Ma'at: Truth, Justice, Righteousness, Harmony, Balance and Reciprocity... To seek, explore and live the virtues of Ma'at in the journey of Earthschool... all in Pursuit of Excellence
Let me start with many thanks - asante sana - to Cheryl Alexander, the Christian Education Committee and the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit of Bridgeport, Connecticut. To be invited to provide the culminating activity for their Black History Month Observances was an honor and a privilege... To also gain a glimpse of the vision of Bishop Kenneth Moales was simply inspiring!
Set within the heart of the African American community in Bridgeport, Bishop Moales' vision for what the people of God can do is nothing short of magnificent. Already operating a nursery school and a certified elementary school (Love Christian Academy), plans are in the works for a senior citizens housing complex... Then there's the ten million dollar facility - a majestic church - surely a beacon to a community in need... Wow! Indeed, I was blessed!
My thirty-minute poetic journey through Black history and culture began at the beginning of time and moved swiftly through time... Using selections from both Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground, Obamatyme: Election Poetry and the CD, From the 60's Spirit: Poems From The Black, my poetry spoke to our antiquity and contributions to world civilization (Inventors) and to our forced migration in enslavement (Lest We Forget); it gave reminders of our triumphant struggle for freedom (The Road Has Been Long... Until) and the historic celebration of our recent election (Obamatyme: Step Up!). I also wanted to bring our awareness to the historical backdrop of the disaster in Haiti (The Republic of Haiti), as well as prick the consciousness of our youth in challenging them to be mindful of their entertainment practices (What Are YOU Watching?!).
Thirty-minutes flew by as I recited poetry, sang and exhorted the congregation to look deeply into the lens of where we have been and where we need to go. I wanted them to know about the less examined persons and events of our history (Diamonds From The Rough)... I wanted to know if Life inspires them (Inspire) and what do they hope for (Hope: A Meditation for 2010)...
Passionate and deliberate, my poetry was at once lyrical and searing... I wanted to touch the people with the knowledge of who we are - our journey, struggles, achievements and potential. It is humbling to feel a measure of success; upon my completion, the congregation rose to their feet, their appreciation washing over me and filling me up with gratitude for the gift God has given me to give.
Signing books, talking with folks and greeting well-wishers made for beautiful fellowship, along with the shower of gorgeous flowers - long stem red roses - that were presented to me. On the train ride back to Philadelphia, gazing at those lovely roses and remembering warmly, I know that I am blessed.
Thank You Cathedral of the Holy Spirit... continue to bless the people!
2010 is off and running... January is already history and February is about to be... I have had some down time, but am preparing to be quite busy... My talk show radio interview with Sherri J of ZBM radio in Bermuda served as the kick-off for a season of going here and there, doing my thing!
I am blessed to manifest my talents in a variety of ways... Sherri's interview showcased my work in education, poetry, personal empowerment and advocacy for historical and cultural literacy, especially in children. The one hour interview flew by as we talked about the character education program I developed, "Ashay: Rites of Passage", and the importance of children of African descent having accurate knowledge about their heritage. Fond of the African proverb, "If you don't know where you came from, you can't know where you are going," our conversation about the need for historical grounding, especially as it relates to our contributions to world civilization, captured listeners and had the phones ringing!
The conversation continued with Sherri noting that her elementary school son was part of a special program I conducted on global African inventions... She recounted that her son came home excited about the things he had learned... the fire extinguisher, potato chips, even the mop, all invented by black people (inventors TJ Marshall, Hiram Thomas, Thomas W. Stewart, respectively).
I was very pleased to announce the "Know Thy Self" empowerment seminar I will be conducting in Bermuda in April. Under the auspices of the Honorable Dale Butler, JP, MP, the one-day seminar will be held at the beautiful Lido's at Elbow Beach and feature an interactive, rejuvenating day of self-discovery towards self-empowerment with exercises highlighting self-care, stress management, goal-setting and joy-finding. After a light lunch, the journey into self-knowledge continues with global African history... always eye-opening! Needless to say, I was excited when informed by Mr. Butler, two listeners signed up right after the radio interview!
Throughout the interview, I offered poetry that illuminated our varied topics of discussion and it was a great time for me and my gracious host... I am looking forward to a return invitation!
Next blog: A return trip to Connecticut to present "Poetic Reflections on Black History at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bridgeport on Sunday, February 28th at 10 am.
It's been an awesome couple of months, workin' the work and doing what I love... so much so that I haven't had the time to blog! But as a new year - and a new decade - have arrived, I need to start it off right! The YouTube video above is an example of some of what I've been doing, but please read on for further explanation!
My activities since my last blog have taken me from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Bermuda to Tanzania and Zanzibar, to Dallas, Texas and New Haven, Connecticut, and back again! Exhilirating, exciting, affirming, intense, challenging, surprising, eye-opening, joyful and uplifting; these words accurately describe the various awesome experiences I have been privileged and blessed to have lately. Let me start with the surprising:
Visiting one of the Borders' bookstores that is, unfortunately, closing at the end of the month, I decided to suggest Obamatyme to a gentleman who was intently looking over similarly titled books. As I approached him, book in hand, to my delight, he was already holding it! "You already have it!", I said with much surprise. His response: "Oh yes! I have her Soul Poemsand what she is saying is wonderful... inspiring! I had to come and get this one too." I hung on to every word as he went on, excited to share, "Her poem "Movin'" is so inspirational!" At that point, I said "Thank you so much!" He said, "You know her?" Laughing, I respond, "I is her!" Well that started a simply joyful conversation for both of us. Jerome ended up purchasing two copies of Obamatyme and I introduced him to my husband while personalizing the already autographed copies. Truly excited about being in the bookstore and meeting the author of a newfound book, he nearly walked into the glass wall! Laughing, he told us we had made his day; truth be told, he made mine too.
In fact, I've had a season of day-making experiences! Having the sacred opportunity to travel to East Africa and participate in the fifth annual African Diaspora Heritage Trail (ADHT) conference in The Republic of Tanzania was a special highlight! I conducted a workshop for college students during the Youth Summit at the University of Dar es Salaam, read poetry at a posh club at the conference hotel, met and gave books to Danny Glover and Bernice Johnson Reagon, founder of Sweet Honey and The Rock... I'm talking awesome!
On the sobering side of this trip, when people talk about the enslavement experience, it is usually about the TransAtlantic Slave Trade from West Africa to Europe to the Americas. The East African version was equally as cruel and brutal with the added twist of elephant slaughter with the exportation of their tusks - ivory. Instead of enslavement dungeons, aka "castles", found on the west coast of Africa, i.e., Ghana, in Tanzania you have "slave chambers" - a earth-hole with an open iron-mesh roof a foot above ground. Heartbreaking! An enslavement memorial of bronze, life-size statutes of African men, women and children, standing in a large, barren, earth-hole, shackled, was nearly too much to bear, yet, bear witness we must! (A thought-provoking enslavement memorial needs to be erected in Washington, DC!)
Originally a tourism initiative founded in Bermuda, ADHT has as its main goal to identify, preserve, perpetuate and promote heritage sites significant to the history and culture of people of African descent. Once this has been achieved, interested persons will be able to visit the various ADHT sites all over the world. The sites range from places of accomplishment to sites of struggle to the very emotionally-charged enslavement dungeons, chambers, etc. ADHT attendees include government officials, scholars, teachers, students and people who love history and culture. Danny Glover is the Honorary Chair and participation includes representatives from international institutions such as UNESCO and The African Union, various countries from the Caribbean, Africa, North America and Europe. Without a doubt, the awesome opportunity to learn, share, discuss and connect on the Motherland is indeed a tremendous blessing that was truly eye-opening, intense, challenging and affirming!
Conducting a Kwanzaa workshop and meditation at the University of North Texas and at the Kwanzaa Train Celebration in Bermuda, reminds me of what this important cultural holiday is really all about. How we live and actualize daily the Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles - Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Creativity, Purpose and Faith - is the bottom-line of Kwanzaa. Asante sana - many thanks - to Dr. Maulana Karenga for his vision in creating this most meaningful observance, now celebrated by millions of people of African descent worldwide. Thanks also to Sister Cheryl Smith, radio personality and host of The Reporter's Journal in Dallas, Texas. We had a wonderful conversational interview about poetry and our visits to Africa!
Finally, to have the honor of being the keynote speaker for the annual "Thank You Rosa Parks Celebration" in New Haven, Connecticut was a heady experience too. Given my first taste of the "star treatment", I was assigned a "personal assistant" and had both a photographer and security guard who all followed my every move! I delivered "Poetic Reflections on the Life and Times of Rosa Parks", a performance piece that combined poetry, song, historical/cultural facts, reflection and exhortation, illuminating the story of Mama Rosa. I am most pleased to report that folks rose to their feet upon its conclusion. The New Haven Independent Newspaper did a wonderful story and posted me on YouTube which you encountered at the top of this post! (If you check it out, you know I'd love to hear your feedback... )
As I walk firmly into a new year and new decade, I continue to be humbled and amazed by the responses I receive in the course of doing what I love: amazed and humbled that my poetry resonates and speaks to people from their inside places. My heart is filled, humbled, joyful and mystified all at the same time - that I can write poems that touch people!
Gentle Reader, be filled with positive anticipation for the wondrous life you are living and decide daily that you will live it fully, snatching every blessed opportunity, open and ready! You best believe I am!!! Giving all praise to the Ultimate Creator of which creativity springs and wishing for each of you the very best the new year and new decade can bring! May your cups overflow...
It has been an exciting time for this educator who is also a poet and I am blessed! After numerous poetry readings, book-signings and Q&A sessions, I am still loving this work even as the schedule has been vigorous, interesting and... amazing.
The schedule of events has been vigorous indeed! Several Borders Bookstore events in the Philadelphia area, along with several private poetry readings and book-signings in Philadelphia and in Bermuda all within 6 weeks time! Mercy! It has also been vigorous because of the style of my poetry and the energy required to convey the poems with feeling and meaning. Loving the work is an absolute necessity because of the necessary repetition from one event to another. (I am reminded that the esteemed Frederick Douglass had a vigorous speaking schedule and matching exercise schedule, including lifting weights and walking 5 miles daily, to stay up to the task. This author has started a walking regiment of a mile or two 4 to 5 days a week and daily stretching to keep her edge. By the way, Mr. Douglass' hand weights are on display at his house - now a national treasure - in Anacostia, Washington, D.C.)
The events have been interesting because of the variety of people who specifically come to hear the poetry, the folks who stop in their tracks because a phrase from a Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground poem catches their ears or their eyes are drawn to President Obama's formal portrait on the cover of Obamatyme: Election Poetry.
Then there's the questions - talk about interesting! When reading from Obamatyme, I have gotten pointed questions regarding U.S. foreign policy, the state of race relations, the reality of global warming and a host of issues and challenges. At a Borders store in a popular mall, one elderly lady who stopped to listen to me read the poem "Michelle" about our First Lady, asked me if the First Lady liked white people! Huh? Where did that come from? I suggested that she not listen to the stereotypically presented radio talk shows, a certain cable channel and the like...
Yet, I have also gotten amazing feedback; people have said the poems are funny, refreshing and insightful. They have also said the poems make them think - always music to a poet's ears and an educator's sensibilities! In fact, the journey has been amazing in many ways. Repeat invitations are always wonderful, but I am estatic about my personal discovery of another way to present my work as an educator-poet: Private poetry readings where the host invites their interested friends. I'm talkin' a gathering of good people, good food and good conversation punctuated by poetry! In fact, I have decided that this is a very cool way to provide a fun, cultural, intellectual, social affair in an intimate and stimulating environment. Truly fabulous.
But the most amazing thing of all is receiving an award! The National Best Books 2009 Awards has named Obamatyme: Election Poetry a winner in the genre of Urban Poetry! Sponsored by USA Book News, Best Books Awards reviews thousands of books each year in every imaginable category of writing from fiction and non-fiction to spirituality and self-help to children's books to home and garden to technical information and audio books to...poetry and more. This year's announcements gave kudos to 500 authors from major publishing houses to small, independent publishers like The Elevator Group.
I am amazed! Can there be anything better than to do the work you were born to do... and love it too?
Both Obamatyme: Election Poetry and Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground are available for purchase at Borders Bookstores, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com, etc. Check me out and let me know what you think!
The launch of Obamatyme: Election Poetry and Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground has been awesome and continues to unfold as an experience I will cherish and always remember!
Beginning with the International Book Launch held at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel in Bermuda, guests were greeted by the pulsating rhythms of drummers, setting the tone for the evening's events. The guests arrived to a beautifully decorated Gazebo Ballroom overlooking the Hamilton harbor: lots of candles and African accents of statues and fabric - mudcloth and kente - along with lovely palm ferns and the scent of frankincense wafting throughout. With tasty hors d'oeuvres and punch, guests mingled, chatting and chewing, until the main event - the poetry reading. But I'm getting a little ahead of myself...
Having sent out press releases, I was delighted to be featured in all three Bermuda newspapers - Ira Philip, MBE, columnist at The Mid-Ocean News, wrote a wonderful piece and a follow-up article entitled, "Melodye was in captivating form at book launch;" articles were also featured in The Bermuda Sun and The Royal Gazette's Lifestyles' article, "Igniting the passions of a poet" is featured on-line; I was delighted to see my picture on the front page of the paper! An interview on popular radio station HOTT 1075 completed a bit of a publicity blitz prior to the event.
Scheduled just before the actual launch, the Premier of Bermuda, Dr. Ewart Brown, JP, MP, graciously invited me to a formal Cabinet visit in his office in honor of the publication of Obamatyme. Of course, it was a humbling experience to present my poetry book to the head of this beautiful island, but to have him offer to personally deliver my book poetry to the President of the United States during his visit to Washington was overwhelming!!! Needless to say, I was nearly overcome with emotion - first shock, then gratitude - and have since delivered signed copies for Premier Brown to present to President Obama... and look forward to his report! It was on the heals of this visit that my husband and I went to the book launch at the Princess.
Warmly introduced by Bermuda Senator Thaao Dill, I proceeded to read from Soul Poems and Obamatyme... The audience of 50 included friends who had flown in from the United States, Bermuda family, friends and colleagues; all received the poetry with appreciation - clapping, laughing and reflecting on the various messages of history and hope, love and challenge - a standing ovation filled my heart with love, humility and pride and my eyes with tears. God is awesome!!! It was a glorious day followed up with guest appearances on Progressive Talk Radio, a book signing at True Reflections Bookstore and the featured poet at Chewstick, the premier poetry venue in Bermuda! CITV interviewed me and filmed the affair; Bermuda Rocks! will air a special segment on this poet next month... Underscoring the success of the launch: of the 100 books shipped to Bermuda, 98 sold in 4 days!!!
It was a book launch whirlwind that followed me to Philadelphia.
Borders, Borders, Borders! I am so excited to read and sign books at my favorite bookstore! First the Warrington store let me get my feet wet and enjoy the moment. Over the next couple of weeks, I will share my poems at the Borders Bookstores in Center City (10/2), Chestnut Hill (10/3), Plymouth Meeting Mall (10/9) and Willow Grove Mall (10/10).
In between, the event at Renee Bolden Designs was another warm and wonderful weekend of poetry reading, provocative discussion, good eats and fellowship. I was blessed to be supported by good friends, family and neighbors who did not count it robbery to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon poetry-engaged... And engaged they were, telling me they need to have a CD of my reading, do a one-woman play, when is the next book coming out, etc., etc.! Whew!!!
The photos from these events tell the story... Both my Bermuda-home and my Philadelphia-home book launch for Obamatyme: Election Poetry and Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground were welcoming, encouraging and embracing, taking me up, up and away!
Counting down the days of my soon-to-be released poetry books! Needless to say, I've been very busy with pre-publication business and readings... It has been an intense learning experience! Yet I am incredibly blessed that a serious intellectual reviewed Obamatyme: Election Poetry and one of America's prolific poets and founder of Third World Press reviewed Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground. In both cases, I am ecstatic that the response has been, well, poetry to the ears of a poet... but more on that in a moment.
As I wrote a few months ago, the conventional wisdom is poetry is a hard sell on a good day. One of the many things I have learned in this process is the uncompromising necessity to stay centered, believe in oneself and the vibrancy of your work. You cannot go into any venture with a self-defeating belief system. It also helps to love what you do and for that love to be obvious. So let me be clear: I LOVE what I do...
I love to read my poetry and engage the audience around the topics that are reflected in the poems. Of late, the poetry readings have had a couple dozen folks, almost entirely women, talking about... everything! One poem would lead to another... I had to learn not to read the entire book! Seems once I get started, the juices start flowing, the energy crackles and I am off and into it whether poeting about education, history or sister-friendship.
At a reading at Renee' Bolden's Designs in Philadelphia, one participant was so moved that she wrote on her Facebook page: "I had the good fortune to share an afternoon enjoying the wit and inspiring truth of Melodye Micere Van Putten. Melodye Micere charmed us with narratives explaining the inspiration for the poems and then created a safe environment with her voice to experience the many emotions evoked on life, love and politics."
This was the first public comment made about my work; I continue to be thrilled! Shortly thereafter, I received an e-mail from a participant at Book Expo America in NY after she read an advance copy of Obamatyme. She wrote,"How to comment on poetic passion except to say you swept me up, embraced me in your Baracklove and carried me along with the flow of your vibrant pen?"
In West Haven, Connecticut, a dear friend opened her home and invited her sister-friends to a private poetry reading. Summer delights were offered: strawberries, blueberries, several kinds of cheeses and crackers, summer sausage, salsa and chips and a couple bottles of wine. Twenty-two ladies, beautifully dressed, and one young man - Pat's nephew - came to hear me read. Two hours later, we had discussed the presidential campaign, love lost and found, history and the pursuit of truth and knowledge, and even the situation with a certain Boston professor. When I asked for feedback on the poetry, one lady licked her lips, said, "mmmm...delicious!" Humorous and satisfying!
For sure, it is an incredible feeling of joy, awe and humility when one is affirmed in one's purpose and muse by the audience. It is also deeply gratifying when a former mentor reviews your work affirmatively. I had to re-read Soul Poems in its entirety when Dr. Haki Madhubuti, University Distinguished Professor and Director of the MFA Program in Creative Writing at Chicago State University, and Founder of Third World Press (the largest Black-owned publishing house in the United States), wrote his review: "Melodye Micere speaks with a voice of authority and caring. Her Soul Poems demand that we listen, internalize her articulations and enter her landscape of living words. This book is refreshing, thoughtful and welcoming."
Wow! But I must admit that I am still trying to digest the words of one of America's premier intellectuals, Dr. Cornel West (Class of 1943 Professor, Princeton University), after his review of Obamatyme: "Melodye Micere Van Putten is a talented poet whose love for truth and justice is quite evident in Obamatyme. Don't miss it!"
Wow... again! I am on my way with reading and book signing events lined up beginning in Bermuda and moving onto Philadelphia and beyond. Both books are already available for pre-order at major bookstore chains, i.e., Borders. But if you live in the area, do check me out at Borders in Warrington (September 19th), Borders Center City (October 2nd), Borders Chestnut Hill (October 3rd) and Borders in Plymouth Meeting Mall (October 9th) and in Willow Grove Mall (October 10th). Most of these events are on Saturday and start at 2 pm. SoulSpeak, a monthly poetry venue held at The Nile Bookstore in Germantown, will feature my books on Friday, September 25th beginning at 8 pm. I will also return to Renee' Bolden's Designs in Chestnut Hill on Saturday and Sunday, September 26th & 27th starting at 1 pm for a reading and book signing. Relish Resturant in West Oak Lane will host me on Thursday, October 1st from 5 to 7pm.
I am excited, knowing that I am blessed! In hosting lunch and giving a reading for teachers who attended the Ashay Teacher Summer Enrichment Institute at my home a couple of weeks ago, I was, again, struck by the connection evident and expressed. What I know for sure: To be a culture-bearer, a wordsmith and a truth-teller in the form of an educator who also poets is a blessing, a serious privilege and a sacred honor. God is good!
Poetically yours!
P.S.: For more information, feel free to visit www.theelevatorgroup.com; I have a page where you can hear me reciting some of the poems... Also, you can check out the pictures in the "Poetry Reading" photo album... Most of all, please know that I look forward to sharing my gifts and talents with you! More later...
It's not often when a museum provides young African-American men an opportunity for a life-altering moment... but that's exactly what the Lest We Forget Black Holocaust Slavery Museum in the Kensington section of Philadelphia offers as its reason for being... but let me begin at the beginning...
Last week, I had the pleasure and privilege to conduct a teacher professional development program entitled, "Ashay Teacher Summer Enrichment Institute"at the Johnson House Historic Site - the premier Underground Railroad Museum in Philadelphia. The Johnsons were devout Quakers who fervently believed that slavery was not only wrong, but they had a moral obligation to assist freedom-seekers, a.k.a. slaves, on their journey to be free. In addition to public tours, the Johnson House has offered a variety of educational programs over the years; when they invited me to propose a program, I jumped at the opportunity to follow my educational muse - providing teachers with information that fill in the gaps regarding what I call "the lessons of empowerment" that emanate through the history and culture of people of African descent.
The Ashay Teacher Summer Enrichment Institute is an eclectic, stimulating mix of personal, professional, spiritual, cultural and historical investigations. "Know Thy Self" was experienced on the first day; it invited teachers to probe gently their own health and wellness, personally and professionally. Day two contained a plethora of global historical facts with an emphasis on practical application; "how can this information be used in the classroom to empower students?" was the question of the day. Day three was an unforgettable field trip...
The morning began with a movement meditation developed to cultivate a sense of connection to what the day's exploration of slave history would hold: teachers lined up, closely, facing a window, darkened, to symbolize moving out of the light into the terrifying darkness of a slave ship... Eyes closed, we rocked and moaned; I chokingly whispered the desperate cries of those whose horrible fate was beyond imaging. This emotional exercise was followed by a very informative tour of the Johnson House Historic Site. To know that the very floorboards where we stood had held the feet of Harriet Tubman, Lucretia Mott, William Still and even Sojourner Truth was breath-taking... What would the walls say if they could tell their secrets? The Johnson House was so prominent in the Underground Railroad Movement in Philadelphia that a picture of the house itself was drawn on runaway slave wanted posters!
The culmination of this Institute segment was the trip to the Lest We Forget Museum. To prepare us, we watched their award-winning DVD and then the tour was ON... Curators J. Justin and Gwen Ragsdale own the largest private collection of slavery hardware in the United States. Slavery hardware- I'm talkin' shackles, branding irons, chains, whips, iron face masks and mouth bits... The RAW deal on the business of enslavement: the cruelty, inhumanity, the unbelievable, stark-naked Truth. The so-called "peculiar institution" was nasty, shocking in its depravity and complete in its moral debasement. For our driver, it was too much- too much to take in emotionally or wrap the brain around intellectually. She didn't make it past the initial horrifying exhibit room and painful lecture, opting instead to sit in the lobby and read a book.
I didn't blame her. The sheer number of slavery artifacts and their variety was mind-numbing... and the stories behind the individual types of slavery hardware was difficult to hear. Before you could really process the information fully, the "Room of Shame" had its way. The thrust of this exhibit: violence against African Americans "from others and brothers" with the pointed question, "what's the difference?" Upon entering, the lynching pictures loom large and sickening; an actual blood-stained KKK robe takes center stage accompanied by a tree with authentic hanging nooses Mr. Ragsdale bravely snatched from an otherwise innocent tree. But right behind this exhibit is a coffin surrounded by dozens of funeral programs of young African American men, mostly, but a couple of young girls as well. All met an untimely and sad demise by gun, gang, drug, knife and turf violence - senseless violence. I dared not count how many lives, wasted and unfulfilled, were up on that wall!!!
Our small group of teachers was paired with another small group. Poignantly, this group was headed by a mother and her young solider-son who is being deployed to Iraq at the end of the month. He had brought his friends - mostly young Black men like himself - to the museum to share an experience he hoped would be life-changing. We observed him firmly encourage his friends to move up close and personal to the artifacts; we watched him physically nudge his buddies to really look at the wall covered with funeral programs of young men who looked just like them. He wanted them to take it in; he wanted to save their lives. Our prayers are with him as he courageously agrees to put himself in harms' way to defend our country's interest.
The Institute was truly enriched by guest lecturers and world traveling educators Theodore and Elise Erwin. The Erwins have studied in Africa every year for thirty years, visiting nearly all of the 53 countries; they have shared their wealth of knowledge in forums from universities and conferences to churches and the community-at-large. Day four featured their lectures entitled, "Ancient Egypt: Child of Africa" and "Dolls as Artifacts: A Look at Dolls from Africa and the Diaspora." Both lectures were informative and eye-opening, adding breath and depth to the teacher's expanding knowledge base.
By all accounts the Ashay Teacher Summer Enrichment Institute was a jam-packed week of study, reflection, learning, discussion and fellowship; without a doubt, the classrooms of these dedicated teachers will surely operate at a elevated level of knowledge, understanding, motivation and inspiration. I am blessed to live purposefully and it is always an honor to facilitate a teacher's journey into greater knowledge for the benefit of students.
More later... peace and blessings
P.S.: Both The Johnson House and The Lest We Forget Black Holocaust Slavery Museum host very informative educational tours for the public; for more information, visit their websites at www.johnsonhouse.org and www.lestweforgetmuseumofslavery.com and tell them I sent you...
Time is not promised... such a simple truth, yet so profound since most of us live like tomorrow is guaranteed... Certainly the sudden departure of Michael Jackson, fifty years young, needs to remind us that our days are indeed numbered and no day is promised.
Here today, gone... today! Death is a equal opportunity taker, paying no mind to age, race or gender. In a relatively short span, a number of cultural icons have left the planet... Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays, Karl Maulden... and MJ. It is wise to note that their transitions are also reminders that whatever we say we want to do, need to do, should do... we need to be about doing just that... Time is not promised!
So what is it? What makes your soul sing? What are the yearnings of your heart? What goals, dreams or aspirations have you put on hold, waiting until the time is right? What plans are being held in abeyance, what entreprenueral endeavor deemed not quite timely, what creative project have you decided is not practical to pursue at this time? And, more importantly, when is the time?
Is there ever a time to throw caution to the wind? Yes! Know this: You must not only say, "I believe in myself," you must also move in the world, aligned in action with that high belief. As I personally venture into uncharted, creative waters, my intention is to walk boldly, courageously, even fearlessly, despite the naysayers confidently holding their "stop" signs, waiting to confirm my worst fears - that my work is not needed, not good enough, not, not, not... But I am compelled to respond to the naysayers, "No, no, NO!!! Your conception of my life's journey is not my reality... unless I agree and I don't agree!"
Since time is not promised, you must say "NO" to the naysayers within and without. Say "NO" to the doubt that would keep you from soaring and realizing a taste of your potential for greatness. Say "YES" to the unlimited potential that truly is within yourself, knowing that if you say "yes" the Universe will say "yes" too.
The dear souls that have have recently left the Earthplane said "yes"; this is why we call their names... Michael's "yes" was so huge, so impactful, that the entire world has taken note of his passing. Imagine that! The Gloved One shouted "Yes!" to the Creative Divine Source and tapped into an energy that produced a creative tour d'force made manifest as the soundtrack of our lives. RIP
As for those of us, still in the Land of the Living, since "now" is all there ever is, "when" will you say "yes"?
Words, wordsmyths, word-throwers and word-catchers... As a writer and poet, oh!, how I love words!
Words a jumble, tumble, from my mind onto the page... What kind of message will these words convey?
I'm talking about the politics of language... To say or not to say can get you in a whole heap a trouble in your relationships, on your job and in the world in general. Words start and end wars and love affairs; words translate ideas that become seeds that create... babies, communities, multinational corporations... great empires began with an idea-word made manifest. Alas, it is written that even the Creator imagined, then spoke the world into existence with the words, "Let there be..."
In the African tradition, "Nommo" is the "power of the spoken word..." There can be no doubt that powerfully spoken words have moved people, countries and ways of being in the world... The art of oration is one of the impressive gifts possessed by the 44th President of the United States; his effective use of words changed the course of the country and the tenor of politics around the globe. So powerful are the words of President Obama that even enemies of the USA must listen, then scurry, pleading with their followers not to be seduced by his words- thoughtfully crafted and sincerely delivered- to bring change much desired... and needed.
What is the power potential of words? Ask anyone embroiled in a debate, fighting for a cause or trying to get something accomplished... Words can persuade, encourage, cajole, uplift, inspire and motivate. Words challenge, confront and can be thought-provoking. But speaker beware... Words can also damage; they can be especially hurtful when spirit-absorbed by a child whose teacher - or parent - has spoken harshly... Words, positive or negative, replayed over and over, instill a sense of esteem in a child - high or low - as they believe what is told to them and often fulfill the expectation the words deem so.
There are word games that can teach, i.e., scrabble, and cultural word games that can cut, i.e., "the dozens." Sticks and stones may break your bones, but it's a lie that words can't hurt you.
If words are seeds that sow attitudes as well as actions, I am appalled that a certain former Speaker of the House is "not a citizen of the world." As small as this world is getting, I would think everyone would want to be a citizen of it, meaning, being responsible for our actions in it; have consideration and care for our fellow citizens and, in the process, showing ourselves has enlightened humans sharing the planet we call Earth. Then again, small minded people entertaining fear often use the politics of language to cower and scare, ferociously trying to beat back a mindset change so desperately needed... and desired.
The politics of language require the mastery of words - speaking as well as listening. How do you hear words? Do you hear the spaces and the unspoken? Are you hearing what you think you hear? How do you know? When it comes to talking, one can say nearly anything, depending on how you say it... How do you handle words? Do your words soothe or cut? Do you whisper words, tongue a-wag? Are your words constructive or destructive? Are names safe in your mouth? Is your tongue a sword, ready to slice and dice at the slightest provocation? Are you known for kind, wise words? Or are your words nice-nasty - say it nice, but mean it nasty? Are your words truthful or lie-laced? How often do we entertain these questions? In pursuit of excellence, I certainly hope the process of thinking about how we use words will percolate deeply, but, for now, I'm out of...er.. words. More later...
Peace and blessings!
PS: Pre-order Obamatyme: Election Poetry and/or Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground at www.barnesandnoble.com today and help a sista go national!
I am still processing the wonderful events I experienced at BookExpo America this past weekend...
My publisher, The Elevator Group, had a booth in the Independent Publishers Pavilion of BookExpo America (BEA), the largest gathering of the industry in North America. The expo is comprised of over 2,000 publishers, book-sellers, literary agents, librarians, printers, marketers, auxilliary industry technicans, educators and other exhibitors. A spectacular trade show, BEA was held at the Jacob Jarvitz Center in the heart of New York City and was an international affair. Featuring a number of special events, keynote speakers, "publishers' university" and speciality pavilions for children, the Arab World, Spanish-speakers and African Americans, BEA ROCKED.
There were stars galore: Food Network chef Emeril Lagasse (Bam!), actor Wesley Snipes, actress Julie Andrews, social commentator Tavis Smiley, professor Dr. Cornel West, radio host Tom Joyner with Sybil Wilks and TV talk show hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and Joe Scarborough. Celebrity authors included novelist Joyce Carol Oates, R.L. Steine, creator of the popular children's series, "Goosebumps," and cartoonist Tom Wilson of "Ziggy" fame. Talk about exciting!
It was overwhelming to see the sheer number of books that are available in every category you can imagine - cookbooks, spiritual books, romance novels, technical manuals, travel books; books for crafts, how-to's and how-not-to's... Gigantic coloring books for kids and ibity-bity quote books... There were audio books, e-books and software for grandmas to read to their grandbabies from miles away using the internet. Educational books on every possible subject along with titles in fiction, non-fiction, critical commentary, memoirs and... poetry.
While promoting my soon to be released poetry books, Obamatyme: Election Poetry and Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground, I personally interacted with attendees from all over the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Japan, India, China, Mexico, Egypt, Algeria, Saudi Arabia and Korea - truly amazing! Words do not adequately describe how thrilling it was to be a part of the BEA's extraordinary book autographing line-up of over 500 authors...
One thing is for sure: I can safely say, the world loves President Barack Obama! From one to two o'clock Friday afternoon, people of all persuasions in race, nationality, age, religion - you name it -lined up and patiently waited while I autographed advance copies of Obamatyme. I was so taken with the incredible diversity of people who stood in my line to receive an advance copy that I began taking their pictures (some of whom you can check out in the photo section of this blog).
Obamatyme was the featured title for the autographing session and the fifty books allocated for this event were gone in thirty minutes! Fifteen minutes later, twenty-five copies of Soul Poems were gone too. With fifteen minutes left in my hour, there was not a book left to be had by this author! Unbelievably, the supply of advance copies for both Obamatyme and Soul Poems available at the booth were also completely distributed by the end of the expo!!!
Later, Booth 2963 became the site for impromptu readings from both books by this very excited author... I began reciting poems when advance copies were no longer available and it kept folks from being too disappointed, while simultaneously whetting their appetites. Needless to say, I was highly encouraged when folks said I reminded them of one of our country's most esteemed poets, Maya Angleou... Some even suggested that I should have read one of my poems on Inauguration Day... Talk about affirmation!
The audio sample is in the process of being added to the website for people to hear... An audio book is sure to come, along with dates for appearances and readings here, there and, hopefully, everywhere! So... check out www.theelevatorgroup.com and go to the "New Titles" section to hear the poetry selections from both Obamatyme and Soul Poems; both books are already available for pre-order at www.amazon.com AND the publisher has just received orders for both books!!!
Without a doubt, BEA was an incredible experience I'll never forget!
More later... Peace and blessings.
PS: After you take a listen, drop me a line or two and let me know what you think!!!
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