Little Boy Blue - Fairness

Working with children keep me on my toes. Every little thing can be about fairness. I am always repeating the rules to games and activities. We follow the rules and in rare moments when we must deviate from the rules everyone involved must be willing to change. This is where the peacemaker plays a role. Those students who decide to be a peacemaker will be praised and congratulated. It has slowly started that whoever is the peacemaker the other children will show them gratitude. The other day, a group of two boys wanted to sit at a table of girls for lunch – a small argument was brewing. One of the boys said let’s be peacemakers and move to another table. The girls said, “thank you!” Another group of boys said, “you guys can eat with us!”

Little Boy Blue

“Introducing, in this issue, the story of a typical American boy and his two pals, here they are regular American boys with a sense of fair play and justice; boys who hate crime and are willing to fight those who live under its piratical flag. Follow Little Boy Blue as he blows his own horn and brings the walls of Jericho down on men of evil.” *          

Tommy Rogers overhears his father, District Attorney Dan Rogers, talking about the issues of crime in their city. After talking to his friend Tubby, they find matching blue costumes (Tommy wears red boots and gloves) and call themselves Little Boy Blue and the Blue Boys. They become great little scrappers and bring many villains to justice. Eventually, Little Miss Redhead will join the group.

Children just have a natural sense of fairness, what is right and what the rules are in a game. Young children are accepting and forgiving of everyone. However, children are influence by the adults around them. We were all typical children. Think back to childhood. Children need order, acceptance, schedules and everything needs to be “Fair”. We should try as adults to be like those fair children again. Trying to be fair and accepting is a great way to fight crime.

Little Boy Blue and the Blue Boys
First Appearance: Sensational Comics #1(January 1942)

Creators Bill Finger (writer) and Jon Blummer (artist)

 * “Little boy Blue”, Sensational Comics #1(January 1942)

The Rocketeer - Harsh Critic

I am truly my own harsh critic. I can doubt myself. I never think anything is good enough – of my own work. It’s taken me a long time to be OK with my artwork and know when enough is enough. When I see students falling into that same abyss I really try to bring them up and give them a different mindset that will help them in the future.

Harsh Critic

"Well, I do expect a lot of myself. I'm a harsh critic because I know what I'm capable of... Sometimes it just flows, but more often than not, it's pure physical and spiritual torment just to get something decent on paper. I often get very discouraged with the whole creative process." - Dave Stevens                                                              

It is the year 1938. Racing Pilot and Barnstormer, Cliff Secord, is trying to be the best at his craft. He finds a package hidden by two thieves. In the package is a rocket prototype. This rocket prototype allows the wearer to fly. Using all his skills, Cliff Secord, the Rocketeer, battles thieves and the Nazis. His adventures will take him to New York where he will meet, the villainous Lothar.

Be honest, How many of us are “harsh critics” especially to ourselves? I know I am. We want everything to be perfect. We try to make everything perfect. There is nothing wrong with that except when it becomes difficult. There is a character defect called – perfectionism. It can cause fear to complete tasks and it can cause us to be judgmental (also a character defect) toward others. The late Dave Stevens, the creator of the Rocketeer, suggests that at times when he is able to let go of the critic something happens – the work just flows. Our perfectionism will cause physical, spiritual and emotional anguish which will make the creative process difficult. Maybe it is our job to let go of perfectionism. That is easier said than done in some cases. However, when we treat ourselves as precious objects we become stronger. Take a step back and go get a cup of coffee, we can treat ourselves special for a moment. Then come back and look at the project with gentler eyes.

The Rocketeer
First Appearance: Starslayer, #1 and #2 (February 1982), Pacific Comics

Creators: Dave Stevens

Buck Rogers - Silence the Brain

My introduction to Buck Rogers, was that classic bad TV show from the 1970’s, “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century”. Even though the TV series didn’t last long I was smitten with the character Buck Rogers. I loved how the whole Rip Van Winkle concept inspired Science Fiction stories. Ruck Rogers' story often goes down the path of mind control and other brain functions. Sometimes when meditating I find it difficult to silent that brain. Each time I bring my mind back to focus on my breathing I am helping my brain to remain focused on other details.

Silence the Brain

“If only we could silence the ‘brain’. I’ll try my paralysis ray on it.” -    Buck Rogers*

Anthony (Buck) Rogers was born 1898 and was a soldier in World War I. Afterwards he worked for an American Radioactive Gas Corp. When Buck is investigating a mine in Wyoming Valley, Pennsylvania there was a cave in. Rogers is trapped and due to the equipment and radioactive gas he falls into a state of suspended animation. The year was 1927; he remained in the mine for 492 years. When he awakes it is 2419 and his world had changed.

That brain of ours is always working. It micro-manages everything. When the teachers of meditation suggest silencing the brain, that feels impossible – we are always thinking. Life would be so easy if we could silence all those thoughts. If only we could silence those negative fearful and resentful thoughts. Keep in mind (pardon the pun) that when meditating the positive pleasant thoughts can also be distracting.  With practice the brain can slow down to focus on one goal – it does become almost silent. Here is a simple technique that can be done every day. Just sit in silence looking out the window, on the back porch, or at a favorite painting in a museum. Start with one minute, set a timer to help. Start slowly and build on the time each week or day (whichever is more comfortable). The key here is NO communication, just sit in silence. When the time of silence is over the body will feel refreshed and the mind is clearer. Those negative thoughts will be less fearful. The positive thoughts will be more joyful.

Buck Rogers
First Appearance: Armageddon 2419 A.D., Amazing Stories, Aug 1928, Experimenter Publishing 

Strip Appearance: Armageddon 2419 A.D., National Newspaper Syndicate, January 7. 1929

Creators: Philip Francis Nowlan

* “The Mind of Minds”, National Newspaper Syndicate, November 22, 1936–January 17, 1937

Starman - Experience

One of my favorite Supergroups is the Justice Society of America. From the Forties to the Present they have been one of the most influential teams. The JLA is based off their experience. The Avengers borrow aspects of the JSA. The JSA is part of the reason I chose DC to live. In the early days of the JSA they would meet in the basement of the Smithsonian Castle.

Experience

“…But EXPERIENCE is also strength! And my experience taught me to watch my back!” - Starman*

During the forties, brilliant astronomer and scientist, Ted Knight, creates a gravity rod to be used as an alternate power source. The gravity rod, later to be referred to as a cosmic rod allows the user to fly and project energy beams and blasts. Eventually Ted creates a mystery man costume and protects Opal City from villainy. He also joins the ranks of the Justice Society of America, the first superhero team. Ted eventually is called upon for his scientific skill from the Government and he becomes one of the creators of the first nuclear bomb. At the same time the love of his life Doris Lee is tragically murdered and Ted is hospitalized in a hospital for the mentally ill. Soon others, including his sons Dave and Jack, take on his mantle of Starman, Ted often gives advice and shares experience to these newcomers. Even in the 30th century, the legionnaire Star Boy, accounts many of the advantages in science to Ted Knight’s experience.

Experience is an important part of learning. Math teachers around the world remind students to put their math skills to daily use. The experience of counting actual money builds knowledge. Also, when we help someone do something, bake a pie, delete computer viruses or even changing the oil in a car, we are sharing our experience. Most businesses may look at where the possible employee went to school but mostly at the experience the employee may have. How do we gain experience? Easy, we gain experience through doing. The best way to gain experience is to just start. The swimming teacher will put the new students in the water immediately for experience. Boxing coaches will put the new boxer in the ring as soon as possible for experience. The best way to gain experience is by doing. If we need help in learning ask – find a teacher and ask for help. There is an old wise saying, “when the student is ready the teacher will appear.” When we are ready finding a teacher will be easy.

Starman (Ted Knight)
First Appearance: Adventure Comics, #61 (April 1941)

Creators: Jack Burnley

* “United We Fall”, All-Star Comics, Volume 13, #69, December 1977

Richard Dragon - Slow Down

I try to slow down and take it easy every day. Slowing down gives me time to breath and relax. I often wake up earlier than most so that I can have that time to breathe and begin my day slowly. It is difficult for me to wake up and immediately start rushing around. My mind becomes rigid and dense. I prefer to remain slow and fluid.

Slow Down

“Slow down. Remember to Breathe. It’s simple. It’s the essence of Life.” - Richard Dragon* 

Some heroes start off in the wrong direction. A young Richard Dragon enters a dojo to still a jade Buddha. He is caught the Sensei of the dojo. Richard stays 7 years at the dojo training. He becomes the Kung Fu Master. For a few years he becomes a world adventurer with difficult missions. Eventually he gives all that up and begins training heroes in the martial arts.  Some of his notable students are Nightwing, the Question, the Huntress and Batgirl. Richard Dragon, the Kung Fu Master, reminds his students to not force the effort – slow down and relax into the movement.

These are wonderful words of advice. Why must we rush here and there? “Easy does it” is an old cliche but it is a good suggestion. When we give ourselves the time to move and breathe we are more able to think clearly. We are more able to move freely. Our actions are not forced. When we do not rush around our mood is more pleasant. When we stop for a moment to smell the flowers or watch a bird cross the sky we have a moment for possible inspiration. We have a moment to breathe. It is worth waking up 30 minutes early to have a quiet cup of coffee. It is worth giving yourself the time to take your time – being clear and ready to start the day.

Richard Dragon – Kung Fu Master   
First Appearance: Dragon Fists (novel) May 1974

First Comic Appearance: Kung-Fu Fighter, #1 DC Comics, April-May 1975

Creators: Denis O'Neil (writer) & Jim Berry (art) 

Gargoyle - Go Easy

I try not to get frustrated. It was easier when I was younger but as I get older it gets more difficult. I still try to experience difficulties as just part of life and try to keep my lighthearted attitude. Keeping up with my meditation, journalizing and exercise helps. What helps the most is sharing my difficulties with someone. That way I never feel alone in the world.

Go Easy

“AW! NO! I can never have things go easy, can I? - Gargoyle*

Some heroes make the worst decisions and they spend their lives redeeming these past mistakes. Isaac Christians was a rich old man and wanted his youth back. So, he sold his soul to a group of demons. Of course the demons lied to Isaac Christians. Eventually these demons placed Isaac’s soul into a gargoyle’s body and sent him to kill Hellcat, Patsy Walker, of the Defenders. The Defenders help their friend and comrade against this gargoyle. The Defenders helped Isaac see the error of his ways. Isaac Christians rejected the demons and fought alongside the Defenders as the super hero Gargoyle. 

This is going to be tough to hear - sometimes things do not go our way. Sometimes things are hard and difficult. It is what we do during these hard times that makes us special and at peace. It’s how we look at difficulty that makes us unique.  Do we complain or do we find a solution? From the Tao Te Ching we are reminded, “Easy promises make for little trust. Taking things lightly results in great difficulty. Because the sage always confronts difficulties, he never experiences them.”** The Taoist expects and/or welcomes difficulty as a part of life – part of the cycles of life, it is natural. Some people believe difficulties are tests of the spirit. Some people believe difficulties are landmarks of the life journey. It still boils down to difficulties are part of life. Don’t complain, deal with the difficulties.

Gargoyle (Isaac Christians)
First Appearance: The Defenders, #94 (April 1981), Marvel Comics

Creators: BJ.M. DeMatteis (writer) Don Perlin (art)

* “Design Demons”, The Supernaturals, #3 of 4, Marvel Comics, December 1998

** “Chapter #63”, Lao Tsu- Tao Te Ching, translation by Gia-fu Feng & Jane English, Wildwood House 1991, first 1972, http://www.wussu.com/laotzu/index.htm

Karnak - Flaws

Karnak is one of my favorite characters. I have always appreciated the spiritual aspect his brought to the comics. Comics and the eastern philosophies always inspired me and influenced me. The idea of a cracked tea cup is still beautiful and useful always offers hope. A flaw can be beautiful. Some people think my love of superheroes and comics is a flaw. I believe that comics lead me to become an artist. If that is a flaw then so be it - I cherish this flaw.

Flaws

“In everything there hides a Flaw…It matters not the size of the structure, nor the material from which it is made. Everything has an imperfection that can be traced to one single point and exploited.” - Karnak*

The Inhumans are a Cree mutated race of humans living in the ancient hidden city of Attilan. At an early age an Inhuman child will be exposed to the Terrigan Mist and in turn mutate into a new being with a specific gift. Karnak and his brother Triton are part of the royal family of Attilan. When Triton was exposed to the Terrigan Mist he mutated into a being that can live in water. He is the only Inhuman to have this gift and thus lives alone. So when it was Karnak’s turn his parents begged and pleaded for their son to be freed from the exposure of the mist. Instead Karnak was sent to a Tibetan Monastery and learned the Martial Arts. Karnak can see or experience the flaw in anything – physical spiritual or emotional. Each member of the Inhuman Royal Family is unique in their gifts. Karnak is the only Inhuman not to be exposed thus making him unique. His uniqueness is a flaw in the Inhuman experience.

How is a flaw a gift? Many Eastern Philosophies believe that everything has a flaw and it is the flaw that is most beautiful. The flaw in the teacup makes the cup beautiful and unique. Flaws are what we work on in life. We may have flat feet and so can’t race on foot but those of us with flat feet are normally fast cyclers. We may not dance well but we can play the music or even select the best music for a dinner party. Is a flaw a hindrance or a gift it is how you look at the flaw.

Karnak
First Appearance: Fantastic Four vol. 1, #45 (Dec 1965)
Creators: Stan Lee (plot), and Jack Kirby (art).

* Inhumans #1,”Sonic Youth”, November 1998, Marvel Comics

Shazam - I Can Be A Friend

If you gave me a choice to hang out with Superman, Batman or Shazam (Captain Marvel) I would choose Shazam. Because I could always relate to Billy Batson more than Clark Kent or Bruce Wayne. Clark and Bruce always seemed self-centered and grandiose. Where Billy seemed more concerned with the people around him. Billy cared about what really mattered. Everyone was Billy’s friend.

I Can Be A Friend

“Trips under the ocean and flights through the air might not always be the answer. But I can be a friend who will visit when another friend is lonely. I can provide another voice to laugh with.” - Billy Batson / Captain Marvel*

The ancient wizard Shazam needed a hero to fight in the eternal battle of good and evil, so he found young good hearted and orphaned Billy Batson. When Billy speaks the Wizard’s name, “Shazam!” he is instantly transformed into Captain Marvel. With the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the stamina of Atlas, the power of Zeus, the courage of Achilles and the speed of Mercury, Captain Marvel sets out to do works of good against the darkness of evil. Never forgetting he is a child at heart Captain Marvel has the Hope of a child. This is the true source of his power.

We all need friends. It does not hurt to think of friendship again and again. Billy Batson’s realization can go a long way. No matter what we do as a job or sports or art, nothing compares to being there for a friend. These thoughts maybe child like or cliché but the truth of the matter is we need friends. Call or visit a friend today!

Captain Marvel /Shazam / Billy Batson
First Appearance: As Captain Thunder, for Whiz Comics #1, 1939, Fawcett Comics

Second Appearance: As Captain Marvel, for Whiz Comics #2, Feb. 1940, Fawcett Comics

Third Appearance: As Shazam, for Shazam! #1, Feb. 1973, DC Comics

Creators: Bell Parker (plot), C.C. Beck (art)

*Shazam! Power of Hope, November 2000, DC Comics

Wonder Man - Everything Is Beautiful

Beauty is one of those things chased but do we really need to seek beauty? Why can’t we look out our windows and see it naturally. All we must do is look for it and we can see it. Even in the rain I will look for beauty.  

Everything is Beautiful

“Hey, everything is beautiful in its own way, baby.” - Wonder Man*                                    

Simon Williams, owner of Williams Innovations, loses everything. His villainous Brother, Eric Williams, the Grim Reaper, convinces Simon to embezzle money from Stark Industries. Simon fails and is arrested. Baron Zemo pays Simon’s bail and along with his brother and the Enchantress turns Simon into a being of pure Ionic Energy. Simon Williams as Wonder Man tries to infiltrate the Avengers from the inside as a hero. He fails at his duties. Simon is trapped in suspended animation. Ultron, the evil robot, uses his brain patterns to create the heroic android, the Vision. Eventually Simon Williams is revived, and he becomes the hero Wonder Man. He joins the Avengers with his best friend, the X-man, Beast. Simon Williams has that classic handsome beauty that makes him a superhero movie star. Living in Hollywood, Wonder Man spends his time making movies and saving the world. Although now he is a pacifist seeking salvation and heroism through peaceful non-violence means.

The old ideas are true. “Beauty is skin deep” and “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Our mothers told us, “Pretty is as pretty does.” In her song, Beautiful, Christina Aguilera says, “I am beautiful no matter what they say. Words can't bring me down. I am beautiful in every single way. Yes, words can't bring me down... Oh no. So don't you bring me down today.” Everyone is beautiful in their own way. Beauty boils down to how we act and treat other people. The physical beauties will fail but a life of Balance (physical, spiritual and emotional) will last forever.  Seek to look beyond outside appearances and look at how people act or treat others. “Don’t judge a book by the cover” really get to know a person, their actions and beliefs before a decision is made.

Wonder Man
First Appearance: Avengers, vol. 1 #9 (October 1964), Marvel Comics

Creators: Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Don Heck

* “Eye of the Beholder”, Wonder Man, Volume 1, #3, November 1991

Spider-Woman - Never Get Into A Car

One of my pet peeves is when I say, “Good Morning” to people and they do not respond – not even with a nod or grunt. I find it rude and annoying. When students do not respond to my good morning I will stop them and ask, “I said good morning, what should you say?” Each student gets an individual greeting before entering my classroom – they are expected to greet me in return. I find it’s always a nicer Uber ride when I start off with a friendly “Hi, how are you?” to the driver.

Never Get into A Car…

“My mother…My real mother told me never to get into a car with a known terrorist assassin holding a giant gun.” - Spider-Woman*                            

Jessica Drew can adhere to walls, throw bio-electric attacks and produce pheromones. She can fly, she has super strength and agility. Jessica is also immune to radiations and poisons. Those are a lot of abilities. Jessica Drew uses the codename Spider-Woman. She is a detective and worked for S.H.E.I. L.D., S.W.O.R.D. and HYDRA. She has been members of the Avengers, Heroes for Hire and the Lady Liberators. She is very popular within the superhero community. Jessica often weighs the actions of others to trust her own judgments.

When we were children our mothers often said, “Don’t talk to strangers.” Here is a story to think about. A mother and son get into an elevator a man is there and expresses salutations. The mother responds with “Hello”. The man looks at the boy and smiles. The mother says, “Honey this gentleman says good morning. What do you say?” The son answers, “Good Morning”. When the gentleman left the elevator the mother turns to her son asking why was he so rude? “But Mama you said DON’T talk to strangers”. “Sweetheart,” the mother says, “saying ‘Hello’ is NOT a conversation.” We walk down the street, we get elevators, buses, subways and there are people around us. Do we really have to be silent can’t we say good morning? Can’t we respond to salutations? Think about, “saying ‘Hello’ is NOT a conversation.”

Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew)
First Appearance:   Marvel Spotlight #32 (February 1977)

Creators: Archie Goodwin (writer), Sal Buscema (art) and Jim Mooney (ink) 

* “Agent of S.W.O.R.D. Spider-Woman” Animated Series, 2011 Nicolette Reed (voice of Spider-Woman)

Big Bear - Intimacy

I’ve met some people over the years that can be free spirited and find intimacy easy. I always admired those people – still do. I have not problem with intimacy it just takes me a bit longer to reach that level. I must build trust before I can be intimate with someone. Trust is an important component of intimacy.

Intimacy

“Lower beings tend to fear intimacy.” - Big Bear *

Big Bear can change the density of objects thus giving him super strength and near invulnerability. Big Bear is also a member of the Forever People, a group of young New Gods from New Genesis. They travel and enjoy each others’ company. They live their lives as a colony of free spirited youthful and forever young people. The Forever People are Beautiful Dreamer, Mark Moonrider, Vykin, Serifan and Big Bear. By simultaneously speaking the word “Taaru” the Forever People can merge to become the Infinity Man – a being of immense power connected to the Source. Because they can create the Infinity Man, the Forever People are family, friends and intimates. 

Most people think intimacy is “sexual” – that is NOT true. True intimacy is being able to share with another human being at a level where feelings of fear and remorse are not present. Think about it for a moment …then remember your best friend. You had no problem being naked, taking a shower or sometimes even sitting on the toilet in front of this person. To share anything with this person was easy and comfortable. It was intimate. True intimacy takes practice. It takes getting to know and trusting a person. The only way to experience intimacy with a person is to share. Start sharing with a person and eventually the sharing becomes deep profound and intimate.

Big Bear
First Appearance: Forever People #1, February, 1971

Creators: Jack Kirby

 * “Young Justice” Disordered, airing Nov. 11, 2011, Big Bear voiced by Bill Fagerbakke.

Moonstar - Leap of Faith

How did I choose to move to DC? I drew DC out of a hat, literally. It was time for me to move – there was nothing for me in Shreveport anymore. I knew I wanted to leave but I could not decide. I put all the places I wanted to live in a hat. The other places were New York, San Francisco, Chicago and Shreveport. That whole process and the move to DC was a huge Leap of Faith. I’m glad I did it.

Leap of Faith

"Sometimes you have to take a leap of Faith.” - Danielle Moonstar*                               

Danielle Moonstar, “Dani” to her friends is a Cheyenne and Mutant with Psychic and Telepathic abilities. Moonstar can create psychic arrows that will cause people to see illusions or act as a psychic blast. She also has a psychic rapport with animals. Moonstar can also sense impending deaths (her powers manifested at puberty when she sensed her parent’s death). She joined up with the X-Men through her Grandfather, Black Eagle, when he contacted Professor Xavier. She is unafraid to take those important leaps. Eventually Moonstar takes a leap and becomes a Valkyrie, the bringer of slain warriors to Valhalla.

We all takes these leaps often, sometimes we do not recognize them as a “leap of faith”. In a broad sense waking up each morning is a “leap of faith”. The Tarot card, the Fool, is normally represented as a young man stepping off a cliff enjoying his day and his journey. The Fool has a meaning of foolishness and is often thought of as the beginning of a journey or a leap of faith. Overly optimistic people are often looked at as fools. These people tend to do things that no one else will, they try the unexpected just to see what happens. They always have a sense that everything will work out just fine – they seem to never worry. The unexpected is the leap of faith. But here is a paradox sometimes the expected is also a leap of faith. A daily practice, daily workout, meditation and prayer or coffee with a friend, strengthens the spirit and helps us make the leap of faith.

Moonstar
First Appearance: Marvel Graphic Novel, #4, the New Mutants, (December 1982)

Creators: Chris Claremont (writer) & Bob McLeod (art)

*X-Force, #85, “Possession”, Marvel Comics January 1999

Comet Queen - Your First Nova

I’m often reminded to live in the present. I can find that difficult because the past was so much fun, and/or I can hold a good old fashion grudge for a long time. The future is full of “what if’s” that keeps my mind swirling. But, when I can live in the present I see clearly that everything from my past has lead me to this moment. Everything I have to offer comes from the lessons I’ve learned. When I am able to live in the present there is no future to concerned me.

Your First Nova

“Life’s not about your first nova, Twinkle. It’s about your latest and hottest!” - Comet Queen*

Grava from the 30th Century, Earth colony Xtal was always fascinated with the Legion of Superheroes. Her particular favorite was Star Boy. Grava wanted to join the Legion so like her hero, Star Boy she jumped through a comet. Now when Star Boy did this he was in a ship; Grava however was unprotected and changed. Grava gained the power of flight and can travel through space unprotected. She has strength, resistance to damage and she emits the same gases found in a comet. Grava never made it to the Legion. She did attend the Legion Academy but was only offered membership into the Legion of Substitute Heroes. She sees herself as great and heroic. She does whatever she can with an upbeat and bright attitude as the Comet Queen!

“Life’s not about your first nova, Twinkle. It’s about your latest and hottest!” We should "Live in the moment". If we spend our time thinking about the past we will not see the gifts of the present. If we continue to worry about the past we will never reach the future. There’s an old colloquialism; “If you have a foot in the past and a foot in the future then you’re pissing on the present.” It’s a little brazen but the message is received. Don’t worry about the first nova be part of the nova you are creating now? These are the brightest, hottest and strongest.

Comet Queen
First Appearance:  Legion of Super-Heroes Vol. 2, #304, October 1983

Creators: Joseph Samachson (Writer), Joe Certa (Artist)

* “The Tragic Origin of Comet Queen!” Action Comics, #527, August 2011

Jean Grey - Give A Girl A Chance

I used to hate hearing, “a little boy doesn’t do that!” Who cares if I wanted my ears pierced or I wanted to wear nail polish. When I got older that is exactly what I did – got my ears pierced and started wearing nail polish. It’s who I am. It doesn’t make me less than a man or more feminine it makes me Richard.

Give a Girl a Chance!

“Just like a male to think that only he can meet a crisis! How about giving a poor helpless little girl a chance?” - Marvel Girl*  

Jean Grey is a mutant with telepathy and telekinesis. She was approached my Professor X (Charles Xavier) to become one of his students and join his X-Men. Jean took the name Marvel Girl. When Jean started her heroic career she was a bit timid and lacked courage but she grew strong and more confident. Eventually she attracted the entity known as the “Phoenix”. In an attempt to save her comrades she bonds with the Phoenix entity and immerges as “Phoenix” a stronger more powerful version of herself. She takes the name Phoenix.

Creative, Comfortable, Confident and Courageous are four words used to describe people. Women and men have the same feelings and concerns. They both can act the same in public. Women seek the same spiritual levels as men. There are women that can beat men in wrestling or boxing. There are men that can cook or decorate better than a woman. With that, why do we separate ourselves by sex and/or labels? The four words above are good guide posts. It is your focus that matters. If you wish to be creative, then create something; if you wish to be comfortable give comfort to someone. If the focus is to be confident stand up and speak out. To be courageous take that first step into a new situation. It does not matter our sex it is our purpose or goal we set for ourselves.

Marvel Girl
First Appearance: X-Men #1, September 1963

Creator: Stan Lee (writer) and Jack Kirby (art)

* X-Men, The Triumph of Magneto! Roy Thomas and Neal Adams, Dec. 1970 #63

Tyroc - Being Wrong

Growing up, Tyroc was one of my favorite heroes. He was the Legion’s first black member. I would often ask myself why is there no black heroes? Then Tyroc emerged. I thoroughly enjoyed him. Now there are many other black members of the Legion of Superheroes. It is important to remember those that came first.

Being Wrong

“I guess I’ve been wrong… about a lot of things…” - Tyroc*                                                     

The 30th Century is filled with wonders beyond belief, for example the Legion of Superheroes. But there is another wonder to amaze us. The island near the coast of Africa, Marzal. A slave ship washed to shore on Marzal and the inhabitants has lived on this island for hundreds of years, since the 1700’s. The amazing thing about this island is the “Brigadoon Effect.” This island appears every hundred years, and then after a few years will go to sleep and will not be seen for another hundred years. Marzal’s champion is Troy Stewart, otherwise known as Tyroc. Tyroc has the ability to scream sonic yells but with each yell something happens; teleportation, force fields, practically anything happens with his screams. Marzal is a very private and close community. They are a proud African Tribe. When the Legion of Superheroes arrives, the superheroes was met with distrust and fear of white people (or Caucasian looking people). Eventually Tyroc and his people saw the error in their fears accepting that the Legion really cares. Tyroc became the first African to join the Legion of Superheroes.

There seems to be people that can go throw life calmly and quietly with a deliberate composure. It is like they live in the middle, and are temperate. Watch these people they do not fight or argue, yell or scream. But they stand up for themselves also. These people are amazing. How do they live like this? They question their actions, and they examine their lives daily. When they are wrong they admit defeat or mistake openly and then they move on to the next lesson. Living humbly is difficult. Living moderately is difficult. There many spiritual matters - hope, faith, service, and meditation. But what about moderation? Examining our lives is an important part of spiritual growth, seeking balance is important to living a calm, harmonious, and serene life. The only way to do this is to ask questions and give honest answers. Go ahead ask those questions, give the answers and when wrong promptly admit it.    

Tyroc
First Appearance: “The Hero who Hated the Legion” Legion of Superheroes #216, April 1976

Last Appearance: * “The Brigadoon Syndrome” Legion of Superheroes #265, April 1980

Creators: Cary Bates (script), and Mike Grell (art)

 * “The Hero who Hated the Legion” Legion of Superheroes #216, April 1976

Free Spirit - Freedom & Justice

I don’t know too much about Free Spirit. I did love that Captain America had a female sidekick for a while. To me that was very cool. When I was younger I thought of myself as a free spirit. As I get older I’m not so free with my spirit, but I like to think that I allow the people around the justice to express themselves and live their lives freely.

Freedom & Justice

“I mean freedom and justice are not synonymous but there's some similarities there, some points in common." -  Mark Gruenwald*

Graduate student Cathy Webster was experiment on with subliminal psychology, to hate all men. Cathy was also subjected to a mutagenic radiation that enhanced her strength and agility. Eventually she breaks free of this psychological damage to defeat her captors Superia and Baron Zemo. Cathy takes the name Free Spirit, and soon crosses paths with Captain America, becoming a protégé of his.  Cathy Webster is Free Spirit fighting for Freedom and Justice!

Freedom and Justice are two words often spoken together. Both words have certain qualities. To have Freedom there is the absence of coercion and constraint. There is a feeling of release. To experience Justice there is a feeling or idea of fairness in dealing right action. To experience “true” freedom is a joy and glory to behold. To know “true” justice is to know a sense of belonging in non-conformity. Superheroes often fight for Freedom and/or Justice so that the people can experience the truer sense of Freedom and Justice.  Nina Simon sang, “I wish I could share; all the love that's in my heart; Remove all the bars; That keep us apart; I wish you could know; What it means to be me; Then you'd see and agree; That every man should be free.” That is a good description of freedom but to experience justice would be to let every man be free.

Free Spirit
First Appearance: Captain America #431, Marvel Comics (September 1994)
Creator: Mark Grunewald (writer) and Dave Hoover (art)

* COMIC-ART.COM, Interview with Mark Gruenwald, 1994, interviewer Steve Ringenberg

The Hulk - Pathos

Believe it are not me and The Hulk are the same age. For that reason, I’ve always felt a connection to the Hulk. I loved the story line when the heroes, Mr. Fantastic, Iron Man, Dr. Strange, Black Bolt and Professor Xavier sent Bruce Banner, the Hulk into outer space. Then he found a home and people that loved him. I connected with that story so much. I knew exactly how it felt.

Pathos

“Every story has to have a little pathos.” - Jack Kirby – About the Incredible Hulk

One of the saddest Superheroes ever created is the Incredible Hulk. Bruce Banner while protecting a young kid from a nuclear explosion was bombarded with Gamma rays and now in fits of anger becomes the hulking green monster – The Incredible Hulk. The angrier the Hulk becomes the more destructive and powerful the Hulk becomes. When all is said and done; when The Hulk has become Bruce Banner again, Bruce must deal with the destruction, misery, and pain the Hulk has caused. Readers naturally feel pity, feel sympathy and compassion for Bruce and the Hulk. The Incredible Hulk would not be so popular if not for the pathos we all feel for him.

Pathos – We all have a little pathos in our lives. Everyone has a little sadness to deal with. We all go through rough times. If not for the rough and sad times, how would we ever be able to enjoy and appreciate the good times? As humans we have been given the power to create or evoke compassion and pity toward others. Recognizing the pathos in others will help bring a friend peace. Recognizing we all have a little pathos make our individual stories worth listening. This is all we ever truly want – to have some one listen to the pathos and give a little compassion.  

The Incredible Hulk
First Appearance: “The Strangest Man of All Time” The Incredible Hulk, #1, May 1962

Creators: Stan Lee (plot), Jack Kirby (art)

Meltdown - Whoo Yeah!

I’m glad it’s Friday! It’s also a 3-day Weekend. Whoo Yeah! This would be a great weekend to have some fun – I will enjoy whatever comes my way. I always enjoy this weekend – it’s a nice reflective weekend for me. I also find time to spend with friends enjoying myself.

WHOO YEAH!

"That’s why I say, enjoy it while you can! WHOO YEAH!" -  Meltdown*                              

Tabitha Smith was born in Roanoke, Virginia. When her mutant abilities manifested her parents rejected her. Her father even beat her. Tabitha ran away from home. Things tend to blow-up around Tabitha; she can create little time bombs of energy that blow-up with varying degrees of force. Tabitha is always on the move and joining different groups and hanging with different people. Not being able to stay in one place too long Tabitha also changes her codename often – Time Bomb, Boom-Boom, Boomer, Meltdown and Firecracker.  Through it all Tabitha is effervescent and happy. She is the life of the party. She can make an adventure fun!

Tabitha Smith can teach us a valuable lesson – Live in The Moment. Make the best of any moment. Enjoy the moment while we can. Do not run from living be part of life. Yes, there are some horrible moments and there is no laughter in some moments, but we also know that nothing lasts forever, and those moments will change. We can still be part of that sad moment and be proud that we lasted through it. Be part of the moment. Enjoy the moment. The moment is all we have. Look at the people around us and in our lives, we can share our moment with them. Even on a subway of strangers we can be present on the subway and enjoying the ride.

Meltdown
First Appearance: Secret Wars II, #5 (November 1985)

Creators: Jim shooter (writer) & Al Milgrom (art)

*X-Force, #81, September 1998

Mr. Fantastic - Partners

I miss the Fantastic Four. I wish they still printed their comics. Maybe now that Disney was able to retrieve the rights to the FF we’ll see the Fantastic Four again. They were so very important to me growing – I loved that they were a family. They had their issues but worked through it together. Working together was the key to their success.

Partners

“If it were simply me against the unknown, I truly believe I would have collapsed by now under the daunting enormity of finding new challenges. But what I’ve learned over the course of our careers is that working alongside good partners makes all the difference. As long as you’re with friends there’s no limit to the adventure out there.” - Mr. Fantastic, Reed Richards *     

The day Reed Richards talked his friends into a rocket and the four were doused by cosmic rays, their lives were changed fantastically. Reed Richards, Mr. Fantastic and the leader of the “Fantastic Four” have five friends he chooses to call family. Sue his wife is his passion, Ben his stability, Johnny his imagination, and his children Franklin and Valeria are his heart. With out these people his life would be boring and lonely. Even to a superhero, partners, friends and family are important.

We all have people in our lives. There are people at work, there are neighbors at home, there are people sitting next to us on the bus, so why go through life alone? There are adventures to be had, there are challenges to meet and there are conversations to share. The joy of life is found in walking and talking with people. Take the risk and share, there are friends waiting. We do not have to go through life alone. Life is an adventure to share with a friend. Call a friend for coffee today.

Mr. Fantastic

First Appearance: Fantastic Four #1, 1961

Creators: Stan Lee (plot), and Jack Kirby (art)

 * “TAG” Fantastic Four #524, May 2005

Lightray - Laughter

Sometimes comics can make me laugh. Those who have heard me laugh know I have an obnoxious laugh. I love it when my laugh silences a room. I love laughing. I wish I could say laughing is my favorite pastime but that would make me sound like the Joker. HA!

Laughter

“NONSENSE! To laugh is to feel the beat of life! Live, Orion! LIVE!” - Lightray*  

“There came a time when the old gods died” * and who replaced the old gods but the New Gods. The New gods are an alien race from the planet New Genesis. Lead by the High-father these new gods are in constant battle with Darksied and the gods of the planet Apokolips. Of all these “New Gods” no one is as optimistic and cheerful as Lightray.  Lightray has the power of light, he can control all forms of light, he can travel at the speed of light. Lightray has enhanced strength and endurance. With all this power he chooses to solve problems peacefully without conflict. He uses his speed to eluded villains. Lightray’s true power is his cheerfulness and optimism.

Laughter! A gut level laugh feels so good. Laughing to tears is always fun. We have been told from an early age that laughter is healing. This is very true. Think back, in moments of distress, stress, anger or fear what helps but a good ole laugh. We do feel a certain beat when we laugh – there is a cadence to our laughter. Listen to different kinds of laughs and notice the beat. Then notice the smiles on the faces and see that laughter is the “Beat of Life.” Live in laughter.

Lightray
First Appearance:   New Gods #1, February 1971

Creator: Jack Kirby (written, drawn, & edited)

* New Gods #1, Orion Fights for Earth, February 1971

* New Gods #1, Orion Fights for Earth, February 1971