Documenting the World, Wk 6, Together

This is a picture close to my heart. I look at it and I reflect this past year, all the love that was shared between these two people. I see their similarities and I see their differences. I love how this photo turned out. I love the colors and just the togetherness they show. I was inspired by several and convinced by one to try this shot out and I'm thrilled that I did. It's my favorite. It leaves out their faces and shows their action. It has a taste of rugged grace and I cannot help but want to play, be around this loving couple. Yes, it's true, I'm the one with holes in my jeans, and Richie, the boy next to me. This is us, taking a time out from our busy schedules just to be and enjoy each other's company.

I hope that you, too are able to spend the holidays with the ones you love the most!
Merry Christmas To All, and To All a Good Night!

Project Homeless: Gloria Says...

I have seen Gloria a few times, but on that particular day, she was atimate about getting my attention.

As I was passed by on the street, she waved me down and asked me to take her picture. I stopped and snapped a couple of shots while she gave me an exuberant smile, proud that someone would want to photograph her. When I finished she took my hand and asked my name. I noticed immediately that her eyes were heavily dialated and I had suspected for sometime that she might be mentally handicapped, but course who can be sure?

She held onto my hand tight and told me I was just like her neice, with the same name as daughter of her sister, she said. Gloria soon went off track and kept talking about a number of other people she knew, I couldn't always make it out, as she would trail off and mumble. But if I tried to say good-bye or walk away, she became very frustrated and spoke louder. It wasn't until another girl came by that we were able to tag team and say good-bye to Gloria. 

Certainly it was a difficult visit. And I would be lying if I told you that there are homeless men and women who weren't socially awkward, don't do drugs, or don't have handicaps. In many cases, that may be the very reason they are homeless. I can imagine that Gloria has had a hard life. I imagine that her memories are jumbled and perhaps her mind doesn't always follow what others are saying. I also imagine that Gloria does what she can to cope with the streets, right or wrong. She collects things and always has them with her, in boxes and ags. Her broom is never far from her reach and I've seen her with and without blankets. 

It's hard to know how to help someone like Gloria, mostly because it is difficult to even communicate effectively with her. For now, I will pray for her. I encourage you to offer your prayers this Christmas season as well as any time and energy you may have to give to the homeless people. 

Eco Friendly, Eco Struggles

The other day, I read an article in National Geographic's Green Guide magazine that suggested ways to conserve on energy, save money and the environment. I am certainly a promoter of creative ways to go green, so I thought I would put my stamp on a few that just might be useful. 

~Update on the World~

The morning paper- the news that we live to love and hate....Green Guide suggested that we should read our morning news online rather than subscribing to the paper. Besides avoiding the paper boy breaking a window and looking like idiots in our underwear during the winter, reading the news online is an economically better suggestion and it's free! This is actually something I already do since I have to be constantly up to date on the latest in the world. It is also something my generation has ushered into the new millinium. We live in a technologically advanced world and newspapers are needing to follow the new age. 

~Coffee...Talk~

We all enjoy our morning and evening and...well anytime of day cups of coffee from Starbucks. Or perhaps, that fabulous hole in the wall coffee shop that makes french press; it's just delicious. But according to National Geographic; Americans throw away 16 billion paper cups per year!! It also stated that paper can be a terrible waste because of its decomposition. So why not invest in a steel thermos or other tricked out style and have Starbucks fill it up? Not only will it save a dollar or two on your daily fix (which, by the ways adds up tremendously), but it also will save the paper and keep your coffee warmer a bit longer. That's a great additive for me since work gets busy and I have to set my coffee down, by the time I get to it, it's gone cold. 

~Lunch Break~

Despite our growing busy schedules we still have to eat. One of the method's Green Guide offered was to use reusable containers and tin foil rather than paper bags. It also suggested taking your own silver ware rather than using plastic ware. This saves yet another tree and if you're not buying your lunch on a regular basis, a cheaper, healthier lifestyle.  I admit that I'm not always good about this. Frequently, I  just buy lunch as I don't want to take the time. But the magazine's suggestion is a fine one and certainly we can all benefit.

~Lights...Action!~

Turning out the lights when you leave the room can be easy to forget esp. when you're in and out all day long, but when if you're leaving the house or won't be revisiting the room, it's best to conserve the electrical energy. Green Guide emphasized this method and I agree that it's probably useful. 

Other Creative Alternatives~

1. Bamboo flooring instead of Maple or Oak (this is more of an investment into your home, not the simple easy way, but because I came across it, I am mentioning. I may discuss it more in another entry)

2. Newspaper as a retro alternative to wrapping paper (this is great esp. if you're just switching to online news, re-use that paper you'll probably end up throwing away).

3. Reusable coffee filter rather than paper filters. 

4. Power down your computers or put them to sleep when you're finished with them. 

The suggestions I've made are typically simple and can apply to your everyday. Can you think of any??

Documenting the World, Week 5

It's true, I've been a little lax on the blog front this month. But with this week's Documenting the World, I will start to give you a taste of a coming project, called "Long Road." The city can appear a lonely place during the winter months. Here is a small taste of the pictures I have been taking. More to come, my friends.

Documenting the World, Week 4

Winter-

Cold, but comforting

Change of season

Change of will.

Dry and-

harsh but beautiful

All looks barren

but all 

is not lost. 

Dreams come true

and worries decease.

but in between are lovers

snuggled-

in the sheets.

Documenting the World, Week 3

This is probably one of my favorite pictures from Thanksgiving weekend. The little man is getting bigger every time I see him. He's articulate, for as much as he can be at 2, and he's fun to watch. After this picture was taken he wanted to go behind the little field behind the cabin and just run...and he couldn't do it unless someone went with him. So I joined him and we ran all the way across the fence and back. It was really cute! With intelligent and colorful parents; he will definitely grow up to be one smart kid and certainly very active.

Documenting the World, Week 2

Questions

What rides the wave of my past?

Who knows

From where it comes 

or how it goes?

When it changes

And why it begins

What it will say 

Who it will ask to listen

Is a mystery displaced~ where

I cannot know how to understand

When-ever do I ask

"why ever was this the plan?"

Lost in what I do

Who knew

this is where I'd be

how time just flew

When did it begin

Or why did end?

My past and present is what I know

Who will chage it but me?

Where-as now my future

How I hold to be

Why I stand for it all

Only me

Secrets and Confessions Part 2

When I need a little mind numbing television, VH1's reality shows usually do the trick. From Rock of Love 1 & 2 to Charm School with Sharon Osborne; I can laugh and not think about the siliness of the reality show. I can smirk in amazement at the contestants and how they've all  become regular "reality tv stars."  And of all the sheer insanity that I see - one show rises above the rest- Dr. Drew's Celebrity Rehab. 

I actually like the show. I'm not religious about it or anything, but if I catch it, it is pretty interesting. Dr. Drew Pinsky, known for his radio program called Love Lines, hosts a show that assists celebrities with their drug and mental difficulties. Last week I watched an episode where the people getting treatment were participating in group therapy. It was quite amazing to see these men and woman, so low, yet able to find encouragement for each other. Certainly Dr. Drew offered his advice and guidance, but each person had something to contribute the woman who's mother was a drug addict and influenced her, or another woman who was raped and felt she deserved it, or the man in a wheel chair, suffering extreme pain and emotional problems after his surgeries. There is something about a group of people confessing to one another, laying their burdens down, feeling like they can make it b/c they are not alone. 

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote to you about how the online community is supporting people's dark Secrets and Confessions.  People need community. They need to be lifted up.  They need forgiveness. They need human contact, love, and acceptance. Their admittance is often their ticket to freedom. 

But someone brought something to my attention, after my last post. There are things that people will still take to their grave. What I want to know is, why? 

If confession is so "liberating," then why must their be shame? If we want to find out that we're not alone, then why hide? The truth is- there is no need for either of these things. There is Forgiveness, there is True Love and there is Acceptance. But it takes a kind of faith to believe that. It takes the acknowledgement that doing it "alone" is getting us no-where. It is the belief that "there's no such thing as a secret." Someone already knows, someone already shares your experience and it's ok. 

When we, as human beings, realize this- then we are one step away from breaking out of our box. We are one step away from living a life of freedom and grace.  We can love ourselves, we can love other people. Everyone has a past, everyone has a story, and there must be away to release it. There must be others to recieve it and accept it. It is possible to fight against the thing that tears each person down from who they are and are meant to be. Sometimes in our weakest moment, we can be used for the greatest good...for someone else's good. 

Whether it's anonymous admission, or perhaps sitting amongst a group of fellow addicts- "Living," really really LIVING is possible. 

This video is by Alter Bridge. It is called Watch Over You and was dedicated to Celebrity Rehab.

Documenting the World, Week 1

I love the colors of the fall. I actually began to believe that I would not see them this year as it took so long for the leaves to change and fall to the ground. But here we are, in the middle of November and it's beautiful outside. The air is crisp and moist but not frigid. Cool enough for my sweatshirt, but warm enough to stand outside and take in the misty air. It's been a few days since the sun has shone, but the fog outside still, somehow, gives nature it's glow. 

It's so quiet. I am amazed and how wonderful the silence around me actually sounds. It is as if everything is a peace. The air is calm and I can breathe in the world around me without any sense of rush and desperate necessity. It's fascinating. I anticipate the winter will not be treacherous...simply b/c of how the trees around me look today. The leaves appear chaotic, but they are beautiful and assuring. The array of colors is almost...comforting.

Plugging In

I hope all of you enjoyed the short story in October. I'm sure you're as glad as I am that the election is over and we can finally find new things to talk about! So to start us out, I have some great plugs for you this month. Ready?

**Sites for Sore Eyes-

Daniel Edlen is a distinguished vinyl artist. He is a record collector and he combines his love for music and art to create portrait masterpieces. He features his own blog, which tells the stories of his artwork and what has inspired him to do various pieces over time. The vinyl records are often worn to the point of being destroyed. The acryllic style painting does not come off and he sells them directly on his website. From Jimi Hendrix to Bono to the Beatles, Elden hopes that his paintings will inspire others as well. You can check out his Gallery, here. And to see more about how he works, check out Current TV's piece on Edlen.

Current TV has recently posted a 25 minute interview with Al Gore. Gore is the Chairman of Current TV and also on the board for Apple. He has some very interesting comments, ranging from politics to the interenet to the environment. All the questions were submitted by viewers and users of the Current.com and Digg. Whether or not you agree w/ Gore's ideals or policies, his savvy for the business industry is attention-grabbing . It's worth checking out if you have the time.

**Recommended Read-
Currently I am working through another book by Terry Pratchett, entitled, Reaper Man. Pratchett is a fantasy fiction writer and his works are brilliant. I will have a review when I finish the work but I would, thus far, highly recommend it. In the story, Death is told that he must retire and goes off to be a farmer. But with no one collecting souls, the world is confused about where to go when they die and they remain...well, rather zombie-like. Despite the fact that I am not accustomed to the genre of sci-fi or fantasy, I thoroughly enjoy Pratchett's satirical references and writing. You can take a look at my previous review on Pratchett, here.

Words Without Borders is supporting a theme of Immigration this month. One of the essays included is from Alexei Bayer from Russia. Bayer discusses the nature of translating from one language when reading or writing or viewing a play. Her perspective is fascinating and worth reading.

**Photography-
This week has started off great for Leah and Brandon who have designed a collaborative effort across the continents to post photographs from their daily lives. Lately, LeahMeetsBrandon has displayed an array of faces and colorful photos that capture something a drawing feeling. Leah lives in Canada while Brandon in Africa. They post new pictures every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Finally, stemming from the inspiration of friends, I am going to post a photograph once a week. I will call it~ "Documenting the World"~ and will offer some sort of explanation behind the piece. So- be looking for that very soon!

Happy Monday Everyone!

"Quotatious" Thinking...

Secrets and Confessions

Lately, I have been thinking: humans need confession.

They need to be able to admit how they feel and why- whether it be a dark secret or a beautiful revelation- they need to say it, write it, put it out there. And confession is so much more about connection than relief. Catholics go to priest and their secrets, their sins, their struggles, their joys are kept- no one else has to know. I think that it is a fine practice. But that can't be the only way to confess. Now, there is something else rocking the world- online- a realm that opens up a connection between people all over the globe.

First there is Post Secret. I heard about this some time ago and thought it was a brilliant idea. Frank Warren began by passing out post cards with a mailing address and even encouraged people to design their own post cards and send it in with their secrets. There were no restrictions and no preferences for the project, just people's secret confessions. In 2005, Warren created the Post Secret blog-site and the world saw pictures, artwork, secrets that they could identify with. It was and is incredible. There have since been books, videos and other media that display the secrets that people send to Warren, people who are trying to connect.

Recently, Amos posted a blog linking to a website called 300 Letters. The girl, Asia Wong, who started this project decided that she wanted to write 300 letters and send them to complete strangers. For her is was a way to "train" her "heart to feel" much like and artist my "train their eye to see." While the letters themselves were addressed to people she knew, the letters would be sent to anyone and everyone who might come across them- the mail man, a woman on the street, a family from another town. She says the project is about relationships and love. She says that she wants to be able to write to anyone, to connect with anyone. The website is colored squares and each color represents and different kind letter and when you click on the square it takes you to a scanned version of that letter she wrote. I think it is a work of art and truly beautiful.

Finally- I learned about a website called, "We Feel Fine." It was started by a man named Jonathan Harris. The website digitally searches for blogs, comments, etc that use the word "feel." It copies the entire phrase or sentence and pulls together data about where in the world that person is posting that "feeling" and puts together statistics of various emotions that people are experiencing. It scans every so often and updates- and certainly restricted to folks around the world who claim what they are feeling. If the phrase is accompanied by a picture, "We Feel Fine" copies it and aligns it with the feeling. It's an amazing thing- it's like confession in reverse and it's interesting to see what people are feeling.

I know that I have gone through these sites and seen things here or there that I think I can identify with. People need an out. Confession can be just that. People need to know that they are not alone. Admitting secrets can be just that. People are creative. People want to be heard. Beautiful or ugly, their words make a difference to them.

I found this "phenomenon" to be incredible and I wanted to share. Maybe you, too, will be moved.

Humanity's Difference

You may or may not have heard of a website called TED, but it is quite useful. I often learn a little bit more about the world around me with short lectures that TED offers- in technical fields as well as the liberal arts. The following I wanted to share with you. Chris Abani grew up in Nigeria. He has something to say about being the compassion of humanity through simple actions, things that can make a difference in the world...Enjoy.

Plugging In

Creativity is an fantastic thing. The dictionary describes it as the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, relationships, or the like, and to create meaningful new ones. It is originality, progressiveness, or imagination. Certainly this weekend, I walked away from my traveling with a little taste for creativity. But now it's time to work. And I want to share with you a bit of the innovation I see around me.

*Recommended Read-
--Dr. Ron Paul, Texas Congressman has written a book called The Revolution. In it he discusses logical solutions to various foreign policy, constitutional and domestic problems that face the United States. I have written two blogs (Worldly Manners I & II) concerning his chapter on foreign policy. I recommend checking the book out in this season of dire politics.

*Blogs-

--Marianne Elliot recently posted a great blog on some great ways to learn a new language in her blog, Zen and the Art of Peacekeeping. And a few days ago; she posted her most recent lessons in how to be a peacemaker in your world. Elliot has been human rights activist and humanitarian aid servant in the Middle East and other parts of the world. Her blog speaks volumes of her compassion.

--Google Blog has an interesting piece and perspective on giving technology and knowledge to the world without. They advocated a Blog Action Day, and their contribution discussed Information Poverty.

--Daily Writing Tips is a daily blog that offers nuggets about how to make your writing effective. Whether you're a blogger, a novel writer or a poet; Daily Writing has something to grasp onto and make you think more creatively about writing. I like this because it reminds me of the little things I often don't think about when I write any sort of exerpt. It is the first of its kind I've seen, even though I 'm sure there are others, this is a just a quick hit everyday to learn a little something about the market and business of writing out there.

*Photography-

--Leah Tan has finally set up a website, The Girl Documentary, to advertise her fantastic photos. She is promoting it as her professional work and wants all of YOU to check it out. The site is beautiful. She features her favorite shots, has a guest book for you to sign and even a bio for you to find out more about her. All of her photos- whether they be weddings, portraits or the like- are available to view. Should you ever need a fabulous photographer in the U.S. or Canada, help her out and give her some biz. 

**Coming Soon!

--In the spirit of October, I will be telling you a ghost tale. Some of you may know that I have spent the summer working hard on a short story, one that is being submitted for publication. But for your viewing pleasure- between now and Halloween- I will be posting a little of the story at a time. It will come in 9 installments with the last one on October 31st. The name of the story is White Shadows. SO- stay tuned in for the complete work!

Worldly Manners --Part 2

In continuing with my discussion on Ron Paul's book, Revolution, I think that it is relevant to point out his short but effective stint on U.S. foreign policy concerning Israel.

While Dr. Paul believes that the U.S. relationship should stay steady, he also believes that the U.S. should not show special favors or aid. He also thinks that the U.S. should discontinue aid to Israeli rivals as well. Now, this is not inferring humanitarian assistance from non-governmental groups, rather a transfer of wealth from the U.S. Federal Government directly.

Paul states, "In the absence of such grants, Israel would at last be under pressure to adopt a freer economy, thereby bring about greater prosperity for her people and making it easier for her to be self-reliant."

In other words- the U.S. is enabling Israel to use its government like a crutch. With access to nuclear power and weaponry; it is unfortunate that Israel would rush to seek the approval for military action at all. Paul continues to discuss the idea that America is doing Israel a "dis-service" by getting in the way of her status as a "sovereign" nation.

He says Israel needs to take control of its own fate and destiny.

Paul's point of view may be radical, but it should be noted. I find it ironic that many Americans, particularly of religious thinking believe that Israel can do no wrong and that the Palestinian community are "the bad guys." The truth is, neither side is flawless. Both have grievances that date back to biblical beginnings. And since Israel today, is often backed by a superpower, their governmental responsibility becomes greater in how they extend borders, create peace or lack thereof, or divide land among the people groups that occupy the area. Either way, hostility grows among Palestinians b/c of American influence in the Israeli state.

As a side note- I wonder what spiritual ramifications are being perpetrated due to the co-dependent relationship Israel has with the United States.

Food for thought.

Worldly Manners --Part I

In light of the election season, I have decided to pick and read Dr. Ron Paul's, Revolution. His theories and ideas have appealed to me, as of late. His book starts out just as interesting.

He begins with Foreign Policy in the United States. While he agrees the 9/11 was a great tragedy, and that the perpetrators need to be hunted and punished; he states that it is important to understand the motivation of the terrorist group.

Paul believes that it goes beyond religious extremism. He states that, more significantly, it has to do the occupation and the attitude of the American foreign affairs. Paul noted that not a single terrorist involved in 2001 came from countries like Iraq or Iran. Rather, some were home to Saudi Arabia and others- where the U.S. Military keeps a close watch with armed soldiers on a daily basis and has done so for decades. The collaboration of the Al Queda group has more to do with personal and political grievances than with Islam, though extremists use it as a substantial backing for their murderous mission.

Paul sites Michael Sheuer, chief of the Counter Terrorist Center for the CIA during the 1990s. Shuer was known to vote Republican but made a very unpopular statement staking that the Middle East frustration on the meddling of the US government. Shuer was also known to believe that sheer hatred and ideological disdain for Western thinking is not enough for a group to join forces and terrorize a nation. Rather, once again, it stems from understandable reactions from people who may have been affected by forced democratic freedom.

Ron Paul criticized both the Clinton administration and the Bush administration for failure to recognize that policing other nations, rather than simply offering humanitarian aid or free trade, only causes strife among foreign relationships- in the Middle East, Africa and others.

Two of the most extremist Islamic governments in the world, he noted, are not responsible for the crisis of terrorism- Sudan and Iran- thus again proving the religious motivation is only secondary to the complaint against American foreign policies.

None of these things are to say that the U.S. is a horrible nation, not at all, BUT the swing in political attitude toward the world has made an enormous difference in our standing in the world.

Along the line of presidents in the 20th Century, it was Democrat associated leaders, such as Woodrow Wilson, FDR, Lyndon B. Johnson, that aimed to stretch the wings of American military and political strength. Oddly the tables have turned.

More to come...

Terrible Solutions

I consider it an outrage that the city of Atlanta (among other cities) think that they can solve panhandling and homeless difficulties by simply putting a meter up for people to donate their "charity change." It's disgraceful. An article by the NPR discusses Atlanta's solution and never once refers to the "panhandlers" as people on the streets or the homeless community.

It is obvious to me that the Mayor of Atlanta, Shirley Franklin, doesn't understand that she's missing the human element of homelessness. Granted there are men and women on the streets who may be con artists or may get in your face. But my experience is that, on average, they just need a friend, a moment of time. They, like any other insecure human being, need to be treated like a person.

The homeless community needs resources to help them take the next step, get a job, contact family and so on. Hoping that they'll just "go away," is not a solution. They will only populate another city and do the same thing. Why? Because it is all they know. They are survivors.

People need hope. Homeless people need to know, more than anyone, that they are not just scenery. They are not trash. They are not bothersome objects that cross the street. And they won't really go away.

As a citizen of the city, as a human being: if you encounter a homeless person on the street- tell them hello, "look them in the eye and be nice." If you don't want to give out cash, offer them a sandwich, a coffee or maybe just your time. Ask if their day is going well or where they are from.

Telling them that they are only worth your "meter change," is sad. You've belittled their existence. The fact is- Atlanta does not want to help solve poverty. They want it to disappear. They think that by ignoring people on the street or threatening to arrest homeless and warning compassionate citizens, the problem will be solved. It will not.

Problems can only be solved using creative thinking. It would be more beneficial for individuals and governments to do research, find out the true needs of the homeless and create initiative programs for assistance.

The poor are despised everyday. The poor need a voice. Are you listening?

Project Homeless: A Job and a Bench

His name was Eric. He moved to Atlanta to take care of his mother years ago. When she passed away he had to sell the house just to make sure all of her medical bills were paid. He now sleeps on a bench outside. But you wouldn't have known that just looking at him.

My boyfriend and I had gone to Little 5 Points for the afternoon. It was such a perfectly beautiful day outside. When we decided to rest, Eric walked up to us and told said he wanted to show us a picture. He must have noticed that I'd had my camera with me b/c he told me it would make a great photograph. He claimed that the picture had been painted by an elementary school kid in 1996 and that it was a picture of a plane between two towers w/ peace signs all over it. He thought it was ironic that the picture was drawn five years prior to 9/11.

While I don't know much about the superstition, it was interesting enough.

We found out that even though Eric had no place to sleep; he was able to lock down odd jobs around the area and that it was important to him to look presentable. Eric told us that he spent his earnings on making sure he ate and looked nice. He just didn't have enough money to afford a motel each night, didn't even know where one might be and certainly didn't have enough to afford an apartment.

Eric told us that homeless people just need to be given a chance. They need opportunity to be trusted, given jobs. When we asked about how hard it is get things like an i.d. card or a permenant address, he told us those were definitely some of the most difficult challanges. It's a catch-22, he state...you need money to make money in order to survive. He hates that the cycle is always continuous.

When we walked away he let us know he appreciated the conversation and our decency. I hope and pray that Eric will be given enough opportunity to afford an apartment one day soon.

From the Perspective of a Bum

Something is seriously wrong when we as a society, as a people have no interest in taking care of our neighbor. There is a balance of personal responsibility that certainly must be acknowledged. However, whether it be a friend, a colleague, or acquaintance in a distressing situation or the homeless guy on the street, where are our manners, where is the golden rule? I see it less in a society where I should see it more.

Mike Yankoski, and his friend Sam, traveled the country for six months on the streets. They had enough of just hearing and believing they should care for the poor, they need to experience it, they needed to practice it.

What they found were people who were hopeless. They also found people who were bitter toward the world and others who were trying to keep their above ground. Some of their fellow homeless friends were drug addicts, perhaps had made bad decisions that led them their state or just some who'd run out of luck. And like any other despised street monger; Mike and Sam slept on cement, panhandled with guitars and ate from the garbage.

They found that people, of all kinds, -even people who claimed to have faith- snubbed them, avoided eye contact and turned them away. Nevertheless they persisted in their journey and more often than not; their positive attitude and trust in God spoke peace and comfort to their friends on the street. They roamed through Denver, D.C., Portland, San Francisco, Phoenix, and San Diego- which of course led them back home.

I was uniquely impressed with their growth as young men and how their perspectives on the world changed when the chose to live with nothing. They were still able to stay honest and true to the core of who they are and yet find out what that poor are really like and become one of them, that they might minister TO them.

Under the Overpass was an amazing story. I recommend it to anyone, particularly if you've ever wondered what the people on the street really see. I hope you will find out more for yourself.

I think the book is a lesson in humanity. It is a lesson in loving our neighbor, doing good to those who hurt us. It shows what a community should look like when they care for one another, esp in the most difficult circumstances. Mike and Sam inspired me. And they confirmed what I believe- that giving to the poor is one of the greatest gifts and certainly one of the most humbling experiences in the world today.

Plugging In

**Blogs--
Matt Barnes lives in the UK. His journey as a homeless man is interesting to read. He calls his blog The Hobo Days and updates it whenever he's able to get internet access. Check it out.

Leah Tan wrote a good note on photography copyright.

**Recommended Read--

Currently I am working my way through a book called Under the Overpass. This true story is about two young men, Mike and Sam, who spend five months on the streets of America...by choice. Their goal was not only learn what it really meant to be poor but also to reach out to the homeless as they went. They find themselves discovering what it really means to have faith in dire circumstances...to go hungry, to see the world through the eyes of someone with little. They slept in the streets, ate garbage and wore clothes that got more and more ragged every day. They often played their guitars to panhandle in the streets, sometimes making enough for a meal and bus ticket and other times not a single dime...it is amazing to see how they put themselves out there to learn and be part of life they often brushed passed themselves, everyday. I highly suggest you pick up a copy!! More of my thoughts on this book coming soon....

**Sites for Sore Eyes--

Words Without Borders is an online magazine that brings together literature from around the world. I have often come across exerpts from books and articles that I would not otherwise know about had WWB not existed. Their website updates once a month promoting various events, holidays and writing from all over the globe. This months theme? Reversals.

**Photography--

This week, fellow photographer, Stacie Ann from Minnesota posted an incredibly amazing picture. Not only is the tattoo on the guy's arm beautifully done, but it's message reaches a modern audience. I recommend you check it out. Well done Stacie!

My friend, Amos, has posted some pretty cool pictures of his weekend w/ friends and fellow artists...AND he has also recently been able to display his work in local coffee shop in Hood River, Oregon.

**Video-
And finally, if you didn't catch Tina Fey's marvelous performance as Sarah Palin- here it is:

Project Homeless- He Gave me a Smile

"Do ya like coffee?" I asked him.

He smiled, "You bet I do!"

I handed him the ten dollar Starbucks card I had in my pocket and told him he could at least get two or so visits out of it. He thanked me and told me he'd put it to use. His tall figure was slumped. He wore a Creative Loafing t-shirt and a pair of sweat pants that were tied together at the bottom. He seemed sad, but his expression showed me that he was really trying to catch the good in each and every day.

Sitting on the ground next to Bones, I asked him how he ended up on the streets. He told me that it came down to keeping his job or his apartment...and in one day; he lost both. That was in 1996.

Bones looked younger than most I had seen. If he'd had a shave and a hair cut...I'd say he was in his early thirties...I couldn't have really known.

Bones admitted that he didn't know what he wanted society to know about him. But he did say that he wished it were easier to get an i.d. card. One of the most difficult parts of this life was not being able to get a job or qualify for government benefits due to the simple fact that he does not have an address. If he had an address and/or an i.d. card, things would be simpler.

I told my new friend that I would tell people that he's "here" and that if they should see him walking by, a friendly hello and a conversation would mean the world. He thought that might just help.

Bones- you're in my thoughts and prayers....

The Republican Jesus

That's what Ben coined himself yesterday afternoon as we laughed over coffee. Hey, call it sac-religious, but the truth is sterotypes exist for a reason. My dear friend, Joseph Thompson, recently observed "that to be Christian is to be Republican… if you’re white" and that "historically, black people have largely voted Democrat."

But why ARE there such gross sterotypes? Since when were we, as Americans, supposed to fall under a defined demographic?

The problem here isn't necessarily religious or non- religious groups. The problem is the fight of a two party system and the groups that have each chosen to side with only ONE of TWO equally problematic parties. From where I sit- demographics matter less than agenda. They are simply used as a mask to parade the party lines.

The coming election will be historic one, certainly, but is it only historic because we have forced the system to choose a female VP and a black presidential nominee? I think we can all agree that the Democratic and Republican parties have chosen their platforms and candidates based on what should look good. Either way, both parties- the politics themselves are simply about money, prestige and power. Will it really do anyone any good to just "vote for the lesser of two evils" when we've seen nothing but disappointment from the running Republican President and a Democratic Congress?

What about the other parties? The Independent party, the Green party, the Libertarian party and let's not forget Ron Paul's "Revolution of the Republic," are all trying to squeeze their voices in. But as far as I can tell, the Independent party hasn't made signifcant dent since 1992. Ralph Nadar is running for the Independent spot this year, but since his run with the Green party, he's not even a different voice. Bob Barr landed the Libertarian spot...but who's gonna know?

Finally Ron Paul has certainly staked a claim in leading the largest sub-culture following this election. And I wonder, how many Americans are really hungry for one but have given up hope? I'm not talking about following Paul, but the idea of REALLY changing the country we live in happens to be smart one.

In the 1960's and 70's- the entire nation challenged the government. Every issue, from Civil Rights to Feminism, to the war in Viet Nam to keeping a president honest; the politics that ran this country were suddenly being address BY the PEOPLE.

If we are to be a country that is "by the people for the people," then why are we allowing only two parties to make a difference? Where are our voices? I don't think that Americans should be afraid of the word "revolt." That doesn't mean to perpetrate treason, but it does mean that we should have the freedom to call out our government when changes need to be made. Have we forgotten Iraq, Afghanistan, Guantanamo, taxes and a dumb downed education system? It seems like Americans have decided to focus on scandals, color and gender, than the real issues that our generation is facing.

It seems like Americans would rather vote on what they feel is the lesser of "two evils," than what they belive is right...and the choices are slim my friends- either we go beyond Dr. King's dream and put an elite black man in office or we put a man- in the White House- who is living on war hero legacy. They're not bad men of course, but they are caught up in their party's agenda...just like the demographic voters.

I encourage all of you this year to go to the polls and vote for what is right...not just "what is best for now." Fight for what is good and beneficial and profitable for future generations. Make head-way into a system that has plateaued rather than charged forward. There's nothing wrong with Revolution...and if enough people demand, the government will have to listen.

My First September Friday...

Ahhh, the weekend!! It was nice to put my feet up...

And spy on my boyfriend...

Sit out under the trees.... Visit the friendly neighbor cat...

Get her to pose for me...(wink)
My boyfriend came out to play...(photo inspired by Alyssa Anders)
And make me the star of the show....

It's All in the Metaphor

How interesting it is when an idea develops and brings people together. My friend, Amos, posted a blog that started with the following quote: "Justice is what Love looks like in public." He asked his readers for their thoughts about such a rhetorical statement. Ironically, the conversation b/t Amos and myself has turned to how to define "rhetoric" and if it should be used...how, when, and why it is often used today.

Then after a lengthy conversation, tonight, at my favorite coffee shop, with people I'd never met- the insight was amazing.

It came down to this: it isn't always WHAT is said, but rather, HOW it is said. You see I believe that rhetorical statements and questions and be used effectively by a person's tone or attitude about the matter.

But let me back up; the definition, understood for "rhetoric" is this: "the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, esp. the use of figures of speech and other compositional techniques."

Of course, looking at dictionary.com, I came across definitions like these: the study of the effective use of language or the ability to use language effectively.

Now granted, rhetoric is often stained b/c politics has coined it to express campaign slogans that often mean very little. Companies use catch phrases in their commercials to sell you a product, which isn't necessarily wrong- as their goal is to keep their product in the memory of the viewer. These may be types of rhetorical thought....

But the dictionary's definition clearly defines the word as a metaphor used to explain something that might not be easily understood by the common receptor. It is a way of expression and often considered a skilled form of expression. Such uses of language can clearly express something TRUE and RIGHT. However, it will only be accepted if the delivery is pure of heart. If the oration or notation is harsh- presumptuous - unjust, hurtful, unkind, demanding...then it was un-necessary.

Rhetoric is not a black and white issue. There is a lot of room for grey, here. The person using the phrases, stories or parables has a responsibility in the delivery. The person recieving has a responsibility to take the words for their worth and decide if the rhetoric is useful for them.

But this is only scratching the surface. It is taking on semantics...and it can be complicated. Nevertheless, such an interesting discussion deserved my acknowledgment in a blog. What do you think?

...And He Sang to Me

"My name is Royal, you know, like a royal pain in the ass!" He winked and lit a cigarette. He was charming and I couldn't help but return his firm hand-shake.

He sang for his supper; so I fished my pockets for coins to toss in the can. I figured him to be in his 40's. He wore a faded t-shirt, his baseball cap backwards, jeans with holes and carried a mustache over his grin. What was not to like? He played the oldies on his guitar and his rough vocals made for great sidewalk entertainment. I asked him to play me another and he whipped out "Brown-Eyed Girl," just for me. In fact; he played "Brown-Eyed Girl" every time I walked by.

He loved playing on the streets. The view of beautiful Colorado Springs had a lot to offer. And a local cigarette shop let him use their window as a backdrop.

It wasn't an easy life, Royal admitted, but he was playing music and that's all that really mattered to him.

He went to the soup kitchen every day for a meal and just barely afforded a room at a small apartment near-by, that is, if he could make $12 a day. On a rare occasion he'd land a gig or two a local bar. It was the life he lived and he was ok with that.

Royal spent his early years in the military and had even spent time in a Community Corrections Facility. His on again, off again girlfriend, Kathleen, was a left-over hippie and played music on the street as well, usually just a few blocks away. They depended on each other and certainly did the best they could to survive.

Most days, his mood was cheery and welcoming. He enjoyed playing for the children that stopped to gawk. But often there was loneliness behind his eyes. It was sense of distance or perhaps misdirection. I asked him about it.

He told me that he had two daughters (ah...children of his own). They were grown, he said, he'd even raised them for several years of their life. They were both involved in music production of some kind. But yet; they never did look kindly on the lifestyle he chose. They rarely paid him mind. And he never saw them. Yet he could not justify leaving what he loved.

To most, Royal was exactly what they saw: a guy down on his luck hoping to get a little sympathy change. To me; he was the epitome of survival. He did what he enjoyed the most and he was willing to work hard for it, even if it meant being satisfied with little. He believed in people, even if they didn't believe in him.

I saw Royal just about every other day for a little over year. We were friends. Sometimes I brought him lunch and more often - we just sat and talked. I was his break either way. I played and sang with him a few times, helped him make a buck or two. I often wish I had pictures of him, but I don't.

I wonder where he is today, if he still plays in front of the cigarette shop or if his music still touches other people. I wonder if his daughters ever came to see him, just like he had hoped. I wonder if he ever made it "big," just like he dreamed.....

Patience is a Virtue

It's been a few days, and I appreciate the patience of all my readers. What have I been thinking about and so consumed with, you ask?

Well...

--I finally watched the Godfather I & II, from start to finish. Unfortunately...the second film includes a LOT of Italian scenes, and no, I did not have the version with subscripts. I know, I get it! What is fortunate is that knowing Spanish, I was able to pick it up in pieces. Nevertheless; I found the ending of the first more profound than the second and the second ending more important than the first.

--You may have noticed that I've often posted stories about homeless people that I've met. I've called it Project Homeless and now I'm exploring ideas for a website and ngo that will not only create awareness, but also create opportunities to reach the poor and assist them in finding resources for help. More to come....

--I'm continuing my study through Hamlet by William Shakespeare. He has met his father's ghost and believed it to be the true soul of his dead father rather than an impostor. What is interesting about this scene is how quickly Hamlet is sucked in by the illusion because of his grief rather than relying on rationale. Of course, had Hamlet not believed in the ghost, we might not have a play. Yet; already stricken with confusion and sadness- his emotion turns to anger and revenge following the conversation. He will not let his friends in on what he hopes to accomplish, only swears them to secrecy for what they do know, and continues to stew over the fact that he must go after his uncle for the death of his father, the late King. It is interesting how the mind quickly turns to an "out" in our most devastating moments, whether it be something/someone else to blame or perhaps a way to conceive the closure we think we so desperately need.

--I have begun to read a new book (recommended by a very stellar blog buddy: Amos)- called Sailing the Wine Dark Sea: Why the Greeks Matter. I will have a full posting on my reading soon.

--And of course, I am consumed in writing projects- whether it be for work, future publishing, blogging or project homeless; the ideas are flowing.

So what are you thinking about? What are you consumed with this week?

Developing Times

There are times when life is chaotic. But sometimes in the midst of it, I find absolution. The last few days, my mind has been clearly consumed with what is next for me and what I need to do to get there. I'm inspired and working up the energy and motivation to fuel it. So here is a snapshot of things lately:

A little of this-

And of course this guy...

Then more of this-

As a result of this-"Desperation 08"

More to come...

Dark and Limitless

"Because he's the hero Gotham deserves, but not the one it needs right now...and so we'll hunt him, because he can take it. Because he's not a hero. He's a silent guardian, a watchful protector...a dark knight." -Lt. Gordon

Just what IS a hero? According to the dictionary, it is a person who is able to perform feats of strength and courage, often for the greater good of the people. But what if being a hero meant not being a hero at all, but something more?

I had never really been a fan of the Batman. That was until I saw Christian Bale's portrayal in "Batman Begins," and of course, "The Dark Knight." I have come to understand the character and how truly complicated Batman really is- he is an outcast, a freak even, ever so much like the villain. You see, Bruce Wayne not only had to learn to face his fear, but he had to become his fear-all this in order to fight for what was right. But he struggled with endurance, he wasn't always popular and he certainly was not a "face" of hope.

Ironically, Bruce tells Alfred the Batman has no limits. But later Batman tells the Joker that he has one rule, a limitation. Mr. Wayne would soon learn that as man, yes, he had limits and questions...and would even want out. Yet when he became what he was truly meant to be-the Batman- rules and limitations were out of the question. And the Joker is right when he said that Batman would have to break his own rule to save the people. Sometimes breaking the rules isn't popular or even easy, but necessary to accomplish great things.

All this makes me think about what it means to live a limitless life.

I believe that each person was created with a purpose. Each person was given talents, gifts, interests, dreams and undeniable personality traits. But what if we were to stop using them? What if, when the task of accomplishing our dreams got harder, we took off our Batman? Bruce Wayne faced that dilemma. He told Rachel Dawes that a day was coming when Batman would no longer be needed, he was worn discouraged. He found excuses for wanting to take off his strength and give in to his limitations.

I heard someone pose this question: "what is your excuse?" Are we really going to give up all that we were meant to be because we can't get out of the box? What is keeping you, us, from breaking out, going beyond what the rules say is possible?

When we become who we were meant to be with One who created us to be that- there is nothing we cannot do. But Heroes are complicated people because in and of ourselves we have limitations; we get wounded, mauled by dogs even, and challenged relentlessly by the villain, the enemy.

So what do we do? Sow up the wounds, realize we cannot always do it on our own (yeah, sometimes we need Alfred, Lucious and Lt. Gordon in our corner), build our weaknesses, sharpen our strengths and believe that we can accomplish good; we can accomplish anything for the better and make a difference in our world.