PRACTICE 31: impeccability

"Your past does not determine who you are. Your past prepares you for who you are to become. God has given you a new beginning—a fresh start." 

Hold that thought in the air and look at it. 

"Your past does not determine who you are. Your past prepares you for who you are to become. God has given you a new beginning—a fresh start." 

I've heard the words before. But, who says the words, and how they are said is like brushing grime or dust off a shiny armour, or the ideas behind the words buries a person's spirit. The past is always in the present. It shapes ideas, people, destinies, and futures. To see otherwise one must deliberately twist themselves out of the circular flow of life-death-resurrection into a design previously unseen. If the past does not determine who I am how can the past prepare me for what I am to become? 

Is it God that gives us a new beginning, or is it the design of things within Creation and her laws at work? - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 1.2.14 

Red and Black on White

elegant woman by Jeri Kekahuna

exotic red haired woman's body of art.

 

The Hidden: African Warrioress

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General of Canada,
announced on Canada Day the newest appointees to the Order of Canada, Canada's highest Honour.

The Dahomey Amazons were an all-female army that fought for the Kingdom of Dahomey (now Republic of Benin) for almost 200 years.

 

PRACTICE 30

Matthew 6:19–21

¹⁹ Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

²⁰ But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

²¹ For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also

The first part of this scripture, "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal..." has been used throughout the years to justify poverty and being poor. It has taught many to suppress the urgency to learn how to invest. It is a curious phenomenon, but it is evidenced in the fact of a shared financial illiteracy. I am not above it. It has been part of my own intellectual legacy. I felt it keenly in my early years, and questioned it. But, by the time I was able to counter it much time had elapsed.  It is compelling how theology exists within our terminology irregardless of our affiliation with an organized religion. It is true our beliefs are stronger than religion.

"...Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." weaseled into the thinking of suppressed people convincing them of the worthless chore of amassing personal wealth. The prospect of heaven and its rewards underscored the theme of countless lives when the apex predators came to collect their tolls and taxes. Slaves to the culture of belief set against one's Sacred Dream of Life produced millions of people who half-lived their lives thinking, and singing about the 'bye & 'bye!

The true investor, I learned late in life, stands between the divide in these interpretations and merges self into a concept balanced by modesty, adventure, and daring and takes the fear of judgment that the parable of the talents renders into the heart of those unable to make their one talent grow, and become financially secure, emotionally balanced, and mature differently. Jesus' parable about the servants who received talents from their master terrifies the above mentioned persons because the parable rewards the investor just as in real life the investor is rewarded. - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 1.02.14





The Painter by Georgia AL Fullerton

 

PRACTICE 29

"It is just as hard to convey to a teenager the length of years as it is to convey to them the far reaching affects of action into their futures in real life. I am an advocate for the development of a child, and initiating a child into adulthood. Which means the concept of adolescence I am opposed to is not part of the original design of human life. Adolescence gifts the child with problems initiations do not give unto them. Very deeply I think children do not need their childhood development stifled by the electronics parents are overwhelmed by in the 21st century. Parents have created their own problems with their belief in sales people and unabashed devotion to consuming and ignorance of investing. The electronics parents have been using to entertain their children have to be secondary for the most part, and invisible in the first six years of life. They need to come into the child's life later with wisdom according to the child's spirit, and most importantly at the time a child's spirit is fully in their body.

 After the development of certain specifics are in place the electronics can enter a child's life as a tool; a tool and nothing more than a tool. Otherwise, the problems I've seen become detrimental in perceptible and subtle ways that predators easily take advantage of. . ." - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 12.28.13







Chapman Fine ArtsThe Sentinel, 20 x 16"
November 6, 2013 

"My people are plains Indian. You did capture the swirl of cold and rushing wind that is unforgiving. I use to sleep in snow and upon ice without fire when I was a younger man out of necessity. I understand the feeling and the possibility of the body in the elements. I know why the man on horseback can sit his horse like this. The stoic nature of his posture has to do with his indifference to death and acceptance of his presence in the present moment with its challenge: the cold." - Gregory E. Woods 12.28.13 

Sealing BONDS



the Flotus photographed by Annie Leibovitz, for the April #2013 cover of Vogue wearing a 2-piece gown by Reed Krakoff.

married and expecting by Shani Hadjian Photography (2015)

 

Fashion to identity



a biker chick's interesting choice of style.
October 20, 2015

An interesting array of cultures she chose to wear. Is it respectful, or inventive to blend a sari with the rebellion of American youth culture? - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 1.28.16











a biker chick's gentle spirit !!!!
October 20, 2015

Gentle spirits find ways to emerge from the images we throw up to shield ourselves from life's curves. - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 1.28.16



 

Working Models

Eliza Maria

by James Mosley

January 28, 2011 ·

 



elegant woman by Patina Edochié on bed.

 

PRACTICE 28



Fluvia Lacerda's face was done by Tara Taylor is an industry's way of not saying they could only add to what was perfect as much as temporal life allows perfect moments and precious things to co-exist as breathtaking and revealing at the same time in one face. - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 12.21.13  

Do You Need To Hear From God?
Rev. Dr. Sinclair Grey III

In this life, I've discovered when you're preoccupied with too much stuff; you'll miss what's in front of you. Let me say it this way. If you're asking God for something, make sure you're not too busy overlooking the simple while focusing on the complicated. It's important for you to know God hears as well as answers prayers. The problem occurs when people don't hear Him because they allow people and things to interfere with what He has to say. Unless you have a relationship with God, you won't be able to discern whether it's God or your flesh talking. Many of the answers you're seeking are right in front of you. All you need to do is activate what's at your disposal to get them.

In this spiritual journey, I want to share with you how you're able to hear from God in your time of asking. The first thing you need to do is make sure you're doing what you need to do in fostering a positive and productive relationship with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. You do this by studying God's Word daily, attending Bible study, going to church, and meditating on His Word. I can add more, but start with these. The second thing you need to do is make sure whatever you're asking God is in alliance to His will. In a real sense, don't ask out of selfish want, but out of concern for God's will to be done. Whenever you take your eyes off you and put them on God, you'll hear from God.

The Bible says when Hannah was praying for a son to be dedicated to God, she went to the temple and poured herself out spiritually, physically, and emotionally. The good news is that God heard her prayer and spoke through the prophet Eli by saying, "Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him." Please don't miss this last point. When God provides you with your answer, it's not your time to analyze, criticize, or ponder. That's my word for you. God has what you stand in need of, all you need to do is listen. 12.20.13 

Navajo healer drawing sand designs by Walking the Red Road 

White Folks



Mereana Taki says, I don't hate white people.
 I challenge every single national myth (they've) erected in (their)
own name at the expense of my people...

"... I don't hate WHITE People I challenge every single national myth you've erected in your own name at the expense of MY PEOPLE on whose backs you lifted yourselves out of obscurity and now you want me to stay silent and invisible while you go all the way to burying MY PEOPLE in your mental illness? Don't answer that ... its rhetorical.
I don't hate God/s I simply do not accept anyone performing Spiritual lobotomies on generations of MY PEOPLE while sewing a blue eyed blonde god onto their tongues if they want to be accepted by you and get some of the basic necessities of life you stole from us in the first place!" - Mereana Taki 1.27.16

 

Red Tops & Hats



hat worn by

Cosetta Chantal

 

April 30, 2015

 

 

 

"A cool hat worn well goes a long way and gets along with well put together outfits." 

Dawn Wolf, Keeper of Stories 8/31/15  



hat worn by Julie K. Smith, actress

 

ELEGANCE, PRESENCE and FUN 2

Juliette Lewis wore a very dramatic Vivienne Westwood gown to the Art of Elysium Heaven Gala
in Los Angeles on Jan. 9, 2016 wearing white nude & black tulle gown. photo by Matt Baron

Rutina Wesley, star of True Blood

 

WORLD in Her

Sarah Bowman Photography's editorial in VANorama Magazine  4
2016

Sarah Bowman's editorial in VANorama Magazine 3

 

PRACTICE 27: initiation link

mysterious aspect of a Thai prostitute - Mai

Playboy fans



Sheridyn Fisher of Playboy Australia & New Zealand. Dec. 10, 2013 

"The angelic quality of this image of Sheridyn Fisher of Playboy Australia & New Zealand makes a case for the creative process of sight becoming poetry, poetry music and music the right feel to the vibrations emanating from so precious a vital spirit. How can a woman be special outside of your acquaintance? The end of that question searches the formula of one's manhood, and evaluates the storm or the story of his masculinity. 


Visions come to a man not in the way it comes to an angelic being. If we were to study angelic beings we would not be so ready to assign the title and energies of such a creature upon the body and essence of womanhood. Womanhood is a different calibre of holiness. From elements angelic beings visit is the only common ground between the two. Each, the woman and the angelic beings, come to teach, nurture and protect men, masculinity and manhood and it is always through initiatory experiences this comes to light!" 

- Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 12.18.13  

Ms. Denial 002

"Some things come true because of the perception we bring to bear upon intent, want and desire. Other things are merely dreams, slips of the tongue and vague innuendos. When finally a dream does come true the brush of fresh air upon the senses awakens the clarity of creation and creativity takes on more potency and we can become confident in our ability to make things happen by voice and action." ~ Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories 12.18.13













Angie Vu Ha resting in the shadow.
October 31, 2013 

TRIBUTE to Excellence

Lena Horne in the 1950's

"She evolved into a Lady. A helluva a story it must be."

~ Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories

1.12.16

Lauryn Hill at the piano !!!!
video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3_dOWYHS7I 

 

an Imagination as ART

photographer, Sarah Bowman stands out as an image creator.

Valerie Duncan by Sarah Bowman Photography
 December 2, 2015

Valerie Duncan by Sarah Bowman Photography

 

Four Stories of Note.

These stories need to be embedded in our stories. It would change a lot of us steering us collectively towards the direction of excellence the stars, and artists of the 1940's were aiming towards. - Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories




actress Mildred Smith starred in such Broadway productions as Men to the Sea, Mamba’s Daughters, Beggar’s Holiday (as the love interest of Alfred Drake), Forward the Heart and A Long Way From Home, in the 1940's.

actor Clarence Muse was an actor, screenwriter, director, composer, and lawyer. He was inducted in the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1973. He appeared in more than 150 movies.

singer Muriel Rahman was a vocalist and actress. She is best known for her starring role in the original Broadway production of Carmen Jones.

Condoleezza Rice was nominated for Secretary of State by George W. Bush
on November 14, 2004, and assumed office on January 26, 2005!!!!

 

Begin to Create ...



Mereana Taki a dream and a mystic in December 2015.

Begin to create ... every day ... get out your magic scissors and cut off any nonsense. Take out your paints and brushes and create doors where you imagine walls are. Get those pieces of material and those needles left for years in a cupboard somewhere and sew together poet Trees and lyrical license to write your own Life Story with whatever endings you'd like to try on for size. Begin ... and begin again till scissors and paint and needles sing those sacred songs in the key of your Soul Life.

Taki Mereana (January 2016)

 

Get FIT

BrittneBabeFitness.com



Brittne Babe, fitness coach's motto Be strong, believe in who you are. Be strong, believe in what you feel.
November 23, 2014 

10 minutes of abs 3-5 days a week (variations), a minimum of 5 hours a week in the gym (weights and cardio)
__________________________
That leaves me 162 hours to sleep and do everything else. What's your excuse again?? -

Brittne Babe Fitness

#Lifestyle #FitAndCurvy
 

PRACTICE 25

7 Cherokee Core Values

1. Spirituality
2. Group Harmony
3. Individual Strong Character
4. Sense of Place
5. Honor the Past
6. Educate the Children
7. Humor 

from Bear Warrior (Joe Gonzales)

FINE ARTIST, Sarah Bowman

red haired woman by Sarah Bowman Photography
(2015)

Sarah Bowman is a fashion, fine art, and lifestyle photographer, specializing in people and portraits with a style consisting of surreal, ethereal and whimsical imagery. She uses a lot of her surroundings and natural light to create unique portraits. Sarah strives to bring intrigue and exultation through her work. Recently, she has gained more attention through her fashion and surreal work. In the past year she has been published in many magazines including in a well known UK photography magazine named  which is also sold in north American stores including Chapters.

​As an artist, her utmost goal throughout all of her work is to “please her viewers and hope to overachieve their expectations,” while also “collaborating with models and making them feel beautiful and extraordinary about their talent”. Creating beautiful out of this world imagery, whether whimsical or dark, is her most desired interest. Sarah has also been making behind the scenes videos and tutorials on her YouTube page to capture her collaborations with the many creatives in Vancouver and on the island.

Sarah Bowman's editorial in VANorama Magazine 5
2016  

 

Come

Ingrid Araly Jan. 24, 2014

round brown go to town !

Being seduced happens before the seduction. The question to this as a man is who are you?

PRACTICE 24

If You Want To Blow Up, You Need To Grow On A Daily Basis
Rev. Dr. Sinclair Grey III

In this spiritual journey, I want to share with you a few lessons that will help you progress daily. The first thing you need to do is realize that your attitude will determine your altitude. No one can make up your mind to want better; it has to be a choice you make for yourself. Never forego a day whereby you don't seek God's will for your life. The second thing you need to do in progressing daily is spend time working on you so that God can use you. Think about it for a moment. Just as an athlete disciplines himself/herself to perform at their optimal performance, you must do the same in your spirituality. Remember, we're in spiritual warfare and we must always put on the whole armor of God in order to withstand the schemes of the enemy. Here's a hint: if you overlook the need to progress, you'll always be in the same position.

In writing to the people of Philippi, the apostle Paul said, "I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Please don't miss this last lesson. When you have the right uplook that's partnered with the right outlook, you'll get the right outcome. When you keep your attention on serving God, you'll do what you need to do to better yourself. Always remember, bettering yourself pleases God. That's my word for you. If you want to blow up in your life, grow on a daily basis. Here's a challenge for you. Start journaling your growth every day and see what happens. 12.13.13

Felicia Woods, Florida based hair stylist,
sitting on a slope on bank of a pond with cat tails.
September 3, 2013  


"Moments lived can upon revisiting become more poignant and meanings from this moment will grow as you age and mature over the years. This moment will become something unanticipated. . ."  - Dawn Wolf, Keeper of Stories 12.14.13

The Joy of Playing

Milwaukee musicians, Elias Holman (piano), Russell Rossetto(trombone), Carlos Adames (congas), Tony Ayala and an acoustic bassist and drummer. The commitment on their faces must make for a tremendous sound. I would guess the overriding emotion would be joy? - Gregory E. Woods (Jan. 24, 2016)

1974

Wesley Boyd in Czech Republic playing his berimbao (2015) is an Ogan of the tradition.

Gregory E. Woods and Gail Dickert playing drums at Frog Pond Early Learning School.
That's Pam Tinker, the founder of the school standing beside Gail. (10.24.15)

 

LOBBYIST CULTURE

cartoon of the political machine (2016)

spe·cial in·ter·est
noun
plural noun: special interest groups
a group of people or an organization seeking or receiving special advantages, typically through political lobbying.

 

TWO 

 We have been bamboozled into thinking we are a "democratic society". The system is fractionalized and divided; this is another form of evil. It is a scattering into weak groups, human beings who have been manipulated into seeing themselves as "different" in need and expectations. The influencers (lobbyists) rule the day. When we can change the paradigm of governance to concern itself with the needs of human beings to prosper beyond any artificial obstruction, then we will have a nation of innovative, compassionate, socially responsible enlightened beings. Ask ourselves, what does a healthy human existence require from birth to death no matter the color, gender or ethnicity? 

 

Leave Shaytan, the temporary god, for the True And verily, this is My straight path, so follow it, and do not follow other paths, for they will separate you away from His path. This He has ordained for you that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious)." Surah An-Nam v. 153

 

Hajja Ayisha Jeffries Cisse 

January 17, 2016  

 

 

THREE

 

Well said. To add to that scripture I am reminded of Jesus telling his people that he wishes his people's souls prosper. He also hoped we would live abundant lives and do more and be more than he was in his lifetime. I can no longer recall from memory the exact quote, but the two texts (Qu'ran and the Bible) spring from the same source.

You speak to a problem created by men with a woman's voice. Well said.

 

Gregory E. Woods, Keeper of Stories

1.23.16

 

PALE beauty

Exotic Redheads

red haired woman's body as art.

red haired woman's dark beauty within through the eyes to the soul.

 

Contemplate the DARE

Badd Biker Chick on her machine
 January 23 , 2014

. . . and be yourself.

Juno Brown
 May 2, 2010