"The Limelight"

Here are several examples of how the limelight can be analogized to my original  archived inspirational blog post in some recent pop culture media updates or made reference to in a song.

I recently came across an inspirational video on Instagram in which Kanye West performed this rap song:

with his customary panache backed by a full orchestra in which he makes reference to leaving the 'limelight' behind.

The song packs a powerful punch and makes an enlightening impact, almost a rags to riches but-not-what-I-really wanted-or-expected kind of vibe with soaring music and street cred beats as a backdrop. It makes one wonder if the rapper became disillusioned when he interjects the sentiment of leaving the limelight behind or is just giving it a passing thought.

Also, there was a recent Chris Brown shooting news report and his alleged response to it indicating he did not know anything about it. Was the report of that incident the celebrity media mania and attention clamoring machine at play with acceptable fabrications or the real truth?

and the report about a shooting at Rihanna's home a few weeks ago. What was that really all about?

These kind of reels and happenings make us  concerned genuinely about the state of our culture and the spread of information. Is it real or fake? These artists who give so much of themselves to our entertainment, while impacting society and our youth who often emulate and admire them. 

Let's keep them and our news media lifted in prayer.

 I am lifting up this blog post from the archives to inspire and encourage.

From the archives-Originally published in 2008. Written in 1999-2000. Handed out as a flyer at a Church event where I promoted Limelight one of my original homemade blessed oil and fragrances.

It seems almost everyone and everything wants to be thrust into the "limelight" so often reserved for luminaries,celebrities and others of notable accomplishment.In fact,the desire is so pervasive,that some invent monumental incidents and blessed events to keep the light shining on them.The need for exposure is somehow linked to and in direct correlation with the amount of daily,monthly and annual income or attention-if that's what pays the rent-can be raked in.

John Mccain's presidential campaign ad,(view here), which aims to ridicule as it also attempts to lessen the wattage of phenomenally popular and skilled Commander in Chief hopeful,Barack Obama, only underscores the celebrity-esque frenzy which has overtaken much of our daily thought. Taken a step further, the celebrity craze has all but redefined social and political behavior patterns, grotesquely saturating our culture. 

The media is constantly dishing out the Britney or Paris scoops of the day. So much of today's reality gets distorted and manipulated in the wake of this mania. Of course,the drawback is that the truth becomes the "flavor of the day".Whatever illusion,puff or artifice can draw in the crowd,the votes or the ratings is valued over straightforward fact. 

 Well,I was digging in my archives this morning and "serendipitously" came across a meditation which I wrote over eight years ago,which I find extremely relevant today.Below is a slightly revised version. I am sharing it today in celebration of a "limelight" that is more intense than any man made light,stardom or celebrity that could ever be shined or veered in your direction.

It is really where the light is...As the saying goes,"real talent will out".So will the limelight of the Holy Spirit.

I dedicate it to all my special friends out there.You may find the audio version here.

"The Limelight"

  "God is blessing you with all the favor of the "limelight".What is the "limelight"? Webster defines it as...a brilliant light created by the oxidation of lime and formerly used in theatres to throw an intense beam of light upon a particular part of the stage,a certain actor,etc.,a part of a stage where a limelight or spotlight is cast,a prominent or conspicuous position before the public.

 The limelight,if you will, of the Holy Spirit is blessing you today and everyday with this kind of brilliant favor in every aspect of your life.It is shining the light on your gifts so you can see them more clearly.When you see them with clarity,you will experience a revelation, a sort of "instantaneous inventory" and realize that God has already given. It is up to you to step out on faith and share these precious gifts with the world.You are multi-talented and may have a gift or two that needs dusting off.You may even feel the need to pray and ask God to stir them up.

If by chance you have been sitting on a goldmine of creative assets which you have not fully actualized,now is as good a time as any to come out of waiting and go for it. Step out of the shadows of others and come more fully into the light. Bask in the blessings of God's limelight,invisible to the human eye, yet the illumination to the consciousness is perceived and experienced in such a manner,it makes all other lights dim in comparison.

 So,come on out and bask in the blessings of God's limelight,full of all the love,wealth and peace you can ever imagine.Here are some brief pointers to help you along the way: 

Love

Give as much love as you can without being fearful of rejection and not getting enough in return.Don't cut off the flow of this divine and miraculous energy.With love,strong and healthy relationships are molded.Love your neighbor,relying and trusting in God for divine returns. 

Wealth

Make the most of what you have.True wealth is giving thanks for what God has already provided and for what you expect God to provide based on your faith in God as the source of all your supply.Tap into the abundance that is all around,that fills the earth with every need.

It is already here. Man only makes the limitation and division.But you can rise above when you use your gift.It is unique to you.Don't waste this precious resource.It is a diamond in the rough.Continue to mine for the treasure,developing and exploiting what God has already supplied. 

Health

God is blessing with good health everyday.But if you are experiencing a health challenge pray,know and trust that God's creative healing power will get you through.Give thanks for all the days that you have been well and that all of your organs have been working efficiently to keep you alive and healthy.Tap into the energy of life and vibrancy all around. Experience the indescribable blessing of the air,the plants,the wind,the earth and the seas.Breathe it in and feel whole as an integral part of the miracle of creation. "

Share this with someone you love.Be blessed and enjoy the day.

"This little light of mine,I'm gonna let it shine..."

Love, Cynthia

P.S. Special thanks to my E-Angel❤️

 Copyright 2000-2008 Cynthia D.Wilson What I am Doing Currently: Reading: Watching:

Happy Birthday🎂 🎊🎉😇John!

John Mayer who celebrated a birthday on October 16 wrote a very thoughtful post on his Instagram page about those who are challenged with the COVID-19 virus. He also expressed appreciation to all of his fans and well wishers who have taken the time to send him get well cards and offer up prayers for his recovery from illness. John has always been blessed with a strong and supportive fan base who have backed him up with a community of care and concern for almost two decades.

John we are praying for you mightily that you will recover and be back on your feet again soon. God is a miracle worker and can turn the situation around. May God bless and keep you.

John, drink plenty of Green tea that has been steeped with a cinnamon stick and have aromatherapy diffuser going with lavender essential oil. Alternate between lavender and cinnamon essential oil. No alcoholic beverages.

My Prayer for John song poem excerpt in upcoming book on a Poetry Saturday podcast.

Some pics I’ve snapped of you and photos of concert events over the years

 

John Mayer and Cynthia Wilson at Songbird Benefit 2003

Bonnie Raitt and Cynthia Wilson at Songbird Benefit 2003

John onstage at Good Morning America Concert Series in Bryant Park, NYC 2004

John on widescreen at Concert for Virginia Tech September 2007

John on stage at A Concert for Virginia Tech September 2007

Oprah's Parting Words On Farewell Show-"Until We Meet Again. To God Be the Glory!"

Oprah's parting words on today's farewell show was not a goodbye,because she did not want to use that term. Instead she told her studio audience and millions of viewers worlwide, "Until we meet again. To god be the glory." Oprah has been a tremendous inspiration to me over the years and I join with millions of friends and viewers to the show in wishing her well. Oprah's humble manner and graciousness won me over as a fan and admirer from the beginning. I have been a loyal viewer for years.

The farewell season has been phenomenal. The United Center Spectacular was riveting. But,this show today was my favorite one of all. Why? Because Oprah in the way that only she could, came full circle and stressed the importance of her viewing audience, proof positive of the magical connection she has with everyday people.On the show,Oprah has no guests onstage. There is no fanfare and she says there will be no makeovers,no cars She stands regally, yet humbly before her guests with the presence of a spiritual leader or Guru as she reminesces in her "love letter" to us about how she got her start , humble beginnings in a rural Mississippi town , video clips of her first television show and other memorable show segments. There was no studio audience at her first show taping years ago. The studio she mentioned had no heat, only her and a couple guests in the throes of cooking chili. At this stage in her career, and in view of the luminaries and celebrities she has interviewed and the vasteness of her current audience, it is difficult to imagine that she was in a television broadcast studio with no people to bounce her interviews or shows topics off of.
She makes a point to today's audience that they have been as important to the shows success as she and her team and segues into the importance of "calling" and says that the "Oprah Show" and what she does is her calling. It is her passion. She emphasizes her wish that everyone of her viewers find their calling. She feels this is one of the true keys to success.

Segments of the show that stood out to me and which Oprah highlighted as some of the best moments were the ones in which friend and producer Tyler Perry revealed he was a victim of sexual abuse. This was the show where a large audience of men were liberated from the emotional trauma as well. It is a subject Oprah has discussed intimately in sharing her personal stories over the years with viewers in what has been a very illustrious journey.

The most memorable highlights of the show for me were:

• Her sharings about "calling" and passion

• The video clip of Iyanla Vanzant and how she transformed that into a powerful lesson about validation.   
   Oprah sealed it with the statement that we should always take the time to validate others.

• The heart and we should be of service and let our light shine

• the show clip on sexual abuse and Tyler Perry's revelation

• when Oprah imparts line from Color Purple "Everything Done to Me, Already Done to You", urging those in abusive relationships to leave them. The scene in the movie also prompted a lesson in what comes around goes around.

• The statement she made about the importance of children and wanting to prevent sexual abuse and molestation to them.

The farewell spectacular at Chicago's United Center was the party that will never be forgotten with Oprah breaking down in tears as 300 men from Morehouse college walked down the isles with candles as an expression of appreciation for help she has given by way of scholarships to them to pursue their education. Celebrity after celebrity paraded on stage with phenomenal performances accompanied with creative and power packed accolades.

Twenty thousand fans filled the United Center to celebrate her generosity,humanitarian stands and her involvement in matters that have touched their lives including mega stars Aretha Franklin,Stevie Wonder,Alicia Keys,Beyonce,Usher,Madonna, Patti LaBelle, Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, Halle Berry, Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning,Diane Sawyer,Josh Groban,Rascal Flatts, Rosie O'Donnell,Tom Hanks,Tyler Perry,Tom Cruise,Dr. Oz,Dr. Phil,Nate Burkus and ordinary viewers. Close friend Gayle King and partner Stedman Graham. Regular people traveled from all over the country to express their appreciation,support, and some, even sadness about the void they anticipate will be left on the tube in their living rooms during the time her broadcast usually fills for the first time in 25 years.

No matter what the controversy, the need to be met after a disaster, individual, family or community tragedy Oprah has always been a comforting presence. Two of my most poignant memories of her care and humanitarian range was the handling of the New Orleans Metro Dome disaster after Hurricane Katrina and her involvement in Barack Obama's Presidential campaign. She was there on the scene early to find out just what was going on and doing all she could, lending her influence in correcting the situation while making sure the news got out to the world. The second is the role she played in the election of President Barack Obama.

The courage to stand up for a presidential candidate in light of the risks and backlash she received was profound. Many have credited her with playing an instrumental role in the election of this nation's first Black President, Barack Obama. She while playing the feat down and being extremely modest about it--it wouldn't have been Oprah-ish to laud those laurels--will undoubtedly go down in history as achieving that whether it be an oral one in the griot tradition or substantiated on the books. I have also enjoyed blogging about several of her show episodes involving major celebrities and their involvement in humanitarian projects, which she has also embraced on her program including Alicia Keys, Bono, John Mayer and others. I enjoyed attending an Oprah taping at the Fox Theater in Detroit years ago and it was a singular experience. She was gracious and very down to earth. People,mostly women stood around the block waiting for hours to get a good seat in the audience.

Her "Oprah" show will be missed, but I feel that she is going on to broader purpose and influence on the OWN Network which has gotten off to a tremendous start with insightful, self help and life improving programming. I hope she can continue with her book club somehow as well as some spin off of "Oprah's Favorite Things" with an expansion into favorite causes and programs. Perhaps I've just summed up OWN?

I also fervently hope that I will have the opportunity to meet and work with her one day. I've been blessed with meeting many celebrities over the years,but only an audience encounter with Oprah. And,while you gave viewers and those wanting to get in contact with you your personal email address with an open invitation to send one, I can't help but think of the millions and millions of emails that will come flooding in. How will you possibly be able to answer them all? Well,I suppose in the same manner as you answered so many dreams,letters and emails of those who faithfully wrote you during your 25 years on television.By the grace of god,you answered so many.

For every tree is known by his own fruit.-Luke 6:44. I think we can all agree that Oprah has been a bearer of  exceptionally good fruit.

God bless you Oprah!

Weekend Inspiration: A Bridge of Hope

                              "Avenue "B" Bridge"

Sometimes we have to look at things differently to find hope beyond appearances and seeming limitations. This drawing represents an imaginative perception of a city through a lens of love and hope. Viewed through a lens of love, hope and expectancy, decay and rust can be transformed into building blocks for a brighter day.

As I progressed through what started out as a sketch, it turned into a colorful drawing which incorporates some of the ambience of each of my favorite cities.Under the heading of Avenue "B'" Bridge and the auspices of love, I suppose it could be summed up as a love of city or City Love. Another way of looking at a real city from an imaginary standpoint while showing and hopefully symbolizing the love of urban life as we know it in the USA. I don't think there is anyone around that would not agree that our cities could use some love and devotion.  With Valentine's Day just around the corner, this is a very timely theme. So let's pump up the volume. Think of something, however small or large,you could do to improve the quality of life in your city.

Have a great weekend and have a good time hanging out in your favorite places with the people you love and enjoy most. Hope you like the drawing. Don't forget to show some city love.

Brings to mind some of my favorite pop/soul tunes including Stevie Wonder's "Living for the City", John Mayer's "City Love and Jay-Z's featuring Alicia Keys Empire State of Mind.

It is uplifting to look at my favorite cities from this perspective. What do you need to look at from a heightened perspective today and perhaps tomorrow?

Have a great weekend and "be" loving and hopeful.

By the way, Happy Valentine's Day!

Cynthia

Scripture reference

I Corinthians13:13:

AND now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love



--

Marketing the Bad Boy Image

There is something to be said about the tremendous success, media attention and hefty paychecks that a bad boy image can garner in today's entertainment market, catapulting many of the misbehaving or those rumored of being dark and twisted to the top of the Hollywood dung heap. Taylor Swift's recent album including a song entitled Dear John,which alludes to an alleged past relationship with guitar god/singer songwriter John Mayer was said to be the fastest selling album of 2010. The song describes Mayer as dark and asks the question of him "Don't you think I was too young to be messed with?
John Mayer's media coverage concerning Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Simpson overshadowed significantly his extraordinary talent as an artist. Our culture seems to promote and thrive on the antics of the shocking and the outrageous. The brazen and raw outtakes are in today's reality driven market the kind of incidents that draw mass attention and are almost certain to go viral, in the process attracting devoted followings and even offers ranging in the tens of thousands to the millions for product endorsement and advertising deals. Call it the dark side or the hard cold reality of the business.
The domestic violence episode on the Kardashian reality show some months ago where blood was actually drawn due to the severity of the injuries certainly had everyone talking and "outraged" for days, if not weeks. The ratings of course went through the roof and, of course, the Kardashian clan came out on top financially last year grossing upwards of 11 million dollars. There have been other attention drawing antics that have also generated attention and controversy. By today's television standards they are considered royalty, and, a standard to measure up to.
Seriously, how can you really blame stars and their handlers hungry for either money or attention for taking the more lucrative, albeit less tasteful and sometimes sleazier route if it will mean the difference between a hefty paycheck or a paltry one? And, in some cases it could mean the difference between having a career or simply not working at all. For some it is simply a formula, a method and a calculation for guaranteed success, assuring popularity and a rise in mass appeal. I can imagine the tremendous pressure that some artists must be under to conform their real selves to the image that sells.
I don't want to sound too preachy or for my observations to take on a self-righteous tone because I am well aware and painfully in tune with the realities of the world in which we live. Yet somehow in the midst of all of this there seems to be a higher standard, a mark or a bar which we are being called to raise ourselves in order to bring some sense of sanity and decency back into the equation. If not it seems the frenzy of mass appeal generated by the thrill rides of shock value and the like are poised to overtake our sense of decency and morality, heading our society on a collision course with itself and a sure route to implosion. The examples cited are just a tip of the iceberg. If the low achievements in US education revealed in plumeting test scores and our ranking 30 on the list with China at number one is not a subtle wake up call of sorts and a barometer of misplaced priorities then what other signals do we need and what else will it take?



I read recently that John Mayer was heckled on city streets by women who were still railing from his treatment of ex-girlfriends Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Simpson, proclaiming rather boisterously in a public place that he was a horrible person. Mayer has been portrayed consistently in the media as the serial heartbreaker, the tell all ex who characterized Jessica Simpson as sexual napalm. He was so distressed by this incident that he is currently on a full court press to make an "image" adjustment and change people's perspective about "it." I said "image" and not him because an artist's image and who they are authentically outside of the public persona that is oftentimes developed to sell a product varies significantly. Many of John's close friends and fans have experienced him as a completely different person. A horrible person is something that would not even come across their minds as a way of describing him.
Charlie Sheen, the most notorious bad boy these days is the highest paid actor on television commanding 1.25 million per episode after renegotiations which came despite a Christmastime arrest over an assault on his wife and subsequent sentencing to 30 days of rehab. Sheen made over 40 million dollars last year and his television sitcom is number one.

While there are no hard and fast solutions to what seems to be an ongoing dilemma of the marketability of the authentic person in contrast to the profitability of the 'bad boy" image, it seems to me it will boil down ultimately to the following questions. The first is what will the market ,and, ultimately society, bear? The second is how well does the sporter of the bad boy image sleep at night? Charlie Sheen and other bad boys have either at some point in the process overdosed on drugs, been in and out of rehab and clocked up numerous hours on their therapists couches. So, the question at the end of the day and eventually, at the end of life's journey is "how much is or was it really worth?"

Something upon which to ponder,reflect and perhaps rethink...

Multiple Grammy Winners Jamie Foxx and John Mayer Join List of Grammy Presenters

Grammy Award winner Jamie Fox and seven(7) time grammy winner John Mayer who is also nominated this year for three Grammy Awards, including best pop vocal performance on Half of My Heart, best Solo Rock Vocal Performance for "Crossroads", both singles are from his best pop vocal nominated album Battle Studies,will join the awards show line up as presenters. Their names were announced today in a growing list.

Taylor's Dear John...Sour Grapes or Tall Tale?

From day to day the tabloid and gossip machine churns and spurts out the daily, if not periodic spin to grab the attention of the pop culture audience. There are those who are chomping at the bits for their daily dosage of "who did who wrong" sensationalism spins as well as the latest paparrazis photo exploits to get the adrenaline pumping and the gossip machine cranking full speed ahead.  It seems the majority of those who report and could make a positive difference in pop mania instead seek to kill inspiration or at least place a chilling effect on it. 

Today the pop world is abuzz about the purported calling out of John Mayer in Taylor Swift's new song entitled "Dear John". For those who don't know,Mayer  has written a number of inspiring songs that have been warming the hearts of fans for years. But you may not know this if you focus entirely on the constant spin of dating news that seems to circulate without end throughout the mediasphere. You almost have to conduct your own independent research.

 I've skimmed through most of the spins about Taylor's purported song about John and the two being romantically linked, including the Perez Hilton account as well as the other web gossip magazines and even some new faces in the category.  Its good to keep abreast about what is happening in pop culture across the spectrum. Today's stories on this topic  range from how John Mayer has broken the heart of a young teenager to whether the two were dating, were romantically linked or have had sex. The song is on her forthcoming album and the lyrics must have been burning a whole in someone's pocket to be released because they have been tossed around the web like wildfire and have really caused a stir. If only there was another way to leak a song to the public and get such undivided attention. Go figure!

The word is and once again John Mayer has been denigrated and reduced to an insensitive and non-caring cad. Those who have met and know John are probably thinking to themselves "Here we go again with the pop spin which is in his case often laced with a good amount of  shock value and sensation to get and keep people buzzing about the incident for days.  In this case and so many others in the recent past,it seems John has taken more than his fair share of these kinds of hits to his character.  Even if its true, there should be more an effort to tone it down than to fire it up.That he would break the heart of America's pop princess on the heel of another,well, is of course being touted as and really is unthinkable. My response is this,there are several songs on Taylor's upcomong CD "Speak Now".  There was also a song that she sang on the Video music awards that even though was an act of forgiving Kanye West  could have very well had John's name on it as well. John was 32 at the time she wrote and sang that very same song for Kanye who is also 32 . In the song she refers to the man to whom she sings it as an innocent and as being 32. See my previous blog post about that below.

My point is before the pop culture medium is filled with speculation that could impact a sensitive singer songwriter's reputation and image,and perhaps undeservedly so,at least give a listen to the other songs. Also, be circumspect about jumping on the bandwagon of any spin without doing your research and due diligence. You just may discover that you have a substantive angle to share that could possibly blow the previous spin out of the water. And, even if you don't care to take the time,at least give the person accused the benefit of the doubt until you get the complete story.

Incidentally, you can find the lyrics to "Dear John" here.

Dear John


I see it all now that you're gone

Don't you think I was too young

To be messed with

The girl in the dress

Cried the whole way home

I should've known.
It was wrong

Don't you think nineteen's too young

To be played

By your dark, twisted games

When I loved you so.



My mother accused me of losing my mind

But I swore I was fine

You'll add my name to your long list of traitors

Who don't understand

And I'll look back in regret

I ignored what they said 'Run as fast as you can."


 My previous article about Taylor's song forgiving Kanye West can be found here.http://cynthiadwilson.blogspot.com/2010/09/song-for-kanye-its-about-forgiveness.html

Related Articles:

Song for Kanye: It's About Forgiveness

Music for Obama:Voices of A Grassroots Movement-"Yes We Can"

Photo Source

I believe, and have for some while, that music serves as a catalyst for positive change, as it heralds in ,while also galvanizing meaningful social transformation. Inspired by this notion, and the music of my favorite musicians,I spearheaded a radio broadcast--Heavier Octaves-- which morphed into a broader internet broadcast utilizing playlists, which I dubbed "music sculptures",videos and programmed inspirational messages to give voice to that notion. An enthusiastic and hopeful Obama supporter, very much rooting for, and seeking to be tuned in to "the change we need" and the "change we can believe in",I am thrilled to bare witness to this CD compilation. I look forward to promoting the songs innovatively on the broadcast and among my friends throughout the social networks of which I am a part.

Many artists have been inspired by Obama's campaign,which has been fired up by not only the "audacity of hope",but by the sheer enthusiasm that the internalization of this hope has generated in our communities. Just navigate your way to the Obama store on the main site or look at some of the folk art exhibits,boutiques or street vending booths in your local neighborhoods to view further evidence of how artists have been inspired.

That Obama has inspired so many artists and laypersons to express themselves creatively about their hope for the change which is needed in our political system is clear. That such inspiration has flowered into a movement is nothing short of phenomenal. It speaks volumes for an idea whose time has come,if not of a gift for motivating and activating others--bringing out their best qualities.

This CD compilation demonstrates the power of inspiration. As a music lover and fan of several of the contributing musicians, I view it as a harbinger of powerful community expression that results when people come together and unify around a common purpose. That coupled with the creative power of love and music can surely motivate and stir the populus to good works.

Let's keep that spirit of expression alive as we make our way to the polls on election day. Get out into the neighborhoods,speak to people and help them make their way to the voting booths, if you need to. Help make their hope and inspiration count.

Let the music's source of inspiration take you higher. "I'm fired up and ready to "vote".

That said,I hope to see you out there showing how much you love your country and making a meaningful difference during the days leading up to November 4,2008. I trust you will make your voice heard on election day as you sing the tunes of change all the way to the polls.

This is a link to the song samples streaming from the Heavier Octaves Radio broadcast player which you can embed on your website.

Blessings,

Cynthia

This compilation contains the following tracks:

1. Eternity - Lionel Richiie
2. Signed Sealed Delivered - Stevie Wonder
3. Waiting On The World To Change - John Mayer
4. American Prayer - Dave Stewart
5. Battle Cry - Shontelle
6. Make It Better - Los Lonely Boys
7. Pride In The Name Of Love - John Legend
8. I Have A Dream - BeBe Winans
9. Am I All Alone - Suai
10. One Is The Magic # - Jill Scott
11. Love & Hope - Ozomatli
12. Looking East - Jackson Browne
13. Out of Our heads - Sheryl Crow
14. Promised Land - Malik Yusef with Kanye West and Adam Levine of Maroon 5
15. Hold On - Yolanda Adams
16. America The Beautiful - Keb’ Mo’
17. America - Ken Stacey
18. Wide River - Buddy Miller

The digital download or CD can be ordered HERE.



Through their musical contributions, the artists seek to mobilize voters in the final stretch before the November election. Many of the artists involved will also be volunteering their time to promote voter registration. For more information on registering to vote or requesting an absentee ballot, go to: www.VoteforChange.com

In Memoriam:Leroi Moore-Weekend Inspiration Blast from the Past-Creativessel Inspirations: A Good Combination

Leroi Moore Performing at New York's Roseland Ballroom
May 9,2005-Photo Source

Creativessel Inspirations: A Good Combination



This week's Weekend Inspiration is in memory of Leroi Moore,saxophonist for the Dave Matthews Band who passed away this past Tuesday afternoon,August 19, due to complications from an ATV accident in late June. He was 46.

I thought I'd lift this blog posting from last year's benefit concert for Virginia Tech featuring Dave Matthews Band,John Mayer,Nas and Phil Vassar as the "Weekend Inspiration".It serves as an example of what happens when musicians get together to play music to "uplift and encourage" a traumatized and grief stricken community.This post and the related blogs below which contain music from the concert or associated videos makes up the playlist.

Enjoy reminiscing.It really was a wonderful show.how do I know?I was there...

Thanks for the music,Leroi. Rest in peace.

Cynthia
The Chaplain of Pop

The Art of Asking

Image Source


The Heavier Octaves Profile Song of the week is "Say" . It is a beautiful song.It sounds like a lot of time and effort went into composition and production.The song was especially commissioned for the movie "The Bucket List" starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman.There are two music videos of the soundtrack song,one official and the other an alternate version.

Have there been times when you've either been all choked up(some call it full) or otherwise at a loss for words?

Lately,I have found myself more and more at a loss for just the right words. At times, just what symbols of expression to use has been a challenge as well. I have come to discover that this happens usually when I have not exercised my gift of speech or articulation at that crucial moment. Believe it or not even as a minister this happens.I have found myself in such a predicament either when the person I want to say something to is surrounded by people who should not really be privy to the information or when careful wording and diplomacy has to be used. It has also happened when I am afraid of being misunderstood,i.e., when I feel my intentions likely to be misinterpreted by a hostile or biased audience.Sometimes I don't say anything out of fear of being rejected,especially when it is a big dream involved. The stakes are usually pretty high then. And,please don't confuse this kind of trial with a crisis in faith. I wrote a blog a few years back which provides a different spin on the issue, entitled "The Art of Asking".


Getting clogged up, one way to reference it,is what begins to happen when you've let the opportunity to express yourself pass on numerous significant occasions.You simply become rusty and underutilized over time. And,as a consequence, when the opportune moment arrives in which you absolutely need to use your voice ,having been out of practice somehow you lose it. Awkwardly, you finding yourself not really knowing just what to say.


Honestly,there are times that you really need to remain silent. But nine times out of ten,you need to speak up. Don't get frozen in time pondering and weighing the consequences...on temporary inexpressive meltdown. Let it rip. And,like Esther... , who thought "If I perish,I perish...take the risk,be bold and courageous. One thing is for sure, you will have spoken your mind and gotten something out of your heart and into the wider world.The world will likely be a better place as a result. You may save some one, some people or even yourself. And,if nothing else comes of your bold verbal catharsis,you can at least sleep easier at night knowing you've done your part.

Trust and have faith that someone will hear you.It may be the one you've longed to receive the true meaning of words coming from the depths of your soul. "Say what you need to say". No more playing with the "shadows in your head"...

On that note,I think it appropriate to once again lift up a blog I posted on Myspace entitled "The Art of Asking" . Here is the link(coming soon...).

While you go through the blog ask yourself and create a kind of "bucket list." "What do you want to do?" What haven't you done or said to make things right with yourself or another? Remember,you don't have forever.

Enjoy...


Peace,


Cynthia

Watching:

The Bucket List

Listening To:

Say

Reading:

Esther's Story

Music Medicine Cometh to Lift the Spirits and Ease Life's Pains

"Messages and Notes from a Bottle" (more)


John Mayer,Dave Matthews Band, Phil Vassar
and Nas Join in a Concert to Lift the Spirits of Virginia Tech

Directions for use:

Unlike bronze,wood,stone. clay,or canvas, "music sculptors" use music, songs and lyrics as their artistic medium of expression, designing musical mixes using themes that soothe the heart,mind and soul. Their designs are multi-dimensional and can bring other textures and mediums to bear on the ultimate concept as well.I've discovered throughout the years that music is a pretty potent multi-level healer and that a song can in combination quite often with other things,perform laser sharp heart(figuratively speaking),psychic and emotional surgery. Vibrating into knooks ,crannies and crevices of the heart that would otherwise go untouched, I don't think any other medium surpasses its non-invasive,yet tremendously subtle fluid delivery. Yes. For raw or subtle emotional impact, a song is definitely the way to go.--Cynthia D. Wilson. excerpted from the Airlift II-Love Soother Mix blog.

That "love and music are healing forces of the world"... Anyone who knows me is well aware that I put together what I have dubbed "music sculptures",not only to set certain moods and tones,but to emit healing ,comforting and soothing sounds to the soul and "lift the spirits"with music of course.

During this blog and related podcast series,where I interject various play lists, you'll not only get my take on some of the artists,but you'll also learn how I've applied their songs in the sound healing process. Sound interesting?

So,in anticipation and celebration of the upcoming concert at Virginia Tech on September 6,2007,which is a "celebration of life" and an event to "lift the spirits with music", I am lifting several blogs and comments which I made on music message boards and blogs around the internet,including a play list put together especially and dedicated to what is sure to be a tremendously uplifting concert experience.

The next prescription: "A Dose of John Mayer" will focus on the healing sounds of his music and a recommended play list as part of the weekend inspiration (music sculpture).

Peace,

Cynthia

Related Blogs:

Cynthia D. Wilson Speaks and Writes...: Airlift II-Love Soother Mix

Deep Degrees of Blue

John Mayer,Dave Matthews,Nas and Others Join in Benefit For Virginia Tech

John Mayer-Photo by C.Wilson


Nas-Photo Source


Dave Matthews Band-Photo Source

On September 6, Virginia's own Dave Matthews Band along with John Mayer, Phil Vassar and Nas will join together in "A Concert For Virginia Tech" at the university's Lane Stadium.Free tickets will be made available to all current students, faculty and staff. Coming at the beginning of the 2007-08 academic year.

Members of the Dave Matthews Band who are from Charlottesville,Virginia recruited Mayer,Nas and others to headline with them. For more click here.

read more | digg story

Live Earth Part II-Seven Point Pledge:Will it Inspire A Shift in Our Spending and Thinking Priorities?

Image Source Global Warming,the Climate Crisis. Call it what you will. It has inspired a "greening" movement across the globe.Is our planet heating up unnaturally? Are overconsumption and senseless waste major contributors to the problem? What can you do to "cool "our planet? Before I continue I want to make it clear that I thought the Concert Event was well organized and that it was wonderful to see so many people come together all across the globe without incident.I also appreciate the effort of Gore's Alliance and his ongoing efforts to fight global warming. However,there are issues and questions which are not addressed by the current pledge.Why not make it user friendly? In our last session I left you with my thoughts that the Live Earth Seven Point Pledge needed tweaking.These are the reasons why. As a "living breathing document" it can be adjusted to meet the changing and complex needs of the people who will be signing it. An openess and receptivity to ongoing review will allow for as many oversights as possible to be addressed. From a practical standpoint,the way to go about it would be to incorporate some issues by reference or to refer to them as implied in the document by stating what makes it implicit and let the clarification serve as an amendment and or modification to the pledge. It is a matter that could be handled electronically. 

All a person would have to do would be to add an electronic/digital addendum to their pledge to make it relevant to any special needs or concerns of their particular community. This would not weaken the pledge,but broaden its range and strengthen the spirit of the document. There are four things I want to make clear. One, there is no way you can have a sound environment or work holistically and organically towards "greening" if you are not intentionally seeking inclusivity of all spectrums of society. That includes whites, blacks, Hispanic, Latinos, LGBT, the poor, homeless, elderly, infirm and disabled. In addition, the current pledge needs to incorporate more specific language that addresses the needs of marginalized communities like New Orlean's Ninth Ward. At least acknowledge that disasters like Katrina and the environmental racism that contributed to rebuilding delays and major preventative renovations on the levees does exist. Secondly, no community should be priced out of the greening market. 

This means ticket prices to global greening events should reflect that fact and lower priced tickets made available. On the day of the concert the cheapest ticket available at the box office was about $100.00. Live Earth event tickets ranged in price from $100.00 to $500.00. Thirdly, there is no mention of the environmental hazards posed by homelessness and the need for education and research on how to include this population into the equation. There should be specific mention or a paragraph of the pledge dedicated to the plight of the homeless community.They, after all are a part of the environment. How can we improve it if they are sleeping out doors in the streets and in subterranean tunnels and communities which really exist below our city streets? Fourthly, how we relate to our neighbors is important. We can't be sound environmentalists engaged in the process of fighting global warming and related environmental threats if we are still bogged down with racism, sexism, classism and other isms that divide us. 

 We must instill positive values and a healthy appreciation for our neighbors plight with a healthy appreciation for justice and fairness, if we are to be true environmentalists. Finally, I'd like to reiterate something I wrote in a blog entitled Mayer and Raitt "Raising Another Kind of Green Consciousness", which speaks to the issue of our attitudes and how spending and thinking priorities have to be changed if we are really going to make this thing work. A relevant excerpt of that blog states: "Well...I agree that cutting down on consumption may aid the cure for global warming if it can change people's spending and thinking priorities.For example,some people think it is in vogue to be wasteful. Afterall,their philosophy in life is usually,"if you got it, flaunt it and then throw it away"...even when it can be recycled into something that would serve a constructive purpose. Some people have the wasteful mentality because of their egos and the fact that they want to be numero uno,at whatever cost, and no matter what regardless of how it impacts the lives of others. Under those conditions can they really be sound environmentalists? I'd definitely give that some thought. It's all about changing spending and "thinking" habits. Think about it. If a person's desire to improve the environment is really motivated by a sincere desire to contribute meaningfully to the world and not just to sell more merchandise,then more power to them. If they are just out for the buck and notoriety...well, I would consider them to be contributing more to the self-serving and wasteful mentality that created the problem in the first place. It's good to see John doing something constructive by way of an attempt to "change people's thinking" with his "Another Kind of Green/Light Green" idea. Positively influencing how people think is what really will make the difference on this and other significant global issues..." My suggestions on how to incorporate inclusive and thought shifting greening approaches into the Pledge document by way of future workshops and other public communication tools will be set forth in tomorrow's final part of this blog series on the Live Earth Pledge. This is a work in progress.To be continued... Peace, Cynthia(Revcoolc) Related Blogs, Podcasts and Videos: Alicia Keys Performing at Live Earth The Live Earth Seven Point Pledge: A Panoramic View For Effective Environmental Action?- Part I(Revised 7.13.07) Mayer and Raitt Raising Another Kind of Green Consciousness Heavier Octaves Radio Podcast- "Cynthia D. Wilson Speaks"- Week In Review- July 1-6,2007 Heavier Octaves Radio Podcast- "Cynthia D. Wilson Speaks "-Reflection for the Day-"Speak Up" Heavier Octaves Radio Podcast-"Cynthia D. Wilson Speaks"-Week in Review- 6/24-7.01.07

....Is Peace Possible?

Photo Source

The following is an excerpt from a sermon I delivered at the Jan Hus Church on Sunday,April 15,2007 on the subject of war,entitled "Same Tray,Different Waiter: Is Peace Possible?" The guiding scripture text was Matthew 24:6-8 concerning Jesus' reference to "War and rumors of war..." I address the subject from the standpoint that it seems as though our world has always been full of war,violence and fighting. It appears to have remained a constant from Jesus' time until today. What can we do to bring about peace? Is peace really possible?

The contemporary musical selections chosen for the service because of their thought-provoking lyrics and related peace themes were John Lennon's Imagine and John Mayer's Belief,which was performed(covered) by me as the pre-sermon music with accompaniment provided by the Church's musicians.The balance of the music consisted of traditional songs and hymns including "When Will People Cease Their Fighting?","This Little Light of Mine" and "Let There Be Peace On Earth".

Dr. Martin Luther King's speech "Beyond Vietnam-A Time to Break Silence"delivered at the Riverside Church in April 1967 opposing the Vietnam War is also referenced in my sermon.

Here is an excerpt:

War is pervasive. It is almost a force all its own. Can I get a witness? Can you recall a period in your lives when there were no wars or rumors of war? When there were no television or radio broadcasts giving the recent updates on the bombings or the death toll?

It seems no matter how often or how tremendous anti-war and pacifist efforts are, a war manages to pop up eventually on the global scene. Let’s face it, war is a stark cold reality of life that we all face daily. Those engaged in direct combat and its fall out experience it to a greater extent than others.

Every one of us has probably lost a close friend or relative to one World War or a Vietnam War, a Desert Storm, an Iraqi War, the war in Afghanistan, various and sundry other ethnic wars that go on around the world marginally reported. The conflict in the Middle East, the genocide in the Sudan, the Congo--you name it. Do any of these hit close to home? Have you lost a relative? Do you know of someone in your neighborhood, your community that has suffered human loss?

The human cost of war in Iraq continues to mount. Not only are soldiers loosing their lives, but civilian losses continue to climb as well. The American body count in Iraq now stands at 3,299 with 24,476 wounded and/or disabled. A report was just released by the ACLU on April 12,2007 which lists civilian death claims filed by Iraqis and Afghan civilians with the US government for the non-combat loss of the lives of relatives...The Iraqi civilian body count is 67,364 (Anti-war.com).

Do the Math.The cost in terms of dollars and cents soars into the billions. According to the National Priorities Project, which is an online database, our government to date has spent $456 billion dollars on the war in Iraq(as of 4/15/07). The following is how the cost of war breaks down for each taxpayer:

• $4,100 for every American household;
• $1,500 for every American;
• $11 million per hour and;
• $275 million per day.

Even in light of this exorbitant budget, the President is scheduled to submit an additional request before congress of $100 billion more. The same money could have been used to provide: (these are rounded figures)

-55 million children a year of Head start
-249 million children health care for one year
-7 million public school teachers for one year
-To build 4 million additional housing units
- 20,230,681 students four-year scholarships at public universities

...Even with all that to consider, the case for peace can and still must be made. It is our responsibility and calling as Christians, even though evidence may substantiate the opposite...

A full transcript of the sermon can be downloaded here (Link coming soon).


Peace,

Cynthia

_________________________________________________
*An mp3 recording of the sermon and music was made,but is not entirely audible.Once the necessary technical adjustments have been made,it will be made available.In the meantime,enjoy the reading.

On the Jimi Hendrix Vodka Issue

 

 

 

Jimi Hendrix Electric Vodka

This is a post I contributed to the most repected online community for John Mayer fans, My Stupid Mouth(MSM), of which I have been a member for nearly five years. It is titled after one of his first very popular and defining songs.

John did a piece last year on one of his blogs about his take on Jimi Hendrix vodka and many of his fans followed suit by responding to his views on the subject. Quite frankly, myself an avid Hendrix fan, having had eyewitness account of his influence on a generation as a youth coming of age in the late 60's through mid 70's(I had every record Hendrix ever cut...unsuccessfully lobbied my Dad to go to Woodstock,underage at the time,etc) ,I was appalled that the Hendrix family would let something like this happen to such a tremendous rock music legend,arguably the greatest guitar player that has ever lived. But my further research revealed a family torn apart for years by a long standing court battle over control of Jimi Hendrix's estate.

I had been made aware of it by the bits and pieces of information gleaned from various news sources over the years. John's blog brought attention to not only the vodka issue,but that reality as well. It provided invaluable food for thought for musicians and other entertainers who don't make estate planning and money management a priority. It also provided an example of just how easily a pop image in our culture can be cheapened or lessened out of a real financial need or a serious lack of financial planning.His piece inspired a litany, as usual, of responses from his fan base across the internet and on my blog at Creativessel.com. as well.

I, and I'm sure its safe to say others, would much rather Hendrix be remembered by future generations for his guitar playing prowess and not his alleged fondness for vodka.His influence is still being felt some thirty-seven (37) years after his death.

Ironically and probably to the delight of many fans, Hendrix's family just recently filed a law suit against a Seattle businessman for the use of Jimi Hendrix's name on the vodka.

The following is my response to Mayer's entry on his blog at Honeyee.com last year,which was posted on MSM on 12/30/06:

Thanks to John for bringing this to the forefront and for topping that RS article on Hendrix...a quality piece.I agree,among his finer ones.

If there was to be a drink named after Jimi Hendrix,I would have much rather preferred an organic juice or purple colored lemonade.Something that sort of crackles and sizzles in your mouth simultaneously while inducing "healthy" audio-visual hallucinations or holographic experiences of a medley of memorable Hendrix Tunes with "Purple Haze" as the intro.But,of course,I'm biased because I am not now, nor do I ever forsee myself as an enthusiastic, or otherwise, vodka drinker.My experimental "screwdriver" phase is long past.

As for the "banking" issue, the "quality" of family and friends(that would include their judgment) ,and to a lesser extent, the wishes of Hendrix, would be the deciding factors here. Unfortunately,and I have learned this from hard experience,it is not always the "will" or "trust" instrument that ultimately governs when people disagree over money and property rights.This is even moreso when a person dies intestate i.e.,leaving no will,as in Hendrix's case.

"Greed" and "fair share" are archrivals,in which case,it is those who have the stamina and drive to fight it out in court, the market place or the ring of public opinion to the bitter end that either win, or lose.Now, if all players could get together and work out a consent agreement to their mutual benefit,they might save a few bucks in court costs and legal fees. And,perhaps avoid such "vodka debacles" to the Hendrix image and legacy,which,of course, is extreme wishful thinking on my part. The numbers are too high ($80 million--estimated estate value)and the divide apparently too wide(non-blood relative now ostensibly controls assets to the exclusion of blood relatives).

Jimi did not play a role in this. Albeit, his death was caused ironically by asphyxiation induced from a lethal combination of alcohol(wine) and sleeping pills.

Well, there is one brand of vodka I won't be buying or promoting...no,not even as a keepsake. I almost feel like creating a slogan worthy of the occasion a la "Denounce the 40 Ounce" when the homies got out of hand with the Malt Liquor.

Now,if they make a very limited release of it for a brief period certain,just to right the books or to benefit a private or public charity, never ever to appear again,I might just be persuaded. But even that is very iffy...I still cringe at the thought.

In the meantime,

Ugh...

Peace,

Cynthia

Edited with updated photos 12.29.25 to replace those removed by vandals