Home of the Brave

 “I’ve lived the literal meaning of the ‘land of the free’ and ‘home of the brave.’ It’s not corny for me. I feel it in my heart. I feel it in my chest. Even at a ball game, when someone talks during the anthem or doesn’t take off his hat, it pisses me off. I’m not one to be quiet about it, either.”- Chris Kyle

To be honest, I didn't think I would read a book and thought I'd just BS a book review but I picked up "American Sniper" at the airport before leaving for a trip and I couldn't put it down. The book is an autobiography by Navy SEAL, Chris Kyle, the sniper with the most confirmed kills in American history. In the book it describes his experiences throughout his four deployments to the Middle East with some commentary from his wife, Taya. I've never really been informed on the conflict in Afghanistan or been interested in the war, but this book was one of the best I've ever read and if you read it before you see it when it comes to theaters this week, (even though it's rated R), you would not regret it.

Heart

Hey,

Thanks for reminding me what it's like to have my heart pound and what butterflies in my stomach feel like.

Mike Krukow

Mike Krukow is one of the announcers for the San Francisco Giants. If you really knew me you'd know I was born in Northern California and grew up in San Diego. You'd know that I have never really felt like I've belonged here in Utah or at Lone Peak. You'd know I was a die-hard Giants fan and that I don't really do much other than play baseball. I admit to being more of a tourist recently but if you really knew me, you'd know that I'm ready to get away. Get away from Utah, graduate from Lone Peak, hopefully play baseball somewhere, and make something out of my life.

 Nelson, thank you so much for everything you taught me. Even though at times it seemed like I didn't pay attention in your class, it was the only one I really wanted to take this year and consider it such a blessing I was able to get in after being put on a wait list. Your lessons have motivated me to do the things that are going to bring me most happiness in life. I tried to say thank you every day before I left and I hope you know I meant it. Here's a picture of me with the real Mike Krukow. Sorry for the crappy quality. 

My name is RJ Hazen

#blackout

"There is no question, history states we can all do better" 

He had the whole world ahead of him

He had the whole world ahead of him...
To be honest, I don't know how to give a tribute. I feel as if there isn't a way you can adequately put the words together to properly honor a person's time on Earth. Because there's no way you can properly convey the impact they've had on you, friends, or their family. There's nothing you can write that can soothe the ache of a mourning mother's heart. But you try anyway...because sometimes a little thought can goes a long way. Gone way too soon.

He had the whole world ahead of him...
I don't know how the rest of the world can carry on as if nothing had happened, when for me, time has stopped, as my heart hurts.

He had the whole world ahead of him...
We are young with the invincibility of the super heroes of the comic books and movies. I'm sure that's how he felt racing around in that red sports car...failing to remember the streets were slick with moisture...
The Phenom...that's what they called him...
He had the whole world ahead of him...
He will never fulfill his potential...she will never be a mother.
Gone way too soon.

I originally began writing this in honor of 22 year old Oscar Taveras and his 18 year old girlfriend, who passed away in a car accident last Sunday...
But then I learned of another tragedy, one that hits way too close to home.

He had the whole world ahead of him...
Sometimes a little thought goes a long way. Unfortunately, it's at these times that we are reminded to treat others the way you want to be treated. You never know what people are going through. I didn't know him personally but I wish I did. The same way I wish I knew Johnny. Sometimes it's not the things you do say, but the things you don't. Maybe the problem is the kids who walk through the halls on mute as another kid walks by...and another...and another...the kids on mute like me. I'm sorry Hunter. Maybe this time I'll learn. Rest in Peace.

How to suck at talking to girls (or boys I guess too)

I've never been good at talking to girls. I'm just one of those kids who can't voice their thoughts adequately, so while I struggle and stammer and wrestle with small talk, there are a plethora of things I'd like to say trapped in the attic of my brain. I'd consider myself a professional in this field, so here's a list of how to suck at talking to someone of the opposite gender:

-If texting:

• Talk about absolutely nothing. The more predictable the better. If you can get into a cycle of asking her what she's doing, followed by a pointless question, that's perfect. 
• Try to be funny...because you'll end up trying too hard, confusing her by something you said, and you'll end up sounding flat out stupid
• Talk about yourself too much and forget that you're attempting to have a two-way conversation 
• Winking and smiling faces are good I've heard.

-If snapchatting:

• Send selfies just of yourself..no captions or anything. A filter is acceptable if you're feeling daring.

-If talking to a crush:

• Refer to any of the tips above
• Become way too interested too fast
• Talk to them as much as possible
• Listen to your thoughts...because overthinking is crucial
• Hopefully if it continues long enough, you'll find yourself wondering what went wrong once more

#LifeGoals

• Buy a small one room apartment in New York City before I'm married and live there for a year

• When it comes time to choose a career, don't sellout. Do something with my life that makes me happy...because there's never a time in my life that I picture myself becoming prisoner of a cubicle and necktie.

• Take my wife to Venice and have a week to ourselves

• Raise my family in California
• Get through AP Calculus
• Turn my homework in before the term ends
• Take time, at least once a week, to have a good laugh with some of your friends...hopefully more frequently than once a week
• Never lose sight of what is important
• Make sure my children understand that family is the most important thing, and that their best friends are their brothers and sisters
• Learn to play the Ukelele
• Smile more
• Get a German Shepherd
• Learn to speak a new language

• If all else fails...I will graciously accept what my life will become... because I know that as long as I have people who love me and appreciate my presence on this Earth, as long as I have the stars to look up too at night, whether I'm rich, or poor, single, or married, as long as I have a beating heart and blood actively pumping through my veins, I have no reason to complain