Pop Quiz! Put Your Books Away

"The U.S. citizenship test is composed of 100 questions across five categories: American government, systems of government, rights and responsibilities, American history, and integrated civics. Ten questions from the 100 are chosen randomly for the test-taker. To pass, one must get at least six right. In its poll of 1,000 people, the Daily Beast rotated the questions. Beyond the topline—62 percent of Americans passed, 38 percent failed—there are huge discrepancies in the kinds of civic knowledge Americans collectively possess." Source: Newsweek

I took the test and scored a C+. Ouch! Give it a go and let me know what you earned in the comment section.

Click here for the quiz.

A Resource For Life-Long Learners

I just found a new website obsession. The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a great resource for learning within the Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History site. I highly recommend the thematic essays. You will learn so much.

Click here to explore.

God's Hands

My fifth-graders have been obsessed with this photo. I find it interesting, some of the most foul-mouthed, disrespectful, angry students have gone sentimental talking about God opening the sky. As one boy put it, "Mr. S, we have to be good now, because God is watching us."

I wonder how long the Godspell will last.

Dogs Can Be Gross

Dogs can be grossed at times. I've seen Gino eat his own vomit and once ate a piece of Luna's poop! One day Luna was out walking with me and there was a dead suirrel on the road and she ran over to it and started to rub her entire body over it. WTF!

I came across this video that proposes an explanation for why dogs lick their human's face when he or she comes home. I love Gino to the tenth power. However, if he wants me to throw up a little, so he can eat, it is so not happening.

Born This Way

Super Full Moon In Your Eye

"Mark your calendar. On March 19th, a full Moon of rare size and beauty will rise in the east at sunset. It's a super "perigee moon"--the biggest in almost 20 years.

"The last full Moon so big and close to Earth occurred in March of 1993," says Geoff Chester of the US Naval Observatory in Washington DC. "I'd say it's worth a look." Source: NASA

Ya know I'm a happy star-gazing-loca. Lucky me. The night sky in CT will be clear on Saturday!

Good people, make sure you look to the sky on Saturday.

The narrator is mad mussy-boo-cunt. Love it.

The Never-Ending Story Of Our Journey

Don't get it twisted, we have all been further activated. I send much love to my fellow atomic babies. Radiation has always been part of our unseen experience on this planet, and with the recent tragedy in Japan, the volume has been turned up.

Good people, the radiation in Japan has already hit the air and the sea.

With that said, follow Renee's advice and:

"Just go around giving people hugs and handshakes and telling them that you were glad they were here at the same time you were because it made life fuller."

It will get ugly as we pray for the cute. The poison will be in our water and food. Ripple effect in full effect.

When you get back to the god-source, remind the other lights that the life forms on this planet once consumed with respect, but then got selfish and consumed with no respect to maintaining a natural balance.

Please continue to live, love, learn and pass it on. When you transition from this earth-bound experience my hope is that your spirt can realize you did your Godly duty.

Heavy Times Require Enlightenment

I'm just looking at what is going on in the world and truly gagging. What is really turning me out is how the earth is sending all kinds of messages that things are not right.

It was tragic to see the devastation in Japan. To see the tsunami waves, made thick by debris, consume fields of various crops and neighborhoods was just horrific.

My jaw dropped. All I can think was that nothing will grow of flourish there for decades. The land had been polluted.

Now, I read that radioactive vapor had to be released into the air from reactor 3, at the nuclear power plant. That vapor is in the air and will flow throughout the rest of the planet.

This development coupled with the tsunami hitting parts of the U.S. and South America truly show how connected and small the planet has always been.

As always, some are saying these are signs of the apocalypse. Nostradamus and Edgar Cayce have been credited with predicting not only the natural devastations, but also the recent shift of the magnetic pole.

According to what apocalypse theory you subscribe to, life on this planet will cease to exist or the human race will experience an enlightenment that bands us together to heal and do things differently.

I'm sending healing vibes out to all with the hope that we do things differently.

I Had To Kick Some Ass

Image Source: Boys At Art

I had to stop and regroup this week. I've been very busy at times, and at a complete stand still the next moment. I'm not feeling very rhythmic. As a result, I let negativity creep in and trust me when I say it tried to do a number on me. Those dreaded dark forces wanted to make me feel inferior and afraid.

I spun around three times and started kicking ass. While my challenges are still there, I was able to get a sense of the direction I need to go, in order to handle what is in front of me. Work and life take no break except for when you are sleeping, and I'm not planning on going the Rip Van Winkle direction.

So I told the negative thoughts to "go fuck yourself" and I'm just going to keep on keeping on. I hope you all do the same.

Tio Johnny Doing His Thing

This is my Tio Johnny. He has always loved to dance and has always been an amazing dancer. Back in the days of disco, he was something to behold. I think every young woman I knew always wanted a chance to throw down on the dance floor with him (and off *wink*). Aint he cute!?
He has never stopped dancing. Here are some pics of him hitting the floor with a dance troupe, that has as members, adults living with physical and intellectual challenges. I believe most members of this group are dancers that are living with Down's Syndrome. Aint she cute!?
Tio Johnny has always been amazing in my eyes. He's the uncle that always has something interesting to tell you about. He is an avid reader. Moreover, he's someone that is trying to live his life in a way that has a sense of humor and grace.

Random Thoughts In Haiku Form

This image from Fischerspooner's album art has inspired me to do yet another round of Haikus. To read my past haikus, just search under haiku.

On teaching in an environment that focuses heavily on testing:

An NCLB Inspired Education

a young brain must thrive
wonderment no testing yes
child left behind

For Marcos:

From Lover to Starchild

soaring through the stars
thank you love for the visit
metamorphosis

Mother Nature is profoundly and ultimately in charge.:

Mami Nature

nurture her nature
took for granted mami's tit
bitter milk we drink

Past Grammy Moments That Stayed In My Head

I will tune into the Grammy Awards tonight. Over the past few years they have really turned the award show more into a concert. Plus music folks are so much more interesting to look at, because they be crazy. Who can ever forget the Grace Jones and Rick James pairing way back when? That moment was a hoot.

Here are some moments that have stayed in my head over the years.

Marcos so loved this performance. We would watch Pink over and over again.

I was a huge Culture Club fan! I was home with my family watching and totally turned red when Boy George said "You know a good drag queen when you see one." As a closeted gay teen I felt exposed.

I remember feeling an emotional pain, while being soothed by their voices. I was just a kid. Wow! The emotions music can stir within a person.

Spidey's Tangled Web

Julie Taymor must be having a fit these days. The past few weeks have not been kind to Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark.

It seems critics got frustrated with the fourth delay of the official opening for the show. So, they decided to attend the Feb. 7th show, that was suppose to be the opening, as a night to see and review the show. Click here for the reviews. It is brutal what they had to say.

The show also got some bad press because full-ticket prices are being charged, and rumor has it that theatre does not provide signs to inform paying audience members they can ask for a refund or exchange on their tickets. And, the show was recently hit with two safety violations.

Then last night SNL had a kiki with the show's troubles with this ad:



After I read the reviews I was reminded of the moments that soared and flopped. In a previous post I shared that I saw the show, and expressed my optimism (click here), by hoping the people involved with this show can fix what ails it. After reading the reviews is seems very little was done to fix the holes in what has become a sinking ship.

The funny thing is that ticket sales have continued. I guess at this point people want to pay to go see what has become a sort of theatrical car accident. Bono and The Edge must be spitting nails!

Lacroix, Sweetie, Lacroix

"Camilla Morton, fairy tales are taking a very fashionable twist. “It all started when I was trying to explain my job to my godson,” Morton says. “And, I realized when you watch a couture show come together — the drama, the glamour — you literally see magic.” For “Christian Lacroix and the Tale of Sleeping Beauty,” the first of what will be a series of fantasy designer biographies (Manolo Blahnik and the tale of the elves is up next), Morton has spun the story of Beauty, a starry-eyed princess condemned to wearing bland sack dresses." Source: NY Times

I love this idea. I need to look into this. The library I keep for my students is due for some new additions to the collection. I always look for books that are clever, have a good message, and of course superb illustrations. Take a look at what Lacroix has done below. Gorgeous!

Click on images for a larger version.

Millions Of People Excluded From Donating Blood

However, the following need not apply.
The Red Cross has an eligibility criteria for donating blood, which is a good thing. They want to make sure that people are safe while donating and that the blood being collected is safe for distribution. This is all very sensible.

However, there are a few criteria items that when you look at it really are just fucking silly. The first being that their policy excludes gay men from donating. This is the line in the criteria for donating blood that keeps yours truly from being allowed to donate blood:

-- are a male who has had sexual contact with another male, even once, since 1977 (source: American Red Cross)

The list then goes on to say you are also ineligible to donate if:

-- have had sexual contact in the past 12 months with anyone that:

-- used needles to take drugs, steroids, or anything not prescribed by a doctor
-- is a male who has had sexual contact with another male, even once, since 1977
-- ever taken money, drugs or other payment for sex since 1977

Now, I have a question. Shouldn't this exclude a large segment of the population as well? The way I see it many men and women cannot answer this question with 100% certainty.

How many women engaging in heterosexual sex ask their partner(s), "Hey, you ever had sex with a man, pimped yourself out, or shot up?" I would guess less than 15% of women ask this question.

The same goes for heterosexual men. I would guess .02% of men have asked their female sex partners the same question. Most men are pigs and just need hole and a heartbeat.

So, when men and women are asked this by the nurse, in all honesty most of them would have to say, "Not that I am aware of." or "I've never asked that question of my sex partners." Thereby, making them ineligible because they don't know the answer.

Oh and if you are from Africa, or had sex with someone from Africa, you can just forget about getting juice and cookies on that day, after helping out the blood bank.

Am I wrong in coming to this conclusion?

BTW, thanks Todd for bringing up this issue, while still encouraging people to donate. You gave me a post item. Oh, and Todd I had another snowday on Friday (Todd just growled people.).

Couture Fix - Oh So Satisfying

The couture collections have spread their magic. Click here to see what is next. Armani made me gag with these shimmering dresses that looked like electrically illuminated melted candy (see pictures above). I have to find the video to see how the garments moved.

Another Snowday - Chillin' with Andy

Today, was my fifth snowday from work! Todd just growled a bit. See the thing is the majority of students in my district are bused to school, therefore, the slightest occurrence of inclement weather results in school being closed. At this rate we'll probably have the school year extend into July. So, don't be to envious people, I'm playing now but will pay later.

Anyhoo, I decided to watch on tv, Ovation's airing of the documentary Andy Warhol's Factory People for like the upteenth time. I'm fascinated with the stories and characters. To see the surviving members of that crowd share insights and stories is amusing.

My favorite story is the one about Andy having Bob Dylan sit for one of his "screen tests" and Dylan was cordial and sat for two hours basically not doing much. Just being all aloof in that rockstar sorta way in front of the camera.

The kiki of the story is that when it was all done, as Dylan left the Factory, he saw the silver painting of Elvis with the cowboy costume and gun drawn (see picture above). He grabbed the painting and said to Andy, "Hey man, I'll take this as payment." To which Andy just stared at him and turned "tomato soup red."

The scandal was that Andy thought he was alpha-art bitch, and he was so not ready for a contemporary that also thought he was alpha-art bitch. It gets better. A few months later Andy finds out that Dylan traded in the painting for a piece of furniture. The end result was that Andy and Dylan never "worked" together again. I find that hysterical.

Check Ovation's programming schedule for the next airing. It really is a fun and at times fascinating look into a modern mythical time.

Music Therapy - Old Skool Style

Good people, today was rough. I found myself missing Marcos and then frustrated that he is not here with me. I actually argued with him by talking to the air. I allowed myself that moment. Then I remembered that he fought long and hard, but was ill. While writing this I remember how handsome he was, and that I would love to give him one long kiss.

I know find myself, like I usually do, going back to the past. Today's therapy required me to revisit the music that ushered me into being a hip-hopper. I'm just visiting, but not staying. I needed a jolt of the old, in order to continue to allow me to move forward. When I heard old skool hip hop I was never the same. I found a profound connection to my time and generation. I was 12 years-old.

So this is about feeling a connection and accepting the time I am living within. I know there are some former hip-hoppers navigating life just like I am. Aint that right Renee?


When I heard this song I realized I was a teenager! Gag on this. I first heard this song at a Christian church dance!


This song will influence my movement into loving and vibing off of House Music. Yeah, I know the song in this video is very techno, but the subject matter and sonic vibe brought me to appreciate the scene at the Paradise Garage.


I love this man's voice.

A Night With Spidey

Intermission Time!

Okay so back in December I went to go see the Spider-Man musical! It was meant to be a night out with Marcos and my sister, alas, things sadly had changed.

I lifted m head up and went out to get back into life, and brought along two of my dearest friends that I've known since high school. Time with dear friends and a night out in NYC to see live theatre is just what my spirt needed.

Well, as many of you have read, the "Spider-Man musical" has been plagued with many problems. There have been canceled performances due to some scary moments that involved performers being injured. Most recently one of the actors that plays Spiderman fell over 20 feet into the orchestra pit when a restraining cable failed to break his leap. And, the lead actress playing Arachne, that suffered a concussion weeks ago, left the show this week.

Did someone connected to the show mentioned the Scottish play while in the house? It feels like the show is cursed.

What I saw that night was a preview and it's traditional to not offer a review while a show is in preview. It's just not fair. The directors, actors, musicians, et. al. are working out the kinks. So what I offer now is not a review but my own reflection on what I saw that night and that lingered with me.

- The proscenium is framed with this huge web that comes out into the theatre. Very cool looking and a perfect foreground for a comic coming to life on stage.

- When Spidey ran down stage in slow motion as the Brooklyn Bridge slowly ascended with Mary Jane dangling at the end, the audience cheered. I knew we were in for something new.

- Arachne descending from the heavens as she sang an ethereal song that told of her run-in with Athena was made even more surreal as the female members of the chorus swayed back and forth while dangling from long bolts of silk in order to weave a shimmering curtain. Genius!

- Watching Spidey fly above our heads was great fun. I gagged when he would land at different areas, because you can hear this thump when he landed, that let you know this was some serious acrobatics.

- The towering 3D televisions moved about the stage and illuminated the theatre to great effect. Seeing the Green Goblin 20 feet tall in techno-green while he taunted Spider-Man was particularly creepy.

- I admired the group of performers that really gave it their all. It must not be easy to try to get things right, while so many things have been going wrong. Great singing, great dancing, wonderful portrayals of their characters. America Olivio, the stand-in for Arachne, has a beautiful voice. The show must go on.

Okay, so maybe this was sort of a review. I guess I wanted to share that on that night I saw something that was really trying to take live theatre to another level. I wish all involved with the show the stamina and inspiration to make it work.

My Family of Choice

Sy Fy Fashion Fantasy Moment

While dreaming about the future, I took a short glimpse into the past. I remembered how Thierry Mugler excited me about fashion with is vision and major fashion show productions. I even got to see one of his garments upclose and try on one of his necklaces when Willie Ninja walked for him back in the day. It made a then young gayling smile and feel fierce.



About 22 seconds into the video you will see Willie Ninja werk the Paris runway with his idol, the legendary Iman. I was so happy for Willie. He went from the projects of Queens, NY and served it in Paris and Russia along side a diva that he adored. Dreams do come true.



This is an amazing and fun fashion show extravaganza. They don't build shows like this anymore. Please note Thierry Mugler's fashion has become a major inspiration for many designers of today. He was really ahead of his time.

Happy New Year

As Renee said in her blog "Like all the years before it, 2011 will offer the good, the bad, and the ugly." This is so true. As you know in 2010, I accomplished a major goal by becoming a certified special education teacher. I then lost Marcos who has been my partner-in-life for the past twenty years. Highs and lows is the natural flow of things.

I have resolved the following:

I will evolve my teaching skills to another level.
I will spend more time with the people I love and inspire me.
I will move forward from the profound changes in my life with love and grace.

Marcos whispered my name into my ear this morning. I smiled and it made him feel good. He's working his way to his next experience and I will do the same.

You take care of yourself good people. I wish you positive internal changes that will attract all that is beautiful in this life.

Glimpses Into The Past

Todd over at Hell's Kitchen shared a major tip for folks that love photography. He had mentioned that the Museum of the City of New York has a great archive of photos of NYC. Yo! He was totally correct.

The Jacob Riis portfolio is heartbreaking. He really recorded the underbelly and poverty of NYC during the 1890s. As I looked at the photos I imagined the stories of each of the subjects. I was transported.

Here is just a taste of what you will find. Take some time to check it out.

Pietro learning to write
A young scrub girl
A dive bar circa 1890, called a black and tan
Young thugs out for no good, chillin' at their spot
A boy and his bootblack kit
These young girls were part of a team that reviewed election results.

Thank You Lady T - Go Back To The Divine

Thank you Lady T for amazing music. Your music has served me well for many years. Here is one of the songs that always puts me in a good mood.



Fire and Desire that she did with Rick James, also has a special place in my heart, but it's all about Teena right now.

Dog Sings A Lullaby

Gino has been such a godsend to me over the past several weeks. He makes me smile, motivates me to get up and get out each day, and to focus on getting things together. Dogs are awesome!

UPDATE: Gino ventured out this morning after the blizzard. Once he realized the level of snow was taller than him he turned around and headed back to the house.


Dog Sings To Soothe Crying Baby brought to you by Funny

Santo Claus In Action

Yes, Virginia, Santa is Puerto Rican

I went shopping for Christmas presents today. It was not for family or friends. I rubbed my belly and became Santa for a moment because of love I have for two students at my school.

While I was away buying beverages for a mini-Chinese Buffet I put together for all of our students that receive special education services, a parent called with an urgent request.

This wonderful mother that has been trying very hard to take care of her kids, with her husband, was laid-off and said to a my colleague over the phone that Santa would not be coming to her home. Their money was tight paying rent and utilities. Her family is part of the working-poor.

She called me because she knows I have been very kind and caring towards her children. Last week I sent a letter home praising the efforts of their son that is one of my students. I went immediately into action. Santo Claus to the rescue.

A fellow teacher came with me, because homegirl knows how to shop. We picked out a cute PJ set for the girl, and a slamming shirt with matching beanie for the boy.

My fellow teachers also went into action and we will have toys to give to mom and dad for their well deserving children.

Putting my love for others into action brought joy to my heart. I feel so blessed. I wish the same for all the good people that stop by and read this blog.

I know this story will emanate to those that you love. The blessing of this story will multiply and love within our universe will increase.

Ban Line Dances

I just came back from the teacher's union holiday party. Let me just say that we teachers know how to party. What I loved is that it was truly a diverse group of folks, and we all got our groove on.

My only complaint is that we need to ban line dances. The only line dance that should still be done is the soul train line. Nuff said! Electric Slide was fun and cute like what 15 years ago. It annoys me when I get dragged out to do it. Uggh!

I rather see folks get out there and do their own unique thing. Way more interesting to watch and allows you to shine by contributing your own fierceness.

Nadia! We Should So Hang Out

Nadia G came right on time into my tv viewing life. She is funny. Her food looks good. I so need to try one of her recipes to see if there is skill behind her glam over the top personality. Take a look at this teaser and tune her in. She done grew on me people

World AIDS Day

Know your status by getting tested.

Love yourself and others by playing safe.

Stay healthy by getting treatment.

For all those that have lost their battle I lit a candle tonight in loving memory.

Thanksgiving with Ralph

I cooked a ham and collard greens for my family-of-choice's potluck Thanksgiving feast. I got a lot of compliments and ate till I was stuffed. It was sad at times when I thought about Marcos, but I showed up and engaged.

Then at 2:30 am I had to run to the bathroom and begin to vomit to the point that I thought a lung would come out. Like Todd, I too have the stomach bug going around. No one else at the party got sick. Lucky me.

I am now making ginger tea with cinnamon and honey. I will keep on keeping on.

Connected Via The Divine

I am about to share a very true story that happened today. As you know Marcos has recently passed. I am taking it a day at a time, but feeling more at peace thanks to the support of family and friends.

Hugs and kisses to my fellow bloggers that have expressed their support and sent me healing vibes. Thank you Aaron for what you expressed on your blog. Click here for the post.

So, back to the story.

I was walking Gino tonight and thinking about Marcos. I transmitted unknowingly to him that Marcos has passed. When we reached Marcos' car Gino stopped and would not move. I realized that he finally knew what has occurred. He looked around and sniffed the air and would look at me. Gino decided he wanted to go back home.

As we walked back I said a prayer and looked up to the stars and said "Marcos please tell me where you are."

I then heard a small motorbike coming down the street. I looked and all I saw was a huge bright headlight that lit up the entire street. On this tiny bike was a big guy that was way too big for the little bike. He reminded me of a clown in the circus. He was dressed in NY Giants regalia from head to toe.

As he pulled up next to me I saw a tiny license plate on the back of his bike that had printed on it Guarbo, Puerto Rico. Good people, tonight Marcos' ashes are at his parent's home in Guarbo, Puerto Rico. And, tonight his family gathered to offer him prayers so that his spirit continues its journey to the divine.

Meditate on the divine tonight and know that there is a cosmic connection that we all have access to and that will provide nourishment.

Marcos, I lit a candle at my alter for you tonight. I got your message and know that you are visiting your loved ones, and will be moving on. Seek the light and heal.

My Marcos Has Passed On

Good People,

My darling, dear Marcos has passed on to the other side. Twenty-one years he and I traveled together.

During our travels there were ups and downs and moments in limbo. I am spending my time focusing on when our life together shined.

I will remember his face as always handsome, his support as forever nurturing, and his body next to mine as a source of comfort.

His family and I came together with love and grace, and eased him onto his new journey. I am eternally grateful for that moment.

Move on papito by heading towards divine light. You are free now and can work your magic from the other side. Obatala's son has gone home.


A Classic Video Moment

Runway - A Poem

The music and the movement from Project Runway finale inspired this attempt at poetry.


Runway

a succinct saunter
serves seductive swerving
slide to side to slide to side
synchronized swishing and swaying
in singular sonic stomps
silk sounds a sudden snap
strands swing
shiny skin smiles and smirks
step spin stand
you succumb

By Allan S.

I've Got Life

The past few days have been heavy. I wonder what I still have within me to thrive. The musical Hair came to town recently and reminded me, I've Got Life!

A wink and a smile to Renee for reminding us that Nina Simone was earth-mother manifested.

GLBTQ Teens - It Gets Better!

My darling GLBTQ youth, it is very true that it does get better. It breaks my heart that many of you live in a world where you are silent, invisible and/or persecuted. Do not embrace self-hate! You are beautiful and capable of amazing things. Reach out and find the community and support you need. It will get better.

As a teen I had struggled with the idea of suicide, but I was fortunate to have found other options early on. I was lucky. Today, I wake up and feel so much gratitude for being here and living my life. Even on crappy days I remind myself I am blessed, and will continue to overcome any challenges that come my way. I am surrounded by many people that love me, and you will find that in your life. Keep on keeping on.

Because I Care About My Good People: 2

While some of the food shots may not look appetizing, the concept makes total sense. Good people, let us enjoy our carbs!

I know we can do better than the howcast.com folks when preparing the animal-based proteins and veggies.

When preparing this meal use sensible fats, olive oil is our friend, and cooking methods. I would have grilled the meat and roasted the veggies.

The Ying and Yang of Teaching: 7

So, I am six weeks into the new school year and here are some thoughts:

- We have all been bogged down with administering pre-tests and assessments of our students. I work in a data-driven district and the collection of data on each student is endless. The result has been very little teaching and a lot of probing. Ugh!

- I have a student living with Autism that has the most interesting abilities. One of his talents is being given a random date with a year, and being asked what day of the week it was, and what he did that day. His is able to recall the day of the week and activity within seconds. He has been able to recall as far back as 2006, when he was just six-years old.

- My caseload has doubled and I'm kinda freaking out. I have to spend the weekend revamping my master plan to do my thing with the children. This plan will change a few times over the school year, but teaching is a dynamic thing, it is never static.

- I adore all of the kids, even the challenging ones. I get so invested in them so quickly. My heart will break several times over the year. One of my kids already spent two-weeks locked up in prison. I will heal and get back at it.

My Body & Universe Talking

On the heels of some tremendous success, I decided to keep the momentum going full-steam ahead. The result has been rather mixed. I came down with a cold, and have generally felt out of step with what I've been doing. Today, I've decided to listen to my body and the universe, and do some course correction.

I realized that now I have to put certain things regarding my graduate degree on pause, and relish my new teaching position by pouring all of my energy into serving my new students. By continuing to stretch myself thin, I'm compromising what I give them and me being able to truly learn from this experience.

I'm blessed because there's been a hiccup in my financial aid, and each time I have a problem with it, I hear the soft voice of the universe telling me to "take a break." I also see my students struggling and once again the soft voice tells me, "their needs are greater than what you think you may need for yourself."

I have a vision of what I want to be doing, and I accomplished a huge part of that vision. Now, I have to settle into this thriving life I created and learn from it. I must trust that the same inner-love that propelled me to get this far is building up another message for me to receive and put into action.

Get Your Glee On!

Season 2 of Glee premieres tonight! Yay! Do not call me between the hours of 8-9.

Look Who Gets A Time Out

Oh hell to the no! Renee and Aaron knew about Florence and didn't hook a brother up. Go to opposite corners and think about how you could have made better choices.

Renee: But Mr. S.
Me: Take a time out Renee. We share in the blogosphere. Come back when you are ready to tell me why sharing is important.
Renee: But I said my bad.
Me: To the corner.
(Renee sucks her teeth and stomps to the corner with her arms folded)
Me: Did it taste good? Oh, and keep stomping those feet you are only wearing out your shoes.

Aaron: Ha ha!
Me: Aaron, you see that corner on the other side of the room?
Aaron: Yes.
Me: Well, take that corner and you also think about why sharing is important. Mr. Playlist.
Aaron: Ahhh man. I hate this blog. Psss, I don't care.
Me: Oh, so I'm calling home now.
(Aaron briefly mumbles incoherently while sitting at the corner.)
(I give the teacher-stare)
Me: What!?
Aaron: I aint say nothing.

VMAs Done Did Me Right...Who Knew?

I sorta stopped watching music videos a few years back. Well, not really stopped, but rarely check in to see what is going on in that world. Most of the time I watch stuff that has gone viral and has a bunch of hype around it.

This video by Florence and the Machine totally went under my radar. I'm surprised my blogs of choice never featured it.

Luckily, I tuned into MTV's VMA, to see what Lady Gaga would wear of course, and serendipity hit, as I was seduced first by the song and now the imagery created around it.

I know this video is old for some of you, but will be new for many of you. Then again, when you revisit works of art, you often find something new in it to enjoy.

Florence and the Machine "DOG DAYS ARE OVER" Music Video from LEGS MEDIA on Vimeo.

Here are the lyrics:

Happiness hit her like a train on a track
Coming towards her stuck still no turning back
She hid around corners and she hid under beds
She killed it with kisses and from it she fled
With every bubble she sank with her drink
And washed it away down the kitchen sink

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
The horses are coming
So you better run

Run fast for your mother, run fast for your father
Run for your children, for your sisters and brothers
Leave all your love and your longing behind
You cant carry it with you if you want to survive

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
Can you hear the horses?
Because here they come

And I never wanted anything from you
Except everything you had and what was left after that too, oh
Happiness hit her like a bullet in the head
Struck from a great height by someone who should know better than that

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
Can you hear the horses?
Because here they come

Run fast for your mother, run fast for your father
Run for your children, for your sisters and brothers
Leave all your loving, your loving behind
You cant carry it with you if you want to survive

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
Can you hear the horses?
Because here they come

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
The horses are coming
So you better run

Mmm, Mmm, Glee

One of many reasons why I'm a hopeful high-riding bitch these days.

Within its flaws, Glee provides stories of noble lessons to be learned.

Music spreads truths, myths, contemplation, community and insight.

I wonder what they cooked up this season for us Gleeks.

Keep On, Keeping On

Invictus" is a short Victorian poem by the English poet William Ernest Henley. Good people, make this part of your internal dialogue:

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

Feeding My Mind

Good people, as you know I am all about being a life-long learner. I actually detest people who think there isn't something new to learn, think they know it all, and/or constantly talk about the same subject.

With that said, I can read, watch, and listen to just about anything about Ancient Egypt forever and a day. I always find something new and remain fascinated.

Lately I've been exploring the legends of the god Thoth. Ya know him. Thoth is the god with the head of an Ibis. He is credited with creating spoken and written language, as well as, being respected by the other gods for his thoughfulness. Thoth, thought...hmmm!

Thoth

Music Making Myths

It's Giuliani Time for Rudy

"Caroline Giuliani, daughter of former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, was warned today by a judge to "stay out of trouble."

And she was told that if she completes one day of community service, her shoplifting charge -- she stole $100.50 worth of makeup from a Sephora store on E. 86th St. earlier this month -- will be dismissed.

Giuliani will most likely mop floors and clean toilets at the Sanitation Department's Manhattan District 3 garage at Pier 36 on the Hudson River, reports theDaily News. That's the same place Naomi Campbell and Boy George toiled after they ran afoul of the law. She has to complete the sentence by Nov. 4. She is due back at Harvard for classes tomorrow."

Source: USA Today

Here are some of the moments I recall about Giuliani's term as mayor of New York City.

I have memories regarding allegations of civil rights abuses and other police misconduct involving unarmed suspects, such as the scandals connected to the anal torture, with a plunger handle, of Abner Louima and the unjust killings of Amadou Diallo and Patrick Dorismond.

He put salt on the wound of Dorismond's family, when Giuliani supported the New York Police Department's shady business of releasing what he called Dorismond's "extensive criminal record" to the public, including a sealed juvenile file.

Oh, and let's not forget Rudy's appointed NYC Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik, now a convicted felon. Hey and what about Rudy's slide-off action becoming his second wife.

Silly Giuliani, he thought he could win the hearts of Republicans when he ran for president under the Republican ticket. Rudy forgot he was raised as a Roman-Catholic and his name ends in a vowel. Silly boy!

Wasn't he such a morally-corrupt wolf in sheep's clothing, while never looking cute.

Glenn Preaching To His Choir

Okay, so I'm watching the opening moments of Glen Beck's Restoring Honor rally. Glen opens up by saying how this nation needs to return back to God, and us working together, regardless of our different faiths.

He then introduces a rabbi, two Native-Americans, and a pastor. Sounds like the opening of a joke. Anyhoo. The good Rev. is brought to the microphone and gives an impassioned prayer where he states that salvation is only possible through Jesus Christ. He ends by saying "amen" and then he along with the rabbi, and two Native-Americans are escorted off stage.

Yup, there ya have it. Glen Beck's version of working together and respecting different faiths. I wonder if the Rabbi and Native-Americans were backstage concerned to learn that they are not the chosen ones, and won't be saved, because they are not down with Jesus Christ.

Then after all this talk of God and Jesus, Glen goes into a speech about honoring the military. Yup, there ya have it. Glen's choir loves their guns and Jesus. Oh, and Jews and non-whites can show up, but they should expect to be seen and not heard, well, only if they accepted Jesus Christ as their lord and savior.

These types of spectacles where God is used for political agendas, always reminds me of Margaret Cho's joke, where she said that she believes Jesus Christ looks upon what's going on and screams, "That's not what I meant!"

Later in the day Sarah Palin and Alveda King will speak. We all know Palin is basically out and about so she can make money and keep her face in the public arena. As for Alveda, one day Coretta Scott King had to step to her at the King Center and put her in check for spewing anti-gay marriage rhetoric. Nuff said.

Couture Junkie Rides The Late Train

The Fall 2010 couture shows have come and gone several weeks ago. Yes, I know I'm on the late train with this newsflash. Give me a break good people. I was mad busy teaching summer school.

I find it funny that each year fashion folks declare the pending demise of couture. However, each season the magic of couture emerges from the imagination and hands of the devoted few in Paris.

Go, view, and have fun by clicking here. Think of color, cut, silhouette, fabrications and how you can translate it into a head-to-toe look within your sensibility and budget.

Less Ewww!

Good ol' Todd probably called it when he commented the following, "She's prolly scared to death... And this is her defense.." in the Eww! Yet, I Pity Her post.

The following day I kept my distance from this new colleague. Which I'm sure communicated something to her. Then we chatted and when I spoke she was giving me stank face. I asked her, "Ms. So and So, did I say something to offend? Your facial expression is saying "annoyed" to me.

She quickly followed up with eyes wide open and said "Oh no! Mr. S" She then stroked the side of my arm and smiled. Over the following days she relaxed and a smile seemed more at place on her face.

We ate lunch together and had a nice chat with some laughs. Yes, I know, first impressions are not always the lasting impression.

Ewww! Yet, I Pity Her.

So, good people, I met a new teacher coming to work at my school today. Her body language, gestures and facial expression conveyed an acrid personality.

She presented herself as someone that most folks would look at and say "needs a good fuck." I told my sister about it, and without prompting her, she said "Oh, she needs a good fuck."

I take issue with that remedy. There have been times that my valley of good and plenty went neglected, and I went into bitch mode. However, I've seen the errors of those ways and realized other parts of my being needed to be stroked in order to shed the hard exterior of acting, not in a good way, like a cunt.

I do this by looking for beauty, engaging with family and friends, finding something new to learn and wonder about. Basically, I cancel the pity-party and look for ways to celebrate that I'm still here. It works, most of the time.

This new co-worker showed an occasional glimpse of her humanity, which she was not comfortable doing. Her smiled seemed forced, and out of place, on a face that looked bitter most of the day.

Her actions resulted in one person leaving our table and her being impolite to me. I took note and will take action at the right moment. I pick my battles wisely.

What I plan to do is to let her be her, and call her out by saying "Ms. So and So, that tone, facial expression, and/or body language makes me think X. Is that your intentions?"

This being is in desperate need of a learning moment. She needs to get over herself and join the party. If she chooses being part of life, then, and only then, she might make friends and encounter a good fuck.

A Forgotten Film You Should See

There is a wonderful, yet forgotten, film that I'm going to go and find. I saw it when I was very young, and it has always stayed with me. This film is something special.

Pennies From Heaven starred Steve Martin and Bernadette Peters. Pennies From Heaven was initially born as a song, then twice became a film, and a TV show for the BBC.

The story takes place in 1930s Depression America. "Arthur Parker, a sheet-music salesman, is having a hard time, both in his business and at home with his wife Joan.

His business is failing and Joan is not amorous enough for Arthur and refuses to give him money to start his own business. His dream is to live in a world that is like the songs he tries to sell."

It is one of the most underrated films of its time. The cast was amazing and the music is sublime. The film has many flights of fantasy. Here is just a taste.

I've always wondered how Bernadette would have turned this number out with her own voice, instead of lip-synching.

Yes! That is Christopher Walken stripping.

For Wayne - Update

Update - This was Wayne's favorite quote:

"Every man is said to have his peculiar ambition. Whether it be true or not, I can say for one that I have no other so great as that of being truly esteemed of my fellow men, by rendering myself worthy of their esteem. How far I shall succeed in gratifying this ambition, is yet to be developed." -Abraham Lincoln

A former student of mine died today. He was struck by a car and the injuries were too severe for his body to take. Wayne Campbell was his name. He was no longer a minor or a student of mine so I feel free to post openly about our shared, yet brief, journey.

Wayne came to me for after-school academic and college-readiness services. He wanted to go to Yale. However, on all IQ test and assessments Wayne scored 76, which placed him just barely above a label of Intellectual Disability, which use to be called Mental Retardation.

With that said, I never treated him like his dreams could not be possible, just focused on how to make what he has work for him and his goals.

Wayne's mind ran a mile in a minute within a fog. Wayne wanted to know everything, and do everything his heart desired. However, he was truly challenged with thought-processing issues that made it very difficult for him to follow sequences and generalize academic skills.

This reality did not stop Wayne from always having textbook, notebook and pencil in hand. He was determined.

This is also why I went off and called out some students not receiving special education services during summer school, that thought is was cute to take their abilities for granted and slack off.

Wayne required me to give patience and perseverance. He also taught me that I would not be a good teacher, if I did not always find new ways of creating learning moments that worked with the learning styles of my students.

Wayne challenged me during my very green moments of serving as a teacher to students receiving special education services. I've already winced and forgiven myself for my lack of expertise while serving him.

My two favorite memories of Wayne are as follows:

Wayne: Mister, how can a person make money without working?
Me: When you find out let me know!

This then lead to a conversation about the stock market and investing.

At the prom I see Wayne come in looking mad sharp (see picture above). He sang and danced. He was part of the mix. Wayne even bumped and grinded with a few of the ladies. Wayne was just one of the fellas.

Thank you Wayne. I won't miss you because I will always be aware of your spirt that will continue to teach me. I pray for peace to my young brother.

The Ying and Yang of Teaching: 6

For the past four weeks I've been teaching in a summer program offered as academic enrichment to rising high school seniors. The students are participating in workshops on studying/research skills, which I teach, poetry, health/wellness and student life.

All of the students are here voluntarily, and for the most part have been really great to work with. However, as the program reaches its final days, some students are deciding to drop out.

Why? Well, my final project required them to do a two-page research paper with a 3-5 minute presentation of their topic. I guess some students are not feeling good about one or both of the final project components.

Today, I told the core group of students that have remained that I applaud them for seeing this experience to the end. I stressed the importance and value of being committed to something.

I also told them that to let their friends that dropped out know that "quitting is a bad habit to take on, and even more difficult to break."

So Like Not Gross

Okay, so like, Aaron is like totally on the same like wavelength as me when it comes to music. Fer sure! Martina of Dragonette is like totally tubular, like oh my gawd. This song is like totally bitchen. It has like a super-super totally awesome beat that you can like dance to while like cruising the Galleria, with your Walkman on your ears.

Orlando

Film director Sally Potter, and actor Tilda Swinton, joined forces 18 years ago and created one of my favorite films of all time.

Orlando is a film based on Virginia Woolf's book of the same name. The film is about a character who changes genders and lives through four centuries.

The film is being re-released and I want to revisit the experience. I'm eager to see what new insight I might gain by reconnecting with a work of art with my new 18 years-older eyes.

If Orlando is not being shown in your hood, please rent the DVD. This film has beauty that will nourish your mind, eyes, and soul.

There is a wonderful interview with Sally and Tilda at the Village Voice website.

"Changing is precisely what Swinton worked hard to avoid when her male character wakes up a woman. "Transformation is not about changing," she laughs. "It's about a sustainable spirit." Or, in Potter's equally heady words: "[It's] looking for a state of being-ness through time and space and genders." As Orlando herself says while looking into the camera: "Same person, no difference at all. Just a different sex."

Click here to check it out.