First Time

The Title of the blog intentionally alludes to Pearl Jam back when Pearl Jam was really good.  I don't mean to say that they aren't good anymore, I hear their most recent album is actually really good.  However, Pearl Jam was really kick-ass cool about 15 years ago, when the lead singer was still full of angst and was somewhat subversive or at least anti-establishment.  Now, he is mature, thoughtful, and has perspective.  While those qualities do make for a more reasonable human being and musician, they do take away from his pure angst and kick-assedness. 

The same may be true for me.  Of course, I am younger than Vedder and 15 years ago, I was in to Hootie and the Blowfish and played Tecmo Super Bowl III on the Super Nintendo.  However, I can say that, along with Eddie, I too have matured, become more thoughtful and possibly gained some perspective.  I was not nearly as cool as Vedder nor have I become cooler.  However, my circumstances have allowed me, or maybe even pulled me into the direction, to be where I am right now. My first child was born a little over a year ago; I was married over 4 years ago; and I have actually completed some house projects in the last three years.  Have these things made me a Better Man? 

The actual song by Pearl Jam has little to do with becoming a better man and has much to do with a woman's doubts as to the man she is with.  Does she still love him? No.  Then why is she still with him?  Can't find a better man.  He must be a pretty decent guy, then, just not the one she's looking for.  There may be some implication of potential abuse (she dreams in red), but that may be more her longing for passion in her life or something to that effect. 

This blog has everything to do with my life and what that entails.  It is busy, rich, full of laughter and joy.  I get to spend my days with a funny, adorable, wonderful little boy and a beautiful, intelligent, kind woman who give me that richness that I never knew existed.  I strive to be a better man but not so I can write about it or feel proud.  I am compelled to be a better man because the people in my life make me that way.