Sunday, May 31, 2009
Notorious - The Movie
Last night, I spent the night at my homegirl's house in Irvine. We've been friends since college and caught up over some good food, dessert, and decided to make it a chill night so we rented a movie: "Notorious".
It was only $1 but it was such a good movie! "Notorious" about the life of "Notorious B.I.G." So the movie was based in Brooklyn, NY of course. I learned a lot more about Christopher Wallace, a.k.a. Notorious B.I.G., and I admired him for the person who he was asides from his amazing lyrical freestyle of course. The soundtrack brought back memories of listening to him and 2pac, and of course his personal relationships with Puff Daddy, before he was P-Diddy, Lil' Kim, and his wife, Faith Evans.
It also got me excited about going to NY next month. Seeing the scenery and the landscape. I can't wait to be back there in battle mode. Speaking of which, time to stretch and practice. Check out the movie if you get the chance =)
Friday, May 29, 2009
"A Tribute to Los Angeles" (a work in progress)
Overcrowded schools, track systems and old books
Lack of funding in education from low scores and economic recession
Poorer communities overlooked.
Poor public transportation
Long hours riding home
Sitting bitterly in traffic
With my thoughts driving alone.
I breathe in deep the smoke from San Bernardino and Ventura fires
Not too different from the smog of dirty engines
Driving up Vermont Avenue
Stop at an intersection to see a crack addict crossing the street
A few feet further a teenage mom is holding her baby’s hand
Look to the left and see an elderly man
Waiting to ride the bus
Blending into a background of friend chicken shacks, nail salons and mom and pop shops
Mixed into an array of Walmart, Krispy Kreme and Starbucks.
She is the river that runs from the San Gabriel mountains, to the San Fernando Valley and opens up to the Pacific Ocean by way of Long Beach.
She is Dodger Blue with her initials in white.
She is Purple and Gold from the Great Western Forum to the Staples Center.
She is the mentally ill or drug addict searching for shelter on Skid Row, roaming Little Tokyo and beyond.
She is the skater, the side walk performer, or drummer at Venice Beach.
She is celebrating her quinceanera in Boyle Heights.
She is cruising down Crenshaw Boulevard on warm summer afternoons.
She is selling drugs or fake IDs at MacArthur Park.
She is the homeless person holding a sign at the end of the freeway.
She is the Mexican selling oranges, coconuts, or flowers for a daily wage.
She is pushing her elote or ice cream cart down the block
She is selling bacon wrapped hotdogs and tamales outside of nightclubs and stores full of factory made clothes.
She is running her sewing machine from sun up to sun down above restaurants and wholesale/retail stores hidden among traffic-flooded streets.
She is the scent of barbecued ribs, carne asada or kalbi,
staining white dresses and Russell Athletic t-shirts with sangria.
She is the dream that makes people move from other countries, cities, and states.
She is the city that angels can get lost in
vast enough for scandals to be covered and forgotten.
Lack of funding in education from low scores and economic recession
Poorer communities overlooked.
Poor public transportation
Long hours riding home
Sitting bitterly in traffic
With my thoughts driving alone.
I breathe in deep the smoke from San Bernardino and Ventura fires
Not too different from the smog of dirty engines
Driving up Vermont Avenue
Stop at an intersection to see a crack addict crossing the street
A few feet further a teenage mom is holding her baby’s hand
Look to the left and see an elderly man
Waiting to ride the bus
Blending into a background of friend chicken shacks, nail salons and mom and pop shops
Mixed into an array of Walmart, Krispy Kreme and Starbucks.
She is the river that runs from the San Gabriel mountains, to the San Fernando Valley and opens up to the Pacific Ocean by way of Long Beach.
She is Dodger Blue with her initials in white.
She is Purple and Gold from the Great Western Forum to the Staples Center.
She is the mentally ill or drug addict searching for shelter on Skid Row, roaming Little Tokyo and beyond.
She is the skater, the side walk performer, or drummer at Venice Beach.
She is celebrating her quinceanera in Boyle Heights.
She is cruising down Crenshaw Boulevard on warm summer afternoons.
She is selling drugs or fake IDs at MacArthur Park.
She is the homeless person holding a sign at the end of the freeway.
She is the Mexican selling oranges, coconuts, or flowers for a daily wage.
She is pushing her elote or ice cream cart down the block
She is selling bacon wrapped hotdogs and tamales outside of nightclubs and stores full of factory made clothes.
She is running her sewing machine from sun up to sun down above restaurants and wholesale/retail stores hidden among traffic-flooded streets.
She is the scent of barbecued ribs, carne asada or kalbi,
staining white dresses and Russell Athletic t-shirts with sangria.
She is the dream that makes people move from other countries, cities, and states.
She is the city that angels can get lost in
vast enough for scandals to be covered and forgotten.
"Womyn of War"
Womyn of war CRY OUT and let the world hear tears of justice
Womyn of war SPEAK OUT and let the words be solid
Like clenched fists raised in the air among city streets
Within thousands of miles echoing off roaring chants
Bouncing off dilapidated buildings.
This is for the woman, bomb pressed against chest,
10 seconds, thumb waiting to detonate.
This one’s for the barrio mom
Praying for her solder son’s fate.
Womyn of war in combat waiting in bamboo trees
Gun clenched, ready to attack
She is veiled in peasant disguise ready to fight back.
She is the Zapatista woman faced covered in clth black.
Sisters of war, soldiers and casualties
You are victims with your children
Running from aerial bombs and military raids
Praying the next will mess
Then
You cry over recent deaths of those not as lucky as you.
This time, maybe next time
Explosions are common all the time
Sounds of shot, ring shots of terror
Traumatizing your mind
Whether in Afghanistan, Cuba, Okinawa, Columbia, the Philippines or Iraq
It’s all the same scene of army attire and US marines
Taunting and harassing you with sexual demands and favors
Leaving you with the choice of refuse now, die later.
Womyn of war, take arms if it means defending your own freedom
By voice or by bullet be heard and retaliate in order to save your queendom
From future corpses and bloody grounds, before your own fate is taken by the gun
Next time it might be your sister in the coffin
Next time it might be your son
Woman warrior who’s fought battles among a thousand years of genocide all over the world for your people
Link Arms, and Raise Fists, high in the air before your fate is sealed
With meditation, prayer, and spirit help others heal
Scream words of freedom, sing songs of justice,
To make others feel your struggle and this battle you choose to not turn your back on
Before all the children are gone
Before red, white, and blue claims the war has been won.
Mothers of war Scream Out and let the world hear torment and pain.
Womyn of war Shout Out demands of GET OUT and departure over and over again.
Daughters of war Cry Out and let the world hear tears of justice
Sisters of war Speak Out and let the words flow solid
Like elevated clenched fists.
Womyn of war SPEAK OUT and let the words be solid
Like clenched fists raised in the air among city streets
Within thousands of miles echoing off roaring chants
Bouncing off dilapidated buildings.
This is for the woman, bomb pressed against chest,
10 seconds, thumb waiting to detonate.
This one’s for the barrio mom
Praying for her solder son’s fate.
Womyn of war in combat waiting in bamboo trees
Gun clenched, ready to attack
She is veiled in peasant disguise ready to fight back.
She is the Zapatista woman faced covered in clth black.
Sisters of war, soldiers and casualties
You are victims with your children
Running from aerial bombs and military raids
Praying the next will mess
Then
You cry over recent deaths of those not as lucky as you.
This time, maybe next time
Explosions are common all the time
Sounds of shot, ring shots of terror
Traumatizing your mind
Whether in Afghanistan, Cuba, Okinawa, Columbia, the Philippines or Iraq
It’s all the same scene of army attire and US marines
Taunting and harassing you with sexual demands and favors
Leaving you with the choice of refuse now, die later.
Womyn of war, take arms if it means defending your own freedom
By voice or by bullet be heard and retaliate in order to save your queendom
From future corpses and bloody grounds, before your own fate is taken by the gun
Next time it might be your sister in the coffin
Next time it might be your son
Woman warrior who’s fought battles among a thousand years of genocide all over the world for your people
Link Arms, and Raise Fists, high in the air before your fate is sealed
With meditation, prayer, and spirit help others heal
Scream words of freedom, sing songs of justice,
To make others feel your struggle and this battle you choose to not turn your back on
Before all the children are gone
Before red, white, and blue claims the war has been won.
Mothers of war Scream Out and let the world hear torment and pain.
Womyn of war Shout Out demands of GET OUT and departure over and over again.
Daughters of war Cry Out and let the world hear tears of justice
Sisters of war Speak Out and let the words flow solid
Like elevated clenched fists.
"Cursed by Fate"
Everywhere I look, wherever I go
Your essence lingers with the passing of time
And instead of your presence erasing like morning mist upon my window
It just gets stronger and more defined
Through each passing day
And nostalgic cycles of memories flutter rapidly in my mind
Contrasting the slow pulsing that my heart extracts
I feel my body relax under the power of your presence
Only you can cast that spell of emotional illusion over me
No other can bring that same force that seems to elevate me into another state
Another place
Each waking moment gives me visions of your face
I travel distances and miles but nothing seems to erase
Our connection of unexplainable attraction
Reciprocal, mutual, although you may deny it
You know you can’t fight it because unknown forces always seem to bring us together unexpectedly
Though we wishfully try to ignore it
It is still there and may always be there
Because of history between you and me
And before there was this there existed a we
Cut short by the boundaries of our destinies and living realities
You still have the ability to touch the inner me
Release me, because you changed me
When you set me free unwillingly
You respected me and what was to be
And now I thank you a thousand times in my memory
Though we travel different paths and walk down separate roads
Fate just always brings you to me
Whatever it is, a reality or mere fantasy
I wonder if time will bring us to where we need to be.
Presently, I’ll be thinking, cursed by you in my memory.
Your essence lingers with the passing of time
And instead of your presence erasing like morning mist upon my window
It just gets stronger and more defined
Through each passing day
And nostalgic cycles of memories flutter rapidly in my mind
Contrasting the slow pulsing that my heart extracts
I feel my body relax under the power of your presence
Only you can cast that spell of emotional illusion over me
No other can bring that same force that seems to elevate me into another state
Another place
Each waking moment gives me visions of your face
I travel distances and miles but nothing seems to erase
Our connection of unexplainable attraction
Reciprocal, mutual, although you may deny it
You know you can’t fight it because unknown forces always seem to bring us together unexpectedly
Though we wishfully try to ignore it
It is still there and may always be there
Because of history between you and me
And before there was this there existed a we
Cut short by the boundaries of our destinies and living realities
You still have the ability to touch the inner me
Release me, because you changed me
When you set me free unwillingly
You respected me and what was to be
And now I thank you a thousand times in my memory
Though we travel different paths and walk down separate roads
Fate just always brings you to me
Whatever it is, a reality or mere fantasy
I wonder if time will bring us to where we need to be.
Presently, I’ll be thinking, cursed by you in my memory.
"Untitled" (Inspired by John Coltrane's "In a Sentimental Mood")
“Untitled”
I’ve met you before
In another lifetime, in another place
Where we shared the same space
For when I saw your face and looked into your eyes
They told stories of crowded city streets I’ve walked down during warm summer afternoons
Passing hours, caught in interludes of thought
I dreamed of you during rainy days
And cold winter nights staring at the dimly lighted street through my window
I wished for you while counting stars
And forming shapes with clouds
While my soul called out loud for your name
But no answer
No reply
Just a sigh
It was only a matter of time
And fate or faith that brought us to that day
Of our encounter when we finally met face to face
And nothing but breath could leave my lips
And conversational silence of stories I know so well
Repeatedly told in my mind
No longer confined but finally liberated in this moment of brief interaction
Our souls touched and danced to Ellington and Coltrane
And I was left speechless, overwhelmed, and still
Standing there, you and me, quietly listening to the sweet tunes of tranquility
Reflectively
No verbal exchange and yet I understood it all without reason or explanation
Split seconds
Until the winds of reality pushed us apart towards our destinations
You followed your path and I mine
Like clouds parting at the arrival of the sun at dawn
It was time
I turned to look back and you were gone
Gone
Gone, you left me with a gift
The memory of our encounter
And with this I too
Slowly turn around
Smile subtly
And walk away.
I’ve met you before
In another lifetime, in another place
Where we shared the same space
For when I saw your face and looked into your eyes
They told stories of crowded city streets I’ve walked down during warm summer afternoons
Passing hours, caught in interludes of thought
I dreamed of you during rainy days
And cold winter nights staring at the dimly lighted street through my window
I wished for you while counting stars
And forming shapes with clouds
While my soul called out loud for your name
But no answer
No reply
Just a sigh
It was only a matter of time
And fate or faith that brought us to that day
Of our encounter when we finally met face to face
And nothing but breath could leave my lips
And conversational silence of stories I know so well
Repeatedly told in my mind
No longer confined but finally liberated in this moment of brief interaction
Our souls touched and danced to Ellington and Coltrane
And I was left speechless, overwhelmed, and still
Standing there, you and me, quietly listening to the sweet tunes of tranquility
Reflectively
No verbal exchange and yet I understood it all without reason or explanation
Split seconds
Until the winds of reality pushed us apart towards our destinations
You followed your path and I mine
Like clouds parting at the arrival of the sun at dawn
It was time
I turned to look back and you were gone
Gone
Gone, you left me with a gift
The memory of our encounter
And with this I too
Slowly turn around
Smile subtly
And walk away.
Applying for a Creative Writing teaching position in the Bay Area
I just worked through one of the most rigorous job applications that I've done in a long time. It was so rigorous that I needed to take the day off just to focus entirely on it and make it to the post office by the deadline. It has to be in San Francisco by June 1st. Knowing how I'm such a procrastinator when it comes to these things, I needed to put all my time and energy into it. I found the application originally quite intimidating because of all the things that were requested to complete it: 2 letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, a lesson plan, and writing samples? It felt like I was applying for graduate school all over again! J/K, that's of course a grandiose exaggeration. I had 2 weeks to complete all of this! I thought to myself, "how was I going to do all of this?". But then, my friend who used to have the job said that I had a chance of getting the job myself because of my experience and that he would put in a good word to his former employer. My two letters of recommendations were submitted on my behalf. At this point, I realized that I had no choice now but to follow thru with the process.
I'm really glad that I did. It was an amazing process for me to actually work on this application and finally complete it. On the downside of things, I realized that I hadn't done creative work or writing in about 5 years or more and was worried about how the employers may see this reflected in my application. But on the upside of things, it reminded me of what I loved doing once and why it was so important for me to go back into a career where I could once again tap into my creative energies and really utilize and apply my full artistic potential. I realized how much I used to write, perform, and the memories and people that I met along the way. I saw the pieces I used to write and had to include them in my writing sample that I submitted along with my application.
So I decided to post the 5 poems that I used in my writing sample on Facebook. It was a good reminder of what I used to write and what I'm capable of producing, as well as hopefully a motivator to once again pull from these creative juices in producing much more valuable work in the near future.
Thank you for allowing me to humbly share,
Cheryl =)
On that note, here is the first and four others to follow:
“Your silence is your struggle, voice is our freedom”
Your silence equals your pain
Is your inner frustration
Is your disappointment
Is your hard work
Is the source of my outward tears and confusion of anger
In trying to understand stories across the ocean
In another land, in a foreign tongue
That I was not raised to understand
For reasons of survival and assimilation
Into a culture not eager to accept my strength and will
To liberate myself and you.
Your broken dreams of unfulfilled fantasies of success
Lie in a land that taunts your accent
As you explain your educational background seen inferior to these American employers.
Your silence is my confusion
In an attempt to decipher what culture is inherently mine
Trying to search past colonial walls of Spanish/American injections and dominance
I hold out my hands trying to hold the scraps of identity
Before they blow away form the winds of Western time
Or the memory of family history
And governmental massacres that are far from my reach to physically prevent.
Your silence is my voice
Is my strength
Is my struggle
To retain what is yours
What you dream
What you believe in
I carry your silence on my shoulders as my guide
My light in darkness, through injustice
I live through you
Because of you
Because you dreamed and through me you shall speak
Because I will not let them win and pride in your silence!
Your silence is my voice
Is my vision
Is my inheritance
Is the fuel to my fire towards justice and OUR peace
A solution to the battles that you face that become mine
BECAUSE I AM YOUR SEED, I AM YOUR KIN.
I hear battles through your slience
You live in me
Because your silence is my voices
Is OUR freedom.
I'm really glad that I did. It was an amazing process for me to actually work on this application and finally complete it. On the downside of things, I realized that I hadn't done creative work or writing in about 5 years or more and was worried about how the employers may see this reflected in my application. But on the upside of things, it reminded me of what I loved doing once and why it was so important for me to go back into a career where I could once again tap into my creative energies and really utilize and apply my full artistic potential. I realized how much I used to write, perform, and the memories and people that I met along the way. I saw the pieces I used to write and had to include them in my writing sample that I submitted along with my application.
So I decided to post the 5 poems that I used in my writing sample on Facebook. It was a good reminder of what I used to write and what I'm capable of producing, as well as hopefully a motivator to once again pull from these creative juices in producing much more valuable work in the near future.
Thank you for allowing me to humbly share,
Cheryl =)
On that note, here is the first and four others to follow:
“Your silence is your struggle, voice is our freedom”
Your silence equals your pain
Is your inner frustration
Is your disappointment
Is your hard work
Is the source of my outward tears and confusion of anger
In trying to understand stories across the ocean
In another land, in a foreign tongue
That I was not raised to understand
For reasons of survival and assimilation
Into a culture not eager to accept my strength and will
To liberate myself and you.
Your broken dreams of unfulfilled fantasies of success
Lie in a land that taunts your accent
As you explain your educational background seen inferior to these American employers.
Your silence is my confusion
In an attempt to decipher what culture is inherently mine
Trying to search past colonial walls of Spanish/American injections and dominance
I hold out my hands trying to hold the scraps of identity
Before they blow away form the winds of Western time
Or the memory of family history
And governmental massacres that are far from my reach to physically prevent.
Your silence is my voice
Is my strength
Is my struggle
To retain what is yours
What you dream
What you believe in
I carry your silence on my shoulders as my guide
My light in darkness, through injustice
I live through you
Because of you
Because you dreamed and through me you shall speak
Because I will not let them win and pride in your silence!
Your silence is my voice
Is my vision
Is my inheritance
Is the fuel to my fire towards justice and OUR peace
A solution to the battles that you face that become mine
BECAUSE I AM YOUR SEED, I AM YOUR KIN.
I hear battles through your slience
You live in me
Because your silence is my voices
Is OUR freedom.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
It's official! I paid for the battle entry =)
Yes, you read that right. It's official. I am entering the Experimental Battle at House Dance International in NYC this year!
Being my first battle ever, I don't really care if I win or not, I'm just looking forward to the experience and the beginning of a journey into the unknown within my dancing. Already, I am feeling motivated to improve and I have something to look forward to. I am training hard and my dancer friends wanna train with me. Already, it is turning out to be a beautiful experience. I am really looking forward to my growth as a dancer and I am grateful and appreciative for all the individuals that are joining me on this path of amazing opportunity ahead.
On that note, since training started this past weekend after I made my decision, you know I couldn't miss out on my DEEP Memorial Day experience. We were blessed with DJ Timmy Regisford from Shelter in NYC, one of the most famous house clubs in house history.
His set was amazing! I could not stop dancing to all the famous house songs that he was playing. I knew many of them from the mixes I had, but it was great to finally hear them live as they bumped from the DEEP speakers and filled the room. It moved us, and we danced all night long until 4am! It was a good opportunity for me to explore my dance vocabulary and I definitely experimented that night while having so much fun. It's time for me and the music to be one.
This was a word from Marques Wyatt, the residential DEEP house dj, about the amazing experience:
A Note from Marques:
It was indeed a Memorable Day weekend at Deep last Sunday. Timmy Regisford wasted no time in coming out of his shirt to immediately deliver the message that he meant business. His signature Shelter arsenal was quickly injected into the bloodstream of the Deep faithful, leaving us all intoxicated for the next 4 hours with no known vaccine. It quickly became obvious that he was heavily armed with hot-off-the-press Shelter mixes of Prince, Peven Everett, Fela Kuti, Donnie Hathaway (yep...you read it right), and a plethora of others...so we intuitively braced ourselves for the soul tsunami headed towards us. We survived! Also, the Deep pod was in the fullest effect on stage (that includes you too, Tak and Rina ;-)) and apparently inspired some to showcase a few rather unique dance moves of their own (return of the Happy Dancer, Zanne;-)). Believe it or not Kid-n-Play were in the building (cool kats by the way) which inspired Big Cee and yours truly to pay "Houseparty" respects and do a little jig in tandem (brought Zanne to her knees! haha). Timmy you are a warrior and never cease to amaze us.
Upstairs in the Deep Loft the Sarcastic Crew were laying down some serious grooves. DJ Harvey and Paul T were a two man wrecking crew (shop that is). It was truly beautiful up there (I'm not just talking about you, Karen ;-)). The vibe was amazing and original Deep fam members were abundant. It was an unexpected reunion and so good to see you all. That performance definitely deserves a repeat...Let's do it again soon fellas. Big ups to Heidi for helping us make it happen.
and of course, the last event before I head out to NY:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
4TH OF JULY DEEP SPECIAL EVENT!
Saturday, July 4th
VENICE GETS DEEP
At the AC SUPPER CLUB
625 Lincoln Blvd (3 blocks South of Rose)
Venice
8PM - 2 AM
HDI will be exciting this year with an LA Open House contingent coming out and representing in the battles. NYC, get ready, LA is coming your way! =)
Being my first battle ever, I don't really care if I win or not, I'm just looking forward to the experience and the beginning of a journey into the unknown within my dancing. Already, I am feeling motivated to improve and I have something to look forward to. I am training hard and my dancer friends wanna train with me. Already, it is turning out to be a beautiful experience. I am really looking forward to my growth as a dancer and I am grateful and appreciative for all the individuals that are joining me on this path of amazing opportunity ahead.
On that note, since training started this past weekend after I made my decision, you know I couldn't miss out on my DEEP Memorial Day experience. We were blessed with DJ Timmy Regisford from Shelter in NYC, one of the most famous house clubs in house history.
His set was amazing! I could not stop dancing to all the famous house songs that he was playing. I knew many of them from the mixes I had, but it was great to finally hear them live as they bumped from the DEEP speakers and filled the room. It moved us, and we danced all night long until 4am! It was a good opportunity for me to explore my dance vocabulary and I definitely experimented that night while having so much fun. It's time for me and the music to be one.
This was a word from Marques Wyatt, the residential DEEP house dj, about the amazing experience:
A Note from Marques:
It was indeed a Memorable Day weekend at Deep last Sunday. Timmy Regisford wasted no time in coming out of his shirt to immediately deliver the message that he meant business. His signature Shelter arsenal was quickly injected into the bloodstream of the Deep faithful, leaving us all intoxicated for the next 4 hours with no known vaccine. It quickly became obvious that he was heavily armed with hot-off-the-press Shelter mixes of Prince, Peven Everett, Fela Kuti, Donnie Hathaway (yep...you read it right), and a plethora of others...so we intuitively braced ourselves for the soul tsunami headed towards us. We survived! Also, the Deep pod was in the fullest effect on stage (that includes you too, Tak and Rina ;-)) and apparently inspired some to showcase a few rather unique dance moves of their own (return of the Happy Dancer, Zanne;-)). Believe it or not Kid-n-Play were in the building (cool kats by the way) which inspired Big Cee and yours truly to pay "Houseparty" respects and do a little jig in tandem (brought Zanne to her knees! haha). Timmy you are a warrior and never cease to amaze us.
Upstairs in the Deep Loft the Sarcastic Crew were laying down some serious grooves. DJ Harvey and Paul T were a two man wrecking crew (shop that is). It was truly beautiful up there (I'm not just talking about you, Karen ;-)). The vibe was amazing and original Deep fam members were abundant. It was an unexpected reunion and so good to see you all. That performance definitely deserves a repeat...Let's do it again soon fellas. Big ups to Heidi for helping us make it happen.
and of course, the last event before I head out to NY:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
4TH OF JULY DEEP SPECIAL EVENT!
Saturday, July 4th
VENICE GETS DEEP
At the AC SUPPER CLUB
625 Lincoln Blvd (3 blocks South of Rose)
Venice
8PM - 2 AM
HDI will be exciting this year with an LA Open House contingent coming out and representing in the battles. NYC, get ready, LA is coming your way! =)
Saturday, May 23, 2009
NYC House Dance Internationa 2009l: Experimental Battle
Maybe it's time?
Time for new endeavors. Time to take big leaps. Time to take huge risks. Time to follow my heart and dreams.
This is the time for transitions. It's all about the language. Positive thinking becomes positive beliefs. Positive beliefs are carried out in positive words. Positive words become positive behavior and positive behavior transforms into positive actions. Positive actions turn into a positive movement.
Your vibes and energy influence those around you and your environment. When you can transform yourself, you can impact those whom you interact with and those that surround your everyday.
This morning I told people that I am not losing my job. I changed my language in telling people that I am going thru a career transition and finally following what my heart is set out to do. An administrative career within the arts. That is what I am starting to believe in and so people are supportive and receiving it with positive feelings and warmth.
I told Emiko that I am going to HDI this year and New York and she told me if I am going, then I might as well battle. I found every excuse to get out of the situation, but she told me if I don't try it now, when am I going to ever try it. She made me see that it is not about winning nor about my opponent. It will be all about myself, my individual expression of the dance, and will reveal to me more about myself and my dancing. Where I am at, how I can improve and where do I see myself going within this art form.
I thought about it, and I thought how a group of us are going to be representing LA this year, so with all this in mind, I decided, "why not?".
My very first battle. To me, it sounds kinda crazy considering that people compete in it from different parts of the world and to choose this event as my first battle is pretty intimidating in some ways. I don't know how good or bad I'll do, but I've decided that that part doesn't matter to me. Winning doesn't matter to me. I just want to explore the dance within myself and make love to the music. Let the music lead the way and allow my heart to be expressed on the dance floor thru my movements.
This is the time for success. This is the time for achievement. There is no turning back but lots of training ahead for what is in store in all aspects of my life. The time is now and it starts TODAY.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The Reason Why I'm a Social Worker and Why I Love This Job (a pictoral narrative)
If you knew the life stories behind the children in these pictures, it would give you so much more insight into why these moments meant a lot to me. It is both humbling and very enlightening to do the work that I do because of the children that I work for. At the end of the day, they make it all worth it.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Time to Re-focus
Pics from the Guacamole festival, without the guacamole. Haha =D It was avocadoes that got me there and although, I came back with only 4, my pics revealed to me so much more.
I'm glad I took my camera out this weekend. It was a nice weekend to shoot and really soak in the REAL LA and the Mexican influence that LA holds. Here are the pics to show it.
Tonight I spent almost an hour burning my pics onto disk. I haven't even touched the surface. Over 2000 photos tells me, I got a project ahead of me. I want to start sending pictures to people but these also represent potential gifts for people this year.
It also reminds me of the unfinished art projects that I've left unattended waiting to be finished.
I start so many things and never finish them, but this is the time to refocus and finish the things that I've left undone to make room for the things that are to come. These personal projects will allow me to refocus on my creativity and put my energy towards asking for my next job to involve a level of creativity.
As I continue with the job search, I re-focus on my creativity simultaneously.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
The Renaissance Fair and Korean Sento/Spa
Yesterday, was a fun filled day. My teacher friend, Sharon, had an extra ticket to the Renaissance Fair. I hadn't been there since high school when I went with some of the members from our drama club. It was so drama. Literally, everyone was in character, from the workers in the food court, to the people that attended. I had so much fun and here are some pictures to show it!
After that, I relaxed at the Korean sento/spa in Koreatown. There was so much dirt flying around at the Renaissance Fair that it only made sense to go to the bath house afterwards. Still, missing the onsens in Japan, this is the closest that I can get to it.
After the sento, Junko made me a yummy, cold soba meal. Healthy and delicious. I turned in early on a Saturday night while she stayed up watching episodes of Hana Yori Dango on my laptop =)
Good times. I'm taking my camera out today to the Guacamole festival in LA! Yummy =P Can't wait to have some avocado =)
Thursday, May 14, 2009
DJs Bobbito, Rich Medina, and Rashida (all under one roof!)
Host:
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT & FROLAB
Type:
Party - Club Party
Network:
Global
Start Time:
Saturday, May 23, 2009 at 9:00pm
End Time:
Sunday, May 24, 2009 at 2:00am
Location:
JIMMY'S LOUNGE
Street:
6202 SANTA MONICA BLVD.
City/Town:
Hollywood, CA
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT & FROLAB PRESENT
HAPPY FEET W/ BOBBITO & RICH MEDINA
OPENING SET BY DJ RASHIDA
21+
$10 PRESALE: http://www.going.com/happyfeet2
LIMITED CAPACITY- ARRIVE EARLY!!
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT & FROLAB PRESENT
Celebrating the release of Bobbito & Rich Medina's
R2 Records release The Connection Vol.1
WHAT IT IS
Since 1997, DJs Rich Medina and Bobbito Garcia have collaborated behind the turntables to the great pleasure of crowds in NYC and Philly. In ‘02, the two decided to start “Leaving This Planet” which had a torrid run at Manhattan’s Table 50 until the club closed in ‘05. They’ve since renamed the party “Happy Feet” and moved it to the Lower East Side’s Element, where in ‘07 it became the most talked about event of the summer months.
The pair blend genres seamlessly, so that a dancer, or listener, can experience Afro-Beat, Latin, Jazz, Dance, Breaks, progressive Hip Hop, and Soul in an unprecedented presentation. The achieved result is a entertaining night for the most die-hard rare groove fans to casual clubgoer—everyone leaves with happy feet!
BOBBITO GARCIA AKA KOOL BOB LOVE (NYC)
The toughest question anyone can ask Bobbito Garcia is “What do you do?” There might be ten answers!
He is the Editor In Chief of Bounce: From the Playground b-ball magazine, an accomplished Vibe magazine columnist, author of “Where’d You Get Those? NYC’s Sneaker Culture 1960-1987.” He is a world-class club DJ.
And one half of the WKCR 89.9 Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show, voted the ‘Best Hip Hop Radio Show of All-Time’ by The Source Magazine. He is a basketball performer at NBA halftime shows. He is the announcer for EA Sports’ “NBA Street” video game and for ESPN 2’s “It’s the Shoes” series. Not done yet...
He is a feature film actor and music consultant...
A true modern day renaissance man.
RICH MEDINA (NY,PHLLY)
DJ Rich Medina lives, breathes, and revels in sharing the type of music that make a listener remember his soul. It is this awareness of soul that brings listeners back time and again to hear Rich spin: heads nod, bodies sway, emotions expand and coalesce. Rich Medina holds DJ residencies at prominent venues throughout the country.
Most notably he is a defining DJ at NY’s famous APT nightclub as well as the prestigious Martinez Gallery. Rich was approached by Jill Scott to produce a track for what would be her multi-platinum debut release, Who Is Jill Scott? ( Sony/Hidden Beach). DJ Rich Medina, renaissance man, articulate performer and a down and dirty DJ who can go head to head with the best, is an artist who will transform the average experience of any club or venue and give his audience a night of music and words to remember.
DJ RASHIDA (LA)
As official DJ for His Purple Majesty, Prince, Rashida has been warming up crowds at his much-hyped performances over the last four years. When not giging around the world, Rashida can be heard spinning at any one of her many residences. Most notably Honey and KissNGrind with Garth Trinidad & Viktor Dupleix.
The Connection: Modern Explorations In Afro and Latin Music
In the last decade, Rich Medina and Bobbito Garcia have each fostered intense followings for specific genres and sound an d have branded their musical journeys at their HAPPY FEET party to the great pleasure of crowds worldwide. An inspired competition exists between them to outdo the other by introducing underexposed tunes. The Connection allows for others to share that joy that goes on in their DJ booth. This compilation, released on R2 Records, represents their passion for the rhythm that runs through us all, as well as the respect and love they have for each other. We hope that it connects you to your ancestors, or maybe just neighbors across the street, and way beyond.
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT
For the last 15 years Footlong Development has been producing and promoting events throughout Los Angeles. Most recently, the Wonder-Full and Soul Slam parties. These yearly sold out events have been a major part of LA’s soul revival.
FROLAB
An integrated creative and production resource based around the concept of “frolaboration”. Frolab provides an outlet for urbanites thirsting for authentic experiences that embrace hip hop, art & design.
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT & FROLAB
Type:
Party - Club Party
Network:
Global
Start Time:
Saturday, May 23, 2009 at 9:00pm
End Time:
Sunday, May 24, 2009 at 2:00am
Location:
JIMMY'S LOUNGE
Street:
6202 SANTA MONICA BLVD.
City/Town:
Hollywood, CA
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT & FROLAB PRESENT
HAPPY FEET W/ BOBBITO & RICH MEDINA
OPENING SET BY DJ RASHIDA
21+
$10 PRESALE: http://www.going.com/happyfeet2
LIMITED CAPACITY- ARRIVE EARLY!!
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT & FROLAB PRESENT
Celebrating the release of Bobbito & Rich Medina's
R2 Records release The Connection Vol.1
WHAT IT IS
Since 1997, DJs Rich Medina and Bobbito Garcia have collaborated behind the turntables to the great pleasure of crowds in NYC and Philly. In ‘02, the two decided to start “Leaving This Planet” which had a torrid run at Manhattan’s Table 50 until the club closed in ‘05. They’ve since renamed the party “Happy Feet” and moved it to the Lower East Side’s Element, where in ‘07 it became the most talked about event of the summer months.
The pair blend genres seamlessly, so that a dancer, or listener, can experience Afro-Beat, Latin, Jazz, Dance, Breaks, progressive Hip Hop, and Soul in an unprecedented presentation. The achieved result is a entertaining night for the most die-hard rare groove fans to casual clubgoer—everyone leaves with happy feet!
BOBBITO GARCIA AKA KOOL BOB LOVE (NYC)
The toughest question anyone can ask Bobbito Garcia is “What do you do?” There might be ten answers!
He is the Editor In Chief of Bounce: From the Playground b-ball magazine, an accomplished Vibe magazine columnist, author of “Where’d You Get Those? NYC’s Sneaker Culture 1960-1987.” He is a world-class club DJ.
And one half of the WKCR 89.9 Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show, voted the ‘Best Hip Hop Radio Show of All-Time’ by The Source Magazine. He is a basketball performer at NBA halftime shows. He is the announcer for EA Sports’ “NBA Street” video game and for ESPN 2’s “It’s the Shoes” series. Not done yet...
He is a feature film actor and music consultant...
A true modern day renaissance man.
RICH MEDINA (NY,PHLLY)
DJ Rich Medina lives, breathes, and revels in sharing the type of music that make a listener remember his soul. It is this awareness of soul that brings listeners back time and again to hear Rich spin: heads nod, bodies sway, emotions expand and coalesce. Rich Medina holds DJ residencies at prominent venues throughout the country.
Most notably he is a defining DJ at NY’s famous APT nightclub as well as the prestigious Martinez Gallery. Rich was approached by Jill Scott to produce a track for what would be her multi-platinum debut release, Who Is Jill Scott? ( Sony/Hidden Beach). DJ Rich Medina, renaissance man, articulate performer and a down and dirty DJ who can go head to head with the best, is an artist who will transform the average experience of any club or venue and give his audience a night of music and words to remember.
DJ RASHIDA (LA)
As official DJ for His Purple Majesty, Prince, Rashida has been warming up crowds at his much-hyped performances over the last four years. When not giging around the world, Rashida can be heard spinning at any one of her many residences. Most notably Honey and KissNGrind with Garth Trinidad & Viktor Dupleix.
The Connection: Modern Explorations In Afro and Latin Music
In the last decade, Rich Medina and Bobbito Garcia have each fostered intense followings for specific genres and sound an d have branded their musical journeys at their HAPPY FEET party to the great pleasure of crowds worldwide. An inspired competition exists between them to outdo the other by introducing underexposed tunes. The Connection allows for others to share that joy that goes on in their DJ booth. This compilation, released on R2 Records, represents their passion for the rhythm that runs through us all, as well as the respect and love they have for each other. We hope that it connects you to your ancestors, or maybe just neighbors across the street, and way beyond.
FOOTLONG DEVELOPMENT
For the last 15 years Footlong Development has been producing and promoting events throughout Los Angeles. Most recently, the Wonder-Full and Soul Slam parties. These yearly sold out events have been a major part of LA’s soul revival.
FROLAB
An integrated creative and production resource based around the concept of “frolaboration”. Frolab provides an outlet for urbanites thirsting for authentic experiences that embrace hip hop, art & design.
Do-over is back!! =)
Weee're Baaaack!!!
It's the party your Monday's love to hate. So kiss the next 25 Mondays goodbye because Summertime is officially here! And what would Summer be without The Do-Over and sangria stains?
We've come a long way since the Summer of 2005, and as we embark on our 5th Season this summer, The Do-Over has become a party FOR THE PEOPLE and BY THE PEOPLE featuring your favorite DJ's and their favorite DJ's who still remain a mystery every week. The Do-Over is more than just a party, it is a way of life! For that, we thank each and every one of you for supporting our vision and being a part of a cultural landmark in Los Angeles.
This Sunday May 17th, 2009
The forecast for Sunday is Sunshine + 80s, so it will be a great kickoff. Plus, it is Mr. Strong's B-Day, so you know it's gonna get wild. Early Arrival is strongly recommended!
*fashionably late is not the best look!
Fellas: The party is NOT called "The Dude-Over" so please respect the ratio.
*for real!
2PM-10PM
21+. Full Bar.
Food served all day.
Always Free / No Cover with RSVP
*if you are receiving this email, you are already on the list. If you have friends that are not, direct them to blog.thedoover.net/rsvp . We apologize for any confusion from last week's email, there was a bad link in the form which is now fixed. Clear your browser cache if the problem persists.
Crane's Hollywood Tavern
1611 N. El Centro Avenue
Hollywood, CA 90028
*map
Sound provided by:
Cerwin Vega
*whoomp
Contact Info
Find us all over the internet:
blog.thedoover.net
twitter.com/do_over
myspace.com/thedoover
Hit us up direct:
holler@thedoover.net
bookings@thedoover.net
What'cha Wanna Do? Do-Over!
If you are receiving this email, you are on the email / RSVP list for The Do-Over! You will not need to resubmit your name and email each week. RSVP does not mean instant access. Early arrival is the best bet. Do The Do-Over responsibly!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
For the Osaka heads: Rock the Bells Update
GUERILLA UNION ANNOUNCES ON-SALES FOR SEVERAL DATES OF THE ROCK THE BELLS 2009 FESTIVAL SERIES IN ASSOCIATION WITH BUDWEISER
LOS ANGELES AND DENVER GO ON-SALE SATURDAY, MAY 16
VANCOUVER AND SAN FRANCISCO ON-SALES SET FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 6
ICE CUBE ADDED EXCLUSIVELY TO LOS ANGELES-AREA BILL
OF NORTH AMERICA’S ONLY MAJOR TOURING HIP-HOP FESTIVAL
Guerilla Union--the promoter for the ROCK THE BELLS 2009 FESTIVAL SERIES announced on-sale information for a number of the dates for North America’s only major touring hip-hop festival. The Los Angeles and Denver markets will go on-sale this Saturday, May 16 with Vancouver and San Francisco joining on Saturday, June 6. The previously revealed stellar line-up of performers for this year’s ROCK THE BELLS will feature Nas & Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, The Roots, Big Boi, Common, Busta Rhymes plus many more.
A special announcement specific to this Los Angeles show--set for Saturday, August 8 at the San Manuel Amphitheatre--is the addition of special guest Ice Cube, the legendary rapper who was a major force in establishing the west coast hip-hop movement, not only as a member of N.W.A but also as a solo artist. This will mark his first ever appearance on the ROCK THE BELLS stage. “Ice Cube is a true legend,” states Chang Weisberg of Guerilla Union. “Having this icon perform on Rock the Bells, especially in his hometown, is a true honor for me and will certainly be an unforgettable experience for LA fans.” Ice Cube’s last album Raw Footage was released in 2008 via his own imprint Lench Mob Records.
Please check www.guerillaunion.com for the exact line-up and ticketing information for each city.
Sat - 8/8 - Los Angeles, CA - San Manuel Amphitheatre
Los Angeles
Pre-Sale:
Starts Thursday, 5/14 @10am
Ends Friday, 5/15 @10pm
Password: JAMROCK
On-Sale to the general public:
Saturday, 5/16 @10am
LOS ANGELES AND DENVER GO ON-SALE SATURDAY, MAY 16
VANCOUVER AND SAN FRANCISCO ON-SALES SET FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 6
ICE CUBE ADDED EXCLUSIVELY TO LOS ANGELES-AREA BILL
OF NORTH AMERICA’S ONLY MAJOR TOURING HIP-HOP FESTIVAL
Guerilla Union--the promoter for the ROCK THE BELLS 2009 FESTIVAL SERIES announced on-sale information for a number of the dates for North America’s only major touring hip-hop festival. The Los Angeles and Denver markets will go on-sale this Saturday, May 16 with Vancouver and San Francisco joining on Saturday, June 6. The previously revealed stellar line-up of performers for this year’s ROCK THE BELLS will feature Nas & Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, The Roots, Big Boi, Common, Busta Rhymes plus many more.
A special announcement specific to this Los Angeles show--set for Saturday, August 8 at the San Manuel Amphitheatre--is the addition of special guest Ice Cube, the legendary rapper who was a major force in establishing the west coast hip-hop movement, not only as a member of N.W.A but also as a solo artist. This will mark his first ever appearance on the ROCK THE BELLS stage. “Ice Cube is a true legend,” states Chang Weisberg of Guerilla Union. “Having this icon perform on Rock the Bells, especially in his hometown, is a true honor for me and will certainly be an unforgettable experience for LA fans.” Ice Cube’s last album Raw Footage was released in 2008 via his own imprint Lench Mob Records.
Please check www.guerillaunion.com for the exact line-up and ticketing information for each city.
Sat - 8/8 - Los Angeles, CA - San Manuel Amphitheatre
Los Angeles
Pre-Sale:
Starts Thursday, 5/14 @10am
Ends Friday, 5/15 @10pm
Password: JAMROCK
On-Sale to the general public:
Saturday, 5/16 @10am
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Your Energy
Your energy crosses oceans to reach me,
or maybe the universe is simply just trying to tell me something if I'm willing to pay attention.
I had the hardest month and just when I needed your energy the most, you reach out to me. It was as if you knew, that's exactly what I needed. Then, I just see signs of your presence in little things all around me and I am in awe of our connection.
I don't know how. I can't explain why, I just know that signs of your arrival are starting to surface.
What is this energy that you have? It's like LA is preparing to have you back.
House practice sessions, international dance events, popping and locking practice sessions, and now this monthly freestyle dance workshop. Just when I thought the freestyle dance scene had disappeared, it is resurrecting with your arrival, and you knew it all along.
Coincidence or fate? I don't know but LA is definitely waiting to welcome you back. =)
or maybe the universe is simply just trying to tell me something if I'm willing to pay attention.
I had the hardest month and just when I needed your energy the most, you reach out to me. It was as if you knew, that's exactly what I needed. Then, I just see signs of your presence in little things all around me and I am in awe of our connection.
I don't know how. I can't explain why, I just know that signs of your arrival are starting to surface.
What is this energy that you have? It's like LA is preparing to have you back.
House practice sessions, international dance events, popping and locking practice sessions, and now this monthly freestyle dance workshop. Just when I thought the freestyle dance scene had disappeared, it is resurrecting with your arrival, and you knew it all along.
Coincidence or fate? I don't know but LA is definitely waiting to welcome you back. =)
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Spiritual Teachings
It's been a while since I've meditated and I realized that this was a critical time to get back into that with all the changes that have been going on in my life. What I seek the most right now is direction and clarity. The last couple weeks it was about asking for strength. These next few weeks it will be about direction and clarity, focus and discipline. I am on my 3rd week of the cleanse and it is interesting how committed and disciplined I have become during this period. I hope that it continues.
Today, after my meditation, I read thru my Buddhist wisdom for every day book, always reflecting on the phrase of the day and this is what it said:
"We must look at our life without sentimentality, exaggeration or idealism. Does what we are choosing reflect what we most deeply value?" - Jack Kornfield
I thought that, that was exactly what I needed to read for today's spiritual reflection.
This also came to me in my e-mail today:
Hello Spirits,
I hope all are well on this 30th day of April, 2009.
I know it's been a while since the last C.O.S. message, but it hasn't been because of a spiritual disconnect from the Creator; it's been because I was tending to Self. I had some sentences to end; some chapters to close; some behaviors to wave good bye to.
Spirit touched me this morning and asked that I encourage some to move forward...from THIS point.
And so I oblige.
Tomorrow (May 1st) marks the first day of the fifth month of this year. We are almost half way into the year and yet many of you are still being held captive by insecurities, fears, traditional teachings, and past emotional traumas. Spirit whispered in my ear this morning, "Yeah, it's time."
Some of you are trapped in relationships that are unfulfilling, inappropriate, and overall unnecessary; yet you remain in the mismatched union because 'at least you have someone'...'at least you are not alone'. But I question, "What good is a union that offers no fulfillment and no support?" For surely, if you hold on to someone who isn't nourishing or nurturing to you in any way, you fill the space of opportunity with emptiness. I'd like to congratulate those people on their ability to find contentment with their respective emotional voids.
Some of you want to start new careers and embark on new journeys, yet you feel the fear of the unknown is enough to 'keep you in line'. I question, "Why would you want to be restricted?" Movement is a necessary part of growth; therefore, if you are to be 'kept in line', surely you find comfort in stagnancy. To these people I offer a hearty congratulation on your paralysis!
Some of you are held captive to what your parents or guardians taught you...even though you have either an urge to disprove their beliefs or a desire to learn what else exists in this world filled with 'spiritual alternatives'. And of course I question, "Why would you ignore an urge or desire when those influences come directly from the heart, moreover, are influenced by spiritual exploration?" To these people, I offer two congratulations: one congrat goes to them for their disregard for their spiritual yearnings and the other is offered to them for their ability to continue to live so powerlessly within such a power-filled existence!
Some of you are still hurting. Though the emotional trauma(s) that you experienced occurred many moons ago, you still walk around dressed in band-aids and gauze...and it's so obvious. I would then question, "Why would a person allow themselves to live an existence filled with pain from the past, while continually accumulating pain in the present?” Additionally, “Why would a person choose to hurt when to everyone is granted the opportunity to heal?" I offer my congratulations to those who find comfort in their pain; perceived performance despite their emotional blockages; and acceptance with the spiritual and emotional devastations that they cling to.
You see Spirits, when you take an objective look at (possibly) disabling experiences, you can see the confusion and ridiculousness in the unnecessary compromise of time, Self and power. Meditate and/or pray to find substantiation in this message and move forward…from THIS point.
Inner Peace,
~Tanya~
PS...when I sent this message, I didn't use the created email distribution list but rather clicked on the names of the spirits who should receive this message. Forgive my intrusion to your day.
"When you become conscious, you become responsible." - Tanya
"Don't interfere with the divine tapestry of your life, only allow it to influence your growth, healing and inner peace." Tanya O'Quinn
I just surpassed one of the hardest weeks in my month, the last week of April was extremely difficult for me and yet, The Creator/The Universe/God always finds ways to comfort me and reassure me when I need it the most. I continue to be spiritually connected because when my eyes are open and my soul is open to what the universe has to offer, I am given the assistance and support that I truly need. So many friends have given me support in the last week, I am extremely thankful and appreciative for that. "God helps those, who help themselves". On Friday, I was treated to a good night of DJ Spinna spinning his Prince vs. Michael Jackson set. My cousin, DJ Rhettmatic, as I know him, Nazareth, gave me a really good talk about doing what makes me happy and sticking to the path that whatever I do, at the end of the day, no matter what people say, I have to make choices based on what makes me happy. I really felt the support and love from him thru his message and it was exactly what I needed to hear that night. After I ran into him, I ran into DJ Miles of Breakestra and Root Down who validated me as a dancer, and asked me to come to Funky Soul and break out the dancers next Saturday. He recognized my love for the music and my love for movement. The discussions I had that night were amazing. To top it all off, my Saturday night was spent with the family that I love as we all sat together and watched Pacquiao knock out Hatton in the 2nd round. Man, do I love being Filipino! I looked all around me and I saw how much support I had and how many individuals in my life that I was blessed with . I realized that I am never alone and it made up for all the blows that I had been hit with all week.
At least I stayed standing, and didn't allow myself to get knocked out, because I turned around and saw who I had in my corner and that was enough to keep me going and keep me moving forward.
By chance, my best friend and sister, Mari had called me Friday that week and had also aid how much she missed me and how she was on the way to see potentially the love of her life in New York. We shared in our happiness of potential love and new beginnings. I also spent time with another close friend and old roommate, Thaomy, who will be relocating to the bay area next weekend. Another new beginning and friendship that has restored my spirit.
I was sent angels when I needed it the most and I am deeply grateful for that. I am deeply appreciative that I am reminded and reassured of my worth and my value from the people that mean the most to me. I am fortunate that I have many hands that are willing to pick me up when I am falling and that I can travel thru this life reassured that I am not alone, even in my lowest of times and darkest moments. There are so many people that are willing to expose me to the light at the end of the dark tunnel.
Thank you all for that and know that I love you.
Today, after my meditation, I read thru my Buddhist wisdom for every day book, always reflecting on the phrase of the day and this is what it said:
"We must look at our life without sentimentality, exaggeration or idealism. Does what we are choosing reflect what we most deeply value?" - Jack Kornfield
I thought that, that was exactly what I needed to read for today's spiritual reflection.
This also came to me in my e-mail today:
Hello Spirits,
I hope all are well on this 30th day of April, 2009.
I know it's been a while since the last C.O.S. message, but it hasn't been because of a spiritual disconnect from the Creator; it's been because I was tending to Self. I had some sentences to end; some chapters to close; some behaviors to wave good bye to.
Spirit touched me this morning and asked that I encourage some to move forward...from THIS point.
And so I oblige.
Tomorrow (May 1st) marks the first day of the fifth month of this year. We are almost half way into the year and yet many of you are still being held captive by insecurities, fears, traditional teachings, and past emotional traumas. Spirit whispered in my ear this morning, "Yeah, it's time."
Some of you are trapped in relationships that are unfulfilling, inappropriate, and overall unnecessary; yet you remain in the mismatched union because 'at least you have someone'...'at least you are not alone'. But I question, "What good is a union that offers no fulfillment and no support?" For surely, if you hold on to someone who isn't nourishing or nurturing to you in any way, you fill the space of opportunity with emptiness. I'd like to congratulate those people on their ability to find contentment with their respective emotional voids.
Some of you want to start new careers and embark on new journeys, yet you feel the fear of the unknown is enough to 'keep you in line'. I question, "Why would you want to be restricted?" Movement is a necessary part of growth; therefore, if you are to be 'kept in line', surely you find comfort in stagnancy. To these people I offer a hearty congratulation on your paralysis!
Some of you are held captive to what your parents or guardians taught you...even though you have either an urge to disprove their beliefs or a desire to learn what else exists in this world filled with 'spiritual alternatives'. And of course I question, "Why would you ignore an urge or desire when those influences come directly from the heart, moreover, are influenced by spiritual exploration?" To these people, I offer two congratulations: one congrat goes to them for their disregard for their spiritual yearnings and the other is offered to them for their ability to continue to live so powerlessly within such a power-filled existence!
Some of you are still hurting. Though the emotional trauma(s) that you experienced occurred many moons ago, you still walk around dressed in band-aids and gauze...and it's so obvious. I would then question, "Why would a person allow themselves to live an existence filled with pain from the past, while continually accumulating pain in the present?” Additionally, “Why would a person choose to hurt when to everyone is granted the opportunity to heal?" I offer my congratulations to those who find comfort in their pain; perceived performance despite their emotional blockages; and acceptance with the spiritual and emotional devastations that they cling to.
You see Spirits, when you take an objective look at (possibly) disabling experiences, you can see the confusion and ridiculousness in the unnecessary compromise of time, Self and power. Meditate and/or pray to find substantiation in this message and move forward…from THIS point.
Inner Peace,
~Tanya~
PS...when I sent this message, I didn't use the created email distribution list but rather clicked on the names of the spirits who should receive this message. Forgive my intrusion to your day.
"When you become conscious, you become responsible." - Tanya
"Don't interfere with the divine tapestry of your life, only allow it to influence your growth, healing and inner peace." Tanya O'Quinn
I just surpassed one of the hardest weeks in my month, the last week of April was extremely difficult for me and yet, The Creator/The Universe/God always finds ways to comfort me and reassure me when I need it the most. I continue to be spiritually connected because when my eyes are open and my soul is open to what the universe has to offer, I am given the assistance and support that I truly need. So many friends have given me support in the last week, I am extremely thankful and appreciative for that. "God helps those, who help themselves". On Friday, I was treated to a good night of DJ Spinna spinning his Prince vs. Michael Jackson set. My cousin, DJ Rhettmatic, as I know him, Nazareth, gave me a really good talk about doing what makes me happy and sticking to the path that whatever I do, at the end of the day, no matter what people say, I have to make choices based on what makes me happy. I really felt the support and love from him thru his message and it was exactly what I needed to hear that night. After I ran into him, I ran into DJ Miles of Breakestra and Root Down who validated me as a dancer, and asked me to come to Funky Soul and break out the dancers next Saturday. He recognized my love for the music and my love for movement. The discussions I had that night were amazing. To top it all off, my Saturday night was spent with the family that I love as we all sat together and watched Pacquiao knock out Hatton in the 2nd round. Man, do I love being Filipino! I looked all around me and I saw how much support I had and how many individuals in my life that I was blessed with . I realized that I am never alone and it made up for all the blows that I had been hit with all week.
At least I stayed standing, and didn't allow myself to get knocked out, because I turned around and saw who I had in my corner and that was enough to keep me going and keep me moving forward.
By chance, my best friend and sister, Mari had called me Friday that week and had also aid how much she missed me and how she was on the way to see potentially the love of her life in New York. We shared in our happiness of potential love and new beginnings. I also spent time with another close friend and old roommate, Thaomy, who will be relocating to the bay area next weekend. Another new beginning and friendship that has restored my spirit.
I was sent angels when I needed it the most and I am deeply grateful for that. I am deeply appreciative that I am reminded and reassured of my worth and my value from the people that mean the most to me. I am fortunate that I have many hands that are willing to pick me up when I am falling and that I can travel thru this life reassured that I am not alone, even in my lowest of times and darkest moments. There are so many people that are willing to expose me to the light at the end of the dark tunnel.
Thank you all for that and know that I love you.
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