Notes from Steve

I told a friend that I need to videotape all aspects of my life.  In my head, I’m a great dancer, singer, runner, rider, eater … but I doubt that would bear out if I saw a tape of myself.  This is why I can’t be a movie star, because I couldn’t stand the reality of watching myself do stuff.  (I tell people that my bald spot is none of my business because I can’t see it.  If I had to look at it all the time, I’d have a totally different opinion.)

Being aware, I imagine, is a good thing.  Blissful ignorance is preferred, but what if I stink or something?  Remember Pepé Le Pew?  He was completely unaware of his stink.  I always felt bad for him.  I remember the girl cats he’d pursue - they desperately tried to get away from him because he smelled.  This is a good lesson.   I asked a friend yesterday, if you met yourself at a party or gathering - would you choose to hang out with yourself?  I think I’d drive myself crazy very quickly.  (“Wow, he’s over the top about everything.”)

The lesson of Pepé is that we need to be open to how we come across.  Tamp down our excessive smells and behaviors.  I noticed when I got hearing aids that everyone was staring at me and talking loudly and slowly because I always said, “What?”.  Awkward.*  

*(The problem with Iowa is we are too nice - I need someone to tell me to knock it off - you’re not funny and you have pepper in your teeth.)