“There are many ways of going forward, but only one way of standing still.”

“Just as parents care for their children, you should bear in mind the whole universe.” ―  Dogen 

      When first being exposed and educated about the atrocities that animals suffer in mass producing factories, my feelings were of horror and outrage.  My thoughts were like millions of other concerned animal advocates and animal lovers, "How can human beings treat animals this way?" The passion to alleviate suffering was centered on my emotional pain. It was almost impossible for me to look at photo's or read articles without crying or feeling sick to my stomach. Even after many years of being exposed to first hand accounts, reports on abuse, starvation and torture it's still just as incredibly painful. But we cannot ignore or look away from suffering. Human or animal. Those of us who have owned, truly honor and love dogs cannot imagine inflicting cruelty or allowing our pets to be harmed. In order to understand the breeder/ owners, operators and workers of puppy mills, emotions have to be internalized in order to take effective action.  

      Most Americans find puppy mills deplorable, inhumane and want them completely eliminated. For the most part we are a culture of dog doting, pooch pampering pet parents and to me that is a beautiful thing. Hopefully, future generations of children will never be exposed to dogs as a mere money scamming commodity, soul less product or an object to be thrown away like trash. Dogs, cats and other companion animals are family, friends, guides, healers and especially heroes. Think of all the ways dogs and companion animals have saved and rescued human beings.

     So why are puppy mills still operating in the United States? What is the root cause of  over breeding, sickness and death of millions of innocent animals? The biggest factor and the main component in almost all corruption is greed.  What can you do to stop puppy mills?

        Many states have laws that regulate breeders and/or retail pet sellers.  Know your state laws. To find out how your state stacks up, click here http://www.animallaw.com/  The people who run  puppy mills do not give a damn about the dogs and the conditions they live in. They care about the money they get from selling dogs. Running a puppy mill is a form of  animal cruelty. When puppy mills are discovered by authorities, they're shut down.

      Any breeder or shop that sells you a puppy that becomes ill or dies within a certain time frame is going to be held accountable and should be. Many of these puppies are bought and sold from puppy mills. The Puppy Lemon Law insures a time limit in which the puppy or dog may be returned due to certain problems but varies from state to state. In some states, the period for returning a dog with an infectious disease is 14 days. There are also 7, 10 and 15 day periods for infectious diseases. Any fees incurred will have to be paid by the breeder or dealer. The veterinary fees as well as the certification fees that are necessary to declare the dog as unfit for purchase are another expense that would be reimbursed. Typically, these range up to about 50% of the price paid for the puppy or dog. 

      It's up to the public to inform authorities if they know of a mill or even suspect that one is operating.

 If you suspect that a shop in your community is dealing or selling puppy mill dogs contact your local law enforcement or animal control. Together we can stop puppy mill operations in the US.  Each and every one of us has the power to take action. 

"Gardens are made of darkness and light entwined..."

“It’s lovely to know that the world can’t interfere with the inside of your head.” ― Frank McCourt, Angela's Ashes

       Faith, forgiveness and balance are generously layered in an engaging ninety-eight minute quest of two   life paths entwined. The screenplay for  Philomena, co-written by the brilliantly perceptive British comedian, producer/ actor, Steve Coogan ( The Other Guys,Tropic Thunder) is based on the investigative book, The Lost Child of Philomena Lee by BBC correspondent Martin Sixsmith. Coogan portrays Sixsmith with the appropriate dash of cynicism, sprinkled with stinging wit opposite the legendary Golden Globes and Tony Award winning, Dame Judi Dench.  Philomena, the film focuses on the intense struggle of Philomena Lee,  who as a young Irish-Catholic teenager gave birth to a child conceived out of wedlock. Church doctrine forced the young Philomena to sign a contract that strictly denied her any type of inquiry into her son's adopted family. It is only later in her own life, after starting a family in England that Lee is introduced to the curious yet reluctant, Sixsmith. Together the ever hopeful Lee and the slightly skeptical BBC reporter set out to uncover the mystery of her long-lost son. Undoubtedly, tissues are required but there is also a beautiful balance of clever humor thanks to Coogan's insightful commentary and Dench's extraordinary performance. Although Philomena may have been overshadowed by bigger box office fare this year, don't miss this unforgettably powerful journey of the heart, mind and soul.

"I am the captain of my soul."

“At the center of non-violence stands the principle of love”
― Martin Luther King Jr.

      Ahimsa is a Sanskrit word which means to cause no harm or injury, a term interchangeable with non-violence. Non-violence is more than just the absence of violence;  it is a way of taking positive action to resist oppression or bring about meaningful change. Ahimsa is one of the cardinal virtues and important tenets of the major Indian religions (Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism).  As a multidimensional concept ahimsa is inspired by the premise that all living beings (including animals) hold their own spark of divine spiritual energy. Essentially, to hurt another being is to hurt oneself.
 ( Galatians 5:14 " For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." ) ( "That which is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. That is the whole Torah; the rest is the explanation; go and learn.")—Talmud, Shabbat 31a.
 Even the ancient Greeks followed a form of ahimsa- "What thou avoidest suffering thyself seek not to impose on others." – Epictetus. Why is it so easy to speak of such concepts but almost impossible to live by them?

      The formidable Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi strongly believed in the principle of ahimsa and the application of non-violent civil disobedience. As an American pastor, activist, humanitarian, and leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King is best known for his role in the advancement of civil rights using non-violent civil disobedience based on his own Christian beliefs. Why is non-violence the most difficult code to honor in the world when the majority of ethical beliefs, philosophies and major religions espouse we should love, respect  and live in peace with one another? Non-violence is not passivity but creative activity and a recognition of our shared humanity.

  MLK once stated -"The choice is not between violence and non-violence but between non-violence and nonexistence."   When you look into the eyes of another human being, what do you see?





    


 

“Those who get in the way of loves path will be kicked by horses."

“Humanity's true moral test, its fundamental test…consists of its attitude towards those who are at its mercy: animals.”

― Milan Kundera

           80% of Americans are opposed to horse slaughter or brutally killing horses in slaughter houses and using their meat for human consumption. The United States Congress released on January 13th, 2014 a brand new funding bill for FY2014. Although this is still a controversial topic among many advocates-
here are a few points to ponder.
        Without inspectors horse meat will not pass USDA standards for human consumption. Processing plants that would have opened will no longer be profitable.  Does this resolve the entire horse slaughter problem? Not by a long shot. However, it does stop the processing of horse meat in the States. The reason your pet pooches dog food must pass USDA inspection is sadly because many poor hungry people eat it to survive in this country.  Given a choice most of us would rather eat dog food than dog meat which is why this bill is so crucial. If we allow the consumption and processing of horse meat then we will start to allow the import and export of other animal meat products such as dog, cat, fox, monkey, etc. There is much to examine and reflect when considering which animals are chosen for human consumption and which animals are not. As a society, as Americans, we cannot allow ourselves to continue on a barbaric path. What this legislation will do is ensure humane euthanasia for horses in this country, the way our canine and cat populations are humanely euthanized due to our senseless over breeding.
      A horses execution in a slaughter house is absolutely brutal, terrifying and most certainly not humane.  Typically shipped for more than 24 hours at a time, horses are left without food, water, or the ability to rest in over crowded transports. They are often seriously injured or killed in transit. Accurate stunning or (shots to the head with a bolt gun)  are difficult. Horses often endure repeated blows and sometimes remain conscious during dismemberment. They essentially could be skinned alive. There is no quick and painless death. Before the last domestic plant closed in 2007, the USDA documented unimaginable cruelty violations.

     The fact is we don't need horse, dog or monkey meat to survive in this country. Congress needs to examine why one of the most prosperous nations on Earth is allowing its poor and elderly to eat dog and cat food for sustenance in the first place.  Inspection legislation involves more than a trillion tax dollars. Numerous animal welfare organizations across the country including the Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA, consumer safety groups and thousands of concerned citizens worked tirelessly for Congress to respond. Capitol Hill's message back to the American people was recognizing that our animal populations deserve better and the dangerous business of horse slaughter has no power here, now or ever.

   Advocates are now fighting hard to make sure Congress takes the final crucial step in protecting America’s horses by passing the Safeguard American Food Exports (SAFE) Act (H.R. 1094 / S. 541) to prevent both the slaughter of American horses for human consumption in this country, and  preventing export abroad. Contact your own Congress members and ask them to cosponsor the SAFE ACT.

“Those who get in the way of loves path will be kicked by horses."
~Kyoya”
― Bisco Hatori, Ouran High School Host Club, Vol. 17

“One idea lights a thousand candles.”

“You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is like an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.”

― Mahatma Gandhi

     A few days ago Omaze "dream doctors", Matt Pohlson and Ryan Cummins  provided a temporary prescription for George Clooney love sickness. The delightfully delicious medicine is an over the top Omaze extravaganza as you "Walk the Red Carpet'" escorted arm in arm by the award winning actor/director/ activist.   Omaze is an incredible fundraising organization that sincerely believes in helping all of us achieve career altering goals and once in a lifetime dreams. You and a guest will have the opportunity to travel (all expenses paid) to New York City, chat with George Clooney backstage at the David Letterman show, ride in a VIP limo and walk the red carpet for the Monuments Men movie premiere on February 4th. http://www.omaze.com/experiences. 

     All entries and donations for the "Red Carpet" experience are applied to the Satellite Sentinel Project. The SSP allows you to help monitor human rights abuses by funding satellites in the sky and field analysts on the ground. So whether you are a fan of  the handsome, talented Hollywood heart-throb or not your entry donation will further fund an operation formed to deter serious war crimes. http://www.satsentinel.org/

     Launched in December of 2010, SSP is the brain child of Clooney and co-founder (Enough Project) John Prendergast. SSP's  major goals were to deter mounting civil war campaigns between northern and southern areas of Sudan and documenting threats to civilians along both sides of the border. SSP continues to shine a much needed world spotlight on controversial atrocities in Sudan. Satellite imagery and analysis is used to generate rapid responses to human rights and human security concerns.  Among the mass abuses monitored, the SSP  tracks movements of animal poachers, the greatest threat to saving and preserving wildlife in Africa. 

     There are certainly many people on the global self-serving political stage that take offense to actors, musicians, authors or artists adopting a "cause" or promoting awareness of a critical social issue. Any person or organization helping to resolve or focus on human and animal rights abuses is being human. Those who are in a position to draw attention or provide money and resources are using their fame and fortune for a positive productive purpose. Compassion is the responsibility of all . It is our collective responsibility to ease the suffering of others and if we cannot ease suffering at least not add to others misery. There are a lot of really good, positive "ordinary" people in this world who want to make a difference. Not all of us have the same resources but we all have the ability to take some form of action and be of service. Whether you buy a book, watch a movie or build homes in your community, be conscious.

 My thoughts about personal responsibility and doing for others can be summed up in the following quote by the highly esteemed American astrophysicist, cosmologist and author, Neil deGrasse Tyson,

“For me, I am driven by two main philosophies: know more today about the world than I knew yesterday and lessen the suffering of others. You'd be surprised how far that gets you.”

     

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.”

“I am interested in art as a means of living a life; not as a means of making a living.”  
― Robert Henri

      
      When your eyes well with tears during a movie preview you know you're going to see that film on it's premiere date. Watching a short clip of  The Monuments Men, (premiere date tentatively set for February 7th) was such an experience. The movie is based on the true story of  a World War II platoon, who President Franklin D. Roosevelt personally commissioned to infiltrate German territory and rescue artistic masterpieces from Nazi thieves, returning them to their rightful owners. The precious art trapped behind enemy lines was under German army authority to be destroyed.  Museum directors, historians and art curators from all over Europe were called upon to prevent the destruction of the world's priceless treasures. The Monuments Men, risked their own lives to protect and defend a thousand years of humankind's ultimate artistic achievements.

     The film features an all star ensemble cast assembled by and including George Clooney, Matt Damon, Cate Blanchette and Bill Murray.  The screenplay was written and directed by Clooney and Grant Heslov  from captivating high drama crime stories by American writer Robert Edsel. Edsel is also the author of Rescuing Da Vinci and Saving Italy. Most American citizens are completely unaware of the events that transpired during World World II in regard to preserving and protecting priceless art pieces for future generations. The world must recognize, marvel  and pay tribute to the courage and bravery of all those who contributed to this incredible historic mission. 

“If you ask me what I came to do in this world, I, an artist, will answer you: I am here to live out loud.” ― Émile Zola

     

“The quieter you become, the more you can hear.”

“We come spinning out of nothingness, scattering stars like dust.”
― Rumi

With That Moon Language

-Hafiz (Sufi poet)

Admit something:

Everyone you see, you say to them,

"Love me."

Of course you do not do this out loud;

Otherwise,

Someone would call the cops.

Still though, think about this,

This great pull in us

To connect.

Why not become the one

Who lives with a full moon in each eye

That is always saying,

With that sweet moon

Language,

What every other eye in this world

Is dying to

Hear

“Everything you can imagine is real.”

"Did you ever have to find a way to survive and you knew your choices were bad, but you had to survive?"
-Irving Rosenfeld (American Hustle)

     Aside from having an incredible cast, American Hustle possesses that elusive quality which  draws you into a film allowing you to feel genuinely concerned for characters normally considered sociopaths. Directed by the exceptional David O. Russell (Silver Linings Playbook) and written by Russell and Eric Singer, American Hustle is an edgy fast paced glimpse into the life of small scale con man, Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale).  The brilliant Bale is almost unrecognizable as the shifty, overweight, balding yet completely endearing business owner. Rosenfeld's slick seductive partner Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) becomes entangled with cocky, over confident FBI agent Richie Di Maso (Bradley Cooper) and Rosenfeld's erratic yet alluring wife played by the stunning Jennifer Lawrence. Prosser (Amy Adams) is a chameleon, a true survivor whose strength and adaptability are ice cold and captivating, piercing hearts with phrases like " You're nothing to me until you're everything."

     Set on the US East coast in the late seventies the plot is loosely based on tales of New Jersey crime bosses, mobsters and disco era political corruption. The movie features a savvy musical selection which adds even more depth and vulnerability to complex lives in unpredictable circumstances. The soundtrack includes everything from dance floor Diva Donna Summer, Duke Ellington, ELO to Elton John, Cole Porter, The Bee Gee's to America's " A Horse With No Name."

 Look for appearances by personal favorite, genius writer/director/comedian Louis CK as Bradley Coopers budget conscious FBI boss, Jeremy Renner as the family values pinnacle, soft-hearted Mayor, Carmine Polito and Boardwalk Empire's(HBO drama series) gorgeous Jack Huston as a dashing, smashingly smitten gangster.
      American Hustle is an exercise in honoring and observing our flawed and fragile human ego. It is an engaging cinematic reminder that we are all every day survivor's. We are who we pretend to be. A study of" passive- aggressive karate" at its finest. And who among us isn't made more interesting and remarkable by our imperfections?   American Hustle can be summed up with poignant lines from  Take the Cannoli,  a book by the sincerely astute author, Sarah Vowel.
 “We are flawed creatures, all of us. Some of us think that means we should fix our flaws. But get rid of my flaws and there would be no one left.”   
       Add a few more clever twists, turns and surprises and you will not be disappointed to tell the theater ticket clerk, "Here, take my money!"



  

“Remember tonight... for it is the beginning of always”

   “Things are as they are. Looking out into it the universe at night, we make no comparisons between right and wrong stars, nor between well and badly arranged constellations.”- Alan Watts

    
      Nebulae are both the starting points of stellar evolution and also the end. This is the nebula-star-nebula cycle. Stars that evolve into red giants can lose their outer layers during intense pulsations. Matter released is typically 97% hydrogen and 3% helium with a few other trace materials.  Nebulae are simply spectacular to imagine from photo's as evidenced above.(NASA). It reminds me of a perfect cosmic cotton candy cloud. It looks like a creation devised from our dreams.

     A nebula is a stunning swirling cloud in outer space, formed when portions of the interstellar medium collapse and collide together due to the gravitational attraction of the comprised particles. Out of chaos, magnificent order is formed. There is so much to discover in the universe and our own world we will never know all that exists. In one limited lifetime we may study or experience a mere teeny tiny fraction of our immense galaxy. Many philosophers and scholars have deeply contemplated the universe existing inside each and every one of us. Perhaps we are the beginning and ending of our own star cycles.

     There is so much beauty we overlook in the busyness of our daily lives. With all of our obligations and commitments we may forget to look up at the stars on occasion. Make the coming year an opportunity to slow down and observe. Allow yourself time to absorb and appreciate the many fascinating sights and sounds that surround you. May you make a resolution to tell your family how much you LOVE them all! Thank you.

 The brilliant English philosopher, Alan Watts once professed he "owed his solitude to other people". And without a doubt. So do I.

  http://lkmore01.hubpages.com/_1ohrv6clpciqg/hub/Six-Secrets-of-Solitude   With Love & Peace Always.  Happy New Year! 
    
    

 

"We don't laugh because we're happy, we're happy because we laugh."

Ron Burgundy: Brick, can you hear me?
Brick Tamland: I can’t hear you, Ron.
Ron Burgundy: You’re answering so I think you can hear me.
Brick Tamland: No, I can’t.

   Laughter is the shortest distance between two people. 

   Sitting in a movie theater surrounded by loved ones or even complete strangers who are genuinely

   enjoying themselves is such a captivating and contagious experience. Ultimately, our moods determine our quality of life. Laughter has the power to change our mood in mere moments by releasing chemicals from the brain called endorphins. When we're in a cheerful  mood it's passed on to others through out the day. Have you ever really thought what moods and emotions you're passing on to others? When you become conscious of how your smile and laughter effects the behavior of others, why wouldn't you want to do it more?  We all have the ability to share our happiness with others, directly or indirectly. Think of having a sense of humor as a gift we offer to take the edge off a tense moment or lighten the mood. Unwrap the gift of laughter in your life by watching funny movies, listening to your favorite comedians,  watching Comedy Central or visiting websites such as Funny or Die, Awkward Family Photo's or The Onion.com.  In a letter to his daughter Charlie Chaplain was said to have written, "a day without laughter is a day wasted." Don't waste any more time being unhappy in your life.

                                         "I don't trust anyone who doesn't laugh."
                                                                     ― Maya Angelou

 Even if we think we are too busy to laugh, think again. In today's tough competitive business world team building is essential. Group laughter can create a happy and motivated workforce which includes the element of strong team building.

 Have you ever worked for a boss without a sense of humor? Do your associates take themselves too seriously? People without an ability to laugh at themselves or see humor in the mundane,

 seem like emotional vampires that drain you of your energy. It may seem obvious but many companies are still out of touch with scientifically proven data linking human productivity and stress levels. Have you ever heard of Laughter Yoga? Laughter helps us face challenges whether at work or at home. In times of great difficulty, it's not easy to remain calm. Utilizing the essence of Laughter Yoga and its calming characteristics, we can learn to handle any situation effectively without losing  composure. Keeping a positive mental attitude allows us to cope with negative situations and deal with difficult people without absorbing their negative energy and attitudes ourselves. Read more at http://www.laughteryoga.org/english/home

 Laughter Yoga is a clinically proven technique to reduce stress in any work environment from stockroom to newsroom. Scientific research has shown that the brain needs 25% more oxygen than your other organs for optimal functioning. 25%!! Laughter increases oxygen which in turn increases optimal functioning. After watching a hilarious film or having a great belly laugh we feel refreshed and energized. Now don't forget to share that good feeling with others. Why not take a friend to see Anchorman 2 ?

“Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.”

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson

          One of many favorite scenes in the legendary holiday movie, A Christmas Story is when an elated nine year old, Ralphie Parker rubs sleep from his eyes after rising Christmas morning, slides open his bedroom window and in pure awestruck amazement peers out across his snow sugared neighborhood. "Wow!", the only word of wonder falls breathlessly from Ralphie's lips as he looks out in all directions. "Wow!"  That particular scene was actually filmed in 1983, not far from my hometown on the shores of Lake Erie. Today, you can tour the Christmas Story house and museum year 'round in Cleveland, OH. Even though the area is famous for blizzards and lake effect snow, the Christmas morning footage took a film crew over twelve hours to recreate the beautiful winter scene with ice machines.
    
     Children of all ages who have grown up adoring A Christmas Story's 24 hour television rotation never tire of reciting every line and savoring every classic quote. How many of us have to repeat the word "fragile" as "frag-geel lay" out loud every time we see it printed on a box or crate?. Thanks to genius author Jean Shepard, my childhood and a few of my siblings holidays were joyously punctuated with the anticipation of "What I Want for Christmas "theme writing (see video above), pink nightmare bunny suits, double-dawg dares, the glow of electric sex in the window and snowball sandwiches.

       How many of us reminisce when snow days meant playful hours frolicking in an enchanted winter wonderland rather than an inconvenience we have to shovel off walkways and scrape off car windshields before driving cautiously to work like the Grinch's we've become? It's not what you look at its what you see.
      As we grow older it's easy to lose our excitement and fascination. As adults our own intellect and arrogance allows us to falsely believe we know about every one and every thing instead of trusting our intuition to just ....believe. We cut off our own curiosity and creativity. It's imperative that we nurture our own inner nine year olds especially if we want to maintain a heart of appreciation and a wide eyed sense of wonder. When was the last time you were awe struck by nature or felt deeply connected to the beauty of the world?  When was the last time you were silenced by emotion or felt the wisdom of the mysterious?  Be grateful for the gifts you have right now. Be grateful for the beauty and richness of this moment. Being present is the greatest present you will ever give or receive.
    

" knock on the sky and listen to the sound..."

 "Each celestial body, in fact each and every atom, produces a particular sound on account of its movement, its rhythm or vibration. All these sounds and vibrations form a universal harmony in which each element, while having it’s own function and character, contributes to the whole."
Pythagoras (569-475 BC)

        How many of us can name a Christmas or holiday song containing the word "bell"?  Have you ever wondered what the significance of bells and chimes mean in religious and spiritual ceremonies? The distinct ring of a bell resonates throughout space in all directions. Bells of churches call the masses together, signal warning, announce events or a time of mourning. Bells symbolize beginnings and endings.  A few religious practices use bells to ward off evil spirits and demons. Most commonly bell tones are used to purify and heal. The actual study of bells is called campanology.

       Bells seem to have a multitude of meanings and purposes and can be all different sizes, producing a multitude of tones. Bells can be made from ceramic or glass, metal and brass and some of the most popular this time of year are Sleigh Bells, Carol of the Bells, Silver Bells and Jingle Bells.
    
       Scientists have long theorized that the universe is ringing with the sound of countless cosmic bells. These sound waves fill the emptiness of space with ripples like the surface of a pond pounded by stones. Sensitive instruments have allowed astronomers to derive and interpret the sounds of silence. The sound is deep and there is a simple reason the primordial sound is so deep, the Universe is gigantic!  Objects that vibrate more slowly have a deeper pitch. In a young universe, the size of the regions vibrating are many thousands of light years across so their vibrations are exceedingly slow.  Virtually everything on Earth is vibrating.
     Now imagine a bell resonating with a low deep tone. You can hear it in your ears, feel it in your mind and body.  In the universe the number of sound waves passing our ear per second or the sound frequency gives the sound its pitch which is about 50 octaves below our audible range.
    
      Plato, one of the deepest thinkers of our own universe and greatest philosophers of humankind stated  “Harmony sinks deep into the recesses of the soul and takes its strongest hold there, bringing grace also to the body and mind as well. Music is a moral law. It gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, a charm to sadness, and life to everything. It is the essence of order…"

                  .......and the musical genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once wrote,
“The wonders of the music of the future will be of a higher and wider scale and will introduce many sounds that the human ear is now incapable of hearing. Among these new sounds will be the glorious music of angelic chorales. As men hear these they will cease to consider Angels as figments of their imagination.”
      So sound breathing life into everything does give a soul to the universe, " wings to the mind". In the essence of order on our beautiful flight maybe every time a bell rings an angel really does get its wings.

    

 

    

"Let there be peace on Earth and let it begin with you....."

"World-peace
Can be achieved
When the power of love
Replaces
The love of power." -Sri Chinmoy

     According to Hollywood television lore if rock star David Bowie hadn't professed his hatred for the song Little Drummer Boy, the performance of Peace on Earth would never have been created. Apparently, a mere hour or so before Bowie was scheduled to sing the now famous duet with legendary crooner, Bing Crosby on Crosby's 1977 Christmas program, writers scrambled to assemble a contemporary composition Bowie felt would showcase his range. In the end both vocalists were appeased and the result is the strangely beautiful but classic melody melding of generations. Also featured (follow the link)  is the equally brilliant rendition of  Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy by Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly for the website Funny or Die. (both versions are a personal and family favorite)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJBFD-Wvc7U

What are the top five most beloved Christmas songs of all time? Lists vary from source, website and family but below are five of the most consistently requested around the country and the world.

                5.  I'll Be Home for Christmas- Frank Sinatra

                          4. The Most Wonderful Time- Andy Williams version

3. A Christmas Song- Nat King Cole

2. Feliz Navidad- Jose Feliciano

1. White Christmas- Bing Crosby

http://lkmore01.hubpages.com/_1ohrv6clpciqg/hub/8-Great-Last-Minute-Gifts-for-Any-Occasion 

"When you've made your secret journey. You will find the love you miss."

“Not I, nor anyone else can travel that road for you.
You must travel it by yourself.
It is not far. It is within reach.
Perhaps you have been on it since you were born, and did not know.
Perhaps it is everywhere - on water and land.”
― Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass     

     Once during my elementary school years I relentlessly begged my parents to buy me the Police's album Ghost in the Machine. The first time "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic" came on the radio, my love affair with Sting, Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland began. Seldom if ever being a demanding child my parents thankfully relented and the album became a Christmas/ early birthday gift. Along with my first drum set and a brand new pair of skates, listening to the album over and over has been a vivid, beloved childhood memory. You could say the intense fascination with the Police and wanting a drum set was comparable to Ralphie Parker's overwhelming mission for a Red Ryder BB gun in the movie A Christmas Story.
     The album features the songs, " Invisible Sun", "One World", "Demolition Man" and " Spirit's in the Material World". The title, Ghost in the Machine was inspired by the book of the same name written by Hungarian-British journalist, Arthur Koestler. Many years later I purchased the CD and  Ghost in the Machine along with the Police's incomparable anthology and most of my early music history is safely stored on an iPod.
     Another powerful track from Ghost in the Machine is featured in the video above called "Secret Journey". The footage for the video was taken from the 1992 documentary film Baraka-A World Beyond Words directed by visionary artist Ron Fricke (Samsara -2011). The entire film is an incredible photographic journey of human life and religious ceremony. Although the song" Secret Journey" isn't featured in the film the images and music created for the video above complement and enhance a surreal experience.
       Sting called " Secret Journey" -" a quasi-mystical song. You have to do something, go somewhere, to get outside yourself. I read the book "Meetings with Remarkable Men"(G.I Gurdieff)  which says you have to make a journey. It doesn't have to be a real journey, it can be a mental
journey."
         During the holidays, it's especially easy to become nostalgic or fondly reminisce of "better days".  Although we do adhere to traditions of the past we should also recognize and respect change. It's human nature to adapt and aspire, to take on challenges and study new ideas. So instead of lingering too long on Memory Lane feeling regretful or sad, recall all of the difficult twists and turns you've survived on your own unique path. Remind yourself of the knowledge, courage and strength you've gained. No one else has or ever will travel that road for you. Honor it.

"We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams."

“The greatest glory in living
lies not in never falling,
but in rising every time we fall.”
― Nelson Mandela

One of my fellow writers posted an article on our social network about the truly amazing 109 year old pianist, Alice Herz Sommer. Immediately, it moved me to tears and set the tone for my entire writing and research day. Ms. Herz Sommer  is not only the oldest pianist in the world but the oldest Nazi Holocaust survivor. The video above is taken from the documentary of her inspirational story,  The Lady in Number 6 by Oscar winning filmmaker Malcolm Clark.

 Alice was born in 1903 and grew up in a loving, cultured family which was part of the German-speaking Czech-Jewish assimilated society. Alice's mother had been a childhood friend of Gustav Mahler and incredibly enough, Alice herself was playmates with writer Franz Kafka. Soon her enchanted secure world of writers, composers and artists would be destroyed by the Holocaust. As a child Alice grew up in a society that revered art, artists and great literature. It was a world where a concert, opera or book review made front page news in major newspapers. (Source:http://nickreedent.com/about/)
       Alice suffered as no human being should ever have to suffer as she witnessed both her mother and her husband put aboard the trains to Auschwitz. During the filming of the documentary it was reported that she spoke of those times with an absence of hatred or malice, a quiet grace won the hearts of all who came in contact with her. Alice believed and still believes today that hatred only eats away at the soul.
     Along with her six-year-old son, Raphael, Alice was imprisoned in the Theresienstadt concentration camp. It is stated that her most haunting memories were her feelings of helplessness and the inability to feed her child. Her son had so many questions about why they were at the camp and why so many people were being subjected to the indescribable nightmare of the Holocaust. Questions she and so many others are still unable to answer. Why?  Her strength and resilience was sustained by the depth of her sincere love of playing and listening to music.
And it’s from music that Alice derives her supreme optimism,
     “I have lived through many wars and have lost everything many times – including my husband, my mother and my beloved son. Yet, life is beautiful, and I have so much to learn and enjoy. I have no space nor time for pessimism and hate.”

 

     

“If we kill off the wild, then we are killing a part of our souls.”

“What we are doing to the forests of the world is but a mirror reflection of what we are doing to ourselves and to one another.”
― Mahatma Gandhi

      The US Department of State has declared December 4th, Wildlife Conservation Day and is calling out to individuals across the entire world to support threatened species by signing up for a Wildlife Pledge. http://worldwildlife.org/stories/wildlife-conservation-day  The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)  has embraced the initiative given the recent dramatic escalation in poaching of numerous animals. Illegal poaching is compromising decades-long efforts towards the conservation and sustainable use of wild species. Poaching and crimes against wildlife are deadly serious. In the past fifty years alone there has been a significant rise in the numbers of endangered animals including rhino's, tigers and elephants.  Notably, the Western Black African Rhino was declared extinct a few months ago.

     What can you do right now?

     Push for all governments to protect threatened animal populations.

     Call for increased law enforcement.
 
     Impose strict deterrents to reduce demand for endangered species products and make sure your  own country honors international commitments. Take action now by asking Congress to support legislation which will crack down on wildlife trafficking and enact a moratorium on ivory trade in the US.   More than 30,000 elephants were slaughtered last year for their tusks and many of those tusks will end up in the US, in the form of carvings and small trinkets or jewelry. You have the power to make a difference.     

     Please, speak up on behalf of those on the front lines being threatened by dangerous armed poachers and ensure those protecting wildlife are properly trained, equipped and compensated for putting their lives at risk.

   Ask questions. Reduce demand for illegal wildlife parts and products now. Encourage others to ask questions and get the facts before buying any wildlife or plant product.

      Included above is part two of Poaching Wars, the thought provoking, eye-opening documentary produced and narrated by British actor, activist Tom Hardy. Warning: The video does contain graphic and disturbing images. The issue of wildlife crime should never be sugar coated or dismissed as something happening" far away" or "over there". Illegal poaching and the destruction of our wildlife systems affects all of humanity. For just as Mahatma Gandhi poignantly stated over fifty years ago,

“What we are doing to the forests of the world is but a mirror reflection of what we are doing to ourselves and to one another.”  

“We love the things we love for what they are.”

“I have to see a thing a thousand times before I see it once.”
― Thomas Wolfe, You Can't Go Home Again     

Our family traveled into the big city today. We toured 

The National Museum of American History: Kenneth E. Behring Center where they collect display and  preserve the heritage of the United States.  Exhibits range in areas from social, political and cultural events to scientific and military history. Instead of participating in the post holiday shopping madness we decided to enjoy our Metro adventure and educational journey.  My loved ones hardly suspected  the joy of lovingly etching the memory of the moment in my mind. It was thrilling to be at the museum with them and indulge in one of my all time favorite activities, observing the human zoo.

     Unfortunately, our family is spread out across the country and it's very rare that all of us can be together. We had to Skype with my niece and nephew for our pre-Bingo bash pep talk. (Love you Bri and Drew) One of my brothers misses most of our holiday festivities because he works in retail. After Thanksgiving dinner we played Bingo for prizes instead of preparing for Black Friday like most American families. My sisters, brothers and sisters-in-law choose the most amazing and thoughtful gifts for all of us. Krissy planned and prepared a fabulous meal. (Thank you, Les and Laurie for my journal, book and so much more.)  Love you! The night before Thanksgiving we played a board game called Smart Ass and never laughed so hard in my life at some of the answers our family blurts out. Although we all have our moments when we watch a football game or play on our computers and cell phones, we don't let it interfere with our quality family time.

      Growing older, nieces and nephews slowly reach adulthood before my eyes, memories are cherished. Call it cliche but the holidays when we gather together recreating our history, laughing, sharing food and drinks are treasured beyond anything you could possibly purchase at a store. As the years pass there is a careful awareness of intricate details and subtle nuances and like a beautifully preserved museum portrait, family becomes more precious and fascinating. 

"Look what happens with a love like that. It lights the whole sky...."

"Claudia:  You don't know the first thing about me.
Joanne:  Likewise, I'm sure. If I just met you on the street... if you gave me your phone number... I'd throw it away.
Claudia:  Well, we don't have to like each other, Jo. We're family."
                                                                        Home for the Holidays-

     Happy Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgivukkah. As we gather together with our loved ones this week, please remember you can get away with saying almost anything at the dinner table when you put the phrase, " With all due respect"  in front of it.
     "With all due respect, Aunt Marie you need to wax that mustache if you ever expect to find a husband."
     Speaking of  respect, depending on your family dynamic, there are certain topics of conversation you may want to avoid  due to their highly controversial nature such as religion, politics, gun control and your sex life . Unless you are on a personal vendetta or quest for provocation, discuss these topics privately. Don't be a ( pardon my French) douche bag Royal when your family is gathered together for the sole purpose of being grateful otherwise the only thing they will be thankful for is your absence. Please be mindful of all the employees working during the holidays if you are out and about. They would like to be home with their families too.

 Most importantly, and we are all guilty of this but won't admit it, don't judge and second guess your family members personal life choices. The couple without children is extremely happy despite what you may project onto them. Your single uncle isn't secretly gay. Grandma doesn't want your pity, she wants you to accept, love and respect the wisdom she has to offer. Remember to be grateful that you  have  family to share a meal.  Even though we may not always agree or approve of another person's opinions or lifestyle, make a sincere effort to look deep in your heart with compassion and understanding. With all due respect, no one is perfect.

 Be thankful for shared memories, laughter, comfort and good food. Honor a memory with love.  Appreciate your good fortune.

  please follow the link below
http://lkmore01.hubpages.com/_1ohrv6clpciqg/hub/10-Ways-to-Express-Our-Gratitude



Love and peace to all.

     
     

"It is the story that matters not just the ending....."

“WHEN you are old and grey and full of sleep,
And nodding by the fire, take down this book,
And slowly read, and dream of the soft look
Your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep.”
― W.B. Yeats, The Collected Poems     

     November is Adopt-A-Senior Pet Month. Senior pets are amazing and deserve a special home to live out their remaining years. What can you expect from adopting a senior dog or cat?  During the month of November  most shelters and rescues are reducing adoption costs or waiving fees all together. Most senior animals have already lived in a home where unfortunately owners had to surrender or give them up due to financial or relocation issues. House trained, senior pets won't chew, bark or scratch every thing in your home.

 Older pets are playful yet quiet and calm with fully developed personalities. Older dogs will understand commands and greet strangers appropriately on your daily walks. Ready to be loved again, they will give back more than you know. Imagine a senior dog or cat as part of your family joining you for the holiday festivities. Even better, just think of how much affection and gratitude a senior pet will feel for the humans allowing them to live out their golden years in peace and comfort. 

It's true that many people are reluctant to adopt senior pets due to potential veterinary costs. Be honest with the shelter and discuss the history of the pet with your vet. Quality of life in senior pets is just as important as any other time. Most senior animals are healthy and have plenty of energy. Let them bring greater meaning and quality to your life. Give thanks for the love and loyalty of animals this holiday. For more information about where to find a senior pet in your area check out petfinder &

http://www.cockerspanielrescue.com/

If you are unable to adopt a dog or cat in November consider donating to your local shelter or volunteering at a rescue. To learn more about controlling the pet population in the US click on the link below.

http://lkmore01.hubpages.com/_1ohrv6clpciqg/hub/Critical-Control-The-Importance-of-Spaying-and-Neutering-Pets

"all dreams spin out from the web of life....."

 " For we did not weave the web of life.
We are merely a strand in it.
Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves.
Let us give thanks for the web and the circle that connects us.
  — Chief Seattle,
  

       My mother had a great appreciation and love for Native American history and culture. At four or five years of age I recall being completely captivated by gigantic glossy photographs in beautifully bound books outlining North American tribes, locations and customs. Mom was proud of her Choctaw heritage on my grandfathers side. The same blood which warmly ran through her veins, now rushes through me and flows through my brothers and sisters. We have lovingly embraced her unique qualities and calm demeanor. We see with her piercing eyes, we share her profile, her gentle smile and  move with the womanly curve of her hips. We hear her laughter and the sound of her voice when we sing. We feel the caressing clasp of her hand when we dance. We feel her breathe renewed hope into our weary lungs after the cruel world knocks out the wind. We have been softly spun from her delicate web of life.

     My entire childhood was spent absorbed with wanting to learn. There was a voracious appetite for attempting to unravel the fascinating mysteries of human existence- religion, philosophy, our planet and the universe were subjects I wanted to know- needed to know. Both of my parents and older siblings created an environment that fostered a love of reading and curiosity. Having access to libraries, diverse literature, three sets of encyclopedias and an unrestricted tolerance of evolving ideas is an experience I'm beyond grateful for having early in my life.

  Upon discovering the following poem by Native American poet Mary Tall Mountain it reminded me that our mother's web of love lives on inside all of us, forever connecting my brothers and sisters. The poem is dedicated to all of those who have lost a loved one much too soon. Look inside your heart. Remember, we're held together by the greatest everlasting bond and in many cultures and languages in the world,  "There is No Word for Goodbye"    

“There Is No Word for Goodbye” 

  by  Mary Tall Mountain from The Light on the Wall.

Sokoya, I said, looking through

the net of wrinkles into the

wise black pools of her eyes.

What do you say in Athabascan

when you leave each other?

What is the word

for goodbye?

A shade of feeling rippled  

the wind-tanned skin.

Ah, nothing, she said,

watching the river flash.

She looked at me close.

We just say, Tlaa. That means,

"See you."

We never leave each other.

When does your mouth

say goodbye to your heart?

She touched me light

as a bluebell.

You forget when you leave us;

you're so small then.

We don't use that word.

 We always think you're coming back,

but if you don't,

we'll see you some place else.

You understand.

There is no word for goodbye.

-with love, peace and gratefulness that we will share  our Thanksgiving together.