tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8379004926531160762024-03-26T22:37:40.434-07:00Stoy InspirationAn inspiring self-betterment blog for all generations.D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-77334549276352216002023-11-13T22:13:00.000-08:002023-11-13T23:35:03.695-08:00Listen To My 3 Latest Songs!<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Listen to my three latest singles on YouTube ⬇️ :</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Skate Wi' Me</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yg9Z3aUJs98&list=OLAK5uy_kZJC4qvNAORLTGj2FmhFkGpoiW5c6Ke74"><i>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yg9Z3aUJs98&list=OLAK5uy_kZJC4qvNAORLTGj2FmhFkGpoiW5c6Ke74</i></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrk9duOI_STfWR8HHtHKai5kLvXliHCx-JrNjwQb0daz4CvWlfqyNKXRirkiYcX5hVtIIXgskGbHdjcGRASXVDTd_fUrjeFuenJrpokPVGyfp0rSvBnyxia2jV13uol-Kh_z-XoUN6I9ejN7tj1tgCtd-w4jh3MqVOjY31ygKa_6j30pwfrkbLacQv7Sp/s1080/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrk9duOI_STfWR8HHtHKai5kLvXliHCx-JrNjwQb0daz4CvWlfqyNKXRirkiYcX5hVtIIXgskGbHdjcGRASXVDTd_fUrjeFuenJrpokPVGyfp0rSvBnyxia2jV13uol-Kh_z-XoUN6I9ejN7tj1tgCtd-w4jh3MqVOjY31ygKa_6j30pwfrkbLacQv7Sp/s320/4.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Just Don't Press Me</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bieadRY_tPo" target="_blank"><i>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bieadRY_tPo</i></a><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT4u1MObX-kSH-SJV9QjO9ILp86FUmZbpZlFrWQ3x3-1J0K7xpE-8mu4MoxY2xX39RdqucWRIku9Heej0cHlu3mezGuLxhgiyzMhqMlOCGwDUHgqe60vBUYVb0KayljX59MjHvdqj3gTGbmHLCvvqV0Dpfza089e587sK2cPc08XisMXOEhHH96aInwdQ/s1080/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT4u1MObX-kSH-SJV9QjO9ILp86FUmZbpZlFrWQ3x3-1J0K7xpE-8mu4MoxY2xX39RdqucWRIku9Heej0cHlu3mezGuLxhgiyzMhqMlOCGwDUHgqe60vBUYVb0KayljX59MjHvdqj3gTGbmHLCvvqV0Dpfza089e587sK2cPc08XisMXOEhHH96aInwdQ/s320/2.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Ritmo</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySJARs5i2Sk" target="_blank"><i>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySJARs5i2Sk</i></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4X_aYYZll_I66w9CWl9bxTTYjJTDAYTmBwyjltHImVnKJWe65wxbPktPFaPE0j5cj4KXw19Fe6e0vAv68zeQPL5EOrY7HGvhYZipldFUHb_DzaSCQGlupCh2lQHm0l5zEF7l8l7_3trrvQVUhkT4d9smPcm87n1zYc9A3tVZ1WLtq4tDx1u4Mf5ba0Qji/s1080/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4X_aYYZll_I66w9CWl9bxTTYjJTDAYTmBwyjltHImVnKJWe65wxbPktPFaPE0j5cj4KXw19Fe6e0vAv68zeQPL5EOrY7HGvhYZipldFUHb_DzaSCQGlupCh2lQHm0l5zEF7l8l7_3trrvQVUhkT4d9smPcm87n1zYc9A3tVZ1WLtq4tDx1u4Mf5ba0Qji/s320/3.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-2863398520929963232023-10-20T14:37:00.002-07:002023-10-20T14:37:33.147-07:003 New Songs Will Be Released on November 3rd, 2023!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><b><i>NEW MUSIC ALERT</i></b>🚨!!!</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3 NEW SONGS</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Release Date: NOVEMBER 3rd, 2023</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Songs will be available on all streaming platforms!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Don't forget to mark your calendars!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlK1ih0FRRQu2dR26hTD2RHcemrZrHC6incUiJSUPiVRhhq8fGCnSwWPI1HDExcBIUmiZ9ceQb3XCijwXknr_l9STt2wWdFdniXY76Xle_NKuOTNAG-94oQ3F0_VzmgT1RYy4ALLnJYvgNI3Zj7YgJB5ACxtxQtI9bMTVpmyJgxO_EsrEIpjL-Q_e-JUNA/s1080/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlK1ih0FRRQu2dR26hTD2RHcemrZrHC6incUiJSUPiVRhhq8fGCnSwWPI1HDExcBIUmiZ9ceQb3XCijwXknr_l9STt2wWdFdniXY76Xle_NKuOTNAG-94oQ3F0_VzmgT1RYy4ALLnJYvgNI3Zj7YgJB5ACxtxQtI9bMTVpmyJgxO_EsrEIpjL-Q_e-JUNA/s320/2.png" width="320" /></a></div> <p></p><p> <a href="https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dcstoy/just-dont-press-me" target="_blank"><i>Pre-Save Song Link</i></a><br /></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uWW3Bv5upgmhZ2Y9_0saNuRE5vzBjyhNfMkN-P9qp7s7oQMq9vx8pPn0wNJ4pqm1x4Er9NGxkqNwlg6RnOu0GT5EIi52VWhqHcPceVt0NoapG9y3feWnFgWp3mnwSu7AFULmGUsiVHfQySBRENOtWZN5AwgVLtLCd5NV3KyuBb-YZKXl-bLbeDwGJO4u/s1080/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uWW3Bv5upgmhZ2Y9_0saNuRE5vzBjyhNfMkN-P9qp7s7oQMq9vx8pPn0wNJ4pqm1x4Er9NGxkqNwlg6RnOu0GT5EIi52VWhqHcPceVt0NoapG9y3feWnFgWp3mnwSu7AFULmGUsiVHfQySBRENOtWZN5AwgVLtLCd5NV3KyuBb-YZKXl-bLbeDwGJO4u/s320/3.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dcstoy/ritmo" target="_blank"><i>Pre-Save Song Link</i></a><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhn2Cd6tFh1-ntpcrLSOm10y5EpSHBXDx9lbL2wPaxKJVpNSToz5JbsFdpWFX1g90abCCSwjDUsRwlV61wjUVE4XfizO7f7T4P6035BawUK7O1y4G_vuVGmsIpEIfJZHjtKG8qQpZ6n13pFDV7agLCAIGg_yQdglxA3e2wHAqxlhCLDNvf8HPfFGSAKEvp/s1080/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhn2Cd6tFh1-ntpcrLSOm10y5EpSHBXDx9lbL2wPaxKJVpNSToz5JbsFdpWFX1g90abCCSwjDUsRwlV61wjUVE4XfizO7f7T4P6035BawUK7O1y4G_vuVGmsIpEIfJZHjtKG8qQpZ6n13pFDV7agLCAIGg_yQdglxA3e2wHAqxlhCLDNvf8HPfFGSAKEvp/s320/4.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dcstoy/skate-wi-me" target="_blank"><i>Pre-Save Song Link</i></a><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-9863203391368376892023-08-13T19:33:00.001-07:002023-08-13T19:33:20.951-07:00"GLIMPSE" EP IS AVAILABLE TO LISTEN TO!!!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9L_fkN4SWKiOf8Zhry7-8Y7JW--uqmATmwZQgnIXAfuGB2pUyny53oaXR0rQhgePatuitAuXwHdwCT7y9tIyWfV0qPtl0k6eqofp9LsiZR44bm9g2Syjsb17BJwtLJQefHxt7ivm-zT609kwTM4ANnbC6lkXj-Xv9wJ1kwKZv_FktisGSAhgEK2ips86J/s3000/GLIMPSE.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9L_fkN4SWKiOf8Zhry7-8Y7JW--uqmATmwZQgnIXAfuGB2pUyny53oaXR0rQhgePatuitAuXwHdwCT7y9tIyWfV0qPtl0k6eqofp9LsiZR44bm9g2Syjsb17BJwtLJQefHxt7ivm-zT609kwTM4ANnbC6lkXj-Xv9wJ1kwKZv_FktisGSAhgEK2ips86J/w640-h640/GLIMPSE.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">MUSIC STREAMING LINKS:</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>SPOTIFY</b>: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2PjRczky5gCR0fgh9nxzhO?si=AmlQsUssQiesaJdsyb3cWQ" target="_blank"><i>"G L I M P S E" EP </i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>APPLE MUSIC</b>: <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/glimpse-ep/1696432614" target="_blank"><i>"G L I M P S E" EP</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>YOUTUBE MUSIC</b>: <i><a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mM1FJscANuouxWrVrDUjtLJpYiG4BOeaw" target="_blank">“G L I M P S E” EP</a></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>PANDORA MUSIC</b>: <a href="https://pandora.app.link/nfNTSyMocCb" target="_blank"><i>“G L I M P S E” EP</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>AMAZON MUSIC</b>: <a href="https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0CBFGGMCK?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_8kfvFl0sYZETikYEstEDCFpPU" target="_blank"><i>"G L I M P S E" EP</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://hyperfollow.com/dcstoy" target="_blank"><b>HyperFollow</b></a><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-3222114757267578122023-07-24T20:10:00.000-07:002023-07-24T20:10:51.524-07:00"GLIMPSE" EP - Release Date: August 4, 2023<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5JpAIGgX5dY_NVhjXHRpHYdVp2RTWTo5zSqe1GWKANYOnYAWWabeGXRNpzfYxcngq2SwrCRPHS7nXeBhU9y0eiKBE4guEYzbil5BvYNiuPCmGw1iHuDccBwbnz7O4XLMBzPqsJFlMSuZT2eItRvsKJicplNxsQyyXUri5B5aTPM7CAwm6ouukyGt_y-V/s1080/1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5JpAIGgX5dY_NVhjXHRpHYdVp2RTWTo5zSqe1GWKANYOnYAWWabeGXRNpzfYxcngq2SwrCRPHS7nXeBhU9y0eiKBE4guEYzbil5BvYNiuPCmGw1iHuDccBwbnz7O4XLMBzPqsJFlMSuZT2eItRvsKJicplNxsQyyXUri5B5aTPM7CAwm6ouukyGt_y-V/w640-h640/1.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjww80qFHN4wxnrL2snqGPQdK4dyqEGiZS2XvvZF-ROcM9g_TyZIdoY1e3J_0Ixy6PtO2kUQh-bbjzaOj3sWo2KJHsCakoQ9Uu1pqFfp230PmUPXexyRGm5Q797GqL_rpjZWXQdnFPmXUcD-CBMc04eD1iHJboEyG1UpB_ZEzpGRzuEyC9F_tJnYIchInVp/s3000/GLIMPSE.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjww80qFHN4wxnrL2snqGPQdK4dyqEGiZS2XvvZF-ROcM9g_TyZIdoY1e3J_0Ixy6PtO2kUQh-bbjzaOj3sWo2KJHsCakoQ9Uu1pqFfp230PmUPXexyRGm5Q797GqL_rpjZWXQdnFPmXUcD-CBMc04eD1iHJboEyG1UpB_ZEzpGRzuEyC9F_tJnYIchInVp/w640-h640/GLIMPSE.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPDeup7MDqr5XnTe41dmnV5f7pTDnsAxXSkmvc_3BN7iHikoYQM3rvvtP_A16TdQqAg6-nQRYifxRVm4_p90Vhp5MrnUnRMHFLmoBhL3b21V1bbCPqz5LYO8Tp83qU3cSiQaitJbMC3T4RNpAW0IrZAAtyZDv6YqxZIt2l0Csaa4O_l5g-YqK3kyg31bAr/s1080/3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPDeup7MDqr5XnTe41dmnV5f7pTDnsAxXSkmvc_3BN7iHikoYQM3rvvtP_A16TdQqAg6-nQRYifxRVm4_p90Vhp5MrnUnRMHFLmoBhL3b21V1bbCPqz5LYO8Tp83qU3cSiQaitJbMC3T4RNpAW0IrZAAtyZDv6YqxZIt2l0Csaa4O_l5g-YqK3kyg31bAr/w640-h640/3.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">My EP “<b>GLIMPSE</b>” is officially dropping on <b>August 4th, 2023</b>!!!</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Track List:</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">1. <i>Romance Dance</i></span><i><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /></i><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">2. <i>Why? (Ft. Stafirre)</i></span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">3. <i>Monsters</i></span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">4. <i>Heated</i></span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">5. <i>Same Old Thing</i></span><i><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /></i><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">I am so excited for all of you to FINALLY hear my songs😮💨!</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">I worked very hard on this project from learning how to sing, song-write, and produce from scratch; to taking dance classes and pouring tons of time into learning about the business and music sides of national/international entertainment industries.</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">This EP has 5 songs on it meant to represent 5 parts of me/aspects of who I am as a person.</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">I couldn’t have created this project without the help of my good friend </span><a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz notranslate _a6hd" href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanfrazee_music/" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-size: 14px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0">@ryanfrazee_music</a><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"> who mixed each song and gave me crucial tips on my producing.</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">I also want to give a major shoutout to </span><a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz notranslate _a6hd" href="https://www.instagram.com/_kaleho_/" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-size: 14px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0">@_kaleho_</a><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"> for coming in clutch for me before my deadlines with the amazing photography and artwork.</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Thank you so much for your patience and for waiting so long on my work to finally reach your ears🫡.</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Continue to follow me as I progress in my music journey and further artistic endeavors!</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">I hope you enjoy my EP!</span><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Much love✌🏾</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Follow me on Social Media for more info:</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>Instagram</b>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>Facebook</b>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcstoy26/" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>TikTok</b>: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>YouTube</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy YT</i></a></div><p></p><div><br /></div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-64545881229628606992023-07-17T15:08:00.001-07:002023-07-17T15:08:34.546-07:00My Debut Music Single!<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZ3AHl_LUe-mV718elWRTUN6nxuYOiitK9_A6WF70kcKQiQCC4zsVQzDGxTGZdcPbBpHRGC0Yn4OWUXNshvGccl2qfKab-xx9EQfgmv-MznuGqMDI9xdaW9P_x4x1O9R_pDwphjUcHrHOgX27dvZBMzb8INHpwybb9PjGTYFzodgA9Ll9uZSt45nEBkZ2/s3000/Romance%20Dance%20Cover%20Art.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZ3AHl_LUe-mV718elWRTUN6nxuYOiitK9_A6WF70kcKQiQCC4zsVQzDGxTGZdcPbBpHRGC0Yn4OWUXNshvGccl2qfKab-xx9EQfgmv-MznuGqMDI9xdaW9P_x4x1O9R_pDwphjUcHrHOgX27dvZBMzb8INHpwybb9PjGTYFzodgA9Ll9uZSt45nEBkZ2/w400-h400/Romance%20Dance%20Cover%20Art.png" width="400" /></a></p><br /><p style="text-align: center;">▶️ <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/69e9dDZHUDU2mKqW2YQ9GA?si=960230117cc74c5b" target="_blank">"Romance Dance" Spotify Link</a> ◀️</p><p style="text-align: center;">▶️ <a href="https://music.apple.com/us/album/romance-dance-single/1696432178" target="_blank">"Romance Dance" Apple Music Link</a> ◀️<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">▶️ <a href="https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lSjoK6wf88RkfYCBCd-lcbD5ijxqCo0xc&feature=share" target="_blank">"Romance Dance" YouTube Music Link</a> ◀️<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Hey everyone! I know it has been a long time since I posted anything. Let me catch you up to speed on what I have been up to. So, the last you heard from me I was in a video interview letting you know about my plans and reasons for working on making a music album. Since then, I have been earnestly working towards that goal by teaching myself how to sing, produce, song write record my music, take dance classes, and continue rollerskating. I decided to make a five-song EP titled "GLIMPSE" that features my single "Romance Dance" (available to listen to in the links above). This EP gives you a direct insight into five different emotions, sounds, themes, and ideas that will allow you to see a "glimpse" of five parts of who I am. I cannot wait for you to listen to my single and tell me what you think about it in the comments section!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Follow Me on Social Media:</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Instagram</b>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Facebook</b>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcstoy26/" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>TikTok</b>: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-9034474044849203622023-04-18T16:51:00.001-07:002023-04-18T16:51:24.082-07:00What Inspired Me To Make A Music Album Pt. 2<p> </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Check out this short clip from my interview for my upcoming album! Listen to <b>what </b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>inspired me to make a music album</b> in the first place and get to know my mindset as an artist</p><p style="text-align: center;">in this part 2 clip. <i>Feel free to write your thoughts in the comments below!</i></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OmJscHGG6fg" width="320" youtube-src-id="OmJscHGG6fg"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Follow me if you'd like<i> 👇🏾:</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Clothing Line: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/shop?asc=u" target="_blank"><i>D.C.Stoy2u-SHOP</i></a></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>My Book:</b> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=26DFRSU1EW5VR&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1681861802&sprefix=%2Caps%2C269&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>YouTube Channel: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></b></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-88855030899537574802023-03-31T21:32:00.002-07:002023-04-18T16:46:00.454-07:00What Inspired Me To Make A Music Album? Pt.1<p> </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Check out this short clip from my interview for my upcoming album! Listen to <b>what </b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>inspired me to make a music album</b> in the first place and get to know my mindset as an artist</p><p style="text-align: center;">in this part 1 clip. <i>Feel free to write your thoughts in the comments below!</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PhH-BtxidQg" width="320" youtube-src-id="PhH-BtxidQg"></iframe></div><br /><i><br /></i><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="text-align: center;">Follow me if you'd like<i> </i>👇🏾:</p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>TikTok:</b> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Clothing Line: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i>d.c.stoy2u-SHOP</i></a></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>My Book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=394GGA6748KEM&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1680323289&sprefix=%2Caps%2C121&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>YouTube Channel:</b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-72093026995998199612023-03-06T20:43:00.000-08:002023-03-06T20:43:57.960-08:00What Does Inspiration Mean To You? Pt. 2<p> </p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out this short clip from my interview for my upcoming album! Listen to my take on </span><b style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>what </i></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>inspiration means to me</i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and get to know my mindset as an artist in this part 2 clip. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><i style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Write in the comments </i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">below what inspiration means to you</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rf4pBGJlBJI" width="320" youtube-src-id="rf4pBGJlBJI"></iframe></div><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;">Follow me if you'd like 👇🏾 :</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><b>Instagram</b>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><b>TikTok</b>: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><b>Clothing Line</b>: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i>dcstoy2u-SHOP</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><b>My Book</b>: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=5R8VWOK0SVI7&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1678163860&sprefix=%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; text-align: center; white-space: normal;"><b>YouTube Channel</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dcstoy/featured" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></div></span></div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-73677716878652095702023-02-27T19:06:00.000-08:002023-02-27T19:06:07.880-08:00What Does Inspiration Mean To You? Pt. 1<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out this short clip from my interview for my upcoming album! Listen to my take on </span><b style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>what </i></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>inspiration means to me</i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and get to know my mindset as an artist in this part 1 clip. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><i style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Write in the comments </i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i style="background-color: #fcfdf3; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">below what inspiration means to you</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: 16px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yxFat-oW6MI" width="320" youtube-src-id="yxFat-oW6MI"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Follow me if you'd like 👇🏾 :</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Instagram</b>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>TikTok</b>: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Clothing Line</b>: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i>dcstoy2u-SHOP</i></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>My Book</b>: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3C3MPFHVJ3M89&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1677553363&sprefix=%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>YouTube Channel</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dcstoy/featured" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><p></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-50715357185336645962023-02-15T22:50:00.000-08:002023-02-15T22:50:00.978-08:00What Does Music Mean To You? Pt.2<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out this short clip from my interview for my upcoming album! Listen to my take on </span><b style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>what music means to me</i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and get to know my mindset as an artist in this part 2 clip. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><i style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Write in the comments below what music means to you</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eDQs9JEhVq8" width="320" youtube-src-id="eDQs9JEhVq8"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Follow me if you'd like 👇🏾 :</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>Instagram</b>:<a href=" https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>TikTok</b>: <i><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank">@dcstoy</a></i></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>Clothing Line</b>: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i>dcstoy2u-SHOP</i></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>My Book</b>: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EL1M2XCRGHM8&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1674516976&sprefix=%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Blogsite</b>: <a href="http://www.stoyinspiration.com" target="_blank"><i>Stoy Inspiration</i></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>YouTube Channel</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dcstoy/featured" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></span></span></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-70733022273429361812023-01-23T15:43:00.001-08:002023-01-23T15:43:04.994-08:00What Does Music Mean To You? Pt. 1<p> <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out this short clip from my interview for my upcoming album! Listen to my take on <b><i>what music means to me</i></b> and get to know my mindset as an artist in this part 1 clip. Part 2 of the clip will be <b>coming soon</b>! <i>Write in the comments below what music means to you</i>.</span></div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="362" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QEnsMFa2HZc" width="320" youtube-src-id="QEnsMFa2HZc"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Follow me if you'd like 👇🏾 :</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>Instagram</b>:<a href=" https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>TikTok</b>: <i><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank">@dcstoy</a></i></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>Clothing Line</b>: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i>dcstoy2u-SHOP</i></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<b>My Book</b>: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EL1M2XCRGHM8&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1674516976&sprefix=%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span class="style-scope yt-formatted-string" dir="auto" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Blogsite</b>: <a href="http://www.stoyinspiration.com" target="_blank"><i>Stoy Inspiration</i></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><b>YouTube Channel</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@dcstoy/featured" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></span></span></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-46331368801354456872022-10-28T17:13:00.006-07:002022-10-28T17:13:42.471-07:00Major Announcement!<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="438" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gTR8Tl9VkuI" width="468" youtube-src-id="gTR8Tl9VkuI"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>This video details an announcement about the next major project I will be focusing on completing! Tell me your thoughts in the comments!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>My Book</b>: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=39GM009HRMGQC&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1667001763&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i>"The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories"</i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Online Clothing Store</b>: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i>dcstoy2u-SHOP</i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Instagram</b>: <span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Facebook</b>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcstoy26" target="_blank"><i>D.C. Stoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Tik-Tok</b>: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@dcstoy" target="_blank"><i>@dcstoy</i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>Have a great rest of your day or night!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-88857726541631921142022-10-19T14:05:00.004-07:002022-10-24T15:34:49.840-07:00LIGHT || A Visual Poem (Analysis)<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/2nEYpRzlJNA" width="480"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nEYpRzlJNA" target="_blank"><i>LIGHT || A Visual Poem</i></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> <span> The above YouTube video is my visual poem entitled "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nEYpRzlJNA" target="_blank"><i>LIGHT</i></a>", which I uploaded on April 26th, 2022. I must say, it has been quite a while since I have reflected on this piece. It brings back so many memories, even though it was only six months ago. After my first visual poem, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ejYtU9m038" target="_blank"><i>PACE</i></a> had been posted on YouTube and remained there for a little while, I had an internal urge to continue my visual poetic endeavors and focus on making my poetry more cinematic in nature. The thought that I could further enhance the transformation of my words into a visual piece from which audiences can view my work, pushed me to dive headfirst into making "LIGHT" a visual poem. Other than the title being self-evident as to why it would appeal best to audiences as an "ocular piece", I believed that the content and words of the poem would be best illustrated on the screen. </span></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span> The combining of <b>music</b> with my narration was intended to add a semi-music video element that would create an <a href="https://www.musical-u.com/learn/open-your-ears-to-afro-latin-music/" target="_blank"><i>Afro/Latin-beat</i></a> rhythm that would give the visual piece a bit of texture. The poem itself was an expression of the importance of light in one's life, so the musical accompaniment allowed the reader to have an audible reference point in mind and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ejYtU9m038" target="_blank"><i>pace</i></a> (<i>no pun intended 😂</i>) listening to the poem. By engaging the mind with a background instrumental accompaniment, there is an evoking light having equivalence with music. Those correlations are quintessential to the points I was making because music typically is the alleyway that leads to a portion of self-discovery for many people. You tend to remember where you physically or psychologically were during that moment in your life. Those memories and critical junctures in your life sometimes more often than not are the defining significant choices that can decide the course of your future endeavors. I wanted the poem to be synchronized and cohesive in its overall message and theme which is another reason why the music was so drastically important for that. The upbeat nature of the beat allowed for the sun-filled cinematic piece to be lively and enjoyable instead of a long drawn-out poem that doesn't always capture the reader. Thankfully, I was able to work with producer <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanfrazee_music/" target="_blank"><i>Ryan Frazee</i></a>, who created the beat and executed my vision perfectly in that department. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><span> The main filming and video portion of the piece was a crucial element in its overall composition because it was the hook that many readers would pay even more attention to. Sometimes with poetry, people can tend to space out due to it being laden with so much vocabulary and fewer visual elements. Being a major fan of film and the cinematic art form, I chose to delve into visually accompanying my poems, adding an integral layer of intrigue. In today's time of social media and constant information, I decided to meld both worlds together and not contrast them. By creating a visual poem, the slower reflective world of poetry and a fast-paced media form of cinema became a cohesive unit that resulted in a completed video. Each camera angle and shot was intended to portray light in some variation that added to each line of the poem I was speaking. There were portions in the video where I am dressed in all black and playing the part of a villain (darkness) that contrasts with the beauty of light. The duality presented in different settings created a separation between the two characters without specific dialogue. This allowed for the poetry I was speaking to be the primary source the audience can draw from to understand the underlying dynamics between the two. Thankfully, I was able to have a fun shoot at a great location that really expressed what I was visualizing with the poem.</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><span> This post is just my reflection on my visual poem, <i>LIGHT</i>, which is simply opinion-based. The beautiful thing about this art form is that it speaks to us individually on a personal level where we can derive our own interpretations and conclusions about the material. I am in no way stating that this post is the only way to interpret the piece. Once again, I am only giving my opinion. Tell me what your thoughts are on the visual poem and what you received from it below in the comments!</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><span><span> </span>I hope you enjoy this post and that you have a great rest of your day or night!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> >>Check out my other visual poem "<b>PACE</b>" by clicking the link below: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ejYtU9m038"><span> </span>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ejYtU9m038</a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> <span> </span></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> >></span>Also, listen and watch my most recent <b>INTERVIEW</b> here: </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3GOPIeJM7E&t=845s"><span> </span>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3GOPIeJM7E&t=845s</a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> Other</span>:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <span> </span><b>Instagram</b> - <span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/">https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/</a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>My Book</b> - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3EKJ07WUI8G4K&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1666213067&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C119&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Business Service</b>: <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/share/21reX8" target="_blank">Fiverr: D.C. Stoy</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span><b>YouTube Channel</b>: <span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg/videos">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg/videos</a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span> </span><br /></span></span></div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-28352043666861162272022-10-13T11:49:00.003-07:002022-10-13T11:49:49.038-07:00-Just Some Thoughts-<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: times;"> -<span style="font-size: large;">JUST SOME THOUGHTS-</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zdCRjGZqBhpS2PbompT7ROwsyAc2lHQuu_Qhs61N78HZmeWIOGHDd85cZr_bjUJlYOppCxxgq__E7Lb4KIwPSfRgYO8CbcrqsBkC-yIzGDi3WQEsWOOhJ75d-hCheG3c_djep8XlqFedWtxf2_2g6yMq7ITwa4Gp4rtM3c-8xhoeZvDjLWewwZHFMA/s1080/3A78B79D-1989-4CD6-89F9-0AA347FFBAE4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My Quote" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zdCRjGZqBhpS2PbompT7ROwsyAc2lHQuu_Qhs61N78HZmeWIOGHDd85cZr_bjUJlYOppCxxgq__E7Lb4KIwPSfRgYO8CbcrqsBkC-yIzGDi3WQEsWOOhJ75d-hCheG3c_djep8XlqFedWtxf2_2g6yMq7ITwa4Gp4rtM3c-8xhoeZvDjLWewwZHFMA/w640-h640/3A78B79D-1989-4CD6-89F9-0AA347FFBAE4.png" title="Thursday Thought" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjqdT42JzWK/" target="_blank"><i>-Link To My Quote-</i></a><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, "system-ui", "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span><b> </b></span><span style="font-family: times;"><b>>></b>Rough days are difficult to get through. I mean, we've all had them and they affect us to the deepest parts of our core. Something particularly atrocious occurs and then the rest of the day seems to tumble downhill from there. You get mad at people you always are nice too, the smallest noise irritates you, and you know that the drive home is bound to be filled with yelling at people teaching them how to drive for cutting you off every 5 seconds it seems lol. I repeat we've all been there 😂🤦🏾♂️.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #262626;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span> </span><b>>></b>What I advise and am currently learning myself is to try to focus on something to be grateful for. Despite the volcanic eruptions that are causing smoke to come pouring out of your ears like an episode of Tom and Jerry, I believe it is best to focus on a positive situation that you have in your life. Something that causes you to re-shift your focus, take a step back, assess, and notice the diamonds of life in the midst of all the mud and slime that is building up around it. Once you find that diamond of gratefulness, cling to it with every ounce of your being, and more often than not, your rough situations will be figured out with a clear, crisp, and calm mind.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #262626;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span> </span><b>>></b>Believe me, it can be difficult because it is not natural to pull yourself out of the chasms of anger, despair, etc. But once you do by opposing it with a focus on something to be grateful for, your whole day will positively change for you.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #262626;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span> </span>I hope you have a great rest of your day or night!</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #262626;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span> </span>Sincerely,</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #262626;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"> D.C. Stoy</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i>@d.c.stoy</i></a><br /></div></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; text-align: left;"><div style="font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></div></span></span><div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: white; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; touch-action: manipulation;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><b><i>"When you are grateful, fear disappears and abundance appears." </i></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">- Anthony Robbins</span></span></div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; outline-color: initial; outline-width: initial;"><blockquote style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: white; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: -apple-system, "system-ui", "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; text-align: center; touch-action: manipulation;"></blockquote></span></div><p></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-81709647008081516322022-08-25T13:42:00.004-07:002022-09-23T16:41:29.882-07:00CULTURE & TRIBALISM<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_ImShhL1cQ8sq09_1O-0hslXSJEe5b18kWmSzaQQw7mE0rCp0GrBu8x8KtyeeyR49VA5zX_HnXMf2XKiSmOUf2dmVmkCZ_UrLeTyrtSjiyjgGPwdkPahqRCRLZBOj6lQssOxi8WJdWuDIMyFi2ksPFeFJlOjiyfdG449njZHheZ1235LQsfGCmYfGmA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Anaheim Arts & Culture" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="2247" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_ImShhL1cQ8sq09_1O-0hslXSJEe5b18kWmSzaQQw7mE0rCp0GrBu8x8KtyeeyR49VA5zX_HnXMf2XKiSmOUf2dmVmkCZ_UrLeTyrtSjiyjgGPwdkPahqRCRLZBOj6lQssOxi8WJdWuDIMyFi2ksPFeFJlOjiyfdG449njZHheZ1235LQsfGCmYfGmA=w640-h428" title="https://majesticgardenhotel.com/anaheim/anaheim-arts-culture/" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://majesticgardenhotel.com/anaheim/anaheim-arts-culture/" target="_blank"><i><span style="color: #ffa400;">Anaheim Arts & Culture</span></i></a></div><p></p><p> </p><blockquote>"<b><i>A nation's culture resides in the hearts and souls of its people</i></b>." - <b>Mahatma Ghandi</b></blockquote><b></b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The topic of culture has been the cause for historical controversies for centuries. It also has been the "glue" for many that have brought people together on one accord. According to the Oxford Dictionary, culture is defined as: </p><blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">"the customs and beliefs, art, way of life, and social organization of a particular country or group European/Islamic/African American, etc."</p></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">The importance of culture is fundamental to the very fabric of humanity's social sense of belonging. It is a unifier that gives a form of unique order and tradition that carries across the centuries in a headwind of moral values, philosophical idealisms, technological advancements, and even medical remedies. The numerous cultures, given the diversity of ethnic groups in the world, have been an orchestration of a "sense of belonging" and relatability. These concepts range very far back in humanity's history and have been the turning points that drive the reason and motive behind why different groups made certain decisions. Such decisions were the culprits of the need for group self-preservation. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The late Jamaican <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/Pan-Africanism" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Pan-Africanism</span></a> leader, author, publisher, speaker, and multi-gifted <a href="https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/marcus-garvey" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Marcus Garvey</span></a> once said:</p><blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">"A people without the knowledge of its past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots."</p></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;">As he alludes to in his quote, the importance of groups of people knowing their past history and the relevance of the culture that resides within their DNA is fundamental to true growth. That knowledge can help to center a people on a common reference point when times of confusion become prevalent in "melting pot" societies that swirl human philosophies around in the churning concrete of its structural foundation. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The dating back of culture is noted even in older texts such as the Old Testament of the <a href="https://www.history.com/topics/religion/bible" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">Bible</span></a>, which analyzes and details the story of a specific people (Israelites) throughout the centuries of history; past, present, and even future. It sheds some insight into how this nomadic people's culture was steeped in agriculture and beloved tradition that played an instrumental role in their way of life. It also displays how their culture determined a form of outlook and perspective within the individuals themselves that translated into daily life. This correlates directly to any culture in which its people are loyal and live by the traditions and beliefs of said culture. This form of unifying guidance can be very beneficial to one’s life if positively orchestrated, but can also be the cause of harsh forms of tribalism if not self-regulated. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">There have been numerous instances and examples all throughout history where people have assumed that their specific culture should be "the golden standard", which all other cultures should follow. This has often resulted in extreme cases such as wars and other hideous measures which further strike a harsh blow of separation instead of unification. This behavior has developed into an interpersonal schism sometimes subconsciously, due to years of differing cultures shunning each other because of hierarchical beliefs. In this case, the mentality of <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tribalism" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ffa400;">tribalism</span></a> from older times has weaved its way into the current periods, resulting in division and even more extreme cases such as bigotry and other evils. The idealism that one's group/community is the only "tribe" of the utmost importance has clouded the minds of many, forcing abrasive attitudes towards others who are "outside of the tribe". </p><blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>My opinion rests upon the knowledge that human nature most times in a natural sense often turns towards the desire to be recognized as being elevated in status amongst its peers. Power complexes and hierarchical tribal mentalities persist despite efforts against them. You see, it's an internal issue of the heart/mind--it's not something that can be solved through law or externally. </i></p></blockquote><p><span style="text-align: justify;">The personal choice to remain united in the unique wholesome qualities that culture offers while shunning the harmful side-effects of tribalism endears us to each other as people, and overrides the power complexes we have put in place for centuries. Learning that the value each of us offers is priceless, precious, and incomparable to any "power" or "monetary compensation" is another key to realizing how to "love your neighbor as you love yourself".</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Takeaway: <i><b>Do not become so inundated with the idealisms and philosophies of culture that you forget the value and love for your fellow humans in the process, resulting in the jaded paradigms that tribalism produces.</b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><br /></b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I pray this post inspires, encourages, and can add a little bit of positivity to your day! Have a good one!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">More Links Below:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>YouTube Visual Poetry Videos</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdtXa-E3rsOpO_SuVuk04SKUCc7BGHIA0" target="_blank"><i><span style="color: #ffa400;">Click Here!</span></i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Book</b>: <span style="color: #ffa400;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1ZTT0QYDTPZG8&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1661459779&sprefix=The+Unsolvab%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><i><span style="color: #ffa400;">The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories</span></i></a></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Clothing Line</b>: <a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent" target="_blank"><i><span style="color: #ffa400;">dcstoy2u-SHOP</span></i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">-<b>Instagram</b>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/d.c.stoy/" target="_blank"><i><span style="color: #ffa400;">@d.c.stoy</span></i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-65596270909171636362022-08-10T23:32:00.002-07:002022-08-10T23:32:41.691-07:00QUESTIONS - A Message For Artists <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="401" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZjELPW1c-cg" width="483" youtube-src-id="ZjELPW1c-cg"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://youtu.be/ZjELPW1c-cg" target="_blank">Questions - A Message For Artists [Relaxing Poem]</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Check out my latest YouTube poetry video above!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Tell me what you think in the comments!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Have a good day or night!</div></div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-65759180677645387922022-05-06T12:45:00.003-07:002022-05-09T11:59:21.746-07:00PACE || A Visual Poem (Analysis)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="381" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6ejYtU9m038" width="512" youtube-src-id="6ejYtU9m038"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <i> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ejYtU9m038" target="_blank">PACE || A Visual Poem</a></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ejYtU9m038&t=1s" target="_blank"><i>YouTube</i></a> video above is my debut Visual Poetry video that focuses on my poem "<i>Pace</i>". In this post, I plan to give a deeper analysis and sight into the reasoning behind this piece of writing. Firstly, I am a major believer in the truth of art being purely subjective material, so I am not here to define the piece nor tell you how to think about it. I will simply be shedding insight as to my perspective on "<i>Pace</i>" and what I have garnered from it as a result. I hope you enjoy my words as well as the video!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <span> Times are hard for humanity right now, and historically they always have been. With so many swiftly changing events taking place in our world, it can easily become nerve-wracking at times for a person who simply just wants to accomplish. Albeit, the ability to accomplish requires, time, opportunity and a strong work-ethic; even with the culmination of those it can be extremely trying on ones patience when goals aren't reached quickly. Resulting in immense psychological burdens that have been enhanced with the weight of the necessity to survive in all manners of life. Whether it be monetarily, physically, mentally, socially, etc. Being a person who believes that the maximization of all of a person's God-given talents is the epitome of a satisfying life, I find myself flustered at times with the ups and downs of life. When I don't reach and clasp the goals I want to reach in the allotted amount of time I set for myself, no matter if I "did everything right/followed the process", I can become frustrated and concerned about the plans I am making. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><b>The derailing feelings that seem to emerge from a loss can seemingly appear to shoot down any hopes for future or immediate ambitions; sometimes causing us to rethink whether or not all our endeavors are in vain.</b> </blockquote></span><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>This is where the poem "PACE" came into being. After thinking long and hard about the distasteful thoughts that occur from events not following the same timeline that I set for them. The piece was an exploration into finding the proper positive solution when dealing with those emotions. I incorporated the topic of resilience into it with the understanding that it is very important to bounce back from such "failures". </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Our reactions to the issues we face, are of crucial importance to how we move forward in the next steps of our actions. </b> </div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>I essentially came up with the conclusion that one's "pace" and the way in which they watch their steps towards their goals is of the upmost significance. However, what is even more of a priority is the <b>patience </b>that is necessary to a smooth rhythm and pace when striving towards achievement. Not getting caught up in the hysteria of outside drama that can set us off the right paths of self-fulfillment, is fundamental in the arranging of proper pace. Patience with pace is the conclusion that I came to when writing this poem, resulting in a life-long mantra that pointed me back to the importance of God guiding my steps no matter the situation.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> I hope that you (reader) find this post to be encouraging and quality food for thought. Since art is subjective, my post is not meant in any way to insist that you view my visual poem through only my specific lens or one way of thought. I would love to hear your thoughts about my piece in the comments below! Have a great day or night!</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div></div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-70271107075373819522022-03-09T14:28:00.001-08:002022-03-13T13:35:40.708-07:00-The Art Of Respectful Dialogue-<p style="text-align: center;"><----------------------------------------------------------------------------------></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span><i><b></b></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><i><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcubX33UTHUutkr7LCiwu1EoTe2M-V7HJfWYBT_V8SlyfK9KKTTHnq2LM46pNTnzl2_dZej9HM--46I7NZ2DSYLUMV-3-Dg1CFqvx4hWC3noXWUgIexoG6DHAEBgIuT5OgPtY-0kic9I9lhYbUvatEaNcA8sfZQCr6rRM8QLGdoPbfiX07y8MdDJLrhw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="You're not listening!" data-original-height="335" data-original-width="568" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcubX33UTHUutkr7LCiwu1EoTe2M-V7HJfWYBT_V8SlyfK9KKTTHnq2LM46pNTnzl2_dZej9HM--46I7NZ2DSYLUMV-3-Dg1CFqvx4hWC3noXWUgIexoG6DHAEBgIuT5OgPtY-0kic9I9lhYbUvatEaNcA8sfZQCr6rRM8QLGdoPbfiX07y8MdDJLrhw=w640-h378" title="not listening Memes & Gifs - IMGflip" width="640" /></a></b></i></span></div><span><i><b><br /></b></i><span><i><b>"One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually </b></i></span><i><b>listening to what one another has to say." </b></i></span>- Bryant H. McGill<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">*********************************************************************************</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> You ever have those moments in life where you escape to your own personal psychological world of perplexity, due to the boundlessly multiplying amount of questions; that can oftentimes leave you feeling in a state of concern if those questions are not answered. For some of us, we start to question the intentions and source of the motives that provoke such curiosity to arise--due to social or even societal engineering--creating a mental self-governing filtering/censoring of thoughts. As for others of us, our creativity/determination relishes our inquisitive half, prompting us to see through and solve this equation to the very end. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>For some reason, I have come to the conclusion that these two options are the main culprits that boil down in the pot of reason currently, because of the highly effective technological and social advancements in our global structures. With technology being at the forefront of prioritization and available to almost every person in the world along with social causality; questions, thoughts and what to do or not do with them has become paramount in today's world. The first conclusion I came to that ends with the extreme self-editing of thought, is a result of the desire to adhere and "fit-in" with a group. The term "<a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/groupthink" target="_blank"><i>Groupthink</i></a>" has been used in some circles to describe the main reasons for many of the asterisk marks on humanities historical record that has led to a multitude of turning points. Some good, some bad. All questionable. According to author, Kendra Cherry, in her thought-provoking article, <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-groupthink-2795213#:~:text=Groupthink%20is%20a%20psychological%20phenomenon,Janis." target="_blank"><i>What Is Groupthink?</i></a>, she says the term is best defined as--</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> "...a psychological phenomenon in which people strive for consensus </span>within a group. In many cases, people will set aside their own personal beliefs or adopt the option of the rest of the group. The term was first used in 1972 by social psychologist Irving L. Landis (Cherry 2020)."</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> My deduction is that throughout history, the basis for commonality results from the desire to not stand out due to the overarching belief that the group is the proper moral basis for reason, instead of the individual. I disagree with this mentality because I think that the formulation of moral self-governing should be exclusive to the person through the means of choice instead of persuasion from mass appeal. An example of this is seen in my book, (<i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21T301E0H0ZTM&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1646347632&sprefix=%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories</a></i>), where I utilize my poetic and storytelling voice coupled with the unfettered usage of free-thought to shed light on subjects I felt needed to be discussed, without personal-editing hindrances. Not feeling self-conscious about thinking for oneself is much more beneficial to an individual as well as to the whole of humanity. It maximizes the potential for positive possibilities and real progress to emerge through mature dialogue. The ground-breaking basis for what can be seen as a "better tomorrow" should be through the conduit of Socratic discussion. The great <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socrates" target="_blank">Socrates</a> was insistent upon the belief that most things should be questioned and deeply contemplated, especially when it came to idealisms and philosophies. An example of this can be seen in the incorporation of this method in teaching styles for youth. By spending some portions of time in the classrooms allowing more discussions amongst students and the bouncing off of academic ideas can overall enhance the quality of learning, strengthening the students' minds and individual confidence of thought. As those students grow into full-fledged adults, they will be less inclined to simply go along with what the majority is saying, due to years of being "taught how to think", but they will in turn have the ability to think deeply for themselves in a naturally creative manner. Now, I am not saying that repelling social thought is the goal, because that is not always the case; however I do think that it is in one's best interest to think for one’s self and listen and learn in order to make more informed decisions. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SW-WQk-UnUg" width="320" youtube-src-id="SW-WQk-UnUg"></iframe></div> <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SW-WQk-UnUg" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SW-WQk-UnUg" target="_blank"><span>Instructional Strategy - Socratic Seminar</span></a></i><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> This is where <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-it-together/202006/active-listening-skills" target="_blank">listening</a> is vital to progress. During these discussions, it is crucial that we are respectful of others' opinions and listen to each other in the hopes of coming to solutions and overall betterment. With every person having something to contribute to the conversation, based upon their own conclusions, there is a wealth of knowledge to pull from. Instead of one person's opinion and limited sight, being the main go-to source, there can be other knowledgeable perspectives brought to the table--leading towards other alternatives. The utilization of respectful dialogue and thorough listening, coupled with reasonable conclusions and fair compromising, can heighten our growth as societies and as individuals who learn to authentically care for one another; leading us towards a better tomorrow with more positive possibilities in the future. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span>*********************************************************************************</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> <span> </span></span>I hope you found this post to be interesting, insightful and inspirational! Have a great rest of your day or night!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span><b><i>"The best way to solve problems and to fight against war is through dialogue."</i></b> - Malala Yousafzai</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>👉 Linktree</i></b>: <span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://linktr.ee/d.c.stoy">https://linktr.ee/d.c.stoy</a></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">👉 <i><b>Book</b></i>: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unsolvable-Intrigue-Anthology-Poetry-Stories/dp/1637528116/ref=sr_1_1?crid=WH91PXVP85JY&keywords=the+unsolvable+intrigue&qid=1644137813&s=books&sprefix=The+Unsolvab%2Cstripbooks%2C119&sr=1-1" target="_blank"><i>The Unsolvable Intrigue: An Anthology of Poetry and Short Stories</i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">👉 <i style="font-weight: bold;">Main Website</i>: <a href="https://www.dcstoy.com/" target="_blank">www.dcstoy.com</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">👉 <i><b>Merchandise</b></i>: <span face="-apple-system, "system-ui", Inter, Arial, sans-serif, -apple-system, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #19124f; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; white-space: pre;"><a href="https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/shop?asc=u">https://www.redbubble.com/people/dcstoy2u-SHOP/shop?asc=u</a></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">👉 <i style="font-weight: bold;">YouTube Channel</i>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxsKJZVZ7u8tR46xsSK0hOg</a></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-25007573613657112642022-01-24T13:41:00.000-08:002022-01-24T13:41:05.171-08:00Be A Superhuman!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HNCf_PthoMs/YeRpFSAx-gI/AAAAAAAAA4g/QHTes0iNVJAhlYZcZXEBStfjW-24cUF4QCNcBGAsYHQ/What-Is-Your-Super-And-How-To-Become-A-Superhuman.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="https://www.lifecoachcode.com/2018/12/09/how-to-become-superhuman/" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="905" height="354" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HNCf_PthoMs/YeRpFSAx-gI/AAAAAAAAA4g/QHTes0iNVJAhlYZcZXEBStfjW-24cUF4QCNcBGAsYHQ/w640-h354/What-Is-Your-Super-And-How-To-Become-A-Superhuman.jpg" title="What Is Your Super And How To Become A Superhuman?" width="640" /></a></span></div><span> <i> <a href="https://www.lifecoachcode.com/2018/12/09/how-to-become-superhuman/" target="_blank">What Is Your Super And How To Become A Superhuman?</a></i></span><p style="text-align: center;">"<i>Knowledge earns you power, character earns you respect</i>."- <b>Bruce Lee</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I challenge you reader to <b>BE A SUPERHUMAN</b>! Before you surmise that I am insane, joking or decide to exit this post as quickly as you clicked on it, I implore you to hear me make my case for imposing such a random and seemingly unattainable claim upon you. You might also be pleased to hear foremost that this call to action is not only meant for you but is directly aimed at myself as well. Now, that that is out of the way, I shall proceed.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> The first question that would naturally have crept into your mind would be, <i>"What do you exactly mean by the term 'superhuman'?" </i>We live in a current time where superheroes are the prominent topic in the film industry and social media influencers command the attention of thousands of people with just the touch and scroll of a single finger upon a smart phone. A time where personal aspirations are deemed "relevant" depending on how much monetary income or successful business acumen is achieved. With 56.8% of the global population utilizing social media, it can appear to be inevitable that the group opinion has swayed the masses even more so in the last ten years. However, I believe that the individual is the most crucial piece in the recovery or proper formulation of one's original personal opinion. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>The steps to take in order to salvage what's left of personal opinion in my estimation resides in the enhancement of character and embracement of internal values. It is my belief that being a superhuman encapsulates the daily process of conquering one's internal immoral nature and dawning the cape of altruism in order to benefit humanity. I know that might sound like a lot of words, so let me just explain what I mean in simpler terms. In order to reach the pinnacles/markers of being "super", first an agreement of self-distillation must be made in an individual's psyche that concentrates on the betterment and overall striving towards a specific goal. It is through this rigorous introspection and honest self-analysis that the "superhuman" transformation begins its inception. When someone decides that they will begin this refinement process, this initial choice is what I view as a “superhuman” trait. I say this, because the refinement of character is not natural for us human beings, especially in a time where the promotion of self-image without personal critique is congratulated. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>If one is truly not content with their current output in life, aside from their occupational production, and is questioning what can be done to remedy whatever this internal ailment might be; part of the solution would be to survey their foundation. As I mentioned above, the truth during such tasks is the key to unlocking one's potential for the maximization of their purpose and internal breakthrough that they were looking for all along. But for those truths to come to light, one must take on the responsibility of making sure that they are not self-deceiving in their personal analysis. That way when they wade through and separate the pros and cons of their nature, they can evaluate on a truthfully level scale. The knowledge that can spring forth as a result can be life-changing, because in those moments of discovery a person can see what their "powers" are. Considering all of us have been given a unique set of unquantifiable gifts and talents, it is in our best interest to seek them out, hone them and apply them to our everyday lives for the genuine benefit of others. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>"<i>With great power comes great responsibility</i>." </b>-Uncle Ben (<i>Spider-Man 2002</i>)</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>I hope this short post finds you well and that you were able to receive some great inspirational tools on the important subject of becoming a superhuman! Have a great rest of your day or night!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-39419844008434006592021-12-23T17:05:00.002-08:002021-12-24T03:30:18.152-08:00.Handling Disappointment || Learning from Failure.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_dntDbwdTc/YVLfgTJ7oyI/AAAAAAAAA1I/-JUm_Ou6VrIVYgKi544GHVQlfzQTqDNPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1000/sun-photos-sulabh-lamba-16.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="https://mymodernmet.com/sun-silhoutte-photos-sulabh-lamba/" border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="580" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_dntDbwdTc/YVLfgTJ7oyI/AAAAAAAAA1I/-JUm_Ou6VrIVYgKi544GHVQlfzQTqDNPQCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h580/sun-photos-sulabh-lamba-16.jpg" title="Sun-Photos" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://mymodernmet.com/sun-silhoutte-photos-sulabh-lamba/" target="_blank"><i>Sun-Photos</i></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i>"When we focus on our gratitude, the tide of disappointment goes out and the tide of love rushes in.</i>" - Kristin Armstrong</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> </span>~</span>The topic of how to properly handle disappointment and failure has been well regarded as crucial to the betterment of one's mental health. It has almost become cliché to an extent due to its consistently being brought up in daily social topics. As seen in the case of multiple prolific sports athletes who have openly made it known to the public that they need some time to focus on their mental health. Twenty-three year- old professional tennis phenomenon and four-time Grand Slam winner, Naomi Osaka, earlier this year in an elongated <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CPi9kJHJfxO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" target="_blank">Instagram </a>post opted not to play in her upcoming match tournaments due to her personal ongoing bouts with depression. Four-time Gold Medal winning Olympic gymnast, Simone Biles, also decided to take a step away from her sport during the 2020 Olympics as a result of suffering from <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/simone-biles-olympics-gymnastics-withdrawal-twisties/">"twisties" — a frightening state of disassociation that prevents athletes from successfully completing a skill, which can lead to serious injury (Lewis CBS News 2021)"</a>. Both of these athletes have consistently remained elite performers in their respective crafts, entertaining viewers and fans of all ages worldwide. Their triumphs and failures are publicly televised and conversed about by sports network commentators, podcast hosts, etc--which can heap serious amounts of pressure and mental obstacles that they have to endure and overcome. However, how do we as private non-celebrities deal with handling personal disappointments and learn from our seemingly inevitable "failures" in a healthy non-self-destructive manner?</p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span> The truth is that there is not one distinct way of answering the ever prominent question on how to properly tackle the distaste of disappointment. Considering that everyone's personal bouts with disappointment differs in emotional levels; however the sour good news is that we can all relate in having dealt with that emotion. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> </span>According to Doctor Tara Well in her <i>Psychology Today </i>article entitled, <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-clarity/201706/dealing-disappointment" target="_blank"><i>Dealing With Disappointment</i></a>, she descriptively defines the emotion itself, "As an emotion, researchers describe disappointment as a form of sadness--a feeling of loss, an uncomfortable space (or a painful gap) between our expectations and reality (Well 2017)." </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXWuHm20Poc3o5aFJGH4NECn_eOjrGN_BJ8NXmnvcL7TzR00U4njCl-EZ_WG8mJO4xrgTg1kMBVGVSrNc2TOoH08F9ReBikLksBND62sqJ6BIq0aG8W8QtpZSPnhB-LRV4XKHSPYfPiRJ0HtmHYCRAdGzHbkvQeGNfW8tLdTUJxwWEyzN_fK5CJ8tl4A=s259" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Positively Overcoming Adversity - Gaining Strength from Experience | Workoutaholic" border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXWuHm20Poc3o5aFJGH4NECn_eOjrGN_BJ8NXmnvcL7TzR00U4njCl-EZ_WG8mJO4xrgTg1kMBVGVSrNc2TOoH08F9ReBikLksBND62sqJ6BIq0aG8W8QtpZSPnhB-LRV4XKHSPYfPiRJ0HtmHYCRAdGzHbkvQeGNfW8tLdTUJxwWEyzN_fK5CJ8tl4A=w640-h480" title="Positively Overcoming Adversity - Gaining Strength from Experience | Workoutaholic" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.workoutaholic.net/articles/positively_overcoming_adversity" target="_blank"><i>Positively Overcoming Adversity - Gaining Strength from Experience</i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> </span>Based on personal experience, I have not always been the best at handling my own disappointments due to my being pretty critical of myself and having always believed in the necessity to hold myself to a higher standard due to my faith. My coming to the conclusion later in life that my fallibility and imperfection as a human being is an inevitable conundrum, has allowed for me to understand that disappointment is a fragile emotion that should be handled carefully. Meaning, that it is such a delicate situation mentally that already puts oneself in a frustrated and "down" state, causing moods and attitudes to have severe fluctuations many times, if not managed properly. One of the major issues that I have noticed which might be relatable to some when disappointment strikes, is the inability to properly articulate your feelings considering the emotion's dampening and often polarizing effect. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote><span style="font-family: times;"><span> </span><i><b>I have found that one of the best things an individual can do in moments of disappointment is to verbalize their problems; allowing themselves a moment to face and acknowledge the negative feeling--recognize and salvage the lessons that can be learned from the circumstance--thus giving them a chance to construct a plan of resilience, enabling the step forward to be one of confidence and overcoming.</b></i></span></blockquote></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> </span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> The difficulty in dealing with the disappointment portion of failure, is the natural unwillingness to revisit the unsavory events that evoked those distasteful feelings. A quivering lip when facing those events is almost certainly bound to occur which is nothing to be ashamed of. The mere fact that we decided to look at the disappointment dead in the eye is proof enough of a lesson already learned. A lesson shaped towards the necessity of overcoming a past disappointment. The epiphany of recognizing that failure is simply a stepping stone towards another door of opportunity yet to be seen. In the moment, it might appear that there is no way out due to your harsh clashing with disappointment/failures, which can be due to intense target fixation--causing one to be so locked on a "target" or "situation" that they don't see other avenues before them--and end up crashing into the problem head on. Learning to expand your peripheral awareness during such failures through the means of taking a step back and reassessing the situation, can refresh our minds and give us a new perspective pointing to other solutions that were withheld from us due to our emotional blindness. Sometimes finding a trusted person to converse with, vent to or even ask for advice can enlighten and provide us with unique viewpoints. There is always more to a failure than what we initially see on its bleak surface. Further analysis of our decision-making can transform a proposed failure into a moment of clarity and potential success.~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span><i>"It's fine to celebrate success but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure."</i> - Bill Gates</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span> </span>I hope this post was insightful and shed some light into my current perspective on handling disappointment and how to learn from our failures. Have a great rest of your day or night!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrYPpFhvYumObHsq63mttycQ4RTLztMau7fPKd8BONNdwo0lzW549Hdvex1fvzUue1MLFhMFA1KXOr2ALfM3C6pe89bczk8Rb-rmmviiyuPhTVaibQUNZAiStAYYGYeZXbUIboZLJh8TOXIp99PU3GB2cCf9oiUCdJBGUfwcvTdKSvHilTI3jsMcaGYw=s1100" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="https://www.theceomagazine.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/global-peace-index-peaceful-countries/" border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1100" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrYPpFhvYumObHsq63mttycQ4RTLztMau7fPKd8BONNdwo0lzW549Hdvex1fvzUue1MLFhMFA1KXOr2ALfM3C6pe89bczk8Rb-rmmviiyuPhTVaibQUNZAiStAYYGYeZXbUIboZLJh8TOXIp99PU3GB2cCf9oiUCdJBGUfwcvTdKSvHilTI3jsMcaGYw=w640-h426" title="https://www.theceomagazine.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/global-peace-index-peaceful-countries/" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.theceomagazine.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/global-peace-index-peaceful-countries/" target="_blank"><i>These are the world’s least and most peaceful countries</i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com4United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-88592150883239843672021-08-23T23:13:00.001-07:002021-08-24T15:47:13.086-07:00•Looking Ahead || Legacy•<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qm_aaSxx4f8/YRQjjvcZRGI/AAAAAAAAAys/E-MoD86OUtcBka1RM7zdCi-iRhElO67kACLcBGAsYHQ/s1280/80965958.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Marty, I've Seen The Future" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qm_aaSxx4f8/YRQjjvcZRGI/AAAAAAAAAys/E-MoD86OUtcBka1RM7zdCi-iRhElO67kACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/80965958.jpg" title="Marty, I've seen the future - back to the future marty | Meme Generator" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088763/" target="_blank"><i>Back to the Future (1985)</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Carve your name on hearts. Not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>minds of others and the stories they share about you."</i> - <b><i>Shannon L. Adler</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Someone is sitting in the shade today because some</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>-one planted a tree a long time ago."</i> - <b><i>Warren Buffet</i></b></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>In my most recent post, I discussed the importance of refraining from living in our past. In this post I will talk about the necessity of looking ahead and being perceptive of one’s purpose and legacy. During today’s hectic time period of distractions via the technological vehicles of social media and opinionated news outlets, it can be extremely difficult to look ahead in ones life. Let alone, look ahead with a clear untampered perspective. As a plethora of topics and circumstances always appear to be buzzing around our heads, there seems to be rare moments in our busy days where we can set aside some time to properly focus on the grand scheme of things in its totality. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>Oftentimes the topic of "purpose fulfillment" is brought up in the discussion about legacy, and the word "goals" is utilized as a foundational staple during "planning for the future" consultations. As stated by author David Krzensi in his book, <i>Pedagogy of Purpose, </i>he believes in the simplification purpose hinting at the amalgamation of legacy: </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>"...I suggest that purpose is not the profound and noble pursuit of the highly enlightened, but often is a more grounded and humble commitment to anything one finds meaningful. The chapter concludes with a consideration of the positive youth development approach that often circles back to the pedagogy of basic needs, establishing a synergy among the elements of pedagogy for restoration (173-183)".</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> This belief that purpose is ultimately the conclusion of "meaningful" self-fulfillment that can be exemplified in the teaching of youth, I can concur with as a result of my own youthful experiences. My own inner </span><span style="text-align: left;">commitments to the driving force of athletic, calligraphic and artistic pursuits ultimately was a satisfying endeavor that put a smile on my face. That freedom of doing what you know is right for you to do in that moment. Positive and unabashedly fulfilling. It is from those roots that I believe a portion of legacy begins to formulate. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Na3L0EmgMWQ/YR9EATbQQFI/AAAAAAAAAzM/JszYagF9YFEvL8vkV6M62vwgA-l_XMWrQCLcBGAsYHQ/to0em.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="https://imgflip.com/i/to0em" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="504" height="397" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Na3L0EmgMWQ/YR9EATbQQFI/AAAAAAAAAzM/JszYagF9YFEvL8vkV6M62vwgA-l_XMWrQCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h397/to0em.jpg" title="Creepy Condescending Wonka Meme" width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067992/" target="_blank"><i>Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (1971)</i></a></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>In my estimation, one's legacy can be defined in multiple ways that firstly generate from the intangible internal fortitude that resides within the person. Meaning, that the characteristics of one's true self is where the premature origins of a legacy are built, starting from youth. The case can be made that the inherent desire and actions upon good or evil can be molded by the adolescent rearing that takes place by the parents; causing the child's outlook to be shaped by what they are taught. I agree with this thinking, to an extent. Yes, children learn from their parents as well as other elements that they are exposed to. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span> </span>However, I believe that each human being regardless of age, is equipped with a specific dosage of quality traits that manifest themselves situationally despite outside teaching or impressions. Some of us might have been more rambunctious than our peers, leaning towards leadership positions during recess and sandbox adventures. While some of us might have been more observational and quieter in nature. And those are just two types of personality traits. But when we consider the whole gambit of our human complexity, there is a seemingly countless array of unique characteristics, considering we all are multi-faceted. I believe that our legacy is centered in the middle of our present without the thoughts of the future clouding our potential for differing outcomes, on what we leave behind.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span> The understanding that certain aspects of myself on a DNA level will be passed down to my descendants, causes me to reevaluate my perception of life. I am living not only for myself but for those who come after me. Not to mention, honoring the predecessors of those passed who have paved the way in their lives for me to even have the luxury of coming to this realization. Characteristics, moral attributes, lifestyle, perception, all those areas are transplanted into my legacy in the way that I treat myself and others. In order for true planning and legacy to be properly intertwined, I must shed the shackles of stifling conformity and live liberated in the knowledge of the truth that during this time called "the present", I have to learn how to maximize my love for others and minimize my selfishness. The intangible inheritance on an internal level is worth far more than the tangible, which can come and go in a minutes notice. It is my belief that it is our duty to build our legacy not only specifically on the grounds of capitalistic necessity, but most importantly on the roots of self-accountability, integrity and a genuine love/respect for others, other than our immediate person. Learning to acquire the foresight and courage to accomplish things that will outlive you and positively affect the world at large and the people within it, is crucial to solidifying your legacy and properly utilizing your gifts to look towards a better tomorrow.</span></span><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><span> It is with these closing words that I believe the foundations of looking ahead and legacy can be found and or solidly built. I hope that my perspective was quality food for thought as well as inspiring in some fashion or another. Thank you for reading and have a magnificent rest of your day or night!</span><br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span><span><br /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;">"<i>Legacy is not leaving something for people. </i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>It's leaving something in people.</i>" - <b><i>Peter Strople</i></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>"What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone </i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>monuments, </i><i>but what is woven into the lives of others."</i> - <b><i>Pericles</i></b></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-87910930240314419392021-04-19T14:46:00.001-07:002021-04-19T14:46:35.735-07:00The Dangerousness of Living in Your Past<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OwVmoPwBU6c/YH0VklQW8YI/AAAAAAAAAuw/ke4HYpsEIHwNBDYLpZu0OMmSJp2JzIsCACLcBGAsYHQ/whatyearisit.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Catching Up - Mike Guinto Photography" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="480" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OwVmoPwBU6c/YH0VklQW8YI/AAAAAAAAAuw/ke4HYpsEIHwNBDYLpZu0OMmSJp2JzIsCACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h480/whatyearisit.gif" title="Jumanji 1995" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113497/" target="_blank">Jumanji 1995</a></i></p><div style="text-align: justify;">At times I have bouts where I suffer from episodes of incessant nostalgia which sometimes cause my eyes to water from laughter or pain, while I distantly stare off into the distance. And truth be told, looking back upon the past is not wrong to do in the slightest. There are numerous lessons that we can learn at differing ages in our life that will allow us to glean new wisdom due to our maturing perspectives that come with age. That makes it easier to delve into memory to learn something valuable, enable it to benefit, and advise us in our decisions later to come. Honestly, who doesn’t like to have the ability to fondly look back and reminisce on those positive memories from back in the day? </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">However, for some people, this constant reflecting upon the past can turn into an unhealthy habit, unfortunately. The past is filled with memories that have positive scents or create a sour taste in our mouths depending on the experience, as we all know. Continuing to reshape the present to fit the mold of what their past was, can damage not just themselves but others who are connected to them. The reliance upon memories that have passed to create an "ideal world" for yourself robs you of the present time and future possibilities that can occur. Ultimately, this train of thought can lead someone down a disillusioned path of striving to re-create events that have long passed. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UdN-F9OuaP8/YH33xvS5DQI/AAAAAAAAAu4/xxeBMiLqh6EXC65H2gDZc60bMU37tN1mwCLcBGAsYHQ/letting-go.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Art of Letting Go: What Every Salesperson Should Do" data-original-height="254" data-original-width="498" height="326" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UdN-F9OuaP8/YH33xvS5DQI/AAAAAAAAAu4/xxeBMiLqh6EXC65H2gDZc60bMU37tN1mwCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h326/letting-go.jpg" title="The Art of Letting Go: What Every Salesperson Should Do" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blog.imaginellc.com/the-art-of-letting-go" target="_blank">The Art of Letting Go: What Every Salesperson Should Do</a></i></p>I find living in your past to be such a dangerous headspace to be in especially in today’s harsh pandemic. Many people have put their lives in jeopardy as a result of a desire to go back to the way things were before the pandemic. I don’t blame them, because I’m pretty sure that most of the whole world shares the same sentiments. However, there have been some instances where individuals do not obey COVID-19 protocols and put themselves and others at risk. This incessant belief that if we can just get back to the way things were, then we’ll be alright has flooded our media, our mind’s and even our dinner conversations. Acquiring the ability to adapt to extreme and oftentimes unforeseen circumstances is a skill that is not taught much today. Resting on the laurels of what once was is severely dangerous during transitional periods in our lives because it can hinder and even contaminate present opportunities. Being blind to what lies in front of us is typically due to our eyes being so stubbornly fixated on what has occurred behind us in our lives. Allowing the chains of the past to impede your progression holds you in a state of longing and disillusionment. <p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Instead, I believe that the best solution for those of us who have a difficult time letting go of the past is to change our perspective on how we view it. What do I mean by that? Coming to the recognition that past actions and experiences were all stepping stones to lead you forward into the presents’ future, can drastically break the original train of thought. A physical representation of this could be seen in hoarders. I’m sure we all know somebody who is an obsessive hoarder. Whether it be boxes of dust-ridden items kept in a garage, scrap heaps of papers long lost to humanity, or even overcrowding desk trinkets that aren’t even used for motivation, we all know them. Or, this person might just very well be you. The point is that while we can tangibly see the issue of accruing so much junk that it clutters what could be an organized constructive space. Until the emotional detachment and epiphany of revelation occur that those items are impeding room for growth, the house becomes more cramped and less accommodating. This exact concept applies in the understanding that the past was a useful tool of moments and time that are the building blocks of your development today. The present is a gift. The irony in the terminology is awesome. Take advantage of using those past experiences as applicable teaching mechanisms that can elevate your decision-making and enhance your wisdom in years to come. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I know I haven’t written a post in a while, and I am sorry for the delay. But I pray that you who are reading this post, find it to be insightful, encouraging, and beneficial to your well-being. Have a good one!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><blockquote>“<i><b>Some of us think holding on makes us strong, but sometimes it is letting go</b></i><b>.” —</b><i><b>Herman Hesse</b></i></blockquote><i><b></b></i><p></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.71289110.118794205048538 -130.869141 64.061685794951472 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-7502594132636924942020-12-14T14:13:00.004-08:002020-12-18T00:40:49.150-08:00Why You Are So Important!<p> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i>"Wanting to be someone else, is a waste of the person you are."</i></b> - <i>Marilyn Monroe</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffxLIgKxxiA/X7RKdajqZkI/AAAAAAAAAos/na-wFGQq1QYUHhYB-MyiiDSd8qSc1ElIACLcBGAsYHQ/s1750/know-yourself.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Health Works" border="0" data-original-height="1575" data-original-width="1750" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffxLIgKxxiA/X7RKdajqZkI/AAAAAAAAAos/na-wFGQq1QYUHhYB-MyiiDSd8qSc1ElIACLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h360/know-yourself.jpg" title="7 Steps to Really Know Yourself Better (Only if You are Honest)" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><i> <a href="https://www.healthworks.my/know-yourself-better/" target="_blank">7 Steps to Really Know Yourself Better (Only if You are Honest)</a></i><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;">DISCLAIMER</span>: <b>In this post, I will speak to you (my readers) directly most of the time. </b> </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Over the years, I have noticed that within the modern 21st Century era of American society there tends to be less value placed upon who a person is at their core and more placed on their gift or "contribution to society". Many times the appraisal of a person is diluted down to the belief that their line of work is what defines them and who they are is irrelevant or limited to their occupation. In truth, we are hurting ourselves as a human race by misplacing value on outside stimuli that have nothing to do with exploring the crucial qualities that make us unique as individuals. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Too many times we have seen celebrity artists, musicians, athletes, actors, (etc.) on breaking news headlines with the word “tragedy” attached to the end of their names as a result of self-destructive or similar events. As consumers of their talents, we later tend to find out that they were suffering from internal battles that were never administered to or aided properly. These unfortunate circumstances are frequently occurring throughout our societies despite it not being as overtly advertised in comparison to when a celebrity suffers such a tragedy. And even worse, this problem is not slowing down in our societies.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The question that I am proposing is, "Why is this the case"? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">There are numerous factors that cause these issues to occur, depending on the individual’s specific circumstances. In my estimation, it appears that many of us suffer from not knowing or believing just how important we as individuals are. This lack of understanding oftentimes lands us in a toxic state of uncertainty as to what exactly is our purpose for being put on this Earth. Many of us find it to be difficult to discern precisely our purposes as a result of a lack of self-awareness or simply just not finding them. Sometimes the confusion can turn to frustration if the time elapses without a sign. Many times we direct those frustrating emotions to ourselves and start to have doubts in our minds that rot and morph into the unhealthy belief that you serve no purpose. This mentality continues to evolve into something bigger and more contaminated when we shift our focus to others’ accomplishments. Comparing your journey with another person and thinking that your purpose is dwarfed in comparison, ultimately disservices yourself and handicaps your room for growth. I admonish you and myself to sprint from this thinking as fast as possible. You will waste your individual precious time on Earth trying to “measure up” to others; resulting in the burdening weight of the ultimate mental inferiority lie. Becoming stable in the understanding that you are just as important and special as anybody else, can be a bit of a shift in paradigm for those who have suffered from this thought pattern. Feeling “less than” personally or when you compare yourself to others can be extremely painful. It wears you down mentally, weighs heavily on your spirit, and can even sap your body from its’ natural vitality physically. In a world where comparison corrupts the best and magnifies the worst, it is important that you recognize just how extraordinary you are no matter what others think about you. I recommend that you speak with a professional therapist or someone who is an expert in knowing how to get you away from the negativity of inferiority complexes. Health writer, Nuna Alberts, sheds more enlightenment on this topic in her article, <a href="https://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/understanding-inferiority-complex/" target="_blank">What is an Inferiority Complex? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment</a><i>. </i>Another professional site that I refer to learn more about continuing to enhance my mental health is through the website: <a href="https://medcircle.com/" target="_blank"><i>MedCircle</i></a><i>.</i></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-heyVPErwZUE/X9fU37Us9vI/AAAAAAAAApQ/8-vwITTNZPgCgl1JpQIPa-LKh18Tz_-CwCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/57386956.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Professor X "Mental Hug" (X-Men)" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="726" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-heyVPErwZUE/X9fU37Us9vI/AAAAAAAAApQ/8-vwITTNZPgCgl1JpQIPa-LKh18Tz_-CwCLcBGAsYHQ/w303-h400/57386956.jpg" title="professor x mental hug" width="303" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://memegenerator.net/instance/57386956/professor-x-mental-hug-mental-hug" target="_blank">Professor X "Mental Hug" (X-Men)</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the ways which help me to keep life in perspective is by recognizing that it is a gift that you must open yourself. You and I were born with our own personalized thumbprint. Just ponder the ingenuity that must have gone into specializing every hair follicle on your cranium down to the last detail. The point being, you were carefully crafted for a reason that serves a distinct purpose that you must take the time to find out personally. Everyone’s path in life is different, however, the fact that we were given a path with free will is a privilege in itself. Be grateful for life and the time you were given, because it is too short to complain about and too long to remain pessimistic. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you are like me, you suffer from being your own harshest critic. Sometimes this mentality can be so extreme that it is at the expense of your own reasonable practicality, due to your incessant desire to continually maximize your potential. It’s simply unhealthy. While you remain consistent in keeping yourself accountable, due to your own self initiatives, it can be taxing on your psyche to scrutinize every single thing. I wear myself out many times. Learning how to keep things in perspective causes us to recognize that we are only human and no matter how hard we may try to be "perfect", we will fall short. But falling short is not a bad thing. There is so much you can learn from those mishaps that will lead you to make a more informed decision later. And learn to laugh at yourself. A lot of the pressure you and I heap on ourselves from trying too hard to be perfectionists tends to lead to obsessive tendencies. We have to learn to not take ourselves so seriously that we miss out on the beauty in the journey of the situation, instead of the end results. Laughter at ourselves when you make a mistake keeps us level-headed and not so full of arrogance because we realize that we are not perfect no matter how hard we try to be. Yes, try to be the best you can with all your might, but realize that you will make mistakes from time to time, so do your best to enjoy the process and laugh at yourself every now and then. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The intersection between your purpose(s) and the unrestricted imagination of your youth typically coincide in some fashion or another. Meshing your evaluation of life, natural skill, passion, and sentiment for the common good can enhance your vision for a specific purpose. When you are young and ambitious you are not afraid to express and dream about who you want to be, no matter how far-fetched it might seem to the older more “mature you” now. Ironically, in some way or another your God-given gifts and talents typically pair and overlap with these ambitions somehow. It is the journey of scoping out this overlap and discovering it which italicizes your purpose unconsciously. Too bad as we grow older our choice of “stability” is the comfortable decision that in our “realistic minds” outweighs most of the young dreams. <b><span style="font-size: medium;">I dare you and myself to pursue those dreams in some fashion or another because neglect of your dreams is the castration of youth’s pure ambitions.</span></b> Just don’t leave them to rot with the rest of the other “junk” in the attic you have forgotten all about. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-teaUDwFKlOo/X9fgWpvT2sI/AAAAAAAAApc/dq7QO_L5WKMliBHPT4eQXgjwBhLtCt5MACLcBGAsYHQ/f7234f8b3706d093e7b5b33c62610564.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-teaUDwFKlOo/X9fgWpvT2sI/AAAAAAAAApc/dq7QO_L5WKMliBHPT4eQXgjwBhLtCt5MACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/f7234f8b3706d093e7b5b33c62610564.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/349380883592475765/" target="_blank"><i>Calming Peaceful Nature, Instant Calm, Relaxing Sleep</i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">You were tailor-made to be beautiful just the way you are, with your own life journey and lessons, and your own thumbprint. Do not be sucked down into the chasm of normality or caught in the world’s endless cycle of superficiality. Unwrap the gift of life by discovering the gold that lies within you and only you. Unlock your potential and multi-purposes with the certainty of knowing that you were put here for a reason that may supersede your preconceived notions that purpose is weighed in silver or gold (or even Bitcoin). Your purpose is in the difference you make for the common good and well-being of others with your gifts. That’s one of the beautiful things about life: discovering your gifts/talents and maximizing them for the common good of people no matter what country you live in. Just think how better off our world would be if we loved, respected, and cultivated our unique gifts in order to positively help those throughout the globe. I truly believe that bad news travels fastest but goodness is what brings us together. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">With Christmas this month I want to express to you just how important, unique, and special you are regardless of what else is occurring in the world. I know that it sounds cliché, but just know that you have a purpose and maybe multi-purposed. Despite this holiday being my personal favorite time of the year, I recognize that for some people it is quite the opposite. So no matter what you might be going through during this month, just know that you have a purpose to serve that typically is bigger than yourself and must only be discovered by you. Know that you are loved and that I care about your well-being and am praying for you no matter what hemisphere you reside in. So take this time to enjoy your loved ones and reconvene and focus on the positives that life has to offer. Be the best you can be to maximize this gift of life through love, purpose, and the understanding that you are important no matter what circumstances you may encounter. <span style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Life is not quantifiable nor is it dimensionally understandable, but it is a blessing nonetheless, so make the most of it, because you are important! </span></i></b></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dvSWzS297BI/X9fiYeEjXjI/AAAAAAAAApo/Q2Z30iwpmPcFCTlVdjFvsmn8qg-BsPsygCLcBGAsYHQ/tenor.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img data-original-height="122" data-original-width="220" height="354" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dvSWzS297BI/X9fiYeEjXjI/AAAAAAAAApo/Q2Z30iwpmPcFCTlVdjFvsmn8qg-BsPsygCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h354/tenor.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://tenor.com/view/merry-christmas-christmas-gif-13140281" target="_blank"><i>Merry Christmas from Dwight</i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>I hope you found this post to be hearty nourishment for your mind and strong invigoration for your soul as we head into the end of this tumultuously historic 2020 year. My love and goodwill go out to all who read this. <b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!</span></i></b>🎄</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">"The worst loneliness is not to be comfortable with yourself." </i>- <i>Mark Twain</i></p>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-76793321450237317562020-08-18T23:38:00.000-07:002020-08-19T01:47:46.099-07:00Staying Mentally Strong: It Ain't Easy...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>"The strength of your mind determines the quality of your life."- Edmond Mbiaka</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KAvUs2ocLFo/XzLxkSl9S8I/AAAAAAAAAmI/uaJRJRk78V43xnOwY-7pOD67teD8owmcACLcBGAsYHQ/s1000/Finding-Calm-in-the-Eye-of-the-Storm.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="https://flashglobal.com/blog/conquer-chaos-by-finding-your-calm-in-the-eye-of-the-storm/" border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" height="352" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KAvUs2ocLFo/XzLxkSl9S8I/AAAAAAAAAmI/uaJRJRk78V43xnOwY-7pOD67teD8owmcACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h352/Finding-Calm-in-the-Eye-of-the-Storm.jpg" title="Conquer COVID Chaos by Finding Your Calm in the Eye of the Storm" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: times;">The topic of strength, let alone the word itself, is one of the oldest and boldest subject matters that has ever existed in human history. The natural connotation behind the word implicates that there is some sort of resolute resilience or robust power that an individual must have when facing opposing circumstances. Whether it be physical or mental aptitude, the importance of having "strength" is deemed as being a crucial element for a person to have throughout their life. In today's current bleak reality of a global pandemic, economic stoppages, intense racial tensions, (etc.) it can be difficult to muster the inner strength that is required to ride out the storm. Whether physical or mental, strength is something that can be fundamental in the "making or breaking" of a person, as they try their best to withstand life's difficulties. </span></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In my opinion, mental strength should be prioritized ahead of the physical regardless of what is dictated by societal advertising. During times of strife or mass peril, what is needed more than an attractive exterior or physical strength, is the mental fortitude that is required to endure the hardship(s) of our current reality. Simply put, trying to remain mentally strong and uplifted during this pandemic, social unrest, and economic/educational disruption can be extremely difficult for the average person. Unbeknownst to us, our psyche can unconsciously be automatically trained to respond to outside stimuli negatively or positively over time due to the quantity of the content we consume. An example of this can be seen in the type of news, media, and topics of discussion that we surround ourselves with daily.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If we chose to become deterred from a positive outlook by the negativity that appears on our screens almost every second, feelings of hopelessness and pessimism will unsurprisingly start to emerge within us. Having resilience against such emotions is one of the keys to staying strong mentally. This mustering of mental strength can be attained in multiple ways. Educating oneself on the entirety of the actual issue can be empowering to a person because they can then focus on the next step in their decision-making process, due to their having a total understanding of the situation as a whole. Another way to stay mentally strong can be through trying your earnest to search out the positive details in situations instead of fixating upon the negative aspects, which somehow always appears to be in the forefront of our news. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Often during a dark time, we as people are so overcome by the terror and horrifying aspects of those bleak circumstances, it then tends to insight mass panic and hysteria, which is the natural reactions to have. Fear can severely handicap people's decision-making skills and completely dispel any signs of common sense, unfortunately. For many people, when faced with adversity or conflict, their natural proclivity is to allow the situation to overwhelm them until it passes because they do not have the mental fortitude or knowledge on how to counteract their conflict. To defeat that mindset, it takes a level of grit and honest introspection for a person to overcome such trials. Being honest with oneself is one of the most admirable things that a person can do because they can reflect upon their strengths and weaknesses, and come up with an ideal battleplan to properly overcome their current struggles. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fkSv4_Ekdfg/XzzImuWCmuI/AAAAAAAAAmU/yp-ywkyG7OoVLtqVNC6-2EMLmMdD7hb_wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1920/green%2Blandscapes%2Bpeaceful%2B1920x1080%2Bwallpaper_www.wallpapername.com_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="green landscapes peaceful" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fkSv4_Ekdfg/XzzImuWCmuI/AAAAAAAAAmU/yp-ywkyG7OoVLtqVNC6-2EMLmMdD7hb_wCLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/green%2Blandscapes%2Bpeaceful%2B1920x1080%2Bwallpaper_www.wallpapername.com_32.jpg" title="http://www.wallpapername.com/Moods/peace/green_landscapes_peaceful_1920x1080_wallpaper_45124" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For me personally, my faith is the most crucial element at the core of my mental stability. The complete reliance upon God as being the means for me to confide and trust in every aspect of my life has been the key to my well-being, psychologically, emotionally, mentally, physically, socially, (and every other -ly you can think of). Another way in how I do my best to maintain my mental stability during hardships is to seek out and listen to the knowledge that other people that I trust have. Many times, people can lend a helpful and encouraging word through their relation to your circumstances if you take the time to listen. Being swift to listen and slower to speak can rapidly enhance your knowledge, elevate your ability to prioritize, and give you multiple options on how to navigate rough waters. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This year 2020 has brought a seemingly endless barrage of unforeseen tragic events that appear to be continually compiling as the days roll by. It can be very mentally daunting, emotionally burdening, and physically exhausting. Trying to find much positive in the world as of late can appear to be difficult, however; try to be aware of your mental state of mind when taking in such information and how your processing of it affects you. Being a positive light in the dark can indeed have a ripple effect on others no matter what area of the globe you are in, so be conscious of that certainty while you battle what's ahead.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am not a professional psychologist or even remotely close to being one at the moment. This post is severely limited to my personal opinions and techniques on how I remain mentally strong and aware through tough times. I hope that everyone reading this found this post to be beneficial, relevant, and encouraging. Stay safe and mentally strong!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard ya hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!" </b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>- Sylvester Stallone, Rocky Balboa (2006)</b></i> </div>D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com6United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-837900492653116076.post-21763053766458172872020-06-10T15:09:00.007-07:002020-06-10T22:57:19.755-07:00Love: The Quintessential All-Purpose Resolvent<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: medium;">"<i><b>Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b>Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that</b></i>."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_M37wV7z6I/XtbW_eWT-fI/AAAAAAAAAhU/FrHujqUrQ9A7-s8XaJBPo9Hz7TUrRNFJACK4BGAsYHg/nature_photography_tips_for_beginners.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="https://www.photographytalk.com/nature-photography-tips-for-beginners" border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_M37wV7z6I/XtbW_eWT-fI/AAAAAAAAAhU/FrHujqUrQ9A7-s8XaJBPo9Hz7TUrRNFJACK4BGAsYHg/w640-h426/nature_photography_tips_for_beginners.jpg" title="Photo by Tim Swaan on Unsplash" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; font-size: 12.75px; text-rendering: geometricprecision;"><span style="font-family: times;">Photo by Tim Swaan on Unsplash</span></span></td></tr></tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">As I am sure all of you know, we are living in a very bleak time that has cast a shadow of dismay, injustice, anger, and a multitude of other emotions to push many people to the brink of sanity. There are seemingly numerous accounts on the news about the public's retaliation to the most recent fatality of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/06/01/us/george-floyd-three-videos-minneapolis/index.html" target="_blank">George Floyd</a>, an African American man who suffocated to death at the knee of a police officer. The increase in the death toll from the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">Coronavirus</a> across the globe has upped the stressful temperature of our globe, along with the riots, looting, arson, and other misdeeds that have rapidly birthed specifically within the United States. As opposing and differing views clash in our political platforms and the fallout rains down amongst the masses, it can appear that remaining composed during the chaos and fierce turmoil is an impossibility. While I peruse the current pandemonium, I can't help but notice that injustice is always conceived from a sense of hatred; whether it be money-driven power lusts, racism, jealousy, (etc), love is always lacking. I know that this might sound cliché, but I would argue that the solution to eradicating this constant cycle of hatred and reducing the risk of harm to each other is for the collective self-preservation through love. If we all consciously make that crucial decision to recognize, respect, and love one another genuinely; we can travel that bridge together towards a better tomorrow not derailed by hatred or power-hungry immorality. </div>
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While emotions tensely run high and social distancing is starting to “get old”, acts of aggression in response to the continuous disregard for Black human life and dignity in the United States, has arisen in multiple forms from peaceful protests to the burning down of buildings. The dark historical relevance of America’s extremely abusive relationship with African Americans plays a major role in the emotional build-up for many that screams: “<i>Enough is enough</i>!” Despite the protests that have taken place in the wake of tragic events against multiple black men and women; the hatred, murder, and violence do not cease and almost appears to sneer in the faces of people of color. In my humble opinion, I believe that human beings' inherent desire to rule over each other at any means possible due to the age-old thirst for what they deem to be as "power", can and will continue to propel hatred and racism through our societies. Often times I see people believing that if we have opportunities to discuss ways of solving this problem through civil discourse, then progress can be made to dissolve this issue of racism and hatred. Throughout history, there have been multiple leaders who have arisen to combat the injustices done to African Americans, as seen in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Frederick Douglass (etc). Despite the progress and long-lasting effects that have been positively made in the United States social hemisphere, through attaining rights to vote, workers unions, and embedding the idealized vision of a non-discriminatory future (MLK's <a href="https://www.archives.gov/files/press/exhibits/dream-speech.pdf" target="_blank">"<i>I Have A Dream...</i>"</a>); the cheapening and devaluation of black life remains arrogantly unshaken (e.g. <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2013/06/05/us/trayvon-martin-shooting-fast-facts/index.html" target="_blank">Trayvon Martin</a>, <a href="https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/rodney-king" target="_blank">Rodney King</a>, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/06/03/no-knock-warrant-breonna-taylor-was-illegal/" target="_blank">Breonna Taylor</a>, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2014/08/11/us/missouri-ferguson-michael-brown-what-we-know/index.html" target="_blank">Michael Brown</a>).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6xLj4GWseI/XtlyLaRKkhI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/6AVvllHJECYWjaExBeP8z6W-GAgAH-m_gCK4BGAsYHg/s768/julius-caesar-large-56a61bc43df78cf7728b615f.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Winners and Losers of Julius Caesar's Gallic War Battles" border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="768" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6xLj4GWseI/XtlyLaRKkhI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/6AVvllHJECYWjaExBeP8z6W-GAgAH-m_gCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h480/julius-caesar-large-56a61bc43df78cf7728b615f.jpg" title="Winners and Losers of Julius Caesar's Gallic War Battles" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/caesars-gallic-war-the-battles-117531" target="_blank">Winners and Losers of Julius Caesar's Gallic War Battles</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />The bridge to peace that is free of hatred and injustice is through <b>love</b>. Until people's hearts are transformed from one of hatred to one of love, there will continuously be acts of blatant injustice done towards each other. This is not meant to sound like a "<i>kumbaya</i>" call or a fictional "sunshine and rainbows" fantasy. I am simply pointing out that the problems we face exteriorly in society are solvable if we honestly analyze and test our interiority on moral grounds. For centuries, the subtextual evidence in the interactions amongst human beings has been solely based upon the attainment of "power". The common belief that "real power" is attributed to monetary and tangible amalgamation, has robbed us of our empathy, misconstrued what's left of our moral compass, tarnished our respect for decency, and desensitized us to the preciousness of human life. In the retrieval of this power, there is always a winner and a loser. The incessant rat race to "be on top" in this pyramid of succession has resulted in numerous casualties as seen in ancient wars that were simply fought with a fixation upon land expansion and "ambitious" conquest. Once these civilizations were forced to surrender, their societies were then obligated to assimilate to their new overlords' culture and governing system. Typically, these people were considered to be the lowest on the totem pole of this new society and treated as such with forms of injustice and contempt. As these balances of power continued to change due to the defeat and overthrow of multiple regimes, many people's lives slipped through the cracks at the hands of those who were supposed to maintain the peace by "protecting and serving". In the ancient Roman Empire, it was common for one of the subjugated peoples to be extracted at random and implemented into the renowned <a href="https://www.history.com/news/10-things-you-may-not-know-about-roman-gladiators" target="_blank">Gladiator</a> games that took place in the historically popular <a href="https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-history/colosseum" target="_blank">Colosseum</a>. This "throwing of weight" due to the hierarchical system of oppression by "those in power", by subjugating people and labeling them as inferior through forms of racism, classism, police brutality, mass incarceration, implications in media/entertainment and other means, has been around for centuries and does not have an ounce of love in its' composition. The "power-complex" stems from the narcissistic desire to rule over others and assume an arrogant elevated status of self-gratification that is typically violently enforced upon people. The severe imperfection in this mentality is that this unhealthy extreme self-absorption results in a system that is plagued with racism and hatred no matter the era.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_effKhLCmM/Xtx9p7jjvfI/AAAAAAAAAi0/futifMVtqlkgIHUMi1weygKwb4ENJ9V5QCK4BGAsYHg/s595/friends.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://exposure.org.uk/2019/02/true-friendship-a-helping-hand-when-youre-struggling/" border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="595" height="372" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_effKhLCmM/Xtx9p7jjvfI/AAAAAAAAAi0/futifMVtqlkgIHUMi1weygKwb4ENJ9V5QCK4BGAsYHg/w640-h372/friends.jpg" title="True Friendship: a helping hand when you're struggling" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Regardless of the rise and fall in "power", there is one constant that remains to be unspoken for in my opinion: the human heart. When I say "heart" I am referring to our mindsets, moral perspectives, and character. Once people's hearts change from one of hatred/power-obsession to one of love/respect of the person, then that bridge that crosses over to "true change" can honestly be built. That's a very safe statement to make despite it being true. I mean, it is very easy to say "<i>Everybody needs to just love each other so we can all get along", </i>which is a broad truthful generalization to make. <i> </i>This probably is not the first time that you've heard this belief before, however; this might be your first hearing of an in-depth analysis of why and how when love is applied it can truly transform people. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Firstly, there must be a recognition that people are fallible as well as stubborn which can add to the staunch refusal of introspectively examining themselves and desiring to change. Dispelling people's inherent engrained nature to understanding that nobody is indeed perfect, points to why <b>love is patient</b>. Patience is a virtue that requires discipline and the ability to administer restraint during those times of vexation. Being self-aware enough to be even-tempered and keeping your goal(s) in your foresight can sometimes feel mentally strenuous considering the hard work it takes to maintain self-control, especially if it is not natural to you. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Secondly, by truly viewing the world through love there has to be an uncontaminated recognization that, <b>love is kind</b>. Being considerate of others is crucial to how we interact with others daily which can improve our outlook(s) on life in general. The individual proactive decision to make the choice to counteract hatred through love by applying kindness into our daily regimen of fraternization can positively affect our masses, and didactically reshape our world's internally broken psychological make-up. Our actions being dictated through the implementation of kindness can ameliorate societies into ones that are functioning genuinely out of the well-being of its citizens, instead of destroying its people(s) due to race, class, (etc). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><font size="4"><b><br /></b></font></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thirdly, <b>love does not dishonor others</b> and <b>is not self-seeking</b>. It appears that many injustices in societies, when broken down, are due to a lack of respect for others which oftentimes stems from a selfish self-absorbed desire to have dominion over the populace. The acts of authentic honor and respect can change the mold of an internally decaying society, that finds ways to oppress its citizens through mass incarceration and police brutality, to one of civility without opportunistic motives. Respect of person(s) is simply a social grace of common decency that is out of love, considering that the acknowledgment of another person's life and self-worth is no less important than that of your own. And you and your life are precious and exceptionally important, to say the least.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLm0Gb4IQtM/Xt_94LBZHsI/AAAAAAAAAjs/bFYq3Q_mJaoQsDoW0xgdpBFlPHdB_4nkgCK4BGAsYHg/s1000/photo-1518785168061-9a07f85c87bd.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/red-rose" border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLm0Gb4IQtM/Xt_94LBZHsI/AAAAAAAAAjs/bFYq3Q_mJaoQsDoW0xgdpBFlPHdB_4nkgCK4BGAsYHg/w400-h266/photo-1518785168061-9a07f85c87bd.jpg" title="red rose" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/red-rose" target="_blank">Photo Taken by César Couto on Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">My coming to the conclusion that love is that bridge to a "better tomorrow" is due to recognizing that the continuation down this road of hatred and "power" obsession can only lead to the imploding of disillusioned societies. However, amid the turmoil, there is hope. We have time. <b>That time is the present.</b> And in order to best utilize this short time that we are given, I believe that we as human beings need to learn how to truly love each other authentically without dishonorable intentions. From love, we will learn respect. We will understand the value of every human life. We will be able to defeat hatred, racism, classism, and all the other predicaments we've thrust ourselves into. But this cannot occur unless we make the conscious decision and deliberate choice to walk across the bridge towards a brighter day, with love as our source.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"<b><i>Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.</i></b>"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>- William Shakespeare</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnOR_d1CNF4/Xt_2VQVNr1I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/9sMyJ-pJf2sc4rXYn9JLjRnxqAjB4_GrQCK4BGAsYHg/s450/827769-bigthumbnail.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnOR_d1CNF4/Xt_2VQVNr1I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/9sMyJ-pJf2sc4rXYn9JLjRnxqAjB4_GrQCK4BGAsYHg/s450/827769-bigthumbnail.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnOR_d1CNF4/Xt_2VQVNr1I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/9sMyJ-pJf2sc4rXYn9JLjRnxqAjB4_GrQCK4BGAsYHg/s450/827769-bigthumbnail.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>
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D.C. Stoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11047935621394905345noreply@blogger.com0United States37.09024 -95.7128918.780006163821156 -130.869141 65.400473836178847 -60.556641