MUSICA AMERICANISTA

Angel rock:

ENEMIES OF THE STATE: THE RISE AND FALL OF THE AMERICAN EMPIRE

When most, out there, hear the word, Empire, they often, envision, scenes, of violent oppression, by Roman guards, dressed, in crimson red. I am here, to tell you, it is not so; it never did happen, as such. The word, Empire, once strongly, associated, with the Roman Empire, and much later, with the American Empire, is rather, easy, to explain. At its heart, it has, very much, the role, of the Visionary. Visionaries, are rather, well known figures, in American history, the most famous, being Edison, Hughes, and Tesla; they are figures, who had, a vision, of a greater, America, and how to go about, fulfilling, their visions. Very much, like the Caesars of old. Thats all, they really did; a greater vision, of Rome or America, and bringing together, the right people, to make it happen. America, once advanced, greatly, in this manner, until, the very act, of bringing people together, began, to become, a difficulty. The nation, was divided, into factions, and groups, who became, very much, antagonistic, towards each other. Edison, didn't know, how to personally, invent, the light bulb, but he had, a vision of it, and knew, exactly, the right people, to bring together, to make it real; that was, the basic premise, of GE.

Politics and the Body:

The term, the 'Sexualization of the Black Male', was kinda common, amongst, certain circles, in the 90's. The whole term, kinda summarised, what, the divisions, in America, into various factions, was all about. That it had become, a country, so deeply divided, by the physical aspects, of people, which in return, so the rise, of science falsities, such as Genetic engineering. The very belief, that, all, that mattered, about, the human being, was its physical aspects. And the Black Male, kinda became, the perfect specimen, in some ways, of the human body; and in order, to appease, various different groups, who did not have, a Black male body, various, supposedly innate traits, were attributed to them. Asians, became good, in mathematics, apparently due, to possessing, a certain one gene; Indians too, were good, in software development, due, to another gene, apparently, not seen, in any other population, around the world. Black males, on the otherhand, were simply, the perfect athletes, dancers, and lovers, apparently, due, to a certain, number of genes. One should realize, nearly all, the promises, made by, Genetic engineering, have never, come, to fruition; it is what, it really is; the new Eugenics.

Divisions, in America, arose, that were kind of, interesting, way before, the 90's. And these divisions, were primarily, based, on how, to define, American personalities, American law, and American internal politics [what accrued, ethically, as being American, and un-American].

Smells like Teen Spirit:

One of the most, famous, grunge rock bands, of the 90's, was Nirvana. And Nirvana, kind of made, Grunge rock, really popular, in an America, where, rap music, forwarded, by the likes, of Tupac Shakur, was becoming, incessantly, popular. And the rise, of Nirvana, kinda saw, in America, a division, of race, between teen kids. This divison, was not, the first, of its kind. The rise, of popular music, had seen, America, become divided, into, various factions. Unknown to many, America, was once, a reading nation, before, it saw, the rise, in popularity, in Pop Music. And unknown to many too, this rise, of Pop music, saw, the nation, divided, into 5 factions: the North, the South, the Midwest, the East Coast, and the West Coast. And many Americans, have probably, never really known, the true meaning, of these divisions, not knowing, they are recent, in history, and are totally based, on the development, of cultures, born, of Pop music. People, might not, fully understand, and appreciate, what this all means. What is been said really, is that, American pop music, saw, the rise, of certain, new American personalities, that loved, to do, certain things. To explain this fully, people, who listen, to pop music, alot, like to do things, that people, who read alot, don't. Music based personalities, are more likely, to catch the bus, than people, who love, to read. Music based personalities, are more likely, to eat, at a fastfood restaurant, than people, who love, to read. Music based personalities, are more likely, to live, in an appartment duplex, while reading personalities, prefer houses. Reading personalities, are more likely, to catch, the metro, than music based personalities. Music based personalities, are more likely, to hang out, at clubs, and cafes, than reading based personalities. Reader based personalities, are more likely, to attend, theatre, and Broadway. Music based personalities, love the city, and the night, while, Reader based personalities, love small cities, and the day. What is been said here, is that, the rise, of popular music, in America, saw, a drastic change, in its infrastructure. Music based personalities, visit malls, and movie theatres. Reader based personalities, visit stores/bookshops/libraries , and drive-in movies. Music based personalities, love sports cars, of all kinds; reader based personalities, love their cars, looking like, Maybachs, Range Rovers, and Lexus. There was a time, America, was united together, as a reading nation, but eventually, became divided, into 5 factions, driven, by pop music. At one time, the South, had, Alternative Rock, and the North, simply Rock. The south once had, 'Rock n Roll', and the North, had the Beatles. Grunge, was born, on the West coast, and Metal, was really popular, in the Midwest. Divisons, most don't think much off, but eventually leading, to the rise, of violence, amongst Americans. Columbine, Kent State, became, household affairs, as parents, wondered, what was going wrong, with their Kids. The Columbine shooting, at its heart, had to do, with gothic kids, just not being, cool enough, in an America, where, having, a 'wack' personality, can almost, get you killed. All this, became, a national issue really, with the rise, of Rap music, and the further division, of America really, into the, South, North, East Coast, West Coast, and the Midwest. The North, had underground rap; the South, had, country rap; the East Coast, had hip hop, the West coast, was all Gangsta, and the Midwest, had Will Smith. Divisions, many believe meaningless, but saw really, not only, the division, of America, into, different cultural/ethnic enclaves, but the resultant violence, between, these enclaves. In totality really, you see, the division, of America, into factions, each kinda, violent, towards each other.

Tommy Hilfiger:

The rise of, American pop music, also inadvertently, saw, the rise, of American fashion, as a political statement. In America, where Referendum issues, had not been resolved, and the rise, of multinationals, over businesses, of all kinds, kind of saw, many creative, American youth, start, identifying, by fashion, as a political, and power based, statement. Many however, do not understand, what this really meant. The rise, of fashion, as a political statement, in America, saw America, divided, into, City enclaves. Certain Cities, rose, to prominence, over others, due to the, kind, of hustler figures, one saw, in them. In an America, where, Referendum, was still, very much, an issue, the rise, of the hustler figure, as a man, out to do his thing, and his association, with certain, American fashion, became, prominent. New York (NYC), L.A, Atlanta, Chicago, Washington D.C (or simply DC), and Miami, all became, politically prominent, not because, of any, real political ambitions, but mainly due, to the hustler like figures, associated, with certain fashions, who believed, they could break, or circumvent, American law, as they saw fit. And this culture, of breaking American law, by fashion clad, hustling figures, made its way, to the White House itself, seeing the rise, of Watergate, Whitewater, and Irangate-like scandals, in Washington. Figures, who believed themselves, above the law, and dressing, in certain fashions, went about, causing havoc, in D.C. Watergate, had to do, at its heart, with certain individuals, all dressed in black, like the, 'Men in Black', and believing themselves, all powerful [enough to blatantly lie, to the American public, about Vietnam], and breaking, or attempting to break, the law, as they saw fit. With the attempt, to rise, in business, having failed, for many Americans, many, saw it fit, to attempt, to rise, in politics, in one way, or another; this went, all the way, into universities, where secret sororities, and clubs, were all out, in one way, or another, to gain, political power. It was madness galore, as fashion clad, finger sign making, sorority heads, actually believed, they had a shot, at becoming, the next President, of the United States of America. The fall, of American law, alongside, with the police, as effective law mediators, made, for an increasingly, unsafe America, which saw, the resultant rise, of Americas, incarceration rate. All kinds of people, and not only, Black Males, mainly immigrants really, went in, and out, of the prison system, as regular, as shoppers, to supermarkets, did. American prisons, are apparently, more comfortable, than most homes, outside America. And all this, was made possible, due to a gross misunderstanding, of what, Freedom of Speech, really meant.

Nicaragua and the invasion of Panama:

At a time, when corruptible figures, were seen, all over, Americas political field, certain of these figures, decided, to extend, their reach of power, outside, American politics. They were just, power hungry people, out to gain, more power, or simply make, other people out there, miserable. Narcissistic personalities, behaving, as they saw fit, in a lawless world. It was they, who gave rise, to the term, American Imperialism, which many, falsely believe, to have been about, America, dominating, the economies, of other countries. This was not so, and very much, had to do, with power hungry American political figures, simply, domineering over, outside nations, and attempting, to tell them, what to do, and how to behave. So called, American Imperialism, however, has other roots, to it. In an America, where, Referendum, had seen, Americans, incapable, of fulfilling, personal dreams, many, turned their ambitions, to outside countries, to fulfill, their dreams. Americans in general, took, a great interest, in outside countries, and pondered, how, they could make, an impression, of all kinds. Interestingly enough, different types, of Americans, adopted, different, basic profiles, in an attempt, to gain power, in one way, or another. All this, eventually saw, a rise, in the minority immigrant populations, in America, as Americans, were doing, more business, outside America, and employing, immigrant labor, inside, and outside, America. What this led to, was the rise, of certain States, associated, with certain basic profiles, as power conglomerates, of a kind, within America, affecting, the outside world. There were about, six of these States. Americans, Southerners, adopted, the Cowboy profile, and became, hustler like Cowboys, based in Nevada, and operating, in many ways, in South America, as business people, and problem solvers. The resultant problem, of this all, was a rise, in illegal immigrants, from South America. Americanos, adopted, a Performer profile, with, New York State, as a base, and kind of, began, meddling, into, European affairs. This eventually, led, to a showdown, between, America, and Europe, over, the ownership, of many, of their, important, business outfits. Kind of, even saw, the merger, of American, and European business. Americophiles, adopted, an Athlete profile, and with a base, in, California, began, meddling, into the African world, and were hugely, responsible, for the African brain drain, into America. Employing, of African labour, to somehow, beat, the markets, they believed. Many Africans, more than believed, worked, in Silicon Valley. There were about, as many Africans, as Asians, in Silicon Valley. Citizens, adopted, a Musician profile, and with a base, in, Illinois, began meddling, into Asia, mostly, through appropriating, Asian culture, and kind of, selling it off, as popular American culture. Unknown to many, many of the movies, made in America, with Asian themes, were due, to Citizens. It was they, who really made, Asian culture, popular, in America. Simply making, money of it. Americanistas, adopted, a Mystic/Teacher profile, and set about, 'meddling', into, Middle Eastern issues. They became, a voice, of reason, in an America, where, the likes, of Pat O'reilly, were out, to turn, Americans, of all kinds, against, the so called, muslim-Arab world. And apparently, at the center, of this so believed, evil muslim-Arab world, was Saudi Arabia. Americanistas, through media, such as the internet, and books, began, to retell, the story, of the Middle Eastern crisis. The crisis, has advanced, in different ways, in past decades. At the start, it was all about, Egypt, and Israel. Political issues, over who, would control, the Suez Canal. With time, it changed, into a religious issue, of Islam, against, Judaism/Christianity, pitting, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, against, Jewish Israel and Christian America. It then, surprisingly again, changed, into an issue, on, Israeli racial superiority, over so called, Aryan Iran, and generally, who had, bigger, and better bombs. Apparently, it is, an issue, that has, a time factor, to it, and unless, one deals with it, within, a certain time period, it changes, into something, totally new. I can very much see, Africa, black Africa, getting involved, in this, if something, is not done, to deal, with the issue, at the present, as it is. In all, debates, about, being American, and un-American, began, to arise, out of talk, of various Americans factions, somewhat meddling, into, other peoples affairs. Americaines, on the otherhand, simply managed [mismanaged], America.

Metropolis: American Geopolitics

The above issues, saw, at the very least, the rapid rise, of Americas, immigrant populations, from across, the world. Many of these, immigrant populations, sought, to settle, in Americas, major cities, seeing the rise, of what, many have termed, the Metropolis. The Metropolis, is really, a huge city, divided, according, to personalities, law, and ethics. In America, this division, was based on, music, fashion, and profiles. Many of these immigrants, apparently, came to realize, that succeeding, in America, as they had believed it to be, was impossible. With time, many turned, their eyes, towards, their countries of origins. They believed, the could use, America, as a base, to take over, the economies, of their respective countries. They were assisted, in their endeavours, by corruptible, American politicians, and seeing the rise, of lobby groups, in America. There was also however, a reverse effect, by some of the more, ambitious immigrants, developing, a hatred, for America, and seeking, to somewhat, screw it up. Spying, for outside countries, became, a mainstay activity, for these immigrants. Chinese immigrants, began spying, for the Chinese government, on issues, to do, with American Research, of all kinds. European immigrants, kind of planned, the downfall, of America, by attempting, to expose, American secrets, to the rest, of the world, via, profolios, such as, the DRudge Report. Any celebrity, famous, inside and outside, America, including political figures, were targeted, by such media, in an attempt, to bring about, a downfall, of America. Africans, surprisingly enough, largely employed, in Americas bureaucracies, and even, Washington DC itself, spearheaded, the rise, of political blogs, targeted, towards, simply gossipping, about, American political figures. Mindless gossip, similar to that seen, in Africa itself. It however, would lead, to the downfall, of several, respectable, political figures. South Americans, and especially, Brazilians, attempted, to buyout, American journalists, of all kinds, by having them, print stories, about America, and South America, that were not, truthful in nature. Increasing stories, about, American violence, often racial in nature, were put out, by the media, most of them, false. Cuba, remained, a political hot potato, as Cuban immigrants, aided, by American political figures [Americaines], went on a campaign, to paint, Cuba, as a nation, worse off, than apparently, anything African. The Cubans, aided by the Chinese, put out, different info., on the state, of Cuba, versus, volatile, unstable America [structurally speaking, as in the health care issue]. All this chaos, and the destabilizing effect, it had, on America, eventually saw, George.W.Bush's [the younger & Americanista] administration, create, the Department, of Homeland Security. And while, the Department of Homeland Security, was timely, in its creation, in dealing, with post Sept. 11, at its very heart too, it was created, to deal, with all the above ills, as they had taken, a new twist, and become, a monster, of their own kind. They had in nature, become associated, with, Organized crime, Terrorism, and Drug trafficking. And originally, all these, felonious activities, were targeted, by various immigrant groups, towards, their native countries. Immigrant Organized crime, was behind, the opening, of sweatshops, for, Western companies, wishing, to operate, in outside countries, under the guise, of FDI. Immigrant groups, began supporting, Terrorism, in their native countries, in an attempt, to take over power, not only, through, actual terrorist acts, but also, through, the support, of militias, student groups, and corruptible figures. Other immigrants, sought, to make money, by selling drugs, and pornographic materials, to their home countries. With the Bush jr. administration, one sees, the rise, to prominence, of the Americanista created term, Counter-terrorism. And Counter-terrorism, believed in many ways, to be the war, against terrorism, towards America, was in nature, more cultural, than political. It was about, spreading, American culture, in one way, or another, to the outside world, especially via, Evangelical groups. Counter-terrorism, becomes political, in nature, after, Sept. 11th. Counter-terrorism, featured, three main things: Mass media, Globalization and Media cult figures, and was in effect, a movement, to spread, Americanism, around the world. Mass media, targeted, towards the outside world, saw, minority and immigrant figures, rise up, in popularity, in hollywood, and other such scenes. Within America, minority, and immigrant based shows, start to make, a strong showing, on the TV. Globalization, sees the sale, of American material culture, to certain nations, who are believed, to be, pro-American. Media cult figures, targeted, towards the outside world, show America, as a land, of great opportunity, and benevolence. One sees, the rise, to cult status, of media cult figures, believed, to show America, as a land, of endless opportunity, for all, in the form, of Bennifer [my god!!]. You also see, Brangelina, representing America, as a civilized nation, as many such cult figures, adopted kids, from the outside world, as a gesture, of aid. America, was fully, in an age, of decadence.

The Purpose Driven Life (series in religious thought)

Many out there, probably very many too, have probably heard, the term, the Purpose Driven Life. Its very much, an American term, and often, associated, with American religiousity. Most, have probably too, wondered, what, it really means, as many believe, its all about, finding, ones true vocation, in life. Finding, a true purpose, a goal, a higher aspiration, that one, can live for. The Purpose Driven Life, is believed, by many, to be responsible, for making, America, for what it is; a highly industrialized, country. Napoleon Hill, is probably, one of the few, non-religious writers, who wrote, about, the Purpose Driven Life, in what, many would call, laymans terms. A more, religious approach, would be, Rick Warrens, "The Purpose Driven Life".

Money, Happiness and Success:

If one, has ever been, in any, 'Purpose Driven Life' circle, then one, eventually realizes, that the, main topics at hand, are money, happiness, and success. These circles, appear, to be based on, Navajo Indian, tribal circles, which were driven, by masterplans. They attempt, in many ways, to define, money, happiness, and success, so that, the masses out there, can go, fetch them, at ease. The problem, with this though, in an America, filled, with scarce resources, is that, competition arises. They say, its a jungle out there, a concrete jungle, with all kinds, of predatory animals, competing, for money, happiness, and success. And due, to all this, what one finds really, is that, society, becomes, stratified. People, start dividing themselves, into groups, which are, very much, after, the same goals, or successes. The problem, with these groups, due to scarce resources really, is that, they become, even more stratified, within themselves. People start, becoming, divided, by color, hair, body weight, features, and the likes, in an attempt, to compete, with each other, due to, scare resources, and also, very much, few goals. You go, to any, high school today, out there, and the number, of hot chicks, are few, far in between. Scare resources, and goals. As a result, of it all, in America, where the, Purpose Driven life, is actually, the main way, people practise, religion [it actually being, spirituality], society, had become, divided, into, many factions, each, united, by an elitist, culture. Elitist cultures, are cultures really, based on, dividing people, from the, physical point of view. That people, with certain, features, hair, speech, eyes, and the likes, are more superior, to others, and should have, easier access, to scarce resources, and goals/successes. As a result, of this thinking, what you see, develop, is what, one can call, 'communalistic thought patterns'. Knowing that, American society, was divided, by 'physical coding', one realizes, that people, with certain, physical aspects, think, in a certain way. They also, very much, chase, certain goals. And with time, most people, just, could not think, outside, these, 'communalistic thought patterns'. A kid, in the ghetto, was told, becoming, a doctor, was out of the question. These, 'communalistic thought patterns', are behind, alot, of the hate, and division, one would see, in America today, primarily driven, by Americaines [remember them?!!]. These 'communalistic thought patterns', very un-American, and unconstitutional, have also seen, Americans, spend their time, thinking only, of pleasure, and being pleasured. Scarce resources, and goals.

One, has to free, themselves, from these, 'communalistic thought patterns', in order, to fully, start living life; for the Purpose Driven Life, is very much, associated, with what, we hope, to see, happen, in our lives. Our higher aspirations really [such as, revolutionizing society itself]. Most people, just don't dream, big, anymore; their 'communalistic thought patterns', limit, their thinking, and dreaming, in too many ways. One finds, that many, are now, somewhat, just incapable, of dreaming, anymore. Life, is very much, a tedious bore.

There are those, who attempt, to deal with this, by attempting, to accrue, some secret knowledge, to give them, an advantage, over others, in this, jungle like, concrete world, many of us, live in. They think, a certain book, or secret source, will help them, move forward, from their, state in life. They fail, to realize, that we live, in a world, filled, with somewhat, crazy people, and, no secret knowledge, can help one, escape that. The concept of fame, as it is sought today, unknown to many, surprisingly really, only works, in a society, filled, with stable minded people; fame, does not, and cannot exist, in a world, filled, with crazy people. Its just, logically impossible. The only way, to live, in the world today, is really, by understanding, the Purpose Driven Life, which, at its heart, really, is all about, developing, a wholly, positive attitude, and mentality, to Life. This means, that, at just about, any moment, in ones Life, one, is always, positive minded. If one, is so, all the time, one can dream, freely, and without, fear.

When one attempts, to live, the Purpose Driven Life, one realizes, there are four models, to go about, doing so; they can be summarized, as follows:

Humanity: Humanity, can probably, be best described here, as the study, of the human experience. The study, of why, humans, experience life, as they do. Why do good things, happen, to some people, and not others? Why does religion, and faith itself, appear, at times, to fail many? The study, of the human experience, is really, the study, of the obstacles [of all kinds], that humans, face in life. And the study, of the obstacles, faced, by humans, is really also, very much, a study, of human doubt, and self-doubt. By understanding all these three i.e. doubt, self-doubt and obstacles, one then, very much, understands, the path, to success. One Buddhist practise, known to many: Tibetan Buddhism, is mainly, about, the study, of the human experience. And the reason, this is, is so that, by understanding, the human experience, one can then, very much, aspire, to higher goals. In short really, knowing, the path, to everyday success, makes, seeking it out, rather boring, and one, can then, easily, aspire, to higher goals.You see this, in Tibetan Buddhism, where the student [ a monk] is being guided, by a Teacher [another monk], to understand, the human experience, by attempting, to help, the student, overcome, their desire, for nominal, Asian aspirations [such as, having a beautiful wife, or owning, a lovely home], and aspire, for something, greater. So, one can seek, to revolutionize society, instead, of being bothered, with sentiments, such as: "maybe I should get married now", or "maybe I should buy a home now"; sentiments, associated, with the human experience. By understanding, the human experience, one becomes, what they call, a Holy man [like Gautama Buddha], and one, realizes, that every moment, of their life, is special. Tibetan Buddhism, teaches one, to become, the Buddha.

Shamanism: Shamanism, while seen, all over the world, and believed, to be strongly, associated, with Native American, and African cultures, is really something, you strongly find, amongst, many, of the Native Indian tribes, in South America. It is something, also, very much, misunderstood. Shamanism, is often believed, to be associated, with gaining, powers, of some kind. A kind, of true understanding, of the universe, itself. This is not so, and these beliefs, arise, from those, who confuse, Cherokee Spirituality, with Shamanism. Shamanism, is at its heart, about, developing, a deep connection, with nature. The reason, this is done, is so that, one, becomes, very much, child-like, in nature. When one, is child-like, in nature, one becomes, very much, an endless dreamer [kind of why, shamanism, is associated, with certain powerful drugs]. Becoming, an endless dreamer, makes, the Purpose Driven Life, pretty easy, to live. The main obstacle, to becoming, a shaman, is experiencing, trauma, in ones life; for trauma, prevents one, from becoming, child-like again. For many children, the death, of a parent [sometimes, by simple emotional abandonment], is a trauma, that ends, their child-like, existence. Overcoming trauma, is at the heart, of becoming, a shaman, and developing, a deep connection, to nature. As an endless dreamer, one can have, 10 more days to live, and still have a dream, to achieve. Books, by John Perkins, serve, as a good introduction, to Shamanism.

Sacred Teachings: Most people, have heard, of the word, sacred, and even, sacred teachings. They tend, to believe really, they are teachings, that are, so lethal, that upon breaking, their wisdom, one would probably, die off immediately. Some people, are even afraid, to hold, a sacred book, in their hands. Scared teachings, are none of that, and historically, were seen really, in Europe. They were often, associated, with Religio-military orders, such as, the Jesuits. Sacred teachings, attempt, to tap, into the mind, of God, as some believe, or really, into, the inner workings, of the universe. How do things, outside there, really work; from planets and Newtons laws, to photosynthesis, as seen in plants. The purpose, of knowing this, is to apply, the dynamics, observed, onto, other processes', out there; from running businesses, to designing, machinery. The most famous, of the Jesuits, were the, Italian Jesuits, and unlike, other Jesuits, sought, to understand, the workings, of the universe. They studied, planetary motion, in a similar manner, to scientists, seen, in the Roman Empire, such as, Copernicus. By understanding, these inner workings, of the universe, they applied, the dynamics, to mechanical devices, they invented. These Italian Jesuits, often known, as Geometers, revolutionized, seafaring, and other industries, with their inventions. Many of their inventions, were specifically, applied, in South America, and especially, Brazil, in many, of the large scale industries, seen there. A good example, is Marconi [Italian Jesuit], and his discovery, of radio waves. The whole goal, of sacred teachings, really, is to help one, deal, with fears, and insecurities, in the road, to success. By understanding, the inner workings, of the universe, one then, fastly understands, the inner details, of any attempt, they transpire, to complete. They simply see, all the details. Overcoming, fears and insecurities, is about, overcoming, obstacles, known as, mental blocks. One cannot see, the rather obvious, easily. The Italian Jesuits, not only, revolutionized, South Americas, large scale industries, they also, very much, influenced, the growth, of sacred teachings, on the African continent. The Italian Jesuits, once sailed, around, Africa, and even, had stops, in some parts, of it. Their contact, with Africans, resulted, in the part, of traditional African life, associated, with spiritual growth; the elderly years. And not only that, but this, gave rise, to certain, African, religious orders, later appropriated, by the Europeans/Spaniards, such as, the Cappuchins, Franciscans, and Dominicans. The Cappuchins, were seen, in the Congo region, the Franciscans, in West Africa, and the Dominicans, in parts of, Nigeria and Cameroon. They were, very much, like the, Italian Jesuits, in nature [understanding the workings of the universe], and many, Italian Jesuits, eventually, found a home, in Mozambique. Mozambique, comes, from the word, Mocambic [italian probably], which was the word, the Italian Jesuits, used, for Mozambique. The Cappuchins, and the other orders, seen, in Africa, were the main reason, why, Italian Christianity, is the most, prevalent, form, of Christianity, in Africa. Understanding, sacred teachings, leads to one, becoming, a blessed person, and rather, unique, in nature. Their life experience, tend, to be, rather unique. Many Italian Jesuits, who operated, in Asia too [India - Goa], were eventually, buried, in Mozambique.

Yogic Sciences: Yogic science, is a kind, of study, of the human body, and how it works, from a, spiritual level, and not physical. The belief, that, there are, certain forces [such as the chakras], that drive, the human body, and not, the heart, as a pump. And while, the Indians, did it, from the chakras perspective, some groups, in Europe, did it, from another perspective; that, of seeing, the human, as consisting, of primarily, three things: a voice, a breath, and a loving heart. That the three, are all, that drive, the human being. The whole goal, of this, is to make, every moment, of ones life, a voice, a breath, or, a loving experience. Kind of hard, to envision, but not. The main, obstacle, with this way, is overcoming, emotional turbulence. Seeing oneself, as a voice, or breathe, is overcoming, the obstacle, of seeing, oneself, from the perspective, of emotions and feelings. And when, one, sees themselves, as a, voice or breathe, they very much, become, self-aware, and attain, awareness, of their world. They kinda know, whats always, going on, with them, and their world. Such a person, is known, as a Conscious being. In Europe, this way, of attaining success, was best seen, in what sprung up, in, early 20th century, England [or the UK]. A culture, known, as the Brit culture. This culture, an offshoot, of Victorian society, developed, a way of living, based, on the, education system. People, basically lived, around, their schooling. The concept, of the Alma Mater, and what, one can do, for their community, and school, were based, on this Brit culture. The education system, was very much, at the heart, of everything, in a city, or town [the whole idea, of a university town or city]. However, this also, very much, involved, the university system, and the origins, of university based research. Research, specifically geared, to improve, the lives, of people, in a town, or city. With the Brits, the center, of this culture, was based around, a rather, famous university, called, Cambridge. Cambridge, believed, to be, of English origins, is actually, Brit [the English had Oxford]. And at, Cambridge, what was, mainly done, was research, that can best, be called, innovative research; and innovative research, was in many ways, about, making life, simply better, for the people. It was not, associated, with originality. The Euro Airbus, is an example, of research, that would have been carried out, at Cambridge. So is the idea, of Touristic Spots; add the BMW [sports vehicle], into the mix, and thats kinda what, they did, in Cambridge. Interestingly enough, this idea, of innovative research, became, very much, associated, with what, many today, refer to as, Development. And the Brits, and their side groups, in America, built, a really marvellous culture, based around, the education system, whereby, people, sought to go, to certain schools, make friends there, find girlfriends and wives there too, through contacts made there, find jobs too, through contacts made there, and generally, live a whole life, associating, with ones former schoolmates, and professors/teachers. And this whole culture, was centered around, admittance, into Cambridge. A really great thing, and a really wonderful life, and the whole atmosphere, and theme, of this culture, as seen in the UK, can best be seen really, by listening, to songs, such as, 'Under the Sun', by Sugar Ray. This culture, was also featured, by Aldous Huxley, in his book, 'Eyeless in Gaza', during, its decline, in the 40's [about every moment, in the book, is a breathe, voice or loving heart]. In America, a similar culture, existed, based around, what they call, High Society Jazz [the Heigh Ho stuff], and seen, in New York city. Really cool time, in England, as the Brit culture, is what, specifically, made the UK, popular, during colonialism, as a study destination. Everybody out there, simply wanted, to go, to, Cambridge.

Thats about it, when it comes, to the Purpose Driven Life, but there is still, some more, to it all.

Even, as a dreamer, of the greatest kind, one will discover, there is still, very much, a hidden impetus, to seeking out, success, in any form, or another. The hidden forces, that drive, human evolution, on earth, and very much, what, the important subject, of history, at its heart, is all about. There're at heart, three main forces, that drive, history: the desire, for laughter, grief, and confusion/bewilderment. One will notice, that experiencing, any of the three, will simply, drive one, in one way, or another. These, three forces, are very much, also, at the heart, of any culture, and what constitutes, a superior culture, compared, to another, is how strong, these three forces, manifest, in any culture, out there. One can be a dreamer, but have no culture, to live out, ones dreams.

A Dinner Conversation

About, three weeks ago, I had the honor, or was honored really, to visit, London. I have a friend, his name, is Rick, and Rick, has some business ambitions, that have, in recent months, taken him, to London, more often, than not. Rick, believes, or kind of believes, that London, is destined, to be, a great business Mecca. He kinda believes, that London, could very much, and especially, be, a center, for business, for the African continent. I kinda, felt strange, when I heard this, as, most Africans, tend to do, their business, in the Middle East, and Asia. I did not, question, his motives, or intentions too much, but decided, to do, as he, requested: which was, a trip, to London, to clearly see, what he meant.

It was, a warm, monday evening, when we, departed, for our journey, to London, England. I was, kinda excited, the whole, monday morning, and day, but had, nothing much packed, as it promised, to be, a rather short trip. I had thrown in, some clothes, in a suitcase, and had, very much, my laptop, with me, as I, intended, to do, some writing, while in, England. We were booked, on a, Lufthansa flight [don't remember the number really], and once, settled in, having dealt, with the rather, excitable, customs units, I leaned back, onto my chair, and simply, looked around, at who, was in, and not. Rick, was seated, next to me, and he being, a kinda, serious fella, had taken out, some material, a book of some sort really, which he was, reading through. I quickly glanced, at the book, but did not care, too much, as Rick, is not really, the conversant type. He prefers, to let things happen, to explain, his point. I seated still, looking around, at the hostesses really, being nice, to everyone, and all, happened, to notice, a rather attractive, English lady, seated, some distance ahead. Did not take, too much notice, but thoughts, of England, did fill, my mind. I kinda imagined, she was not, the only one, of her kind really, attractive, in London, at the moment. I get a greets, from a hostess, formalities really, and sit back, in, into, my seat, and look over, at Rick, somewhat, wondering, what he was really, looking at. A fast question to him, on the subject, gets no, real response, as he kinda, mumbles, to himself, and swiftly, somewhat really, turns, the page, of the book, he is holding. As we prepared, for takeoff, on that monday, evening, I could not help, but think, of England; many thoughts, running, through my mind. First off, Imperial Britain, next, was Princess Diana, then, London itself, according to Charles Dickens really, and finally, Elizabeth [Queen that is]. The plane, in the air, about, thirty minutes later, and I, sit back, to relax really, wondering, what in house, movie, they will be showing. Am kinda, really picky, when it comes, to movies, but this, being a flight, I am willing, to excuse, any incongruencies. I feel bored, and I start, to realize, remember really, that I hate, flights; it will be some time, before, we land, in Heathrow-London, from Harare, Zimbabwe. The movie starts, an animation, by Steven Spielberg and co., under, the banner of, Dreamworks, which I think, is cool, as I always, wanted, to do something, in animation. The toon, is kind of, interesting, and I take it in, rather, condescendingly. This goes on, the condescending melodrama, until dinner, is served, and we get down, to chowing it down. The flight, proved, to be rather, uneventful, and time to time, I found myself, glancing, towards the English ladys' direction, to really see, what she was, up to, really. I'm the kind, of person, or fool really, who believes, every beautiful woman, out there, is attracted to me; really, I truly believe this.

We arrived, in London, early, the next morning, a tuesday, and once through, customs, in a, rather hurry, as they all seemed, to take, Rick, rather seriously, we set about, getting out, of Heathrow. Rick, has arranged, for someone, to meet us there, and we get out, of heathrow, rather quick, and into, a waiting car, driven, by someone, Rick, is acquainted with. Luggage, in the car, and we in it, the driver back, in the front seat, and off, we are, to an unknown, destination, to me. Rick, is rather, silent, although, the driver, does question him, once or twice. London, is looking, rather gloomy, and as we speed along really, to our, destination, I find myself, looking around, and about, hoping, atleast, to spot, a known landmark, like the Thames, or even, Big Ben. It does not happen, and knowing Rick, I am not, too surprised, as we end up, in a, destination, that makes me think, we are not really, in London, having seen nothing, English, at all. We were dropped off, at an apartment complex, looked good too, where at, Rick, apparently, owns, one of the duplexes. The duplex itself, is rather, sparingly decorated, and really white, in color. Looks kind of, cool, and there is a kitchen, there in it too. Walked into it, not really, believing, this was England, as it looked, all too, rather cool. Settled in, and after been, shown my room, and just hanging out, Rick, recommends, we go out, for a bite; there is absolutely, nothing, in the fridge. We're out, on the streets, of London, and I look about, wanting, I believe really, to see, something, majestic. I do see, an Asian couple, Chinese, and upon, looking around some more, see some, Indians, more Chinese, and a couple, of what, some might call, English lads. The streets, are rather empty, and we walk, to an eating spot, glancing around, occasionally, but talking, some mumbo jumbo, to each other, as we walk, along. We arrived, at a, Chinese restaurant, minutes later, as Rick, apparently, likes Chinese food, and when we, were done, it was back, to the duplex. Rick, later on, left me, all alone, in the duplex, as he had, some business, to attend to, and I happened, to do, some writing, when he was gone.

Rick, later returned, and asked me, to get dressed, in something good, as we would be, going out, to see someone, later that evening. I got dressed, in some, khaki pants, and a navy blue jacket, rather suede, that extended, almost, to my knees. I believed, I looked good, although, Rick, did look, or glance, at me, when I did, present myself, at the door, ready to exit. The car, was there again, but this time, Rick, was driving; I don't know, how Rick, got himself, a British driving license, and I did not ask. We were on, the road, when I happened, to ask, Rick, where it was really, we were going, and he said, "Just meeting some guys, I have a deal, planned out". As I had mentioned earlier, Rick, does really think, London, is destined, to be, the next, great, business Mecca. I don't doubt, his beliefs, or ambitions, as I know, he is rather, keenly intelligent, but, I just don't see it, happening, any time soon; he, on the other hand, does. We sped along, until, we arrived, at a neighbourhood, that looked, like something, out of, Nottinghill. I came out, of the car, packed now, by a sidewalk, next to, a row, of many houses, and was kinda thinking, David Copperfield, but not. Rick is out, of the car, rather swiftly, and I follow him, into, a nearby house, whose gate, he just, passes through, into, the inside, with my following him, from behind. A doorbell later, and standing outside the door, looking around me, as Rick, awaits, for the door, to be opened, sees me, notice, that he has, a red coat, on, velvet like, in nature. The door, opens, and a voice, rings out saying, "Rick, you're back", and I look, at the Gent, standing there, blonde haired, blue eyed, looks American, but speaks, English. We're in, into the house, rather splendid in nature, and I follow, the duo, into a living room, where we are, aptly seated. I am surprised, we do not, really, take out, our shoes. Still seated there, the Gent, whose name, is Ted, returns, with a couple, of soft drinks; Rick has a pepsi, and I a coke. "So whats up?" says Ted, as Rick turns around, towards me, and introduces me to him. "We're back" says Rick, "and I guess, we should be moving". "Not quite right now" says Ted, "still have some business, to handle". Rick, excuses himself, to go, into a study, and, as I am looking, around, the house, he is busy, talking, to Ted, about something, done earlier. I am looking, at Ted now, and still noticing, he looks, American, ask, whether, he is from Cali. I don't really engage, with Americans too much, only dealing, with Americanistas really. "Noh!" he somewhat says, "I am really, from England". "Grew up here, but been stateside, several times, in my lifetime". Rick returns, holding, some papers, and asks Ted, "where are the plans, I was looking at?" And Rick, motions, into the study, and says, "try by the desk next to the shelves". I take it all in, looking cautiously, wondering, what could be amiss. When one hears, talks of plans, one kind of believes, something big, and possible, is about, to happen. Rick and Ted, look like, they have been buddies, for some time now, and are rather, well acquainted, with each other, as Rick, talks back, to Ted, without even, glancing at him. The plans, turned out, to be actual plans, of a museum, which, had me rather, totally surprised; when I think museum, I don't envision, Rick, or Ted, near anything, like it. Ted, is rather silent, as Rick, goes back, into the study, and I take, the opportunity, to surprisingly ask, Ted, what they are up to. He kinda looks back at me, surprised, and says, "Kind of doing, some business; dealing, with a museum really". I take that in, not knowing really, what it means, and I do not ask, too much; I kinda believe, I will discern it all, by myself, eventually.

We later on, left, Teds spot, and sped off, again, with Ted on course too, to a, destination, only he, knew about. It was towards, central London. We arrived later, at a restaurant, rather trendy looking, and got out, at a spot, nearby, where, Ted, was already, standing, having parked his car, and waiting us, to do so too. When we had got out, of the car, and Rick, somewhat spoken to Ted, we followed him, into, the restaurant, which required, a reservation, of sorts. I kinda thought, we would get banned, for we all looked, rather flashy. We were in though, and headed, towards, a table, where on, there was, an English lady, waiting. We get there, and Ted, greets her, rather enthusiastically, and he sits down, and, with a gesture, of the hand, invites, both me, and Rick, to do, likewise. We are seated, down, me next to Rick, Ted across us, and the, English lady, at the head, of the table. As Ted, is talking to her, I glance, and look at her, to see, whom she really is. I am rather surprised, and even taken back, when I discover, that seated, at the head of the table, is Keira Knightley. Totally amazed really, but Rick, seems, rather unfazed. Ted, is talking, to Keira Knightley, rather excitedly, and is apparently, telling her, about, the museum plans. As they talk, I kind of, begin, to make out, what is going on. There is, apparently, a museum, to be opened, and Keira Knightley, seems, to be, right, in the midst of things. She asks questions, about the plans, and Ted, without missing, a beat really, answers, all of her questions. Rick, is rather silent, all along, and he does not, look, at Keira Knightley, at all. I, on the otherhand, kind of, stare at her, before looking back, at Ted. At about, that time, the waiter, arrives, with some soup, which he places, on the table, before asking, for our orders. We all, kinda order, some steak, Keira Knightley, going first. The order placed, and we are back, to looking, at the soup. We are taking the soup down, with Keira Knightley, asking Ted, questions, about, this so called museum, and Rick, looking down, at his soup, rather apprehensively, I believe. As we are still taking it, all down, 20 minutes later, Ted, somewhat, excuses himself, from the table, to say hi, to someone, he has seen, and while gone, Keira Knightley, turns to look, rather, straight ahead. I do catch, her stare, into the nothingness really, in front, and as I turn back, to my soup, I rather hear, Rick, say: "Nice soup!!" "You like it", rings out, Keira Knightleys voice, and she goes ahead, to explain to him, what the soup, is made of, and even, pretty much, how they prepared it. I am rather astounded, even shocked, that Rick, I believe really, has just had, a conversation, with Keira Knightley. And as I, glance at him, from the corner, of my eye, and as Keira Knightley, fills him, with all the soup details, I do find myself, looking out, for a break, to come. I listen somewhat, to what, she has to say, and when, she is done, I take in, a short breathe, and with, folk in hand, point slightly, at the air, in front of me, and with a short, "ah!", I then say, "Its been raining, heavily, in England, lately". I notice, that Rick, hears me, and Keira, who has taken it all in, while still, looking, rather straight ahead, sees her eyes, turn, towards me, and with, a short pause, kind of, says to me: "Well, it always rains in England". I hear her voice, and almost immediately, go back, to finishing my soup. Ted is back, and rather apologises, to Keira Knightley really, about, the delay, and sits down, to finish up, rather swiftly, the soup, set right, in front of him. The steak, beef really, later arrived, and we all, munched it down, without, too much, further talk. We were done, and I find myself, glancing, rather automatically, at Keira Knightley, to see, if she enjoyed, her meal. She looks somewhat, straight ahead, before quickly, glancing at me, at about the moment, Ted, swiftly, touches her arm, and says, something, to her. They have, a slight conversation, which makes, Keira laugh, and I somewhat, find myself, turning, to Rick, to see really, if a conversation, is possible. The dinner, with Keira Knightley in it, was rather, a success, in my opinion, and just, as I believed, it was all over, we were later, joined, by some more pals, of Teds. There was one woman, in the group too.

We were having, some drinks, all of us, Rick, Ted, Keira, and the new group, which included, a new woman, by the name, of Joanne, and conversation, was generally flowing. I took, a rather, short interest, in Joanne, wondering, whom she was, and what, she did, in life. She is across, the table, and I find, conversation, with her, rather difficult, to enact. We are all, kind of, leaning back, into our chairs, drinks at hand, and starting, to warm up, to each other. It is then, a conversation, of interest, strikes up. It is started, by John, an English gentleman, seated, to my right. He, is one of the ones, who came along, with Joanne; together, with Will, and Kevin. Kind of, African names, I kind of, imagine to myself, and as the conversation, starts up, I turn, to listen, to John, and what he has, to say. "I'm thinking of moving, to Ipswich, to live there, for a while", is what he says, to Keira Knightley, after she inquires, about, his general health, and status. "But why?!!" is what she retorts, to the answer, given by John. "It kinda feels, like the right thing to do", is what, he said back, to her. After a small pause, he very much, continued: "I'm just, kind of tired, of London, all this, at the moment. I don't really know, what I want, anymore", he finishedly said, with an almost, toss, of his napkin. The new group, had ordered, a dessert, cream cake, before, all this started. Keira Knightley, seemed, rather dumbfounded, at the comment, by John, and he seemed, rather resigned, after saying it. The whole conversation, when it had fully, struck up, turned out, to be a kind, of, 'weepfest', about, the ills, of living today. No one, on the table, was feeling, enthusiastic, about life, at the moment; thats kinda what, I discerned. The general consent, though, was that, the group, was kind of bored, with success, as their society, defined it. "All I really want, to do, is eat muffins, and drink, caffeine, almost all day long", is what, Joanne, had to say, about life, at the present. "What can I do, to do this, almost all day?" is kinda what, she posed, towards Keira Knightley, and not really, the others. Kevin, was dead tired, of his job; I didn't really like Kevin, and I know, it was because, of his name. As the conversation, ensued, with Rick, and Ted, all together silent, one could feel, it was about, to turn, into, a 'whinefest', and Keira Knightley, was somehow, supposedly, supposed, to solve it all. It was then, struck, by a moment of genius, really, and some, rapid thinking, that I decided, to jump, into the fray. "Maybe you should all seek, to live life, from a, different perspective", is what, I said, under the constant glare, of Ted, the tensing, of Rick, and the look, of interest, from John. "And what do you mean, by that?!!" is what, Keira Knightley, had to say to me. "It kinda looks to me, that you all", I kinda said, while looking around the table, with Ted, still staring at me, Rick, totally gazing down, and Keira, with hands clasped, looking intently, at me. "It kinda looks to me, that you all, are kind of living, life, from the motivations angle". They all kind of, went silent, at the obviousness, of the statement, but also, very much, at its lack, of clarity. "And how else, would we live it?", asked Keira Knightley. I looked down, still kinda feeling, Rick, next to me, and answered, "Well, you could always, do it, from the interests, and wishes perspective". I made it clear, to the group, in many words, and motions, that they sought, success, for what, would happen, after, they succeeded; their motivations. "And how do we live, by interests?!!" is the question, that came, from Joanne, almost, not buying, into what, I had to say. With many pauses, in between, and several gestures, too, I kinda explained, that a life, based on, interests, was simply one, whereby, people, worked, simply, to enliven, their interests. Interests, such as, fishing, reading books, visiting museums, and other such, similar interests. It was kinda then, that Teds, and Ricks, museum plans, kinda hit me, straight, awakening me, to the fact, they were kinda, on road, to doing, the interests thing. Without missing a step, I quickly said, to Joanne, "You could do, the wish thing". "And whats that?!", is what she said, back to me, and I kinda went, silent, having not expected, the question, so upfront. After, a few moments, of thought, and a silent glare, from Ted, and Rick, still very much, gazing down, I said, "Why don't you find, a job, a task really, where you work, kind of part time, but make, lots of money". There were, some few sniggles, wolf like, in nature, at my request, which ended, with Joanne asking, "And what, kind of job, is that?" It was then, I was struck, by a moment, of genius again; "how about, if you became, an aide-de-campe". "Thats French", is what Keira Knightley, had to say, with me, noticing, her very much, dark eyes. "Its kind of, simple, aide-de-campes, are like, the lawyers, of old", is what, I mentioned, and everybody out there, knows, lawyers, make, lots of money, doing nothing much. "How does that, really work though", is what Joanne, had to ask, with a hint, of even, great interest. "The way I see it, is, you could get, attached, to a kind, of wealthy group, and simply, be, an aide-de-campe; what this really means", my being confident, "is that, you could be, a kind of, psychologist-lawyer, and unlike lawyers, who deal, with problems, aide-de-campes, tend to, fore-see, problems, and deal with them, before they occur." I thought, that was, kind of ingenious, what I told Joanne, and, I could see, she kind of, thought, about it. My whole point though, of my talking, about all this, was not, really, due to an innate, desire, for expressivity, but just due, to realizing, how 'wack', in many ways, life, has become. The motivations model, is pretty much, out-moded; its been done, and programmed, into the masses, via, the TV, movies, and other such media. The interest thing, is kind of, interesting too, but one, will probably, discover, there is nothing, of interest, going on, out there. Few spots, to fish, boring museums, no good books or music, and rather, plainly, ordinary, and even, boring, people, out there. Most people, would rather, be working, than be, out there, enjoying life, supposedly. The wishes thing though, is kind of new, and could probably, work, but it needs, a kind of, higher vision, than one, I can offer. The conversation, ended, with my staring, at Keira Knightleys, black eyes, and it wound down, amicably, before, we all set off, to our, respective beds.

THE SUPREME GODDESS

Americanista style

Conversations with God (series in religious thought) pt. 4

St. Anna

#Mike and Jerome, are practically, bouncing along, having come, from, presenting their material, on the meaning, of Life, and are, feeling, pretty much, pleased, with themselves. They have awed, their audience, and now, consider, stopping by, for a burger, and fries, and an evening, filled, with video games. It is when, they are still, thinking, this much, they hear, a voice, almost bellow, towards them, calling at them; its St. Anna

St. Anna: Children, where is it, that you go to?

Jerome: St. Anna, we are on, our way, to get, something, to eat.

St. Anna: And where is it, that you, come from, Children?

Mike: From school, where, we just gave, the best, presentation, in the world.

St. Anna: And, what, was it on, this great, presentation, of yours?

Jerome: On, the meaning, of Life, with great thanks, to, Sts. Jerome, John and Anthony. Its all, packed and closed, and there is nothing, more, to it.

#St. Anna, happens, to peruse, through some material, handed to her, by Mike, on their presentation.

St. Anna: This is all, of, great interest, but, you should not, pretend, to know, more, than you do.

Mike: And what, do you mean by that, St. Anna?

St. Anna: There is, something, bigger, out there, that explains, Life, and it has, very much, to do, with the, Supreme Being.

Jerome: What do you mean, by Supreme Being?

St. Anna: There is, a greater Being, out there, that is, the basis, of a lot, of, the orderliness, you see, around you. For instance Children, what is, the wind? How does it blow? Who is blowing it? Jerome, John and Antoine, did not, tell you, about these things.

Mike: How does it, all work then, the wind and stuff?

St. Anna: Life Children, is very much, a crypt. A crypt, originating, from the Supreme Being; And a crypt, Children, is an unsolved, problem, based on, order. For thats, what, the Supreme Being, is all about; a higher order.

Jerome: I don't understand; what do you mean, by a higher order?

St. Anna: There is, a higher order, out there, than the, traffic system, you see around you. As I asked before Children, where does, the wind, originate? How do, the planets, stay afloat? What is, the ebb and flow, of the ocean, about? how does it all happen?

Mike: I think I get it; you mean, there is, a higher order, out there, that makes things, stable, all around!

St. Anna: You got it Mike; but thats not all, to it; let me explain, much further. Life, is very much, a crypt; and when you have, a crypt, from it, is born, chaos. Understanding Life, as a crypt, and chaos, is understanding, that there is, a higher order, to ending, the chaos. The Supreme Being, is the source, of this, higher order.

Jerome: But how, do we access, this higher order?

St. Anna: Understanding fully, any, higher order, is done, via, acts, of Silence; Silence, and not, Solitude, as Anthony, might have mentioned, before. Silence, is all about, defeating, chaos. For instance, being, in a hot room, and getting, yourself, a cold drink, is really, an act, of Silence. It does not, tell you, why, the room, is hot. And when, in a state, of Silence, one, can then, understand, fully perhaps, why, the room, is so hot.

Mike: This is complicated, but probably not.

St. Anna: It is not really, for understanding, higher orders, is truly, all about, understanding, ownership, partnership, and proprietorship. Its really that simple.

Jerome: I don't really understand.

St. Anna: Its not complicated, but it is. Anything, out there, to do, with order, has very much, to do, with issues, of ownership, partnership, and proprietorship. If in, a hot room for instance, its possibly, due, to your being, in there; maybe, the room, is not hot, when you are, out of it. Its kind, of, a proprietorship, problem. As you can see, this is where, religion, meets science.

St. Anna: Let me make, this, even clearer. If you open, a store, somewhere, and you have, a customer, coming in, often, who really then, owns the store? You, the person, who runs it, or he, the customer, who uses it.

Mike: The person who runs it.

St. Anna: But what if Children, another customer, is looking, for a place, to shop, and the owner, of the store, invites him, in, but, the original customer, tells him, "go down the road". Who do you think, Children, would win, in this contest? The store owner, or the, first customer? If you can, truly, answer that, you will understand, that ownership, is a complex subject.

Jerome: St. Anthony, says, he can build a plane.

St. Anna: And thats good, for St. Antoine, but Children, can Antoine, build, a really huge plane? The way, a huge plane, flies, is very much different, in dynamics, from a normal plane. It requires, a higher order, of thought, and dynamics; Howard Hughes style. Its a proprietorship problem.

Mike: St. John, could probably discover, cheap crude oil, for us all.

St. Anna: And he very much could, I bet ya, but I bet you too, he does not know, about, free energy; for thats, a higher order. Its a partnership problem. You, for instance, could very much, walk, in a way, that ensures, you use up, very little, energy. Is all this clear?

Jerome: Kind of, but still difficult.

St. Anna: Don't worry Children, you will, eventually get it. I am currently, working, on, Fermats, Last theorem; very much, a higher order, problem; ownership too. Hopefully, I will get it right.

Mike: Goodbye St. Anna; see you along. Now, run along Children, your dinner time, is up soon.

Reasoning: Social skills theorized

Many people, who have, interacted, with Americans, of all sorts, kinda, believe them, to be different, by State. That Ohians, might be friendly, New Yorkers rude, and Californians, straight out untrustworthy. They kinda, figure all that, from mainly, interacting, with them, politically. For those, however, who interact, with Americans, of all kinds, socially, they come, to realize, that, they differ, in how, they reason, about, others. This means, how, they think about, others, how they, talk to them, how they, deal with them, and even, how, they go about, picking up, chicks. The differences, are the key, to understanding, the American [of all kinds], as a, social beast.

Americanos: Greek (Americanos, are very, Greek, in how, they reason, about others. They tend, to take on, the combatant, spearman, and saintly personalities, when, basically, dealing, with others).

Americans: Bavarian [one word, Derrick; watch it]

Americophiles: Quebecois {how this happened, very much, remains, a mystery}

Citizens: Spanish [not Zorro though, he is Mexican]

Americanistas: Celtic (shaken, but not stirred) [alright!! -- schwiing!!]

and out!!

RELATIONSHIP DESIGN WITH CINDY CRAWFORD: SPECIAL EDITION

This special edition, of Relationship Design, with Cindy Crawford, does not attempt, to present, any, new material. What is covered, here, are relationship models, as seen, in the past, but especially, coming, from Europe. Europe, is kind of, a rich goldmine, when it comes, to cultural design, of any kind, and this, was, at the heart, of the motive, to cover, the region, as compared, to other places, out there. The relationship models, covered here, still work, and the main, reason, for covering them, might be, due, to all, those folks out there, living them, but doing it, kind of wrong really. Several regions, will be covered here, and there is ample, material, to get, a family started, as these, relationship models, are heavily, family based.

England : Dynasty

In England, the family based, relationship model, was not, too hard, to envision. It was rather, political, in nature, and its dynamics, less complex, than believed. At the heart, of it all, you have, a man and woman, English, living, in a manor house, somewhere. What makes it interesting though, is that, the man, and woman, don't communicate, much. While in the home, they mostly, kept, to themselves, each, doing, their own thing. Conversation, between them, was mostly, carried out, in the form, of, mentioning things. At dinner, for instance, the dinner, would be, eaten, silently, and once, in a while, the man, or woman, would mention, something. If the couple, was rich, they had, one or two, servants, living, with them, but outdoors, and consisting, of a cook, and a maid. At times, if the couple, did not, have, any children, they had, someone, usually, a 'stray', of a kind, living, with them. The best, example, is that, of the struggling, student. English couples, such as this, did not, interact much, with people, out there, as many, believe. Their interaction, was rather, seasonal. Summer in London, for instance. Their interaction, with others, was common, if, they had, children; then, an interesting phenomenon, took place, as English couples, associated very much, with the parents, of their childrens, friends. The so called, concept, of family friends. However, on a larger, scale, this said couple, did interact, with their, larger family: siblings, cousins, parents, and the likes. This interaction, was rather, common, if still, not seasonal, and consisted really, of visiting, family, who lived far, and wide. Family, spread out, all over Europe, and even, in other continents. These families, were close knit, so to speak, and mainly, only, interacted, with themselves. They often, sought, three things, in their lives: wealth, prestige, and heraldry. Some sought, to accumulate, great wealth and be, reknowed, for it. Others, sought, to attain, prestige, which simply meant, being, a well known, family household name [the talk of the town]. Finally, you had those, who sought, to attain, heraldry, which meant, be known, for doing, certain, social work. For many English, this often, meant, starting, a school somewhere, or even, a hospital, with their name, attached to it.

France : House

The word House, is often, associated, with royalty today, as in, the 'House of Al Saud', or, the Tudor House. In France though, House, often, referred to as 'Regime [fr]', consisted really, of a well known, wealthy couple. They were kind of, politically, connected, and were, really reknowed, for owning, a business outfit, of some kind. For instance, a family, House really, that owns, its own, private airline. The dynamics, of this relationship model, were not, too difficult, to see. The couple, associated, with each other, around, material culture, of one kind, or another. For instance, today, they would meet, at the television set. They also, probably, shared, a ride, or vehicle, with each other. Dinner, was also, kind of, a large event. They probably, went jogging together, or played, tennis together. All their contact, was around, some material culture. They never, simply spoke, to each other, as the English did. When they had, kids, their children, went to, private schools; the best [probably reknowed, through Europe]. The couple, did not, mingle, or interact, with each other, in their spare time; this time, was spent, interacting, with workmates. The couple, simply met, over, material culture, but interacted freely, with their workmates. Their kids too, hanged out really, with friends, from school, and not, the neighbourhood. However, the couple, was also, acquainted, with some, personal friends, very much, like them, in that, they had, attained, the same, level of success. The goal, of this, interaction, was really, a competition, of some kind, to see, whose marriage, or relationship, was happier, and working better. Men, boasted, of the new deals, they were making. Women, bragged, about, the new diamond ring, or holiday, their spouse, presented to them. It was, a competition, if going awry, could lead, to, affairs, fights [duels really], and even, downfalls [of the House]. A relationship model, kind of common, today.

Deutschland: Romance

In Deutschland, the relationship model, seen, was kind of, simple, in nature, although, difficult, to carry out. It had, at its heart, Romance; a kind, of drama, carried out, between the couple, and affecting, everything, associated with them. Romance, is not, as it is, presented, in the movies. In the movies, what you really have, is Romantic; people, simply raising, each others feelings. Romance, at its heart, also very much, involves, the concept, of, keeping secrets. Either, of the couple, has a secret, of one kind, or another, that simply, threatens, to tear them, apart. With Romance, when the relationship, is going, down, in spirits really, either, of the couple, seeks, to raise them, by showering, the other, with lots, of love. A great gift, a trip somewhere, a specially cooked meal, or the likes. When this occurs, the showered couple, acts, in a pitiful manner, and takes, the opportunity, to somewhat, if not outrightly, expose, a secret. The end result, can be, disastrous. A once, happy man, with a successful business, can see, the business, start, to falter, with employees, fearing, for their future, due, to uncovering, a past affair, or even, a fatal sickness. What really, makes it worse, is that, any of the couple, has other, people, dependent, on them. Some, who might try, to tear them, apart. The wife, might have, parents, who are, dependent, on her. The children too, might be, affected, by growing up, in an unhappy, household. All very Freudian, Erickson, in dynamics. The whole goal, is to keep, Romance, alive, by exposing, positive, or wonderful, secrets really.

Spain : Courts

In Spain, the family, was centered around, the so called, Court system. The Court system, is rather, well known, mostly, for its having, figures, known as, Pages, around. Pages, simply inspired, the Court, or were, central figures, in helping, run it. The family, in Spain, was heavily, Matriarchical. The Court, was ruled, over, by a, female figure, who was very much, a Queen like figure. The whole goal, with the Court system, was to build, very much, what they called, a business empire. The Matriachical figure, sat atop, a business empire, whose outreach, covered, as many areas, as possible; today for instance, it could consist, of publishing, theatre houses, stores, and even possibly, wine making. This business empire, was run, through, the Court, with, the Page(s), at the center, of running things. Those, working, the business empire, eventually, became, family, with each other. They, for instance, went, to the same church, as the matriarch figure. They even, married, within, each other. Facilities, of all kinds, such as, exercising facilities, and even, private clubs, were opened, for the usage, of those, working, in the business empire. The members, also, often got, together, for gatherings, such as feasts. In many ways, they operated, in a, similar manner, to the way, multinationals, operate today. Since, the Court, was very much, matriarchical, the female, offsprings, took over, in its runnings, while the males, often, sought out, another Court.

Austria : Crown

In Austria, the concept, of family, was heavily associated, with what they refer to, as, the Crown. A Crown really, is an, esteemed family, who have contributed, something, on a national, scale. They are kinda, known, through out, a whole country, for instance, for some, contribution. Today, this contribution, is usually, academic, in nature. It could be small too, like a, family, of poets, or musicians. In Austria though, what you find, is a couple, who outside, the family home, are known, by their, professional, titles. Someone, could be, a writer, a professor, a doctor even, or, a royalty title, like the Queen. Thats whom, they were, always, outside, their homes. At home, the couple, were kind of, inverted, in their ways. They often, reverted, to being, very much, like kids. They behaved, in a very, child like, manner, and for those, houses, who were, rich, in one way, or another, they had, what they called, a Staff. Staffs, were made up, of, servants, who often, came, from all over, Europe, and worked, part time really. It was more, of a, job, with them. Staff, basically, cleaned after, and even, looked after, any, of the couple, and their, children. Even with, children around, the couple, always, interacted, very much, like kids, with each other, and with, their kids. The Staff, mostly lived, alone, when not, at work; they sought, to engage, in seeking out, spiritual enlightenment, via, the act, of keeping diaries. In these diaries, were often, recorded, their thoughts, about, the world, and themselves, based on, asking, what if, where, when, who, and the likes. The staff, also, very much, interacted, with each other, and even, married, with each other; they however, also, very much, came and went, at will. The Kids, too, did not, go, to schools [including private schools], like other, European kids, but to what, they call, Academies. Academies, were basically, institutions, that trained, the kids, in what they call, the Classical Arts; gymnastics, was a, very common, form, of instruction. Otherwise, they were, trained, to become, thinkers, of one kind, or another; Theorists really.

Italy : La Familia

In Italy, the concept, of the family, was rather, unique, and even cool, in its ways; it was, heavily based, around, Italian Christianity. At the center, of it all, was each, figure, in the family, usually, large/structural, adopting, a saint, as an identity. The members, of the family structure, La Familia, interacted, with each other, in the form, of sainthood. The saints, though, were more, or less, divided, into three groups. At the heart, of it all, you had, a figure, adopting, the personality, of Jesus Christ. The rest, were divided, into, various factions. You had, one group, as the, Apostles of Christ, another, as the, Disciples of Christ, and a third, as the, Followers of Christ. And while, the Apostles of Christ, listened to everything, he said, the Disciples, argued, with him, about his points, while the Followers, chose, to either, listen, or not, to what, Christ, had to say. You had, another group, of Italians, who really, created, an identity, as Friars. They were a kind, of Monks. The job, of these, Friars, was to look, after, the family, in a, structural way. It was, they, who basically, made things, happen. If someone, needed, a ride, to somewhere, they provided, the transport. If someone, wanted, to start, a business, they sought out, the resources, needed, and the likes. These Friars, were divided, into two, as there was, a group of them, who did, this, on a more, or less, national, and international, scale. If an Italian, wanted to do, business, in Brazil, they provided, the opportunity. These international, Friars, formed, what was known, as the, Italian Jesuits, and providing, resources or opportunity, was part, of what, they did; they did, many other things, on a more, or less, international scale. Italians then, lived, in city-states, and what, is not known, is that, different, Italian groups, were not, really, friendly, with each other. A dignitary, from China, would receive, a warmer welcome, in Naples, than a, visitor, from Milan. To deal, with this, antagonistic, behavior, amongst Italians, a mode, of relating, very much, similar, to what is seen, in Italian Opera, was developed. In totality, Italians, from different, city-states, interacted, with each other, in a similar, manner, to what you see, in Italian Opera. A good example, of this, can be seen, in the movie, the Merchant of Venice; the movie, and not the book. Italians, being very, family oriented, also, allowed for, individual effort, if it made sense. In general though, Italians, identifying, as saints, in their homes, changed, the identity, outside it, and became, very much, similar, to messiahs. They became, messianic. Messianic figures, are controversial figures, in that, they seek, to solve, problems, out there, via, the use, of common sense. One might think, this obvious, but one, would be surprised, at how many, people out there, don't get, common sense. Many, out there, believe, common sense, to be, controversial, and figures, who teach, common sense, often called, messiahs, are seen, as controversial, and often, stoned to death. It is only, later on, that many, in the public, figure, that the, controversial figure, actually knew, what he/she, was doing. Dee Hock, was once, a messianic figure. Thats Italia. At the top, of it all though, is a, certain figure, that is more, or less, more moral, than all, the other Italians. He is, more or less, like a, high priest. His job, is to teach, morality, in one form or another, and help, move, Italia, forward, culturally, from a religious, perspective. This figure, has, St. Jude, as his, right hand man, and is, often, called upon, at times, of crisis.


Addendum: One, of the, more interesting, relationship models, family oriented, seen, out there, that has, lasted, the test, of time, is that, of the Clan. The Clan, is very, common today, in the, Middle East, and has it roots, in the, biblical era. It is a form, of organization, that is, very much, strictly religious. Its main, benefit though, is its, potential, to accumulate, great wealth; sultan like wealth. Old, but still, very much, effective.

Conversations with God (series in religious thought) pt. 3

St. Anthony

#Mike and Jerome, are seated, somewhere, reading through, all, their material, and very much, pondering, its consequences, when they hear, a voice, from behind them, calling out; upon turning, to look, back, they see, St. Anthony, coming, towards them:

St. Anthony: I say, Kids, what is it, you are doing, under that tree?

Jerome: St. Anthony!! We're actually, going, through, some material, we have, to present.

St. Anthony: What material? Here, let me see: "The meaning of Life"; well, this sounds interesting.

Mike: We held discussions, with St. John, the Baptist, and, St. Jerome, and they, unveiled to us, the true meaning, of Life.

St. Anthony: Well, I see, what they are up to, but, I can tell you, its not all, that there is, out there.

Jerome: What do you mean, St. Anthony?!!

St. Anthony: Life, is more, complicated, than this, for, it is, very much, an Enigma. Life, is all about really, signs and symbols. This is kinda, complicated, but not; so listen carefully, for I do not, like, to repeat myself, too much. Life, is very much, an Enigma; a puzzlement, of some sort. It is made up, of phenomena, that mysteriously happens, and materiality, whose origins, are rather, unknown. The belief, is that, God, is the originator, of all this materiality, and, phenomena.

Mike: What do you mean, by phenomena?

St. Anthony: By Phenomena Mike, I am referring, to the strange, things, that happen, around us. An example, being, what are ghosts, what are spirits? Are visions, really real? What do eclipses, really mean; do UFO's and stargates, really exist? As you can tell, Mike, this is not, really, Kids stuff.

Mike: But what, are they, really about?

St. Anthony: Phenomena Mike, are really associated, with what, they call, signs; they are born, of signs. And signs Mike, come from God, telling us, "something is happening here, and you better understand it".

Mike: I don't understand.

St. Anthony: Let me put it, as clearly, as I can. Phenomena Mike, are born, of signs, and signs, come, from God. These signs, tell us, something, is happening, right, about, this moment. It is, for us, to understand, these signs, and their, related, phenomena. Understanding, these signs, is done really, via, Oracles. For Oracles, are all about, signs, and how, they come, to originate. Kind of, deep stuff.

Jerome: What of materiality?

St. Anthony: Materiality, is kind of, obvious, but its not. How do trees, originate, where do cats, come from? How did God, model, the human. Can we, make, these things, ourselves? Asking, these questions, leads, to the discovery, of symbols; for unknown, to many out there, all forms, of materiality, are born, of symbols. Thats what, the study, of Alchemy, is all about; symbols, and the materiality, they give birth to. Kind of deep stuff. Cats, for instance, black cats really, are believed, to originate, from the constellation, Scorpio. Complicated, alchemy stuff.

St. Anthony: So, get that right Kids, that all this, around us, is associated, with a certain symbol; you too. And knowing, these symbols, and fully understanding them, will lead us, to become, very much, like God; originators, of any kind, of materiality.

Jerome: But how, do we truly, understand, signs and symbols?

St. Anthony: Understanding them Jerome, is done, via, what they call, Solitude. Its a practise, where by, one isolates themselves, from others, out there, and quietly, ponders, the meaning, of signs, and symbols. Kind of, a meditative, state. When one, fully, understands, how signs, come about, and also, discovers, as many, symbols as they can, one realizes, they can, kind of, combine, the two, together. For signs Jerome, come about, in three ways: production, processing, and generation. Understanding, fully, these three ways, via Oracles, and combining, this knowledge, with that, of symbols, can lead us, to reproduce, just about, any form, of materiality. That means, another you Mike, if we don't, like you. And thats really, the meaning, of Life, for understanding all this said, leads us, to be, all-knowing; just like God.

St. Anthony: Well then, am kinda done here, and I guess, I 'll be, on my way. Cheers Kids.

The American Heartland (redux)

The Riverdance thing, ain't really real.

The American Heartland

Many people, out there, who are well, acquainted, with America, have probably heard, the term, the American Heartland. Those though, who are ignorant, acquaint it, with what, some, refer to, as, the Bible Belt; a region, in America, believed, to mainly, encompass, the States, of Ohio, and Oregon. A region, believed, to contain, Bible thumping, Americans, segregating themselves, from the rest, of society, and awaiting, the second, arrival, of Christ. It is not so; as mentioned before, it is the ignorant, who believe this.

The American Heartland, really, refers, to a space, any space, where, Americans, of all sorts, are free, to act, wildly. Thats kinda like, the modern interpretation, of it all. Traditionally though, the American Heartland, referred, very much, to the, uncharted lands, of America. By uncharted, it is meant, that, they did not, show up, on any, cartographers, map, and was, also, very much, a region, politicians, heard about, and simply, nodded their heads, in an amazed, and musing, manner. The first region, to ever, be called, the American Heartland, was the, central region, of America, itself. It was here, that the so called, first Americans, interacted, wildly, if not, violently, with, so called, marauding, Indian tribes. This is, important, to know, as the, American Heartland, gave birth, to the first, group, of Americans: Americanistas. This was mainly so, as the, uncharted, American Heartland, was kind of, a crazy place, where startle, and fright, were always, around, the corner. If it was not, a so called, marauding Indian, startling one, then it was, a Bison, giving rise, to fright, in one. But all that, is mostly, folklore, and this version, of, Americanista origins, cannot, fully be depended on. Marauding Indians, so called, like the Cherokee, knew Quantum physics. There is another, version, of Americanista, origins, and very much, has to do, with another, uncharted region, of, American space; the Wild Wild West. It was here, that sharpshooting, cowboys, some often, referred to, as lowriders, interacted, startlingly, and with fright, with each other, and with visitors, often, from Mexico. Remnants, of these cultures, have survived, to this day, and the most common, are the, Rodeo, Kayaking, and even, Trekking [often, on a global scale]. Trekking though, was also, often, very much done, on what, they called, the high seas, and was, referred to, as, Seafaring [Billy Budd style]. One simply, jumped, onto a ship, no sailor experience needed, and through, startle and fright, became, an excellent sailor, and, Americanista. This is mentioned, particularly, for Americanista parents, who wish, to ensure, that their Kids, grow up, Americanista, in an America, filled, with Americans, and Americanos. Fishing too, is very much, an Americanista activity, often associated with, startle, and fright.

Becoming Americanista:

Americanistas, are important, to America, despite what, Americanos, and Americans, might believe. The main reason being, they are the originators, of a culture, which inspires, American, Americano, Citizen, and even, Americophile, cultures. The Americanos, had Bugs Bunny; the Americans, had Br'er Rabbit, and both, originated, from, Uncle Remus (Americanista). It is, Americanistas, that create, a common culture, that unites, all, kinds, of Americans, together. Thats what, they really do; they make Life, in America, seem grand. An example, a good one, of this, is the, Inauguration ceremony, of the President, of the United States, of America. Americanistas, used to do, that stuff, really well. One of the areas, to kind of see, Americanista, influence, on the lives, of all kinds, of Americans, is in, the arena, of comedy. Different Americans, have different, ways, of expressing humor. Americans, have what, they call, improv comedy; a comedy, made famous, by the likes, of, Eddie Murphy. Its a comedy, where one, takes in, material, and kinds of, presents it, in a, different light. Americanos, have what, they call, slapstick comedy; a comedy, where one, exposes himself, and other Americanos, by putting themselves down. An outsider, might believe, the comedian, engaging, in this kind of comedy, has issues, but in reality, what he or she, is saying, is that, we (Americanos), have issues. Redd Foxx, did, slapstick. Citizens, originated, what they call, stand-up comedy. Stand-up, is a form, of comedy, where by, one jumps, around, like a cartoon really, while putting down, others. Richard Pryor, did, stand-up. You also have, sitcom (Situational Comedy), which is really, associated, with, Americophiles, and is kind, of well known. The Fresh Prince of Bela-air, was sitcom. And all these forms, of comedy, orginated, from the Americanista, Cameo. Cameo, is a kind, of complicated comedy, as it, encompasses, all the fore mentioned, forms, of comedy. It is a kind, of, situational comedy, where one, is put, on the spot, and has to, come out, of the situation, creatively, and filled, with humor. Cheech and Chong and Tommy Chong too, are Cameo. Today, Cameo though, is often, associated, with award shows, where by, someone famous, shows up, and kind of, cracks jokes and stuff.

Becoming, a bona fide, Americanista, requires, some training. After all, its all about, making, Life, look grand. Bigger than life itself. At the heart, of all this, is the study, of Art, from a more or less, religious, perspective. Any form of Art really, from around, the world. However, this study, is not, really religious, as in, pointing out, right and wrong; example being, reading, a piece of, literature, and judging, a character, by his doings and motives, as being, right or wrong. Americanistas, judge Art, as being, absurd, or not absurd. Thats what, making life grand, is all about; knowing absurdity, when you see it. Thats kinda why, Americanista Art, is higher, than that, of other kinds, of Americans. A prime example, in absurdity, was when, President Reagan, decided, to bomb, Libya, Gadaffis home specifically, when Gadaffi, was in it, as a warning, to Gadaffi, about, supporting terrorism. It was absurd really, in that, it came out, more, as a, terrorist act, and in the end, made Gadaffi, really popular, and an act, that led, to the rise, of Anti-Americanism, all over, the world. It was all, really, something, that one, would have expected, Bugs Bunny, and pals, to do.

As it is well known by now, there are, three kinds, of Americanistas: Legends, Materialists, and Libertans. Training, to be any of them, is rather different, in nature. Legends, are all about, making, the impossible, happen. And their lives, really, are very much, like that, seen, in a good, movie. For those, wishing, to become, Legends, two things, are recommended: first, the study, of biographies, and other, such material; second, the study, of movie making, as making, a movie, a good one that is, is not, too different, in thinking, as doing, the impossible, out there, is. For Materialists, two things, are of importance: one, the study, of cultures; two, the making
[or even listening], of musical symphonies [example being movie soundtracks]. The whole idea, for Materialists, is to come up, with grand ideas, to improve, cultures. Thats all, they do. As for Libertans, they are a people, who engage, in what, they call, Social Work. Social work, differs from, social service, as the latter, is all about, augmenting, Government, and Governmental, services. Social work, is different though, as it is, all about, making, others, more civilized, in their, behavior. Creating social policy, introducing new cultural practises, or even, new kinds, of constructs, is what, Libertans, are really, all about. An example, of a new, kind, of construct, is, the sports club. The sports club, is not, only, a place, where, people, get together, to play, all kinds of sports, but also, very much, a place, where, civilized discourse, ranging, from politics, to health, is carried out; all, in a civilized, manner. Other than this though, Libertans, at their heart, really study, Art work, and are often, Art collectors. However though, their main study, is in, photography, and including too, the producing, of photographs. Thats kinda about it.