Manticore - Suck It Up!

One of the important MMORPGs (Massively multiplayer online role-playing games) was City of Heroes. From April 27, 2004 to November 30, 2012 the game had a huge fan and player base. The concept of creating your own hero to fight crime was very popular among comic book fans. At the time of the game’s closing the news of the fan base trying to keep the game online grew and reached different news services. It was and still is a respected and popular game.

Suck It up!

“You guys look like nine miles of bad road. Will you please just suck it up?” - Manticore*

Some superheroes have no powers, for example Manticore (Justin Sinclair). All he uses is great physical training with bows and arrows and his strong will. Justin Sinclair is not the first Manticore. That honor was Justin’s father. The villain, Protean, murdered his father and mother. Justin Sinclair took up the Manticore mantel and the family wealth to avenge his family’s deaths. Then when the heroes of Paragon City lost their powers, those with no powers stood out.

Let’s face it – we get knocked down but do we stay down? NO! We get back up and keep going. We do things we don’t want to do. In doing those things we come to appreciate the things we do like doing. We “Suck It Up” long enough to do the things we want to do. We “Suck It Up” long enough to get back up and win the race, win the battle or accomplish that Goal. Those that win the race are those that have learned to “suck it up” and push through.

Manticore (Justin Sinclair)
First Appearance: As a publication City of Heroes Issue #1, Vol. 2. June 2005

First Appearance: As part of “City of Heroes” (MMORPG) April 27, 2004

Creator: Sean Michael Fish 

* Manticore, City of Heroes Issue #2, Vol. 2 Mark Waid, David Nakayama, July 2005

Truthful Men - Clay Duncan

There are some Western stories I really like – the (original) Magnificent Seven, Bonanza, the Lone Ranger, and the Rawhide Kid. I never read much of The Kid Cowboys of Boy's Ranch, featuring Clay Duncan. But in all the Westerns I have read or movies I’ve seen that I do like honesty plays an important role for the heroic Cowboy. The thing I also liked about my beloved Cowboys they were accepting of all people.

Truthful Men

“Truthful men do not resort to treachery!” - Clay Duncan*

After his parents were killed by bandits, Clay Duncan was raised by a traveling tribe of Apaches. The Chief, Running Bear adopted Clay Duncan. When Clay reached manhood he left the tribe and joined frontiersman, Miles Freeman. Soon Clay became one of the greatest Indian Scouts of the west. Eventually Clay would team up with a group of misfits Wabash, Wee Willie Weehawken, Angel, Happy Boy, Dandy and Palomino Sue. Clay Duncan became a spokesman for both the Native Americans and the White Man. One thing Clay Duncan had that made this possible was his ability to be honest and to see both sides.

“Truthful men do not resort to treachery,” Ok finish your coffee, get to work and start your day. If we are being honest with each other there is no reason to be manipulative. Whenever we have an issue somewhere someone is NOT being honest. Most of the time dishonesty comes from fear – the fear of “losing”, not getting what we “deserve” or not being “liked”. The easier thing to do is be honest. It is always more difficult to manipulate and plan and keep all the dishonest actions straight. Just remember, “Truthful men do not resort to treachery!”

Clay Duncan
First Appearance: The Kid Cowboys of Boy's Ranch,  #1-6, (Oct. 1950 – Aug. 1951), Harvey Comics

Creators: Joe Simon (writer) and Jack Kirby (art)

Other Artists: Mort Meskin, Marvin Stein

*”Apache Justice!” The Kid Cowboys of Boys’ Ranch #2, December 1950

Night Thrasher - Do It Right!

I like to think I am carefree and flexible, but I also like to plan. It’s the boy scout in me. I plan my day. I try to work out long term plans as well. I even plan out my paintings in day by day progressions. That doesn't sound very carefree. My daily practices also help me plan but also help me become flexible for when my plan does not work out the way “I want it.”

Do It Right

“If we’re going to do it, then let’s do it RIGHT!! Organization. Planning . Strategy. ANGER.” - Night Thrasher*

Dwayne Michael Taylor became the hero Night Thrasher to solve his parent’s murder and to protect the innocent. It turns out, his guardians Andrew Chord and an elderly woman Tai, orchestrated the death of Taylor’s parents. All of this made Taylor angry and fueled his desire to become a hero. However, his anger at times did get the best of him. Dwayne Michael Taylor at the age of 19 led his family’s corporation, the Taylor Foundation. At night he would protect the innocent as Night Thrasher. Night Thrasher was able to start the superhero team, the New Warriors.

Doing things right from the beginning is important – allowing mistakes is also important. We learn, and we grow from mistakes. Learning from mistakes shows flexibility. It is from mistakes that we learn how to do things right. Planning how to reach an accomplishment is good. Goals can be reached with “Organization, Planning and Strategy”. Decide on what needs to be done, then organize the areas of concern. Making a list is a good start. From that information strategize the goal to be achieved. Setting minor goals along the way often helps reach the major accomplishment. It is important to stick to the plan but to be flexible enough to recognize what works and what does not work adjusting the plan as needed.

Night Thrasher
First Appearance: The Mighty Thor, #411 (December 1989), Marvel Comics

Last Appearance: Civil War: Front Line, #1 (August 2006), Marvel Comics

Creators: Tom DeFalco (writer) Ron Frenz (art)

* “I am, Therefore I Think”, The New Warriors #3 (September 1990), Marvel Comics

Boy Scout Motto - Jack Russell

I loved being a Boy Scout growing up. When we moved to a new home there was not a close enough troop and I had to give it up. There is one thing I did learn from being boy scout and that was to be prepared. When traveling I try to take into consideration what I may need and I’m very good at preparing. When going to the grocery to prepare for Thanksgiving dinner I make a list and check it twice. I like being prepared.

Boy Scout Motto

“Remember the Boy Scout Motto: Be Prepared” - Jack Russell*

At the age fifteen Jack Russell inherited the curse of Lycanthropy, becoming a Werewolf at night. At first Jack feared and tried to reject the curse. Believing he was a monster. Then the nefarious creatures, witches, vampires and other villainous types tried to manipulate and control him to do their bidding. Jack as the Werewolf by Night often tries to fight and break free from the evil that is inside him. Jack often fought for the side of right and the light. Growing up in LA Jack Russell is a vegetarian and often works out at the gym, taking martial arts classes.

When we think about this statement, “always be prepared” seems so trite and cliché. We must discuss it – to be better is to prepare. We cannot always prepare for all issues or outcomes. If we go camping, we know what may happen, so we prepare. Teachers know what students need so they need to be prepare the lessons. Is there one way to prepare for the possible unexpected outcomes we know nothing about? That would be daily practice. These would be: a daily workout, a daily meditation and a daily communication with friends or family. These will put us in Balance and we begin to know our bodies and selves. When troubles arise our bodies, heart and soul, will tell us exactly what we need. We will be very well prepared.

Jack Russell (Werewolf by Night)
First Appearance: Marvel Spotlight, #2 (February 1972), Marvel Comics

Creators: Roy Thomas, Gerry Conway and Mike Ploog

* “Design Demons”, The Supernaturals, #1 of 4, December 1998, Marvel Comics

Claire Bennet - Figure Out

We all have character defects. If you don’t know what a character defect is think about the 7 Sins of Man, Pride: Envy, Greed, Anger, Sloth, Gluttony, Lust. But, we all have character assets as well. Think of the 7 Lively Virtues: Purity, Temperance, Charity, Diligence, Patience, Kindness, Humility. If we have a defect we also have an asset. Typically, a blind person has good hearing and/or touch. An envious person may be very kind and patient. Always look at the positives along with the negatives.

Figure Out

“Life changes, we all change. Sometimes you have to remember who you were to figure out who you want to be.” - Claire Bennett*

“Save the cheerleader save the world!” Who was the “cheerleader”? She was Claire Bennet. Just a normal Odessa, Texas, high school student, cheerleader, adopted daughter of Noah and Sandra Bennet. Claire also can rapidly regenerate any injury and she has never been ill. The villain, Sylar, who collects other evolved humans powers, is out to find her ability. If he gains her powers then he will be indestructible and combined with controlling heat could blow up most of New York. A small group of other evolved humans seek to “save the cheerleader”. Including her secret agent father, Noah. Eventually the day is saved and Claire goes to college. Just being an “evolved human” brings all sorts of adventures to follow. All Claire wishes to be is a “normal girl”. 

Sometimes we have to inventory our lives. Sometimes we need to look at our past with an objective eye. We may find we have character defects. We may find we are talented in areas we never thought was profitable. After taking stock of our defects and assets we move forward and change. We can decide, “Do I really want to continue down this path or choose another?” On our journey we have passed many stumbling blocks, landmarks and milestones. Looking at theses will help us pave new paths or stay on the straight and narrow.

Claire Bennet (the Cheerleader)
First Appearance: Genesis, Heroes, Episode 1, Season 1 (September 25, 2006), NBC

Last Appearance: Brave New World, Heroes, Episode 18, Season 4 (February 8, 2010), NBC

Creators: Tim Kring (writer) David Semel (direct), Hayden Panettiere (actress)

* “Acceptance”, Heroes, Episode 4, Season 4 (October 5, 2009), NBC  

Ragman - Fights

I’ve never liked fighting. Fighting to me, never seemed to have a purpose. I absolutely hated it. Even when I was boxing I did not like the “sparring”. The only reason I did spar with someone was because it was a great workout, the release of stress was needed, and my sparring partner was in the ring for the same reason. In the gym where I worked out I saw many men hug each other after a fight.

Fights

“There are fights a man can walk away from and then there are the other kind.” - Rory Regan*

The Hebrew word “emet” loosely means truth or judge or the judged. There is a Hebrew story of the Golem a being made purely of inanimate material to protect the people of a community. So, Vietnam Vet Rory Regan returns to Gotham. Rory’s father owns the “Rags-N-Tatters” junk shop. Rory deals with the trauma of returning home from Vietnam. The junk shop is a popular hangout for Rory’s father and friends. The mob is trying to take control of the junk shop. The criminals kill Rory’s father and his friends. All five men are electrocuted and burned. Rory is the only one alive. Rory can hear his fathers and friends’ voices in his mind. He finds a suit of rags and becomes the Tatterdemalion – a Ragman. Each patch in the suit is a soul of a criminal brought to justice. Rory can access the physical attributes of each soul as needed. This Tatterdemalion, this “Ragman” becomes the Golem for his community fighting the good fight for his home.

To fight the good fight means to nobly fight for honor, justice or for what is truly right. If both parties, feel the answer is “right” then the fight is useless. There are two sides to every coin – which one side is better than the other. Our quote today states, “There are fights a man can walk away from and then there are the other kind.” Our main purpose is to keep the peace and practice tolerance but there are times we need to keep our conscience clear. There are times we need to stand up and do what is right. Call the police when we witness people breaking into a car. Ask friends not to use hate words. Help the little old lady with the groceries. True fighting is not macho bravado with chest pumping and muscle flexing or black eyes or bloody noses. Win the battle with surprise moves. As our mothers say, “kill them with kindness.” To paraphrase Gandhi, be the change in the world.

Ragman (Rory Regan)
First Appearance: Ragman, #1 (August/September 1976), DC Comics

Creators: Robert Kanigher (writer) Joe Kubert (art)

* “A Ragged Revenge”, Ragman, #2, November 1991, DC Comics

Havok - Punk

During the 1980’s in Shreveport, Louisiana, I was often called truly hateful things, simply because I looked and acted differently. I joined a group of artists that treated me as an equal. I was accepted and showed kindness. I learned so much about acceptance within myself and how to show it to others.   

Punk

“He’s not afraid and you kinda gotta be punk – You just gotta be punk once and a while.” - Neal Adams (describing Frank Miller)*

Alexander Summers the brother of X-Man leader, Scott Summers, aka Cyclops. Has the ability to absorb energy and create energy blasts. He needs to wear a special apparatus to help him expend his energies or he will lose control – creating havoc in his wake. The Summers family was on a trip in Alaska when their plane was attacked by the Shi’ar (an alien race of warriors). The boys’ father (Christopher), and mother (Katherine) were captured by the Shi’ar, while Scott and Alex were left in Alaska. The two boys were placed in an orphanage. Alex was adopted Scott was not. Eventually Alex’s mutant abilities manifested and gained the attention of the X-Men and their arch villain Mister Sinister. Alex soon joined the X-Men, taking the name Havok, but found it difficult to follow in his older brother’s path. He was often the bad boy of the X-Men.

We see all types of people walking down the street. What do we call people that look different? Should we list these names? Nah – we don’t need the hate. But those of us that look really different and “strange” or “weird” aren’t weird at all. They are just doing something different – looking different, acting different or speaking different. What we need to remember is that these people have the same feelings – Let’s rephrase that…WE ALL HAVE THE SAME FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS! Just because we want a different way of life does not make us “bad” people. Sometimes to get the job done you have to do the one thing that is different. Think for a moment…Grandparents badmouthed Elvis Presley and mothers fell in love with him. He dressed differently, he sang differently and he danced differently – He was called a “punk”. Funny the “punk” became the King of Rock & Roll.

Havok (Alex Summers)
First Appearance: Uncanny X-Men No.54 (March, 1969)

Creators: Adam Drake & Don Heck (writers) and Neal Adams (art)

* “Secret Origin: the Story of DC Comics, Warner Bros, release date November 09, 2010

Gorgon - Nothing

Gorgon is one of my favorite Inhumans. The thing I’ve learned most from the Inhumans was how to be human. We all can learn something from accepting all people no matter how they look, act or feel. Deep down we all have the same feelings.

Nothing

“If you can’t use your power, what can you do? What happens if you do NOTHING?” - Gorgon*

The Inhuman Royal Family includes Gorgon, the nephew of Agon (the first king) and the cousin to Black Bolt (the current king). Gorgon is Black Bolt’s personal bodyguard and the General of the Inhuman Army. He trains the new recruits as their new powers appear. Gorgon was exposed to the Terrigan Mists as a teenager. As a result he gained super strength and stamina but his feet became hooves and he can cause an earthquake by just stomping his hoof. Gorgon is definitely a steadfast figure never willing to back down.

The Taoists believe that doing nothing is a good thing. This is true. Let’s take a closer look at what the Taoists are trying to say. When we are into manipulating, guiding or advising we are not doing nothing we are in everyone’s business. We are really trying to create a new outcome in our favor. We all have certain gifts and certain qualities that are best used when needed. It is a wrong use of power to make people do what we want or to change the outcome. Sometimes it is more relaxing and more interesting to sit back and just watch the outcome. The best thing to do is to focus on ourselves and trying to live a balanced serene life. We might be great planners and observers but a stressed filled life is more difficult than sitting back and enjoying the moment. Managing and “fixing” is not the goal. The true goal is to live simply and peacefully practicing balance – physically spiritually and emotionally.

Gorgon
First Appearance: Fantastic Four #44, December 1965, Marvel Comics 

Creators: Stan Lee (writer) & Jack Kirby (Art)

 * “Welcome To the Jungle”, Inhumans #6, April 1999

Kate Bishop - Feelings

Sometimes, feelings are difficult to manage and name. Many of us have trouble expressing ourselves. I try my best to express myself creatively through my art but sometimes I need to tell someone how I feel. That can be difficult because expressing feelings can make me feel vulnerable. I never want to be vulnerable. I have learned to express myself with my close circle of friends. I’ve grown to feel safe in tell my friends how I feel.

Feelings

“I can stare down Kang the Conqueror, I can wise-ass Captain America…but God forbid I have to tell a boy I like how I feel.” - Hawkeye (Kate Bishop)*

Teenager, Katherine (Kate) Bishop is alone in Central Park. She is attacked. Using her family’s wealth, she decides to learn to defend herself – so she starts the training. Kate is trained in many forms of fighting and martial arts. Later Kate helps a group of superhero teens the “Young Avengers” rescue her sister from an attempted kidnapping at her sister’s wedding. Kate decides to join the Young Avengers. The kids sneak into the “Mighty Avengers” abandoned mansion. Kate then dons Mockingbird’s, Hawkeye’s, and Black Widow’s utility belts and weapons. She takes the name “Hawkingbird” but later changes it to Hawkeye. Kate is a highly skilled marksman and archer; she is level headed but out spoken and independent.

We all have feelings. We all have the same feelings – we no matter where we live and or our race, creed or color we experience the SAME FEELINGS. We need to learn to accept people for their feelings – if we are human we have the same feelings. Therefore feelings cannot be argued. Ideals, thoughts and actions can be argued but not feelings. If we are sad – we are sad. If we are angry – we are angry. The difference is “Why” and “How” we are sad or angry or joyful or frighten. Here is the lesson. Learning to accept other peoples’ feelings and recognizing them as our feelings also. Here is the much deeper lesson – learning to express our feelings appropriately. That is easier said than done. How do you tell your best friend they “hurt your feelings”? How do you tell your child that you feel stressed out from the noise? How do you tell that boy you feel secure holding his hand? Here is a clue Take a deep breath, count to ten, and calmly and quietly say your sentence, “Hey, Stephen ...”

Hawkeye – Kate Bishop
First Appearance: Young Avengers #1, April 2005

Creators: Allan Heinberg (plot) Jim Cheung (art)

 * “Young Avengers Presents…Hawkeye” #6, 2008

Brainiac 5 - Pure Logic

I love the Legion of Superheroes and their 30th Century stories. One of my favorite story lines was when Brainiac 5, the emotionless thinker fell in love with Supergirl. His logic fell to pieces. He would do silly stuff to get her attention. He even built a robot the matched Supergirl in every way because he loved her so much. To me it was pure comedy and I loved every minute.

Pure Logic

“My Decision was based on pure logic…No offense but I really don’t think you can follow the reasoning of a 12th level intellect such as my own.” - Brainiac 5*

Querl Dox, Brainiac 5, is the great-great grandson of the evil robot, Brainiac, that challenged Superman on many occasions. Wait? How is a person related to a robot? Brainiac escapes and learns to pass on his intelligence organically and to clone his intelligence. He does this on a distant planet, Colu. The Coluans have always sought reason, logic and raising the IQ. 1000 years in the future a young Querl Dox will join the Legion of Superheroes as atonement for Brainiac’s misdeeds. Querl would prove his mantle by creating the serum to cure Mon-El of his lead poisoning illness, creating and perfecting the Legion Flight Rings and creating his force-field belt that protects himself from damage. But Brainiac 5 looses all reasoning and logic when he falls in love with Supergirl.     

Take a moment and think about decisions we make … How many are based on “pure logic”? Not that many to be honest. Pure logic is used to load the dishwasher, ordering the shampoos on the bath rack and alphabetizing or numerically ordering your comic books. Sorry but NO decision is based on pure logic. Our emotions come into play – before, during and after the decision is made. The CEO of a Gigantic Corporation will not make decisions based on “pure logic”. The CEO wants the best – he wants to pay his bills and keep his livelihood. Logical decisions are made but emotions play a big part. So now let’s go with the emotions. The realization that the emotions are important to a decision process makes decision making easier.  One thing not mentioned about Brainiac 5 was, he often had difficulty making decisions because too many scenarios or options or outcomes could happen. He had to wait for the “right” outcome. Find the different outcomes then go with what “feels” right. Go ahead let the emotions help.

Brainiac 5
First Appearance: Action Comics #276 (May, 1961)  

Creators: Jerry Siegel (writer) and Jim Mooney (art) 

*”Far From Home”, Justice League Unlimited, Season 2, Episode 10 airdate April 15 2006

Wendy & Marvin - Brute Strength

If you know who Wendy, Marvin and Wonder Dog is then you’re on the right track to becoming a super-friend. These Saturday morning cartoon characters taught kids some valuable lessons. Use your brain over brute strength. Treat everyone equally, no matter where they are from. Do your best to help out whenever you can.

Brute Strength

“Brain power is superior to brute strength.” - Wendy & Marvin*

The Super Friends, Wonder Woman, Batman and Robin, Superman and Aquaman, along with other guest Justice League members gathered together to right wrongs and protect the innocent. They also take it upon themselves to train young junior detectives, Wendy Harris, Marvin White and Wonder Dog. These sidekicks often help solve problems in the simplest of ways and often get in trouble. But because they are so innocent and young they often see the simplest of answers and outcomes before the “super” adults. This is exactly what the Super Friends teach them to use the mind before the brute strength. 

The peacekeepers of the world always speak in terms of using the mind and heart before getting physical. With every burst of strength the body gets exhausted and has to rest. When we take time to think and plan or find a solution before action things work out. If we seek the positive and focus on healing or finding answers there is no room for the negative. Remember we can use simple affirmations to help clear our minds of the negative.

Wendy, Marvin & Wonder Dog
First Appearance: The Super Friends, September 8, 1973, ABC, Hanna-Barbera, Warner Bros. 

Creator: E. Nelson Bridwell

* “The Menace of the White Dwarf”, The Super Friends, Episode #12, November 24, 1973 ABC, Hanna-Barbera, Warner Bros. Voiced by Sherry Albertoni and Frank Welker

Domino - But Why Bother

How we speak to each other and how treat each other is important. No one likes to have hurt feelings. I am NOT one of those people who are emotionless and never get their feelings hurt. I wear my heart on my sleeves and I get hurt often. The best way around that for me is to always have good manners. As long as I have good manners I protect myself and my feelings.  

But Why Bother

"…I should respond in an appropriately witty manner…but why bother?” - Domino*

Neena Thurman is a mutant with Luck Manipulation power.  She has the ability hit almost any target, and to get out of almost any situation. She has become an elite spy and uses many aliases. Having extraordinary “luck” Neena knows exactly when to lay low or strike fast. For this reason, she uses the moniker, Domino

When dealing with other humans we get our emotions and feelings hurt or agitated. Sometimes we may say the “right” thing or the totally “wrong” thing. What’s important is we may have said what we needed to say but there are times we really should keep our mouths shut. The best way to know when and what to say is to get out and share with friends and family. Gaining this knowledge is worth all the hurt feelings and excited emotions. People get to know us and we get to know our fellows.

Domino
First Appearance: Impersonated by Copycat, The New Mutants, #98 (Feb. 1991)

Second Appearance: Flashback, X-Force, #8 (Mar. 1992)

Third Appearance: Fully developed X-Force, #11 (June 1992)

Creators: Fabian Nicieza (writer) & Rob Liefeld (art)

*X-Force, #82, October 1998

Ultraviolet - Where Hope Still Lives

Happy Independence Day! I am not the person to celebrate Independence Day. I'm happy going to a friend’s house for barbecue or sitting at home doing nothing. (Although I can watch the fireworks from my apartment) If I could offer anything today it would be Hope. I have hope things will change.  

Where Hope Still Lives

“Yes, I was born into a world you might not understand but a world as it turns out where hope still lives…” - Ultraviolet*

In the future there will be an epidemic in which the humans infected will develop vampire characteristics. These infected humans, “Hemophages” develop superhuman abilities but they die within hours of infection. The Government starts rounding up the hemophages for extermination. Doctors develop ways to prolong the life of hemophages, including blood transfusions and drugs. The hemophages start to resist the government and protect themselves. One particular hemophage, Violet Song Jat Shariff, is sent to destroy a weapon developed to destroy all hemophages. She discovers the weapon is a boy, Six, and believes he is a cure. Having the hope she needs she protects the child and tries to save her dying world.

There is always hope. A daily dose of hope is needed for a good day. We can take a lesson from “Ultraviolet”. She believed in the hope she held in her heart and fought for that hope. There are people that do not listen to hope. Sometimes we have to make them listen. Sometimes we need to leave situations because our hope is being drained. Hold on to the hope. Keep the hope close. President Obama said, “While we breathe, we will hope.” Truer words cannot be spoken. We hope for a new day, we hope for peace, we hope for love – it is our nature to hope.

Ultraviolet
First Appearance: Ultraviolet, film Screen Gems, released March 3, 2006

Creators: Kurt Wimmer (writer/director)

Actress: Milo Jovovich

* Ultraviolet, film Screen Gems, released March 3, 2006

Man-Thing - The Man Inside

There are so many articles about which came first Man-Thing or Swamp Thing. They were virtually created and published at the same time. Yes, Man-Thing has the first publish date, but these characters were both on the drafting tables at the same time. The origin stories are almost identical. Both characters go through similar changes. The one thing that is interesting about both is they seek what it means to be human.   

The Man Inside

“While no one is expected to leap tall buildings in a single bound, our aspiring heroes will be tested on their courage, integrity, self-sacrifice, compassion and resourcefulness - the stuff of all true superheroes.” - Stan Lee*

The Government and scientific corporations have struggled to recreate the serum that created Captain America. Dr. Theodore “Ted” Sallis and his crew working in the Florida Everglades are trying to discover something very close to that original Serum. This brings his work to the attention of A.I.M, Advanced Idea Mechanics. To protect his formula Ted memorizes it and destroys all paper work that helped develop this serum. He then takes the only syringe of the formula and injects himself with it. The effects overcome him, and he crashes his car into the swamp. The combination of the scientific formula and inherit magical energies of the swamp transforms Dr Theodore Sallis into a towering speechless “Man-Thing” with glowing eyes. The Man-Thing is empathic to all beings and it often makes sacrifices. With super strength it finds the courage to keep to its own integrity.  The Man-Thing searches for the “man” it lost.

There are so many things we can talk about. It would all lead to the “Man” inside our hearts. If we are seeking a spiritual way of life, the concepts of integrity, self-sacrifice and compassion are paramount. To have integrity is to make sure the actions and beliefs are the same. To make sacrifices for others is equally important. In sacrifice we must be open to change and with integrity we find the ability to be steadfast. Both are found in compassion. A man that fights with compassion is coming from a state of Love and Peace. In the long run he will always be the victor. With these thoughts the “man” inside is at Peace.

Man-Thing
First Appearance: Savage Tales, #1 (May 1971), Marvel Comics

Creators: Stan Lee, Roy Thomas, Gerry Conway, Gray Morrow

* “The Blood of Kings”, Man-Thing! Volume 1, #3, February 1975, Marvel Comics

Tim Hunter - Mistakes

I’ve made a few mistakes in my life. Some were tiny, and some were whoopers. The change and growth from each mistake has made me the person I am today. Mistakes are good, they help us find the right path to follow.

Mistakes

“I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world.” - Neil Gaiman*

Timothy Hunter was born to be the conduit of all magic. He would grow to hold the titles; The Merlin, the Opener and Tamar son of Tamlin. Each day he grew in power and one day would be granted the title of Most Powerful Sorcerer. However the more Tim studied and practiced the more he had to give up. All magic practices come with a price. Eventually after all his challenges Tim eventually gives up the magic and tries to live a “normal” life. However magic makes its way back into his life.  

“Making Mistakes” is the best gift to give to children and friends. Neil Gaiman’s words are true. It is in the mistakes we make that we learn, live and grow. Take this challenge. Sit down and try to write down 5 mistakes made in the past year. Then carry the thoughts of mistakes to lessons learned or changes made. If the effort is true the lessons learned and changes made will be positive lessons and changes. The person holding paper and pen will be a new and different person.

Timothy Hunter
First Appearance: The book of Magic, vol. 1 #1 (January 1990), Vertigo Comics, DC Comics

Creators: Neil Gaiman (writer) John Bolton (art)

Huntress - Line of Ethics

I'm a big fan of the Huntress, Helena Bertinelli. Simply because she is a teacher in her secret identity and one of her main goals is to protect children. Another thing I like about the Huntress’ story lines is that she is often brought to a line of ethics. Does she kill, or does she protect? Does she take the easy path or is the more difficult path the greater victory?

Line of Ethics

“Call it a line of ethics. On one end is Captain Marvel, Superman. Guys like that. On the other, Joker, Luthor. We’re both in the big, stupid gray area in the Middle.” - The Huntress *

Helena Bertinelli was the daughter of a Mafia godfather. When Helena was five years old her family was murdered at the dinner table in front of her. She was then raised by the rest of her Mafia relatives and trained to be her family’s vengeance. However, Helena did not become the vengeful killer. She took her lessons, her pain, her suffering, and turned it into heroism. She is a protector of children, as Gotham City’s Huntress. According to the law the Huntress walks a fine line between Heroism and Vigilantism

Actions, views and conversations are always placed on a black and white scale. However, many of these falls in the gray area. What is white? White in terms of paint is the absence of all color. That seems depressing. That is not very becoming. That makes Black the presence of ALL color. That seems chaotic. Not very pleasant either. Colors, when photographed in black and white will appear gray. Gray can be the balance of black and white. Find the balance between extremes. When we can work together then there is balance and peace.

The Huntress
First Appearance: As Helena Wayne, DC Super Stars, #17, Dec. 1977

Second Appearance: As Helena Bertinelli (current persona), The Huntress #1 Apr. 1989

 * “Which Reason Knows Not Of” Birds of Prey #11, June 2011

Minutemen - Think

Today is the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. The riots did not start because gay people wanted the right to marry, to keep jobs or to have equal housing. The riots started because it was against the law to serve gay people, for gay people to meet and enjoy each other’s company in public. Simple things we all take for granted today. Look at all the positive things that have happened since the riots. All the marches and other victories.  I really try to change the way I think about certain topics. I try to keep an open mind and try to let positive thoughts flow. An opened-mind can change the world.

Think

“I don’t want everybody to agree with me…I just want people to Think.” - Alan Moore*

“The Minutemen” are a group of Superheroes that have been around before World War 2. Some of the early members were Nite Owl (Hollis Mason), Captain Metropolis, Silk Spectre (Sally Jupiter), Dollar Bill and The Silhouette. Although their ranks changed their mission remained the same, protect the citizenry and help each other become a model for people to live by and admire. Eventually new members, the Comedian, Doctor Manhattan, Ozymandias and Rorschach joined. Soon Nite Owl (Daniel Dreiberg apprentice to Mason,) and Silk Spectre (Sally’s daughter Laurie Juspeczyk) joined. These heroes eventually lead to a change in the Vietnam War and the rise to Richard Nixon to the President. Then in 1977 the Keene Act was passed and the “superheroes” were banned. The heroes left unchecked became darker and tried to control the world. With the help of Rorschach, Nite Owl and Silk Spectre the heroes fell back into their proper place and even thought differently of what it meant to be heroic.

We think all the time. Everything we do is a thought. Thoughts are faster than the speed of light. With our thoughts moving so fast then why think with a closed mind? Why stop our thoughts? An opened-mind can carry a creative person even further. An opened-mind can allow us to accept all people and make friends with people we never thought to be accepted. We can direct our thoughts – think positively and the mind opens faster. Here is a challenge. Sit quietly either in the morning or evening looking out the window (or on the patio) and just look out watching the world. For one minute try to let the positive thoughts flows. Pay attention to how fast these thoughts flow. The relaxation will be just as fast.

The Minutemen
First Appearance: The Watchmen, #1 (September 1986) DC Comics

Creators: Alan Moore (writer) Dave Gibbons (art)

* “Secret Origin: the Story of DC Comics, Warner Bros, release date November 09, 2010

Hercules - The Sound

I started living the life of an artist because I listened to my heart’s desire. Even this daily project stems from that same heart’s desire. When we listen to our heart’s desire we are moved along our path authentically. We become self-actualized. Have I made millions of dollars? No. Have I lived comfortably and happily, yes. When I listen the sound of my heart’s desire I am never lead down the wrong path. The trick is recognizing the heart’s desire from the negativity that can cloud and muddle our thinking. It just takes practice and a sincere desire to just try.

The Sound

“Dost thou hear the Sound? Growing nearer?” - Hercules*

The character of Myths, Hercules, has been used in comics for many years. He has been a hero and at times a villain. To those who do not know, Hercules is the son of Zeus and the mortal Alcemene (Greek myth). Athena offered him a live of heroism or a life of pleasure; he took the life of heroism. The rest is history, and in the comics only minor changes occur. But one thing that Hercules listens for each day is the call from the gods.

This is a time of transformation and change. Listen for the call to a new level of enlightenment. The Heart’s Desire is calling. It is a time to move forward without regrets or worry. When we hear the inner call rejoice for it is our time for liberation. Listen to intuition and let reason show the path. When we do not listen to the Heart’s Desire, we often end the day with regrets and worries. Emmet Fox, Scientist, philosopher, and spiritual teacher, wrote n his pamphlet, Your Heart’s Desire, “Already in your past life from time to time, God himself has whispered into your heart just that very wonderful thing, whatever it is, that he is wishing you to be, and to do, and to have. And that wonderful thing is nothing less than what is called Your Heart’s Desire.”

Hercules  
Public Domain Character

 * “The Creature called…Swarm!” The Champions #14, July 1977

The Punisher - Boxing

Years ago, I trained as a boxer, purely for the exercise, but I learned so much about myself. I learned how to apply the boxing skills to my everyday life. I became more confident and opened-minded. I also however became more peaceful. I gained self-control and a greater sense of discipline. Many of the boxers I met were gentle, kind and generous outside of the ring. They had a sense of control and peaceful nature. They knew that if they lost control they could cause unwanted damage.

Boxing

“Boxing’s a sport that won’t go away…It provides a set of rules and a moral context to permit that which is desirable, even beautiful, to emerge—grace, speed, precision rhythm and ultimately art.”  Frank Castle*

Frank Castle joined the US Marines but before he left for battle he married his true love Maria. During the Vietnam War he joined the Special Forces and USMC's Reconnaissance, Force Reconnaissance and Sniper Schools. Through the Special Forces Frank Castle went through the U.S. Army Airborne School, and the U.S. Navy Underwater Demolition Team training, becoming qualified as a Navy Seal and becoming highly qualified Black Ops Soldier. After, his tour of duty Frank retired with his family in New York City. One day while having a family picnic in Central Park the Castle family witnessed the Costa crime family murder an informant. Leaving no witnesses the Costa murdered the Castle family. Frank Castle survived. He Decided to take justice to the streets as a vigilante protecting the innocents. Using the name, the Punisher, Castle raged a war on crime.

Pugilism or Boxing is two combatants with gloved hands punching each other using the skills of strength, endurance, speed and determination until a winner is decided. For some it is a hard sport to watch and for others it is beautiful. There are many rules to Boxing but there are three rules we can use in our daily lives. When placed in the context of daily living they take a different meaning. One, do not hit below the belt. Two, do not hit the opponent behind the head, rabbit punch (neck) or kidney punch (back). Finally number three, if the opponent is floored, knocked down; do not continue to hit the opponent. Causing an opponent unnecessary pain is not a moral fight. For a victor to continue to hit the opponent is gruel and unusual punishment. When the battle is finished the true victor will morn for the opponent offering a helping or a sympathetic hand.

The Punisher
First Appearance: The Amazing Spider-Man, #129 (February 1974), Marvel Comics

Creators: Gerry Conway, Ross Andru and John Romita, Sr.

* “The Boxer”, The Punisher, #21, July 1989, Marvel Comics, Mike Baron, Eric Larsen