What’s in a name — PART 1

Anyone who knows me knows that I very rarely do anything “off the cuff” without any reason or thought behind it. In fact, most people think I overthink some things. The name of this blog would fall into that category. I probably spent two weeks running through different names. I wanted to be fun, clever, meaningful and interesting — whether I effectively achieved that is up to the audience, I suppose, but I like it!

The name sets the tone of the blog. It’s the first thing most people find out about a blog (when seeing the name in blogrolls, blog directories, search engine results and elsewhere). It can instantly convey a personality or promote a message. I wanted this title to do just that. So, what’s this blog name seeking to convey? Well, seeing as how I’m long-winded, it’s probably best for me to break it down into more “bite-sized” pieces. So, for this post, I’ll concentrate on the first part of the blog name…

“Brad Neese…”

That’s my name. The blog is primarily about me (as selfish as that might sound) — my life, my thoughts and my observations about the world around me. I’m proud of who I am — not in a conceited sort of way (or at least I hope not) — but because of Who made me, because of who raised me, because of who loves me (and whom I love), because of my life experiences, because of my achievements, because of my failures, because of my skills and talents, and because of my quirks, imperfections and shortcomings.

I am unique, few people will disagree. I am sometimes odd, sometimes weird and sometimes very silly — in a very child-like (or some would say, childish) way. I am intelligent, thoughtful and opinionated, yet open-minded and tolerant of most — except for intolerant, moronic or overly self-centered people. I love to laugh. I’m not afraid to cry (and often can’t help it when I watch a really good, “tear-jerker” movie, documentary or television show).

I’m mildly anti-social, especially when it comes to large crowds or unfamiliar situations. I can be fun to be around (or so I’ve been told). I can be a grump as well. I’m passionate about many things. I am generally a generous and caring person — almost to a fault having been taken advantage of a few times. I love my family more than life itself.

I am the son of two wonderful parents who loved me, cared for me and taught me a lot about real life. I am the brother to a brother and sister who have grown into amazing people who I respect greatly and enjoy spending precious (dwindling) time with each successive year. I am husband to the woman of my dreams — really. She is the very essence of “womanly.” She is my soul mate, my lover and my best friend. I am the father to two awesome teen-aged daughters. They are my absolute pride and joy. They are truly wonderful young ladies who are intelligent, respectful, well-mannered and fun to be around.

I am me. And here you will get a glimpse of my world — both internal and external. It’s like living in a glass house. But the advantage of living in a glass house is that you are unlikely to live a life or behave in a way within your home that you wouldn’t want the outside world to see because glass walls allow them to see inside anyway! This is my very own virtual reality show. Move over Gene Simmons — this is my “Family Jewels“!

Read Part 2 — “…Living Large…”