Normally, I am not into comparing what I have to what others have. I believe that is a dead-end road because what I have is what I have and what others have is what they have, and never the twain shall meet. If one were to compare “mine versus yours,” the result would either be envy or arrogance, both of which are character defects in most all cultures of the world. However, sometimes one has to “stand up” for what is right and true, even if that means wearing a cloak of arrogance …
I just want to say Thank You for your informative column and the tips I glean from reading it. I appreciate your laid-back lifestyle. The only problem is you are in “central” California, not the much superior Valley Center down here in San Diego County! (P.S. You forgot to mention coyotes!) … Merry Christmas …
Well, let me tell you, I grew up in San Diego County, Coronado to be precise, so I know all about the temperate climate, the white-sand beaches, the “bitchen” surfing, the proximity to Mexico, the great entertainment, the wonderful activities, and the easy-going people. Oh sure, I know all about that stuff, but let me tell you, sir, well, let me just say this. I mean, I just want to say this about … Hmmm … Well …
Okay, I tried to be arrogant. I tried to find something “not-so-good” about where the writer lives (southern California), and I was going to put “mine up against his,” but the truth is where he lives is wonderful, if you like great weather, sunny beaches, and all the rest that is. I hate to say it, but I cannot say that where I live is better than where he lives, even if where I live is characteristically the same as where he lives. In fact, where I live is almost identical to where he lives, save for the proximity to a great desert (and Mexico) where he lives and a much lower population where I live. Oh, and more rain where I live, which means more forests. Oh, and more ocean cliffs, which means more dramatic ocean views. Oh! I just remembered, the topography where I live is more mountainous (big hills, really), which means if one likes uphill hiking, we have more of that as well. Did I mention the massive Elephant Seal population (thousands of huge beasts lollygagging in the sandy surf)? Heck! I need to throw in Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, one of the most alluring drives in the whole, wide world, and one of the most enchanting coastal towns anywhere.
No, it is not in my nature to be arrogant, even if that means denying that what I have is better than what another has. No, I cannot truly say that where I live is better than where the writer lives, even if where I live has more quaint beach towns, less people (Did I already say that?) and, finally, less coyotes, which have been known to knock over trash cans in major urban areas, such as San Diego. No, it is better to remain humble about the things we consider good in our lives. Yes, humility is better, even if it means not pointing out that where I live …
Oh yeh, Merry Christmas back at ya …
Trade in the day; invest in your life
