Never trust a liar. Even though they will always trust themselves.

A Surgical Evaluation

You haven't lived until you've set before a board of your peers, taken a scalpel and opened your own mind and heart to men that you do not fully trust even to advise you on directions to the grocery store.

But, that's the process. It is one part therapy, one part judicial, one part evisceration of the soul. Or maybe that last one is edification. I'm never sure.

I've been the surgeon, but it will be my first time as the patient.

In the final assessment... happiness isn't really the goal. Just maintaining a standard. We all agree on the standard, just not how to get there.

One methodology involves bats, not the winged kind, wrapped in a down. But a bat nonetheless.

The other, motivating kindness and an energy that inspires.

I can only tell you which method I prefer and which method I'll strive to employ should I ever find myself behind the scalpel again.

For now, I am eviscerated, but still have my head.