Sunday morning coming down

We are a hodgepodge of all the things that we’ve come into contact with throughout our lives. I can vividly recall listening to a radio station that played a mix of classic rock, bluegrass, rockabilly, and various other genres.

It was Sunday mornings, when I’d go to work at 7:45 to open the store. I haven’t worried about that in years. And yet, the sound of the DJ saying “Sunday morning coming down” is still as clear in my head as if I just heard it.

Strange, no?

Meet the Cities: Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee, is part of the reasons why I wanted to write about cities in the first place. It’s geographically close to Atlanta, and yet feels like a world away. I know it as the home of country music, but it has long been known not only for its vibrant music culture, but also its rich history and unique charm

It is, of course, known as the birthplace of country music, and the city’s music legacy is undeniably prominent. From the Grand Ole Opry to the honky-tonks on Broadway, Nashville is a hub for music enthusiasts and aspiring musicians. The city’s rich history can be traced back to its early settlers, who were drawn to the area for its fertile land and beautiful river.

As time went on, Nashville became the center of the country music industry, attracting artists like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton. The city’s iconic recording studios, including RCA Studio B and Sun Studio, have played a crucial role in shaping the sound of country music. Today, Nashville is home to numerous music halls, festivals, and museums, showcasing the city’s deep connection to the music industry.

In addition to its musical roots, it possesses a deep historical significance, if not necessarily a positive one. The city was once the capital of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War, and historic sites such as the Belle Meade Plantation and Fort Negley remain a testament to that turbulent period in American history.

On the other hand, Nashville played a significant role in the development of the Civil Rights Movement. The Fisk University, located in the heart of the city, was a prominent institution during the Jim Crow era. The university’s students and faculty members fought for racial equality, and their efforts played a pivotal role in shaping the civil rights movement.

Today, while music remains at the core of Nashville’s identity, the city has evolved into a multifaceted destination. Nashville offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to enjoy, including world-class museums, trendy restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit for music lovers, offering a glimpse into the history of country music and showcasing memorabilia from legendary artists. The Ryman Auditorium, also known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” is a National Historic Landmark and has hosted performances from the likes of Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

For art enthusiasts, the Frist Art Museum offers an impressive collection of contemporary artwork, while the Johnny Cash Museum is dedicated to the iconic country singer. And foodies will love exploring the vibrant restaurant scene, with options to suit every palate, from authentic Southern cuisine to farm-to-table options.

It is a remarkable place that deserves its position among the most-appreciated of American cities.

Hot topics

It’s not always easy to decide what to write. As you keep writing, it becomes harder to know in what order to share what you’ve written.

One thing I find it best to avoid is trying to capitalize on hot topics. Could it drive traffic? Perhaps. But if you’re constantly writing for the lowest common denominator, you’re definitely missing out on the Big Work you could be doing.

The way we work

Over the last century, work has undergone significant changes. The advent of industrialization and technological advancements has transformed the way work is done.

The traditional 9-to-5 job is no longer the norm. In fact, even the 9-to-5 jobs that exist are intermingled with remote work and freelancing.

The gig economy has brought about more flexibility and variety in employment opportunities, though not always of the well-paying variety.

The changing nature of work has also led to increased automation and outsourcing, leading to concerns about job security and the future of work.

Overall, the evolution of work over the last century has been marked by significant shifts in both the nature of employment and the tools available to workers, which we can expect to continue through the 21st century – into who knows what.

The rise of disinformation

What online disinformation has become is a major concern in today’s digital age, as false information can quickly go viral and reach a wide audience. This can have serious consequences, as it can influence public opinion, undermine trust in institutions, and disrupt democratic processes.

To combat internet disinformation, it is crucial to promote critical thinking and fact-checking, as well as to hold online platforms accountable for the content they host.

These defenses are something we (collectively) are still struggling to roll out effectively. Keep that in mind as you scroll through your feeds.

Reaching the agreement

There’s been some tensity in my life lately, and I’ve struggled with solutions to the problem. Recently, Seth Godin posted that you can wrestle with a problem, dance with someone else to help find a solution, or fight. The problem with fighting is that it “tends to be more brutal, final, and hurtful” than it needs to be.

Especially if you’re all working towards the same goal.

When it’s replaced

Best Buy lowered Q4 projections, and a lot of thoughts come to mind. Back before streaming, it was a boom era of physical media. Sure, you can still find the gems hidden here and there- DVD, Blu-Ray, and 4K releases. But do you need them? What with seventy-plus streaming services? (I thought this number hyperbole, but a quick Google search revealed over 200 services. So, there’s that.)

Thinking about the repurchasing, though, what happens to stuff when we let it go?

One of the most common ways old items are disposed of is through recycling. Many electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, can be recycled to reduce their environmental impact. Special facilities collect these old devices and dismantle them to extract valuable materials, which are then reused in the production of new products.

Additionally, larger items such as automobiles can be recycled through various processes. Some car manufacturers offer take-back programs where consumers can bring in their old vehicles for recycling. These vehicles are often dismantled and the metal components are reused in the manufacturing of new cars. Furthermore, some parts from old cars can also be used in repair shops or resold as second-hand parts.

Another popular option for disposing of old items is reselling them or finding them on the secondhand market. Many consumers prefer to buy used products to save money or for eco-friendly reasons. Platforms such as online marketplaces and classified ads allow individuals to sell their old electronics or vehicles to potential buyers.

I’ve purchased a number of things resale, from clothes, to electronics, to even shoes.

In some cases, old items can be donated to charitable organizations. These organizations accept donations from individuals and distribute them to people in need. This not only benefits those who receive the goods but also helps in reducing the waste generated by unused items.

While recycling, resale, and donation are preferable options, some discarded items may still end up in landfills or junkyards. This is because many older electronics or vehicles have reached the end of their useful life and are no longer suitable for recycling or reuse. In these cases, the items are simply disposed of in designated landfills or junkyards, where they decompose over time.

Meet the cities: LA

Los Angeles. LA, the city of angels.

It’s a bustling, noisy, messy, smoggy city over on the west coast. And yet, it attracts countless people to its embrace. With its stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture, Los Angeles has become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

Also known for its diverse population, it is a truly multicultural city. Home to people from every corner of the globe, LA offers a vibrant blend of food, music, art, and traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the flavors of Koreatown, explore the vibrant street art in Boyle Heights, or attend a salsa concert in Pico-Union.

And then there’s the movie business. Its home for over a century, the studios and notable personalities abound. Los Angeles is often referred to as the entertainment industry’s capital. It attracts some of the biggest names in Hollywood. From the Walk of Fame to the Dolby Theatre, which hosts the Oscars, there is no shortage of iconic landmarks and iconic movie sets to explore.

Los Angeles is a haven for the entertainment industry, and, as such, its nightlife is nothing short of legendary. From trendy clubs and rooftop bars to the iconic Hollywood Bowl, the city offers a wide range of entertainment options for those seeking a memorable night out. Visitors can also catch a concert at Staples Center or see a movie at the aforementioned Dolby Theatre.

Los Angeles isn’t quite the fashion draw that New York is, but it is still renowned for its shopping scene. High-end boutiques and trendy streetwear stores cater to all tastes. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is a must-visit for luxury lovers, while Melrose Avenue and Sunset Strip offer a mix of trendy and vintage fashion. As for dining, Los Angeles offers a vast array of options, from celebrity-chef-helmed restaurants to hole-in-the-wall gems.

Whether you are an aspiring actor, a culinary enthusiast, or simply seeking a change of scenery, Los Angeles is a city that will undoubtedly captivate you.