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When my life has finally left me and my last breath has been shed
And the silver cord is broken and my bodies firmly dead
I shall hover near the body, download the scenes of this past life
Noting all minutest details rolling backwards past my eyes
I'll store these scenes 'til later when I can take the time to learn
What the lessons have to teach me and help me to discern
How I treated other people, made them happy, made them sad
Examine all my actions, both the good and the bad
Three days later I'll lose interest as my focus moves away
From the world that I just left behind, there is no need to stay
For a lifetime in the life of man to God is just a day
And my soul as God on the wheel of life must move along its way
I'll take the download with me as I move into first heaven
It's the first stage in the afterlife, in number there are seven
Here I'll see and feel the good things that to others I have brought
And revel in the feelings of the kindness that I wrought
I will store these in my seed atom so in future lives I'll know
They're the things that I must multiply for my souls' conscience to grow
For the conscience is the souls' voice that guides you day by day
That still small voice that warns you in what you do and say
When that's done my view will shift then to the things that I did bad
To the hurt I did to people that left them feeling sad
I will feel their pain intensely, ten times worse when in this field
For I'll be purely spirit now with no flesh for a shield
These painful lessons will imprint upon my seed atom as well
In some religions we are told our soul's in everlasting hell
In the stages of the afterlife, this is your punishment in heaven
This is the third and the most painful of the total seven
The Grim Reaper now has visited with his scythe so I will know
Through natures Law of Consequence I will reap what I did sow
He has shown me all my misdeeds and caused me many tears
And this purgatorial experience may last for twenty years
When my suffering soul recovers and the pain has died away
And I've incorporated the lessons to never act this way
In future lives I'll be a better man from these lessons I have learned
One step closer to perfection that my growing soul has earned
Now I can sleep, Oh peaceful sleep, a state of heavenly rest
I'll dream the dreams I love in life, of things I love the best
All desires that my soul has yearned, not a thing I can't create
In the Great Silence of the spirit world to help me concentrate
The colors are much brighter, the scent of flowers more sublime
The senses are much sharper, there is no sense of time
I will see all other people as pure souls just like me
And I'll know we're all evolving to the bliss of eternity
I will hear the mystic music of the planets as they pass
Like a thousand singing angels, heavenly peace has come at last
Every planet sings its own song, we've grown deaf to this below
But in this super consciousness we're in the eternal flow
I'll be with my friends and family and others whom I love
The ones who left before me and currently live above
There they wait with arms wide open and rejoice when I arrive
In the fourth stage where I now live, it's utter joy to be alive
I've incorporated my lessons, I now recall my goal
And my mind begins to focus on further growth of my soul
I must make further preparations and my vision starts to clear
I feel I must keep moving forward for all my works done here
I now have gone through five and six, there is just one more
In years it's been from birth to birth one hundred forty four
The time has come to move along and leave this place called heaven
Prepare for life in the physical world, I move to number seven
My soul has gathered the material, I now know what I must do
To make some more improvements in the places I need to
I must take another body, I must live another life
To grow and liquidate more karma though it means more pain and strife
I build an archetype of the body that in future I will form
When embodiment is offered, and I can be reborn
I will see the opportunities and be able to discern
The ideal embodiment for me when the right egg meets the sperm
I will hover near the fetus, influencing where I can
And I'll have the power to make it be a woman or a man
I will help to build the body to suit the lessons I must learn
To overcome more issues so more advancement I can earn
When baby takes its first breath and my soul is taken in
With the imprint of my seed atoms that it has brought within
Now the babys' atoms resonate to my seeds vibration rate
Making it the perfect body for my soul to habituate
The new body will be my new home, I will live a life anew
Gain experience, learn more lessons, through the things that I will do
I'll apply the added knowledge that I learned in this past life
More evolved than in the last one, and cause me less pain and strife
This will happen just as often as required by the soul
As it pushes ever onward, pushing ever t'ward its goal
Of complete re-integration back from whence it came
To the universal soul of life no matter what its name
Nature is not personal, it does not seek revenge
If we mess it up we have the chance to do it all again
We arrived here by this process, nothing's changed it's still the same
But our souls have evolved immensely since we stepped into the game
We started out as fallen angels with no experience on this plane
We've grown to this by coming back again and again
Though we cannot remember for each conscious mind has died
The feelings in the soul remained in our subconscious mind
And so this is the story of the cycle of the soul
As it struggles through evolution on its way toward the goal
It's this way for all unfailing, from natures law there's no relief
All living things go through it, no matter their belief
Copyright © Vic Pister | Year Posted 2013
For the past thirty seven years, living for me was knowing that I do not know
I have been yearning for what I do not have a name for
The knowledge of the presence of this nameless, voiceless feeling, prompted me to the tenth month of 2015 AD
This feeling without a footprint or face haunted me
Unknowingly, it remained hidden for much too long
Life became the embracement of the nameless things I yearn for and was sure to never find
Hiding behind a mask, an unwilling traveler to more despair
Smothering my humanness, unable to acknowledge or recognize the smoldering spark deep inside
I was living life; neither dead, nor alive
Born without a name, my christening name inspired by the apartment I was conceived in
Something I was called upon when my mother was cross
Being nameless, I felt I didn't belong in this world, had no right or purpose to be here
Mostly I hated myself, but wanted other people to love me
But somehow through all this turmoil, I found my voice
A voice separating me from a life I once thought was mine without questioning it
Inside, my heart was beating, inhaling and exhaling, but that was merely being alive, nothing more, nothing less
I was struggling to breathe, daily life slowly draining all inspiration from my being
My eyes became dull, my senses oblivious to the scents and smells of life around me
Then fate intervened and my life changed course
My fingers clawed at my mask, tugging in anticipation and excitement to remove it from my face
My soul shouting to escape, urging me on to find freedom
Unsure I took my first cautious steps towards an unclear perception of future
Driven by instinct, want, need and desire for the unknown, but hoping to recognize this faceless urge in the safety of a harbor
I treaded with more certainty, passion and need to find myself, to be freed from this chains that has kept me bound to heartache, hurt and sadness
An unquenchable feeling that I finally had enough strength and courage to remove this mask I have hidden behind my whole life
I was ready to explore who I was to be, to evolve into what the universe had lain on my newly found path
This adventure on my doorstep, ready to experience the wonderful lightness of being
Suddenly a new world dawned on me when my hand was enveloped by yours
You allowed me to see sights seen by your eyes, heard sounds through your ears
My senses tantalized by invigorating smells, awakened through the coming together of our senses
You reached out to me with caring words, kindness I've been hungry to hear
An embrace to break down the walls of isolation, I created as protection
My loneliness caressed away by a soft touch
A sincerity that raised me up from the shadows beneath
Sensual lips smiling and lively blue eyes that brightened every dark and moldy corner of my mind
A kiss that could reach and elevate all nerve endings I buried
All senses reawakened with enthusiasm and curiosity
Light entered my irises, sounds reached my ears, smells crinkled my nose, and flavors tantalized my taste buds
My feet treaded lightly as if soaring on clouds, unaware of the sea sand so soft between my toes
My skin glowed, oblivious to the cold refreshment of the sea causing goosebumps
Sea spray on my skin; the taste of salt on my lips; a fresh sea breeze in my hair
My eyes could only see you, only wanted you
Hearts beating fast, racing breaths, bodies aroused and wanting
I wanted to be had by you, and I wanted to have you
Nothing else mattered, but to be together for a while
A weekend once wanted merely for carnal desires, became the weekend to break and dissolve my chains
This maiden voyage, now the debut of my newly found freedom
A French kiss to eclipse all others
Moments of tenderness unfolding as I became weak to your touch
Fingers and lips exploring our bodies, the sweet taste of sea salt, champagne and passion
Your guidance gave me courage to explore
Intimacy unparalleled to previous experiences
Naked bodies bearing all, our bodies entwined as you pushed into me
A discovery of ecstatic feelings of awakening sexuality
You opened a new world for me through your vision
You fulfilled my longing, brought my desires and dreams to life
Your experience, knowledge, expertize stimulated my mind
A willingness to share mind and body with me
Your being awakening and stirring my zest for life
Tickling my creativity, inspiring to explore beyond borders
Someone as extraordinary, made me feel deserving of love again
You brought hope, fulfillment and clarity
How can I ever repay, you came and gave me so much
Energy filled my body, creativity my mind
You believe in me, that who I was, really matters
A belief that we could indeed all be what we allow ourselves to possibly be
Our moment in time together was but a fraction of a second in the completion of our life's journey
Only a thought in the greater scheme, like a shooting star
You came, you fulfilled our desires and you went, as if all was but a wonderful dream
No judgement for my awakening feelings
It's beyond my control, how could I possibly experience none
Allow me to wonder through the journey of my awakening senses
Copyright © Yolanda Wessels | Year Posted 2015
I saw how martyrs longed for love, and so began the play of my flitting heart
A strange girl had I become, with airs of fickle dream,
My heart an embodiment of wonder to all that dared to behold it
Closing my eyes, I would find myself knowing something new would shine my way
Had I known what was coming, the dawn would seem far less appealing...
As all journeys begin, a darkness began to veer its head
The plot of reality melted in dissonant chords...
Dark blue fogs of doubt caked my mind and heart
Though the longing for love never left...
And had it left, no dawn would await me
I saw there were rules setting a foundation for my intensely embarked mark
I knew if I were to feel any twinge of fire,
I must first be rid of the fog...or at the very least find my way through it
How it stung as it hit my virgin skin, not like gentle clouds talking me through it,
Caressing, surrounding and seducing. . .
No, like a poison, the bleak thickness of the doubt choking me
Reducing me to child's tears...I toiled through its torments,
I rested upon rough rocks of rhetorics
Admiring their vitality and honesty...
At one point in time I had convinced myself that I was one of them
A rock- cold, rough... hardened and overlooked...destined to crumble
Though more demands surfaced on this quest for love's Justice
Weakened by the blue fogs blackening,
I cried out in the pit of my heart, surrendering before me
Words...kept so long inside...
I freed them from the strongholds of my darkest nights
And soon there was a deep, hypnotizing reply...
Justice, tall and proud, said from above the sinking pit,
"True, I have seen you before,
A token of adoration you have become,
Crying night after night in melodious black,
With little to take, and everything to give...
My demands are simple, as your longing is profound,
You, yes, you! Take my hand so I may hold you tightly..."
My mouth agape, I stretched out my hand to meet the vines of his fingers
Clutching in sparks, he breathed into me life... and promise of love
"Surrender your heart to the hope of love
When you find you are not alone, as none of you are,
When you praise with your singsong words that passion has altered,
Giving all to a soul you have yet to see,
You shall feel my hand lift you as I do now...
Soon once more, you shall learn- the dawn will always be dawn
And the night will always be your velvet pathway to Beyond."
This, Justice proclaimed in the voice of a thousand cries of birth
The overtones spilling out in rainbows of rapture
It was soon after his visit, I knew I must perform...
Surrender, faith, and action Three keys to the same door...
And they, golden and alight, were in my hands to use
The time came when my heart grew roses, thorns and all
And hearts smashed their way through, though I cherished the burn...
Fogs still lingered in the alleyway of fear
And now I knew not to inch my way near
For the punishment he had whispered like darts in my ear,
"If you, now seeing the truth, dismember your heart,
I will crush your petals into black abyss,
I will reduce you to dust, leaving the thorns,
I am animal in the face of failure,
My tolerance for hate is shorter than an ant beholding a mountain
And if you so much as reject my call,
Hate is exactly what I will allow,
And it will destroy you, oh singing heart..."
This I ask of Justice, on the day of my calling, and yet still today... -
"Tell me, oh spirit,
Phantom of Epiphany,
When the love I so long for locks tightly upon me,
Becoming me,
Shall it be as I dreamed,
Or shall I be wholly disappointed,
Left in the agony of reality,
Where roses grow, thorns and all...
Only to wither...and die...
He was so gentle...that he merely smiled and left me...
It was right away, soon after his departure,
That I felt he never would fully leave...
He allowed me to weave my own dreams,
Finding out for myself if reality was truly as magical as they write
And as for an answer, as dull as this may sound... it is...
I, like many tearful martyrs before me,
Continue to long for a love that will fulfill me
Often reality teases me, and I know not if she is demon or angel
Though one day, I will see reality is on my side, ugly or not
The play of my flitting heart still beating its rhythmic drums
The rainbows of overtones lulling me into ecstasy,
As I see words of wisdom thriving in the hands that save
This, though little, I know-
Love is justice of reward beyond our wildest dreams
He sings to us every night, never making promises...
He just smiles and allows us to live it
He allows us to discover, and in turn give...
To enlighten others still trapped in the ruts of fog
Once we feel it, there is no turning back
Please do not let him crush those roses you have made...
Even their foundations were meant to reach the skies
Touching the brightest dawn...and Beyond..
-For Justin Bordner's "Love Justice" Contest
Love you loads, and thank you immensely for inspiring me!
Copyright © Laura Breidenthal | Year Posted 2015
Tell Them
To all who have never known, it's time that you've been told.
Tell the population to change its ways before these lost lives and souls are all in vain.
Tell the girls to think long and hard before they let a man twice their age break their heart. Tell
them to think about who they are and what they want to be before they choose to conceive.
Tell the boys who think they're men to think and think again when fatherhood is calling their name and
they're hanging their heads in debt and shame.
Tell them what it's really like to go to school, then work three jobs or more to pay child support, then
beg a stranger for a ten dollar gas tip to fill up their tank just get home at night and make the trip.
Tell them that their parents were right when they go to sleep, crying themselves to sleep at night.
Tell them their friends are traitors in disguise, watching and waiting for opportunities to tell them lies
and sabotage their lives.
Tell the preteen girls in every walk of education and life to take control of their lives and souls. Tell
them it's okay to tell the teenage boys that no means no.
Tell them that being different is something to be proud of. Tell them that being different will save them
for their true love. Becoming a Mother at thirty is a whole world better than being one at sixteen.
Remind them of the wishes they made when they were little girls when they still dwelt in their hopes
and dreams.
Tell them to value who they are and listen to their hearts. Their unspoken, sweetest dreams are what
and who they're meant to be.
Tell the young men and women who don't know what to do that with their lives not to rush into being
husbands and wives. Tell them to become who they were born to be. Tell them not to lose their passion
five or six days a week because they were given innate goals, hopes and dreams to fulfill their
Tell the girls who just discovered they're going to be a mother that they will make it one way or
Tell them that when the guy they thought loved them was only telling them a lie, that he's not what's
important anymore. Their little girl or their little boy is going to be their pride and joy.
One day, they'll have a reason to forget the hopelessness and sorrow they once met.
Tell the men who came home from war to find an empty house and home that there is so much more.
Tell them they are our honored heroes. That is something that goes far deeper than anyone truly knows.
Tell the children who were moved from countless foster homes that they are not alone. Tell them there
is someone who cares. Tell them that there is an end to their nightmares.
Tell the parents who lived their lives through their children that they can no longer run and hide.
They have seen, heard and ignored when their children have begged and cried. Tell them it is their loss
for living with their regrets and the lost expectations they never met.
Tell the criminals that live inside a demented state of mind that hell is reserved for the lessons they re-
fused to learn. Tell them insanity is never an excuse for abuse.
Tell every man who ever hurt a woman and forced her child to watch has their time ticking away on the
clock. Tell them they can't use violence to get what they want anymore. Karma is kicking down every
window and every door.
Tell the women who chose their boyfriends and their drugs over their babies that an apology will never
be enough. Tell them that nothing is ever worth the price they'll have to pay for who they hurt.
Tell the orphans that Heaven remembers them and hears their prayers. Tell them that Someone
truly cares. Tell them that there will be someone to tuck them in at night and greet them each
morning when they wake up to the sunlight.
Tell the women in abusive relationships that it won't get better. It will only get worse. Tell them to get
now before they're not the only one who gets hurt. Tell them to get out before he steals more than their
keys and their purse.
Tell the countless girls who struggle with their weight to go beyond the hate. Tell them they are
beautiful and perfect in every way and it doesn't matter what anyone else has to say.
Tell the widows who feel the most alone that the Universe empathizes and it knows. Tell them they are
loved and they are on their way Home.
Tell those who have lost it all, but still stand for what they believe in, that they are the reason we still
have a chance to win. Tell them their bravery is what we stand for. Their courage is our open door.
Tell them. Tell them all we are here with open arms and loving hearts. Tell them this is the perfect place
to start. Tell them they can be all they are. Tell them that. Tell them then. Tell them now. Tell
them time and time again. Tell them loud and clear. Tell them right here. Tell them. Oh yes, please tell
Copyright © Princess Poetry | Year Posted 2014
The waters of the Holy Spirit stirred with strength
And commenced to churn itself alive inside the well,
Forming a new maelstrom so radiant it seemed to rise in special presentation,
Roaring its heartfelt existence known
Our prince roared to drown its verities out,
As my eyes heavily poured forth its growing form
"Cease your sobs of truth!
Why in this well do you need your Father's light!
When what I have shown you could palpitate the bloods of your capricious soul?
Battle me you must...
I know you must for He has confidence in you
Where He has conviction in my destruction
The undercurrents of my heart shan't assuage you
But the streams of you and your Lord's duets estrange and enrage me
I am jealous, oh salient woman,
Jealous of how it stirs in you hope,
I want to clasp its throat and murder it endlessly!!!
I am your instrument, practice me...
I am your tool, use me…
Do not quench yourself just yet
Be thirsty for me...
Do not drink,
Comprehend me
Adore me just a little longer..."
The waters swirled around me, seeping slowly
The darkness in the well matured
And his eyes glowed menacingly,
Burning on me with fires rising
He was thinking of what more he could say,
Sifting through the urging thoughts,
Desperate for a truth that would dominate the Holy Spirit's sway
I sang,
"Those eyes once rested with me,
The same eyes that envision evil ends,
And transgressional beginnings,
Those burning eyes full of fire and desire,
Full of hate, envy and ire,
What do they truly see,
What do they reveal of me?
Your eyes, they see an altered ultimatum,
They are blind to our Father's prophesies,
And open to your own fantasies
Unrealities and fictions made physical
I will not practiceyou, I will experience you
I will not use you, for I love you
So Fictional Future, get past me
And behind me!
You have feasible eyes, so let them see,
I am no queen,
I serve the King!
And these eyes you see here
Look at me!
These eyes you see here,
The same eyes that have seen your hurt afresh,
Pour forth warmest tears,
They open widely
To see exactly what they need to see
They shall love and create freely
Bearing each tempt and derision with a behemoth's vision!"
He stared into my fierce eyes,
Jaws clenched,
They watered, never blinking
His vile thoughts meant to be verbalized,
Yet well he knew to reach my ears he had to speak his heart
Stemming from truth and virility
"Those round beauties you possess, strong Majesty,
Reveal potentials dragons only dream
We are as equals, mine and your eye,
Never simple, intensifying, powerful pupils,
Expanding beauty with truth and lies...
Your eyes, do you not see?
I fathom what you knowingly perceive"
He shuttered, staring
"Focus on me,
Your eyes penetrate the night,
They challenge my own,
With a love lost in my catastrophic tone....
Your eyes....
Over and over they cry....
Bring us peace,
In different colors, changing in milliseconds they plead
Like in the ground where your grandfather lies,
Among veterans long dead,
Fighting, losing and rotted
Infinitely brave bones....
With soul blood pumping remembrance
Your eyes,
Your eyes are burying the dream with the death of denial
I will see through them,
And through mine you will see what you can be....
You can forever...forever, understand me..."
Long are these songs in this wretched pit...
Do not give in to it
The dark is temporary
The light is everlasting
"I have faced you over and over,
We all have
And we all have eyes
Past twenty, beyond forty days
I have seen your cruel guise
Do not tremble, oh dragon,
Your jealous impatience
Roars through those glowing eyes
Your desires uncircumcised
Look beyond us, you and I
See my world of grace
You have seen the bravery of my grandfather
So possess my womanly frame
Look beyond,
Look above
Look around,
Realize through mine,
And visualize a stream of love you constantly fight
Today is a special day,
So see it right..."
I approached him slowly and touched him,
Softly, his hands enclosed over mine
His voice was hushed like the secret between him and I,
Brushing in the brinks of thrill and suspense
He wet his lips, readying them for emphasis
"Now in this life, at this very moment in time,
Beholding the wonders of many worlds in your eyes,
I confess:
I see him alive there,
And I envy him,
For he was eternally kind to you
A part of you evermore
A trinket you hold to your heart dearly
As I lose you vastly
And as for your God,
I have known Him fully and turned from Him
And I envy Him too,
Just remember me, as you remembered me every night in prayer—
He wants you,
Though I need you."
Copyright © Laura Breidenthal | Year Posted 2016
Poet Convention
Lost in a poets convention,
I can't recall every poem, I've read through the years
50518, unique comments I 'validate'---
Thank You For Sharing Your Happy and Sad tears
Since March 24, 2010 In the mist of every line,
I'm sending special hugs, for he/she that favorite me through the years
Today's Convention,
A praise to all poets mentioned and not mentioned
I will miss, the sweetest girl on this block LEONORA G.,
She treats me with love, adores my words and twisted poetry.
I will start with the soups famous October, 7th babies,
Frank and Kash, Debbie D, and myself, these lines belong to us,
Our best characteristic has everything to do with the mind
In our poetic hearts you'll find the symbol of justice and balance
This is not a song, it is not a poem, it's a free falling memo written with style
Back in March 2013, I said it then, I'll say it again
Andrea, you and only you are the Poet Queen
By the Queen, sits the Poet King of rhymes, Robert L. Hinshaw
Thank you both for never stepping on your loyal subjects
Carol B., & Linda Marie, no one can replace the hole you left inside
I will miss all the little poetry pups, who came and sat by my side
MAHIMA and Saanvi, and Sabrina, thank you for the encouragement
Phyllis, Joyce, Francine, Rhonda, Betty, sweet Karen A., and Catie,
Clap your hands for the lovely quiet soup ladies.
Okay, maybe not Karen A., and Catie, these ladies love speaking their minds:)
SARA K., a mentor to some, a Fairy Godmother in my book
I will miss her "Magic Pen like Wand" dearly.
Gail, thank you for spreading your wings, and teaching us how to fly.
Hopefully --wings are a nice gesture, --waving--
"One day I'll see you again, my friend."
Daver Austin, "Go ahead, make my day" thank you for the show
Now, you know why I referred to you as, "The Clint Eastwood of Poetry."
Russell Survey, encouraged my days and moods with his kind words
Scribe ML., where are you my friend?
Don't you know your BIGGEST FAN misses you!!!
Dr Ram, Bindu V, Litan D., Donna J, Shadow, Sandra A., Peter Durgan,
Giorgio V., Mystic Rose, BL Devnath and of course our Nette.
Thank you for being kind and rewinding and replying to every note.
Joseph M., Caleb S., Vincent F., Juliet L., Lucy Carrillo, Scott 37, Johnny R.,
Kelly D., thank you for the honor in always honoring my words
Roger Horsch meets Eileen Ghali, your smile, her smile always made me smile,
No matter how many miles apart, our smiles always met on the same page.
Jenish, Don J., S.Z. Kamoonpuri, Gideon, Gary, Austin E., and Jody M.,
Fatima N., Mark N., Aiyah B., Ralph F., Kathryn C., Elly, Ayesha A.,
Clay W., Erich, Syam, MIKKI, John B., Olusegun, *Sukmawati* Gwen,
Delysia H., Frederic P., Richard L., Brenda L., Keith, Debbie G.,
Thank you for painting the best IMAGERY
Michale Clarke, Charma C., Wayland B., Jancarl C., Carrie, and Harry,
M&M, Abdulhafeez, Michael B., Maria P. S., CHAN and Mandy T.
You are only the beginning of what makes this a good community
Arlid A., Dinda M., Silly Billy, Tim Ryerson, we go way back.
Ravindra, Kim M., Richard S., Honestly JT., Wade A., Dom-X.
The ingredients in your poems, makes the best soup remix
Joe M., Jack H., James H., James P., Tim B., Jon A. C., Allan K., Matthew A.
Deb Wilson, David S., David William, Thomas S., Cecilia M.
Keep that pen flowing for tomorrow needs poets like you.
Justin B., Laura B., your words will continue to be a part of me.
Owen Y., and John L., your visits, your friendship I will never forget
Yasmin and Carl F., hanging out with you on the soup was the best.
Cherl Dunn, and Colleen Bono, SandyIvy, I will miss everything about you,
Mostly I will miss your friendship and the way you took care of me.
Poet and sister Skat, keep rocking what I can't....
Copy paste your love, welcome in the new.
Show Edwina, Robin, Sam B., and all the NEW POETS they belong
Last but not least-- Behind every mess, they are the best
--Craig Cornish and Cyndi McMillan
What have you done, I admit without you this place would have been no fun.
Thank you for the spin, making every penny worth our paid premium memberships
Before I forget,
I want to take this time to reminisce and add two old friends to my hot list.
Nikko and Chris A..... My first POETRY SOUP FRIENDS.
I will never forget you, and all the fun moments we had,
Back when the soup was not like this:)
Chris, can you ever forgive me, I never stepped up to say "I was Sorry!"
As you know my kindness is my weakness
Now it's time to be strong and move on
If one day I return, then you know, I fell off the wagon
And, into arms and luring fingers of Team Poetry Soup
The Poet Destroyer
Copyright © Poet Destroyer A | Year Posted 2014
Not a day goes by I don't think of you
you have permeated my fortress and walk freely in all its rooms
(examining it's furnishings)
how did I allow you entry without the
usual search scan and seizure ?
I'ts like a foreign substance and all
my antibodies are seeking to eradicate
your presence (anti-christs)
My mind and heart find your entrance exhilarating
like ecstasy ( a neurologically happy drug ,
which by the way I've never imbibed in but the
other one I'm only slightly familiar with)
My body wants to throw you off like some
intruder to the death it lies in bondaged slavery of.
I finally understand the WAR.
I want to isolate this substance and imbibe at will
or as often as I desire.
There's no corner on the market for this substance,
you can only get this by freely accepting it as your
own life blood , the loss of which kills us , but it's
flow is what keeps us alive.
I desire to lay in it's bliss
like basking in a warm sun's rays
unfortunately I burn easily , so I usually limit
my exposure to substances I feel may do me damage.
But OH , HOW GOOD this FEELS , as though I should
have been born to this naturally .
But NO , love is not the natural substance of the world
in it's battlements and fortresses erected by men and
so thoroughly indoctrinated into his very being .
I just want to bottle this and share it with everyone.
But everyone "knows" every really really great substance
wears off and kicking the habit is way way painful .
But I want to suck this up and live in it , to have the heat
of it never dim , until it is an all consuming fire that lights
everything in it's sphere . Yes LOVE JUNKIE , child of God
a shameless addict to truth about the paths people choose
to "lose" themselves on .
I've been like a bloodhound sniffing out every trail looking
for this substance the one that transforms you into fully
brilliantly vibrantly alive , and to roll in it until every fiber
of my being is saturated with it's fragrance.
The factory that manufactures this is built within ,
and I want unlimited access , but my own body has
set up perimeters and walls to fence off my full access
to my own God given life source ..(the curse)
You can only have full admittance when you can use
it's power to give life and not destroy others , to be
able to manage it usefully for the benefit of all.
But I'm a natural indulgent in what feels good ,
substances always on the intake , seeking to have a
balm that shields me from being abused or seeing
my own abuses of Life. My ability to utilize a substance
so powerful is limited by my training , my will and my
exposure to everything that seeks to sell it on the open
market like a thrill seeker , or cheap whore who can be
had for a bouquet and dinner , which is quickly consumed
in one night and disappears tomorrow . Nothing that the
world offers can even slightly imitate the magnitude and
power residing where Love dwells . When you've been
allowed to taste its manna , the desire for a plateful
is now not even enough but the drive to constant partaking
of its presence is now an all consuming fire and I am
driven to sign up for the lifetime plan . For better is a life
that feeds on love daily , than to choke and suffocate on
the bowls of hatred served up daily in the worlds menu.
I have relished the view from opposite sides of the room ,
when you're ready for the permanent plan you will
have to crossover to the other side . I know you read me,
like the good book , and when you understand you can
hide it from the world , but not from me , or yourself .
We want full access to the wellspring of life and love , I'm
willing to share the source , but it's a limited partnership (MLP)
on a lifetime plan , but it's riches are infinite and can only
be provided by the source. If you're willing to crossover ,
I'll allow you re-entry and full access ... Love
COPYRIGHT © 2013 C Michael Miller
via Duboff Law Group LLC
Copyright © Poetryof Providence | Year Posted 2014
Such Wonders Are Breathtaking To Behold
The morning dew on red rose does glisten
As early dawning sun beams brightly down
Such beauty, bees decorate that soft gown
As Nature's music plays, creatures listen
Seeing such, in great awe man can not frown
Be it in wilds of the woods or hometown
Such depth of beauty must always glisten
Such wonders are breathtaking to behold
Wherein life, earth, and brighter blue sky meet
That greatness of all tends to gladly greet
The wise hearts and souls of both young and old
Cold of winter or steam of summer heat
Depths of vivid colors can not be beat
Could man find greater beauty to behold
Where forests meet the rivers flowing deep
Colorful riverbanks birth soft flowers
Light beaming down, feeding glory the hours
Even with moon's glowing while creatures sleep
Some spread colors tall as mountain towers
This shining shows Nature's true life powers
Wisdom man would do well to ponder deep
Upon meadows ranging across this land
Spreads panorama of colors and life
Cutting its scenic views like a sharp knife
With precision through crops and timberland
Nature hands both man and animals strife
Its flows in time, where life and death are rife
Across breadth of all earth's majestic land
Jungles and mountains across its wide space
In Africa's wildness teeming life glows
In fantastic beauty, great spirit shows
Within hardiness of its festive face
Stirs toughness, a higher power bestows
Regardless of how bad the ill wind blows
There growing, its creatures and human race
As winds blow across panoramic views
Life splashes within its colorful deep scenes
Even without mortals or their machines
Nature's beauty casts for its many hues
Despite plunder, man does by other means
Nature's can correct as it grooms and preens
And if not, mankind gets to pay its dues
We may admire scenes of earth and wildlife
Yet ignore the plight of destruction wrought
Great wonders destroyed from changes we brought
Our habit to gift unintended strife
Far more destructive than any dreadnought
Are actions we fail to ever be taught
Costs of our higher quality of life
Robert J. Lindley, 3-27-2016
Syllables Per Line:
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 0 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 0 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 0 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 0 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
0 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Total # Syllables: 490
Total # Lines: 56 (Including empty lines)
Words with (syllables) counted programmatically:
Total # Words: 350
Contest-- Specifications and suggestions from sponsor.
Nature and humanity
FORM : 4 stanza poem that has 7 lines in each stanza and in the following format:
First three lines describe nature, a natural feature, lakes, mountains, forests, game reserves etc. You can personify nature
4th line is a bridge i.e shifting to the human side
5, 6 and 7 lines bring in the human aspect (What people do there, how they interact with nature, fun things to do/see, what you did there what you would like to do there etc)
The poem must have the following rhyme scheme: ABCACBA
Minimum number of syllables per line must be 6 and maximum must not exceed 10
I will be impressed by the use of the following in your poem(but dont over do)
Imagery - Take me there with your words
Assonance and Consonance
I also love learning new words: Make the dictionary your friend
Cliches knock the stuffing out of me......so
You can submit new and old poems(Just make sure they conform to the format laid out here)
Copyright © Robert Lindley | Year Posted 2016
A traveler dwelling among refreshing springs
The busied day was drawing a close
Evening dishes clamored loudly to sing
Outside my door a whipping wind blows
Working to rest a goodnight rest
Again I hear that whipping wind that blows
But wait that's a knocking at my nest
Unexpected to my surprise flows
Looking through I could barely see
Somewhat a human figure stature tall
Towel in hand wondering who this hour be
Might as well take a peek at the call
Opening the door caught aback shorn
His feet were dirty and his sandals worn
His feet were dirty and his sandals worn
I know its late to call please help me
Living alone in had been forlorned
If I let you in promise and agree
No harm will be done at your hands
His stance changed stepping through my open door
I'm searching for a home in this land
Nervous I became and paced the floor
I really didn't invite him to sit
Gently he passed me by for the chair
May I speak to you upon your permit
At first all I had was a stone glare
But a rush of peace suddenly swings
His garment had no pockets yet clings
His garment had no pockets yet clings
I haven't much but I'll give you
Come here and sit while I bake some things
Where is your family questions were few
The silence I gave him was so strong
Excuse me miss but I must now go
Knowing opportunity forever gone
Wait as my heart best fast but quite low
Holding back tears please stay I'm so sorry
Stopping dead center in front of me spoke
If you will allow me to tell you glory
While he yet spoke of my family I broke
He prayed to God the Father and mourned
His complexion slightly darkened born
His complexion slightly darkened born
We sat at the table and ate our share
I watched him eat and curiously adorned
Pondering how do I help him get there
The meal prepared for a traveler be
I didn't come here for meat and bread alone
In a rage I screamed you spoke agreed
That voice His voice demons be gone
Heavy are not my hands to pain anymore
How can I touch you so you may go free
My jaw clenched tighter than ever afore
My skin literally crawled set upon edge
This is me no demons now only tears
Thick deep Brown wavy locks at the ears
Thick deep Brown wavy locks at the ears
Little child give me all you have this moment
My eyes still in a blasting firey tears
Traveler you don't know what close it
I made a promise to you and agreed
I can take all of your sorrow and pain
Step toward you To plant a seed
Bruised and marred that's wrongly ingrained
Friend it's not your fault but don't lay blame
I charged him and struck at his solid breast
Pounding and pounding beating his frame
Growing tired of fighting with my guest
I slumped into a shattered place
Unshaven small and high bones of face
Unshaven and small high bones of face
Traveler I don't know who you are for me
I may never know the right way of Grace
But all I've ever wanted kindness seen
It makes me angry and yet longs for touch
Traveler why was I punished beyond my control
Why is it that God says I love much
He loves much he sent me on patrol
What I've done for you can't he undone
I offer it to you go on it's free
The tears now subsided nowhere to run
Sitting beside me in his arms He sees
Leaning my head against his breast dear
Eyes of deep blue never before appeared
Eyes of deep blue never before appeared
In his arms I ask Jesus please don't leave
Upon my forehead he made it clear
Now a small seed is planted to cleave
As I share the rest of my wounded heart
He listens to every detail of my life
With my ear just right I can feel beat
We stand to our feet As before my plight
Two hearts are now one and end to new
As I saw him do I look to God
I'm so sorry God for blaming you
Maybe there is hope in you for God
I'm sorry God that I've learned mad haste
Stature of medium height natural grace
Copyright © Christy Teas | Year Posted 2016
Speak gently when you offer criticism,
but don't be so soft as to sacrifice the truth.
Rumi (M. Mafi, trans)
Speak gently when you offer your truth,
when you confront violence and dissonance,
about your own egocentric merits and demerits,
but don't be so soft as to sacrifice your contented confluence,
your exegetical Orthodoxy.
Speak gently, wrestle with and not against,
when you confront dissonant overheated evils,
economic injustices,
ecological toxins,
and remain just flexible enough to foregive
the absence of absolute truth in this HereNow moment,
about our ecocentric merits and demerits
of non-violence,
lust for,
and addiction to love and active peace
with EcoJustice.
Gently root for underdog, understory, parasites
as active self-appointed Hosts sharing Earth's vast Tree of Life.
We each and all play parasite and Host economies,
hunters sometimes hunted,
lovers warm toward becoming Beloved,
hunted sometimes hunters,
fear hunts fear of hunger
thirsts for enough to recontent
polycultural simplicity, just-right enough
in balanced EcoJustice.
We each incarnate both cooperative ecologic
and competitive ego-normic.
We play our strategic games more sustainably
and wisely
as we comprehend underdog parasites
are also benign Host potential,
both Yin and Yang
within a self-regenerative Tao Community
balancing EarthTribe Ways,
more joyfully greeting, meeting,
and getting through each day.
Hosting optimal regenerative spaces
for ecological cooperative economic choice making
is a wise, and strikingly shamanic, natural systemic vocation.
Eco-facilitation mentors normative logical orthopraxis
with optimizing continuously quality improving performance,
meeting design and Original Positive Teleological Intent.
EcoTherapy mentors slowing down our aspiring Ego heartbeats
while optimally filling our lungs and minds
with each Other,
rather than getting all Yanged up,
with a lot of shallow,
unmindful breathing,
and talking without sufficient feeling,
as the sea through which we all fly together.
sensory-deductive EcoJustice.
Weapons of Evil
as Teachers of Right-brained Good
Of all things, weapons are instruments of evil,
of hate.
Therefore the polycultural person,
possessed of Tao's (0) Core Logos,
avoids violent tools of anger and enslavement and hate.
Polycultural Communities and Persons
favor scientific logos,
Yang mutually active peace
and care-giving protection within domestic life,
But, within undomesticated infractive occasions
favors Right-brained mythic Yin mutual accommodation,
nurturing non-violent intent and assumptions of equivalent response,
redemptive fore-giveness to meet Challenger half way,
as Other understands their needs at this time.
Predators are weapons of monocultures.
They are not the tools for polycultural sustainability.
When the use of predators cannot be helped,
The best policy is calm restraint,
minimal dissonant response frequencies and functions.
To fore-bare arms evolves proactive peacemaking.
To remain calm revolves maintainable contentment.
Even in victory, there is no boasting,
And who boasts of short-term Win-Lose outcomes
Is one who delights in violence,
unnecessarily lodges, enstates, restates
negative karmic dissonance.
Delight in EcoPathology
cannot achieve diastated EcoJustice power.
Intuited good, true, beauty favors Left-brain reception.
Dissonance, violence, evil favor Right-brain dissonant appositional feeling.
Our Ego stands on the Left's sensory input loop,
Our SuperEco stands in the Right's Elder Memory processor space.
That is to say, Elder Right celebrates Dying-Life Rites of Passage.
Speak gently Left toward Rites Passage
but don't be so Left-brained soft
that EcoJustice cannot find you,
and yours,
and all EarthTribe
within each HereNow Beloved Community Event.
Copyright © Gerald Dillenbeck | Year Posted 2015


text:
Fair ~
High: 92°F ~ Low: 74°F
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Ramblings - Dog DancingPosted Sunday, May 18, 2008, at 10:39 AM
I knew they taught dogs trick, but I never knew they taught them dance routines.
Maybe I like this because they use a song from Grease, but it is amazing.
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Steve Mills and his wife have one daughter and live on a farm outside of Bell Buckle. They previously owned two coffee/ice cream shops, currently operate an internet sales company and teach classes, but his primary job involves the paper industry worldwide. Hobbies and interests lie in gardening, photography, recorded music and of course, their pets.
Hot topicsOK the Republican convention is now in full swing so....
(41 ~ 3:38 AM, Jul 24)
Rescuing kittens
Continuing saga of Snowflake and Grahmi
Another tragedy for us to morn, and contemplate.
Where was this man during the Republican selection process? Dr. Ben Carson

subset: commoncrawl


text:
October 22, 2012
Hey! I love knitting, but I really only know the basics. Looking forward to meeting like minds, learning a thing or two, and making something cozy!
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text:
Today's guest post is written by Craig McBreen.
Years ago, there was a boy who spent much of his school day staring out the window, daydreaming.
To him, school was like the clink – a penitentiary so void of inspiration his imagination often left the room.
His creative spirit needed an outlet, but it was so stifling in there.
Kids dream big
Children are imaginative and not afraid to be wrong, but we often lose this as we grow up. Do we grow out of it or does the system drain it out of us?
Innate abilities lost over time? Or are they never discovered? Passions are lost.
Factories can't teach
Our current educational system is a product of nineteenth-century industrialism. It is a model with a limited focus on specific subjects, considered beneficial a long, long time ago. That place isn't far, far away, but it sure feels like it. This tired setup works for some, but many are left to wither on the vine.
One size doesn't fit all
Most students receive a one-size-fits-all solution, not the creative or critical thinking they need.Kids don't learn the same way. There are different types of intelligence: Kinesthetic, musical, linguistic, spacial, etc. People excel in certain areas, but struggle in others, yet our system demands children fit into one box and learn the same subjects, the same way.
In a post on his new book, "We Are All Weird," Seth Godin wrote,
During the age of mass (mass marketing, mass manufacturing, mass schooling, mass movements) the key was normal. Normal was important because you needed (were required) to fit into your slot.
Well, the new normal is a bit abnormal, and uncommon little shapes don't fit into perfectly square holes. Weird is in.
But … Billy's odd AND distracted
Growing up in one of the most stimulating environments ever, kids have the ability to communicate with anyone, anywhere. All. The. Time. And we wonder why they're preoccupied. If kids have difficulty, we often decide there is something wrong with them, or seek to medicate. Are they ill-suited for learning or are there defects in a system that tries to box them in?
The fundamental principals of public education need to be razed and rebuilt
Post-industrial economies rely on creativity and inventiveness. It is imperative the United States (and the world) have school systems designed for the twenty-first century. And with technology quickly replacing people, isn't this more important than ever?
We often hear jobs are going overseas, but America will always be strong because of its intellectual capital and creative spirit. Problem is, we rarely ask our students to think creatively. As Alanis Morissette would say, "Isn't it ironic."
So, what about solutions?
- Shut down the assembly line. Toss the factory model to make way for more organic and dynamic development. Foster the differences in kids and create a curriculum that brings out these unique talents.
- Standards must go. Of course you need core standards, but not just in math, writing, and the humanities. What about fundamental skills in communication, arts, software, and trades? Nothing wrong with standards, just the obsession with them.
- School shouldn't be a snooze-fest. Ditch rote learning in favor of engagement. Focus on creative and critical thinking in all subjects. Cultivate inventiveness through the technology kids are so immersed in anyway.
- Nourish spirit and passion. Create conditions where kids can flourish.
- Invest in great teaching and teacher development. Just think how creative teachers could be if they weren't so focused on standardized tests.
- And finally, back off Tiger Mom. Parents often steer kids away from their true talents, for a more conventional route to success. We need to broaden that spectrum.
It's time for change.
With budget cuts, the pace of bureaucracies, and resistance to change, this might not happen anytime soon. Regardless, it is time to rethink the current system, or maybe that good old American ingenuity will be a thing of the past.
Maybe a good PR campaign is in order.
Do yourself a favor and check out Sir Ken Robinson's speech on TED.com. A brilliant and engaging speech which summarizes this topic oh so well.
Will high-tech companies and innovators simply force these changes without government mandates?
Do you agree or disagree? Is this a pipe dream?
Craig McBreen owns and operates McBreen Design, but you can also find him at craigmcbreen.com. A rookie blogger and student of social media, Craig is originally from Baltimore, but now lives in Seattle, with his wife and two kids.
Leave a Reply
120 Comments on "Are Schools Killing Creativity?"
[…] educational system needs to change. by teaching kids in a brand-new way; embracing uniqueness, fostering inventiveness and bringing […]
@CraigMcBreen At least in Ohio, we know the model doesn't work, the Supreme Court of Ohio has found funding for schools unconstitutional multiple times but the legislature has not done anything to change it in more than 10 years. And because of it, school districts and teachers are sometimes seen as not using the funds they are given wisely, when in fact there is too much being relied on from one pool of money.
@Anthony_Rodriguez Well it's a good idea to require a state to fund public education efficiently, but sounds like you're in a holding pattern over in Ohio. Must be quite the hot bottom issue with the current admin.
@Craig McBreen Actually, it's the furthest thing from their mind. They are more interested in disenfranchising voters and preventing police, firefighters and teachers from negotiating fair wages and equipment. School funding has been on the minds of the people for a long time, it just seems to continue to be ignored.
@Anthony_Rodriguez Something that really can't be ignored … These kids are our future.
Your post brings up a lot of points that resonate with me, the father of a restlessly inquisitive 6-year-old. You might want to check out the book "NurtureShock" by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman. It challenges both traditional and "progressive" notions of how kids are/should be taught.
I SO wish you hadn't cited Alanis Morissette's "Isn't It Ironic" insofar as she apparently didn't learn the meaning of irony in school. The vignettes described in the lyrics are bad luck, not irony. Although, that makes the title ironic. Maybe that's the song's genius 🙂
But that's just my bugbear…
Better, abolish all schooling after 10th Grade. Try to imagine one thing that we learned after the tenth grade which is actually useful to us now. Integral Calculus? Organic chemistry? Statistical Analysis? Is there even one thing that we are actually finding useful NOW?
I love the Ken Robinson talk.
Hi Jack,
I think I've watched it about 15 times 🙂 There is a more recent TED talk, you should check that one out as well.
@Craig McBreen@TheJackB Have you guys ever seent he RSA animated version of his talk?
@MSchechter@TheJackB Now I have 😉 Brilliant synopsis. Thanks!
@MSchechter@Craig McBreen no, but I should probably look it up.
@TheJackB Me too! I can watch it over and over and feel so inspired to learn creatively and I'm long time from school.
@Collectual This RSA animated version is really, really cool!
@Craig McBreen He loves math so much and so we do relate it to baseball. Since he understands batting average and ERA already, he understands percents. We also to talk about him going to college. He knows what a scholarship is and has told me he is going to get one!
@NancyD68 Man, now I'm even more impressed. If he likes stats, I can think of no better game than baseball. I know it's an entirely different subject, but I listened to an interview with the guy who wrote "Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game" It's really about an analytical approach to putting a team together with little money, but the book sounded interesting.
@Craig McBreen I am considering taking him to the movie. 🙂 What is amazing is it is not just Yankee players he knows. It is all of MLB! He knows facts about all players. He asks me to get him the paper so he can read the sports section!
@NancyD68 Ha ha, sounds like he is going on 40 😉 Very cool.
@MSchechter My boy wants his own business. He asked for a laptop and a cell phone for his 9th birthday next month. He says when he grows up he will be the General Manager of the New York Yankees.
In his Enrichment program at school, they are learning to make a new product, and come up with an ad campaign for it as well. Not bad for a public school here in Bergen County NJ
@NancyD68@MSchechter Sounds like some kid, Nancy 🙂 Some aspirations for a soon to be nine-year-old.
@MSchechter That is such a shame. What are those kids going to do once school is over? The school system here is pretty good which is why I am bending over backwards to remain here.
@MSchechter@NancyD68 It was a sad day to me to learn that ANY child here in the US has gone without books that they need while politicians are raising millions for their campaigns to be re-elected. Shame on them!
@MSchechter@NancyD68 Nancy, that was not directed at you. I am so happy that your district knows what matters.
@NancyD68@MSchechter That's the only reason we stay where we are. We do have a great school district. If we lived in some of the surrounding areas we'd have to go the private school route.
@AllieRambles@MSchechter@NancyD68 It's a rigged system, really.
Like this, you mean? http://www.dolectures.com/lectures/why-we-need-to-change-how-we-learn/
@lesmckeown Thanks for this! Plenty of material to go through. Beautiful site too.
@ginidietrich @craigmcbreen What a thought provoking article, even for Canadians. http://t.co/u7J781f1 #education
@CareersOutThere Thanks for the RT @ginidietrich
@JohnFalchetto Thanks for sending this out! Are Schools Killing Creativity by @CraigMcBreen http://t.co/Jm8fSZCE
@AllieRambles My children have been in private school since birth so to speak. Eventually I am going to have to stick them in LAUSD and am concerned about it.
One of the things that I love about their current school is that the teachers aren't forced to work solely off of uniform testing.
@TheJackB @TheJackB Wait? Is that Los Angeles school district? If so, I have to tell you, my own parents wouldn't send me through that one 30 years ago. I grew up near Long Beach and the schools around there were scary. I'm sure where you live is WAY better. So I wouldn't worry too much. You are a devoted father and they will do great!
@AllieRambles It is but IMO without parental involvement it doesn't matter how good the school is.
@TheJackB@AllieRambles If we lived in another school district, my kids would probably be in private school too. The main reason we moved here, Shoreline, WA, was the schools.
@AllieRambles Yes, I would love to track where that property tax money is going. At least in my district I know we get quality schools, but it's certainly a mix around us.
Well, if you move to Seattle right now you'll experience a lot of gray and drizzle. I've grown to like it, actually 🙂 Plenty to do around here, that's for sure.
@Craig McBreen@AllieRambles The vast majority of parents are like you – happy with the quality of education that their students are receiving. Unfortunately, due to the anti-teacher, anti-school propaganda, many people feel that they're the exception when they see great things happening in their schools.
Luckily, wonderful schools like the one you've described are in fact the norm, the horrible assembly-line schools are the exception to the rule.
@KatieGnau@AllieRambles I can't speak for other parents, but not certain it would be the vast majority. I don't think Ken Robinson has anything to do with anti-teacher, anti-school propaganda, that's for sure. He is pro-teacher and just wants a better system.
You are correct in that there is a lot of anti-teacher, anti-school propaganda, and I don't like that at all. This is different. It's really about a change to the entire system and I think most teachers would agree with this.
Thanks, Katie.
@Craig McBreen@AllieRambles Thanks Craig. Your post comes across as very anti-public school to me, but perhaps this is an issue to which I'm particularly sensitive! Reading your comments here adds clarity to your post and I suspect that, bottom line, we agree on the fundamentals of what needs to happen to help schools improve.
@danielnewmanUV @ginidietrich @angelamaiers Yes. Kid just told school is boring and is now drawing rather than doing rote spelling.
@danielnewmanUV Are Schools Killing Creativity? Yes they are, Check out @AbingtonKidsArt They are trying to bring it back
@Jayagain215 http://t.co/turu54tv
@ginidietrich Wow, in the same sentence as Sir Ken 🙂 I can't believe all these retweets. Welcome to Spin Sucks I guess 🙂
@CraigMcBreen Welcome to @spinsucks!
Schools are stifling intellectual curiosity with standardization, but, just as bad, parents are scheduling children so much that they don't have any time to just BE…to explore…to be creative…to imagine. 'Nuff said.
@ToniAntonetti Hi Toni, Some parents might over-schedule kids, but that is really up to them. My youngest son does a few activities outside of school, not many, but just enough I think.
@CareersOutThere Hi!!
@ginidietrich Hey GD!
@skooloflife Hiiii!
@ginidietrich hey Gini (I think you'll be really thrilled with our big announcement on Monday )
I just wrote about this. http://www.tomacedonia.com/2011/10/24/school-vs-your-life/.
From an early age children arent afraid to be wrong. They do want they want and have fun.
School is educating people not to be wrong. If your not prepared to be wrong you'll never come up with anything original.
Creativity is Originality fraternal twin.
I just wrote about this. http://www.tomacedonia.com/2011/10/24/school-vs-your-life/.
From an early age children arent afraid to be wrong. They do want they want and have fun.
School is educating people not to be wrong. If your not prepared to be wrong you'll never come up with anything original.
Creativity is Originality's fraternal twin.
@JustInTheSouth Great meeting you in Nashville – hope to see you soon!
@PaulSegreto YES! It was great to meet you too! I'm sure our paths will cross again soon!
Yes. Since No Child Left Behind has been the standard, creativity has gone out the window for not only the student, but the teacher as well. Teachers are bound by state mandated curriculums – no deviation based on student interest or class personality. All to ensure that every child gets an equal education. Despite the millions of dollars spent, stats show that there's been so significant gains in closing the "achievement gap". In fact, that dial hasn't moved since the late 1970's. Public education has become another branch of social services.
Hi Katie,
Thanks for the detailed comments here. There are definitely exceptions out there and thanks for explaining the situation in Illinois. But there are many states and districts where teachers don't really have this choice, as Leslie mentioned, with teachers bound by state mandated curriculums.
You've made some great points in your comments and I really appreciate that, I just hope you don't think this post is anti-teacher, because it's anything but that.
@LeslieW.Brazil Hi Leslie, Agree with you there. Current reform movements, like No Child Left Behind, do emphasize testing over learning … leaving out the creativity and passion of teachers.
There are plenty of exceptions of course, as Katie has mentioned below, and as I have regarding our great public school district.
@JustInTheSouth Yup. @ oldest's Mid-school orientation the principal bragged about everything they've done that "boost std. test scores."
@JustInTheSouth NOTHING about "we do this because it helps them learn better/more." Higher standardized scores is priority #1 #NCLBFail
@3HatsComm Thanks, Davina, Are Schools Killing Creativity? http://t.co/z6JzFrw7 via @ginidietrich
@bdorman264 Indeed! Thanks, Bill. @ginidietrich
I agree completely with this. Good post.
@DustBunnyMafia Thanks, Dust Bunny 🙂
@zheller Thanks!
Thank you for the comments. Very good points you've made here. "stuffed to the brim with stuff," indeed! I just think that so many kids are pushed through the system and don't get anything out of it. If your personality, traits, skills don't line up with the system, you either just get by, don't, or learn how to game the system. And the "stuff" you've mentioned just makes it that much harder on the teachers.
[…] http://spinsucks.com/entrepreneur/are-schools-killing-creativity/ Like this:LikeBe the first to like this post. […]
Seth Godin talks abt our "factory mentality", good stuff RT @danperezfilms R Schools Killing Creativity? http://t.co/IOn4XYog @ginidietrich
@dafollowthrough Thanks!
@iud24 Thanks.
@CraigMcBreen you speak to known problems, I also affirm to that in my #community and my #digital #inhabitat.
This rocks @Craig McBreen really. This is everything I totally believe! I just love love love this.
I totally sucked at school – I passed my exams and got good grades but was ALWAYS in detention.
I'm so inspired by this post … amazing!
@Ameena Falchetto
Hi Ameena,
Thanks! Appreciate the kind words. I sucked at school too. I was not in detention as much as you 😉 but bored out of my mind. I'm glad you were inspired. The fact that this message resonates with so many shows you how much this change is needed. It also amazes me how many are aware of Ken Robinson and his message. Thanks!
@AmeenaFalchetto Thanks, again! @ginidietrich
@JohnFalchetto Thanks to the Falchetto's for spreading the word 🙂 @ginidietrich
@craigmcbreen Awesome post Buddy and a very important subject.
Thanks @Marcelj !
Schools are killing more than children's creativity. An estimated 5 million children on on psychotropic drugs, prescribed and administered by the schools, some which have been linked to murder and suicide among some users. Rather than ask if schools need to change, I question whether anything about them can be redeemed. To be able to salvage something from the present school system would help with a smooth successful transition, but I have yet to find a feature from the present system that I want for my children.
@yokkaichi1 The widespread medication of children is certainly not the answer, yet so many so many are quick to medicate. Young minds dulled when they should be exploring and learning.
This is a topic I am very passionate about because personally I just don't test well. But testing is everything in schools unfortunately. The fact that we are cutting art programs and classes that encourage creativity is also very disheartening. Our education system really needs a complete makeover and I think you made some great points. Thanks for writing this!
@rachaelseda Hi Rachael, Well, I can relate 😉 Testing is everything, unfortunately, and it does seem like art programs are often the very first to go when funding is tight. I'm glad you liked the post, Rachael, thanks for commenting.
@IAmAdamGreen Thanks, Adam!
@CraigMcBreen You bet. I've been quite a fan of that Ken Robinson video for some time now.
@MichaelBesson Oh lordy just read this as "Are school killings creativity" – shoo *wipes brow*
@DedeCraig Nicely said! How are you today?
@MichaelBesson I'm blissed out always 😉 How are you ?
As they say – teachers should stop teaching subjects – and start teaching children…
@DedeCraig And not focus so much on the tests.
[…] asked. For a guy just starting out, he has interviewed Gini Dietrich, been a guest contributor on Spin Sucks, and admitted to being A Chubby Kid With No Social Game. Craig is doing all the right things. He […]
[…] might know I'm not a fan of the school system. To me, school was like a penitentiary. And this little prison system does a […]


text:
Choose the period
Today, while getting a hernia exam, I accidentally ran my fingers through my doctor's hair. FML
by WTFFAIL / 12/03/2012 at 12:06am / Canada (Quebec) / Health
Today, I flew from Australia to the UK to meet the woman I love. After two years of talking, and having gotten a love letter for my birthday a few months prior, I was convinced we'd have a great time. Turns out she doesn't know what she feels for me. I'm staying with her for the next 35 days. FML
by RabbitOfAurora / 12/12/2012 at 10:56am / United Kingdom (Hounslow) / Holidays
Today, I announced to my coworkers that I'd "fixed the massive problem" they'd all been complaining about. Eleven different people made guesses at what the problem had been, ranging from how bad I smell to if I had learned to brush my teeth. I just meant that I'd fixed the coffee machine. FML
by Anonymous / 12/11/2012 at 10:50pm / Australia (Queensland) / Work
Today, I stepped on the scale and realized that I weigh more than the amount of money that I have in my bank account. FML
by ihncredible / 12/10/2012 at 6:32pm / United States (Michigan) / Money
Today, I went on a blind date. My date turned out to be very hot, and I had high hopes. That is, until she ran her hand through her hair as she approached, sending some kind of horrifying, miasmic mist of dandruff and dead skin floating through the air behind her. FML
by HOLY SHIT, A WALKING SNOWGLOBE / 12/09/2012 at 4:52pm / United Kingdom (Barking and Dagenham) / Love
Today, my son got suspended from school. He's in kindergarten. FML
by Renzy / 12/12/2012 at 1:32pm / Kids
Today, I met my girlfriend's father for the first time; he asked me to explain my interest in dating her. In a mix of me trying to say "I want to be with your daughter" and "I want to be in your daughter's life" I got confused and said, "I want to be in your daughter." FML
by Tonguetied0496 / 12/10/2012 at 2:21am / United States (California) / Love
Today, I woke up to find my best friend lying down and unresponsive. Frightened, I tapped on the glass. He got scared and started swimming again. My best friend is a fish. FML
by Anonymous / 12/10/2012 at 5:40pm / Sweden (Vastmanlands Lan) / Animals
Today, I was riding the train and someone farted. Everyone looked at me. People always blame farts on the fat guy. FML
by Banana / 12/04/2012 at 11:04am / Puerto Rico / Transportation
Today, "The Phantom of the Opera" soundtrack blasted me awake at 4 am. Not knowing how it got on my iPod, I checked and found I had bought the whole $17.00 album in my sleep. This is the second time this month; the first time I downloaded the soundtrack from "The Wizard of Oz". FML
by hailey / 12/10/2012 at 12:10am / United States (Maryland) / Money
Today, the guy I'm dating found out I have severe arachnophobia. He downloaded a picture of a huge, hairy spider and set it as background on my iPhone. I can't even unlock my phone, as every time I try, the spider pops up and I drop the phone. He laughs every time I do it. FML
by skinnybitch / 12/11/2012 at 1:09pm / Denmark (Hovedstaden) / Love
Today, my daughter finally gave birth to twin boys. She informed me that she named them Peregrin Took and Meriadoc Brandybuck. My grandsons are named after Hobbits. FML
by Anonymous / 12/06/2012 at 11:49pm / United States (Minnesota) / Kids
Today, I faced a dilemma. If I don't let the cat sleep in my bedroom, she spends all night howling at the door, waking up my 2-year-old in the process. If I do let her in, the dog gets distressed and chews the contents of the bin. If I let both of them in, I have no room to sleep. FML
by SweetheartSusie / 12/04/2012 at 4:19am / United Kingdom / Animals
- 1Today, my parents let me babysit my baby sister for the first time. About an hour after they left,… 2Today, I saw an elderly lady fall over in the street. Nobody bothered to do anything, so I went… 3Today, I was fired for being late to work, even though the only reason I was late was because I had…


text:
Chat with Jon Anik
A new episode of MMA Live, which debuted on ESPN.com and ESPN Mobile TV in May of 2008, airs every Thursday at 3 p.m. ET. MMA Live can also be seen whenever it fits your schedule. Just head to the MMA Live video hub on ESPN.com. Anik is joined on the show by two lead analysts: Top UFC Lightweight contender Kenny Florian, and MMA writer Franklin McNeil. Suggestions for the show? Send them to firstname.lastname@example.com!
Anik started at ESPN in February of 2006 working for ESPN Radio, before moving over to the digital media platforms early in 2007. An avid MMA advocate and fan, Anik has hosted a boxing radio show in Boston for the last four years, covering more than 25 championship fights in Las Vegas and throughout the United States.
Send your questions now and join Anik in chat every Wednesdayat 12:30 p.m. ET!
Jon Anik (12:26 PM)
Welcome back for another MMA Live chat, and thanks for joining us a day early this week. We are getting all jacked up for our trip to Las Vegas for UFC 94. We leave immediately after the show tomorrow. We've got a lot to do, so it'll be a quick chat today. Fire away.
Bobby- Watertown, MA
Jon- Please give us your UFC 94 predictions.
Jon Anik (12:29 PM)
As I've said before, I would rather wait until I get to Vegas and have a chance to see and talk to the fighters before going on the record. But, since this is our final chat before UFC 94, I'll let you know where I'm leaning. I think if GSP-Penn goes the distance, that certainly favors St. Pierre. I will take GSP in a unanimous decision. Also like Lyoto Machida, fairly convincingly over fellow unbeaten Thiago Silva. Stephan Bonnar will finish Jon Jones in Round 2. And Nate Diaz submits Clay Guida, also in the second round.
Ben (Columbus, OH)
Jon, Glad I stopped by the page today and saw that the chat is today! Are they gonna hook you guys up with nicer headsets and whatnot on set this weekend? The ones you guys had to wear last time took me back to my youth in the 80's!
Jon Anik (12:30 PM)
Hahaha...not sure what is planned for the headsets. I'll be sure to voice that complaint for you. We hope you'll tune in for our live coverage at UFC 94. It all begins with the Weigh-In Special at 3:30 PT/6:30 ET on Friday.
Finn (Seattle, WA)
Hey Jon, think Thiago Silva will be able to push the pace enough to get Lyoto out of his counter-striking approach?
Jon Anik (12:31 PM)
You'd have to think that'll be the strategy, Finn. But now that Machida appears to (finally) be on the cusp of a title shot, I don't expect him to lose.
Drew (Johnson City, TN - formerly Denver, CO)
Hey manic...I've missed all the chats of the New Year, but I'm back baby! What do you think happens to the UFC LW and WW title pictures if Penn wins the fight Saturday?
Jon Anik (12:33 PM)
Unacceptable. Just kidding. Good to have you back. As for the fallout after UFC 94, I think its a disaster if BJ Penn wins. Then, what happens? If Penn wins, I think the UFC will make him go back down to 155 and defend his title first against Kenny Florian. As for the WW title, perhaps Thiago Alves faces GSP, and the winner there gets BJ Penn (a trilogy fight with GSP, or his first title defense against Alves). It's basically a question of who deserves to fight for the belt first, Florian or Thiago Alves? This space says Ken-Flo.
dusty southaven ms [via mobile]
do you think BJ penn taking a vacation towards the end of his camp will hurt him against (GSP)Georges St. Pierre?
Jon Anik (12:33 PM)
Nope. BJ is supremely focused for the fight. Vacation won't be an issue.
Jesse: ( charlotte, nc) [via mobile]
What are you predicting will happen between IFC newcomer jonny bones jones and vetran stephan bonnar?
Jon Anik (12:34 PM)
Jon Jones is certainly no slouch and a very gifted, versatile athlete. But he's still green, having trained in MMA for less than 20 months. Stephan, on the other side, has a wealth of experience, and I expect that to prevail. Jones will be competitive, though.
Mike chicago,illinois [via mobile]
Do you think that a Fedor v Lesner fight will happen anytime this year or at all?
Jon Anik (12:34 PM)
I think it will happen at some point down the line, Mike. But I'm just not convinced it will be in 2009. Best guess would be 2010.
Josh (Cheraw, SC)
What's up Jon? Why is everybody ragging on Fedor like he was just getting dominated in that 1st round? I think it speaks volumes about what everybody really, truly believes...that regardless of what Dana White or whoever says, Fedor is the best in the world by a longshot, and nobody should be able to test him in the ring. I think Fedor came in with the perfect gameplan. It seemed to me that he was trying to bait Arlovski into becoming agressive. I mean watch the knockout punch, Fedor bounces off the ropes with his hands virtually by his side...What professional fighter you know would do that other than to bait the other fighter? Fedor's a smart guy i'm sure he seen the Arlovski-Sylvia fight and thought if I can get him to come at me I can knock him out.
Jon Anik (12:36 PM)
That's a long one, Josh. Try to shorten it up in the future, so I can post it. But I agree with most of your sentiments. I don't think Fedor was stunned, and do believe he coaxed the mistake out of Arlovski. This victory certainly vaults Emelianenko to the top of my P4P list.
Kaplan, LA [via mobile]
Why does it seem that everyone knows Fedor's the best except Dana White? Will we ever see Fedor before he's out of his prime fight in the UFC r will Dana White continue procrastinating until Fedor's too old to fight so he loses to a nobody and Dana can say I told you so!!!
Jon Anik (12:37 PM)
Kaplan, that depends largely on Affliction's future/staying power. If Affliction stays in operation, they will continue to showcase Fedor. But if they happen to fold, I think you will finally see Fedor join the UFC. And then, the debate will finally get decided inside the Octagon.
erik ny
jon first you are the man on mma live what bo u think about the iceman vs shogun
Jon Anik (12:38 PM)
Thanks, Erik. I think it is a classic must-win for both guys. I lean towards Rua. I just think Liddell, rededicated or otherwise, is just not the same guy. Rua may not be either, but he is just 27 and, in my opinion, more likely to regain his top form than The Iceman.
NR [via mobile]
Does this chat feel different being at a weird time? Do you miss Cowboy Ron?
Jon Anik (12:39 PM)
It is absolutely bizarre chatting on a Wednesday, without our standard flock of regulars. Cowboy Ron is missed, but perhaps not as much as some others. He's been inconsistent lately.
Ben (Columbus, OH)
Does a decisive win by either BJ or GSP surplant Fedor at the top of your list?
Jon Anik (12:40 PM)
Good question, Ben. Quite possibly. We should address this again after UFC 94.
josh (columbus,oh)
if gsp wins do you think he will move up to fight silva?
Jon Anik (12:41 PM)
Yes. I think that is definitely the next mega-fight the UFC has in the works. Might he defend the title once more beforehand? Perhaps, but I'd say its unlikely.
tommy (mn) [via mobile]
Diaz title shot
Jon Anik (12:41 PM)
...still 2-3 fights away.
Joe chicago il [via mobile]
Jon, i'm curious to see what you think.. Does lesnar have the staying power to be around and successful in the long term or will he be the next big thing to fade out of mma?
Jon Anik (12:42 PM)
Brock is not going anywhere. I'm not saying he will remain the UFC HW champion indefinitely, but Brock is very much committed to an MMA career. He is the anti-Kimbo.
Ben (Columbus)
Sorry to keep submitting questions, but as a boxing guy what do you make of Larry Merchant's comments about De La Hoya and Affliction? Why is there so much animosity from boxing towards MMA?
Jon Anik (12:44 PM)
I just think a lot of old school boxing guys are fearful or MMA's growth, and disappointed that MMA has passed boxing as the No. 1 combat sport. Larry addressed the matter today on sherdog.com. I don't believe Merchant was lying about the information he received, but perhaps he twisted it a bit. I encourage you to read the piece on Sherdog.com. I know Larry from covering boxing for years, and he's a good man.
Drew (Johnson City, TN)
What did you think of Varner's performance on Sunday?
Jon Anik (12:44 PM)
He looked great, Drew. Just disappointed, like the rest of you, that the fight had to be stopped prematurely.
Steve (Ithaca)
Word today is that Brock Larson is injured and out of his fight with Condit, so UFC is bringing Condit up, potentially to fight Kampmann at the UFN in April. Where do you see Condit in the UFC WW rankings? Edge of the top ten, or even higher?
Jon Anik (12:45 PM)
We were actually discussing Condit's place this morning in our production meeting. Definitely in the Top 10, Steve. Albeit in the bottom half.
Your agent (Bristol, CT)
Which non-UFC fighter would you give the best chance of giving Anderson Silva a run for his money? Lawler? Vitor? .... Frank Shamrock?
Jon Anik (12:45 PM)
How about Smokin' Joe Villasenor?
Jon Anik (12:47 PM)
In all seriousness, I would say Vitor Belfort or Gegard Mousasi, the latter of whom says he wants to move up to heavyweight. Inside the UFC, I think Demain Maia has the best chance to dethrone The Spider (amongst current middleweights who haven't had a shot).
CT [via mobile]
You have an agent?!?!?
Jon Anik (12:47 PM)
Wouldn't you like to know?
Joe chicago il [via mobile]
Jon where do you see tito signing to fight when he can come back to the octagon, will he stay with affliction or will dana white and tito put there differences aside and bring him back to the ufc?
Jon Anik (12:47 PM)
As long as he puts down the microphone, I don't care where he fights. In all seriousness, I do think Tito has a lot left in the tank. I expect he will fight for Affliction. I do not expect the UFC to match the offer.
Dhee (Kaplan, LA) [via mobile]
Do u think Machida has a chance against Silva?
Jon Anik (12:48 PM)
Has a chance? He's favored. Yes.
Dana (Fort Dodge, IA)
Newcomer to the chat; love the Live Show. Question: What do you think it is going to take to get MMA more recognition on ESPN? I know it has grown vastly on the network in the past year, but, like most MMA fans, I would love to see more. Thanks.
Jon Anik (12:49 PM)
Great to have you in the chat, Dana. We are usually here Thursdays at 2:30 ET, but we are headed to Las Vegas tomorrow. As for ESPN's recognition of MMA, it's coming along, slowly but surely. MMA Live has momentum, and the sport's ratings (Spike TV, PPV #s, etc.) are hard to ignore. ESPN does not ignore ratings. Keep e-mailing the show and making your voice heard.
Finn (Seattle, WA)
You didn't enjoy Tito Ortiz, attorney at law? Cool suit!
Jon Anik (12:49 PM)
Dhee (Kaplan, LA) [via mobile]
I'm sorry I meant Anderson Silva!!!
Jon Anik (12:50 PM)
No worries. Didn't mean to jump on you. I think Machida would have a very good chance to at least frustrate Anderson Silva. But they are friends and have expressed hesitation about fighting one another in the past.
Oaks (NY)
Is Brock Lesnar for real? 3 fights and hes champion? I seen him in the WWF and he was a beast, granted its written, he just looked physically superior.
Jon Anik (12:51 PM)
He is an absolute monster. I had to stand on a stool to interview him at UFC 91 (not my choice, by the way). Brock is a tremendous athlete and very dedicated to MMA. He's gonna be a force to be reckoned with for some time.
Pat (Chicago)
When BJ Penn wins this weekend, what happens to the titles in those divisions. Alves or Florian is going to be left out for a while.
Jon Anik (12:52 PM)
How about Pat's confidence in The Prodigy? When, not if, huh? Check earlier in the chat queue. Already shared my thoughts on what I think will happen, if Penn wins.
cedar rapids iowa [via mobile]
So what are the chances of a faber vs penn fight?
Jon Anik (12:53 PM)
I would say remote at this point. Faber has plenty of challengers at 145, and he's no longer the champion.
Lonnie Clinton oklahoma [via mobile]
How do a man get into MMA or is just like Wwe just entertainment
Jon Anik (12:54 PM)
I was reluctant to even post this question. MMA is real. WWE is staged. Mixed martial arts features some of the best athletes in the world. It is real competition. Many of the top MMA fighters are former DI wrestlers, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champions, etc. There's no comparison.
Pat (Chicago)
Knockout round 2 you heard it here first. Is this now a wednesday thing?
Jon Anik (12:55 PM)
No, we are back to Thursdays next week. Just going a day early b/c I'll be on a plane to Vegas at this time tomorrow.
Derek (Yonkers, NY)
Do you think MMA will be sanctioned in NY this year? If so, when do you think UFC has its first event at MSG, and what would be your 'dream' main event for it?
Jon Anik (12:56 PM)
I think 2009 will be the year that MMA finally is sanctioned in New York, in large part because of the sunset clause in the new proposal (See Episode #37 of MMA Live for details). As for the first event, how about UFC 100 at Madison Square Garden on July 4th with Anderson Silva against Georges St. Pierre as the headliner? I don't think it will happen by July, however.
Luke - St Louis, MO [via mobile]
Jon, don't you think it will be terrible for the UFC if Machida gets a shot at the title and wins? Don't you think he is just too boring, and hudts the sport by keeping Anderson Silva at 185
Jon Anik (12:57 PM)
I am not in the camp of those who think Machida is dreadfully boring. I have a certain appreciation for his style. That said, I do think the UFC agrees with you in some part. And that is likely why he hasn't already been granted a title shot at 205. If he wins Saturday, he will get Rashad Evans.
Johnny Van [via mobile]
Does Frank Mir have a chance to beat Lesnar again? Mir seems recommited to working hard!
Jon Anik (12:57 PM)
Yes he does, and I agree.
Dhee (Kaplan, LA) [via mobile]
Machida has beaten BJ Penn Rich Franklin and Tito Ortiz all present or past UFC champions why is he fighting Silva? Where's his title shot? I think he deserves one.
Jon Anik (12:58 PM)
No argument here.
Pat (Chicago)
What did you think of the Versus interviewer asking Jens Pulver if he was still relevant in the division after the Faber fight. That seems to have rubbed a lot of fans the wrong way.
Jon Anik (12:59 PM)
Didn't like the way the question was phrased, Pat. If you want to ask a retirement question, that is fine. But it is not Pulver's job to determine his own relevancy. That is up to the WEC. No way to treat the first-ever UFC LW champion.
Anik Fan (CT)
Will we ever see Shogun Rua back in top form like he once was in Pride? His conditioning is a serious concern and he barely finished a gassed aging Mark Coleman.
Jon Anik (12:59 PM)
So I have one. Phew. I think Rua's next fight will tell us all we need to know about his future. While I don't think he'll ever be the Shogun of old, I still think there is something left to offer.
Paul (CT)
How much does Jens Pulver have left? He has lost three in a row now... Do you think the Faber fight could have been competetive if he didn't get paralyzed by that liver shot?
Jon Anik (1:01 PM)
Good question, Paul. I think Jens is all but done. I was not excited for the Faber rematch because he lost 24 of the 25 minutes in their first fight. I fully expected he'd get trounced the second time around, and that's precisely what happened.
Ryan (Jersey City, NJ)
Do you think that Zuffa would ever consider an Ultimate Fighter for the WEC to get them more depth and exposure? Thanks Jon, love you guys on MMA Live! Keep up the good work!
Jon Anik (1:02 PM)
Thanks, Ryan. Perhaps the WEC would entertain it. But I think more likely is a UFC Primetime-type show that would focus on one particular mega-fight, such as Miguel Torres vs. Urijah Faber, the WEC's two biggest stars.
Dan, Mobile [via mobile]
Can you promise me a GSP vistory over Penn? By far this will be the most difficult fight for GSP and this will prove that he is the king of 170.
Jon Anik (1:02 PM)
Can't promise it, Dan. But I do promise you this is a MUCH different GSP than we saw in the first fight with Penn back in 2006.
Phil - St. Louis, MO
Jon- Thanks for the chat! Is there any chance international fighters will be brought in to the UFC to deepen the talent base? Guys like Overeem, Mousasi, Jacare?
Jon Anik (1:03 PM)
Sure. If you saw Dana White's video blog, he is already courting a few top international names, Kid Yamamoto and Caol Uno.
Charlotte nc [via mobile]
Hey jon do u see a grand prix style tourney in the ufc future?
Jon Anik (1:04 PM)
No. I think the days of MMA tournaments are over in the United States. The overwhelming majority of fighters I talk to want nothing to do with multiple fights in one night.
Brandon, Arizona [via mobile]
So obviously Rashad Evans has the title now but to me that doesn't mean he's the best in his division, who would you say is the best light heavywieght fighter today?
Jon Anik (1:05 PM)
Meant to get to this question earlier, Brandon. I do have Rashad as the No. 1 light heavyweight in the world right now. I think Rampage Jackson is a close second, and I have Lyoto Machida third.
Brian (Chicago)
Do you see a title fight in the near future for Clay Guida if he were to get past Diaz at UFN - seeing his past couple of fight (even the loss to huerta) and especially the excitement factor that comes with him
Jon Anik (1:06 PM)
I don't, Brian. The Carpenter is certainly exciting, but the list of 155 lb. contenders is long, and Guida is way down the list. Now, a win over Nate Diaz would give him an appreciable bump. But he'd need at least 2 more wins thereafter to warrant a title shot, in my opinion.
Jim (Acton, MA)
Do you think that Fedor will fight Barnett even after his comment that they are friends?
Jon Anik (1:07 PM)
Yes, I do. Money talks, and Barnett seems to me to be the only logical next opponent. Unless, of course, Affliction looked outside the organization for a top heavyweight. Who's that guy? I don't know. Overeem? Doesn't excite me. I really want to see the Fedor-Barnett fight.
brad, orlando, fl [via mobile]
With fedor knocking out of Arlovski and submission of Silvia, is it safe now to call him the best pound for pound fighter in the world?
Jon Anik (1:08 PM)
He's on the top of my list. The big knock on Fedor was a lack of quality competition of late. Now, he's taken out two former UFC HW champions, and with ease. He's the No. 1 P4P fighter in the world.
Ahmed (Hanford, CA)
Whoa.. didn't see chat coming a day early. So Jon, not sure if you caught WEC this past Sunday, but was it me or did Jamie Varner put on a bit of an act after Cerrone's "illegal" knee? Jens Pulver's tears earlier that night were genuine... Varner's were not.
Jon Anik (1:09 PM)
I agree, Ahmed. In his defense, he had a broken foot, a broken hand, and was definitely winning the fight. Sure, he left himself open to some criticism, but his objective was to walk away with the belt. And he did.
Mean Joe Greene (Pittsburgh)
Sokoudjou was released by the UFC after going 1-2, and then loses to Babalu. What's next for Thierry? Is he still for real?
Jon Anik (1:10 PM)
Sokoudjou must go back to the drawing board. We will ask Florian about it tomorrow on MMA Live. Seems as though his training is a bit incomplete.
Hondo (Boston, MA)
Wait, we're chatting on Wednesday today. What was your take on Affliction's broadcasting of Matt Lindland's post knockout recovery?
Jon Anik (1:12 PM)
Only this week, Hondo. I'll be flying to Vegas tomorrow. I thought Affliction could've handled the Lindland injury differently. Instead of showing a replay, they kept the camera on Lindland trying to recover without much information. I was happy, however, that they then went to the locker room later and got an update on his condition. The UFC rarely, if ever, will do that.
Jamie Varner
I can't see!
Shoney -- maine
Is the old Belfort back? That was a sick KO!!
Jon Anik (1:12 PM)
I think he is. And Shoney is back in the chat room!
Jon Rochester, NY [via mobile]
Who do you feel will be the suprise star or stars of the mma world this year?
Jon Anik (1:14 PM)
I think Nate Diaz will take a huge next step. I think King Mo Lawal will become a must-sign for the UFC. I like Satoru Kitaoka. Also think Demain Maia will continue to submit all comers, but he has sort of already arrived. And Jose Aldo may actually be the best featherweight in the world.
Ahmed (Hanford, CA)
Sorry for the double post before, Jon. So where does Mosley go from here after that brutal pounding of Margarito? I'm hoping for a rematch with Cotto.
Jon Anik (1:14 PM)
I'd like to see it. Very happy for Sugar Shane.
Joe (CT)
Do you think Dana White would consider bringing Babalu back to the UFC if he continues finishing opponents?
Jon Anik (1:15 PM)
Doubtful. His performance was very impressive, but that bridge is burned with finality.
Zac from Seattle wa [via mobile]
I love watching the featherweights for free in EEC but it seems they're getting snubbed when it comes to national attention. Thoughts?
Jon Anik (1:16 PM)
The little guys always deliver, but they will always be up against it for national recognition. Unfortunately, there are a lot of fans who just don't tune in for fights under welterweight. That's why a lightweight fight rarely headlines a UFC PPV.
Jon Rochester, NY [via mobile]
A two piece for ya jon, reguarding deigo 'the nightmare' sanchez.. What's on his plate now and when will he finally get a title shot?
Jon Anik (1:17 PM)
He is moving down to lightweight, Jon. His LW debut is at UFC 95 next month against Joe Stevenson.
Jake (Wellington, FL)
Does Cheik Kongo get the winner of Mir/Lesnar? Or does he need to fight the winner of Gabriel Gonzaga/Shane Carwin to decide the next #1 contender?
Jon Anik (1:18 PM)
Great question, Jake. I think both scenarios are possibilities. Kongo was supposed to fight Lesnar sometime after UFC 87, but pulled out with injury. Then, Couture returned, etc. But mark it down...the next HW challenger will be one of the three guys you just mentioned.
There has been a considerable amount of buzz over the UFC video game coming out in a few months. Will this game really impact the sport? I know the NFL has Madden. It's about time the UFC gets a great game. It looks amazing!
Jon Anik (1:19 PM)
Don't expect it to have a Madden-like impact, but its as good a fighting video game as I've ever seen. Very realistic.
Bruce (Houston ,TX)
Jon, I'm picking GSP to win this Saturday, but let's assume for a moment that BJ wins. Do you think he would have a chance against a beast like Thiago Alves??? I think if BJ gets the title he will lose it just as fast.
Jon Anik (1:20 PM)
Quite possible, Bruce. Alves walks around over 200 lbs., and would look enormous head-to-head with BJ Penn. Size doesn't always prevail, but it doesn't hurt, either.
Sammy (Chicago)
How do you see a fight between Anderson Silva and Vitor Belfort going the way Vitor looks at 185 right now?
Jon Anik (1:20 PM)
Hopefully we get to see it. I'd still favor Silva.
Darnell Indianapolis indiana [via mobile]
How can I get into MMA as a fighter?Also where is KIMBO SLICE?
Jon Anik (1:21 PM)
Kimbo could end up fighting in Japan, but his heart does not appear to be in MMA. We'll see what happens once the EliteXC mess is resolved. As for embarking on an MMA career, my best advice is to take a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lesson or eight, and see if you like it.
Bradley (Regina, Saskatchewan)
Varner shamed the WEC by giving up in that fight. He quit because his hand was broken and he was gassed. The illegal blow barely landed. Varner saw a chance to keep his belt and he took it. The way he was pretending to be all concussed was embarassing and difficult to watch.
Jon Anik (1:22 PM)
Many share your opinion.
Chris (Amsterdam)
Jon, what about Fedor/King Mo?
Jon Anik (1:22 PM)
That is intriguing, Chris. But I'm not sure King Mo is ready for that challenge, just a handful of fights into his career.
Jason (Bmore)
Taking an assumption for what it is, GSP beats Penn, and UFC runs to setup GSP/Silva. When would that happen, and would Silva be an overwhelming favorite?
Jon Anik (1:23 PM)
Could happen at UFC 100. I don't think it would happen at UFC 99, because that is in Germany. As for the betting line, Silva would be favored, but not necessarily an overwhelming one. I'd say -160.
Tito Ortiz
Let me tell you how you feel..
Jon Anik (1:23 PM)
Hahaha...how about you ask a question?
Judge - LA [via mobile]
I think Floyd should come back to fight Mosley who would you take to win?
Jon Anik (1:24 PM)
I agree and am a huge Mayweather fan, but this is an MMA chat, and I've gotten myself in trouble before.
Jordan Ga [via mobile]
When do you think forest will get another shot at Evans
Jon Anik (1:24 PM)
Once his hand heals, and once Rampage gets his chance first.
Jordan, Baton Rouge
Is Rampage getting a title shot after the Jardine fight or will Rashard defend the belt against Silva/Machida 1st?
Jon Anik (1:25 PM)
I think the Machida-Silva winner is worthy of the next title shot, and will get it. But as long as Rampage gets through Jardine, he would be next. The biggest LHW fight that the UFC can make is Rashad-Rampage, with a Rampage-Forrest rematch a close second.
dfgg [via mobile]
Tito Ortiz asks a "question" in every chat. Do you think he ever actually has watched the show?
Jon Anik (1:26 PM)
Yes, Tito Ortiz has watched MMA Live. Franklin McNeil asked him once and he confirmed that he had seen it.
Jon Anik (1:28 PM)
Alright, folks. Hate to cut it short after a great hour, but we've got a bunch of meetings before heading to Las Vegas tomorrow. Thanks for checking out the chat a day early. We are back to our regular time next Thursday at 2:30 ET. And remember: MMA Live at UFC 94! Coverage throughout the weekend here on espn.com, beginning with the Weigh-In Special Friday at 3:30 PT/6:30 ET. So check us out! Until next time... -JA
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