Saturday, August 14, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
To Live. To Inspire. - INSPIRE Magazine
I do have some thoughts to share, but maybe another time. Been working on a lot of things on this end. Earlier this week, NING.. the creator and owner of millions of NING Social Networks, including mine will be shutting its doors of its free ad-supported services. Which means... The COOL Social Network will be shut down in about 2 months. So..what's the plan? Well, we been working overtime working on a solution and we found it --- INSPIRE MAGAZINE.
INSPIRE MAGAZINE - will be available in print AND online. We found a publisher. We found a way a way to keep the costs down to only $6 an issue for 20 full-color pages. The plan is to be ready for launch by July. Which means, everything on our end needs to be ready by the end of May. And by the look of things, we will be on schedule.
REASONS -
1. A new way of presenting our art and photography
2. The reading Black community is REALLLLY lacking. Personally, I'm tired of going to the bookstore, walking to the "African-American" section and seeing nothing but the typical "Black love stories". I wanna read something refreshing.
3. Bring other like-minded writers together, network, come together...
4. To showcase upcoming talent. Up-and-coming artists, published writers, businesses.
SUBMISSIONS -
We are looking for submissions.. poetry, blog entries, short stories...anything interesting. Chosen works will be of course credited to you. You will still have your copyrights. We'll be willing to post your contact info and weblink. If you're interested in submitting material, please email it to me, Christopher Bell at icecoldbell@gmail.com
GAMEPLAN -
The gameplan is to keep the bulk of the magazine's material in the print version only. But add special "bonus" features on the online version. For example, if we're doing an artist spotlight on an upcoming rapper. His article/interview will be printed in the magazine, but online they can hear sample tracks and even video and links to their website if the reader wants to know more about them. It just adds to the experience.
DISTRIBUTION -
We'll be going through a POD (print on demand) publisher, which means the magazine will only be for sale online then shipped to the reader. As we grow, and more opportunities arise, maybe we can order some in bulk and have them sold in person.
FINAL PRODUCT -
The great thing about going independent is full creative control. All the details are done by us, even down to the cover and the layout. We, The COOL, always been known for our "polished, professional" look. The magazine will be no different. It will not look cheesy or low-grade. The magazine will be printed on premium high-quality paper. It costs more per page for us to print. That's why each issue will only be 20 pages. But its 20 pages with hardly any ads in it. So, its more content for the buck.
Any other questions... hit me up!
Christopher Bell
601.668.7852
icecoldbell@gmail.com
INSPIRE MAGAZINE in progress. See a preview here: http://blackinspired.wordpress.com/
Sample Magazine layout here: http://magcloud.com/browse/Issue/75282
INSPIRE MAGAZINE - will be available in print AND online. We found a publisher. We found a way a way to keep the costs down to only $6 an issue for 20 full-color pages. The plan is to be ready for launch by July. Which means, everything on our end needs to be ready by the end of May. And by the look of things, we will be on schedule.
REASONS -
1. A new way of presenting our art and photography
2. The reading Black community is REALLLLY lacking. Personally, I'm tired of going to the bookstore, walking to the "African-American" section and seeing nothing but the typical "Black love stories". I wanna read something refreshing.
3. Bring other like-minded writers together, network, come together...
4. To showcase upcoming talent. Up-and-coming artists, published writers, businesses.
SUBMISSIONS -
We are looking for submissions.. poetry, blog entries, short stories...anything interesting. Chosen works will be of course credited to you. You will still have your copyrights. We'll be willing to post your contact info and weblink. If you're interested in submitting material, please email it to me, Christopher Bell at icecoldbell@gmail.com
GAMEPLAN -
The gameplan is to keep the bulk of the magazine's material in the print version only. But add special "bonus" features on the online version. For example, if we're doing an artist spotlight on an upcoming rapper. His article/interview will be printed in the magazine, but online they can hear sample tracks and even video and links to their website if the reader wants to know more about them. It just adds to the experience.
DISTRIBUTION -
We'll be going through a POD (print on demand) publisher, which means the magazine will only be for sale online then shipped to the reader. As we grow, and more opportunities arise, maybe we can order some in bulk and have them sold in person.
FINAL PRODUCT -
The great thing about going independent is full creative control. All the details are done by us, even down to the cover and the layout. We, The COOL, always been known for our "polished, professional" look. The magazine will be no different. It will not look cheesy or low-grade. The magazine will be printed on premium high-quality paper. It costs more per page for us to print. That's why each issue will only be 20 pages. But its 20 pages with hardly any ads in it. So, its more content for the buck.
Any other questions... hit me up!
Christopher Bell
601.668.7852
icecoldbell@gmail.com
INSPIRE MAGAZINE in progress. See a preview here: http://blackinspired.wordpress.com/
Sample Magazine layout here: http://magcloud.com/browse/Issue/75282
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Thoughts of a Dreamer
Its been a minute since I made a post... here's some updates..
FIGHTERS: New Orleans
photos here: http://www.teu2008.com/2010_cool/gallery_fighters.html
Well as most of you know, Fighters was a total success!!! The photos came out beautifully. Pretty much exactly how I imagined it. For the most part, the project was executed smoothly. Women came out and supported it, we enjoyed working with each of them. Met some great people. We worked hard and had a great time. But we were soooo drained. So the team stopped for food and a couple of drinks before heading back to Jackson. But we all loved it and look forward to working in other cities this year.
Thoughts of a Dreamer
www.kingdreamer.com
I also been busy compiling my first book release in 4 years!!! It is titled, Thoughts of a Dreamer. Its a small 62-page read about my thoughts, broken down in three chapters. Instead waiting to compile a full-fledge release of The King's Garden. I decided to take a page from Janelle Monae and release the book in "suites". So, next week I'm introducing the first installment. The book itself contain a lot of entries from The King's Garden, but also material I didn't publish in the blog. And everything been rearranged because there's a certain way I wanted the book to be presented. Even though this is my smallest book release, I also believe its one of my best work. I also wanted to keep my work affordable, so the book will retail at only $10.00. I'm really excited to get these thoughts out to the public. Half the book is inspirational, my reflections of my spiritual life...the other half more sensual, with a touch of freaky. ;-) This is not a typical poetry book. Its a reflection of me, half-human and half-Dreamer. So..check it out! IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!!! ...maybe not. But its still a good read. :-)
Time for me to get back to work..until next time.
FIGHTERS: New Orleans
photos here: http://www.teu2008.com/2010_cool/gallery_fighters.html
Well as most of you know, Fighters was a total success!!! The photos came out beautifully. Pretty much exactly how I imagined it. For the most part, the project was executed smoothly. Women came out and supported it, we enjoyed working with each of them. Met some great people. We worked hard and had a great time. But we were soooo drained. So the team stopped for food and a couple of drinks before heading back to Jackson. But we all loved it and look forward to working in other cities this year.
Thoughts of a Dreamer
www.kingdreamer.com
I also been busy compiling my first book release in 4 years!!! It is titled, Thoughts of a Dreamer. Its a small 62-page read about my thoughts, broken down in three chapters. Instead waiting to compile a full-fledge release of The King's Garden. I decided to take a page from Janelle Monae and release the book in "suites". So, next week I'm introducing the first installment. The book itself contain a lot of entries from The King's Garden, but also material I didn't publish in the blog. And everything been rearranged because there's a certain way I wanted the book to be presented. Even though this is my smallest book release, I also believe its one of my best work. I also wanted to keep my work affordable, so the book will retail at only $10.00. I'm really excited to get these thoughts out to the public. Half the book is inspirational, my reflections of my spiritual life...the other half more sensual, with a touch of freaky. ;-) This is not a typical poetry book. Its a reflection of me, half-human and half-Dreamer. So..check it out! IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!!! ...maybe not. But its still a good read. :-)
Time for me to get back to work..until next time.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
FIGHTERS Preview: The Calm before the Storm...
The title entry is tentative... I have no idea what to name this.
In less than 72 hours...my life, my career will change once again. I am nervous, I am calm, I am confident, I am anxious.
When I came up with the concept FIGHTERS, it was an idea...an emotion, something I was feeling. It was an attitude that I had towards life. But now that this project is about to come to life, everything's changed. This project has become bigger than me and the rest of the COOL. It is so much more now. In the words of my brother Jeremy, "HISTORY will be made. This will be a day to remember." ....at the time he said it, I laughed. But as time went by, I realized he is right.
The past week or so been crazy as hell for me. Between my regular bookings and sub-contract work, I hardly had any time to buckle down and focus in on my project until now. The overall concept may seem quite simple, but this project involves a lot of risks, lots of logistical planning and organization and just being prepared for anything.
This project is the beginning of a whole new system. This project will set the tone for the rest of the year. And I got to be ready for anything. I been nervous about everything, analyzing every detail, wondering if I can really pull this off. But this week...has been quite a revelation. Within seven days of a project, I called it PROJECT WEEK. Usually it is the most hectic week narrowing down all the final details. Keeping contact with all the models, making sure they have all the information and documentation they need. Keeping track of the expenses. Shitload of stuff. lol. And for the most part, PROJECT WEEK been pretty normal. The odd part of it this time...I'm cooler about it. I'm calm. I'm not afraid of failure. I just feel like God touched me, gave me signs and even spoke to me through others to let me know..."I gotcha Dreamer. This is the time. This will succeed." And I feel good knowing...He's there with me. He still have big plans for me. And I can't doing nothing but smile and praise him. Though...there's still a lot of things I don't understand. And asking him to lead me every step of the way. Let me know what's going on and what He has planned. Because I have a feeling...this weekend will be a successful one on many levels...
*signing out*
In less than 72 hours...my life, my career will change once again. I am nervous, I am calm, I am confident, I am anxious.
When I came up with the concept FIGHTERS, it was an idea...an emotion, something I was feeling. It was an attitude that I had towards life. But now that this project is about to come to life, everything's changed. This project has become bigger than me and the rest of the COOL. It is so much more now. In the words of my brother Jeremy, "HISTORY will be made. This will be a day to remember." ....at the time he said it, I laughed. But as time went by, I realized he is right.
The past week or so been crazy as hell for me. Between my regular bookings and sub-contract work, I hardly had any time to buckle down and focus in on my project until now. The overall concept may seem quite simple, but this project involves a lot of risks, lots of logistical planning and organization and just being prepared for anything.
This project is the beginning of a whole new system. This project will set the tone for the rest of the year. And I got to be ready for anything. I been nervous about everything, analyzing every detail, wondering if I can really pull this off. But this week...has been quite a revelation. Within seven days of a project, I called it PROJECT WEEK. Usually it is the most hectic week narrowing down all the final details. Keeping contact with all the models, making sure they have all the information and documentation they need. Keeping track of the expenses. Shitload of stuff. lol. And for the most part, PROJECT WEEK been pretty normal. The odd part of it this time...I'm cooler about it. I'm calm. I'm not afraid of failure. I just feel like God touched me, gave me signs and even spoke to me through others to let me know..."I gotcha Dreamer. This is the time. This will succeed." And I feel good knowing...He's there with me. He still have big plans for me. And I can't doing nothing but smile and praise him. Though...there's still a lot of things I don't understand. And asking him to lead me every step of the way. Let me know what's going on and what He has planned. Because I have a feeling...this weekend will be a successful one on many levels...
*signing out*
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Project: FIGHTERS (coming soon)
Evening...
Tonight, I released the test shots to my upcoming project, Fighters. If you been keeping up on my blog this year...you shouldn't be too surprised. This project reflects my attitude and my vision for the year. In this world, you cannot expect anything you want to be given to you. You gotta FIGHT for it. For the past decade and for the past few years I been in Jackson, I was willing to do just that; fight my way to make my dreams come true. If you want it, you gotta go get it.
ALLURE was a beautiful successful project, but I have a different goal for FIGHTERS, like any project me and the team put together. I was never one to be comfortable in any set style or "look" of photography. As a "young" artist, I'm still finding my way, my comfort zone and still a student of this art form. FIGHTERS is another opportunity to showcase my versatility and the random thoughts that dwell in my head. I wanted a "dark" look for this project. Something that says "focused" and "driven". More than anything, I'm working towards a great successful 2010.
I'm even more excited to execute this project in New Orleans. New people, new environment...a fresh perspective. Anyway..hope you enjoy!
Night...
www.twitter.com/enterthecool
Tonight, I released the test shots to my upcoming project, Fighters. If you been keeping up on my blog this year...you shouldn't be too surprised. This project reflects my attitude and my vision for the year. In this world, you cannot expect anything you want to be given to you. You gotta FIGHT for it. For the past decade and for the past few years I been in Jackson, I was willing to do just that; fight my way to make my dreams come true. If you want it, you gotta go get it.
ALLURE was a beautiful successful project, but I have a different goal for FIGHTERS, like any project me and the team put together. I was never one to be comfortable in any set style or "look" of photography. As a "young" artist, I'm still finding my way, my comfort zone and still a student of this art form. FIGHTERS is another opportunity to showcase my versatility and the random thoughts that dwell in my head. I wanted a "dark" look for this project. Something that says "focused" and "driven". More than anything, I'm working towards a great successful 2010.
I'm even more excited to execute this project in New Orleans. New people, new environment...a fresh perspective. Anyway..hope you enjoy!
Night...
www.twitter.com/enterthecool
Friday, January 29, 2010
Song of Blue
a classic. From my second book, Destiny's Theory.
::Song of Blue::
Christopher Byron Bell
1Close your eyes. Let’s travel to the uncharted waters of the introspective. Where the darkness represents peace and creativity. 2A world so vast, it’s impossible to fully explore. 3The silence. We’re here all alone. Just you, the blackness, the stars, and me. 4Relax. Open yourself up to me. 5The Dream is the land of our imagination and desire. 6Nothing to hide here. This is the place where our true selves strive. The imagination, the desire, your purest emotions. 7Never have you felt so free. Free of your troubles, concerns. Just pure bliss. 8Welcome to the Dream. Only second to Heaven. Created by God. Yes, God. Because, He did create everything. 9The Dream lets you experience Love in its most felt form. And experiencing Love, is experiencing God. 10God is Love. That makes Love so great, so powerful. 11Love can’t be fully understood. Love has no limitations. Our Love has no limitations. 12Let the dreams begin. Starting from the suckable lips, to the suckable toes. My mind’s gone and anything goes. 13Lying next to each other fully exposed, wearing nothing but my creativity. Thinking about nothing, enjoying the darkness and the silence. 14For once, just for you, I’m turning Conscious off. Let’s enjoy this Love to the fullest. 15Silently, peacefully, lying on your tummy. Still warm, feeling the heat. Skin-to-skin contact, how much better can it get? Yes, I can feel your heart beat. 16I break the silence. I start speaking in tongue, though you hear nothing. 17Tasting your delicious lips. Sucking on your neck, smelling the sweet aroma. This could go on forever. 18Going lower, licking your pair of breasts, so supple and beautiful. Starting from the base, moving in slow, circular patterns to the top. Flicking the tips rapidly with my tongue. Then, sucking the tips with passion, and swallowing each breast as a whole. You are delicious. 19You feel my warm, wet tongue gliding southbound, tasting everything in its path. I take a long break at your core. 20Your thighs situated on both sides of my cheeks, my tongue begins to go deep, tasting your nutrients. Eyes closed, I French-kissed your lips. 21Like, your other set of lips, I sucked all I could suck, licked all I could lick. Swallowing your essence, drip-by-drip. Still thirsty, I can tell you’re trying to hold back. 22My tongue went deeper to taste your sweet nectar. Mind in a trance. 23Half my senses are disabled. I can only hear the faint sounds of your moans and the slurping from my mouth. And I can feel the palm of your precious hands gripping on top of my head, pushing me deeper into you. 24When your thighs began to jerk a little, I knew your cup was about to runneth over. Flow, baby, flow. I want to taste it all. 25Don’t be so selfish. Don’t hold back your sweet, organic taste. I drank until I was full, no matter how many times you visited Ecstasy. While the rest dripped from my lips, and dribbled down my chin. You are delicious. 26Now, nice and swollen, you slide a finger across my chin to try a taste of yourself. Then, I took that same finger and sucked off what was left. 27I begin to lick further down your legs, still searching for the end. There stood your beautiful, suckable, lovable toes. Toe by toe, then all as a whole. Do you feel my wet warmth? Now, you’re relaxed and warmed up. 28Climb on top of me. Let me see your eyes. They’re so beautiful. Lean closer. Your luscious lips, pressed against mine. 29My hands holding your sides, guiding you downward, as I begin to enter…your soul. Tight and intimate, warm and moist, I can marinate in this for hours, days…even for eternity. The deeper I go, the more I let go…of my mind. As you exhale your pleasure. 30Can you see the colors? From black to hot red, to mystical blue, I wanna forever be within you. 31As you slowly grind, gripping my hardness tightly. The friction, the heat, the juices flowing ever so freely. 32Fortunately, in the Dream, all is what it seems. No need to pull out. We can reap the full benefits without the consequences. Then again, creating a seed between you and me would be such a beautiful blessing. 33My Queen, welcome to my soul, uncut and exposed. Curiosity is yet to be satisfied…
I love you.
::Song of Blue::
Christopher Byron Bell
1Close your eyes. Let’s travel to the uncharted waters of the introspective. Where the darkness represents peace and creativity. 2A world so vast, it’s impossible to fully explore. 3The silence. We’re here all alone. Just you, the blackness, the stars, and me. 4Relax. Open yourself up to me. 5The Dream is the land of our imagination and desire. 6Nothing to hide here. This is the place where our true selves strive. The imagination, the desire, your purest emotions. 7Never have you felt so free. Free of your troubles, concerns. Just pure bliss. 8Welcome to the Dream. Only second to Heaven. Created by God. Yes, God. Because, He did create everything. 9The Dream lets you experience Love in its most felt form. And experiencing Love, is experiencing God. 10God is Love. That makes Love so great, so powerful. 11Love can’t be fully understood. Love has no limitations. Our Love has no limitations. 12Let the dreams begin. Starting from the suckable lips, to the suckable toes. My mind’s gone and anything goes. 13Lying next to each other fully exposed, wearing nothing but my creativity. Thinking about nothing, enjoying the darkness and the silence. 14For once, just for you, I’m turning Conscious off. Let’s enjoy this Love to the fullest. 15Silently, peacefully, lying on your tummy. Still warm, feeling the heat. Skin-to-skin contact, how much better can it get? Yes, I can feel your heart beat. 16I break the silence. I start speaking in tongue, though you hear nothing. 17Tasting your delicious lips. Sucking on your neck, smelling the sweet aroma. This could go on forever. 18Going lower, licking your pair of breasts, so supple and beautiful. Starting from the base, moving in slow, circular patterns to the top. Flicking the tips rapidly with my tongue. Then, sucking the tips with passion, and swallowing each breast as a whole. You are delicious. 19You feel my warm, wet tongue gliding southbound, tasting everything in its path. I take a long break at your core. 20Your thighs situated on both sides of my cheeks, my tongue begins to go deep, tasting your nutrients. Eyes closed, I French-kissed your lips. 21Like, your other set of lips, I sucked all I could suck, licked all I could lick. Swallowing your essence, drip-by-drip. Still thirsty, I can tell you’re trying to hold back. 22My tongue went deeper to taste your sweet nectar. Mind in a trance. 23Half my senses are disabled. I can only hear the faint sounds of your moans and the slurping from my mouth. And I can feel the palm of your precious hands gripping on top of my head, pushing me deeper into you. 24When your thighs began to jerk a little, I knew your cup was about to runneth over. Flow, baby, flow. I want to taste it all. 25Don’t be so selfish. Don’t hold back your sweet, organic taste. I drank until I was full, no matter how many times you visited Ecstasy. While the rest dripped from my lips, and dribbled down my chin. You are delicious. 26Now, nice and swollen, you slide a finger across my chin to try a taste of yourself. Then, I took that same finger and sucked off what was left. 27I begin to lick further down your legs, still searching for the end. There stood your beautiful, suckable, lovable toes. Toe by toe, then all as a whole. Do you feel my wet warmth? Now, you’re relaxed and warmed up. 28Climb on top of me. Let me see your eyes. They’re so beautiful. Lean closer. Your luscious lips, pressed against mine. 29My hands holding your sides, guiding you downward, as I begin to enter…your soul. Tight and intimate, warm and moist, I can marinate in this for hours, days…even for eternity. The deeper I go, the more I let go…of my mind. As you exhale your pleasure. 30Can you see the colors? From black to hot red, to mystical blue, I wanna forever be within you. 31As you slowly grind, gripping my hardness tightly. The friction, the heat, the juices flowing ever so freely. 32Fortunately, in the Dream, all is what it seems. No need to pull out. We can reap the full benefits without the consequences. Then again, creating a seed between you and me would be such a beautiful blessing. 33My Queen, welcome to my soul, uncut and exposed. Curiosity is yet to be satisfied…
I love you.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Love Wanderings
Love Wanderings
"Love isn't about the destination. It is about the journey." -Dreamer
After years of chasing the wind, I think I now understand. More and more as each day goes by, I learn more about my destiny. For the most part, I understand the path I'm on. I understand where the path is going. My life is more career-driven than for personal gain. And while I'm getting adjusted to that, I measure the toll it has on my personal life..the little that I have.
This morning, I was reading 1 Kings. The story marks the ending of King David's reign and the beginning of King Solomon's. Before you're able to take charge of anything, you have to establish your rule. To establish your rule, you have to be familiar with your territory and the people around you. Once you have a grasp of those things, you now have to learn to maintain it. Before King Solomon's story even took off, he had a Dream. God asked him what he wanted. Solomon could've asked for anyone or anything. But I can only imagine he was in so much awe of his surroundings and the responsibility that was placed upon him. Out of EVERYTHING..of ALLLLL the things he could've asked for. ...He asked for wisdom. Wisdom to make the right decisions. Wisdom to govern the people around him. That's heavy...
And for the most part, he ruled very well. He accomplished a lot of things, his father David wasn't able to do. He ended up being one of the wisest kings to ever live. He was also one of the richest and the most powerful kings in his lifetime. He also had 700 wives and 300 concubines. But throughout the Bible...I notice a consistency amongst most of these leaders... social life was a wreck! I think these men suffered a "void" within themselves. Read for yourself.
I've said all that to say...that may be the price I have to pay for success. For anything great comes with a sacrifice. It comes with a cost. And that price may be permanent solitude.
And it goes beyond the Bible. Over 90% of the great leaders and Dreamers that I could think of, faced a harsh reality when they reached their "Love Destination". Even Albert Einstein. Read about his personal life with his wife...it'll definitely show a "human" side of him. My life is still young, so I can't make any conclusive decisions. But more and more... I understand the Apostle Paul and his views:
(1 Corinthians 7:7 and 1 Corinthians 7:30-34)
--------------------------------------
1 Corinthians 7:7 (The Message)
7Sometimes I wish everyone were single like me—a simpler life in many ways! But celibacy is not for everyone any more than marriage is. God gives the gift of the single life to some, the gift of the married life to others.
1 Corinthians 7:30-34 (The Message)
29-31I do want to point out, friends, that time is of the essence. There is no time to waste, so don't complicate your lives unnecessarily. Keep it simple —in marriage, grief, joy, whatever. Even in ordinary things—your daily routines of shopping, and so on. Deal as sparingly as possible with the things the world thrusts on you. This world as you see it is on its way out.
32-35I want you to live as free of complications as possible. When you're unmarried, you're free to concentrate on simply pleasing the Master. Marriage involves you in all the nuts and bolts of domestic life and in wanting to please your spouse, leading to so many more demands on your attention. The time and energy that married people spend on caring for and nurturing each other, the unmarried can spend in becoming whole and holy instruments of God. I'm trying to be helpful and make it as easy as possible for you, not make things harder. All I want is for you to be able to develop a way of life in which you can spend plenty of time together with the Master without a lot of distractions.
--------------------------------
When you knee-deep in your Dreams, and know that these Dreams were instilled in you by God... and you know failure is not an option... I cannot afford any distractions. In fact, you don't want to be distracted at all. Your eyes is on the prize and nothing more. You live it. You breathe it. You love it. You believe in it. And others believe in it. ...you gotta do what you gotta do. Its funny, but there's not really any rest for the Dreamer. Even in my sleep, my thoughts are at work.
But am I so caught up in my work and my destiny that I am inhuman? ...not at all. I may not like being around people that much, but I love being a blessing to others. Especially a blessing to those who can benefit from my God-given gifts. My thought process and actions may be out the ordinary, but my emotions are just like anyone else. I feel anger, sadness, lust, even a glimpse of happiness from time-to-time. Yes...some things makes me smile. Sometimes seeing another person smile, makes me smile. A good compliment can cause me to blush. I have flirtatious ways. At the same time, I been called the "jerk" yet respected for my sincerity. lol. It may not make sense...but this is who I am. This is ME. And I'm learning to enjoy every bit of it.
One of the BEST examples of this LOVE journey is "The Love Below" by Andre 3000. That whole album is about the journey...not the destination. The destination could be the end. But until I know for sure... I will continue to make the best out of this beautiful struggle...
Sweet dreams...
"Love isn't about the destination. It is about the journey." -Dreamer
After years of chasing the wind, I think I now understand. More and more as each day goes by, I learn more about my destiny. For the most part, I understand the path I'm on. I understand where the path is going. My life is more career-driven than for personal gain. And while I'm getting adjusted to that, I measure the toll it has on my personal life..the little that I have.
This morning, I was reading 1 Kings. The story marks the ending of King David's reign and the beginning of King Solomon's. Before you're able to take charge of anything, you have to establish your rule. To establish your rule, you have to be familiar with your territory and the people around you. Once you have a grasp of those things, you now have to learn to maintain it. Before King Solomon's story even took off, he had a Dream. God asked him what he wanted. Solomon could've asked for anyone or anything. But I can only imagine he was in so much awe of his surroundings and the responsibility that was placed upon him. Out of EVERYTHING..of ALLLLL the things he could've asked for. ...He asked for wisdom. Wisdom to make the right decisions. Wisdom to govern the people around him. That's heavy...
And for the most part, he ruled very well. He accomplished a lot of things, his father David wasn't able to do. He ended up being one of the wisest kings to ever live. He was also one of the richest and the most powerful kings in his lifetime. He also had 700 wives and 300 concubines. But throughout the Bible...I notice a consistency amongst most of these leaders... social life was a wreck! I think these men suffered a "void" within themselves. Read for yourself.
I've said all that to say...that may be the price I have to pay for success. For anything great comes with a sacrifice. It comes with a cost. And that price may be permanent solitude.
And it goes beyond the Bible. Over 90% of the great leaders and Dreamers that I could think of, faced a harsh reality when they reached their "Love Destination". Even Albert Einstein. Read about his personal life with his wife...it'll definitely show a "human" side of him. My life is still young, so I can't make any conclusive decisions. But more and more... I understand the Apostle Paul and his views:
(1 Corinthians 7:7 and 1 Corinthians 7:30-34)
--------------------------------------
1 Corinthians 7:7 (The Message)
7Sometimes I wish everyone were single like me—a simpler life in many ways! But celibacy is not for everyone any more than marriage is. God gives the gift of the single life to some, the gift of the married life to others.
1 Corinthians 7:30-34 (The Message)
29-31I do want to point out, friends, that time is of the essence. There is no time to waste, so don't complicate your lives unnecessarily. Keep it simple —in marriage, grief, joy, whatever. Even in ordinary things—your daily routines of shopping, and so on. Deal as sparingly as possible with the things the world thrusts on you. This world as you see it is on its way out.
32-35I want you to live as free of complications as possible. When you're unmarried, you're free to concentrate on simply pleasing the Master. Marriage involves you in all the nuts and bolts of domestic life and in wanting to please your spouse, leading to so many more demands on your attention. The time and energy that married people spend on caring for and nurturing each other, the unmarried can spend in becoming whole and holy instruments of God. I'm trying to be helpful and make it as easy as possible for you, not make things harder. All I want is for you to be able to develop a way of life in which you can spend plenty of time together with the Master without a lot of distractions.
--------------------------------
When you knee-deep in your Dreams, and know that these Dreams were instilled in you by God... and you know failure is not an option... I cannot afford any distractions. In fact, you don't want to be distracted at all. Your eyes is on the prize and nothing more. You live it. You breathe it. You love it. You believe in it. And others believe in it. ...you gotta do what you gotta do. Its funny, but there's not really any rest for the Dreamer. Even in my sleep, my thoughts are at work.
But am I so caught up in my work and my destiny that I am inhuman? ...not at all. I may not like being around people that much, but I love being a blessing to others. Especially a blessing to those who can benefit from my God-given gifts. My thought process and actions may be out the ordinary, but my emotions are just like anyone else. I feel anger, sadness, lust, even a glimpse of happiness from time-to-time. Yes...some things makes me smile. Sometimes seeing another person smile, makes me smile. A good compliment can cause me to blush. I have flirtatious ways. At the same time, I been called the "jerk" yet respected for my sincerity. lol. It may not make sense...but this is who I am. This is ME. And I'm learning to enjoy every bit of it.
One of the BEST examples of this LOVE journey is "The Love Below" by Andre 3000. That whole album is about the journey...not the destination. The destination could be the end. But until I know for sure... I will continue to make the best out of this beautiful struggle...
Sweet dreams...
Saturday, January 23, 2010
I'm tired...
Brief thought: "Knowing your past is good, but knowing where you're going...is great."
I am so tired. And I apologize in advance for not being in an enlightened mood. I just returned home from Hattiesburg, MS. Its been a LONNNGGG DAY!!!
I went to bed late last night and had to be up at 6AM this morning to prepare for the trip. From then, all the way til tonight, I've experienced every emotion. Overall...the trip was GREAT! It was a successful...on many levels. I was enlightened today.
Without going into much detail...I've experienced a rollercoaster of emotions today. Everything from being pissed off and disappointed, to smiling and having a good laugh. I connected with some great people today. On the way back to base in Jackson, I was just thinking to myself about a VARIETY of things. So much was going through my mind. So much information. I was just trying to maintain everything that was thrown at me today.
My Brothers...
Thank God for my brothers... Not just my blood brothers but "my" brothers, whom I confide in and been down with me through this journey. I spend a LOT of time to myself. I am often in solitude. But sometimes even I become unaware that I am surrounded by such a great family. I have brothers here, to back home in Atlanta, the Carolinas, and even overseas that I FULLY trust. I just reading a blog from my brother Corey in Atlanta. He's been down with me since we met at Waffle House wayyy before I became a photographer. Trevor and Issac in Atlanta been down with me, relating to me on the poetry tip. Emmanuel, Jason...known these guys since 8th grade and always been supportive of my vision. My brothers, Hal, D-Bo and Keith that I met during my short military part of my life...which to many is unknown. Jeremy holding it down with the Cool. It just hit me how much great support that I have. These brothers are inspired by me as I am inspired by them. They probably don't understand their beliefs in me, strengthens and prevents me from quitting this journey when the road gets rough. And from my perspective, this gravel road has yet to be paved. lol. But I'm traveling and making tons of progress.
Unrated Thoughts..
There's a lot going through my mind. I feel like so many things being revealed to me, lately. And after soaking in this information....I am not playing. I will not lose. Yes...I am plotting new ideas. Yes...I'm a man of execution. Yes...I am destined for great things. Yes...I am planning to maximize every single God-given opportunity. But don't take it the wrong way, I just know who my Father is. I have no intentions of being a threat. My only intentions is to be productive, purposeful, maximizing all that is within me. My only intentions is unlock my maximum potential. I see too people living and dying without even trying to tap in the power that's within them. I refuse to be one of them. My passion, my drive, my commitment is to be ALL that God wanted me to be. I refuse to settle for less. Some may be threatened by that, but... I just want to LIVE. If some don't get that...there's nothing I can do for them. Those insecurities will kill them. And that key to living is my Dream. My Dream is my baby. And if you feel your baby is being threatened...what do you do? Protect them by any means necessary, right? Then don't be surprised when I do the same...
Going to sleep... thanks for reading.
I am so tired. And I apologize in advance for not being in an enlightened mood. I just returned home from Hattiesburg, MS. Its been a LONNNGGG DAY!!!
I went to bed late last night and had to be up at 6AM this morning to prepare for the trip. From then, all the way til tonight, I've experienced every emotion. Overall...the trip was GREAT! It was a successful...on many levels. I was enlightened today.
Without going into much detail...I've experienced a rollercoaster of emotions today. Everything from being pissed off and disappointed, to smiling and having a good laugh. I connected with some great people today. On the way back to base in Jackson, I was just thinking to myself about a VARIETY of things. So much was going through my mind. So much information. I was just trying to maintain everything that was thrown at me today.
My Brothers...
Thank God for my brothers... Not just my blood brothers but "my" brothers, whom I confide in and been down with me through this journey. I spend a LOT of time to myself. I am often in solitude. But sometimes even I become unaware that I am surrounded by such a great family. I have brothers here, to back home in Atlanta, the Carolinas, and even overseas that I FULLY trust. I just reading a blog from my brother Corey in Atlanta. He's been down with me since we met at Waffle House wayyy before I became a photographer. Trevor and Issac in Atlanta been down with me, relating to me on the poetry tip. Emmanuel, Jason...known these guys since 8th grade and always been supportive of my vision. My brothers, Hal, D-Bo and Keith that I met during my short military part of my life...which to many is unknown. Jeremy holding it down with the Cool. It just hit me how much great support that I have. These brothers are inspired by me as I am inspired by them. They probably don't understand their beliefs in me, strengthens and prevents me from quitting this journey when the road gets rough. And from my perspective, this gravel road has yet to be paved. lol. But I'm traveling and making tons of progress.
Unrated Thoughts..
There's a lot going through my mind. I feel like so many things being revealed to me, lately. And after soaking in this information....I am not playing. I will not lose. Yes...I am plotting new ideas. Yes...I'm a man of execution. Yes...I am destined for great things. Yes...I am planning to maximize every single God-given opportunity. But don't take it the wrong way, I just know who my Father is. I have no intentions of being a threat. My only intentions is to be productive, purposeful, maximizing all that is within me. My only intentions is unlock my maximum potential. I see too people living and dying without even trying to tap in the power that's within them. I refuse to be one of them. My passion, my drive, my commitment is to be ALL that God wanted me to be. I refuse to settle for less. Some may be threatened by that, but... I just want to LIVE. If some don't get that...there's nothing I can do for them. Those insecurities will kill them. And that key to living is my Dream. My Dream is my baby. And if you feel your baby is being threatened...what do you do? Protect them by any means necessary, right? Then don't be surprised when I do the same...
Going to sleep... thanks for reading.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
2010 Mindstate
Evening...
Change is good, but I'm a bigger fan of Progression...
Not really sure how I can present my emotions tonight without coming off mean. You must understand...I am tired. I been on this battlefield for a long time. Its lonely out here. Its dangerous. Every day is full of surprises. I know what I want... So, because of that, my tolerance is at a bare minimum these days. I have taken too many hits. I have taken so many hits that my feelings are numb. It hardly even hurts anymore. Patience has run its course. My thoughts are always focused on tomorrow. The future. The next phase. This is the mindset and thoughts of the King..the Dreamer. I believe the same things will only bring about the same results. If its broke, don't bother fixing it. ....I treat Humans the same way. Because, I've learned is that most humans are creatures of habit. Most will choose what is Familiar than something New and Unknown. Even if the latter is the better option. We work in Patterns. Very rarely cycles are broken. In short...Fear controls their destinies.
Of all the things I've come across in the past ten years since high school, one of the greatest struggles is.. transcending these Dreams into Reality. And out of the last ten years, the last three years been the hardest, stressful, humbling, eye-opening experience, but VERY successful. I've learned and confirmed that you CANNOT be like anyone else if you plan to make your Dreams come true. Your thought process have to be different. Your ACTIONS have to be different. The road to Success is a lonely one. It is VERY lonely out here. Fellow Dreamers are far and in-between. Drama and just basic bullshit have to be kept to a minimum or nonexistent, if possible.
So knowing this knowledge, breathing it, living by it...I cannot accept anything less from anyone because I hold myself to this higher standard. I live by very basic principles. To fulfill my destiny, I have to keep things simple. And I thank God not only for this wisdom but also for the strength to cutoff what's bad for me.
I'm tired. Maybe I'll post again soon.
SIDENOTES ABOUT ALLURE ----- I always work on my future, rarely thinking of my past. Always in thought. Always thinking forward. Following my designated path. Take for example...Project: ALLURE. The project was planned, shot, produced all before 2010. We were sitting on the project for almost a month purposely, waiting for the new year to release it. I truly appreciate all the positive feedback from the people, fellow photographers, and others in the artistic community, but I'm already knee deep in the next project. ALLURE is technically old news and already plotting the next big thing. I AM NEVER IDLE. I may be quiet...but NEVER idle....NEVER. <---you get the point.
I always wanted to develop my style to be simplistic yet complex. Show an appreciation for natural beauty...the beauty of Life I see in my eyes. I also knew I didn't want to follow any trends. Be bothered with what's popular. Most importantly, I didn't want to turn my art into a photoshop contest. As an artist, I wanted to create my own path and I'm content with knowing what I decide to do may not be the most popular thing. But I don't care. Some people like complex images. I prefer to keep it Simple and Sexy. So...we kept the theme simple, the clothes simple, the photos simple. Not knocking anyone else or their work...because there's beauty in all of it. It really is...but I didn't want to follow those same steps. My taste of art is different. Most people prefer color, but I love black&white. Instead of doing "double personalities", I wanted to show a more "sane" side. lol. Like I said...I prefer simple. *yawn** ...anyway, appreciate the love. the photos came out beautiful. and I will continue to strive to improve my craft, create even more beautiful images, and stay connected to the Creativity that God instilled in me. Goodnight.
Change is good, but I'm a bigger fan of Progression...
Not really sure how I can present my emotions tonight without coming off mean. You must understand...I am tired. I been on this battlefield for a long time. Its lonely out here. Its dangerous. Every day is full of surprises. I know what I want... So, because of that, my tolerance is at a bare minimum these days. I have taken too many hits. I have taken so many hits that my feelings are numb. It hardly even hurts anymore. Patience has run its course. My thoughts are always focused on tomorrow. The future. The next phase. This is the mindset and thoughts of the King..the Dreamer. I believe the same things will only bring about the same results. If its broke, don't bother fixing it. ....I treat Humans the same way. Because, I've learned is that most humans are creatures of habit. Most will choose what is Familiar than something New and Unknown. Even if the latter is the better option. We work in Patterns. Very rarely cycles are broken. In short...Fear controls their destinies.
Of all the things I've come across in the past ten years since high school, one of the greatest struggles is.. transcending these Dreams into Reality. And out of the last ten years, the last three years been the hardest, stressful, humbling, eye-opening experience, but VERY successful. I've learned and confirmed that you CANNOT be like anyone else if you plan to make your Dreams come true. Your thought process have to be different. Your ACTIONS have to be different. The road to Success is a lonely one. It is VERY lonely out here. Fellow Dreamers are far and in-between. Drama and just basic bullshit have to be kept to a minimum or nonexistent, if possible.
So knowing this knowledge, breathing it, living by it...I cannot accept anything less from anyone because I hold myself to this higher standard. I live by very basic principles. To fulfill my destiny, I have to keep things simple. And I thank God not only for this wisdom but also for the strength to cutoff what's bad for me.
I'm tired. Maybe I'll post again soon.
SIDENOTES ABOUT ALLURE ----- I always work on my future, rarely thinking of my past. Always in thought. Always thinking forward. Following my designated path. Take for example...Project: ALLURE. The project was planned, shot, produced all before 2010. We were sitting on the project for almost a month purposely, waiting for the new year to release it. I truly appreciate all the positive feedback from the people, fellow photographers, and others in the artistic community, but I'm already knee deep in the next project. ALLURE is technically old news and already plotting the next big thing. I AM NEVER IDLE. I may be quiet...but NEVER idle....NEVER. <---you get the point.
I always wanted to develop my style to be simplistic yet complex. Show an appreciation for natural beauty...the beauty of Life I see in my eyes. I also knew I didn't want to follow any trends. Be bothered with what's popular. Most importantly, I didn't want to turn my art into a photoshop contest. As an artist, I wanted to create my own path and I'm content with knowing what I decide to do may not be the most popular thing. But I don't care. Some people like complex images. I prefer to keep it Simple and Sexy. So...we kept the theme simple, the clothes simple, the photos simple. Not knocking anyone else or their work...because there's beauty in all of it. It really is...but I didn't want to follow those same steps. My taste of art is different. Most people prefer color, but I love black&white. Instead of doing "double personalities", I wanted to show a more "sane" side. lol. Like I said...I prefer simple. *yawn** ...anyway, appreciate the love. the photos came out beautiful. and I will continue to strive to improve my craft, create even more beautiful images, and stay connected to the Creativity that God instilled in me. Goodnight.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Random Thoughts
Actions breathe life into ideas.
An idea not followed by action is dead.
Action is the connecting point that transcend Dreams into Reality. That action must be powered by Faith.
A man without imagination is a man lacking originality.
An idea not followed by action is dead.
Action is the connecting point that transcend Dreams into Reality. That action must be powered by Faith.
A man without imagination is a man lacking originality.
Random Thoughts
The accomplished make moves in silence.
The key to helping yourself is to lose self.
Everything can be broken down into seasons.
Seasons produce change.Change produce progress. Progress leads you to your destination...
The key to helping yourself is to lose self.
Everything can be broken down into seasons.
Seasons produce change.Change produce progress. Progress leads you to your destination...
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