Location: Behind A Computer, somewhere in the world
I am of a rare breed - known as an INDEPENDENT THINKER. A leaning Conservative who does some pretty liberal things. An anti-conspiracy theorist; an antithesis of ignorance, elitists, and bullshit.
WELCOME TO MY BLOG.
So I have toyed with the thought of creating a blog for some time now. I even created one, and left it blank.
I was still questioning the purpose of having an online diary.
Sure, it has therapeutic qualities of sorts - but, it's the Internet. A whole world full of semi-anonymous (no one is TRULY anonymous in cyberspace, all it takes is a little cyber sleuthing to discover one's identity) strangers, most of which, are like teens who were once bullied in high school, supplementing the shards of their souls, once broken, and never mended - with spouts of barbaric profanity and textual debauchery.
Perhaps these thoughts indicate a slight hint of pessimism, or, perhaps, my thoughts are valid; I choose to believe - and I am sure most would agree - with the latter.
I have recently found myself, however, captivated by books and websites like POSTSECRET, and FOUND. Both, are blog-like, in that, there is a level of anonymity that goes along with bearing parts of one's existence with complete strangers. I could sense, especially with Postsecret, the extreme liberation many people feel when allowed to reveal pieces of their identity, not only voluntarily, but, shyly - yet, so powerfully.
The confessors seem to have no face, no name, the postcards and letters written in an unspecified time, yet they convey those inner fears and thoughts that people of all ages, creeds, and sexes can identify with.
Perhaps, in writing these blogs, there are parts of the authors that want to be credited as the creators.
In a sense, the authors are perhaps part voyeur, and part exhibitionist, even if only with one toe out of the closet.
So, who am I?
I have been called an enigma. Part voyeur, and an exhibitionist hiding in a shell. I am the beautiful face with an articulate tongue. I am deafeningly shy, although many would not believe that to be the truth. I have repeatedly been as close to fame and fortune as dawn is to dusk, yet I shied away from the limelight. I question it often, yet I praise my morals. I am a human, and I hope to be the best me I can be.
and still, no one has, nor ever will, take your place. The HuMANitarian. The Music. The Legend.
As Freud once said, "We are never so defenseless against suffering as when we love, never so forlornly unhappy as when we have lost our love object or its love."
How I wish, Michael, that you would have seen how much the world loves you, and how much your real fans, who have supported you through all of your struggles, love you, before you died. Perhaps, in your passing, the lesson of humanity and faith in one another, loving and supporting, helping and mending the wounds of those in need, can be a lesson learned, as one reflects back on the events surrounding your last years on this earth.
For those who walk with blinders off, instead of ride on the crowded bandwagon of ignorant bliss, stumbles and scrapes will often befall them, but how courageous they be who stand up, repeatedly in their isolation, dust off their knees, and march straight ahead, in battle - fighting that good fight against the ills of the world.
For every stumble that befell you, you learned to mend not only yourself, but mend the wounds of those in need. It was your compassion and dignity, your perseverance and strength that would lead you to extract all of the hurt and pain in yourself, and turn it into a positive: the ability to recognize suffering in others. You placed the wants and needs of others above your own, and in you, the world lost a great friend.
You were a hero, a fighter until the very end.
Thanks for the magic. ______________________________________________________
DER PANTHER -
one of the most vivid, emotionally wrenching, haunting translations of Rilke's famous piece that I have ever read.
His gaze from staring through the bars has grown so weary that it can take in nothing more
For him it is as though there were a thousand bars, and behind the thousand bars, no world
As he paces in cramped circles over and over, his powerful strides are like a ritual dance around a center where a great will stands paralyzed
At times the curtains of the eye lift without a sound and a shape enters, slips through the tightened silence of the shoulders, reaches the heart
I have been waiting for nearly an entire decade for the ever illustrious contralto extraordinaire Sade to drop another album.
As each year drew to a close, it seemed unlikely (even though the band and vocalist Sade are notorious for long stints in between new albums) given that ms. Adu was rapidly approaching her fifties (she is now 50).
I am quite possibly the biggest Sade fan alive, (when I have kids, I plan to name my daughter Helen)! owning every single one of her/their (yes, Sade is actually the name of the band, not just the singer) albums, singles, DVD's and international and rare remixes, in addition to, of course, knowing all of the bands' instrumentals and songs verbatim.
As I gave up hope in Sade releasing another album, I found myself caught in the middle of "maybe it's for the best, because at 50 and older, ms. Adu's trademark smokey-can-melt-glaciers contralto would begin to deepen and would lose it's intoxicating luster and appeal, in addition to the fact that it would be highly likely that Sade's label would try to change the sound of the band altogether to sound 'current'..which would be blasphemy!" and
"the world has lost one of it's most gifted vocalists and bands (because let's face it, Sweetback failed to impress without it's front runner behind the mic) in Sade - and that is one massive void..what a waste of immeasurable talent to not release another album before she dies".
Perhaps its a testament to increasing age on my part, or perhaps just good taste (ha), but I cannot - will not - listen to anything on the radio. Music today is beyond awful. So far beyond awful, in fact, that no words could really do the sentiment justice.
There have been, for the past year, hints that Sade will be making a comeback, and now, that hint has become reality.
I can think of no better way to celebrate my birthday (which is the same day the album is scheduled to be released, February 8 2010) than to unwrap the cellophane and pop that baby into my player.
I do hope to hear the signature Sade sound that I have come to know and love. It pains me, as such an ardent admirer of the singer and band to say that I am not impressed with the title track, which can be heard at www.sade.com. Those negative theories I had about an octave drop (her voice is almost unrecognizable) and a 'poppy, updated' sound are obviously prevalent even to a novice fan (I would imagine) on that single.
I do hope that "The soldier of Love" title track is just an isolated case, and that the rest of the album will be that signature sound that I love - that sexy jazz and mellow reggae that makes me melt with every note.
Either way, I am really excited and am looking forward to getting my hands on that album!
Today is Hallowe'en, and I am satiated by a fabulous treat: a FWD from TommyLee that couldn't have come at a better moment.
Tommy, you have always been a genuinely kind and sweet person and friend, thank you for thinking of me with this particular FWD. I know you've always had the 'badboy' image, but for those blessed enough to know the real you, they know that you are the epitome of the person described in this chain, and I thank you for reminding me that I am as well, and that it's not only ok - but admirable, to fall outside of modern societies' conventions.
This FWD made me feel good - about me. Sometimes we (as people) can forget who we really are inside, we can undervalue the qualities we possess that make us unique - we can feel sorrow inflicted upon us by the words and actions of others..we question ourselves, our own value as one person amongst 6 billion..
we, in the midst of all of the worldly chaos..
get lost.
Thank you, Tommy, for letting me find myself. This was just the email that I needed.
Hugs.
The email:
"Here's to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules, and they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them; disagree with them; glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can't do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do!!!!! "
SURREALIST INTERPRETATION 1st Installment: Rene Magritte's "La Thérapeute"
In part due to my exposure within the entertainment realm, and in part due to true appreciation for the arts, I find great pleasure in interpreting my favorite pieces, particularly in the Surrealist genre. It's no secret that surrealist art directly influences both film and photography.
Trace elements from the works of both Salvador Dali and Rene Magritte, for example, are heavily used in various art mediums (Such as the 'cut horse' scene in the film the 'Cell' - a direct play on Magritte's The Blank Check.
Both Dali and Magritte were famous for their viewpoints on interpretation; seldom revealing the true meaning behind their works (in fact, Magritte went as far as to say his works are devoid of any meaning at all).
I find that one's interpretation of art stem from one's own perspective and/or life experiences. In that regard, each piece that one chooses to hang on display in his or her home, becomes something very personal. A work that may be mass produced in duplications, yet remain intricately unique to each buyer.
I will start with a Magritte piece, entitled "La Thérapeute".
First, I will start with the title, "La Thérapeute" (The Theraputist). I think this image is about [Magritte]'s interpretation of therapy/therapists.
I think that the curtain hiding the face of the therapist is indicative of a therapist being, in essence, faceless - never truly able to humanize himself, hiding behind the medical system's policies, red tape, and legal liabilities. In that vein, the therapist can never truly say what he or she feels because it may violate policy; he or she can never truly connect to the patient, because he or she needs to be connected to policy and his or her career.
The curtain and the doves represent the similarity of a therapist, bound by procedure and policy - to that of a magician. The therapist can seemingly "cure" a patient through the administration of drugs - but in reality, drugs are a bandaid, the problem is really still there in the patient - and, like the slight of hand, of fool to the eye.. on surface value, the "cure" is, in reality, nothing but smoke and mirrors..a cheap magic trick.
The doves, one in a cage - a prison - and one outside of the cage is an important element, I think - into the mind of the patient. He or she is in his or her own prison (the cage) - although the door to freedom is open..(the open door on the cage) yet the patient is too fearful to step outside and experience it. His pain, his fear, his depression - have consumed him, and become his life - to stray from it - would be venturing out into a frightening unknown.
The bird on the outside, I think..represents the patient..trying to convey to the faceless therapist..that unless he or she is on the outside looking in..he or she could never possibly understand his torment. The bird on the inside is situated over the area where the therapists heart would sit. The open door, taking on a second meaning, indicates the patients' desire to tell the therapist to open up his or her heart..forget about the red tape - to humanize himself, and try to look at the patient from a more personal perspective.
The bowler's hat worn by the therapist hints at the fact that under all of the facade of a medical healthcare professional, the therapist would be surprised to learn that he has more in common with his patient than he cares to believe (Magritte was well known for his love of bowler's hats, and was often photographed wearing them).
I think the cane that the therapist is holding onto represents the fact that beneath all of the protocols, the therapist really is no magician at all - he or she is human, flawed, and has also experienced trauma. He or she is internally crippled, and, as is true of many psychologists, he or she became a therapist in order to deal with his or her personal issues, and hide behind credentials and a title of a mental health worker as a false redemption..a false indicator that he or she has overcome his or her obstacles, and is in control of his or her life. The therapist in this image clearly is still crippled by his or her own demons, hence the clutching of the cane.
I think this theory is further proved by looking at the 'doctors bag' he is clutching. The bag is old and weathered, held together only by a few stitches, which seem loose enough that, with enough pressure..the bag would burst, exposing everything inside of it..those confidential notes no one is meant to see. I think that bag represents his personal fear of being exposed, and that he is reaching the brim of his struggle with his own demons, hiding behind his career, and, if the pressure increases, he will explode. Again, going back to the cane..very little is holding him together. Loose stitches to hide what's inside [the bag] of him..and a cane to keep him stable, standing on solid ground.
The water, calm and serene, behind the therapist, are again, a play on a smoke and mirrors theme - that, on the surface.. therapy, and the therapist seem as though they have it altogether, they are calm, cool and collected..but if one were to step out of the water onto the sand..that is supposed to be solid ground (another play on the false notion that a therapist has his or her life altogether) one would find themselves being cut at the ankles by weeds. The alleged 'solid' ground', [the sand] to the patient, then becomes a relatively unsafe terrain. The 'ground' [representing the therapist] is not so stable afterall.
The weeds in the sand are indicative of the demons that haunt both the patient and the therapist.
That's my interpretation.
What do you see in Magritte's piece? Feel free to email me your interpretations!
I JUST CRIED MY WEIGHT IN TEARS Michael Jackson Aug 29 1958 - June 25 2009.
..watching Michael's memorial service..but at last, people said what us TRUE fans..have ALWAYS been saying. My only wish is that Michael could have seen how beloved he was and is, especially in his own country - before he died.
To Michael's true fans and followers, he was always a humanitarian first - who gave undivided love - and a KING second.
Rest In Peace, Michael, we miss you! ______________________________________________________
Rest In Peace, Michael Jackson Aug 29 1958 - June 25 2009.
There is no fitting sentiment I can think of to truly express exactly how shocked I am to learn of Michael's death.
I first heard of his passing this afternoon - yet it has taken me until nearly 9 pm to say anything about it at all.
Those who follow my career and interviews - online and in magazines, or past interviews in the press - or new fans who stumbled upon my dot com to find my essays on the King of Pop both during and after his child molestation trials - know of me as an ardent admirer. To those I surrounded myself with growing up, I was a seriously overzealous fan.
"You are going to wear Michael out!" My father often exclaimed, as, through much of my teenage years, from the moment I opened my eyes, to the moment I fell asleep, I'd play a Michael album, Jackson 5 album, Youtube Michael Jackson footage, a Michael DVD, a Michael rare-to-find remix from all corners of the globe..at present day, owning most of his albums (except a few rarities) one could still find echoes of Sir Billie Jean spilling from every electronic device I own that is able to produce the sound of music.
I have so many fond memories of youth where a Michael tune placated a setting, a moment, a feeling, a vibe..that it is difficult to imagine possible a youth without Michael bringing a smile to my face.. as a family member moonwalked at a birthday party, as a laugh, as pure and as innocent as a child discovering life for the first time - would laugh, as friends or loved ones popped their hips, and exclaimed Michael's catchphrase 'whoo!'..that could be interpreted to mean, man..this is good.
Watching the artists of the 90's who continue to have a thriving career to present day, it is almost impossible to find both men and women who don't exude a stage persona somehow influenced by, and eerily reminiscent of the gifted genius whose moves and spirit starred in videos that our generation and the generation before us were left in awe of. The hit maker and the move shaker who took a James Brown influence and catapulted it into another hemisphere, making it his own, and laying the groundwork for pop, soul and rock creative ingenuity for countless days to come.
There is so much I want to say, but today, and for many a day to come, there is a whole world who mourns..so I am going to keep this brief.
This is the first time in my life where I don't think I will be able to - at least I know I cannot at this present moment - read nor watch press clippings or tributes regarding the death of this particular celebrity (it's just too difficult). I never imagined it possible that I could feel a sense of mourning for someone I never even knew in life. I never understood the fans of actors, political figures, and singers, who were brought to tears not by tributes, but by their memories of who their shining star was to them. Today, I think I finally understand the gist of that profound type of impact..that tear that is shed not just for the passing of a person one admires, but a tear that is shed for the overwhelming flooding of memories of youth, innocence and good times, with your star shining in the background, providing an element of a story - a setting if you will - to our tales of yesteryear.
In that way, for both people who knew Michael personally, and for the millions of fans around the globe, we have something in common..
we have our memories.
Rest In Peace, Michael Jackson..the world will miss you. ______________________________________________________
A HYPOTHETICAL: SHOULD THE INTERNET SEEK CENSORSHIP?
Where to even begin with this topic? I am strongly opposed to censorship of any kind, including the most crass dialogue and disturbing imagery. The internet, at least in the Western standard, is one of the last almost free reigning media outlets in support of freedom of the press and freedom of speech.
With exception to every rule, there isn't a mass exodus of PC users spilling into the streets engaging in anarchy, draping themselves in KKK hoods, or rubbing peanut butter on their nipples in a mass orgy. (The idea being that if the internet doesn't prohibit 'adult' content of any kind, children exposed to such imagery will be more inclined to replicate what they have seen on the internet).
Actually, you have, on a grand scale - the opposite. When content is uploaded online that is deemed to be objectionable, there exists an opportunity for a dialogue where dialogue may not have previously been. An open forum on a massive scale, reaching across the pan Atlantic (where not prohibited), up north, and to your neighbor down the street. Audiences of all levels of intellect, social-economic standards, races, creeds, and theological (or lack thereof) beliefs. Opinions that are derivative of the values of one's polar opposite to ones moral doppelganger.
The benefits of that scale of dialogue are astronomical in contrast to the same 'objectionable' content somehow appearing before the eyes of a catholic school or church of under 100 members, a community of democrats, republicans, Americans, Canadians, Italians - people who may share a similar perspective or cultural ideal.
Allowing a 'child' to be regarded as a sponge of knowledge instead of a potential victim to be protected has it's benefits..that child can allow him/herself unlimited perspectives from all walks of life, and he or she can come to his or her own conclusions, ideals and opinions....building the very fibers of an analytical and objective mind necessary to becoming a productive adult member of society.
Censorship is nothing more than a consolidated effort to surround oneself with like-minded peers, and force one's own ideologies onto others. It reeks of ignorance and hypocrisy.
Just look at what is happening to the American media. Progressives will tell you that the western standard is further advanced, is 'freer' than ever seen before. If that isn't trying to pull the wool over the public eye, I don't know what is.
There are facets of American pop culture that have progressed - for instance, if one were to compare a Playboy of modern times in contrast to one published 50 years prior, he/or she would notice a more liberal showcase of the human form.
Progressive? Yes..
but let's look at broadcasting, the bread and butter of the media. Where women like myself, and many of the other accomplished ladies in the adult sector are silently verboten from becoming network anchors because it compromises a conservative religious based ideal (in a nation moving away from theology, mind you!); where men like Don Imus: shock jocks on shock jock radio get fired for being..shocking..
In fact, if one were to peruse through leading television series in the 1970's, and even as recent as the late 1980s and 90's (the likes of All In The Family and The Golden Girls), he or she might be shocked to see what actors could get away with in those times. Aside from paying for cable networks like HBO, one could almost never find such racial/sexual orientation epithets commonplace in modern television - the FCC sees to that.
Progressive? Quite the opposite. The FCC is argumentatively unconstitutional in many of its decisions as of late. Unfortunately, in a pacifist and conformist society, the media rides the tide of what is told, or forced to be the norm - a byproduct of the cries of the hypersensitive masses - regardless of 1st Amendment Rights.
The hypocrisy with the FCC and those who support it's communist-like regime is that many who have backed their decisions are self proclaimed atheists and agnostics who believe religion to be at the root of segregation of the races and sexualities, and that equality should be sought through appreciation of civil freedoms, in the absence of any kind of Deity or theology (it should be noted that I am not a Christian) - and they claim that out of all of the noted 'sins' listed in the Bible, that believers are quick to 'pick and choose' only the beliefs that benefit them - yet those atheists/agnostics pointing the accusing finger are the very same people who are quick to back Al Sharpton - a Baptist Minister, and Reverend..when he goes head to head with the FCC in an effort to strip a man of his rights and his job.
That is hypocrisy - and it rocks the very foundation of freedom of expression and Civil Rights.
The internet, for the most part, in Western culture, is the definition, true to form, of what the First Amendment stands for: a mass forum where theologists, atheists, fetishists, anarchists, and unlimited personas - and even..Al Sharpton..are free to speak their piece.
Are you an analytical and/or a logical thinker? Are you more inclined to employ emotions and/or reason into solving a problem?
Take the 'Are You Logical?' test! It's a really fun way to learn a little bit about yourself, and how the wheels are set in motion in your brain.
So how do I think? I scored 100 percent logical. I am a logical thinker:
How do you fare?
Take the test by clicking HERE. ______________________________________________________
THE GRAND ILLUSION THAT IS ME
I am not a pillar of strength Nor a warrior I am not brave
Although I care not about the thoughts of others I care deeply of yours, when you and I once equaled each other
Admired with many suitors conjures up endless inaccuracies, stereotypes and assumed personalities in the grand illusion that is me.
Beyond the face and credits There lies great fears and pain As Human as is to humilities' decree
Sensitive and compassionate Words of a loved one render me weak
Yet it is thought I never weep That I breathe, eat, live and speak life.. handed to me on a silver platter
but I have felt, touched and seen the world’s ugly, unjust and obscene
Dabbling in philanthropy To fill - not a void - but in a quest to contribute to peace So that when my time comes to pass I will know that I, at the very least
attempted to make a positive change
‘Good karma is just outside the window’ ( or so they say ) but when I look through the glass it all remains the same
There are times I want to run away from the chaos in the world and you
..those days I turn my back to the sun
But the magnifying glass brings me back to reality that I cannot outrun, I cannot hide
for this race is bigger than even me.. A skewed perception from the world that often brings me to my knees
that keeps me, by choice, from moving ahead ..into that faceless abyss
Wherein I could never compete, nor measure up to The heights and expectations amassed upon me
by people who call themselves fans, admirers, Lovers or confidantes
Those I cannot bring nor allow myself to appease
Who think me
A tearsheet and a girl in a magazine A Barbie doll, an American dream
Living a life of superficiality Will forever remain an inaccurate fantasy
2 days ago, in the city of Oshawa (just 60 km | 37 mi) east of Toronto (Canada) the Durham Humane Society suffered a "massive fire" - killing over 150 animals.
Of several stories that have made the press, differing quotes have surfaced, ranging from one of the Vets stating that it was likely that most of the animals perished from smoke inhalation or were rendered unconscious before their bodies were set ablaze to burn to death; from employees of the Humane Society stating that they "had to believe" that to be the case - because if they believed anything else, they "couldn't handle it" - to perhaps the most painful quote of them all, of a more sinister account, that hints at the idea that many of the animals were in fact conscious and burned alive: a firefighter was quoted to say that he heard the bellowing of dogs - fighting for their lives, from down the street as they approached the shelter..
sadly, only 8 dogs, two cats and one rat were saved.
Employees and volunteers of the shelter, many who likely raised animals of such a tender age they required bottle feeding, into adulthood, also went to work everyday with the goal of finding a loving home for otherwise unwanted and/or abused / healthy animals. The pain they are going through must be horrendous - and at a time when many are celebrating life in the spirit of the holiday season..the employees of the Humane society mourn an astronomical loss.
One employee had indicated that a cat had "recently been rescued from an abusive owner" and that the shelter had "just found her a loving home" but that they needed to keep her for "just one more week" so that she could be spayed, and then sent on her way to her new happy, warm family - free from the abuses handed down to her by the owners of her past.
Sadly, that cat never got the chance to meet her new family, who were ready to embrace her with open arms.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with damages estimated in excess of 250K.
The Toronto Humane Society, itself already overcrowding, is offering assistance of what few bowls and food items they can spare.
Now, more than ever, our Humane Societies need the help of compassionate donors. Please do not think that even 5 dollars is too little to spare - your five dollars, if that is all you can afford to give, adds up to a cumulative balance.
Canadians/Ontarians, (note that you are not required to be Canadian to donate) in addition to/in absence of monetary donations, office equipment - such as chairs, cabinets, tables, a till - etc - can also be donated, and a service will be made available to pick up the items for you should you be unable to deliver it/them on your own. (see below for more info).
"The Humane Society can be reached by calling 905-433-2022 or 905-436-5632, or contacting the City's call centre at 905-436-3311, The call centre will forward calls to shelter staff.
All City Wide taxi drivers have offered to pick up donations of money and items to help the Humane Society, free of charge. Drivers will collect cheques -- no cash -- and deliver them to Humane Society officials. Items such as food and litter will be stored by City Wide until a drop-off location is determined. City Wide can be reached at 905-579-9393."
In lieu of any donations, or in addition to any donations, word of mouth is appreciated.
Donations, donations, donations. In my name, or yours - to any/all of the causes I support.
I personally vouch for the legitimacy all of these organizations as I am an active donor of all of them. (Click on each logo to be directed to the respective sites):
SICK KIDS HOSPITAL Toronto location. A gift this season or any time of the year to help brighten the day of a child in need. Monetary and/or toys.
USA Chapter - Child Sponsorship and/or One Time Only Gift Option
CANADIAN Chapter - Child Sponsorship
CANADIAN Chapter, World Vision - One Time Gift Only
World Vision is one of the most reputable charities in existence, with annual expense reports and audits that show donors exactly where and how their funds are used. 85 percent of funds are donated, not only to your sponsor child in need in a third nation of your choice, but also to the village in which your sponsor child in need inhabits.
Alternatively, if you cannot commit to a monthly donation or a child, you can opt for a one time only gift, starting as low as $30! Gifts can include a well, a goat for milking and cheese, a sheep, or immunization and asylum offered to underage girls forced into the sex trade; these are just some of the few life changing opportunities you can give. Just think, with one calf, or one goat, you can sustain nourishment not only for your child, but jobs for the villagers and food for the community! Your one time gift goes a long way.
World vision does not accept gifts in the form of presents - monetary gifts only.
*While World Vision is a Christian based organization, one does not need to be a member of faith, support Christianity, and/or be affiliated with religion in any way, shape, or form - to donate. You can simply base your trust into World Vision's clout by reviewing their audits online. I, for one, donate to World Vision simply because they have been audited, and the reports have been made public. A whopping 85 percent of donated funds go directly to your sponsor child and to his or her community. World Vision is a legitimate organization, and, after much research, I found them to possess the most clout.
Toronto Right To Life. This is the most important cause that I believe in. With an estimated 1 MILLION babies aborted each year in the U.S.A. alone, abortions have surpassed epidemic proportions and is vastly being utilized as a form of birth control.
With tape recorded evidence (view story by clicking this link) of racially motivated donations in support of abortions carried out on minorities, specifically those carried out upon black babies, and the proliferation of abortion clinics, densely numbered in urban communities, to the 'Plan B' drug becoming available over the counter without a prescription or parental consent, to young 'hip' ads - in support of the drug - appearing on mass user social networking sites like Myspace, which target teens - young adults, growing up in an ever expanding liberal mindset of (a) nation(s) - are being brainwashed into thinking and accepting that the cessation of the life of an unborn child(s) is a sound form of birth control.
Since the inception of the war overseas, (and at the time of this blog posting), an estimated 4207 American casualties have been reported overseas in Iraq, while an estimated 5 MILLION babies on American soil have perished before even breathing a first breath.
Whether you are pro choice, or pro life, the Right to Life Campaign can benefit from your monetary donations.
As aforementioned, we live in a rapidly expanding liberal continent, where decisions such as Roe v. Wade will likely never see a reverse; therefore, by supporting and or donating to any Right To Life Organization, people who sit on both sides of the political spectrum can expect to support - not the abolition of what have been declared to be existing, present day 'constitutional rights' (if that is what you believe)- but rather, one's funds would go directly toward providing sexual and reproductive education to teens of all financial classes, sexes, and creeds; with the ultimate goal of broadening the Pro-Life audience outside of the Catholic community, thereby establishing the movement as a non partisan, non religious doctrine of knowledge and`a resource of information.
One of the most important factors in supporting the Right To Life is providing young women with options that she may not know exist to her. She may be scared, alone, and without financial support to rear her child. Sadly, there are many young women who enter into an irreversible decision of abortion due to simple ignorance surrounding emotional therapy, adoption centres, housing, and other affordable and/or free services available to her. She may not even be aware of the Safe Haven program, operated in most states, that allow a new mother to 'drop off' her baby, anonymously, at a safe location where she can rest assured that her child will be well taken care of and placed into a loving home. Unfortunately, many women are lead to believe that abortion is their only choice - and therefore first, and last - resort.
The emotional trauma a woman undergoes after losing her child is one that can never be repaired, and can plague her for years following the abortion, causing a myriad of serious, and sometimes fatal - mental and physical repercussions that can last a lifetime.
No woman should ever be left with only one option. It is the ultimate goal of the Right to Life to be heard; to abolish 'abstinence only' sex education in school curriculum,replacing it with a thorough outline of sexual health, disease prevention and control, pregnancy options, and emotional support.
In addition to providing education and options for pregnant mothers, monetary donations to the Right To Life also assist in providing volunteer counseling services - men and women affected by abortion and/or who believe in the Pro Life Cause, who work around the clock to provide in office or over the telephone support to those considering suicide, or who have been left emotionally crippled in the aftermath of an abortion.
It is a common misconception that the pro-life movement is one that exists only within the confines of a religion. This is simply not accurate.
Whether you believe in a Deity or in science, are pro choice, or pro life - there are unlimited reasons to support full and thorough education, counseling, and options to women in need.
The Right To Life is quite possibly one of the most important causes supporting humanity.
BLOOD DONATION - Canada
BLOOD DONATION - AMERICA I have tried to become a blood donor, but am medically unable to do so. There are certain requirements for blood donation, they can be found by clicking here, which will transport you further down on my blog where you can read more to find out if you are qualified.
As said, I have been excluded from being able to donate blood; if you wish to donate in my name, or yours, that would be a lovely gift.
TORONTO HUMANE SOCIETY. You all were fantastic at moving forward the petition for the reinstatement of Tre Smith as a Humane Officer back when he was stripped of his duties. Not only did you show that you are a fanbase that appreciates beyond the physical - you reached out to a cause of importance not only to me, but to the welfare of all animals.
Did you know? The Humane Society took note of your efforts, and contacted me directly to make a request that I speak with politicians after they saw the petition, that once stood at a standstill, gain a whopping 440 signatures in only 24 hours after I put out a mass email to my fans! Make no mistake, you were definitely a part of that movement. The petition continued to gain signatures, and made not only the news, but successfully pressured the Ontario government to implement immediate changes, which included an annual budget increase of $381 000, and improved training sessions for animal investigators!
I don't think I had ever been so proud of my fan base than I was at that moment.
But when it comes to rescuing animals in need, one's work is never finished.
You can do your part this season, and all year round by encouraging shelter adoptions only, and by not purchasing animal toys or food in retail pet adoption stores, as they support and are provided animals by breeders.
There is enough of a population crisis as it is in Humane Societies; there is simply no need for breeders, especially when animals are brought up in inhumane puppy mills and kitty mills, and/or are tortured, bred to attack, beaten, and ultimately euthanized, simply for lack of space.
At one point this past year, the pet population at the Humane Society in Toronto was so severe that cats and kittens had to live in portable carrying cages!
There are many times year round where Humane Societies and local shelters offer free adoptions backed with full immunizations of all species of pets - not just cats and dogs!
You can extend your good cheer 365 days a year by informing anyone who is looking to adopt and/or purchase a pet about the benefits of adoption through Shelters and Humane Societies..and yes, you can adopt pure bred animals and infant pets provided you arrive early in the day, as they adopt fast. Inquire with each shelter about their busiest days if you have a specific breed in mind.
Other ways to support the humane society involve monthly and or one time donations, or, if you have no money to give, you can donate your Canadian Tire money by mailing it in, and/or you can donate your points on participating shopping store credit cards, such as the HBC Rewards card in Canada. You can cancel at anytime, or even reverse the donation if you change your mind. But just think, with your points, bowls, blankets, toys, and chewing bones can be bought for animals waiting to be adopted. Points are as good as cash! Click here to donate HBC Points! simply enter 1111111 in the 'Community Organization Public ID number' field, and select 'Ontario' in the 'Province' field; you can leave all other fields empty - by clicking on 'Continue', the Humane Societies full information should come up, and you will be well on your way toward donating!
If you prefer to donate to the Humane Society directly via credit card or cheque, monthly, or one time only, click on the image of the dog above to be directed to the Toronto Humane Society website. Your monetary donations provide financial assistance to integral programs and services such as "foster care, adoption and cruelty investigations" for abused, unwanted, and neglected animals and healthy animals in need of medical care and/or a loving home.
If you haven't already seen this film and are wondering what is worth watching at the movies, The Boy In The striped Pajamas is IT.
I have been to cineplexes around the globe, and aside from the industry state of California, (who stay for different reasons altogether) I have never seen an audience so emotionally overwhelmed that for what seemed like almost 2 minutes into the credits rolling - everyone in the room stayed silent and still in their seats.
I only realized after that many were trying to contain themselves as I bore witness to tear-strewn cheeks and bloodshoot eyes of almost everyone in attendance as they walked out of the theatre.
I bawled..I mean..BAWLED..and have never actually continued crying well into the credits in any other film. That was a first for me.
Predictable, perhaps - but the actor selection was on point and their performances were superb - and one of the major underlying elements of the film - innocence - perfectly executed.
AN AWESOME QUOTE FROM A HILARIOUS SERIES..BOSTON LEGAL!
"You pro choice people..you need Roe vs. Wade - you're desperate for it - not because you're sure of your opinion, but because you're not; you..need to cling to that ruling as moral validation for a position you're not entirely comfortable with....deep down."
Many of you know that I am half Chinese, and at the very heart of my heritage lies the practice of meditation and the art of zen and tranquility. The following zen proses are among my very favorite, and their deep and intricate meanings transcend all walks of life, all faiths, and in void of all faiths.
They are:
"NO RUBBISH" -Morinaga Soko, IN Zen: Tradition & Transition.
The first task I was given was to sweep the garden with a bamboo broom....So I grasped my broom and swept mightily and soon had a mountain of leaves. I asked, "Roshi, where should I put all of this rubbish?" hoping he would see how good I had been. He immediately roared, "Leaves are not rubbish!...Go to the shed and bring any empty charcoal sacks you find there." Coming back, I found the Roshi vigorously raking through the pile of leaves so that any stones or gravel fell to the bottom. He then took the sacks and filled them to the very last leaf, packing them tightly with his feet. "Now go put these back in the shed," he said. "They're kindling for the bath fire."
When I...came back I saw the Roshi squatting on the ground picking out the small stones from what remained. When he had carefully gathered them together to the very last tiny pebble, he said, "Now put these beneath the eaves."...I was still quite sure that the remaining lumps of earth and scraps of moss could serve no useful purpose. Yet the Roshi just collected them together without fuss and placed them on the palm of his hand. Searching patiently, he put the lumps of earth into depressions in the ground, then firmed them in with his foot until nothing remained. He said, "Now do you understand a little? Originally, there is no rubbish in either men or things."
RED LIGHT -Thich Nhat Hanh, IN Present Moment, Wonderful Moment.
When we are driving, we tend to think of arriving, and we sacrifice the journey for the sake of the arrival. But life is to be found in the present moment, not in the future. In fact, we may suffer more after we arrive at our destination. If we have to talk of a destination, what about our final destination, the graveyard? We do not want to go in the direction of death; we want to go into the direction of life. But where is life? Life can only be found in the present moment. Therefore, each mile we drive, each step we take, has to bring us into the present moment. This is the practice of mindfulness.
When we see a red light or a stop sign, we can smile at it and thank it, because it is a Bodhisattva helping us return to the present moment. The red light is a bell of mindfulness. We may have thought of it as our enemy, preventing us from achieving our goal. But now we know the red light is our friend, helping us resist rushing and calling us to return to the present moment where we can meet with life, joy, and peace.
MY WORLD -Kosho Uchiyama, IN Opening The Hand Of Thought.
Whatever way you put it, I am here only because my world is here. When I took my first breath, my world was born with me. When I die, my world dies with me. In other words, I wasn't born into a world that was already here before me, nor do I live simply as one individual among millions of other individuals, nor do I leave everything behind to live on after me. People live thinking of themselves as members of a group or society. However, this isn't really true. Actually, I bring my own world into existence, live it out, and take it with me when I die....
I can't stress enough how essential it is to look very, very carefully at this self that runs through everything in the universe. You live together with your world. Only when you thoroughly understand this will everything in the world settle as the self pervading all things. As Buddhists, this is our vow, or the direction we face. In other words, we vow to save all sentient beings so that this self may become even more itself. This is our life direction.
Shakyamuni said it this way: "All worlds are my world and all sentient beings-people, things, and situations-are my children."
I cant say I agree with the politics of the left, and I can't say I would ever vote left..but I absolutely can and do appreciate what a beautiful moment today marked in not only American history, but for western culture as a whole, by electing the first Black President. To see how far we as a western civilization have come, and to, perhaps prove a greater acceptance and insight regarding white-black relations by having Obama selected by people of all shades and creeds..is extremely moving, and is something to be commended, no matter what side of the political spectrum one may fall on. Seeing the Obama family on stage, was not only historic, but absolutely beautiful..and, although I fundamentally view the world from a different perspective, I am proud and glad to be alive to witness such growth.
For that, I can put aside personal beliefs and politics..and say..congratulations on the win, Democrats.
I cannot even begin to explain how much I LOATHE all of the hatred running rampant this election.
The mudslinging and shit hurling from Democrats toward Republicans, from Republicans toward Democrats - enough already!
You are an embarrassment not only to yourself, but to everyone who shares with you your ideals.
At the end of the day, I think it can reasonably argued that what both sides seek is an outcome of peace, restoration of economic power and world opinion, and, some semblance of unity and civilized culture.
The very notion that both sides seek some sense of equality - is hurled through the window, over the fence, and into the gutter - when we bastardize the very first step of attaining any form of equality: when we fail to listen.
So listen up Republicans and Democrats, it isn't all about you. Remove ego from the equation, sit back, and listen to your opposition.
Don't call out juvenile names.
Ideals, by their very definition, can NOT be classified as "STUPID."
As obscene a belief as you may bear listening to, keep in mind that we are all products of our own environments; those of us whom are not self imposed conformists have our own thoughts..based on our own perspective..based on our own unique experiences.
Re-define your definition of 'Equality'. When you proudly proclaim it as a right, teach not through words alone, but through action.
As an Independent, yet heavily leaning Conservative (I do take a different stance on the war, which separates me from a large sector in the Right), I am both astonished and disappointed to find how substantial the occurrence is of political warfare, particularly in reference toward the Right.
I felt inspired to pen my own feelings on the demise of the skilled debatee in reference to politics - in the form of a poem I will paste below.
I call it "A Napoleon Complex".
It is based on my experience as a Conservative in debate, and the debates I have bore witness to between the Right and the Left. It also is an example of how to present a political perspective without succumbing to typical pitfalls of a failed debate speech. I have been called every name in the book, and yes, I have bore witness to mudslinging derivative of like-minded debatees as well (although to a far lesser extent).
While my poem below does, at times, hint at my own political perspective, it's main emphasis is placed on detailing the hypocrisy in juvenile retorts - in labeling those opposed to your ideals; the unjust adverse effects of stereotype and the damage pacification enlists on society.
This poem is therefore relevant to Independent voters, Republicans, and Democrats alike, and is a testament to the inalienable Right to Freedom of Expression - a value we so claim to hold dear, yet continue to pervert at it's very core.
One can debate decorously and not be a pacifist. Therein lies the key toward healthy convergence of opinion: the celebration of a protected dialogue in a free nation amongst a civilized people.
THAT is one of the first steps toward restoring a public opinion: by healing, from the inside out.
My poem: (*This my truncated version, the full version of my poem has an extension in the 13th section that I am not including here).
A NAPOLEON COMPLEX
"A Napoleon Complex – so blind yet obscene Like an incubus invading - raping you in your dream
A Napoleon Complex – so loud and obnoxious Your dissidence toward opposition leaves the world toxic
And our streets are left to bastards - The result, chaotic
No government, no crusader, no leader A Napoleon Complex fueled by anger
Pacify the truth by using in vain the name of the troops
Measuring the bloodshed of civilians overseas Blindly batting an eye to the slaughter of 8 million babies
On your own soil
Where an illegal malefactor toils As you earn your riches - and lash out at Right Wing “Pig Capitalists”
You hypocrites
Who proclaim loudly "equality!"
but fraud by citizen would land you in a penitentiary
While Jesus gets a slap on the wrist – And in his pocket,
A stolen license, an assumed identity
in a broken system where the condemned walk free (the Courts pressured by what they call 'amnesty')
as millions are now pushed to the back of the list
Jesus was last seen building casinos in Vegas
A Napoleon Complex So thunderous is your cry, through threats and labels
an unjust endeavor, to hatch a good man despised
in the public eye
Donning upon the other side: 'racists, war mongers and dangerous Creationists' (those who diverge quickly make the list)
..of devils, heathens and pitchfork wielders, Jobs lost and rights stripped through rallies and self elected leaders
who scandalize the names of your forefathers
A slap in the face to those who perished in the making of history, In your self proclaimed democracy
Where conformists and pacifists join hands To abolish the First Amendment
Toward opposing thought, Labeling it hate speech, bigotry and the quest to segregate
With a straight face
The kettle calling the pot black in the mission of peace
A Napoleon Complex can find the strongest of men bound in chains
if listening to only one opinion is the sole idea of change".
on my Youtube channel. If you want to check them out, visit my channel by clicking here. Sorry, all comment functions are disabled. Yep, I am outing myself by showing my real name! ______________________________________________________
A STANDING OVATION. Beck sums up once again, everything I think!
If you are familiar with the Rivera/O'Reilly debate (if you can even call Rivera's lame retort to racial discrimination a plausible opposing argument), then Beck's rebuttal is a MUST SEE.
It's high time people learn the difference between racism, discrimination, prejudice and stereotype.
It's even higher a time to know when NONE of them are being used on you! One thing I never understood is why it seems that, from the mouths of those who cry 'racism' over every little discrepancy in their life, comes a blatant disregard and disrespect to one's own history and lineage and ignorance toward one's very own upbringing. 'Crying wolf' over racism when the subject and/or subject matter has nothing at all to do with racism is not only a cheap shot, it's a cop out.
And just plain disrespectful to people who actually are victims of racial discrimination. If people want the subject matter to be taken more seriously, they need to stop throwing the term around to try to belittle their debating opponent.
Character assassination is one of the all time lows of an uncredited, unskilled debatee.
Glenn Beck, you nailed it..I couldn't have said it better myself.
Check out the vid below.
(FYI: In the original debate, the subject matter was about an illegal immigrant who killed not one, but two American Citizens in a traffic accident, an illegal who had been convicted FOUR TIMES. Rivera immediately went on an illogical tangent that O'Reilly was becoming a member of the "Lou Dobbs' mob" (another cheapshot)..with hardon for excavating and humiliating illegals. "What if his name was Bubba, or Bob?" he retorts. Uh, really, Rivera? I find it pretty lame that Rivera twisted a topic of immigration into a personal attack on race. I reckon Rivera is a victim, not of racism, but of one of two things, (or quite possibly, a combination of both of the following:)
a) Racial Insecurity/ unfounded inferiority complex. (Hey, HE was the one who jumped the gun and made it a race issue - the topic was illegals, Rivera!)
b) Racism (by his standards). Come on, how many white guys, even in the south, do you know named Bubba? Why cite clearly Caucasian names? If Rivera wants to twist the word "illegals" into "racist" - why cant he seem to remember that there are European illegals in America? Why not say Sven? Why Bubba and Bob? More importantly, why cite a Caucasian name at all? What, a white guy can't use the word "illegal" without being first and foremost, a racist? Sounds like someone has what is called a pre-conceived notion of white people. By today's standards, pre-conceived notions would equate to racial stereotype.
Whoops.
Perhaps a reminder memo should be sent to rivera on the fundamental differences in the definitions of the two terms. They are not, and never have been - synonymous.
See: results for: racist Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) rac·ism Audio Help /ˈreɪsɪzəm/ Pronunciation[rey-siz-uhm] Pronunciation Key - –noun 1. a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others. 2. a policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine; discrimination. 3. hatred or intolerance of another race or other races.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT 1. a foreigner who has entered or resides in a country unlawfully or without the country's authorization. 2. a foreigner who enters the U.S. without an entry or immigrant visa, esp. a person who crosses the border by avoiding inspection or who overstays the period of time allowed as a visitor, tourist, or businessperson. Compare resident alien. Also called illegal immigrant.
See the original video here, and Glenn Beck's rebuttal below.
The video has been taken off of Youtube, so below is the transcript, courtesy of CNN.com:
"BECK: You know the problem is we`re not listening to each other on illegal immigration anymore. What else is new? Emotions boiled over last week in a debate between Bill O`Reilly and Geraldo Rivera on FOX News. They were talking about an illegal immigrant with three previous alcohol- related convictions who killed two teenagers when driving drunk.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
RIVERA: My nightmare is my daughters having anything to do with a person driving drunk. That`s my nightmare.
O`REILLY: OK.
RIVERA: It could be a Jewish drunk. It could be a Polish drunk.
O`REILLY: But this guy didn`t have to be here.
RIVERA: It could be an Irish drunk.
O`REILLY: No.
RIVERA: It could be an Italian drunk. What the hell difference does it make?
(CROSSTALK)
O`REILLY: It makes plenty of difference!
RIVERA: It does not, Bill.
O`REILLY: He doesn`t have a right to be here!
RIVERA: He didn`t commit a felony.
O`REILLY: He doesn`t have a right to be in this country!
(END VIDEO CLIP)
BECK: You know what? Geraldo is right on one thing. It doesn`t matter if they`re Jewish, Polish, Irish, Hispanic, from Mars, it doesn`t matter! What matters is, is the person here legally? Race has nothing to do with this debate; it`s about the law. Geraldo went on.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
RIVERA: Do you know how many people we have in jail? How many of them are illegal aliens? Illegal aliens commit crimes at a lower rate than citizens do.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
BECK: Well, unless 100.1 percent of U.S. citizens are committing crimes, I can assure you that that isn`t true. Every single illegal immigrant is guilty of a crime, every single one. Thus, the word "illegal."
And many times, not just one crime. How about creating false documents or buying false IDs? Would you and I get away with that? How about dodging taxes? If they do pay them, how about the part about signing the name, putting false information on the tax return, and then signing your name to it? Those are crimes that you and I would go to jail for or at least pay a very hefty fine.
The study that I think Geraldo is trying to cite was all about immigrants, not illegal immigrants. It includes everything from legal immigrants, who go through layers of criminal screening before they get here, all the way to college kids on student visas. You know what? If we`re screening them, there should be a lower incidence of crime.
Here`s one more clip from Geraldo on illegal immigrants.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
RIVERA: We have lured these people...
O`REILLY: Oh, yeah.
RIVERA: ... with a promise of jobs in a country with basically full domestic employment.
O`REILLY: All right.
RIVERA: We have, for decades, lured them here.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
BECK: Don`t make blood shoot out of my eyes. We do send mixed messages to illegals, considering our government doesn`t seem to care enough about anything about their constant arrival. But luring them? Why, because we have nice stuff? Am I luring people into my house because I have a TiVo? If we`re luring anything, anybody, in Mexico, it`s that we`re luring them into adopting our system. We are a commercial for prosperity through freedom. Instead of depending on us, Mexico, you should focus on replicating our system until we`re lured down there."
I just got my ear irrigated, and I am going back to get my other one irrigated as well, and I am excited!
I honestly thought my hearing was unflawed, but after getting my left ear irrigated (I had to - after so many years of using earplugs, I woke up one morning with severe loss of hearing in the ear - temporary) - wow! I realized just how noisy the world really is, and I can really hear the difference between what is my unaffected ear, and my newly cleaned ear - absolutely unbelievable....the slightest sounds and tones can be heard with razor sharp precision now - it took some getting used to at first - the sounds in the world around me seemed almost too loud as strange as that sounds - but once I got used to my newly found improvement, I put Liberace on blast..and symphony has never sounded so extraordinary to me as it does now. The world just became a lot more beautiful!
The only con to the very many pros of irrigation is that you develop, temporarily, severe, and I do mean severe - vertigo. Hence why many people have to get only one ear done at a time. I was pretty much knocked out the rest of the day, very nauseous and dizzy..but again..I am totally loving my new sensations..my unaffected/un-irrigated ear, to my huge surprise, has a very noticeable difference, and I cant believe I haven't been hearing 100 percent all this time - I absolutely never questioned it.
You'd be surprised just how much audible sensations you are depriving yourself of un-irrigated!
How it's done: In a medical setting only with a GP or ENT; a thick, large syringe (there are no injections involved) is filled with saline water and propelled with a controlled-force jet release into the canal, flushing wax/debris out into a basin held under the ear..I had a quadruple clean on my left ear..I had no idea one ear could carry so much gunk!
I cant recommend this highly enough! ______________________________________________________
LOVE. How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You
There are moments in my life, where, despite the mail from fans, the catcalls in the street, the amazing work offers with amazing people..even I, can feel alone.
One of the common misconceptions about being the source of admiration of any kind is that the recipient must be utterly emotionally fulfilled. What debunks such a misconception is the reality that, for some people, questioning the motives, intent, and sincerity of everyone around oneself becomes a chore, of which one is forced to comply.
But every now and then, people positively surprise me. With these people, love knows no bounds, asks no questions, and seeks nothing in return.
I am dedicating this entry to such a man..who reconnected with me recently; your love is exuberant without the need for verbal affirmation; it has stood the test of time, and has been omnipresent throughout every walk and phase of my life thus far.
You came back into my life, and spoiled me - you asked for nothing in return, verbally, or figuratively..you treated me like a Princess, and tended to my every want, my every need..
and you are one of the rare gems in my life who I know, beyond any doubt..look at me as the same person you met so very many moons ago. The chivalrous and generous you of today..is the replica of the man I've known since we first laid eyes on each other.
I thank you for your love, and for your company..you are a true treasure in my life.
I came across the video below by soul singer Gnarls Barkley..and I must say, I am really digging it for it's simple, yet, accurate message.
The message the video conveys (at least from my perspective) is the cycle that is oftentimes created as a direct result of being treated poorly in a relationship. Those memories and emotions that are often tantamount to a viscous repetitive pattern of the heartbreakee becoming heartbreaker to their future lover.
Being on the reciprocal end of having been treated poorly, can often mean you will treat the next person in your life poorly because of bitterness, lost innocence, and unattained expectations in yourself, the other person, and as a couple.
I have always believed that being treated in an ill manner by a loved one causes a person to lose a slice of naivete - that one time innocence of not only trust, but also of what one expected to give and receive in a union of love; instilling, often times, a paranoid and/or skewed vision of anyone in the future.
There are pros of being a heartbreakee, of course; in that, through losing a slice of innocence, naivete, or dignity, one gains experience, and wisdom; one knows what he or she wants in a future mate, and what red flags to look out for.
Adhering and listening to those flags though - are another story. *Highlight of the video!* Check out the part where 'he' sings "Is it possible you were hurt worse than me?"..and the ex-girlfriend (the heartbreakER)..nods, a sad affirmative..even though in the video, she plays a very self centered, user, dismissive role..ergo, she has been hurt in the past by another lover, and, in turn, she hurts her current lover by being emotionally vacuous; while he - the heartbreakEE..confesses that he will never look at a future woman with the full innocence trust, and fairness that a new lover deserves..making him a very possible future heatbreakER.
Such a small line, in such a short video..but how immense the message!
For anyone who has been a heartbreaker, or heartbreakee..check out the video below.
It's pretty..Gnarl-y! (LOL..I know, I know, lame joke..I just had to!)
I'm your soul mate, the one person on this earth who's perfect for you in every way. Yes, I exist, and yes, everyone else you've been with is a pale substitute. We're meant to be together, but we've never met.
You see, there are 6 billion people in this world and you encounter at most 1,000 people per day, so statistically our paths would cross only once every 16,500 years. If we're going to beat those odds you need to work harder, because so far you've done a spectacular job of messing this up.
Remember when you bought that pack of gum and the clerk asked you if you wanted a bag, but you were in a rush so you said no? If you'd waited that extra three seconds you would have missed the next train, making you late for the play, so they wouldn't have let you in the theater until the first scene was over, and I would have entered the lobby - also late - and we'd have gotten to talking. We probably would have just skipped the play and gotten coffee and then... Pow! Fifty years of golden summers at the lake house.
Another example: remember when you signed up for a yoga class? You should have signed up for a pottery class. I was taking a pottery class! How hard is that to figure out? And don't just sign up for a pottery class next time, because I might have moved on to hip-hop cardio. I can't tell you exactly where I'll be because if you're really my soul mate you'll just know. Please get it right. Last time, I dealt with my disappointment by sleeping with the pottery instructor.
I guess what I'm saying is, next time you think about going to the museum today instead of tomorrow when I'll be there, ask yourself: do you really want to spend the rest of your life alone? Are you going to take the bus or walk? If you do walk and it's raining, how are you going to see me under my umbrella, unless I don't have one and you share yours, or I share mine and that's how we meet? So remember: never leave the house without an umbrella... or with one. It's your choice. I think I explained pretty clearly what's at stake.
god, you're a slow reader.
Point is , hanging over every decision you make, however small, is the sword of our loneliness. I am out there. Find me. But please hurry. I know we're meant to be together for eternity, but I can't wait forever.
- Man, I freaking LOVE Stephen Colbert! Taken from I AM AMERICA (And So Can You!) Site: MakeMeAmerica ______________________________________________________
THANK YOU FOR YOUR RESPONSES.
A friend once told me that it is the people in whom you instill the most trust, that can cut the deepest wounds.
Sadly, as I have grown older, I have found this to be true.
I live in a world not of the norm to the average woman or man; I exist in a cesspool of pre-conceived notions at the hands of men and women confined to a school of thought littered with inaccuracies and stereotypes of what it must be like to be me.
A princess, a prima donna, a bitch, a person who must not have to use her brain because men shell out luxuries at her very feet kind of gal.
An escort, a stripper, a high class hooker, a pornstar – whatever name they conjure up in order to appease the rage in their veins, the dent in their wallet from student loans, a mortgage, an alimony. A name to tame the beast that rages within their souls.
Surely, upon stumbling onto my blog, and upon becoming aware that I have turned down numerous marriage proposals, sureshot chances at superstardom, multimillionaires, a billionaire, opportunities to be a high class call girl, catering to princes in the middle east, and famous men – shocks them. Awes them.
Only but, for a moment.
I have found, among the attempted coattail leeches and phony friendships under the guise of possibly getting laid, and the men who want a trophy piece on their arm to just make it through that mid-life crisis, that, beneath it all, one really cannot change ill motives, or pre-conceived notions.
I have found it is those who try with all their might to earn your trust, truly, earn it not to make another feel safe, but to appease themselves in a sordid game of cat and mouse, satiated fully upon retrieving one’s prey.
After I posted my “People Really Suck” entry, I was swarmed with emails from my avid readers who are aware of who I am outside of my blog.
Letters of support, letters of encouragement, and, what touched me most, letters spilling out life stories of my readers….seeking me as a release.
While the intent of my last blog entry and this one was more of a release for myself, I deeply appreciate your stories and your emails.
You give me hope and a sense of optimism if you will, that genuine people still do habituate in mankind..
No words. Which I suppose, is in itself, a Freudian slip of sorts - or - an intended pun....
because if pacifists like Pelosi continue to breed, all there will be left will be silence.
Excerpt from Slashdot.org:
"Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who would like very much to reimpose the old, so-called, "Fairness Doctrine" that once censored conservative opinion on television and radio broadcasting, is scheming to impose rules barring any member of Congress from posting opinions on any internet site without first obtaining prior approval from the Democratic leadership of Congress. No blogs, twitter, online forums — nothing"
a friend who doesn't know how to keep his trap shut,
friends who don't know how to be platonic,
a friend or lover who shares with you delicate moments of intimate persuasion - be it physical, emotional, or by trading 'war stories' - then one day, looks at you as if you are a stranger -
or worse..
you exist as two shades who never crossed paths, and you recollect divine memories, only to wonder did that even happen? did I imagine all of that?
I am an analytical observer; bold, yet sensitive in nature. I value friendships, lovers, confidantes. I attempt to answer every question with something of which I deem to be logical, or at least somewhat fitting to the situation.
Yet, going from something derivative of love (be it infatuation, admiration, or any opposite of hate) to a ghost - a stranger -is something I have never been able to wrap my mind around, nor is it something I ever think I could even partially comprehend.
Have we as a people really become so immersed in ourselves that we turn a blind eye and deaf ear toward those who helped us rise up when we fell, those who stood by us in times of triumph and despair, those who shared with us laughs, tears, passion, comfort, solace?
Have our morals and ethics stooped so low as to put the rush in our genitals before our honor, our pride, even, our patriotism? Only to turn around and beg for what once ailed you when the object of your masochistic desire whips and lashes you, the one whom you downgraded to?
DUBAI GETS JUST A BIT COOLER. The World's Premier 78 floor unanimous rotating skyscraper.
As if the Hydropolis Hotel, being fully immersed underwater, wasn't the raddest hotel in the world, (next to Dubai's 7 Star Hotel, voted 'best in the world' - the Burj-Al-Arab) - Those dynamic folk out east with a niche for aesthetics and just plain freaking cool have done it again, harboring the first 78 level multi rotation skyscraper / natural energy provider manufactured off site, and built of environmentally friendly, natural materials.
Defying modern architecture as mankind knows it in present day, the continually morphing condominium places Dubai on the map of ingenuity and bad ass creativity.
(Jump to 1:32 on the video to learn about the latest INSANE architectural development in the UAE. )
Excerpt from video:
"We have designed 78 floors that can rotate separately; changing every second the shape of the building...allowing a different building to come along in any moment. For the first time, man will have a building in four dimensions.
...they are totally self-powered. Our architecture employs wind turbines positioned horizontally between each floor, which will produce energy for the building itself; and which will also supply energy for several other buildings...77 wind turbines, making the building also a power station, producing green energy for the city around it; so it's nature itself.
..building our towers with a ready-made technology for a more efficient, and environment friendly implementation...the dynamic architecture is made of natural materials."
ANONYMOUS 'COLUMNIST' AN EMBARRASSMENT TO JOURNALISM, RACIAL INTEGRATION & JUST PLAIN COMMON SENSE.
The Chicago Tribune recently ran a fairy tale regarding an unconfirmed rumor that Senator Obama's oft-foibled counterpart Michelle was once again, caught making some inappropriate remark about racial matters.
In this alleged instance, she (allegedly) used the term 'whitey' - which, in turn, sparked an online riot, which begat a spew of ignorant, masochistic bullshit from a journalist too cowardly to pen his own name.
It's hard to come up with an ethnic slur that has less of a sting than "whitey."
A prevalent yet unsubstantiated Internet rumor has it that Barack Obama's wife, Michelle, used this term at some point in a speech, and the Obama campaign is concerned enough to have posted an online rebuttal.
I've got to ask, though. Are there really white people out there so ignorant of history, so unaware of the nuances of language and so threatened by minority grievances that they take genuine umbrage at the term "whitey"?
More a taunt than a threat, the word has no ugly history and hints at no particular stereotypes. It may have been hurled in a menacing fashion in ugly personal confrontations from time to time, but it's never been used to keep a people down, to put them in their place, to rank them as subhuman.
To be truly offensive, a derogatory term needs to have an ominous context that "whitey" lacks.
Those who take offense are confusing prejudice—which is making negative assumptions about people based solely on external characteristics, of which all races and ethnicities are guilty—with racism, which is prejudice in action.
It requires them to imagine that "whitey" marginalizes, diminishes and therefore harms white people.
And if they're really that dumb, then I guess they deserve to be insulted." Dumb? No, Mr. Anonymous. It's called not being a masochist. It's called having some damn pride. It's having some semblance of understanding as to what exactly the term equality means, and how to set forth a movement toward fair and just racial integration.
You sir, don't get it.
It isn't about the obvious fact that 'whitey' connotates no distant racial upheaval or oppression - or even about the fact that the 'n' word, the 'c' word, the 'j' word, or any other racial slur carries an anvil of blasphemous history. Hey, I am the biggest advocate of free speech going, and even I don't use those words.
It's not that Caucasians shouldn't feel insulted because they harbor no real lineage of slavery and oppression - its all about the fact that they CAN and SHOULD feel insulted - for the plain and simple reason - THAT SOMEONE IS TRYING TO INSULT THEM!!
How blind, ignorant, and subservient do you have to be, to NOT see the correlation between intended crass language and reactionary upset? Doesn't every action birth reaction? Are whites, who may or may not have had involvement in the slave trade many many years before their time supposed to be reprimanded for an unthinkable crime they did not commit? Are they not allowed to also feel shame for their forefathers? Are we to sit and take the abuse because that is what leads half witted folk like Mr. Anonymous of the Chicago Tribune to think verbally abusing Caucasians is the answer to forgiving the ills of our past ancestors?
What about that good old saying that "two wrongs don't make a right?" I think that sentiment is pretty fitting here.
While I would agree that in modern society, most have completely bastardized the term 'racism' coining it for prejudice and stereotype daily, I do NOT, in any way, shape, or form, support treating any race with more or less respect due to the color or lack thereof of ones skin, or ones history..
that is the antithesis of EQUALITY, Mr. Anonymous!
I wonder, just what it is exactly, that this 'reporter' is seeking. Is it integration? Surely, he must see on some level, that he isn't exactly treating all races fairly.
Is it a game of verbal s&m, a modern day sentencing for certain racial groups for something they know nothing about? What about Caucasians in mixed marriages? What about mixed children? What about mixed relationships? Are they to love and honor one of thier races and be ashamed of the other? Are they to say, respect one side of me, but say what ill you will about the other half? Yet demand r-e-s-p-e-c-t and equal treatment, equal opportunity?
How in the world can you accomplish unified love and respect when you hold out your hand for a lashing?
Mr. Anonymous, you ought to be downright ashamed. ______________________________________________________
A HILARIOUS QUOTE BY PENN JILLETTE of Penn & Teller's "Bullshit!" airing on Showtime.
If you haven't seen this show before, you really should check it out. Sure, most of what they talk about is common sense (well, at least to me it is), but the pranks, hilarity, and unabashed dialogue makes this series a favorite of mine. Here is a quote from one of the early seasons:
"You'll notice more obscenities than we usually use - that's not just because we're on Showtime and we want to get some attention - it's also a legal matter!
If one calls people liars and quacks, one can be sued, and lose a lot of one's money.
But motherfuckers and assholes - it's pretty safe!
If we said it was all scams, we could also be in trouble.
But, "BULLSHIT", oddly, is safe.
So forgive all the bullshit language.
We're trying to talk about the truth without spending the rest of our lives in court because of litigious motherfuckers."
I had to blog about this because becoming an activist will mark a pinnacle moment in my life. Not since I first sponsored Nyasha through World Vision have I felt my soul rejoice the way it does now.
I have decided that the cause in which I will immerse myself in is of too much importance to me, that it deserves immunity from my blog. Sometimes, there are things we do to feed the souls of others, and of the self, that needn't be broadcast or shown on display. This cause is one of those very deeds.
What I can say is that I will be sitting on a committee, and interacting with politicians and youth, and organizing and creating media campaigns. I have decided against protesting, and against any kind of overt recruiting, because I don't believe in shoving my opinions down the throats of others. But I will be fighting for the cause I believe in through various methods, and hopefully, I can contribute to a positive change. ______________________________________________________
COLD SHOULDER - By Adele
"You say it's all in my head And the things I think just don't make sense So where you been then? Don't go all coy Don't turn it round on me like it's my fault See I can see that look in your eyes The one that shoots me each and every time
You grace me with your cold shoulder Whenever you look at me I wish I was her You shower me with words made of knives Whenever you look at me I wish I was her
These days when I see you You make it look like I'm see-through Do tell me why you waste our time When your heart ain't in it, and you're not satisfied You know I know just how you feel I'm starting to find myself feeling that way too
When you grace me with your cold shoulder Whenever you look at me I wish I was her You shower me with words made of knives Whenever you look at me I wish I was her
Time and time again, I play the role of fool (Just for you) Even in the daylight when you think that (I don't see you) Try to look for things I hear but our eyes never find 'Though I do know how you play
You grace me with your cold shoulder Whenever you look at me I wish I was her You shower me with words made of knives Whenever you look at me I wish I was her
You grace me with your cold shoulder Whenever you look at me I wish I was her You shower me with words made of knives Whenever you look at me I wish I was her."
As if paying for headsets and sub-par food on airlines isn't bad enough, behold the creation of the checked luggage fee!
3 of the leading American carriers are now charging rates for checked luggage. No, I dont mean that pesky 100 dollar minimum fee for oversized luggage - which, by the way, is now $125 minimum - no sir, I am talking about your very first checked bag - which will now carry a price tag of $15; Your second bag? $25, and so on.
In addition, the more popular airlines are considering implementing fees ranging from 5 to 15 dollars in coach for the possible thrombosis-inducing luxury of reserving a middle, window, or exit row seat.
These somewhat marginal fares may not sound like a big deal to some, but you better believe with skyrocketing fuel costs on the rise, to see in increase in those fees in years to come.
I remember when flying used to be a relaxing experience.
More info: Time Magazine Article ______________________________________________________
THE PERVERSION OF AMERICAN LIBERTIES
..is astonishing.
The image above (of celebrity chef Rachel Ray) recently caused a brief brouhaha with an American Fox News commentator.
What was geared toward attracting the general public to the Dunkin Donuts franchise - a simple, all too common advertisement - was misconstrued by said pundit as a display of an ally of the 'terrorists'?
Why?
Because of her scarf. To quote: "...resembled a kiffiyeh, Middle Eastern garb that is popularized by Yasser Arafat and a regular adornment of Muslim terrorists appearing in beheading and hostage-taking videos."
Yes, you read that right. The ad got pulled from the airwaves, because Ms. Rays' scarf looked like (i.e. 'resembled') a piece of clothing worn by the opposition in the American war.
You just cant make stuff like this up. Here is the article, where you can read the insanity for yourself.
Let's just recap the past few years:
most recently, the U.S. Court of Appeals deemed it completely legal to seize and/or search, without a warrant - a laptop, a cell phone, or any other electronic device of any flight bound American and any person of any nationality who steps into, or has a hub on American grounds.
Then you have shock jocks getting fined and kicked off the airwaves for being shocking on what is called shock jock radio.
The phone taps, the email searches - what in the world is going on in the western hemisphere? Where are we?
At the inception of the war, the world was lead to believe that, in part, what the U.S. Soldiers were fighting for was American rights, and liberties..yet, a three panel judge managed to bastardize the Constitution in one shot? What about the right to privacy?
And now, it is not the elitists over at the F.C.C. who are laying the smackdown on the Freedom of Speech, but a freaking Fox News Anchor? But wait, this isn't even about a shit, a fuck, a turd, or a ho, no..this has nothing to do with words..but something as mundane as clothes.
Clothes that are not infact religious attire, but clothes that somehow remind one or two people of what they deem 'terrorist garb'.
How does one commentator with an opinion hold enough clout and 'power' to mandate what articles of clothes an American woman can wear, and what the American public can view?
Unreal..especially coming from Fox News.
At the end of the day, Dunkin' Donuts, fearing a backlash in sales due to one anchors' unwarranted propoganda, pulled the plug on the ad.
What's ironic about their decision, is that they have, in fact, lost a customer - in me.
But not over a scarf,
and, not even over some absurd assumption that Rachel Ray is part of some unfathomable plot against America;
but rather,
because of Dunkin Donuts themselves.
..for forfeiting a large slice of Western freedom,
Any Vietnamese folk out there who can translate the lyrics into English? This has always been my favorite song on any Buddha Bar compilation. Absolutely GORGEOUS..
So I have toyed with the thought of creating a blog for some time now. I even created one, and left it blank.
I have been waiting for nearly an entire decade for the ever illustrious contralto extraordinaire Sade to drop another album.
december 19, 2008
SICK KIDS HOSPITAL Toronto location. A gift this season or any time of the year to help brighten the day of a child in need. Monetary and/or toys.
USA Chapter - Child Sponsorship and/or One Time Only Gift Option
CANADIAN Chapter, World Vision - One Time Gift Only
Toronto Right To Life.
BLOOD DONATION - Canada
If you haven't already seen this film and are wondering what is worth watching at the movies, The Boy In The striped Pajamas is IT.
"You pro choice people..you need Roe vs. Wade - you're desperate for it - not because you're sure of your opinion, but because you're not; you..need to cling to that ruling as moral validation for a position you're not entirely comfortable with....deep down." 
Many of you know that I am half Chinese, and at the very heart of my heritage lies the practice of meditation and the art of zen and tranquility. The following zen proses are among my very favorite, and their deep and intricate meanings transcend all walks of life, all faiths, and in void of all faiths.
I cant say I agree with the politics of the left, and I can't say I would ever vote left..but I absolutely can and do appreciate what a beautiful moment today marked in not only American history, but for western culture as a whole, by electing the first Black President. To see how far we as a western civilization have come, and to, perhaps prove a greater acceptance and insight regarding white-black relations by having Obama selected by people of all shades and creeds..is extremely moving, and is something to be commended, no matter what side of the political spectrum one may fall on. Seeing the Obama family on stage, was not only historic, but absolutely beautiful..and, although I fundamentally view the world from a different perspective, I am proud and glad to be alive to witness such growth.
I just got my ear irrigated, and I am going back to get my other one irrigated as well, and I am excited!
There are moments in my life, where, despite the mail from fans, the catcalls in the street, the amazing work offers with amazing people..even I, can feel alone.
But every now and then, people positively surprise me. With these people, love knows no bounds, asks no questions, and seeks nothing in return.
No words. Which I suppose, is in itself, a Freudian slip of sorts - or - an intended pun....
Be it a guy or girl trying to ride coattails,
The Chicago Tribune recently ran a fairy tale regarding an unconfirmed rumor that Senator Obama's oft-foibled counterpart Michelle was once again, caught making some inappropriate remark about racial matters.
If you haven't seen this show before, you really should check it out. Sure, most of what they talk about is common sense (well, at least to me it is), but the pranks, hilarity, and unabashed dialogue makes this series a favorite of mine.
I'M BECOMING AN ACTIVIST! - and it feels AWESOME
A SOMEWHAT TANGIBLE REASON TO FLY NAKED.
