Do Something Different

Few adults would pass up an opportunity for a good catnap or a restful night’s sleep. I’m always interested in both, so my odd-story-antennae perked up when I spotted an article about a man who lived to age ninety-six—and never slept. Born in the 1800’s, Albert Herpin shunned the circus exhibition circuit to hold a job and lead an uneventful and somewhat isolated life. It’s a remarkable story, but I need more facts to believe it because doctors never stated that Herpin didn’t sleep with his eyes open. Getting to the truth can be difficult. See if you believe this:

                                                https://youtu.be/bsL7u8qosTM

Humans are incredible creatures. Most of us function the same, but every so often we discover someone who can’t sleep, can’t wake up, or does astonishing things while hovering somewhere in between. What if everyone lived ordinary lives during the day and became superheroes, accomplished artists, or someone extraordinary at night? Maybe it’s possible to live an extraordinary life during the day. What’s the easiest way for you to become out-of-this-world awesome?         

Herpin story appeared in Courier Post & Weird NJ Magazine

Something Almost Like This

On Mother’s Day, I spotted an interesting sight on a busy road. A superhero, decked out in a yellow and red costume and mask, high-tailed it uphill on a bicycle. I’m sure he was hurrying off to visit his mother because superheroes always do the right thing. Everybody loves heroes. In these unconventional times, we need more superheroes to watch over folks and rescue them from their troubles. Watch what this designer does:

                                     https://youtu.be/Cl8ijPGEKO8

 Given the right opportunity, regular people can be amazing. Heroes are the humble souls who do what’s necessary at the perfect, critical moment. Superheroes are uniquely equipped with special powers, who wait for the chance to step into our chaotic situations. If you needed saving, what power would you want your superhero to possess?

The Superheroes

What if I looked like this? What if I had that talent? We spend plenty of time talking about personal makeovers. After eating too many holiday sweets, we may decide to revise our work-out plans to shed the extra pounds. It’s wise to maintain our physical conditions, but problems can arise when we become obsessive about altering the characteristics that make us special.       

While watching the whale scene in “Finding Nemo,” one of our kids wondered what it would be like if people had blow holes. I’ve never considered that before, nor do I think it’s high on anyone’s list of wants—plus, it sounds messy. All of us possess a little uniqueness that makes us stand out. Check out these folks:    

                                         http://youtu.be/yq6p1fb9fQc

Okay, they might be on the extreme end of the unique spectrum, but all of us possess a useful talent or skill. Instead of enduring long shopping lines and buying pricey presents, what kind of gift can you offer to uplift strangers, friends, co-workers and, family members during this holiday season?