The Goddess Effect (TM)

The Tomorrow People

2011-07-29T22:35:00.001-07:00

I have a new blog dedicated to Artist and where I will be highlighting my upcoming music project. Please check it out here. danielleponder.tumblr.com. featured picture from fashion designer anya chee.

2011-07-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

MY POWER

2011-06-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

"No one man should have all that power" - Kanye West

Reminded of these words

when ever

im giving

someone else

POWER!

A Great Find

2011-06-10T05:48:00.000-07:00

African Print Bag is only $25 and it's so haut! -available here

Wearing the bag is Jaylynn editor of Soulife mag check her out here

Marc Jacobs on a Budget

2011-06-09T09:49:00.001-07:00

I am studying for the bar, (which is a full time job that you don't get paid for) so I am always looking for bargains. I love Marc Jacobs Summer 2011 line but pretty much hate the prices. I found a an almost identical version of the striped dress at Magix Online Boutique . Check it out ladies I will be rocking mine this weekend!

ARGUMENT

2011-06-09T07:10:00.001-07:00

Check out this new designer argument. I love their necklaces. Check it here!

Lykke Li

2011-06-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

Im loving European music right now. Im currently obsessed with Lykke Li. Check her out!

2011-05-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

Shayla Cox Necklaces. I Love! Check it here

It Take a Child To raise a village

2011-05-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

Well not everyone is dancing in the club to Lil Wayne. These two girls who call themselves, Wototo from the Nile are amazing. They wrote a song to Lil Wayne confronting him on his lyrics toward women. Even more beautiful is that their father helped them write and produce the song. Lil Wayne is an adult and an artist and I believe in artistic independence and freedom nevertheless I believe we as a community, and I mean the human community, have to take responsibility for they way we choose to depict and talk about other member in our community. Check the interview with the two little girls.

The Healthy Sorbet

2011-05-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

I love sorbet. I used to think it was so healthy, after all its just fruit right?? I realized that most sorbet is rarely just fruit and is often laden with sugar. This past week I made an amazing all fruit sorbet smoothie. Which was cheap..because I made it and healthy because i controlled what was in it.

2 Frozen Mangos
1 Handful of Black berries
1/2 cup of Orange Juice.

Mix and Enjoy.

I want to Cut my hair!!!

2011-05-11T19:50:00.000-07:00

I have had my locs for four years. I haven't twisted them in 5mos. Everyday I look at them and I want to yank them out of my head. I scan countless natural hair sites and envy the sisters who have done the big chop. I want to chop and be done with it. Well whats stopping me. Change..changing anything is hard. I'm a bit nervous a lot vain. 'What will I look like', 'what if I hate it', 'what if I regret it'. So basically I still sit here with a head full of locs. I think I will wait until after the bar exam and say adios then. I'm such an indecisive person, I have a hard time deciding what movie to see and then I always feel I made the wrong choice. So I am trying to learn that choices are just choices you accept what you choose and move on. And hair is just hair.

Frank Ocean

2011-05-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Frank Ocean was just introduced to me and I am in love. This man you must hear. He had a beautiful voice and the production of his music is flawless. When you listen to it you escape from all the madness around. Check out this amazing song we all try.

I'm Back

2011-05-06T13:00:00.001-07:00

Well folks" it's been a long time I shouldn't have left you without a dope beat to step to" I'm one week away from graduating law school and I think its time for me to relaunch the Goddess Effect. There are several big ventures I plan to undertake this year one is already in motion and that is the start of an online Boutique with my brother, called Magix which you can check out in the link we have a few hot items up now. Second I plan to release a solo album!! I'm looking forward to the possibilities and looking forward to taking you on the journey! For pure eye pleasure a picture of something that inspires me. Throughout the week I will let you know what I have been up to. Right now I am actually detoxing as part of the cleanse program. My homie put me on to it so I decided to give it a whirl peep the link here. http://www.cleanprogram.com/

Monique Announces the oscars and looks beautiful doing so!

2011-01-25T17:46:00.000-08:00

Monique announced the Oscars this morning and while I was mad that there was not a non-white actor or actress nominated (boo!) Monique looked so gorgeous. I have always admired her confidence no matter what size she always seemed confident. But I also admire her choice to be a healthier her!

Here is an excerpt from an Oprah interview on how and why she lost the weight.

Though she says she was always proud of her body, Mo'Nique is looking slim and trim these days! "You know what I am doing? I'm dancing," she says. "You just dance and you sweat and you move muscles that you didn't know you had. And it just starts going away, baby."

Mo'Nique says she decided to start living healthier after a wake-up call from her husband, Sidney Hicks. "I was very comfortable at 262 pounds," she says. "I'm in the bathroom mirror one day admiring 262. And Sid says to me when he comes out of the shower, 'Mama, how much do you weigh?' I said, '262.' And he said, 'Mmm.'"

Mo'Nique says she knew something was coming next. "He said to me in the most gentle, loving way, 'I want you for a lifetime,'" she says. "Baby, I started working out right then."

Read the full interview here

Double Time!!

2011-01-25T17:29:00.000-08:00

So today I couldn't get to the gym because I forgot to pack my shirt : ( so I came home frustrated but have no fear Billy Blanks is here! I discovered that you can watch Tae-Bo video for free on youtube. You will need a high internet speed or you will find yourself stopping and starting waiting for the video to load lol. Anyways this is a good resource for when you cant make it to the gym. Save your money dont buy the DVD : ). Also add all of the parts to the que so it will play continuously.

Erykah Badu goes GREEN

2011-01-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

Hmm Chlorophyl supposedly has a lot of benefits for the body I dont know much about it, have you tried it?? Get more info here!

H.E.A.L

2011-01-23T18:43:00.000-08:00

I have not been on here for a while but I am going to try to come back fro 2011. Mainly because I have started a new project called H.E.A.L (Healthy Eating and Living). It starting as a Facebook page and dedicated to every day women who are trying their best to be healthy. So check out the page and look forward to more post from the Goddess Effect.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/HEAL-Healthy-Eating-and-Living/179554702083331

Pesto and Parents

2010-07-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I made a vegan Pesto and my mom and dad stopped by to help me eat it. I served it with Brown Rice pasta. This has been my favorite dish so far. So Good. I got the recipe here. I added a bit of almond milk to my recipe.

The best thing ever!

2010-07-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe from this amazing website rawmazing. I changed it up a bit. I used 1.5 avocadoes, about a cup of almond milk, and honey. I know honey is not vegan but I like it so I use it. You will not believe how good this is and how much it taste like good ole' chocolate mousse. I threw some almonds on top all I can say is is BOMB!

RAW LIVING

2010-07-07T15:24:00.000-07:00

Raw food is really not that bad. I have been having a blast. Last night I made seeweed salad and this afternoon I mad chocolate mousse. Let me just say that chocolate mousse!!!!! OMG!! so good. I am not a professional photographer but trust, this food is banging. I grew up on soul food, which mean rich desserts and lots of flavor so that is important in all the thing I cook. So here you go.

Seeweed Salad

Wakame( soak in water until it comes to life be careful because a little dried turns into a lot)

Pecans

Honey

Olive Oil

Grated Ginger

I don't have measurements because I just go by my taste. So don't be afraid to just use your tastebuds and mix it all together, or add something you think might fit well.

Cherry Rosemary Parsley Salad

2010-07-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

This was yummy. Suprisingly filling.

parsley,dried cherries,rosemary leaves,tomatoes,cucumber,olive oil, vinegar,salt, pepper

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE DETOX

2010-07-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

Ok so I ate way too much on fourth of July. So I decided to do a detox for the whole month. This is the schedule I hope to follow. I'm going to share the recipes here so look forward. Starting with this Apricot Blueberry dish with drizzled honey (im going to allow honey even though it shouldn't count but whatev)

Week 1: Raw Fruits and Vegetable

Week 2: Cooked Vegetables Fruits and Nuts/Grains/Beans

Week 3: Cooked Vegetable Fruits Nuts Grains/Beans/ Whole Wheat

Week 4: Cooked VEgetables Fruits Nuts Grains/Beans/ Whole Wheats/Fish

Rochester Jazz Fest

2010-06-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

I haven't been blogging that much but I am going to try to be more consistent. Working and performing. Anyways here is a performance that I did at the Rochester International Jazz FEst with the band Filthy Funk. CHeck it out also you can buy the album Eklectric on Itunes. Filthy Funk Website Peace and love.

New Lauryn Interview

2010-05-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

I miss Lauryn so much so it's always nice to hear just a word from her. Here is a quick interview she did a few weeks ago.

Jay Electronica

2010-04-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

Jay Electronica is probably one of my favorite emcees. His flow is just so intelligent and raps over anything I love him. I love the imagery in this video short check it out.

OMG do you love cooking: Tastespotting

2010-04-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

OK I can spend 1500 hours on this website. I really want to make everything. It also will link you to some really great websites such as those amazing dairy free cream puffs found here.

MIA new video

2010-04-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling this video by MIA. This is what we do to each other. this is what the human family does to each other. In Palestine, in American inner cities in Arizona.

M.I.A, Born Free from ROMAIN-GAVRAS on Vimeo.

Erykah Art Work

2010-03-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

I like the artwork for her new album. She also has an interesting story and I have no clue what she is talking about but I like the way she writes : )

June Jordan

2010-03-21T17:37:00.000-07:00

I haven't read much of June Jordan's work but I love this quote.

"I am a feminist, and what that means to me is much the same as the meaning of the fact that I am Black: it means that I must undertake to love myself and to respect myself as though my very life depends upon self-love and self-respect." -June Jordan

Banana Cashew Protein Shake

2010-03-12T11:39:00.000-08:00

I just made the best protein shake so I thought I would share

1 banana

a handful of cashews

1.5 cups of almond milk or soymilk

two scoops of vanilla whey protein

Put all ingredients in a blender and bled for about 2 minutes you want to make sure that the cashews have blended well.

E.Badu video

2010-03-11T20:58:00.000-08:00

Apparently this is a teaser from Erykah Badu's new song window seat. I love that song by the way. info c/o erykah-badu.com.

Alice Walker has a Blog!

2010-03-09T08:57:00.001-08:00

Just stumbled across her Blog and I love it. She also cut her hair. Love Ms. Walker. She also had a great website with photos, poem and musings

Women's Herstory Month

2010-02-28T19:58:00.000-08:00

So Since I claimed last month Self Love month I am happy that it preceded nationally recognized Women Herstory Month. I have realized that many of the issues that women have regarding self love stems from the oppression and conditioning women receives from being part of a patriarchal system. So This month for myself, and I will do some sharing with you I want to focus on being a woman and our greatness : ). Women have been an oppressed group and we have to realize that a lot of our thinking is part of male supremacist thinking and we have to work ourselves free of that just as racially marginalized groups have to work toward undoing the effects of white supremacist thinking. This quote from bell hooks makes me think :

"as females in a patriarchal culture, we were not slaves of love; most of us were and are slaves of longing-- yearning for a master who will set us free and claim us because we cannot claim ourselves" bell hooks

VV BRown

2010-02-28T19:38:00.001-08:00

I might be late but I just discovered VV Brown and I love her style. She has a beautiful voice.

I like this song ---->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPQlxHWsemI

Okayplayer Love

2010-02-18T08:46:00.000-08:00

This past summer I worked on a project with an amazing band Filthy Funk. I am so happy ot say that we just received an excellent review on Okayplayer. Please check it out and you can purchase the album on Itunes. Here is a performance I did with them at the Rochester InternationalJazz Fest of summer time. Peace and Love.

One is the Magic Number

2010-02-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

I've always loved this song by Jill Scott. The lyrics are so true. All you desire from someone else you must first give to yourself. You should be your main concern so don't lose yourself trying to find someone or something else. Peace. And happy belated Valentines day. Love is Everywhere dont miss out! I like this video a lot, beautiful images and quotes.

Money is not happiness..ya think.

2010-02-10T13:13:00.001-08:00

I found this article so interesting:

Money Can't Buy Happiness, So Man Gives Away Every Penny of His £3 Million Fortune

Since I found a new Love

2010-02-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

This song by Lauryn Hill has been hitting me deep in my soul. She says since I've found a new love I have no fear at all. The opposite of love is fear. Once we begin to truly love ourselves we will watch the fear runaway.Because when we love ourselves we are completely comfortable and satisfied we are no longer out there searching for someone to fulfill our needs. I like most woman wondered when am I going to get married find a life partner all of that hoopla. Then I thought about, getting married does not mean you will be happy. If I walked up to the average over 25 woman and said "in two years you will be getting married". She would be so excited. However she has no clue what this means. Just because you are getting married doesn't mean you are going to be happy or that the marriage is going to be a good one. But just the utterance of the word marriage women think that they are going to be getting something that will make them happy. This is a myth.

The only thing in the world that can you bring you real joy and peace is love. Self love. Because self love is the only thing that lead to fulfilment and the only thing that will make you complete. Once you realize this you stop chasing after things that society says will make you happy knowing that there is only one road to complete joy. I am not saying we shouldn't want to be marrried but I am saying that real happiness is bigger then marriage, a new job, perfect skin, money etc.

Aya de Leon on Self Love

2010-02-08T08:51:00.000-08:00

One of the most beautiful people I know Ms. Kaylie Simon : ) sent me a link to Oakland spoke word artist Aya De Leon work and I love it. I just finished reading the below article which was printed in Essence several years ago. What a great story and inspiring way to look and love and relationships. I found it so fitting for self love month. For all of those in the Oakland area Aya is also holding the 14th Annual Love Fest: described as an alternative Valentine Celebration in spoken word and music, focusing on love of self, of spirit, of family and ocmmunity. More details are available on her website: http://www.ayadeleon.com

Deciding to Marry Myself by Aya De Leon

I have a confession to make: As an educated, creative woman in my late twenties, I felt incomplete without a partner. I knew I shouldn't feel this way, but I wanted to be married. I yearned for a ceremony to mark this phase in my life.

A few years ago I left a long-term relationship. He wasn't a bad brother, but we had grown apart. Now it's one thing to talk about leaving and quite another to do it. I recall lying on my kitchen floor hollering in pain. That deep grieving marked the end of my childhood.

After I broke up with my boyfriend, I decided to be single and celibate for a year. Who would I be without a companion, sex partner or suitor? I didn't know. But I did know that, although friends and lovers are important, I'm the only person who is guaranteed to be around for my whole life, so it would be smart to get comfortable with myself.

During my year of celibacy, I made a list of the qualities I wanted in a partner, and when my year was up, I declared myself open to dating. But nobody showed up. Three months went by. Six months. Nine. Now I was getting upset. Two years passed. Not even so much as a date.

I forgot that you can start a process of celibacy, but only God can end it by placing someone in your life. Sure, I met people, but with all that quality time by myself, my standards had gone up. Eventually I dated a little, but the love of my life didn't show up. Instead I got accepted into a creative-writing program. God spoke through opportunities that were opening: "I'm not sending you a partner, I'm sending you to school."

I got nervous. What if it's too much? I asked myself. I was determined that a hectic schedule would not find me running from one thing to another, neglecting my body and my spirit. To juggle full-time work, school and self-care, I needed commitment in my life. So I decided, hey, I can't wait for someone to notice how fabulous I am. I'm going to marry myself.

I bought a silver band and wore it on my ring finger to symbolize my growing self-love. I told my friends that I was marrying myself, showing off my ring as proudly as I would an expensive diamond.

I had always wanted to be a June bride and get married on the beach. At first my plans were all about being a diva. Of course, I couldn't be just any old diva, I needed to be a spiritual diva. I called a sister who is a priestess in the Yoruba tradition. And God said "Now that you've called one of my people in, you'd better be prepared to work!"

In the Yoruban worldview, there is the concept of Ori, referring to the spiritual head. Among the Yoruba, a person's destiny is said to be located in the head; before birth we choose our destiny and then we come to earth and forget it. We have to work to realign ourselves with our destiny, and that requires a great deal of care and nurturing.

The priestess called me with a long list of things I needed to do for my Ori. Solitude and quiet were prominent. How much more alone can I get? I wondered. A voice in my head said "You have to let yourself be still." This self-marriage had seemed cute from a distance, but now that my spiritual process was demanding that I do some hard work, I was angry and resistant. In need of spiritual rescue, I dragged myself to church. I had to be around Black people who were excited about their relationship with God. All I can say about that night is that I walked in full of No! and came out full of Yes! Hallelujah! I was ready to get married.

For the wedding ceremony, I wore a plain white outfit. Surrounded by a few close friends and family members, I stood on the beach, and the priestess and I said prayers to the ancestors and to God. I vowed to surrender to Spirit and stop resisting my destiny. As we ended, I noticed that some folks were crying.

Afterward I changed into my diva wedding outfit and proceeded to give drama. I posed, gallivanted and frolicked. My cake said "Congratulations, Aya, you go, girl!" with a single Black bride on the top. Then my hostess, also a minister, pronounced me "a virgin," which some interpret as "a woman unto herself."

The next weekend I went on my honeymoon to a local amusement park. Though I love roller coasters, I had never gone on one alone. But, of course, that's what self-marriage is about: going where you want to go, or where Spirit tells you to go, even if you have to go alone, and finding joy in that solitude. Above all, marrying myself is knowing that, alone, I am whole.

Aya de Leon is a writer, youth worker and director of the Mothertongue institute for Creative Development in Oakland.

You can hear some peices of her work here. " I have a cream" hilarious.

Thoughts on Self Love From OSHO

2010-02-07T20:50:00.001-08:00

I'm not going to front I always thought OSHO was a bit weird..lol. So I largely ignored his work. BUt lately I have been reading some of his work on love and I must say I dig it. I do however think he can come off a bit rude and harsh, his work has been considered controversial but nevertheless I find truth in some things that he shares.. I enjoyed this article on loving oneself. Here are some experts :

- Every child is born with tremendous love for himself. It is the society that destroys that love,

- Nobody bothers that a man who cannot love himself cannot love anybody else either. So a very mad society is created where everybody is trying to love somebody -- and they have nothing to give. Nor has the other person anything to give. Why are lovers continuously fighting, nagging, harassing each other? The simple reason is they are not getting what they were thinking to get. Both are beggars, both are empty.

-Either the messiah, the savior, becomes the object of your love, and you become just shadows blindly following him;

-And whatever happens -- joy or sorrow, life or death -- the man who has loved himself is so integrated that he will be able not only to enjoy life, he will be able to enjoy death too

You can see some of his antics here. I think it's hilarious actually. He says by disturbing people he can make them think ...lol. So true. This video has nothing to do with self love but it's a good view of his character and his philosophy.

Self Love PHOTO

2010-02-06T17:16:00.001-08:00

If you have a Mac you can do this with photo booth, or you can just do it in the mirror. It's a beautiful thing to admire your self. After all you are the only one who you know you will wake up with and go to sleep with everyday..guaranteed. I was inspired by the pic of the little girl above. What a beautiful reflection of self love.

You are your most prized posession

2010-02-04T17:16:00.000-08:00

This wont be long because I have said this so much. But when we truly love ourselves we cherish ourselves we see ourselves as a beautiful gift. Therefore we don't just give ourselves to anyone who comes along, emotionally or physically. We make people earn our affection. We don't waste our time on people who wont give us the time or cherish us. Think about your most prized, loved possession. For me it would be my guitar. I would never give my guitar to someone who is selfish, who wont take care of it and wont cherish it the way I do. Because I looooove that guitar. So we have to vow to do the same thing for ourselves. God gave you a beautiful gift this life, your body, your soul your mind. Choose wisely! Know your worth!

Song for today

Self Love Month

2010-02-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

Ok so I was thinking the other day about Valentines day and I was feeling a little like boooooooooooooooooooooo for that holiday. But then I thought wouldn't Febuary be a good month to dedicate to self love. So for the month of febuary I'm going to dedicate my post to the greatest love of all...Loving yourself!!! And hopefully by the 14th I'll be ok ..lol : )

So what better way to start it off then with The Greatest Love of All. Love this song beautiful

I believe the children are our are future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be
Everybody searching for a hero
People need someone to look up to
I never found anyone to fulfill my needs
A lonely place to be
So I learned to depend on me

[Chorus:]
I decided long ago, never to walk in anyone's shadows
If I fail, if I succeed
At least I live as I believe
No matter what they take from me
They can't take away my dignity
Because the greatest love of all
Is happening to me
I found the greatest love of all
Inside of me
The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself
It is the greatest love of all

I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be

[Chorus]

And if by chance, that special place
That you've been dreaming of
Leads you to a lonely place
Find your strength in love

New Erykah ft. Lil Wayne

2010-01-29T18:48:00.000-08:00

Check out a new Erykah. Love Erykah not sure if I am feeling this song and I'm really over Lil Wayne. But what do you think ? I do like the video intro.

Love this Picture love this Blog and I want those earrings!

2010-01-24T17:23:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful Picture. And I love everything that this sista is sharing on her BLog

HAiti Now Concert: And there is no reason why you shouln't give something to Haiti Relief

2010-01-23T18:51:00.000-08:00

So this totally slipped my radar. But I was able to catch some of the perfomances on youtube. This was a great gathering of artist of a good cause. Ayiti!!! Mwen Cherie

A new Piece from Sunni P.

2010-01-21T21:40:00.000-08:00

Sunni is back with baby in arms. Love it!

Earrings..again

2010-01-21T16:07:00.000-08:00

I am so overwhelmed with work and music these day. I am still doing my count down but in the meantime. I love me some crochet earring and I am digging these. Check more out here.

#6 Lauryn HIll Unplugged

2010-01-17T08:26:00.000-08:00

Ok obviously we all love Lauryn Hill. There were mixed reviews on her Unplugged album, but I have to say that I thought it was lyrically her best work. While I would have loved some studio produced tracks I feel her lyrics on her was sick. Anyways the the songs on this album really changed my life. I remember hearing it as a junior in College, I was going through a really tough time and couldn't seem to get out of the rut this album completed lifted me. It really helped me to begin thinking about social conditioning and the harm that is does to our mind and how it creates boxes that we find it hard to break from. So thank you Lauryn for sharing your freedom!

One of my favorite songs I get out!

#7 Rock My Soul

2010-01-06T12:23:00.001-08:00

I know the New Years Eve thing is over. But I'm giving myself the whole month of January to finish these post. So on to # 7 I must have picked this book up about 5 years ago and it solidified and put into context what I have always believed about oppressed communities and the struggle they face. While this book is specifically focused on the black sommunity, I have come to learn that globally, the strongest effect of oppression is the effect it has on the psyche of a people. Most notably the development of inferiority complexes. This book articulates the issues much more than I can. For me it has been sort of a bible in the work that I do and I have shared it's message with so many people especially those who are removed from an understanding of oppression and marganilized groups. Bell Hooks is my favorite author and this is her best work in my opinion.

#8 Healthy Eating

2009-12-30T07:58:00.000-08:00

I love the colors in the picture. This is what God gave us to eat!

While I am still not the best eater, I think in the last ten years my eating habits have drastically improved. I honestly have to say I owe it to my college roommate Antonella. In my house healthy was a diet coke and lean cuisine. My first year in college I was very close to 200lbs. I had no clue about organic foods , all natural or the risk associated with red meat. Nella really taught me how to not keep dieting but to eat healthier. Since about 2002 I stopped eating red meat, rarely drink soda and don't eat as many sweets and have reduced dairy intake. It's so funny because when i was younger I could eat a whole snickers bar like it was nothing. Now I can't even imagine doing that. There are still improvements that I need to make and I hope that the next ten years bring a healthier me. So shout out to Nella for helping me to have a healthier decade!

#9 Don Miguel Ruiz

2009-12-29T18:50:00.000-08:00

So my list is in no particular order. But in the last decade I have discovered the writing of Don Miguel Ruiz. I found his work to be inspiring and in many ways life transforming. The Mastery of Love is probably the most honest book I have ever read. I recommend it to all. I am also a big fan of the Four Agreements.

Be Impeccable With Your Word.
Don't Take Anything Personally.
Don't Make Assumptions.
Always Do Your Best.

THIS VIDEO HAS SOME OF THE MAIN CONCEPTS OF HIS WORK WHICH ARE ROOTED IN THE TOLTEC TRADITION.

My favorite discoveries of the last 10 years: # 10 Zaki Ibrahim

2009-12-29T07:11:00.001-08:00

" I wont choose to live as if I were to follow a lead. And I will only give to one who is deserving of me. Connected to all matter like oxygen atoms sun water breath you in so you can show me what you made of."

-Zaki Ibrahim Connected

To celebrate the end of a decade, I am going to post blog entries about great things that I have discovered in the last ten years. Music, books, concepts just discoveries.

Today I'm going to start with Zaki Ibrahim. My band actually had the chance to do a few performances with Zaki back in early 2000. She is now a Canadian Superstar! She has an angelic voice and is truly a beautiful person. Check out her website and buy her music : ).

Sparlha Swa

2009-12-27T05:38:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to write about Ms. Swa for a long time. I discovered her a few years back on myspace, before it became a virtual zoo. Her voice is absolutely graceful, full of peace and like an angel. She has a voice like Sade where no matter what she sings it sounds so beautiful. She has two recorded projects out and a live album. Check out her website and a video. PEACE.

Inspiration

2009-12-20T22:00:00.001-08:00

I just wrote a song and thought I would put a video to it to inspire. Enjoy.

Afrique Lachique Jewelry

2009-12-20T17:39:00.000-08:00

Great Jewelry from another great Etsy store

Addressing Homophobia

2009-12-15T07:27:00.000-08:00

So a while ago I posted the below note on facebook, regarding a recent ad campaign in Rochester, Ny(my hometown). The above picture was the best that I could find of the advertisment. Needless to say the ads created a bit of controversy so I thought I would share with yall my take on the whole matter. One thing I feel strongly about it working everyday to challenge the sterotypes and oppressive behavior that the world seems to encourage us to undertake.

You probably have seen the billboard on East Main that says" I am gay and this is where I pray" and there is a picture of a young man sitting with his preacher. I had an exhaustive debate with a few people about this ad campaign. From people who thought it was offensive to those who thought it went too far. My father who is a pastor said he was going to write to Aids Rochester to demand that the ad. be taking down. So obviously this ad sparks emotions in people but I haven’t seen any conversation about it. I know that homophobia in the Black community is a controversial topic but really I think we need to stop ignoring it and have real dialogue. I know many will disagree with what I have to say and some may even lose respect. It is simply because I love who I am that I really don’t give a shit : ).I am of the opinion that it is a brilliant ad campaign and long overdue. I believe this for a few reasons. First of all homophobia in the black community is out of control and it is not being addressed. I have heard things in black churches about Gay people that were violent, offensive and against everything that Jesus taught. I have seen the most loving open minded politically conscious black people say some of the most close-minded ignorant statements about people who are gay. And I am not playing the righteous card, I myself have to work everyday to undo homophobic conditioning.

Secondly as black people we live in a society where the outside world is not often warm to us. Our community becomes are only refuge. You know how you feel when a white person gets on your nerves and you come home and tell your sister/brother whoever about it ..lol. It feels good to have a person who can relate and understand those things that we experience as a people. Imagine being a black person who is gay and not completely accepted by the mainstream society because of race, and then come home to your own community and are rejected because of sexual orientation. That must feel so wack!

People who identify as Gay are part of the black community and have always been. They ask for nothing more than the love and respect that God requires us to give each other, and the equality that the constitution demands we provide to every citizen. Most importantly a person being Gay has nothing to do with you but choosing to hate,dislike,judge, fear, or discriminate against that person has everything to do with you. Everything to do with our insecurities, ego and inability to love as God loves. So in essence working toward eradicating ourselves from homophobic thinking and actions is a task we must do for ourselves, and in order to truly have a pure heart and live in the spirit. This writing is my opinion but was written with the intent to encourage this type of dialogue in our communities. Where hate exist there can be no freedom and as Che said “the true revolutionary is guided by great feelings of love.” <3

SADE!!!!

2009-12-08T07:10:00.001-08:00

I can not wait untill this album drops. Check out the song below. What a hot picture! You can download it for free here.

Mama Afrika Design

2009-12-06T19:51:00.000-08:00

I really love these hand painted tees from designer Wawi Amasha.

Santa Who??

2009-12-06T18:55:00.001-08:00

I can be a Grinch around Christmas. Not that I don't love Christmas. I absolutely love being around my family, making cookies with my nephew and buying something special for someone. But I really get annoyed with the over consumption that happens during Christmas. It kills me to see people going into debt for the latest toy. So many holidays have become just a new way to get people to spend the money that they don't have and go into debt. But anyways what really gets me is this lie about Santa Clause. Mainly because in my opinion it enforces patriarchal, capitalist and white supremacist thinking. Which I could breakdown in another post but I think you get my point. So during the weekend I tried to convince my nephew that the man does not exist and that his hardworking family and parents are the ones giving him gift. What a task. My nephew explained to me that Santa does exist and he looked at me like he was disappointed that no one told me about Santa...lol. Well anyways I decided to give up and let him have his Santa...for now. Besides as someone said to me "In our weight conscious society, I particularly like the thought that an obese man can bring some joy to a child's life." : )

Res:Black Girls Rock

2009-12-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

Remember when Res came out with her debut album that album was what it was. "Golden Boys" was the business. Well she has a new album out called Black Girls Rock and it's definitely a different vibe it has more of a Rock vibe but not really inventive rock more of a typical rock chord progression. Her voice is still lovely and if she is happy with the project than that's what matters. You can download it for free over at her website. And here some old videos to reminisce of her back in the day sound. P.S. Love the cover of her CD. Hot!

Spirituality

2009-12-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

This is a really interesting website. A lot of insightful content on spirituality. I haven't had the time to check it all out but I have been inspired by some of the writing. Check it out

Miss Jones' Afro, Dreads & Rasta Hats

2009-11-28T10:43:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love this Site. It's similiar to LeCoil but a little bit more rootsy love it!!

Vegan Baked Macaroni and Cheese

2009-11-27T13:46:00.000-08:00

Oh my this was a difficult dish. The good thing is I went through the trial and error for you so it should be simple. If you know anything about vegan cheese you know that it doesn't like to melt. I was very successful with this dish...eventually. My whole family thought it was regular cheese. In a taste test it actually beat out my sister's original Mac and Cheese. This is a great dish for anyone who is lactose intolerant. Mac and Cheese is such a soul food staple that I know a lot of people brace discomfort just to get that plate of Mac and Cheese!

Let me say that I make Haitian Mac and Cheese which is much spicier then regular mac and cheese

So lets first talk about the Products you need.

2- 10oz vegan gourmet cheese ( I used Nacho because I wanted the spice)
1.5 cups of soymilk
2 tsp garlic powder
8 oz cook ziti (any pasta of choice)
green peppers diced
salt (optional)
3 tbsp of tomato paste
1 tsp of cayenne paper
nutritional yeast ( optional didn't really add much flavor)

So first of all you will skip all the steps I took of trying to get it to melt : )

1. Add a little bit of olive oil to a pot

2. Add the dice green pepper and saute for a few minutes

3. add garlic powder, tomato paste and cayenne paper

3. Then add both blocks of cheese

4. add the soy milk and stir

5. Stir and smash you kind have to force the cheese to melt. If it not really melting add more soy milk or try turning the heat up

3. Eventually the cheese should melt and you should have a really tasty sauce. If it taste to "soyish" add garlic powder or salt. Salt really helped to make my cheese taste like real cheese!

7. Mix ziti and cheese sauce into a casserole bowl.

8. How the dish taste at this point is basically what it will be so check it out and see if you need to add anything.

9. Place your oven on broil and pop in casserole for about 5 minutes, or at least until the cheese is bubbling golden brown and has that good mac and cheese look.

Then your done! When it cools down you will be able to cut it out into nice squares like the real thing.

VegGiving Day

2009-11-27T13:26:00.001-08:00

The challenge for me this Thanksgiving was making Vegan dishes that were both healthy and soulful and that my brother who is a junk food addict would actually eat. I must say I was quite proud of myself. Above are the three dishes I made. Southern Fried Tofu, Ginger Cabbage and Baked Vegan Macaroni and Cheese.

Southern Fried Tofu

This was probably the favorite dish of the night. My whole family kept saying that it taste just like chicken. I even got my brother to ask for more and my sister who doesn't eat anything with the word Tofu in it absolutely loved it. I am really not great at giving recipes but this is basically what I did.

1. Cut the tofu into rectangles about an inch thick and inch wide.

2. Boil the tofu for 30 minutes (this is supposed to help it absorb flavor)

3. Take the tofu out and dry the tofu using paper towels

4. I then made a marinade using the following

- chicken bouillon

- thyme

- onion powder

- garlic powder

5. I marinaded the tofu in this seasoning over night

6. The next morning I prepared the batter. This consisted of :

- Cornstarch

- Sazon

-Pepper

7. I covered the pieces in the cornstarch batter and then deep fried in olive oil.

8. You want the tofu to fry hard so I left them in for a while

9. Take them out and use a paper towel to get rid of the excess oil

That's about it. It was soooo good. You really will think it's chicken!

Ginger Cabbage

I don't know where the idea for this dish came from but let me say it was off the hook. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy perfection!

1. Cut cabbage into shreds

2. Cut carrots into shreds by holding the carrot up and lightly shaving downward

3. In a pan place olive oil and then saute ginger

4. add about 1/4 cup of brown sugar

5. I then added in the cabbage and carrot mix and coated it with the brown sugar ginger mix

6. At this point I added a bit of curry, cayenne pepper, thyme and a dash of salt

7. Then let it steam until cabbage is soft but carrots still have a bit of a bite.

The mac and cheese has a lot going on so I will give it it's own post.

Tamara Natalie Madden

2009-11-23T22:24:00.001-08:00

Wow since I have been blogging I have stumbled across so many beautiful woman artist. I am in love with the work of Tamara Natalie Madden. Her work is absolutely heavenly. Soft, brilliant and warm. Love it check out her website and blog.

By Any Greens Necessary

2009-11-23T10:24:00.001-08:00

I love this blog if not just for the title. Great tips/recipes and such for the Black Vegetarian.

Spoken Word at the White House

2009-11-23T09:46:00.001-08:00

First of all Michelle is killing it in the above pic loved her top. Anyways, I was absolutely taken back by these performance at the White House. These performance were from a while back but I just got the chance to view them all. First of all having a President and first lady who enjoy hip-hop and poetry and can clap on beat is a beautiful thing ( now only if we could get some healthcare), but mostly the artist are just a beautiful testament to the amount of creativity that exists in this country. And Esperanza Spalding absolutely did an amazing job on her rendition of Tell Him, which I thought was a Lauryn Hill Original but I could be mistaken. Check out my favorite performances.

Selah Praise Meditation

2009-11-17T18:26:00.000-08:00

Today was a difficult day and I thought about the fact that I have not prayed or meditated for the past three days or given any praise to the creator. Someone once said you have to call God when it's 411 not 911, meaning don't just call when you have a crisis. Besides that's not forming a relationship. Can you imagine a relationship where the person only calls you when they were at their worst you would be so tried of that person. Luckily the creator is not so dismissive of us and puts up with our mess. I just wanted to remind you today to keep praying, keep meditating or whatever it is that you do to seek the creator. Remember that you owe yourself that. If you can brush your teeth everyday you can make meditation, praise and prayer a daily part of your routine. Like brushing your teeth it's just something you have to do before you go out to the world or you feel icky : ). Selah

Selah by Lauryn Hill

Screen Printed Jackets

2009-11-16T22:50:00.000-08:00

The trend of wearing "your" politics on your clothing is a little tiresome. But I have to say I like these jackets. Very creative! Another Etsy creation

The Motherland

2009-11-16T06:42:00.000-08:00

My post have been a little sporadic because I am in finals mode right now. That will be over Tuesday and I will be back to blogging out of control. In the meantime I love this print for the documentary the mother land. The documentary looks excellent as well. Made by an African about Africa for once.

Boy Behind the Mask

2009-11-13T16:11:00.001-08:00

Wow looking at this picture is just heart wrenching. There so many words here. What a beautiful illustration of a heartbreaking story. This painting is by Sarah Weaver

Nastassia Davis

2009-11-13T12:47:00.000-08:00

This is an amazing picture by photog Nastassia Davis you can check out her other work here

A Critical Look at Good Hair

2009-11-11T21:14:00.000-08:00

Rock treats the topics with a chuckle, but it leaves us with a feeling that we’re getting a blow-dried, glossy version of the actual stories. Instead of just asking Black models and actresses (most of whom wear weaves) for their thoughts on hair, what about Black public intellectuals like Angela Davis and Toni Morrison?.....

Noticeably absent from the documentary is the matriarch of the family, Malaak Compton-Rock. After all, who is the most enduring presence in a young daughter’s life? A quick scan of images and videos of Malaak Compton-Rock reveals a self-assured woman who is passionate about her nonprofit work and sports a giant head of weave. The reason for little Zahra’s lament becomes clear: she just wants hair like Mom’s. Check out the full article here

Just Because Black is Beautiful

2009-11-11T21:01:00.001-08:00

What A Woman Must Do

2009-11-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

Until you run,walk, bike a mile in her shoes don't you dare stand in front of me and tell me what a woman must do"

Absolutely love this poem by Ursurla Rucker. Needless to say I would like to dedicate this Poem to Steve Harvey... : ) !

Cancer Couture

2009-11-10T18:10:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but I pray for a day when cigarettes will no longer be used in fashion ads or in movies as a sexy accessory. I understand why back in the day when people didn't know the effect of cigarettes this was OK, but now we are very knowledgeable about the effects of cigarettes. They are not sexy or cute but toxic and deadly. We have all seen the movies when the powerful women lights the cigarette and keeps it moving. She is cool she is in control. No..she is addicted to a drug that causes cancer. It is these images of sexy, cool that have been a part of the Tobacco industries marketing plan for decades. While the government has restricted their ability to advertise the movie industry and print media are doing their work for them.Cigarette smoking is the major single cause of cancer mortality in the United States.

Now let me say, Cigarettes are a true addiction and I have several family members who picked it up because they thought it was sexy or cool and now can't put them down as much as they would like to, because they are chemically addicted. I also have friends who smoke and I believe that people cannot be forced to quit but must come to the realization themselves and we can be there for support. I respect peoples decision, acknowledge the struggle of addiction, and make no judgement about smokers, but I think we all can agree smoker and non smoker, that the last thing we need are more youth beginning to pick up a box of Newport because they think it looks sexy. I re posted these picture because I think when you look hard at them knowing what we know about cigarettes they look really silly.

Lalah Hathaway did a great interview on how she quit smoking check it out here

Oh my!!

2009-11-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

I just had to put this pic up today. This dress is absolutely divine. This is about one of the most creative Red Carpet looks I have seen in a while. This dress is truly artistic and impeccably designed and Rihanna wore it well. She rocked this dress at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards.

Absolutely love Cut it Out Apparel

2009-11-09T16:50:00.000-08:00

Clothing with a message. I love this apparel line from Cut it Out Apparel, with statement tee's for your inner feminista : )

Chimamanda Adichie

2009-11-08T22:28:00.000-08:00

Wow this is such a great talk. There is so much here that I can't even sum it up. You just have to watch it and see. Let me know what you think.

Getting Yours

2009-11-07T10:55:00.001-08:00

This song by Lilly Allen it so brilliant. You have to check her out I love her songwriting. Very intelligent writing. In this song, frankly she expresses the frustration felt when your partner is not doing the job or completing the task in the bed...I love it. It's a shame that in this day in age men still think it's ok to have an orgasm and keep it moving.

Oh, he treats me with respect,
He says he loves me all the time,
He calls me 15 times a day,
He likes to make sure that im fine,
You know I've never met a man,
Whose made me feel quite so secure,
He's not like all them other boys,
They're all so dumb and immature.

There's just one thing,
That's getting in the way,
When we go up to bed your just no good,
its such a shame!
I look into your eyes,
I want to get to know you,
And then you make this noise,
and its apparently its all over

Its not fair,
And i think your really mean,
I think your really mean,
I think your really mean.

Oh your supposed to care,
But you never make me scream,
You never make me scream,

Oh it's not fair,
And it's really not ok,
It's really not ok,
It's really not ok,

Oh your supposed to care,
But all you do is take,
Yeah, all you do is take.

I lay here in this wet patch
in the middle of the bed,
im feeling pretty damn hard done by
i spent ages giving head.

Then i remember all the nice things
that you've ever said to me,
maybe im just over reacting
maybe your the one for me.

There's just one thing,
That's getting in the way,
When we go up to bed your just no good,
its such a shame!
I look into your eyes,
I want to get to know you,
And then you make this noise,
and its apparently its all over

Chorus

Falling in Love with yourself

2009-11-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

I have spent more time alone this semester then I have ever spent before. I thought about this yesterday and realized that this was in many ways a good thing. I have noticed that I talk to myself, yes out loud and yes I answer myself. However, today I realized that the time with myself has caused me to fall in love with myself! Not in a conceited way or in a.."I'm the shit way!" (although I am as are you) : ) . But in a pure unconditional love and acceptance of myself, and feeling joy when I am within myself, with myself looking at myself. Indeed to love me is to love God. To not love me is to not love God. You cannot truly love God your creator who made you in her image and dwells within you, if you don't love yourself, the very vessel in which she exist. I saw the below affirmation over at Abundance Tapestry and I thought I would share.

“I am Me. In all the world, there is no one else exactly like me. Everything that comes out of me is authentically mine, because I alone chose it — I own everything about me: my body, my feelings, my mouth, my voice, all my actions, whether they be to others or myself. I own my fantasies, my dreams, my hopes, my fears. I own my triumphs and successes, all my failures and mistakes.

Because I own all of me, I can become intimately acquainted with me. By so doing, I can love me and be friendly with all my parts. I know there are aspects about myself that puzzle me, and other aspects that I do not know — but as long as I am friendly and loving to myself, I can courageously and hopefully look for solutions to the puzzles and ways to find out more about me.
However I look and sound, whatever I say and do, and whatever I think and feel at a given moment in time is authentically me. If later some parts of how I looked, sounded, thought, and felt turn out to be unfitting, I can discard that which is unfitting, keep the rest, and invent something new for that which I discarded. I can see, hear, feel, think, say, and do. I have the tools to survive, to be close to others, to be productive, and to make sense and order out of the world of people and things outside of me.

I own me, and therefore, I can engineer me. I am me,

-Denis2005 Virginia Satir quotes (American Phychologist and Educator, 1916-1988)

And from my favorite poet Sunni Patterson

"how does it feel to know that wherever you go the holiest of holies is present in the form of you... so your worth is nothing less then divine."- Sunni P

I love Michelle

2009-11-06T08:42:00.000-08:00

I always said I would rather have voted for Michelle Obama. I really love this woman and believe she has the strength to get things done. I also admire how much she is reaching out to the D.C. community and opening up the white house doors. The first Lady just launched a mentoring program for young girls in D.C. Twenty girls will get the opportunity to pair up with top administration officials to learn skills. You Can check out the article here.

Just for today

2009-11-06T01:00:00.000-08:00

Sisters, Just for Today Don't worry....trust.

Just for today

India Arie

Just for today
I will not worry what tomorrow will bring, no
I’m gonna try something new and walk through this day
Like I’ve got nothing to prove, yeah
Although I have the best intentions
I can't predict anyones reactions
So I’ll just do my best
I'll put one foot in front of the other
Keep on moving forward
And let God do the rest

I don’t know what’s gonna happen
That’s alright with me
I open up my arms and I embrace the mystery
I don’t know what’s gonna happen
That’s alright with me
I open up my arms and I embrace the mystery

Just for today
I’m telling the truth like it's going out of style
I'm gonna swallow my pride and be who I am
And I don’t care who don’t like it, yeah
I feel the fear but I do it anyway
I won't let it stand in the way
I know what I must do
There’s no guarantee that it’ll be easy
But I know that it’ll be fulfilling
And it's time for me to show improve

It’s okay not to know
Exploration is how we grow
It’s ok to not have the answer
Cuz sometimes
It’s the question that matters

I don’t know what’s gonna happen
That’s alright with me
I open up my arms and I embrace the mystery
I don’t know what’s gonna happen
That’s alright with me
I open up my arms and I embrace the mystery

Black Girl Speaks: Pursue The Passion!!

2009-11-04T21:13:00.000-08:00

To see Talitha Anyabwele perform as the star of her one woman stage show Black Girl Speaks is a divine experience. She becomes every character and delivers the stories in a way that makes you feel every pain,fear, joy as if it were you own. To sit down and speak with Talitha Anyabwele, the full time artist and business women was an inspiration and a nice reminder from a conduit of the Creator that we are here to fulfill a purpose. Last week I spoke with Talitha to find out how she was able to create a successful independent business that showcases her art, heals communities and fulfills her life's purpose. I was inspired by her words and hope you are as well.

What are you working on Right Now?

I’m writing a book called The Way He Loves Me. It’s a series of interviews with woman in different phases of their relationships, talking about their healthy relationships with men but also giving the reality of these relationships. I wanted to give insight to women who are single to know that relationships can work.It has really been interesting interviewing these women… they have been very honest and it has been helpful in my own relationship listening to them.

What motivated you to Do Black Girl Speaks?

Black Girl Speaks is under the umbrella of BGS productions. The show is a series of monologues and spoken word pieces. It’s about being a black female and everything we have experienced from conception to death, and even after. Most of the pieces are my personal story, but as the show has evolved it also includes pieces from people I know personally, or people in the airport who feel the need to tell me their story, it happens all the time. The stories are also spoken through me by the spirits that are around me.

I am very spiritually connected, and I recognize the spirits of those around me whether they are ancestors or people who are living…

I did a piece that was not my story at all, but this woman came up to me balling saying it was her story. Things like that happen all the time. There were details in the story that were very unique to her and it wasn’t like anyone could have gone though this. She was uplifted that her story had been told.

When your are on stage is it like an out of body experience?

Oh yes I sit and watch myself all the time. It's not me once I get up there. I have performed the show through ammonia, bronchitis. Me, Talitha can be balled over somewhere so I know it's not me. I know that a greater spirit is taking over. I experience very powerful transitions to the point where I have fallen out, and people thought it was part of the script! But its not me at all. I’m just thankful to be used as a conduit.

How did you find the courage, strength wisdom to do your art full time?

My Husband has a very big mouth and is very persuasive! When we moved down here he pretty much told me that I couldn’t work … And I'm like who are you talking to this is not 1863! (laughing). He was like no I really want you to commit to BGS for a year. I was terrified because I come from a family of woman who say you have to have your own just in case he acts up. I had to trust and have faith that it would work. I had to make it work. I knew I wanted to do it[pursue art full time]. I had done it before for three months, but that wasn’t enough to expect a turn around. So he encouraged me. From a financial backing and by being supportive. He believed in me and more importantly in the show and what BGS is.

What’s your advice for artists who may not have the financial support?

I would say create a plan. I had enough in my savings where I could have stood on my own.. If anyone wants to do art full time you have to stop talking about it and just do it. Make the provision to do so. People wait on a big break or there is a fear of not taking the risk. We are our greatest investment and this country has taught us against that. If people make the plan whether it's saving accordingly for a number of months or just strategically planning, or preparing so they can provide for themselves their would be more great artist out there because we would take the risk of just going out and doing it.

What helped you to move beyond fear?

Fear and pride gang up on me all the time. I come from very high expectations. I mean I’m supposed to be somewhere in law school right now. I’m supposed to be Clair Huxtable. This was not the expectation of my family. They are proud of me but they were disappointed and they were surprised. I mean they don’t brag about me like they would if I would have been in law school. But what keeps me going is knowing that this is not about me. Knowing that this gift is not mine. I’m the caretaker of this gift, it isn’t mine. To not use this the way I’m supposed to ..it’s either going to be taken from me or hidden under this bed. It infuriated me with myself to not use what I am given. I’m not fulfilled in other things that I do. I am a very good businessperson. I'm good in corporate America, but I hated it. I was spiritually drained. I mean it will get to the point where you just can’t survive anymore. When you get hungry enough, you find a way to make it happen.

Talking to my mom and all of my aunts not one of them did what they dreamed to do and they all sacrificed on the back of family or children, whatever else was in the way. I didn’t want to be that. They all talk about what they could have been. I refuse to say that to my children, or anybody. Even if I fail I want to be able to say I did this, ‘your momma did this’. You have to spit in the face of fear!

It’s either passion or profit that’s what we’ve been programmed to believe. To believe that, that’s what we must choose between

Your slogan is it’s not a show it’s a movement..

It's not just entertainment. From the show I have developed a workshop, seminar, lectures based on each of the themes of the show. Sisterhood, Liberation, Triumph. I develop workshops within the schools. That has been empowering for me more then anything, speaking to kids in ways that I couldn’t speak to them as a teacher.

As an artist how do you deal with people who believe just because it's art it's not valuable, or frankly,think you should perform for free ?

Thats something you have to deal with especially in the spoken word movement. Living out my backpack and living Cd to Cd was not the road that I wanted to travel. So I don’t do features anymore unless there paid. I am blessed to have a corporate background so I know how to present myself. I can put on the suit and give you a PowerPoint presentation so it meets the needs of the organization.

I realized I had been cheapening myself asking for the bare minimum and when I started valuing myself and started putting a price on it that looked like it[my art] was worth something, that’s when I started getting the respect.

When you art is your work does that put superficial demands on what you do?

I stopped trying to force my hand. But you do have to wear multiple hats. I have to be my own boss I have to give my self deadlines. You don’t have to put artistic demands on your self but you do have to put business demands on yourself.

What’s Next for you?

I just started this group called Girls with Goals. It’s for women my age who are trying to figure out what their spiritual, financial, career goals are. The group is no more than 9 and everyone acts as each others checklist. So we hold each other accountable to our goals. We decided that we want to do a conference that caters to women our age with the same purpose. Definitely my next big project.

What inspiration do you have for The Goddess Effect readers?

I would say pursue the passion the profit will come. If you pursue the passion and put your effort in one thing consistently the profit will come!

Erykah as we have never seen her.

2009-11-04T12:40:00.001-08:00

Now Badu is always doing something different but she really looks like a different character in these photos. What d0 you think?

The Natural Hair Revolution

2009-11-03T11:12:00.000-08:00

So Today a sister at my school who had been wearing a straight wig for a while walked in the classroom with a divine fro! This sista looked absolutely gorgeous. It really felt like I was seeing her for the first time. She said that she was tired of wearing the wig and she loved the fro even though her boyfriend wasn't feeling it. She said she knew that she had to do it for herself. I was so proud of her for doing what she felt was right for her. Stories like hers and many others are highlighted in this amazing Blog Black Girls with Long Hair. I absolutely love it! I love how they show the transition from permed/processed hair to woman wearing their hair in it's natural state it such an inspiring Blog check it out.

Beautiful Print

2009-11-02T18:30:00.001-08:00

found this print over at YMIB. Love it

Gabby looking fly at the Precious premier

2009-11-02T17:22:00.001-08:00

Sankofa

2009-11-02T10:01:00.000-08:00

A self-absorbed Black American fashion model on a photo shoot in Africa is spiritually transported back to a plantation in the West Indies where she experiences first-hand the physical and psychic horrors of chattel slavery, and eventually the redemptive power of community and rebellion as she becomes a member of a freedom-seeking Maroon colony.

So I am sure I am pretty late on this but last night as I was doing research on ancestral worship I came upon this movie Sankofa. Wow I can't believe that I've never saw this. This was a very interesting film with very strong female characters. My favorite is a woman named Nunu who can kill slave masters by looking at them. Anyways you can watch this film on Youtube or Daily Motion for free. There are many thought provoking moments in this film.

Honoring our Ancestors

2009-11-01T20:11:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine recently ask me to go to a Day of the Dead celebration. My reaction was uhm that doesn't sound like something I want to do. However, I really had no clue what Day of the Dead was and hanging out in a cemetery just didn't seem like something that I wanted to do and skeletons are just not my thing. So I did my research because I know how Strong my judeo-christian conditioning can be.

I have come to understand Day of the Dead as a way to reverence love ones that we have lost and our ancestors who have transitioned. Ironically, I had just had a conversation with another Friend about honoring our ancestors(Egungun in Yoruba belief) by using an ancestral altar so I was surprised to see the connection between practices I have instituted and the Day of the Dead. So today I remind you to honor the spirits of those who came before us those who we have lost recently in whatever ways you feel most comfortable. For some it may be a Day of the Dead celebration, for some an alter for others telling a story about that person. Whatever you choose the spirit of our ancestors/love ones are alive in well may we continually honor them.

Prayer

Holding those who have passed on from this life I sit in quiet to pray.

Death comes to all of us in time yet to some of us too soon. I think of those who have lost their lives to violence in our streets, violence in our homes, violence because of our wars, violence to our Earth, violence of depression.

Death is part of the great mystery of life. I think of those who have passed after a long life, after long struggles with illness, after giving all that they had to give. I think of those who have passed in the spirit of love and I marvel at the beauty death can be.

As I sit with my own mortality I am humbled by the power of life and the inevitability of its end. I commit myself to the adventure of life and leave the fear of death in the wake of my call to live with love. As I wonder about what is next to come I take comfort in my journey of living in honor of those who have died.

In the spirit of endless possibility, Amen.

-Jason Lydon

More information on Day of the Dead and Ancestral Reverence

1. Egungun

2.Day of the Dead

3. African Diaspora Ancestral Commemoration Institute - great site on reverencing the ancestors lost during enslavement

Celebration

2009-11-01T19:55:00.000-08:00

This poem by Marie Evans is absolutely beautiful. I never understood the concept of someone else being responsible for completing you. The job of being made whole is totally our work. This poem embodies how love should be in my opinion. Enjoy.

Celebration-Marie Evans (1993)

I will bring you a whole person
and you will bring me a whole person
and we will have us tiwce as much
of love and everything

I be bringing a whole heart
and while it do have nicks and
dents and scars,
that only make me lay it down
more careful-like
An; you be bringing a whole heart
a little chipped and rusty an'
sometime skip a beat but
still an' all you bringing polish too
and look like you intend
to make it shine

And we be brinigng, each of us
the music of ourselves to wrap
the other in

Forgiving clarities
Soft as a choir's last
lingering note our
personal blend

I will be bringing you someone whole
and you will be bringing me someone whole
and we be twice as strong
and we be twice as true
and we will have twice as much
of love
and everything
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Goapele's Hot Braid Style!

2009-11-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

Wow this is such an amazing hairstyle. I have locs but these pics make me want to cut them off just to get this look. Superbad! I do miss Goapels locs. But she is killing them here

A Remix version of Lauryn Hill's Rebel

2009-10-31T15:40:00.000-07:00

I never heard this version so I thought I would share.Enjoy!

Relax

2009-10-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

So this week has been extremly hectic for me. Im wrapping up the semester, had the flu and just finished a pretty difficult writing assignment. So Today I need to just chill and regroup. So I thought I would share with you things that help me relax. Peace Queens Enjoy Your Friday!

Also some chill out songs I love:

Fatima Robinson

2009-10-29T10:23:00.001-07:00

I always love the style of Fatima Robinson. She is such a talented and beautiful Sisiter. I also love her website..beautiful design!

Gotta Love Badu

2009-10-28T23:00:00.001-07:00

Just because I love Badu and I love this pic. C/O Erykah-Badu.com

"Love is life, and life is free

Take a ride on life with me

Free your mind and find your way

There will be a brighter day"

I love Gabby Sidibe's!

2009-10-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

“They try to paint the picture that I was this downtrodden, ugly girl who was unpopular in school and in life, and then I got this role and now I’m awesome,” says the actress. “But the truth is that I’ve been awesome, and then I got this role.”

I know we are all waiting for Precious to debut this November. This film looks like it's going to be amazing. I read the book Push by Sapphire years ago and it left me pretty teared up so I can image the film. Gabby Sidibe the star of the show is such a beautiful young woman. I read this article that she did for the New York Magazine and thought that I would share.I appreciate her honesty,she calls it like it is. Check it out.

I don't need this but I do love it

2009-10-28T10:15:00.001-07:00

OK, I have a shopping problem I really do, and you know what I really need to work on it. Let me tell you why. First of all many of the industries that mass produce and sell clothing, have practices that exploit woman like me and you. Secondly the clothing and beauty industry survives off of insecurities and fear, making people feel that they are less then if they don't have this dress that shoe. So..with that said in order to shake my shopping habit.. I'm not going cold turkey but I decided that I will try to buy more handmade things by small vendors. This doesn't completely solve the problem but it makes be feel a little better. : )

That's why I love Etsy because you can by crafts handmade by creative woman sans the mass marketing and sweatshops. I wanted to highlight these beautiful African print clutch purses by Aya Morrison. I also wanted to give you a way to make your own in case you don't have the $40 bucks but have the time and sewing skills. African fabric is unfortunately "in" now which means it is more expensive than it typically should be. However you can purchase fabric here. You can also find a free clutch pattern here, which will show you how to make a clutch purse. Enjoy!

MA'AT

2009-10-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am often inspired by different Goddesses and lately I've been reading more about the Egyptian goddess MA'AT. The beautiful people over at YMIB had a beautiful entry on MA'AT that was very inspiring check it out! Also the first picture is by super queen artist Yes Lioness.

I have decided to read The 42 Principles of MA'AT on a daily basis and hope something sticks : )

I will honor virtue
I will be non-violent
I will not steal
I will respect others property
I respect life as sacred
I will give offerings which are genuine
I will not lie
I will not waste food
I will hold sacred divine spaces
I will relate to others peacefully
I will honor animals as sacred
I will not bear false witness
I will not speak or do evil
I will hold the earth as sacred
I will not be an eavesdropper
I will not initiate battles
I will speak positively of others
I will control my emotions
I will not abuse my sexuality
I will not pre-judge or judge
I will spread joy and peace
I will listen to opposing opinions
I will always do my best
I will promote harmony
I will promote laughter
I will respect my ancestors
I will keep the earth pure
I will follow my inner being
I will not abuse children
I will respect people
I will live in thankfulness
I will always be humble
I will always embrace the All
I will keep the waters pure
I will speak with optimism
I will not talk too much
I will not desecrate another's character
I will not wish bad upon others
I will not cause sadness
I will not ignore the truth
I will not commit adultery
I will not live in regret