Skip to main content

The IF Factor: Questions Answered #371-380

371. If you had to have one job that you have had previously, which one would you want again?

I love my job now. It's what I've always wanted to do. However, if I have to take a step away from this job, I would select my previous position in Parks and Recreation. A lot of fun times (obviously, as there was a section of this blog dedicated to my experiences there - True Tales From Parks and Recreation). 

372. If you could have the autograph of any athlete  you do not have, whose would it be, and what would you like them to sign?

Obviously, my favorite athlete of all-time, Mariano Rivera.

373. If you could set the guidelines for gun control, what would they be?

I would have the process to acquire a gun be a bit more documented and meticulous than it currently is. Those looking to attain a gun and a license to carry said gun must be subject to yearly renewals and must undergo a state mental evaluation exam for renewals. Also, automatic weapons would no longer be legal. After all, what is the purpose of an automatic weapon? Surely, not for sport. 

374. If you could have the original baseball card of any three players in history, who would it be?

Obviously, my favorite athlete of all-time, Mariano Rivera, Willie Mays, and Ken Griffey Jr. 

375. If you could relive any single family outing in your life, what would it be?

One particular trip down to the Caribbean. There were many in my lifetime, but one specifically was super fun and memorable. 

376. If you had to pick one foreign language that students would be required to learn in school, what would it be?

Spanish. The Latin influence in our nation is becoming stronger and stronger. Being able to speak it is becoming more important. 

377. If you could set the national speed limit for all highways, what would it be?

70mph. People go 70 when it's 65, and we go 70 when it's 55, so why not make it 70? 

378. If you could sit and have a beer with three sports figures from any time, who would you pick?

Oooh, this is a good one. I'll go, Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, and Al Leiter. 

379. If you had to pick the worst teacher from your childhood, who would win the prize? 

Ms. Garcia, my eighth grade Spanish teacher. She was the absolute worst. She even once told me that I'd never amount to anything. Pshhhh, whatever lady. 

380. If you were six inches taller for the day, what would you do?

That would make me a solid 7'1" for a day. Oh, you bet I'll be down at the park or maybe even playing some pickup basketball at my job (athletic facility). That would be so much fun. 

Recently Read

Dear Son, Big Fan of the Kid Turning Seven

---7 Years Old --- Dear Son,  It’s been a while since I’ve dropped a few thoughts. Forgive me, I’ve just been watching. Just observing. Taking it all in. Trying to be a good dad. I’m punching the keys today from one of your martial arts practices. It’s your second with “the big kids” and also the second time I’ve found myself watching from the sidelines with anxiety, with pride, and with likely my biggest fandom for you yet in this space. My feelings are much more than you playing baseball or coaching you in basketball. Your disposition is different. Your excellence is different in this space. With martial arts, you stay diligent with the process. Respectful. Working hard. Getting better. In competition with and respecting the older kids you are training with. That’s what I’ve enjoyed. It encapsulates everything you’ve grown into thus far. Still empathetic as ever, but adding an element of self-ambition and drive - something I’ve prided myself on - and to see you mature into this m...

Working in Higher Ed, Lately

"Working in higher education must be interesting these days, huh?" That question was posed to me by several people who recently learned that I worked in higher education. The recent discourse around the industry and field has certainly shifted in narrative and the overall feel within it. I recently wrapped up my fourteenth (!!) academic year. It's remarkable to think that I've been serving students and following a passion for this long. This is especially the case considering the rising turnover, the documented yearly burnout, and the increasing exodus from the field.  And, yup, there is that whole enrollment cliff combined with the politics that are more present than ever on college campuses.  So yeah, higher education is weird right now. Very weird.  Some quick thoughts : IS IT TIME?  Yes, I have thought about leaving the field several times. Especially, over the last few years. COVID didn't really bother me, but it's safe to say that the world of higher edu...

Quick Ponder: Living for Your Kids

Many, are willing to die for their kids. Few, are committed to live for their kids.