Thoughts on Wrestlemania XXX

It’s been about 2 months since I’ve written an entry here in this blog (Superbowl XLIX). Of course, I was practically wrong in every way, so congratulations to the Seattle Seahawks. I’ve been quite busy with many things in between now and then, so it’s been hard to find a little bit of time to do things. I’m still running 3 businesses. Figuratively speaking, one, which has a lot of my full investment, another which I’m kind of keeping afloat (until the captain is able to wake up and steer the ship), while the last I’m still keeping the fuel passionately burning. I don’t intend to write this blog entry to talk about what I’ve been up to the last few months. (I’m sure if you’ve read this blog before, you might have an idea of how it may sound).

As I’m writing this entry, I am actually 10,000 feet above the air, on a flight en route to New Orleans, for a much needed vacation. It’s rare I take a vacation, and I probably should take a few more to enjoy life. I last had a vacation last August when I went to Las Vegas with my brothers and we celebrated our Summer birthdays together, but before that, my last “needed time off” (when I didn’t go out of town for business), was probably in 2011 when I went to Atlanta, but before that, in Spain in September 2009 (which I briefly discussed in this blog). My brother Angelico and I are on our way to watch World Wrestling Entertainment’s (WWE) annual marquee event, Wrestlemania. This is the 30th edition of the show, and we are both avid wrestling fans, and we both decided months ago to take some time off to catch this event, as well as several other wrestling events surrounding that, as it seems to be a significant show, with it being the 30th edition and all.

Ever since Wrestlemania 27 in Atlanta, Georgia (which my brother and I also attended), my brother tries to attend each of these yearly Wrestlemania shows. With the exception of last year’s show (which he missed because of a wedding), he has held true. I only choose to go every few years when it’s worthwhile, as my schedule probably prohibits me to, plus, I have better ways to invest my “resources”. Regardless, the show itself, and the events and the week leading up to the show are a spectacle within itself, and it’s recommended, not only for wrestling fans, but for people who are just looking to have a great experience. 

I’ll get into why I’m a fan of wrestling (and of the wrestling business) in full depth in perhaps another entry. But as I said, my brother and I are huge avid fans of this business, and know a lot of the “inside information” and inner “workings” of this business. The fact that it’s “predetermined” (not “fake”), makes this business more intriguing to those who appreciate it. In fact, my brother even tried to get into this business as a performer at some point (until his age, worn out knees, and locker room politics caught up to him).

I am really writing this blog to offer my thoughts on the spectacle that is Wrestlemania, and on the actual show itself.

While down in New Orleans, we plan on absorbing the culture of the city. It is my first time in NOLA, and it has always been a place that I’ve always wanted to visit, and it’s a place I’ve probably wanted to go to for a while now. If no particular event was taking place, and I had a lot more “resources” (like time and money), I would have probably visited by now. I’ve heard so much about the culture, architecture, and the people, that it was definitely a city in my must visit list. Aside from briefly sightseeing and hanging out in the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, we plan to catch a few independent wrestling shows in the area (such as Dragon Gate, and Ring of Honor), as well as possibly a few conventions. We plan to attend the Hall of Fame ceremony the night before the show, and of course, enjoy the main show on our final night here on Sunday. We will catch a plane back to DC on late Monday afternoon.

Here are my thoughts on the actual Wrestlemania show, and the card itself. If you’re a wrestling fan, it could be an entertaining read. If not, a lot of what I’ll be saying may just be a bore. Brace yourself, I have a lot to say…

Personally, I think the show is stacked. WWE says every year, that the current Wrestlemania will be the biggest of all time. Many times, it ends up falling below many expectations. However, in this case, it looks as though they are making a true effort to really make this possibly the biggest they’ve ever had. With the launch of their new digital network, it has even been said that with the evolution of technology, this business may be due for another boom period. History has shown that every time there has been an evolution in media and technology, wrestling has experienced a “boom period”. In the mid-80s, network television was starting to evolve, which brought us the “Wrestling Renaissance era” of Hulk Hogan, the Ultimate Warrior, Ric Flair, and Randy Savage. In the late 90’s, we had the evolution of cable TV and a relatively young internet, which brought us the “Attitude Era” (arguably, the most successful era in pro wrestling), with Superstars such as Stone Cold Steve Austin, the Rock, and the NWO. Now, with the evolution of On-Demand digital content, and how information is delivered, with the launch of the WWE Network, this can possibly the start of another boom period for the professional wrestling business. However, I do believe this is contingent on the success of this show. Which may explain why they are stacking the card with great talent and story lines.

All their top names (with the exception of CM Punk… which is a whole other issue) is working on this show. Many throwbacks that are familiar to many (Undertaker, Triple H, Batista, Kane and Brock Lesnar) are featured in the card, along with a great mix of their current top stars, such as Randy Orton, John Cena, and Daniel Bryan, and up-and-comers, such as the Shield and Bray Wyatt. In fact, a lot of the roster who has at least a sliver of talent has a chance to showcase themselves in this card.

Here are my detailed predictions/thoughts on each match on this card.

4-way Tag-Team match for the WWE Tag Team Titles:

Uso Brothers (c) vs Jack Swagger & Cesaro vs Ryback & Curtis Axel vs Los Matadores

I don’t really have too much thoughts on this match, however, I do think it has a good balance of high energy fact paced wrestling, and power. Therefore, it should still make for an entertaining match. This match will probably grow the seed of a break up between the “Real Americans” team of Swagger & Cesaro, therefore although I do think they are deserving of a tag title run, it probably won’t happen because of these circumstances. I see the Uso brothers retaining in this match, which I said should be highly entertaining because of the contrast of styles.

Predicted Winner: Uso Brothers

Triple H vs Daniel Bryan

This is probably going to be the first match of the actual card, or what I would like to call, the undercard main feature, or the match that sets the whole pace of the show. The storyline behind this match is, that Triple H, who legitimately runs the WWE as an Executive VP (and COO on TV), is holding the most “over” fan favorite in years in Daniel Bryan. This storyline has been taking place since Bryan cleanly won the WWE Title from John Cena in Summerslam, in which Triple H later underhandedly destroyed him and practically handpicked his own champion in Randy Orton. Between August and now, this storyline of “The Man” holding down “The Every Man”, has taken forefront. And it looks like it will finally culminate here in Wrestlemania, with the winner of this match being inserted to the last match in the card for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. That said, this is going to be an entertaining, but tireless and brutal battle, with eventually, the fan favorite in Daniel Bryan coming out on top. Although, some can make the argument that putting Triple H in the main event adds more credibility to it, it’s clear WWE seems to want to showcase and build up their current, as well as up-and-coming stars. Which would mean that Bryan winning this match is the only logical conclusion.

Predicted Winner: Daniel Bryan

Andre the Giant Memorial 30-man Battle Royal

This is what is considered to be the filler match, that features practically most of the main roster. Although, when a match similar to this was done in Wrestlemanias past, it seemed to be a random occurrence with random winners (such as the Great Khali, and Yoshi Tatsu) that didn’t really build any stars. They’ve placed more emphasis on it this time around with Hulk Hogan putting a heavy endorsement on it, and putting Andre the Giant’s name on it. They’ve also used significant TV time in their programming to build up this match. That said, the match will be booked in a way so practically everybody can show what they can do (or can’t do), but I’ll be surprised if the match goes over 15 minutes. It may sound ridiculous, but I think the Miz will win this battle royal. He’s had a lot of PPV “anti-momentum” going for him, and he has never “lost” in Wrestlemania, so I’m picking him as the one to win this match. Not to mention, this could give him an opportunity to get back into the “upper-mid card” and have people talking about him again. Although, the person I would like to see win this most is Zack Ryder, although, it is highly unlikely it will happen and would be a huge curveball if it does.

Predicted Winner: The Miz

The Shield vs Kane and the New Age Outllaws

On paper, the way the younger, more talented Shield stable has been built up in the last year and a half, they should destroy their much older opposition at Wrestlemania. However, I think that is what the company wants you to think. Something is going to happen in this match that will cost the fan favorites the match. Either a turn with one of the Shield members, or an unmentioned X-factor interfering (such as Kevin Nash, old NWO, or Kliq members?, etc). Fact is, it’s not gonna end clean, and will set the wheels in motion to get the Shield broken up and experience individual success. Personally, if I was booking this match, I would have Kane do something on Raw that will stack the cards against them, like have them fight each other for Dean Ambrose’s US Title. But, since they didn’t do that, looks like it will go as is, and a Shield loss will be less believable. Somehow, I do think they’ll find a way to book them for a loss.

Predicted Winner: Kane and the Outlaws

John Cena vs Bray Wyatt

Don’t really want to get to the story of this match, because it’s a little complex, but the buildup for this match has been spectacular. All I got to say, is that one of their biggest names in John Cena is booked to go against one of their hottest new up-and-comers in Bray Wyatt, who is probably the most intriguing character since probably the Undertaker. I don’t think Cena will lose the match, but he will somehow put Bray Wyatt over. It will be booked as a gruesome match, with probably Bray Wyatt dominating the whole way, with Cena just sliding by with a victory, sort of like how the Triple H vs Undertaker was in WM XXVII.

Predicted Winner: John Cena

Vickie Guerrero Divas Championship Invitational

This is probably gonna be the “Bathroom Break” match, which is the “intermission” match that people probably care least about to slow down the show. This match won’t be long, and I’ll be surprised if it lasts more than 8 minutes. I see AJ Lee retaining her championship. If any of the other divas won it (with the exception of Tamina, Naomi, or Brie Bella), it would seem like a random result without meaning. The reasons why I don’t think the 3 aforementioned will win is because Naomi doesn’t seem to be a marquee name (yet), and it wouldn’t make sense if she won, Brie Bella doesn’t need the championship to stay credible since she has her reality show, and Tamina won’t win because it can set a storyline down the road for a feud with AJ if she doesn't win the title. So with that, AJ continues her run as one of the more successful WWE women wrestlers in recent memory.

Projected Winner: AJ Lee

Brock Lesnar vs Undertaker

I am excited for this match, but it’s very predictable and not much to it. It will probably booked as a brutal slugfest that’s gonna tell a good story, with Brock Lesnar probably dominating a good amount of the match as a monster and credible former UFC star. However, Undertaker will go toe-to-toe with him and will be competitive at times. In the end, Undertaker’s streak isn’t going to end. If Undertaker gets hit by a bus in the middle of the ring, so long as it’s Wrestlemania, he will kick out at two every single time.

Projected Winner: The Undertaker

Main Event: Randy Orton (c) vs Batista vs (Daniel Bryan) for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship

This match is the coup de gras of the card. I can’t really tell how this match is gonna be booked, but the crowd should be up for this match, and they will finally see their hero win the belt against two comparable opponents who were the company’s “chosen ones”. This is the result that makes sense, as the feud and storyline of “The Man vs The Everyman” has been going on since August, and it will be the payoff for the protagonist, and the people cheering for him. If this match doesn’t disappoint, like I think it won’t, I think this may be a match that people may be talking about for a while. 

Projected Winner: Daniel Bryan (new champion)

As you can see, I truly am a fan of this business, and have kind of put thought into this. It makes me look like a nerd, or a “mark”, but I have been a fan of this business since I was a kid, and although it’s staged, many aspects of it are applicable to be successful in my trade in motivational speaking and in life. (Be engaging, entertaining, always re-invent yourself, work hard, etc). In fact, if I’m ever up to it, I’ll probably write a blog on how being a fan of pro wrestling has helped me in life.

But other than that, that’s what I got to say about Wrestlmania. As I said, if the wrestling business is going to experience another "boom period", it may be contingent on the success of this card. And personally, I think it's gonna deliver. Not sure how it will compare to the greatest and more memorable Wrestlemanias but I truly believe it has potential for greatness, and could get people interested in wrestling again.

This blog has been long enough, so I think I will end it here. I don’t want to spend too much of my vacation writing this. (Started this on the plane, finished it in my hotel room hours later). Regardless, I hope you enjoyed reading this? I hope your answer is…

YES! YES! YES!

#OBE

"Big Game" Predictions, XLVIII edition

I haven't done a blog for a while, but I wanted to get one in before the "Big Game". (In this entry, I will refer to this game as the "Big Game" because unless you are not an official sponsor of the game, you can get in trouble. I do realize that this rule likely doesn't apply to a blog in the middle of the nether regions of the Internet (like mine), but I thought it would be fun.

Before I get to the predictions, I thought I'd discuss a few of the story lines.

When the Seahawks beat the Redskins in last year's playoffs, my resentment for the Seahawks were magnified. Don't get me wrong, they are a great organization, and are actually an antithesis of how my favorite team was built, but them knocking my team off the playoffs 3 times in a row doesn't help me in wanting to cheer for them. Not to mention, Richard Sherman taunting Trent Williams at the end of that game didn't sit right with me either. So, therefore, based on that, you can guess what team I'm not pulling for.

Speaking of Richard Sherman, believe it or not, during the last couple of weeks, I've actually warmed up a little bit to the guy. As I said, I didn't really appreciate his schtick since he pulled against the Redskins a year ago as well, but any one has to admit that he's a calculated genius. He backed up his words in the football field by making that huge play, and pulled the WWE-like promo in the end. At first, because I didn't like him too much going in, I thought it was a bit annoying. But the more I thought about it, the more I found that it was pure genius (given that he was a salutatorian in high school, and graduated in Stanford with a 3.7 GPA, so he's definitely not dumb). The majority of the last two weeks were focused on him, and all are talking about him. If he wasn't a household name before then, he surely is now. The fact that the Big Game is in New York also helps his cause too.

Seahawks are a good organization, so if they win, even though I don't currently like them, I surely won't be terribly mad if they do, like I would be if, say, the Dallas Cowboys, won (although, I would prefer them not to win). Therefore, I'd be rooting for the Broncos. There's so many reasons I would cheer for the Broncos...

One, I love Peyton Manning as a football player. He is probably the best football player I have ever seen for as long as I have had the ability to mildly understand the game of football. Barry Sanders is in that argument, but his heyday was just before that time, and he retired at a time when he arguably hasn't given his best yet. He's already won one title, and he's already a first ballot hall of famer if he doesn't win another, but winning this one is probably very important to him. One, he's gonna be one of the rare QBs that won multiple titles. However, if he wins this one, he will be one to win one in different teams. That's a rarity.

I also wouldn't mind seeing Champ Bailey win. He started his career here in Washington as a Redskin, and he was one of my favorite players when he played here (I had his burgundy "24"). He gave a lot when he played here, and it continued when he was traded to Denver. He will probably make the Hall of Fame as well, so if he wins a title, it can definitely help his chances. He's a great player, and I will root for him.

So with that, I think this will be a good game. Seattle's defense is tough, and it's always been said that defense wins championships. And, in my opinion, if this Seattle defense played last year's Ravens offense, Seattle would've won last year's title. But, this Denver offense is a whole different monster. Not only do you have Peyton Manning slinging the rock, but he can sling them to 4 solid pass catching receivers. As good and as big as the Seahawks secondary is, I don't know if they can shut down this attack. Not to mention, once they get up, they can play ball control offense as well.

Not to mention, although Russell Wilson is a good young QB, and they have an awesome running game, I see the Broncos taking the lead early and not likely relinquishing it. If they get down like they did last game against the Niners (which you got to admit, a lot of calls went their way too), I don't see them getting back in it.

Prediction: Denver 31 Seattle 24 (so I have the "Over")

With that, here are some predictions for the crazy prop bets...
National Anthem: Over (2 min 30 sec)
Number of Times Peyton Manning Says "Omaha": Surprisingly, Under (27 1/2)
Number of Times "Beast Mode" Will Be Mentioned": Over (2)
Color Gatorade Dumped on Winning Coach: Orange (3/1)

There are more prop bets, but I don't wanna go through all of them. Remember, these are for entertainment purposes only.

Enjoy the game, and don't forget to celebrate responsibly!

I'm really looking forward to the commercials! :)

#OBE

Don't Trust "Honesty"

I am up a little bit early today. Can't figure out if this is extra energy (as I've been taking care of myself a little better), or insomnia (as I still have had quite a bit on my mind), but never the less, I thought I will spend a bit of this time doing a blog.

As someone who studied and continuously tries to closely look at human behavior when trying to improve in my craft of being a motivator (although, I will say many aspects of it also naturally fascinate me), there's one particular "life truth" of many that I have learned, and particularly want to share today...

As you can see in the title, it says "Don't Trust 'Honesty'". What I mean by that is, don't trust anyone who is always blatantly working hard trying to convince you they're "honest"...

I'm not going to spend too much time discussing this, but being "honest" doesn't really take convincing. You either naturally are, or you aren't. Genuine honesty is a product of habitual applied good genuine behavior, not a product of practice and rehearsed actions.

Case in point, if somebody usually begins a sentence with... "Hey (your name), I'm totally gonna be honest with you..." or "To be honest..." or something to that regard, chances are, they are probably, naturally a liar. Why? Why would one have to tell (or try to convince) somebody that they are gonna be honest by preceding a statement with that phrase, unless they aren't honest in all, or even a lot of the time? They wouldn't. I know most of us at many points in our lives use this particular phrase to precede a statement, but you will observe, that most who do it the most often, are probably the most dishonest people you know.

If someone ever tells you... "I'm probably the most honest person you would ever know", my advice is... RUN!

What I learned in my short time so far on this Earth, is those who really are "honest" and have great intentions truly live it in their every day lives through good habits, mentality, attitude, and genuine desire to help your fellow man. If you continually have to try to convince others, by continually broadcasting it, then you come off as non genuine, counterproductive, and probably the opposite of what you're trying to portray.

These are just a few things I learned from reading a few books, and through general observations with interacting with people. Agree or not, it doesn't particularly matter, but feel free to debate me on this if it pleases you. Didn't want to make this blog too long... just wanted to get it out there.

#OBE

My Thoughts on Debt (and General Financial Management)

I don't know why I feel I have to write on this. Maybe, it's because we are a couple of weeks removed from the holiday season, and I had a deep conversation about credit card debt with one of my customers a few weeks back. It is something that I've always seemed sort of had some kind of a passion for. Ever since I was young, my parents have always told me I had a natural knack for not getting trouble with money, and whatever money I had (whether a small or a reasonable amount), I've always seem to do decent with it.

Whenever I see something I like, after some thought, more often than not, I would buy it. The key phrase there... "after some thought". About 90-95% of the time, everything I buy, is not an impulse decision. However, even if that's the case, that doesn't mean I won't get buyer's remorse in some of the things I buy. There will still be a lot of times when I thought about what I wanted to buy, I bought that said thing and I had a thought in my mind... "hmmm... is this all? was this really worth the money I paid for it?". Then I spend time justifying in my head that I made the right decision in spending the money, and get as much utility as I can out of the thing that I bought. And, because of that, it's good.

But, on the flip side, there are also often times, that I see something I like, and I don't end up getting it. Maybe it's because of the circumstances, or it's something else, and for some reason, I prevent myself from buying it. For example, I am a member of Costco, and I actually do most of my "necessity shopping" there. Just because Costco is a price club warehouse with a lot of desirable items (with discounted price), there are times when you would be more than tempted to buy a surplus of something (some of which you may not even need), and you have to try to convince yourself not to buy it. Call it a "buyer's conscience" if you will. I think some people who have this "buyer's conscience" and is in tuned with it, usually are okay when it comes to money matters.

As far as how I feel about debt. I said this publicly before, I think it's one of the worst things in the world, and could possibly be the bane of human existence. Frankly, debt sucks. The thought of owing someone, or some corporation money is probably one of the worst feelings I have as a human. In fact, sometimes, being a in debt almost feels almost like you are part of slavery, since you owe practically part of your existence to your debtor(s). As someone who's ran a few businesses, and taken a few risks in my time, I admittedly financed a few things off of debt. In fact, I probably had thousands of dollars in credit card debt whenever I financed my OBECorp projects. And believe me, it didn't feel good owing credit card companies money for a lot of months (luckily the credit card I had, had no interest for the first 12 months). Still, it was a wonder how I survived so long.

The only thing credit cards are really good for, is for building credit history. Which is why that despite that I hate debt, I still have 3 different credit cards. But, usually, when I put something on the card, I would pay off the balance by the statement, so therefore, I don't get into (much) debt, and the credit cards won't make too much money from me.

But that's actually my general thought on debt... it doesn't make sense to buy something, and pay more for it down the road than what it's actually worth, knowing that by the time you finish paying for it, it likely won't be worth half of what it was when you paid for it. When I bought the iPhone 5 when it came out in September 2012, I really wanted it. It was expensive as heck. But, I had to make sure I was able to afford it and able to pay for it in full. That's the mindset I have when it comes to a lot of things. Unless, I know I would be able to pay for something in a short amount of time, I wouldn't get it.

I suppose the only thing that this debt philosophy doesn't apply to, is investing in property. Unlike most material things, property can actually go up in value. So, as long as you do your due diligence, it's actually recommended that you borrow money to invest in property, so long as you think it's worth it. It is rare anyway, that one person or household will have 6 or 7 figures in a bank and pay for a house in full anyway, so you definitely need help from the banks.

Anyway, I just thought I'd briefly talk about this. I was tempted to get a little bit political and tie my commentary to what the United States is going through with their national debt, but steered clear. People would know how much I detest politics. However, I do have strong feelings about that as well, so I may talk about it in a future blog post, if I feel like it (or if there's demand for it).

Moral of the story: I know this is cliche, but regarding money, it's not what you make, it's what you keep. Do your due diligence when you buy something, and think hard to make sure it's worth it for you. And, in most cases, debt is the debbil, as it sucks owing people money.

#OBE

We Can Learn a Lot From this Sticker

This morning, I posted a picture on Facebook. When I looked at it, I thought it had more meaning that it had initially. I think it's also artistic in it's own way. I made it my cover photo in Facebook and Twitter. Here's the picture...

For those of you who don't know what this is, this is my "You Are Awesome" sticker. If you have known me at any point in my life between 2009 and now, chances are, you have seen or even gotten this sticker. Of course, the inspiration of this sticker is from my "You Are Awesome" book.

Anyway, as you can see, this sticker is worn out. It has definitely seen better days. However, it is still persevering and sticking on it's respective wall, and encouraging people who can see it, and reminding them of their awesomeness.

No matter how tough you have it, no matter how worn out, beat up, or ripped up you are, you must keep doing what you're doing, with a good attitude, while doing your best to spread your own awesomeness throughout the world. At some point in life (maybe now), we can all relate to what this sticker has been through. I know for sure I can.

You know... we can learn a lot from this sticker.

#OBE

Social Media of Choice

Happy New Year everyone. I hope whatever you did to send off 2013, you did it responsibly and that you got back in one piece, figuratively speaking.

Anyway, I thought I'd do a quick post, soon after I did my first post in 18 months, not necessarily for the hell of it. But, I decided to do it, because these are one of my rare lazy days. So, might as well take advantage of it when I can.

Just want to get it out there that my social media of choice is Facebook. Out of all platforms that I use, I probably use and post on Facebook the most. In my opinion, it is probably the best way to genuinely keep up with the people you really care about, and it's the best way for your network to keep up with you.

I have a Twitter, but I don't use it nearly as much as Facebook, since it seems like for the most part, you're just throwing random updates up in the air, and you have to post more to be relevant. I mean, I think Twitter would be great if you actually have a nice fan base, but for someone with 200 followers or less, not really so much.

But, I'm in many platforms of social media, at least the more important ones anyway. I do have a LinkedIn, as well as an Instagram, but it is rare that I log into those (if at all). I will say though, that LinkedIn is great for networking with professionals, so it's good to build your network there to log in every once in a while.

Anyway, I don't really have much more thoughts regarding this manner. Just wanted to let everyone know that my preferred social media of choice is Facebook in case anyone is wondering. Feel free to add me there. I usually accept most friend requests (especially if there are mutual friends), and the only time I don't is when your profile looks blatantly fake. Plus, I can post a birthday video on your timeline during your birthday.

Like I said, feel free to add me on Facebook. You can do it by clicking the badge on the left.

#OBE

Reviewing 2013 and Briefly Catching Up

I haven't blogged in quite a while. My last published blog was in June 2012. Way too much has happened since then, but I thought I'd do at least one blog just before the year 2013 is up. At least it wasn't as bad as the 20-month hiatus I had last time I stopped blogging.

I won't go through all, not even most that happened for me since then, nor can I offer my commentary on the things that has happened on this world since then. That would be impossible. In fact, if I'm lucky, I'll probably just briefly discuss only 1% of what I want to discuss...

Ever since I last wrote, I've taken up a new venture. Along with my laundry business, as well as my motivational business (although limited), I've taken a position as an Operations Manager for a medical import/export business for my father's business in JAGAS International. So, as you can imagine, I've had a lot in my plate. Currently, I'm still working there. I've had some valuable experience, but I would be lying to you if I didn't say that it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, there has been more valleys and rough and rocky roads. Let's just say, that being "invested" in a business (in more ways than one), with very little help, mentorship, and commitment from the CEO, without a chance for passion to develop, really takes a toll on you. Still, I think it could've made me a better person (although the jury is still out on that).

I had the Shingles, while only in my 30s. And it sucks. The commercials don't exaggerate. No further discussion.

The DC Sports scene (which I've said before is a significant passion of mine), has been interesting. All teams (other than the Washington Wizards, although with that team, we might start seeing their peaks now), has been experiencing it's peaks and valleys. The Capitals started out the lockout season in a slow manner, but went on to win their division. The Washington Nationals, had the best record in baseball in 2012, but underachieved in 2013, mostly because of pressure of high expectations. And then, there's my beloved Redskins...

(Before I give my thought on the Redskins, I will not give any commentary (as of yet), regarding the team name controversy, and whether or not it's racist. I will address this in probably a future blog post. I digress...)

The Redskins have definitely experienced their peaks and valleys as well. Last year, we drafted a magnificent rookie QB in Robert Griffin III, whom the organization and most of the fanbase believe is the franchise's long term solution in QB. They mortgaged the future and gave up several draft picks for an opportunity to pick up Robert. It paid dividends immediately, as my team won the division for the first time in 12 years. RG3 wins rookie of the year, and sets several franchise records as a rookie, and has the whole Redskins fanbase celebrating.

Then came the playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks. That's when everything started going downhill. The Redskins were up 14-0 early in the 2nd quarter, RG3 took a hit on the sidelines, and hasn't been the same. Later in the game, he tore his ACL and the Redskins ended up losing the game, and their season. Since then, a lot of speculated controversy took place between the coach and the QB, and that drama carried on to the season and led to a 3-13 disappointing season, and Coach Mike Shanahan and most of his staff being fired in the end of a season. Now they are in search of a new coach, with so much uncertainty in the season. Needless to say, the organization is a mess, and this fan base is restless. I for one, have and always been loyal to the Redskins, and that won't change. I have a healthy love/hate relationship with this team, as like most fans of this organization.

Obamacare: have you signed up for health insurance yet? The deadline is creeping. I like to keep my hopes up regarding the healthcare law, as I'm actually for people getting healthcare especially when they need it, but it has truly been a mess. Right now, the President is looking like a jerk, and his supporters are looking like extreme apologists.

However, Congress and politics as a whole has been a mess. Too much in-fighting going on, that it has practically divided the country. So many hot button issues, Trayvon Martin, Planned Parenthood, Gay Marriage, Trayvon Martin, etc, etc, has divided the country. And frankly, it kinda sickens me. Ever wonder why I dislike politics?

As far as everything else is concerned, regarding next generation entertainment gaming consoles, I recommend the PS4 over the XBox One, and the Wii U. I have a Wii U (as it was bought mainly for my nephew), and I haven't really tried out the other 2 systems yet, but based on graphics, playability, and bang for your buck, PS4 is the recommended system.

I've also gotten into a few TV shows. I honestly haven't really followed Modern Family and Big Bang Theory until it got into syndication, but since I've discovered them, I've been borderline obsessed. I've also gotten into watching "The Game of Thrones", which has a great story arc and a lot of plot twists (which aren't a surprise to those who read the books, or those who claim to read the books but just read the Wiki spoilers). Needless to say, GoT is one of the best shows I've seen in a while. I haven't gotten into "Breaking Bad" as of yet, but I promise I will, as it is highly acclaimed everywhere.

I've also gotten into the Gangnam Style craze, along with the billions of people around the world... for the 30 seconds it has lasted. Those crazy South Koreans. Never gotten into that Harlem Shake craze though.

But regarding 2013, it's been a mixed bag for me. There were days when I felt really low and lost a lot and have been utterly disappointed that I haven't been able to accomplish some personal goals, but there were also other days when I felt so blessed and lucky to be where I am today and have gone farther than I am a few years ago.

As far as plans for 2014... I know for sure that it has some potential to be a good year. I say that every year, but I mean it this year, as I feel I have planted a lot of seeds in 2013 to make 2014 an even better year. In fact, I'll go out on a limb and say that I think 2014 can potentially be a milestone year for me. After all, I'm turning 33 in 2014, which I think is a significant age for me.

I've written a lot more than I honestly planned to write. But, if you are reading this, thank you for reading, and where ever you are, have a safe and happy New Year. And also, I want to remind you that "You Are Awesome"! ;)

#OBE