Social media and the real influencers

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***** We all have the right to decide for ourselves ***** 

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      I decided to take a break, hopefully permanent, for the greatest trending social media channel - Facebook. I've reached the point when realizing that I used to spend more than 50% of my spare time on this "delighting" and "brain boosting" activity (for about 9 (!) years). Scrolling down and witnessing what people had for lunch/ dinner, where people check in and what people admire or wish to buy.

      I've come to realize that the social media is just a manipulation tool and I'm not good at being manipulated. 

       Social media - a tool full of commercials inducting people a need that is not real - the need to buy things they could actually live without; the need of being in a never ending disruptive competition; the need of envying what others do or have, instead of being grateful and enjoy what they have; the need of perfectly plastic beauty; the need of adhering to masses ("if you have no Facebook account, you don't exist"); the need of having and explaining our own created monsters to people who would never actually care; the need of showing off our plans or goals, things that may never be achieved; the need of touching the sky thru a screen, with the aid of ideas we never believed in; the need of unreal! 

Give a true meaning to your phone.
 Use it as a tool to communicate useful information,
not for creating an avatar!

    People force themselves to become more individualist than ever. Everyone minds their own phones, while in the subway; no one takes a chance to look around any longer; no one cares any longer. Personal awareness is a good thing, but this is way far to being aware! This is selfishness, provided by "over qualified" media trends. If you are a bit weird - in the means of just observing, people stare, gossip and laugh.

      Without any reason or need to explain my decision, I state this: my life deserves a chance to real connections, to real communication and a chance to a healthy and peaceful mind. 

     Nowadays, people may consider my decision as being a reckless gesture... How can I withdraw myself from an ocean everyone thrives to be diving in? Simple answer: remember I swim against the tide! If everybody goes right, there's 95% chances i would go left. But, what if I told you there's life beyond social media? The internet is free (they say, but you pay a plan for it) and is full of all kinds of information you may be interested in. Like free books, for instance; or music; or materials created by people who can actually teach us how to be present (though this should not replace a live seminar, in a conference room).

      On the other hand, the world outside our phones is beautiful and needs a human to look it up and observe. People, observed individually or in groups, have so many reflections to show, so many lessons to teach... Animals, likewise - they can teach humans unconditional love and compassion; Nature? Oh, nature...! It has so many beautiful sounds to infuse your mind with - you just need to stop for a minute and listen: the moment leaves unchain themselves from a tree, the twit of a bird, the flow of a river, the waves of an ocean/ a sea hitting the shore... And so many things that would delight all our senses. If we stop our daily routine for one moment, we will enjoy the sun caressing our faces, or the wind touching our hair, or a little ladybug landing on our finger, or the taste of a fresh picked fruit. But we choose to run from all these. We choose to become an avatar in a human created illusion.

Give real life a chance!

     Since you've read this far, I suggest a small disconnection exercise: Just stop - for a few moments... Now watch - what's going on around you... Now acknowledge - how you feel about giving this world and yourself a chance... Now think - about choices you have at hand...

      "Enchanted Forest" by Tim Janis

     This is a great practice I expose myself to, daily, since I stopped browsing thru the unreal! I take a stroll from the subway to home and feel my breath, without counting or anticipating it; I watch the trees and communicate my gratitude to them - they're the number one oxygen providers, after all; I observe strangers - without judging their actions; I befriend the wind and clear my mind. I focus on the now. You can call this a 15 minutes "meditation on the move". 

     Results? As all my human shape and mind have been fed by these wonders, I get a chance to think clearly. When I reach my destination, I'm calm and I feel more relaxed when it comes to challenges.

      Maybe you can give it a try and learn its effects on your own self...

Train your mind to be grateful and at peace

       You may ask why I mentioned "real influencers" in the title. Well, I do hope I made it clear. If not, take a look at yourself, after exercising the above. YOU are the real influencers! Only YOU can decide upon what's best for you. No one else but YOU can fit your own shoes. Walk them wisely!

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***** Let your own actions influence you, not the things you don't believe in ******

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         Love,

         A.

A kid today, a grown up tomorrow...

***** What you see at home as a kid, will come natural to you as a grown up. And might become your call...*****

    This is what psychologists say. And you find its truth exposed everyday, just by observing. Either we clearly admit it or not, we unconsciously carry imprinted events with us everywhere.

   You see, kids feel, see and acknowledge more than parents wish they would. Kids feel pain, they understand fake friendship when mom and dad wish they killed each other, they see the changes when they occur. These kids will thrive to do better in life or they will follow the pattern of unhappiness, until they realize their worth.

    Same principle applies to happy families (unfortunately, fewer every passing decade): kids surrounded by loving parents will see love and care as a must during their existence. And they will thrive to have the same peaceful life.

    One more aspect I learned to be true, is the fact that each connection parents make has a great impact on the little ones. If parents try hard to find themselves, are kind to others and frequently visit beneficial circles of people, at some point in their lives, kids will - sometimes involuntary - choose something resembling to this path. They will develop similar interests and will look up to the same behavior typology.

We all hurry to grow up, instead of living the present moment...

    At least that's what happened to me...

   (As I started sketching this article, I recalled my childhood and I realized all the links are there on purpose.)

    As a kid, my parents used to take me with them to these conferences, held by an amazing little man, who passed away 11 months ago... This man was a writer, but a spiritual guide as well. He started a group we used to attend and which goes on for more than 20 years now. 

   Of course, as a teenager, I would loose the focus on such things and I would look for getting attention and being involved in a fairy tale, that never happened. 

    However, hardships of life would teach me important lessons and would bring me back to my childhood focus. As a grown up, barely towards middle age, I realized I am drawn into the mystics... Again. But the heaviest challenge I faced was acknowledging the passing of the little enlightened man. For one month in a row, I cried every single day, because of a selfish view - I felt left without a guidance.

      Next step? I bought as many of his books as I found and started reading them. And, man, that was some marathon! I would absorbe the information like never before. And this episode opened my mind to looking for more. Until life took over me too much...

   Then, another plain period went by, with bits of information picked up from different people. But, as nothing happens by hazard, I now understand why I needed to have ups and downs. 

    New people bring new teachings. And I managed to surround myself with beautiful, quality people. Just thinking about them, I will mention only 3 (though there are a handful more): the one pushing me to write and work hard for accomplishing my goals, another one is an amazing colleague from work and another is a friend I just recently got reconnected to. These 3 made me see the world as I see it today; it's as if they bought new lenses to my spectacles. Though I don't wear any 🙂 To each and every one of these 3 guys I can talk about anything. They are there to support my interests and provide materials. It's like we're walking the same path, on different levels. It's like we're tying to wake each other up after a long sleep, in order to hear the call of the stars governing our souls...

When it returns, be sure you catch it!
There's always a reason for its come back...

     It's a great trip to take... Bearing in mind the memory of that amazing little man, with all the teachings he left behind...

***** You, can't escape what is meant to be. The boomerang always returns...*****

      Dedicated to the little man guiding the beginning of my life!

      Love,

      A.

Here and now... Live strong!

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       Quote from real life:

"Live strong!"

      "I used to have a bracelet with this very message..."

      "But you don't need a bracelet, you've been doing it for some time now!"

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    I'm an over-thinker, so over-analyzing every angle of an event/ situation is what I used to do best. I'm a dreamer, so the future used to be part of me, by definition. Present was the only time I would avoid living in.

    However, I have recently realized some crucial aspect of my existence: this world doesn't always feel like home, but life is to be acknowledged, accepted and lived. In the present. For avoiding expectations --> deceit --> unhappiness.

    This may be the most daring exercise I have ever engaged myself in. The most challenging task I am willing to take for the long run. But I'm sure is all worth it!

    Nevertheless, the more I understand its meaning, the less I seem to respond to it. The more I reach for joy, the less I feel I belong; the more I try to be just now, the more I seem to be dreaming; the more I reach for peace, the less I seem to live strong; the more I try to stay calm, the more I ignite; the more I think I come in control, the more I understand I know nothing; the more I realize I don't fully understand, the less I can take charge of myself; the harder I try to change the stars longing for playlist, the more often I listen to it. It seems like the more I want to reach that stilness, the more I loose its trace.

    Living in the moment isn't easy. It requires a lot of will, discipline and commitment. But it has amazing benefits: you can witness the dance of autumn leaves, you can realize how shadows find their crib in human mind, you acknowledge the happiness of hearing the flutter of a bird, you perceive the time slowing down for a bit, just for you to observe the beauty; the wind playing with your hair seems lighter and sweeter; the stop light turns red exactly when you want to note something down; you loose the rush and take a minute to listen! Your mind presents its thanks by loosing some of the weight you tormented it with. And this, my friend, is AMAZING and ADDICTIVE. 

    Yes, living in the present, though seems unreal and so hard to attain, brings the ultimate peaceful state of mind. And I'm on it. I need to get there, yet I consider it the utmost challenge: being real, while living strong, in the present... I used to believe this was for enlightened people only and I wouldn't think about getting a chance to it. But, as you never know what life holds in store for you, surprises arise everywhere. This is something we all hold on our hands! All we need to do is wish for and act to it! 

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         Quote from real life:

"Dream of life... Then wake up and live it!"

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      Love,

      A.

Campaigns for social cases

    There are so many kids with issues in this world... Whether we talk about kids with special needs or kids born in disrupted or poor families. Be it either way, these are unfortunate cases of kids that did not sign up for this when coming to Earth.

   In this regard, thanks God there are NGOs trying hard to obtain funds for sustaining a decent life for them. (I don't believe in all these organizations, however UNICEF seems to be a reliable one, actually investing money and real efforts in achieving what they claim.)

https://adsoftheworld.com/media/print/unicef_be_a_mom

    Yesterday, a pretty young lady stopped me for presenting to me such a campaign. In the past, I would just say "Pass", but something said "Stop!" this time. And I'm glad I did. I found out how an insignificant amount (for most of us) can make a huge difference to someone else's existence; I learned how parents of unfortunate kids can also benefit of specialized guidance, in order to raise their offsprings in a better way; I understood how every single person can contribute to the well-being of another, by offering a simple gesture; I realized that the corporate formula "sharing is caring" IS real; I felt my attention being focused on present time, while listening to this girl, though I was in a bit of a rush.

    The point I would like to make is: take the time to stop, once in a while, and listen! YOU can make a difference! Every single YOU can help. If you can't (or don't feel the call) to bring a contribution by using your bank account, listening is what changes something. At least, the person exposing the campaign may feel important for a few minutes. Think that they dedicate their own time to this. Therefore, you encourage the volunteer to keep on doing such a marvelous gesture of kindness! And that's great!

    Love,

    A.

1 cup of coffee, 1 spoon of sugar, music and my time alone, thank you!

    ***** Life happens while you're making other plans*****

    If you could choose who to have your morning coffee with, who would that be? Better more, would there be anyone? Or would you rather have it on your own, recharging in peace and quiet?

     I like my coffee carefully poured in a big mug, with a nice message, and mended with some sugar. I'm the "don't talk to me till I can move" type of person. There were barely a few times when I wished for company to my morning coffee. When I had it, I could not fully enjoy my tranquility. Because morning is the only time of day when my mind has the clarity and transparency of thin ice; is the only moment I can gather my forces for the new unfolding day; the only moment I am fully at peace with myself; morning is the best moment to create, for me. (I had so many ideas while having my silent coffee, yet some of them will never get exposed). Morning is the time of day I understand things the best and I figure out my plans, shape the next stair to climb for touching my dream.

      [listen to: Ingrid Michaelson - Be OK]

     For me, having company and being compelled to communicate while drinking my coffee, is like recharging the battery of a device while using it. This only creates the illusion of fully charged, when the light goes green, still the life of the battery will last less than one charged under normal circumstances - no application running in the background, besides the operating system.

    Some people will never (at least try to) understand that some of us may have a different way of running our operating systems. For instance, think of a computer: the hardware is usually still, while the memory executes; of course, there are small components moving all the time, but we can't see that if the box is closed. Moreover, we will never understand the amount of electricity that needs to "fuel" the hardware, in order to make the software functional.

    That's the analogy I can pick up when thinking about my mornings - my mind is like a flower in bloom, yet my body is almost paralyzed - except those little components making me breathe, see, etc. People will never see the amount of energy I need to gather, in order to make the slightest move. My physical shape may look shiny and all, but there needs to be stillness in between, before I can engage to daily tasks. Loading time may take between 1 and 2 hours!

     By our nature of humans, we think someone may be angry at us or we might feel neglected when someone puts up such an attitude. But we only think we know what a likewise person thinks. And, usually, that's wrong. Some individuals, instead of stepping back and providing space for the process to successfully get completed, invade even more. They challenge those tiny gnomes behind the wheels to fight back and ask for their right to dance quietly. And that can ruin the entire day, as silence has no room to accommodate in.

      So, just... [listen to: Brandon & Leah - Life happens]

      Love,

      A.

Autumn rhapsody

*****Everyone dies/ But not everyone lives/ 

Everyone takes/ But not everyone gives*****

([credits to: Sofia Karlberg - Gold])

     I so much miss home... That home people like to call the shell of depression. Though "home" is actually, the greatest palace of all. There's no illness there, but an unconscious will of becoming aware of self evolution. Once we step over the entrance, we want to walk further into oneness. People call it suicidal thought. I name this a call to stillness and mindfulness. People tend to get scared of this; I think we should embrace this state of mind and look for the answers within. 

   Stars are out there to guide us towards our true selves, to wake that long fallen asleep consciousness. Their dust is made of knowledge pieces. In all their wildly colors, with all the shades in between (merely adjusted quote), stars welcome our longing for endless love and union, perceived as alienation by people.

 Credits to http://wallpapers.brothersoft.com/josephine-horizons-42963.html

    This life seems to me like a childish game in a grown up world! Amazing! Grown-ups with childish desires, yet drowning themselves in unimportant details and surrendering their souls to Some set their goals towards grabbing the greatest gold ingot. Others have goals of becoming enlightened creatures. Some dream about never ending material enrichment, while others want to get to the point of having nothing, but peace.

    Someone told me: "We're each other's keeper". This made me understand, once more, that we should all dance in the rhythm of an autumn rhapsody, instead of marching towards mass destruction. This means that we should care for each other, provide mutual help and understanding, while aiming for fulfillment.

     [listen to: Dabin - Hold (feat. Daniela Andrade)]

    In previous article's used picture, I stated as capture: "Stars are our home and among them we shall return". We see stars as being tiny spots from down here, but they have the greatest power in spreading light! That's what I call home...

      Love,

      A.

Write, girl, write!

          *** dream, sketch, act, expose***

[Songs included]

      Days and days...

    Some days I could spend every second writting. Let it all out. Revealing every little thought causing anxiety, weakness, boundaries, tension, disbelief, doubt, failures; exposing all my lines of strength, love, care, passion, beliefs, dreams, goals, energy, imagination, views... The moments I spend writing are value-added. Spending my time composing feels like touching the sky and heading to different dimensions; I feel like my wings greet the wind and accept guiding me to the unknown.

       [listen to: Christina Novelli - Same stars]

** Stars are our home and among them shall we return **

     Sometimes I have many topics pending. One phrase here, another one there; they don't melt, there's no bound among them. But they patiently wait their turn for getting elaborated.

         And some days... (sigh) I can't even put 2 words side by side... When these days happen, I feel guilty. Guilt to my self, guilt to my mind being on reboot, as I like to call it. These days are lost days, from my point of view, as there's nothing going out off my hands to the world. When I don't write, I feel stuck. If I fail the magic formula of writing, I feel like waving my wand for no reason in this world.

     Inevitably, things like this happen. To everyone. The important thing is to acknowledge, accept and let go. Allow one's mind to relax, every now and then. Especially when we loose focus. But sketch. Can't bury the truth within...

       Lately, I felt like floating in acceptance, without the passion of living. I felt... lost. I still have that feeling shading me. But I know it will pass. I know I'm on the verge of rising again. I know... I feel things already shifting. For the good. For another round of strength; for another hit of inspiration; for another step to my dream; for one more attempt to speak my truth.

       [listen to: Marilyn Bailey - Survive]

      So, you can call this a journal page, but I'm going to keep on writing, till there's nothing left of this shape of mine... But stars dust...

        Love,

        A.

Art and science. Common traits?

    What is science? What are studies? Scientific studies... Especially the ones having as object the human mind and, therefore, behavior? If you ask me, studies are just a way for people to feel secure about their vulnerabilities, a way of telling they know what you are, a way of... Well... Boxing. A way of categorizing everything. A way of building patterns and influence masses to follow them.

   What is art, on the other hand? To the patterns?!? Something that can't be bottled up. Something that they can't put up with. Something speaking for itself and screaming creativity from any angle. How many great artists (regardless of the field) followed the masses? Merely none. How were they seen during their work? Being mind-disordered. How are they seen 100 years later? Great minds. So, why wait for our bodies to be put inside a wooden box, in order to go for what inspires our passion?

Credits: http://artgroupsdfw.com/tag/life-drawing/

   We, as beings, are always looking for approval and appreciation, as a sign of our value. We fear rejection, therefore we find security in keeping our personal views in the vault. However, a free mind may say "What can I get rejected for? An original idea, they can't agree on, yet, as they are not ready to understand".

    Now a - maybe hard to chew on - idea. Can you figure out the answer to the question "What do scientists and artists have in common?". Can you see the point they actually meet in? No? Well, in my opinion they have only 1 common trait: they embrace their views and leave behind the need for approval. They couldn't care less about either their work will finally get world wide acceptance or not. They know their minds are great and, sooner or later, someone will understand what they've put their souls into. They slip thru the masses. They don't allow the wind to wipe out their beliefs - they put them on canvas or in a scientific treaty. They don't look for an indigo to copy the blueprint, they avoid frustrations by exposing themselves in originality. And they walk alone, if necessary. They take chances and feel happy about it.

    [listen to ]Armin van Buuren ft. Nadia Ali - Feels So Good

    I'd rather be free falling from a cloud, than be the line within the walls of a box. I create art, be it accepted or not. Be it the art of understanding, or the art of confusion. Be it the art of shamelessly committing to paper what I feel, or the art of casting a loving squint. Be it the art of building my stairs for reaching a dream, or the art of seeing into your soul. I'm the artist of my own choices and the designer of my own glory! And I need no science for this...

    Love,

    A.

A dream within a dream... Larger than life!

***** When the script is impeccable, actors can't play it wrong*****

   They will never really learn our truth... We both value privacy and personal space. We can watch the stars in complete silence, yet know that what we have is there for the long run. We know we got something they don't. Is just us against the world. The T-shirt type of bond... We can both be wild and free like an ocean in storm, yet calm and unchained as stillness. We both impose respect, yet care for others. We bond in learning... We're untouchable!

   We've got the power to sustain dreams. We have enough trust to privately confess. We rely on each other's constructive feedback. We have the drive to team up, in any possible aspect of life. There's an energy among us two that can't be described by words or put in chains by any law. If all odds were against us, we would still rise above the crowds. With you by my side, I can accomplish anything. With me by your side, you can break any walls... We're unbeatable!

   [listen to] Shania Twain - We Got Something They Don't

Credits: Pinterest (http://pin.it/5b7pSCQ)

   

   We're warriors for a good cause and no villain can destroy our shield. The freedom we built will never be ruined by jealousy. Our souls are so well prepared that we can confront any challenge. Hand in hand, we will always stand tall. Our backbones are made of steel, deliberately made for battle. I teach you rebel, you put patience on my qualities list. I'm the heads up, you're the guardian of my sleep... We're invincible!

   I drown into your heart, with me you feel safe and free. We thrive to bring up the best in each other. We're on the same page on so many levels! We can't fight over shallow waters, as we share the same vision. We always swim against the tide, yet we trust we will ride the waves. We have such a strong fire, that no hurricane could ever put it up, rather amplify it. Our self confidence only grows stronger by walking alongside... We're unbreakable!

    [listen to] Westlife - Us Against the World (Wideboys remix)

   We could resist this for a thousand years, yet we'll get in the same point all over again. Our paths will always cross. When I'm with you, I glow; when you're with me, you can take that weigh off your shoulders. When we're next to each other, time is all that doesn't matter... We're simply larger than life!

Credits: https://terrye634.deviantart.com

Love always and forever!

A.

The mirror in your eyes

               ***** Lines of feelings and nothing more*****

Moon should witness powerful unions

 
  [listen to] Sofia Karlberg - Crazy in love

   I could fill tens or hundreds of walls describing your eyes. And what they tell me about your soul. And what all of this makes my heart experience...

    [listen to] Sofia Karlberg - Writings on the wall

   Your soul has a blare that not even you can understand. You're trying hard to hide it, still your eyes mirror the glow. The heart beating within you spreads a sweetness you try to cover. Yet, that fragrance follows you, enchanting everyone in your way. In your presence, the air exists for you to breath it, but you kindly share it with everyone else. Your eyelashes reveal the compassion behind the curtains, though you put up an act of strength, for hurt to skip your existence.

    [listen to] Sofia Karlberg - All of me

    Your smarts can dethrone kings and easily make a genius feel outdated. I could mash up lies on 100 feet tall buildings, yet you would see through the bricks and lash out my ignorance. Though, by the way you sketch the slightest intention of trimming, I already know your point is valid. The world cheers your mind, but they don't see that yet. That's why I'm here... To make sure your name will be cast in stone.

    [listen to] Sofia Karlberg - I got you

   I'm here to make you see what a magnificent creature you are. I'm here to lift your head above the crowds and your heart above the normal size. I'm here to give you a new lease of life and infuse new courage into your bones.

Eyes are the mirrors of our souls!

   I'm here to walk with you, when life pushes you to run; I'm here to accompany your silent journey to self acknowledgement. I'm here to feel the rain with you, I'm here to help you embrace your dreams and loosen your anxieties. I was born to hold your hand, my beloved one, and safely caress your heart. My out-of-this-world touch has a clear purpose: to make our souls beat as one, while our eyes meet... One day... 'Cause eyes never lie!

    All my love to you,

    A.

Dummy dolls and the porcelain ballerina

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        - We live in a world made of plastic perceptions! -

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      [Listen to] Sofia Karlberg - Cool kids

     Once upon a time there was a gracious, porcelain ballerina. She felt pretty satisfied with her life, as she was aware of her self worth. Once in a while, she used to take a look at other people and try to understand if she would ever fit in with a dummy dolls' pattern. Sometimes, silently, she was willing to become a cool kid, even if their way would definitely contravene her idealistic standards of life.

    During one of her evening strolls, she suddenly stopped in the middle of a crowded area. And just gained the wind of passers by...

   They all seemed to carry an easy life, in the means of interaction. They didn't really care about others' feelings, but for their opinions. They didn't give a damn on things happening outside their relaxed minds. They'd rather go for shallow, industry-created events and images. They drove fancy cars, without a direction. They used to visit malls and fall for "sales" to pedlary. They changed phones every few months, and chose by aspect or friends' reviews. These cool kids exhibited and felt proud about one night stands. They changed behavior as environment switched. They looked down on most of the people around them. They avoided inquiry. They always followed the masses. They couldn't phrase a single idea on their own. They took every given box, with no attempt to change. They were just silicone puppets. They lived for the trends. They lived inhaling city life. They couldn't afford their image to bend. They saw plain material colors. They usually asked others to do their job. And they adored being flattered.

    She, on the other hand, didn't care what people say, but for their deeds and feelings. And everything going on at a human (higher) level. She would go for deep connections and self acknowledgement. She used to take the subway, thriving to reach her goals. She would get in second hand shops, as quality at good price was of a better fit. She planned real market researches and used to fall for the the Q factor when buying something. Relationships would have their roots in mental arousal. She was always real, regardless of the road she'd be heading. She and equity were good friends. She always had a question. She would blend in with the crowds, yet her vibes would point her out. Her brain could never rest, as she loved to create a personal opinion. She was an idealist, capable of fighting for a better world. She silently observed. She would breath out her own unique style through every pore. She dreamed of the wild, she dreamed about a boundaries-free humanity. She would even be tripping every now and then. She saw every stripe of a fabric. She was a solution finder. And she couldn't stand the fake.

      Then she stopped. Disappointed by her own thoughts, she stepped aside and learned: willing to sign a contract for becoming a dummy cool doll should never be her. Differences were unbeatable...

       And she went on with her walk...

       Love,

       A

The art of confusion

   Always between "If it's meant to be, it will be" and "If you want it, go and get it"...

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  This is how the red diamond feels. She needs to make sure the brilliant is OK. All the time. She needs to find a reason to get in touch, without disturbing his freedom. She puts all her efforts in acting patiently, but she would die for being besides him. 

  Her heart is always in between... She even tries to distract herself, by looking for other precious rocks. But none shines like he does! She's too lost into his smile, too fascinated by his voice, too amazed by his honesty and kindness. She knows she wants him. She knows she needs his touch, she knows she would glance at him with the same stardust in her eyes even in another 10 years. She just knows..  She feels... She craves... Oh, my, how she longs for that connection of their beautiful minds, how she dreams of holding their hands... How she silently cries for being rescued from getting back into the dark... How she... Hopes!

   But she seems to face all odds against... He seems...  Happy like this. And she won't break this for her own... Her wing is broken, but she can remember every little word they've spoken and she learns to cherish every memory made in seconds. Though she knows this does no good to her... Though she knows she's getting deeper in the sadness's grave... Though she knows this turns her shine opaque... But she can't help it. She's too... Busy seeing him in everything and in everyone resembling for the tiniest bit; too caught in tracing the glow... Even if it's self torture, she feels like she can't escape it. Maybe she doesn't really want to?

                                                   

   
    Her heart is always in between... Like a dot in the middle of nowhere, she wants to go right, but she also wants to go left; she wants to forget his shine, but she wants to keep it forever; she wants to allow herself the chance of a new beginning, but she doesn't want to get over him. She feels trapped in a tight iron box filled with thorns. As much as she fancies escaping, she can't find the maze's end, all by herself. Though the door is open... (She may be too scared to get out... Her misery feels warm, somehow.) Though she sees the sun embracing the world outside, she needs that unique - brighter - light to make her find the will of recovery.

   She's in search of her true self, but he inspires every single word she can find to make up in a sentence; he's in charge of each heartbeat of hers; he alone can make her put some truth in smiling; only he can make her see her forgotten crown; no one else can bring her shine to surface; no other can rebuild her from ruins. 

                    [Listen to] Ryder - Ruins (BKAYE & Ben Maxwell Remix)

    A single spark would be enough for her to ignite and find him at the end of the world!

    Love,

    A.

Reviewing 7 tips for a good communication flow. As I see things...

    We, people, are considered as being able to communicate our thoughts to others. Nevertheless, I see people that often claim to be eager for communication, but - in the same time - assuming the others read their minds, thus failing dramatically at "interaction class". Others fail at "being clear" class. Others simply fail in... communicating. So, based on my experience so far, I've encountered and used - and still do - a few guidelines for a good communication flow, from my perspective.

1. Number one communication rule, as I see it? Stand up and talk face to face (if applicable); keyboard or keypad are not the best ways to express and understand reactions/ feelings;

2. Speak your mind and sustain your ideas with valid arguments. Don't leave room to interpretation, unless you're playing a part (which should be considered as last resort - preferably avoided);

3. Give "too many details" - Help others connect the dots.

      I was told many times "You give me too many details, when all I needed was a yes or no". Never consider as "giving too many details". From my experience, most of the times, details are the key or lead to the key of solving a problem or speeding up things. When you have "too many details" put together, you can see the entire picture. Why to provide or accept to be given just a small part, when you can have all of it? If you can't make use of this piece of information, maybe someone else can connect the dots.

4. Ask questions

    Never fall for the trap "Why do you ask questions, instead of just acting as I instructed?". Why should I just act? Sorry, but I have a brain and I have the right to use it, before taking any action!

5. Always be the "heads-up" guy.

     If you can and you believe the person next to you may benefit, share information, don't keep it to yourself. This saves a lot of time and avoids unpleasant experiences, to everyone. You will be thanked for!

6. Filter the information you receive and, if you don't agree, state it clearly. There may be people able to read minds, but most of us can't. So, assuming this as a fact might not help.

7. Short stories may bring some artistic value, but might not always be of actual help. Therefore, as tempted as you may be to add "flowers and rainbows", try to stick to the subject.

    I've been put in so many difficult situations because of faulty communication... And maybe that's why I choose to do it my way - communicate all I know and, where's a gap, fill it. Saves so much time!

 
   As a short recap:

- stand up and talk face to face;

- speak your mind - saves lots of efforts;

- sustain your point of view with valid arguments;

- use as many details as you consider necessary for a clear interaction;

- make use of your brain before releasing your thoughts; filter them a bit;

- instead if assuming that you know what the other thinks, fill the gaps before they appear - is as simple as asking.

- consider the topic.

     If you've come so far, ask yourself: do all these make sense? Is there any valid point you can agree with? Don't take anything for granted. Confront with your own opinion and act accordingly. Being complacent and taking others' words as replacement for your own thoughts is not the best way to really see things.

      Love,

      A.

1 Good thought to give to yourself. WAKE UP CALL: Oxygen infusion

    Lately, I'm more and more drawn into what is going on in this worlrd. Meaning that a piece of news can touch me deeper than ever before. Some say this is part of the becoming-aware process. Could be. But, regardless of the name of this, I know I'm experiencing an interesting episode. As well as I have something to say and that I need to pass it on, to all of you.

     Long story short, today I need to ring another alarm. This time for oxygen providers: trees.

   The day before yesterday, while I was "tuned" into world disasters, I came across some article. As I was reading the comments, I got intrigued. Someone wrote: "Trees regenerate; we should care about people, not useless things". In that instant, I recalled a face to face discussion I had about a month ago with a dear friend. He said: "Compared to people, trees actually benefit this world". Trying to build a bridge between these 2 points of view, I realized that's impossible. Because my friend is damn right!

    While people tend to be more and more eager to destroy surroundings, trees feed every living creature. They provide the most valuable "asset" of this world: oxygen. 

     Now, to put up an answer for the first guy I mentioned, I say: Dude, you try to breath for an hour in a polluted area, then go for a walk in a park. Or escape for a week into an oasis. Now, can you tell the difference? Where do you feel more likely to inhale beneficial air?

  

     I'll always go for the green... Just think about the energy you get when connecting to a healthy zone. And you're charged no dime for the favor! And then think about your state of mind when returning to civilization. Is there anything strange going on within you? Strange as in "I don't want to go back there (in the city)". If something similar happens to you, I believe is time for you to hear this out: Take a good look around you and admit that we CANNOT live without trees!

      As for me? I'd rather make use of the advantages provided by today's technology, instead of printing a receipt... Birocracy can wait untill a sequoia tree is all grown up!

Love,

A.

Thank you, single!

    People usually label single people as "being picky" or "not good enough for a partnership" or "too stubborn for compromise". I wonder why people don't look at the other side, as well? Maybe those who are single chose that or are not willing to put themselves in a predefined box.

    We should be happy for the ones in happy relationships (which are fewer and fewer), not to envy them, but not to blame ourselves for not having that either. We have tons of examples around us - at least from an observer perspective - that may conclude that being single is NOT the worst that could ever happen.

    Single people don't have to dwell over never-ending fights. They don't have to be alone in two (the only one trying to make it work, I mean), always trying to figure out how to fix something already broken. And they don't have to face a heart break, when everything is over. Oh, and take it from the scratch, with their heart in stitches.

    Think about it. If you are single, you:

• own every decision and consequence of it;
• face no restrictions in applying your thoughts;
• have the total freedom of chasing your dreams, without being held in a dead spot you can't move forward from;
• have all the time in the world to think, analyze, discover, understand and take the actions that suit you and your beliefs/ wishes;
• have no need to feed or brush the egos of others;
• don't have to apologize for things you never did or don't feel guilty for;
• learn things about your strength that you would have never while in two;
• can read, dance, travel and do whatever else that brings you joy, without a time limit.

    [Listen to]

    Destiny's Child - Happy face

    Than why not enjoy all these?

   As referred to in some previous writing of mine, doctrines are the ones that make us think we need a partner to feel safe, to feel loved, to feel complete. But, if you give it a thought from a different angle, you will see how much compromise, hurt and alone time you can experience within a relationship, as well.

   In other words, if you are single, wake up every day with a smile and the thought "another day to do what I love, another chance to experience new things, another day to learn about myself and the world around me, another day with no boundaries and egos to feed, another perfect day to help and make something important with my life". Just breath deeply and start your day with that optimistic mood. There's nothing to hold you back, nothing to drag you down and nothing to make you feel otherwise than grateful. Your life is wonderful! Live it as such! You already know that the choice is all yours...

    Love,

    A.

MESSAGE TO THE WORLD: When disaster strikes... Time to change!

   I saw a post, re-posted it on my Facebook profile. A video about an empty area, about people waiting for disaster to hit their doors, about people who have already left and about people having nowhere to shelter from it. I felt outrage, I felt deep disappointment, I felt discourage and I felt the helplessness in those images.

   I read comments, hundreds of them. Some people guided the photographer to run, others were writing words of encouragement for the best outcome from this sad experience.

    People are afraid of loosing everything, including their lives. But some people are just too stubborn to leave a dangerous place. Those people just wait... (Of course, no one can force them.) Maybe some of them rely on their trust and faith in God. However, regardless the power of faith and hope, people need to be brave enough and admit they might meet God the next moment if they take no action by themselves.

 

     A hurricane is terrible!. I've seen news on the topic (God forbid to ever face it in real life!). Don't know why I never felt what I feel now. Have no clue why I never understood the real pain inside all of this. But today is different. Today I am scared. I am afraid for all people having to experience such thing, wherever they are from, no matter their roots, no matter their hearts, regardless their beliefs. Yes, I admit! I am afraid for human beings; I am afraid for helpless animals (though it's said they feel it coming and they hit the highway way before people); I am afraid for billions of trees that will never get to grow, for old trees that will have their roots taken out of the ground, for tiny elegant flowers being pulled and wiped out. I am afraid!

    This takes me back to my "What if...?" article. And I think... If we were better, would all of this still happen? Should we have been forced to go thru all this torment, be it only on a thoughtful conscious level? Would we, actually, be learning to feel hurt for others and consider everyone part of this infinite creation? Would we be directing our good thoughts and hopes to the ones facing this?

     Michael Jackson - Earth Song

     I don't know, I can't tell. But I'm afraid!

    All of you our there that still have a place to be living in tomorrow, still have everyone around you safe, still have food to decorate your tables and stomachs with, still get to see the light of sun the next minute, still having the happiness of hearing a song, still having the joy of touching a living flower and pet a healthy animal, hold your child's or parent's or a friends's hand, be grateful! Because tomorrow may never come. Be thankful today. Wake up, wipe your eyes and stop being concerned by useless things. Enjoy what you have, while it lasts. Pray for the ones in need and help whoever you can, whatever way you can! Be good! Stop spreading hatred, stop judging, stop blaming, stop killing, stop devastating places, people, feelings with your bare hands! Stop fabricating greedy ideas for personal welfare. Stop doing this to YOU and OTHERS!

     God spread bliss around the globe!

     Michael Jackson - Heal The World
     Michael Jackson - Man In The Mirror

     Ronan Keating - If Tomorrow Never Comes

     To all of you going thru crucial moments right now: today's Saint - Anna - and God guide you!

     All love,

     A.

Finder's, keeper's

      No matter what it is, when you find something you like/want/love/need, keep it. Never let go. Fight hard, if you have to, but don't let go. Ever!

      Experience is a great teacher. Short story of today... Do you know the runner in cartoons? Well, picture me in that landscape. I was like that little running thing, but for solving stuff, not escaping the coyote. Well.. By the time the day was already half, I realized it's Saint Mary's name day. My elder kid's day. And I had NO TOY! So, the runner speeds up again during sleep hours...  For a particular piece of toy. Actually, two. And I found one. All good. Then I searched all nearby stores for the second one (2 kids, 2 similar toys - different heroes, different colors, same concept - with vehicle. Dang!). The irony? Yesterday, the toy was there, but I didn't realize the upcoming event. Today, it was gone. So I had to find a...  Substitute.. No vehicle, though.  

       Moral of the story? As said in the beginning, never refuse yourself the pleasure of small things, that can brighten your day or someone else's. I just did for my child. And I felt awful!

      Coming back to personal development stage, I don't mean to go for things we think we can't live without, on the spot. We still need to filter stuff. But, if we really feel that thing/ experience may bring an added value to us, I firmly believe we should go for it (without feeling guilty about it, but considering not to involve hurting others in the achievement process).

    What do I mean by "Finder's, keeper's"? Well... I guess that's a principle a bit mis-intepreted. From my point of view, we should use "Finder's, keeper's" for too personal stuff. But "Finder's, sharer's", when it comes to helping others grow. Or lift their spirit. Or make them see their inner hero and let it unveil. One example? If you find spotlight without looking for it, but you see someone needing it, make room. You can coordinate from backstage, if necessary.

        Love,

        A.