"Everyone should have time to play."

"  I currently make a living writing and telling jokes and I will never believe that. Thank you, Universe. And holy sh%#."-Sal Vulcano , Impratical Jokers

     "Impractical Jokers" premiered on TruTV,  December 15, 2011 and will introduce all new episodes Thursday, January 29th at 10pm. The show follows the hysterical antics of four New York  City friends who have known each other since childhood, comedians Brian "Q" Quinn, Joseph "Joe" Gatto, James "Murr"Murray,  and Salvatore "Sal" Vulcano.

( The Tenderloins  http://thetenderloins.com/ comedy troupe ) 

     The premise of "Impractical Jokers" is conquering the challenge of over the top public pranks as the guys are filmed by hidden cameras.  What makes the show truly unique from other prank programs is unfiltered spontaneity. Unlike other prank programs such as "Jack Ass" or "Candid Camera" one or more of the performers may be acting out a hilarious dare as the others remain behind the scenes feeding them lines. Watching the amusing cohesiveness of the four friends while they crack each other up is just as entertaining as the pranks. You never know whats about to transpire as evidenced in the clip above. The show is intended for adult audiences. So if the blustery winter weather is leaving you icy cold, cuddle up and chill out with "Impractical Jokers"  for some serious laughter therapy. It's a guilty pleasure you'll want to indulge.

http://www.trutv.com/shows/impractical-jokers/index.html

" Paw prints on our hearts."

“Without close and reciprocal relationships with other animal beings, we're alienated from the rich, diverse, and magnificent world in which we live.” ― Marc Bekoff, The Emotional Lives of Animals: A Leading Scientist Explores Animal Joy, Sorrow, and Empathy - and Why They Matter

         January 24th is Change a Pets Life Day. This special day was created to encourage pet adoption and spread awareness about animal welfare. Shelters across the U.S. participate by offering reduced adoption rates and spaying and neutering education.  If you have ever owned a pet you understand how animals enrich lives. Cats and dogs provide us with companionship, unconditional affection and many times motivate us to adopt healthier life habits such as exercise or learning how to relax. Encourage friends to adopt from a local shelter or rescue, foster a pet or simply volunteer to assist others in finding a match. There are millions of adoptable animals waiting for a home. 

     Below is an excerpt from an article that I wrote almost two years ago about an adorable rescued cocker spaniel who changed my life forever:

"Maddie was the most beautiful cream colored cocker spaniel and the first dog I've ever owned. Her soft golden fur felt like velvet to the touch. She loved snuggling and giving endless kisses. When she looked at you her big chocolate brown eyes seemed to melt any heart and peer into your soul. Excitedly, she greeted each new day with enthusiasm, wiggly spaniel behind, a "good morning" lick on your face. Time to get up, Human! She owned me from the very first day we met to the last graceful breath that shattered my heart. She allowed me to feel joy and happiness in her presence just as I feel joy and happiness at the mere thought of her now.

.......Maddie inspired me to participate and write for the prevention of animal abuse, spaying and neutering and dog fighting law campaigns. My love for her unleashed even more of my compassion not only for dogs but all animals. She expanded my awareness. Owning and loving Maddie allowed me to connect to other organizations that utilise the power and amazing gifts that dogs bring to the world. Service dogs are trained to allow disabled veterans more freedom and aid returning soldiers with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Daily, dogs serve our military and emergency services with courage. Service and companion animals assist the blind, those suffering from seizures, the elderly and even help children with Autism and learning disabilities.

Our own pets teach us patience, responsibility, compassion and to think outside of selfish behavior. Dogs increase our own health and wellness by encouraging exercise and lowering our blood pressure by petting and hugging them. Who hasn't bonded and become more sociable because they love dogs?
Even as the grieving and healing process continues for Maddie, perhaps there will be another dog in the future. But there was only one Maddie Mooshie Diamond Lotus Buddha. When the time is right I will be ready to be owned again. There has yet to be a word created in the English language to define ALL that encompasses Dog. DOGS ARE LOVE. Maddie was truly a beautiful, happy, affectionate, loving sweetheart. She is missed every single day. However, I know I am a better human being for having her in my life for twelve unforgettable years.
Thank you, "My Little Buddha" . You will always bring me happiness. "


Naturally, humans assume saving an animal is changing their life but many humans will be surprised at just how much animals change our lives..forever.

" Everything. Just as it is."

"The whole moon and the entire sky are reflected in one dewdrop on the grass".-Dogen

 

         

 Eyes burn in my mind

 recognition in a flash

 branded by a glance

  

"Looking for something different?"

   

 "I’m beyond excited to have this chance to continue my relationships with Comedy Central and the brilliant, Jon Stewart.  I love the city of New York and promise to only wear my Laker t-shirts when I’m layering.”- Larry Wilmore, Comedy Central

                  


               True, you may recognize the multi-talented writer and producer, Larry Wilmore as contributing "Senior Black Correspondent" for the Daily Show, but Wilmore began his impressive career as a stand- up comic and actor. He has appeared in movies such as “Love Bites,” “Accidentally on Purpose”, " Dinner for Schmucks" and “Happy Endings.”  He has written for the hilarious sketch comedy show “In Living Color" and “The Jamie Foxx Show" as well as "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air".  With the late brilliant comedian, Bernie Mack, Wilmore co-created  the award-winning “The Bernie Mac Show,” taking home an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.  He has appeared in episodes of  the critically acclaimed comedy "The Office" and acts as consulting producer. He is executive producer of the new ABC hit series “Black-ish,”. His first book, “I’d Rather We Got Casinos and Other Black Thoughts,” was released to an enthusiastic fan base by Hyperion Books in 2009.  His newest adventure is at the helm of The Nightly Show which premiers, Monday, January 19th at 11:30 on Comedy Central.   http://www.cc.com/shows/the-nightly-show

            The Nightly Show is said to" feature a diverse panel of voices " discussing current events from a unique perspective. No doubt the show will be highly entertaining considering  Wilmore's normal laid back, skillful, satirical style and appointed Lead Writer, Robin Thede, known  for her exceptional work with a Los Angeles based all-female sketch-comedy group. Executive producers for The Nightly Show are Wilmore, Emmy Award winning writer and stand-up comedian, Rory Albanese and the incomparable Jon Stewart.  So if you are " looking for something different" all the cool kids will be watching The Nightly Show debut on Monday.
     
      

"Freedom from fear."

"Imagine a world in which we are all enlightened by objective truths rather than offended by them." ~ Dr.Neil deGrasse Tyson, 2014

             

               On Sunday, January 11th millions of French citizens gathered side by side with notable world leaders through out Parisian streets. Journalists described the somber scene as the most monumental demonstration in the history of France.  Rallies were also held in cities around the globe including Tokyo, London and New York, not only to mourn the tragic loss of seventeen innocent French murder victims including police, journalists and cartoonists killed at the headquarters of "Charlie Hebdo," a satirical magazine in Paris but come together to fiercely defend freedom of expression.  French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius stated on i Tele TV,
 "The terrorists want two things: they want to scare us and they want to divide us. We must do the opposite. We must stand up and we must stay united.” 

          Why is freedom of expression so crucial for all of us?  Freedom of expression is imperative to democratic systems of self-government and especially here in the US because it allows the American people to check and balance our governments corruption or excess. To ensure the American people have power over their elected government, they must be educated, well-informed and  most importantly have access to all available ideas, different points of view and unfiltered information. The greatest breeding ground for prejudice, hatred and ignorance is oppression. Tyranny is why extremists thrive in certain areas of the world. Extremists gain power by suppressing education, tolerance and basic human rights.

     Our right to express our thoughts, play with "good" and "bad" ideas, criticize and satirize freely with others affirms our own creativity and unique individuality. Every man, woman and child was born with human rights, deserves dignity and should be allowed to fulfill their own potential. Freedom of expression encompasses so  much more than free speech or free press, it is a true expression of our own humanity which must be actively exercised and protected every day we are alive.

"Film as dream, film as music."

"Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.”
― Victor Hugo

   

              The 72nd Golden Globe Awards ceremony honoring the very best of film and American television will be held Sunday, January 11th. Hosted once again by the beautiful, brilliant duo, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, both highly esteemed writers, comedians and actors in their own right. With over fourteen main categories the focus of the evening is undoubtedly film. But could there really be a full genuine cinema experience without a film score?  Internationally renowned composer, Aaron Copeland once eloquently stated, "To stop the flow of music would be like the stopping of time itself, incredible and inconceivable.”    The ebb and flow of sound in a film score is a powerful medium for setting tone and atmosphere, creating mood and stirring our sentiments like no performance or special effect ever will. Whether subtle or intense, listening to music accompanying a film or television show has an undeniable affect on our emotions. Listed below are a few film soundtracks you may have unintentionally ignored.

     This year the nominees for BEST ORIGINAL SCORE - MOTION PICTURE

  LEXANDRE DESPLAT  for THE IMITATION GAME

 JÓHANN JÓHANNSSON for THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING - including The Dreams That  Stuff Is Made Of. (video above)

 TRENT REZNOR,, ATTICUS ROSS for GONE GIRL

 ANTONIO SANCHEZ for BIRDMAN 

 HANS ZIMMER for INTERSTELLAR

For a full list of all nominees:

http://www.hfpa.org/nominations-2015/

"..of strength and tragedy"

"Human slavery is a robust multi-billion dollar industry...only drugs and weapon dealing are more profitable."-Dr. Noel Bridget Busch-Armendariz

         It is estimated that more than 20 million men, women and children around the world are victims of human trafficking or a form of modern-day slavery. Victims are subjected to coercion, intimidation, threats of physical violence and brutality to serve the purpose of commercial sex or forced labor. Victims are typically vulnerable young children, homeless teenagers, poverty stricken men, women and families but it can happen to any one of us. Traffickers utilize various techniques to control their victims, keeping them enslaved for months, years or an entire lifetime. Under lock and key, chained, imprisoned is how many traffickers hold victims in inescapable bondage. More frequently other less detectable techniques are used such as isolation from the public or limiting contact and constant monitoring, isolation from family, friends and community, restrictions of ethnic or religious associations, confiscation of visas, passports or identification documents. Traffickers use threats of violence toward victims or their family members, shaming, control of the victims' money or holding money, debt bondage or placing an enormous financial obligation or undefined debt on the victim forcing them to" earn" their right to freedom which many will never experience again.


       Trafficking human beings occurs around the globe, including here at home in the United States.
 "Human Trafficking Awareness Day" is dedicated to raising our perception of human trafficking and sexual slavery worldwide. The designation of  January 11th began in 2007 by the United States Senate. The United Nations has begun to highlight this disturbing topic to work tirelessly towards global awareness.
      What can you do? First be aware of the products and services you use. Do the companies use child or forced labor? Be a conscientious consumer. Check out  http://www.dol.gov/ilab/. Take steps to investigate or encourage companies to eliminate slavery and human trafficking for their supply chains and to actively inform and publish information for consumer awareness.

     United States residents call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center
 1-888-373-7888  Help is available 24/7. Connect with a service provider in your area, anonymously report information or a tip on potential human trafficking activity.

 Visit http://www.polarisproject.org/ for more information.

" Stories in the air...."

" A bird is three things: feathers, flight and song. And feathers are the least of these." -Marjorie Allen Seiffert, poet

         Go outside, sit down, relax and close your eyes.  Listen carefully. What do you hear? Some of us may notice the rumbling of traffic, people bustling, life swiftly moving down gritty crowded city streets. Some us may hear the occasional lonely beagle howling in the distance or the vibrations of an airplane engine gliding high overhead.  Listen closely to what remains unconsciously tuned out. Bird songs. 
        Monday, January 5th is "National Bird Day". "National Bird Day" is a campaign to educate and bring about awareness of the increasing plight of wild native and exotic birds around the world.   Birds are an especially important species because they serve as barometers of our delicate ecosystems.  Due to loss of habitat, disease and the illegal pet trade songbirds and many of the world's parrots are endangered. According to recent research almost 12% of the worlds nearly 10,000 bird species may face extinction within the next century. Why are birds so crucial to our planet? Like all other species,  birds keep our earth in balance.  Birds not only disperse seeds,  they eat insects and mosquitoes, they pollinate plants and help recycle nutrients back into the earth. Birds scavenge dead carcasses preventing diseases, predict weather and climate changes and welcome in each season of our lives.
    For more educational information about "National Bird Day" or additional resources visit:

                     http://www.audubon.org/   or http://www.nationalbirdday.com/


   It is difficult to imagine a world without birds. They are an immediate reminder of nature and much too often, like many creatures that surround us, birds are ignored or simply seen as a nuisance or unimportant.  From the largest falcon to the tiniest of hummingbirds, they help sustain the earths resources and have allowed us to dream. Birds were our first instructors of flight, inspiring us to soar as we imitated their precision. We admire how gracefully birds spread their wings and fly from place to place, encouraging our own freedom. The echos of their beautiful songs have influenced  countless engineers, scientists, musicians, sculptures, painters, writers and poets. Please continue to preserve and honor them with avian education.

     


   "So you must persist in asking
    where my heart goes all the long, cold night.
    Like following trails left by birds
    who vanished with yesterday's sky."
                                Koho Kennichi

" and a deep blue sky.."

The New Year arrived
 in utter simplicity-
 and a deep blue sky.
               -Kobayashi Issa

"Enjoy where you are.."

"Happiness, not in another place but this place...not for another hour, but this hour.” ― Walt Whitman

            
     Researchers and social scientists repeat over and over like haunting song lyrics every 365 days that New Years resolutions don't work. So enough already. Instead of trying to lose weight, give up chocolate or promise to pay down debt  this year, how about trying something realistic that you'll actually enjoy.  Here are five simple ways to feel happier in 2015.

*Get more rest.*  If you've ever forced yourself to stay awake for 24 hours you begin to understand why sleep deprivation is considered a form of torture. Our bodies need sleep to recharge both mentally and physically.  Can't go to sleep earlier? Try catching a quick nap during the day. Believe it or not sleep researchers report sleep greatly affects our sensitivity to negative emotions. During one experiment  using a facial recognition task, researchers studied how sensitive participants were to positive and negative feelings. Those who worked through the afternoon without taking a nap became more sensitive to negative emotions like fear and anger. 

*Do one thing at a time.*  Sounds deceptively simple but amazingly most human beings fail to master the art of  performing one single activity well.  Want less stress and worry in your life? Live each moment. Now is now, not the past or future.  Put down the smart phone, turn off the TV, close the laptop; not only pay attention to WHAT you are doing but WHY  you are doing it. As you slow down you will find yourself savoring each bite of food, each songs melody, each photograph you admire,  each word from a loved one, each sunset you've ignored. (And you know you have.)

*Go Outside*  Want to feel better fast? Exercise has always been one of the most effective ways to boost your mood. Exercise can help you relax, increase your brain power, and even improve your body image, even if you don't lose any weight.  Something as simple as a ten minute walk can make you happier and healthier. Studies also show that pet owners who regularly walk their dogs are less prone to heart issues and depression.


*Practice Gratitude*   Gratitude is a keen awareness that no matter our circumstances we have something or someone to be thankful. At our lowest or weakest moments we may depend upon our gift of gratitude to realign our perspective with what is truly important in our lives.  Keep a gratitude journal, perform random acts of kindness, volunteer, give to charity. Place more focus on what you have and less on what you don't.

*Take Charge*  Remember this always, you deserve happiness. Happiness is a birthright. Happiness is a choice. But don't ever expect other people, places, objects or things to make you happy. In order to take charge you have to let go of waiting. Let go of finding Mr. or Miss Right,  the perfect job, the next house, the next child or having enough money. You and you alone are responsible for your own happiness today, tomorrow and in the coming year. 



   With love and peace - Happy New Year !
             

"Although its been said many times, many ways...."

"If Higbee thinks I'm working one minute past 9:00, he can kiss my foot. Ho ho ho."

     How well do you know your holiday movies?  Take the following quiz and find out. Name the character and the film or show. The answers are below. But no peeking! Do you want to be on Santa's Naughty List?...again!



1.-"I just don't understand Christmas, I guess. I like getting presents and sending Christmas cards and decorating trees and all that, but I'm still not happy. I always end up feeling depressed. "


2.- "Only I didn't say "fudge." I said THE word, the big one, the Queen-Mother Of Dirty Words, the "F-dash-dash-dash" word! "


3.- "We're kicking off our fun old fashion family Christmas by heading out into the country in the old front-wheel drive sleigh to embrace the frosty majesty of the winter landscape and select that most important of Christmas symbols."


4.-"You smell like beef and cheese, you don't smell like Santa."


5.- "Oh, Christmas isn't just a day, it's a frame of mind... and that's what's been changing. That's why I'm glad I'm here, maybe I can do something about it."


6.- "Then there would be millions of disappointed children around the world. You see, children hold the spirit of Christmas within their hearts. You don't wanna be responsible for killing the spirit of Christmas, now would you... Santa?"

 
7.-"Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?"


8.-"I must stop this *whole* thing! Why, for fifty-three years I've put up with it now. I must stop Christmas from coming... but how?"

 

9.- "Oh, Vermont should be beautiful this time of the year, with all that snow."

10.- "It's a poor excuse for picking a man's pocket every December the 25th. But as I seem to be the only man who knows that... take the day off. "

11. "I hope you aren't expecting a lot from Santa. A federal offense probably puts you on the naughty list this year. "

12.- "You know, I think this Christmas thing is not as tricky as it seems! But why should they have all the fun? It should belong to anyone! Not anyone, in fact, but me! Why, I could make a Christmas tree! And there's not a reason I can find, I couldn't have a Christmastime! I bet I could improve it, too! And that's exactly what I'll do! "

Answer Key:  1.)Charlie Brown-"A Charlie Brown Christmas 

2.) Ralphie Parker-"A Christmas Story"  3.)Clark Griswold- "Christmas Vacation"  4.) Buddy the Elf-"ELF"  5).-Kris Kringle-"Miracle on 34th Street  6.) Bernard-"The Santa Clause" 7.)Clarence-"It's a Wonderful Life"  8.) The Grinch-"How the  Grinch Stole Christmas  9.) Judy Haynes-"White Christmas"  10.) Ebeneezer Scrooge-"The Muppet Christmas Carol"  11.) David Martin-"Holiday in Handcuffs"  12.) Jack Skellington - "The Nightmare Before Christmas"

"All endings bring new beginnings."

“Now, for my younger viewers out there, a book is something we used to have before the internet. It’s sort of a blog for people with attention spans.”
― Stephen Colbert

             The Colbert Report's first episode aired  October 17th 2005 on Comedy Central. Following an amazing ten year run  the show will end this Thursday, December 18th 2014.  As an offshoot of Jon Stewart's The Daily Show, The Colbert Report is a cerebral parody where an audience gets "blown away by the USA" as Colbert pays homage to the self-important, unquestioning hardcore patriotism of "The O'Reilly Factor" or the Rush Limbaugh's and Glenn Becks of the world. Colbert's on air persona "steers the great ship of NEWS through the channels of TRUTH."  Colbert coined the 2006 Merriam-Webster "Word of the Year" "truthiness"   which means- "truth that comes from the gut, not books." or "the quality of preferring concepts or facts one wishes to be true."

       As a satirical newscaster Colbert was able to bring a humorous perspective to the problems facing our nation and shed light on  difficult issues around the globe. His brilliant segments with political figures, authors, actors and musicians introduced us to our own dormant level of intellectual aptitude. Stephen Colbert and his exceptional team of writers  for the The Colbert Report have earned numerous Emmy's, Peabody Awards and even a Grammy.  As a lover of comedy, it's been a rare and special experience to be part of a devoted legion of fans known as the "Colbert Nation".  There will be an irreplaceable void in our late night skies.
    
   Many Colbert fans including me, admit one of our all time favorite interviews was part of Grim Colberty Tales, a two part series with late children's author Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are, Chicken Soup with Rice).  During the entertaining  witty exchange Sendak is being refreshingly honest and true to himself. The link below will take you to the Comedy Central website where you can watch and share all of The Colbert Report's greatest moments.

  

  http://thecolbertreport.cc.com/videos/gzi3ec/grim-colberty-tales-with-maurice-sendak-pt--1

http://thecolbertreport.cc.com/videos/2uwi0i/grim-colberty-tales-with-maurice-sendak-pt--2

"But I have promises to keep."

"He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow."

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening 

                                                            by  Robert Frost


Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village, though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sounds the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

"We have to explore the world within us."

“Imagination is the source of every form of human achievement. And it's the one thing that I believe we are systematically jeopardizing in the way we educate our children and ourselves.”
― Ken Robinson

         Sir Kenneth Robinson is one of the most recognized international advisors on education. The innovative English author and speaker has inspired school systems, teachers, art programs, governments, and non-profit organizations worldwide which include the Royal Shakespeare Company, Sir Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, the Royal Ballet, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, the European Commission, UNESCO, the Council of Europe, the J Paul Getty Trust and the Education Commission of the States. Robinson was Professor of Arts Education from 1989 - 2001  at the University of Warwick.UK. He was knighted in 2003 for his service to the arts.

        Always at the forefront of education, Robinson has stated, "If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original." Creativity is more than the arts, it encompasses every thing we do. Creativity is a disciplined process that requires skill, knowledge, and control. But along with the process comes the ability to allow ourselves to make mistakes. Our mistakes make us far more than break us.

 "The challenges we currently face are without precedent. More people live on this planet now than at any other time in history. The world's population has doubled in the past 30 years. We're facing an increasing strain on the world's natural resources. Technology is advancing at a headlong rate of speed. It's transforming how people work, think, and connect. It's transforming our cultural values." Robinson stated in an interview with ASCD ( Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development)

     In the thought provoking video above entitled "How are You Intelligent?", we receive a beautiful glimpse of how our perception of imagination, intelligence and creativity need to radically evolve in order to ensure our survival. 

Photo credits:

Fredrik Lonnqvist

Nicky Kelvin

"A note of inspiration."

"It occurred to me by intuition, and music was the driving force behind that intuition. My discovery was the result of musical perception." (When asked about his theory of relativity)—Albert Einstein (1879 - 1955) Theoretical physicist 

      A popular story circulating right now is the discovery of a digitized collection of Albert Einstein's essays and correspondences. One specific letter unveiled by astrobiologist, David Grinspoon was composed in November of 1911, addressed to chemist and two-time Nobel-Laureate, Marie Curie. Einstein's intent was to reassure Curie she was indeed a brilliant scientist, imploring her to ignore the ignorant comments of tiresome trolls who Einstein refers to as "reptiles". His encouraging words applied far beyond professional life. Marie Curie was being persecuted for having an affair with a student of her deceased husband Pierre, named Paul Langevin, who was estranged from his wife at the time. Due to the anti-Semitism of the day, Curie was doubly shunned for her associations.

     Einstein was a champion for the disenfranchised and the inspiration for thousands of scientists worldwide including the originator of quantum theory, Max Planck and theoretical physicist, David Bohm. He was the catalyst for millions of researchers and students around the world. So who was the muse for one of the greatest minds in human history? Einstein found his greatest motivation came from listening to and playing music. Genius to genius. His greatest inspiration--Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
     Einstein once revealed that while Beethoven created his music, Mozart's  "was so pure that it seemed to have been ever-present in the universe, waiting to be discovered by the master."   As in physics, it was noted Einstein believed beyond observations and theory lived the music of the pulsating cosmos, "pre-established harmony" enchanting us with the most stunning symmetries. Or simply put, Mozart seemed to pluck his music from the air as if plucking a heavenly harp that belonged to him all along. Learning to play violin at age 5, Einsteins affinity with Mozart began at the age of 13 and continued throughout his adulthood, even inspiring him through some of his darkest hours struggling at a patent office, enduring a difficult marriage and  his constant money troubles. So much more than physicist, Einstein was fully engaged in politics, an eccentric ahead of his time who supported women's rights and lobbied for equality. Einstein understood the beauty of E=MC2 as much as the beauty of harmony and melody. Music has a power to unite and inspire the most remarkable insights. His deep love for music was essential to his own perception of his life's journey.

   " Life without playing music is inconceivable for me,” he once said, “I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music… I get most joy in life out of music.”

     

    

" Take my hand."

“In order to do anything about the suffering of the world we must have the strength to face it without turning away.”
― Sharon Salzberg, A Heart as Wide as the World: Stories on the Path of Lovingkindness

          Empathy isn't New Age, feel good philosophy designed by pacifists or created by socially conscious "tree huggers".  Empathy isn't singing Kumbaya around a campfire or some sissified solution for anger management issues. Empathy requires more strength and courage than many of us will ever know yet is essential for our own survival. It seems we are in great deficit right now. The ability to understand and share the feelings of another human being allows us to resolve critical conflicts locally and internationally. Empathy isn't pity or condescending because when you practice empathy you are equal to another, not superior.

    Contemporary cognitive researchers often differentiate between two types of empathy: “Affective empathy”  or the sensations we feel in response to others’ emotions. These feelings can include mirroring what another person is feeling, or detecting when people are stressed, fearful or anxious. “Cognitive empathy,”  or “perspective taking,”  is our ability to understand or identify other peoples’ emotions. This also includes non-verbal clues such as identifying facial expressions and body movements. Studies suggest that people with autism spectrum disorders have a harder time expressing empathy. Scientist's have proven that animals have the ability to empathize with each other and humans. Sociopaths and narcissists on the other hand have almost no ability or desire to feel another persons emotions.

      Why is empathy so important? Think about this. Putting yourself in the "other person's shoes" or "seeing things through someone else's eyes." is the force that instills trust in our relationships. Have you ever loved someone so much you wanted to be able to experience every emotion they were feeling? You want their happiness and security as much as you want your own. The true measure of our empathy is how we treat human beings and especially animals who have no "use" or benefit to us. Considering the thoughts and feelings of others allows us to make intelligent and informed choices. Empathy is a difficult skill to exercise because it requires us to take a good hard honest look at our motives and closely examine our selfish behaviors. How do we recognize pain in others? How do we identify suffering? What is the root cause of their suffering? We have to imagine ourselves in the same situation. We have to be open and curious about the perceptions, thoughts and ideas of others. We have to ask questions. We need to know history, the stories of hope, fear, passion and dreams. Most importantly we have to listen without our own judgments. With awareness comes the motivation to take positive action. Actions that will heal lives rather than destroy them.
     

" Know Your Rights "

"All human beings, whatever their cultural or historical background, suffer when they are intimidated, imprisoned or tortured . . . . We must, therefore, insist on a global consensus, not only on the need to respect human rights worldwide, but also on the definition of these rights . . . for it is the inherent nature of all human beings to yearn for freedom, equality and dignity, and they have an equal right to achieve that."    Tenzin Gyatso - 14th Dalai Lama

         Imagine for a moment. If someone came up to you on the street asking for your definition of  "human rights", how would you respond? We may think we know when our rights have been violated but what rights are protected by law? It appears to be a deceptively easy question. What exactly are our "human rights"? Human rights are basic rights and freedoms that all people are entitled to regardless of nationality, sex, race, religion, national or ethnic origin, language, or other status. Human rights include political  and civil rights, the right to life, liberty and the freedom of expression. Human rights include social, economic and cultural rights. The right to participate in culture, the right to food, the right to education and the right to work are all included in the definition  of human rights. Human rights are protected and upheld by national and international laws and treaties.

  The universality of human dignity is the cornerstone of international human rights law. At first emphasized in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights in 1948, the principal of universal human rights has been restated in a number of international human rights resolutions conventions, and declarations.  For example, The 1993 Vienna World Conference on Human Rights, reiterated that it is the duty of States(countries) to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms, regardless of their political, economic and cultural systems. But how do we make these statements a reality for billions of men, women and children  worldwide who continue to suffer horrible atrocities each day? How do we turn words into reality? It is imperative that we understand our human rights in order to protect ourselves and protect the rights of human beings all around the globe. 

     December 10th has been designated Human Rights Day commemorating the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”  The Universal Declaration of Human Rights clarifies 30 basic human rights:  

Article 1.

• All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

Article 2.

• Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Furthermore, no distinction shall be made on the basis of the political, jurisdictional or international status of the country or territory to which a person belongs, whether it be independent, trust, non-self-governing or under any other limitation of sovereignty.

• Article 3.

  • Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person

 Please continue Articles  4-30  here:  http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/
  

"Watching the clouds float across the sky."

"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time."--John Lubbock

     "Listening is a skill we are in danger of losing in a world of digital distraction and information overload." writes Seth S. Horowitz, PhD. a neuroscientist whose work in comparative and human hearing, balance and sleep research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and NASA. We need solitude.

     In a world of wonderful high tech advances and instant communication, no one appears to be effectively hearing or listening to each other at all. Have we forgotten how to listen? Effective listening requires attention. Listening requires our focus on the speaker. When we are incapable of focusing our attention on one task our minds turn to our self-to me, me, me- again. We are only listening to the mental dialogue in our heads. "What should I make for dinner?" "I hope traffic's not bad on the way home." "Is there a good movie on television tonight?" "Did I check my email this afternoon?" Our inner chatter is endless and prevents us from placing our full attention on the person speaking. Our thoughts are like clouds. Imagine each thought cloud that appears in your mind while you are having a conversation. Learn to recognize and acknowledge your thought clouds, let them float past and shift your attention back to the speaker.

    Solitude not only allows us a brief respite from the noise and demands of daily existence, it allows us the opportunity to focus our attention on listening to our inner voice. One thing constant stimulation and multi-tasking is taking away from the current generation is the ability to focus. Being present is an important component of focus. How many times have we taken a cell phone photo of an event we are supposed to be enjoying in the moment? Are we listening to our friends excited comments about a concert or just typing highlights of a conversation on social media? Or as psychiatrist and author M. Scott Peck stated,  

   "You cannot truly listen to anyone and do anything else at the same time." 

 When we practice our ability to concentrate on any task, we develop the ability to focus on hearing what others are saying. Solitude allows us to begin with listening to ourselves.

"We have a choice."

“We must never forget that it is through our actions, words, and thoughts that we have a choice.” ~Sogyal Rinpoche 

Rain, hail, snow and ice:
All are different,
But when they fall
They become the same water
As the valley stream

- Ikkyu

"To the waters and the wild."

"Come away, O human child!
To the waters and the wild
With a faery, hand in hand,
For the world's more full of weeping than you can understand."
― W.B. Yeats, The Collected Poems

   Unleash the ravenous movie lover inside by devouring a feast of delightful December dishes. 

Opening December 12th, critically acclaimed director Ridley Scott's epic Exodus:Gods and Kings features the incredible Christian Bale, Ben Kingsley, Joel Edgerton and Aaron Paul. The sweeping biblical adventure retelling the story of Moses freeing Egyptian slaves will satisfy any visual effects appetite. 

     Opening December 17th, The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies. Inspired by the brilliant mind of J.R.R. Tolkien, renowned director Peter Jackson brings us the final installment of the thrilling drama fantasy based on the Hobbit. The highly anticipated film finds us on the edge of our seats as the fate of Middle Earth is determined once and for all. The impeccable cast features screen legend Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman and Oscar winner, Cate Blanchette.

     Top off your holiday festivities with the scrumptious classic escapades of Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk and Rapunzel reassembled by director Rob Marshall. The legendary Meryl Streep (see video feature above) plays a mischievous witch who conjures up twisted tales for Into the Woods. Teaching important life lessons to characters of popular children's books makes for enthralling and enlightening entertainment especially with an all star cast featuring Chris Pine, Emily Blunt and the seemingly ageless, Johnny Depp. Produced in part by Lucamar Productions, Marc Platt Productions and Walt Disney Studios, the PG rated film debuts in theaters  December 25th.

      A few more films to add to your December movie wish list:

Top Five featuring comedians Chris Rock & Kevin Hart opens on the 12th

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb with Ben Stiller and Robin Williams

Annie  opening the 19th

The Interview starring Seth Rogen and James Franco

Unbroken  directed by Angelina Jolie opens December 25th

"Listening is love."

"Listening  to someone closely is one of the most valuable gifts we can give to another human being."-David Isay, founder of StoryCorps

     TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design ) began as high impact conferences quickly transforming into an innovative nonprofit devoting the past 30 years to education, imagination and inspiration. https://www.ted.com/about/our-organization  TED's mission: to simply spread ideas. With 18 minute video presentations in over 100 languages, no topic is off limits. Each year TED awards a one-million dollar prize to a person or organization that exemplifies a visionary view of our ever evolving world. The incentive is used to further support the global impact of their project wish.

      The 2015 TED PRIZE was awarded to David Isay as founder of StoryCorps.  Since its inception  ten years ago, StoryCorps creative force, Isay understood the great historical significance of sharing his own fathers unique journey.  StoryCorps has flourished into a passionate record of  seemingly ordinary people relating incredible narratives. Featured stories, pod casts, books, dvd's and animated shorts are available on their website. Discover how you and your loved ones can share your story here.  /http://storycorps.org/