March 30, 2010
DailyOM
Capturing the Thrill
Do What Excites You
Each human life has the potential to be dramatic, thrilling, and awe-inspiring. Our lives are, in truth, ours to design. Each day, we make choices that influence the character of our experiences, and our decisions determine whether our paths are rousing or tedious, breathtaking or tiresome. We can create an exciting life by simply doing what excites us whenever the opportunity presents itself. Your passions may ebb and flow, and what excites you one year may not excite you the next, but when you make excitement a regular part of your existence, life becomes more fun and more fulfilling.
If you are somebody that tends to live practically, excitement may overwhelm you at first. To ease the anxiety that prevents you from incorporating all that you find exciting into your life, acknowledge that you are alive right now in this time and every moment matters. When you choose to do more of what excites you, even if your choices requires you to make certain sacrifices, your daily life will soon be imbued with exhilaration, pleasure, and optimistic anticipation.
To understand what excites you, you may need to observe and ponder your reaction to the activities, events, circumstances, and concepts that make up your life. What makes your pulse race, what makes you want to get out of your chair and take action? Try to avoid getting too wrapped up in life’s details; their tedium may cause you to plod through your existence unaware of prospective excitement. Once you have created a substantial list of what excites you, find ways to integrate each item into your routine. You will soon find yourself riding a wave of excitement that lifts you up and makes life truly worth living. What excites you in your life?
via DailyOM
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
My Last 3 Weeks of Wearing a Backpack
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My Last 3 Weeks of Wearing a Backpack A Letter to My Younger Brothers and Sisters
When I was your age, finishing college and stepping out into the 'real world' all seemed but a hopeful dream. From day to day, you are told to take advantage of your school years and to cherish your youth. I am certainly NOT the first to tell you that this is very, VERY accurate. Time will fly quicker than you think. I would not trade my younger years for any other written story or journey, but I do want to leave you with some great wisdom that you already have within and day by day, will discover more of.
Color Outside the Lines
So what you are different! Perhaps others may even call you weird, but that is a good thing - I guarantee it. Just because you do things different doesn't necessarily mean that you do things wrong. You are simply creating and forming your own journey, you are veering off from what most people like to call 'normal.' So continue coloring outside the lines, creating beautiful pictures with lines, circles and squares and when you feel ready, continue the process. Step outside your comfort zone once again, step outside the next box - continue coloring outside the lines till you have filled up the entire page with COLOR, PASSION and LIFE.
Close Your Eyes and Dream
As you get older, some people - sometimes even your own family - may start telling you, "grow up and stop some dreaming so much." But I DO NOT agree with this at all. I believe dreams are very much elements of the spark that allow realities to form. As children, we have great dreams of becoming basketball players, astronauts, pediatricians, presidents, actors and etc, but somewhere along the way, we lose our desires to follow our childhood dreams. We grow up and we feel it is necessary to start living 'real life.' But let me tell you something. As long as you have the WILL to accomplish all that you dream, then you are living real life. As long as you work really hard for the things you want in life, they will come. The only time success becomes before hard work is in the dictionary. I ask you that you hold onto your dreams forever.
I was and AM very blessed to have a family that supported me in all my dreamily endeavors and I am very thankful for it. So now, you may ask, "what about me? My family does not believe in my dreams, what should I do?" Get a mentor and learn from them. Mentors can be found in various places: schools, libraries, gyms and etc. If you want something, go get it! Do not let anyone tell you that you are NOT possible.
Get that Extra Star, Even if it Isn't Gold (BUT Go for the GOLD)
Although I have not won nearly as many awards and honors in college as I did in high school, I still believe that I am very successful because I struggled much and learned much more. When I initially entered college, I had dreams of becoming an electrical engineer because I wanted to be just like my Uncle, wealthy and successful. Little did I know that success came to those who did what they loved. Do what you love and you will never have to work a day in your life. So just because your mother, your brother or your second uncle makes a lot of money in his/her respective field and is very content does not mean that you will have the same feelings. While you are young, try everything out! Read the newspaper everyday, join a sports team, join the chess club - whatever you are interested in, try it out! Don't say that you do not like something without trying it out at least once. And when you try it out, read as much as you can, play the best chess game you can play and be the best player that YOU CAN BE. Do not let anyone else define who you are. So go out there and get that extra star and even if it is not gold, know that the knowledge that you now have will help you with the rest of your life. But just for the hell of it, ALWAYS GO FOR THE GOLD!
Run Till You Can't Any Longer
Even if many cannot tell, throughout my entire life, I have struggled with my weight and personal image. By no means would I give up my 'fatty years,' because I think it was that period that started me on the journey to the man that I am becoming. I believe it was that period that allowed me to mature at a younger age. But everyone has their own story. There were many times when I took basketball, football, baseball, karate and swimming lessons but later gave up because I did not think I had it in me, either because I thought I was too fat or too slow. Sometimes I look back and wonder what life would be if I continued those sports as a child. For one, I know I would not be in this moment of my life (I am currently chilling on the couch in the Caribbean country of the Dominican Republic and I LOVE IT).
So when I say run till you can't any longer, no I am not telling you to run until you pass out. I am telling you to run until you feel you have done your best work. NEVER sell yourself short. There is wayyyyyyy more potential within that you will never discover until you have gone that extra mile and opened that extra door. Just because I was not happy with my body image as a child does not mean that I cannot be happy NOW. Three to four days a week, I workout in the gym because I would like to see yet another dream come true.
I want you to continue going forth, wanting and working, dreaming and doing, living and learning. Even if no one has ever told you this, I am proud of you my young sister and my young brother. Keep moving forward, opening new doors and trying new things. I learned that from the great Walt Disney. Haha. Whatever is in your heart, do not ignore it.
As for me, I will never let go of my childhood dreams. At a young age, I made a promise to myself to always remain true to me. I made the promise to myself to LIVE.
So close your eyes, follow your dreams/
And keep your head to the sky/
When times get rough, and the clouds get dark/
And you need to ask yourself why/
Just listen to the words I say, you’ll find a way/
To keep pushin’ to get by/
And if you keep this on your mind, stay on your grind/
It’ll be your time, to take over the world/
Take Over the World by Kidz in the Hall
One Life, You Decide™
Sunday, March 28, 2010
My Type of Cupcake
Some may say 'typical,' others may say 'seriously?' but I say 'GENIUS.'
At some point in our lives, WE men try to forget the utter deliciousness of cupcakes because we would hate for others to see us walking around with a buttercream cupcake topped with colorful sprinkles and pink frosting. But our world is changing.
New York City's Butch Bakery delivers 12 delicious flavors that will satisfy the hungriest of appetites with flavors such as Rum & Coke which is rum-soaked vanilla cake with cola bavarian cream filling and Old-Fashioned which is orange-soaked whiskey cake with lemon curd filling.
WHERE BUTCH MEETS BUTTERCREAM
via ButchBakery
At some point in our lives, WE men try to forget the utter deliciousness of cupcakes because we would hate for others to see us walking around with a buttercream cupcake topped with colorful sprinkles and pink frosting. But our world is changing.
New York City's Butch Bakery delivers 12 delicious flavors that will satisfy the hungriest of appetites with flavors such as Rum & Coke which is rum-soaked vanilla cake with cola bavarian cream filling and Old-Fashioned which is orange-soaked whiskey cake with lemon curd filling.
WHERE BUTCH MEETS BUTTERCREAM
via ButchBakery
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
The Beauty of Difference
As many individuals know, I love to travel and be among different types of people. In the last 5 years, I have lived in Chicago, Nashville, Los Angeles, New York City, Italy and Barcelona. I currently live in Santiago, Dominican Republic. During the last year, I have studied at home universities in Barcelona and Santiago. Within these school systems, there is a plethora of classes offered to international students such as Intro to Folklore, History of the Iberian Peninsula, Processes of Dominican Culture and Politics, Intercultural Communication and etc. For two semesters, I have been enrolled in an 'Intercultural Communication' type course. Within the course, we learn things that are consciously and subconsciously known to us, ie: we learn that other cultures are different. On a more respectable level, I think we should learn that people are different.
Without a doubt, I have realized that wherever I go, there will be like-minded people and there will be individuals that I have nothing in common with. This is generally based on where they come from, how they were raised, their financial background and many other variables. I have met individuals here(DR) and in Barcelona that may be deemed as the stereotypical 'Cigarette Smoking, Greased Up" Spaniard or the 'Santa Claus of Piropos' Dominican Male. But if we were to take a closer look at these stereotypical individuals, we would realize that they are even different. No one is the same. No one is a complete imitation of another person. Even in the smallest sense, we are all different.
I recently watched the Portuguese film, Era Uma Vez, which depicts the story of love, family, death and many other themes. By the end of the movie, a mother had lost 3 out 3 sons to violence. It was indeed a tragedy. After the film ended, there was a comment by someone, "that was so stupid. It all could have been avoided." (Note that these may not be the exact words, but very close). In general, I think as individuals, we tend to forget that there are people in the world that are not like us, and sometimes, there are people that are very much on the opposite side of the spectrum when it comes to backgrounds and financial stability.
I grew up on the Southside of Chicago and although there was a substantial amount of violence, I understand that there are many other places throughout the world that are much worse. I understand that in some neighborhoods and places, fifteen people may be murdered each day. But I also know that in other neighborhoods, twelve other individuals may be signing million-dollar deal checks. The fact is, we are all different.
I am indeed blessed to have the chance to travel the world and live amongst individuals who are different socially, physically, financially and etcetera, etcetera. I am blessed to become more of a global citizen each day. I am blessed (and humbled) because I have seen both, extreme poverty and extreme privilege. I have grown so much within the last few years, but I understand that I have a lot more growing to do. In fact, growth will not end until my dying day. I will continue going forth, meeting and living among those who are different from me. I will go forth, understanding that we are all different. I will go forth, knowing that there will ALWAYS be someone worse off and better off than me. But one thing I will never lose, is who I am: a man of growth and integrity.
Respect to everyone fighting battles that I will never understand (but I will shole try!)
Peace My Brothers and My Sisters, Mi Hermanos y Mi Hermanas and Mis Fratellos e Mis Sorellas
Without a doubt, I have realized that wherever I go, there will be like-minded people and there will be individuals that I have nothing in common with. This is generally based on where they come from, how they were raised, their financial background and many other variables. I have met individuals here(DR) and in Barcelona that may be deemed as the stereotypical 'Cigarette Smoking, Greased Up" Spaniard or the 'Santa Claus of Piropos' Dominican Male. But if we were to take a closer look at these stereotypical individuals, we would realize that they are even different. No one is the same. No one is a complete imitation of another person. Even in the smallest sense, we are all different.
I recently watched the Portuguese film, Era Uma Vez, which depicts the story of love, family, death and many other themes. By the end of the movie, a mother had lost 3 out 3 sons to violence. It was indeed a tragedy. After the film ended, there was a comment by someone, "that was so stupid. It all could have been avoided." (Note that these may not be the exact words, but very close). In general, I think as individuals, we tend to forget that there are people in the world that are not like us, and sometimes, there are people that are very much on the opposite side of the spectrum when it comes to backgrounds and financial stability.
I grew up on the Southside of Chicago and although there was a substantial amount of violence, I understand that there are many other places throughout the world that are much worse. I understand that in some neighborhoods and places, fifteen people may be murdered each day. But I also know that in other neighborhoods, twelve other individuals may be signing million-dollar deal checks. The fact is, we are all different.
I am indeed blessed to have the chance to travel the world and live amongst individuals who are different socially, physically, financially and etcetera, etcetera. I am blessed to become more of a global citizen each day. I am blessed (and humbled) because I have seen both, extreme poverty and extreme privilege. I have grown so much within the last few years, but I understand that I have a lot more growing to do. In fact, growth will not end until my dying day. I will continue going forth, meeting and living among those who are different from me. I will go forth, understanding that we are all different. I will go forth, knowing that there will ALWAYS be someone worse off and better off than me. But one thing I will never lose, is who I am: a man of growth and integrity.
Respect to everyone fighting battles that I will never understand (but I will shole try!)
Peace My Brothers and My Sisters, Mi Hermanos y Mi Hermanas and Mis Fratellos e Mis Sorellas
Monday, March 22, 2010
Health Care for All
The Democratic-controlled Congress approved historic legislation Sunday night extending health care to tens of millions of uninsured Americans and cracking down on insurance company abuses, a climactic chapter in the century-long quest for near universal coverage.
On the cusp of succeeding where numerous past congresses and administrations have failed, jubilant House Democrats voted 219-212 late Sunday to send legislation to President Barack Obama. Republicans were unanimous in opposition, joined by 34 dissident Democrats. The Senate-passed bill was widely viewed as dead two months ago.
"This is what change looks like," Obama said later in televised remarks that stirred memories of his 2008 campaign promise of "change we can believe in. We proved that this government — a government of the people and by the people — still works for the people."
Good Job Mr. President
via MSNBC
On the cusp of succeeding where numerous past congresses and administrations have failed, jubilant House Democrats voted 219-212 late Sunday to send legislation to President Barack Obama. Republicans were unanimous in opposition, joined by 34 dissident Democrats. The Senate-passed bill was widely viewed as dead two months ago.
"This is what change looks like," Obama said later in televised remarks that stirred memories of his 2008 campaign promise of "change we can believe in. We proved that this government — a government of the people and by the people — still works for the people."
Good Job Mr. President
via MSNBC
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Bang Bang
Bang Bang
By: Alex Echols
Growing up, me and my brother always had this game: Bang Bang. It was a game of the streets that was supposed to teach me how to be a man, hold my own and protect myself. The rules were simple, start off with two knives on opposite ends kinda like the game Halo. You may encounter each other early, but the goal is to get a gun and defeat your opponent.
The day came when the games had begun and my brother was becoming too comfortable and too familiar with winning. Rule number one: never let your guard down. That day, another brother joined in on the action and I stayed back, peering from outside the fence, wondering how I could win the game just once. My adrenaline was pumping. A kid came by and I thought he was about to let a few slugs loose into me, but luckily he kept walking. A few minutes passed, he returned and cocked the gun. With much rhythm, my heart beats began to take over my mind and then it happened. He handed it to me.
The gun also had a long, sharp blade on the opposite end that cut into my flesh several times. I said to the young, dark-skinned boy, "Weapons are not toys," as he walked away with a smile. Through the fences, I began walking towards my brothers, blade in hand. Adrenaline pumping like never before. Smiles and grins on their faces. In there eyes, I had lost once again. Bang Bang.
After much thought, I decided to share this small creation with everyone. There is a lot of beauty in dreams, but there is also a lot of terror and sadness. From time to time, I am stricken by dreams that not only tell great stories, but also unfortunate endings. Nevertheless, I still see beauty in this story.
Let's stop the violence within our communities.
By: Alex Echols
Growing up, me and my brother always had this game: Bang Bang. It was a game of the streets that was supposed to teach me how to be a man, hold my own and protect myself. The rules were simple, start off with two knives on opposite ends kinda like the game Halo. You may encounter each other early, but the goal is to get a gun and defeat your opponent.
The day came when the games had begun and my brother was becoming too comfortable and too familiar with winning. Rule number one: never let your guard down. That day, another brother joined in on the action and I stayed back, peering from outside the fence, wondering how I could win the game just once. My adrenaline was pumping. A kid came by and I thought he was about to let a few slugs loose into me, but luckily he kept walking. A few minutes passed, he returned and cocked the gun. With much rhythm, my heart beats began to take over my mind and then it happened. He handed it to me.
The gun also had a long, sharp blade on the opposite end that cut into my flesh several times. I said to the young, dark-skinned boy, "Weapons are not toys," as he walked away with a smile. Through the fences, I began walking towards my brothers, blade in hand. Adrenaline pumping like never before. Smiles and grins on their faces. In there eyes, I had lost once again. Bang Bang.
After much thought, I decided to share this small creation with everyone. There is a lot of beauty in dreams, but there is also a lot of terror and sadness. From time to time, I am stricken by dreams that not only tell great stories, but also unfortunate endings. Nevertheless, I still see beauty in this story.
Let's stop the violence within our communities.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
MTV's Hired
MTV today announced that it has greenlit new docu-series "MTV Hired" which will premiere on Monday, May 6. The show goes on a journey with recent college graduates as they pursue the daunting task of finding employment in todays difficult economic climate. Viewers will get an inside look at what the applicants face as they vie for their dream position in the industry of their choice. Also announced is the return of "Silent Library" for its third season with 20 new episodes.
MTV HIRED - May 6, 2010 (20 Episodes)
In today's cutthroat economy, finding a job is like searching for a needle in a haystack. For every job opening there are thousands of applicants desperate to be hired. From the over-qualified to the un-employable, one thing is certain: jobs are yours to win or lose during an interview. Blow the interview -- and its back to the unemployment line. Nail it, and there is a paycheck with your name on it. In each resume-clenching episode, "MTV Hired" looks into the diverse professions that the job market has to offer including personal training, shoe designing, event coordinating, and many more. Viewers will also meet an employer looking to fill a position, get to know the hungry job applicants, sit in on the interviews, and be there when one lucky person lands the job of their dreams. Who will stand out and who will crack under pressure? Find out on "MTV Hired."
via MTV.com
A really good friend of mine Ryan Kahn will be part of the regular cast for the show serving as an adviser to students seeking employment. Show support with me. Congrats Ryan!
MTV HIRED - May 6, 2010 (20 Episodes)
In today's cutthroat economy, finding a job is like searching for a needle in a haystack. For every job opening there are thousands of applicants desperate to be hired. From the over-qualified to the un-employable, one thing is certain: jobs are yours to win or lose during an interview. Blow the interview -- and its back to the unemployment line. Nail it, and there is a paycheck with your name on it. In each resume-clenching episode, "MTV Hired" looks into the diverse professions that the job market has to offer including personal training, shoe designing, event coordinating, and many more. Viewers will also meet an employer looking to fill a position, get to know the hungry job applicants, sit in on the interviews, and be there when one lucky person lands the job of their dreams. Who will stand out and who will crack under pressure? Find out on "MTV Hired."
via MTV.com
A really good friend of mine Ryan Kahn will be part of the regular cast for the show serving as an adviser to students seeking employment. Show support with me. Congrats Ryan!
Tiger is Back. He will Return at the Masters.
Tiger Woods will make his highly anticipated return to competitive golf at the Masters, ending a four-month hiatus brought on by a sex scandal. The world's No. 1-ranked player, who has never missed the year's first major as a professional, announced in a statement Tuesday that Augusta National Golf Club will be the site of his comeback."The Masters is where I won my first major and I view this tournament with great respect. After a long and necessary time away from the game, I feel like I'm ready to start my season at Augusta," Woods said in a statement.
"The major championships have always been a special focus in my career and, as a professional, I think Augusta is where I need to be, even though it's been a while since I last played." Woods is a four-time Masters champion, although he has not won at Augusta National since 2005, his longest drought there.
"Although I'm returning to competition, I still have a lot of work to do in my personal life." "We look forward to Tiger's return to the Masters and seeing him back on the course," said Nike, Woods' longtime sponsor, in a statement.
via ESPN.COM
His infidelity is a family matter. WE ALL MAKE MISTAKES. Who cares? When it comes to the game of golf, he is one BAMF. Respect.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Finding Your Joy: DailyOM
March 15, 2010
DailyOM
Finding Your Joy
Be Happy Every Single Day
Our lives are rich with potential sources of happiness, but sometimes we become victims of negative thinking because we believe that focusing on all that has gone wrong will provide us with the motivation we need to face the challenges of survival. When we choose to focus on what makes us happy, however, a shift occurs in the fabric of our existence. Finding something to be happy about every single day can help this shift take place. The vantage points from which we view the world are brought into balance, and we can see that being alive truly is a gift to be savored. There is always something we can be happy about—it is simply up to us to identify it.
On one day, we may find happiness in a momentous, life-changing event such as a marriage or the birth of a child. On another day, the happiness we experience may be a product of our appreciation of a particularly well-brewed cup of a tea or the way the sun shines on a leaf. If we discover that we literally cannot call to mind a single joyful element of existence, we should examine the cause of the blockage standing between us and experiencing happiness. Keeping a happiness journal is a wonderful way to catalog the happiness unfolding all around us so that joy has myriad opportunities to manifest itself in our lives. Writing about the emotions we experience while contemplating joy may give us insight into the factors compelling us to resist it.
Happiness may not always come easily into your life. You have likely been conditioned to believe that the proper response to unmet expectations is one of sadness, anger, guilt, or fear. To make joy a fixture in your existence, you must first accept that it is within your power to choose happiness over unhappiness every single day. Then, each time you discover some new source of happiness, the notion that the world is a happy place will find its way more deeply into your heart. On this day, find one thing to be happy about and let it fill your heart.
via DailyOM
DailyOM
Finding Your Joy
Be Happy Every Single Day
Our lives are rich with potential sources of happiness, but sometimes we become victims of negative thinking because we believe that focusing on all that has gone wrong will provide us with the motivation we need to face the challenges of survival. When we choose to focus on what makes us happy, however, a shift occurs in the fabric of our existence. Finding something to be happy about every single day can help this shift take place. The vantage points from which we view the world are brought into balance, and we can see that being alive truly is a gift to be savored. There is always something we can be happy about—it is simply up to us to identify it.
On one day, we may find happiness in a momentous, life-changing event such as a marriage or the birth of a child. On another day, the happiness we experience may be a product of our appreciation of a particularly well-brewed cup of a tea or the way the sun shines on a leaf. If we discover that we literally cannot call to mind a single joyful element of existence, we should examine the cause of the blockage standing between us and experiencing happiness. Keeping a happiness journal is a wonderful way to catalog the happiness unfolding all around us so that joy has myriad opportunities to manifest itself in our lives. Writing about the emotions we experience while contemplating joy may give us insight into the factors compelling us to resist it.
Happiness may not always come easily into your life. You have likely been conditioned to believe that the proper response to unmet expectations is one of sadness, anger, guilt, or fear. To make joy a fixture in your existence, you must first accept that it is within your power to choose happiness over unhappiness every single day. Then, each time you discover some new source of happiness, the notion that the world is a happy place will find its way more deeply into your heart. On this day, find one thing to be happy about and let it fill your heart.
via DailyOM
Last Day Dream
Last Day Dream [HD] from Chris Milk on Vimeo.
LAST DAY DREAM – A SHORT FILM BY CHRIS MILK
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Also, I have to write at least 50 words/day for my upcoming book. I know it may not sound like a lot, but I would like to take my time on this.
In addition, I am attempting to eliminate all swear words from my vocabulary during this time. Thanks Mrs. Shattuck.
Wish me luck,
AE
The only real failure in life is the failure to try. My attempts will go further than Lent. This is my life.
Black Man Doing Things
Jay-Z at the ceremonial ground-breaking of the new home of the future Brooklyn Nets(currently New Jersey Nets) at Barclays Center at Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
Attn: Must Read
Four years ago, Bryant Alexander watched his mother weep.
She stared down at a muddle of D's and F's on his eighth-grade report card and threatened to kick him out. He had barely passed elementary school, and high school wasn't even on his radar.
"Something just clicked," Alexander, now 18, said. "I knew I had to do something."
On Friday, Alexander proudly swapped his high school's red uniform tie for a striped red and gold one — the ritual at Englewood's Urban Prep Academy for Young Men that signifies a student has been accepted into college.
As the Roseland resident and 12 others tied their knots, Chicago's only public all-male, all-African-American high school fulfilled its mission: 100 percent of its first senior class had been accepted to four-year colleges.
Mayor Richard Daley and city schools chief Ron Huberman surprised students at the all-school assembly Friday morning with congratulations, and school leaders announced that as a reward, prom would be free.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Anything Can Be Overcome: DailyOM
March 10, 2010
DailyOM
Anything Can Be Overcome
Hope in Hardship
The journey that each human being makes through earthly existence can have hardship as often as it is touched by joy. When we encounter adversity, the stress we feel can erode our optimism, eventually convincing us that the issues we face cannot be overcome. In truth, there is no situation so dire, no challenge so great, and no choice so bewildering that it cannot be overcome. Though we may believe that all avenues have been closed to us or that our most conscientious efforts will come to naught, we are never without feasible options. The best course of action may be veiled in doubt, but it is there. When we are honest with ourselves with regard to this simple fact, we can overcome anything because we will never stop looking for a solution to the challenges before us.
Self-trust coupled with a sturdy plan is the ultimate antidote to adversity’s tendency to inspire disillusionment in the human mind. As difficult as the obstacle plaguing you seems, it is no match for the love of a supportive universe that has been a part of your life since the day of your birth and will be with you forevermore. Try not to be misguided by your fear as this gives rise to the notion that there are problems without solutions. If you believe in your capabilities and dedicate yourself to the creation of some form of resolution, you will be surprised to discover that paths that were once closed to you miraculously open. Even if all you can do is change your perspective to turn an impediment into an opportunity to grow, you will have found the hope that is an inherent element of all hardship.
Remember that your destiny is a product of your own creation. Even when it seems you have nowhere left to turn, there is a solution waiting for you. The only insurmountable obstacles are the ones you create in your own mind—and these can only exert power over you if you let them. Uncertainty will always be a part of your existence, but perseverance and mindfulness will never fail to see you through to the other side of hardship where joy can thrive. Try and remember that no matter what life places at your feet, there is absolutely no situation that cannot be resolved with time, love, and friendship.
via DailyOM
DailyOM
Anything Can Be Overcome
Hope in Hardship
The journey that each human being makes through earthly existence can have hardship as often as it is touched by joy. When we encounter adversity, the stress we feel can erode our optimism, eventually convincing us that the issues we face cannot be overcome. In truth, there is no situation so dire, no challenge so great, and no choice so bewildering that it cannot be overcome. Though we may believe that all avenues have been closed to us or that our most conscientious efforts will come to naught, we are never without feasible options. The best course of action may be veiled in doubt, but it is there. When we are honest with ourselves with regard to this simple fact, we can overcome anything because we will never stop looking for a solution to the challenges before us.
Self-trust coupled with a sturdy plan is the ultimate antidote to adversity’s tendency to inspire disillusionment in the human mind. As difficult as the obstacle plaguing you seems, it is no match for the love of a supportive universe that has been a part of your life since the day of your birth and will be with you forevermore. Try not to be misguided by your fear as this gives rise to the notion that there are problems without solutions. If you believe in your capabilities and dedicate yourself to the creation of some form of resolution, you will be surprised to discover that paths that were once closed to you miraculously open. Even if all you can do is change your perspective to turn an impediment into an opportunity to grow, you will have found the hope that is an inherent element of all hardship.
Remember that your destiny is a product of your own creation. Even when it seems you have nowhere left to turn, there is a solution waiting for you. The only insurmountable obstacles are the ones you create in your own mind—and these can only exert power over you if you let them. Uncertainty will always be a part of your existence, but perseverance and mindfulness will never fail to see you through to the other side of hardship where joy can thrive. Try and remember that no matter what life places at your feet, there is absolutely no situation that cannot be resolved with time, love, and friendship.
via DailyOM
Superheroes in History
From artist Agan Harahap, who uses photoshop to insert comic book heroes into political and wartime photos from the mid-20th century in his project called “Superhero Photography.” Enjoy enthusiasts!
Stolen Art at Neuschwanstein Castle, 1945
Stolen Art at Neuschwanstein Castle, 1945
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Exactly What I Needed, DailyOM
March 9, 2010
The Good In All
Looking Deeply
Sometimes we find it difficult to see the good in people, places, or situations that aren’t to our liking. We focus on the things we don’t like in our lives as a way of fueling our efforts to create change. There is nothing inherently wrong with this, and it is one way we make progress. However, if we get too caught up in this way of looking at the world, we lose touch with our ability to sit back and simply say yes to everything on our plates, which is the true starting point for all successful activity. Sometimes what we really need is to encourage ourselves to look deeply into all things in our lives to see the inherent goodness at the heart of everything.
At the core of this inquiry is the practice of unconditional acceptance, which can be scary because we feel as if we are being asked not to change the things we don’t like. But when we think this way, we are still operating on the surface of our lives. In order to feel the beauty and warmth of full acceptance, we have to be willing to sink deeper into the stratum underlying the external manifestation of our lives. This deeper place of being is the origin of all lasting change, yet its paradox is that when we are in it, we often don’t feel the need to change anything. From this place, we experience the pure beauty of the process of being alive, and we see that all things change in their own time. We don’t need to force anything. If there are things that we do need to change, from this place of serenity we create the shift easily, our hands guided by an energy that resides at the very center of our hearts.
In our active, goal-oriented culture, we learn to distrust stillness and to engage in busywork on the surface of life. This tendency can blind us to the good that lies at the heart of all things. But all we have to do to see again is stop for a moment, let go of our preconceptions and our agendas, and settle into the very center of our hearts, remembering that it is only from here that we can truly see.
via dailyom
The Good In All
Looking Deeply
Sometimes we find it difficult to see the good in people, places, or situations that aren’t to our liking. We focus on the things we don’t like in our lives as a way of fueling our efforts to create change. There is nothing inherently wrong with this, and it is one way we make progress. However, if we get too caught up in this way of looking at the world, we lose touch with our ability to sit back and simply say yes to everything on our plates, which is the true starting point for all successful activity. Sometimes what we really need is to encourage ourselves to look deeply into all things in our lives to see the inherent goodness at the heart of everything.
At the core of this inquiry is the practice of unconditional acceptance, which can be scary because we feel as if we are being asked not to change the things we don’t like. But when we think this way, we are still operating on the surface of our lives. In order to feel the beauty and warmth of full acceptance, we have to be willing to sink deeper into the stratum underlying the external manifestation of our lives. This deeper place of being is the origin of all lasting change, yet its paradox is that when we are in it, we often don’t feel the need to change anything. From this place, we experience the pure beauty of the process of being alive, and we see that all things change in their own time. We don’t need to force anything. If there are things that we do need to change, from this place of serenity we create the shift easily, our hands guided by an energy that resides at the very center of our hearts.
In our active, goal-oriented culture, we learn to distrust stillness and to engage in busywork on the surface of life. This tendency can blind us to the good that lies at the heart of all things. But all we have to do to see again is stop for a moment, let go of our preconceptions and our agendas, and settle into the very center of our hearts, remembering that it is only from here that we can truly see.
via dailyom
Monday, March 08, 2010
The Lifelist: Dreams & Aspirations
General
1. Speak at a TED Event
2. Speak at a SXSW Event
3. Attend At least 7 Different Religious Services (6/7)
4. Write & Publish A Non-Fictional Novel
5. Start a 401K
6. Learn to Sail the Seas
7. Buy Some Wingtips
8. Participate in an Undie Run
9. Have my Picture in a Newspaper
10. Be Recognized on a 30 Under 30 List
11. Be Caught in a ‘Getty’ Photograph
12. Start My Own Business
13. Be Inducted into a Hall of Fame
14. Meet My Grandchildren
15. Write a Short Screenplay
16. Take a Dive in a Submarine
17. Go to the Rodeo
18. Go Whale-Watching
19. Get a Passport
20. Become a Fashion Creative Director or Consultant
21. Write A Second Novel
22. Participate in a Flash Mob
23. Attend a Film Premiere
24. Help the World
25. Attend a Toastmasters' Session
26. Attend an Electric Daisy Concert
27. Swim with Dolphins
28. Drive a Racecar
29. Go Snowboarding
30. Go Skiing
31. See an Aurora Borealis
32. Produce a Movie or Short Film
33. Be a Vegetarian
34. Attend a MLB All-Star Game
35. Learn How to Play the Piano
36. Help Someone (Friend or Stranger) Achieve a Big Dream
37. Be Recognized on a Black Enterprise List
38. Earn a Degree
39. Learn How to Play an Instrument
40. Go Scuba Diving with the Fishies :)
41. March in a Parade
42. Spend a Week at a Silent Retreat
43. Study Abroad
44. Kiss a Foreigner in their Country
45. Write a Children’s Book
46. Participate in a Spartan or Tough Mudder Race
47. Run a 5K
48. Learn How to Play Chess
49. Go for a Cruise in My Own Car
50. Have My Suitcase be One of the First Five to Emerge at the Baggage Claim
51. Have My Artwork Exhibited in a Gallery
52. Go Skydiving
53. Watch a Meteor Shower
54. Own a Nightclub
55. Shake Hands with a President
56. Be Present at a Birth
57. Spend a Few Days in a Psych Ward
58. Swim with Sharks
59. Cut the Ribbon at a Major Opening
60. Write the Story of My Life
61. Spend a Night in Jail & Have My Mugshot Taken
62. Develop a Full Screenplay
63. Create a Blog
64. Go to a Strip Club
65. PA on a Set
66. Get a Certificate in Something I've Never Thought about Before
67. Ride a Camel in the Desert
68. Write a Personal Manifesto
69. Direct a Full Movie or Documentary
70. Attend a Broadway Play
71. Run a 10K
72. Get a Photograph Published
73. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
74. Become a Vintner (Winemaker)
75. Go Paragliding
76. Create & Own a (Japanese Fusion) Restaurant
77. Go Ice Skating
78. Run a Half or Full Marathon
79. Star in a Movie
80. Attend a TED Event
81. Bungy Jump off the Highest Point in the World
82. Go Parasailing
83. Record At Least One Mastered Song
84. Design a T-Shirt and Sell It
85. Sleep on the Beach
86. Chat With a CEO of a Fortune 500 Company
87. Attend the World Cup
88. Skinny Dip
89. Explore an Actual Haunted House
90. See a Tornado
91. Get a Caricature Drawn of Myself
92. Win Strip Poker
93. Learn How to Play Poker
94. Brew and Drink Homemade Wine
95. Become CPR Certified
96. Attend a World Series Game
97. Attend Day Glow LA
98. Create a Website
99. Experience Weightlessness
100. Move into My First Apartment
101. Become a Motivational Speaker
102. Learn How to Play Golf
103. Ride Something Larger than a Horse
104. Send an Inspirational Message in a Bottle
105. Attend a Midnight Premiere for a Movie
106. Fall in Love
107. Design and Get a Tattoo
108. Be One of CNN’s Heroes
109. Introduce Two People Who Fall in Love
110. Get Married
111. Bring a Life into the World
112. Save a Life
113. Join a Disaster Relief Effort
114. Create a Coat of Arms for My Family
115. Milk a Cow
116. Write a Letter to My Kids
117. Donate a Million Dollars to a Charity
118. Build a Habitat for Humanity Home
119. Create a Cookbook
120. Board a Plane With No Luggage/Carry-Ons
121. Experience a Natural Disaster
122. Go Jet Skiing
123. Donate a Million Dollars to My Alma Mater
124. Go Paintballing
125. Sail the Winds in a Hot Air Balloon
126. Windsurf
127. Design My Own Home (Inside & Out)
128. Attend a Super Bowl Game
129. Get an Article Published in a Newspaper or Periodical
130. Take a Meditation Class
131. Receive a Medal of Honor
132. Write a #1 New York Times’ Best Seller
133. Solve a Rubik's Cube
134. Sell a Piece of Artwork
135. Be a "Yes Man" for a Week
136. Attend a Lakers Game
137. Watch a Rocket Launch in Person
138. Learn How to Make Sushi
139. Break a Guinness World Record
140. Take a Shot of Authentic Absinthe
141. Be an Extra in a Film/Short
142. Take a Yoga Class
143. Sleep Under the Stars
144. Work with SoulPancake
145. Write a Personal Manifesto
146. Participate in SantaCon
147. Purchase a Tom Ford Suit
148. Have an Article Published on ThoughtCatalog
Culture + Travel
1. Travel to Every Continent (3/7)
2. Couchsurf in a Foreign Country
3. Go on a Cruise in Another Country
4. Attend a Music Festival in Another Country
5. Attend the Cannes Film Festival
6. Participate in Tomatina in Valencia Spain
7. Stay in a Vegas Penthouse
8. Go Zorbing in New Zealand
9. Attend Holi: Hindu Festival of Colors
10. Participate in the Brazilian Carnival
11. Complete the Monopoly Board Game Pub Crawl in London
12. Live in Spain
13. See Taipei 101
14. Move to Los Angeles
15. Take a Photo in Front of the Taj Mahal in India
16. Throw a Dart into a Map and Travel to Where it Lands
17. Attend the Dominican Carnival in La Vega
18. Walk Amongst the Pharaohs and Pyramids of Egypt
19. Travel to St. Petersburg
20. Attend Electric Daisy Carnival
21. Join the Mile High Club
22. Attend a Cirque du Soleil Show
23. Attend Burning Man in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada
24. Visit the House of Air in San Fransisco
25. See Mount Rushmore
26. Visit Tibet and Meditate
27. Participate in Thailand’s New Year’s Festival: Songkran – Waterfight!
28. Travel to Toronto
29. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
30. Visit England
31. Attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC
32. Snap a Photo of Angkor Wat in Cambodia
33. See the Largest Buddha in the World
34. Hike to the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles
35. Climb a Volcano
36. Participate in Ramadan
37. Go to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC
38. See the Petronas Towers
39. Visit Greece with My Mom
40. Attend a Midsummer (Summer Solstice) Event
41. Go to Abu Dhabi's Ferrari World
42. Wake Up in Vegas
43. See a Volcano Explode
44. Attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans and Flash for the Biggggest Beads
45. See Christ the Redeemer in Brazil
46. Attend the Sundance Film Festival
47. Take a Picture in Machu Picchu, Peru
48. Ride the Star Ferry in Hong Kong
49. Visit Chichen Itza, Mexico
50. Learn the Tango
51. Visit the Grand Canyon
52. Dance Tango in Argentina
53. Fly First Class
54. Attend Loy Krathong, the Sky Lantern Festival in Thailand
55. Visit San Francisco
56. Go on a Safari in Africa
57. Travel to the Moon, Possibly with Virgin Galactic
58. Go International with my Father
59. Take a Photo in Front of Stonehenge
60. See Victoria Falls in Africa
61. Visit Vienna
62. Live in Italy
63. Stand on the International Date Line
64. Visit Iguaçu National Park in Brazil
65. Walk the Great Wall of China
66. Chill on Miami Beach
67. Visit Petra, Jordan
68. Visit Coney Island and Eat an Authentic Nathan's Hot Dog
69. Ride a Gondola in Venice
70. Travel to Turkey
71. Visit Amsterdam (Go Flying)
72. Kiss in Front of the Eiffel Tower
73. Spend Christmas on the Beach
74. Travel to Tokyo
75. Participate in Lent
76. Visit Portugal and Eat Authentic Egg Tarts
77. See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Take a Cliche Photo
78. Participate in Oktoberfest
79. Climb One of the Seven Summits
80. Visit Ireland
81. Visit the Lourve
82. Live in New York City
83. Check out the Wave in Arizona
84. Visit the Palms Islands
85. Visit a Foreign Country with My Sister
86. Visit the Greek Isles with My Family
87. Live in Hong Kong
88. Relax on the Phi Phi Islands
89. Visit the Galapagos Islands
90. Travel to Bali
91. See the Terracotta Warriors in China
92. Buy and Use an All-Around-the-World-Ticket
93. Go Hot-Air Ballooning in Bagan, Myanmar
94. Visit Sequoia National Park
Who I Would Like to Meet (In No Particular Order)
1. Maya Angelou
2. Paulo Coehlo
3. Elon Musk
4. Kanye West
5. Sean 'Diddy' Combs
6. Gretchen Rubin
7. Will Smith
8. Mitch Albom
9. Sara Blakely
10. Dwayne Johnson
11. Sir Richard Branson
12. Steve Stoute
13. Sheryl Sandberg
14. Steven Spielberg
15. Blake Mycoskie
16. David Karp
17. J. Cole
18. Rachel Ray
19. John Favreau
20. Common
21. Oprah Winfrey
22. Donald Glover
23. Tom Ford
24. Sam Nazarian
25. Ryan 'Kaskade' Raddon
26. Nick Wooster
27. Don Cheadle
28. Tim Ferris
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Two Beautiful Videos
The Aftermath:Haiti
Via Vimeo
Haiti Earthquake Aftermath Montage from Khalid Mohtaseb on Vimeo.
The First SnowThe First Snow, Canon 7D from Reid Carrescia on Vimeo.
Via Vimeo
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Sharp Book Cover Designs
A great book cover tells stories without the reader having to read what's on the inside. Here are some of my favorite book covers. Enjoy.
via psd.tutsplus.com/
via psd.tutsplus.com/
Debut Batman Comic Sells for Big Buck$
A 1939 comic book in which Batman makes his debut sold at auction Thursday for more than $1 million, breaking a record set just three days earlier by a Superman comic, Heritage Auction Galleries said.
"It pretty much blew away all of our expectations and now it's the highest price ever raised for a comic book," said Barry Sandoval, director of operations of Heritage's comics division."
Supposedly, the cosigner had bought the Batman comic in the late 1960s for $100. With a bright yellow background, the comic features Batman swinging on a rope above city rooftops.
"It's an exciting week in comic books when you have two comics selling for $1 million," said Vincent Zurzolo, COO of comicconnect.com, who took the breaking of their record in stride.
via jam.canoe.ca
Always Be for Something
March 3, 2010
"Throughout your life, you have likely been told that the actions of one person will seldom have a measurable impact on the world. Yet your willingness to stand up for what you believe in instead of decrying what you oppose can turn the tides of fate. The thoughts you project when you choose to adopt a positive perspective will provide you with a means to actively promote your values and, eventually, foster lasting change"
Via DailyOM
"Throughout your life, you have likely been told that the actions of one person will seldom have a measurable impact on the world. Yet your willingness to stand up for what you believe in instead of decrying what you oppose can turn the tides of fate. The thoughts you project when you choose to adopt a positive perspective will provide you with a means to actively promote your values and, eventually, foster lasting change"
Via DailyOM
Monday, March 01, 2010
Message from the Blogger
I am happy for everyone who is finding and discovery everything they are looking for in life.
-AE, 1st Day of March
-AE, 1st Day of March
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