Happy new year 2009

May Joy befriend you. May Happiness and good Health never leave your company. May Success visit you on a daily basis. May you be in peace with yourself. May you be in harmony with all those who are close to you. May you laugh, dance, travel, and see all the beauty that is there to see.

Be well and live like you mean it, and don't hesitate to listen to your heart.

Chapter 9 is ready...

I think. Anyway, I've been sitting for so long my behind hurts, and I am not a cry baby -even if the record points to the contrary. Just remember that 'Movement is good,' has always been my motto, which should count for something -right?

Otherwise, time is clicking ever so reliably, moving us to 2009 and on. Events shall unfold, and life will take its course, for each and every one of us in the most suitable way -I am talking Karmically here.

So be well and be your best in whatever it is you are lost in.

Swimming, swimming toward a distant shore

Post-Christmas...

introspective meanderings lead me to wonder what, how and where, so that all day long, questions arise to heavenly heights, following a curvilinear arc, like the connected beads of a prayer bracelet thrown as if a gift to the skies, bound by its trajectory, to meet whatever answers are moving across the canvas of my mental framing tendencies, leaving me with nothing more to sink my teeth on than unreachable fluffy clouds, with their endless interpretative options.

Supposedly, this is a huge day for the retail industry. Alas, it shall be without me, for I do not plan on shopping, and how could I when my mind is completely absorbed in weighing this against that, as I trudge forth seeking a way out of this glorious feast of existential conundrums.

What. How. And Where... The dance goes on, and I will not let go, for as the wise teacher might have said, "Every problem has a hundred and one solutions. Every solution is an entry gate to a bridge build over the waters of opportunity. Who and where you are define where you stand. As for where you're heading, that is mere speculation until choice leads to action, which in its turn shall lead to transformation."

The surfer is dormant and lost in a sea of uncertainty. Meanwhile, life goes on, generously extending invitation, after invitation, to catch a ride and join the dance of creation as it goes from this to that, to this to that, undoing and doing, giving and taking, holding and surrendering, all at once, and for as long as time can go on flowing.

Be well and remember that to worry is to resist life. Live and make as many mistakes as you can make, so that when you reach your furthest tomorrows you shall have arrived leavened and unburdened by the gloomy shadow of regret.

Dormant surfer

Credit card offers...

keep on reaching me despite this business of collapsing financial institutions who, no matter what happens in Wall Street, go on wheeling and dealing, concocting sweet-looking stratagems to get my attention, scheming to entice me in making that call, you know the one... with that 800 number going all the way to some call center in India, and I say why not? 35,000 miles, double miles for your dollars, and who cares about the fine print, plus, there is so much to read and so little time.

And then there is that snow blown around, covering the streets, forming mounds, dunes and hillocks, sticking to the bark of trees, stifling the possibility of colorful happenings, a messy things indeed, so white, so blend, so overwhelming, tending to weigh so heavily on the soul -mine at least.

I need color. I need sunlight. But carbon emissions are still too high and the planet is an easily thrown out of balance biosphere. Storms, blizzards, hurricanes, tornadoes and tsunamis, and I am pretty sure my car and yours have something to do with it...

Call it a hunch, call it what you want, and maybe I've been listening to too much radical banter. I don't know anymore.

Be well and have a wonderful day, week, month, trimester and year.

Trapped in a white canvas of soft snow and cold winds

Christams season...

is upon us, and I was writing something about it, having to do with how this season is handled so differently from home to home, from the decorations to the meal, having guests, being alone, having the means and being on food stamps, having a Menorah, or Buddha next to the tree, too many gifts or too few, home made dishes, or yams straight out of the can and mashed potatoes from a box, dry turkey or grandma's recipe followed to perfection, too much food, or a salad because you're on a diet, or maybe you're vegetarian, or even Vegan, Cabernet or cherry wine, Maybe Champagne, or just children crying and parents running around, the whole family together, for better or for worst, people who miss each other, and people who can stand each other, Utopian activists, moderate liberals and hardcore conservatives, and why not throw in a few evangelical fundamentalists to make it even more interesting, and you know that there isn't anything like a good dose of genuine zeal to take your party to the next level, then, there might be singing and laughter, Kids being kids, adults doing their grown-up socializing thing, renditions of 'Silent night,' relatives arguing and spilling their hearts out at the table, all taking place on a wonderful evening spent among great friends and loved ones, or one that feels more like Lent, or maybe you're just depressed and all alone, no one to share this moment with, just you and a box of walls...

Then there are the special cases, and where should I begin, so I'll pick one as randomly as I can and go from there, for example, the soldier stationed who knows where, because that's what he signed up for, whether he likes it or not. There is also, the orphans, the homeless, the junkies, the inmates, lonely emigrants who buy phone cards to call their families back home, old folks in nursing homes, old folks forgotten in the moldiness of their dwellings, the mentally impaired, the financially impaired, the sick, the emotionally exhausted, the prostitutes, tired single parents, enslaved children, enslaved women, people with broken heart, people with secret affairs, people with secrets period, people with too much guilt, lovers who can't be together, those who lost their jobs, those who lost too much to believe in Christmas... So many cases, so many factors to consider, where does one start, and where does one finish, and in the end, does it really matter?

Anyway, what I initially wrote was lost, so these few lines shall do, because you see, I've already been in front of this screen for way too long, and although it is hellishly cold out there -30 degrees Fahrenheit, which also happens to be -34.4 degrees Celsius, in case you were wondering, I can not wait to get out of here.


Be well, I wish you all a happy holiday -even if you live next to palm trees.

Joyeux Noel.

Another chapter revised...

Chapter 8, which comes after 7, has been posted in 'Lost Berber Surfer.' I am thinking about changing my name, to the old nickname, more as a turning point than anything else, the beginning of a new chapter, the first step into a new cycle, a revolution of the soul, a liberation of the spirit, a statement of intent in my all consuming pursuit of happiness. But, I am still thinking about it...

So be well and be true to your heart's deepest longings.

A name about to change for the better

Airplane tickets...

are getting me all moody... So many sites to search with, and thus far, not much has been achieved, except if we consider the waste of time accumulated since I started looking. I haven't touched 'Cursed in Casablanca' for days now -talk about commitment and steadiness of resolve. Ha!

Otherwise, this morning's yoga class went well. It is my last this year, which reminds that I was intending on extending my best wishes to all those who read this blog. Enjoy the holidays. May you have all the good things that life has to offer.

Be well and kind.

A frustrated traveler on hold

A snowstorm...

is sweeping through the Midwest, and Madison puts on its white coat. Schools are closed, and the roads are interestingly challenging. A lot of people chose to stay home, but there are others, who, like myself, couldn't wait to get out and check what all this is all about...

Every snowstorm I go for a drive, with a little voice inside of me screaming, 'Yeeeha!' I have to admit that I am an adrenaline junkie, and have been so for so long I am not even sure when the first hit was ingested. I know for sure that it wasn't when I took off on my first wave, or even when I paddled for the first time. No, it was before that, way before that, and maybe even before the first broken law, the first secret, the first date, the first tryst, the first fistfight, the first lie, the first curse, the first kiss, the first love, the first fall, the first escape from home, the first forbidden book, the first breath....

Anyway, I drove, took pictures, parked by Borders -my ex-favorite establishment, caught a bus -number 37, met some interesting folks heading to works, who thought this was nothing, and kept on telling me, "You should go outside Madison, then you'll see how messy it could get." One of them, who lives in a farm and works at the University, bought snowshoes, the kind that used to look like a tennis racket way back then but don't anymore, and is eager to use them tomorrow. Another, some Professor, originally from Argentina said he's lived here for over 20 years and still likes it. And another, from Alaska, was really happy to be in such a lovely climate.

Meanwhile, I keep on singing my magic mantra, just to myself, 'One day, one day, I'll have the sand, I'll have the waves, I'll have the sun and a beach without parking meters, I'll have good neighbors and happy surfers to share the ocean with. One day, one day, the world will go back to normal. One day, one day, the world will go back to beautiful and sometimes perfect.' I know... It's a long mantra, but that's okay, because it comes from the heart, and there is nothing made up, or forced about it.

Otherwise, Burger King is launching a body spray -I kid you not; I'm not too sure about Obama's cabinet choices; and on Facebook, some people are having fun in Miami, and there are pictures to prove it; Condolences to Saida who lost her mother; and, finally the planet is whirling, spinning and traveling -no one who knows where, but it's sure heading there.

Be well and remember how small and how large you actually are -approximately somewhere between nothing and everything.


A speck, a universe.

P.S: Remember that today is a very special day. It is a day of great happenings and transformation. We will be tried, in more than one way. So, I suggest moderation, patience, and understanding, and please, please, please, this is not the time for rocking boats. Then again, you're your own captain, so do as you will, and don't say you weren't warned. Safe journeys to all.

Chapter 6...

is ready and available to read in 'lost berber surfer.' If you recall, I posted chapter 7 first, now if you want to follow the story as I would tell it, Chapter 6 comes before 7. But that isn't too critical. So do as you wish.

Be well and smile for the sake of smiling.

A grin from me to you

The mythical snake...

coils itself and swallows its own tail, joining beginning to end, closing a cycle that goes around a loop to find both closure and renewal. Over and over again, energy is expressed, becoming matter, becoming energy. This is the dance of Yin and Yang, where two, which are actually one and the same, in their spiraling, appear as a third, that is neither one nor the other, but a blend of the two, at times this, and at others that, as if shape-shifting between two lists of irreconcilable dichotomies...

So, and as would say my Piscean friend, a fish chases another, and in the process chases itself. The opposition is mere illusion, and as for the dichotomies, they're nothing more than the flip sides of a single coin.

Yet, I stand on my ground of solid forms, keenly aware that while a rock, or a shoe, if thrown at someone, will probably hurt more than sand, sand can be much more abrasive and intrusive on the long run -and if you don't believe me, try a little stroll through some arid stretch of desert. The physical world is adamant on being inflexible. It takes sides, and as long as we are in it, of it, with it, chances are will have very little choice in this matter. Choices shall be made, and opposition shall arise.

Hopefully, we'll grow in the process, learn some mind-blowing lesson of immense value, reach Siddhartha's enlightenment, rise above this all-encompassing sphere of illusions... or maybe not. At this point, and from my vintage point, I can only speculate.

Be well, and if you feel a bit lost, try to figure out which way is East.

Lost somewhere between East and West, North and South, I remain

To do lists...

We all have them, right? Mine is so long and so eclectic, I rarely look at it anymore. Unless something leading to something else, leads me to remember a certain item on that ten feet long scroll of a poorly-attended-to plan. And I say, "Funny that you mention it, but I've always wanted to..."

Suddenly, and some times not so suddenly, I recall that there is this 'thing' that could be taken care of, easily, if I just give it a little time. Although, and as you probably know, time is extremely precious, especially to those who have a knack for squandering it , with great determination should I add.

Notwithstanding, this finely tuned Universe we happen to be lost in has unavoidable rules that keep it on its course towards... towards, well you know where. Anyway, one of these rules has to do with the spirit of bartering, and goes something like this, 'Nothing comes out of nothing, so if you plan on receiving anything, you better make sure you're giving something in exchange, id est, time.

Which brings me back to this morning, where, hm hm, I've gone ahead, putting both effort and time on the barterer's table, and figured out what progression charts mean, and how they're supposed to be read -to a certain extent, and to my own ability, which isn't much to brag about... yet, I am bragging.

Finally, and in case you ever wondered, cows do get easily bored, and, shoes have been used to whack naughty children, and even adults, for as long as there has been shoes -not that I am supporting the practice.

Be well an don't forget to stretch your spine every now and then.

Completely out of steam

Cursed in Casablanca...

is the name of the novel I am trying to give birth to -it is decided, at least for now. And by the way, I've just posted chapter 7, skipping chapter 6, which is like dancing, you know.. you improvise and try to be as flexible as your mind allows.

Remember the key in dancing is to relax, and, let go of your expectations. Spontaneity is the magic word we're looking for here, but then again, don't push it so far that you end up losing your cool, unless, of course, it is for the sake of learning a new step.

Otherwise, flexibility is a good attribute to carry along in one's journey. Although, I am compelled to ask the following questions: How far can flexibility take us in this physical world where one has to stand somewhere -eventually? And most importantly, can we in this world of dichotomies avoid making a choice at the expanse of another? Can we be both a morning person and a late-sleeper? Can we be altruistic and, at the same time, selfish? Can we be loving and uncaring?

I doubt that the answer is yes... But what do you think?

Born with a bag full of questions

Driver's rights...

are denied to women in Saudi Arabia -go figure. Eighteen years ago, to the date, some Saudi women took it upon themselves to fix this odd wrong. They were chastised, lost their jobs, suffered much more than that. Obviously, they immediately became underground heroines. Today, I salute their courage and shake my head in utter disbelief to how blind some of us can be.

Otherwise, all is fine on this blue planet of ours, especially now that some researchers have discovered that the root of most of our financial woes, the global economic crisis included, are due to the greedy disposition attached to a small section of our caveman part of the brain, and while this is news to me, it appears that the casino industry has been using this weakness of ours to rake big money for over a century now. This bait-dangling-meant-to-get-you technique is by the way, now that I think about it, used widely and wherever sales are the name of the game, and if you require proof... check Whole Foods, and their evil sample trays.

Finally, apparently Dubai has a refrigerated beach -you know... to keep its frequenting clientele's feet cool.

Be well, and laugh as loudly as you can -when it comes to it, very little is worth fussing over.

P.S: December 21, 2008 is a special Summer solstice day, the Sun, (representing your personality, spirit...) will conjunct Pluto, (representing great transformation, rebirth, change, regeneration...) This is arrangement will bring about great intensity. Forget about common sense -you won't find it. The power of individuality shall not go unanswered. Change will occur. I suggest that you start waxing your boards and get ready for the ride.

By the way...

If anyone is wondering how to get to the 'Lost berber surfer' thing where I've been pasting chapters of some story I happen to be working on, well, wonder no more.

All you need to do is click on 'view my complete profile,' when visiting the main blog page. Then once on the profile page, if you scroll down, you'll find links to both blogs...

Otherwise, I'll eventually put the whole thing on the website -but that is a long ways from now.

About this novel I am working on... I am still trying to pick a title, and until I do come up with something suitable, I'll just go on calling it 'Story.' Although, I've been considering 'Cursed in Casablanca.' It sounds pretty intriguing -I think. Plus, the story is about a curse, and, Casablanca.

I have to admit that Story, or 'Cursed in Casablanca,'is an odd one to put out there, because there is too much of myself in it. It was the first novel-size story to come out of me. I think I was trying to figure myself out, while working on it, more than anything else.

I remember writing the bulk of it, a rough version of it -at least, from beginning to end, give and take a few large missing segments, about eight years ago. Most of it was hand-written, a couple hundred of pages unnumbered and all over the place, a messy thing to revisit... Not only that, but this draft of a novel happened to spawn a shorter story about a nun, who instead of being just a prop in the background, insists on taking claim of center stage -so much for modesty.

Otherwise, I am swept by the leading planetary energies as they move from one interesting configuration to the next. Yes, we're all heading towards a sea of change, but, still... And honestly, I find it really hard to stay centered, which I guess might just be because I've been so for off center for quite some time.

I know how I am and how I function. Yet, I keep on putting myself in situations that are completely against my nature. My choices often seem quite counter-indicated for my own well-being. So, why is it that I do what I do? Why do I agree to go against my best judgment and intuition, over and over, and especially, in matters that really, really, matter? Its almost like I'm wrestling myself in the name of peace and happiness -go figure.

And that is that, except if you want to talk about Obama's cabinet in the making, Illinois governorship, shoes thrown at the President in Iraq, Obama soda cans in France, the economy, the weather -which is brutally cold here...

So, be well and try to live one moment at a time, and if you can tango with grace and passion through the whole darn thing.

Sitting on a bed of rusty nails -and I'm no fakir by the way

Sister Marie-Francoise...

introduced in chapter 5 of the story that is presently simmering in my cooking cauldran of tales, is one of the main characters around whom the world shall dance... As for what shall come, I truly stand clueless. But worry not, for stories write themselves in the end. So, let us see where what's been thrown together is going to lead us from now on.

Be well, and if you have time let me know what you think...

Awaiting feed-back, I dance in the dark

Experiments...

I've been considering an idea having to do with blogging and the novel I am currently working with at the moment, which actually is two separate stories that seem to be heading for a collision, a merger of sorts.

I am intending on publishing this story, bit by bit, as I progress, and more often than not digress, in a different blog, which goes by the name, 'Lost berber surfer.' Truth is I've already pasted in the most-likely-to-be first four chapters.

Otherwise, the world is just as it should, full of surprises, mostly enjoyable, especially when the gods are being playfully inspired. By the way, wasn't Friday a delightful drop into the unexpected?

At any rate, I wish you a wonderful week. May you enter and exit it from its brightest side.

Riding the inspiration wave, I throw my hand up in the air and scream out in total delight.

Happiness...

when it comes to it, is a also a neuro-chemical reaction, a bunch of neuro-transmitters fired up, serotonin, dopamine and all sorts of endorphins having a good time inside the fine circuitry of your brain. Scientists today are discovering, redundantly, that happiness, as opposed to that other state that is generally described as depression, can be attained by doing, making stuff with one's hands, being creative, being involved in something fun, you know... like a child playing with scissors -which some parents might consider a dangerous activity, and since I do not want to digress here, I'll just nod and go back to the main issue.

Zen Bouddhism, Shintoism, Tantra, Shamanics, and many other spiritual paths agree that being completely involved in the moment is an intrinsic aspect in one's awakening. So how does one go about being completely involved in the moment?

Many crowd-pulling philosophies prescribe, acceptance of the now and here, a willingness to be fully present, even through the most mundane of activities. Training to reach this state of conscious being includes, among many other eccentricities, learning meditation, be it seated, walking, archery, running, whirling, dancing...

Of course, this approach can be expanded, and has been, to doing the dishes, tilling the fields, digging a fence, gardening, knitting, quilting, cooking, painting, in fact, anything that can be done, with passion, for long enough, involving making something that is worth making. No wonder I am seeing, (in these times of unfulfilling, and almost, soulless working conditions, of dead-end careers, of great doubts,) more crafts being made and sold than I could ever recall.

Happiness is a marvelous garden with as many entry gates as there are human souls. Only your feet can get there. And then once, you're there, Only your hands can touch what treasures are in it. Only your eyes can... you get the jest. And just to stay in this track of new-aggie imagery, for I cannot resist the temptation, I'll add this last cliché, which may I indicate is a favorite of mine: What triggers the perfect natural high in you is a unique alchemical reaction. It is yours to discover, yours to allow. The paths do not have to be the same for everyone, in fact, they cannot be the same. And so what works for me, may not be what you need.

Long ago, I eagerly accepted Shintoism as a viable template for a spiritual path I could trace. Then came surfing, and surfing was the very medium in which I was destined to meet myself, the serum that would allow me to rise above the thick physicality of life, get a glimpse of how everything is, beyond the chatter of words, clouding doctrines, and all the limited views set by our kind.

Surfing opens the mind, there is no other way to describe it. Yet, I do not believe that it is the one and only solution. Well, for me, it is. As for the rest of creation, we are as unique as snowflakes and seashells are. As you can see, this morning, I am into analogies like Pooh bear is into honey jars. What was I talking about again?

Oh, I remember. So be well, and if you're feeling in a bit of a funk, find yourself a hobby, do something you really like, or, I don't know, make or adopt a child if that is what you fancy -and that would probably work, because kids know how to keep grown-ups busy. Now, if you can't figure out a good hobby for yourself, try this one: Find yourself a nice cozy place where you can sit and ponder a big question, and I promise you it won't take long in this particular case, then, strike your favorite pensive pose, and, think what would I be doing if I knew that this was my final day on earth, among those I love, and let's not forget, those I can't stand. Just do that, because, and I am sorry to head down this downing slope of thoughts, there is no guarantee that this isn't our last day on earth. Now, if you happen to still be here tomorrow, I'd say, just do same thing again -Who knows you might just be on the right track?

Now enjoy the rest of your day, as far as I am concerned, I'll be heading to the Psychic fair -yes, you read it correctly, it isn't a typo... And no need to judge, I'm running out of material.

Lessons...

using that word in the previous blog, as I was describing a certain belief having to do with learning from the challenges that each lifetime offers us, made me think of another word, one that has to do with a lesson I have not been able to get past thus far...

'And what lesson might that be?' I hear someone with a curious disposition ask. Well this one has to do with reciprocity, which happens to be an undeniable principle governing this universe of ours, and which implies that whatever you offer you shall get back, or, that whichever way you meet life will be the way in which life presents itself to you.

Thus, showing receptivity makes the whole world more receptive to you. Kindness rewards you with kindness, and acceptance of what is out there is met with acceptance of what it is you truly desire within. Sounds simple, right? Unfortunately, in my case, this simple, almost Pavlovian, principle remains highly elusive.

Now, don't misunderstand me here, I can be extremely accepting, flexible, easy-going, kind, etc... but bring my mother to the equation, and I just fail in my endeavor at being a better man. Over and over, something happens, in a split second, and I become the most selfish and heartless of creatures you could ever come across.

Some have advised me to do Regression, others therapy, or even a combo of both. Supposedly, Someone out there is just waiting for me to show up to deliver me from the error of my ways. Quite possible, wouldn't you say? Except and as I often mention, I am a born skeptic, and let me tell you this, whatever you heard about skeptics, no matter how improbable it may seem, it is absolutely true.

Anyway, all this writing about this mother-son issue of mine had me start off on a tangent... but, I'll save that for later.

Until then, be well,

wondering if you've noticed how much energy there is out there.

Minneapolis...

is a city I lived in for exactly a year. It was a time of great tensions, and it felt as if I was standing on a bed of hot coils. It was a time of many questions screaming for answers, and also a time that inspired a short story I, incidentally, named after the place itself.

I've gone ahead and added 'Minneapolis' to the stories available in reehtales.com. Yes, another one, but don't think that I am being creative. Not at all, I am merely revisiting what's been done a while ago.

Be well, and follow your heart -it is really, really, worth it.

Yours -Productively procrastinating,

Strings...

plucked, a guitar held, and words flowing. It's a song about love, love lost, love beyond words, love above all else, and the lover sings, and the guitar, the guitar follows... A dream is made into words, lyrics that flow, gather and become an expression of love, of passion, unrestrained, unhinged, and I, I, I feel it deep, deep inside what I call my heart.

Meanwhile, a couple of questions were awaiting, and they went like this: How can I dream like I mean it? How could I ever have all, or merely a piece, of that which I crave, when it is becoming so very clear to me that what I truly yearn for may forever be just out of reach?

I sat, bathing in the rhythms of Flamenco, and thought and thought, and although I know that no answer was necessary in this case, I couldn't resist the temptation to follow suit and seek my own version of a truth. But, before I speak of my own views, I'll take a detour and visit that of others...

And so, there are some who believe, and I'll be succinct here, that we are Spiritual beings, experiencing life, over and over, in a physical way as a means to learn, evolve, and move toward a certain Greatness of Spirit that is inherent in our own Divine Source.

Thus we are born, cycle after cycle, with the most appropriate challenges, desires, fears, weaknesses and dreams, in order for us to learn the lesson(s) that is/are ours to learn in a given lifetime. Layer after layer, we shed the negative, the restrictive, the constrictive, and embrace love, selflessness, compassion, kindness -if you are interested in finding out more, I invite you to google, for example, 'Allan Kardec.'

As for myself, I am, unfortunately, a born skeptic, a part-time seeker of spiritual truths at best. What I know is that I do not know. Yet, what I believe is grand and limitless, and it's been this way as far as I can remember. Yes, I've learned a couple things here and there, mostly while I was surfing. I've traveled, shedding volumes worth of confining skin as I went. I've met pain, suffering, hopelessness. I've been touched by runaway slaves, refugees, children with machine guns too high to distinguish between what is right and what is oh so wrong, inspired nuns worth a hundred mercenaries, beautiful souls shining at the heart of ugliness, warm hearts doing their best against the most overwhelming of odds. I've met death, three times, and relinquished my desire to hang on to life, too easily, that many times.

But, I am still the same. The same child with dreams so elaborate it would take Hollywood's, or maybe Bollywood's, best production team to recreate even one scene. And so, I dream with the same dogged intensity, because doing otherwise simply wouldn't cut it. The dream is part of who I am. It doesn't matter if it is realized or not -I think. What truly matters is truthfulness to what is inside, that dream we've been carrying, that passion we've feeling, that story we've been living for. What truly matters is the journey and how we embrace it, because without it, the destination isn't really worth much.

But then again, I might just be a fool, lost in his own dreams, someone you really should be paying too much attention to...

Gratefully inspired by the exchange.

Tomorrow...

the Moon will be full and ripe in Gemini. Not only that, but there will be two Grand Squares in mutable signs, (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces.) 'What is he talking about now?' I hear a few of you, out there, muttering. Truth is, I really don't have a clue.

All I know is that tomorrow is about energy moving. There is great power in the air, and Uranus will not go unanswered. Change is coming, whether we like it or not. There is tension flowing through the fabric of all things, and if you doubt it, check with the Sun and Mars.

Come Friday, take it easy, and give yourself time. What you give shall come back, so just in case, remember to be extra nice. Wake up a little earlier, and move slowly, and if not, at least carefully. Otherwise, have a great Friday. I'll see you at the other side of the rainbow.

As far as I am concerned, I'll drop my sails, fold them nicely, and then fasten myself securely with patience.

Sailing through life, we learn.

P.S: The Hand of Fatma, (see photo,) has been used as a protective image for thousands of years.

Green eyes...

has, finally, been added to the website -www.reehtales.com, following a couple of unsuccessful attempts... and that is that.

Be well, dream like you mean it, and let me hear from you.

A busy dreamer

Wednesdays...

are usually my favorite days of the week, on par with Mondays that is. Now, gazing out the window, I notice the bright blueness of a sunny day -who cares if it's cold? I guess those who can't afford warm clothes, but that's another story all together, wouldn't you say?

Through the chatter, I swim, past an encore of snowfall records, Federal bail-out of the auto industry, with something about a Car Czar, debates about restructuring, more on the recession, foreclosures here and there, Illinois governor's arrest, fraud investigation, a man-in-charge trying to get more than he deserves, bleep-full recorded conversations, the possibility of impeachment, major drama in the Senate House, O'reilly and his book, Secretary of State C. Rice heading back to Stanford, talking about how great a job her team has done for the past eight years serving the country, talking about the future, about the Palestinian state as if anything was achieved, but enough with her already, for there is also the 60th anniversary of the Human Rights Declaration celebrated somewhere - I suppose, and lets not look at the mess in Greece, the disappointments of the Middle East, Sudan's Darfur, the Somalian high seas, Zimbabwe, the fence at the border down south, Mexico's drug smuggling machine and its wide death trails...

Beyond, the stars say there is friction in the air, challenging configurations, and the Moon is in Taurus, a bit on the edge, hoofs thudding at the ground, steam coming out of its snout, so take a deep breath, and embrace serenity if you can. Friday looks even worse, with two grand squares and all, definitely not a good time to get too excited.

Closer at home, well, I've gone through one of my short stories, trimmed it here, polished it there... I think it is ready to be added to www.reehtales.com. The story's name is 'Green eyes.' I wrote it a long time ago, thinking of people I knew and hadn't seen for years. Anyway, 'Green eyes' will be accessible through the Stories page. Just go to short stories and click on... well, you know.

Now, it's time for me to get back to messing with the next tale. Be well and have a glorious Wednesday.

Fear of change...

hinders transformation. It's a bit like cooking over very low heat, when what you actually need is a blazing flame. I love the ocean, ache for its sound, mystery within unfathomable depths of blueness, the scent of salt, of life given and taken, energy released, abundance and uncontainable vastness bound into one, within the renderings of my own fantasies. Yet, I hesitate, go half way out, when a full step is demanded, knowing very well that destiny will not accept less than complete abandon. I stall, I am afraid of losing more than I willing to gamble.

I've been eating out of Illusion's generous hand. I've been listening to its comforting promises... The poison has taken root, and I've become entangled in the sweetness of a wicked dream. For too long, have I been indulgent in safety's palace.

But in the depths of apathy, a flame continues to resist, pushing for realization, fulfillment and awakening, for rising above all lies and chimeras, for laughing at Temptation's golden face. It shouts, 'What are you but Spirit?' It sings, 'Awaken, awaken, and to your full potential rise.' 'No chains shall hold you but those of your own making, for you are Spirit, for you are light born within and out of Light.' And the flame burns and burns. Layer after layer, it consumes, waiting for you to open your heart and say, 'Yes.'

Fear of change might hold you down, keep you from rejoining that very light that is not only you but is also burning for you, seeking to dispel all of darkness, shadow by shadow. Yet, in the end the choice will always be yours. So say yes, and yes and yes. Then light shall transcend darkness, and darkness shall embrace light.

A note to self.

Uncomfortably cold...

pressing my almost-frozen hands deep inside pockets which, among other less important qualities, are lacking in warmth, I walk through streets thickly filled with a mist of dancing snow. Body bent, eyes staring low, I swim through this inescapably chilling whiteness... Where to, I forgot. Yet the path is traced and the steps are made. How far will I get? And for what purpose? These will remain questions I cannot answer. On one hand, there is home and the fireplace. On the other, there is a body aching to feel and experience. And I guess the body always wins, its call, after all, continues to be too strong to ever be denied. 'Take me to the edge of the abyss,' it calls out. 'Take me beyond what you deem the limit of all possibilities,' it demands. And what am I but a weak link in this chain of command, stretching from here to who knows where?

They say, 'The young is restless.' So I ask, 'Will I ever grow old?' And the answer comes back, echo of forgotten echoes, 'Why the haste? It all shall come in due time. One step after the other, the path is walked, from beginning to end, whether you walk or run. So enjoy the journey, and if you stumble, fall and bruise your shins, or knees, do not wallow on your fate for too long, instead, stand up, dust yourself, smile, or even grin, for there is still much, yes, much more to come.'

So I press on, through snow and chill, always forward, always in a circle, from cycle to cycle, of which I remain the center, as well as the furthest perimeter. And ask as I may, the only answer I get is nothing more but an echo of forgotten echoes.

Moving, I am.

P.S: There are a few books, I've been reading lately and which I do not mind recommending, one of which isn't published yet, and so will have to wait on that, but the others, I can surely mention here: Death with Interruption -by Jose Saramago (and how could I resist?) Liberty -by Garrison Keiler... and I'll save the rest for next time.

Negativity...

settled in, with the whiteness of things, cold air, dry skin, frost on the windshield, sweaters, insulated coats, snow boots, memories of sunnier places, of swim trunks, the scent of salt, shifting sands, lazy cloudless days, and music playing in my head, guitars and palms clapping filling the spaces in unison, bare feet swept by the beat, eyes connecting, worlds merging, born between a smile and a sigh, magic and sensuousness in every gesture, in every pause, Beauty permeating my vision as far as the horizon can get...

The trees have gone naked, and the streets are barely alive, NPR says that happiness is contagious, far more than sadness could ever be. But I ask you this, which one is deeper? Which one contains the seed for growth? We make choices everyday -how do we know what is best for us in the long run?

Questions, questions, too many questions, I'll blame it on today's Piscean Moon, and I'll turn up the volume to better drawn in spark-causing Tocadas, irrestible Palmas e Zapateados, Palo Seco e con Guitarra, the rhythm of Rumba, music that flows so naturally in my blood, in every double helix of DNA that somehow make me me, and I'll dance and I'll dance...

Baila, Baila, until your legs say, 'Wow, I really want to but I just can't, well, maybe, just one more, just one more.'

A huge fan of Ojos de brujo -my favorite band out of Barcelona.

Experts...

about everything, and anything abound. Forgive me if I doubt that most of this quasi-knowledge that is generated, all over the spectrum of things, is actually worth much. What happened to common sense? And why don't we know a quack when we come across one?

Anyway, in higher spheres, the moon is too influential at the moment, but that is about to change. Watch out for Pluto. Watch out for Uranus. Watch out for Mars... Not that any of it should freak you out.

As far as I am concerned, it is as within, as without; as inside, as outside; so know thy self, and the planets will follow.

A novel is out, and another is impatiently waiting, so forgive me if I just wrap it up here, and, wish you a great Thursday evening.

Be well -seriously.

Bus 15...

was exceptionally enjoyable today, and in the least expected of ways. Ours is a farcical play, and the gods are tricksters at heart. Foolish are those who make mountains out of ant hills. In the end, all castles become ruins. They crumble under their own grandeur. Then nature is there to reclaims it all.

At best, we're like children building worlds, too temporal, or should I say finite, to last, out of wet sand, in a beach of our making, too close to the ocean's leveling touch. The difference however is that we, contrarily to children, take ourselves seriously, too seriously, way too seriously... So the question is why, oh why, are we perplexed when Pain finds in us the most pleasant of companies.

Be well and remember to dream the impossible -who knows, you might be in for a surprise.

Bound to catch bus 15.

Lots of work...

I've at it all day long, click, click, click, and some more, and here we are. Let me rejoice, let me stretch. My work is done for the day, and novel number 2 is available on my website, www.reehtales.com.

I give myself a tap on the shoulder, for this is a heavy load that is no longer on the writer's shoulder. Free at last. Well, I found a typo and I'll have to change the PDF... But let us not be sticklers. No, no, no. Not today, I don't get paid well enough for that.

So there you have it, from the horse's mouth, You and You is out, after some five years, of sitting, waiting, change after change, major ones too, revision after revision, until I could see it no more, until I got to hate the idea of it...

But that is past, and the past is past. Today, we triumph over the spirit of unfinished things, and the horizon is all about new adventures and explorations to be had, unless one considers novel 3, 4 and 5 and 6, but that is later, not today, cause I am simply done. Done. Done. And that is that...

Be well.

Period

Wet...

roads, and the birds are leaving, in messy formations, cutting through the skies. But today, I find none, the sky is white, turning gray, and the sun veiled by ethereal murkiness, remains out of sight. I long for its touch, its warmth -a longing that matters not. Once again, I have come to that fork on the road...

There are beaches of golden sand and gleaming water, beyond the clouds, beyond the gloom. I know them in my thoughts. I carry them in my blood, and in every bone, every fleshy fibrous strand and, let us just say, even in every microscopic cell held within this 'I' I have become. There is laughter and pleasure and joy, as I felt them once, as I glimpse now through these misty eyes of mine - a lingering visitor from a distant past.

Torn, between here and there, I go on sighing. 'Unhealthy,' you might say, and what for but a fantasy, a lustrous chimera of things past. What of the 'Here and the Now?' What of being alive, and appreciative for one's blessings. in this present moment?

And I answer, 'Yes, you're absolutely right. But please try to understand, a dreamer is a dreamer, no more no less, a wish his world. I am weak, mostly living in my head. I am weak, too aware of the possibilities and the lost potential. I am broken, and I don't really need mending.'

Every day that passes, I think of this... Every that passes, could tell you this.

Be well, and don't let your dreams separate you from your roots -it might seem fun, but there just isn't any turning back.

A flake in the wind

Black Friday...

is a time to spend, spend, spend -money. And what is money? Take a five dollar bill, what is besides a piece of paper? Supposedly, it is a claim on the U.S. Federal Reserve bank for -precisely- 5 dollars. It is also a relationship between lender and borrower, an agreement, five units of faith in our financial institutions ability to keep things running smoothly.

Experts explain that in a transaction, using cash is synonymous to moving money from one hand to another. Using a credit card instead, actually creates new money... Go figure. Sometimes, the most basic concepts are utterly mind-boggling.

I'd say, don't think about it, pretend I didn't mention any of it, go have fun, buy, buy, buy, one store, one check-out line, one item, at a time. No pushing, no shoving others to get the prize. Take a deep breath, check your booklets of coupons, rush, rush, rush. Maybe you'll meet some friends and have a quick chat. Try to be kind to those working behind the counter, smile, be patient, do your share to get the economy back on track.

Or, spend some quality time with your loved ones, while the crowds gather and dissipate. Listen to your heart, meditate, contemplate. Whatever it is you're doing, do it with kindness, and genuine awareness.

As far as I can see, through my office window, this is a pretty bright and sunny day.

Meanwhile, explosive Pluto is back in careful Capricorn, catalyst Uranus is no longer in retrograde. And, look over there: Sun, Mercury and Mars are planning on having some good time in Sagittarius.

Life is transformation, and transformation is taking place, always, especially nowadays. Be flexible, malleable, opened to be taken by the newness of what is to come. Learn to balance in imbalance. What is seemingly solid, is more like a plank floating in an ocean of possibilities, with change rippling through and through. Nothing is bound to last.

Life is a dance.... don't be too rigid.

A note to self

Happy ThanksGiving...

and a great week-end for all of you, including your loved ones. Don't forget to carry a bit of patience and kindness if you're traveling at this time of the year, and if you're working in retail, a bag of courage might just be what you need.

By the way, the new Moon is moving into Saggitarian seas, which means this is a great time for starting something new. Be bold. Be Inspired...

Be well, and if you can, remember to count your blessings.

Aquarian from the very beginning

Monitor,

Monitor, tell me who is the hardest working part-time administrator at UW. And I'd say, your answer better be, "You Sirree! No doubt about that."

I've only been staring at you for 6 hours straight. I mean, I'm about to quit this whole work thing and go on vagabonding. There's got to be some country out there that I haven't come to feel negatively about, right? One would think, all this traveling should have opened my horizons, broadened my field of aspirations, wouldn't you say? Then why am I feeling so intensely frustrated these days? Anyway, I am ready to take off -at least for today, and I guess tomorrow is another day.

As for the stars... Who knows, I've been too busy with this snow thing that hit Madison last night. But, just wait a second. Ah, here we go: It seems that the moon was in Virgo, which isn't a bad place for the moon, in general.

That was then, and as for now, well... the moon is in between signs heading toward Scorpio, and that, my dear friends, would entail great possibilities for huge drama, emotional turmoil, frustration, bad-decision making -please avoid buying anything too expensive you couldn't return later, and make sure not to begin anything new, or make plans, at least until Wednesday afternoon.

So here you have it, unsupported claims and warnings, which I stand behind as firmly as only a madman, or a fool, would.

Finally, have you noticed how much talk there's been concerning piracy and lack of governance in Somalia. I'm actually compelled to believe that we are being prepared for some action in that region, which coincidentally enough, happens to be very close to Saudi Arabia -again. But then again, what do I know?

Be well, stretch your back, breathe like you mean it, and let's not think about how much of a donation we've made toward Citi Group this week.

Tense and joyful

Brrrrrr...

and sunny, makes me want to get out, really badly, and then I step outside, wearing sweater, mittens, hat, and it's still not enough... Go figure. The sky is tricky blue, lures you out, where the wind is waiting, a bit too intent on biting.

So, it seems that the moral here, if there were to be any, is that not everything is as it seems, and like the wise teacher says, "Looks can be deceiving."

Be well, and now that the night is in, try to keep warm.

Elis Regina...

has a song called Fascinacao -in Portuguese, and it goes like this:

Os sonhos mais lindos, sonhei
De quimeras mil, um castelo ergui
E no teu olhar tonto de emoção
Com sofreguidão mil venturas previ
O teu corpo é luz, sedução
Poema divino cheio de esplendor
Teu sorriso prende, inebria, entontece
És fascinação amor.

The most beautiful dreams, I dreamed
From a thousand chimeras, a castle rises
And in your eyes dizzy, silly with emotions,
greedily a thousand adventures foresaw.
Your body is light, seduction,
Divine poem full of splendor.
Your Smile takes, inebriates, stupefies
This fascination, Love

I don't know if my translation is correct, but what wanted to share is that at times this is how I feel, while at others... it's even worse, or should I say stronger.


Be well and do not hesitate to be yourself.

Morose clouds...

and I do not form a happy unit... I rebel. I resist. I do not allow myself to see the beauty in cold grayness. Meanwhile, there are Somali pirates, hijacked tankers, huge ransoms demanded, and a bit closer, the lamentations of economic experts, preachers of doom singing, high and loud, about the worsening depression, next to gloomy automakers seeking to get their hands on a few billions, Obama and what he might do...

Elsewhere, the moon is in Virgo, just like when I was born. So, I'll go with the flow, be a bit critical, a bit analytical, a bit to the point. No need to meander. I'll go with the flow, maybe then everything will fall right where it should. Didn't I hear once that trying too hard is a form of sabotaging?

Be well, and smile at the world, it is supposed to smile back -or so did the wise teacher say.

A skeptic

Music and sunshine...

the wise old tree so close behind the window, University students walking up Charter Street, is what I am aware of, strings of connections pulling me from beyond the rooftop lines, raising desires, raising impressions, thoughts that will bubble up, up, up, always up, all the way to the surface of one's outermost shell, where they're to be expressed, realized, or resisted, suppressed, denied.

Over and over, we all make a choice, and we all deal with the consequences. Over and over, we do what is seemingly right, or wrong, and how many of us know which is which? We justify, cloak our actions with veils upon veils of justifications. We reason and stand strong behind our views, no matter how wrong they might be.

Yet, there is hope. Yet, there is goodness. Yet, there is selflessness. Yet, there is beauty. And most importantly, there is the innocence of children, the happiness of friends, the passion of lovers, and the silliness of it all.

Be well and don't be too hard on yourself.

a sunny window view.

Clouds...

clearing out, just in time, right before I step outside, seeking sweet vitamin D, just on my face that is. Well, partial exposure is better than nothing, wouldn't you agree? Hopefully, you too will be out there, enjoying the light -if light there is on your side of the world.

I took a look at the ephemeris and there is a lot to be excited about, and more to be aware of, watch out for too much of emotional energy, the murky and viscous type, swaying you out of center, taking you on a ride down some cavernous hole.

A beautiful day out there, let us make the best out of it.

Be well and smile at the world, it might just return the gesture ten-fold.

Someone smiling out there.

Snow falling...

like it's really November. My world is turning white, hectic flakes, caught in shifting wind currents, swaying from left to right. The sky is a cloudy gray, and beneath people are wrapped in blanket-thick coats.

But where I am, behind the window, Samba is playing, mellow beats, then, maybe in a minute a faster one. I see swaying bodies, liquid, fluid, loose, and buoyant. They're in my head, singing 'ta legal, ta legal...' The poor know how to party, know how to move. Under the sun, they're having fun and cool agua de coco. They have no health insurance, but the beaches are crowded and their smiles are brighter than an African-Aids-infected-blood-stained, Indian-hands-washed-polished-and-worked, $4,000.00 diamond...

Not that I don't like it here; I do. Well, kind of, sort of, depends on the day, on how much sun I am getting, how many clouds I am carrying over my head. Wait, there is more than that. There is the company, the intellectual energy, the sensuality of thoughts, the sweetness of ideas exchanged, the unexpected friendships as they blossom, and, become intrinsically indispensable...

And let us not forget the Bookstore and its treasures, the library and its ease of access, the way a government sort of works, without any need for bribery -and believe me, I've had my share of greasing bureaucrats. I've had my share of saying no to corruption, paying too heavy a price, dealing with the consequences of wanting to see things handled fairly, where fairness is nothing but a weak, if not inconceivable concept.

So I take the snow, and even dance to celebrate its arrival.

Welcome, welcome, Ta legal, Ta legal...

Bundled up or in your bathing suits, smile at the world you are handed, and if you dare, put your favorite tune on, and, dance your way through all of life's unending changes.

Be well,and if you are inclined, take up happiness as a hobby.

Swaying, swaying, swaying...

Boisterous Media...

have been keeping me informed of all that is, was, would be, should be, will be, possibly could be, happening. The world is a map replete with messy pockets, teaming with noise, nature going up in flames, smoke, heat, and tears, rockets falling from the sky, deafened ears, machine guns running amok in the hands of brutally desensitized kids, armies clashing with lethally inflated gorilla groups, wild insurgencies, innocents falling left and rights, from RD Congo to Mexico, from Somalia to India, from Gaza to California...

Meanwhile, the G20 representatives are meeting, with growing members pushing for bigger roles and shoes, discussing larger than life topics such as macro-economic transparency, strengthening and revamping of the existing financial global systems, actions and plans to redress the situation, save the day from the looming tumorous shadow of an expanding recession, which even Dubai can no longer deny.

How many times did I hear the word recession? Add to it 'bailout,' and, that shady 'hedge-funds.' The song is sticking to my head, drilled in by oozing-with-confidence economists, zealous worshipers of Capitalism's Free Stirring Hand, preachers of Utopian societies blessed with ever-lasting growth, pretending to know what is going on, when in fact it is most incessant clatter.

Anyway, I'm busily busy, looking for an angle into one of the stories I once began and have yet to finish, and it feels like wrestling with a slippery elephant. I'm also reading, fiction mind you, and good stuff too. Reading is medicine against dullness, intellectual indolence, helpless acquiescence, and most of all, that most horrible of conditions, rigidity of opinion.

Of course, just like with everything ingested, there are side-effects; in this case, the surfacing of unexpected ideas and concepts, dramatically altered viewpoints, loss of balance, chaos, which, when all is said and considered, might just be exactly what is needed.

But don't take my word for it, grab a book, read a line, a paragraph, a page, a chapter, or even the whole thing, from cover to cover, and see for yourself. Then, if you feel like it, let me know how it all went for you.

Until then, I wish to declare Venus missing, gone on hiatus, and I don't have a clue as for where she might be. The last thing I heard was that she was seen with stiff Capricorn. It appears that she must have made a move while I was hanging out with Saturn, or, arguing with Mercury who's been into total nonsense lately -and you know how much I can't stand that.

Otherwise, all is well, in this messiest of worlds we have inherited.

Be well, and like that popular series of books says, don't fret about the small stuff.

A bleeping thing somewhere within unfathomable vastness

A storyteller's call...

Come, come, brothers and sisters, for I've brought a story to share.
Come, come, children and mothers, for there is wisdom to be plucked.
Come, come, poor and rich, the circle welcomes you all.
Gather around, alight, surrender your burden, for this is a tale like no other.
Yes, here and there, find your place. Find you neighbor. Fill the gaps.
Settle down, and remember that in this circle, we meet in peace.
Open your minds, for as the wind dies down the tale begins.

Unexpected happenings...

I've had quite a few of them these last couple of days. Some shakier than the rest. Take for example, last evening. I was cooking, and highly inspired. There were beans, okra, carrots, red peppers, Brussels sprouts, quinoa, parsley, turmeric, cumin, sea salt, olive oil, lots of pans and heat. I was in top form, my movements blending with the lively rhythms of a hot Flamenco CD.

Then all of a sudden, all hell broke loose. Things happened too quickly, and so, so accidentally... I, momentarily, placed a warm pan too close to a tiny clear plastic bag containing, crushed habanero flakes. The bag stuck to the pan. The pan made a hole in the bag. And I, well, was having way too much fun to notice.

I lifted the pan, and the heaviest habanero flakes began raining over the stove where they began burning and spreading their noxious fumes. The smallest particles however, chose to take a look around the house, and also, of course, into my nostrils, throat and lungs.

Needless to say, there was lots of coughing, a good half hour of it, too much sneezing, a runny nose that refused to stop running, a violated throat, and if you had knocked at the door, even an hour later, you too would have fallen victim to this unwarranted and mostly vicious habanero attack -kind of like how Sim did.

All windows were opened -a great idea, but I have to admit, it wasn't mine- and we vacated the premises. I was embarrassed, and rather angry at myself, for having ruined the evening -so much for countenance. Clearly, I had forgotten about the power of Om. But thankfully, Sim grabbed the wheel and calmly saved the day -or should I say the evening?

Long story short, a muffin and a cappuccino later, my bruised ego was feeling much better, and the Universe once again was as perfectly imperfect as it ought to be.

Be well, if even you can't spot the sun.

A couple ot thoughts...

have been keeping me company lately, and I figured I could share what has been simmering in my head -if only to shed some light inside my overactive cranium. Fortunately, I happen to be on familiar grounds.

Every now and then, I begin questioning my reasons for doing whatever it is I happen to be doing, the strategies supporting my choices regarding this doing -if there are any, and the validity of whatever goals I am supposedly pursuing. Which brings us to the subject of writing...

Writing and I seem to have been keeping quite a complicated arrangement. It's as if ours is a one-way affair, with me doing all of the work to keep the relationship alive -at least that is how if feels.

What I am trying to say is that there have been instances when I asked myself, "is this really worth it?" Which isn't a good question if one tends to be on the realistic side of positions.

Anyway, writing is most of the time, difficult, picky, unruly, uncooperative... Yet, I am unable to let go, no matter how much, I think: "Enough is enough. This is it. I cannot go on living like this. Life is too short. What am I doing here? Shouldn't I be enjoying myself? Doing instead of sitting and thinking and editing and reviewing and correcting and revising and hating... I am getting fat. I don't have a social life. What's the point anyway?." And on, and on, and on, until I am so exhausted I simply end up collapsing.

"Why not stop then?" might you ask. Well, it isn't that simple actually, or maybe it is simple. I love writing. I cannot see myself not writing, as that would be against my very nature, which by the way and if you haven't noticed already, is highly skeptical of everything, even itself. So, I will go on struggling, despite the frustration, the uncertainty, the fear that it might not be worth much in the end. I will believe that I can, rather than can't. Most of all, I will do this from the heart -And who cares about rationality -really?

This said, I have to inform everyone that I am about to begin working on the second novel, and maybe the fourth, which means that I will become a bit of a recluse. Please forgive me if I am less social than usual, but a story cannot be written superficially. It is all or nothing, otherwise, what comes out is just rubbish -in my case at least.

Otherwise, my yoga environment is changing, and I am a bit uncomfortable with the direction towards which things are heading. So, I'm be looking for a space to do something different than what I am involved with right now.

My aim is to teach three classes of a dynamic flow style, including Pranayama, per week to a group of five to eight dedicated practitioners. I am also looking for the possibility to offer a free, or at least low cost, class to the community in general. This free class will be dedicated to Universal Peace and will include some time for a silent meditation aimed toward Peace.

Finally, I just wanted to say that this post was extremely difficult to write. There were little people throwing Lego pieces on a vinyl floor, some employee, with too many jingly bracelets, wiping too many tables... Yet, here we are, and I couldn't be any happier or more satisfied.

Be well and, if you can, do your best and don't worry about the rest.

A worrier -every now and then

A long afternoon..

that is what this one turned out to be... Nonetheless, Obama won, the sun was out, and I hear there were rallies last night. I even saw a video recording of one online -Downtown Madison.

Now, I will let you onto a secret, Loki is out today, looking for trouble, looking for souls to trick, so be careful and keep at least one eye, and if you can manage, one ear, opened -just in case.

How do I know? Simple. He and I go a long way back, and I have to admit that I always preferred him to the others.

Be well and feel free to treat yourself to a cup of hot Cocoa.

A busy bee

A long afternoon..

From UW...

I compose these few lines, just to remain connected on this busy day, wondering how long the voting line will be by the time I reach it, not that I am unprepared -I do carry a good book.

Otherwise, the suspense will be dealt with tonight, and we'll probably know who won some time tomorrow. There will be less pieces revolving around Obama Vs. McCain on NPR, and we might just be able to look a bit more into what is happening elsewhere...

Access to information can be addictive, be very careful how much you get involved with what is going on... Take it from me, I was once a a news junkie, and believe it or not, it took a great deal of work to get my life back on track.

There was a time when I couldn't get enough, be it through the airwaves or on print. I gobbled it all, in frightening quantities, and with that, I gained strong convictions, rigid views on what should be. I became close-minded, full of facts, dates and unshakable truths...

These were dangerous times, but somehow, I caught a glimpse of myself during some blessed moment of lucidity, and it was all that was needed for the seed of change to germinate, for transformation to occur, and for peace to come. Then slowly, I awoke, from the madness I had been swept into, and back into the banks of Openness.

That was then... Nowadays, I move carefully. I know myself, my weaknesses, my ideals, and I truly hope that you do too.

Be well, and don't forget that no matter how far we roam, we are all the same, just a bit different.

Another vote that counts

New space...

New office, new window view, new friendships, new responsibilities, all came together, in less than a few days time. Life is full of unexpected crossroads -who knows where each might lead?

New space, new desk, new computer, new keys, all came together, in less than a few hours time. I take a step forward, not knowing what is to be expected, except for an overall feeling telling me that the company is mostly enjoyable.

Otherwise, here I am, a step forward, into a new adventure, a new perspective, community-oriented, University-funded, into a vortex of merging energies whose expression is centered around connecting, understanding and improving our globally interwoven world.

As for the rest, I am allowing myself to drift along what is and what will be, as much as my obsessively controlling personality can manage, no more, no less... for in the end we all tend to remain true to our truest nature, whether we like or not.

So be well, and don't let your problematic knees, or whatever other part of your body that is the most outspoken, overshadow the joyous moments of your day.

A finite breath in infinite creation.

A red robin...

Crossed my path this morning, somewhere on Gorham, just off Wisconsin. It drew a curve over my head before landing on a tree branch. I was, as I am still, wearing my Sun Diego T-shirt, with nothing over it. Forget about coats, forget about jackets; it is, after all, a sunny red robin kind of day.

Although life, in the end, when all arguments are exhausted, is a matter of perspective -as much as the concept of Beauty is. Regardless of what is in front of us, we all notice what we focus on. In the alchemy of creation, we are each a unique amalgamation of shifting emotions and thoughts. We are malleable clay between form and formlessness.

For a few days now, I've been strongly aware of my knee. I feel its temperamental personality with each step, no, with each bodily shift I make. It has become as large as life. I've glimpsed the promise of peace beyond its greedily outstretched dominion, but the promise seems as difficult to reach as the most elusive of horizons.

Some might say that knee pain is a sign that I am pushing too hard, upstream, for what I want, and maybe there is some truth to that. I've always been extremely ambitious, unwilling to compromise, inflexible in my pursuits, refusing to learn the lessons of this lifetime.

Yes, undoubtedly, there is room for growth, for embracing selflessness -to a degree, for willingly being of service to others... until then, I'll continue to fight, to resist, to believe that I can, to remain as stubborn as I've always been...

Saturn can be pushy in general, and even more in Virgo. Saturn can be a pain especially in his house, especially in Capricorn. For me that happens to be in my 6th house, home of health, care and maintenance. But watch if I care...

Foolishly, I'll stick around Venus, while she's having fun in Sagittarius, as she should on such a sunny red robin day.

Be well, and be kind and loving toward yourself -it is wiser and healthier, in the long run.

A fool on a glorious November Monday

Even better...

This is another video that shows some of my favorite asana-progressions, except when my knee is acting up. Be sure to use caution if you plan on trying this at home. And since this is a bit advanced in the Ashtanga practice, I'd say just watch and allow your mind to wander over the possibilities of what can be achieved...



Be well and if you can be mindful of your breathing...

A moving practice

My kind of yoga....

This little demo video, embedded from UTube, shows my favorite teacher, in his school located in Maysore, and in a nutshell, this is what I tend to do when no one is around...

Be well, and remember that being balanced means continuously adjusting to the Now.

A changing experience

Sunday morning...

between warm and chilly, sunny and gray. The roads belong to the few. It is an hour earlier than what it was twenty-four hours ago. NPR is all about the electoral processes, Obama, McCain, and the world is watching, some more closely than others.

Outside, cars are arriving, flocking into Whole Foods Market's parking lot, the slick Mazerati and the modestly green Subury. Doors open to be slammed shot, as passengers in all sorts of clothing styles, begin their walk toward the store. There are cyclists too, fewer than a week ago, for only the diehard cling to their bikes.

They come in throngs, with all sorts of reasons, carrying their lists, or simply their appetites. There are the regulars, who tend to make small daily purchases; the once or twice a week shoppers, who fill up their carts, have little ones hovering around their moving selves; and let us not forget, the sampling junkies, free stuff gobblers, a group I sadly belong to...

Surrounded by food, and pleasing color arrangements, they all blend in. Most make small talk with the highly eclectic and mostly friendly staff members, weekend laborers, who probably would love nothing more than being elsewhere, but then again, we're all different.

They hang around, make choices, soundly, or simply falling victims to a combination of clever merchandising and temptation -the way I do, stand in line at one of the few opened registers, patiently, or looking rather uncomfortable, too busy to be slowed down -I tend to feel that way. Some socialize, while others, keep to themselves, doing their best to avoid those who like myself cannot help being curious, inquisitive or simply friendly.

Then, we all head out, maybe we linger at the cafeteria, to eat something picked inside, or just connect to the internet taking advantage of the complementary free Wi-Fi, as I am doing right now.

Whichever the case, we leave the premises, the parking lot and go on with our respective lives. Life is a journey with many intersections and detours, and no matter how fast our world is spinning, whirling and swirling into the unknown, we somehow still can manage to meet in the most convivial of ways... and perhaps, this is something to be grateful for.

Be well, and if you feel like sharing a smile with the person standing next to you in line, go for it, I surely wouldn't mind.

A talkative shopper

Saturdays...

zoom by too quickly, even when there is so much to absorb on such a sunny day. And what have I accomplished thus far, besides driving around, trying to find a comfortable space?

I've hit Downtown, the Farmer's market -did a circle around the Capital, checked the city's building -and that impressively snaking line of early voters. I've driven past college students dressed up for the party on State Street tonight, appearing strangely out of place in broad daylight.

To enjoy the sun, I sat outside Borders -my old office, and experienced frustration vis-a-vis some bold French smoker who never takes in consideration the wind's direction prior to picking a table. Not that too many smokers would care, but I have to tell you, this ban on smoking inside, isn't working for me...

I really liked it better when they were inside, and, I was out enjoying the fresh air. How about adding a peripheral radius to the non-smoking zone? A few kilometers would be perfect, don't you think?

On another note, there is a certain beauty in youth. There is a certain beauty in good health. There is even a certain beauty in wealth. But, here in there, you can see that Venus finds her most awe-inspiring, heart-rate raising, thought-incapacitating, vessels, with complete disregard to the norms of our kind.

Then Beauty simply radiates, a light unlike any other, shining gracefully from within, undeniably clear. Meanwhile, we attempt, mimic, copy, fake, hoping to look this and that way, wishing for Venus's companionship and approval. Seeking what is already there, we manage to lose it...

Perfection is illusion. Perfection is a static image. And life, well, life is a mesmerizing dancer, born in motion, lost in rhythm, aware of nothing else but the melody, and maybe the partner -obviously optional, that keeps it going and going and going, from ecstasy to bliss, from fall to flight...

Be well, and if you don't mind falling, and the possibility of looking foolish, take a step forward, grab life's hand and be the best partner you've always dreamed you should be. And if you fall, don't take yourself too seriously, just get back on your feet, brush off the dust, smile for your partner, and give the rhythm another shot.

A note in a pleasant melody

Halloween...

is here, and I am considering a costume. What could I wear? Who could I be? For a few hours, I'll pretend to be someone else, or maybe just be more myself than usual. No filters, no brakes, no worries, no sweeteners, no masks. Say what I really think. Wouldn't that be something to rave about, at least until vanity and self-consciousness settle back in.

But it doesn't have to be this way, does it? I don't know about you, but it seems to me that most of us are living between very uniquely personalized sets of dichotomies, one pulling, the other pushing, and who knows, it could be true that opposites attract.

Take me for example, and as far as I can recall, I've been moving from one addiction to another, from passion to passion, embracing one behavioral pattern, idea, or philosophy, after the other, always with all of my might, wholeheartedly, each time pledging my life to the cause, only to naturally end up breaking free from the very sphere I had committed myself to remain in.

In other words, I love routines and stability, and at the same time, I just can tolerate them -a dichotomy if I've ever heard of one. I know that I'm not the only one, and maybe you can relate.

Anyway, if you haven't noticed, the moon is easily moving through Sagittarius today, and since we all know that Sagittarius is the gypsy of the Zodiac, I invite us to have a bit of gypsy fun. Be yourself, enjoy the day, hit the road, meet up with friends, do whatever you feel like doing, dance and sing, listen to your intuition, and most of all, be happy, and if you can, laugh from the heart -it's good for you.

Be well and if you want try to be the greatest gypsy in your tribe.

Romani at heart

Addictions...

Come in all shapes and forms, but are always bad for one's growth in the long run. And I know what I'm talking about, since I was born with an inclination for embracing addictions.

Too readily, too eagerly, I get used to patterns, behaviors, places, flavors and even nuances -especially nuances. I get hooked on all sorts of things... from drowning in the news to the taste of a conversation, from the shape of particular road to the unique sound of a voice, from lingering to pursuing, from simply allowing to resisting.

Why am I as such? I've asked myself on numerous occasions, and the answer has come in different and conflicting forms. For not only could this weakness of mine be genetic, but it could actually stem from some psychological defect held deep within, or it could be due to how much sugar my mom consumed while carrying me inside her belly, or maybe, maybe, it has more to do with the karmic mission I took on prior to entering this lifetime...

Whichever the case, I am an addict of life, and I am working on it. I'm glutenous, ravenous in everything I do -well almost everything. So, if you've ever felt this way, and didn't know what to do, or how to react, just know that you are not alone, and that life, whichever way you slice it and dice it, is a banquet of treats, where what might be good for some, might prove poisonous for others.

Have fun, enjoy yourself, and try not to overdo it -There is plenty out here for everyone. And remember what Joha probably thought, "Moderation... Moderation..."

A burning vessel

Lunch hour...

From WholeFoods cafeteria. I was planning on writing about surfers, old friends, crown making, and the accident that, more than fifteen years ago, led to the darkening of tooth #8. But plans are plans, and life is a master-conjurer of unexpected gifts.

Thus a few minutes ago, I just finished writing a reply to a Piscean Friend, whom I don't know much about, except for what I recognize from their writing, as greatness of heart and depth of character. Once again, thank you.

The cafeteria has filled up and the sun has brightened Madison -At least its West-Side.
And since for me sitting is torture, I read onto my environment a thousand reasons to head out... and boy, oh boy, too many of them seem valid right now.

So, be well, and try to get some natural vitamin D -It's good for you and everyone else.

And who knows, we might even meet out there.

Tooth #8...

Is all I can think of at the moment. The day is glorious. The sun is out and fully blossomed. The heavens are bright blue, fragmented by thick, but soft, cotton-ish trailing white lines of jetliner smoke. The air is electric-cool, ideal in my case, given my Aquarian nature. And most of all, Venus is out and playful.

Maybe Saturn is in a good mood today, or perhaps, just focusing his energies elsewhere. All I know is that there is too much going on in Scorpio; Sun, Mars, and Moon hanging out in the most convivial of ways.

But nothing is as it seems. Remember, Scorpio doesn't mind stinging others, or even itself. Sitting there quietly between the 'I' and 'Relationships,' I didn't know how it would manifest and surely, I wasn't expecting the discomfort to come from tooth #8.

But that is exactly where the moon decided to darken my horizon... To each his own though, so try to stay cool, and maybe, lean closer to the other side of the wheel, right where Taurus stands proud and rooted -surely, that's one way, and you might just know of others...

Be well and don't let your #8 be a bother.

Toothless at your service

Running today...

errands, the dentist, and what not. There is no time to chat, open up, say what I would not mind to say, filter for the sake of this and that. So here it is in less than it deserves:

You are complex, marvelous, blessed, tested, and deserving...
You are foaming sea, a clear pond, a gentle river, a raging torrent...

That is what you are; live your truth and enjoy it...

Be well, and stop doubting yourself.

An impression

Aspects...

Some say, are the most important factors in an astrological chart, and since my understanding of this fascinating subject is highly amateurish, I choose to take this view as it is and work from it…

Whichever the case, aspects are what I’ve been thinking of lately. As for how it began, I really don’t know, but I could probably pick, with great confidence, a very specific moment, from today’s many moments, and turn it to a mostly plausible starting point.

Thus, it was while stepping from the detail of a task, to that of another, that a certain sweet little voice dropped a song into my ear, before gracefully flying off and leaving me with a question, or should I say, mission.

Inspired, I began searching and this is what I found, and forgive me if I confuse you:

1) Of all the planetary aspects, conjunctions and oppositions are the most important
2) Oppositions represent forces that must be reconciled –usually reconciliation has to be done within before it is possible outside.
For example, if the moon and the sun were to be found in opposition, it would imply, one could speculate, a separation between the Inner Self and the Personality, and that therefore peace and harmony can only be achieved, overall, when and only when reconciliation takes place within. Usually, tests come through one’s relationships.
Now, if we were to suggest that in this particular case, the moon was in Pisces, and the sun in Virgo, with Virgo ascending, I would say that there is so much we could write about…
3) Now, before embracing despair, let me add that oppositions on the brighter side of possibilities do offer the opportunity for broadening one’s views and comfort zone.

So, while I ponder and seek one possible truth, be well and know that I am quite busily lost…

I remember...

A time when we were nothing but surfers, nothing more, nothing less,
and the rest was clearly of no consequence,
A time when life was exclusively about dropping, again and again, dropping,
Riding and chasing that perfectly rolling wall that wouldn't stop
Rising and breaking inside our hearts.

I remember a time when we were completely consumed by the elements,
When we were savages, unshackled alpha-males, artistic beasts on the loose,
When we fought for self-preservation, spilling blood in utter blindness,
Completely lost to the nature of our moment-by-moment-celebrating rituals,
To the carelessness of our borderline suicidal performances...

I remember the sun, piercing bright sphere, hanging over my head,
Brownish sand, wet and malleable, cold, burning, warm and inviting, beneath my feet,
Mist raising off-shores, and, mess-spreading on-shores,
The ocean stretching as far as the eyes could glimpse,
And our heroes so close and so dearly emulated...

I remember us watching the tides and their shifting, guessing oncoming swells, talking about styles and boards, as if everything mattered,
Even the slightest change in the curve and placement of a finger,
We were perfectionists dealing with unstable of forms...

I remember traveling, preceding the wind, howling fearlessly at the unknown,
Ignoring hunger, laughing at thirst, incorrigible lunatics,
Our belongings left behind, watched over by scheming gulls,
And the shore's ruffians and thieves...

I remember my body bare slipping through the spume, one with creation,
Alive, exhilarated, intoxicated and so deeply inspired.

I remember it all, as if it were this morning, and I know that,
Nothing, nothing... is to ever compare.

Live, be well, and if you have a chance do not squander it.

A drop in a pearly ocean

Waking up...

that early isn't really that bad of an experience-and if you're wondering, I am referring to my previous post. I actually enjoy waking up before Apollo and his acolytes.

Yes, today's dream slipped through all the nets of awareness set to catch it, but that is no reason to shake a fist in Morpheus's direction. Au contraire, much was accomplished since the soles of my bare feet touched the carpet.

There's been a nicely outstretched yoga session, followed by a lively time in the kitchen where pans were heated, and wholesome foods prepared, while NPR played gently in the background. By the time I was finished, the kitchen was sparkling clean, as if I'd never been there -voila!

The menu? Well, lets see... Spanish Tortilla, Blended black and garbanzo beans, brown Bastami rice with wheat berry grains, and a roasted mix of mindfully-diced vegetables in olive oil. And the spices? As usual: sea salt, granulated garlic, cumin and turmeric.

And before, I forget, I don't know why I wrote that today's new moon was in Aries, when it is obviously in Scorpio. Now, with this said, and based on what I've learned here and there, which doesn't amount to much, while a new moon is a great time to start something new, a Scorpio moon is highly temperamental...

Otherwise, be well and try to remember that everything, from your center to mine, is so, so, deeply, and inevitably, connected -we are all part of Indra's net.

A reflection of your beauty and light

Dreams...

are slippery waves... I tried catching one, and here I am sitting empty-minded, at this pre-dawnish hour, in semi-darkness, like a thief in his own home, moving carefully out of habit.

My head is heavy, my mind is slow, and as for dreams, I have none to show... So, I leave you with this to consider, when you wisely get up, unless just like me you too have opened your eyes and stood up to seek light in darkness, and I haven't forgotten that there plenty of folks who are already moving with bellicose determination to some dogged work destination.

Whichever the case, I wish you all a great awakening, and the most glorious of pursuits.

Be well, and remember that the sun never fails to rise -and that with or without that handsome and mostly dedicated Apollo...

Rectification...

It seems that I made a mistake yesterday while writing about the music I was listening to... It wasn't Exposure by Digweed, but Exposures, a Global Underground compilation by some anonymous DJ. Regardless, it was exactly what was needed at that moment.

Otherwise, flurries have been coming down, every now and then, throughout the day, and I have been working at keeping myself extremely busy, doing absolutely nothing of consequence...

Well, there's been talking to my recently gained family, and that of course is something. But wait... perhaps, I should allow a few lines here to explain what I mean by 'recently gained family,' and just to clarify, I am not talking about in-laws here, for our bond is one of kin and blood -patriarchal to be more precise.

It all started with Reda finding me on Facebook... then from there and to summarize, I would say that it has been a week now that I've been communicating online with a brother, two sisters and a father -and, yes they're all mine... and if you wonder, I am still having a hard time believing that this is actually happening. Yet, all of it, is absolutely real.

These people I am talking about here are truly wonderful folks, and I am deeply thankful for their acceptance of me. Not only that, but I have to add that whenever I am communicating with them there is an undeniable sense of joy that spreads through my whole being, and that is something that is worth mentioning, wouldn't you agree?

A few weeks ago, I would have referred to myself as having no siblings and being of a very small family. Now, if you ask me, I'll say, with pride that I have one brother and two sisters. If you ask me about my parents, instead of talking solely about my mother, as I would have done not long ago, I will now explain that while mom broke her ankle in Madison, my father lives near Tetouan, in Morocco, where he paints landscapes...

A wise and cherished voice whispered in my ear, while I was on the move, hopping from country to country, aiming to reach India, many a sweet thing. Among them, the voice said that much transformation was on the way, and she was right.

Now, if you haven't noticed, take a look at Pluto, for it is doing it's thing, heading once again in the right direction, leaving Sagittarius and entering Capricorn, taking everyone for a spin, from a daring and highly self-expressive collective state of mind to a mostly conservative and protectionist one... What am I talking about? Just huge transformation, a line of volcanoes erupting type of transformation, a punk's fantasy kind of transformation, that's what I am talking about.

What else? Oh, yes, Neptune is coming out it's retrograde phase, and I will miss the madness.

Be well, and just as a reminder, tomorrow is an Aries new moon kind of day, try to take advantage of that, and start, or just plan to start something new...

A thought leads to another, leads to another, leads to another, leads to you