Fat, Drunk, And Stupid Is No Way To Go Through Life, Son

The 2007 'Big Sit' - that most sedentary of all birding competitions - is scheduled for this Sunday. I'll be one of the sitters. At this time I can't reveal where I'll be sitting, because the location I've chosen is so awesome that for now I've gotta keep it totally secret. How awesome could it be? Really awesome. I'll let you know more later.

Anyone can participate in the 'Big Sit,' and all birders are encouraged to choose a spot and sit. It's the perfect birding event for Fat America, the America of the future (and the future is now). If national trends continue as predicted, the 'Big Sit' should become even more popular.

Actually I love the concept of the 'Big Sit.' I find it challenging. When I'm birding I tend to hurry from place to place, but sitting (or standing, as I prefer to do) in a single spot forces me to concentrate on my surroundings. It's a stimulating mental and sensorial exercise.

On the other hand, the fattening of America is a depressing reality. If present trends continue the majority of Americans will be obese in the near future. It's easy to blame the fast food industry, advertising, and corporate greed, harder to blame the victims. Who in this case are also the primary perpetrators. Fat America is ultimately the result of a lot of people adopting bad habits. It's a combination of poor personal choices, over-indulged appetities, recreational gluttony, the desire for immediate gratification, lack of discipline, and a life style that demands uninterrupted comfort. As my favorite cartoon possum once said, "we have met the enemy, and he is us."

Also reminds me of a line from Animal House, possibly the best movie ever made on American education: "Fat, drunk, and stupid is no way to go through life, son." The challenge for Michelle and I is to raise our children smart and healthy, despite the contrary pressures of a culture that encourages them to be neither. That's gonna be a big challenge. Fortunately there are organizations like Action for Healthy Kids trying to bring awareness to the obesity problem and make appropriate changes in our schools.

O.K., My rant is over. None of this is meant as a criticism of the 'Big Sit,' which I will be participating in on Sunday. If you have some free time pick a spot and give it a try. It's fun. Maybe you'll even find the Golden Bird!