Wednesday, December 30, 2009

18-17-4: Ho Hum, Another One


What is there left to say that hasn't been said so far this season? The Rangers are a flawed franchise from the top down made up of greedy sycophants and fools who can't put an entertaining team on the ice. The team they built has problems up and down the lineup and the man behind the bench is an ego maniacal idiot who the players have clearly tuned out. The players are a bunch of mercenaries and mislead youths who just don't have their heart in their work.

Several people said to me that this 6-0 loss must be rock bottom but really, it can get so very much worse. The Rangers are still above .500, Henrik Lundqvist and Marian Gaborik are both healthy and the wood panel above my seat is still in one piece. When I smash that into bits, when the stars get hurt, when the team falls well out of playoff position and when Dolan raises ticket prices for next season, then, THEN we will hit rock bottom.

But don't get me wrong, we aren't in a very good place right now. For the first time ever, I walked out of the Garden asking for a refund because I paid to watch a hockey game and only one team showed up. I didn't get one. But, like the Rangers themselves said, at least they "play" again tomorrow so we can all try to forget this one.

Before we do, some notes:

*What does it say about your team when your captain is your fourth line winger alongside Brian Boyle and Donald Brashear?

*Brashear ... when your team is getting destroyed by the Broad Street Bullies - a division rival full of goons - and you don't fight anyone, you officially have given up. Nine and a half minutes of ice time and the highlight being him losing the puck twice on the same play to allow Claude Giroux to score the third goal of the game. Hey Colton, hope you are enjoying Toronto.

*On that same note, is there any better way to get back at the team that unceremoniously dumped you for no good reason than scoring in the first minute of your first game back in your old building? Go Bettsy. That is four goals this season, by the way. His replacement, Susan Boyle, has three and has played 17 more games.

*Boyle is just as soft as that overweight British singer despite being 6'7, 250. The biggest waste of a big body since Marek Malik, he doesn't check so much as hug.

*You can't blame any of this debacle on the netminding, although it surely will come back to cost Chad Johnson. The kid allowed all three Gagne goals, including one on the first shot he faced. Welcome to the NHL. While I hope that he will get the start in Carolina, I doubt it now - Torts won't allow that to happen, he'll run Hank into the ground to attempt to save his own ass.

*MDZ got a ton of ice time, made a ton of mistakes and had the defining moment of this season when the puck hopped over his stick on a Ranger power play late in the first period and skittered out of the zone. He just stood there, looking to the sky for answers. Poor kid. The good thing is that if he survives this season, this coach and this team he will come out of it a far better NHL player. If he survives.

*Several of his teammates seem to be already dead. Anisimov, Kotalik, Redden ... all DOA. I would say that they are zombies but zombies always keep trying to get brains, these guys just stand around and look clueless.

*The entire team had that look when Tortorella called his timeout and yelled at them. How professional athletes can not react - at all - when being screamed at by their boss is beyond me. Actually, no, I do know why they don't have to react - because the paycheques keep coming, the first-class planes are still there to carry them from defeat to defeat, the practices in their secluded yuppy neighborhood go on, etc. Accountability folks. There will be accountability this season! Ha-f-ing-Ha.

*Brandon Dubinsky went from an Arnott-esque savior to a Christmas ham; nice to see that he had a merry holiday break.

*We wanted to see what Erik Christensen could do and he missed an empty net. Ugh. If he does that three more times, we will rename him Higgins.

*I could go on with more but really, what's the point. These guys stepped onto the ice already wearing a toe tag. But before I get to the three stars, I will leave off with this question posed by my friend Andrea, "Which will be easier to quit: The Rangers or tobacco? Because they're both KILLING me!"

*PHW Three Stars
3-Jeff Carter - two assists and one teammate's wife.
2-Danny Briere - one goal and one assist.
1-Simon Gagne - three goals and one assist.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Gagne - How can this guy get any credit when he scored three easy goals when the game was already out of hand against a rookie goaltender?
2-Claude Giroux - This kid has some serious offensive talent and will be a terror if he can ever fully tap it.
1-Bettsy - One goal, 12:39 of ice time - including 1:40 of the easiest penalty killing he has ever had to do - one hit, one block and 11-5 from the faceoff dot. Shove it Sather. Shove it Tortorella. Shove it deep.



 18-17-4: Ho Hum, Another One - The Phenomenon of Routine and Its Significance



In the tapestry of our lives, routines are the threads that weave our days together. These repetitive patterns of behavior, often dismissed as mundane or ordinary, shape our existence in profound ways. From the moment we wake up to the rituals that mark the end of the day, routines are the silent architects of our lives. In this article, we will explore the concept of routine and its significance in our lives. We'll delve into the psychology, benefits, and potential drawbacks of routines, all while addressing some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to this seemingly everyday phenomenon.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Routine: The Unsung Hero of Life
The Psychology of Routines: Comfort in Predictability
Benefits of Routines: Structure, Efficiency, and Well-Being
Drawbacks of Excessive Routine: The Monotony Trap
FAQs About Routines
: Finding Balance in Routine
1. Introduction to Routine: The Unsung Hero of Life
Routines are the daily rituals and habits that structure our lives. They encompass everything from the way we prepare breakfast in the morning to the bedtime routines that signal the end of the day. Routines can be both intentional and unintentional, forming the foundation of our daily existence.

At first glance, routines may appear mundane or even boring. The phrase "ho hum, another one" often encapsulates the sentiment of familiarity and predictability that routines bring. However, beneath the surface, routines play a vital role in our well-being and the functioning of society.

2. The Psychology of Routines: Comfort in Predictability
Predictability and Control: Routines provide a sense of predictability and control in our lives. When we know what to expect, we experience reduced stress and anxiety. The brain thrives on patterns, and routines offer a comforting rhythm to our days.

Cognitive Efficiency: Routines are efficient. They allow us to automate tasks, freeing up mental bandwidth for more complex decision-making. This cognitive efficiency is why routines are often associated with increased productivity.

Emotional Stability: Routines can also offer emotional stability. In times of uncertainty or upheaval, adhering to familiar routines can provide a sense of comfort and normalcy.

3. Benefits of Routines: Structure, Efficiency, and Well-Being
1. Structure: Routines provide structure to our days. They help us prioritize tasks, allocate time for work and leisure, and maintain a sense of order in our lives.

2. Efficiency: Routines foster efficiency by streamlining repetitive tasks. This efficiency is especially valuable in professional settings, where routines can optimize workflow and time management.

3. Health and Well-Being: Routines support our physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise routines, balanced meal plans, and consistent sleep patterns contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

4. Achieving Goals: Routines can be powerful tools for achieving long-term goals. Consistent effort, such as daily writing or practice, can lead to significant accomplishments over time.

4. Drawbacks of Excessive Routine: The Monotony Trap
While routines offer numerous benefits, there are potential drawbacks, especially when routines become excessively rigid or monotonous:

1. Creativity and Innovation: Excessive routine can stifle creativity and innovation. When we become too entrenched in familiar patterns, we may resist change or new ideas.

2. Lack of Adaptability: Routines can make us less adaptable to unexpected situations. When a disruption occurs, individuals accustomed to rigid routines may struggle to adjust.

3. Boredom: Monotony can lead to boredom and a sense of stagnation. People may feel trapped in unfulfilling routines, longing for novelty and excitement.

4. Loss of Spontaneity: Rigorous routines can impede spontaneity and the freedom to embrace unexpected opportunities or experiences.

5. FAQs About Routines
Q1: Are routines the same as habits?

A1: While routines and habits share similarities, they are distinct concepts. Routines are a sequence of actions or behaviors performed regularly, often within a specific time frame (e.g., a morning routine). Habits, on the other hand, are automatic behaviors that occur without conscious thought (e.g., biting nails when nervous).

Q2: How can I break out of a monotonous routine?

A2: To break out of a monotonous routine, consider introducing small changes or variations into your daily life. Try new activities, explore different hobbies, or adjust your schedule to include novel experiences.

Q3: Are routines necessary for personal growth and success?

A3: Routines can provide a foundation for personal growth and success by instilling discipline and consistency. However, they should be balanced with flexibility and adaptability to foster creativity and adapt to changing circumstances.

Q4: Can routines become harmful or obsessive?

A4: Yes, routines can become harmful if they lead to obsessive or compulsive behaviors. When routines become rigid and interfere with daily functioning or cause distress, they may require evaluation and adjustment.

6. Conclusion: Finding Balance in Routine
In the grand tapestry of our lives, routines are the threads that provide structure, predictability, and comfort. They offer numerous benefits, from efficiency and productivity to emotional stability and well-being. However, it's essential to strike a balance between routine and spontaneity, as excessive routine can lead to monotony and stifled creativity.

As we navigate the rhythm of our daily lives, it's worth remembering that routines, while valuable, should serve us, not confine us. Embrace the predictability of routine while leaving room for the delightful surprises that spontaneity can bring. In doing so, we can find a harmonious balance that enhances our lives and enriches our daily experiences.




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