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Brazilian photographer and former UA contributor Joćo Paglione and I were chatting online last night. We were discussing the benefits of connecting with people. Joćo is a great connector and we met years ago through a mutual friend. I know like myself, Joćo loves to learn but I wondered about the actual benefit of meeting so many different people. Is there supposed to be an education process or is it just useless chitchat? How can you be certain either way? Joćo couldn't believe I would question such a thing in the age of the Internet where six degrees of separation has never been more evident. Isn’t meeting new and interesting people from all around the world the ultimate inspiration?
Joćo is a unique artist and world traveler. Through the years we exchanged stories and adventures online.
"Guess who I'm talking to now?" I'll say.
Joćo directs me, "Hey look at my new project on Flickr."
Maybe this is what creative types do? They mix and mingle and share when circumstances permit. When you read about artists drinking together in pubs at the turn of the century was it the equivalent of relating on MySpace in the twenty first century? I admire the work of some artist and then it happens, I start researching. Something clicks in my brain a feeling wells up in my chest, I hold back for a day or two but inevitably I am compelled to inquire what went into making their project happen. I don’t know for certain, but I suppose that’s what Joćo and I have in common.
I'm going to keep it simple today......
I ain't where I wanna be, but at least I ain't where I was and for that I am grateful.
The weirdest thing happened tonight. I signed on to check my email spam and two male friends were logged on. Both messaged me at the same for feedback on relationships. It seems that both of these delightful gentlemen have been approached; one by an ex girlfriend and the other by as recent encounter of the same sex persuasion and both needed a little direction. They explained there recent dilemmas and I typed back with every ounce of gentleness I could muster. Ahh to be young and in love again. NO THANK YOU. Hehe
"Well do you still love her?" I asked oh so tenderly.
To the other I said, "Remember how poorly he treated you the last time, and you are so much better than that!"
Back and forth until both were ready to sign off and get a good nights sleep, comforted in the knowledge that everything was going to be all right now that they had talked to wise old Liz. Sweet dreams darlings. I hope it all goes well for you, but if it doesn't you know where to find me.
Eyelids - Stye
A stye, or hordeolum, is a bacterial infection of a gland along the edge of the eyelid (usually near an eyelash follicle). The result is a small, itchy red bump at the lash line. Sties may eventually drain and heal on their own, usually in about one week. What Causes Styes? Styes are caused by staphylococcal bacteria. This bacterium is often found in the nose, and it's easily transferred to the eye by rubbing first your nose, then your eye.
The first step in easing your discomfort and encouraging the stye to drain is to apply a warm compress to the area, usually three to four times a day. This can help bring the pimple-like bump to a head. If the stye does not drain on its own, we can prescribe an antibiotic ointment. In some cases, we may use an alternate medication or oral antibiotics instead. Rarely, an in-office procedure is needed to physically drain and remove the stye.
You should never attempt to puncture or squeeze a stye, because this can spread infection and lead to further complications. Instead, if you do not find relief from warm compresses, see a Doctor. A stye itself is not usually a serious condition but, if left untreated, excessive irritation or complication could occur.
This month has been a rollercoaster ride. I'm over it. Just really over this entire month. Bring on December even if it does include my birthday and Christmas. One minute it seems nothing is going my way and the next minute everything is smooth sailing and then its all upside down again.
I found another place to live and thats good. I was passed over for more hours at work, thats bad. Found an extra job under the table- awesome! Have to forfeit the addictional money on the new place *groan*. I planned two social engagements then had to take a pass on both due to a cold. Speaking of cold its freezing here in Philly.
Hows about a little cheese with that whine, Liz? Oh sure there is plenty more where that came from. Once I get my screenplay finished, how will I get it made? I don't think I've obsessed on THAT enough today. *Sigh*
This person bothers me too much, that person doesn't bother me enough. I'm taking more vitamins and eating healthier, so why isn't it showing? It's like I want tomorrow's results yesterday. Get back in today girlfriend it's all you've got.
OK enough of this now, I'm getting on my own nerves.
I'll be there hanging out with DJ Robert Drake and DJ Pussy Galore. Come out and dance with me to 80's music. Now you KNOW thats gonna be fun! I might even fall off my platforms and you don't want to miss that.
Today's thought is:
Pray to God, but row to shore.
--Russian proverb
As each of us gets in touch with the specific ways to serve, it is tempting to judge the importance of our work by comparing it to someone else's achievements. And when that person or group earns more money, receives more praise and recognition, or influences more people, our efforts may feel diminished in stature.
But the truth of the matter is that the spiritual path is not a "numbers game." Ways of serving cannot be compared to one another. Each mission is just as important as the next. All assignments are equal.
Your job is to discover what your purpose is - and then fulfill it. It does not matter how small your contribution may seem. You have a special part to play that no one else can duplicate. All assignments are equal.
Pray to God, but row to shore feels like the answer for me these days. The last time I felt this free and this clear about a matter was when I left my job of seven years. Literally, I felt the weight lift. Sometimes, you are so clear that your heart speaks and a calmness washes over you. When that happens I know I'm on the rght path and there is no turning back on the truth.
There was a time in my life when I argued with that voice. Now on the drop of a dime something speaks, I hear and I go with it. No more negotiations. The trust resonates within. It's a trust like no other. It's perfect guidance and I don't get lost. I let it be my map.
I hate it when my b/F goes shopping without me.
I really like this ed hardy cap. Tell me what you think?
Well, it's that time of year again. All Saints Day? No. Hanukkah? Nope. Christmas? NOOO!!!! MY BIRTHDAY silly! December 9th. Sure, getting older can be disturbing to say the least, but you can help me glide through this challenge by distracting me with wonderful presents. As always, I'm committed to making your gift giving occasion for me a simple, fun filled and rewarding process. Currently, you will find my Amazon wishlist updated and fabulous. I always tell people this is your best bet when shopping for me. It contains the things I truly want. Of course as always, I request that you buy me USED books and CD's from the list whenever possible. Lets drive those prices down people! In the event that you are forced to shop elsewhere for me- Tiffany & Co. is my second choice. I will gleefully accept anything from there as well. As promised, I may not be cheap, but I am easy. ENJOY!
"I am not a liberator. Liberators do not exist. The people liberate themselves." - Che Guevara
I'm really back into reading the autobiography of Che Guevara. I put this enormous book down at one point and got into starting other things. It's really fascinating the way this man seeing what went on around him, was transformed from a medical student to guerrilla rebel and author. No one, not even him, saw these changes coming but one day he found himself a leader in South America and a force to be reckoned with worldwide. I'm not judging his politics, just stating that I admire his transformantion based on principle.
Sometimes I find people want to judge me. Either because of what I once was or what they think I should be. I'm uplifted one day, ripped down the next hailed by some and rejected by others. Neither really matters much to me. I know I do my best and I know who I am- a spiritual being having a human experience. I accept myself for the most part flaws and all.
I saw Michael J. Fox on The Actors Studio tonight. He said he wasn't trying to "12 step" anyone but that life is all about surrender and acceptance. He was so brilliant and articulate; yet so physically damaged by his disease. Recently I traveled upstate to visit someone who is imprisoned. This person did some amazing things with his life before he was incarcerated and he was generous enough to encourage my efforts when I contacted him for some creative advice. This was my first time actually meeting him face to face and I must admit to being taken aback. What I saw before me was very different than the imagined person I correspond with. I saw a flawed individual, still brilliant but scathed from depression and an inadequate prison rehabilitation system.
Accepting myself for where I am is a tough process. Taking the good with the bad is never easy but I hold out hope that I will evolve and be better than who I am today. If I want that hope for myself then why deprive others of the same hope for their lives?