"Hope is a waking dream..."

        “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”
― John Lennon

   Want to visit Jon Stewart and John Oliver on the set of  The Daily Show in New York City? Would you like to explore the set of HBO's the Newsroom or meet television journalist George Stephanopolous? How would you like to play a serious game of paintball with real Navy SEALS? Yes, please!! Omaze offers the chance to win once-in-a-lifetime experiences that also support a great cause.  Check out their website http://www.omaze.com/ You can support any of the organizations listed such as  The Mission Continues. Founder and CEO, Eric Greitens is the author of the inspirational memoir " The Heart and the Fist: The Education of a Humanitarian. The Making of a Navy SEAL". His incredible book lead to my discovery of the Mission Continues a few years ago. Representing all four branches of the military; Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, my grandfather, father, uncle and three brothers proudly served our country. My brother Steve will officially retire from the Navy this year. Many friends and coworkers have served as well. The sacrifice and selfless actions  of our military hero's allow US citizens to maintain the freedoms we enjoy today. We must never take our freedom for granted. The Mission Continues awards community service fellowships to post-9/11 veterans, empowering them to transform their own lives by serving others and  their own communities. Mission Continues Fellows serve six months at local nonprofit organizations to address key educational, environmental or social issues. Each Fellow works to achieve a post-fellowship goal of full time employment and/or pursuit of higher education, while maintaining a permanent role of public service.  It costs $100 to provide a post-9/11 veteran with the mission supplies needed for an entire fellowship. Every dollar you donate helps our veterans find a renewed sense of purpose for their skills and provide critical support for communities in need. You can support a Mission Continues fellow and have a chance to live out your own dream like meeting Jon Stewart or playing Battleship with Admiral Mullen by donating right now.
http://www.omaze.com/

"shiny, happy people holding hands..."

  “All suffering is caused by ignorance. People inflict pain on others in the selfish pursuit of their own happiness or satisfaction”
― Tenzin Gyatso  Dalai Lama XIV

      Slowly, the curtain is drawn back on our world stage. Now, the spotlight shines on a once obscure, isolated country shrouded from the West.  If ascribed human attributes North Korea is the anti-social angst ridden reclusive teenager, "Shiny, Happy People" its mocking anthem. We anticipate, speculate, and prepare for the next impetuous act. Here are a few factoids I found interesting about North Korea. Factoids unlike Altoids are not always tasty or refreshing.

 According to Mental Floss.com an estimated 1.1 million North Korean males are on active duty military status, making North Korea the fourth-largest army in the world. Its reserve force of 8 million is the world’s largest.

 Kim Jong-Il  had  thirty-two different lavish residences, beach houses, mansions, mountaintop palaces. When Kim Jong-Il came to power, the ceremonies honoring him and his father came to over $2.68 billion dollars. That's a lot of won.

 In 1978, Kim Jong-il reportedly ordered the kidnapping of celebrated South Korean film-maker Shin Sang-ok and his actor wife Choi Eun-hee so that they could make a socialist version of Godzilla, his all-time favourite film. To put this in perspective imagine President Obama sending top secret agents to nab Christopher Nolan , holding him hostage at the White House until he produces the Batman.

 According to a New York Times report an analyst from the Center for Strategic and International Studies says the abrasive actions of the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un are part of a game plan set by his faja. Dr. Evil and Scotty-don't.  Another inheritance for Kim-Jong-un , strategic mind control games, pillaging, plundering and mass murder of his own people. Couldn't they have just shared a beer like Rusty and Clark Griswold?

Look out Austin, Texas. Apparently, Kim Jong-un has an issue with hipster culture and indie music?

 North Korea supposedly has a  99% literacy rate. Factoid truth. Kim-Jong-un requires all his literally starving artists to write his delusional scripts and screenplays.  The North Korean people have endured enough Godzilla , Denis Rodman, glitter unicorns and "happily ever-after".  Rainbows.  

The following is stated on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea website: http://www.korea-dpr.com/relations.html  Under Foreign Relations

"At the same time it makes every effort in unity with all the peace-loving peoples of the world to frustrate the aggression, interference and disturbance of imperialists, reduce armaments, nuclear armaments in particular, thereby meeting the desire of human beings to live in a world, free from nuclear weapons, and to safeguard peace and security in Asia and the rest of the world.".  ..     and scene.

" We are their voice..."

“The assumption that animals are without rights, and the illusion that our treatment of them has no moral significance, is a positively outrageous example of Western crudity and barbarity. Universal compassion in the only guarantee of morality.” ― Arthur Schopenhauer, The Basis of Morality

“Kindness and compassion towards all living things is a mark of a civilized society. Conversely, cruelty, whether it is directed against human beings or against animals, is not the exclusive province of any one culture or community of people. ” ― César Chávez

April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. The ASPCA website features extremely valuable information for preventing and reporting animal abuse and neglect including the following tips listed below.

Know who to call to report animal cruelty. Every state and city are different. In some areas, you may have to rely on the police department to investigate animal cruelty; in others, you may have to contact local animal control or another municipal agency.



Get to know and look out for the animals in your neighborhood.
Without phone calls from concerned citizens who report cruelty in their neighborhoods, animals suffering from abuse and neglect will die.

Contact your local law enforcement department and let them know that investigating animal cruelty should be a priority. Animal cruelty is a CRIME—and the police MUST investigate these crimes.


Talk to your kids about how to treat animals with kindness and respect.  Educating children is one of the best preventative measures of animal abuse. When children are taught that animals feel pain and suffer just as humans do they develop a sense of compassion. Compassion and empathy are crucial in preventing crimes of animal cruelty.

Support your local shelter or animal rescue organization.



Fight for the passage of strong anti-cruelty laws.
 

 
We are their voice. Speak up and save the life of an animal.

http://www.aspca.org/Home/Fight-Animal-Cruelty/Advocacy-Center

" if things get heavy, we'll all float on alright..."

            “It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see.”    Henry David Thoreau

            “It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see.”    Henry David Thoreau


So, my blog entry this evening was originally going to be about the celebratory feasts of Easter and Passover. This is a profoundly reflective and significant time of year for many devout followers of their faith. While researching and preparing for another freelance article I started reading posted comments on a few religious article forums.  My excitement and enthusiasm began to wane once the  defensive arguing and ignorant name calling developed. The following is all I'm ever going to contribute to any religious debate;  What is happening inside YOU when you judge people for their religious or spiritual beliefs? How does it make you feel? Do you feel superior? Do you feel angry? Do you feel pity? When we judge others it's really showing us more about ourselves than the person, idea or belief being judged. Walt Whitman's famous words, "Be curious, not judgmental.'" is a deceptively short simple yet deeply complex phrase that most human beings find incredibly difficult to follow. Have a joyous celebration of  your choosing. Whatever you believe. My heart will always wish we would all shut up and dance together like Snoopy and the bunnies.

"Music and Living.-- The same thing." said Pooh.."

" To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day."            -Lao-tse




     Until recently I had never heard of BOLT testing. Charles J. Clarke III is the creator of the BOLT System. If it sounds similar to other personality tests or psychological indicators such as the Keirsey Temperament or Myers-Briggs then you'd be some what accurate. The BOLT system was introduced in 1968 and used by businesses wanting to clarify and examine interactions with consumers or buying public. The BOLT System claims it is designed and based on "decades of scientific research". It has been utilized in customer service, sales, designing advertising, generating leads, and negotiating. The insights can also be used for managing coworkers or for getting along with cranky relatives.
     BOLT stands for Bulls, Owls, Lambs and Tigers.  Each animal represents the four specific personality types. Every person you will ever encounter in your life is one of the four. Charles Clarke taught how to identify which animal type a person is, and how to speak their language in the way that’s most persuasive to them. It can also be useful in other areas of life such as dating, instructing children and especially ridiculing people."We always knew Uncle Joe was full of Bull$*#t. Now, thanks to Chuck Clarke we have scientific proof."


 Are you a Bull?

Bottom Line, Get To The Point

Seeks To Control The Negotiation

Are you an Owl?

Very Analytical, Detail Oriented Researcher

Seeks Logical Order

Are you a Lamb?

Seeks To Please People, Avoids Conflict

Takes Forever To Make Up Their Mind

Are you a Tiger?

Very Expressive and Fun-Loving

Impulsive and Excitable

The entire BOLT animal personality concept seems vague, comically general, nonsensical and oddly simplistic. But these concepts are widely known and touted by sales professionals across the country.  You can be a combination of Owl and Lamb or Tiger mixed with Bull with a dash of Lamb etc.. not specifically all Bull, Owl, Lamb or Tiger. "Liger" a Lamb and a Tiger.  If I must be psychologically classified  by animal then this is preferable:

"While Eeyore frets ...
... and Piglet hesitates
... and Rabbit calculates
... and Owl pontificates
...Pooh just is."

The Tao of Pooh-Benjamin Hoff

"but I just had to look, having read the book..."

"And somebody spoke and I went into a dream."

Today marked the fiftieth anniversary of the Beatles first album "Please,Please Me". Without realizing this fact until later in the day I was listening to a compilation on my ipod including every type of music you can imagine. "A Day in the Life" has always been my favorite Beatles song. As a child, hearing it for the first time, made a definite impression on me. The music and lyrics are strangely distant and haunting The song gathers an optimistic tempo to end with a swirling surreal dramatic crescendo. I'd love to turn you on...

"A Day In The Life"

I read the news today oh boy
About a lucky man who made the grade
And though the news was rather sad
Well I just had to laugh
I saw the photograph
He blew his mind out in a car
He didn't notice that the lights had changed
A crowd of people stood and stared
They'd seen his face before
Nobody was really sure
If he was from the House of Lords
I saw a film today oh boy
The English Army had just won the war
A crowd of people turned away
But I just had to look
Having read the book
I'd love to turn you on

Woke up, fell out of bed
Dragged a comb across my head
Found my way downstairs and drank a cup
And looking up I noticed I was late
Found my coat and grabbed my hat
Made the bus in seconds flat
Found my way upstairs and had a smoke
And somebody spoke and I went into a dream

I read the news today oh boy
Four thousand holes in Blackburn, Lancashire
And though the holes were rather small
They had to count them all
Now they know how many holes it takes to fill the Albert Hall
I'd love to turn you on

"the night time is the right time...."

"Sleep is for the weak."-Dustin Gallup, (step-brother)  U.S Marine Corps Veteran


     There are only twenty-four hours in a day to accomplish all you want to accomplish. The reason this blog is titled Midnight Mindquake is because like thirty-five percent of the US population my brain functions best in the evening hours. However, when you stay awake until 2am creating and earning money doing what you love but get up at 5am for the day job, you're going to suffer for your art. You will suffer with me by reading this.  Did you know thirty-five percent was a random statistic? Only twenty-two percent of the US population will verify the information they read online. Did I just make that up too? You will have to find out on your own. The number of ambitious, highly productive" night owls" may never be known. We are too exhausted acclimating our inner time clocks to the "early bird" world to actually research or fact check this claim. "Early birds" take my worms. I need a nap. Some where there is a night crawler. Here are the top ten signs you are suffering from temporary sleep deprivation.This top ten list was discovered online so it may or may not be true. At this moment I am too tired to care.
  #3 Poor memory
  #8 Poor memory
  #5 Inability to concentrate.
Here are the top ten signs you are suffering from temporary sleep deprivation.
10.  Increased Appetite- (box of Cheddar Jack Cheeze-Its on nightstand-check)
  9. Vision problems- (typing with eyes closed is difficult but not impossible)
  8. Poor memory- Where have I read that before?
  7. Poor decision making- This occurs even when well rested.
  6. Dimin$hed motorrr skilllllzzzzzzzzz
  5. Relationship troubles (see poor decision making above)
  4.Medical problems- Sleep is for the weak.
  3.Mood swings-(?)  from Perry Como to comatose is not a swing.
  2.Inability to handle stress-Maybe if you're a high strung Type A Personality. If you're
     temporarily Type C  (as in Como) you'll be fine.
       
  1. Inability to concentrate.... 12:06am. Who can sleep now? My day is just beginning!

 Extended wakefulness is unhealthy and if prolonged can have serious cognitive and physical consequences. So although we like to think we can train our brains to function with less rest it's not the case. We need our deep REM zzzzz's to regenerate and restore healthy brain cell tissue. Temporary deprivation can be tolerated but ultimately our immune system warns our body, "Go to sleep or I will put you to sleep". Tonight, I will listen.

"A Night to Remember?....."

High School Musical gave me unrealistic expectations that I would get asked to prom and we'd be dancing on the roof of our school in the rain. -Author unknown
 


      Across the country teenagers are hyper aroused planning for their junior and senior proms. What makes this event so exciting? Is it the glittering daydreams of first love and romance? The ever anticipated first kiss?  Do we imagine ourselves Cinderella on the arm of our Prince Charming?  In your mind did you secretly choreograph perfectly timed dance moves like steely blue-eyed Zac Ephron or lovely Vanessa Hudgens in High School Musical?  Were you the timid wallflower stranded in the corner after your date abandoned you? Were you heart broken watching your crush dance the night away with your high school nemesis? Parents invest in rented tuxedo's, shimmering ball gowns and chauffeured carriages to contribute to a beautiful illusion.  No one wants to be disappointed. Add dinner money, corsages, hair and make up expenses, photography and this singular magical evening produces a hefty price tag. Parents may be hopeful their child is as creative as Molly Ringwald in the movie "Pretty in Pink" sewing her own dress, driving herself to the forum and even having the gumption to arrive solo. Usually, this is not the case. Most parents are more than willing to contribute to their child's memories as their little loves are growing up before their eyes. The moment must be captured. Seeing photo's of my nephew in his prom tux made me tear up so I can only imagine what his parents felt. Is someone chopping onions? Traditionally, prom is supposed be a night to remember. Teenagers put a lot of pressure on themselves to make it a perfect evening. It's kind of like a preview of future wedding preparations.Wait, what?(Oh, the horror!)  My high school friends believed we were too artistic and cool for such lame uncouth antics.(although most of us were card carrying band geeks) We may have helped paint the decorations, created tissue paper flowers or chose the cheesy theme song but actually attend? Seriously? We intentionally voted for the least popular court members as senior prom" King' and 'Queen" and ensured our DJ played at least one Cure song to honor our absence.
     Expectations can and do leave us disappointed sometimes. Hopefully, you make the best of it. Prom is a time to be with friends, have fun, laugh and create treasured memories you will hold for a life time. So  whether you are a teenager or parent enjoy the moment. Remind yourself of what the evening is really all about; a celebration of youth, a rite of passage into adulthood. And remember to dance.... just dance.
     

"and I'm thumbin' my way to North Caroline......"

"Sister Bear:  To make a wish upon a star is okay for a start, but if you want it to come true, you may have to do your part."-The Berenstain Bears-"Homework Hassle" ( a children's story book about the trials and tribulations of mathematics )

A Letter to My Beautiful Niece on Her Birthday,.March, 14th

Happy Birthday. Happy Every Day.
Happily Ever after

Dear Soul Child,

          The night you were born I woke up from a dream startled. Startled in a good positive way. Alert. As I sat up in bed, intuitively, minutes before the phone rang something told me you had "arrived". Moments later I heard your Grandpa Louie congratulate your father.  Your Mom, Aunt Laurie and me have a psychic "connection". We call, write or text each other with synchronicity.  Your great grandmother Bradford used to tell me stories about how she shared the same connection with my Mom. Your grandmother Glenda would have loved and adored you too. There is so much to love. You were a gorgeous child who has grown into a beautiful young woman before my eyes. So the women of our family pass the special kismet genetics on to you. We certainly didn't intend for you to inherit our math skills. My apologies. Then again that seems trivial when you consider all the gifts you do possess. Your Mom and Dad have done the most outstanding job of raising you and Drew. As far as parents go, you won the lottery, the Powerball and the Golden Ticket to the Wonka Factory with them. They love you so much. They love you enough to do whatever it takes so you believe and live your dreams. However, YOU have made the most of your talents as well. You have always been a lover of language and books, a skilled communicator, dancer, singer, musician You have always been gentle, open-minded and kindhearted. You're not selfish or conceited in any way. You do your own thing. You are strong willed yet still believe in fairy tale endings. You have the intelligence and the charisma to succeed in any endeavor you choose. The field you have chosen is perfect for your personality. When I think of all the possibilities for your future I get excited for you! You inspire me.You are a thousand times more extroverted which is a wonderful quality in public relations. So, I will always love you. I don't care if Kasey is never my brother-in-law. I don't care if you never get married or have children. I want you to be happy with the choices you make. Live your life. This is my long distance hug and kiss, my beautiful girl. Happy Birthday. I love you Love you! Or the text version "i luv u".(but NEVER while you drive). Love you.

"Does anybody really know what time it is ?..."

"We're fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance."
Japanese Proverb 

Ah.. smell the freshness of the air heavily perfumed with the aroma of lilacs and gardenias.The cool breezes caress our skin like a tender lover. Longer is the light of day. We embrace the sunshine like a warm loving hug. We chase the trails of butterflies and cherry blossom petals across the meadow... what am I blabbering on about? Spring is my third favorite season of the year. It falls behind crisp colorful autumn and peaceful pristine winter and is more tolerable than sweltering hot summer.
Spring traditionally means the flora and fauna are lazily waking from a long winter slumber, "Hello, beautiful world!"  Spring is also the time for daylight savings, college breaks, St. Patrick's Day, Passover, Easter, (Bri's birthday) and junior/senior proms. My nephew will be attending his first high school prom in a few weeks and has been preparing for the past three months. The enthusiasm of youth is befitting of Spring. Wait!? Do you hear the enchanting melody whispered only in the ears of young lovers? No? Then you are old and jaded. Wake up and live!
                The coldest areas of the country are slowly thawing and defrosting like a Thanksgiving Butterball bathing in the warm water of the kitchen sink. It's the time of year where you're likely to see piles of  melting snow on the ground along side people peeling off their sweaters and jackets like confining cocoons. Children can be heard laughing and screaming in yards and playgrounds.  Dogs are barking happily and singing through out the neighborhood. Walkers, runners, motorcyclists and bicyclists race outdoors. (We really shouldn't get ahead of ourselves knowing that April almost certainly brings the last Northern snowstorm of the season.) So go out now. Fling the windows of your heart wide open. Spring in the South is gorgeous as the blooms of magnolias and azaleas fill the air with a heavenly scent. Even allergy sufferers, crazy cat lovers and those who dread to venture outdoors have to admit Spring is rather lovely.  So get your pasty pale ass outside and enjoy the day. You need some fresh air. The sun doesn't set until eight o'clock. What are you waiting for?

"With my lightening bolts a glowing, I can see where I am...."

“It is difficult to get the news from poems, yet men die miserably every day for lack of what is found there.”

― William Carlos Williams        

     There are days when reading or watching world news events are overwhelming.  Over a billion people on the planet are struggling and fighting for their survival. Across the globe there is war, famine, murder, torture, rape, abuse. There are children cold and starving who have never known love and affection. There are young girls and women sold to rich men or brothels so their families will have enough money to buy food. 

There are men viciously attacked and slashed with machetes trying to defend  families.

and protect property. The world is a savage and brutal place for millions and millions of human beings. We destroy our planet, wild life and each other. It's hard to believe that we have hope for the human race at all. Questions that I would pose to any humanitarian or human rights activist is how do you maintain hope? How do you contain all of your emotions when you witness a child starving to death or a woman being beaten for not obeying a man? How do you control  your anger? How do you keep from sobbing? How do you continue caring when you know you are up against an impossible task?  Exposure to human and animal rights atrocities has brought me to tears. There is an outpouring of emotion rather than a calm, detached observance. The same feelings are conjured up when I watch or read news stories.

 There is a part of my being that truly cannot comprehend why people are so unbelievably cruel. Why? The question why is one we all ask ourselves quite often. The answer is personal. The answer is in our own search for meaning. Often we ask, what can I do? There is no simple answer. You do what you can. Are you appreciative of the life you lead?  I believe in peace although I'm not sure if there will ever be true peace on earth. There is goodness and kindness in all of us. So call me naive. My gratitude for all that I have allows me to see beauty in the mundane and ordinary. My childlike sense of wonder and awe has never been buried under the enormous weight of adulthood. The moments that I've taken for granted seem few. There is so much to be thankful for in my life.  There is so much suffering in the world you must look for hope and happiness in all things. No, I'm not a millionaire, genius scholar or gorgeous celebrity but I have an education, shelter, food, a job, love and independence. 

Each new day you create the poem you are meant to live. Not all of us know we are poets.

" without music, life is a mistake...."

" I care about these kids just as much as you do. And if I'm forced to choose between Mozart and reading and writing and long division, I choose long division..... Well, I guess you can cut the arts as much as you want, Gene. Sooner or later, these kids aren't going to have anything to read or write about." --Mr. Holland's Opus

           There is not a thought, event or memory in my life that has not been enriched by the power of music. When you hear a song or melody you feel  transported back in time to the very moment when that music was absorbed by your heart and soul. Now harmony and melody has become a part of you as if you had covered a composition with a delectable chocolate glaze, savoring and digesting its unique flavor. My greatest fortune was exposure to many genres of music early in life. Both of my parents were music lovers. Watching and listening to how much my mother enjoyed music really inspired me as a child. She was so happy singing and dancing. She seemed to understand and recite every line, every lyric. Johnny Mathis, the Bee Gee's and Mac Davis were just a few of her favorites. My father owned at least six or seven over stuffed record cases full of forty-five's. He had album collections and transistor radio's always turned on and tuned in. We were exposed to Motown, jazz, Big Band, country, classical and especially rock n'roll. Our family was either listening, singing or watching musical shows and movies on television. Do you remember The Sonny and Cher Show, The Partridge Family,  the Hudson Brothers or  American Bandstand? The first time I saw the musical, Oliver! was when I was three or four years old...."who will buy this wonderful feeling? Who will tie it up with a ribbon and put it in a box for me?" Each song I hear is like unwrapping a beautiful gift.

     My sister Les played guitar and has two children who participated in band. Her son plays the guitar today. My sister Laurie, a teacher, played flute and saxophone (T-Sax). She and her husbands love of music inspired their son who is now a high school drum major and trumpet player. Percussion was my passion. Three brothers played trombone, trumpet and tuba. Our high school band director taught five out of six musicians from our family. Every few years he would see a familiar face and read a name from a roster  only to astoundingly proclaim, "What? Another, More?"  It was in our blood. We all cherished playing and performing in marching, concert and jazz band. Academic studies worldwide have proven that studying music increases test scores, focus and significantly improves a child's understanding of other subjects. Music allowed us to travel, encouraged social interaction, taught us history, respect, responsibility, teamwork, and discipline.  Most importantly it taught us how to listen. The search for beauty and truth through art is what sustains humanity. We should never under estimate the full power and omnipotent force of music. It makes me so angry to think our country cuts funding for music programs every year because ignorant fools believe it's not essential to a child's education.. We must fight for the survival of music yet to be written. Every life has a story and that story has a remarkable soundtrack.

" compassion is never a flaw..."

"You have enemies? Good. That means you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life." – Winston Churchill

     Recently, the topic of bullying or cyber bullying was examined by an author I admire on another forum. He used the recent example of a pro female athlete that was being viciously stalked and harassed online.  Sadly, the athlete felt she had suffered so much emotional abuse she made the choice to end her career. We only know the side of the story exposed by the media. What really moved me was the number of adults who commented about being bullied as children. Some of them shared the most painfully touching testimonies. Adults have been genuinely scarred by the cruelty of their past tormentors.
     In the last five or six years there have been major campaigns shedding an empathetic spot light  on the subject of bullying and social media harassment. If simple awareness has influenced or motivated just one child or parent to stand up for those who are bullied then it's a message worth repeating. When I was in high school my best friend was an incredibly creative, intelligent young man. He also happened to be gay. He was very effeminate so naturally people suspected or assumed he was gay. We bonded immediately because we shared a love of art, music, humor and the desire to one day leave our little town for the supposedly more sophisticated mentality of a big city.

     The greatest lesson ever learned from our friendship is that when people are being unfairly teased and brutalized by others; you STAND UP and defend them. Years of intimidation had hardened his attitude substantially. He was loving, compassionate and kind to those who knew and treated him well. Being taunted and verbally abused DOES NOT build character or give children a sense of inner strength. Parents, you made the choice to have a child. YOU are developing the mind of an impressionable human being not constructing a hard ass U.S Marine Corps drill sergeant. My friend stood up for himself and was damned if he was going to allow his circle of confidants to be dragged down to a level of ignorance. What he faced on a daily basis was disturbing to witness. Even teachers and adult personnel at the school shunned or ridiculed him. In my heart and soul I knew the adults who I had once respected were insulting, condescending and just flat out wrong.

     Having been at one time a substitute teacher, teachers aide  and high school administrative assistant I've observed bullying time and time again. What continues to baffle me is our acceptance of "herd" or "sheep" mentality. One comment or criticism and a child is considered a pariah or outcast by classmates. Adults need to be more conscious and sensitive to children who are being victimized, alienated or children who exhibit excessive anger and aggression. Being disrespectful and cruel should not be tolerated at any age. Parents have the most powerful influence over their child's behavior. Ask yourself. Are you raising a bully?

" and lights, camera,....action!"

“I have a star on Hollywood Blvd. It glows in the dark and I stuck it there myself.”
― Jarod Kintz, $3.33“




      Roll out the red carpet for Oscar regalia. Tonight,  Hollywood pays homage to the finest cash cows and golden geese. The pop culture paparazzi is more hyped up than a hamster on bath salts. What is the fascination with the trivialities of gowns, hair, make up and jewels? What is she wearing? Who is he wearing? Wasn't that last seasons color?  How long has it been since she had a meal? No matter how avant-garde or radical you proclaim to be few among us have never indulged in imagining ourselves a movie star. Admit it. Talking into your hairbrush in front of  the bathroom mirror you perfected your Academy award acceptance speech as a teenager..."most importantly I'd like to thank my family whose undying love, support and belief in pursuing my dreams was so paramount to my success... and to my husband Johnny Depp . Darling. This is for you.. ."
The media will almost always focus their attention on idolized charismatic film actors and actresses. We toss out a lot of dollar bills to be entertained and studios love to pimp the hot and famous.(i.e "Magic Mike")

    After all, it's called "show business" for a reason. It is a business. Let us not forget there are hundreds if not thousands of supporting artists and technicians behind the scenes bringing imagination to life. These production contributors are the excited folks ushered off the stage by orchestra cue during their Oscar speech or partially glimpsed before the TV station interrupts for commercial break. Take a bow. Get off the stage. We want Ben Affleck. Think of the sound engineers, costume designers, script writers, researchers, choreographers, musicians, special effects teams and casting directors whose names flash almost anonymously after the movie ends. This is when theater enthusiasts are gathering their empty cheese nachos containers and popcorn bags from the floor and filing out exits. If you watched a movie at home film credits are the time you wake up your sleeping spouse from the couch and head off to bed. Perhaps we unconsciously want to be naive about the entire grueling process of film making. It completely spoils our enchantment watching behind the scenes footage of actors digitally enhanced, computer manipulated or ferociously fighting in front of blank green screens. We appreciate the illusion. It's like finding out there's no Santa Claus or your Aunt Holly was a stripper at a biker bar. We don't want to know. If you really took the time to break down all the effort and intricate details hidden in film making you would be fascinated and amazed. But would you soak up the story in the same way? Would you lose some of the enjoyment? Is that why Hollywood tries to hide all the grips, vocal coaches, visual effect and make up artists from Oscar night? We love movies. Some films educate, enlighten or simply entertain. Films are a ninety minute mini adventure and escape from our ordinary world. If I had my way, I'd be thanking each and every screenwriter, graphic artist and technician involved in those mysterious magical journeys. Roll credits.

"How did it get so late so soon?...."

"And you've been so busy lately that you haven't found the time

To open up your mind
And watch the world spinning gently out of time
Feel the sunshine on your face
It's on a computer now
Gone to the future way out in space "  -Out of Time, Blur

     One of the most beautiful aspects of childhood is having no sense of time. No clocks, watches, cell phones. computers or cars with digital reminders. We had enough time to stare up at the clouds and visualize a hundred changing forms. We had time to pour over picture books or examine the sharpness of a vividly green blade of grass. We had time to paint rainbows in the sky and toss gold tinged autumn leaves in the air. We had time to be silly and invent crazy songs, belly laugh and jump from cushion to cushion without falling in the lava. There was enough time to explore the world around us and savor the sunshine or glittering snowflakes of each new morning.  We never envisioned scampering off to work or business meetings, surrounding ourselves with technological gadgets or trying to fill up every silent pause with a thousand words.

     Our minds create the illusion that we haven't got enough time. In reality we know what we must do. You know more than any one  your priorities in life. To say, "I haven't got the time" is being dishonest with ourselves and others. We all want more time to do the things we love. What our inner dialogue should  be telling us is the honest truth, " this task, person, project is not a priority". We commit our time to people and activities that leave us unfulfilled or dissatisfied. Being with or doing something strictly out of obligation or need to appear important, social or charitable becomes draining. We've all had friends or relationships that emotionally drain us of our energy. Are you attending that dinner party or going on that blind date because you really love the Jone's or Ted's company or because you can't say no or want to appear "kind"?   If you have ever thought to yourself, " Why am I here or with this person when I could be doing.."?  You are not present. You are annoyed. Irritated. Off balance. You begin to see where and why you are giving your precious valuable time away. Would you open your wallet and  empty all your credit cards and cash on the street ? Would you allow strangers to get in your car and drive it away?  It's not selfish to demand your time back. It is more selfish to pretend or mislead people. Use your time wisely and creatively to give back to others and the world. Awareness and intent make all the difference.

"we write to taste life twice..."

“Write to please just one person. If you open a window and make love to the world, so to speak, your story will get pneumonia.”-― Kurt Vonnegut, Bagombo Snuff

 Are you are a parent who believes their child is the next J.K. Rowling or James Patterson?  Are you are an adult who wonders if you missed your true calling? Here are a few neglected observations to identify a prospective writer.

1. Being sent to their room is or never  was a form of "punishment". They think soccer, baseball, ballet, swimming, cheer leading practice blows.
2. They have been  exaggeratedly accused of being "anti-social" on more than one occasion. A friend cancels a play date or dinner plans and they seem really OKAY with that because they really are OKAY with that. Solitude is more delicious than cake.
3. They are constantly sleep deprived either from staying up all night reading with a flashlight under the covers or up all night trying to finish their first novel, blog, freelance assignment, living will.
4. They like to listen more than they speak.
5. They privately keep a journal or online blog and immediately say, " Hey, I can use that." after every word that comes out of your mouth.
6. Family members are afraid they will write a story or book exposing all of grandma's sordidly tempting cabbage recipes (or worse).
7. They desperately want you to understand that writing is a solitary art which for most human beings requires copious amounts of time alone spent locked away behind closed doors.
8. There are books all over the house. There are twenty next to the bed, thirty under the bed, three on the nightstand, two in the bathroom.
9. They ask for a Kindle, Nook or Barns and Noble gift card for every birthday and holiday.
10. They daydream and stare into space because they are formulating sentences or creating stories  in their minds.  P.S to parents... LET THEM BE

" days of thunder......"

"America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, bad ass speed." -Eleanor Roosevelt, 1936

      Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines! It's that time of year again.  The festivities and racing season flashes Green, Green, Green at Daytona International Speedway beginning this week and culminating next weekend with the Daytona 500. It took the enthusiasm of a few family members and one smokin' hot driver to capture and pique my interest in professional motor sports.  Once you attend a LIVE race you're hooked. The smell of burning rubber, the grit in your eyes and the extreme ROARRRRR of the engines is a unique experience. There is an exquisite slow and powerful crescendo of reverberating motors gathering speed after each restart. The sound is so overwhelmingly intense!  The low growling  fills my ears and the bleachers rumble beneath my feet. Can't get enough!. The headset is whisked off as I jump up to meet the cheering crowd discerning the cars circling the entire length of the track. SWOOSH the wind takes your breath away. The cars swell and sweep past us humming again and again.

      Who hasn't imagined themselves a Sprint Cup, Indy or Formula One driver on the highway? No fear.  Most of us are excited when we get to drive a vehicle over eighty miles an hour. Admit it.  Every one would love to be a race car driver. You seem to  harness control over the  uncontrollable forces of speed and time. You and your car become one as you focus so intently, you're lost in the zone. Now envision yourself accelerating to 120mph or even 190mph. You would never be late for work again. Speed.  Do we know what that feels like? The  powerful sensation of thunder in our bellies. Most drivers describe their days on the track as incomparably exhilarating. Despite the dangers, adrenaline junkies, thrill seekers and the curious race enthusiast sign up for "driving experiences" costing thousands of dollars for mere minutes. We want to taste, smell, see and touch the moments of full force speed.

      A TV race, unfortunately is not as thrilling  though a great time. Engaging in track smack with my family and friends becomes creative." How many drivers does it take to set a track on fire? Just, Juan". Who is  prettier, Danica Patrick or Kasey Kahne?  Will I see a backflip this weekend?  My niece Bri is an aspiring public relations specialist and Communications Major who will realize her dream of being track side. Her knowledge and adoration of the sport inspires all. Of course her father was a major influence as well being  part of the motor vehicle industry. If you have the means  or opportunity to attend a race, never pass it up! Satisfy your need for speed and fall in love with racing just because you" want to go fast"!

"a thing of beauty is a joy for ever....."

“In your light I learn how to love. In your beauty, how to make poems. You dance inside my chest where no-one sees you, but sometimes I do, and that sight becomes this art.” ― Rumi

     If you wanted to make some extra money between now and Valentine's Day, you could solicit cookie cutter Hallmark, American Greetings romantic poetry writing services to those who haven't considered a gift for their beloved. Time is running out, my dears. Remember how easy it used to be in grade school when you'd buy a box of twenty-five Strawberry Shortcake or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Valentine's cards and simply sign your name on the back? "Be Mine". Love, Me. Unfortunately, romantic poetry is not our strongest medium. Most men and women find it extremely difficult to fart out quality amorous verse. A former love wrote me a poem which included the memorable lines, "Your eyes like the ocean smack me with waves of love. You have pierced my heart like a dart." Oh, the feels. Chocolates, roses, jewelry, sensuous dinners followed but those poetic lines were always remembered. Poems as well as many love letters, pressed flowers, movie stubs and photo's have been collected in my treasure chest for pleasure, reflection and amusement. Sincerely, any person who even attempts to expose their soul to another should be respected and admired. The intent behind the words is to reach a level of intimacy and trust where you feel comfortable revealing yourself as a true passionate lover and terribly disappointing poet. Such is love. Traditionally, when we think of "romantic poetry" we believe we should emulate the greatest; Keats, Wordsworth, Byron or William Blake, " To see the world in a grain of sand. And heaven in a wild flower...". Romantic poetry is characterized by a unique empathy and understanding of life's beauty. Some of us want to express the depth of our love so intensely that we completely ignore our lack of eloquent vocabulary to do so. Every poem we write seems to be adorned with lofty, flowery replicas rather than a sincere overflowing of powerful feelings rising from the depth of our soul. Imitation is not always the sincerest form of fartery, I mean flattery. Within the song lyrics of The Smiths, Cemetery Gates, Steven Morisssey exposes us all, “If you must write prose or poems, the words you use should be your own. Don't plagiarize or take 'on loan'. There's always someone, somewhere, with a big nose, who knows, who'll trip you up and laugh when you fall.” Any person who exerts time, effort and selfless thought in writing you a truly unique love poem will live in your heart for eternity, even if the liaison does not. ('tis better to have loved and lost...) So for all the lovers and romantics out there, send your cards, write your letters, text, blog, email, your terrible verse proudly as if you were Samuel Coleridge or Mary Shelley. There is a man or woman who is waiting for your love poem or one who has always cherished YOUR words of love.

"Just a place to call your own as we drift into the zone"

" On an island in the sun, we'll be playing and having fun. And it makes me feel so fine I can't control my brain." - Island in the Sun, Weezer

     A text message I received this morning reminded me of the Weezer song, Island in the Sun and inspired this evenings post. The text was sent from my beautiful, hard working sister Les who desperately deserves to be swept away to an exotic escape. Any person who deals with impatient customers on a daily basis and resides in a freezing Northern climate will appreciate the thought.(and maybe this eye candy to the right) Unfortunately, the winning numbers were not on my ticket. Damn you, Powerball! When will we learn? When will we stop dreaming? Never. Hey, who needs fancy funds and practical paid holidays to travel to a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches? Apparently, no one, thanks to "Trapper". Here is an interesting audio concept that you may have discovered online or saw satirized by the Onion on video. Are you ready for your "Mind Vacation"? The researcher/promoter of the "Mind Vacation Meditation" technique is the enterprising Thomas "Trapper" Sherwood. Frustrated with booking flights or hotels? Tired of rushing to the airport or losing luggage? Who will baby-sit the kids, feed Fluffy or water the plants? Are you suffering from acute Cubicle-itis or Stickitothemaninosis? Relax. No worries. Binaural beats will cure all stress related ills. Binaural beats lower brain wave frequency and frequency of money in wallet. You can order the soothing subliminal "Mind Vacation" tracks online for only ten dollars or for half the price you can buy another Powerball ticket. Breathe. Focus. My advice? Use my 100% guaranteed FREE meditation technique; simply close your eyes, listen to Weezer and imagine....hip...hip..

" A crummy commercial? Son of a BITCH ......"

" You want me to teach you something? Here's a lesson for ya....give up. Just quit. Because in this life, you can't win. Yeah, you can try, but in the end you're just gonna lose, big time, because the world is run by the Man."- Dewey Finn "School of Rock"

     Of course I didn't sincerely believe a defeated, Dewey Finn when he advised a classroom of impressionable juveniles to "just quit". He was only speaking out of frustration with the inability to see beyond his current circumstance. Dewey was losing the day to day battle with "The Man" for his artistic soul. Naturally, when we feel we are giving up or losing a part of our true identity we feel dejected. When you lose hope you lose everything. That's a fact. Every one of us has moments whether you are a musician, web designer, car dealer or cubicle monkey ( cubicle warrior is preferred) when you feel discouraged. You start to imagine everything in life revolves solely or un-souly around money. The idea, imagination, content, design or meaning loses importance.

      My online journal is my respite from the previous eight to twelve hours in pursuit of earning money. Surviving. There are many websites that allow writer's to ink out a little cash by drawing an audience to their forum. In order to do this you have to be willing and able to seduce your reader. You have to entice them to click on your web page. You start to feel dirty, creepy and deceptive like the Child Catcher from "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", "Here we are children. Come and get your lollipops. Get your ice cream, cherry pie, cream puffs, treacle tarts..all free today."

      Honestly, that dude scared the hell out more than any other movie character in the history of my cinemaship. (I know that's not a word but this is MY blog kiddie-winkies)

     So the more "tastefully" controversial the subject matter the more people will want to click on your page. What clever advertising techniques would best lure a guaranteed audience to visit? How could I incorporate all of the enticing subjects into one article? Top five or ten lists work pretty well. Admit it, we all read them no matter the subject. What are the Top Nine Most Unique Soap Flavors? It exists. Look it up. You would click on the link and read it because it's quick. You are curious and like everyone else you are losing your attention span. After researching for about ten minutes, I discovered the top five online lures are religion, sex, money, gun violence and dogs. If we added celebrities, fake tans, dieting, sports and perfectly straight white teeth we would have our "top ten" obsessions in American media. Despite knowing what's trite and trendy Dewey Finn just wanted to rock. Despite knowing what manipulates and persuades I just want to write. So for those about to rock or write.. I salute you.

" the best is yet to come and won't that be fine..."

“He couldn’t believe that sleep had robbed him of this spectacle night after night. Such are the writer’s privileges, he thought, nostalgic already for the present.” ― César Aira, Varamo

     A few weeks ago my sister and I were discussing the film Midnight in Paris. The movie was written and directed by the infamous Woody Allen. The plot revolves around a nostalgic screenwriter who is on a trip to Paris with his fiancé's family. Mysteriously, as he walks through Paris each evening at midnight he slips back in time to the golden age of the 1920s. He encounters the amazing composer, Cole Porter, charms Zelda Fitzgerald and ruminates with novelist Ernest Hemingway. How many of us have imagined traveling back through history to meet notable characters or relive legendary moments? Stored away in my closet, almost forgotten completely was a fifty-five page short story written for a creative writing course in my early twenties. Although alternative rock music is my first love there are many genres of music I cherish and appreciate. Frank Sinatra was "The Voice". Is it any wonder millions of women swooned? As an entertainer, Sinatra crooned with unparalleled depth and emotional sincerity. His gifted golden vocal chords are considered distinct and incomparable by many. "Ol' Blue Eyes" and his hipcat musical stylings continue to enthrall my ears, heart and soul. Soon I was given or purchased every Sinatra cd available. My cell phone ring tone for many years was " The Lady is a Tramp". (" and she won't dish the dirt with the rest of the broads...") Having admired Dean Martin from his earliest films with Jerry Lewis and being aware of Sammy Davis Jr as a consummate cool talent (add comedian Joey Bishop and handsome English-American actor Peter Lawford) I was infatuated with the Rat Pack. My story allowed me to envision singing gushy, lovey-dovey duets with Frank and impeccably performing "Candy Man" live on stage with Sammy. Renowned dancers Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron were also incorporated into my starry-eyed design. There are endless places and people I would like to travel back in time to meet and experience. Who would you like to encounter? What time in history would you visit? True, we only have the present moment but why not let the rare flicker of nostalgia ignite our imaginations.

"chop wood, carry water...."

“There are three kinds of men. The ones that learn by readin’. The few who learn by observation. The rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves.” ― Will Rogers

     Learning anything for the first time is intimidating. Initially, we may read the subject, then observe others but ultimately we learn by doing. Life is learning. Failure is not an option? Failure is always an option if you want to grow and continue to evolve. But I do get apprehensive. Nothing reminds me more that I am a cocker spaniel of the human race than when venturing and exploring beyond the invisible fence of my comfort zone. Cocker spaniels are happy, loving, gentle and sweet dogs but are especially sensitive to loud noises, raised voices and harsh training methods. They are also prone to excessive urination when excited. That may or may not be me. An early introduction to personal self-discipline was developed after serving four unrelenting years in high school marching band.(actually, I loved it!) When I felt irritated or rebellious though the purple beret came off before a performance. You want me to walk five miles in the sweltering heat of an August afternoon with this thirty pound drum strapped to my chest, Captain Band Director? Look who's not wearing the regulation hat....Sir! Who's in charge now?

   Self-discipline is a challenge. When being instructed and I sense another individuals impatience my sensitivity slowly escalates from whimper to growl. Not everyone trains or learns effectively in the same manner or at the same pace. Quiet calm is my prefered learning atmosphere. Having no desire to be alpha dog, there is minimal bark and I only bite when attacked. However, if you train me properly and toss me treats you will win my trust, loyalty and I might just lick your face. Enthusiasm, curiosity and a love of learning can be all but crated and caged without the proper teacher. Patience with numerous questions, endless repetition and understanding on the part of an instructor is priceless. There is an uneasy, nervous excitement when facing a new challenge. No matter how much you want to control time and effort , you can't be an expert unless you are a student first. Study and practice, practice, practice. If you dream of playing timpani with the symphony you begin with the triangle. (Ask, Ed Grimley.) If you want to run with the big dogs you have to jump off those comfy cushions.

" I am kissing you......"

"One regret, dear world, that I am determined not to have when I am lying on my deathbed Is that I did not kiss you enough!" Hafiz- Sufi poet

        The creative process of keeping an online journal, much like life, is the journey and not the destination. My greatest enjoyment comes from actually researching a subject, quote, poem, person or photo and wondering where it will lead. There is a bit of mad scientist mixed with film producer in all of us. When I review my search engine results before submitting a blog I usually laugh out loud. Examining what thought lead to this thought and lead to the next thought is fascinating. Then you realize at certain rare moments you're not "thinking" at all. You are doing. You are creating. The path to the posted page is far more interesting than the page itself. Having complete creative control and freedom is a great empowering feeling. Being able to express ourselves is essential to our true nature. We are all creative beings. There are times when the seemingly unsolvable problems of the world completely overshadow beauty in our lives. The beauty is always there. Much like the clouds obscure our vision of the moonlight, criticism and negativity eclipse creativity and awareness. But the clouds always pass. Always.

" De da da da, is all I want to say to you.."

“Information is just bits of data. Knowledge is putting them together. Wisdom is transcending them.” ― Ram Dass

     The paradox of social media is this: it has inspired and united an entire generation of activists and advocates but still allows millions to feel isolated, alone and incredibly shallow. It's like eating chips and salsa before dinner. Inevitably, you have to order a Quesidilla Grande to make the hollow hunger pangs go away. Twitter following is like scarfing down an entire package of Oreo cookies. You know you will fall into a sugar induced sleep coma and want to rinse out your mouth. (practicing my metaphors this evening) Generally, I believe most people are honest with the information they reveal on social media. Who would doubt I worked at Vandelay Industries for two years? Who wasn't convinced the profile picture of me and Christian Bale at a movie premiere was photo shopped? Privacy matters. What benefit is there to exposing everything in our lives? How safe is it for children and teenagers to have their "time lines" revealed to the public? This may be difficult to read but most of us are really not that fascinating to other people. Maybe we should try to discourage youngsters posting their every obsessive thought about Tyler Blackburn or Selena Gomez explaining this does not constitute effective communication. Freedom of Speech is our First Amendment Right so carry on and on and on.... Anyone with common sense will refrain from making rude or crude comments about their boss, spouse, teachers or other family members online. Surely, people have enough sound judgement NOT to post incriminating videos or pictures of themselves or others. Well, one would hope. Recently, I was completely stunned to discover posts by college "educated" educators supporting the conspiracy theory that the Sandy Hook Elementary massacre was a government hoax. WTF? If only the "delete" button worked on making ignorance disappear!

      Human beings desire to feel and stay connected. People love to share what they love. We share photo's and memorable moments with family, friends and loved ones across the country and around the world. Twitter, Tumblr, Linked In and Facebook are a few of the most excellent resources to promote yourself, an educational institution, business, non-profit organization, musical group or blog. It has made a significant impact globally in connecting us to a world of previously unknown political conflicts and ideas. The Internet and technology in general allows us unlimited access to news, information and each other. In addition, thousands of people have connected and fallen in love using online dating services like Match.com and e-Harmony. How else would I have fallen for George Glass? Connect. Make connections. You have to stay connected is what we are all constantly advised.

     Would the world end if you turned off your computer or smart phone for one day? One day a week, allow yourself the silence and solitude of a missed voice mail or text. You will survive. Locally and personally social media seems to have done little to strengthen or create deep, genuine bonds. So much of what we do in everyday life and work is censored to keep up appearances. The social mask only comes off when we are alone. Outside of business I would rather have one or two sincerely, authentic, flesh and bone friendships than a hundred superficial online contacts. So I certainly understand people I know who have either never created or abandoned their Facebook pages or Twitter accounts. Life is short and time too valuable to waste on a million cursory comments. Why do you think Facebook invented the apathetic "like" feature? "Thumbs up" or "up yours" if you like. Whatever form of communication you choose, be true to yourself.

"you may say I'm a dreamer...."

“Words and thoughts concerning compassionate action that are not put into practice are like beautiful flowers that are colorful but have no fragrance.” ― Thich Nhat Hanh

     Over the span of a decade I have taken and retaken the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® Assessment or variation of the assessment more than twenty times. It took twenty attempts to determine if I actually had talent or skill. I'm joking. My lack of proficiency in math has always been horrendous but my fourth grade elementary school teacher, Mrs. Taano recognized that I wrote English goodly and occasionally strung sentences together that almost made sense. Not bad for an overly sensitive ten year old whose favorite activity was staring out the window daydreaming. Fondly, Mrs. Taano was the first teacher to praise me for being a good creative writer.
      One morning after a writing assignment she even asked our principal to come to the classroom and hear me recite my essay. The only time we ever saw our principal was when he was dragging a kid down the hall to be lectured or paddled. Yeah, they used to paddle kids. That makes me laugh now. My story unfolded in a beautiful, enchanted wonderland where we lived in harmony romping in fields of daisies, building tree houses or something and the animals spoke to us .... I really don't recall the entire essay because that was a long time ago, back when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Mrs. Taano whispered so sweetly to our principal, " Lisa's story is like a utopia."  
       Our principal smiled weakly and grumbled, " Well, I've got to get back to my office and do some important principal-ly stuff. Nice job, Liz."

        Anyway, you may recall having taken the "educated indicator" assessment yourself at one point in your life. Do the words introvert, extrovert, sensing, judging, thinking and perceiving sound familiar? The indicator is based on the combined research of psychologist Carl Jung and researchers Katherine Cook Briggs and Isabel Myers Briggs. The assessment is used by many colleges, universities and businesses to determine personality traits, suitable careers and how people interact in team building, leadership and conflict management situations within an organization. Certainly, you are not expected to believe you possess every trait in the results but it can be used as a guide to assist many of us who may have difficulty focusing on one meaningful career path. So I have taken this test one thousand times (exaggerated slightly) and every time is the same result:

 INFP An INFP is an Introverted Intuitive Feeling Perceiving personality type. Personally, the reason I've taken or been prescribed the test so many times is because my career choices haven't aligned with my true nature. Professors, career counselors and managers past and present have encouraged me to seriously analyze the description, take it to heart and use it to pursue my "dream" career. Considering an INFP is a "Dreamer-Idealist" I wasn't always sure how to translate the following personality traits into a successful career: "INFP's are introspective, private, creative and highly idealistic individuals that have a constant desire to be on a meaningful path. They are driven by their values and seek peace. Empathetic and compassionate, they want to help others and humanity as a whole. INFPs are imaginative, artistic and often have a talent for language and writing. They can also be described as easygoing, selfless, guarded, adaptable, patient and loyal."

       If you have taken the test, how well do you think the results of your assessment have helped you? Do you think you are in your ideal career? If you could choose any job in the world what would it be? One of my dream careers would be philosophical chocolate inventor/factory owner race car driving theater actor. And that counts as one ideal career by the way. Admittedly, there has always been a lot of "dreamer" in me. How else can I imagine a better world and then do whatever I can to make it reality?