In the aftermath of it all, I finally found her. I walked away from the birthday barbeque to greet her with open arms. In my fumbling stupor, I realized that I was not wearing what she had given me. It must be returned to its rightful place. So I left to go home and return later where she patiently awaited my return. As I journeyed back to her I remembered what she did and what she said to me. She is one of those "gifted" people with the insight of "knowing" things. She had told me with such precious certaintly, "As long as you wear this, nothing bad will happen to you. This is for you with my blessings." I remembered so many adventures with this handmade leather bracelet. It has been swimming with the sharks and stingrays in the Carribean, to CA, and on many roadtrips to different cities. In the ten years that I've had it, it's never been misplaced, damaged, discolored, or torn. And in that time, I've never come to misfortune of any kind while I wore it. Also, since I've been avidly studying knotwork for about twelve years, this bracelet contains the only knot that I've never been able to figure out. It is actually a braid that contains one terminating knot. But this elusive knot has been a challenge to me since I've recieved the bracelet. And it came to me with little surprise that when I told her I was never able to figure out this knot without untying it, she simply replied, "I know." I have missed her very much in the past few years. And most of all, it was a delight to finally return the bracelet with my blessings. Thanx Mama Wendy
6/05/05
I don't know where to start. I have an arm full of trophies and a check for $1600 and had one of the most phenomenal weekends at Shibaricon 2005. It's 2:30 am and I'm exhausted, so I'll catch up soon...
Especially about the trick kick-masse-jump-bank shot that I did in high-level tournament today (the coolest shot I've ever done with three balls sinking in three different pockets(it looked like something out of a movie or on ESPN trick shot competition))
Blessings to everyone who inspires me in my life (the list is extensive...)
Love to all....
Alex
6/25/05
The world slows down. I can finally breathe again.and there are still so many things that I haven't captured here. First, my team won a slot in the APA 8Ball National Tournament and $4000 in sponsorship. What a long, stressful, exhausting, and challenging weekend that was! We played our hearts out. And it showed. I wish I could've videotaped my match against Reggie. He's one of the best shooters I've ever had the opportunity of playing. It was extremely tough for our team to win, especially since we only have 5 players that barely make the the total skill limit for a qualified team. So from Aug 21 - Aug 26 we will be in Las Vegas at the Riviera Hotel competing and/or stumbling around in an intoxicated stupor.
On another note, Shibaricon was a great and inspiring experience this year. I rarely get the opportunity to compare notes as to the extent of my knowledge and experience with rope. This was fantastic for me. And I was creatively nourished to the point that I was able to simplify an extremely complex tie that I can now teach to others. It's a self-adjusting karada. I sometimes get the chance to help others learn knotwork and share knowledge and inspiration. When I do, it's usually in very small groups. This year I was asked if it would be alright to nominate me as an instructor for next year. I was honored and really inspired at the thought of having a chance to share some of my knowledge with others. I really hope that one works out. I also had the delightful experience of meeting Jasmyn, a beautiful girl with incredible energy and aura, who challenged me intellectually, my talent, and with my EM abilities. And then I crucified her. She was so beautiful. I also had the delight of meeting Suzanne from NY. She is also blessed with an inherent talent and refined abilititly of EM, as were a few others that I met, but had not refined their abilities as well.
I also want to make note of blessed union of John and Charlotte. May this path be your most delightful ever!
I have also been inspired by so many people lately. Just to hear their voices and to feel their presences nurtures me so much. Thank you. :)
8/02/05
I almost can't handle the reality of it all.
All I can say is "Boat drinks!"
(read between the lines and release your boundaries of reality)
Blessings,
Alex
(hurting too much to talk to anyone right now.)
8/13/05
Everything is happening all at once. Rounding up a big work project. Constantly training and improving my pool game so that when I leave this Friday to go to Vegas to compete, I will be playing as optimally as I can. I stand a good chance of making a good bit of money and recognition with pool and maybe even another trophy to add to the others that I've won this summer. I've really worked hard on striving to find balance and harmony in much of my life. I've also found the beginnings of that elusive spiritual and emotional bond that I've craved for so long. Life just has a way of showing the potential of its beauty sometimes. :)