tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209821852024-02-19T02:25:37.983-06:00I Got Soul.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.comBlogger241125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-79239546302227256382016-01-16T22:03:00.001-06:002016-01-16T22:03:30.590-06:00Rearview<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aK5W0op5uH-RCDLzDuuj-_QEvAKHeCSeksCEcL2AFVimUZ35g_GFpdVzm1xoKGv14lwc4sACha2pOAzhwcZ0UuESzndafsY_b93fC-_Z6zdrOZUybztFc0X6rXWg4mNgeIxB/s1600/rearview-mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aK5W0op5uH-RCDLzDuuj-_QEvAKHeCSeksCEcL2AFVimUZ35g_GFpdVzm1xoKGv14lwc4sACha2pOAzhwcZ0UuESzndafsY_b93fC-_Z6zdrOZUybztFc0X6rXWg4mNgeIxB/s320/rearview-mirror.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I never thought it would be that simple. There was a time when the thought was too much to bear, let alone the sight.<br />
<br />
Time really does find a way to heal all wounds. Just like that, the visual was there, directly in front of me. <br />
<br />
No spazzing out, no feelings rushing to the surface, nothing that made me wish time would slow down. <br />
<br />
It came and went. And just like that, it was done. <br />
<br />
Finally. In my rearview. <br />
<br />
On January 9th at approximately 9 P.M., a solid, sturdy figure, a visual I once knew, slowly faded away...became a blip on the road.<br />
<br />
Gone for good.<br />
<br />
1/16/16 @ 9:56 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-79331004145315461112016-01-08T20:58:00.001-06:002016-01-08T21:03:16.000-06:00Cigar and Tonic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCfOPi8Ht0jKj6vgblIHzSFSM12GCxG61hEsrovYHEvhSw7a0YKEryjYWCfPOL7UybjHra8POMPApSXoS_Y-XB_GrUxz-3lkZiW4EPvK72xwAXZ1eVwsKG8bfemCqmTdepwOIX/s1600/cigar+and+tonic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCfOPi8Ht0jKj6vgblIHzSFSM12GCxG61hEsrovYHEvhSw7a0YKEryjYWCfPOL7UybjHra8POMPApSXoS_Y-XB_GrUxz-3lkZiW4EPvK72xwAXZ1eVwsKG8bfemCqmTdepwOIX/s320/cigar+and+tonic.jpg" /></a></div>It's been quite a while since I lit you up; so long that I fumbled just looking for the right place to start. Despite the time in between encounters, it didn't take long to feel like we'd even been apart. Even with that, there was no rush to inhale it all at once; no, it was better to take it all in, one drag at a time. We completely went with the flow, with everything certainly more than fine.<br />
<br />
A cutter, lighter, and an ashtray on one end. A pair of keys, bag, and a small, slight glass on the other. The scent of smoke and tonic permeated the air with various sounds and acts serving as an adequate supporting cast. There was constant laughter, steady questioning, and a few stares to make the proceedings last. <br />
<br />
But it had to end. Remember, it had been quite a while, and when that's the case, it's best to be cool and steady, enjoy the scene while not being in a rush. A single shot glass and half-smoked cigar remain, and will continue to stay untouched...<br />
<br />
...until we meet again.<br />
<br />
1/8/16 @ 8:54 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-9855618063639978572016-01-01T01:25:00.000-06:002016-01-01T01:43:48.327-06:00The Next Chapter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeqB8hhCTjN2BkGer4e7bBdkd4WsSxgajZd1eaDa3yhlpHdMQmidAb0m9F0OsCbVBadIuSZZLjuk1G43itFiRSKqh1vpSxCz1FOMfubpJrjVXLYw9LUVjpA3nWIkMEsw85f5a/s1600/The-Next-Chapter-1-470x264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeqB8hhCTjN2BkGer4e7bBdkd4WsSxgajZd1eaDa3yhlpHdMQmidAb0m9F0OsCbVBadIuSZZLjuk1G43itFiRSKqh1vpSxCz1FOMfubpJrjVXLYw9LUVjpA3nWIkMEsw85f5a/s1600/The-Next-Chapter-1-470x264.jpg" /></a></div>This site has been deserted for almost 2 years now. It wasn't meant to happen. However, just because something happens doesn't mean it has to stay that way. So here we are.<br />
<br />
Since the last time I posted, I became a doctor. Not one who can operate on a patient in a hospital, or operate on someone's teeth, or anything like that. A doctor of education, and while it's cool and all, it's just something else to add to the arsenal. When it's all said and done, there's still more to be done, and if it doesn't get done, then this doctorate doesn't mean shit. <br />
<br />
Some things fascinate me. Even tonight as I was in the shower, I thought all sorts of random stuff:<br />
<br />
For one, I don't know if you have to marry the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Granted, it makes sense to do so, but if you don't, does that make what two people have any less special? I used to read about people being life partners and scoffed at it. Now that I've gotten older, I totally get it.<br />
<br />
For two, when I die, I don't want to be put in a casket. A simple cremation and ashes being in an urn is more than enough. I've been to enough funerals and looked at enough bodies in a casket to know I don't want that. Besides, why have people I love argue over how good I'd look in a certain color or type of casket? That's ridiculous.<br />
<br />
For three, Imma do some moving around this year. Outside of going to watch the Cows in 2016, it's gonna be nice to go places, wander around, and not know a single soul.<br />
<br />
1/1/16 @ 1:19 A.M.<br />
<br />
SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-54870557221010855312014-03-12T20:12:00.002-05:002014-03-12T20:12:59.070-05:00Inspiration, Words and Unsung Heroes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdmMz4J1RHRtM5nQ-HX27094WxkHLr5jqxZDj-S4KcaBFAgB4w30AB-3mUxDdQQmrb1O647IJpnaiPo3MZKlQ7ncljwbI-Hil3mFWGE2mKMrSZ2oki4o8Gt4z0-RF3nZYR1vd/s1600/words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdmMz4J1RHRtM5nQ-HX27094WxkHLr5jqxZDj-S4KcaBFAgB4w30AB-3mUxDdQQmrb1O647IJpnaiPo3MZKlQ7ncljwbI-Hil3mFWGE2mKMrSZ2oki4o8Gt4z0-RF3nZYR1vd/s320/words.jpg" /></a></div>One of the most beautiful things about writing is inspiration can come from just about anything. Ever since I fell in love with writing as a kid, the slightest details, the most minute, find ways to inspire me to write something about them. <br />
<br />
It can be a sentence, or two, a paragraph or a few, it doesn't matter. When it hits, the words just come out. Whether the writing is any good or not is secondary. As long as it's from the heart and soul, you're straight.<br />
<br />
Inspiration can come from people, and there are times when I will draw on people in my life and write about them. It can be a personality trait about them that they barely think about, but that person fascinates the shit outta me, which means that trait will do the same. The fascination can be in a brief moment, or long-lasting, but if it's there, and there's a piece of paper and a pen around, Imma get what I need to say out of my soul. <br />
<br />
It can throw people for a loop when a question goes outta nowhere and I get it. However, the one thing I've noticed is the people I know who have an appreciation for words, who love them and are fascinated by the way they can be used for interpretation, are the ones who get it...truly get it. There are no ulterior motives outside of wanting to get something out in the universe for whoever's eyes they manage to cross, and when a source of inspiration is used to get to that point, it's not so much the words that should get all of the praise; moreso, it's the source of them, the source a writer draws from. In a way, they're the unsung heroes in any tale that's worth being told. <br />
<br />
3/12/14 @ 8:08 P.M. <br />
<br />
SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-90943786068809486532014-03-11T21:34:00.000-05:002014-03-11T21:35:19.675-05:00Favorite Song<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssm4PbiZUSaJ3Nmy-ZGK7L3lhnsAPcDkicqV9xOFB7P_hooDLuVSD_mflY_rc70FNhgEihryjS-6RNMFbV3vqi0yDpVP7hyaUA2LFdpYF0r_7CLHAH_m8KQx_i15MZwXI7Gnb/s1600/Marvin-Gaye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssm4PbiZUSaJ3Nmy-ZGK7L3lhnsAPcDkicqV9xOFB7P_hooDLuVSD_mflY_rc70FNhgEihryjS-6RNMFbV3vqi0yDpVP7hyaUA2LFdpYF0r_7CLHAH_m8KQx_i15MZwXI7Gnb/s320/Marvin-Gaye.jpg" /></a></div>Plenty of folks have "that" song. The one that triggers a load of feelings, a ton of emotions, a variety of thoughts. It doesn't necessary have to be the ABSOLUTE favorite, because narrowing them all down and picking one can be quite the task. With that said, let's not get it twisted, especially when the notes drop and once they do, it's virtually impossible to conceal your reactions with any kind of mask.<br />
<br />
How is it that a single song has that effect? What other instrument of communication can make us feel as vulnerable as when one of your favorite jams comes through your speakers? One of your favorite songs can instantly turn a good day into a great one, a sad day into a better one. It turns an insignificant moment into a trip back in time. Songs that leave a lasting impression do just that and even more. They make us feel something that we've rarely, if ever, felt before.<br />
<br />
The sounds, so raw, passionate and real. The notes...so pure and romantic that you have no choice but to open yourself up and feel...it's a must. <b>You have to.</b> When it comes on, there is no playing it cool, and at that point, there's only one thing left to do.<br />
<br />
3/11/14 @ 9:26 P.M. <br />
<br />
<center><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/x6QZn9xiuOE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>)</center>SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-43825804578508460132014-03-10T14:40:00.000-05:002014-03-12T20:13:22.351-05:00This Moment.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWt-xRxGIzfBfcrRPP5U2UlVYsx8MFaJRUnH94v307IxUuFYEKz4Tou1gRL1wBg_t0UrJ037hFUDGkfDv6Fe7U8r2Wv8U73RQxY4WTrTXfRr-7wRUWT04fFoud_CZSYDbHMtR/s1600/this-moment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWt-xRxGIzfBfcrRPP5U2UlVYsx8MFaJRUnH94v307IxUuFYEKz4Tou1gRL1wBg_t0UrJ037hFUDGkfDv6Fe7U8r2Wv8U73RQxY4WTrTXfRr-7wRUWT04fFoud_CZSYDbHMtR/s320/this-moment.jpg" /></a></div>A snapshot, a quick glimpse, something that requires little-to-no-thinking. No room for heavy introspection, or deep and intricate thoughts. No desire for brain-racked thinking or so much analysis that it could fill up a thousand parking lots.<br />
<br />
It's all about the moment.<br />
<br />
The moment is what it is. It can be something as mundane as tying your shoes, picking up your keys or staring aimlessly at a screen with your mind consumed here and there. It could be sitting at your desk at work, passing time, responding to a text from a friend that seemingly came outta nowhere. <br />
<br />
The moment is just that...a snapshot in time, something so routine and so ordinary, it really isn't worthy of being illustrated with words or packaged up and slapped with a price tag on it for sale. So if it's no big deal, why even bother writing about it? Because some moments are the root to something bigger down the line, and whether this qualifies as such...only time will tell.<br />
<br />
3/10/14 @ 2:35 P.M.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-31894133682569616092014-03-07T23:49:00.002-06:002014-03-07T23:49:47.460-06:00Natural.<b>1. not having any extra substances or chemicals added: not containing anything artificial.<br />
</b><br />
It's a sight to see when a person has the ability to make something seem so routine, so normal. The sight is even better when the one who does it is truly modest about what they do. It comes from the heart, comes as simple as the breath they breathe, or the steps they take, as smooth as the touch of their skin, as firm as their handshake. Dare say...it looks easy.<br />
<br />
But it can't be; no way. To make the mark that you make, it takes work, requires passion, needs enthusiasm. If it was that simple, everyone would do it, but they don't...which is exactly what makes you unique. It gives people a smile, a pick-me-up, a source for inspiration even if it's been ages since you shared a neighboring seat. <br />
<br />
There are other ways to describe the effortlessness in which you make a mark, the ability you have to create a spark, and the fashion in which you inspire others to do something as simple as pick up a pen and write a few paragraphs and several dozen words...words that can't begin to describe your ability to do special things, and even though all of these words pale in comparison to your ability to leave a lasting imprint, it's still worth a try. There's a passion inside that comes out every now and then....every once in a blue moon, but it would be a lie to say it's anywhere close to being as natural as you.<br />
<br />
3/7/14 @ 11:46 P.M.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-67144495032708889102014-02-24T21:28:00.000-06:002014-02-24T21:43:11.573-06:00The Country LifeThe country has slowed things down.<br />
<br />
It's been over two years since I made a move from The City to The Country, and it literally has an effect on just about everything I do. I wake up early and go to sleep early. The days of staying up past 2 AM every night are looooong gone. My social life is pretty much non-existent these days. Back home, I could go out just about every night, simply because there was always something to do. It doesn't mean I would turn up every night, but it means the opportunities were there to turn up every night. The scenery was...it was plentiful...in abundance. It was paradise! <br />
<br />
Here? Shiiiiiit, turning up is going to Raising Cane's since they don't close til 11 during the week (or maybe 12. I don't remember.) This place woulda been heaven for me in my undergrad days, because I would just hang out with my peers who went to the colleges in town. Now though? In my early-30s? Nah, cuh. All it has done is make me old and cranky. <br />
<br />
But even with my social life going to hell in a hand basket, the peace and quiet is cool and a nice change of pace...gotta admit that. It isn't the worst thing in the world and pretty much ensures that if I have goals I want to accomplish, there's no reason to not get to them now, because there's nothing remotely serving as a distraction here. <br />
<br />
The consistent happenings now are waking up at 5 AM, Monday-Friday, to go workout in the gym, going to work right after that and finishing my doctorate, and as much as I bitch about my surroundings due to the lack of...well, anything that resembles fun for a brother like myself, this is right where I need to be. On weekends, I hit the park down the road and run a few miles and there are always people out enjoying the scenery. Whether it's a family of four, or a young couple jogging together, or an elderly couple taking a stroll, it's cool. There's always someone running like I am and we'll give each other a high-five as we pass each other on the trail and motivate each other to keep going. That stuff I truly enjoy and don't take for granted at all. <br />
<br />
2/24/14 @ 9:14 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-72722366872564436352013-10-11T16:19:00.003-05:002013-10-11T16:19:53.096-05:00Keep Dreaming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRQcjq3g5OUtEmA0pW5JD_0tO-CajYHCQNrfcESazs4mPsDjvwE3z27BuB19M3lZW4T34IL6Xdn-jk0ou0Cd6aaR_241HOGqSGXV0fzyDWNW0GhrH_eKOFh-lEXRAh6s-_MDq/s1600/dreamer.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRQcjq3g5OUtEmA0pW5JD_0tO-CajYHCQNrfcESazs4mPsDjvwE3z27BuB19M3lZW4T34IL6Xdn-jk0ou0Cd6aaR_241HOGqSGXV0fzyDWNW0GhrH_eKOFh-lEXRAh6s-_MDq/s320/dreamer.jpeg" /></a></div>As long as there is air in my lungs and my brain has the ability to function, Imma continue to dream...<br />
<br />
...and strive to make my dreams my reality...<br />
<br />
...no matter what.<br />
<br />
10/11/13 @ 4:14 P.M. <br />
<br />
Photo courtesy of <a href="http://epherielldesigns.com/page/386" target="_blank">here</a>.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-25307825778395347372013-09-25T15:45:00.000-05:002013-09-25T22:12:31.990-05:00LostI'm totally lost...in a book.<br />
<br />
If I'm going to be lost, and I am, there's no place I'd rather be.<br />
<br />
9/25/13 @ 3:44 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-56530754771203266352013-08-10T10:51:00.001-05:002013-08-10T10:51:45.974-05:00Dreams: A Statement<i>"Experience has taught me that you cannot value dreams according to the odds of their becoming true. Their real value is in stirring within us the will to aspire."</i><br />
- Justice Sonia Sotomayor SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-43718183983307366302013-07-28T12:42:00.001-05:002013-07-28T12:42:54.899-05:00Duped.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CAbxOvUc3I55rWKFy0xCgKOcxjcyLiBDJBZfkdBN8nQ6LYgsNye5IDas2icsykuclMTVR25IG3OPpVotYrsJEJ_wKjEYMLcPnGSTLcNA9AtieWoBQXTEG9smaoT0dBWkkUOe/s1600/Reflection-Photography16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CAbxOvUc3I55rWKFy0xCgKOcxjcyLiBDJBZfkdBN8nQ6LYgsNye5IDas2icsykuclMTVR25IG3OPpVotYrsJEJ_wKjEYMLcPnGSTLcNA9AtieWoBQXTEG9smaoT0dBWkkUOe/s320/Reflection-Photography16.jpg" /></a></div>It's hard to feel like you've been had. Tricked. Duped. Bamboozled. Led astray....<br />
<br />
...when you see it coming. <br />
<br />
Besides, when you don't bring something concrete to the table, and someone else does, regardless of how what the other person is bringing, it's still "something," and for some people, that's better than nothing. <br />
<br />
Maybe that's why it's easier, instead of looking straight ahead, to look away. <br />
<br />
7/28/13 @ 12:33 P.M. <br />
<br />
Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.hybridlava.com/photography/30-incredible-images-of-reflection-photography/" target="_blank">Hybrid Lava</a>. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-53143798164202018952013-07-20T22:59:00.004-05:002013-07-20T22:59:58.377-05:00DetourWell, I picked up another book, unplanned not too long after I picked up Sundeen's, but it didn't work out like the last unplanned pick-up did. While I think the book has its purpose, it isn't clicking with me now. With that, Imma start reading The Bourne Trilogy tonight. Since it's one of the ones that was on my initial list, it's about time to knock those joints on out. <br />
<br />
7/20/13 @ 10:58 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-23803769664190427752013-07-08T22:50:00.000-05:002013-07-08T22:54:08.461-05:00Embrace The UnexpectedSo I have my list of books for summer reading, and while I was reading The Great Gatsby in the bookstore, I stumbled upon a book called The Man Who Quit Money, by Mark Sundeen. It wasn't on my list; hell, I never heard of the book in my life. I was simply taking a break from reading to get up, stretch my legs and walk around for a bit before getting back to my table with not enough leg room, and it was just sitting there in a section at the bookstore. <br />
<br />
<b>Note: I spent three of my five vacation days in three different bookstores in three different cities. I wanted to make it a perfect 5-for-5, but I dropped the ball today and yesterday. Anyway...</b><br />
<br />
...even though I have about 6-7 books already waiting on me to read, I bought Sundeen's anyway. Something was telling me to get the joint. I saw the cover, looked at it carefully, read the back cover, and just bought it on a whim.<br />
<br />
I read that book in a day. It was that awesome. <br />
<br />
Now I'm back to reading what was on my initial list that I came up with a while back. Hopefully, I won't get sidetracked again, but if I do and it's as dope as The Man Who Quit Money is, then I won't complain. <br />
<br />
7/8/13 @ 10:44 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-47567323590436747452013-07-02T18:19:00.000-05:002013-07-02T18:20:25.974-05:00If it was up to me...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2a-kqwSRqS60MsdlCiLAyXOHkERfdzJQZIqIBP1V5JPZTYM88YkUiRFs_B0jnb3XxQO1sMYzHqX39-gN-8n52Go-VwpHSuEGrZXCRNMj39DOlSu7cmtU7x_pDVpTD2Ud4fuDO/s460/readingbeach460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2a-kqwSRqS60MsdlCiLAyXOHkERfdzJQZIqIBP1V5JPZTYM88YkUiRFs_B0jnb3XxQO1sMYzHqX39-gN-8n52Go-VwpHSuEGrZXCRNMj39DOlSu7cmtU7x_pDVpTD2Ud4fuDO/s460/readingbeach460.jpg" /></a></div>...I'd spend my upcoming days with my feet in the sand and a book in my hands. Each day, or every other day, the book title would change. I'd fly through each one just like that. There would be nothing but time to read, and I believe that it's possible to read at a brisk pace and still take in the content at a quality level.<br />
<br />
Well, what am I talking about? It is up to me, but since I'm not about paying that "last-second plane ticket to Miami, so I can lay on the beach and read all day" life, sitting at the house and reading with music playing in the background all day and alone in my own thoughts will have to do.<br />
<br />
At least I won't have to be at work.<br />
<br />
7/2/13 @ 6:10 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-39018445333669047652013-06-26T21:58:00.000-05:002013-06-26T21:58:21.479-05:00Don't Bring Me Flowers After I'm Dead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkq_GMu7EnfSdpnbqLMEWqmZ3C6CTX0V-5uGKiIMzOH9r_p9HmQjDkRbQkbhsECyW_DE8iWAFMqp5aZQkBwueWWTXbbaUffdX_Vz6-stfC8lEY-WRX9mpEKV425pSr7Nl_RTt0/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkq_GMu7EnfSdpnbqLMEWqmZ3C6CTX0V-5uGKiIMzOH9r_p9HmQjDkRbQkbhsECyW_DE8iWAFMqp5aZQkBwueWWTXbbaUffdX_Vz6-stfC8lEY-WRX9mpEKV425pSr7Nl_RTt0/s200/flowers.jpg" /></a></div>We have to get to appreciating each other as friends, family and loved ones more while we're here and able.<br />
<br />
If we're too busy to pick up a phone to say hello, or reply to a text, an e-mail or simply exchange cordial pleasantries, then there's no point in doing it once it's too late. I don't want to keep learning that the hard way. Not anymore. <br />
<br />
We're all on borrowed time. With mine, I plan on using it to let as many people who I love and care about know just that.<br />
<br />
6/26/13 @ 9:52 P.M. <br />
<br />
P.S. Flowers simply made sense for the title. I'll take shoes. LeBrons, preferably. <br />
SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-14750851145623769312013-06-24T21:01:00.000-05:002013-07-08T23:18:27.188-05:00The One Who Got Away <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhBSrvFR2qcSWFxfuTPetdQ3B6K_nuNwCD286a7tiEfFpYqBtUTJqE1fwlUGRpGv7UcNiTcqHbCJsEghsCbG13ybyiutRfDgbi5Zcgd-DX188OimM14Q1JfLpcfNzaX_nsOLW/s1600/FAR+AWAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhBSrvFR2qcSWFxfuTPetdQ3B6K_nuNwCD286a7tiEfFpYqBtUTJqE1fwlUGRpGv7UcNiTcqHbCJsEghsCbG13ybyiutRfDgbi5Zcgd-DX188OimM14Q1JfLpcfNzaX_nsOLW/s320/FAR+AWAY.jpg" /></a></div>Everyone's time is up at one point or another, and we rarely know when it is. It can be long and drawn-out, or deathly swift and quick. It can flow smoothly without leaving a trace or be pretty vivid and pretty much stick. Regardless of how it goes, it's sure to happen someday, which makes it extremely humbling when you think about the one who got away.<br />
<br />
The one who got away happened so quick, so sudden. Here today, gone tomorrow type of thing. One minute, it was all good, and the next...gone. The times spent together were genuine, with memories made even though the amount of time spent itself wasn't traditionally long. Some months here and there and even in that moment it was clear to say there was never one like you before or since, and it served as proof that you were the one who got away.<br />
<br />
Mutual respect turned to appreciation, appreciation to admiration, admiration damn near into infatuation. It can be at the end of the night or first thing in the morning, and regardless of the time, there's no doubt that the thought crosses of the one who got away.<br />
<br />
It's almost like chasing a ghost. That person is gone, whether it's in the literal sense or simply from your life. Sure, there may be sporadic communication here and there. It goes back to the whole "mutual respect thing." The interaction and times you shared together are no more, boxed and locked up, only with memories of previous times and a former day. And even when you've long moved on to a different place with new faces, you always remember the one who got away. <br />
<br />
This began with the acknowledgment of knowing we all have to go. Thinking about it can be overwhelming, even scary, yet somewhat peaceful. Who knows what lies on the other side? When that time comes, it'll be a point to seek out folks who left this place and we'll probably have a whole lot to say...but even when my time is up and I'm gone from this place, there will always be a spot in my heart for the one who got away. <br />
<br />
6/24/13 @ 8:51 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-15362063616523073762013-06-17T20:12:00.002-05:002013-06-17T20:13:21.940-05:00Feeding The Beast: Summer Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKyWSUjOyMkKuDrNVcXJ817KEF60XnZFhxH3gfZ6aWyA-zsdBvm0ZOej3wbxLYt8sQUKg8M7cAk6qU_STG93ZYxfIkOPB53e-IpleEzdOtxkUNV3CRUEFkwwtbNcReRlwSd9Z/s1600/Funny_pic_of_a_gorilla_reading_a_book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKyWSUjOyMkKuDrNVcXJ817KEF60XnZFhxH3gfZ6aWyA-zsdBvm0ZOej3wbxLYt8sQUKg8M7cAk6qU_STG93ZYxfIkOPB53e-IpleEzdOtxkUNV3CRUEFkwwtbNcReRlwSd9Z/s400/Funny_pic_of_a_gorilla_reading_a_book.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My mind is starting to wander...and when that happens, it's time to fill it with some nutritious brain food.<br />
<br />
Summer Reading List:<br />
<br />
West By West: My Charmed, Tormented Life<br />
<br />
Wilt: Larger Than Life<br />
<br />
The Bourne Identity<br />
<br />
The Bourne Supremacy<br />
<br />
The Bourne Ultimatum<br />
<br />
Doc: The Rise And Rise Of Julius Erving<br />
<br />
The Great Gatsby<br />
<br />
Esquire The Handbook Of Style: A Man's Guide To Looking Good<br />
<br />
<br />
When I'm not in the gym, or at work, I'll be reading. <br />
<br />
For fun. <br />
<br />
6/17/13 @ 8:04 P.M.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-87978415436358393382013-06-02T02:59:00.002-05:002013-06-02T02:59:44.059-05:00C.C.I.C.A.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilq7v9aymEgVCUjmVLCl39URxMtd6vS5G5BXueawKbadolCtj8e-8IW2SAnQiJjl6hlqWMUTKZsrOOqOvsbRFrTJuySowRTkLeIVM_o_mGEX5PLTQjBAZcJ2GvOsVklVvTQnXj/s1600/attraction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilq7v9aymEgVCUjmVLCl39URxMtd6vS5G5BXueawKbadolCtj8e-8IW2SAnQiJjl6hlqWMUTKZsrOOqOvsbRFrTJuySowRTkLeIVM_o_mGEX5PLTQjBAZcJ2GvOsVklVvTQnXj/s320/attraction.jpg" /></a>Another long night on deck, and even though these seem normal, it can still make me feel like a complete and total wreck.<br />
<br />
Some are accidents, where it's not about getting upset at a person, but more so the situation...the factors at hand. When that's the case, getting angry does no good, so my disposition has to stay cool, the fire in me has to be fanned.<br />
<br />
That's what accidents are all about. There's no one to blame. But what if it isn't an accident. Just carelessness with no regard to how one's actions can have an effect on another being. Can a person be so caught up in the moment that they disregard the pain that they're seeing? Maybe it is, especially when a motto is to look out for number one...and if that means someone gets hurt or insulted along the way, well, they can just get on with their day and fun. <br />
<br />
Common courtesy is becoming a lost art, a thing of the past...almost like seeing a unicorn or hearing a record on a record player play in its own distinct sound. As if you go ahead and show it to someone, they acknowledge it briefly, yet smile and move on around. It's not a "woe is me," but more like a sign of the times. And at this point, it's better to charge it to the game and proceed to another destination, with no hopes of any similar crimes.<br />
<br />
6/2/13 @ 2:48 A.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-42179013974169791502013-05-24T10:58:00.000-05:002013-05-24T10:59:03.587-05:00Return from Exile.It's amazing how much better I feel mentally, physically and emotionally than I did four months ago...<br />
<br />
...and it's because advanced statistics is officially in the rear view. Outside of when it's time to start doing a dissertation, I'll never have to see that crap again.<br />
<br />
Praise God. My life is my own again. <br />
<br />
5/24/13 @ 10:57 A.M.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-60533845898400500732013-02-09T08:54:00.000-06:002013-02-09T08:54:45.954-06:00Exile.This separation was far from forced. However, after some time away, it really has been for the best. <br />
<br />
It's amazing how much can get done, how sharper one's focus can become when you remove yourself from the mix and focus. Sure, focusing can be done in the midst of the everyday hustle and bustle, but when you're able to eliminate simple things, others come to the light that were easy to miss before. <br />
<br />
This separation wasn't even planned. Yet, I'm glad it's happening. Dare say, it wouldn't hurt to withdraw some more, give the time I'm giving to certain avenues to other avenues and see what happens. <br />
<br />
In the grand scheme of things, this exile has proved something I already knew, especially after E. died: life goes on. When folks really wanna know what's going on, they'll find you. If not, they won't. They have lives to live, too. I wish I didn't have to have this lesson reinforced by what happened in September, but God doesn't make mistakes. Never has. Never will. <br />
<br />
2/9/13 @ 8:53 A.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-65065616476032073272012-12-16T01:38:00.002-06:002013-06-17T20:18:28.752-05:0017, 16, 15God bless Newtown.<br />
<br />
12/16/12 @ 1:38 A.M.SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-43755528478862633512012-12-13T21:21:00.001-06:002012-12-13T21:21:55.385-06:0018Now Watching - NBA on TNT<br />
<br />
Fuck school.<br />
<br />
I just finished my last final, and I can say, with certainty, that this has been the most frustrating semester I've had since undergrad. It's hard to pin-point exactly why. I've been going nonstop since January, but even with that, I'm not sure if that's the exact cause. Pursuing a doctorate is a different kind of grind, that's for damn sure.<br />
<br />
Either way, this break is right on time. Hopefully, I can come back rejuvenated. <br />
<br />
12/13/12SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-86925235129880162522012-12-12T22:31:00.002-06:002012-12-12T22:31:46.978-06:0019Now watching - Sportscenter<br />
<br />
Go, #Draymond.<br />
<br />
One more test awaits. <br />
<br />
After that, vacation on deck. <br />
<br />
Homage will be paid soon as well. It's a must.<br />
<br />
12/12/12 @ 10:30 P.M. SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20982185.post-29876349571746280752012-12-11T18:51:00.001-06:002012-12-11T18:51:30.047-06:0024, 23, 22, 21, 20Now Writing - A Term Paper<br />
Now Watching - Knicks v. Nets on ESPN<br />
<br />
*looks above* Talk about multi-tasking.<br />
<br />
Between a wedding last weekend, kids at the school needing to be taken care of, and making sure my own damn schoolwork is taken care of, a vacation is badly needed. <br />
<br />
This is the first semester of my doctoral program that I've felt tired. Before now, it's been gravy. I hope this isn't a sign. It all comes to an end on Friday, and when it does, fun will be had.<br />
<br />
12/11/12 @ 6:50 P.M.<br />
<br />
SoulOnIcehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01231095578098254389noreply@blogger.com0