Memory lane can be a difficult place to visit.
Sometimes all you want is the warmth of a reminiscent moment.
Yet when you arrive there it can hurt so bad.
Worse than rubbing salt in an open wound, it makes your soul ache, and want.
Oh the bliss of one more smile, laugh, or word from your missing piece.
Yet it can never come.
You see, the bittersweet reality of memory lane is it is comprised of simply memories.
The best healing we can receive is to know that those lost were never lost, only delivered home before us and one day, we'll all be together again.

Until that day, we'll be content to travel the road paved with times gone by and endure the heartache that comes of taking the trip.

Besides, what is love if it never was earned with sacrifice?

Screaming into mailboxes

I heard the most incredible story at church today from our pastor and I really feel that it's worth sharing.


A man our pastor knows, who is now a strong man of God got saved in the "Christian Movement" of the 60's. We're talking straight out of drug culture and into the light kind of salvation, very powerful and passionate.

Well, shortly after he accepted Jesus into his heart, this man was driving home. Suddenly, he was stricken with the voice of God, telling him to turn immediately in a direction he was not going. The man felt like this was a little crazy, to say the least, but he felt strongly that this command was real, so he took a step of faith and turned. What happened next made him question his sanity temporarily.

As he pulled up to the road he'd been asked to follow, the man got out of his car and wondered what was next. "Open that mailbox and yell into it- Jesus loves you!" Those were his next instructions. Undoubtedly feeling awkward and questioning this motif, the born again hippie screamed of his Lord's love into a mailbox in a silent neighborhood.

Alright, that was weird, the man thought, but there must have been a purpose, right? Before he could contemplate his actions any longer, he was asked again to shout into the mailbox, this time adding at the end "and He died for you." Oh boy, this was getting strange, but why stop here.
"Jesus loves you and He died for you," the man screamed into the open mailbox for the last time.

As he was getting ready to step back into his car, a half dressed man came bursting out his front door and explained that just moments before, he'd had a rope around his neck and he'd intended to kill himself. Only, he told God, if He loved him, he needed to know NOW. Just as this man had said this prayer, he heard the words, "Jesus loves you and He died for you!" echoing throughout his neighborhood and he knew it was a special message just for him.

The request by God to fulfill His part in this situation is blaringly obvious at the end, but to us, mere humans, it seemed  borderline strange in the beginning. This story speaks so clearly to me the message that God always has a plan and a purpose. It is a huge blessing if we are chosen to be tools to carry that out. No matter the perceived oddity, God's requests are always valid and are always to be followed. We aren't always meant to see the bigger picture, perhaps we are just meant to be a part of it.

I know I have passed up probably great opportunities that God has spoken to my heart about that may have changed the course of someone's life for Him. I needed this reminder to be urged to follow His voice, for it is really the only one that matters.

Here's To You, Hanson

*Disclaimer: this post is based solely on my opinion of the band and is not a reflection of Hanson's opinions, thoughts, feelings, etc.

(soul+pop)+ humor x (integrity^compassion) = success  > corporate control+ greed x canned hits = mediocrity

   Throughout their nineteen years and five studio albums, Hanson has made apparent that this is indeed the perfect equation for a successful band. It's one that not many artists of their time have had the chops to solve. From day one, there was something different about these brothers and their desire for their art. But how have they gone about maintaining such longevity in the darkening world of music? It all started in their roots.
   Over the years, Hanson has made numerous references to the fact that their passion for music started with the greats. The soulful sounds of Otis Redding and Aretha Franklin filled their hearts and ears at an early age, along with many artists that are now considered R&B, pop, and rock royalty. However, this old school taste is not common among many our age as favorite genre(s), especially before you're a teenager. Yet, Isaac (Ike), Taylor (Tay) and Zac didn't seem too concerned with this fact, because let's be honest, they know great music when they hear it! They turned this appreciation for mid century magic into an evolution of sound, something that was relevant to their generation. Though MMMBop doesn't scream Al Green influence, it's undeniable that in the foundation of Hanson's sound, you will always find reference to the music that started it all for them. It's in the heart of the music itself.
   When their first hit took over the airwaves and charts, it was hard to imagine anything bigger than that moment for Hanson. They were featured in every magazine sold to tweens and monopolized virtually every media source. It truly was the golden age for Hanson. Their being nominated for 3 Grammys is proof that even as they were teens, the world was in the presence of immense musical talent. However, it seems as if they knew, as intelligent entrepreneurial young men, that "MMMBop!" could not be it for them. Their talent far exceeded one hit wonder status. So, what did they do to avoid the "flash in the pan?"
   Hanson fought tooth and nail to create the music they wrote, composed, and created themselves. However, the corporate music world flexed its muscle several times, strangling their creative efforts and attempting to quiet their intense passion for what they do. Ike, Tay and Zac endured this control for This Time Around (the second studio album), following the huge success of Middle of Nowhere (Hanson's frosh studio album), only to find that it was impossible to continue on under a changing label that didn't support their free artistic ability. As Underneath was created, they fought the brunt of this battle and realized that the only way up in their career, was out of this stronghold. They broke free from the chains of the label and made what was  likely the most difficult professional decision they have had to face: to go it alone as an independent unit.
   It takes more than guts to do what these men did when they created 3cg (3 car garage) record label; it required a great deal of integrity. When the cards are stacked against oneself, escape isn't an option, and misery is present, an easy wound dressing is more money to make it better. By giving in to their oppressors, Hanson could have had the money and commercial fame again, possibly to the extent they experienced in the Middle Of Nowhere days. But they had already experienced that and fought to create something better that they personally believed in. They were literally willing to sacrifice everything they had professionally to make this bold stance, if it meant that the true fiber of their craft would be preserved. Ike, Tay and Zac are well known for being upstanding guys, and as you can see, it is for great reason.
   At a time when music television was being flooded with raunchy songs about cars, money and loose women, Hanson was starting from scratch and going organic- creating music that was pure, real and free of corporate control. If you watch the Strong Enough to Break series (which I HIGHLY suggest), you can see how difficult the battle must have been, and how sweet the victory in the end. Becoming an independent band was just another step in their path of positive influence to a generation of individuals with a shrinking pool of role models to draw from.
   As someone who has merely meddled in music theory and introductory piano, even I can say that the raw musical talent that Hanson holds is not at all by happenstance. All three of them have skills that aren't created, they are woven into your being. It's no accident that they can write a song that cuts straight to the heart, or that the instrumental makes the fans soul throb.This is the result of true ability that doesn't come along but very few times in a generation, if society is even that fortunate. If you have ever glanced at the sheet music for Shout It Out, you know what I'm talking about! This is not your mickey mouse band, it is nothing less than a musical standard that's been set, high enough to make any competition sweat in an attempt to compare.
   With skills as honed as theirs are, one may expect Hanson to gloat a bit. This is not one of their qualities as a band, however. In an interview, Taylor made reference to the fact that in the music business, artists have to be able to be narcissistic enough to create a career about themselves, which is a blunt and mature observation (http://www.bestofneworleans.com/blogofneworleans/archives/2011/09/23/interview-taylor-hanson). However, what sets these guys apart from the rest is that they seem to be in tune with the difference between dripping self adoration and minor necessary narcissism. Such a balance cannot be easy to maintain while living in the spotlight.
   Perhaps what helps keep them humble is that they make every effort to plug in personally with those that allow their work to continue its success: their fans. Whether it be meet and greets, Members Only Events, tour contests, From Us To You entries, tweets, or returned private messages on HNet, Hanson is very connected with their ever faithful fan base. But if you think you'll find them sleezing around the fans for the wrong attention, you are sadly mistaken. Part of the clean image they maintain stems from all three guys' true devotion to their personal families. What you MAY find them doing,however, is playing a full amped set, complete with sweat, dancing and beautiful music, only to meet their fans outside the tour bus to say hello, sign merchandise and take hundreds of pictures before heading on the road again. How's that for dedication?  Hanson ensures that every show is an experience, because they appreciate their fans that much. This is the only band I have seen do respectful justice to providing the supply for our fan base demand in this business deal was are so proud to be a part of.
   OK, so Hanson has faced adversity, overcome the odds and continues to blow us away with gorgeous tunes. That should be enough, right? Evidently it is not enough for them. They took things a step further, literally. After visiting Uganda and working with several children and other folks there, Hanson brought back their passion for the people of Africa and chose to start an initiative to help them. Thus The Walk was born. The album of music that is heavy in people centered-ness and an overall sense of compassion is only a small part of this effort. Each night of that tour, all three guys set out, barefoot with their devoted fans and walked a mile to feel empathy for the many, many children and families that are not fortunate enough to have something as simple as shoes. It's rumored that they still take The Walk before shows on occasion these days, and I have every intention of experiencing this with Hanson, to be part of something so much bigger than myself. However, we don't have to wait until the next show to give back,Take The Walk has all of this information and more. Check it out to see how you can provide basic necessities for someone who truly needs your help.
   With such giving hearts and career focused minds, one could make the assumption that these three men are always quite serious. I can think of three songs to instantly foil that theory: Balls In The Water, Devil's Nachos, and Natalie Portman song. Look them up, they do not disappoint! Anyone who has seen Hanson in action can appreciate their silly quips. It seems as if alone, they'd probably be goofy, but together, they are a well oiled humor machine that could go on forever with Kermit impressions and quirky innuendos. (check out vh1's Sibling superlatives for a good dose of goof  http://on.vh1.com/i20jc9 ) From the beginning, the guys have fed off of each other for material but as they've aged, their humor has ripened to what is one of my personal favorite attributes of the band. Thank goodness not everyone takes themselves too seriously these days!
   As I sit here, compiling this list of great accomplishments and undertakings of these men, I am coming to realize something magnificent. In the same way that Otis Redding sculpted their desire for music, Hanson has begun to influence mine. How strange it must seem to them to be compared to the likes of such a musical giant! Yet they have earned this acknowledgement, as I am a fan of great music, compassion, and integrity. Many of us living in this world have lost what it means to stand for something, to really BECOME somebody, and yet Hanson has not.
   What Hanson has proven to me is that in every aspect of their career, they deserve to be paid homage by their fans, exactly as they have identified the prestige of the men and women who sparked the fire for their future as musicians.

   Here's to you Hanson, for being who you are, no matter who is listening. It is truly an honor to be part of this experience and to share the musical ride with you.

How sweet life can taste when all is laid out before you, in life's simplistic, perfect, beauty. Each comforting smell, sight, sound, touch and taste is connected, contributing to the stronghold by which one adheres, knowing that these reinforcements are constant and unchanging. Yet, because these wonderful experiences are bountiful, they become taken advantage of. Their sacredness and meaning can fade with time. Then all is gray, bland, no longer shimmering and pleasant. In the midst of this ungrateful period, one can get caught off guard; for when all that was cherished becomes extinct to the senses, how can life be carried on with meaning?

To stumble back upon wobbly feet, blinded eyes and deaf ears, one requires special aid- a caring soul that can endure life's greatest challenge: teaching one to live anew.  Though at first it seems impossible to taste the same fruit, hear the very same harmony and see the beauty of before, all hope is not lost. For this guardian withholds abundant patience, unending love, faith from within, and trust that all will soon be restored. Slowly, with the slightest shove, they lead this numb soul to take the first step into a new life. With painfully slow progression, the blinded eyes are given sight, for their handicap has been lifted. The dull taste buds once again savor the juices of joy. Songbirds and babbling creeks rejuvenate the muted lobes.  Newly budded lillies and sweet grasses invigorate the remaining sense, now recovered from it's dormancy. As cheeks become flushed and life is recovered, the rehabilitated looks for the teacher only to find themselves. Our heart, our faith, our courage is our guiding force. We are our own mentor when all color fades.


Again I say, all hope is not lost, for it was only ever hiding, waiting for the perfect moment to give birth to this genesis that is today.  Never cease to admire all of the perfection around you, someone flawless and divine created it with just you in mind.

I want to be tiny
And invincible
To bury my head in the sand
And find treasures while there
I want childlike innocence
And courage enough to fly
To be out until dusk
And to play with mud in a dress
I want to be reckless
And have no fear
I want to look up to the big kids
And only pretend to be old
To go school shopping
And worry about my first day outfit
I want to live in a perfect world
To believe that all is well, always
I long to visit my childhood
And experience it's beauty for just one more second...

A few of my favorite things

I don't know why, but I want to list my favorite things. So there!

Yellow
Purple (not with yellow, don't be hatin on me Lakers fans!)
Autumn chill
Sparkling lemonade
MUSIC
dancing
my husband's laugh
new socks
writing for an audience of 1
old family portraits
nostalgia of any kind
the 90's
skirts
wedges
college football
cold sheets
walking in bare feet
my dad's carpentry
the fact that mom doesn't say goodbye on the phone
my dog and his pet rock
clean smelling houses
warm laundry
lavender
lemongrass
my football collection
my brother's taste in movies
being cool (temperature-wise, silly!)

We've all done it, looked back and said "If I had a chance, I'd do ________ over." Well, like a great song says, if I could write a letter to me when I was younger it would include the following:

God should never be forgotten or come second to anyone, even if He's not "cool" to your peers
Never be afraid to befriend another
Don't shy away from your good heart or intentions
When you feel like something is wrong, it is
Hug your grandparents just a little bit tighter and a little bit longer, it'll be worth it in the end
It's ok not to go with the flow in high school
Death unfortunately does not discriminate by age. It is real and can touch those you love, even when you're young
LOVE being young and without responsibility, you're going to miss it
Don't be afraid of people. Behind each bad intention lies a deeper fear. Reach out to those you naturally fear, it could change their life, or yours.
Don't judge based on looks, money, or reputation. You aren't fit to judge, anyway. Love everyone.
Being different doesn't mean you're weird. It means you know who you are and accept it.
Realize how amazing your family is. Many are not so lucky as you.
NEVER tell your parents you hate them, even if you are furious. They will turn out to be some of your best friends.
Be patient for your husband, it's worth it
Act on your passion for music, you won't regret it.
Don't be discouraged by others' judgements against you. It reflects insecurity in themselves.
Always, always, always dance.
Stand up and speak out against injustice against others.
Tell your friends what they mean to you every chance you get.
Always let your family know you love them.
Learn from everything.
Listen to your heart, not the chorus.
Life experiences are not nearly as rich as they're made out to be in college. Spare yourself.
Set yourself apart, you're called to it.
Enjoy every moment you're blessed with.
You will grow up to live a life you don't expect, but love passionately.

You know what I love about being an adult? I can be who I want to be.
You know what I'm discovering? Life as an adult is less about what you want to be and more about who you're made to be. It's all a bit ironic. But such is life. Live it well, you only get one shot at it.

Cubicles

We all live in cubicles.
As humans, it's comforting to build up walls and maintain a safety zone- far enough away that others can't quite reach you unless they have the secret password.
The problem is, the password is denied far too often.
Why be vulnerable and let someone in? We know ourselves, that's good enough. Not everyone needs to know everything about us.. or most things about us for that matter.
Well, I've made a discovery. You see, my cubicle flooded today with the real frustration I held against someone I cared about. I wanted to share it, but to do so, a wall would have to come down, and I might leak a little *eek* honesty. And that can be embarassing.
Yet when I realized that I was drowning in this pool of concern for my friend, I realized that it may just be better to reach out and fish for a lifeline. I took the chance of crumbling our friendship by bearing my honest opinion. I held my breath, praying for just a few more minutes to try to float before our friendship sank.
Then it happened.
A rope was thrown in and I was pulled out of my proverbial box. I was forced to face a friendship like a friend, not a coward. They welcomed my opinion with open arms and mind. They thanked me for sharing with them.
This is one of many epiphanies I've had to face with reluctance and fear, only to be pleasantly surprised: true friendships can withstand honesty, if it is born of true concern for the good of others.
I think I kind of like it out here, away from the safety zone. It's a bit scary, I feel vulnerable, but I think it's time I step out of myself and begin to live and love like I was always meant to: in the presence of those who matter most.

My fingers lay upon ivory and jet black steps
I feel my heart skip with anticipation
It begins to burst at the seams
Expelling all that I feel within me
Yet can't seem to find words to express
Like an enchanting spell, I am caught up
Only this moment exists
My hands dance and my soul smiles
A reflection of a newfound love
In this gale of emotion I wonder
How did I ever live without this?

Do it for love

It seems like clockwork, every week I have a new ambition. However, most of which seem to stem back to my love of writing and music. Only recently has it occurred to me that this fact may well signify some real gifts in my life. I've been equipped with a real desire to change lives, to write something significant, to love music with my whole being. Instead of sharing my passion simply as a desire, I've made a conscious decision to act on it and make it part of a life that is utilizing these gifts regularly. I'm writing a book, with my mother. I'm learning music theory. I'm going to try to learn an instrument that fits my soul. Most importantly though, I'm doing these things in a way that will glorify my God, who gave them to me in the first place.


My life is nothing if it cannot be used in such a way that reflects the beauty and love of the One who created me.

From the mouth of a commoner

It's strange, this world we live in today. In light of the royal wedding, I've been thinking a lot about America's royalty and how they've come to be.

Some are singers, actors, sports stars. Others simply are born into money and lay themselves before the spotlight, shamelessly basking in glory that is not even their own. Minutes ago, I found myself fumbling through Twitter, seeing what my favorite celebrities were up to and I came upon a startling discovery about myself. I don't much care for celebrities. They're a strange breed, many of which are more in love with themselves than any other person or thing. Even those that claim to be of good moral fiber and standards still gloat about meeting fellow celebutantes or being on this show or that. Granted, this is the life these people intentionally lead and perhaps they cannot see outside the very small social circle they've created amongst themselves. Or maybe they have low enough self esteem that they feel every detail about them is so divine and worthy of mention that it is pasted on virtually every technological outlet in existence, just as a reminder that they are still here.

This may seem like projected jealously, but I assure you that it is not. I feel sorry for those that use their celebrity status to create a selfish vacuum that sucks in their fans attention, yet gives nothing in return. It seems that one in high standing in society should use it for good, not simply for self promotion. We know who these people are, we don't need them plugging their shows in every breath or name dropping left and right. Seriously, we know they exist. There is no shortage of media exposure for the latest album to have dropped or to boost views for the most recent #winning reality show. What I can't seem to wrap my head around is how can these American princes and princesses live with themselves knowing that at the end of the day, really most of what they did was talk about themselves.

I want desperately to see and hear more about how to make this society a better place. As a "commoner," I'd like to see those in higher power in our tainted society use their standing for the betterment of their country and world. It's a breath of fresh air to see the select handful of these people reach out to those in need, raise awareness in the face of tragedy, and humble themselves enough to be real humans. I'm not talking about single acts of "charity" as a publicity stunt, but maintained passion for a cause that matters, something that is genuine and real, that can engage anyone in helping and is truly a form of outreach. That is a rare act in society at all, but more so in the land of the rich, which seems cliche since that is where such giving should be born. Honestly, how many million is necessary to maintain a lifestyle that is comfortable? It seems that selflessness is an old fashioned practice these days, but indeed it is still necessary.

Without one another we stand alone. Alone we can accomplish very little. United, a people can create tidal waves of mercy, compassion and change. If used correctly, celebrity can create sparks that ignite fires in the movement of truly any worthwhile cause. I wish to challenge this to happen, but you see, I am no one significant in the grand scheme of society, a simple pleb amongst the masses. My voice will be heard by those whom choose to open their hearts for long enough to give up part of their day to read this. To those that have, I am grateful, thank you :)

How and when did our country deteriorate from a united front to a vast land with millions of tiny pieces that happen to simply coexist, on the best of days?

There are so many people that chase fame as an ultimate goal, as the defining point in their life when they know that they have arrived and fulfilled their dreams. I realize tonight that I feel sorry for these individuals. When social status sets the bar for your life's accomplishments, perhaps reconsideration of what is important should become a factor. It seems that a far greater priority should be to make a difference, change a life. Reach out and help someone, anyone at all. In doing so, if the public eye happens to gaze upon you momentarily, then what greater way than to spread word of the cause for which you are serving? Call me an old fashioned simpleton but it just seems that the single minded, selfish way of thinking is such a waste of life.

When you are on your deathbed and recounting your life, what will you remember and find pride in? Knowing you lived a life that made a difference, or one that was a documented journey of your every selfish move? I can rest assured that though I may not ever be known by the royalty of American society, I have found my calling. One word, one heart, one inch at a time, I am trying my hardest to reach out to someone else and make a lasting effect on the short existence that is their life.

I may not be royal, but based on the definition of royalty in my country, I'd rather live as a commoner and struggle to change the world than live in my own.

Tonight's a night like many others. I have so many things to say and yet my words fail to form in a way that represents my overwhelming desire to create this beautiful word art. I want to explain my frustration in those who insist on making a stance for the sake of standing for something. I'd like to say what a fine line there is between debate and disrespect. I would like to express my passion for art of all shapes, sizes, forms and textures- for it is my soul's food. I want to recognize those whom are intelligent enough to inspire me and bold enough to defend their beliefs. I want to voice my disgust in mocking my God. I wish for once my heart could burst out in the phenomenal song that is awaiting within me. Tonight, I want to share my passion, my heart of hearts. Words are my sweat, tears and lifeblood. Words are what I have to hold on to, grow on, and spring forth from. If only I could say these things in words that did justice to the beauty they hold in my mind. One day my mind's eye will peer at the world, and the world will peer back, seeing for the first time the simplicity of love and the sincerity of passion that has molded me into who I am.

I think it happened when I was about 13- coming to the realization that I seriously lived in the coolest time ever. I had a leopard print mini backpack, I was scared to death of puberty and was enamored with the cult of boy band culture. My walls were plastered top to bottom with teen magazines and I knew all there was to know about every member of the above mentioned male groups. There was the occasional girl power phrase floating out of my mouth and mind as well and I was pretty sure I would grow up to be as awesome as one of the Spice Girls. Zac Hanson, AJ McLean and Joey Fatone were most certainly on the list of most likely to be my future husband. My parents were cool enough to let me pick out my own clothes- short of leather pants. So, around I pranced, with my bleached, faded, patched or sparkling jeans and oh so close to navel bearing shirts. Literally, my favorite outfit was comprised of an orange Chester the Cheetah shirt and black jeans that had bleach streaks down the sides and lining the pockets. I just couldn't figure out why the guys teased me about a small, round imperfection of this bleach that lay just to the left of my zipper. Ah, the innocence of pre-adolescence. My biggest concerns usually stemmed from whether or not I was going to get out of being grounded long enough to go skating and, fingers crossed, get to snowball with that special someone. I wrote notes 80% of the time I was in class and knew a handful of ways to fold them intricately. I didn't know how to avoid getting caught with them. Music ruled my world and consumed all of me. I was impressionable, naive and curious. Boys were a strange mystery that I wanted to know more about but not too much. The shows on TV were literally the best in a long time and everyone knew it. There was an edge to the media that made us all aware that there was something dirtier than what we were exposed to, but some was left to the imagination. Too much for such a young age, but not enough to really corrupt a soul, you know? I'm not sure when it all started changing, but just as abruptly as I was thrust into this amazing world, it all began to deteriorate around me. Clothing changed, became more provocative. Music started becoming about nothing but sex. Technology rose and squashed the magic of enjoying make believe and wonder and anticipation of the unknown. I rolled with the times and the punches. I grew up and out of the joy that was my childhood and adolescence. However, I couldn't be happier to see glimmers of my past in this day and age. Sure, all my boy band hopefuls may be married and grown up (as am I), but they're resurfacing in a new an revamped way. Hanson has far exceeded my expectation for any band in a comeback and they continue to amaze me on the regular. The other day I saw a bright pink fanny pack for sale in a popular store and all I could do was smile. True, my childhood is long gone, but just maybe,  the 90's, my 90's,  can live on in whatever this decade reincarnation is that is seeming to occur. If not, they'll live on forever in the epitome of awesomeness that I have stowed away in my mind.

Evolution of interests

My interests

When I was in elementary school:
Having pretend fashion shows
Practicing for the talent show for hours on end
Swings
Reading
Karaoke
Volleyball
The idea of homework
Rollerblading
Being outside
Lisa Frank

When I was in middle school:
Boys
Makeup
Skating rinks
Volleyball
Making home made music videos
Making Jackass videos
The idea of a job
Writing notes
Spending time with friends and not my parents
Did I mention boys?
Music!

When I was in high school:
Volleyball
Dance
Writing
Spending time with friends
Writing notes
Choreography
Air band
Getting to know people outside of my circle
Medicine
Softball
The prospect of college
Establishing myself as an adult

When I was in college:
Dance
Partying
Medicine
The idea of a career
Writing
Volleyball
Learning new things
Meeting strange and new people
Establishing myself as an individual
Yoga
Family
The idea of marriage and kids

Now that I'm all grown up:
Family
Writing
Contentment in now
Being non judgemental
Loving others immensely
Pleasing God
Establishing myself in the career that chose me
Appreciation for being poor and earning money
Desire for my husband
Love for my dog
Cooking
Longboarding
Yoga
The idea of being a kid again...

Your Words

This is dedicated to my favorite poet, who never fails to make me feel. It's strange when simple words, a string of letters, really, can evoke an emotion or a thought that you never knew existed. It's not about worshiping a person with a  special skill, because I worship no one but my God. I am just in awe of how his poetry just opens my soul in a way that is raw and real. This is about respect for poetry, as an art that is almost tangible in it's heavy, eloquent beauty. Thank you Anis Mojgani for tearing out parts of yourself to become a part of us.

Your Words

Your words are thick and fibrous

Nutrition to my soul

I like how they fill my hollows

With contemplation and wonder

Your words help me soar

And sometimes make me drown

They always change me

Your words are like a mason's putty

Filling the voids in moth eaten minds

Giving me hope for humanity

Reminding me that we are indeed real

Your words reflect intellect

Like the breath of Plato bouncing off a still lake

You force me to think and to feel

Even when I don’t think that I want to

Your words ignite a fire within me

Burning bright and fierce

Like the internal battles I withhold,

Crumbling bridges of the past, and of hate

Your words

Your words are magic

"Trending" through the years

1990's- Pogs, Giga pets, SNICK, TGIF, cartoons, rat tails,  flannel shirts, belly shirts, flare leg pants, sketchers, roller blades, skateboards, pagers, wall ball, walkman/discman, goths, boy bands, grunge,  hip hop (with real words), girl power,  skating rinks, bmx bikes, Lisa Frank, "Talk to the Hand!"

2000-2010- Brats dolls, cell phones, iPod, Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, Hannah Montana, Teen Mom, American Idol, Justin Bieber, hipsters, emos, skinny jeans, heelies, longboards, vintage clothing, indie music, hip hop (with sounds and poorly created phonetic lingo), heightened earth consciousness, reality TV, LOL, OMG, LMAO.

2011-2020- ?

Who am I to judge our society? Just another spectator I suppose.

From where I stand, it is seeming that one thing we are losing in America is the ability for our children to be children.Are we so caught up in ourselves and the ideals of adult behavior and image that our children must now be constantly exposed to the luster of sex and money? Beyond that, our natural ability to interact is being crippled by social networks rather than physical presence and conversation. What will this generation's children use as a means to communicate? I don't know if I want to know the answer.

My heart still jumps with excitement when I see a kid on a playground, acting like a kid, playing make believe games, living in the infinite freedom of childhood. After all, many kids spend their childhoods with intense anticipation to grow up, only to find as adults, they wish nothing more than to be kids again.

Cheers to the kids who are content to be kids!

All I have to say is that I want my Tiger Beat and pogs back! :)