• 2009 - The Retinal Implant Research Group has developed a microelectronic retinal implant to restore vision to patients with age-related macular degeneration and blindness. A microchip will be implanted into the patient's eyeball. A pair of glasses equipped with a tiny camera will transmit information to that microchip that will pass along recognizable visual information to the human brain, enough information to allow a blind person to navigate the room or recognize objects.

2010 - Can't wait to find out!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Life is measured by what you have learned

January 12, 2010

One thing I have a hard time with is being around people who seem to be so miserable. Do you know what I mean? When I think of that first sentence -- my mind immediately goes to a couple I saw a little over a year ago at a sporting event. I don't know their names - but I have never seen them smile, but I sure have seen and heard how miserable they are by the way they have talked to others -- especially people they don't know.

I am a firm believer in laughter and making others laugh. It seems that no matter where I go -- I find myself around people who feel the same way. Yet - when those who are miserable enter the room -- they continue to wear that scowl on their face and it doesn't take long for them to feel uneasy in their surroundings and leave.

Someone once said, "If you say you are happy -- then make sure you tell your face so others will know it."

I love the word "joy" and it should translate into happiness. But I have also learned that "joy" is an inside job. There is no way that you can express outward joy unless it begins inside your heart. You can't manufacture it. You certainly can't be in a room full of people who have joy and try to fool others because those who have inside joy can spot a fake a mile away.

My mother-in-law is named Joy. My oldest daughter is named LeJoy - which means "The Joy!" And both have been a joy to my life for many years.

I have spent years collecting things that "I've learned..." Perhaps a few more will bring joy and peace to your life.

• I've learned...That money doesn't buy class.
• I've learned...That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
• I've learned...That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
• I've learned...That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
• I've learned...That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.
• I've learned...That love, not time, heals all wounds.
• I've learned...That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
• I've learned...That there's nothing sweeter than holding your grandbabies and feeling their breath on your cheeks.
• I've learned...That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
• I've learned...That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
• I've learned...That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
• I've learned...That I can choose how I feel.
• I've learned...That when your newly born child holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.
• I've learned...That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs in the valley.

I trust that you are experience great blessing at the start of a new year. May 2010 be your greatest year ever as you continue to learn life's lessons.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Time for texting manners

January 5, 2010

My youngest daughter, Lexis, age 18, is a texting freak. She can stand in front of you and look you in the eyes while you are talking to her while her fingers are clicking out her 17,000th text message of the month.

Give me five minutes and I might reply to your text with, "Ok I will be there soon."

We are beginning to live in a dysfunctional technological society and families are feeling the pinch.

I wanted my daughter to come downstairs the other day. I walked to the bottom of the stairs and called for her to come to eat at the table. Her bedroom door was closed and I got no reply. Under normal circumstances -- I would have walked upstairs and knocked on her door.

But these aren't normal living conditions. So I darted off into my office - found my phone - and 10 minutes later, hit the OK button with my text, "Would you please come down to eat."

People get upset when you don't reply to their text. Did it ever occur to you that I may not have had my phone with me?

As you travel around to various businesses -- you see that talking on your phone or texting is irritating to some of the owners. I recently saw on the cash register of a small business that read, "We will be delighted to help you when you are finished with your converation on the phone or texting a message to your friend."

I think there should be texting etiquette or manners regarding cell phones and particularly texting. What do you think? Here are a few of my suggestions.

• No texting while driving - under any circumstances!
• No texting while engaged in a face-to-face conversation -- especially with your parents or children.
• Watch the time that you text as some people may be asleep.
• If it is an emergency, then make an 'ole fashioned phone call.
• Turn off your phone when you are in class, church, hospital, or a meeting.
• Don't text while in a movie theater. The lights that come on all around the theater and the tapping sounds are rude and annoying!
• Don't send a text to fire someone or to breakup with a girlfriend or boyfriend.
• Adults - leave the lingo to the kids.

• Make sure your tone is kind and not demanding.

Remember that your phone does have an off button and it is still OK to actually call someone and hear their voice instead of sending an E-mail or text. We are creating what I would call an avoidance society. We are avoiding actual conversations with people and this is going to hurt our upcoming generation.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com. Website: www.reporternewssports.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

"Time for New Year's Resolutions"

December 29, 2009

 

It is that time of the year once again when people all around the world go through the process of making New Year's resolutions and we joke about how they won't last very long. The truth is -- we may joke about various resolutions, but deep in our heart, we long to change or adjust some attitudes, actions, or habits that we don't like about ourselves.

Over the past few years - I have noticed that the french fries, greasy hamburgers, and such like have decided to hang around me...if you know what I mean.

When I was traveling 35 weeks out of the year -- I burned a lot of energy...but you don't burn as much sitting in front of a computer eating potato chips.

As 2010 approaches -- I have decided that I am going to exercise. Certainly not the same way I did when I was playing college football -- but I am going to do more than lift a fork to my mouth.

Last year - my kids bought me a new bike. I haven't ridden it much -- so now they have decided that I need a stationary bike. That way I can't make excuses about the elements being too hot, too cold, too wet, etc.

I did ask them to get the kind where I can hang a bag of chips on the handle bars on one side and a bag of candy on the other....OK - I'm just kidding.

I have listened to those who are believers about exercise and diets. Have you ever noticed the first three letters of the word "diet?" DIE!!!!

Here are a few questions with answers that someone sent me.

Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life - is this true?

A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
    A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!

Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?

A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

And remember: 'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - donut in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming 'WOO HOO, What a Ride'!
    AND.....For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.
1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION - Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

Here's to a most blessed New Year and watching Judge Judy while riding on my new indoor bike!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

"My cup runneth over..."

December 22, 2009

Christmas is a time of sharing with others. Contrary to what some believe -- it isn't a time of receiving, but giving. It is a time of caring for others. Christmas isn't about things. Things get old. Things vanish away. Things get out-of-date.

Last week - my two grandtwins - Cooper and Kayla, age 3, sang at their first Christmas program. Actually - neither one of them did too much singing with the rest of the three-year-olds. While most of the other kids sang - Cooper looked out in the congregation, pointed his finger, and said, "Hey Pops!"

I know he wasn't supposed to do that, but I couldn't help to point back...but I didn't say, "Hey!"

Kayla moved out to center stage and began to dance around in front of the group. She held her dress out while smiling at the family and then said, "Hey Mommy, Hey Daddy!" while a big smile flashed across her face and the director tried to get her back in line with the rest of the kids.

It made me recall when my four younger ones also sang in little Christmas programs and did similar things.

Now that I am a grandfather -- I recall being around my grandparents. I called my grandmother "Ba Ba" and I remember the way they used to drink coffee. They would pour it in the cup and then lean it over so it could overflow into the saucer, and when it would cool, they would drink from the saucer. Perhaps this is the way they felt.

I've never made a fortune, And I guess it's too late now,
But I don't worry about that much, cause I'm happy anyhow.

As I go through life's journey, I'm reaping better than I sowed,
I'm drinking from my saucer, cause my cup has overflowed.

I don't have a lot of riches, and sometimes the going's tough,
But I got four kids and two grand kids that love me and that makes me rich enough

I remember times when everything went wrong, My faith grew kind of thin,
After while those old dark clouds broke and the sun peeked through again.

And may I never be too busy, to help another bear his load,
And I'll keep drinking from my saucer, cause my cup has overflowed.

May you and yours have a very blessed Christmas celebration. And don't forget the Reason for the Season!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

A few helpful tips

December 15, 2009

On occasion -- I receive some helpful tips that are useful in every day life. On rare occasions - I receive some tips that find their way quickly in File 13 -- if you know what I mean!

Some tips I receive I label: The noise you make when you're eating soup.

However - there are some great tips that you might not have ever heard -- so I want to share some from my File of Great Tips!

Did you know?

• • Peel a banana from the bottom and you won't have to pick the little 'stringy things' off of it. That's how the primates do it.
• • Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem...they ripen faster. (Saw a new gizmo at Wal-Mart that you can hang your bananas on to support this theory).
• • To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat up the eggs.
• • Heat up leftover pizza in a non-stick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat until warm. This keeps crust crispy - no more soggy micor pizza.
• • Easy Deviled Eggs: Put cooked egg yokes in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash til they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients (mayo, mustard, chopped pickles) re-seal, keep mashing it up thoroughly -- cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg white. Just throw away the bag when finished.
• • Here's a gardening tip: Start putting in your plants, work the nutrients in your soil. Wet newspapers, put layers around the plants overlapping as you go. Cover with mulch and forget about the weeds. Weeds will get through plastic, but not through wet newspapers.
• • To reduce static cling -- pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip or inside your pants and you will not have a clingy skirt, dress, or pants.
• • Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in your glove box in your car. When the windows fog - rub with the eraser...works better than a cloth.

Here are some words of wisdom:

• • No one ever chokes to death swallowing their pride.
• • He who burns his bridges better be a great swimmer.
• • It's hard to soar like an eagle when you're dressed like a turkey.
• • If you win - say little; If you lose - say less.
• • We are judged by what we finish - not by what we start.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

It is your time Dawson! You must have heart!

December 8, 2009

It is your time Dawson! You must have heart!

This coming Saturday - you - the Dawson Eagles - will get an opportunity of a lifetime. You began three years ago as a young team with new coaches and a new school in Pearland. That first year as a junior varsity squad - you determined to work hard and fuse together as a team that produced a 9-1 mark.

Remember that first season - the only team that you lost to was the Clear Springs Chargers. They, too, were a new school. While they moved up to Class 5A to begin their varsity journey - it was the Eagles and Chargers who played last week for the Region III championship. They lost to defending state champion Katy while you beat the defending 4A Region III Division champion Friendswood.

Now you have the opportunity to knock off the No. 1 team in the state - the Lake Travis Cavaliers.

Do you have the talent to do it? Of course you do!

Lake Travis has had to fight to get to this point this season - much different than the road they have had the past two seasons. Besides - you play in the toughest district in the state. Week after week - you have proven you belong with the elite teams in the state. But you are so new -- they just didn't know about the Soaring Eagles at Dawson. However - they do now!

Remember one thing! This moment in time will never happen again for all of you. You are a special team with a purpose and mission together. You have dreamed about this moment from the time you first came together in 2007. Now is the time - now it is time to believe in one another and believe that you can soar to the top of the mountain!

You must have heart!

There must be a burning desire in your heart....a fire in your belly to play above and beyond your greatest expectations! Remember - there is no tomorrow. A loss will end your season. It will bring to an end your journey to climb to the top of the mountain.

Teams that play with that passion and drive have accomplished the unthinkable! They have achieved the impossible!

I have one verse that you need to place in your mind and heart...It says, "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

It is your time! Time for the Eagles to soar! Time to have fire in your belly! Time to have heart! Time to lay it all on the line! You know where your strength comes from -- so claim it on Saturday!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Congratulations to coach Van Meter and coach Wells

December 1, 2009

The first thing I want to do is to congratulate Friendswood head coach Steve Van Meter and Dawson head coach Eric Wells for being named as "Coach of the Year' finalists by the Touchdown Club of Houston.

For Van Meter - it will be the seventh time in his 18 years at the helm of the Mustangs that he has been a finalist. He was a finalist last year after the 'Stangs captured the 4A Region III Division I championship - a title that Friendswood will be defending this coming Saturday.

For Wells - it will be the first of many post-season honors to come his way as the young coach of the Dawson Eagles. The Eagles (11-2) will also be playing for the 4A region title this coming Saturday and their opponent will be Friendswood (10-3).

That means the season for one team will come to an end and the other team will advance to the 4A state semifinals.

Friendswood lost to Lake Travis last year in the semifinals and it appears that Lake Travis (13-0), ranked No. 1 in the state, will be the most likely opponent for the Dawson/Friendswood winner.

There is a common characteristic that Van Meter and Wells share. They are both very humble men who always deflect personal accolades to their coaching staff and players.

Recently, a parent said, "I hope that my son gets to play for coach Van Meter." I have also heard that same statement regarding coach Wells.

This has certainly been a phenomenal year for both teams. Friendswood's run to repeat and Dawson's deep run in their young history. It is a shame that one team will see their season end.

Not able to go to the game?

If you are unable to be at the game - go to: www.reporternewssports.com and click on the LiveBlog at 1:55 p.m. banner and keep up with the play-by-play acton. You can also join in the blog with your questions or thoughts. We have had several hundred join us each week. It is fun and allows you to cheer for your team at home.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Choosing the important things in life

November 24, 2009

A philosophy professor stood before his class and had some items in front of him. When class began, wordlessly he picked up a large mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with rocks, rocks about two inches in diameter. He then asked the class if the jar was full? They agreed that it was. So - the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook he jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled into the open areas between the rocks. The students laughed. The professor picked up a small container of sand and poured it into the jar. The sand filled everything else.

"Now," said the professor, "I want you to recognize that this is your life. The rocks are important things - the pebbles are the other things that matter -- and the sand is everything else. The small stuff."

As I thought about that illustration...I began to think of how the order is reversed so many times as it pertains to life.

For instance -- if you fill up a mayonnaise jar with the sand, first, you wouldn't have any room for the rocks -- which are supposed to represent the important things in life. Many people spend much of their time concentrating on the small things in life instead of paying attention to the important things.

I'm still of the opinion that athletics should develop character and integrity. Whether a person is on the field of competition or sitting in the stands cheering -- when it is all said and done, the ultimate question should be asked, "Is the outcome of this contest really going to have a dramatic effect on the important things in life that really matter to me?"

A student from Colombine High School in Colorado issued the following:

"The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints; we spend more, but enjoy it less.

We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time; we have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts, but fewer solutions; more medicine, but less wellness.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.

We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life; we've added years to life, not life to years.

We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble getting along with our neighbors.

We've conquered outer space, but not inner peace; we've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul; we've split the atom, but not our prejudice.

We have higher incomes, but lower morals; we've become long on quanity, but short on quality.

These are the times of tall men, and short character; steep profits, and shallow relationships.

These are the days of two incomes, but more divorce; of fancier houses, but broken homes.

It is a time when there is much in the show window and nothing in the stockroom."

Perhaps that tragedy happened to allow many of those youngsters to send a message to the adults of our society who want to continue to act like children; fighting over the trivial things in life instead of looking at that mayonaise jar and concentrating on the rocks (important things in life) instead of the sand (the small stuff) that seems to dominate the lives of so many people.

Think about it! Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Playoffs just around the corner

October 27, 2009

Playoffs just around the corner

First of all - congratulations to the Pearland Lady Oilers and the Friendswood Lady Mustangs for capturing their respective district

volleyball titles. Pearland knocked off Deer Park to secure the District 22-5A championship and Friendswood latched on to the District 24-4A crown. Both teams are talented enough to make a deep run in the post-season.

Dawson and Manvel are not to be forgotten

Dawson head coach Lori McLaughlin said last year that she believed that her girls would make the playoffs this season after the Lady Eagles dropped a heartbreaking one-match playoff against Texas City in 2008. The Lady Stingarees took the fourth and final playoff spot and Dawson had to stay at home.

Dawson made an early statement this season when they swept Texas City in both of their district matches. The Lady Eagles swept Manvel last week to secure a first-ever playoff spot. Manvel will also be joining Friendswood, Santa Fe, and Dawson in the post-season from District 24-4A.

A big football mess in District 24-4A

They called it the toughest district in the state and it is proving to be just that. With only two games left in the regular season - there is only one team that has secured their place in the playoffs and that is No. 5 state-ranked Angleton at 5-0.

The other seven teams are still mathmatically in contention with the other three teams to be decided in the final week and the teams may come down to points.

The two teams that are in real trouble are Brazosport and Manvel who are at 1-4. They need a miracle to win their final two games each and then they must have help. Friendswood (3-2), Dawson (3-2), and Santa Fe (3-2) remain in a tie for second place. La Marque (2-3) and Texas City (2-3) are still in contention.

Dawson will host Texas City this coming Friday, October 30 at The Rig and they need all the support they can get from the home crowd.

Manvel must travel to face La Marque in a must-win situation. A loss will leave them at home during the playoffs.

Pearland Oilers secure playoff spot

For the 10th straight year - the Pearland Oilers have secured their place in the post-season. Pearland's football history saw the Oilers appear in the playoffs once each decade beginning in 1950. Pearland made the playoffs in 1962, 1973, 1986 ,  and 1997. Since head coach Tony Heath arrived in 1997 -- the Oilers have been in the post-season 11-out-of-13 years. They have won five district titles, two region crowns, and advanced to the 5A Division I state semifinals in 2001 and 2006.

Pearland (6-2, 4-1) will face Deer Park (6-2, 4-1) this coming Friday, October 30 at Abshier Stadium in a district showdown.

The Oilers only have Dobie at The Rig in the final game of the season while Deer Park must face Pearland and league-leading Pasadena Memorial. Two straight losses could push the Deer out of the playoff picture.

That's why that Pearland fans need to be at the game and support the Oilers in this crucial matchup.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com.

Connect to the LiveBlog at 6:55 p.m.
this coming Friday night at
www.reporternewssports.com
and keep up with the
Pearland Oilers vs Deer Park

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Killed by Friendly Fire

October 20, 2009

I have been reading a book entitled: Surviving Friendly Fire. The beginning was intriguing as the author shared a true story regarding Captain Jim Wang. He was being court-martialed for twenty-six friendly fire deaths.

Time Magazine recorded the incident.

"As the two helicopters sliced through the blue skies over northern Iraq last Thursday, a U.S. Air Force AWACS reconnaissance plane picked them up on radar. The AWACS crew immediately radioed a pair of U.S. F-15C fighters and asked them to take a closer look. The crews of the fighters flew past the coppers and identified them as Russian-made Hinds flown by the Iraqi military. The fateful, terse order came back from the AWACS to fire. Moments later, the blasted helicopters, each of them struck by an air-to-air missile, plummeted to the ground.

As horrified Pentagon officials quickly discovered, however, the two choppers were not Hinds, but U.S. Black Hawks. On board were 26 allied military and civilian officials...The accident virtually wiped out the leadership of the allied Military Coordination Center."

The magazine went on to say that "lives lost to friendly fire are a devastating cost of battle. Almost one-fourth of the 148 American combat deaths in the Gulf War resulted from some accidental assault by their own side. The Pentagon established a Fratricide Task Force to develop ways to avoid such accidents."

Of the six air force officers investigated, only Captain Wang was court-martialed. He was acquitted of all charges on June 20, 1995.

We have already heard of such incidents in recent months that have tragically occurred on foreign soil from military reports.

While the above example is the extreme -- it is no less true in communities when people, who are supposed to be friends and neighbors, engage in cruel and hideous acts of hurt through their words and actions.

And yes, it applies to the sporting world on a local level.

A parent is dissatisfied that their son or daughter isn't given a fair shake (in their eyes) to make the team or doesn't get enough playing time -- so the result is to criticize the coach and relish (deep inside) when the team isn't successful. Yet -- the team is a reflection of the community -- but the coach is a victim of friendly fire.

After 13 years of covering all different kinds of sports in the Friendswood/Pearland communities -- I have heard various tales of disgruntled parents and kids who take out their hostilities on those who have the task of guiding our future leaders of America.

The list certainly includes those associated with the school administration, teachers, counselors, band directors, cheerleading, drill team, and the list could go on. Yet -- those are the people that are on the firing line while others take cheap shots to wound those who have dedicated their lives to help make others successful in life.

Lewis Smedes said, "If you live long enough, chances are you'll be hurt by someone you counted on to be your friend...When we invest ourselves in deep personal relationships, we open our souls to the wounds of another's disloyalty or even betrayal."

Space is not adequate to fully deal with the issues, but perhaps a phrase might provide some insight for those who have been wounded by friendly fire. The hurt and shock of such action won't disappear immediately, but getting some insight on those who fire away might provide some peace of mind.

The phrase? Hurt people - hurt people.

Think about it!

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

By the numbers

October 13, 2009

Numbers seem to be the major identification mark as to the success of a team or an individuals performance -- no matter what sport it may be.

In golf - the less the number - the better the golfer. For example - Tiger Woods began very early in the developmental stages as a golfer to set out to beat one number.  That number is 18 -- which represents the number of major championships that Jack Nicklaus accumulated during his career. Tiger has made no secret that he wants to surpass the Golden Bear and get 19-plus majors on his resume. At the moment - Tiger has 14 and counting.

When you think of monumental numbers -- you might think of No. 56 - the number of consecutive hits by "The Yankee Clipper" - Joe DiMaggio - in baseball which is a record that may never be broken.

Or you might think about No. 47 which is the number of consecutive wins by the Oklahoma Sooners which, in this day and time in college football, may also never be surpassed.

But I would like to give you some numbers that have recently been achieved that pertain to some of our local players and teams.

20

Pearland's 27-24 win over the La Porte Bulldogs this past Friday night marked the 20th straight district win for the Oilers who haven't lost a district game since October 6, 2006. After an open date - Pearland beat Clear Creek 34-28 on October 20, 2006 and haven't lost a league game since.

98

Pearland junior running back Dustin Garrison ripped off a 98-yard touchdown run against La Porte that gave the Oilers a 27-24 victory to help them remain undefeated in district play. Garrison's run set a new PHS record for the longest scoring run from scrimmage breaking the old mark by Oklahoma strong safety Sam Proctor who previously held the record of 95 yards he set in 2006 with a TD run against North Shore at Reliant Stadium to help the Oilers knock off the Mustangs 21-14.

280

Friendswood's Matt Kennemer had 280 yards on five kickoff returns that helped keep the Mustangs in the game against No. 1 Angleton. Not sure if it is a school record for special teams, but that is a lot of yardage.

311

Pearland junior quarterback Trey Anderson threw for 311 yards against Sam Rayburn in a 50-0 win at homecoming giving him the PHS single-game passing record which broke the former record of 282 yards in a single-game by Noah Allen in 2001.

415

Pearland's district win streak began against Clear Creek on October 20, 2006 and it also marked the night that Fozzy Whittaker (UT) rushed for a PHS and a Greater Houston area rushing record of 415 yards.

6:55

That is the time to join us on the internet for the LiveBlog. This coming Friday - you can find out how the Pearland Oilers are doing against Pasadena Memorial. Both teams enter the game with 3-0 marks in district and are tied for first place -- the winner no doubt moves into the driver's seat for the league championship. You can add your thoughts throughout the game. Go to www.reporternewssports and click on LiveBlog and enjoy the game with us.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Live Blog this coming Friday night

September 29, 2009

Over the past 10 years -- the technology in our world has been boggling to mind. We have the Internet. Cell phones with cameras to instantly record our daily activities - check and/or send E-mails - watch TV - check the weather - get directions -- on and on we go.

We text - we tweet - we blog. We have so many ways to communicate it staggers us to think about what is next.

This coming Friday night - the Reporter News is going to launch our live blog at The Rig. It is going to be Homecoming - the Oilers are having another great season - but just in case you live out of town or you can't attend the game -- you can go to our sports website and find out what is going on during the actual game - add your thoughts - participate in the discussion - and it is all FREE!

You will need to go to: www.reporternewssports.com and click on the LiveBlog to be a part of this exciting new way of keeping up with the Oilers this week. Of course - we will do the same with Dawson and/or Friendswood since we can only be in one place at a time.

There is no registration involved - no personal information shared. Just click on the LiveBlog and wait to be instantly hooked up to the game. You can watch the comments - ask questions - participate in any trivia that we might ask - put in your own take on the team - check the live scoreboard, etc.

This is our first attempt at this so we don't know who might be participating -- but the great thing is that former Pearland players and residents can hook up with us at the game wherever they might be in the area, state, or out-of-state.

Congratulations to Dawson head coach Eric Wells

I want to personally congratulate coach Wells for be selected as the "Coach of the Week" by the Houston Texas after the Eagles thrashed 5A Baytown Sterling 52-14. The Eagles continue their undefeated season as they beat Manvel 21-20 last week.

The biggest test of the season for Dawson is coming up this Friday when they travel to face La Marque at 7:00 p.m. Dawson is presently ranked No. 4 in the area. This is phenomenal considering the Eagles are only in their second year of varsity competition.

Wells and his coaching staff have done an outstanding job in laying a strong foundation from the time the school opened. Dawson fans need to travel to La Marque and support this team.

Friendswood faces biggest challenge of season

The Friendswood Mustangs will host No. 1 area-ranked Angleton at Henry Winston Stadium on Friday, October 2 at 7:00 p.m. This game will be key in determining the district championship.

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

More things I've learned

September 15, 2009

I am always grateful for those who faithfully read my column...and even more appreciative when someone sends me some additional thoughts.

Last week, while lamenting (sort of) regarding another birthday - though it does beat the alternative...I reflected on lessons we learn in life.

I got the following "I've learned..." from Paul from West U who reads my column on the internet (www.reporternewssports.com)...thought I would pass on these additional thoughts...

• I've learned....That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
• I've learned....That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.
• I've learned....That money doesn't buy class.
• I've learned....That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
• I've learned...That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
• I've learned....That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
• I've learned....That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.
• I've learned....That love, not time, heals all wounds.
• I've learned...That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
• I've learned....That there's nothing sweeter than sleeping with your babies and feeling their breath on your cheeks.
• I've learned....That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
• I've learned...That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.
• I've learned...That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
• I've learned...That I wish I could have told those I cared about that I love them one more time before they passed away.
• I've learned...That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
• I've learned...That when your newly born child holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.
• I've learned ...That it is best to give advice in only two circumstances; when it is requested and when it is a life threatening situation.
• I've learned...That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.

 

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Lessons we must learn in life

September 15, 2009

   

It is that time of the year for me. Yes - another birthday will take place today, September 16 -- and believe me -- I am thrilled to be having another year to celebrate after almost biting the bullet on March 4, 2006.

On September 25, my two grandbabies, Cooper and Kayla, will celebrate their third year of life after coming into this world at 2.4 pounds each. The three of us almost didn't make it -- but we did as we "literally" survived in 2006.

As I think about celebrating another birthday -- I think that it is important that we realize that we never get too old to learn valuable lessons in life.

One day, a teacher gave her class a test. She listed the first part of some famous sayings, asking the students to fill in the rest. The responses were varied as well as humorous. Here are some of the more interesting answers.

    * You can't teach an old dog new . . .math.
    * The pen is mightier than the . . .pigs.
    * An idle mind is . . .the best way to relax.
    * A penny saved is . . .not worth much.
    * Two's company, three's . . .the Musketeers.
    * Where there's smoke, there's . . .pollution.
    * Children should be seen and not . . .spanked or grounded.
    * A rolling stone . . .plays the guitar.
    * A bird in the hand is . . .a real mess.
    * It's better to light one candle than to . . .waste electricity.
    * It's always darkest before . . .I open my eyes.
    * You have nothing to fear but . . .homework.
    * If you can't stand the heat . . .don't start the fireplace.
    * If you lie down with the dogs . . .you'll stink in the morning.
    * The squeaking wheel gets . . .annoying.
    * We have nothing to fear but . . .our principal.
    * I think, therefore I . . .get a headache.
    * Early to bed and early to rise . . .is first in the bathroom.
    * There is nothing new under the . . .bed.
    * The grass is always greener . . .when you leave the sprinkler on.
    * Laugh and the whole world laughs with you, cry and . . .you have to blow your nose.
    * Laugh and the world laughs with you, cry and . . .someone yells, "Shut up!"

Well - perhaps today's young people have a little different perspective on life than us older folks. But it doesn't hurt to take a look back and realize that some of the greatest lessons we learned in life came from the simple times of life.

But one thing should never change and that is our appreciation for those that we love the most. Those who are there for us no matter what. I am of the age that gifts really aren't important. But being loved has a greater importance.

I am reminded of the young lady that I met after speaking at her school in El Paso. She said, "A real friend is someone who walks into your life when the rest of the world has walked out." She was only in the eighth grade -- but expressed wisdom beyond her years.

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

What does UG2BK mean?

September 8, 2009

   

Several months ago -- I brought to your attention that my daughter, Lexis, sent and received over 17,000 texted messages in one month. That means she runs the risk of Carpal Tunnel surgery before she is 21. And there are a lot more people - young and old - who are at risk.

I've tried to get my youngest son, Landon, to leave engineering school at UH and become a hand surgeon....both make a lot of money, but think about the potential. If I wasn't so old - I would trade in my Ph.D for a medical degree to either operate on hands or learn laser removal of Tatoos. Another suggestion from dear old dad.

The text messaging is getting out of hand. Every day you hear of someone having an automobile wreck -- either a single accident or another automobile involved. The reason? "I was texting and lost control of the car!"

But what really gets me is the loss of the English language. Just as I have E-mailed my column to the paper -- in the words that you are now reading -- it didn't take an interpreter to diagnose what I was trying to say.

Did you know that the Merriam-Webster Dictionary will be recognizing texting shorthand for the first time in their 2009 editions? The AP Stylebook now includes IMO (in my opinion), ROFL (rolling on the floor laughing), and BFF (best friends forever).

Bert Martinez Communications LLC, a Houston-based consulting firm, hired a 20-year old and two teenagers last fall to help teach texting vernacular to its staff of six, according to a recent article I read.

SWDYT? Opps - So what do you think?

If you are going to be up-to-date -- you need to know the language.

FWIW (For what it's worth) -- it really is NMP (not my problem) and there is NRN (no response necessary) to what I am telling you.

On the other hand - 4COL (for crying out loud) -- WRUGTDAI (what are you doing to do about it)?

As a parent - there are some codes that you do need to know. PAW (parents are watching)...99 (parents are no longer watching)...POS (parent over shoulder)...PIR (parents in room)...

Technology has changed our world over the past ten years...which leads me to say UG2BK...I'm sure you can figure that one out...

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Forgiveness is a unique quality of life

September 1, 2009

   

Have you ever done something really stupid? I mean something that is dumber than dumb. You never intended it to happen. You actually never dreamed you would do something that placed you on the same level as a bucket of rocks.

Comedian Bill Engvall tells stories about dumb things people do and he ends each story with, "Here's your sign!" which signifies your sign with "Stupid" written on it.

However - are there some things that we do that constitutes the death penalty? Maybe not in the literal sense -- but doing something that could cost us our job -- though we didn't really hurt anyone -- we just did something really stupid when it is discovered.

If someone steals or physically hurts someone then I can see where there needs to be a punishment that fits the crime.

But there seems to be a missing element when someone has been caught just doing something stupid. Their act didn't hurt anyone -- there was no real threat -- yet when discovered -- some want to pull the handle on the guillotine.

What disturbs me about today's society is that we seem to relish when another fellow human being falls -- as if we, ourselves, have no faults and have never failed.

Mark Twain once said, "Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it."

I have found that 'forgiveness' is a word that applies to me in seeking and granting it. There are times that I have to seek the forgiveness of those I have offended. At other times, I must grant forgiveness to those who request it from me. Pity the person who does neither; who thinks they have wronged no one or are above righting a wrong they may have created.

One thing I have learned all these years is that "what goes around - comes around." There are some things that happen to others where forgiveness ought to at the forefront of our decision-making - especially when deciding whether the crime fits the time or punishment.

A suspension rather than a firing is sometimes the best decision. If forgiveness isn't at the forefront in deciding someone's punishment -- then perhaps it might do all of us well to look into the lives of others who are in leadership positions who have made some questionable decisions that have impacted our community.

I, for one, am aware of some of those decisions that would merit "Here's your sign." I, for one, will be watching to see if forgiveness is at the forefront or if what goes around - comes around will be the next step.

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Patience sometimes pays off...

August 25, 2009

   

There were two women in a grocery store approaching the cashier at the same time. One had just a few items and the other -- a truck load of groceries.

Since the store was in a very small town, they didn't have separate checkout lines for 20 items or less.

So, the issue that immediately faced both ladies was, who was going to go first?

The lady with the groceries getting ready to fall off her cart forged ahead of the other lady while glaring her down as she moved to the cashier.

The young lady with the few items didn't say a word, kept her composure, and managed a smile throughout the whole ordeal.

After the rude woman was checked out, bagged out, and carted out -- the other lady set her few items on the counter and waited to find out how much she owed.

The cashier looked at the young woman and said, "I am amazed at how many rude people there are in the world. But I am even more impressed with the way you handled her rudeness. You kept your sweet smile and waited patiently without a fuss."

Once the few items were placed in a bag, the cashier said, "Thank you very much."

The young lady said, "How much do I owe you?"

"Not a thing," was the reply.

"But I know groceries aren't free," said the young lady.

"You are right, they aren't," said the veteran cashier, who had seen many rude people in her years at the store. "But I watched you very closely. You had such a sweet smile, never said a word, and waited patiently. Besides, the lady was in such a big hurry, I just added your few items to her ticket and let her pay for them."

See -- patience does pay off!

But, I will tell you there are times when we are tested in life...especially when you go to Wal-Mart or any other large chain that attracts a lot of people at once. It will bring out the best or worst in you depending on your state of mind.

For example, if I had a lemon, cut in half, and squeezed it -- what would come out of it? Juice? Seeds? Rhine? The truth is -- everything that is in it.

So when you are put in the squeeze of life -- what comes out of you? Everything that is in you!

If you are filled with patience, love, joy, happiness, and encouragement, then those are the things that are most likely to come out of you.

If bitterness, jealousy, hatred, and anger fill your life, then that is what will usually surface first.

I do love to go to Wal-Mart. There are some very rude shoppers there. But each time I go - I make up my mind that I will be sensitive when I get around fellow shoppers. It really doesn't stunt your character if you allow someone else to go first. Try it! It might make you feel good.

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Bringing home vacation souvenirs

August 18, 2009

   

It is less than a week before school begins. I'm assuming that most have taken their vacations. Most families find themselves now buying school clothes and supplies waiting for another school year to begin.

For the first time in 26 years -- we're not going to have a child in school -- at least not at Pearland ISD. Now we will have two in college.

I was visiting with someone this past week and we were discussing vacations -- and particularly what people bring home for themselves and others.

It seems that one of the favorite souvenirs that people buy for themselves and others are T-shirts. Especially those that tell you where you went on vacation.

But one headline recently caught my attention. American nabbed leaving India without souvenirs.

Since I have been to India 15 times -- I can assure you that I have returned home with plenty of things from that country. But the story I saw said:

An American woman was detained at Oakland Airport when she attempted to return from an exotic Indian vacation without any souvenirs.

“I went to Jaipur on business,” protested Parrot. “I checked into a hotel, had my meeting and left.”

I've returned from India with hand-carved elephants, leather goods, hand-painted brass, peacock feathers, etc.

Anyway - there are a couple of things that have always disturbed me regarding souvenirs.

As you are reading this - you are either a collector or you know someone who has collected these items.

One is a state silver spoon. You walk into someone's house and there they are - displayed on the wall in a wooden container.

Those silver spoons have no purpose. You will never use them to eat food. Even if you did -- you would only get a bird's helping.

One of the other souvenirs are the state plates that people buy. Same thing -- you will never use them -- they wouldn't hold enough food to feed a rat -- and they are simply worthless.

For my money -- buy a mug. It can show what state you visited - what amusement park you went to - what restaurant you ate at - what museum you toured. Doesn't that make more sense? You can use your mug at any time. It doesn't fade - it doesn't lose it's size -- and it will last a lifetime unless you break it.

As an example -- I made a brief tour in one of my kitchen cabinets and I found mugs from the Carlsbad Caverns, Roaring River Restaurant in Cassville, Missouri, a mug with the flag of India, an IHOP mug (No I didn't steal it), Blue Bell Ice Cream mug, a "Yeah Man!" cup from Jamaica, a cup that reads, "You're the bestest Daddy! " a cup from Kawai, Hawaii, a cup from The Alamo, a D.A.R.E. mug from Wiconsin, a mug from the Excalibur in Las Vegas, and a beautiful cup from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

These are just a few of over 150 mugs that I have collected over the years. Many are in boxes, but I can get them out at any time to serve a lot of people.

Spoons and plates -- naw! Give me a mug any day. You know - it just dawned on me -- I have been around the world and in 36 states -- but I don't have a Pearland mug. I need to do some hunting around to see if I can find one.

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Enjoy the coming year of sports

August 11, 2009

   

It is hard to believe that the start of school is just around the corner and that the fall sports season will begin shortly. Hundreds of area athletes have already reported to their various high school sports programs preparing to do their very best as they represent their family, school, and community.

It seems like only yesterday when my son, Landon, was getting his first taste of competitive football at the Jr. High level. Now, after being a first-team All-District pick for Pearland his senior year in 2005 -- he recently turned 21 and is in the engineering school at UH. My how time flies.

But he gave me some precious memories -- ones that we will always share.

When he first decided to participate in the PHS football program -- I told him that he was going to have to work hard and make it on his own. I knew that the Pearland coaches weren't interested in my pressing them to give him playing time.

I made a commitment years ago that if one or more of my four children wanted to participate in competitive sports, I was going to be totally supportive of their decision, but I would remain silent and supportive of the respective coaches.

I guess that comes from the example my parents set when I played in high school and college.

My mom and dad would attend each game, watch me play, and then go home. They were never vocal, they never chastised a coach, nor did they ever berate a coach when I got home. I can honestly say that my folks never criticized any of my coaches at any level.

There were people who watched me play who didn't even know my parents. Only their close friends knew where they sat and who their son was on a given Friday night in high school or on a Saturday in college.

I took the same stance with my children. My son never heard me utter one word of criticism regarding the Pearland coaching staff.

As the 2009 sports season approaches, it would be a good idea for parents to be totally supportive of their young men and women. This also includes being supportive of the coaches who are committed to your student-athlete.

While all of us want to see our teams win, it is equally important to maintain a consistent level of support for each student-athlete and their coaches. No team goes out to intentionally lose. A strong support base of love and faithfulness is essential for all involved. You will be a lot happier if you look at the whole picture and maintain a sense of decency and self-control.

Also - don't forget about those who participate in the band, cheerleaders, drill team, cross country, volleyball, and tennis. They also sweat in this sweltering heat and spend countless hours preparing for their time in the spotlight or competing for their respective high schools..

I am excited as the fall sports season begins. I want every student-athlete to be successful. But remember -- they are students, first -- and then athletes. So wear your team's colors and spirit clothing with pride -- support each of the young men and women who are participating -- and enjoy this time of the year. There is nothing better than being a part of the high school sports scene.

I think I can hear the band playing now! Won't you join me?

    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

People say the funniest things

August 4, 2009

   

I have always found reading quotes of various people can be quite humorous. Some people have an unusual insight -- especially as it pertains to every day life. I recently came across an article that had various quotes that I found humorous and there was much truth in their expressions.

1. Sometimes, when I look at my children, I say to myself, 'Lillian, you should have remained a virgin.'
Lillian Carter (mother of Jimmy Carter)
2. Last week, I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I had ever seen. I have since been visited by her sister, and now wish to withdraw that statement. - Mark Twain
3. The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending; and to have the two as close together as possible - George Burns
4. Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year. - Victor Borge
5. Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint. - Mark Twain
6. By all means, marry. If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher. - Socrates
7. I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury. - Groucho Marx
8. My wife has a slight impediment in her speech. Every now and then she stops to breathe. - Jimmy Durante
9. I have never  hated a man enough to give his diamonds back. - Zsa Zsa Gabor
10. My luck is so bad that if I bought a cemetery, people would stop dying. - Rodney Dangerfield
11. Money can't buy you happiness ... But it does bring you a more pleasant form of misery. - Spike Milligan
12. I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time for my nap. - Bob Hope
13. I never drink water because of the disgusting things that fish do in it.. - W. C. Fields
14. We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through Congress. - Will Rogers
15. Don't worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older, it will avoid you. - Winston Churchill
16. Maybe it's true that life begins at fifty .. But everything else starts to wear out, fall out, or spread out..  - Phyllis Diller
17. By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step, he's too old to go anywhere.  - Billy Crystal
    E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Our conversations are going to the dogs

July 28, 2009

   

I have two American Eskimos who are named Shay and Princess. They are very smart and they are female - which can be a very dangerous combination -- if you know what I mean -- especially since they are sisters.

Last week we looked at how cats influence our every day language -- but I don't think you realize that we probably use dogs more than we do cats when expressing ourselves.

By the way - I want to issue Taco Bell a heartfelt expression of sympathy in their loss of the Taco Bell Chihuahua, named Gidget, who recently died. She was born on February 7, 1994 and died on July 21, 2009. It is rumored that she died of a ruptured chalupa.

And for all you cat lovers out there -- as a reminder - what do you get when you spell "dog" backwards?

No wonder a dog is "Man's best friend" -- which man is generic - man or woman.

I do want to thank some of you who sent in your submissions which made me yell out - "Hot Dog!"

We sometimes find ourselves at a game and when one team is beating the "dog" out of another team -- we cry out to the coach, "Call off the dogs!"

Or we might cheer for our team "Go Dawgs!"

You might hear a coach yell at a particular player - "Would you stop dogging it?"

You also hear someone at work say, "I have been working like a dog."

    1. "I'm dog tired" - which means what you just said.
    2. "My dogs are barking" - which refers to your feet hurting.
    3. "You Ain't Nothin' But a Hound Dog" - which was an Elvis song that drove my dad crazy when I would crank it up as a teenager.
    4. "This hole has a dog-leg" - golfing term meaning the hole turns sharply to the left or right from the tee box.
    5. "When you lie with dogs - you get up with fleas" - which refers to the bad company you keep.
    6. "He's in the dog house" - the wife is not a happy camper.
    7. "They are underdogs" - a team expected to lose.
    8. "They fight like cats and dogs" - describes a married couple or their kids...or both!
    9. "He's a lap dog" - refers to a man who has no backbone.
    10. "Every dog has his day" - a person finally has their shining moment.
    11. "He's sick as a dog" - which means you might be hugging the toilet.
    12. "It's a dog-eat-dog world" - refers to living in a tough world.
    13. "The tail wagging the dog" - something smaller is controlling something bigger.
    14. "We need a doggy bag" - bringing home leftovers from the restaurant.
    15. "They have a dog and pony show" - not much quality.

Well - I guess those are all the doggone expressions I can give to you at the moment. I hope you aren't going to the dogs or putting on the dog at work. If you are - then remember that every dog has his day. And if you are currently reading a book - remember to dog-ear the page when you stop so you can remember where to start reading again. And remember that most people's bark are worse than their bite. Especially the big dog you work for.

Remember - we're in the dog days of summer. As Jeb of the Beverly Hillbillies would say, "By doggies - that's something!"

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Reference to cats is a part of our vernacular

July 21, 2009

   

I have never really been a lover of cats. I would never be mean to one since most don't hang around long enough for you to even pet them. They seem to only come around when they are hungry or want some affection...but when they are finished with you -- they take off to tear up your carpet or furniture.

The one exception is our cat Layla...whom I affectionately call Cat/Dog. She comes around the table and begs for food; jumps into your lap and curls up to sleep; comes to you when you call her name; and will wait for you to pet her. She really is the ideal cat that will change your mind about these socially picky pets.

But have you ever thought about the phrases that refer to cats in our normal everyday language? The reference to dogs is even greater -- which I'll share next week.

By the way - if you have any dog phrases - send them my way and we'll see how our list adds up.

So lets look at the cat phrases that dominate our conversations. Here are some familiar cat phrases that you may have used or heard.

    1. "Cat got your tongue?" - This is used when someone isn't talking.
    2. "Cat-Calls" - This is what you hear when watching an terrible act on "America's Got Talent."
    3. "When the cat's away - the mice will play." - This was usually used when the teacher left the classroom. In my grade school years -- it meant the boys pulled out the pea shooters and shot the girls.
    4. "A cat has nine lives." - Not sure how the number nine was selected...guess it just sounded good.
    5. "Cat-burglar" - Cats creep up on things silently -- the same way a thief attempts to rob someone.
    6. "Fat cat" - This term has always referred to someone who is rich and lives the good life.
    7. "Scaredy cat" - The favorite term when kids would taunt another kid who was afraid to do something.
    8. "There is more than one way to skin a cat" - This means there is more than one way to do a job or task.
    9. "Weak as a kitten" - Expresses how weak someone might feel in comparison to a sweet little helpless baby kitten.
    10. "Curiousity killed the cat" - This expression has been given to children by parents to warn them that their curiosity could lead them to danger.
    11. "Pussyfooting around" - A cat carefully sneaks up on its prey. Though it can also refer to someone who doesn't want to directly do something; someone who might make excuses around the issues.
    12. "Copycat" - This refers to someone who acts the same way as someone else; or someone who would attempt to steal an answer off someone's paper during a test. See "Are you smarter than a fifth grader?" for an actual example.
    13. "Fight like cats and dogs" - This is the final cry of a mother who chastizes her children when they are fighting over a toy.
    14. "He's a cool cat" - A phrase often heard in the 50's and 60's -- referring to a boy who causes the girls to emotionally melt. Prime example - see the Fonz!

I'm sure there are more...but this gives you an example of how cats have influenced our vocabulary. Got any dog phrases?

E-mail: drdaviddavis@yahoo.com

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

A smile that will never be forgotten

July 14, 2009

   

Most high school reunions take place 10 years later after graduation. That is when we are in our late 20's, seeking to appear successful, going on those last ditch diets, making sure we drive up in the newest automobile, and hoping that people still recognize us.

However, when the reunions start to add up (meaning we are getting older), the trend is to not worry so much about outward appearance and financial success, but to realize that life is precious - especially when information is shared regarding classmates who have died.

I am now at the age that my mother periodically sends me the hometown paper with an obituary of a former classmate and over the past ten years, the number has increased.

At my last reunion a couple of years ago, that was one of the main topics of conversation. Realizing that we are older and that the death rate is mounting. We no longer put much stock in our appearance. The 30-second Ab workout commercials isn't that appealing since most of my guy friends aren't showing a six-pack (Abs - not beer), but a keg -- and they are proud of it. Of course, some of them got the keg by drinking beer I guess. For most -- just eating finds its way around the middle. And hair, that used to be an issue, isn't a concern for most who have experienced the four stages of hair: Hair, fuzz, is and was.

Our senior class has utilized communicating through E-mail and when someone is sick, has a child, or now that we are much older, a grandchild that needs our prayers -- the E-mails are sent and the prayers are launched heaven-ward.

Of course -- there is always the dreaded E-mail letting us know that another classmate has died.

Such was the case this past week when I received word that DeWayne LaQuey died of a heart attack.

I first saw DeWayne during the summer playing little league baseball with the Duncan Youth Council. DeWayne was on a team on the east side of Duncan, Oklahoma. The coach of the team was Bert Lana -- who later became one of the toughest coaches I ever played for in junior high.

Lana was loud, hated to lose, demanded the best out of every player -- and that included DeWayne.

You see - DeWayne had polio (I believe that is what he had) and wore braces on his legs while using two metal crutches. That night at our game -- Lana helped him in the batter's box - yelled at him about where to stand - and once the pinch runner was in place -- the pitcher lobbed the ball to the plate. DeWayne hit the ball and the runner was safe at first to the delight of the crowd on both sides.

At the time -- I thought coach Lana was very hard on DeWayne -- but it wasn't until years later that I realized that he didn't see DeWayne as a cripple -- he saw him as one of his kids -- equally demanding the best out of his player. No more - no less.

Throughout junior high and high school -- I don't recall anyone ever staring at DeWayne or making fun of him. In fact - he always had that contagious smile -- including the last reunion. It would be his signature that you would see first and you would never allow your eyes to move below his face.

Later in high school - DeWayne would be the manager on the football team -- and the coaches and players would sometimes yell at him, "When are you going to get rid of those braces and suit up to play?"

That huge grin would break out and we would all laugh -- not at DeWayne -- but the fact that he was very much a part of our lives.

I do recall that DeWayne was notorious about playing tricks on us. His favorite was to ask one of us to grab his metal crutch. When we did -- he used the other one to smash your fingers. We would encourage him to do it to other unsuspecting fools and he would be happy to accommodate our request.  It stung a little -- but it sure was funny -- but you didn't grab it twice.

At our 20-year reunion - some of us met at the Country Club to play golf -- and lo and behold, there was DeWayne with his golf clubs. He had taken up the game and become very successful with his ability to hit the ball using one arm. Once again - we praised him for his golf game -- not out of pity -- but because he was very good.

DeWayne was born on May 8, 1949 and he went to be with the Lord on July 9, 2009.

While I have many fond memories of DeWayne during those growing up years -- it just dawned on me that this past Thursday (July 9) -- for the first time in his life -- the braces were gone and the crutches were no longer needed as he was set free to finally run, hop, and skip -- and I know that he did so with that familiar smile that all of us had come to love.

As I look back -- we never looked at DeWayne as physically challenged and any less than the rest of us. In our eyes -- he wasn't any different than any of the other guys in our school. He was just DeWayne -- the boy with a winsome smile that made us all feel special.

Melvin DeWayne LaQuey will always have a special place in my life -- and I know he will always be remembered by his classmates as a deeply humble, caring man whose smile could melt your heart.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

The word is "influence"

July 7, 2009

   

I was thinking of the word "influence" this week and decided to look deeper at that word and I came away with some unusual insight. The word comes from latin that literally means "inflow." It is a word picture of two rivers merging together - one a mighty force and the other - a smaller stream. As they merged - the smaller stream would get caught up and carried away in the flow of the mighty river and the two would be caught up together.

The influence of someone allows us to be caught up in their flow.

As graduation is now in the past, there are seniors who walked across the stage having been caught up in the flow of the lives of their parents, teachers, coaches, or counselors. They have been influenced in different ways for the past twelve years by a variety of people in different ways that will have a lasting effect on their values and choices in life.

We can also get caught up in the "inflow" of those we unexpectedly meet in our every day life.

If these new graduates have their way, years from now they'll be the architects and artists, beauticians and businesspersons, carpenters and computer scientists, educators and engineers, interior designers and journalists, mathematicians and nurses, physicians and psychologists.

Some will be heading into the military to protect our freedoms. Another small group is "undecided."

That word "dream" comes up often during the graduation ceremony. It is a time to dream dreams -- step out toward your life goals -- see the world in a whole new way -- and chart your course on the sea of life.

No one asked me to address this year's graduates, but if I could, my message would be simple.

No matter the distance, hold tight to your parents, sisters and brothers, and all of your family. Remember who ran up to the school with the homework you forgot at home. Remember who fed you when you were hungry - placed clothes on you while growing up - sat up with you when you were sick.

Keep in touch with your other greatest supporters -- your friends -- if even by E-mail. Hold to your ideals. And don't ever let anyone tell you it can't be done!

There are too many people who never ventured out in life to take that trip they never dreamed was possible. But when they did -- they were never the same when they returned home because a whole new world was opened to them.

Above all -- keep your faith in God and in others at the forefront of your life. Sure, people will disappoint you, but that is part of life. You will learn to discover those that you can really trust.

If you have a dream -- go for it! You will be glad you did. And always love those who love you the most.

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Life is a series of lessons

June 29, 2009

   

When school is out and the summer months take over -- people think that coaches and teachers go into neutral and never give one thought about the previous year in the classroom or field of competition.

Actually -- dedicated teachers and coaches spend a lot of time reflecting. Why? Because we can all benefit from a look in the rear view mirror of life -- looking at where we've been as we contemplate where it is we are going.

I, too, have reflected on what I have learned so far this year. Some of it is pretty important stuff that you might identify with as well. So, in no particular order, here is a sampling from the stack that has been building on my cluttered desk.

    * I've learned that I should tell people how I feel about them now, not later.
    * I've learned that things that I'm not even aware of are being noticed and remembered.
    * I've learned that being real is a lot better than being legalistic and judgmental.
    * I've learned that you don't have to push, pull or drag someone if you are a true leader.
    * I've learned that days of maintenance far exceed days of magnificence.
    * I've learned that some people aren't going to change, no matter what.
    * I've learned that I seldom feel badly about things that I did not say.
    * I've learned that you can't bully people around in life.
    * I've learned that forgiveness is far better than bitterness.
    * I've learned to stop saying "never" or "always" when it comes to the future.
    * I've learned not to sweat the small stuff. (Actually, I'm still working on this one)
    * I've learned that you can't beat fun and laughter.
    * I've learned to give credit where credit is due.
    * I've learned that if you love others more than yourself, they will love you back.
    * I've learned that there are going to be some people who are bitter and you can't change them -- no matter what you attempt to do.
    * I've learned that there are some people who will never admit they are wrong.
    * I've learned that there are still more lessons for me to learn in life.

Perhaps you might pause and do a little reflecting yourself as we have passed the half way point of 2009. I believe that there are many more lessons to grab hold of that might make us a better person in order to bless others. Would you join me?

From the cluttered desk...by Dr. David Davis

Man's best friend

June 20, 2009

   

He was born on March 25, 1997 and was put to rest on May 25, 2009. On the surface -- it appears that he only lived a little over 12 years -- but in dog years -- he was 84. While some dogs live longer than that -- his life expectancy as a St. Bernard exceeded his time.

   

His parents, on his AKC papers, were Bartholomew Sebastian Little and Beatrice Suzanna Little -- but when he was adopted five weeks after his birth -- his name became Samson Sebastian Davis...or lovingly called Sammy.

   

I have never been a strong cat lover as they are usually very temperamental and only express their love to you when they want something. That could range from food to wanting to be scratched. But when they get what they want -- they usually dart away until they need you again.

   

Now - I know there is an exception to that theory. My son, Landon, adopted a cat about a year ago and I believe that Layla is a cat/dog. She is very lovable - follows you around the house - begs for food at the table - and will jump up in your lap to sleep.

   

Memorial Day was a day of remembrance for the Davis clan as we had to make a decision to put Sammy to sleep. He had developed a severe case of arthritis in his back legs over six months ago. My brother-in-law, who is a veterinarian, suggested some medication that would help him -- but warned that it was only a matter of time before he would not be able to walk. And then it would be the dreaded time to make that decision when his life would come to an end to put him out of his painful misery.

   

No longer able to walk -- we placed him on a blanket and put him in the back of the pickup for his final ride.

   

Sammy was born in Taladega, Alabama and was given to me from a family when I was speaking in that area. Five weeks later, Mr. Little drove Samson to me when I was in Atlanta, Georgia speaking. He looked just like the dogs in the movie - Beethoven.

   

We flew home together and when they loaded him up in the belly of that Delta flight -- everyone could hear him yelping. I'm sure he was a little frightened about his surroundings then -- and I'm sure he was a little frightened when they were taking him from the pickup to a strange place.

   

With dark sunglasses on -- and tears flowing -- it was time to stroke his big, soft ears, look into his big brown eyes, and say a final goodbye as he gave a faint yelp through the door.

   

I know many of you reading this have your own story. Many years ago - there appeared the following in a Dear Abby column when she answered a little girl who had lost her pet. If you haven't read it -- perhaps it will speak to your heart.

Rainbow Bridge     There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors.
    Just this side of Rainbow Bridge is a land of meadows, hills and valleys filled with lush green grass.
    When a beloved pet dies, it goes to this place. There plentiful food, water and warm spring weather abound.
    Old and frail animals become young again. Those maimed are made whole. Together they play all day.
    Only one thing is missing. They are not with their special person who loved them so on earth.
    Each day is filled with running and playing until the time comes when one suddenly stops and looks up.
    The nose twitches! Ears perk up! Eyes stare excitedly! This special one suddenly runs from the group.
    You have been seen. Meeting, you take him or her in your arms once more.
    Your face is lovingly kissed over and over and over.
    Looking into the eyes of your trusted friend, you cross Rainbow Bridge together never to be separated again.

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