Gangstarr knows the deal. "Take it Personal" is callin out all you suckas.
I'm not a big fan of people who don't mean what they say. Now I don't mean when you make a mistake and say one thing that means another. I'm talking about hypocrisy. Preaching one thing and doing another. A lot of people wonder why the young generation is so jaded; so cynical. A certain percentage are that way because it's a growing trend and the popular thing to do. Those who are actually jaded, are that way because of all those lying "righteous politicians", the religious leaders who lie, cheat, steal, and do immoral things, businessman who steal our investments and retirement funds, musicians who sell their soul to be mainstream successes, misleading infomercials, home equity loans, star athletes on steroids, and the startling uncertainty of the American dream.
Hypocrites in high places may be unaware of their powerful influence, but it truly is remarkable how much proverbial stock we purchase in influential people. One false move and you really can break a person's heart and through that disappointment it can possibly shape a person's life.
So as a result maybe if people kept their integrity, we'd be better off. More people would vote, trust in big corporations, safely believe in their local religious establishment, have access to more quality music, not waste money on stupid diet plans and Jack LaLanne Power Juicers, believe in our favorite athletes and quite possibly believe in the American Dream.
Or not.
The choice is yours.
The object is to enjoy life. Not leech from the very existence of the human race.
The Wackness was awarded the Audience Award for Dramatic Film at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.
Cast
Ben Kingsley as Dr. Jeffrey Squires
Josh Peck as Luke Shapiro
Famke Janssen as Kristin Squires
Olivia Thirlby as Stephanie Squires
Mary-Kate Olsen as Union
Method Man as Percy
David Wohl as Mr. Shapiro
Jane Adams as Eleanor
Talia Balsam as Mrs. Shapiro
Aaron Yoo as Justin
The Wackness is a coming of age story that many and possibly most people can relate to. When I first heard about this movie and the lead actor being Josh Peck, I definitely raised an eyebrow. How serious could a movie be with the fat kid from such Nickelodeon programming as the movie "Snow Day" and the show "Drake and Josh"? Why should I waste my time?
It all takes place in New York City, circa 1994. The peak of the golden age of Hip Hop. Luke Shapiro (Josh Peck) is a high school senior getting ready for graduation and his first semester of college. In the meantime he trades pot for psychiatry visits with his mentor/psychiatrist, Dr. Squires (Ben Kingsley). At the same time, Luke has a serious crush on Dr. Squires's step daughter, Stephanie Squires (Olivia Thirlby) whom is pretty well known at school. Luke is not the most popular kid in school and is awkward in most situations when it comes to speaking with Stephanie. Luckily for Luke, all of her friends go away for the summer and she chooses to hang around with him. Every lame kid's dream.
During the long hot summer, Luke and his parents go through a financial crisis that requires him to put the burden of provider squarely on his two shoulders. With an ingenious idea to make money quickly, we're taken on an adventure that spans an entire summer. The old school 90s soundtrack is heavily laced with nostalgia and is incredibly thematic. This movie is for those who have been heartbroken, the hip-hop heads, also Rock aficionados, people looking for a little culture and enlightenment, and especially those not looking for a traditional Hollywood movie.
I learned a lot about myself from the movie. I definitely identify with one of the best quotes in the film:
"So that was all bullshit right? All that stuff about embracing your pain, making it a part of you? You can't do this, you can't just give up. Life is hard and it's full of pain and what-not, but we take it cause there's great stuff too. And we can do it cause we have friends- because we have each other" - Luke Shapiro
I implore you. Come learn a little bit about yourself. Take a look in the mirror. You might finish the movie, a different person.
Oh yeah, and Method Man is a Jamaican drug dealer. Watch it!
Poor Buggin' Out. His OG Cement IVs would fetch upwards of $1,000, if he kept 'em in the shoebox.
Like any upcoming business, there is an initial business model. A plan of what they want to accomplish as a company and how they will do it. But to be a successful business, you have to understand when the business model has to change and adapt. Inflation rates, cost of production, differing trends, all contribute to why a company would alter a model.
After doing a little research, on the subject. I recently examined Nike/Jordan's business model. As a young consumer, we want the most bang for our buck. That means quality. Nowadays, many sneakerheads complain of the slowly degrading quality of Nike/Jordan's product. For a good minute, I was one of those people with a complaint of my own. But when I stepped back and looked at things from a businessman's point of view, I saw why they shifted.
Nike established itself as the pinnacle of quality and technology at the forefront of athletic equipment back in the 80s and 90s. The purpose of their sneakers were for athletic usage, so they were designed as high quality training equipment for the sports enthusiast. But because of the onset of Hip Hop music in the 80s and 90s, sports gear including footwear became part of the everyday culture and fashion.
As sneakers continued to disappear from store shelves, consumers realized that if they didn't purchase more than 1 pair of their favorite kicks, they may never get the chance to wear them again. At that time, the idea of "retro-ing" a sneaker wasn't conceptualized yet. Thus creating the sub-culture of sneaker collecting.
Around 1994, Nike started introducing the first retro editions of earlier Jordan Models. It was the first time, enthusiasts were able to collect models they weren't able to purchase years prior. (correct me if I'm wrong) Nike did its market research very well. They knew of their product's popularity amongst the Hip Hop crowd. Because of this sheer fact, they knew most people who bought a pair, were not going to use them in a full 82 game season, like Michael Jordan himself! The collectors and sneakerheads alike would buy a pair or two, maybe keep one on "ice" and wear the other one occasionally to turn a few heads. The game has changed.
With that being said, as a smart company, Nike/Jordan's original model does not fit with how the actual product is being used. It has shifted from a "Performance-first" product to a "Lifestyle-first" product. Therefore, it's only right that they hold back on the materials. Especially since, fine Italian leathers only increase the cost of production and the price the consumers pay.
I read an interesting take on this issue from insidethesneakerbox.com:
"Reality is, though a lot of things have changed since the OG products, but in general one thing has not, price. Foamposites dropped originally for 200.00. Over 14 years later, they are still 200.00. Minimum wage has been raised multiple times, prices have increased on everything from a gallon of milk to your college tuition, however this Nike release has stayed the same. For example, using a standard inflation calculator, a shoe that cost 145.00 in 1997, would now cost nearly 195.00. That would be a pretty hefty jump. Some Nike products have increased in price, but I would guess that over 75% have stayed the same, or even gone down for Sneakerheads because of options such as more footwear sales and options such as outlets. In 1997, the OG air max 97 was 145.00. Years later, Sneakerheads now cop air max 97′s on Friends and Family sales and Employee Appreciation hook ups. The point is Nike has a cost to swallow in some way. They are selling you a shoe in 2010 for the same price or even at as much as 50% less. Either they give you an OG Quality Jordan VI with OG quality materials at a MODERN PRICE adjusted for inflation (200.00 a pair) or they give you a decent retro version that you can actually afford and serves a purpose for the OG price. Now I know many Sneakerheads will say, “give me quality,” but I’m telling you if they say that, smack ‘em, ‘cus they are lying to themselves."
So can we really fault them for the shift? Not really. You be the judge, being a businessman sometimes means you have to take a loss in order to win in the long-run. If you think about it, if Hip-Hop culture never influenced the sneaker business, would the quality still be at OG levels?
To illustrate the difference is the above video. Is the visual difference between the two pairs enough for you to not buy a brand new one?
At the end of the day, everyone has a different preference. Of course, I love and value OG over Retro, all day any day. But its just business, if you don't want a pair, don't buy one. After doing my research on the topic, I do understand the business aspect behind it. I'll still buy a retro once in a while. When I have the money of course!
Spike Lee as Mookie, a young black man working in Sal's Famous Pizza
Danny Aiello as Sal, a surly Italian man who owns the pizzeria
Ossie Davis as Da Mayor, an older black man who some call the town drunk
Ruby Dee as Mother Sister, an older black woman who observes the neighborhood goings-ons from the window of her brownstone and despises Da Mayor
Richard Edson as Vito, one of Sal's sons and a friend of Mookie's
Giancarlo Esposito as Buggin' Out, an excitable friend of Mookie's who "wants some brothers" on Sal's wall of fame
Bill Nunn as Radio Raheem, a towering young black man who always carries around a huge boom box blasting only Public Enemy's "Fight the Power"
John Turturro as Pino, another one of Sal's sons. He is not happy about being one of the last Italians in the neighborhood, nor about his brother's interracial friendship
Rosie Perez as Tina, Mookie's girlfriend
Paul Benjamin as ML
Frankie Faison as Coconut Sid
Robin Harris as Sweet Dick Willie
Miguel Sandoval as Officer Mark Ponte, a policeman
Rick Aiello as Officer Gary Long, a white policeman
Joie Lee as Jade, Mookie's sister
Samuel L. Jackson as Señor Love Daddy, the local DJ
Roger Guenveur Smith as Smiley, a young, mentally impaired man who tries to sell pictures of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.
Steve Park as Sonny, a Korean grocery store owner across the street from Sal's
Steve White as Ahmad
Martin Lawrence as Cee
Leonard L. Thomas as Punchy
Christa Rivers as Ella
Luis Antonio Ramos as Stevie
John Savage as Clifton
Frank Vincent as Charlie
Richard Parnell Habersham as Eddie
Ginny Yang as Kim, Sonny's wife
That's right... A Spike Lee Joint. The film was a commercial success and received numerous accolades and awards, including an Academy Award nomination for Lee for Best Original Screenplay. The film has grown in stature over time and is commonly listed among the greatest films of all time. In 1999, it was deemed to be "culturally significant" by the U.S. Library of Congress, and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry, one of just five films to have this honor in their first year of eligibility.
The Year is 1989. The Season is Summer. The Location is the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn (otherwise known as Bed-Stuy).
We're taken on a ride through the racially tense late 80s, a tumultuous time filled progressive Black Pride, the phenomenon of White-Flight, and the increasing popularity of Hip-Hop.
But on this hot summer day in Brooklyn, it all simmered to a boil.
Our main character Mookie (Spike Lee) works for Sal's Pizzeria, a legendary establishment on the block, that has been there before the neighborhood became predominantly black. A staple in the community. Sal (Danny Aiello) is fair businessman that understands and appreciates the business he receives from the black community. Pino (John Turturro), Sal's son, is highly prejudice and has a low-lying resentment for the community and projects it on his younger brother, Vito (Richard Edson) whom is amicable with Mookie the deliveryman. As the movie progresses it's easy to see that Mookie is the adhesive that holds this whole block together. He is respected and people look to him for acceptance and support.
Over the course of one day, the morals and true feelings for one another on the block is unleashed. By the end of the day, it was no longer Black vs White vs Latino vs Asian, just only Black and White. True colors were shown in flashes of desperation and raw, unfiltered emotion. Black and White wasn't just limited to Minority vs Caucasians yet Right vs Wrong, Good vs Evil, Freedom vs Oppression, and Love vs. Hate. It was a true test of what everyone was capable of. You'll see that once Mookie decides to act in a certain manner, the community follows suit. He is a bonafide leader.
I've been meaning to watch this movie for too long and when I finally did, I realized it was more of an artistic representation that had metaphors everywhere. Spike Lee's masterpiece. It's a must see movie and a possible life changer. I think its more of a educational film rather than just entertainment based. So pay attention! Maybe it'll add some insight to your life. So you can....
DO THE RIGHT THING! Here are some more Screenshots I took:
The readers that know me personally know that I don't practice any religion or hold any higher spirtual beliefs. So for a long time, I've been trying to figure out a reason as to why I feel so strongly against religion, yet celebrate a religious holiday with fam and friends. The answer is simple.
Christmas is no longer the holiday that it used to be. To me it has taken on a whole new meaning. Yeah, there is a big consumerist element these days but thats all very petty and materialistic. Don't get me wrong, we all like to receive and many of us like to give (notice the difference). That's all well and good but what's more valuable is the time that we spend with loved ones. Family and Friends.
I come home and my fun is spending time with the most important people in my life. It took me awhile to find the significance behind the holiday, but I'm glad its not a materialistic one.
I like to observe the shoppers during this time of year. All in a frenzy, caught up with Tickle Me Elmos, PS3s, Godiva chocolates, and iPhones. It seems like we subconsciously put more emphasis on the presents than the actual people themselves. As if the recipients will love us more for what we get them. In some sad cases, thats all it takes for some. I'm not saying throw out all your gifts and go empty handed, but just remember that you shouldnt have to feel obligated to purchase something just to maintain a person's happiness, feelings for you, etc.
This holiday and a few others have created this obligation to buy, buy, and buy. Overtime it just ends up overshadowing the real and true meaning.
Going through economic struggles as a child helped me gain insight into what really matters. As a little kid the gifts are really all you can think about. You can try and teach the youth the real meaning but it means nothing until later. When my material gifts started getting smaller and smaller, it finally dawned on me that my gift was there the whole time.
You rub your eyes and sit up in bed, look around to verify where you are in the world. Maybe look at your hands or check to see if your body is intact. You just woke up from a dream. The feeling is real, but it really is not. A single dream can change your life, the way you view the world, or perhaps something as minute as a simple step in your daily routine. Now this post isn't about the science of dreaming or any type of method explaining why we have them. Its merely an acknowledgement of a phenomenon many of us experience on a regular basis.
We dream about things we want, things we DONT know that we want, things we dont want, and things we DONT know that we DONT want. But sometimes we dream about total nonsense. What if it isnt? How do we know when to have a good or bad feeling about a dream? To heed a warning? To proceed with an idea?
Maybe I'm just trying to provoke some thoughts in your head before you go to sleep, but now that you've started to read, you can't help but think of what's going on in your head when your subconscious takes over.
Some ideas are best left in the dream world. But for just a second think about world leaders, business executives, and the world's most influential people. How many of their important decisions, transactions, moves, etc. are influenced by a dream or series of dreams? We'll never know the answer to that. Before a big decision is made, don't many people just...
This post should be pretty un-biased since I'm from neither of these places. I do live in Northridge, but I am fully aware of its cons as opposed to its pros.
Simply put, Northridge is a city located within the San Fernando Valley, otherwise known as "the valley". Quintessential suburban lifestyle resides here. An endless sprawl of In-N-Outs, Medicinal Marijuana Depots, Wal-Marts, Costcos, and a "cookie cutter" layout of neighborhoods. In my opinion this just spells: bland. Even though there is no culture, there is a culture. Valley culture.
I've come to realize the comfort of having a 7-Eleven on every other corner. Believe me, late night 7-Eleven runs are definitely life savers. Unfortunately mass transit can't even compare to New York's vast and expansive Bus and Subway system. It serves its purpose, it is not there to wow you but to just get you from point A to point B (hopefully in a timely fashion.)
A new experience for me is the mountain view. I lived in a valley back in New York but it cant compare to the landscape of the SF valley. I have fallen in love with looking out of my window and seeing a mountain; pretty cool and definitely something that natives take for granted.
There is a definite car culture here. In general, California is drive first, walk last. There's a song called "Nobody Walks in LA". This definitely rings true in Northridge. Some of the loneliest sidewalks I have ever seen can be found in Northridge. Culture-shock. Walking anywhere is a chore and finding partners to walk with is even more of a chore.
Me: Hey, I'm gonna walk to the mall to go get some applications. Wanna Join? Friend: Dude, how far is the mall from here? Me: Uhhhh.. about 2 miles or so. It's only a 30 minute walk. Friend: Hell no! Are you serious? That's too far!
^^^They wouldn't survive a day in NY with that attitude. On a good day I walk 30-40 blocks in the city. My record is 70 in a day.
I absolutely love the variety of food available in the valley, I've tried so many new things. From Mongolian BBQ to Italian, Vietnamese to Mexican, there's never a dull eating experience to be had.
I'm pretty confident that nobody is going to argue with me on this. Northridge does not have much of a party scene, dorm parties are.... well, they are dorm parties. Parties off campus end pretty quickly with the ever vigilant Northridge Police Force knocking at your door at 10pm saying "Clear out, party's over."
Theres not much stuff to say about Northridge. It really is Suburbs: Personified.
Northridge is an interesting change from my life in New York. There are pros and cons but on an overall level I have made the most of my experience.
SB. A nice coastal area with beautiful vistas from cliffs, an air of relaxation, a sub-culture of free-spiritism (is that even a word?), and a get away from the hustle and bustle of LA. Cool temperatures year round and cool vibes. What could be wrong with this place?
I'm going to take this comparison to the community of Isla Vista, some may know this place by the initials: IV and others may know it because of the University of California: Santa Barbara campus. To me this is like the total opposite of Northridge. A different level of what is considered normal.
Cars aren't really needed within the city, in fact, the pedestrians rule the streets. J-Walking is tame in comparison. Walking in the middle of the streets at night is normal and the cars are cautioned. Another popular mode of transportation, is the bicycle. Never have I seen so many bikes in my life. An incredible sight to say the least. Even though SB may not have a very developed mass transit system, you won't be stranded without a car. Stores and restaurants are in close proximity to the school and apartments/houses.
The PREMIERE party scene in SoCal is up at UCSB. I'm sure that many people will argue their school is better, but I'm pretty convinced this is one of the best. When a small community can have thousands of people come to party for Halloween weekend, it says something. It gets pretty insane, my first time wasn't as crazy as prior years but for my first exposure it was intense. You'd be surprised how easy it is to mistake drunken hoards of horny half-naked college students as a group of zombies. When I tell you that people party here.. there is no understatement.
Many of the parties take place on one street. Del Playa. Many of the houses and apartments have balconies which hang over a steep cliff that leads to the beach. Now that spells danger for many drunk people. Yah. Cliff dives are not uncommon here. In my second visit to the area I witnessed the aftermath of a guy who fell over a balcony head first, one story, to the balcony below. Forehead completely skinned off and swollen, he was so numb from inebriation he felt no pain. He walked away with the help of a few people. That was just a taste!
On a lighter, less serious note, food here is pretty healthy and organic and open LATE! A feature that Northridge lacks severely. It is Americanized to a degree and a little less authentic but most places are mom & pop establishments and the community has been able to stave off commercialization for a long time.
All in all. If one were to choose the better place to live. I could not tell them to pick one over the other. It really depends on who YOU are as a person. Like parties? SB is for you. Like a more urban yet suburban environment ? Northridge is for you.
Or just flip a coin and surprise yourself, perhaps you'll notice something I didn't.
Folgers to Starbucks. Camel to Marlboro. Stale coffee and cigarettes are the official aroma of life. The lingering scent of business deals, office meetings, break-time, the morning ride on the train. The smell of 6am. Ya know, those types of mornings where you JUST make it out of bed? The essence of working on papers late at night. Especially when the deadline is just 2 hours away.
On my desk are stale coffee rings and cigarette ashes. (metaphorically speaking of course.) Who knew writing about stale coffee and cigarettes would be such a hard task?
Such a repulsive smell. On the way home from work. Rush hour. Close quarters on the bus. I'm sandwiched between the smell of stale coffee and cigarettes. A hard day at work reduced to the pungent odor of cafe Ole and Marlboro lights.
On the skin of old ladies who drive battleship-esque Cadillacs and Buicks; wrinkled, aged. It's their perfume. Forget Nordstrom or Bloomingdales, its only $ 6.50 a pack and $ 2.50 a cup.
At the same time. It is one of the few things in our world that transcends upper and lower class social rankings. People of all walks of life smoke and drink coffee.
They also wear the stench of...Stale Coffee and Cigarettes.
Metaphysics is the study of the order of the universe. Everything has its place. The idea that the most minute daily actions lead us to our current place in the universe. Metaphysics strives to answer all the questions that science cannot. Mainly the ones that start with "why". Unlike science in its approach, it acts as another branch of philosophy. While many people use religion to answer questions like "why are we on earth?" and "why do we exist?" Metaphysics is the philosophical inquiry of a non-empirical character into the nature of existence.
So what is "Metafizics"?
The next chapter. A re-branding. Tastes Like Gold is undergoing a revolution/evolution of sorts. In the upcoming months there will be a shift to more metafizical matters.
Metafizics strives to spark your brain and force you to ask questions. Do research. Be curious. Wonder.
I'm waiting to be hit by something that resembles a ton of bricks. Not literally. An idea that has the weight of 2,000 pounds of masonry. Currently, I'm in a transitional state. I really want to move forward with the shirt production but I think re-branding myself is more important at the moment.
Having your own name is an investment in security and peace of mind. I do not want to share someones steez, swag, (whatever you want to call it.) If its going to be my work, I want it to be mine.. all mine. So thats why I've been waiting. To be inspired. To be hit by this ton of bricks. I have a few ideas. I'm not planning to share just yet. I'm still experimenting. Be patient y'all.
I've also been really busy and kinda blank in terms of what to write about. So forgive me for the lack of blog posts. This is a little thing to let you know I'm still breathing. :)
"...I don't know about you, but I clean mine 10 times a day"
-Dom Kennedy "Tennis Shoes"
Most things eventually fade away. But when you truly love something, a piece of it will remain in your heart forever. If the opening photo was no indication, my first love was a pair of sneakers.
Laces... Rubber... and Sole.
There is beauty in simplicity. But do you have any idea what goes into conceptualizing/creating a pair of sneakers? Very complex. (Stay Tuned.. REMEMBER THIS LINE.. I WILL REFER TO IT LATER.)
Collecting sneakers may seem like a hobby to some, but to many people its a part of something greater. The people who do it for the right reasons, add meaning and sentimental value to their collection. The shoes on my feet aren't just shoes to me. There is a story behind the acquisition. Some stories are longer than others, but there is meaning behind each pair.
I started once I got my first job. Nobody could tell me what I could and could not buy. Finally my own money. After my first few years of collecting, I accumulated a nice stack of sneakers. Having some new sneakers every few months became a must and I started to run out of closet space.
As a ritual, young collectors clean and take care of their sneakers, religiously. I would come home from school every Friday and spend hours opening up all the boxes and getting the cloth, cleaning solutions and tooth brush. I experimented with different combinations of cleaning liquids. Windex with hand soap. Dish Detergent with some of the Cleaning Foam from Foot Locker.. etc. etc. I could've wrote a book on it.
To take care of Patent Leather: Spray Windex or any other window cleaning solution; wipe clean. Enjoy the sparkle. It would be my version of the Bible.
But like I mentioned before, things fade away. Many sneakerheads, stop cleaning or maintaining. They buy 1 pair to rock and 1 pair to stock. In my humble opinion, sneakers are meant to be worn! I don't have enough money to buy two pairs of the same sneaker. I'll make sure that I put in the effort to take care of the sneaker so it keeps looking fresh, even 3 years later.
I still take care of my sneakers. It's a love that won't die.
You should always protect your investment. You don't need all those fancy Footaction and Footlocker fluids. Get soap, warm water, a toothbrush, some cloths, and time.
Damn.. It feels like just yesterday when this all happened. My third day in the 6th grade at Yonkers High School. A bright-eyed 11 year old with a heart of gold (okay, i'll stop!).. i digress. It was a perfectly warm, early September day. A high of about 70 degrees without a cloud in the sky. Whether you were 11 or 81, you had no idea of knowing that this day would tear a great big hole in the New York Skyline, the already tense relationship between people of middle eastern decent and Americans, and our sense of security.
4th period. Lunch. Eating my signature Turkey Sandwich, with Lettuce.. sometimes Tomato... and definitely sprinkles of black pepper. With a Kool Aid Jammer.. probably the cherry variety. (i kick it old school, if you didn't know). An announcement from the loud speaker quieted the noisy cafeteria, to a low hum. Our principal, almost resembling FDR, delivered the shocking news of the terror attacks. Imagine how difficult it must have been to pass on that information to middle school children. Kids who go home and watch Hey Arnold and Rocket Power, suddenly have to understand what terrorism is. For some it was an incredibly traumatizing experience. It was a confusing day. Everyone was on edge.
An endless amount of early dismissal calls shortly ensued. Some kids, left behind their innocence; lives changed forever. There were a few that lost family members. Fortunately enough for me, I did not lose anyone to the attacks.
After a weird, confusing, eye-opening day. It was finally time to go home to watch the never-ending news reports, all depicting the same drama. The collapse of two great architectural achievements. There were even photographs of a man who jumped out of one of the Towers to his instant death. It was so surreal. Watching everything go wrong. I had never witnessed anything like it, in my life. I had the mind-state that no one would be able step on our soil and touch us. We were vulnerable, just like everyone else. Not impenetrable. Not invincible. A very scary reality.
Not to forget the tragedies that happened in D.C. and in that open field in Pennsylvania. I tell you the story from my point of view.
It took me sometime to get over the sound of helicopters and airplanes flying overhead. I was lucky. Some had it much worse, therapy, depression, etc. I appreciated life so much more after that. Looking back on it, 9 years later, I have a much greater appreciation for life.
As a New Yorker, it still hurts, but If there's one thing about New Yorkers.. we always bounce back. We wont forget. I certainly won't.
R.I.P. To all of our fallen fire fighters, police officers, civilians, and soldiers who fight for us overseas.
Evolutionarily speaking, humans have come a long way, but as with everything that evolves, there are links to the past. Even though we have created elaborate societies with social ethics and rules, within everyone lies a primitive, carnal side. Blood-thirst. Does it make you a bad person, for feeling a little thirsty sometimes? No, you're just human. Can it make you do bad things? Of course. Now when I say blood, keep in mind, not all fights result in bloodshed. I'm merely grouping together all violent acts, bloody or not, verbal fights, even food fights.
Yesterday was no different. On Mondays and Wednesdays, I commute to work. Specifically in the Little Tokyo/Arts District of LA. I take public transportation the entire way back and forth. In those two days, I'm in transit for 8hrs. This leaves me quite a bit of time to be exposed to all types of people from all walks of life.
I was on the way home; taking the red line. At the Vermont/Sunset stop, this black dude gets on the train. I'm sitting close to the door and I noticed he was shouting at another man on the platform. "Whatchu lookin at? Whatchu lookin at?". The latino man he was shouting at came on to the train and with a heavy accent he retorted "You need to get out of my way!" then followed with a push. In shock, the black guy responded with "Oh, so you wanna start something, huh?". All of a sudden, everyone who was at my end of the car, tried to move out of the way as these two started fighting. I've always flirted with the idea of.. maybe, just maybe, breaking up a fight amongst two strangers; this was crazy. It was a real fight. Complete with headlocks, punches, kicks, and other grappling. It was so serious, they were literally fighting on top of passengers. Almost parallel to the floor! It was quite a scene that lasted a full minute, just until they reached the next stop. During this minute that lasted for all but 10 seconds in my head, I was regretting my decision to restore my iPhone. I lost an app to record video. It was the only thing going on in my mind. I didn't care who they were, why they were fighting, and who would stop them. I was most upset that I couldn't immortalize the moment.
Always Remember: Rule #1 for taking public transportation.
DO NOT GET INVOLVED WITH FIGHTS.. because some people just don't have shit to lose.
I'm not entirely sure what attracts us to violence and witnessing violent acts. Sure it's traumatizing to most, but deep down inside I really didn't want it to end. I was incredibly entertained. In that split second, I realized that we live in a culture that supports these cravings for blood. I'm not calling for people to stop making violent video games and movies, hosting boxing and MMA events. I just want Joe Schmo and Jane Doe to admit it. You like to see people fight, especially when you're not the one involved! If I can admit it, then you can too.
So we reached the next stop, Hollywood/Western. The latino dude gets off the train and the black guy proceeds to taunt him. "Yeah thats what I thought, you cake ass, bitch ass nigga!" (I sugarcoat nothing, sorry if it offends you. This is real life.) What happens next is unclear to me, but from what I can assume is the latino dude did something to get the black dude off the train. "OH HELL NO!" Can you believe it? They started fighting on the platform, street fighter style. -_- NOWWWW do you understand why I wish I had that app to record?
After the fever pitch died down, I made eye-contact with a young woman whom I shared a laugh with. "I was having a boring day at work, but this made my entire day worthwhile!" And it's just as simple as that. Blood-thirst; a guilty pleasure.
I snapped back to reality. Isn't it fascinating what makes people happy. In one corner, are two men, who obviously are frustrated over something, petty or not petty, neither of these guys woke up this morning knowing they'd be in a fight. In the other corner are the bystanders, in awe of the whole moment. Whether we wear our true expressions on our face or not, I'm willing to bet that everyone who was close enough to see the fight was enjoying it at least slightly.
Currently I'm trying to figure out how this next portion of the story is relevant. Two stops later, a man dressed as Jesus gets on the train. Yes, it was his intention to look exactly like him, the beard, long hair, long robe, everything. Perhaps, it was an omen, especially to the religious people out there. I'm not apart of any organized religion but I think the allegory/metaphor/symbolism of his appearance is there. Maybe our carnal, primal, primitive thirst for blood was necessary back in prehistoric times, but is now a built-in character flaw? Nothing is certain. Maybe we need to change our ways. But how do you change something that is apart of our psychology; our subconscious? A paradox.
Sit down and think about the last time you were thirsty. Was it that time you watched the after school fight? What about the time you were apart of a food fight? Ever come home from a long day at work and just want to play Grand Theft Auto? If any of these are true, not to mention the countless other situations... Then you're probably a....
Blood. Thirsty. Human. Being.
Don't admit it just because I said so. Just be real with yourself.
Romance. One of the most powerful influences in the universe. Romance can make you feel amazing, like a cool breezy drive down the 405; yet in the same breath it can make you sick even to the point where food doesn't taste the same. Romance can make you feel rich and whole, but on the other hand people become broke (literally and figuratively) chasing the wrong ideal or person. Romance can put you in this viscously amorous haze that clouds your judgement, yet it just feels so right. Your friends are useless to these great powers of romance. The force of a thousand freight trains speeding towards you cannot be stopped. Everyone is susceptible to romance, so theres no use in fighting it. But this is not going to be a post lamenting on the downsides of romance and falling in love. We're gonna stay positive today.
In my opinion, romance is one of the most important concepts that humans have the ability to grasp. Once in awhile, there are couples that genuinely exude happiness. Couples that bring out the best in each other. Couples that trust each other, embrace their flaws, and understanding each others shortcomings.
Yesterday, I had the privilege to photograph two very dear friends of mine, a beautiful couple, one of my favorite couples actually. I had this concept in my head for the longest time, I really wanted to find a street completely lined with palm trees and take pictures in the middle of the street. But what street in LA would i choose? There are so many. I decided on 6th ave in Leimert Park. (It's directly adjacent to the Crenshaw neighborhood of LA.)
Exactly as I pictured it.
It just so happens that one of my friends is a native of the area, she was down to take a trip and take some pictures with my roommate, coincidentally, her boyfriend. Perfect.
Just starting their walk, on the journey of life.
Believe it or not, I had dreams about taking this photo, for over a month leading up to the day of the shoot. It came out pretty nice.
Quite possibly the best picture of the day. I don't think I've ever captured a more genuine emotion than the one they're expressing right now. They were great models. BIG UPS!!!
Another genuine emotion. Seriously, most people have never seen him cheese that much. Just more evidence of a great day in the hood.
A candid embrace.
At the end of the shoot, I just needed to take a seat. A nice end to another beautiful afternoon in Sunny LA!
Before I close out, I want to leave everyone with a little something something I've come to realize.
Take a break from going crazy, from your frantic work life, and all of your drama. Sit down and think about the happiest moments of your life. Some people will find that their happiest moments are shared with people they love, care about, or feel deeply for. Think about that for a second. Then ask yourself what you really want out of life and figure out the ways to achieve and attain it. Let's face it, we can never be happy 24/7, but what if we could be happy for at least 5-10 minutes out of every day? Do you have that one person that makes you feel whole on the inside? If not, maybe they're already searching for YOU. Sometimes we go looking for love and romance in all the wrong places, but what if we just worked on being ourselves, or figuring out what makes us... US! Then we wouldn't have to exert so much energy on people that weren't even worth the trouble anyways. Instead, the people, most compatible to you, will stand out the most.
Enjoy life and all of its awesome minute details and nanoseconds of brilliance. That's all I'm saying.
CSUN is an interesting school.. known as a commuter university, but owns some of the best dorm facilities in the country. (In terms of space) Unfortunately, there are many students out there that get stuck with "postage stamp" sized dorms with a couple of bunk beds and minimal closet space. Cages. Literally cages. At CSUN the dorms are incredibly spacious. Comprable to 2 bedroom apartments.
My side of the room.
The dorms, however, are not for everyone. Many people end up getting their own apartments, which is cool. That is definitely the direction to head towards. If you're not looking for trouble and are open to meet new people, then your stay at the dorms will be just fine.
Over the past 2 years, there are volumes upon volumes of stories to share. From a Prozac-popping roommate to cops busting up parties, it has been quite a fun ride. Along this ride I learned a lot of valuable information, that could prove useful to anyone going through the dorm experience.
Some things to remember when living in the dorms at CSUN (or abroad)
1. If you clog the toilet twice within the first week, then you probably aren't ready to live away from home.
2. Making friends seems like a daunting task at first, but the majority of people living in the dorm community are in the exact same boat as you. Make the first step.
3. Be careful who you share your space with, if you don't feel comfortable leaving your valuables out, buy a safe. It may save you a bundle of drama in the long run.
4. Living off campus does have it's benefits, but you lose the "community" feel of the dorm complex. It's up to a person's specific preference. Everyone is different.
5. If you have problems with your roommate, speak up. Do not let it slide. It could prove to be quite "fatal" for the relationship between you and your roommates.
6 (probably more for the ladies). Have fun but stay aware at parties. Not everyone is looking out for YOU! If you know you can't handle the alcohol, don't try and keep up. Get your own drinks and stick with a group of friends you know and trust. The last thing you want is to be alone, drunk, and stranded in some place with a bunch of strangers.
7. I'll admit, I fell victim to this one. Freedom is intoxicating. It will also ruin your GPA. It took awhile but I'm finally back on track after two rough years. Find a healthy medium and try to enjoy your college experience whilst also staying on task. Remember these are the best years of your life.
There are many other important details, but they require full fledged stories to explain them.
CSUN, CSUN, CSUN... it seemed like just yesterday when I moved in for the first time. A bright-eyed freshman, with a level of naïveté, yet ready to take on the world no questions asked. Now as a Junior, I look at all these new kids following in the footsteps making all the mistakes I made, some even worse.
I can't help but laugh and say "That used to be me."
"I've always wanted to go to California!! Oh, man what's it like?" These are usually the comments I get from my friends in NY.
My response: "First of all, I think everyone should see California at least once before they die." To answer the second question its really hard to make it not sound like a fantasy land.
Which brings up an interesting phenomenon for New Yorkers and Californians. Before I had ever lived in California, I harbored a specific idea of what California was like. Valley Girls, Surfers, Beaches, Endless Rows of Palm Trees, Free-Spirited People, and Perpetual Sunshine. A fantasy land. But on the coldest days in January during senior year, the warm thoughts of California kept my feet moving down the icy hill called Elm Street. And let me tell you, that walk home from school was not easy, especially in the winter time. It was these dreams that kept me alive on the inside. California Dreamin'.
Now that I live in California, I can no longer say it is a fantasy land, IT IS REAL. I never thought I would wake up every morning happy, but It became my reality. Come visit this state. Seriously.
For Californians who have never been to NY, it's the same thing. To them NY is : Subways, Great Pizza, Crowded Streets, Mean People, Tall Buildings, Times Square, and Cold Winters.
Having lived in New York for 18yrs, It's all of this and more. But one must visit both places to actually find out the truths, lies, and misconceptions.
Now every time I come back to California, it's like I'm experiencing it for the for the first time. Yesterday was one of those days. Chillin in Santa Monica and Westwood with the homies is just what the doctor ordered.
The Pacific. See what I mean?
Twilight (no. not the vampires.) in Westwood
Diddy Riese. A staple in Westwood. Freshly baked cookies and Dreyers (or for the East Coasters, Edy's) Ice Cream. This right here is two Oatmeal Raisin and Walnut Cookies with scoop of strawberry ice cream wedged in between. For a buck fifty, the price is right!
Brotha from anotha motha, Justin, sporting his Nikon. A good day for photography.
The Fox Theater in Westwood with a typical California sunset backdrop. Established in 1931; another staple in the neighborhood.
The drive back on the 5 freeway to cap off the day.
There's a place for everyone in this world. Never settle for mediocrity. Make the moves to change your life, anyone can do it. It is not easy, but then again life is hard. However at the same time, life.. is... good.
Tastes Like Gold was an epiphany of mine in the summer of 2009, at first it was just a vehicle to create shirts displaying my photos… just for myself. It slowly turned into an ongoing marketing project that has become more than just a hobby, more than just a past time, but a way to share an emotion beyond mere words. As a budding photographer i’ve always been attracted to the simpler things in life. In my opinion there’s much beauty to be found in sheer simplicity.
I’m always learning more about life, technical aspects of art, and society. It's my goal to share these views with anyone and everyone.
Just remember it doesnt stop at the photos, its an entire culture and way of life that we are apart of EVERY SINGLE DAY. Open up and try some new stuff.
