Friday, January 29, 2010

Becoming Your Parents

DailyOM
January 26, 2010
Becoming Your Parents
Generate Your Own Patterns


"Though many of the tempers and temperaments that define you are inherited, you control how they manifest in your life."

Heredity plays a role in almost all human development, whether physical, mental, or emotional. We tend to look like our parents and are subject to the same sensitivities they have. We may even be predisposed to certain behaviors or preferences. As we grow older, we become increasingly aware of the traits that exist within us and the clear history of the traits of our mothers and fathers. Our response to this epiphany depends upon whether the inclinations, tendencies, and penchants we inherited from our forebears are acceptable in our eyes. We may honor some of these shared traits while rejecting others. However, there is no law of nature, no ethereal connection between parents and children, that states that the latter must follow in the footsteps of the former. We are each of us free to become whoever we wish to be.

When we accept that our parents are human beings in possession of both human graces and human failings, we begin to regard them as distinct individuals. And by granting mothers and fathers personhood in our minds, we come to realize that we, too, are autonomous people and in no way destined to become our relations. While we may have involuntarily integrated some of our parents’ mannerisms or habits into our own lives, conscious self-examination will provide us with a means to identify these and work past them if we so desire. We can then unreservedly honor and emulate those aspects of our mothers and fathers that we admire without becoming carbon copies of them.

Though many of the tempers and temperaments that define you are inherited, you control how they manifest in your life. The patterns you have witnessed unfolding in the lives of your parents need not be a part of your unique destiny. You can learn from the decisions they made and choose not to indulge in the same vices. Their habits need not become yours. But even as you forge your own path, consider that your parents’ influence will continue to shape your life—whether or not you follow in their footsteps. Throughout your entire existence, they have endeavored to provide you with the benefit of their experiences. How you make use of this profound gift is up to you.

People of Walmart

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This is by far one of the funniest pictures I have seen a very long time. Also, be sure to check out the original site PeopleofWalmart.

It's Coming. Get Ready. We are Lasers.


Such a hot album cover.

Escogido Campeón!

Yesterday, I had the awesome opportunity of attending the Championship baseball game between Leones del Escogido and Gigantes del Cibao in the Dominican Republic. I noticed that the overall enthusiasm and energy of the fans was similar to the hardcore soccer fans found throughout Europe. The stadium was completely packed with young children, screaming fans and beautiful women. Despite the actual game lacking any jaw-clenching moments, the true energy and excitement happened in the crowds. Heading to my first retreat in the Dr later. I love moments like this.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Mi Niña

Mi niña bonita mi dulce princesa
Me siento en las nubes cuando tú me besas
Y siento que vuelo más alto que el cielo
Si tengo de cerca el olor de tú pelo

Monday, January 25, 2010


(c) AFG Creative Productions Group

Avatar Breaks Records

James Cameron's Avatar is on course to sink his own record-breaking, Titanic at the box office.

Number 1 in the US for the sixth weekend in a row with 36 million dollars (£22.34 million), the 20th Century Fox sci-fi spectacle lifted its domestic total to 552.8 million dollars (£343 million), according to studio estimates.

Avatar raised its worldwide total to 1.841 billion (£1.143 billion). That is just 2 million dollars (£1.24 million) shy of first place behind Cameron's last movie, the 1997 shipwreck epic Titanic, at 1.843 billion dollars (£1.143 billion).

"It defies all superlatives," said Chris Aronson, head of distribution for Fox.

The studio said Avatar has hit 1.29 billion dollars (£800.45 million) in international ticket sales, passing the 1.24 billion dollar (£769,42 million) mark set by Titanic.

Avatar soared past The Dark Knight on Saturday to become the second highest grossing film in the US.

"We're witnessing box office history," said Paul Dergarabedian, box office analyst for Hollywood.com. "We're watching all of these big records fall, and there doesn't seem to be an end in sight. Avatar is dominating at a time where it has no big summer blockbusters to compete with it. It's perfectly poised to keep breaking all these records."

Avatar is also positioned to win acclaim during the awards season. While the computer-assisted performances did not earn any honours at Saturday's Screen Actors Guild Awards, it captured the best drama and director trophies at last week's Golden Globes and is considered a likely best-picture front runner when Oscar nominations are announced on February 2.
via Press Association

P.S. Check out that photo with one of the hottest ladies in the world, Zoe Saldana.
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.bvonmovies.com/media/2009/08/zoe-avatar-1a.jpg

Two Piece Special

Tribute to C.
77th & Champlain
Running full-day backyard football games
You are gone for now
But I know I’ll see you again

Los Colores
Este animal es como la noche y el día.
Tiene las rayas el color de la gente de Alemania y África.
Es un animal que está buscando por su identidad.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Power of the Mind


Granada - Fall 2009
(c) AFG Creative Productions Group

Finding My Dreams


Barcelona - Fall 2009
(c) AFG Creative Productions Group


Santiago, DR - Spring 2010
(c) AFG Creative Productions Group

Friday, January 22, 2010

Your World, Your Life: Squuueeeeeeeze


"First you begin with a mesh shaver to transform the carrots into pulp. Next, you take all the oranges you can and begin squeezing the shit out of them, producing as much liquid as possible. Next, we blend, blend, blend the components to make a orange-carrot melody. If you want, add a pinch of sugar and begin filling your glass."

As of recent events, I have realized that I need to take out the needed time for myself. It is time for me to say goodbye to my childhood woes, lose my stomach and get back into the shape that I tend to only dream about nowadays. But amidst my current thoughts, I have decided to allow myself one meal a week without worries. A plate full of rice, beans, meat and avocados accompanied by a glass of freshly squeezed juice.

If somewhere along your journey, life decides to give you carrots and oranges in lieu of lemons, then I dare you to be different and try something new today. Try to figure out how you can attain something you want. I dare you to go after that thing that you have desired for days, months and possibly, years. I dare you to take those oranges and begin squeezing the shit out of them. I tell you, squeeze everything out of life that you can and enjoy it while it lasts. Buen provecho mis amigos.

P.S. But remember, there will always be haters and individuals defying you in life. Just squeeze some lemon juice into their eyes.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

May I Lend a Hand?


Our lives are in our gods' hands, but the choice to live is within our own. Yesterday was much more than merely a coincidence. Initially, a few friends and I decided to go for a walk throughout a city that will be our home for the next four months, Santiago de los Caballeros. We browsed many shops and stores until we decided it was about time to head back to our homes. It seemed god had other plans for us. Long story short, we ended up being a bit turned around, lost in the city and walked until we could see the monument in the further distance. During our walk home, we came across a building that had several people outside sorting cans, water bottles and other items. Turns out, we were standing in front of “Cruz Roja,” which translates to the well-known Red Cross. With the aftermath of the earthquake that rocked Haiti this past Tuesday, several individuals stepped outside of their comfort zones to help those in need. My friends and I encountered someone that told us to go inside the building and sign up to volunteer. Of course, we did this, but unfortunately, it yielded no immediate response until we exited the building, faced our fears of speaking Spanish and began to ask the Cruz Roja locals if they needed help. They said yes and everything from there is history.

Today was our second day going back to help with whatever was needed. Although I enjoyed helping with everything, the final hour of the day proved to be most fulfilling for me. After assembling canopies that took much longer to build than they should have, we constructed a man-made assembly line to get cases of water from the Cruz Roja building into a truck which would later turn out to be a hell of an adventure. After packing the truck with every case of water, a volunteer began screaming at me, “Sube! Sube,” as I quickly climbed into the flatbed. We waved goodbye to other volunteers as we headed for the highway. Little did I know that I was about to embark on an adventure of sitting and talking amongst locals, riding on a water truck for a great cause, watching young children playing basketball and simply living ‘la vida dominicana.’ It is definitely a blessing when an individual realizes that he/she is not only helping others in need, but that they are also helping themselves. In one day, we can work towards overcoming our fears of speaking Spanish with locals. In one day, we can meet several individuals and begin progressing towards long lasting friendships. In one day, we are able to assist and help hundreds, maybe thousands. In one day, we can attempt to make a change. We have yet to get deep into the action of helping face-to-face, but we realize and understand that our contributions will help some of those in need, although not all. But, BUT if we continue coming together as one, we can aid and help a world of Haitians who are suffering gravely and searching for hope. Let us be that hope, let us be that help. Go forward.

“If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man my son!”
-If by Rudyard Kipling

The Question You Have Been Dying to Ask

Ask Alex a Question

Friday, January 15, 2010

Finding Time For You & Making a Wish

January 11, 2010
Finding Time for You
Your Most Vital Commitment

Within each of there is a well of energy that must be regularly replenished. When we act as if this well is bottomless, scheduling a long list of activities that fit like puzzle pieces into every minute of every day, it becomes depleted and we feel exhausted, disconnected, and weak. Refilling this well is a matter of finding time to focus on, nurture, and care for ourselves, or "you time." Most of us are, at different times throughout the day, a spouse, a friend, a relative, an employee, a parent, or a volunteer, which means that down time, however relaxing in nature, is not necessarily "you time." Though some people will inevitably look upon "you time" as being selfish, it is actually the polar opposite of selfishness. We can only excel where our outer world affairs are concerned when our own spiritual, physical, and intellectual needs are fulfilled.

Recognizing the importance of "you time" is far easier than finding a place for it in an active, multifaceted lifestyle, however. Even if you find a spot for it in your agenda, you may be dismayed to discover that your thoughts continuously stray into worldly territory. To make the most of "you time," give yourself enough time on either side of the block of time you plan to spend on yourself to ensure that you do not feel rushed. Consider how you would like to pass the time, forgetting for the moment your obligations and embracing the notion of renewal. You may discover that you are energized by creative pursuits, guided meditation, relaxing activities during which your mind can wander, or modes of expression such as writing.

Even if you have achieved a functioning work-life balance, you may still be neglecting the most important part of that equation: you. "You time" prepares you for the next round of daily life, whether you are poised to immerse yourself in a professional project or chores around the home. It also affords you a unique opportunity to learn about yourself, your needs, and your tolerances in a concrete way. As unimportant as "you time" can sometimes seem, it truly is crucial to your wellbeing because it ensures that you are never left without the energy to give of yourself.

January 15, 2010
Wish
A Magical Mind

From blowing dandelion seeds into the air to throwing a penny into a fountain, we have all felt inspired to make a wish, to whisper our secret desires into the ears of the universe and wait for signs that we have been heard. Some wishes come true while others remain ethereal visions that either stay with us or fade like a star in the light of morning. Whether they come true or not, wishes are important missives, expressing our heart’s desire as well as our intention to create something new in our lives. When we wish for something, our consciousness opens to receiving it, like a flower unfolding its petals to receive a bee.

There is something innocent and magical about making a wish, something that recalls the energy of childhood. Wishing is not about formulating a plan and following it step by step to attain a goal, which is the realm of adulthood. Wishing is more like a playful volley across the universe, an invitation to play. Waiting for the response is an integral part of the process. Wishing inspires an innocent opening to the possibility of magic as we wait to see if the invisible realm will bring our wish to life. This opening is a beautiful gesture in and of itself, regardless of the outcome. We place ourselves in a magical mind, and this mind is arguably as wonderful as the fulfillment of our wish itself.

In our straightforward, action-oriented society, we may tend to dismiss the power of this seemingly passive process, yet the power of a wish is well known, hence the cautionary phrase, “Be careful what you wish for.” If you have given up wishing in favor of more adult pursuits, you might want to bring its magic back into your life. The next time you see the first star of the evening, or find yourself in front of a birthday cake covered in flaming candles, give yourself the gift of the magical realm that you knew so well as a child—close your eyes, open your mind, and make your wish.

Help Haiti


Google Crisis Relief

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Being Thankful


Yesterday, as I stood with two new friends at PUCMM, I began to feel a certain off balance within my body. At first, I thought that I was simply dehydrated and needed to sit down until my friends began to feel similar sensations throughout theirs. Next, we all felt the ground shake a bit and realized that it was a earthquake taking place. It turns out that the Dominican Republic had not suffered anything in comparison to Haiti. Dozens of buildings fell, thousands of people have died and many souls have been crushed, but I pray that their hope is not totally gone. I realize how blessed I am to still be here and in good health. My prayers go out to everyone throughout Haiti.

Hopefully you have been touched by the devastation that has happened throughout Haiti and would like to help out in some way. There are several organizations that are accepting donations to help with everything. Below are very reputable sites that connects to UNICEF, CARE and Oxfam America.

Google Crisis Relief
Oxfam America

Deep Regards,
Alex Echols

Monday, January 11, 2010

HE DID IT!

'Jan. 11 (Bloomberg) -- McDonald’s Corp., the world’s largest restaurant company, named Don Thompson, currently president of McDonald’s USA, as its president and chief operating officer.

Thompson, 46, joined McDonald’s in 1990. He will oversee the company’s 32,000 restaurants worldwide, Oak Brook, Illinois- based McDonald’s said today in a statement.

McDonald’s said last month operating chief Ralph Alvarez would retire at the end of 2009 for health reasons. Thompson, along with Denis Hennequin, president of McDonald’s Europe, and Timothy Fenton, head of the Asia Pacific region, were candidates to take over, Larry Miller, an analyst with RBC Capital Markets in Atlanta, said at the time.

Alvarez joined McDonald’s in 1994 and had served as COO since August 2006. He was also president of McDonald’s North American and U.S. businesses, where he was responsible for 15,000 restaurants and spearheaded the introduction of products including a $1.29 snack-size chicken wrap and an Asian salad.

McDonald’s rose 45 cents to $62.29 at 3:15 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. The shares were little changed in 2009.'
via. businessweek.com

Proud of you. It just goes to show that if you stay true to yourself, work hard and keep on dreaming and striving for great things, they will come.

Santiago, Dominican Republic 2010


(c) AFG Creative Productions Group
"I have a mini-rainforest in my backyard. RIP Cody."

Thursday, January 07, 2010

Finding Your True Self

DailyOM
January 5, 2010

"Rediscovering who you are apart from your roles and traits takes time and also courage. If, like many, you have denied your authenticity for a long while, you may find it difficult to separate your true identity from the identity you have created to cope with the world around you. Once you do find this authentic self, however, you will be overcome by a wonderful sense of wholeness as you reconcile your spiritual aspect and your physical aspect, as well as your inner- and outer-world personas. As you gradually adjust to this developing unity, your role as a being of light will reveal itself to you, and you will discover that you have a marvelous destiny to fulfill. "

Saturday, January 02, 2010

The American Dream


(c) One Life Brand

Your Last Breath

January 1, 2010
Your Last Breath
Redefining Your Priorities


Procrastination is an almost universal human habit and one that infiltrates nearly every aspect of our lives. Modern existence is so complex, and much of what we long to do is left to wait by the side. We know what is important but tend to let the weight of worldly pressures lead us astray. To get back on track, however, we need only take a moment to consider where our thoughts will be as we take our last breath on this earth. More likely than not, at that instant, disagreements, bills, petty annoyances, and other frustrating elements of our lives will no longer seem as significant as they once did. Thoughts of loved ones and the positive impact we had on the world would no doubt occupy our remaining thoughts. Whatever we imagine ourselves musing upon during our last breath will almost always be representative of what truly matters to us.

This simple exercise introduces us to a new way of thinking. While our attention is drawn momentarily to the end of life, our contemplations serve to point out that we are masters of our own perspective and, consequently, our own existence. There is nothing preventing us from shifting our focus right now as we imagine we will in our final moments. We can choose to spend more of our time and energy on what gives our lives meaning. We can spend more time with loved ones and do more of what we enjoy. Doing so may not always prove easy, and there will inevitably be times when circumstances interfere with our resolution, yet we do not have to regard this as an indication that our priorities are not in alignment with who we really are.

Sometimes the only way we can see the beauty of life is to remind ourselves that it is finite. Gandhi said, "Live as if you were to die tomorrow." His words are a potent reminder that living life more fully is not about pushing ourselves harder or shouldering more burdens, but about experiencing all the wonderful richness life has to offer.

Happy Palindrome Day: Happy Jan. 2, 2010

Click Here to Read Article

2010 Marks the New Decade

I will be totally honest by saying that it was really confusing trying to figure out when the new decade would begin, but alas, I have found the answers a lot of people have been looking for.

"The decade the 2010s is about to begin on January 1, 2010. I feel this needs to be addressed in a public service announcement of sorts.

I've seen a lot of nonsense about how "the decade doesn't really end until December 31, 2010." Don't be ridiculous. The decade ends in two weeks.

A few points. A decade means 10 years. 1995-2004 is a decade. 2000-2009 is a decade. And 2001-2010 is a decade.

The bozos insisting that the decade does not end until December 31, 2010 usually base this on the observation that "there was no year 0". True, the calendar begins in 1 AD (though it was adopted some 16 centuries later). But all that the start date of the calendar means is that it would be technically incorrect to refer to 2000-2009 as "the 201st Decade". But, when we talk about "the decade" it's clear that we're not talking about ordinal decades, because nobody ever talks about ordinal decades. I cannot think of a single instance where someone referred to the 1990s as the "200th Decade." '

Click Here to Continue the Article

Also, here is some information from our good ol' friend - Wikipedia.