#OccupyAtlanta: Social Changes

October 15-16, 2011


The second weekend of Occupy Atlanta proved to be a much different experience than when it began. Emotional, personal, and what started as an outcry for Economic justice seemed to have morphed into a protest, a movement against Social Injustices. Such is the atmosphere in the South, how fitting Atlanta has turned inward and demanding more from their own community. 

The introduction of changing the name of the park from Woodruff Park to "Troy Davis Park," has certainly resonated with many of the protesters as racial injustice, despite that many of them do not know just how convoluted the case of Troy Davis really was. While some, justly, protested the Death Penalty, there are still others who are concerned with what they call an unfair and racist trial for man convicted of ultimately, two murders. But neither here nor there, the passion over this man's life and death was evident among everyone who participated. 

On the day Washington D.C. was dedicating the Martin Luther King Jr. statue, The Almighty Movement of God church joined Occupy Atlanta. They set up a tent for church services and ministry. They held a press conference and attracted local news entities in order to show their support for the protesters. They led a March down to the MLK Memorial singing "We Shall Overcome," and preached the victory of the people in the Name of Jesus. During the speeches at the Memorial, one man stood in the middle circle - and what he said, I will not forget, he stated that he realized not everyone, including himself, was a person of faith, but that there was, "something holy about this place, and it makes me nervous." He went on to talk about the failure of leadership in the US - and King's message about the "urgency of now," and rallied the protesters around the desperateness need for change. Another man called out and shouted, "we are the solution," and urged the younger people to change their world. A young 20 year old said he didn't know much but knew that he wanted to make a better future- eliminating the obstacles of not finding a job, being able to live a life of freedom. Still another man, who was very emotional, admitted he was new to the movement but he didn't understand why the community wasn't working to help prostitutes and put an end to street violence. From eliminating racial tensions to increasing community care and participation - the outcries were not really about economics and taxes and corrupt capitalism. It was about the people. When they left the memorial, they continued to sing "We Shall Overcome," and chant. 

Later, when asked by a local media station, if they were now aligning themselves with the Almighty Movement of God Church and becoming a religious movement, their answer was, simply, was that they were a Social movement that was not aligning themselves with anyone, but accepting the help of everyone who offered to step in. 

Occupy Atlanta has made it evident they do not trust police, authority figures of any kind and are weary of even the kindest Officials - who ironically offered a protective police escort to and from the King Memorial Site. In fact, Sunday night, an announcement was read by a member of their Media Committee - stating that a young 19-year-old had been shot in the back by a Marta Police Officer while running away from a crime scene with his hands in the air-- following a football game. In response; the encampment held an immediate vigil, lighting candles and solemnly commemorating the boy's life. It was as if they had become more determined to fight. Still the Atlanta Police have not made a single arrest at the park. Mayor Reed has extended the deadline more than once to allow the protesters to stay at the park as long as they are co-operative with park cleaning and noise levels. With the social turn of debate it seems the Mayor has extended sympathies to the protesters and a certain report has formed between Occupy participants and City Officials.

But there was something, even more, that stuck out at the Occupy camp this weekend - They had wall, a wooden fence - and written on it were stories of Occupiers, citizens who are in protest of the system. And while some of them described losing jobs or not getting loans from the bank, many many more told stories of broken homes, addict parents, loss of security, homelessness, anger because they couldn't get an education, jealousy, and one even read, "So What's The Point Anymore?" My first thought was, this is Wailing of Wall of Occupy, the desperation of my generation and the one following. As I peered through the lens of a camera, eyes stinging in wonder and sadness, all I read were people who were broken. Sometime later, protesters dressed as zombies, fitting for those who feel dead in the world, spilled fake blood on the wall - and while some were quick to defend that it was ruining artwork, other saw it as a testament to what the words on the Wall read. I did. 

Of all the desperation that proved itself evident over the course the weekend, one thing brought a smile - how many of homeless were actually being taken care of, with jobs in the camp, food, responsibilities and given hope that they were worth enough to be trusted enough to accomplish something and contribute to a society, to a community. 

Occupy Atlanta is beginning to show itself less as an Economic protest against the banks and governmental injustice. Rather it is showing the faces of social and personal needs for a freedom many of them don't have. 

Their continued complaints against political systems are only the mask of far greater issue. As the advocates and protesters continue, one thing is for certain, they are persistent in creating a changed community. The only obstacle it seems is they have yet to define what it looks like when "their work is done." The question still poses, what does the current system and government need to do to show the Occupy movement that they've been heard?

Time will tell. 

#OccupyAtlanta: Observation of the Masses

"MIC check!" ("MIC check!") 
 

The crowd responded with some sort of wild enthusiasm, like that of an allegiance to a great leader, for which none seemed to emerge. It was surreal. But that's the price one pays for not having a proper sound system. 

The call and response, they called it the "People's Mic" and they told me was a way of making sure everyone in the group heard the message. Then again, I kept wondering why they just didn't use the bull horn a little more. By the second night, they had progressed and the Assembly Meeting etiquette was in better use. Not everyone has the ability to form short phrases for the rest to follow along. Still the system required -  follow one, follow all. 

The end of my first night with Occupy Atlanta participants was coming to a close. I had spent the afternoon and the better part of the evening wandering the park, looking to shoot photos and more importantly, seeing just how many of them I could get to come on camera and tell me about why they were living out of tents in the middle of the city. 

A warm Saturday afternoon grazed the skin and a slight breeze reminded me it was fall, as such; there were some who told me it was the "American Fall," a response the "Arab Spring." I was aghast at the comparison. The Arab world - Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Syria -- all came together against oppressive regimes, not whimsical financially ignorant governments who ran a campaign on hope or war on terrorism. The people's right to protest has never been questioned, nor anyone shot and killed. Perhaps their rhetoric was only meant to draw attention to the masses. Their inspiration to gather in a square, in the city streets and chant - it was coming from peoples across the globe who were brave enough under governments of totalitarian rule. And if they could do it there, why was this generation -- here-- not going out and practicing their very First Amendment Right? I had hoped it was that and not the former.

The Atlanta protesters, following suit with the rest of the country, fell into a movement that started in New York- on Wall Street no less, and their grievances began with the banks. Of course for some, it was the Federal Reserve, others objected to Capitalism itself. The dissatisfied group even went so far as to protest the Death Penalty and the Founder of Coca Cola in the name of anti-racism. 

Their first night out, Civil Rights Activist and Representative John Lewis attempted to address the crowd, even praise them. But after a matter of debate - in form of the People's Mic, and blocks made against a government official addressing them at all; they turned him down. As it were, there has been more outcry against their decision-- than for it - particularly because he was a Civil Rights hero and is esteemed high in this city. Lewis later said he wasn't offended, but then again, he hasn't responded to any other invitation to return. Ironically, a man who understands protesting better than anyone, was unable to offer any alliance. In recent days, even Andrew Young has come out and stated there needs to be leadership among the protesters and that it's an emotional outcry rather than a movement.


The propaganda being used to help rally protesters seems to have questions of its own. While it may be well intended, it seemed to lack a clear message on how to deal with outsiders or critics or even Police officials. In fact, one of the brochures seemed very distrusting and reiterated lines that read, " Police violence isn't meant to provoke us, it's mean to hurt and scare us, " another line read, " "Police can't be trusted. They may be ordinary workers, but their job is to protect the interests of the ruling class. As long as they remain employed as police, we can't count on them." and even lines that had no follow up explanation or 'how to' read, "the United States was founded on the extermination of indigenous peoples...for counter occupation to be meaningful, ... it should embrace the history of resistance extending from indigenous self defense and slave revolts." 

Ironically, there have been no reports of arrests or even stiff threats by any police officers in the area. In fact, most have been very kind, admittedly by many protesters and have only asked them to care for public property in exchange for making the park a camp ground. Even after police forces showed up and rumors that the Mayor would come down himself this past week, there were no riots and the tensions dissipated. Now, sources say, the Mayor plans to evict the protesters Monday evening - the October 17th. And the group's response? While many are determined to stand their ground and stay, Assembly Meetings have proposed inviting the Mayor to stay a night with them, which he told the AJC he was, "praying about it."

The Occupy protests seem to be stumbling forward and trying to govern by the masses. However, there doesn't seem to be acknowledgement that the masses needs representation. While the group works positively to create committees and sub-groups to deal with various problems and concerns, their organization and system of vote could continue to improve. Even major networks have poked at their mannerisms. Their demands are forming and there are groups that know what they exactly what they want, others may not be so sure. It seems divided between older and younger.

There is much to learn from the 60s movement(s) - from the Women's Rights activists to the Civil Rights activists to the Anti-War Activists. Even the Hippies and their psychedelics and music provided revolutionary ideas, that changed the way society was run. And certainly this group might find inspiration from that very era.

I will say this - I find it profound that there are this many people who coming out of the wood work, young, old and recognizing there are changes that need be made. No matter what side of the political line you're on, and even if you're not on one at all, there is always a need for people to be willing to step outside what they think is safe and comfortable to make change happen. It's been 4 decades since the country has exploded with such fervor. While different political lines want to blame each other and point fingers - the people have decided they're done with it, and whether it's a bunch of Hipsters, Gen X-ers or Tea-Partiers: something is happening and it's finally breaking through the surface.

#OccupyAtlanta - First Pictures - Part 1

 

 

 

These were the pictures taken only a day after the first major city-wide rally took place for Occupy Movement in Atlanta. I spoke to protestors and took there pictures. More to come soon, including video and commentary. Stay tuned...

Taken October 8th, 2011. All Rights Reserved Untamed Focus Media

proper religion - part 1

last week, i sat with my grandfather (pa-pa) as he recounted stories to me about the catholic charismatic renewal in the 1970s. he and my grandmother were at the center of it in lima, ohio and there were plenty of traditionalists that did not approve. but one story struck me more than the others- and that was his account of my other grandfather, bob gallagher (who has been gone for several years). pa-pa told me that while many traditionalists were unhappy at their group's charismatic exploration: mr. gallagher was the only one of them that was not. in fact, his comment was something along the lines of, "they only want to pray, leave them alone."

call me sentimental, but to hear one grandfather praise the other with such honor about a time that seemed to invite tension among church members, meant a great deal. 

it seems to me, over the centuries- that division, in the church, is often caused by self-agenda. every denomination and sect of christiantity (and it happens in most religions)- has it's own interpretation of the the scriptures and practices necessary to lead a holy life. diverging from means ridicule and condemnation. what most forget is that Jesus' invitation was to all and he never made it political. truly religion in the hands of man is corrupt. and i am a firm believer that each generation must decide for itself how to be the hands and feet of Jesus among it's own. that doesn't mean that one way is more perfect than the other, and one won't make mistakes. but i do believe that God wants every to explore him the fullest extent- which also means we must be receptive to where another person is, that we may not be- that is extend a heart of graciousness.

knowing that two groups of people in the same body were at such interrogating odds- is saddening. but it happened. as it did with martin luther and many other radicals over time in church history (against charismatic and evangelical sectors too) that have stood up against tradition. no, this is not to say that tradition is bad, it is not! and it can be comforting, uplifting, sentimental and welcoming.  but that does not mean change cannot happen for those in need of it. and it does not mean that a generation of people cannot explore the essence of their Creator in such a way that will move them, and sweep their peers toward higher and better in a life of Christ. 

i have one grandfather who did just that. and another who patiently stayed with what he knew all his life. and both are (were) men who gave everything they had to One who gave them a name. each came out on top as a  man who impacted his world, and accomplished great things in the earth- on the account of others to the Glory of Above. and to each, i say: thank you...

Perfect Silence

"Prayer is sitting in the silence until it silences us, choosing gratitude until we are grateful, praising God until we ourselves are a constant act of praise"
~Richard Rohr

What silences you this Christmas? What stills your mind? What forces you attention so much so, that you are rendered speechless?

The season is at hand and in the last 24 hours, any sign of restless has ceased to exist. Oh, sure, it's the season to be busy...but what is busy but the insane commercial promotion of a beautiful holiday?

It doesn't need to be filled with gifts, but rather people- those that you love the most and perhaps even those you don't. It doesn't need to be overwhelming, instead, let it be a time to slip away from the daily stresses that grab our attention so much more easily than silence.

Yes, the noise of our work places, our phones, our challenges can seem so loud. But maybe just perhaps....instead, think on things, or go out and do the things that bring joy to life: hug your child, give the poor, smile once more in the day, keep in mind that the beauty of this holiday, is more about how we give ourselves than what we receive from others. The very meaning of this holiday is of course, that we were given- the greatest gift of all from One that loves us most, LIFE.

Let silence be a way of life. End this year, start the next in a life of gratifying rest-- that your life may display all that it was created to be.

Living Beyond Thinking

"We do not think ourselves into a new way of living. We live ourselves into new way of thinking. Without action and lifestyle decisions, without concrete practices, words are dangerous and largely illusory" ~Richard Rohr

We dream of what we will be, we waste away thinking into existence without ever taking one step forward.

It seems to me that so many people believe that life is supposed to fall into their lap, and that includes Christian people. "The Lord's Will" is a common mystical phrase when needing an excuse for their not going after life to the fullest! Others use the idea that God will change their mind when referring to their current miserable job. How unfortunate!

I am firm believer, not only in personal choices and responsibility, but in the very idea that God has planted gifts, talents, abilities and more importantly: goals and dreams in our hearts and minds to seek out, to accomplish!

No, I'm not saying that we shouldn't trust Him in our difficulty or that we won't be led in a direction that challenges us or we that we should throw away our livelihood. BUT, I AM saying that I see no harm, in seeking to be all that we are created to be and to the greatest capacity. And that requires: action.

It goes against Rene Decartes' philosophy "I think therefore I am." We must live out who are because waiting around for a life-changing audible voice isn't going to get us anywhere.

"If you don't have a clear sense of your passion, dream or calling, then try everything. Be daring, try new adventures, broaden your worldview and build relationships" ~Cara Davis (Relevant Magazine)

I recently read an article in the mentioned online magazine about a generation of 20-somethings going after what they believe they are meant to do. While many of the responses to the article were encouraging, there were a couple, however, that just could not see fit to find that pursuing or discovering one's passion as a Godly thing to do. And frankly, I find that odd. There were even a couple of people older than their 20s and thought that it didn't pertain to them because it didn't call on the 30s+ for examples.

Again, I reiterate: having a dream is amazing thing. But we have to be willing to take it one step further and go after it- it may require hard work, sacrifice, but it will be the one thing we love, the one thing that drives us and it will take us far from having an average state of being.

Of course, too, I think it goes beyond the 20-somethings. I think there are 30, 40 & 50-somethings who may find their lives not what they expected to be, and feel they've never gone after the one thing they're passionate about. And they should do it. You never to old and you're never to young start. Stop thinking about it. Go for it.

Change your thinking into living. Get out of that emotional rut by making choices that will take you to the next level of all that you're meant to be and do. Be the greatest creation on Earth. It's worth it.

Black Equals Laugh

We approached the mall, pulling slowly in to the parking lot as we noticed the line of people waiting out in front of the door. It was slightly below 40 degrees and I couldn't help but smirk at the crazy people willing to wait for the mid-night black-Friday opening. We drove all the way around the mall and found one other door with another line and security guards checking their watches. What was more was the juggler on stilts entertaining the crowd. We decided to just sit patiently in the warm truck and figured we'd mozy on in when the line of people had made their way into the mall.

As 12AM hit the clock and the sliding doors open, people RAN into the mall as if door buster deals were gone yesterday! We laughed, walked up and made a beeline for the restrooms. Not a single department store was open, but almost all of the mall-shops were. Starbucks sat at the center ready to take on the nut-jobs who needed their coffee. And the stilts guy was joined by two buddies for more amateur juggling.

Ironically, as suspected, none of the stores had limited supply of their big-black-Friday sales. From 12AM to 10AM would be buy one, get one frees, 50% to 70% off and perky high school- college kids ready to take on the next 12 hours.

We took our time, went to all the stores without any dramatic gift in mind. We picked out Wall-E figurines, a few stocking stuffers and even a couple t-shirts for ourselves, drank a cup of coffee, cheered for the stilts guy and left a couple hours later when frankly, we were over it.

On our way home, we drove by Best Buy and I got a good laugh. Why? Oh, you can imagine: tents, lawn chairs, blankets, and insane people waiting for the big opening of Black Friday in all it's glory. What was the item this year? HA. Cyber Monday came soon enough for me.

It's Christmas Time!

~MotoBlur Picture~

A Few Things

Over the past month, the focus of my blogs has been that of the beauty in suffering. Ironically browsing the web has brought me to a few items, worth noting, in tune. Take a look.

--James Nachtwey is a name I have only learned recently. He has been a photojournalist known for his graphic images of war torn and devestating places. His pictures tell and heart-wrenching story, on that I hope will inspire your prayers and activism.

--Relevant Magazine recently addressed how to get through those times when it seems our faith has faded. Perhaps b/c of our society, our job, our relationships, whatever the case may be, neverthless, the concluson was encouraging.

--A young woman in Cuba is living in hiding as she boldly blogs her thoughts about the governement for which she has grown up under. Her words make a strong impact:

"No one knows better the mechanisms of censorship in Cuba that few writers in the national newspapers. The press here has become a profession that requires measurements lurid adjectives, weigh the issues and often hide personal opinion in order to keep a job. It's a life decision to be a journalist from the official media, I know, but I also know some who have been caught in the intricacies of complicity, waiting for that day when they can write what they think."

--And finally friends, i leave you hope in the world...

carving soap (~part 2)

"suffering often indicates that god is setting us free from something" (jacobson/coleman)

"how many of the most significant moments in your life came not because it all went right, but because it all fell apart?...It's strange how there can be art in the agony." (bell)

has that which you've suffered forced your honesty? perhaps you have finally had to take a look at your life and say: the plan did not work, the future must look ever so differently. and could it be that, simultaneously, you have no idea what exactly how it will turn out from here. my friends, you're not alone and it is not for nothing. not this time. not any time.

some weeks ago, i mentioned that i'd heard rob bell speak on this very topic of suffering. he noted that,

"suffering...compels us to eliminate the unnecessary, the trivial, the superficial." (bell)

the sculpture, he said, knows what to take away when creating a masterful art.

so i ask, in all your agony, what must you eliminate, so that the beauty of all that's in you will shine through? perhaps, your most glamorous moment is in the midst of your deepest struggle. and perhaps when you emerge, you will have shed your skin of a dissatisfied life.

failure provides us with an opportunity: to learn, to evolve into who we are meant to be...to grow. may i suggest, ever so boldly, that

"the failed pieces are essential." (bell)

and in the mean-time, know that you, that we are not alone: and isn't that what we desire, to know, to feel that we are not alone in our mess and that it may become something more than for nothing? a community built around suffering ironically, brings greater love and peace among enemies than any other possible commonality.

what's more, friends, is this: the Divine, in all His glory, experienced blood, pain, and agony as if to tell each human being, "i know how you feel."

trust, that, above all.

"Death by Wallpaper & Flooring"

Leaping to the stage in a retro button-down black shirt and his signature specs; Rob Bell already had the crowd's attention. We had all come to find out just what "Drops Like Stars" really meant.

After cordial hellos, witty jokes about making lunches for his children and what it was like traveling to Iowa and Georgia; Bell finally opened up his talk with a contrast of suffering and joy. His opening story was of a man with two sons whose families each were pregnant in the same year, while one experienced miscarriage, and the other a beautiful birth. He noted that, like this family in the maternity ward, we all "live in the hallways," experiencing a life back and forth of both pain and profound celebration.

But instead of furthering the discussion as to why we suffer~ he continued with the idea that often, incredible creativity and beauty can be birthed in excruciating pain. He observed that the most inventive minds are often out of place in the most serious, monotone, or digressing circumstances.

Since hearing, there have been many ideas and points that stuck out to me. My mind stews over each of them carefully. And for now, I will touch on just one. After acknowledging an ironic scene in Old School, he said:

"He has the life that is often portrayed as the ideal, a wife, a house, a job, security, comfort, privilege, freedom- and yet it's left him bored, numb and in a low grade state of despair. His success has actually served to distract him from how deeply unsatisfied he is with his life. I assume none of us want to starve, or be shot at or lose someone we love, but it's possible to die a sort of death at the other end of the spectrum as well, isn't it?"

Bell touched on the fact that there is often part of us that craves a sense of controversy in our lives, a sense of need to adventure and to overcome, b/c as it happens, we too find that extraordinary things can come from difficulty. It's as if when the "art of disruption" occurs, we are building the pieces back in new ways, and having to look the future with new meaning and possibility~ because the "plan" did not turn out nor was it truly satisfying. Boredom is a frustration that leads to a longing for meaning and depth that often only suffering can bring.

There is a subconscious need to come alive in something, for something because we have found ourselves in a despairing rut of "death by wallpaper."

Bell noted a Japanese writer who said: "it's precisely because of the pain, precisely because we want to overcome that pain, that we can get a feeling, through this process, of really being alive."

So what is it, exactly, that our world has us trapped in, and how or where do we get detached from it?

Dirty Kitchen

Over the past several months; I have been watching & catching up on seasons of Kitchen Nightmares on Hulu.com. World renown Chef and restaurant owner, Gordon Ramsey, hosts the show. Some of you may know him from Hell's Kitchen and his tyrannizing calls for competing chefs to "step it up." He may come across as overbearing or too crass for the liking, but at the heart of Kitchen Nightmares; Ramsey encourages people to live up to their potential and get back the passion they started with when they first dove into owning "that" restaurant.

The premise of the show begins, always, with a restaurant that is failing. Owners usually know at the very least, they are not raking in enough cash to survive & their invitation to Ramsey is a hope to get through the crisis. Ramsey walks through the door, opens with eating from the menu, analyzing both the food and the situation, and even goes on a cleaning inspection. Most restaurants fail that latter.

But through the tough love rants and corrections that Ramsey makes, he always finds a way to connect w/ the human soft spot that is bring the owners and the workers of the restaurant down. He invests in them, helps them come up with a signature menu and usually helps remodel old decor.

Why do I mention this show? Mostly, because I think Kitchen Nightmares is worth watching if for no other reason than to be inspired to accomplish dreams. But I have to say, I have learned something about cooking, and the restaurant business (especially after spending time working as a waitress). Not only that; but I'm tempted to just start buying everything fresh daily...after seeing what frozen and left over food can really leave behind.

Shoot & Dance

August has proven to be the start of a very busy season. As I have been slightly absent from the blog- here is a quick update:

This past weekend, I spent four days shooting (along w/ a few other photographers) for Incarnation, from Dance 101, a production that included dance, video and an underlining story. The entire event was produced by Charles "Bubba" Carr who serves as the Artistic Director for the studio. The local Atlanta paper, Creative Loafing even mentioned the performances. And I have to say, they were beautiful. The costuming, the music, the choreography, and the video were profoundly intertwined. The dancers themselves, also did very well.

I continue to efforts into a short-film documentary series. The editing for the first webisode is going well, and I look forward to a finished product before the end of the month. Of course, I will finish, only to start another.

While my coming website is severely under construction, it is coming.

For now, dear readers, here are a few more pix from Incarnation:

-ution

what is it?

a shift, 

a violent overtaking

the tearing down of one system

implementing another

how it rallies

people, hearts and minds

from one social system,

school of thought

to another 

by the people,

for the people

in place of another power

this is revolution.

Wake Up to Monday Morning

Perhaps you have a "case of the Mondays"- for the simple fact that this past weekend was fabulous! Either way- here's a few things to get you jump started.

-The Thorn is an incredible passion play that just finished two weeks of performances, with 70 thousand viewers in 3 cities. I took time to visit South Carolina on Thursday night and it was amazing. Some of the pictures from the performances can be seen HERE.

-There are some that think that the raw passion play "misses the point" - an op ed piece for the Slate.com talks about how such staged plays take on the epic movie or add too much flair. I personally disagree- why? I think my generation is looking for something whole heatedly real, I think performances, such as The Thorn offer that- what really happened during Christ's crucifixion is no light matter and really was a dramatic experience for him- people want to know. But hey, it may not be for everyone.

-Have you met Susan Boyle yet? She looks like an unlikely star. But once again, on Britain's Got Talent, Ms. Boyle has inspired, shocked and touched so many- and it's only her first performance for the show! She's amazing...and terribly cute! I LOVE this! I hope she wins the whole thing!

-Finally, travels to SCarolina proved to be fruitful. It was a 24 hour trip but it was great to get-a-way and re-organize my thoughts. Here are a couple of shots from the weekend and the beautiful beach:

On our way to The Thorn

Richie After The Thorn (Looks like he's praying- wink)

Our two hours on the beach made my nose a bit red, but it was worth it!

Man's Wreckless Reason...

I have, as of late, been reading The Essay of Man by Alexander Pope. The four-epistle poem is a tale of mankind. It is Pope's observation of the enlightenment period. He lived during a time when the world was emphasizing Reason rather than utilizing the Church's direction. The composition of his work notes that human beings edified themselves like gods. They gave to self love. And certainly while the time period may have come with any number of successful ideas or accomplishments, the approach was very self satisfying, at least in Pope's perspective. The following passages are from his poetic prose-

"This light and darkness in our chaos join'd,
What shall divide?
The God within the mind...."
-- Alexander Pope, Essay of Man, Ep. 2--

"Know then thyself, presume not God to scan,
The proper study of mankind is man.
Plac'd on this isthmus of a middle state,
A being darkly wise, and rudely great:
With too much knowledge for the sceptic side,
With too much weakness for the Stoic's pride,
He hangs between; in doubt to act, or rest;
In doubt to deem himself a God, or beast;
In doubt his mind or body to prefer;
Born but to die, and reas'ning but to err;
Alike in ignorance, his reason such,
Whether he thinks too little or too much:
Chaos of thought and passion, all confus'd;
Still by himself abus'd or disabus'd;
Created half to rise, and half to fall;
Great lord of all things, yet a prey to all.."
--Alexander Pope, Essay of Man, Ep.2--

"Who, foe to nature, hears the gen'ral groan,
Murders their species, and betrays his own.
But just disease to luxury succeeds,
And ev'ry death its own avenger breeds;
The fury-passions from that blood began,
And turn'd on man, a fiercer savage, man."
--Alexander Pope, Essay of Man, Ep.3--

As I read these words I think - this was not a new phenomonon, it isn't now either. There is nothing new about it. BUT it is a series of passages written as a cry for a people to see the consequences of their selfish ways and it was written long after teachers of old did the same. The passages present the the problem and how mankind betrays himself when he sinks to the level that is below even that of creatures he is charge over. The essay is not a claim to return to the Church's demands of that time, rather to lay down the god of reason in their own lives. It's fascinating and thought provoking and beautifully communicated. Pope was not celebrated over this work. In fact he was highly criticized for it...having spoken out again mis-use of developing science, art, and theories of that time.

Ironically the poem, thus far, reminds me of a great lyricist today-

"Adam lives in theory
Trying to turn stone into bread
Masquerading like he got it figured out
Cut off from the sunshine, only smart in his own head
Leaving his descendants to hope and doubt
Left to his devices, those worth the sacrifices
Praying to the alter of himself
Making pilgrimages, thinking he's religious
Like he's got all the light, and no one else

He takes the unsuspected
Cause he knows they're not connected
And he shows them how to be just as he is
Virtually real, and commercially appealed
To the lust of all the people where he lives..."
--Lauryn Hill, Adam Lives in Theory, Unplugged--

Today, I wonder, while we are looking for new ways to move forward and improve the whole world through technology, taking care of "mother nature" or whatever it may be; will we call ourselves gods? Is it really about "improving the world" or improving our status? And what good will we do if these things become so much our obsession that we forget who we are, or our Creator or the purpose for which we were created? Perhaps this is a more accusatory or negative point of view, and later, I will discuss the other side of these issues...

But for now, what do you think when you read these passages?

Love on the Brain, Part II

Just short of a month ago, I wrote a blog discussing love and brain chemistry. This week, in lieu of Valentine's day, I am continuing my thoughts.

I recently read an article in Psychology Today discussing the importance of touch in a relationship. The article discussed that touch, particularly during a tense moment, can alleviate harsh feelings toward your significant other. The author, Sue Johnson, even noted that, "Once we do feel safely linked with our partner, we can tolerate the hurts they will- inevitably- inflict upon us..."

While the article, Hold Me Tight, works through a number of mishandled conflicts of couples, it ultimately establishes that physical connection will essentially bring deep emotional connection. She rejects the idea that during conflict leaving the other person alone does any real good for the relationship. At one point, Johnson explains an example of a man, who is frustrated that making tea for the woman he loves, when she is afraid or timid, isn't enough, and rather, he ought to put his hand on her shoulder and draw her in- this will calm her that much more. She discusses the idea that couples who are in love are always touching. Johnson says that observing a couple reaching for one another is a tangible sign of their desire to love each other and connect in a way, that just maybe, they did not before.

Ironically, Dr. Gary Chapman, author of the Five Love Languages, lists Physical Touch as one of the five. The others include: Quality Time, Acts of Service, Gifts, and Words of Affirmation. He emphasizes that if we begin to love our significant other in their love language rather than our own, our chances of success change drastically.

Certainly all acts of love are important into establishing healthy relationships and maintaining them. It's important to learn about the psychological, emotional and even biological aspects of how we are treating the persons we love the most in our lives.

Your thoughts?

And from me to you- Happy Love Day!

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!

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!

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:

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.