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...
Coming to the close of the month, I've definitely come across a few things worth checking out:
**Bout the Web: --Levi Jeans has launched a campaign called Go Forth. Ironically, it seems to involve scavenger hunts, artistic muse and the American Identity. I'm still trying to figure it all out, but it's fascinating. THIS video was amazing. It's about 17 minutes long and you might have to be logged into Facebook to see.
--With Cuba's history, Vangaurd journalists from Current TV have gone to see if the new generation has the itch to overthrow the current dictatorship. In preparation for the documentary, one of the journalists shares a few personal thoughts on covering the story.
--Reviews on the MotoBlur Cliq phone are here (Motorola's adaption of the Android Google phone). Interesting enough....to buy or not to buy?
--Apparently U2 will be streaming live on the Web Sunday by way of your YouTube for their L.A. concert. Personally, I'm more anxious for them to realease US tour dates for 2010.
**Blogs: --Does Aid Work? A former humanitarian aid worker and activist looks at the dent no matter how small the efforts can make
--Joseph Thompson recently shared some incredible thoughts on Unconditional Love this past week.
**Recommended Reads: --I just finished Small Gods last week by Terry Pratchett. The Great God Om has been reduced to a small turtle. But he has found One believer who may be his greatest hope to reaching the hearts of all human belief.
--I've also just finished a book called So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore? Yes, seeming a awkward title for a novel, the stories unique explanation of how a Church and how belief in God might look- is fascinating. A Pastor grows weary of the very four-walled-building he helped develop and create when along comes a mysterious older man, named John, who shows him a better way. It's an interesting follow-up to The Shack.
--My thoughts on the two books and how they relate is HERE.
Hey Everyone~ Fall is here, and October starts tomorrow. Time for the leaves to turn colors, pumpkin pie to made, plans for creepy costumes in the works, and who can forget celebrating all the (pink) women and their boobs out there?...yes, October is here. Lovely isn't it? To get you started, here are some bouts around the web. You'll be glad you clicked.
--A study in England & Europe has given a number heroin addicts doses of heroine as a way to ween them off the drug. So far, several patients have rehabilitated. But still couldn't this be seriously dangerous?
**Goings on: --It's Breast Cancer Awareness mo. and Yoplait is asking everyone to save their pink lids! I know I am. Every lid is 10 cents toward the Susan B. Koman foundation. For information on Breast Cancer, click HERE.
--After 40 weeks of Documenting the World Pictures, I am mauling over a number of slots for a Coffee Table book that will include both Photography & Writing. I hope and expect it will come out for Christmas.
hey everyone~ it's been sometime since we explored the net together, but now i have a number of things i recommend you read. why? b/c they offer a different perspective on the world than i could give. so sit back, get ready to click and enjoy.
**blogs --amos lanka recently wrote a "book review" on a book called the history of love. the experpt he chose to focus on was called "the death of isaac babel," and the read was powerful in of itself. it focused on the silence of one man vs. the silence of God.
--harry rud, an aide worker in afghanistan, gave his collective thoughts on the recent and complicated election process there. his observations are intriguing, to say the least.
--rob stennett wants to know what's on your "list of shame?" what movies have you not watched or classic books have you not read that well...you missed? it's amazing that a number of us, among the same generation, responded...that we hadn't seen the goonies
**bout the web --relevant magazine had a fine article on why God allows pain. faith hopeler, the author of the article, ends it w/ a beautiful description at His response when we experience such pain.
--cracked.com recently did a synopsis on what it means to be "indie" in today's generation.
--we've all wondered about the guy who gets to name the hurricanes and tropical storms. wired magazine recently discussed what goes in to naming these powerful & sometimes destructive forces of nature.
**recommended reads --i just finished a book called on photography by susan sontag (1977). sontag was an activist and literary theorist in the 1960s. her thoughts on the philosophy of photography, i can imagine were influenced by her visit some years earlier to hanoi. my reviews on her ideas are HERE and THERE.
I have definitely been active on the web as of late and here are my latest findings. Enjoy.
**Blogs --A friend of mine, Gary McElveen is on his way to Kenya for a missions trip and to provide humanitarian aid (food supplies & some medical care). He will serve as the primary photographer for the team. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers. And they will do their best to keep the blog updated. From what I know, the team is going to an area of Kenya that is hardly visited by foreigners. It is my hope that will make a great difference in the hearts and lives of the people there.
--Harry Rud, blogger & aid worker in Afghanistan had something to say recently regaurding protection for the aid workers around the world. He doesn't want it to become an ideal, like for example, "save the whales."
--Jesse, a voice from Homeless Tales- shares an un-nerving story about his struggle to understand the very meaning of a HOME. Growing up in an abusive environment, - and years later on the streets, he feels he has never had a place to call his own.
**About the Web...& News --This week, I discovered a piece, an exerpt rather, called the God Memorandum by Og Mandino. It's a beautiful encouragement and commencement of biblical profundity. I slipped a wow and passed it on. Apparently a couple of others were in need of it too. It's a read you'll need a little time for, but I highly recommend it.
--Bill Mahr, well known left-leaning comedian...has a message for the President, quit being a "TV Star." Now, normally, I'm not a fan of Mr. Mahr...and that's an understatement, but I have to say, this was brilliant and I appreciate his critique.
--Iran's uproar continues. From YouTube to Twitter to Facebook- the people are fighting for their right be heard by persisting w/ demonstrations against Government corruption. Officials have tried to shut down websites and communications in Iran. But it's not working. Now, we pray for their safety- Mousavi is ready to give his life for the cause. THIS is their Timeline through Saturday.
--Laura Ling is one of two American- Current TV journalists who was arrested in North Korea. The most recent documentary of her's that I watched was pretty interesting and well put together. She covered extensively the drug ring that comes out of the Mexican U.S. Border. If you have an hour to spare, this piece is a good one to watch: Narco War Next Door.
**Film --Finally: Over the past couple of months, I have been fervently working a short documentary project that I will produce in small segments to be posted on the Web.
My first filming experience was w/ Ofelia. She is a dance studio owner and has an incredible dream to reality story of how she came to open her studio and return to dance, the one thing she loved an adored as a girl. I felt inspired during her filming. She was transparent and more than willing to share her challenges that brought her to where she is now, successful, inspired, and in love w/ life. I hope to spend the next couple few weeks working hard to finish editing her story.
Last week, I filmed Gary & Melinda. The afternoon was momentous for both of them. The journey of their lives have not been easy- and as they shared their deep personal struggles, they emphasized how God changed their sorrow into dancing. I will begin edits on their story in a few weeks.
It's been some time and I can definitely tell you I've come across a number of interesting sites and articles. So sit back and be ready to click!
**Blogs
--Amos Lanka has been thinking lately; his latest blog encompasses a number of philosophical ideas but mostly commentates on a quote from C.S. Lewis' book, The Great Divorce, "That's what we all find when we reach this country, that we've all been wrong. That's the great joke. There's no need to go on pretending one was right. After that, we begin living." Definitely worth the read.
--Apparently Norfolk, England has created a mock Afghanistan...Aid worker, Harry Rud had a few words to say about it.
--Tyler from Man of Depravity recently had an interesting muse on Church leadership in the Web 2.0 world . The elder and the younger should be learning from each other rather than competing for the top spot in a world of growing technology and even skepticism.
--Para-gliding through Afghanistan can be challenging, but for some young men, it is a way to find a sense of peace in their war torn country. With a parachute and some gear, THIS group can fly .
-- I'm sure many of you have seen the film that has circled the web with street musicians around the world playing/singing Stand By Me. But if you haven't check it out. I guarantee you, you'll tear up by how amazing the creativity of the video is and how you connect with musicians.
**Film
--I saw the movie Star Trek last week. Proud of me? For not growing up around Sci-Fi, I've certainly grown and appreciation for some of it in the last two. The film made me appreciate the story that much more, which I wasn't as well versed in. The actors made the Trek characters their own rather than being mirror images of the original...I love the fresh spin, the fight scenes and heroic essence of the story itself. GO see IT!
--I begin filming my first short film documentary this week. I will update how it goes over the weekend. It's going to be interesting for sure. But be ready to see the stories of people's lives who've risen above what was expected of them.
It's been a little while- but here we are, at the start of April. I don't know about where you live, but we, in Atlanta, have had our share of spring showers. Though I'm ready for sun & warmth. But in the meantime, while you're cozied in on a rainy day; here are some links around the web to keep you occupied. Enjoy!
**Going Green -Barack Obama recently held a town-hall forum that was intended to answer the top internet questions. An overwhelming majority wanted to know about the legalization of marijuana. His answer? Well rather- his dismissal frustrated his audience.
--Motorola has come out with the first eco-friendly phone: the W233. It's quite a pretty phone if you ask me. TMobile is the carrier and the phone is fully designed with recycled products- with 9 hours of talk time and the claim that it's "carbon free." Creative idea, in my personal opinion. I wonder, is it worth the $60?
--Green Guide magazine listed the top 25 'green' cities in the United States. I was surprised by a few and so might you.
**Sciencey Things --Dr. Oz stated on Oprah, and in the presence of Michael J. Fox that the stem cell debate is over. He says embryonic stem cells will not cure Parkinsin's Disease and others. In fact, skin cells will be more reliable. His explination makes sense. But will the scientific/medical world listen? Should they still test embryos for the proof? Interesting times.
--An article in Psychology Today recently talked about why so many Americans keep going back to for scientific volunteer opportunities. Whether it's money or chronic problems or a disparaged mentaility, people are making it a habit to be guinea pigs.
**'Bout the Web --Did you know that if you take time to browse the web freely at work, you may be up to 9% more effective than your co-workers? I know you've been looking for an excuse anyway.
--Apparently certain "conservative" critics were offended at the showing of the full blue anatomy on Dr. Manhattan- in the graphic novel film, Watchmen. I think they're a bit absurd .
--The Escaptist, typically a video game reviewer, did a hilarious rendition review of 50 Cent's latest album. It's worth checking out.
**Blogs --Joseph Thompson recently wrote a great piece on the 400 years b/t the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Bible. They weren't as silent as you might think.
--Tyler of Man of Depravity wrote an interesting perspective on why he thinks pastors should get in touch w/ the web generation.
**Finally This week is "Holy Week." Sunday marks Easter- and celebrating the weekend is an amazing one. I leave you with this:
It's that time again! The month of March is a fabulous month, spring breaks through, St. Patty's day is around the corner, and day time lasts a little longer. So, to start of this Springy month, let's get you going on a some great links around the web.
**Blogs --Brett McCracken introduced a well worthwhile discussion on what it means to be "Christian Hipster." It's a rather intriguing idea on our generation and how we see the world and faith. There may be some things in the list you find you don't identify with and others you do. Nevertheless, it's a great blog...and a good comment discussion following.
--Her husband wrote a blog similar discussing the result of this practice. He called it: Experimenting in Translation. He and group of people went to a flea market recently and played music, non-religious music and their experience was astounding.
--Do you think you found Atlantis on Google Maps? I doubt it and so do they, Google Blog discusses this little rumor.
**'Bout the Web --The WebUrbanist posted an array of the coolest Skate Parks around the world. The visuals are amazing.
--Brian Welch, you may remember from the band, KORN, talks about how he gained his faith and his life before and after on "I Am Second." It's a very cool story. I had not heard him tell it this way before.
--Recently; a dear blog buddy, Leah Tan, introduced me to a music site called the Black Cab Sessions. This is a spectacular array of artists who perform their songs in the back of black cab. Most of the sessions are run by Hidden Fruit Productions, Just So films or others. The artists usually roam the indie scene and of course all the music is "unplugged" for your listening pleasure. I definitely recommend this site!
**Recommended Reads --Currently I am working my way through "The Snows of Kilimanjaro" by Ernest Hemingway. The short stories are beautifully written about...life, as it is. The people in the stories have sad tales and the conversations of the characters is invigorating. But who am I kidding? I love Hemingway.
--Next up; I will be reading two books side by side, as a study more than anything. I will be working through Boom by Tom Brokaw and Guerrilla Warfare by Ernesto "Che" Guevara. So, I am quite sure I will be sharing some of thoughts on the matter. Many of you know, historically, I am fascinated with the 1960s and their cultural influence on the world, so I expect these reads to be interesting.
**News --You may know that Conan O'Brian will be taking over for Jay Leno on June 1st of this year. He was recently featured on "Inside the Actor's Studio," and it's pretty fascinating to listen to him talk about how he got to where he is today. It's inspiring rather and if you have some time, take a listen.
--How much do you know about the Khmer Rouge? They were a terrifying guerilla party that overthrew the Cambodian government in the 1970s. After their "fall" in 1979, there were still a number of uprisings all the way through the 1990s. As a result, the country today, is in complete disarray. However, one of the most feared Comrades of the 70s is now facing his Tribunal for Crimes Against Humainty. It's been thirty years and Comrade Duch claims now, to be a born-again Christian. Nevertheless, he is being tried for his crimes and has offered apologies. It's been an educational story to follow, if you're interested.
**Finally --I will leave you will a little music...
Well, this comes a little earlier in the month than normal, but hey, while I'm still widdling through some thoughts, this will get you started in a month dedicated to love.
**News Blues~ -Regardless of your views on the topic, you would have to note that the new commercial from CatholicVote.org is fairly brilliant from an advertising point of view. However, it was rejected for a Super Bowl spot by NBC. The network claimed they were not looking to advertise anything "political" during the game. Of course to combat this- CommonSenseMedia.org did a study of over 50 football games through out the year and found intriguing results.
-So what exactly did President Obama do in his first ten days at the Chief? The UK Telegraph has a simple layout that goes day by day. And this is something I need about every 10 days continuing. It's much easier to keep up when the media bullet points it.
**Flicks~ -Last night, I watched the film, "Burn After Reading." The indie comedy storyline takes place in Washington DC. After two fitness trainers discover a "high profile" disc with sensitive information on it, they decide to use it as blackmail to get paid. Stars include Brad Pitt, George Clooney and Frances McDormand. I thought the movie was hilarious and got a good laugh from the infamous dry humor. Plus Pitt had the best role for being a gum smacking clown. Netflix it...or whatever you do, it's great for a fun date night.
**Photography~ -My dearest friend, Kate, finally got a Flickr account. Now you can browse and swoon over her beautiful artwork a little bit easier.
-A photographer, by the name of LJ, recently took a great shot of a homeless man in L.A. He writes his story in the caption of the the picture and I vouch that it's completely touching. The photo itself is raw and colorful.
**Blogs~ -Harry Rud discussed, in his blog, an unflattering picture of dogs in Afghanistan and what it's like to be called a "dog-washer" in a struggling society.
-Tyler from Man of Depravity wants to know if we're all REALLY friends. This blog buddy-o-mine wonders if social spaces have diluted friendship at it's core. The answer? Probably yes. Thanks ol' chum (or is that young chum) for keeping us all in check!
-And, Brett McCracken has an interesting perspective on the "hipster" generation & Obama. While the young counter culture, "hippies at heart," were a great number among the Obama fans (and if not split b/t libertarian and anarchist attitudes); did they really get what they bargained for? This is a great blog touching that point.
For now, my dearest readers...carry on. Until next time....
Hey Everyone- Here are you links to check out this month's plugging in! There is pretty interesting stuff going on around the world.
News~
--New Mexico is the first to offer marijuana for medical use. With a great number of restrictions they are allowing non profit organizations to grow the plant.
--The Freakonomics blog from the NY Times discusses how greeting norms change around the world. To kiss or not kiss is the question...AND how the old ways may even be offensive.
--Google is NOT ruining the planet. According to Wired Magazine, the numbers that calculate the energy from your Google searches are barely a fraction considering the amount of gas the U.S. uses in a day. These facts are contrast to a claim made by Harvard physicist.
Blogs~ --Tyler's newest blog on Man of Depravity discusses the idea of Churches acting like Clubs. There is an isolated "join us" or "stay away" attitude that many churches carry and then there are those that seem to move toward one goal whether or in or "out" of that particular club. It's an interesting topic, nonetheless.
--Leah, from A Little of Me, recently completed a week's worth of blogging observing a week in her shoes. She took pictures of her feet through out the day w/ the various activities she's participated in. She has challenged ME to do so as well. I told her she might not get a week out of me, but certainly I will do a day. SO- look for a blog, coming soon, entitled "A Day in My Shoes."
Recommended Read~ --I just finished Into the Wild. It is a beautiful story about Chris "Alex" McCandless, who wandered for two years and after spending 4 mo. in Alaska, he died. The book is written from the perspective of the journalist who covered the story. Hopefully, I might watch the movie soon.
--Currently I am reading a book called Ishmael, recommended to me by blog buddy, Amos. The writing is fascinating and thrilling and I can't put it down. I will share some thoughts on this soon.
Finally~ A note on Gaza: Obviously this is a distressing situation. Knowing what the absolute best solution is can be tough. Both Hamas and Israel are responsible for the destruction of so many people. It's un-nerving and wrong. Hopefully a complete cease-fire will occur soon. At this point, it is probably best the President-elect has not said much on the subject. And politically, there is a fine line b/t becoming an outside "police force," and an "ally"- only b/c what ends up happening is a friendship with the Government rather than really assisting the suffering population. In the mean time, and despite all the descruction happening, I posted a recent story from Current TV...there is a movement and cause among the youth in the Middle East of both persuasions coming together. So make sure to check out Peace Going Green and be encouraged, at least for a few minutes.
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!
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!
**Blogs-- Matt Barnes lives in the UK. His journey as a homeless man is interesting to read. He calls his blog The Hobo Daysand updates it whenever he's able to get internet access. Check it out.
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:
I have had this blog for almost a year. And through my research, reading, writing and wondering...I wanted to put in a few things I think you should check out. I have a blog buddy who calls it "fortuitus bouncing," but I think I'll call it- "plugging in."
**Blogsphere: Both Tyler (Man of Depravity) and Amos (Movement, Movement) have shared their thoughts on the philisophical belief system of the U.S. Founding Fathers. Based on an article in the Los Angeles Times, the discussion on their blogs has certainly been an interesting one.
**Recommended Read: On the right hand side of my page is the top 13 books I think everyone should read. But the first, is John Bolin's "Life Unlimited." This book has been the single most influential and inspiring book of my life. Bolin explores the adventure and purpose for which we have been put on the earth to fulfill. He promotes the idea that we are the Hero of our own story and the King has our front and our back at every turn as long as we're focused on him. Bolin also dives into what it takes to live our lives outside the box, getting past the "hum-drum," as he would say. I recommend you read it with a notebook and a friend.
**In the City: Last week, while wondering through Little 5 Points, Atlanta, I met Bobby. He goes by the name Cipher Kenni and is a rap artist. He was making an attempt to sell his music on the street and shared some of it with me. He said that his goal is make music that promotes spirituality and truth. He hopes that his music will eventually help him support his wife and child, who are the most important to him. His music is written and self produced.
**Sites 4 Sore Eyes: As many of you have noticed, the first website/organization I promote is the UNHCR. This is a UN non-governmental organization (NGO) founded in 1950 and provides for the needs of displaced persons across the globe. They also aim to help protect and resolve refugee problems. They offer opportunities to volunteer as well as donate to their efforts, worldwide. I certainly have a passion for people who have been forced to leave their homes and often their families behind. These people are survivors. But the UNHCR has created a valuable service in getting food and care in places like China, Africa, and the Middle East just to name a few.
**In the City: Walking along the street this week; I also met John Naugle. He is the founder and director of a non-profit orginaztion in Atlanta called City of Peace. They promote non-violence, following the fashion of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Ghandi. Their goal is to promote and create awareness for peace efforts around the world.
**Finally? Me: Check out my developing photo skillz @ Untamed Focus!
