Enchantress - Toughest Witch

Happy Halloween! Halloween was always fun for me. I loved dressing up in costumes that allowed me to be creative. I loved the creativity that came in making the costume. Figuring out how to create the costume was just as fun as wearing it. But to make the costume I had to know how to draw, paint, think three dimensional, sew and apply make-up. I had an arsenal of gifts in my tool belt to use. It’s always fun for me to see the creativity that goes into all costumes.

Toughest Witch

“When I can’t be the toughest witch in town, I settle for being the sneakiest.” - Enchantress *

June Moon, young timid artist was invited to a costume Halloween party to strange haunted castle. While exploring the castle she finds a secret passage that leads to a mysterious being that empowers her with gifts to defeat magical evils. Speaking the words “The Enchantress” the blonde mousy June is transformed into a beautiful raven haired and aggressive Enchantress. She prefers to remain the Enchantress to continue studying her craft. At one point the dark magic takes control of her and she becomes a villain but when the Spectre threatens to defeat and absorb all the magical beings of the world the Enchantress and other magicians defeat the Spectre. June Moon again becomes the Enchantress fighting for the side of light. The Enchantress is one of the founding members of the team, “Shadowpact”.

When practicing sports the trainers or coaches suggest playing against someone better that way it is a learning experience. We learn how to be better and we learn their weaknesses. When playing computer or video games we find players that seem to do really well have a “One Trick Pony” that gets played often. It is better to have an arsenal of gifts. These days when looking for a new job, businesses are looking for higher education, good communication skills, and technology experience. New employees need to be able to do many things. Look at Andy Warhol; did he just create beautiful silk-screens? No, he wrote books, made movies and managed a band. It is better to have an arsenal of gifts to develop a great talent.

Enchantress (June Moon)
First Appearance: Strange Adventures, #187 (April 1966), DC Comics

Creators: Bob Haney (writer) Howard Purcell (art)

* “The (Short) Year of Living Dangerously”, Shadowpact, #3, September 2006, DC Comics

Morbius - Hypocrite

Many superheroes are not what the world wants them to be - pretty, morally upstanding, sexually deviant or just different. They meet hypocrites that will preach and preach but never offer help. There are people out there that say they have strong virtues, morals and principles but then you’ll find them doing the things they say are bad. These same people will tell you want is wrong and how to fix things but won’t offer the help to change. I’ve met many hypocrites in my life but what I’ve learned from them is to teach through example not preaching. I’ve learn it is better to be true to myself than make people like me or even accept me.

Hypocrite

“You HYPOCRITE. You meddle in affairs not your own – yet refuse a genuine plea for help when it may cost you personally. You define your ethics on momentary whims. You believe yourself the good Samaritan and I the sad crazed beast – but in truth we are both monsters.” - Morbius*

Nobel Prize-Winning Scientist, Dr. Michael Morbius has a rare blood disease and uses his scientific skill to cure himself. Of course there is a biochemical accident and Michael Morbius is turned into a living a vampire.  He has all the talents and abilities of vampires – flight, strength, hypnotism, healing factor and a reliance on blood for nourishment. But truly all he wants is a cure. He walks a thin line between good and evil. There are those that hunt Morbius and then there are those that seek his gifts. There are few that truly try to help him.   

Do we meddle in people’s affairs? Do we refuse genuine pleas for help if they are not on our time schedule or plan? Do we live by double standards? Are we hypocrites? For a full life, the Tao Te Ching, suggest keeping our words to ourselves and to watch our desires. When we continue to talk and be active in other matters there is no satisfying. We should be teachers sharing our knowledge by doing for others. When others ask for help offer the help but do not fix or meddle. When the job is done everybody will be glad to be finished.

Morbius
First Appearance: The Amazing Spiderman, #101 (October 1971), Marvel Comics

Creators: Roy Thomas (writer) Gil Kane (art)

* “Some of Your Blood!” Morbius, the Living Vampire, Volume 1, #3, November 1992, Marvel Comics

Extraño - For a Shoulder

We always need love and support. I learned a long time ago that if I need love and support – I need to offer love and support. It is only in giving that we will receive.

For a Shoulder

“For a shoulder to cry on…” - Extraño *

The Guardians of the Universe chose eight humans, the Chosen, who would eventually evolve into the New Guardians of the Universe. These individuals each had different gifts to share. The Chosen were Thomas Kalmaku, Ram, Jet, Harbinger, Gloss, Floronic Man, Extraño and Betty Clawman. The magician, Gregorio De La Vega, was chosen to be the New Guardian, Extraño. Being openly gay, Extraño was jovial and flamboyant wearing loose fitting clothes that matched his personality. Even though he had his inner demons to deal with he was always present to defeat a super-villain or offer a shoulder to cry on for his teammates.  He was stronger when offering support to a friend in need.

One way for someone to offer “Love and Support” is to be present when we cry. Even if the friend is 1000 miles away offering that shoulder through a cell phone is still a shoulder that offers support. Let’s face it we all cry. We may not openly cry but we cry on the inside. We need people beside and behind us, cheering us on and giving advice. These may be tears of sadness or tears of joy but we all cry.  A shoulder to lean on is needed whenever there are tears. True friends offer continuous love and support and will be present whenever there are tears – all we have to do is ask. However, if we want a shoulder to cry on we should be a shoulder for others. Be present in others’ lives and they will be present ours.

Extraño (Gregorio De La Vega)
First Appearance: Millennium, #2 (January 1988), DC Comics

Creators: Steve Englehart (writer) Joe Stanton (artist)

* “After-Burn”, The New Guardians, #3, November 1988, DC Comics

Light Lass - Accomplish More

The journey is a thrilling ride. The old colloquialism says, “a journey of 1,000 miles begin with one step.” But what happens at the one-thousandth step? What happens during the middle of the journey? A few years ago, 26 to be exact, I left Shreveport, Louisiana to move to Washington, DC. I changed the moment I stepped on that plane. Recently, I spent two weeks in Spain with friends. That was a life changing event for me. The journey will always create change in our lives.

Accomplish More

“I’ve always regretted that an accident short circuited my former power – so that I was no longer Lightning Lass…So perhaps I’ll be able to accomplish more as Light Lass.” - Light Lass *

Ayla Ranzz is from the farming planet Winath, where all families have twins. Those children that are not twins feel left out. Ayla and her brother Garth are twins while their older brother Mekt is not. The three siblings were traveling to visit their parents but crashed on Korbal, the lightning world. The three were attacked by lightning beast. Because of the attack the three siblings received lightning and electrical powers. Garth and Ayla joined the Legion of Superheroes as Lightning Lad and Lass. Mekt, rejecting the twins, joined the Legion of Super-villains as Lightning Lord. When Dream Girl had a vision of impending doom for the Legion she creates an elaborate scheme to protect her friends. Creating a fake electrical emergency and using the science-sorcery of Naltor (her home planet) Dream Girl tricks Ayla to lose her lightning powers. Ayla was repowered with “anti-gravity”. She is able to make things super-light or weightless. Ayla took the new name Light Lass.

Do we honestly start off on a journey and reach the end unchanged? We make good strides and we find ourselves changing – some try to fight the change. The path of a journey is meant to change. The landscape changes, the weather changes and we find different places to rest on the road. Isn’t it just natural that the journeyman will change as well? The point here is to take what is given, let it change and use it to make the accomplishments. Let the change help to accomplish more.

Lightning Lass / Light Lass
First Appearance: (Lightning Lass) “The Return of Lightning Lad", Adventure Comics #308 (April 1963), DC Comics

First Appearance: (Light Lass) “The Menace of Dream Girl", Adventure Comics #317 (Feb. 1964), DC Comics

Creators: Edmond Hamilton (writer) John Forte (art)

* “Tragedy at the Top of the World”, Legion of Superheroes, Volume 33, #278, August 1981, DC Comics

Cannonball - Cumberland, Kentucky

People from home tell me often I’ve lost my accent. But then I’ll run into someone that will comment on my charming southern accent. I try to keep my accent because it’s a good reminder of home. On the surface I never really wanted to leave my home it was comfortable and familiar. But I was stagnant – I needed to leave. After my first two years in DC I realized it was the best thing for me. I am who I am meant to be – the world is a huge place. It’s nice being a citizen of the world. However, I will always love my home, Shreveport, Louisiana.

Cumberland, Kentucky

"…Ah thought Ah’d never leave Cumberland. But now that Ah’ve been around the world and even in space, Ah realized how much this place means to me.” - Cannonball*               

Samuel Zachary Guthrie, Sam for short, is a mutant that can fly at super fast speeds. While flying he is incased with an impregnable force field and is unstoppable. When Charles Xavier, Professor X, approached Sam to become a student at the Xavier Institute, Sam took the name “Cannonball”. Sam has been a member of the New Mutants, X-Men, X-Force and others. He has traveled the world and outer space but deep down he is just a country boy at heart.

Raise your hand if you grew up in a small rural community? These communities leave marks on our soul. They are good and they are bad. But they are home. No matter where we live now there is a place we grew up. Even if our parents traveled a lot and we never had a place to call “home” there are places that touched our souls. No matter where you are from, Bastrop, Louisiana or Meissen, Germany these small communities will leave lasting marks on our heart. They will hold special places in our hearts because of the lessons we learned from these communities. For whatever reason, good or bad, these communities put us on the positive path we are on now – honor them for that and never forget where you came from..

Cannonball
First Appearance: Marvel Graphic Novel, #4, The New Mutants (December 1982)

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

*X-Force, “Homefront”, #83 (November 1998)

Betty Clawman - You Possess the Power

Years ago, I was cutting paper shapes with a large paper cutter (not the proper use). I had the intuitive thought, “I should not be doing this I could cut my finger.” Did I listen to that powerful intuition? No, now I have a quarter inch shorter thumb. I listen to my intuition now as well.

You Possess The Power

“You possess the power within…to deal with any and all challenges ahead as you fulfill you higher purpose. Whatever fate awaits you, child…you will persevere.” - Betty Clawman*        

The Guardians of the Universe chose eight humans, the Chosen, who would eventually evolve into the New Guardians of the Universe. These individuals each had different gifts to share. The Chosen were Thomas Kalmaku, Ram, Jet, Harbinger, Gloss, Floronic Man, Extraño and Betty Clawman. Betty Clawman was an Aboriginal girl with the gift of cosmic awareness. She would share her awareness with her teammates giving them the information they needed to continue.

We all probably wish we had a person in our lives that could share the “cosmic awareness” for us. But cosmic awareness can just be intuition. We all are intuitive. We all have thoughts, “maybe I shouldn’t do that” or “I wonder what this would taste like with dates instead of raisins.”  The trick to understanding and becoming more intuitive is to go with the thought. We all have gifts and we can deal with any challenge that comes our way, if we have hope we can deal with anything. If we keep a positive attitude we will feel strong and confident. Our intuitive thoughts will also be strong and confident. Our intuitive thoughts will come more often.

Betty Clawman
First Appearance: Millennium, #2 (January 1988), DC Comics

Creators: Steve Englehart (writer) Joe Stanton (artist)

* “After-Burn”, The New Guardians, #3, November 1988, DC Comics

Harbinger - Impractical Costume

Yesterday we had a “Pink Day” at work. It was a Breast Cancer awareness day. We could have free dress if we wore something pink. Free dress is often hard for me because I want to look professional and still have free dress. I am not the type to wear flip flops or jeans with the knees ripped to work. The unfortunate thing is we do have uniforms to wear for certain occasions and it is important to follow some rules. Being a teacher, I am treated differently by the students and parents when I do not dress with some sense of professionalism. So, what did I wear yesterday – a cute little jumpsuit with pink socks and my Adidas sneakers. I got a lot of compliments.

Impractical Costume

“She did not look like an action character, because she was wearing an impractical costume for action.” - George Perez

Harbinger, Lyla Michaels, is the associate of the Monitor, watcher of the multiverse. Harbinger can create and manipulate energy blasts, teleport through space and time, and create alternate versions of herself. She also protects an orb with the recorded history of all universes in the multiverse. She and the Monitor were influential in helping defeat the Anti-Monitor that destroyed the Multiverse. Eventually she moved to Themyscira, Paradise Island home of the Amazons. Harbinger became friend and tutor to Kara Zor-el, who will become Supergirl.

“Clothes don’t make the man.” You can’t judge a person by how they dress but we should look appropriate for our task. Would a teacher have respect if she came to work in cut-offs and a tube-top? How many eye brows would rise if a doctor came to work in a Speedo? Would the delivery man last all day in a three-piece suit? There are uniforms to wear. Ask a lawyer that wears a suit everyday – he will probably have a set of winter suits and summer suits. The unfortunate thing is we all look and roll our eyes when people dress inappropriately. But honestly would you wear an evening gown to a pool for swimming? Then why wear flip-flops to a restaurant?

Harbinger    
First Appearance: (as Lyla) New Teen Titans vol. 1 Annual #2 (July 1983)
First Appearance: (as Harbinger) Crisis on Infinite Earths #1 (April 1985)

Last Appearance: Superman/Batman, Vol. 1 #10, July 2004

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

Apex - LFT (Looking for a Team)

Looking for a team or friends can be difficult. The best way to find your team, friends – tribe can be as simple as just being yourself. In some cases, that’s a lot easier said than done. Being your true self will attract people toward the light with in you. Sometimes it’s as simple as just asking someone to coffee. In this age of social media technology, we can have friends we’ve never seen face to face. Thanks to the online game City of Heroes I have many friends I’ve never physically met before but it doesn’t mean they’re not part of my broader tribe.

LFT (Looking for Team)

“Level Fifteen Scrapper, Looking For Team” - Apex*                                                                    

There are different levels for superheroes and they are often looking for teams. The hero, Apex, Hernando Barrera is a naturally trained martial artist and swordsman turned superhero. He had a team, his best friends – War Witch, and Horus. Together the three had many adventures in Paragon City, Rhode Island better known as City of Heroes. These friends fought side by side never trying to outdo each other but trying to succeed at getting the job done. Unfortunately, poor Apex was the last of his team to survive and he was off “Looking for a Team”.  

On many MMORPG’s (massively multiplayer online role-playing computer game) you will see people state they are looking for a team – meaning looking people to play the game. But what does it actually mean to be on a team? Try to follow the rules, try to work together and try to accomplish the goals the team has. Look at actors on stage and all the people it takes to put on the performance. That is a team at work. Yes, there are stars – no doubt. True stars remember where they came from and they remember dancing singing in the chorus or standing in a corner as an extra. They know that success is in the performance not the notoriety. The same can be said for everyday teaming, helping friends move or getting a project completed. It is working together to finish the job not the notoriety. Babe Ruth said, “The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime.” And from Pete Maravich we are given these words, “There is nothing wrong with dedication and goals, but if you focus on yourself, all the lights fade away and you become a fleeting moment in life.” Today be a team player.

Apex
First Appearance: “Undead in the Big City”, City of Heroes #1, Blue King Studios (June 2004)

Last Appearance: “#12 Best Issue Ever”, City of Heroes #12, Blue King Studios (May 2005)

Creators: Rick Dakan (plot) and Brandon McKinney (art)

 * City of Heroes #12, Blue King Studios (May 2005)

Martian Manhunter - The Great Evolution

Evolution is the key. I practice my meditation and other spiritual practices to help me evolve into a better person. Yes, my practices are used to stay healthy and sane but they are also used to open my mind and heart. They are used to help me evolve into a better person.

The Great Evolution

“Until the Great Evolution we had wicked men who preyed on the good. But our enlightened science made all crime obsolete.” - Martian Manhunter (J'onn J'onzz)*  

J’onn J’onzz is the sole survivor of the dead planet Mars. J’onn was brought to Earth by a strange experiment performed by Dr. Erdel. After mistakenly teleporting the Martian to Earth the fair doctor took one look at the stranger and died of a heart attack. J’onn J’onzz was stranded here on Earth with no way to return. J’onn can use Superhuman strength, shapeshifting, speed, durability, invisibility, intangibility, intelligence, regeneration flight, telepathy, and Martian Vision. ,But one thing J’onn is above all else he is spiritual and practices his spiritual duties every day. He became the Martian Manhunter to protect his new home. But how did J’onn J’onzz gain so many powers? J’onn J’onzz like the Martians evolved.

Do we hope to be free from crime? Absolutely, there is no other answer. Like J’onn J’onzz suggest we will need to “evolve”. Kevin Quinn wrote a catchy tune, “Evolve” with the opening line, “If you wanna revolution the only solution Evolve, gotta evolve”. What does “evolve” mean? The answer Change. The only way to become different is to change. If we are honestly seeking to be a different person we will need to change. There are so many thinkers and philosophers that suggest the same idea. Just for a moment think about birth to infant to childhood to adulthood to death. There, right there is evolution. Gandhi reminds us, “We must become the change we want to see in the world.” Great words to “Evolve” by.

Martian Manhunter (J'onn J'onzz)*
First Appearance:   Detective Comics, #225, November 1955

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

* “The Strange Experiment of Dr. Erdel!” Detective Comics, #225, November 1955

Ex-Mutants - Genetic Birthright

Years ago, I was at a Sunday meeting where this man stood up and spoke eloquently about Bin Laden’s place on this earth as a human. He was in no way defending his crimes but instead reminding us that he was once a child. Just like all us. We all were children wearing diapers, dependent on the care from another adult. I started wondering what choices were made to lead people down the dark paths. From that lesson I try to picture people that disturb me as a child. I try to see the choices I made that lead me down my paths. At times I try to repair the damage I have caused. It is easier for me to let people exist when I remember that they were once children just like me.

Genetic Birthright

“The six of you are about to be rewarded with the greatest gift of all – your Genetic Birthright. I’m going to make you all Human!” - Dr. Kildare                                                         

In the distant future our world will be plagued with wars. All sorts of weapons will be used that will leave the planet decimated. The inhabitants of Earth will mutate into hideous mutants. A robotic scientist, Dr. Kildare will collect six mutants for an experiment that will repair their genetic birthright. The experiment worked – Ackroyd, Tanya, Shannon, Bud, Piper and Dillon became the first Ex-Mutants. Their hope is to repair their world and bring peace to the planet still plagued with war.

To be human is a gift. It is a great gift. Yes there are many different types of races and creeds and nationalities but we have one thing in common…we are human. When we forget what the outsides look like and look inwardly at our fellows we see we are all the same. No matter where the human in front of us comes from or what they may possibly believe, we are all the same inside. Remembering that is always a good way to begin a conversation. When we are in heated arguments or watching some horrible crime unfold on the news it is always a good reminder to see those people as a human child.

Ex-Mutants
First Appearance: Ex-Mutants, #1 (1986-89), Eternity/Amazing/Pied-Piper Comics

Second Appearance: Ex-Mutants, #1 (Nov. 1, 1992-April 1 1994), Malibu Comics

Creators: David Lawrence, Ron Lim and David Capiti

* “Ex-Mutants”, Ex-Mutants, #1, Nov. 1, 1992, Malibu Comics

Azrael - Archetypes

The hero is an archetype. Part of the reason why I’m doing this little project is because I look to these heroic archetypes to fashion myself after. For me the hero brings hope, offers protection and care and is willing to help. There are so many other ideas that can describe the archetype. I try take the best ideals from these archetypes and create the pattern of my life. Of course I’m only human and I do fail often but I get up and try again.

Archetypes

“Superheroes are those archetypes that live within us…” - Dennis O’Neil*                             

The Sacred Order of Saint Dumas is an ancient order of the Knights Templar created during the Crusades. These strong and vicious knights protected the pilgrims for centuries. However, as centuries past these knights became religious fanatic assassins. Each generation saw a new leader, and would acquire the name Azrael. Jean Paul Valley, a graduate student at Gotham University is next in line. From a child he was brainwashed to not remember his training or the order. When the predecessor is killed Jean Paul is moved up in the ranks to become Azrael. He is ordered to assassinate a weapons dealer. Of course Batman becomes involved but it is Alfred Pennyworth (Batman’s trusted ally) that sees the true heroic nature of Jean Paul Valley, Azrael.  Batman and Alfred helps Azrael break his assassin conditioning and brainwashing. After Bain defeats Batman with a backbreaking blow Azrael takes up the mantle of Batman for a brief time. As Azrael, Jean Paul Valley becomes part of the iconic Batman Family learning how to seek within that true heroic nature.

“Superheroes are those archetypes that live within us.” What is an archetype?  An archetype is the mold, the icon that we pattern ourselves after. When we seek to be better we normally have an archetype in mind. To the ancient Greeks it was their gods. For Christians it is Jesus. For the many opera students their archetype may be Maria Callas or Placido Domingo. To some of us Captain America, Batman, Ms. Marvel or Wonder Woman can be an archetype. Take a moment and think what kind of person to become…then think of a person to associate with this idea. Let that person be a spiritual being or a pop icon or even a character from a book. Let this idea transform into the mold, the pattern to become.

Azrael (Jean Paul Valley)
First Appearance: Batman: Sword of Azrael,  #1 (October 1992), DC Comics

First Appearance: (as Batman) Batman, #498 (August 1993), DC Comics

Creators: Dennis O'Neil (writer) Joe Quesada (art)

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

Coyotl - Heroes

My 5th graders were having a conversation about heroes. I am thinking about heroes now myself. The fifth graders and I may have to discuss what makes a hero? For me watching my heroes in real life I noticed that they all have a need to do what is right. Standing up for those that cannot stand up for themselves. They also have an innate desire to help people.

Heroes

“All along, they were here. From before there was any city on this spot. Before there was any settlement at all…they were here. Heroes.” - Narrator*

The Aztecs spoke a language called Náhuatl (pronounced NAH waht l). During the Pre-Columbian era there was a man named Coyotl (pronounced coy·o·tl), he would show up in many places of the Americas hemisphere protecting the innocent. He had a magical aura about him. He was armed with a bow and arrows. He was a superb marksman. Coyotl appeared to people as a coyote-man. Many Native Americans believed he was the spirit guide Coyote. He was most often seen in the Romeyn Falls area, which would become Astro City.  

Here is a thought to meditate on today – What makes a hero? We all have heroes. They may be real life or fictional. Maybe even a combination of both. Heroes can be as different as Harvey Milk and Barack Obama or Wonder Woman and Captain America. However, all heroes have something in common. What is that commonality? Do heroes stand-up for what is right? Do heroes have a specific voice to be heard? Are they martyrs? Can heroes perform miracles or great feats of strength? Are heroes famous? Can a hero be the little old lady down the street? No matter the ability or strength, sports, sexual orientation, political view or spirituality ALL HEROES have something in common. Today with a friend discuss what makes a hero.

Coyotl

First Appearance: Silver Agent, Astro City Special, #1 (Aug. 2010), Wildstorm, DC Comics

Creators: Kurt Busiek (writer) Brent Anderson (art)

* “To Serve and Protect”, Silver Agent, Astro City Special, #1 (Aug. 2010), Wildstorm, DC Comics

Hawk & Dove

Another spiritual tenet of mine is Peace. There is always Hope and I seek Peace. For me there is never a reason to fight or spread violence. When dealing with arguing children, I often ask “who is willing to be the peacemaker?” The one that steps up always gets a hug, handshake or a high five (these days a fist bump). For me seeking peace and being the peacemaker is much better road to follow.

Hawk & Dove

“I don’t think mindless violence is the answer.” - Don Hall (Dove)*

Judge Irwin Hall was kidnapped by a mob boss. His sons, Hank and Don Hall pursued the villains to an abandoned hide out. The boys were locked in a room. The two made wishes to free themselves and help their father. A booming voice from the Lords of Chaos and Order, told the boys that if they used their powers for justice they would be given the abilities to fight. By saying the names “Hawk and Dove” they would be transformed into the superheroes Hawk and Dove. Hank, sponsored by the Lords of Chaos, became Hawk; he had super strength speed and stamina. Hank tended to be more violent and aggressive. Don was transformed by the Lords of Order into Dove; he was given super agility, accelerated healing and flight. Don chose to seek a more peaceful and non-violent solutions to issues. During the events of the “Crisis on Infinite Earths” Don was saving a small child from Shadow Demons and was killed.  

We should always seek peace first. We are told from an early age to be peacemakers. Look at the images from the peaceful protestors from the Civil Rights movement. When grabbed by the police they went limp and they would not react when yelled at or spit upon. The best course of action is always communication. When we communicate our needs and feelings openly and honestly there is never a reason to become violent. No one can ever argue an emotion or feeling. If needs are not met then go to a place where needs are given freely. To quote the bible, the Beatitudes from Matthew (5:9), “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.” Finally the great Jimi Hendrix says it best, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.”

Hawk & Dove
First Appearance: DC Showcase, #75 (June 1968), DC Comics

Last Appearance of Dove: Crisis on Infinite Earths, #12 (March 1981), DC Comics

Creators: Steve Ditko and Steve Skeates

* “Bonds”, Secret Origins featuring Hawk & Dove, #43 (August 1989) DC Comics

Mister Miracle - Don't Quit Before the Miracle

Today for some reason I’m remembering times that I felt hopeless and people would say “don’t quit before the miracle.” I always found it cliché and useless. Then it occurred to me that’s just another way of saying “there’s always hope,” and I’m all about hope. I truly appreciate the people that remind me to hang on just a few moments longer.

Don’t Quit Before the Miracle

“Hear Ye! Hear Ye! …Once more I am among you! Mister Miracle has returned!” - Mister Miracle*

There are two planets in a distance galaxy always at war. One the home of the New Gods – New Genesis. The other Apokolips, home for the evil Darkseid and his minions. A dark pack was made for peace; the rulers of both planets exchanged their sons – to be raised on each planet. Orion son of Darkseid went to New Genesis and Scott Free the High-Father’s son was raised on Apokolips. Scott Free was the New God of freedom and escape. He was raised in all manners of horror, traps, and evil by the sadistic Granny Goodness. Scott was always hopeful, caring and innocent, totally different for Apokolips. He eventually escaped to Earth with his one true love Big Barda and became Mister Miracle the best and foremost escape artist. Not only can Mister Miracle escape any dark situation, impossible trap, or inescapable problem he escapes with his hope, freedom and innocence still intact. 

Don’t quit before the miracle! OK, enough said, let’s go home. No matter how dark the situation, impossible the odds or inescapable the problem there is always hope and there will always be a miracle. Don’t give up! The problem will be solved, the situation will end, and the odds will change. The solution is not the miracle. The miracle is holding on until the end. The miracle is when we are at your last knot in the rope and the situation finally changes and we’re amazed at how well we held to the end. The true miracle is realizing at the last moment there is hope and we will be free again with our innocence still intact. Don’t quit before the miracle!

Mister Miracle
First Appearance: Mister Miracle #1 Volume 1, April 1971

Creator: Jack Kirby (scripts and art)

 * “Midnight of the Gods” Mister Miracle #22, Feb. 1978

Firestar - A Regular Life

I am grateful each day. I wake up, suit up and show up. It may seem boring or the humdrum life but I am able to take care of myself and I am happy. I am grateful for my simple existence. I like my regular life.

A Regular Life

“And then again, who needs stupid super powers when I can just live a regular life like anyone else?” - Angelica “Firestar” Jones*                                                                                          

Some superheroes are born with powers, they are called Mutants. Many mutants do not want their powers. All they want is to live a “regular life”. Angelica Jones microwave based powers manifested when she was young and immediately was thrown into the spot light. She became the hero Firestar. Angelica has teamed with Spiderman, the X-Men, the New Warriors and the Avengers. All she ever wanted was to live a regular life. Her main sources of pleasure are spending time attending college and with her friends Hellcat, Proton and Black Cat. When it was discovered that her mutant radiation powers were giving her cancer Angelica did what any normal person would do – she fought the cancer.

What is a “regular life”? We all wake up in the morning with normal things to do. Does it really matter how much money we make or what kind of a car (if any) we drive? We are all going to wake up, eat, work and sleep again. Let’s look at the contradiction of Angelica’s story. All she wanted was a “regular life” – the pleasure of attending college and having friends. She even acquired a very human issue, cancer. There’s the contradiction. Cancer is NEVER regular. Those of us who suffer from cancer and have beaten cancer would not say it was regular. We should cherish each day that is “regular”. Cherish each day that we wake up, eat, work and sleep again.

Firestar (Angelica Jones)
First Appearance: Spiderman & His Amazing Friends, TV Show (September 1981), NBC

First Comic Appearance: Spiderman & His Amazing Friends, (December 1981), Marvel Comics

First Continuity Appearance: Uncanny X-Men, #193 (May 1985), Marvel Comics

Creators: Dennis Marks, Dan Spiegle, Christy Marx, John Romita Sr, Rick Hoberg and Kathy Garver

* “I am Therefore I Think”, The New Warriors, Volume 1, #3 (September 1990), Marvel Comics

Doc Savage - Inspire Someone

As an artist it is important for me to show my work. I have no problem doing that. I sit back thinking am I being grandiose – probably. But I’ve done all this work why not show the world? I’m not trying to be better than anyone else. I’m trying to be better. I practice craft daily. I take inventory of my abilities and actions trying to grow as a person, artist and teacher. Showing my work allows me to see it from a different perspective – then I am able to refine and hone my craft. I am just trying to be better.

Inspire Someone

“I am reminded of my father he used to tell me, ‘Clark, the best work you can do is to inspire someone else to be like you. Be the best you can be by making those around you better.’” - Doc Savage*                      

Clark Savage, II, better known to the world as Doc Savage, the Bronze Man, was trained and tested on by his father and a team of scientists, doctors, and other types of trainers to become the best specimen of human possible.  Doc’s whole idea was to become better and become the best he possibly could be. Through his training he has near superhuman abilities – mentally, spiritually and physically. Doc is a physician, scientist, adventurer, inventor, explorer, researcher and artist. Offer him the challenge and he will achieve the goal. He manages his affairs from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. He has other safe houses and offices around the world. He also has a secret fortress in the arctic. To Doc his whole mission is to be better and let the world profit from his achievements thus becoming an inspiration. 

Let’s look at the long list of Superheroes: Superman, Batman, Captain America, and Spiderman...etc. What do all these characters have in common? They want to be better, they want to help those around them, and they are inspiring. Do we know when we are inspiring? Not really - teachers try to inspire students to learn. They can inspire students to become better and try harder. Becoming better and better is a lot of work. It is difficult but we are only asked to try. The work to become better is inspiring.  Take inspiration from Doc Savage’s oath, “Let me strive every moment of my life to make myself better and better, to the best of my ability, that all may profit by it....” **

Doc Savage
First Appearance: Doc Savage Magazine #1 (March, 1933), publisher, Street and Smith

Creators: Lester Dent, Henry Ralston & John Nanovic 

* ”First Wave”, #6, March 2011

** "How I met Doc Savage", Micah Wright, (http://www.micahwright.com/savage.htm)

Johnny Storm - Mantra

I was reading about mantras recently. It got me thinking about my mantras and how I use them. I use them to make me smile, to console myself or to remember my real purpose. Couple of my favorites are “Can’t be hateful and grateful at the same time”, “Time for Hope”, and “Every day was wonderful fun.” The last one is from TVs Batgirl, Yvonne Craig.

Mantra

“Flame On!” - The Human Torch                             

Johnny Storm, the youngest member of the Fantastic Four, the first family of the Marvel Universe. Reed Richards, Susan Storm, Ben Grimm and Johnny Storm built and flew a spaceship to study and record a cosmic event in outer space. This cosmic event bombarded the young space travelers with cosmic energy and they would be changed forever. Johnny Storm being naturally hot-headed and over anxious was turned into the Human Torch. “Flame On” is Johnny Storm’s way of turning into the Human Torch. He is connecting to the power he has deep inside.

Superheroes are known for their cliché catch phrase. “Flame On!” by the Human Torch is popularly recognized. But why is the phrase used since it really serves no purpose? It does actually; it lets the reader know something is getting ready to happen. We all have our own little catch phrases too, although we call them mantras, mottoes, affirmations, prayers or slogans. They are cliché and silly but they serve a powerful purpose. These words connect us to the power we have deep inside.  We all have a reservoir of power, energy that can only be tapped into when things are stressful. We will say something to ourselves that make us laugh, smile or remember a beautiful day. Then we will get up and finish the job at hand. We just tap into the power deep inside that give us strength and stability – the power to continue. “FLAME ON!” Let that power burn bright.

Johnny Storm - The Human Torch
First Appearance: Fantastic Four #1, Nov. 1961 Marvel Comics

Creators: Stan Lee (Writer) Jack Kirby (Penciler)

Alfred Pennyworth - An Alfred

I often wish I had an Alfred – Someone to take care of all those little things that I just don’t have the time to finish. To Bruce Wayne Alfred is so much more than a paid servant he is a true friend.

An Alfred

“Everyone should have an Alfred.” -  Jason Todd*                             

Many superheroes have a strong supporting cast of followers. Batman has Robin, Nightwing, Batgirl, Red Robin, the Red Hood and James Gordon. But the most loyal and most trusted person in Batman’s arsenal of followers is Alfred Thaddeus Crane Pennyworth. Alfred is Batman’s butler and has been with the Wayne family before Bruce Wayne (Batman) was born. Alfred is a retired Actor and UK Intelligence Officer.  Shortly after Bruce and Dick became Batman and Robin, in an attack by a burglar Alfred accidentally found the Bat-cave. He decided to help the two heroes become better and support them in every way. For many of the Batman Family Alfred is the Father/Mother figure, Confidant, Nurse, Doctor, Lawyer, Fashion Designer or best friend. He is always present.

Family and Friends – that is an important phrase. Many of our actions are guided by what our family and friends would think or say. The people that surround us help put us on the path we are to lead. They are often our mirrors. They are our teachers. They are our support. There is an old southern colloquialism, “Don’t do anything that would embarrass your mother.” The idea of a mother is nurturing, pretty creative and caring. Why do anything to disrupt those thoughts. A modern colloquialism is “every straight girl needs a Gay friend.” A good friend will help find just the right dress, will be truly honest and say what is right to make the situation better. Today instead of trying to find “an Alfred” try being “an Alfred.” Be that person in a friend’s life that is always present. Be a Father/Mother figure, Confidant, Nurse, Doctor, Lawyer, Fashion Designer – be a Best Friend.

Alfred Pennyworth
First Appearance: Batman #16 (April-May 1943)

Creators: bob Kane (writer) Jerry Robinson (art)

* “Last Dance. Last Chance…For Death!” The Red Hood and the Outlaws, #18, May 2013