"butterfly in the sky, I can go twice as high.."

"Thank you, LL Cool J, for restraining a burglar in your house and not knocking him out despite what your mama said."

― Jimmy Fallon, Thank You Notes

             Jimmy Fallon brings The Tonight Show back to New York City starting, Monday, February 17th, 11:35/10:35 central on NBC.  For the first time since 1972 when Johnny Carson captured the hearts of an entire country, The Tonight Show will be airing from the  less pretentious, energetic East Coast. Staying alive, staying awake and staying in New York City will prove to be the edge Fallon favors to keep his current devoted hipsteresque audience while attracting a fresh crop of curious late night viewers.  Fallon appeals to a young diverse crowd who are just as familiar with Alt J and Imagine Dragons as Wiz Khalifa and routinely recognize which Twitter "hashtags" # are trending.  But don't worry. He is unlikely to alienate any late show demographic. Jimmy Fallon is a handsome, puppy loving, new father and native New Yorker who happens to be an accomplished actor, singer and musician as evidenced by the late night snack above.

     Another reason audiences will look forward to Fallon is his innate ability to interact creatively with his guests, so much so, many of his skits, hilarious conversations with ever amusing announcer, Steve Higgins and his multi-talented  house band The Roots go viral immediately. Being a former Saturday Night Live cast member he  understands the importance of keeping on top of current events, hot topics, trends as well as chatting up the latest actors and artists. Jimmy Fallon's most endearing quality is his amazing talent for unique musical compositions and live off the cuff performances. On a slow news day all Jimmy Fallon will need to do is improvise a song, giggle and smile at the camera. So stay awake. All is right with late night.

"One eye sees, the other feels.”

“It is by going down into the abyss that we recover the treasures of life. Where you stumble, there lies your treasure.” ― Joseph Campbell

     One point you must keep in mind while watching The Monuments Men is that the film wasn't intended to be a sweeping epic vision of World War II.  The Monuments Men is one small yet significant story taken from an almost incomprehensible history of  tragic events. As long as you remind yourself of the basic premise you will sit back and  imagine yourself traveling along with unsuspecting characters on a harrowing journey. Critics and movie fans whose reviews I've read should seriously refrain from unfairly comparing this film to the unflinchingly intense Schindler's List  or the brutal realism of Saving Private Ryan. The comparisons are trite and ridiculous.

     What you should know is that the film was directed by Oscar winning  actor/director George Clooney, is based on the true story of the greatest treasure hunt in history. The screenplay was written by Grant Heslov and Clooney based on author Robert Edsels novels. The Monuments Men is a digestible entertaining action drama focused on a platoon of various art historians, museum curators and architects  performed with sincere reliability by notable stars such as Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, Bill Murray, John Goodman and Hugh Bonneville. The actual historical "Monuments Men" was an unusual rag-tag crew tasked by president Franklin D. Roosevelt with sneaking into Germany to rescue artistic masterpieces from Nazi thieves. Without this little known platoon and similar specialized forces the German army would have destroyed everything as the Reich fell. 

     Sentimental and nostalgic at times, the audience will be drawn into the seemingly impossible mission which becomes an emotional personal battle for each character involved.  Despite what other movie viewers may say; if you possess any true authentic feelings at all you will shed tears during The Monuments Men. The movie reminds us that there are no small acts of love and kindness. There are no small acts of spite or hatred. Author and Nobel Prize recipient Elie Wiesel implores us to remember that the " opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference.”  

     

“The best way to predict the future is to create it."

“There are no safe paths in this part of the world. Remember you are over the Edge of the Wild now, and in for all sorts of fun wherever you go.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

     Please, be a passionate supporter of music, dance and art programs in our public schools.  Learning to play percussion instruments, marching and concert band transformed my life as a teenager. My nephew who will celebrate his milestone 18th birthday soon plays the trumpet and has performed as drum major for his high school marching band. We come from a family of music lovers and band geeks. Do you know of the Blue Devils, Vanguard or Cadets?  Are you familiar with Phantom Regiment, the Madison Scouts or the Cavaliers? My nephew and I love watching the intensity and excitement of the (DCI)  Drum Corps International Championships each year. He has also had the amazing experience of attending the event live in Atlanta, Georgia.  The clip above is an inspiring taste of DCI's 2013 championship featuring, Carolina Crown.

 Over thirty years ago, Drum Corps International (DCI)  developed an incredible nonprofit, global youth activity of artistic, educational and organizational influence. Musicians, dancers and supporters work their ass's off to put on a hell of a show. Through the annual DCI Tour and more than 35 World Championships in 17 North American cities, Drum Corps International provides entertainment to millions through live performances and nationally-televised events. As their website states Drum Corps International is Marching Music’s Major League™.http://www.dci.org/corps/

     When I recall  my adorable nephew's performances in concert and marching band it sincerely makes me smile knowing how meaningful those performances can be for young adults. Our own emotions and music are so entwined. Memories of band camp, relentless practice sessions, travel, laughter and especially the bond with other musicians will live in my heart forever.  My nephew has the intelligence and charisma to succeed at whatever he chooses to pursue but hopefully he continues to embrace music and the performing arts in some capacity.  Music brings so much joy to the world and especially to the players on stage ( or turf). What better gift to bestow than the blood, sweat and tears of an exhaustively rehearsed yet thrillingly rewarding performance?  Then again, he excels at practically every subject and endeavor. What an adventure ahead. Whatever journey he chooses, whatever road he travels in life- he should know he will be loved. Happy Birthday, Jarebear!  Celebrate. Many hugs and kisses to you and to your very proud Mom and Pops! 

                                               

"Night and day. Day and night."

"The needle tears a hole.
  The old familiar sting.
  Try to kill it all away
  but I remember everything"
                       Trent Reznor- "Hurt"

      Most of us will never truly comprehend serious, life altering addictions. We may think we know the moment by moment struggle of an addict because we admit  to current or former battles with caffeinated  beverages, food or cigarettes. What is compulsion versus addiction? Why do some people turn into addicts and others don't?
     Addiction can be used to describe a physical or biological compulsion. There is an over reaction of the brain to specific stimuli. Overtime, addicts build up a tolerance for the substance which causes them to need more and more of a stimulant in order to create a high. Surprisingly, most addictive behavior isn't related to either physical tolerance or exposure to such cues. Human beings compulsively surf porn sites, gamble, shop or use drugs in reaction to being emotionally stressed. We do this whether or not we have a physical addiction. There is a compulsion to act out. Since these psychologically based addictions are not formed from drug or brain effects, they can account for why people frequently switch addictive actions from one drug to a completely different kind of drug, or even to a non-drug behavior. This type of behavior is disturbingly shocking for many but described perfectly in the short documentary clip above from  "A Deadly Dance"(2013), a film about modern day heroin addiction in the Northeastern US.
      The focus of the addiction isn't what matters but the need to take action under certain kinds of stress. For example, most people who smoke, smoke more cigarettes when they are nervous or stressed out. Smokers may begin to chain smoke under duress. When a smoker decides to quit, the stress of life doesn't magically disappear. After a smoker conquers their physical nicotine addiction they may turn to food and begin to eat compulsively. Stress is the psychological trigger. Treating this type of addiction requires an understanding of how addictions psychologically work. We become mindful of our triggers and habits.
     We need to move away from feeling that addictions are purely pleasure seeking
 and  hedonistic, are due to lack of moral fiber or strength of character and move more towards understanding how to truly help people who are clearly suffering. Shaming and guilt do nothing to help those with compulsive or addictive personalities. If we truly wish to help people with addictions we must allow them to express themselves freely. We need to observe what is going on inside and out. We need to understand why they act and feel the way they do. At this point there are still arguments for and against nature versus nurture. Experts continue to debate whether drug dependence and addiction mean the same thing. Effective treatment and compassion is key. Compassion is always key.

   

“Let the games begin!”

 “It’s not whether you get knocked down; it’s whether you get up.”- Vince Lombardi

           Smack talk, trash trading insults, scathing parody videos and over 4 million dollars in intensive advertising campaigns- the Super Bowl is all about hype and halftime shows. But we know this. By now most of us have placed our bets on a team we've barely followed all season. We will wager on a city, gamble on a quarterback,  pick a point spread as long as we have buffalo wings, beer and nachos, it's all good- for the love of the game. We are drawn into the pride of pageantry and riveted by the excitement of rivalry. Seattle or Denver? It's impossible to predict which team will reign victorious at the end of a black and blue bruising, bone crushing battle. Now the REAL game will be passionately followed by millions upon millions of fanatical fans tuning in to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet. Sixty-six adorable adoptable puppies and kittens (cats and kittens provide the halftime entertainment) are ready to rumble on the grid iron.

     All of  the Puppy Bowl’s  tough yet tender competitors are indeed shelter dogs.  Due to the Puppy Bowl's October production but February airing, most of these puppies have already found loving homes. However, there is still a slim chance three or four puppies in the lineup could be available for adoption.  If you are interested you are encouraged to log onto AnimalPlanet.com during the airing.  If you see a puppy you'd love to give a forever home they may be adoptable.  If the puppy is not available the shelter may have more information about other puppies who are equally adorable and may even come from the same litter.
   Don't stop there. If your heart is truly set on rescuing a dog or cat go directly to petfinder.com for adoptable pet information in your specific area. Let the love and games begin!


   

“Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live”

“If we couldn't laugh we would all go insane.” 

― Robert Frost

     One of the most enjoyable ways to spend a snow day is inside warm and toasty, cuddled up on the couch with a nice mug of hot something watching a few great movies. Unfortunately, if you have the flu you will be quarantined to your bedroom but don't despair. As long as you have access to a TV or the internets you can  relieve your crankiness quickly with a comforting dose of laughter . Want to view something completely new?  Recently, comedian, actor, writer and director Louis C.K released his 1998 black and white film, "Tomorrow Night" available to download  on his website for $5.  The movie showcases the pre-famed comedic performances of Conan O'Brien, Steve Carell, Robert Smigel and Wanda Sykes.

      Need more medicine? How about a loving spoonful of classic comedy?  Below is the Top Ten List of Funniest Comedy Movies of All Time as selected by the AFI (American Film Institute). Although comedy is highly subjective there are memorable movies all of us watch again and again as the humor and wit are timeless. One of my favorite classic comedies is the parody film Airplane! directed by the notorious Jim Abrahams and the fabulously insane Zucker Brothers. As a child, "Airplane!" was one of my first films viewed at a movie theater seated and surrounded by the infectious laughter of parents and hundreds of captivated adults. At the time most of the films sardonic humor was entirely over my head but I understood enough to know that comedy and listening to people laugh was delicious. After subsequent viewings and relentlessly quoting  "Airplane!" over the years ( "Looks like I picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue.")  whenever it unexpectedly pops up on TV, I will always stop,  watch, giggle and appreciate something new. Feel better soon.

  10. AIRPLANE!. 1980

9. THE GRADUATE. 1967

8. IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT. 1934

7. M*A*S*H. 1970

6. BLAZING SADDLES. 1974

5. DUCK SOUP. 1933

4. ANNIE HALL. 1977

3. DR. STRANGELOVE OR: HOW I LEARNED TO STOP

WORRYING AND LOVE THE BOMB. 1964

2. TOOTSIE. 1982

1. SOME LIKE IT HOT. 1959

“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