Enemy Ace - Fighting Machine

I seek Peace every day. I do not like conflict. I try to stay away from conflict but I am unafraid of conflict. I seek to be a Peacemaker. I often say to students when they come to me with a conflict, “Who is willing to be the peacemaker here?” That student will get gratitude from me and a pat on the back. I will let them know how proud I am of them.

Fighting Machine

“You cannot help—what you are—a first—class—fighting machine…!” - Enemy Ace*  

Hans von Hammer was a world class pilot during World War I flying a Fokker DR.I and fighting for Germany. One thing he never did was give up. His character was streaked with darkness, depression and pain from the horrors of war. Friend or foe alike noted that Enemy Ace was honorable, noble and chivalrous. He did not take delight in his victories but honored his opponents and mourned each victory as a loss. He tried not to enter the battles. The fighting was something he had to do not take pleasure in the fighting.

Either argument or physical battle, the fight can be devastating to both sides. But keep in mind fighting is not the way of Peace. We can learn three lessons from Enemy Ace. One lesson is never give up. If we find something important enough never give up no matter the outcome. Once we enter the frail of battle never give up. The second lesson is to take each victory as an opportunity to mourn. The Tao suggests that after each battle there will be famine and people will say, “Why did we fight?” Important questions to ask are: What is the purpose of fighting? Why should I fight? What will life be like after the fight? The opponent has a reason for fighting and that needs to be taken into consideration. Christianity suggests turning the other cheek. The battle field will be filled with victors and losers and from those seeds only thorny bushes will grow. The final lesson from Enemy Ace, that when we fight and fight our personalities and frame of mind is affected. We become depressed and defeated spiritually. The best course of action would be not to enter the battle.

Enemy Ace
First Appearance: Our Army at War #151, February, 1965 

Creator: Robert Kanigher (writer), Joe Kubert (art)

* DC Showcase Presents, Enemy Ace #58 September/October 1965

Superwoman - I am Superwoman

This morning in my meditation I kept going back to the needs of my students. I try to focus on the needs of my students. How can I be a positive role model? How can I help them to achieve success? I try to walk with my students. My real job is the help I offer them – not the core standards, or not the new classroom management style. My real job is helping my students and fellow teachers succeed.

I Am Superwoman

“I am Kristin Wells…I am Superwoman…And I have a job to do!” - Superwoman*              

Kristin Wells is from the 29th Century and a distant relative of, Superman’s buddy, Jimmy Olsen. As a journalist, she first traveled to the 20th Century to learn the origin of the 29th Century holiday Miracle Monday. Later as a history and journalism teacher she would travel again to the 20th century to learn the secret identity of the last superhero whose identity was unknown. She brought with her an amulet that would allow her flight, teleportation, telekinesis and empathic powers.  She became involved with the battle against King Kosmos. Kristin Wells soon finds out she is in fact Superwoman, the last superhero.

We all have careers – artist, teacher, doctor, lawyer or trunk driver. Whatever the calling that is our job. Sometimes we get so caught up in our career and we forget the daily “job”. Our career should be something we like to do – our vocation. When we get caught up in the money and we search more and more we forget to enjoy the career. Thus forgetting to suit up and show up for the daily stuff. When we focus on the more we forget to say hello to people on the street, to hold the door for the kindly gentleman and we forget to call friends that might need to talk. We all have a job to do and it’s not the career. It is those little daily things that might go unnoticed – cleaning the lint filters in the laundry room, setting the table without being asked or even bringing an office mate a cup of coffee just because. These little things help other people get their jobs done. These people may end up doing the same thing for someone else. Helping other people is our real job – not the career.

Superwoman (Kristin Wells)
First Appearance: Superman: Miracle Monday, novel, 1981, DC Comics

Creators: Elliot S! Maggin (writer) Keith Pollard & Mike DeCarlo (art)

* “The Last Secret Identity”, Superman Annual, #1, 1983, DC Comics

E-Man - I Am...

I meditate and journal daily. I use the tools to examine who I am. I try to become aware of the defects but also my assets. This daily sharing stemmed from my daily journaling. I think the practice of questioning ourselves can lead us into new experiences – physically, spiritually and emotionally.

I Am...

“I am and I know that I am, but who…What am I?” - E-Man*                                       

Thousands of years ago a star went nova and in its wake there was energy flung into the universe. The energy became sentient and intelligent. The Energy became aware of its self and sought others to communicate with. The Energy would travel the universe learning to copy stars and planets. The Energy meets the Brain also a sentient life form seeking to test the Ultra Weapon on Pluto, the ninth planet of the star Sol. The only way to Pluto is through Earth. The Energy ends up on Earth and becomes Earth’s defender from the Brain. Meeting exotic dancer Nova Kane, the Energy copies a Human form. His uniform has the emblem E=MC2, his powers are energy based – he can shoot blasts and change into different forms of energy but he can also transform and transmute himself and other energies. Taking the name Alec Tronn, he and Nova Kane set out on adventures protecting the Earth.

Who am I? What am I? How am I? Where am I? These are typical questions we ask ourselves often – particularly when we are younger but we never seem to fully answer them. We have learned that with new lessons come more questions. There is a how, a when, a why and a where people become who they are. A daily inventory, daily journaling, daily quiet time are good practices to use in answering such questions. Daily practices keep us in Balance, keeps us confident and keeps us on that path that we chose for ourselves. Just remember that with more answers come new questions and new lessons. The cycle is endless with new lessons something is changed – change is good. However the questions never seem to change.

E-Man  
First Appearance: E-Man, #1 (October 1973), Charlton Comics

Creators: Nicola Cuti (writer) Joe Stanton (art)

* “The Brain and the Bomb”, E-Man, #1, October 1973, Charlton Comics

Lockjaw - Woofity!

Growing up we had several animals as part of our family. My Brigit was my favorite. We went on many adventures together. When I became old enough to drive she went everywhere with me. A loyal pet – friend is always a wonderful companion.  

Woofity

“LOVE! Woofity Woofity Bark Bark Bark. Happy Happy Love. <Pant> Play? Huh? Huh? Play?” - Lockjaw* 

Lockjaw is the Inhuman Royal Family’s pet dog. He is a huge bulldog. Lockjaw is the only animal that has been exposed to the Terrigan Mists. He can eat anything and it then becomes energy. He has super strength for a dog his size or age (no one knows how old Lockjaw is) and Lockjaw can teleport anywhere. The Inhumans use Lockjaw as transportation often. He is extremely loyal to Black Bolt and Crystal of the Inhumans. Lockjaw often goes off by himself enjoying his day but he always comes back to his Family for support, nourishment and time to play.

Animals are connected to the earth in ways we will never fully comprehend. Take time to watch a dog. They eat, they rest, they eat and they play. Dogs just seem naturally at peace with the world around them. Deer are the same way. Deer seem serene even when there is danger. The deer will scatter and then regroup to find peace and serenity. That level of peace and serenity in animals is miraculous. People say animals are dumb. Are they really dumb or are they REALLY connected to something we cannot comprehend. We all seek peace and serenity. Why is it so easy for animals? Maybe animals trust the world around them. Animals seem so trusting. Dogs are trusted friends to humans and society. No matter how a dog is treated it will be loyal and trusting to that one person that shows the animal love and compassion. The animal will be loyal to the person that takes time to play. Maybe Lockjaw has an answer for us, happy, love, and play. Woofity!

Lockjaw
First Appearance: Fantastic Four #45, December 1965, Marvel Comics 

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

 * “Woof”, Inhumans #8, June 1999

Blade - Difficulty

With the news of Los Vegas – I am reminded of the difficulty that we all must face at times. My heart goes out to the victims. I am sorry that we do not have the gun control laws that could help prevent the needless criminal acts. It all becomes difficult to carry. I do not try to lessen the trauma or the loss of life from Los Vegas. From my point of view in Washington DC far away from the devastation, I try to look at difficulties as an opportunity. I remind myself that only good can come from difficulties. Even if I don’t realize that until the dust settles.

Difficulty

“The beetle deposits its eggs in a ball of dung. From that it has to eat its way out, and then it spreads its wings and flies away. We are born to a world of difficulty, and we have to feed on it so that we will spread our spiritual wings and fly away.” -  Wesley Snipes

The man called Blade (Eric Brooks) was born in a Brooklyn whorehouse. Blade’s mother, a prostitute at Madame Vanity’s brothel, experienced a difficult labor, and “Doctor” Deacon Frost was called. Deacon Frost was a bloodthirsty vampire. Frost feasted on Blade’s mother and passed along the “Vampire Virus” to the infant. This gave Blade the same powers as a vampire but none of the weaknesses of the vampires. As Blade grew into manhood he met Jamal Afari and was trained in the difficult ways of Vampire Hunting.  Blade finds redemption, peace, and freedom in the difficulties he faces in protecting humans from demons.

We all have difficulties; life is very seldom “easy”.  But it is our attitude toward the difficulties that makes us heroic. Look at difficulties as a learning experience. Face difficulties with determination and courage. Realize that at the end of the difficult situation there is only goodness. H.W. Beecher wrote, “Troubles are often the tools by which God fashions us for better things.” these are good words to remember. We must face our difficulties, we should go through them, and the only difficulty that impedes our journey is our own negative limited thinking. Question all that does not serve the greatest dream. Trusting our senses and our instincts is not enough we must journey further finding and facing the difficulties that blocks our path. Only then will we find the hope, faith and security that stands right behind the difficulty. To repeat Mr. Snipes’ words, “We are born to a world of difficulty, and we have to feed on it so that we will spread our spiritual wings and fly away.” Stand and face your difficulties today.

Blade
First Appearance: Tomb of Dracula #10, 1973

Creators: Marv Wolfman (script), and Gene Colan (art)

Starfire - F…Free?

The Catalan Independence has me thinking of Freedom. The freedoms I take for granted, but also what freedom means to me. I want to break free from the idea that one group is absolutely correct. What works for me may not work for someone else. I do not think for a moment that my views are the best and right views. I just take what I need and leave the rest. I like to think that I am open-minded and open-hearted enough to listen to someone else’s views and allow them the freedom to have their views. I want to find my own way and let that be the right way for me.

F…Free?

“F…Free? What is …Free?” - Starfire*

The planet Pytharia was once a beautiful and scientific advanced world. Then it was ravaged by war. Monstrous race of the Mygorg became the victors and enslaved the Pytharians. Starfire was a young girl born into slavery. At an early age she was chosen by the Mygorg leader, Sookaroth to become one of his “chosen”. Starfire is treated like a princess but still a slave. On the eve of her 18th birthday Starfire flees her captives so not to become a bride of Sookarath. She is rescued by a martial arts priest, Dagan. Dagan trains Starfire in martial arts, swordsmanship and archery. Dagan also teaches her about freedom. Years of slavery had its toll on Starfire’s understanding. However, Dagan and Starfire, fell in love and then she began to understand freedom. Sookarath find their home. Dagan was beaten and enslaved. It was Starfire’s turn to safe Dagan but she was too late. In the silence of Dagan’s death Starfire learns the meaning of freedom and pledges to free her people from the Mygorg.

Starfire was freed so why did she have problems understanding “freedom”? We normally look at and discus freedom from a political point of view – we can vote and protest. Let us look at freedom from a different point of view an internal point of view. We are raised a certain way. We were raised with ideas and misconceptions. We can become bound to these ideas and misconceptions. We may not recognize we are bound or clinging to old ideas. Then something happens to change our thinking. It is difficult to break free from these old ideas. Sometimes it’s a lot of work to break free of old ideas – ask any recovering addict. But ask the addict with a few years recovery if it was worth it, do they feel free? The answer in most cases is “yes!” What is needed to find freedom is an opened-mind.

Starfire
First Appearance: Starfire, #1 (August-September 1976) DC Comics

Creators: David Michelinie (writer), Mike Vosburg and Robert Smith (art)

* “A World Made of War”, Starfire, #1, August –September 1976, DC Comics

Power Girl - Focus

I know many people will not necessarily agree with my few points of Power Girl. If we look past her costume and sexualized art there is a strong character for girls to rally behind. Power Girl is one of those characters that have been through so many changes and different backstories. I will always think of her as Superman’s cousin from Earth 2. I choose to focus on her qualities as a strong role model.

Focus

“OOOFF! That’s what I get for letting my mind wander!” - Power Girl*

Staying focused is very important for a superhero. For Karen Starr, Power Girl, it is what she does best. Not only is she a superhero, she owns her own software company (Starware), and she is a member of her co-op board in her apartment building. Power Girl is a modern woman, strong intelligent and focused. She has very few archenemies and the enemies she does have are men. The creators of Power Girl, Gerry Conway, and Wally Wood set out to create a hero that would be an inspiration to all women. The creators were focused in their work and Power Girl is focused in her mission. 

Taoist, Deng Ming-Dao writes, “With out a strong stance, all other movements are impossible.” Making a strong stance is not necessarily becoming an immovable object, but knowing what we want and taking the appropriate steps to acquire the desire – being focused. Being focused is not a blind determination, but knowing who we are, and knowing what we want to accomplish. If we focus on success then we will work toward success. If we focus on creativity, then we must do creative things. The focus should not be our finish line. The focus should be who we are while traveling to the finish line how we get to the finish line and then finally who we are when we reach the finish line. 

Power Girl
First Appearance: Power Girl, All-Star Comics, #58, Jan./Feb. 1976 

Creators: Gerry Conway (writer), and Wally Wood (art)

 * “Threads” Power Girl Mini-series #1, June 1988

Rawhide Kid - Happy Ending

There is only one thing to say - with every ending, there is a beginning. For me today’s message is clear and easy.

Happy Ending

“Folks, one thing I Love is a Happy Ending!” - Rawhide Kid*

It was 1850 in the Wild West. Orphaned after his birth Johnny Clay was adopted by Ben Bart, “Uncle” to Johnny. Johnny then became Johnny Bart. When Uncle was murdered Johnny Bart left the farm and then started some great adventures. He met up with Two-Gun Kid, and Kid Colt. He set out to defeat western criminals like Living Totem, Red Raven and Grizzly. Through time stream experiences he solved mysteries with the Avengers and the Black Panther. Eventually the Rawhide Kid would join the Buffalo Bill’s Western Show.

Simple enough we all want “Happy Endings”. There is nothing wrong with happy endings or the desire for them. One thing to remember is with every ending there is a beginning. They go hand in hand, they balance each other. So, with happy endings there would be happy beginnings. If the ending does not seem happy maybe the beginning will be a happy one.

Rawhide Kid
First Appearance: The Rawhide Kid, #1 (March 1955) Atlas Comics/Marvel Comics

Creators: Stan Lee (writer) Bob Brown (art) Jack Kirby (penciled)

* “Beware! The Rawhide Kid”, The Rawhide Kid, #17, August 1960

Captain America - Do Acts of Goodness

One of my favorite heroes of all time is Captain America. I always felt he would defend me – he always defended the weak. He was kind and gentle. He always did what was right. But the most important lesson Captain America taught me was to have black friends. When I was a kid reading comics, it was important for me to see Captain America and Falcon working together. They were friends. In the 1970’s of Shreveport, Louisiana you never saw white people hanging out with black people. In my comics is was OK to have black friends. Captain America and Falcon defended the weak no matter who they were. In high school, I ate lunch with my black friends no matter what my white classmates said. It was what Captain America would have done. Today, it is important for me to see Sam Wilson as Captain America.

Do Acts of Goodness

“Captain will help anyone a friend or a stranger; Now number one without a gun he’s bypassed the Lone Ranger; He’s a do do good who loves apple pie and kisses little babies; He’ll guard you against everything from atom bombs to rabies.” - Jimmy Buffett *

Steve Rogers, Captain America an American Icon. He is just as popular as Uncle Sam and Rosie the Riveter. He has been drawn and written as the cornerstone of the American people and/or the hokey Boy Scout with the idealistic optimism of America. No matter what, no matter how idealistic or hokey the creators write Captain America one thing is always certain – he will be there to help. He will always do what’s right and help who ever is in need. Fighting the good fight.

Acts of goodness isn’t always just helping. Sometimes it is helping someone we don’t want to help. The neighbor that plays their music too loud, the fellow coworker that complains all the time, and the odd-looking kid in the neighborhood all will need help one day. If help is offered maybe we can heal the bruised relationship. Maybe they will be present when we need help? When we act out of goodness only good can come from the act. It may only be inside our hearts but we know we did good work and helped someone in need. These maybe “hokey” and “idealistic” thoughts but when some one helps us we feel good. Repay that goodness by helping someone in turn.

Captain America
First Appearance: Timely’s Captain America #1, March 1941

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

 * “Captain America”, by Jimmy Buffett, Down To Earth, 1970

Raven - Control

It’s hard to believe but I have an issue with expectations. Over the years I have realized expectations are a form of control. I try to control the outcome by expecting then try to control events so my expectations are met. I try my best to not to have expectations or at least to keep my expectations low. Recently I didn’t expect to have an issue with my apartment but after it was all said and done my apartment is much better. I was able to do a major cleaning and purging of things I never use. Now my apartment feels lighter and spacious. Sometimes the outcome is better than what we expected.

Control

“Please, do not make me use my powers. I do not know if they can be controlled.” - Raven*

Rachel Roth is the daughter of Arella (human mother) and Trigon (inter-densional demon). When her mother realized she was pregnant Arella found safety in a community of pacifist spiritual beings in an alternate dimension called Azarath. They trained Rachel to control her feelings and emotions fearing she will become a demon like her father. On many occasions Trigon has sought to use Rachel as his vehicle and form to take control of our dimension. On one occasion Rachel feared this happening and approached the Justice League for help but they refused to help. Rachel sought the help of the disbanded Teen Titans. In reuniting them Rachel took the name Raven. When her emotions become too high and she loses control of her powers Trigon will find an opening to our dimension once again.

Control – the Taoists suggests only in meditation can the breathing be controlled. Other philosophies suggests letting go of control. Those fixed ideas and perceptions that block the mind and heart only prevent further growth. There is no way to control the world – no matter what we do lightning will strike. We try to control people and then the rules are broken. We try to control events and our expectations are never met. It is better to let go of control to go through life with no expectations. Yes that is easier said than done but with practice it can be accomplished. Paraphrasing from the Tao Te Ching, chapter #29, “Do you think you can control the world? It cannot be done. The World is perfect and cannot be improved. If you try to change it; you will ruin it. If you try to grasp it; it will slip away.”

Raven  
First Appearance: DC Comics Presents #26, October 1980

Creators: Marv Wolfman (writer) and George Perez (art)

 * “Who Killed Trident?” The New Teen Titans volume 4 #33 July 1983

Sandman - Story

I love sharing with friends. I love their stories. I learn so much from my friends and the stuff they go through. Sharing with friends is the greatest gift. Siting with a friend over a cup of coffee chatting it up about daily stuff, listening to the tears or having a kiki always takes me out of my space for just a few moments. When I need a friend they’re there to hear my story as well.

Story

"Essentially a story should be entertaining. It should lift you out of the fact that you're sitting on a brownstone stoop … Or the subway; the subway should disappear, and you're living in the world of the story. That is the ideal of the story." - Gardner Fox                                     

Wesley Dodds is one of the first “Mystery Men” of the 1940’s. Dodds is a brilliant inventor, a master detective and fighter. Creating the tools (Gas Mask, Wirepoon, and a Gas Gun) he needs to solve mystery. But one tool he did not create and that is prophetic dreams that lead him to in the direction to the mysteries. Using the moniker of “Sandman” and joining forces with the Justice Society of America Wesley Dodds was a first among many stories.

We all have a story to tell. Some are just more colorful than others. There are parables, narratives, descriptions, allegories, biographies and myths.  The trick in reading, watching, or hearing a story is to stop look and listen. When a friend is telling their story watch how they are sitting, look at the eye-contact and listen to the words this person is sharing everything they have. Sharing a story with a friend is the greatest form of sharing. Stories are the best way to learn and to get to know a person.

Sandman – Wesley Dodds  
First Appearances Adventure Comics #40, July 1939; "New York World's Fair Comics”, 1939

Creators: Gardner Fox (writer) & Bert Christman (art)

Angel - Test

I have friends that travel the world doing these phenomenal things. I am amazed by their actions for people in need. You may not be able to those big gestures. You may be the type of to get to know the homeless guy in the community and leave a bag of apples where he keeps his stuff. That is a huge generous offer. It’s just as important as the big stuff.   

Test

“You never know your strength until you test it.” - Angel*

Volumes of demonology books speak of Angelus, the vampire with the “angel face” that slaughters the innocent. This was very true until Angelus feasted on a poor Gypsy girl. Her family cast a spell that gave Angelus back his soul and he felt and remembered all the deaths he caused. Like an alcoholic Angelus had learned to live without human blood. And Angelus becomes Angel in hope to live peacefully. If he finds and feels true happiness will he become the demon Angelus again. He met and became involved with Buffy, the Vampire Slayer and falls in love with her. To prevent the return of Angelus, Angel moves to LA to seek redemption by “helping the helpless”. 

Things happen, we see people stepping up helping those in need. We hear stories of young people helping the homeless. We have friends that give up vacation time to go help in an Indian orphanage. Some of us may say, “I could never do that.” First of all we never know until we try. We never know until the situation comes up that we would need to be called upon to help. There is always one thing to remember we are seeking to become better people. We help the little old lady with her groceries – that takes strength in character to remember, to see and to help the little old lady. The little things we do that are helpful. We should never judge ourselves by the actions of others; we may not be the type of people to start organizations helping the homeless. We may not travel the world to help orphans but we do buy the homeless guy a slice of pizza or we help the kid that fell and cut his head until his mother arrives. These little things may not be large globally but we feel good about ourselves in doing them.

Angel  
First Appearance: “Welcome to the Hellmouth”, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, March 10, 1997, Mutant Enemy Productions, Fox Television. WB Channel

Creators: Joss Whedon and David Greenwalt  

* “Hero”, Angel, November 30, 1999, Mutant Enemy Productions, Fox Television, WB Channel

Misfit - Hard Claims

One of my favorite little show-up characters in comics is “Misfit”. These “Show-up” characters (my own phrasing) just show up to help a story line along then they are never heard from again. What I loved about Misfit was that she was constantly doubting herself but she wanted to be the best. She was constantly examining her actions and abilities trying to become better and to impress her mentor Barbara Gordon, Oracle.

Hard Claims

“But hard claims deserve hard examination, would you not agree?” - Gail Simone*       

Gotham City was without a Batgirl, Barbara Gordon became Oracle, and Cassandra Cain gave up the moniker so Charlotte “Charlie Gage-Radcliffe decided to become Batgirl. Charlotte put together a “misfit” Batgirl outfit and set out to fight crime in Gotham getting the attention of heroes, villains and citizens. Barbara Gordon was not pleased but no one could catch this new Batgirl. Charlotte can teleport making it virtually impossible to catch her. If wounded Charlotte only needs to teleport and she is instantly healed. Barbara did catch Charlotte and agreed to train Charlotte but not as Batgirl (she did not want Charlotte to end up dead or in a wheelchair). Charlotte took the name Misfit like her costume.   

When people make claims or statements that we do not agree with we automatically set out to examine the claims. It happens in government or business all the time.  This reading is about examining ourselves. Many of the world’s spiritual practices involve self-examination. When we are steadfast in our pursuit of the examined life our days begin to change. We begin to really get to know ourselves. We begin to grow more responsible for our actions and more importantly our spiritual lives. Spiritual thinker Ding Ming-Dao wrote, “To simply be ourselves is the greatest challenge but the simplest spiritual technique.”  When practicing self-examination keep this fortune Cookie thought in mind, “To be a man means constant revision like correcting writing.”

Misfit  
First Appearance: Birds of Prey #96 (September 2006), DC Comics

Creators: Gail Simone (writer), and James Raiz & Nicola Scott (art)

 *Gail Simone, http://www.sequentialtart.com/community/Forum9/HTML/000244.shtml posted 02-04-2008 12:05 PM

Beautiful Dreamer - Sum of Our Parts

I seek a spiritual life. I am not ashamed to admit it. There are people that believe my spiritual practices are lacking and without feeling – even wrong at times. I do not let these people bother me. I continue to practice daily and I can connect to my source. I find the power and inspiration I need each day. The truest connections to my spiritual life is when I am able to humbly connect without another person.

Sum of Our Parts

“We merge to become part of the source and greater than the sum of our parts.” - Beautiful Dreamer*

Beautiful Dreamer is just that a “dreamer”. She can cast dreams into the minds of those around her. Beautiful Dreamer is a member of the Forever People. The Forever People, a group of young New Gods from New Genesis. They travel and enjoy each others’ company. They live their lives as 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 and connected to the Source. The Source is the power of Life, Growth, and the power of existence itself. To be one with the Source is to be greater.

Humans believe in the “Source” – although we call it by different names. We do try to connect to that source and grow spiritually and emotionally. When do most people feel the connection strongest? Christians feel it at church. Recovering alcoholics in AA feel it at a meeting.  Normal people find it with friends sharing a cup of coffee. When we find the connection to people we find the connection to the source. To make a connection to people makes living much easier. Connections can be made through spiritual or religious beliefs or practices, hobbies, creativity or even just riding with people on a bus. The point is to believe the connection is always present. The connection is with other human beings. Make a connection today and feel your source grow stronger.

Beautiful Dreamer
First Appearance: Forever People #1, February, 1971

Creators: Jack Kirby

 * “Young Justice” Disordered, airing Nov. 11, 2011, Dreamer voiced by Grey Delisle.

Green Lantern Corps - Oaths

Prayers and Mantras are powerful tools for any spiritual growth. I have a couple use regularly. The thing that works best for me is sitting quietly. I was told a long time ago that prayers are me talking to God and meditation is when I listen to God. These days for me sitting and listening for that Good Orderly Direction is the best thing I can do for myself. I sit for 20 minutes every morning in silence with my eyes closed. Even when my mind is swirling and the silence is deafening - afterwards I feel centered and ready to start my day.

Oaths

“In Brightest Day, In Blackest Night, No evil shall escape my sight! Let those that worship evils might beware my power Green Lantern’s Light!” - Green Lantern Corps Oath* 

The immortal Guardians of the Universe, little blue men dressed in red, are some of the oldest beings in our universe. They have tried over the thousands of years to protect the universe. They decided to create a corps of galactic policemen to protect the 3600 sectors of the universe. Using an emerald green power source the Guardians formed lanterns and rings. The wearer of the ring can focus their will into any form of light. The stronger the will is the more powerful the ring wearer.  Each Green Lantern Corps member needs to charge their ring every 24 hours. Wearing the ring they place the ring into the lantern and recite their oath.  The oath is also used when the Green Lantern is in need of strengthening their will and in turn their abilities.             

Many of people practice a spiritual ritual every morning in which prayers affirmations or mantras are recited. Some people just practice a physical ritual – sitting quietly drinking a cup of coffee reading the newspaper or even painting their nails quietly. Ask a 12 Steps recovering alcoholic what they will say when they need to rebuild their resolve – the Serenity Prayer. A Catholic may turn to the Rosary or Hail Mary, and the normal Joe on the street may just so “Oh God Please Help Me!” There is something to be said about practicing oaths, mantras, affirmations or prayers. When the thoughts are swirling around without meaning or focus the simple words chosen to recite will rebuild and focus the clear thoughts into even stronger resolve.

Green Lantern Corps   
First Appearance:  DC Showcase #22 (September 1959)

Creators: John Broome (writer) & Gil Kane (art)

*Alfred Bester, writer of Green Lantern, 1940’s

Ultra Boy - Helping Hand

I do love my friends old and new. They are a source of strength and inspiration. I try my best to be present with an open-mind and heart when my friends are involved. My true friends will treat me the same way I treat them. I try to treat everyone equally, I know that I fail at times but at least I do try. Giving a helping hand is more than just helping each other. It is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves.

Helping Hand

“… But what are old friends for, if you can’t give them a helping hand?” - Ultra Boy*             

The 30th Century will see people with extraordinary powers and gifts. There will be many planets far and wide. Rimbor is one planet. Rimbor is a planet of thieves and gangs. Jo Nah was trying to get away from Rimbor when his ship was swallowed by an energy beast. Jo Nah survived. When he was released from the beast’s belly Jo nah found he had gifts. Jo Nah took the name Ultra Boy and had the same powers as Superboy but with one little twist. He could only use each power one at a time. He became the hero of Rimbor and then one the main members of the Legion of Superheroes.

Old friends, we all have them. We love our friends old and new. Today however, let’s talk about offering the “Helping Hand”. There is an old spiritual axiom, “Love thy neighbor”. When we help our neighbors we build integrity. If we live by “Love thy Neighbor” then our actions and words are the same when we offer the “Helping Hand” to our neighbor. People will begin to trust us more. After watching us offer the “Helping Hand” people around us will do the same. We also build insurance for when we may need a helping hand. Opening a door for a little old woman, helping a child that has fallen or even giving a jar of soup to a homeless dude are all “Helping Hands”. The “Helping Hand” can be seen in the home, in the neighborhood, at the job or even on the street. Offering the “Helping Hand” is an easy way to practice a spiritual life.

Ultra Boy
First Appearance: Superboy #98 (July 1962)

Creators: Jerry Siegel (writer), and Curt Swan (art)

 * "Murder Most Foul", Superboy and the Legion of Super-Heroes, #239 (May 1978)

Chameleon Boy - A Solution

When I am teaching math, I tell the students all the time, “There is a pattern to each equation. Find the pattern and you can solve the equation.” The same can be said for problems in my life. If I can find the pattern I can solve the problem. If I can find the solution I can remove the obstacle. Sometimes the difficult part is finding the pattern. That’s when I need to ask for help. I do not need to fear asking for help.

A Solution

“For every obstacle there is a solution – For every obstacle there is a solution and mine is being double jointed!” - Chameleon Boy*                            

The 30th Century will bring some really wonderful surprises. There will be inhabited planets with some really interesting beings, a united Planets Federation and a Legion of Superheroes. One of these planets is Durla. All Durlans have the ability to become any shape; they are supreme shape-shifters. One of the greatest Durlans is Reep Daggle, Chameleon Boy of the Legion of Superheroes. Being a shape-shifter it is difficult to hold or trap Chameleon Boy.

Obstacles are in our path to help us. Once we pass an obstacle we are closer to our goal. Once we pass an obstacle we see a bit more clearly and we feel a sense of accomplishment. We find Hope. For every obstacle there is a solution – we just have to find the solution. It takes a little time. It takes a little patience. It may mean we ask for help. Obstacles are in our path for a reason. That reason is to learn a lesson. Learn a lesson from the Durlans or the Chameleons, be willing to change and be flexible and the obstacle will be easy passed.

Chameleon Boy
First Appearance:  Action Comics #267 (August 1960)

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

* Chameleon Boy, “Karate Kid”, episode, Legion of Superheroes, October 27 2007

Actor Alexander Polinsky

Madman - Something Inside Me

I am having a good morning. I remember how it feels to be on “pink clouds.” That naive feeling where nothing can go wrong. Whenever I feel like this I remember people telling me to get my head out of the clouds and keep my feet firmly on the ground. Then my friends Susan, BJ and I decided the best thing to do would be to wear Pretty Pink Patent Pumps. That way we could keep our heads in the clouds and our feet firmly on the ground. I think everyone should have Pretty Pink Patent Pumps.

Something Inside Me

“Something inside me lifts me up and the harder I stroke, the faster I climb. Yeah, that’s what flying feels like. It’s like swimming underwater – Only I can breathe.” -  Madman*               

Some superheroes suffer horrible accidents and are stitched back together. Tri-Eye Agent, Zane Townsend was in a horrible car accident. Doctors Boifford and Flem stitched and brought Zane back to life. However Zane was left with no memory of his past life. He only remembers affection to a superhero, Mr. Excitement.  Since Zane could not remember his name, the two doctors named him Frank Einstein after Frank Sinatra and Albert Einstein. From his reanimation Frank received an acute ability to learn and remember, Psychometry, Empathy, Clairvoyance and Supernatural Reflexes. Frank uses the moniker Madman, because his powers are all mentally or psychically based. Now Frank is a traveling do it yourself, freelance, jack of all trades, and finding mysteries to solve by chance. To cover his blue skin, metal scalp and crisscross scars Frank wears a full uniform.

There are times that we feel so enlightened or excited that even walking on the street feels like flying. We feel as if we are sitting on the “pink clouds.” What a wonderful feeling that is – if only we could perpetually stay in that state. Unfortunately the universe cycles through and we most bring our feet to the mundane ground once again. DANG! When life is mundane and just cycling through take a moment each day and remember how it feels to fly high in the clouds. Take a moment to remember what it feels like laying on a beach without a care in the world. Take a moment to look out the window and notice the beautiful sunrise or sunset. “Oh wow! The clouds are pink!” Then the cycles won’t seem so “mundane”.

Madman
First Appearance: Creatures of the Id, (October 1990), Caliber Comics

Creators: Mike Allred 

*The Collected Madman Adventures, 1992, 1993, 1995, Kitchen Sink Press (1995)

Detective Chimp - Three Laws

I seek Balance - Physical, Spiritual and Emotional. My idea of Balance is the concept of a three-legged stool. If one leg is broken or short the stool doesn’t work. So, I try to keep my Balance (PSE). I try to get some sort of exercise every day. I meditate every day. I communicate with a friend every day. Attempting these things keep me in Balance (PSE) and I am able to handle life’s difficulties much easier.

Three Laws

“With a debt to Dr. Isaac Asimov, we call them the Three Laws of Superheroics, and invite any other superhero or team to adopt them.” - Detective Chimp*

Detective Bobo T Chimpanzee was just a regular chimp in the jungle. He was trapped and trained by Fred Thorpe to become a sideshow act.  Eventually Fred Thorpe died and Bobo was traveling alone when he met Rex the wonder Dog. The two of them found the “Fountain of Youth”. After drinking the waters Bobo found he could speak to any creature in their language (even humans) and heightened intelligence to the point of genius. Using these skills he became a detective and has worked with Batman and Ralph Dibny, Elongated Man. He joined up with the Shadowpact protecting the world from magical threats. It was Shadowpact's goal to be welcomed and trusted by the people they protected. Detective Chimp wrote the “Three Laws of Superheroics”, based on Isaac Asimov’s Laws of Robotics. The Three Laws of Superheroics: first, the lives and safety of innocent bystanders will always be protected; Second, the lives and safety of the superhero (you) and the team must be protected except when it conflicts with the first law; Third, the lives and safety of the villain must be protected except when it conflicts with the first two laws, primarily the first law.

These three laws could be adapted to our thoughts of a balance life – the physical spiritual and emotional life. The first law, the protection and care of those around us is truly a spiritual act and idea. The innocent friend, coworker or the little old lady next door sometimes need our sacrifice of time and action. The physical care of our body and health makes it possible for us to be present for the first law. Finally in concerns for the third law, the emotional is how we communicate to those around us. If we have an issue with someone how do we forgive them or communicate with them. We always remember that our first concern is the protection and care of those around us. This balanced cycle makes these three laws more easily understood in our simple terms.

Detective Chimp
First Appearance: The Adventures of Rex the Wonder Dog, #4 (July-Aug. 1952) DC Comics

Creators: John Broome (writer) Carmine Infantino (art)

* “Three Laws Safe”, Shadowpact, #9, March 2007, DC Comics