151: Beatrice Isn't Wearing Any Pants | Miss Ice and Captain Influence

Miss Ice’s alter-ego, Beatrice la Fleur, joins our fabulous Friday fellas, The Real Brian and Captain Influenza (seriously, Captain Influence is really that sick). But Beatrice isn’t wearing any pants! Um… well… that’s awkward… Pants or no pants, Beatrice and the fellas treat us to a show dedicated to entertainment. They discuss gaming, Netflix, and social media, as well as sharing some practical tips and really deep thoughts.

In this Episode

• TRB and Captain Influence are joined by Beatrice La Fleur, Miss Ice’s alter-ego
• Practical tips for surviving in subzero temperatures
• What’s with all the video game hype?
• Variety on Netflix: overwhelming or awesome?
• Negativity vs Positivity vs Meh
• Deep Thoughts with Captain Influenza

Hot Gossip: Beatrice Isn’t Wearing Any Pants!!!

TRB poses an interesting question in this episode, one that is a good litmus test for how we view the world. He asks us to consider what type of information or media engages us most: negative, adrenaline-evoking stories and arguments; positive, endorphin-releasing, happy/feel-good items; or neutral, “safe” choices that don’t elicit much of a response. Our truthful response to this question requires more than a first gut-reaction.

Both Beatrice and Captain Influence wrestled with their thoughts quite a bit before each of them agreed with TRB that while our society’s preferences may be skewed toward negative input and engagement, we need a massive paradigm shift so we can begin to engage in ways that are more positive and uplifting overall. Not to say there is something inherently wrong with having a negative response; TRB even talks about how he and Sarah were so moved by the movie Taken that they donate funds to an organization that helps women coming out of sex trafficking.

Pain, cruelty, and sorrow are unavoidable in our culture. As the sagacious Beatrice points out, in order to understand and appreciate true joy, one must first experience deep sorrow. But that doesn’t mean we need to be totally consumed by negativity or seek it out nonstop. Our hearts aren’t meant to deal with a constant influx of heavy emotion; the more attention we give in one area, of life, the less we have to give in another. We need to be wise and choose where we will devote our time and energy. If we are not willing to do our part to turn negativity around by stepping in and making a difference, there is no reason for us to wallow in it. We do not need to take the world upon our shoulders.

Imagine a world in which everyone worked on doing their own part to seek out and share joy. What would it be like if we took the time to look one another in the eye and express the things we love about each other? How would you feel if your boss took you aside and said, “You know, when you did that presentation, I could tell you worked hard and put a lot of energy into it. You were so well-prepared. Thanks for doing your best.” Or if your spouse surprised you with a clean home and a thoughtful card just because you are the one their heart delights in? How would our world be different if every child was told how precious and loved they are right here and now, instead of being asked to perform more or better next time?

What can you do to influence those people in your circle? How can you break the cycle of gossip and anger that is so constant in our world? What actions can you take to diffuse a tense situation and turn it into a learning experience that is meaningful and beneficial for everyone involved? (hint: Captain Influence touched on this in Episode 150! Go back and listen to what he had to say!)

Respond

Seriously, what are your thoughts on this question? TRB and Captain Influence would love to hear what you think, and possibly even share your ideas on the show. It’s super easy to let them know what’s clanking around in that ol’ noggin of yours: look to the right → for the black “Send Me a Message” button, or head down below to leave a comment. Let’s find a way to work together to make a difference in this world.

Special Thanks

How cool is it that there are folks engaging in this community and offering their time and talents so TRB can focus on bringing back some interviews? I know that’s always been my favorite part of this show. Thanks to everyone who has contributed on Patreon (link below). Thanks to Kryptonite for editing, and especially for your super awesome surprise blooper mashup last week! And thanks to TRB for allowing me this opportunity to share my voice!

Links

• Give Back to TRBS via Patreon
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