Rare Art Arena Art with Poetry Literature and Everything else

LOVE LOVE LOVE

2011-02-14T16:16:00.000-08:00

So...I said I wouldn't be back until the weekend....I'm sorry I lied.. There's just soo much love in the atmosphere that I could not help but share it...

Well you can probably tell that this post has absolutely nothing to do with the wonderful world of ART or POETRY... but I will try to be as artistic and poetic as possible.

Today is Valentine's Day and I hope that everybody had a day filled with love and if you did not we would just like to say Happy Valentine's Day to everybody from us here at Rare Art Arena with Poetry Literature and Everything else.

I'm not going to write about how the entire Valentine's Day thing came about but you can find some information here. However, I am going to share a LOVEly video :-) . This is one of my favorite songs any day of the year and if you ask me I think its rather poetic. Don't You?

Anyway I'm off to get some work done now. I really won't be back until weekend :-D
Cheers!

Abstract Art

2011-02-13T13:10:00.000-08:00

Photo: flickr.com

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/

2010/2180906487_209d622048.jpg

Hello everyone...

Just stopping by to share a quick post before I get to preparing for the new week ahead. Today, I decided to take a little look at abstract art. Abstract art can be described as a visual composition which can exist with a degree of independence from visual references in the world. I personally like the sense of mystery and thought that abstractness provokes, not only in visual arts but in writing as well. However, I have not committed my time to painting abstract pieces. Because of my undying love for nature, I have only done a few abstracts, one of which can be seen in my gallery.

As I was doing my search, I stumbled across a very nice website all about abstract art- paintings.name. This includes artists of abstract art as well as a historical timeline of abstract art. I do hope you enjoy.

Well, I'm off for now, most probably until the weekend. I trust that everybody will have a great week.

Cheers!!

Back At It!

2011-02-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

♪Guess who's back? Back again? Well we're back so tell a friend♫

Hey Guys...

It's been forever since we've posted here. It's amazing how I started this blog because I had a lot of free time on my hands now have no time to blog because I've got a lot to do. Well... I really like blogging and don't wanna give it up so I'm back at it again. Let me just say now a very very happy and prosperous new year to all of you guys and I hope it has already begun on a good note :-).

As for me, nothing has changed here I'm still ever so curious about everything life has to offer and ever so excited about sharing my findings with you.... Hopefully I'll hae a year full of learning and you will too ;-).

Well, before I leave I would just like to share a story which my chemistry lecturer told on the first day of class this semester. It really had me thinking of what kind of person I was and how it is I can live a better life. It's never too late...(or too early) to change.. I hope that you enjoy this story....

How Do You Handle Adversity?

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life, and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it, and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water. In the first pot, she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs and the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil without saying a word. In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what do you see?" "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied. She brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they got soft. She then asked her to take the egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, she asked her to smell and sip the coffee. The daughter smiled, as she smelled and tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, "What's the point, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity- boiling water-but each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But, after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water they had changed the water. "Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When trials and adversity knock on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"

Think of this: Which am I?

Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity, do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a passive heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside, am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and a hardened heart?

Or, am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you become better and change the situation around you. When the hours are the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate to another level?

Author Unknown

Aesop

2010-10-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3f/Aesop_pushkin03.jpg

Aesop was a slave and storyteller who lived in Ancient Greece between 620 and 560 B.C. He is best known, and well remembered for his fables. A fable is s a story, in prose or verse, that features animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature which are anthropomorphized (given human qualities), and that illustrates a moral lesson, which may at the end be expressed explicitly in a pithy maxim. In his lifetime, Aesop told many of these, which were later written and compiled into what we now know as Aesop's fables or Aesopica. These fables are commonly use to teach and instill values and morals and are especially used for children. Below is a copy of one of Aesop's Fables.

The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs

A man and his wife had the good fortune to possess a goose which laid a golden egg every day. Lucky though they were, they soon began to think they were not getting rich fast enough, and, imagining the bird must be made of gold inside, they decided to kill it. Then, they thought, they could obtain the whole store of precious metal at once; however, upon cutting the goose open, they found its innards to be like that of any other goose.

More about Aesop's Fables can be read here.
You can find an online collection of Aesop's fables here.

Beautiful September Morning

2010-10-14T02:43:00.000-07:00

Photo:
http://www.mikiedees.com/pig_roast.htm

Hi everyone,

It's a very beautiful day...a bit cold I must say, but I'm so excited to see this new day :). Well... I've just stopped by to share a little bit of poetry. Over the past few months I've developed a new love - science, and I have not been paying much attention to Literature but there are times when poetry is needed to help you just lighten up and relax. Today, I will share a more light-hearted poem. Laughter can never be enough, for that matter it is the best medicine. Do enjoy. :-)!

The Pig's Tale

Sir I was cooking my dinner
When I saw the neighbour's hog
Walk straight up to my cooking
And sniff it like a dog.

I warned that pig your honour
Your honour I warned that pig.
I told him to leave my dinner
But the pig was acting big.

I told him 'Dog eat your supper
If you eat my food tonight,
If you touch my fish and ackee
I promise you, I will fight.'

I continued to eat my dinner
I ignored the stupid pug
But the hog was hard of hearing
And he didn't care a fig.

I was going to get the flour
And I'd hardly turn around
When I heard a big commotion
And my pot was on the ground.

You can't imagine, your honour
How it must really feel
To see a 'hard-ears' shoat pug
Treating your dinner like peel!

I'd not have been so angry
If it had been a dog,
But i couldn't stand the thought
Of sharing dinner with a hog.

So, I rushed out in great anger
And I gave a mighty shout
I threw my wooden spoon at him,
It caught him on the snout.

Would you believe your honour,
That the hog look up and grunted,
Then he lay down and pretended
To be completely stunted?

So I thought he had a conscience
And in shame had hung his head.
But when I looked, your honour
The stupid pig was dead!

But as I said your honour
I warned the pig before.
I warned him once, I warned him twice.
I couldn't do much more!

A wise and clever judge therefore
Could not find it unfair
For me to clean and cook that pig
And eat him then and there.

And that's exactly what I did
It surely served him right
You can't ignore such warnings
And not expect a fight!

Just one more thing your honour
That pig was full of spite
For that pig made me suffer
From a belly-ache all night!

'Enough, enough, you've said enough
And silence in the court!'
His honour banged the table
To cut the laughter short.

'As i listened to you state your case
I understood your plight
But you have made one error
And so you can't be right.

That you had warned the creature
Is clear on every hand,
But why did you use a language
Which he did not understand?

To sum up, you took advantage
Of his inability
To comprehend a language
Which is plain to you and me.

The verdict then is 'Guilty" -
Yes, it is clear to me
That any wise or clever judge
Could not let you go free

Pay a fine of twenty dollars
Or sixty days in jail
Give the man a pig or money
Yes, sir, justice must prevail!'

There's a moral to the story
Don't forget it anytime
A pig is not a person
So don't cast your pearls on swine!
Grace Walker Gordon

Enjoy your day everybody!
Cheers!!

The Melody of the SUN

2010-08-24T18:25:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Is there a possibility that the Sun could be trying to tell us something really important? maybe some indication of what the weather would be like, what rout to take to avoid the traffic, or perhaps, its mood lol! maybe it usually has a song on its mind hehe! I don't know. However, I found something really interesting that you guys could check out. A sound installation powered by solar energy. Hope you like it.

You could also check out this blog http://muudmusic.blogspot.com/ for more of this awesome work!!

A Brand New Day

2010-07-16T04:58:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

Its always good to start off the day in the word of God. Today, I read one of my favourite chapters in the bible, one which always encourages me: Lamentations 3. In this chapter the author puts His trust and hope in Jesus, not because His life is sweet and dandy, for it is far from that. But because God has and always will be faithful. I hope this chapter will be a blessing to you as it is to me. :-)

Lamentations 3

Hope in the Lord’s Faithfulness

¹ I am the one who has seen the afflictions
that come from the rod of the Lord’s anger.
² He has led me into darkness,
shutting out all light.
³ He has turned his hand against me
again and again, all day long.

⁴ He has made my skin and flesh grow old.
He has broken my bones.
⁵ He has besieged and surrounded me
with anguish and distress.
⁶ He has buried me in a dark place,
like those long dead.

⁷ He has walled me in, and I cannot escape.
He has bound me in heavy chains.
⁸ And though I cry and shout,
he has shut out my prayers.
⁹ He has blocked my way with a high stone wall;
he has made my road crooked.

¹⁰ He has hidden like a bear or a lion,
waiting to attack me.
¹¹ He has dragged me off the path and torn me in pieces,
leaving me helpless and devastated.
¹² He has drawn his bow
and made me the target for his arrows.

¹³ He shot his arrows
deep into my heart.
¹⁴ My own people laugh at me.
All day long they sing their mocking songs.
¹⁵ He has filled me with bitterness
and given me a bitter cup of sorrow to drink.

¹⁶ He has made me chew on gravel.
He has rolled me in the dust.
¹⁷ Peace has been stripped away,
and I have forgotten what prosperity is.
¹⁸ I cry out, “My splendor is gone!
Everything I had hoped for from the Lord is lost!”

¹⁹ The thought of my suffering and homelessness
is bitter beyond words.^a]">[a]
²⁰ I will never forget this awful time,
as I grieve over my loss.
²¹ Yet I still dare to hope
when I remember this:

²² The faithful love of the Lord never ends!^b]">[b]
His mercies never cease.
²³ Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
²⁴ I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance;
therefore, I will hope in him!”

²⁵ The Lord is good to those who depend on him,
to those who search for him.
²⁶ So it is good to wait quietly
for salvation from the Lord.
²⁷ And it is good for people to submit at an early age
to the yoke of his discipline:

²⁸ Let them sit alone in silence
beneath the Lord’s demands.
²⁹ Let them lie face down in the dust,
for there may be hope at last.
³⁰ Let them turn the other cheek to those who strike them
and accept the insults of their enemies.

³¹ For no one is abandoned
by the Lord forever.
³² Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion
because of the greatness of his unfailing love.
³³ For he does not enjoy hurting people
or causing them sorrow.

³⁴ If people crush underfoot
all the prisoners of the land,
³⁵ if they deprive others of their rights
in defiance of the Most High,
³⁶ if they twist justice in the courts—
doesn’t the Lord see all these things?

³⁷ Who can command things to happen
without the Lord’s permission?
³⁸ Does not the Most High
send both calamity and good?
³⁹ Then why should we, mere humans, complain
when we are punished for our sins?

⁴⁰ Instead, let us test and examine our ways.
Let us turn back to the Lord.
⁴¹ Let us lift our hearts and hands
to God in heaven and say,
⁴² “We have sinned and rebelled,
and you have not forgiven us.

⁴³ “You have engulfed us with your anger, chased us down,
and slaughtered us without mercy.
⁴⁴ You have hidden yourself in a cloud
so our prayers cannot reach you.
⁴⁵ You have discarded us as refuse and garbage
among the nations.

⁴⁶ “All our enemies
have spoken out against us.
⁴⁷ We are filled with fear,
for we are trapped, devastated, and ruined.”
⁴⁸ Tears stream from my eyes
because of the destruction of my people!

⁴⁹ My tears flow endlessly;
they will not stop
⁵⁰ until the Lord looks down
from heaven and sees.
⁵¹ My heart is breaking
over the fate of all the women of Jerusalem.

⁵² My enemies, whom I have never harmed,
hunted me down like a bird.
⁵³ They threw me into a pit
and dropped stones on me.
⁵⁴ The water rose over my head,
and I cried out, “This is the end!”

⁵⁵ But I called on your name, Lord,
from deep within the pit.
⁵⁶ You heard me when I cried, “Listen to my pleading!
Hear my cry for help!”
⁵⁷ Yes, you came when I called;
you told me, “Do not fear.”

⁵⁸ Lord, you are my lawyer! Plead my case!
For you have redeemed my life.
⁵⁹ You have seen the wrong they have done to me, Lord.
Be my judge, and prove me right.
⁶⁰ You have seen the vengeful plots
my enemies have laid against me.

⁶¹ Lord, you have heard the vile names they call me.
You know all about the plans they have made.
⁶² My enemies whisper and mutter
as they plot against me all day long.
⁶³ Look at them! Whether they sit or stand,
I am the object of their mocking songs.

⁶⁴ Pay them back, Lord,
for all the evil they have done.
⁶⁵ Give them hard and stubborn hearts,
and then let your curse fall on them!
⁶⁶ Chase them down in your anger,
destroying them beneath the Lord’s heavens

Well there's a beautiful day ahead of me. There's lots that can be done but so little time to do so. I hope that everyone has a great day.

Cheers!!
Tunsie

My latest artpiece

2010-07-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Quiet Beach by: Mystery Artist

Hi all! I am sure that you guys were wondering what has been going on with the artistic side of my life. the truth is, I have been so busy for the past few months with website developing and . However, last week, i took some time to put an art piece together for my friend who is no longer in the country. This friend will be getting married soon and I thought that I should send a wedding gift that would bring back memories. I had fun putting this work together. i at times had to put in some extra time at nights to get it done since I used up some of the daytime doing other recreational stuff such as fishing. My next art piece will be one that will take up a lot more of my time. I was hired to do a portrait of a centurion on a living room wall. i will let you guys know when i will be starting.

What We've Been Up To

2010-07-13T06:32:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Summer's finally here and although I still have to go to work, we've been blessed with great weather here - the perfect weather to bond with nature. That's indeed what we've been doing. It's a shame that we've been living in this beautiful place all our lives and have not yet seen half of its natural beauty. Well, its never to late to start! So far we've visited waterfalls, rivers, the beach and we have even been to an adventure park. It has been great. Here are a few photos of where we've been so far. I hope you all like them!

Endless love...

2010-05-24T16:25:00.000-07:00

I live like I’m ok
With not having you in the ways
That I always wish I could
I pretend, when you’re with me
That I am filled with glee
Truth is I always long for something more…

I say that I love you with a grudge
Cause you don’t accept the true definition of my love
Even worse,
You don’t extend the same …

Yet still my love still remains
Evermore
You will always be my endless love…
Tunsie

Some Poetry Fun

2010-05-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

Doing English Literature in high school, I came across some funny poetry. These somehow were brought back to mind to day and I'd like to share one with you. I hope you like it.

At the Theatre: To the Lady Behind me

Dear Madam, you have seen this play;
I never saw it till today.
You know the details of the plot,
But, let me tell you, I do not.
The author seeks to keep from me
The murderer's identity,
And you are not a friend of his
If you keep shouting who it is.
The actors in their funny way
Have several funny things to say,
But they do not amuse me more
If you have said them just before;
The merit of the drama lies,
I understand, in some surprise;
But the surprise must now be small
Since you have just foretold it all.
The lady you have brought with you
Is, I infer, a half-wit too,
But I can understand the piece
Without assistance from your niece.
In short, foul woman, it would suit
Me just as well if you were mute;
In fact, to make my meaning plain,
I trust you will not speak again.
And—-may I add one human touch?—-
Don't breathe upon my neck so much.
A P Herbert

Short Stop

2010-05-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

It has been just a little over a week since my computer has been down and life has taken a backward step for me; I really depend on my computer that much. So right now I'm just stepping in with a bit of poetry. Do enjoy!

I'm always right
You, whenever you agree with me
When you don't
You're WRONG
Even when you're right
You cannot be right
Because I'm always right

The car may be blue
But I'll call it black
Blue you say?
Can't Be
Because I'm always right
You disagree?
Then wrong you must be

What? I did something wrong you say?
It cannot be me
Because I do things just perfectly
You did not see it properly
Right I must be
I'm never wrong
That's Policy!

Tunsie

May...

2010-05-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

May your days be filled with laughter
May your heart no sorrow feel
May the sun not set on your anger
Be blessed with the joy and happiness that God gives

Droplet art

2010-04-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

Photo: flickr user Gil Searcy

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gcsearcy/3579952582/

Hi all. Ever wondered why water seems to have such a calming and soothing quality? Sometimes, I take a short walk to the beach or river just to sit and listen to the sound of the waves as they constantly rush unto the shore or the sound of the stream as it runs between the rocks. Inspirational places to be.

Anyway, I stumbled upon an artist who really has a way with water and creates masterpieces using water droplets - Martin Waugh who lives in Portland

He uses high-speed photography to capture the beautiful shapes of liquid, a lot of which are whimsical in shape.

These images are sure to capture your attention as he uses a variety in size, speed, color and position of drops, and also the viscosity, and surface tension.

One of my favorites can be seen Here
Hope you enjoy the droplets LOL! take care.

April is Almost Done...But Not Yet

2010-04-28T05:35:00.000-07:00

Photo compliments: flickr.com
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3403/
3446100697_cd650636ef_o.jpg

Hi Everyone,

April is already coming to an end and I just realized that I overlooked some things completely. The month of April was marked Alcohol Awareness Month, National Autism Awareness Month, National Occupational Therapy Month and National Parkinson's Awareness Month. I think we all need to have some awareness and concern of these things because we are or may be someday in one way or another affected by alcoholism and/or these diseases. I just wanted to share some links with you concerning each of these.

Alcohol Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise the awareness of alcohol abuse and encourage people to make healthy, safe choices. You can have a look at these links: Facts About Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse, How to Fight Against Alcohol Addictions.

National Autism Awareness Month seeks to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness for autism. National Autism Awareness month has been initiated and recognized by the Autism Society since the 1970's. Here are a few links: The Autism Society, Autism.

Occupational Therapy is therapy based on performing the meaningful activities of daily life (self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction), especially to enable or enhance participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning. Take a look at this website: Occupational Therapy.

National Parkinson's Awareness Month aims at the development of concern and awareness for Parkinson's Disease. Feel free to visit this website: parkinson.org

Rested and Ready to Move On

2010-04-14T05:34:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,

I'm finally ready to continue the journey of how Literature has developed over the years. Yes, I did remember that I had started a journey. Well, after a long break, I'm refreshed and ready to dig back deep in the past and see what exactly transpired. I will of course be continuing where I left off - Sumerian Literature :-D. And, of course, there is a poem about continuing a journey ;-D... I hope you all like it.

The Journey Continued

Sat down at the river
For a minute or two
I was disoriented
Was lost and confused
Needed some refreshment
Some inspiration too

Got all I needed at the river
I was soothed from deep within
Everything all seemed clear now
A journey to start again...
Tunsie

Crafty with leaves

2010-04-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

Hi all!
I found this artist who really inspires me. Kazuo Akasaki. He really added to the way art was seen and explored the possibilities by including this natural element in his work. This artist Instead of using paint, creates an image by using leaves.
It is known that during the early years of his career as an artist, despite facing different financial problems, worked on his art while his family supported him. He was awarded the “Salon de Paris” at the 1986 Fine-arts Paris Exhibition of Japan.
It was after this that his art career began to be a success. He then opened a school to teach his techniques and also wrote books on his art form. He work is constructed of leaves only without the use of artificial colors.

here area few of his art pieces.

Just Some Poetry

2010-04-04T18:58:00.000-07:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static
.flickr.com
/46/139136870_
4fadd2f255.jpg

Hey everyone,

Recently I found out that a friend of mine had a great talent - writing poetry. Well, I have posted poems from quite a few different poets and I think that his would be a great addition to the group. Well, here goes. I hope you guys like this.

Tears

What are tears?
Are they a symbol of grief,
The sadness of that the hearts release,
In times of struggle & stress; does our body seek,
A way of comfort; a way to find peace.

As simple as it may seem to be,
It's often that you will see,
A river of tears down the cheeks,
With a smile as broad as the sea,
Of someone very, very happy.

Feelings of sadness; and cheer,
But can we stop there?
It's known that a waterfall of tears,
Can come from someone crying in fear,
That feeling of despair,
Whimpers; panic; terrifying screams fill the air.

It's so easy to cry when you're scared.

Tears may fall; when facing a beautiful ocean,
Tears may fall; when the spirit fills you during devotion
I could go on and on
But I think we all get the motion
Tears are our way of showing; pure emotion.
Dwayne Bellot

Well, I'm off for now!
Ciao
Tunsie

The Evolution of Calypso

2010-04-03T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

This is the continuation of he first calypso post. I'm so sorry for taking so long to complete it. Anyway there it goes.

Calypso has earned its place in history as the national folk song of Trinidad and Tobago and the music of the Caribbean after the emancipation of the slaves. However, even before emancipation there is evidence that the art form had begun its growth. It is suggested that West African Tribal songs were precursor to calypso and that calypso had its roots in the West African custom of griot court singing. The griots usually sang songs of praise and derision and were story tellers. It is said that calypso contains characteristics of these West African songs including:

Percussion Rhythmic Beats
Call and Response Pattern
Extemporaneous Singing
Satire

It is believed that these songs were introduced during the French settlement of the island of Trinidad. Gros Jean, an African slave, is reputed to have been the first calypsonian. In the early days, the songs were sung in patois, in the ex-tempo genre and usually involved colourful and aggressive language. There was also trading of insults among performers, a form called 'mepris', that later developed into the war calypsos.

Over the last century, calypso has spread throughout the Caribbean and around the world. The year 1914 was a milestone in the history of this great indigenous musical art form. This was the year that the first calypso recording was made by the Vincent Gramophone Company of New York. By the Second World War, the presence of the American service men in Trinidad and Tobago ensured that calypso was propelled even further into the international arena. It was also during this period that the first recording studios were established in Trinidad.

The late 1920's saw the rise of the first calypso tents. At that time, bamboo structures and tents were used as the venue for calyopsonians to practice and perform during the Carnival season. (Today, calypso tents are housed in more permanent structures and showcase the new music of the Carnival season.) By the next decade, the giants of calypso had begun their reign. Names such as Atilla the Hun, Lord Invader and Roaring Lion stood out, but there were many others who were also making an unforgettable contribution to calypso music. Aldwin Roberts, the Lord Kitchener proved to be one of the most prolific bards ever. He produced hundreds of calypsos from the 1940's until his death in 2001. 1956 saw the advent of the Mighty Sparrow with the now infamous and popular hit song Jean and Dinah. He followed this with many other memorable songs including Pay as You Earn, Federation, Ten to One is Murder, Mae Mae and Dan is the Man. He continues to record today.

The last thirty-five years has seen several changes in the calypso industry. Attempts have been made to encourage yearlong interest in calypso music by staging concerts outside of the carnival season, however, this has not always been successful. Consequently, many artists tour extensively, participating in the various carnivals around the world. The art form itself has changed, spawning subgroups such as soca, rapso, chutney soca and ragga soca. This blending of various rhythms has attracted a wider audience to the genre.

Today, some of the commentators suggest that the traditional form of calypso is dying, while others claim that it is simply evolving. Carnival historian, Errol Hill, believes that calypso has remained current and popular on the local scene, constantly changing to meet the needs of the population. He says that this is probably because that every season every calypso must offer at least two new songs. This relentless demand for new music keeps the songs topical and relevant but also places a great deal of pressure on the artist to provide quality material.

Here is one of the Mighty Sparrow's Calypsos

Here is an example of soca music which evolved from calypso

I'm off now
Bye
Tunsie

April has Finally Begun

2010-04-03T13:26:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Just dropping by. April is finally here and I'm not sure why but I am very excited. Well, I remember that as a child I looked forward for April 1st to come, April Fools' Day. I am no longer excited now that I'm older but April 1st is still a wonderful day where everyone can by lighthearted, make jokes, just laugh around. I even remember a catchy little poem everyone used to say:

April Fools
Go to school
Tell your teacher she's a fool
If she beats you do not cry
Just take your bag and say goodbye

Well, I'm not sure if any student ever dared do that.

Anyway, I took some time on April Fools looking for where and how this day originated and several stories came up. You can have a look at them here.

Well, there's still much to be done so I guess I'm off
I hope that we are all already having a wonderful April ;)
Bye

Tunsie

Some time with Photography

2010-03-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

It has been a while since I have taken the time off to do some Photography. Presently, The Eastern Caribbean Islands are experiencing some sort of abnormal drought which is really resulting in a rise in temperature that is almost unbearable. I usually fight off the heat by taking a short walk over to the river nearby. Well, I should not be complaining about the heat since there are a lot of persons coming over from other to avoid the cold and enjoy the sunshine. I know you guys will enjoy coming over to these Islands also. You should plan a trip some day. It will be an experience that you will remember for the rest of your lives. There are so many things to do. From Hiking to Whale watching, partying to just getting away from everything, spend time with nature and renewing your mind in the ever so relaxing environment.

Anyway, today I decided to spend some time with nature, and I brought along a camera with me.
Here are some of the images that I captured.

Hope you guys like them! I'm off for now. Take care!!

Goodbye March...Hello April

2010-03-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

Photo: Big periwinkle - James H. Miller
Hey everyone,

March has been a very long month I must say. I feel like I've been in March for forever now. Well now we can say goodbye to March and all that came with it, for example, lent and welcome April, another busy hectic month, but a new beginning.

Well, over the month of March I've had a lot to get done...Research papers etc... Having gotten them out of the way, I can safely say that I will have much more time for blogging :-D...and April's already looking like a very exciting month. Well, I've still to finish posting about calypso, showing how it has developed over the years and there are lots of things going on in April that I would like to touch on: Easter, Alcohol awareness etc. Also I've found some personal old poetry that I would like to share and I've found an aspiring poet and would also like to share his work. Well there's always much to explore in the world of poetry.

Well I've decided to end March with a little poem. I hope you like it :-)

March right on to April
Don't just stagger by
Look forward with anticipation
Of a golden, fun-filled time
March right past the old months
Do not stop and sigh
Time is never waiting
Neither should you and I
Tunsie

I haven't given it a title. What do you think?

Well I'm off for now.
Bye
Tunsie

Cotton Bud Wonders

2010-03-19T04:22:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered what good other than cleaning your earlobes could come from the sanitary cotton bud?? I sat thinking about it and decided to do some searching. Some place, somehow, an artist must have thought of some exciting way of transforming its purpose and introducing it to the world of art. Thanks to the great network of artists brought to us through the internet, In just about a minute, I stumbled on these young artists who are really impressive. Visit their blog and have a look at their work and cotton bud art. If you want to have a look at some spectacular works of art and see how far an artist can go with cotton bud art, take a look at a few images here.
I think I am going to have my share of cotton bud art creating, as soon as I figure out what exactly to create. Hope you guys are having a great time so far. enjoy! See ya!

The change

2010-03-19T03:57:00.000-07:00

Flicker user - kevindooley's photostream
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pagedooley/3032068934/

Hi all, I know you guys have been wondering what the Mystery Artist has been up to lol! Honestly, I have been doing a lot of work lately. I found myself getting involved in a number of website developments of which a lot of work is still needed to be done. I have not taken the time to officially let you guys know about the change to the blog. What lead us into deciding to join both the Rare Art Arena and the Poetry Lit and everything else blogs was the lack of free time to submit new posts as often as before. The truth is, these blogs really require a lot of time and effort to maintain. For me , the most difficult aspect is deciding what to write about next lol! and along with that, establishing contact with the artist I decide to feature. Everyone seems busy hehe. Anyway, since the Rare art Arena blog also included posts on poetry, I decided to invite my closest friend to post on the Rare Art Arena Blog, and that was when the thought of merging the blogs came up. Now, the Blog has two writers and I do most of the designing etc. Anyway, we hope that this will keep you guys entertained as we post along the way. Hope you enjoy the new look!

Some Food For Thought

2010-03-07T14:54:00.002-08:00

Hello Everybody!!!

I hope everybody had a better Sunday than I did. Mine was not that bad but it is very HOT and the heat is beginning to drain me.. I've been having some awful headaches. Well, I found this in a folder of mine and I just thought that I would share it with you:

The most destructive habit........................................Worry
The greatest Joy..........................................................Giving
The greatest loss..........................................................Loss of self-respect
The most satisfying work...........................................Helping others
The ugliest personality trait......................................Selfishness
The most endangered species...................................Dedicated Leaders

Our greatest natural resource...................................Our Youth
The greatest "shot in the arm"..................................Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome...........................Fear

The most effective sleeping pill..................................Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease.............................Excuses
The most powerful force in life...................................Love

The most dangerous pariah........................................A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer......................The Brain
The worst thing to be without....................................Hope

The deadliest weapon...................................................The tongue
The two most power-filled words..............................."I Can"
The greatest asset.........................................................Faith

The most worthless emotion........................................Self Pity
The most beautiful attire..............................................SMILE!
The most prized possession..........................................Integrity

The most powerful channel of communication...........Prayer
The most contagious Spirit............................................Enthusiasm

Well, I'm off for now. I hope that everybody had a great weekend
Bye!!

The Art Journey Continues

2010-03-06T18:08:00.000-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Edmund_Dulac_-_The_Mermaid_-_The_Prince.jpg

Artist: Edmund Dulac
(from the Little Mermaid)

Hey y'all

Time is flying by so quickly. So much to do in so little time. Well life's a hustle and that's just the way it is. Today I decided to continue on my search for art. As a child, I always loved the drawings in fairy tale books... Yes believe it or not I actually read fairy tale books as a child :D... and I've always been fascinated by their art. For that reason, I decided to search for some "fairy tale artists". Well in my search, I came across this great website: Art Passions Fairy Tales. It is filled with fairy tale art and also features many fairy tale artists. Be sure to check it out. I do hope that you like what you see.

Well I'm off now. Got some more work to get done. Happy weekend everyone :-D

Cheers!

The Owl and the Pussycat

2010-03-06T17:24:00.002-08:00

photo compliments: flickr.com
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1387/1347569710_d4b94be914.jpg

Hey Everyone,

It has been a very long but extremely exciting Saturday. Well, I'm just dropping by to share a poem. This was one of my favourite poems (its actually a non-sense poem) as a child and I know that I'm suppose to be all grown up now but hey it still puts a smile on my face :-).

The Owl and The Pussycat

I
The Owl and the Pussy-cat went to sea
In a beautiful pea green boat,
They took some honey, and plenty of money,
Wrapped up in a five pound note.
The Owl looked up to the stars above,
And sang to a small guitar,
'O lovely Pussy! O Pussy my love,
What a beautiful Pussy you are,
You are,
You are!
What a beautiful Pussy you are!'

II
Pussy said to the Owl, 'You elegant fowl!
How charmingly sweet you sing!
O let us be married! too long we have tarried:
But what shall we do for a ring?'
They sailed away, for a year and a day,
To the land where the Bong-tree grows
And there in a wood a Piggy-wig stood
With a ring at the end of his nose,
His nose,
His nose,
With a ring at the end of his nose.

III
'Dear pig, are you willing to sell for one shilling
Your ring?' Said the Piggy, 'I will.'
So they took it away, and were married next day
By the Turkey who lives on the hill.
They dined on mince, and slices of quince,
Which they ate with a runcible spoon;
And hand in hand, on the edge of the sand,
They danced by the light of the moon,
The moon,
The moon,
They danced by the light of the moon.
Edward Lear

More of Edward Lear's work can be found here. Also, I have added an article about Nelson Mandela on the writer's page. Feel free to check it out here.

In Memory of Myrtle Giraudel Eugene

2010-03-04T15:07:00.002-08:00

It was like she had been destined to suffer. For her whole life, since she could remember there was some bit of suffering, until, toward the end of her short-lived life she was bedridden. One would think that all this suffering would have been reflected in her mannerisms, her expressions, her attitude. But that was far from the case; She never suffered with melancholy and if she did, she would never let it show. For that matter, her will to live caught on and gave many others who had listened to her that same sense of contentment in life through whatever situation they might have been in. She was always so joyful and grateful. She had never acted selfishly or with a sense of ingratitude. She never gave up. She fought on until the moment of her long predicted death.

People say that she was happy. Happiness they say... but that could be differed; for happiness and sorrow by no means can exist together. Her joy came from something much deeper and greater than a mere feeling of happiness. She was indeed in touch with the One being who is Greater than all else and He had blessed her. Blessed her with a spirit of contentment of gratefulness of joy and peace.

She was in great need physically but she had drunk from His well... and never was she thirsty again

The Calypso

2010-03-04T11:50:00.002-08:00

Calypso is a style of Afro-Caribbean music which originated in the British and French colonial islands of the Caribbean at the start of the 20^th century. Trinidad was the most important center of early calypso.

There are many stories as to how calypso came into being. The most popular theory is that calypso rhythms were developed after the coming of the first African slaves brought to work in the sugar plantations of Trinidad. Forbidden to talk to each other, and robbed of all links to family and home, the African slaves began singing songs. They used calypso, which can be traced back to West African kaiso, as a means of communication and to mock the slave masters.

It is also believed that:

Calypso came from the carib word 'carieto', meaning joyous song
Calypso originated from the French patois word 'carrousseaux' meaning a drinking party or festivity. This word later transformed into other variants, namely cariso, calyso and cayiso
It may have come from the Venezuelan (Spanish) word 'caliso' which referred to a topical song.

Calypsos are mainly sung during the carnival season in the Caribbean countries. These songs address the social issues in their respective countries. Initially, the majority of the songs were sung in patois. However, during the turn of the century when the people of Trinidad were struggling with the fading of the French patois and the emerging dominance of English, many terms were simply anglicized.

Here are two videos of Dominican calypsos. I hope you like them.

Back After a Long Break

2010-03-04T09:32:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: http://www.nataliedee.com/012807/hi-pig.jpg

Hey everyone!

Can you believe it? It's already March. Time is just flying by so quickly. I don't think i can keep up with the pace of the new world. Well, I haven't been posting much lately for several reasons. I've had a very busy schedule...and I've been keeping away from the pc a bit...just enjoying nature..and giving much of my attention to the love of my life... The month of love is over but I feel sooo much in love right now that it just isn't funny. Well, it's a great feeling and I like it.

Well, I did promise some posts in particular and I am going to fulfill these promises. I did promise to highlight the works of blacks who made have made contributions to Literature in the past and I intend to just add this on to the writer's page once I get them done...I'll be sure to keep you updated. Also I promised that I would speak about calypso, which has become a well integrated part of Caribbean culture especially at carnival times. As for the love poetry, these will definitely be posted as we go along.

I've also found some poems that I had written a very long time ago. I will also post these and would love to get your feedback... God knows what must have been going through my adolescent mind when i had written those.

Well, that's it for now. I'm going to go browsing through some blogs to see whats new... It has been a while

Ciao!

Dropping in from busy times

2010-02-25T16:34:00.000-08:00

Busy Bee - flickr user Van Pelt
Photo compliments http://www.flickr.com/photos/23920588@N08/3264140479

Hi all!! I have been away for some time. Been working under a tight schedule for the past few days and would you imagine that I am on my vacation. Lol! I have been busy working on a mobile website and trust me this is giving me a lot of headache. I spent almost the entire day trying to find one simple error. as for my art, Ive been working on a few airbrush art pieces. And above all, been spending some time with love ones and family and enjoying the...HEAT! lol. It is extremely hot at home. but I am coping with it. I know some of you guys are fighting the cold presently. Anyway, Im off to the website building. Cheers!!

Much Is Happening

2010-02-10T03:46:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/30/101912798_bd062e6c2c.jpg

Hey everyone!!

It's been a while :-D. I've finally revived from the flu and I've been up and about on my busy way again. Right now, I'm trying to do a research paper and there are a number of other things just taking up much of my time. Well for now I'm just dropping by, but I will be back soon to get back to posting. Well, we're still in Black History month and I haven't done much research about that nor have I posted much Literature. My intention, however, is not so much to go into Black History but to highlight a few of the many talented African American writers and poets out there. I hope I succeed.

Also, Valentines Day is coming up and I would love to grace you all with some love poetry and other Literature. Lastly, its the carnival season where I'm from and here carnival gives way to many skilled writers to compose calypsos. These songs are very neatly done and well composed, some humorous, others of a more serious tone. But I would like to share some with you as well.

Well, I'm off for now. Going to a camp for the weekend. Hoping to have at least on post done before I leave... Bye!!

Just Some Poetry

2010-02-03T09:19:00.002-08:00

Hey everybody,

I just came across the poem that I used to like very much and just thought that I'd share it with you. I'm not sure who wrote it but I first heard it on the movie "10 Things I Hate About You." I hope you like it.

10 Things I Hate About You

I hate the way you talk to me,
And the way you cut your hair.
I hate the way you drive my car,
I hate it when you stare.
I hate your big dumb combat boots
And the way you read my mind.
I hate you so much it makes me sick,
It even makes me rhyme.
I hate the way you’re always right,
I hate it when you lie.
I hate it when you make me laugh,
Even worse when you make me cry.
I hate it when you’re not around,
And the fact that you didn’t call.
But mostly I hate the way I don’t hate you,
Not even close…
Not even a little bit…
Not even at all.

Black History Month is Here

2010-02-02T04:17:00.002-08:00

Yesterday, February 1^st, marked the beginning of Black History month in the United States and in Canada. It is during this month that we all take time to look at black history, the struggle which Blacks went through to be where they are today. It is true that the way Blacks were treated in the initial stages of history was despicable. However, there is much to learn from Black History. Black History has taught us that we are all people with rights. It has also taught us to fight for what we believe in. Most importantly it has shown us that our circumstances do not make us who we are. For we can rise above every circumstance and be who we ought to be. Like Maya Angelou, we can all rise.

Still I Rise

You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I'll rise.

Does my sassiness upset you?
Why are you beset with gloom?
'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells
Pumping in my living room.

Just like moons and like suns,
With the certainty of tides,
Just like hopes springing high,
Still I'll rise.

Did you want to see me broken?
Bowed head and lowered eyes?
Shoulders falling down like teardrops.
Weakened by my soulful cries.

Does my haughtiness offend you?
Don't you take it awful hard
'Cause I laugh like I've got gold mines
Diggin' in my own back yard.

You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I'll rise.

Does my sexiness upset you?
Does it come as a surprise
That I dance like I've got diamonds
At the meeting of my thighs?

Out of the huts of history's shame
I rise
Up from a past that's rooted in pain
I rise
I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide,
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.
Leaving behind nights of terror and fear
I rise
Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear
I rise
Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,
I am the dream and the hope of the slave.
I rise
I rise
I rise.
Maya Angelou

A bit of the Airbrush work

2010-02-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

I promised you all that I would add a few pics of the airbrush work as it comes along so here is a bit for your enjoyment. It has been a real challenge as always and still has not been completed
lol! Hope you guys like it

It's A New Week

2010-01-31T10:09:00.002-08:00

Happy Sunday Everybody,

It is the first day of a new week. I wish that I wasn't already SOOOO tired. Well, I'm battling with the flu and I've been more or less just lying in bed taking pills for the past few days. I'm trying to rise above this so I'm returning to society :-D tomorrow. I hope that I can handle that.

Well, was just taking a moment to share a poetry site that I found with you. It's actually a "Scriptural Poetry" site. I hope you like it.

By the way, I've noticed that I can no long access "Writing and Art" Blog by AJ Johnson. Has she a new link? It was such an inspirational blog.

Well, I'm off for now. Hoping to go out and take a little walk later.

Bye!!

Back to the Bible

2010-01-29T06:30:00.002-08:00

photo compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/80/Image_-_Holy_Bible.jpg

Hey Everyone!!!!

I hope that all is well. Just wanted to share some thoughts. My favourite piece of Literature ever is, of course, the Holy Bible. Here you can find a range of literary works from poems to letters to stories to even quotes and sayings. So I guess that this is the one book that we should never get tired of, yet the one book that we don't read enough.

About two years ago, I embarked on a mission - reading the entire bible. Sad to say that I've stopped many times along the way. For this new year, I've decided to pick up where I left off. I was so excited to read bible stories which I learnt at Sunday School and maybe I'll share some bible stories with you ever so often.

Well, I thought that that still wasn't enough and I decided that I needed to commit some more scripture to memory. It is actually very encouraging to quote scripture when going through rough moments in life. God has a way of speaking to you through His Word in every situation. Well, my best friend and I began by learning a passage of scripture taken from Philippians chapter 4. This passage of scripture has always been an encouragement to me and I hope it is to you also.

Philippians 4:4-13

⁴Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. ⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

¹⁰I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹²I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Stopping by to say Hi and PRAY!

2010-01-28T13:12:00.000-08:00

A Photo of my ongoing project

Hi all! I have been working on some airbrushing projects. Had to take the time to stop by and see how everyone is doing. Yesterday I had to place some art work on a Van. As usual, the preparation is the difficult part. Creating the surface to work on really takes a lot. in the photo I had to place an old sheet of paper with some words printed on the vehicle and man I really don't like the scent of automotive paint lol! Gotta leave with it even though it gets me hungry. I also gotta place another work of art on the front of the van. Hopefully I will attach more photos on my next post to show you guys the finished product. Anyway, I hope you all are enjoying the New Year so far. A lot of people are not as fortunate. Some were unable to live this far into the year. Pray for our Friends and the families in Haiti. Donate in whatever way you can. Our support is needed greatly. Anyway, I am off for now.

Take care guys.

Sumerian Myth

2010-01-28T04:30:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: http://schools-wikipedia.org/images/626/62624.png

Hey everyone,

I've seem to have gotten a relieve from my busy schedule and have just been lying in bed for the morning (with the flu) so I decided to read up on more Sumerian Literature. Something that I was really drawn to was their mythology.

Many of Sumerian Writings in themselves have only been discovered through archeology. However, a lot of Sumerian work have been adopted by the Babylonians and Akkadians and were spread by them throughout the middle east.

One tablet that was recovered was that which held the creation story. It is the earliest account of the Sumerian Creation Myth. It is written in Sumerian Language but is dated back to 18th century B.C, the age of the first dynasty of Babylon.

Sumerian Creation Story

In summary, the gods An, Enlil, Enki and Ninhursanga create the Sumerians (the "black-headed people") and the animals. Then kingship descends from heaven and the first cities are founded: Eridu, Bad-tibira, Larsa, Sippar, and Shuruppak.

After a missing section in the tablet, we learn that the gods have decided to send a flood to destroy humankind. Zi-ud-sura, the king and gudug priest, learns of this. (In the later Akkadian version, Ea, or Enki in Sumerian, the god of the waters, warns the hero (Atra-hasis in this case) and gives him instructions for the ark. This is missing in the Sumerian fragment, but a mention of Enki taking counsel with himself suggests that this is Enki's role in the Sumerian version as well.)

When the tablet resumes it is describing the flood. A terrible storm rocks the huge boat for seven days and seven nights, then Utu (the Sun god) appears and Zi-ud-sura creates an opening in the boat, prostrates himself, and sacrifices oxen and sheep.

After another break the text resumes, the flood is apparently over, the animals disembark and Zi-ud-sura prostrates himself before An (sky-god) and Enlil (chief of the gods), who give him eternal life and take him to dwell in Dilmun for "preserving the animals and the seed of mankind". The remainder of the poem is lost.
(Adapted from wikipedia.org: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumerian_creation_myth)

A translation of the discovered tablet can be found here.

Blessed Are We

2010-01-27T04:05:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/29/38581292_f13a4b5a00.jpg

Hey Everyone,

I just received this prayer in my mail and I thought I'd share it with you. Indeed we have truly been blessed we should always return many thanks to God for all His blessings on us.

Blessed Are We...

Lord, I just want to say THANK YOU,

Because this morning I woke up and knew where my children were.

Because this morning my home was still standing,

Because this morning I am not crying

Because my spouse, my child, my brother or sister, my parent does not need to be buried

or to be pulled out from underneath a pile of concrete,

Because this morning I was able to drink a glass of water,

Because this morning I was able to turn on the light,

Because this morning I was able to take a shower,

Because this morning I was not planning a funeral,

But most of all I thank you this morning because I still have life and a voice to cry out for the people of Haiti.

Lord I cry out to you, the One that makes the impossible, possible,

The One that turns darkness in to light,

I cry out that You give those mothers strength,

That You give them peace that surpasses all understanding,

That You may open the streets so that help can come,

That You may provide doctors, nurses, food, water, and all that they need in a blink of an eye.

For all those that have lost family members, give them peace, give them hope, give them courage to continue to go on!

Protect the children and shield them with your power.
I pray all this in the name of Jesus!!!

Some Food For Thought

2010-01-25T02:55:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/56/136549706_9b2d77c2ed.jpg

Happy Monday Everybody :-D!

Last night, I was going through a folder that had been on the shelf a while when I came across a very interesting story. It's called "Shake It Off and Step Up" and I just though that I would share it with you.

Shake It Off and Step Up

A parable is told of a farmer who owned an old mule. The mule fell into the farmer's well. The farmer heard the mule 'braying' - or - whatever mules do when they fall into wells. After carefully assessing the situation, the farmer sympathized with the mule, but decided that neither the mule nor the well was worth the trouble of saving. Instead, he called his neighbors together and told them what had happened...and enlisted them to help haul dirt to bury the old mule in the well and put him out of his misery.

Initially, the old mule was hysterical! But as the farmer and his neighbors continued shoveling and the dirt hit his back...a thought struck him. It suddenly dawned on him that every time a shovel load of dirt landed on his back...HE SHOULD SHAKE IT OFF AND STEP UP! This he did, blow after blow.

"Shake it off and step up...shake it off and step up...shake it off and step up!" he repeated to encourage himself. No matter how painful the blows, or distressing the situation seemed the old mule fought "panic" and just kept right on SHAKING IT OFF AND STEPPING UP!

You're right! It wasn't long before the old mule, battered and exhausted, STEPPED TRIUMPHANTLY OVER THE WALL OF THAT WELL! What seemed like it would bury him, actually blessed him...all because of the manner in which he handled his adversity.

THAT'S LIFE! If we face our problems and respond to them positively, and refuse to give in to panic, bitterness, or self-pity...THE ADVERSITIES THAT COME ALONG TO BURY US USUALLY HAVE WITHIN THEM THE POTENTIAL TO BENEFIT AND BLESS US! Remember that FORGIVENESS--FAITH--PRAYER-- PRAISE and HOPE...all are excellent ways to "SHAKE IT OFF AND STEP UP" out of the wells in which we find ourselves!

Author Unknown

By the way, I did add on the post of Martin Luther King Jr as I had promised and you can find it on the writer's page, here.

Dropping By

2010-01-20T10:16:00.002-08:00

Hey everybody,

Just dropping by shortly. I have been very busy lately and do not have as much time to blog as I did before. Hopefully, I will be more settled soon and will be able to pay more attention to my blog. Well, I intended on doing a post on Martin Luther King Jr., as many of us observed his birthday on January 18th. I did not get it done on time, however, I am still hoping to recognize Martin Luther King's skills in writing. I am also hoping to find out more about Sumerian Literature and to work on my writers page.

Well, I'm off to get some work done now.

Bye!

Home once again

2010-01-17T14:23:00.000-08:00

Photo compliments
http://poesiadomundo-amgf.blogspot.com/2010/01/sazon.html

Hi all! i am finally back home. Did not expect to be as busy as I was in St Vincent. It was also a work related trip and honestly, this Island has so much to do, it is impossible to get it all done in just one week. Unfortunately, I was unable to meet up with a local artist. For the next 6 months, I am expecting to be caught up in some airbrush jobs. Anyway, today I spent some time looking at some Nude art. The human body is one of the greatest art pieces ever in its natural and spectacular form. Here is an art Blog that you may enjoy. IL NUDE IN ART. I am presently at work and having a real busy day. I am hoping to be back on my art search 2nite. see ya later! cheers!

Where it All Began

2010-01-14T04:29:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.com
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5d/GudeaZylinder.jpg
Description :Cylindres of the Sumerian ruler Gudea with cuneiform texts

Hey everybody,

Busy days these days... or perhaps rather lazy days. I'm not sure which I do more these days- work or sleep. Oh well, I guess I'm getting some much needed rest. Well, I've found a great time line which shows the chronology of ancient civilizations. However, there was no mention of the pre Columbian societies in the West such as the Aztecs, Incas etc. I guess, that is some more research that I'll have to do...When I get the time. I wish I could just lie on my bed for the entire day reading. God knows!

Anyway, as have already been noted, the first civilization of the Ancient world is Sumer. Their civilization was located in Southern Mesopotamia, Iraq. Their civilization has been said to span over a period of over 3000 years from 6th millennium B.C. until the rise of Babylonia. The invention of writing has been attributed to the Sumerians, starting with cuneiform logograms to a syllabary writing system. Sumerian Literature is the oldest Literature in the world and the earliest known work of writing, Epic of Gilgamesh, have been attributed to them.

Well, that's as far as I've gotten but I will be doing some more reading on Sumerian civilization paying close attention to their contribution to Literature.

I've still been writing poems...Well, still been trying to write poems, so here's another. Hope you like it.

Wistful Thinking
I have submerged
My cheerful disposition has succumbed
To my wistfulness
My thoughts is the virus that has caused my melancholy
“Will everything ever be alright?” I ask
But my discombobulated mind makes me pessimistic
I am sinking deeper in, drowning
With nothing but twigs to hold on to
Yes twigs, faint memories of what used to be
Far from sufficient to sustain my weight
Far from sufficient to make me hopeful for better days
Indeed, there are no better days
I’m in a whirlpool
More like a bottomless pit
I’ve been flushed down
It’s sucking me in
Never again to see the surface
Tunsie

I am in St Vincent!!

2010-01-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

Flag of St Vincent

Hi all! I am now in the wonderful Caribbean Island of St Vincent.This is a small Island situated in the Eastern Caribbean. It is also surrounded by a number of even small Islands called the Grenadine Islands. The plane ride was quite exciting and filled with interesting views as I traveled along the chain of islands. Everything looks spectacular from high above. What I love most about the Caribbean Islands is the warm sunshine all year round. Really reflects the heart of the people. Anyway, I'm off for now. got lots to do in so little time. Will keep you posted. Cheers!!

The Journey Has Only Just Begun

2010-01-07T08:34:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: emprudate.com
http://www.earlham.edu/~seidti/iam/papyrus_66a.gif

Hey Everyone,

Today, I decided to go back into Literature History, this time with a new approach. Last year, I started with Ancient Greek Literature, but Greece was not the first civilization of the Ancient world. So, I went back further into History. So far, it has been interested to see the different societies that evolved in ancient history, their contribution to Literature, and to the bigger world. It's so amazing to see how they applied their intelligence to writing and even bigger things such as architecture. These ancient peoples were very intelligent indeed. Well, I'm trying to get a time line to see which of the societies came first and to develop some sort of chronology.

I'm off for now
Cheers!

The language of flowers

2010-01-07T06:48:00.000-08:00

flickr user - citymama
http://www.flickr.com/photos/citymama/4024528100/

Hi all! I am once again on my art search and I am already having a lot of fun. Though My busy times has not completely gone away, I am blessed with the free time which I could use to do some art browsing. Hopefully on Sunday I will be traveling again to another Caribbean Island for some work related event. I am also hoping that I will have the opportunity to visit at least one local artist while I'm there. Anyway, this morning, I spent some time walking about in my yard at home and took some time to admire what may seem to others as simple but really is a very complex and amazing aspect of nature. If you really listen, you will be sure to hear the voices all around you as it serenades the earth. I am sure you will agree that flowers speak to us;

Red roses - passionate, romantic love
Pink roses - a lesser affection
White roses - virtue and chastity and
Yellow roses - friendship or devotion.

and the many others in the floriography arena.
Think of the beauty that flowers in their natural arrangements posses. What makes it even more interesting is the artistic ability that man has developed and have been ably to produce arrangements and combination of flowers that has really been able to stand far above the natural scenes. While searching for art I stumbled on a Flower filled blog which as always, I would like to share with you. Visit Everyday Flowers and enjoy this floral facination.

Here is a wonderful poem by a friend.

The Rose

The beautiful, harmless, flawless rose
Its soft white petals
Filled with its desirable scent
A mark of innocence
The rose
That beautiful, harmless, flawless rose
The rose called out to me in silence
It was my every longing
But, my rough hands could not handle such delicacy
I tore out a petal or two
Damaged its perfection
Scarred the rose
The rose
Still that beautiful, harmless rose
I am no more careful
Than I was when I found it
And the more the rose endures
The rougher I become
But the rose
That beautiful harmless rose
Pricked the blood out of my thumb
The Rose
That beautiful rose
I should have known
There is no rose without a thorn
Tunsie

I am also working on an artist photo album for the blog. In this album will have a photo of all the artist who were featured on the blog. i want to keep a picture record of all the artist who have inspired me along the way.

anyway, I am off for now. See ya!

The Rose

2010-01-06T03:43:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2676/3968382194_a45cae2473.jpg

Hey y'all

Just dropping by. The new year is already very busy. But I'm still managing to make time for Literature and will hopefully be able to share my findings with you soon. Well, I've been writing poems, like I said I wanted to. And I just thought that I'd share one with you. I hope you like it.

Well I'm off to do some reading. I started reading this new book, The Wrong Girl. It seems interesting so far. My last book, The Mineral Palace, was a great book. I really enjoyed reading it. Anyways I'm off now.

Cheers!

Poetry Sites

2010-01-02T05:31:00.002-08:00

Hey,

Just dropping by quickly. I've been busy on a "cleaning project" for the holidays and I still have not yet fully completed so there's not much time for the computer anymore. Anyway, I just wanted to share two poetry sites quickly - Allpoetry and Read Write Poem. These are pretty cool so if you have some time...have a look. You won't regret.

Anyway, back to work now. Hopefully I'll be done soon and will be free to continue my journey on the History of Literature. Who knows what I'll find next?

Cheers!
Tunsie

Cheers...To the New Year

2010-01-01T06:46:00.002-08:00

flickr.com
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3093/3193886965_523396d287.jpg

Hey Everyone,

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! It's almost unbelievable that we're already in the new year. It seems like just yesterday that 2009 started. Well I wish everyone well in the new year. I personally see this new year as an opportunity to get things right with God, grow closer to Him, mend broken friendships, forgive people who may have hurt me, grow closer to friends and family and to be a better person overall. Well, the way I see it, we never know when we ourselves are going to die, neither do we know when somebody who has been a part of our lives is going to die. Either way it many happen, not that I'm praying for it, it should not have us live with a lifetime of regret or guilt.

As I stated previously, I do intend on recognizing the people who have and are contributing to Literature and so I added a writers page. This page will also be used to promote the work of others so if anyone has any Literature that they would like to share, please feel free to contact me (I also added a contact form).

Well, I couldn't help but to start the new year with some poetry...(Actually I was looking for a new year prayer but didn't find any so I settled for a poem). I hope you like it!

I Am the New Year. . .

I am the new year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.

I am your next chance at the art of living. I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months.

All that you sought and didn’t find is hidden in me, waiting for you to search it but with more determination.

All the good that you tried for and didn’t achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires.

All that you dreamed but didn’t dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose.

I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, "Behold, I make all things new."

Author Unknown

Happy New YE"ART"!!

2009-12-31T05:28:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

This has been one of the busiest Christmas seasons I've seen. Well its soon coming to an end and everything seems to be pacing down now. Thank God. I have made the best of my Christmas season though, and managed to spend some time with family and friends.

Well, the new year is here...well almost... and its time to look forward to new beginnings. I'm looking forward to the new year, new adventures, a chance to do all the things that I did not get done last year.

I am thankful for the wonderful blogs that are around that somehow always seem to inspire me. I just want to show you guys a video that I love by the artist Maxim Grunin.

There is another part to this video which can be found on Maxim's blog here - Maxim Grunin, Painting.

There is also a new blogger who I decided to show my support to. I know how important this is to all bloggers. Checkout her art, photography and poetry blog here - A Look at the Ultimate Masterpiece.

I look forward to my continued art search and look forward to your post as well which inspires and encourages me as I go along. Well, I'm out for now.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

A New Beginning or Perhaps a Journey Continued

2009-12-29T13:21:00.002-08:00

Climbing the mountain
Flickr user - doemehuber

Hey Everyone,

Every year, as the new year approaches, I set goals for myself, and list out all the things that I would like to achieve for the upcoming year. Well generally, there are a few things which stay the same. For example, grow closer to God, grow closer to family and friends, be a little more active, read a little more etc. Well, since I've started this blog I've also considered the changes I am going to make here also. I think I need to get a little more organized here and maybe keep focused on the path I had taken in the first place : the History of Literature...lol...but there is always so much to share. Secondly, I would like to recognize the efforts of people who have contributed and still are contributing to the development of Literature. Additionally I would like to write more poetry (I know that this has nothing to do with the organization or development of this blog but since this is a poetry blog I might as well encourage it :-D).

Well, I have already started and have written a "New Year" poem. I hope you like it:

A new beginning
Another leg of the journey
Look ahead
Only to see another mountain approaching
There'll be moments up hill
Times to go down also
Each moment, every minute, each second
A privilege
Another minute to live
Another second of life
Be pessimistic
Or savor each moment alive
Choose to remain stagnant
Or climb to higher heights
Whichever brings more contentment...

One fact remains
We were chosen, blessed
Given the chance to live
Tunsie

A bit of Encouragement

2009-12-27T13:24:00.002-08:00

Why celebrate Jesus one may ask? Well, I came across a passage that has been an encouragement to me. Jesus, the son of God, humbled himself and became human just so that we may be saved. Because of Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, his death on the cross for our sins, we have been reconciled with God. That is the greatest thing that ever could be done for us. Jesus' death allows us to be reconciled with God, all we have to do is confess our sins to Him, believing that He can save us. Forgiven and blameless before God, we can now fellowship with God and have achieved for ourselves eternal life with God in heaven. How amazing is that!

Colossians 1:15-22 (NIV)

The Supremacy of Christ

15He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
21Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of[a] your evil behavior. 22But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—

Merry Christmas

2009-12-26T07:40:00.002-08:00

Hey Everyone,

I know I'm late but I'd just like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (and a Happy New Year in case i don't get to say it on time). I wish you all God's richest blessings now and in the new year to come.

Well, I hope that this season has been one filled with love for everyone and that we all took a break from our busy lives to spend some time with family and friends and let them know how much we appreciate them. And if you didn't it's never to late to start.

Happy Holidays Everybody

Tunsie

12 Days of Christmas

2009-12-26T07:19:00.002-08:00

Yesterday, Christmas day, began the 12 days of Christmas which is suppose to represent the journey taken by the Magi, the wise men, who brought gifts for Jesus. Well I just thought I'd share some Literature related to the 12 days of Christmas. They are actually sung as songs which we should know very well. These songs do have meaning, and are not just silly words put together to rhyme. You can find out more about the message of these songs here.

Bye

Christmas Without Jesus

2009-12-21T17:23:00.002-08:00

I've been searching for more and more Christmas poetry, mainly those poems which have focused on Jesus as the real reason for Christmas (I don't hate Santa Claus but we already get a lot of him from everywhere else). Anyway, I found this poem: Christmas Without Jesus, which I thought would be great to share.

Christmas Without Jesus

No mangers in the shopping mall
No star to light the night;
This is the Christmas season,
But Christ is not in sight.
We are told it is a holiday tree,
And we can't say Merry Christmas,
If we're not celebrating the birth of Christ,
Then will you tell me what this is?

The virgin in the stable,
Giving birth in Bethlehem;
The kings who traveled from the East,
To bow down and worship Him...
The star that led the shepherds,
The angel announcing His birth;
Finally a Saviour born,
For all sinners on this Earth.

God manifest in the flesh,
Celebrated since that day;
When Christ laid in the manger,
Humbly born, laid in the hay.
Are we not to all remember,
That Jesus is the reason;
We gather to worship and celebrate
This wondrous special season?

Where are the season's carols,
The songs of Mary's flight?
Oh Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,
Peace On Earth and Silent Night?
How can there be a Christmas..
If Christ has not a part:
Of the joy that dwells in our spirit
And the love that lives in our heart?

It is His life alive in me
That makes the season bright;
The knowledge that the Christ was born
Upon this Holy Night.
So keep your holiday greetings;
Well wishes and all the fuss....
For me there is no Christmas
Without my Lord Jesus.
Jacqueline

This poet has many other great pieces. Visit her website - Sentimental SpentHeart. Hope you like it.

Bye

The Christmas Story

2009-12-21T04:25:00.002-08:00

Good Morning Everybody,

Can't believe that Christmas is creeping up on me so quickly. Well, in keeping with the "reason for the season", I'm just sharing a biblical account of the birth of the Christ-child and maybe a poem or two :-D.

The Birth of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:18-25 NIV)

18This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

20But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,[c] because he will save his people from their sins."

22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"[d]—which means, "God with us."

24When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

There's No Christmas without Jesus

There's no Christmas without Jesus,
It's to Him our eyes should see.
Not to jolly old Saint Nicholas
Nor a glitt'ring Christmas tree!

Shops in town are decorated
Decked in colors bright and gay
Tinsel lights and shapes created
Merge into one grand display.

"There's no Christmas without buying
Gifts and toys to give," they say.
Oh, that they should be realizing
All these things will fade away!

Santa Claus is just a story
Reindeer never pulled his sleigh.
Why then, does he get the glory
On this sacred, holy day?

But a baby in a manger
Really lived in Israel:
He was born to be our Savior
It's His story we must tell!

I will think of Christ this Christmas,
How He left His throne above,
Gave up all His heav'nly riches
For to manifest His love!

Take the tinsel and the glitter
And the 'Santas' all away
For God's love is far, far greater
Than this man-made display
Poet Unknown

You can find more Christmas poetry here.
Bye for now
Cheers

Busy but Enjoying the Season!

2009-12-20T11:40:00.000-08:00

HI all! been having a real busy time. Well a lot of air traveling usually takes place during this season. People flying back home to spend the time with family and loved ones and giving Air Traffic Controllers like myself a lot of work to do at the Airports.I really wanted to take a break from work to get some of my personal stuff done but unfortunately this was not the case. Because of the staff shortage, I did not have a choice but to work the entire Christmas. I guess every disappointment has some sort of blessing along with it.
Anyway I have not been doing as much post as I use to when I just started but I am hoping to get back into the flow that I once had. I guess that is how things get when responsibility really starts catching up on you LOL! I am getting the hang of things and learning how to manage my time. I have been hanging around the Literature Poetry Blog a lot. Lots of interesting posts. I have also been spending a lot of time in the music realm. Music is another form of art that I really love and the musicians themselves are so incredibly artistic. One musical work of art that I am presently enjoying is that of Vance Perry. He is fantastic in Acappella. I want to share two of his videos with you all. Dont stop Believing and Carol of the Bells. Hope you like them. Enjoy the Holidays all!!

Happy Holidays Everyone!!

The Significance of It All

2009-12-20T03:21:00.002-08:00

Hey everyone,

Christmas is just around the corner and I think that we should spend some time meditating on the real reason for the season, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ was God's gift to humanity. Sin had once separated man from God. But Jesus Christ was made the bridge by which we can be reconciled with God. Long before his birth, the prophet Isaiah foretold that a baby would be born of a virgin and that His name would be Immanuel.

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14

As predicted, Jesus Christ was born of a virgin. As also predicted in Isaiah 53, Jesus suffered (and died) so that we may be reconciled with God. All we have to do is accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives.

What better way to celebrate Jesus Christ this year than to make Him the Savior of our lives? After all, it's a free gift that He has handed to us, that is salvation from sin. All we have to do is accept it.

Christmas Gets Better Every Year

2009-12-18T03:49:00.002-08:00

Hey everybody,

Just dropping by this morning. It's a very cold morning I must say... but it's calm and cool. Well I have a long day ahead of me. I'm going on a clean up campaign and give the house a major clean up...(Wish me luck). Anyway, I was just browsing through some videos on You tube when I came across a very nice one. I just had to share. It's a Christmas poem: "Christmas Gets Better Every Year." I hope you like it.

A Poem Gift

2009-12-17T13:02:00.002-08:00

I've found more Christmas poetry (yay)...this time without having to look to far. Well, I just thought that I'd share this poem by Mike Bullock.

Christmas

Here we are awaiting Christmas
Storing up our gifts and food
Spending lots of lovely money
Don't forget, we must include
Auntie Betty, Uncle Norman
Cards for all upon our list
Daren't forget a single person
Can't upset the one that's missed.

Whilst were stuffing all the turkey
Christmas pud helped down with wine
Slumping down in front of tele
Snoring through the pantomime
This is usual for the masses
Greed and gluttony abound
Whilst, outside, the homeless passes
Searching pavements for a pound.

Jesus Christ was born at Christmas
Sent to earth to save us all
Lived to serve all those around Him
Always perfect, standing tall
Helped the leper, healed the cripple
Underdog and down and out
Suffered greatly for His mercy
Hated by the men with clout.

So we must be all like Jesus
Following His every way
Showing love to all who need it
Living in His humble way
For He loves a cheerful giver
One who relegates himself
To the role of peoples servant
That is how we earn our wealth.
Mike Bullock

Mike Bullock is also a blogger and you can visit his blogs, Anglican Odes and Christian Poet's Pen where you'll find lots more poetry.

More Holiday Poetry

2009-12-17T02:26:00.002-08:00

Hey everybody,

Just dropping by to do a short post. I've been much less busy with responsibilities now that the holidays are here...for example, I no longer have to teach AWANA til school resumes (AWANA is a Christian Club : Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed) and other such responsibilities are pretty much on a hold right now. However, I place myself in front of my computer much less for now. I am growing to realize that the little joys of life I enjoyed as a child have diminished from my life because of the rise of technology. .:-D. Well, considering the season that we're in, I think it much better and more contenting to spend some time with family and friends...doing things together...even dusting out the old board games in the cupboard :-D.

Anyway, yesterday, I took some time to browse for some poetry. I stumbled across Marie Anne St. Jean who have written some holiday poetry. For some reason, it was her acrostic poem which attracted me. (For those who don't know, an acrostic poem is one in which the words are arranged in such a way that a certain letter in each line, first or last, when taken in order spell out a word or motto.) What is being spelled out in her poem is "Mary Did You Know". Her poem can be viewed here.

She has also written a haiku, which is a verse form with three unrhymed lines of 5, 7 and 5 syllables respectively. This can be viewed here.

Well, that's all for now.
Cheers!

Some Hanukkah Poetry

2009-12-14T11:40:00.002-08:00

Hey All

I spent some time looking for a little "Hanukkah Literature", be it a poem, a rhyme, a story. Well I did find many. I've found stories and poems, songs, even prayers and blessings. I found one person in particular who had written a number of Hanukkah poems. I have not found out very much about her, but Eva Grant has expressed the significance and joy of Hanukkah quite nicely with her poetry.

Hanukkah Quiz

Why is the story of Hanukkah told?
To honor the brave Maccabeans of old.
What makes our mouths water, handed around?
Platefuls of pancakes, deliciously browned.
There are the Hanukkah gifts hidden? Well . . .
That is a secret which no one should tell!
What do we place on the table to hold
The gay-colored candles? It's polished gold.
The shining menorah!
What comes once a year?
Hanukkah fun!
At last it is here
Eva Grant

Joyous Hanukkah

At last! At last! Hanukkah is here!
The whole house is bursting with holiday cheer.

Pancakes are sizzling as hard as they can,
Browning delectably crisp in the pan.
The dreidels can scarcely wait to be spun;
Presents are hidden for Hanukkah fun;

And there, on the table, polished and bright,
The shining menorah gleams through the night,

Like the oil lamp in ancient history,
That burned on and on miraculously!

And each flaming candle proclaims the great story
Of the Maccabean heroes, their deeds and their glory.
Eva Grant

A number of other poems by Eva Grant can be found at various websites. More Hanukkah Poetry can be found here.

The Festival of Lights

2009-12-13T12:44:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/aa/Rabbi-Hanukkah-JointBaseBalad,_Iraq-Dec-29-08.jpg

Christmas is not the only celebration in December which is filled with lights. In fact, Hanukkah, also considered "The Festivals of Lights," began yesterday. This festival is Jewish and commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple at Jerusalem after the Maccabees drove the Greco-Syrians out of Judea.

The story goes that about 2200 years ago, Greek kings, who reigned from Damascus, ruled over the land of Judea and the Jews living there.

One Greco-Syrian King, Antiochus Epiphanes, forbade the Jewish people from praying to their God, practicing their customs, and studying their Torah. Antiochus forced the Jews to worship the Greek gods. It is said that he placed an idol of the Greek God Zeus on the alter in the Holy Temple of Jerusalem.

In response to this persecution, Judah Maccabee and his four brothers organized a group of resistance fighters known as the Maccabees. They fought against paganism and oppression.

Against great odds, after three years of fighting, the Maccabees succeeded to drive the Greco-Syrians out of Judea.

The Maccabees reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. They cleaned the Temple, removing the Greek symbols and statues. When Judah and his followers finished cleaning the temple, they rededicated it. On the 25th day of the month of Kislev in 164 B.C., the Temple was purified and rededicated.

It is said that when the Maccabees entered the Holy Temple, they discovered that the Greco-Syrians had defiled the oil which was used to light the Temple's menorah. Only one vat of purified oil remained - enough for only one day. It would take the Jews a week to process more purified oil. Then a miracle occurred. The Maccabees lit the menorah and it burned for not one, but eight days, by which time the new, purified oil was ready. This is why the Hanukkah Menorah has eight candles (not including the shamash candle used to light the others) and one reason why Jews celebrate Hanukkah for eight days.

An account of this is given in the books of 1 & 2 Maccabees. These books can be found in the Catholic Bible but are not considered canonical in most protestant churches.

Photo Compliments: Wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2e/ Tiffany_glasswork_Hanukkah_ menora02.jpg/685px-Tiffany_glasswork _Hanukkah_menora02.jpg

One significant ritual of Hanukkah is the kindling of Hanukkah Lights. Eight candles are lit to represent the eight days which the Menorah in the Holy Temple stayed lit for. Each night, for eight nights, an additional candle is lit on the Menorah. Hence, one candle is lit on the first night, two on the second night etc. These lights are to be used for nothing else than to publicize and meditate on the Hanukkah Story. Therefore, an additional candle called the Shamash is also included on the Hanukkah Menorah in case any additional illumination is needed. Some light the Shamash first each night and use it to light the others.

The Menorah is placed at a window or near or door so that passers-by would see it and be reminded of the miracle of Hanukkah.

Happy Hanukkah
Cheers!

Whimsical Flying machine

2009-12-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

GJ Pearson - Flying Machine
http://gjpearson.com/site/works/?album=2&gallery=9

Hi all!
Today I spent some time looking at toy sculptures and characters and I fell upon the work of this marvelous artist GJ Pearson. His whimsical art definitely caught my attention as soon as I laid my eyes on them.

GJ Pearson’s art mostly sculptures that resemble whimsical figures of all sorts. They are also quite interesting and their individualism are what attracts viewer unto the characters. The hidden mystery of these toy-like pieces forces observers to participate in the work of this artist to feed their curiosity.

It is known that GJ Pearson’s studio is an amazing ad exciting whimsical park and it is really a reflection of the a quality of naturalness in his work. It can be easily concluded that the heart of GJ Pearson is in his art and his art is in his heart. You can visit his website here - GJ Pearson.

Christmas All Year Round

2009-12-10T14:56:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3254/2862945396_4abf6294d2.jpg

Hi all

I was sitting and just thinking about the season. Christmas time is definitely the most joyful time of the year; sharing of gifts, spending time with family, sharing love and not to mention the GREAT food. It is sad, however, that this is only time of the year that some people place a big emphasis on showing affection when they should really be showing love everyday. Some even forget the true meaning of this time of year. The memory of the Baby in the stable who came to save the world.

Christmas will always be a season of joy though....a season where we should appreciate and love each other... just as Christ loves us. We should not only do this during the Christmas season, but we should also take into our everyday lives throughout the year and keep the Christmas cheer.

This is a poem I wrote earlier...not with the intention of dampening anyone's Christmas spirit. I just wanted to give the Christmas theme a new twist. However, one thing we can learn from this poem, is that our love should not only be seen at Christmas...but everyday of the year....

I hate Christmas
because
maybe if there were no Christmas
We'd spend the whole year thinking about God's love
How He sent the Christ child Jesus
from heaven up above
Demoted him to human status
For His Sacrifice of Love

maybe if there were no Christmas
I wouldn't have to wait whole year to get me some new toys
Giving would be human nature
Not just a seasonal show
Maybe there'd be less poor people
Just maybe...Cause only God knows

maybe if there were no Christmas
I'd know all my cousins; nieces and nephews too
Without the convenience of Christmas
We'd want to keep in touch
Family would be a priority
Not just a second choice

But most of all I hate Christmas
because
maybe if there were no Christmas
Then we would always ever show love
It would be a part of us
of others first to think
We'd put aside our human ways
And do as Jesus did

But maybe I do like Christmas
because
Maybe if there were no Christmas
My dreams won't all come true
The best in us which Christmas always brings
Would disappear for good.
Tunsie

The Countdown Is On

2009-12-08T15:10:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b8/Nativity_scene_Church_ of_Our_Lady_and_the_English_Martyrs _Cambridge.JPG

Hello Everybody,

It's 16 days and a few hours before Christmas and I think that everybody should be made aware. So, I decided to add a countdown timer as a constant reminder of how close we are to Christmas. Also, I added a Christmas tree in the "spirit of Christmas." Initially I wanted to add a nativity scene to represent the true meaning of Christmas, but I guess we have deviated so far from it that I could not really find any. However, I couldn't resist adding a little "christmasy" feeling to the blog, so I added a Christmas tree. These have been placed on the top left corner :-D.

Looking for some Christmas fun? I was browsing through blogs and noticed that the Mystery Artist of Rare Art Arena added a Christmas game in one of his recent posts. Well, I gave it a try and could not help Santa go past level 3. Sorry Santa. Maybe you should give it a shot. :-D.

Well... today is Bodhi Day...and I would like to wish everyone a happy one...(I'm not sure if anybody is Buddhist here.) But, I do hope that everyone did have a great day....

Bye for now
Cheers

Whats your score?

2009-12-07T05:52:00.000-08:00

Hey all. I found a cool lil Christmas game hehe! Draw Santa a path and assist him in collecting the gifts. How well can you do??

Snow Linegreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info

Change and Christmas!

2009-12-07T04:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas throughout Christendom
Compliments - wikimedia.org

Hi all! I was sitting and thinking about the month and the days ahead. I am one of those who love the Christmas season and just love the joyful atmosphere. Anyway, I was wondering whether I really needed to add some light to the Blog for the season and as you can see, my decision was yes. I decided to add a white background which reminds me of snow and purity. I also added a little Christmas tree at the top left for a decorative purposes. I wonder what gifts I would receive under this tree. I found a lil Santa game hehe. Kinda cool. Hope you all are enjoying the season. I am. Take care all!

Good Ole Saint Nick

2009-12-07T02:55:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/00/ Saint_Nicholas_icon, _Holy_Trinity_Church,_Halki_seminary_.JPG

Happy Monday Everybody!

It's not too much of a bright morning this morning, but nonetheless, we have life and should be glad. This week is not a very busy week for me so I have lots and lots of time to read... :-D.... and do other fun stuff..(LOL). Well, things are just getting more lovely as the weeks go by. I can finally feel the spirit of Christmas in the air and I'm surely going to spend a lot of times with loved ones for the holidays. So I guess that things are great. Anyway, yesterday was Saint Nicholas Day and I thought that it'd be nice to share.

Saint Nicholas, the common name for Nicholas of Myra was a bishop of Myra (Demre in Lycia, part of modern-day Turkey.) He had been raised as a devout christian by his rich parents, and after they died, he felt obliged to obey Jesus' words, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor." He achieved for himself a reputation of secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him, and thus became the model for Santa Claus.

Saint Nicholas died on 6^th December, 343AD after much suffering under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruthlessly persecuted Christians. The anniversary of his death became known as St. Nicholas Day.

The Story of St. Nicholas

Once there was a little boy
who lived by the shore of the sea.
He watched the ships go sailing by
all wrapped in mystery.

"What do you carry, where do you go?"
he said as he saw them there.
I hope you bring many good things
to girls and boys everywhere."

Nicholas was the little boy's name,
in case you'd like to know.
He loved surprising others with gifts
and seeing their faces glow.

Then he would hide
and no one would know
the one who loved them,
who loved them so.

Once a father had grown so poor
as to sell his daughters three.
Three nights to his window Nicholas came
with gold to keep them free.

Nicholas went to church one day
and all the people stood:
"You have a heart like God's," they said,
"A heart that is so good."
Will you be our bishop
And lead us as God would?"

When Nicholas died God welcomed him
to heaven's great applause:
"Well done, well done, good Nicholas,
for serving well my cause."

Now every Christmas Nicholas comes
with gifts for girls and boys.
You know his name as Nicholas,
But it's also Santa Claus.

O Good St. Nicholas, children's friend,
friend of girls and boys,
through the clouds come again,
and fill your bag with toys.

Give me too a giving heart,
for loving others too,
I want to know how good it is
to give good gifts like you.
Fr Victor Hoagland

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/119/316567395_cdcd184179.jpg

Little is known of how St. Nicholas was transformed into Santa Claus, "the Father of Christmas." However, many sources attribute it to Clement Moore, through his poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas." This poem was written in 1822 and it was the first time that the patron Saint was associated with a sleigh or reindeer.

The story of Santa Claus, in my opinion (and according to many sources), has distorted the real Christmas story, that is, the birth of the Christ child. Many people have now resorted to giving gifts on the 6^th December in order to focus on Jesus during the Christmas.

A Visit From St. Nicholas

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
Clement Moore

The Posidippus Scroll

2009-12-05T09:12:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: bu.edu
http://www.bu.edu/bridge/archive/2003/02-28/photos/colonnaXI.jpg

HEY!!!

I was searching for examples of the various types of poetry as I had promised when I thought that it would be great if I could actually get examples of Ancient Greek poetry rather than the modern ones. Well, my search led me to the Posidippus Scroll (also called the Milan papyrus). This papyrus scroll is more than 2000 years old and is the oldest surviving Greek poetry book. The papyrus bears 112 epigrams which have been attributed to third century B.C. writer Posidippus.

The scroll was found enshrouded with a body that was mummified for preservation. The mummy dates from the second century B.C. The mummy and the papyrus was found by tomb raiders. The papyrus was then passed through many European antiquities market in the 1900's until it was brought to the University of Milan in Italy.

Prior to its discovery, to of the poems on the scroll were already known and attributed to Posidippus. These were:

The purple whip and shimmering reins that deck the horse-
ennobled passage into your temple are gifts
of Plangon, who beat Philainis racing bareback, steed
against steed, the colts of evening just starting to whinny!
Beloved Kypris, grant her the glory she deserves
in victory, her thanks forever here memorialized.

And

Wherever you hold Pythermos the good, who died
under the chill of Capricorn, cover him lightly,
black Earth. But if it's you, Father of the Sea, who keep him
hidden, put him out now, intact, on the bare sand
in full view of Kyme [a place], giving, as you should, the dead man,
O Master of the Sea, back to his native land.

Among the newly discovered is:

Lysippus, Sikyonian sculptor, daring hand, learned artisan,
your bronze statue has the look of fire in its eyes,
that one you made in the form of Alexander. The Persians deserve
no blame. We forgive cattle for fleeing a lion.

Back on Track

2009-12-04T02:39:00.002-08:00

Hey Everybody,

Its been a while since I've really gone into the history of Literature. As I said previously, I did not want to move on before clarifying what the different genres developed by the Greeks were. So I've finally put together a list with what almost everyone of the forms are. They are not detailed definitions but I hope that you do get the general ideas. I will be sure to get examples of each type of poetry and share with you in subsequent posts.

Lyric poetry
Lyric poetry originally got its name from the fact that is was sung by individuals or chorus accompanied by an instrument called a lyre. It is a form of poetry that does not attempt to tell a story but is of a more personal nature. Rather than portraying characters and actions, the lyric poet addresses the reader directly, portraying is or her own feelings, states of mind and perceptions. Most lyric poetry is made in a "singable" and "rhymable" way. However, the rhyme does not define lyric poetry.

Examples of lyric poetry developed in the Ancient Greek Era include Odes and Elegies. Other forms of lyric poetry include sonnets, songs, villanelles and hymns.

Drama (Dramatic Poetry)
Dramatic Poetry is any poetry that uses the discourse of the characters involved to tell a story or portray a situation. What is noteworthy about Ancient Greek Drama is that is was intended as an act of worship and honour to the god Dionysus. This drama involved simple choral songs and dialogues performed at festivals in honour Dionysus. Costuming and training the chorus was considered a religion act of duty.

Both tragic and comical drama was developed at that time, both of them being religious "rituals". The comedy, however, differed from the tragedy in that it was full of frank obscenity, abuse, and insult.

Ode
An ode is simple a poem of celebration. Odes are usually longish, serious and dignified.

Pastoral
A pastoral is a poem that depicts rural country life in a peaceful, idealized way.

Elegy
An Elegy is usually a formal lament for someone's death.

Epigram
An Epigram is a very short, satirical and witty poem usually written as a brief couplet or quatrain.

Treatise
A treatise is a formal and systematic written discourse on some subject, generally longer and in greater depth than an essay, and more concerned with investigating or exposing the principles of the subject. Two treatises which was developed in the Ancient Greek Period are Rhetorical Treatises and Philosophical Treatises.

Early art ... La Grotte de Lascaux

2009-12-03T11:04:00.000-08:00

Lascaux Painting
Compliments - wikimedia.org

Ever wondered what inspired the early cave dwellers to produce the art on the wall of the caves?? I have. Though I did not receive the answer to this question, my curiosity led me to the famous Grotte de Lascaux.

Lascaux cave located in southwestern France is famous for its Paleolithic cave paintings. The original caves are located near the village of Montignac. They contain some of the best-known Paleolithic art estimated to be 16,000 years old which primarily consist of realistic images of large animals, most of which are known from fossil evidence to have lived in the area at the time. In 1979, Lascaux was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
The cave was discovered on September 12, 1940 by four teenagers. In a few years, the carbon dioxide produced by 1,200 visitors per day had visibly damaged the paintings and led to the temporary closure of the cave. After the cave was closed, the paintings were restored to their original state, and were monitored on a daily basis. Rooms in the cave include The Great Hall of the Bulls, the Lateral Passage, the Shaft of the Dead Man, the Chamber of Engravings, the Painted Gallery, and the Chamber of Felines.
The cave contains nearly 2,000 figures, which can be grouped into three main categories -animals, human figures and abstract signs. Notably, the paintings contain no images of the surrounding landscape or the vegetation of the time. Most of the major images have been painted onto the walls using mineral pigments, although some designs have also been incised into the stone. Many images are too faint to discern, while others have deteriorated.
Over 900 can be identified as animals, and 605 of these have been precisely identified. There are also many geometric figures. Of the animals, equines predominate, with 364 images. There are 90 paintings of stags. Also represented are cattle and bison, each representing 4-5% of the images. A smattering of other images include seven felines, a bird, a bear, a rhinoceros, and a human. Among the most famous images are four huge, black bulls or aurochs in the Hall of the Bulls. There are no images of reindeer, even though that was the principal source of food for the artists.
The most famous section of the cave is The Great Hall of the Bulls where bulls, equines and stags are depicted. But it is the four black bulls that are the dominant figures among the 36 animals represented here. One of the bulls is 17 feet long - the largest animal discovered so far in cave art. Additionally, the bulls appear to be in motion.

Lascaux Painting
Compliments - wikimedia.org

A painting referred to as "The Crossed Bison" and found in the chamber called the Nave is often held as an example of the skill of the Paleolithic cave painters. The crossed hind legs show the ability to use perspective in a manner that wasn't seen again until the 15th century.
In recent years new research has suggested that the Lascaux paintings may incorporate prehistoric star charts. Dr Michael Rappenglueck of the University of Munich argues that some of the non-figurative dot clusters and dots within some of the figurative images correlate with the constellations of Taurus, The Pleiades and the grouping known as the "Summer Triangle". Based on her own study of the astronomical significance of Bronze Age petroglyphs in the Vallée des Merveilles and her extensive survey of other prehistoric cave painting sites in the region — most of which appear to have been specifically selected because the interiors are illuminated by the setting sun on the day of the winter solstice - French researcher Chantal Jègues-Wolkiewiez has further proposed that the gallery of figurative images in the Great Hall represents an extensive star map and that key points on major figures in the group correspond to stars in the main constellations as they appeared in the Paleolithic.
An alternative hypothesis proposed by David Lewis-Williams following work with similar art of the San people of Southern Africa is that this type of art is spiritual in nature relating to visions experienced during ritualistic trance-dancing. These trance visions are a function of the human brain and so are independent of geographical location. Nigel Spivey, a professor of classic art and archeology at the University of Cambridge, has further postulated in his series, How Art Made the World, that dot and lattice patterns overlapping the representational images of animals are very similar to hallucinations provoked by sensory-deprivation. He further postulates that the connections between culturally important animals and these hallucinations led to the invention of image-making, or the art of drawing. Further extrapolations include the later transference of image-making behavior from the cave to megalithic sites, and the subsequent invention of agriculture to feed the site builders.
Since the year 1998 the cave has been beset with a fungus, variously blamed on a new air conditioning system that was installed in the caves, the use of high-powered lights, and the presence of too many visitors. As of 2008, the cave contained black mold which scientists were and still are trying to keep away from the paintings. In January 2008, authorities closed the cave for three months even to scientists and preservationists. A single individual was allowed to enter the cave for 20 minutes once a week to monitor climatic conditions. Now only a few scientific experts are allowed to work inside the cave and just for a few days a month but the methods of removing this fungi has taken its toll and left dark patches where it happened ruining the pigmentation. Compliments - wikipedia.org

I also want to share this link that I found with you all. It is a virtual walk through the famous La Grotte de Lascaux. Hope you enjoy!

The Bodhi Day Story

2009-12-03T02:07:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/47/152372931_b643e9d1ed.jpg

Hello Everybody,

It's a very cold morning today and I know that must be nothing compared to the people in places where it snows. Can't stand the temperature? Well, a nice vacation to the tropics would be nice... Don't you think so? Well I'm trying to make the best of my day despite how cold I feel :-D. I hope you do so also.

Today I spent some time reading about Bodhi Day... and I actually got a story to share with you. I know its still five days away, but there is so much happening in December so I have to find the time to squeeze in everything. It's so interesting learning about the different celebrations happening around and how they started. Don't you think so?

Well... here's the story :-D

Buddhists celebrate December 8 th as Bodhi Day, the day young prince Siddhartha Gautama of the Shakya clan dropped all clinging and aversion, stopped seeking, transcended suffering, and awakened to his true nature and to the true nature of all being. The young prince then became known as the Buddha, or the awakened one. For 2,600 years his teachings have spread across this planet, providing tools and insights that enable human beings everywhere to transcend the cause of suffering and awaken to their true nature.

The Buddha’s story is very much our story, in one way or another, so when I tell the story of the Buddha, I tell it as it might happen today.

Siddhartha was born into a wealthy and powerful family, much like the Kennedys or Rockefellers. His was a life of extreme privilege. He had no wants as his parents had the resources to provide anything and everything he wanted or needed.

He grew up in California in a beautiful and exotic gated community overlooking the Pacific Ocean. His father continued in the family business that had created the family fortune generations ago. From a very young age Siddhartha was groomed to someday take over the business.

Siddhartha’s mother was a beautiful, charming and compassionate woman who did great good as the family philanthropist. She believed in graciously sharing the family’s good fortune with those in need.

Siddhartha went to the very finest private school. He was an excellent student and athlete but tended to annoy his teachers and fellow students by questioning everything. He had an inquiring mind and always wanted to know how his teachers knew what they claimed to know. He was seen as being somewhat contrary, and yet he was very sincere in his questioning. He was a natural skeptic.

When he graduated from private school, he went on to Harvard. He did fairly well academically but was distracted by all of the fascinating possibilities that existed in the Cambridge/Boston/New England area. He found young women were very attracted to him and so he began experimenting sexually. He visited nightclubs and bars and went to rock concerts. He had many a late night.

Influenced by his studies in human psychology, Siddhartha began experimenting with various psychedelics. Through these experiments, he discovered how little humans really know about themselves and reality. He came to see that, like everyone else, he was deeply entranced by his conditioned mind and his assumptions about reality. What he thought was true was just that — thought. He found that, like everyone else, he lived within a self-reflecting bubble of perception.

And then one night an event occurred that radically transformed Siddhartha’s life. His latest girlfriend was intelligent, beautiful, and more than a little odd. She wanted Siddhartha to go with her to a talk that was to be given at a small meditation center way out in the country somewhere. If he hadn’t already read the scientific reports on the tremendous value of meditation, he would have never gone.

The meditation teacher was a very simple and unpretentious person who simply pointed out that no matter how powerful, wealthy, intelligent, or important you imagine yourself to be, chances are you will suffer, grow old, be sick, and die. This that we call “my life” is impermanent and transitory. It appears and then disappears, here one day and gone the next, like a bubble popping on the surface of a stream.

“What are you, really?” the teacher asked. “What is really real? What is really true?” The teacher looked directly into Siddhartha’s eyes. “You had better find out now, while you still have a chance.”

Siddhartha left the center completely in turmoil. He couldn’t sleep for several nights, as he saw the truth of everything the teacher had said. Even though he had been raised in the traditional family religion, he had early on rejected it, as none of the ministers of his church could even come close to satisfactorily answering the questions of his inquiring mind. From his point of view, they were a fearful and superstitious lot, accepting without question what they had been told to believe.

But now Siddhartha wished he could believe in something, in anything! He clearly saw the apparent emptiness and meaningless of life. You are born, you live awhile struggling with the tasks of everyday living, you grow old ( if you are lucky), get sick, and die. What does it all mean? Where is it all going?

In his last days at Harvard, Siddhartha entered into full-blown existential despair. He became anxious, depressed, bitter, and cynical. He easily saw through all of the traditional answers given by religion, philosophy, and science. Just before he graduated, he made an appointment to see the meditation teacher who had so disrupted his life. The teacher listened to his story with great attention and interest.

When Siddhartha had finished explaining the depths of his anxiety, depression and despair, the teacher laughed and said, “There can be an end to your despair. I can’t tell you how, only that it can happen. You must find it. There is now no other possibility for you. Ha, ha, ha, ha! And when you do find it, you will then know that you have always had it. You have always been it.”

Siddhartha graduated from Harvard and returned to sunny California. He entered the family business. He bought a beautiful home and several exotic cars and had all the luxuries of life. He soon met a wonderful young woman from a prominent family and they married. Within two years, they had a healthy baby boy. Everything in Siddhartha’s life seemed absolutely perfect. He seemed to be living the charmed life of privilege and power that everyone dreams of.

And yet every night he would spend hours lying awake contemplating the fact that he was one day closer to his death and he still had no idea what he really was and what life was really about, if anything at all. Although Siddhartha had it all, he couldn’t enjoy it, as his ongoing existential despair was a barrier between him and his life of privilege. Finally, he decided to do something about it.

Siddhartha began reading all of the books and attending all of the seminars and trainings by all those considered to be the best spiritual teachers around such as Adyashanti, Deepak Chopra, Eckhart Tolle, Ken Wilber, Gangaji, and the Dalai Lama. He went on retreat in India, Japan, and Costa Rica. He learned to meditate, chant powerful mantras, be present, create his own reality, and generate powerful, positive attractor fields.

Because he was a quick study, came from a well-known family and was a bit of a celebrity himself, he began to be asked to teach with the famous teachers. He wrote introductions to their books, appeared on TV shows with them, and sat at their side during satsang. Everyone assumed he was enlightened, because he was so charming and knowledgeable and could even sit quietly during meditation.

And yet something was still wrong. The overlay of spiritual knowledge and experience stopped working after the novelty of it all wore off. The existential despair returned, worse than ever. Siddhartha knew all of the popular spiritual answers, practices and truths, but they were clearly not it. What to do? Where to go? Who to be? Now what?

Late one evening, Siddhartha spontaneously left his gated community and caught the last night flight to Boston. He didn’t use the family jet, as he didn’t want anyone to know where he was going.

Early the next morning, he drove out to the little meditation center in the country. The teacher was home all alone. Once again, Siddhartha told him his story and once again the teacher listened with great attention and interest. When he finished, the teacher simply said, “There is nothing you can do and there is nothing you need to do. How hard is it to be what you are? Let everything fall away that can fall away. Let everything die that can die. And then see what is always here — unborn, deathless.”

Siddhartha went out into the woods behind the meditation center and sat under an old oak tree. Somehow, all seeking stopped. Everything fell away. The center pole that had propped up his whole house of cards collapsed. The dream of separation ended. Truth awakened to itself. Siddhartha was no longer Siddhartha, but Buddha, the Awakened One. Only One.

After awhile, Siddhartha got up and went back inside the meditation center. He sat quietly with the teacher in the meditation room for quite some time. Finally, the teacher said, “Come. Let’s eat.” They went into kitchen. Silence prevailed as they ate together. After the meal, they went outside to enjoy the cool New England weather and look out into the vastness of the night.

Siddhartha turned to the meditation teacher. He had to say it, deep from his heart, even though he knew it wasn’t necessary.

“Thank you. Thank you very much.”

The teacher smiled and replied, “De nada.” And then the teacher said to Siddhartha, “You know, teaching will begin to happen through you soon.”

“But this can’t be taught!” said Siddhartha. “There is nothing to teach! Teaching would be like selling water to fish in the middle of a lake.”

“Yes, yes, and it will all happen anyway. Spontaneously. And the teaching will be misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misrepresented from the very beginning. What to do? And yet, somehow, some will see it and awaken anyway.”

Eventually, Siddhartha left the center and returned home. His wife and parents thought he had had a complete mental breakdown because he just wasn’t himself any more. He eventually left the family business and the gated community that had been his home throughout his life.

Teaching did begin to happen through him and he was roughly criticized from all corners, as his teaching was nothing like those being sold in the marketplace. A few of his old teachers understood what had happened to him, nodded their heads, and kept their mouths shut. There was really nothing to say.

Compassionately, that which cannot be taught continued to be taught through Siddhartha for the rest of his long life. And over time, those who wanted to know the truth more than anything else eventually found their way to Siddhartha.

Tom Thompson

(adapted from http://www.advaita.org.uk/discourses/teachers/bodhi_thompson.htm)

A more factual account of Bodhi day can be found here.

Bye
Enjoy Your Day Everyone!

Almost there

2009-12-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

Mystery Artist - Untitled

Hi all! Today I spent some time reading up and observing the work of a few artist. It is so amazing how an artist can apply just the slightest shades of color to work their way to the magnificent creations. Today I spent some time working on this piece. I wanted to use a sort of fog effect and at the same time trying to keep the gloomy feature away. I still have a bit of detailing to do. Hope you like it so far. Anyway, I decided to spend the rest of my night with someone who is very special to me and is also a great part of my daily inspiration. It is always good to let others know how much they mean to you and show your appreciation whenever you can. It is the beginning of the last month of the year and there is still a lot more to get done. I can smell the Christmas Spirit around the corner. Hopefully I will soon be on vacation so I can spend that time doing more "work" lol! I guess that is just life. Anyway, Enough of my talking for now. Cheers!!

December is Here

2009-12-01T02:30:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2521/3996227259_5dfdf8ce15.jpg

Wow. December has come so quickly and the year is coming to an end. Before it does, there are still many events left to be celebrated such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and even Bodhi Day (for the Buddhist). Well I'm sure that each of these celebrations has a story behind them, some maybe even more than one and I do intend on taking the time out to find out and of course share with you. For now, the month starts with World AIDS Day, intended to raise the awareness that AIDS does exist and that we need to protect ourselves. You can have a look at the official World AIDS Day website yourself here.

(The image above was taken on evening of the unveiling ceremony for "TAY", the Brighton AIDS Memorial on Friday 9th October 2009 at Brighton, East Sussex, England, UK. The sculpture was designed by local artist, Romany Mark Bruce. The entwined lovers echo the shape of the AIDS awareness ribbon.)

Well, that's all for now. It's a very busy morning with lots to be done.

Have a great day everyone
BYE

No place like home!

2009-11-29T03:41:00.000-08:00

Flickr user cheesy42 - Gallop
Horse on a beach in Trinidad and Tobago

Finally I am back in my homeland! I had a real busy week running from here to there (in a foreign country) and I am sure you guys know how crazy things can get when you are in a strange land. I wish I had the luxury of time that I could utilize to do a few live art pieces but I guess things may not always go our way. I may have to visit again during my free time. The island is extremely beautiful like all other Caribbean islands. Warm sunshine all year so you do not have to fight the cold, enchanting natural scenery and so much to do. I had no trouble adjusting to the norms of the island. I knew that the Fifth Summit of the Americas had taken place in April 2009

Barack Obama & Brian Lara in Port of Spain

in Trinidad but I had no idea that the Commonwealth Summit was to be held there and that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II would be there. The summit in Trinidad and Tobago has already pulled in a pledge of US$10 billion for a fund to help developing countries cope with the impact of climate change. Did I get a chance to meet the Queen?? of course not LOL!! but I had the chance to see her air transport being flown into the PIARCO International Airport from the Air Traffic Control Tower. If you are wondering how I managed to get into the tower, then here is another one of my secrets. I am an Air Traffic Controller.

Flickr user cheesy42 - Caiman
Flickr user Paul Lowry - Statue in Trinidad

I never saw a crocodile or alligator before and I never knew that they could be found in any of the Caribbean countries. However I was told that there was an alligator "relative" dwelling in the country known as the Caiman. Unfortunately I did not get a chance to see one. Hopefully on my next visit.
I did not have an opportunity to visit an artist since the course that I attended ran on till night.
I did enjoy my time tho but as the saying goes, "There is no place like home." Glad to be back home and back on my art search.

My Heart's Awaited Spring

2009-11-27T10:21:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: www.geograph.org.uk
http://www.geograph.org.uk/photos/06/65/066566_088a0d79.jpg

Hey y'all

Today was much less of a busy day for than the rest of my week has been. For a matter of fact I actually had time today to just sit and let my thoughts flow. Well, I decided to write a poem. Although I love Literature, I'm not so fond of writing. So this was very hard work. But, with the right bit of inspiration... I guess I got something done. Just thought that I would share with you.

My Heart's Awaited Spring

How I miss the warmth of sunshine
And the scent of flower's bloom
How I miss the joy of kindness
It has slipped away so soon

The fall came in so quickly
All that was birthed soon died
Every seed of kindness planted
Replaced with bitterness and pride

Winter's breeze my warmth has stolen
The snow has frozen my heart cold
My seeds of kindness, their growth stunted
The land...its productivity stalled.

I still miss the warmth of sunshine
And the scent of flower's bloom
But within my heat I've found a spring of love
That never had been cooled

With a seed of kindness planted
The birds begin to sing
I've searched and finally found it
My heart's awaited spring...
Tunsie

The Thanksgiving Story

2009-11-26T13:51:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3017/3062587135_4fa91a1205.jpg

I'm sure that everybody knows the story of thanksgiving...or maybe we observe a holiday ignorantly, without any real significance. Well, here's to inform all who did not know and refresh the memories of all who knew previously.

The very first Thanksgiving feast was celebrated in 1621 by the pilgrims of the Plymouth colony along with about 90 Wampanoag Indians. The Pilgrims had suffered through a devastating winter in which nearly half their number died. Without the help of the Indians, none would have survived.

After the first harvest, Governor William Bradford proclaimed a day of thanksgiving and prayer to God. The food, which was eaten outdoors, included corn, geese, turkeys, ducks, eel, clams, leeks, plums, cod, bass, barley, venison and corn bread. The feast lasted 3 days. The exact date is unknown but it is apparent that the feast took place in late autumn.

In 1623, there was a period of drought which was countered by the colonists with a proclamation of prayer and fasting. This prayer and fasting was changed to another thanksgiving celebration when rains came during the prayers.

Later that year, Governor Bradford proclaimed November 29 as a time for pilgrims to gather and "listen to ye pastor and render thanksgiving to ye Almighty God for all His blessings." Throughout American history, there were many thanksgiving proclamations and celebrations. In 1789 George Washington proclaimed a National Thanksgiving Day on the last Thursday in November, in honor of the new United States Constitution. Thomas Jefferson, the third president, later discontinued it, calling it "a kingly practice."

In 1863, Sarah Josepha Hale, the author of the poem "Mary Had a Little Lamb," convinced Abraham Lincoln to proclaim Thanksgiving a national holiday. For the date she chose the last Thursday in November because of Washington's proclamation. In 1941, it was officially changed to the fourth Thursday in November. Since Abraham Lincoln's proclamation, it has been a custom that all presidents of the United States make Thanksgiving proclamations every year.

All of the early Thanksgiving celebrations had one thing in common. The thanksgiving was directed toward God. It did not matter that many had very hard times. The people knew that God was their creator and provider and that all good things ultimately came from Him. In one of his Thanksgiving proclamations, George Bush declared, " In thankfulness and humility, we acknowledge, especially now, our dependence on One greater than ourselves."

We should not do any different. We should always look to God who has been faithful to us in thanksgiving.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!
May the Lord bless you richly.

The beautiful Island Trinidad

2009-11-25T08:34:00.000-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/83/Flag-map_of_Trinidad_and_Tobago.png

Hi all! I am in the Beautiful Caribbean Island of Trinidad & Tobago. As I already said, my time here is basically a tightly scheduled work related trip which leaves me no real room for personal stuff. I will be back in my homeland hopefully at the end of the week and back on my art search.

I do intend on visiting a few artist while I am here but that can only be done if time permits. It is so much fun to experience the different cultures while visiting other countries. I heard that they got this lil alligators called Caiman here. I really wanna see one lol! hopefully I'll bring a pet home hehe. Hope He doesn't bite off my toes. anyways I'm off!

Cheers!!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T04:10:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/150/329394297_95052d76f7.jpg

Thanksgiving's here again and I just thought I'd share some "Thanksgiving Poetry". Although thanksgiving has a much bigger significance than just the food, this poem humored me and I hope it puts a smile on your face also.

T’was the night of Thanksgiving,
But I just couldn’t sleep.
I tried counting backwards,
I tried counting sheep.
The leftovers beckoned,
The dark meat and white.
But I fought the temptation,
With all of my might.
Tossing and turning,
with anticipation.
The thought of a snack
became infatuation.
So I raced to the kitchen,
Flung open the door,
And gazed at the fridge,
Full of goodies galore.
I gobbled up turkey,
And buttered potatoes,
Pickles and carrots,
Beans and tomatoes.
I felt myself swelling,
So plump and so round.
‘til all of a sudden,
I rose off the ground.
I crashed through the ceiling,
Floating into the sky,
With a mouthful of pudding,
And a handful of pie.
But I managed to yell
As I soared past the trees
Happy eating to all,
Pass the cranberries, please!!
May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey be plump.
May your potatoes and gravy
Have nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious,
May your pies take the prize
And May your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off of your thighs!
by Lauren

You can find more thanksgiving poetry here.

Another Drop By

2009-11-24T16:29:00.002-08:00

Wow! Another very tiring day. Well, its Tuesday and things seemed to have settled down a bit so maybe I'll have much more time to rest for the remainder of the week. Well, as planned I did start research lyric poetry, but I was not very successful in doing that.

I came across a website about literature actually. And I just had to explore it a bit. You can feel free to do also. Visit here.

Moving along, I've discovered that there is so much material out there to be read. Originally I did plan on researching Literature only. But, in so doing, I've introduced myself to so many interesting fields... natural sciences...numerological science...astrology...everything. In my opinion, each one of these is an art so carefully put together and will captivate anyone who has the slightest appreciation of them... Well, I guess everybody now knows why I'm always straying from Literature. Hopefully, I will catch myself early enough and get back right on track.

Well that's about it for now. I'm off to take a rest. Hopefully, I will looking into lyric poetry before the week's end.

Bye!

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2009-11-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

Hello everybody,

I'm just about packing my bags to leave. I'm leaving the country for the week. Well, its not leisure. Its strictly work related. Hopefully I'll be able to make the best of it.

Well, I'm off now. Will being keeping an open eye to any and everything artful and would be happy to share my findings with you upon my return.

Have a great week everyone!
Cheers!

Love

2009-11-22T03:03:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: picasaweb.com

Good Morning Everybody!

It's the beginning of a new day and a new week. Well I have a lot to get done this week (as usual) and was just taking some time to plan out my week properly. Well this week I intend on looking deeper into lyric poetry. After my bible reading today, I also decided that this week I need to be a little more loving. 1 Corinthians tells us that we can have the ability to do many good things, but without love, none of it is of any value. Maybe we really ought to be more loving, really thinking about it. What harm will it do us? None that I can think of. It only makes us better people. Well at least that's what I think anyway.

1 Corinthians 13

Love

¹If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. ²If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. ³If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

⁴Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

⁸Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. ⁹For we know in part and we prophesy in part, ¹⁰but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. ¹¹When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. ¹²Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

¹³And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

I hope we can all be a little more loving from today on.

Enjoy the day everybody

Happy Children's Day

2009-11-20T02:58:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/14/Teddy_Bear_90_flash.jpg

Hey!!

Today's a new day. Another privilege that God has blessed us with. Well, today is going to be a very busy day for me. But I decided to not rush into it. Save myself the headache.

Today is Universal Children's day. It was on this day 50 years ago that the United Nation's General Assembly adopted an expanded version of the original Declaration of the Rights of a Child of 1924 as its own. The original declaration consisted of five principles and was extended to ten by the UN's General Assembly. The date on which this was done was adopted as the date of the annual's Universal Children's Day.

I've been searching for poetry written in that respect. However, I haven't found any yet. I'm sure that I'll find something soon. But in the mean time....Happy Children's Day (to all children) and Have a great day!!

A look into pure music and art.

2009-11-18T06:33:00.000-08:00

Hi all! I was contacted by artist Tristan Perich and Lesley Flanigan.

Tristan Perich - Two Triangles
(machine drawing)
http://www.tristanperich.com/Art/Machine_Drawings/

They are electronic musicians from new york. Tristan Perich has been touring with a harpsichord, which he plays and accompany with some minimal 1-bit electronics. Tristan Perich is greatly inspired by "the aesthetics of math and physics," and as a visual artist, uses machines to create pen-on-paper drawings that "explore the limits of traditional drawing through randomness and order." Visit his website Here.

Lesley Flanigan - Lullaby ( furniture Drama)
http://lesleyflanigan.com/bio.html

Lesley Flanigan is an artist, vocalist, and performer and performs with hand-built speaker feedback instruments and her voice. Visit her website Here.

They are joined by different artists along the way. Here is some information about their tour.

New York artists Tristan Perich and Lesley Flanigan team up this Fall for a series of unique electronic music performances across the United States. Perich's duet Dual Synthesis (for harpsichord and 1-bit electronics) and Flanigan's Amplifications (for voice and speaker electronics) explore the viscerality of electronic music. Mixing primitive sounds from their own hand-constructed instruments with the harpsichord and voice, each choreographs intersections between acoustic and electric sound.

A synaesthetic performance for modified 16mm projectors and audio circuitry, this piece negotiates the space between the physically real and the perceptually real; between noumena and phenomena. Photosensitive circuitry translates light waves into sound waves, sonifying flickers that are sometimes slow enough to be visible to the eye - and sometimes fast enough to be perceived only by the ear. A monolithic light/noise blast that goes literally to the limits of the senses and beyond them, provoking a confrontation with that ultimate unattainable reality: The World of Things In Themselves. In memoriam Immanuel Kant. (Warning: Unsuitable for those with photosensitive epilepsy.)

From art galleries to noise venues, Perich and Flanigan stage their physical approaches to the construction of sound. Regular staples of the New York City experimental scene, they create music that spans electroacoustic, classical and noise. In addition to their solo work, they are also known for collaborative projects with the Loud Objects (Tristan Perich, Kunal Gupta, Katie Shima) and Bioluminescence (Lesley Flanigan, R. Luke DuBois). The Loud Objects will perform several guest shows, soldering electronics live on an overhead projector or with hybrid fluorescent bulb guitars to create electronic noise. R. Luke DuBois' live video artistry will be woven throughout Flanigan's performances.

For composer/inventor Tristan Perich, Dual Synthesis comes on the heels of finishing his new album, 1-Bit Symphony. An electronic composition in five movements on a single microchip, 1-Bit Symphony expands on the format of his 2005 release, 1-Bit Music. A departure from traditional recordings, 1-Bit Symphony literally ‘performs’ its music live when turned on. A complete music circuit, programmed by the artist and packaged inside a standard CD jewel case, plays the composition through a headphone jack mounted in the case itself. Probing the foundations of digital sound, 1-Bit Symphony celebrates the virtuosity of electricity. The new album, to be released by Cantaloupe Music, will be available exclusively for presale at performances during the tour.

Artist/vocalist Lesley Flanigan's tour of Amplifications introduces her first solo album for speaker electronics and voice. Moving among a cluster of wires and microphones, she builds compositional frameworks that grow and break apart. Her speaker instruments, employing a built-in microphone, create pulsing tones through their own feedback, which Flanigan samples and weaves into her own vocal patterns. The result is music that hovers somewhere between noise experiments and lyrical song, resonating with organic transparency.

Complete Tour Dates

(all shows Tristan Perich and Lesley Flanigan, except starred shows Loud Objects instead)

OCT 30 New York (The Stone)
NOV 04 Providence (AS220) with Blevin Blectum + Ashtray Navigations
NOV 05 Wellesley (Wellesley College)
NOV 06 Philadelphia (Crane Arts)
NOV 07 Pittsburgh (brillobox) * Art and Code festival
NOV 09 Muncie (Ball State IDIA) *
NOV 12 Chicago (Heaven Gallery) with Joseph Grimm
NOV 13 Milwaukee (Sugar Maple) * with Argyle Wishlist + Pataphor
NOV 18 Portland (tba) *
NOV 19 San Francisco (Grey Area Foundation for the Arts)
NOV 22 Los Angeles (The Wulf) with Lucky Dragons
NOV 25 Santa Fe (High Mayhem) with Evolve
NOV 30 Kansas City (tba)
DEC 01 St. Louis (Lemp Arts)
DEC 06 Atlanta (Eyedrum)
DEC 11 Charlottesville (The Bridge) with Chris Peck
DEC 12 Baltimore, MD (Red Room)
DEC 18 Brooklyn, NY (Galapagos) New Amsterdam Records event with NOW Ensemble

More Details:

Be sure to attend their shows. Real interesting artists.

World Peace Day

2009-11-17T06:46:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/72/193922475_09b6e9ded9.jpg

I was looking at a calendar of events, when I noted that today is World Peace Day. This is a movement that was started by Don Morris, also known as "Peace Guy" in 1997. Through research I realized that it is not an event that is well integrated in society. Many people only recognize the International Day of Peace (Peace one Day) on September 21st. I personally think that there are never too many days to be peaceful. But, I also believe that declaring a peace day does not make the difference. The difference comes when each one of us sees the need to change. Then, in the words of Michael Jackson, we'd be able to heal the world.

Here is the prayer written by Peace Guy to be prayed on this peace day.

Prayer:

May the people on this planet be changed.
Changed from hatred to love,
Changed from greed to giving,
Changed from selfishness to selflessness,
Changed from apathy to action,
Changed from jealousy to joy over someone's accomplishments,
Changed from intolerance to acceptance,
Changed from being destructive to being constructive,
Changed from fighting to peace,
Changed from killing to protecting life,
Changed from censorship to freedom,
Changed from ignorance to education,
Changed from fearing our differences to rejoicing our variety.

May we each take it upon ourselves to feed the hungry, cure the sick,
house the homeless, educate the illiterate, love the unloved,
compete to do the right thing instead of winning at any cost,
make heroes that teach our children to
make the world a better place instead of glorifying violence and war,
stand up and speak out against things that are wrong
instead of sitting back and waiting for someone else,
demand honesty from our governments,
demand honesty from ourselves.

May we each take responsibility for our own actions
and realize that by refusing to change ourselves,
we condone all the evils in the world.
If one person changes they teach others by example,
who in turn change and teach more,
one person becomes as a pebble rolling down a mountain,
picking up more pebbles as it continues,
becoming an avalanche of change.
It can happen, it must happen, it will happen.
Don Morris

You can find out more information about World Peace Day here.

Have a Peaceful day...and remember it all begins with you!

Getting Stuff Out of the Way

2009-11-16T14:08:00.001-08:00

Hey,

I finally got a whole lot of work out of the way and actually even had time to spend with the people I love. Well it felt great just being able to spend some time with family and friends, a moment away from life's demands and responsibilities. Unfortunately its only a moment. There's still so much to be done...and as usual so little time. Well, its not all frowns. There's still lots of art to be discovered and I'm actually excited to see what I'll find next.

Morning Prayer

2009-11-16T02:29:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3632/3405971322_e6646fa7ab_o.jpg

This is a prayer that I sang every morning as a child. The tune came back to mind this morning and for a second I gave the words some thought. Although it is written for children, these words are very much applicable to everyone. It should be our prayer to love God more daily and to simply be the best we can.

Father We thank thee for the night
And for the pleasant morning light
For rest and food and loving care
And all that makes the world so fair

Help us to do the things we should
To be to others kind and good
In all we do, in work or play
To love thee better day by day
Rebecca J Weston

A Little More About Epic

2009-11-16T02:14:00.002-08:00

Hello everybody,

It's Monday already and the hustle begins. Well, its the start of a very busy week. Hopefully, we will all organize our time so that we get everything we need to done and still make time for family and friends. I did research a little further into epic poetry yesterday like I said and I found a great website which was very informative. It deals with the style and technique of epic poetry. I just thought that I'd share it with you - Epic Poetry.

Anyway I'm off to start my day. It's so cold today. Wish I could just lay in bed. Well, I think we all wish we could. But, there's always work to be done.

Have a great day everyone....in spite of!
Bye!

Sacred Poetry

2009-11-15T09:34:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2217/2143980427_c96f3ee879.jpg

Hey...

It's a wonderful Sunday today. Well, most days are actually very wonderful days, we just don't see and allow the little things in life to make us happy. Instead, we often are very pessimistic and accentuate on the negative. It's human nature I guess; Something we have to grow out of if we ought to make the best of life.

Today I planned on reading up about two things. I wanted to read further into epic poetry and I wanted to read about the book of Psalms. So far, I've only gotten the latter done.

The book of Psalms is the nineteenth book of the Bible. The word Psalms means songs sung to a harp. It is actually a compilation of sacred poetry. There are 150 chapters in the book, each one being considered to be a psalm. Many of these Psalms were written by King David and speak of Israelite faith, their struggles, and their God who was more than able to deliver them from all the hardships that they went through.

Today, many such Psalms can still be applied to our lives and we can still rely on the great God who is still able to do beyond all that we may ask our think. Psalm 91 is a very good example.
Psalm 91 (KJV)

¹He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

²I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

³Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

⁴He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

⁵Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

⁶Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

⁷A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

⁸Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

⁹Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

¹⁰There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

¹¹For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

¹²They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

¹³Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

¹⁴Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

¹⁵He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

¹⁶With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Other Psalms were simply songs of worship. These too can still be sung (or recited) today as a form of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Psalm 100 (KJV)

¹Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

²Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

³Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

⁴Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

⁵For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

In Jewish Ritual, the psalms played a major role. The Psalms were sung by the Levites in front of the temple and later on the temple steps while priests played musical accompaniment on various instruments. It was intended to teach, explain, encourage its listening audience.

Today, the Psalms are used primarily in worship and prayer.

Morning Humour

2009-11-13T03:23:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: flickr.com
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3167/2856039679_71007c74f7.jpg

Hi all,

It's a beautiful day today! It's so calm and bright...a little cold though. Well, after I had my morning devotions, I decided to start my day with a little humour. It's always nice to start the day on the lighter, brighter side of life. Don't you think so? Well, this morning I came across a poem that I had learnt a very long time ago. Although it doesn't humour me as much, it's amazing how the poet put together this poem. I hope you like it!

Do you Carrot All for Me?

Do you carrot all for me?
My heart beets for you,
With your turnip nose
And your radish face,
You are a peach.
If we cantaloupe,
Lettuce marry;

Weed make a swell pear.

Author Unknown

Same Difference?

2009-11-11T16:55:00.002-08:00

Hi Y'all

I did have some time to do some reading today after all. However, I did not read about literary genres as I had planned. Instead I had a look at a list of literary devices.

Two devices which are commonly confused are paradox and oxymoron. They are actually similar, but very different. :-D.

An oxymoron is a contradiction in terms, for example, same difference.. :-D!

A paradox, however, is a situation created that cannot exist as different elements cancel out each other. One commonly known paradox is, "it was the best of times, it was the worst of times."

A list of more literary devices can be found here and a list of oxymorons can be found here.

Well, I'm off to do some more reading before heading to bed.

Bye everybody.

Encouraging Friends and Art blogs

2009-11-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

Fiona the unknown artist - Waiting
http://strandedartist.blogspot.com/

Hi all!! today I spent some time Doing a bit of blog hopping! I realized that I really have a lot of featuring to do along with my other daily responsibilities. I have been chosen to design a website and honestly, it is taking up the majority of my free time. However, I am thankful to all my wonderful especially these artist, art blogs and blogs through whom and which I always receive encouragement and keeps me excited along the way...

Eso and Amyly - A Creative Journey and Esoman Graphics
Jeffrey - The Roving Medievalist
Regina - Southern OOAKS
Patrice - The September Studio
Liquid & Tunsie - Poetry,Literature
Lana - Eye Candy
TJ - A look in a Creative Mind

and the many others. Thanks guys. Really helps in keeping me dedicated to this art search.
I also met up with this great artist who is also an art blogger. "Fiona the unknown artist." Immediately her art brought a feeling excitement mainly because of the colors. Amazing!!!
I particularly love the teapots. Check out her blog! Diary of an unknown artist. Anyway guys, I am off on my art search! Cheers!!

Dropping by

2009-11-11T03:00:00.002-08:00

Hey Everybody,

Just dropping by. I've been so busy over the past week. So much to do very little time. Hopefully things will start clearing up soon and I'll have much less hectic days. Well I hope nobody is having days like mine when you have absolutely no time for yourself....It's just a part of life I guess.

Today, I think I will read more about literature genres. Hopefully, I'll have time to do that and maybe even to share what I find with you. Anyway I'm off to start my day...the best way... by spending some time talking to God...I hope you also start your day the same way

Bye for now
I hope everybody has a great day

The Group of Seven & The A.C.R. - Part s 1 & 2

2009-11-07T02:47:00.000-08:00

Hi all! Just popping in to share one of my findings. I just can't keep this away. I found these very informative videos on the Group of seven. I am just one of the many that they continue to be inspired by these magnificent historical art figures as I go along. I think you will like these. Glad to share them with you!

A Deeper Look

2009-11-06T12:26:00.002-08:00

Hey!

As I have already mentioned, the Greek were very skillful writers and worked toward developing many genres of Literature. Although I already knew about some of the poetry types that the Greek developed, I decided to find out what each of them were and what they entailed for clarification sake. Today I looked at epic and lyric poetry.

The epic poetry was the first type of poetry written in history. An epic poem is a lengthy narrative poem, which, most times, concern a serious subject, containing details of heroic deeds and events significant to a culture or a nation.

Epyllion, considered to be a type of Epic Poetry is a brief narrative poem with a romantic or mythological theme. The term Epyllion means 'little Epic' and this type of poetry came into use in the nineteenth century.

Lyric poetry, written very early in the History of Western Literature, has evolved simply into short poems which express personal feelings. However, in Ancient Greek society lyric poetry was considered nothing other than verse that was accompanied by a lyre or other stringed instrument. These 'poems', of course, were sung by individual or a chorus. Modern lyric poetry is still sometimes sung, but not necessarily so.

You can find out more about lyric poetry here.

Bye....

Abstract Expression

2009-11-05T06:17:00.000-08:00

Mystery Artist - Evening Palms©

Hi all! As much as I keep saying that I will give it some time before I add another one of my art pieces to a post, is the more I receive messages requesting that I add another soon lol! Well I guess I just have to go along with it. I took some time last week to work on two art pieces. One I have not completed and the other I have. Some days I leave work at sunset and there are days when I decide to just sit and admire the color changes of the sky as the sun sings the "See you Tomorrow" song. That was when I decided to do the art piece "Evening Palms." I am hoping to complete it soon.

Mystery Artist - Still Dance©

As for the abstract piece "Still Dance," I basically had some extra blobs of paint on my palette and and already prepared surface. At the time I was really in a mood of excitement. Really had that urge to just get up and dance in the midst of every emotion and so, I decided to 'abstract' my way unto this creation. I wonder if I am that much of a good dancer. I mean it has been a while and I may need a bit of "oiling" to get rid of the accumulated rust LOL! Hope you like the art pieces. You can have a larger view of this piece along with a few of my other art pieces in My Gallery. Anyway, I am off to do some more art searching. Later!!

Independence celebration in my homeland

2009-11-04T04:51:00.000-08:00

Artist - Earl Etienne

Hi all! Been a real busy week so far. Issues at work, issues here and there lol! But they never keep me down. Funny how certain people are just always there for you whenever you are in need :-) Well back in my homeland, It is the season where we celebrate Independence. During this time, the island's culture is displayed in many forms such as dance, food, clothing and many other forms. I always like this time of year where the entire country embraces its rich culture. I am proud of my homeland. The art pieces gives a sneak peek of my homeland culture.

Another Jump Back

2009-11-03T17:11:00.002-08:00

Photo Compliments: Wikipedia.org
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/79/Homer_glyptotek.jpg

Hello Everybody!

Today I decided to get back on track and research deeper into the history of Literature. I've strayed so much from the time that I read about the first recorded pieces of Literature. But should I really be blamed? With Literature there is so much to explore. However, I am sorry for not staying focused. Today I explored the history and development of Greek Literature through the ages. More specifically, I read about Ancient Greek Literature which is Greek Literature written before the 4th century A.D. The Greeks were very skillful writers and were the ones who invented many of the literary forms which we enjoy today, for example lyric poetry.

Greek Literature, as I had already discovered started in about the 8th century B.C with Homer's Iliad and Odyssey. During the prec lassical age (before 500 B.C.), there was another great poet called Hesoid. Two of his surviving poems are "Works and Days" and "Theogony". These two are also epic poems.

Another form of poetry also evolved in greek society at that time. This was lyric poetry with the first lyric poet being Archilochus of Paros. This type of poetry, along with many others, of course, was greater developed in the classical age (500-336 B.C.).

The Classical age gave way to genres of Western Literature such as odes, pastorals, elegies, epigrams, comical and tragic drama, histories, rhetorical treatises, philosophical dialects and philosophical treatises.

The Hellenistic Age (336-30 BC) gave way to further development of the genres that had already been established and also saw the introduction of astronomy and geography. One milestone in the Hellenistic Age, was the translation of the Old Testament to Greek. This was done in Alexandria and was completed by 2nd century B.C. and involved the work of 72 scholars.

One other very significant piece of Literature considered Ancient Greek Literature is the New Testament which was written in 1st to 2nd century A.D. The books of the New Testament were written in various forms of koine (common) Greek. The New Testament is a compilation of 27 "books", as they are now called, which tell of the life of Jesus and Christian living.

In short, there was great development in Western Literature in the age of "Ancient Greece." The Literature written at that time is considered Ancient Greek Literature. You can read more about Ancient Greek Literature here.

Well I'm off to read some more. I will keep you updated as I go along.

Bye!!!