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| 02/02/2004: "Groundhog Day 2004"
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This is a day -- at least here in the States -- when we all pause to consult a large rodent, on his opinion of whether spring-like weather is imminent. And to think that some people accuse the USA of cultural bankruptcy!
Today I read an interesting article in the local newpaper, The Oregonian.
A film featuring Bill Murray titled "Groundhog Day" came out about ten years ago. Its central premise: Murray's character was doomed to repeat one day (GH Day) over and over, until he learned certain Life Lessons. I've always liked the film, and thought that it struck a nice balance between wacky humor and slyly subversive profundity. Anyway, the article outlined the perspective of several people from several widely diverse religious/philosophical backgrounds, giving their interpretations of the film's meaning. I was actually surprised by the worldwide exposure the film has had, and by the apparent universality of its themes. Shouldn't be a surprise, I guess; every day is its own microcosm, and every moment, every small action we take, can potentially have unforeseen lifelong reverberations.
Say, did you know that a groundhog is really a marmot, and that it's the only animal to have a major, major, MAJOR holiday named after it? (Sorry -- I've always regarded the day with unusual fervor; it beats Christmas and New Years rolled together, in my book!) By the way, here's that Oregonian article; I'm not sure how long they keep the material up, though:
http://www.oregonlive.com/search/index.ssf?/base/living/1075553795180580.xml?oregonian?lvls
As it happens, February is a day longer than usual this year, since it's a leap year. So: let's resolve to use that extra day in a productive and positive manner, eh? As a matter of fact, I should get back to the studio and make some flutes! Or at least get started on some; it's never a matter of making one in a day's time. There: I made the obligatory mention of flutes in today's entry, and can now move on to more frivolous subjects, as usual. -- NAAAHH -- I really AM leaving now, to work on those flutes! Never forget the microcosmic potential of the present moment...
Happy Groundhog Day!
--R.
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[Next entry: "New section added: Bass Flutes"]
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