There is much talk today about the expanded audience that conversation gets. Between all that social media, the texting that goes on very quickly, the Hangouts and Skypes, there is a good chance that something I write or say gets to eyes or ears that I didn't realize I could be connected with.
My cousin that I played with on her farm when I was still in elementary school reads this blog. People can sign up to get the latest post without my knowing it. On top of that, several hundred people all over the world take a look at the blog page every now and then. So, I don't know who will read what I write here. I don't really need to know and I use methods that open my writing to many people purposely.
Still, it can be surprising. I wrote the other day about playing Capt. Queeg, the role in the Caine Mutiny played by Humphrey Bogart in the movie. The captain has mental problems as becomes clear in the play. So, it was fun to learn from the drama teacher what the role required and get into the logical but misguided thinking of the captain onstage. I was quite surprised to hear from a high school classmate that he remembered my performance. I haven't heard from him for 6 years or so, not since the 50th reunion of my graduation. Before that, it had been 50 years.
I have a t-shirt that says
"Genuine Retired Wrestler
The older I get, the better I was"
But the experience of hearing from my friend has emphasized that in today's world, not just people from far away but also people from long ago can suddenly pop up to correct the record and modify the bragging. I have read that male bragging is a branch of male attempts to show off, to gain recognition of the ladies and intimidate rivals. But in these days of rapid fact-checking and quick communication, my amazing feats can be compared to the actual record in surprising ways. Not a bad thing, all things taken together, since my memory of events can expand my achievements and embellish my accomplishments.
