Hey Shula -- (do you like Shula's Steak House from former Coach Don Shula? He rocked!)
Power: the ability to do something.
Domination: the excess of the ability to do something.
In our time ... Positive things ... if we keep on seeing all that's wrong and going on that tainted path, that is what we will achieve. No irking intended vs. the realities lived. I'm not gonna' start sharing my pain here for I already let go of it, and my forgiveness process will be as my recovery: eternal. I won't go there for often times people perceive some stories I've shared as though I'm still in pain, rather than happily in recovery. And recovery means: to walk beyond [raw] adversity, not just reaching freedom from awful chains like drug addiction. My point is, that as militant as we both are, though we speak in different ways, our goals to understand the wrongs and the inherent need to be at peace MUST BE LISTENED TO AND TAKEN HEED OF. The bottom line is we must be, like Gandhi was: the change we want to see in the world, from atom to atom, from finger to finger, lip to lip, friend to foe and friend again, mother of a son to daughter in law (out of wedlock and pregnant), callous employer to callous governor to little hardworking ant, even from the unseen to the unknown.
Utopian is a term I don't appreciate, for it taints the energy and belittles the effort of the POSITIVE ENERGY that we are inherently driven to radiate.
And now ... of to work @ Crobar I go. Happy Sunday, Shula! In my previous life, I'd be sleeping 'til noon and waiting for my Shula's Steak House lobster lunch, mass with the family, a stroll in the park. And now, I have to make my artist's recording project's ends meet, so I won't go and swing atop the barmaids, for I'm too large and old to do that anymore, but it's my evolution: something better and greater than waiting for Dad to feed my needs once more. I am here, thankfully for me and need not depend on the others. I've evolved, that's not a miracle, but an achievement. Even if I just search for weapons at the Club's bathrooms.
On teachers ... everyone has the role and duty to teach. I learn every chance I get, so I'm sure people want to learn everything they can.
Death of Celebrity
Death of celebrity or just on life support? During my precious quiet time I found myself reflecting on the past week. Thoughts from Daniel's post swept thru my mind, perhaps he is on to something. At first glance I said to myself that celebrity is more idolized than ever. But in retrospect I think it is just the opposite. We are saturated with the lifestyles of the rich and famous, that which separates the "haves" and the "have-nots". But what about the craft itself? Remember when the actor was revered? Now, it seems they walk a very thin line.
Be honest. When is the last time an actor really made an impression upon you? In other words, remove all the smoke and mirrors and reflect on the talent. Pretty scary uh? Everyone is a actor nowadays, the next "big thing". Celebrities are vilified in the press, one wrong move and they are on the "D" list. Reduced to late nite opening monologues. Why is this so? Because the quality actor just isn't there. To offset weak talent we are fed a steady diet of mediocrity. Heck, I am starring in my own made for tv movie though I doubt anyone would pay to watch. Makes for interesting conversation though. What I see in the entertainment industry is a carefully calculated yet misguided set of ideals that can not be sustained. Reality tv, which rakes in huge profits being a prime example. Don't believe the hype people. We as a species are much smarter than that.
Serene1
"I believe there may be no more dangerous challenge to our future than the cultural hypnosis that is generated daily by commercial television, which trivializes the human experience and distracts humanity from our larger potentials. By programming television for commercial success, we are programming the mind-set of entire civilizations....for evolutionary stagnation and ecological failure. This dumbing down of our collective intelligence is happening at the very time that we face unprecedented upheaval and change." (Elgin)
Weakening of Churches
Found this good article in last weeks U.S. Today (8/11), some key points:
**Religion takes a back seat in Western Europe**
"I don't go to church and I don't know one person who does," says Brian Kenney,39, who is studying psychotherapy and counseling in Dublin. "Fifteen years ago, I didn't know a person who didn't."
Church attendance in Ireland, though still among the highest in Western Europe, has fallen from about 85% to 60% from 1975 to 2004, according to the Dublin Archdiocese.
While it is still illegal for a woman to have an abortion in this mostly Roman Catholic country, Health Minister Harney made front page news in July when she said birth control pills should be available for girls as young as 11 in some circumstances. And for the first time not one priest will be ordained this year in Dublin.
Ireland is not the exception. Every major religion except Islam is declining in Western Europe, according to the Center for the Study on Global Christianity at the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hampton, Mass.
Last month, Pope Benedict XVI lamented the weakening of churches in Europe, Australia and the USA. "There's no longer evidence for a need of God, even less of Christ, he says. "The so- called traditional churches look like they are dying."
The forces driving the decline include Europe's turbulent history, an increasing separation between the church and government- and perhaps most of all, the continent's unprecedented affluence.
"For most of history, people have been on the borderline of survival. That's changed dramatically. Survival is certain for almost everyone( in the West). So one of the reasons people are drawn to religion has eroded."
*One result: Fewer children
Among the most striking consequences of the decline of religion has been fewer children. The waning influence of religion also has brought a change in attitudes and laws on issues such as divorce, abortion, gay marriage and stem cell research.
Europeans debate whether these changes are positive or negative for society. But it is evident people feel freer to make decisions within their own moral framework. "The declining (church) attendance is really dramatic, but what is even more important is that the churches are losing the ability to dictate to people how to live their lives.."
**Not just the Catholic Church
Andrew Greeley, a priest, professor at the University of Chicago and prolific author on Christianity, argues that despite the drop in church attendance, Christianity is not on the wane everywhere in Europe."I get upset about the sweeping generalization about the decline in religion. Religion is always declining and always reviving." It is just not the Catholic Church that has seen its numbers fall; some Protestant churches have been affected.
Asked by USA Today about the consequences of the decline of religion, Buttiglione(Italy's nominee for Justice Minister of EU) said, "If we ignore our pasts and try to create a God-less society where things like money or ambition or property are worshipped, then the society loses. ...It is a battle we are fighting at the current time."
The battle is more apparent in Western Europe, where a half century of peace has meant economic stability. World bank data shows the per capita gross domestic product in Western Europe has tripled since 1980.
It's a different story in Eastern Europe, where economies are weaker- citizens less secure. That partly explains why religion remains strong in countries such as Russia, Poland and Ukraine. "For the masses, religion provides a sense of certainty in an uncertain world. And since the collapse of communism and its anti-religious ideology, people in Eastern Europe are taking advantage of their new freedom to worship.
As Western Europeans have moved away from traditional worship, more people say they are "spiritual" rather than religious.Steve Hollinghurst, an Anglican priest, says, "It's very much what's appealing to people now- spirituality that works with my lifestyle. ...Faith and spirituality are now viewed as consumer products. And that's had an impact on the way people view institutional churches."
"Materialism has taken over. It has replaced God."
Re: Weakening of Churches + Death of Celebrity
Cable is back!! It stormed so hard y'all that we lost cable for an hour, so off we went to read again. But before that, I came home and the tele was showing 2 key things, as to the above-ref'd topics.
On VH1, a parade of stars and their views and how they spend their cash (to generate more cash, it seemed to me, and it was quantified by the show itself) on their doings with and about Scientology, Buddhism, Christianity and traditional Catholicism. I'm sure y'all caught a glimpse of this before so we won't waste time there 'cause Serene's article clearly defines that.
AAAND, on the WB, a woman who many might dislike for her world famous looks with a ton of outspokeness, and from her modeling reality show (the editing of which might have painted her like the dragon lady of reality shows),
yep, you guessed it Tyra Banks. But I still like her tons, though I don't know her at all.
So they've been previewing her upcoming Talk Show and took a retro look at when she started TZone for Teen girls who struggle and need a supporting ROLE MODEL in their lives. Lemme' tell you, Danny, I don't know if you know here personally, but the way in which thus far she expresses herself and gives of herself to the audience reminded me of how you share your life with this forum.
Wow, how cool is that? What if this is what we here were collectively envisioning [wishing for] to be the next best thing in celebrity candor and proactive achievement ('cause she' way beyond talking about couldbe-shouldbe-wouldbe projects) to give back to the community/fans/world?? I dunno' her but will gladly send her some segment ideas for her show to include the views of my peers, the women of my generation as she says "women like me with issues like mine" from food cravings to broken hearts to sometimes growing up too fast and so on. Hm, there it is! When you call the Universe!
Re: Weakening of Churches + Death of Celebrity
Hi everyone, I am new to this and so for the time being I will just check in and see how the conversations are developing. If I feel there is something I would like to contribute, then I will do that, but for now just taking it all in and enjoying the developments.
I forgot?
Hello all you very, very lovely people and WELCOME to our newest rich gem. Share the wealth
What I mean is jump in at anytime.
Okay, it's Monday, it's been long but wanted to thnak Liquid for the encouragement the other day about being depressed with edumacation issue. That's was great pick me up and thanks for taking the time and love to send it.
Hello everyone else you know who you are.
Maya,
No, I have not even heard of a Shula Steak House and unfortunately I gave up red meat a couple of years ago--BUT if you bottle up a fraction of your beautifully, infectious energy and teach me to salsa---I'll gladly share a steak with you, miss 'em to death and bill's on me.
Girl ( I mean Jeffa or heffa) whatever we decided to use---explain to mean about your feeling on utopia and how you define it? I was not trying to throw out my wicked witch of the west blanket and bring negativity. I meant that we have to see and acknowledge what is negative to make it a positive. You know, like Algebra
I tend to get a little Edgar Allen Poe-ish and if I get a little dark---throw some bleach on me We all all here to share, support, love and be encouraged. And it's so funny that if you guys physically met me, I am always smiling and laughing....sooooo.. if anyone (especially Danny with his abstract clarifications that I hope I did not offend him with because it was more a lack of understanding on my part not exactly what you thought I meant. Danny, do you still love me? You used to
Anyway, gotta go learn something positive and please all you take care and Divine, Serene, Expat, Maya, VG, Danny, everybody and please don't feel offended if I left out anyone---working on half a brain today....
If you have a moment---I would like for us all to write one sentence about what we appreciate about being on this forum and the encouragement and education we get from one another. Great positive way to welcome our new rich gem
Love to all you guys,
Shula
Oh Danny, I found this and let me know if this has anything to do with your comment about the death of celebrity or is this guy being silly? I'm so flustered to day and could not tell if he was serious or not. Something about Mondays.......
Synthetic actors: An interview from the future
At 52, Julia Roberts meets her younger self
(right here in the story is a picture of a virtual Julia at 52 acting against herself as a 21 year old.)
Danny, is digital technology a part of this demise or is it just something that we as humans will just bring about because it's time? Let me know, I likes my edumacation.
By Michael Rogers
Columnist
Special to MSNBC
Updated: 10:31 a.m. ET Aug. 15, 2005
"What can't be done — but will be possible within five to seven years — is to create a fully digital human being that would interface with other human beings and would be undetectable. You will not be able to tell the actor from the digital actor. Now, that terrifies me. It crosses a moral boundary to me."
— Steven Spielberg, Newsweek, June 27, 2005
Jan. 15, 2022 -- For nearly a decade, replica synthespians have delighted moviegoers worldwide. From the $9 billion dollar worldwide bonanza of the “Bruce Lee Reborn” series to the critical huzzahs for the young Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall in Sofia Coppola’s stylish remake of “Before Sunrise,” audiences have gobbled up these costly digital confections.
But history was made last week as Pixar-Dreamworks-Universal announced the details of the long-rumored “Love and Kisses” project starring the reclusive Hollywood legend Julia Roberts. For the first time a living actor will actually co-star with their own replica.
We caught up with Roberts at her home in her Hollywood Hills post-quake villa to talk about her first picture in nearly a decade and this bold experiment in sharing the screen with a younger self.
Q: Most actresses would be pretty worried about appearing alongside a much younger version of themselves.
Roberts: Well, we won’t actually appear on screen at the same time. My character, Amanda, is looking back on her life, so the story will alternate back and forth.
But even so—this has got to be a pretty strange experience for you. And it’s quite a risk also.
First of all, I would never have even thought about this if it hadn’t been justified artistically. But the script is so wonderful that I just had to play both Amandas. And from there, as I talked to the studio, and especially to Steve Jobs, who has been terrific about walking me through all this technology, it just started to make sense.
Are you going to wear the replica suit to play young Amanda yourself?
Oh, absolutely. Since it’s the same character, the body frame and physical movements will be the same so it makes sense for me to play young Amanda also. I will need to do some training, mostly flexibility work, just to make sure my walking and so forth are age appropriate.
What’s the replica suit like?
(Laughs) Uh, if you can imagine a combination of a scuba wetsuit and some kind of medical device. ... I mean, the suit itself is wireless, but there are still like 65,000 individual location sensors and they’re all connected together by this wiring harness that runs under the fabric. It feels very, very weird. And for some reason it’s not very breathable so they have to keep the set chilled. But once you’re in the scene you forget about it.
Which of your movies will the younger Amanda come from?
Amanda’s “skin” — that’s what they call it — will be generated out of “Pretty Woman”. I was 21 when I made that film and that happens to be the younger Amanda’ age in “Love and Kisses.” In the original script there was actually a part for a 35-year-old Amanda also, but that got cut.
Thirty-five. So, that could have been you in “Closer.”
(Laughs) I haven’t thought about that film in years. They cut out the 35 year old Amanda — and the producers will probably kill me for saying this — because it’s so expensive to do even one of these replica-based synthespians that there just wasn’t budget for two. Lots of people don’t know that it costs a lot more to do a replica-based synthespian than a fully synthetic one. Software works very cheap.
So could you find yourself nominated for an Oscar in both lead and supporting categories next year?
I wish. I’m not sure about the Academy rules on virtual performance; they might make an exception, since it’s all my image. But since the skin comes from an earlier performance, that probably disqualifies me. Of course, as young Amanda I would be eligible in the Special Effects Performer category, but that’s very competitive — those are actors who have doing this for years.
What’s your favorite synthespian performance?
I would have to say ... Gloria Arredondo as Charlie Chaplin in the remake of Modern Times. She had the body language down just perfectly. But I’m not really a fan of the full synthetics. I just don’t think a completely synthesized actor is quite the same as one generated by a real actor wearing a replica suit. I know producers love full synthetic for cost reasons and some of the young directors aren’t that comfortable with actors. But I think there will always be a place for real actors, whether they are playing themselves or animating a synthespian.
Then what do you think of the “pure analog” movement in Europe?
Well, I think it’s very sweet and very idealistic, and I know there’s a high-end audience for those productions. But it’s enormously expensive and time-consuming to make a film that way. To get that “never digitized” label you have to use chemical film, and edit manually, and ... I don’t see the difference on screen. But some people do, and they’re willing to pay those ticket prices. But you know, all those techniques are really ancient history now, and I just don’t think it’s healthy to relive the past.
I forgot part 2
I figured I would apologize for all my grammatical errors on last post. In a major rush but thoroughly invigorated mentally.
I went to a great class that offered an extremely comprehensive study on the history of the succession of world powers and all the different religions, doctrines and ideologies that came with them. TOTALLY, TOTALLY awesome stuff. This is my drug of choice. Total fascination. It's my drug of choice like Maya with her music and exuberance for life and the rest of you with your respective passions that allow me to learn so much from you all. So, in view of the fact that it is Monday and I am practically incapacited from exhaustion, I will sign off and wish you all a beautiful and blessed night of rest and hope to "see" you all tomorrow!! Good night, everyone!!!
This is not meant to be a drive-by answer ... but it is, 'cause me is late for an important biz-date. And yes, we have a Salsa Date any time you want. I hardly eat red meat, in fact, I think when the fam used to go there, we ate mostly chicken, pasta and seafood. But, hey, Brazilians and Argentines make some mean meats (we'll take digestive enzymes beforehand okay!)
Utopia - mah sister, it's not easy, but is possible. When I woke up today to ck the weather/nuz, my mtv-heee-heee-heee ... there was the most important ad on TV today
Amnesty International's Imagine
"Imagine if there were human rights for everyone."
That's the reason I frown at the dismissive meanings of wanting to live quality and fulfilled lives and to leave a legacy of that lifestyle for everyone/anyone to experience and benefit from.
My problem lies with a few key words ...
Webster's and Royal Academy of Spain define the noun form of Utopia in similar form.
At Webster's, the noun is:
"A zealous but impractical reformer of human society."
They define the adjective as "Proposing impracticably ideal schemes" and "Excellent or ideal but impracticable; visionary."
Wellll, I don't like impractical, and don't like reformer. While everyday people may be practicing something to improve the self(me)/neighbor(you)/community(board)/world(everyone who's addicted to reading us), some of us are keen on doing the opposite just by calling it impractical.
The RAE (Real Academia Española) has ...
Plan, proyecto, doctrina o sistema optimista que aparece como irrealizable en el momento de su formulación.
Translat'n ... Optimist plan, project, doctrine or system that appears as unnatainable at the time of it's formation.
I may be a bit "Afront-A" how do you say this in non-Puerto Rican?? Oh yeah, it's slang for show-off, but the last thing on my mind is that anything is unnatainable. I'd still be back in my dad's birth island of Amapala off the South Coast of Honduras, prolly preg-ooo with my 10th and grandmother to 6, at my early 38. Seriously. I have cousins who chose that path and they tell you immediately: "Maya-cee-oh, c'mon, i'll never get that, i don't speak English, i don't have a passport, or they don't have palm trees in nyc, that's a fool's dream, i belong here and so do all my kids." Okay primas -- call me a fool all you want -- make your choice and 'cause I made mine to just do it way before Nike, but I like Nike for telling everyone to do it too. Yes, they rip off biz in sweatshops, but they do a lot of good as well. Yes, I may sound utopian and f-around a lot, but no bragging, i'm blessed for the choices i've had the "choice" to make.
Thanks for all the kind words you say about my energy -- thanks 'cause it sometimes slips my mind. A good example of that was some time ago that a good friend on this board (geee, I can't quite remember who it was ) sent me words of comfort to the tune of "EBB AND FLOW, MAYA" and I gather I was at the bottom end of my temper and so forth. That was a let's call it, "utopic injection" and YES, IT WORKED! The most practical statement -- was it Star? Hmmm??
Oh yeah, so that's my line of why i love to come to this board: to learn to ebb and flow, land in a better place with the next wave.
So, honey! This is your Jefa saying: don't feel you must apologize for sounding any way you feel around here -- the tide has turned a bunch of times for me and will no doubt do so for you too.
Gotta' run beautiful ones! But I'll leave you with one more ... my daughter wrote me the most amazing testament of love yesterday, early, like at 8:30 a.m. (she's in beauty school in Puerto Rico this month) and she soooo uplifted me. Why not do as she did, and write love testaments to our mommies, even if they're not around or we can't share it with them for any reason - all reasons are valid. The point is, to state a form of love to someone dear and meaningful. It doesn't have to be mom, it could be dad, bro, sis, anyone. Aaaiiight!! Kisssssessss, mayazinha
Zooooooooooom..................Go Maya!
Good morning all,
Maya your today sounds like my yesterday and I am desparately trying not to make amends for my very hectic last three days by refusing to get out of bed.....
Look, girl, here's my quote:
So we agree on what utopia is I guess I'm just not "quite" offended by the term in the way that you are. I meant that Daniel's comment sounded utopian and while it would be wonderful, it is impractical and unlikely at this point in time for us. I'm not saying that was what Daniel meant. He has this really compassionate and empathetic way of realizing the plight of society but sometimes some things sound almost to unrealistic or simplistic to remedy the situation. However, I know that Daniel's thinking is directly on the pulse of what's going on, I simply could not see us as a civilization tiring of celebrity, its subsequent demise and the "natural" progression or evolution of man coming to a place that calms the evil of the climate we are living in; thus, coming across as utopian. So, I share your viewpoint I guess I did not understand the taking of offense to it. I believe that we will see what Danny says and I agree with you that it is not unattainable but I think it's going to be a lot more complicated than man just coming to his senses without being forced to. And I do believe as you do that those who struggle to bring about better things for us as a people; their efforts should not be belittled. Neither should yours, Daniel's, or anyone who either on a personal level or larger scale work to positively impact and effect change for the benefit of others. Hopefully neither should one expect accolades for such work because I believe it is our duty and privilege to one another. Now, there's that and someday in New York, I'll expect my salsa lesson, preferrably in the rain but somehow the sun is still shining. Steak is optional.
Shula
PS-- As per our earlier conversations about younger mothers and properly raising children. I think the main point made, (I think it was Serene or Liquid?) was responsibility. I think everyone is a free moral agent and free to choose whatever path they choose. Even if it is young motherhood. If you realize and live up to your responsibilities as a parent, a member of society, and producing other respectful, responsible and productive members of society----Breed on. Not long ago, it was not uncommon for women to marry young and start families right away. The difference is our society was more morally rooted and there was not so much decadence about to help "rot" the children as there is today. My own mommy was married and a mother at 14----(GASP) to my father who was 19. Plenty of children, plenty of guidance, plenty of discipline, no problem. We are not perfect but we never disrepected any teachers or rob and beat any old ladies either.
I wish I could be your cousin. Living on an island (hopefully safe and peaceful) running barefoot, pregnant, lots of little chunky bambinos to teach responsibility, to always know they can learn anything from anyone, every person deserves the same repect you would offer royalty (or celebrity) and teaching them an insatiable love of learning, reading, and giving to others. Teaching them to always look to see what you can contribute. Whatever you see lacking, make it your personal decision to fill that need. Did I mention a really good husband with the same goals and a mean salsa? But then again, that sounds a little utopic as well, huh?
edit issues
Well,
I went back to edit in my previous comment about when I first mentioned the idea of utopian. My power to edit has been taken away. But basically it was in reference to a post Daniel made and I said I thought it was a little utopian. Not impossible. But as you said impractical.
Now, I'll have to be careful since my power to edit has been taken away.
Now I hope Daniel does not think I am picking on him. I'm not. You're at least 1' 2" taller than me and at least twice as wide as I am. And while your face is prettier than mine as I have said to you in person before; I still remember that your muscles are waaaayyyy bigger than mine. And I do have a lot of respect for you and get great inspiration from what you have to say.... You're definitely a keeper.....
Maybe me and Maya will let you salsa in the rain with us? Do you like steak?
Heeeyyyy Liquid,
I was paging thru for something and I came across this post. I remember in one of my first posts saying that your writing has a way of really touching the heart and manipulating the emotions ---some goopy stuff I said that really meant: I FEEL YOU ARE A PHENOMENAL TALENT just reading what you write here. I am a lover of words. Words being brought together so well that they cause your mind to completely envision exactly what the writer wants to convey and words so well written that they vividly emblazon themselves in your heart and your mind and somehow they become a part of you for always. Kind of like words from your favorite poet or the words of a song whose lyrics directly expresses what you feel passionately but cannot articulate but it's okay because that song says it all. Or your favorite verses from the Creator's Word. The ones that come to mind when you need comfort, or feel the need to praise Him, or even the verses you need when you need something to help mend the heart of someone you know who is broken in spirit. You know, words written so powerfully that they are among the few things your mind will never forget.
Now, I know I have not read any of your work BUT, some of the things you have written here are evidence that we are among a great talent. And what is it that brought me to these revelations and the pressing need to say this to you?
I know this may sound really stupid...but it was your name:
Dana C. De Bois
Sounds destined for success. Just rings a bell.....
Re: Zooooooooooom..................Go Maya!
ooookay, took a quick break, oh my! work !!! gheez!!
i must apologize, for i mis-stated how i feel about the term utopia. i never meant to say that i didn't like it coming from you or anyone in particular ... i just don't like the word. it's like a reverse compliment. you didn't create it, we all need to use it from time to time, and it's certainly controversial. the dictionary calls it impractical and it immediately tells people, don't bother 'cause it's not practical. that's all, that's my beef with utopia.
death of celebrity ... dude, there are 6 (some broke, some not) celebrities in my family, we all eat a little better from that effort and reward. we don't want celebrity to die, believe me. on the other hand, my cousins, with bambinos (or as we call them cipotes, crios, or collectively "la prole") come from multiple fathers (family feud ain't s*t), they are barely well fed and poorly educated. it takes our collective effort to send support and keep our fingers crossed that customs doesn't rip them off after we sent them clothing, shampoo, vitamins, kraft caramels and lollipops, arthritis medicine, etc., after they took their long trip to the capital to go back empty handed and again, belittled.
so celebrity as we know it, and people as we know ourselves, 75% consumption just to run this land of ours, THE WHOLE THING NEEDS TO EVOLVE TO A BETTER VIBRATION. that's why we're gonna' take salsa lessons with rain and sun at the same time, right? 'cause it's not impossible and not impractical, it is darn right necessary, and the steak too, shoot! my family is not divided because some of us have more than others. i'm no celebrity, but since i'm the sister in law of, and the older sister of, and my sister is in, and my dad does this and that, and my grandfather did that other more ... i'm missing someone, but the point is why take the craft away from hardworking, driven, ambitious, capable, oustanding, stellar and human beings who shine because they were born to do that?
my cousins consider me celebrity 'cause i can do a radio show and they gather round and hear my tapes and feel like they're rich, and our show is non-profit, i don't even ask for non-commercial support, i volunteer. but it's like you say, why go around taking credit if your purpose is educational, benevolent, whatever you wanna' call it.
oh, i couldn't read your quote, the colors mixed and erased, prolly. aiight, gotta' run again.
kisses my people. mhb
OOOHHH, THE NEWS! DEEPEST PRAYERS TO GREECE & VENEZUELA, PLEASE LORD, TAKE THOSE ANGELS UNDER YOUR WINGS. PRAYERS FOR TOKYO. PLEASE, SEND RELIEF IF YOU CAN, EVERYONE. AMEN. Edited by: MayasHeartBeat at: 8/16/05 11:56 pm
Great epi
Okay Maya, ...just your screen name right? Your real name is either Janet, Rebbie, Latoya, Marie, or surname Mandrell. So much talent from one family. Thanks for your contributions.
Daniel---I love the fact that you can say a few sentences that provoke so much profound thought and the exchange of it. I have to admit that it just dawned on me that the death of the CULT of celebrity and its worship has nothing to do with the loss of our true talent such as yourself and all the wonderful artists on this board. I have been under such extreme stress lately and today I forced myself to literally just watch and read things that helped me to relax and enjoy just being. I feel so much better. Just sat and soaked up the fruits of the labor of true artists. True entertainment bring a joy and zest to life.
Tonight's RM was soooo awesome. I think i actually fell in love with Tommy tonight. He even looked attractive to me with the absence of all that bitter malice from his face and character. The love scene with his wife instead of the sex for sex's sake with everybody else, good stuff. Franco's very close to winning me over. Sharing the bed with Keelah just melted me. Actually dropping the player's stance and trying to keep Laura. Wish he would write his own poetry but hey he is really opening up. He's the bad boy your mother warned you about but you wish you were deaf cause you gotta have him until you find out about the nurse, the waitress, the laywer, the sheep. Just joking.
Danny you bring a lot to the table with Franco. I so appreciate your talent. It's unfortunate that I am over a decade late witnessing it. I came to see you in Hamlet back in Tally but I arrived at the very end because I ended up having to work late.
Better late than never. Thanks for a great night Daniel.
To My Diamonds
It is said that " Diamonds are a girl's best friend." Diamonds, the symbol of love. True. So True. Each of you on this board are like the rarest of gems and I truly appreciate all of the insight you bring, humor and love. Your value to me is priceless and that's the thing. Why I keep coming back to this place? Quite simply.... I just LOVE you guys! I would like to share a short piece with you,(origination Nigeria) sorta explains why I feel the way I do. Remember, when in doubt just look to the sky.
Serene1
****Why The Sun And Moon Live In The Sky***
Many years ago, the sun and water were great friends and they both lived on earth together. The sun very often used to visit the water, but the water never returned the visits.
At last the sun asked the water why he never visited. The water replied that the sun's house was not big enough, and that if he came with all his people, he would drive the sun out of his home.
The water then said,"If you want me to visit you, you will have to build a very large house. But I warn you that it will have to be very large, as my people are numerous and take up alot of room."
The sun promised to build a very large house, and soon afterwards, he returned home to his wife, the moon, who greeted him with a broad smile.
The sun told moon what he had promised the water, and the next day, they began building a large house to entertain the water and all his people.
When it was completed, the sun asked the water to come and visit him.
When the water arrived, one of his people called out to the sun and asked him whether it would be safe for the water to enter, and the sun answered, "Yes, tell my friend to come in."
The water began to flow in, followed by the fish and all the other water animals.
Very soon, the water was knee-deep in the house, so he asked the sun if it was still safe and the sun again said, "Yes," so more of them came in.
When the water was at the level of a man' s head, the water said to the sun, "Do you want more of my people to come in?"
Not knowing any better, the sun and the moon both
said, "Yes," More and more of the water's people came in until the sun amd moon had to sit on top of the roof.
The water once again asked the sun if it was still okay to keep coming in. The sun and moon answered yes, so more and more of the water's people came in.
The water soon overflowed the top of the roof, and the sun and the moon were forced to go up into the sky,....and they have been there ever since.
Introducing "minerichingems", she is my friend and lives on my side of the pond but no expat though... She is very wise and we always have amazing conversations together so I can't wait until she posts!! (no pressure there then ...)
Serene,
That was beautiful, thank you. I am very proud of you too! Diamonds take thousands of years to develop into gems and us... We're doing it in our lifetime... Amazing!
Shula,
Can I just say? I am really enjoying your posts. There is a lot of love emanating from you and I am not surprised you mentioned "empathy" because there is a lot of that too. So, anyway... About the celebrity thing... The series "LOST" have just started over here and as a writer, I love the concept and there is room for all sorts of storylines... Really a writer's dream... BUT and that is a big "but". Why is it that when a plane crashes only Calvin Klein models and soap opera actors survive? (without a scratch?) Thankfully the concept is inspiring and the story well written so far so I will keep watching but are these producers assuming that we are shallow? I'm not confortable with this...
Moving on...
I am also proud of Daniel sunjata this week. I receive emails from the yahoo board on my alternate email address and I spotted an interview he did recently and how he mentioned how stereotyped Franco was but how he was trying to give him more "meat" ; challenging stereotypes and political correctness. He also mentioned issues to do with racism in America ,and having been there a few times I would agree this is one of the main challenges your country faces. I am happy, Daniel, that you are reading our posts and expressing views that your hold dear in public. As the expression goes, actions speak louder than words and you are better placed than most to do so. I wish you good luck in your endeavour.
Among all the doom and gloom out there, Israelis are moving out of the Gaza strip. This is an historic move and an important one. It gives me hope and I wish them good luck. Provided the Western world behaves itself, we might just be all right...
Lots of love to all!! Edited by: expatinbritland at: 8/17/05 6:12 am
The world on a train
Nine years ago, novelist Geoff Ryman wrote a pioneering online novel, 253. It told a tale of the relationships between people who happened to be on a Tube train at the same time. Now, inspired by the varied lives of those who died on 7 July, Ryman offers his thoughts and tribute.
The most important thing about these people is not how they died but how they lived. All of them were hard-working, decent and loving. That seems to be what most of us are. Goodness is ordinary. Which is why it so often goes unreported.
How unexpected and individual we all are. In these life stories, you will meet a Caribbean singing sensation. You'll learn that the head of marketing for the Girl Guides was promoting a new rose named in honour of the Brownies. How did a Vietnamese-American come to have a Japanese surname?
We live in a secular society, but religion still seems to be a major part of many people's lives. Here you will read about a Baptist church deacon, a student of divinity who went on to be a successful businesswoman, and a talented musician whose uncle is a preacher.
Farewell kiss
So many of households are multi-faith - Jewish and Christian, or mingled Methodist and Hindu. Anthony Fatayi-Williams was the beloved son of a Catholic mother and Muslim father.
There are so many love stories here
The family remains central to our lives. Carrie Taylor and her mother gave each other a farewell kiss every morning on the concourse of Liverpool Street station. Susan Levy shared her daily commute with her 17-year-old son. Arthur Frederick had just returned from Grenada where he helped rebuild his elderly parents' home damaged by Hurricane Ivan. Anna Brandt's daughter had only arrived from Poland on the day of the explosions. Anna was identified from a DNA sample given by her brother. Of course, there are all those families who travelled from Mauritius, Poland, Israel, France or East Peckham to search for missing relatives.
There are so many love stories here. "He was my world," says Stephanie Reid of her fiancée David Foulkes. "As soon as we met, we knew that was it." Samantha Badham and Lee Harris met as teenagers. They were only travelling together that morning because of plans to celebrate their 14th anniversary. Lee Baisden, who worked for the fire service, had just moved in with his boyfriend. Michael Matsushita fell in love with an English girl while working in Cambodia. Benedetta Ciaccia was busy planning her wedding in Rome to her British Muslim fiancé.
We all know London's source of strength is its diversity. In the borough of Lambeth, 132 languages are spoken. But it's not only London that is becoming multi-cultural. So is the world as a whole. Here you will find an Asian-Australian, a Chinese-Mauritian, a Tunisian from France, an Irishwoman from New Zealand and a Grenadian from Montserrat.
One of the things evil cannot face contemplating is variety
Arts, music and sport lighten our lives. Christian Small was a dedicated athlete. Shelley Mather had a passion for indoor cricket. Monika Suchocka had just joined a choir. A talented artist, Marie Hartley was going to Islington to find a new illustrator for the studio where she worked.
Everywhere there is war. A young Afghan refugee had already lost members of his family to conflict. Two people who were refugees from Vietnam. One family escaped violence in Northern Ireland. An Israeli woman had left Israel to avoid the suicide bombers there. Helen Jones grew up near Lockerbie, where the Pan Am jet exploded. She grew up to be a consultant who took time to work with Glasgow's homeless.
Unexpected lives
So many of these people actively worked to help end injustice. The journalist and picture researcher Miriam Hyman furthered Israeli-Palestinian understanding. Colin Morley is described as an advertising genius who used his talents to build more ethical businesses. Fiona Stevenson took time off from her legal career to do volunteer work in Belize. Giles Hart posthumously received an honour from Poland for his work with Solidarity. Gladys Wundowa, Ojara Ikeagwu and Behnaz Mozakka all helped with social services or health care.
I don't believe there are evil people or evil countries, but there are undoubtedly evil thoughts and deeds. They come when we are tired, lazy, threatened or angry - rather like the shooting of that innocent Brazilian man. Everybody has a measure of right on their side and a measure of wrong.
The philosopher Hannah Arendt concluded that evil lay in the refusal to think. One of the things evil cannot face contemplating is variety. It prefers monolithic simplicity. Reality outstrips simplicity through a constant flowering of unexpected lives. Evil thoughts and deeds cannot prevail against it.
Why I am here
Good morning Ladies! I have been out for afew days and I'm just now playing catch up with the posts!!!
I don't have to say that I missed all of you.. because the first thing I did when my computer booted-up was jump into the Lounge! !
You all inspire me to no end. I come on here sometimes with a heavy heart or a question on my mind and somehow one of you answer it for me! There are families that you are born into, marry into, but to find a home of like minds and hearts, one where you are free to simply be who you are.. is a blessing from God indeed.
Shula, Expat, Serene, Divine, Maya, Star, and now Mine Rich ( and anyone else I may have missed) You pour into me, making me a whole perosn. Sharing with me your words, your spirit, your essence. I greedily take from you all that I can, hoping that I give back even an ounce of what you give me. I remain here because it feels like home, a cozy place that, when I enter I know I can leave my mask at the door and go forth as myself. No expectations, no faslehoods. Just simply allowed to be who I am, and I will be accepted as such. I thank each of you for that! I appreciate you, honor you and love you whole heartedly!!!!!
And Shula.. nothing you say can be taken as stupid! It is too early for you to have me crying at my desk! You are soo sweet for what you said. It took me three years to complete the screenplay and months after that to let anyone read it! LOL!! I kept taking back the script like.. " Wait.. it isn't done yet!! I have to fix this.. and then this.. and WAIT... that's ALL wrong give me like TWO more weeks... then I'll let you read it. I think!!!" I thank you for your kind words. But I am just a humble servant of God. It is in God's hands which direction he wants me to go. I can only obey him and follow the path he has laid for me! But again I say thank you!
And Sorry Daniel... went off on a "sister" tangent! I appreciate you as well! ( no I'm not just throwing you in as an afterthought.. honest) When you speak.. you speak from your heart and innerself. That means alot, considering you could post as a pompous a..! But you give to us a piece of yourself and it is much appreciated by me and all of us. I hear ( or read) your words and can hear your voice.. not just an idea or thought.. but hear you in everything that you say. All your morals, all your values, the content of your heart. It is a blessing to be where you are and where you are going, yet still be connected to the humility of this world. You are a rare bird indeed! For that you are loved!
And ummm.. I maybe in Chicago but I can fly where ever for a good SALSA lesson!!!!! ( see how I just invited myself!!!! pushy right?! LOL! ) I've been trying to get someone to take classes with me but my sister keeps punking out on me! LOL!!!
Anywho!! Take care all of you! Welcome again Mine Rich! And don't wait.. jump in feet first.. we'll catch you.. promise!!!
Love you all!
Be blessed, smile and pray through it!
Liquid!
If you put your ear close to my chest, my heart will surly whisper your name!
Re: Great epi
seeee, the dummy in me ... what is epi?
"Your real name is either Janet, Rebbie, Latoya, Marie, or surname Mandrell. So much talent from one family. Thanks for your contributions."
nope, we are total Latinos so none of those names would apply, we are Mejía, Flores, Meyer, Collazo, García, Villar, Escobar, Bracetti, Torres, Santos, Yu-Way, Yu-Shan, Arjona, Sutton, Rodriguez, DeLima, Llerena, Turner and Lopez [i was almost disowned not to have owned the whole list of names - lol, they all say: HOLLER!!] . the reason for the any recognition is fortunately, there are over 330 (stats say 332) million spanish speakers and we always keep this table handy and tell everyone who can understand what our family is doing and what other artistic families do -- the family business ... we are not book people ... we are drums and guitars and some times (like with me) tone-deaf but graceful anyway.
COUNTRY SPANISH SPEAKING POPULAT'n
1. SPAIN 39,500,000
2. U.S.A 22,500,000
3. GUINEA ECUATORIAL 300,000
4. FILIPINAS 2,900,000
5. GUATEMALA 9,200,000
6. EL SALVADOR 5,200,000
7. HONDURAS 4,500,000
8. NICARAGUA 3,100,000
9. COSTA RICA 3,100,000
10. ECUADOR 10,000,000
11. PERU 22,000,000
12. MEXICO 80,000,000
13. CUBA 10,800,000
14. REPUBLICA DOMINICANA 7,300,000
15. PUERTO RICO 3,500,000
16. PANAMA 2,100,000
17. VENEZUELA 18,000,000
18. COLOMBIA 33,600,000
19. BOLIVIA 6,900,000
20. PARAGUAY 4,500,000
21. ARGENTINA 32.500,000
22. CHILE 13,600,000
23. URUGUAY 3,150,000
And Bilingual America says ...
"Here are our all-time favorite reasons why learning Spanish is so important...
1. The USA has the 5th largest Spanish-speaking population in the world. There are over 33 million Spanish speakers in the United States.
2. The average age of an Hispanic in the United States is 24.8 years old. The average age of a Caucasian in the United States is 38.6 years old. Who's having more babies?
3. In the year 2000, over 40% of the population growth in the United States was among the Hispanic people!
4. 1000 Hispanics cross the border every day.
5. To be able to communicate with your co-workers.
6. To be able to communicate with your employees.
7. President George W. Bush and Ex-Vice President Al Gore both speak Spanish. Do they know something that you don't?
8. To be able to say, "Yo quiero Taco Bell" better than the average dog.
9. To be able to communicate with your Spanish speaking significant other.
10. To be able to find a significant other. (Men, there are a lot of beautiful Spanish women who would love you till they die! If you're a woman, be careful with those Spanish men!)
11. To be able to communicate with your significant other's family and friends.
12. To not be ashamed because you "look" like an Hispanic and you can't answer back when someone talks with you in Spanish.
13. To be able to sell your product or service to one or more of those more than 33 million Spanish speakers in the United States.
14. To be able to sell your product or service to one or more of the more than 200 million Spanish speakers in this world.
15. To prepare yourself to communicate on your next trip to Latin America, South America, Spain, Miami, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Denver or virtually anywhere else you go in the Western Hemisphere. (Ok, if you're going to Canada to live maybe then French might be worth learning!)
16. To get a better and higher paying job.
17. To be able to help Spanish speakers in your area socially or religiously.
18. To improve efficiency in your work environment. Do you really think that your ONE Spanish speaking employee wants to be used as a translator half the day?
19. To be able to teach your housekeepers on your hotel staff to put the sheets on the beds correctly.
20. To be able to enjoy the warmest and richest culture on earth; the Hispanic culture.
Learning Spanish will stretch your mind and change your life forever. We have never had someone tell us that they regret having learned to communicate well in Spanish. We invite you to expand your world of opportunities by learning to communicate well in Spanish!"
and maybe 'cause most of us are like speedy gonzalez, hyperactive thyroidism runs in our family -- i'm on meds forevaaaah! and music certainly runs in our family, so we pay more attention to music than disease. that's all, no major names to owe that too, just genes. so the celebrity element of standing on the stage since you were 5 'cause that's what the rest of the household has to do, albeit next to "rancheras singing cowboys" or "wanna be baladists" or "tonedeafs on the air while in America," is not something we could part with 'cause that's all we know, arts. about 50 musicians, dancers, singers, actors, stage hand, costume makers, clowns, yes we have 2 clowns on the streets of mexico city; i think we have 1 doctor and 1 lawyer in puerto rico, 2 journalists and 1 teacher in honduras; 25 single moms all over the world including this one. rebas and mandrells and the others, only hanging on posters from our walls.
love you sis, love you and that's a promise, that's all we know pleases our hardworking mothers.
Edited by: MayasHeartBeat at: 8/18/05 9:41 pm
All you heartbreakers out there....
Darn every one of you!!!
Serene, with your beautiful and inspirational poems that come out of no where and literally puts flutters in your heart and tears in your eyes because in it's sheer simplicity it is beyond beautiful....
Expat, for refusing to allow me to disconnect myself from the ugliness of the world and putting beautiful faces and bringing to life those who died needlessly on that day. It's okay, that's how we keep empathy alive, right? Come to know the person, not the victim, not the DNA that identifies them, not by a number but by knowing the paths they walked and feeling their pain and the pain of those they were taken from. I had almost accomplished blocking 9/11 out until they started to play the cell phone messages of the hostages and when their families relayed final messages. But what would it have meant for me personally had I not come to know anything personal about any of them? I can most certainly shed tears for strangers but I cannot stop shedding them once I have come to know of them in personal ways.
Expat--you are killing me but I am so thankful to be with you on this board because you keep me aware of the importance of remembering these things and you keep me human.
Liquid-- I think you purposely come here to work your powers. Fortunately, you use them for good and not evil. You weave words in a way that almost has a spellbinding or healing power....There is Power in what you write. You should own a cape....and always share what you have because you are truly gifted.
Maya, Maya, Maya.....I don't know why when I have to say your name, it is always Maya 3x (Maya to the 3rd power). If I could join your family for one day, I get the feeling I would never stop laughing or smiling. Most of my friends speak at least two languages. A few up to 4, Spanish is always on the list and I have been trying to learn for years for social and teaching purposes. I will make it a goal to write a complete sentence in Spanish of relevance to each individual comment directly to you. So now, I get dance and language and love of life from you.
When in Orlando, I go to a club called the Latin Quarter. It's a restaurant with the best food in town and at about 11:00pm, they move all the tables and you dance the night away. The Latin culture is extremely warm, loving and colorful. I always flat iron my hair before I go and the Latinos always think I am Dominican, Cuban, or dark Brazilian. Maybe it's the lighting but I have so much fun. Joyous, joyous fun. The kind that keeps a smile on your lips when you go to bed and sweet dreams are abound.
VG and Divine? Where are you? I miss you; I'm sure we miss you. Come home soon....
To Our New Rich Gem---please don't be offended but whenever I think of your name, I think rich gem; just like the valuable diamonds spoken of earlier. When I say share the wealth, it's not a material thing, it's a wisdom of heart thing. You must have it---you know Expat, right?
This is such a wonderful place to come to. You are all wonderful people. I like to think I am a good judge of character in that I can feel a good heart when I am "near" it in any way. I sense that out of each and every person on this board. That is so comforting.
Daniel, I hope you don't get all huffy about this because I know you are private.(Thank goodness I have complete anonymity here so you do not know who to be upset with if you do ) I have sat in your lap before and I have had my ear right up against your heartbeat. I have heard you speak without cameras before fame and I know that you are inherently a good person with an unbelieveably loving heart as well. That is why you have drawn such a wealth of company and I thank you for this. This is a good home for us all to share all that we feel without fear. Daniel, you are by far the most talented actor I have seen in a long time. But ironically it seems that Daniel the artist drew us here but Daniel the person keeps us here.
Hey, Maya, I guess everyone's invited to salsa in the rain. Liquid, of course you did not have to push yourself in....
Open invite to the family.....
Makes for interesting conversation though. What I see in the entertainment industry is a carefully calculated yet misguided set of ideals that can not be sustained. Reality tv, which rakes in huge profits being a prime example. Don't believe the hype people. We as a species are much smarter than that. 
What if this is what we here were collectively envisioning [wishing for] to be the next best thing in celebrity candor and proactive achievement ('cause she' way beyond talking about couldbe-shouldbe-wouldbe projects) to give back to the community/fans/world?? I dunno' her but will gladly send her some segment ideas for her show to include the views of my peers, the women of my generation as she says "women like me with issues like mine" from food cravings to broken hearts to sometimes growing up too fast and so on. Hm, there it is! When you call the Universe!
okay!)
) sent me words of comfort to the tune of "EBB AND FLOW, MAYA" and I gather I was at the bottom end of my temper and so forth. That was a let's call it, "utopic injection" and YES, IT WORKED! The most practical statement -- was it Star? Hmmm?? 
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