“I Matter” because…
"I Matter" Interactive dance performance by Nadra Assaf and Al-Sarab Dance Troupe
It was all confusing at the end. I stood there speechless, unable to find the proper words... it was pure luck that I remembered to breathe.
I tried to make sense of it all, and while it made perfect sense (for it was as it should have been), I could only wonder how this has never been done before. Not like this. Not in this way.
The previous lines, I hope, explain exactly how I felt after watching a dear friend and her group of wonderful dancers perform a little “experiment” called “I Matter”. But first, a little secret:
For as much as I love the arts, I never really felt anything towards the abstract forms; rather, I steered clear unless, much like this past Saturday, it was in support of a friend. (thank you for insisting)
So here I go to walk you through what is in fact, not a performance, nor a dance, nor an abstraction of a performance-dance. It is, quite simply, an experience. Of which kind? Stick around.
We were being led from one room to the next by the dancers. But first, as Nadra spoke the words that would indeed change your perspective on life, on what you think of others... on what you think of yourself... she starts shifting people around... be it dancers or innocent audience members.
The dancing, well that was happening right in between us. We stood there, afraid to move, afraid to block the passage for those who were flying amongst us. What moved me most though, were the expressions held on their faces. They smiled, then stared, they felt loss, pain, sadness. They smiled again.
They challenged each and every one of us to look straight into their very souls and see. They wanted to see just how we, just how I, affected this very moment. They bumped into one another, they bumped into us, they shook us right out of our reality into a world, where words stop making sense. For once in my life, I did not try to make sense of abstraction, but abstraction tried to make sense out of me.
They screamed, they were silent. They moved, they stood still. They were the most beautiful contradiction, I ever had the pleasure to witness.
They moved us again, to the initial room. On the platform, were 2 of the dancers. Wrapped in duct tape. The lights were dim. They wiggled, they moved about, they tried to break free from their self-imposed shackles. What were the shackles though? I am sure your understanding would have been different from mine. They finish and we are, again, led to the other room.
Some are placed dead center, some around. The dancers form a tight group in the middle of the room... but as you prepare for their motion, there she comes, flying into them... no hesitation... no anticipation... zooming past you and flying into the faces of the troupe. They collapse on the floor.
But now, it is time for the audience to participate. Now, as one by one the dancers awake, Nadra picks some of us to mimic one specific dancer. Everyone complies, however hesitantly.
It’s almost over... were are now led atop the platform, and the dancers are dancing with us... we’re smiling.... we feel good about ourselves... we like this... but then a scream and in a split second all the dancers are off the platform, and much like someone who has been stripped of their clothes in the blink of an eye... we stood on up there... shocked... but then, the dancers... they started clapping... for us...
it was... well... it was the necessary orgasm at the end of love making. Without it, it’s pointless. In fact, it was the whole reason of why we had to go through the dance... We couldn’t just be placed on the platform and then have them clap now could we?
I didn’t clap... not fast... not at first... because I flashed back.... I re-witnessed every second of this.... experience... and I saw it... I understood:
First, was the flirting. Then came the soft kisses and warm embrace. After that, foreplay, followed by passionate love making, leading all the way up to the final orgasm. It was beautiful. It all made sense.
To Nadra Assaf and Al-Sarab Dance Troupe,
Thank you for reminding me of just how important I am. Thank you for sharing your most intimate selves with me. Thank you for the smiles, and the shocks. Thank you for being you.
I came in a friend, but I left a lover.
The magnificence of the performance, was perfect. Not almost... but perfect.... The difference for me was in the form of the wonderful dancer who wore the glasses.
Thank you all.... for it was, truly, orgasmic.
Marc Khoury
Thoughtful Email #15 – What’s A Mother?
What is it about mothers that makes them so special?
Is it their food? the way they know how to cook things just right? or maybe it is the way they smile when they see you... it’s different, more genuine... but is that it? what about the knowledge that they will love you no matter what? no matter what you say, or do... they can’t seem to be capable of Not loving you... I can’t figure it out. Not for lack of trying though...
I think back at my life, and focus on just one person... my mother. She has her uniqueness, her own little quirks that make her who she is, as a person, a friend, a mother. What are they? well, only the blessed few know... but that is not what I wanted to share with you.
Lately, many of my friends have become mothers themselves... at first I knew one or two, but now the number has grown. And while this may be a constant reminder of time passing by, it is also one of the most interesting and beautiful images I have seen.
A mother looks at you with care in her eyes, just behind that little bit of judgement... they can’t help it.
A mother annoys you just enough to remind you she knows better... and as frustrating as it may be, they usually do know better.
A mother hugs you just the right way... even when you don’t want to be hugged.
A mother knows what you want, what you need, even before you know it yourself.
I can go on forever... everyone knows what a mother does, we all have our own little stories... but I have been searching hard and long to find one word... just one word that would express truly what a mother is... something that can be universal... or not.
I write to you on this occasion, because I believe I have found that word... it was surprising really, but looking at all the mothers I know... starting with my own, and then at all my dear friends... I know what it is...
Regardless of all the negative stuff about ‘women’ that we, men, can say... when we look at our mothers, at the mothers of our children... there is one thing only that goes through our minds.
A mother... is Perfect.
She’s perfect to you.
She’s perfect for you.
She’s perfect with you.
And so I started thinking about myself, and what I have done... for her, for me... hoping that I make her proud... for there is nothing else a mother actually asks of you, is there?
Now I don’t know about me, and I don’t know about you, but here’s a little thought I wanted to share with you:
May your mothers be proud of you, happy to see you smile, laugh, succeed and live life the way you want to live it.
May you see them smile for eternity...
May you never lose the sensation of their sweet embrace...
To all the mothers I know,
To all the mothers of those I know,
To all the mothers to be,
To my own mother,
Happy Mother’s Day... though a day is never enough to celebrate your existence.
Marc Khoury
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Important Notice: You are free to use this text, in full or in part, at your own discretion, all i ask in return is that you give me due credit for my writing, and a copy or reference to where it was used. Any offense is completely unintended. Should you wish to be removed or added to this mailing list then simply email me with your request, and i shall be glad to comply. Suggestions as to topics or comments are all welcome and advised. All the Thoughtful Emails will be archived in the Blog under the Thoughtful Emails category.
Thoughtful Email #14 – Relationships
Early on in our lives, boys have something of a dislike to girls, we don’t like them, we don’t want to play with them, and simply put we don’t want them around us. However, at one point in our lives, around those teen years, we discover what i will refer to as “genital motion”. in other words, erections. Yes, it is that time when we look with wonder at our genitals as they suddenly stand proudly from between our legs, offering up a strange feeling. Eventually, we understand this is caused by looking at young women. Now some, might keep a certain dislike for women, while others quickly embrace the phenomenon and start looking forward to spending more and more time with girls. That is called, sexual curiosity.
From then on, life changes permanently. We (males) can’t stop thinking about women, we like them, we want to play with them, and simply put we want them around us. Again, this applies to most people. Thus does the miracle of relationships begin. I say miracle, for there truly is nothing stranger and more confusing than wanting to be with one another.
It is said, and adopted by many as pure fact, that “women are from venus and men are from mars”. I have never fully understood why, but... to a certain extent it is true. We are very different. Differences exist between each and every individual, but even more so, between men and women. Nonetheless, we want to be in a relationship with one another. We long for it, we seem to desperately need it, to the extent of it becoming somewhat of an obsession. Why?
It is also seen as strange, and sometimes wrong, to not be in a relationship, or not want one. You should have it. You can not possibly consider being single and alone. Which is basically why many relationships fail. And yet, we remain hopeful, forever searching for our “soul mates”. For there can be only one. Or so we are made to believe. This is made easier to accept when you look at the many successful relationships. So many people are actually happy. They must be doing something right!!!
So what am i saying? what am i trying to achieve from the aforementioned blabber? Just a small point of view:
Relationships are the driving force behind the success of all those we admire most in our lives. Relationships are the energy of our lives. And we should not get into them. We should avoid them like the plague. Unless.... unless it just happens. think about that for a second, please take a moment. “Unless it just happens”. Did you think about it? good! If you let things happen, whichever relationship you get into, will drive you to your success and uttermost achievement. If you let it happen, it will give you wings (try not to think redbull). If you let it happen, it will surely be the greatest event of your life.
Too many times we try too hard, we push for things even when it is painfully obvious, just how wrong and bad the outcome will be. Like a doe caught in the headlights of an oncoming truck, this will be the person we want to be with, and we are the deer prancing towards her... the TRUCK IS COMING... Regardless of the loud horn, we seem helpless to stop moving.... When the truck hits, it will be the visual representation of a relationship failing. We change our very being for the sake of a relationship... which in itself destroys our very essence and with it, all chances of success.
But what do i know? I am just a guy still searching for my soul mate... i just hope the road is clear.
Marc Khoury
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Important Notice: You are free to use this text, in full or in part, at your own discretion, all i ask in return is that you give me due credit for my writing, and a copy or reference to where it was used. Any offense is completely unintended. Should you wish to be removed or added to this mailing list then simply email me with your request, and i shall be glad to comply. Suggestions as to topics or comments are all welcome and advised.
Book Review – “Whatever You Think, Think The Opposite” by Paul Arden
The initial thought i got, when i saw the book on display was: not another one!! although i must admit, the title was catchy, and the page i opened was interesting. so why did i not buy it? probably because of the many self-help and inspirational books out there, that are just plain silly. i did however, buy it eventually. hence the review.
the book is a 10 minute read (considering many people's average reading speed), it contains many photos for those of you who are verbose intolerant, and enough words to satisfy those of you who consider themselves thirsty for knowledge. DO NOT LET THAT FOOL YOU. just because it is a 10-min thing, does not mean it lacks the depth and insight you would expect from such books. it actually has more power than most other books i have read in a long time.
in short the book, written by a master of the creative industry, provides the quick lessons it would take us years to learn; it does so, with wit and easy flowing examples. almost nothing is without real life examples and that makes it all the more interesting to read.
Who is this book for? Everyone. Anyone. All those interested in taking charge in their lives and achieving their own version of success are best served through the reading of this book. You'll want to read it over and over again, and since it is a fast read, that would not be a problem to anyone.
If you ever do read it, drop me a line and tell me which is your favorite thought of them. Mine was the one about decisions. here's the amazon link.
Amazon.com: Whatever You Think, Think the Opposite (9781591841210 ...
Thoughtful Email #13 – Tonight I slept
We are who we are and driven by passion we sometimes be
Though fear might creep in, and in darkness drown us
We remain for the most part in our dreams so very free
i am thankful for the dreams i have had so far
but none so much as the one i had last night
as soon as into deep slumber i slipped i found myself in a car
driving fast with no sound at all, the wind blowing in my hair
i screamed of happiness but no voice came out.
But suddenly i stopped, and stood outside as the world spun out of control,
i turn around and there she was the woman of my dreams.
i wish i could say i dreamt of her all my life, but truth be told, it was my first time.
all turns black but i and her, as walk towards each other we did.
the first sound came, faded in, the soft beating of my heart urging me towards her.
I walked and so did she, for an endless time without ever reaching each other.
i spoke a thousand words but none were heard, and still i stumbled.
her face, her hair, her eyes, her body... it all moved towards a center that seemed located in me
i trembled, i breathed, i stopped, as suddenly upon me she was.
Her whispering voice, so sweet and soft, flew into the void,
my eager ears reaching out to feel that smooth embrace.
the words did reach, and my mind did fear,
for now, i know who she be, and why she’s here.
“fear not my love, it is not time, for you or me, to be wed in bliss,
but time will come, when you and me shall forever share this bed,
floating in darkness or sinking in light, hand in hand towards the end,
the eternal kiss you shall receive, but tonight, i simply check upon thee”
Marc Khoury
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Important Notice: You are free to use this text, in full or in part, at your own discretion, all i ask in return is that you give me due credit for my writing, and a copy or reference to where it was used. Any offense is completely unintended. Should you wish to be removed or added to this mailing list then simply email me with your request, and i shall be glad to comply. Suggestions as to topics or comments are all welcome and advised.
the mosquito that bled to death
as dusk was fast approaching, there was a little mosquito preparing its wings for flight. it was nothing unusual: the stretching exercises to avoid aches tomorrow, evasive maneuvers ensuring a longer life span and most important, the extension and breathing exercises to make sure the suction process happens clean and fast.
“tonight i will start before it is completely dark, get a head start on all the others”, thought the little mosquito, and with that buzzed itself into life.
there was a soft breeze blowing, but enough warmth to make it safe for our blood-sucker, and a breeze is always good, because it sometimes numbs people’s senses. with that in mind, the mosquito kept thinking all sorts of inspiring quotes, cheering itself to a night of success.
and boy did it feast, so much in fact, that it now needed to rest somewhere, because flight became too difficult due to the extra weight. drunk with blood, it found its way to the bathroom, with not a single ounce of regret or compassion, for the man whose sleep was disturbed during the feeding process.
the night was safe... and the mosquito went into some of the sweetest dreams it ever dreamt of, until it was shocked into waking by a sudden burst of light. the man has woken up.
it flew to a better hiding place, knowing that humans, upon waking have weak eyesight. going through his usual morning ritual, the man took no notice to the bug on the wall behind him... until he got into the shower.
as he turned around, enjoying the jet of hot water massaging his head, he saw it. standing there on the wall, stuffed black with his blood. the culprit was there for the taking and all was needed was a moment’s action.
SNAP!
one step close to the wall, one quick bursting movement of the hand, smashing the mosquito onto the wall. full of pride, he left it there as a trophy of his victory over the blood sucker. a few moments later, his celebration took a bigger turn. due to the steam from the hot water, the blood started trickling down the wall.
the wall is clean now, and no trace of the mosquito or it’s brethren for that matter. but that my friends, was the story of the mosquito that bled to death.
A New World Order (i hope)
Here we are, at the dawn of the 21st century, and we still witness the cruelties and ugliness of war due to some over greedy, over idiotic politics ruling the world. yet, within it all, from within really, seems to be rising a wonderful star, this is the new world order i wish for everyone.
A friend of mine has shown me Playing For Change the movement, and some of their videos. These guys are just amazing. the concept, quite simple, uniting the world through music. take a moment and visit their site, after which i hope you will join the cause... i sure have. Their URL is: http://www.playingforchange.com and here's a video from their youtube channel. Enjoy!
Marc
Well? Isn’t that nice?
You know, when I first started into this happy spree, I really thought I was doing myself a big favor. Honestly. I believe it was the best thing in the world... and for a while, it was working!
But then, something happened... it all started going downhill, no matter how positive i remained, it forced itself unto me... what is a man to do. Well actually nothing, you fight it, you resist it, and give it your best not give in, keeping the hope alive that it will all get better again. Because you know that it will.... i know it will...
Now here's the thing: it did. It did get better, and i started getting better myself, feeling better, more in tune.
That's not why i am writing though, and you guessed it didn't you? i am writing this particular entry because once i did get in tune, there it was, the "Coup de Grace" (or should I say Coup de Garce for the French speakers of you). The killing blow could not have come at a worse time and yet a great time.
here's the truth i wanted to share: let go of those positive thoughts and what not... life is not about negative and positive in the absolute sense but rather in the relative sense:
WHAT YOU FIND POSITIVE, WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL LIGHTER AND PUTS YOU IN A POSITIVE MOOD IS THE ONLY THING THAT IS POSITIVE. ALL ELSE IS NEGATIVE.
i hope you are not gonna be offended by the caps up there, but i want to drive the message home. It is about you and only you... there are no universal positives... and the sooner you get to grips with it, the sooner you will find your happiness.. do not lie to yourself... if you are a straightforward "prick" (much like me) then go ahead. like attracts like.... lie to yourself, you will attract people who lie to themselves and you!
There, i let it all out... and i feel much better... thank you for your time, i appreciate it.
cheers,
Marc
The Papal Condom
Don't get on my back just yet! read me out!
You see, it is no secret that I have major issues with organized religion... but this is something I have even more problems with! You see the pope, as representing the church, has declared the usage of condoms contrary to God's will... the same for all manners of contraception... if you are to have sex, it should be for the sake of reproduction... do not under any circumstance oppose that will, and therefore no condoms (we will leave the others aside for now)...
And so, as I was pondering the reasons why the pope would say such a thing, it suddenly dawned on me... a flash of memory... seeing the pope here, or on TV parading and saying hi to the people... much like a beauty queen... but he was being driven in a very... extremely... expensive bullet proof car... he's in a bullet-proof box... CAN YOU SEE THE HYPOCRISY?????
This is what I refer to as the Papal Condom... this box... i mean... where's the faith??? you're supposed to be the father of the church... it's biggest representative... the most devout of Christians... and you are wearing a condom???? what the @#$%?
Now some might argue that if it is God's will for the pope to die or be killed, it will happen regardless of bulletproof boxes... to which i answer... if God's will dictates that I have children every time I enjoy a night of sex with someone... it will happen regardless of condoms or any other form of contraception...
If you would kindly, therefore, abstain from criticizing my life, or even dictating the methods by which I should live, until you rid yourself of your Papal Condom...