Metacreative Magazine - Spring 08

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In This Issue ~ SPRING 2008 ~

MetaCreative Magazine is published and operated by Mystikka Jade: www.mystikka.com and is designed by Pamela Kritner: www.wynotdesign.com

~Featured Articles~

The Seven Habits Of Highly Dramatic People – by: Scott Kalechstein....... 4 Interview with Raven Digitalis, Author of Goth Craft – by: G.L. Giles....... 6 The Silver Era Tarot - by: Aunia Kahn and Russell Moon .......................... 10

~Featured Artists~ Mark T. Zeilman ............................................................................................ 12 Adrian Avila ................................................................................................. 14 Lucky Lulu .................................................................................................... 16

~Community Art and Poetry~ Green and Cream - a poem by: G.L. Giles...................................................... 18 Art / David McDonald .................................................................................... 18 Art / Candace Price ........................................................................................ 18 The Seeker - A poem by: Jefery Greer ............................................................18 Art / Javier Marín ........................................................................................... 19 Art / KD Matheson and Jorge Catoni.............................................................. 19 Art / Sita Loop ................................................................................................ 19 Art/ James Joy ................................................................................................ 19

~Cuisine~ Vegetarian Soup Recipes – by: Chef Michele................................................ 20 Vegan Black Bean and Corn Salsa – by: Hushicho ....................................... 21

~Music~

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Artificial Intelligence in Texas, “Time Remembers” -................................... 22 An independent music review - by: Sometimes Girl New Age Indie Music Mentions – Aquarius Minded .................................... 24 and SiriSat – by: Mystikka ..........

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The Seven Habits Of Highly Dramatic People By Scott Kalechstein

Do gratitude, contentment, and inner peace sometimes creep up on you and undermine your ability to indulge your anxiety? Here’s a quick and handy two-step process to make sure you get your M.D.R. (minimum daily requirements) of worry and chaos. 1. Believe and act like your safety, security, and happiness are dependent on people and forces outside of you that you can’t control. 2. Try to control them. For those of you who prefer to keep it complex, here are seven habits to develop that will help you go deeper into your practice and guarantee a daily overdose of adrenaline. Allow me to be your drama director as we shout out the traditional opening words… “Lights! Camera!! RE-ACTION!!!

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#1. Harness The Power Of Negative Thinking- Everybody accentuates the negative on occasion. What if I can’t pay my bills? What if I lose my house? What if I get sick? What if I’m alone for life? What if I’m in this relationship for life? But as your drama coach, I want to inspire you to master ‘The Secret’ by focusing all of your attention on the most negative possible outcomes all of the time. When this discipline has been achieved, you can relax into the certainty that you will always find something to freak out about in any situation, and fear will never abandon you again.

#2. Be Busy Till You’re DizzyBeing too busy to still your mind and take good care of your body is essential on the path to drama-realization. Temptation is everywhere these days - health food stores, spas, gyms, yoga studios, meditation classes, and it takes courage to maintain abstinence while the whole world is stretching, sweating, chanting, and going organic. Remember, as our parents tried to warn us, engaging in meditation can lead to blindness, losing sight of all the things right in front of you to worry about. So wake up every morning painfully early, splash cold water on your face, brew up your caffeine, and go, speed racer, go! Have you answered all your emails? Who needs a shoulder to lean on? Is there something on TV? Always make sure your life and your mind are filled with clutter and free of those annoying empty spaces between your thoughts that can disturb your absence of peace.

stuff your feelings till you can’t hold them in any longer, and then explode without restraint or care for anyone, especially the ones you care most about. As a practice, try being 100% nice and sweet. Stretch yourself to accommodate someone as much and as long as you can, and then take the lid off and let the steam out, like Mt. Saint Helens does once in a while. There is nothing as satisfying as having a good eruption after being good and silent for a spell. #4. Leave Your Inner Child Alone Without Parental Guidance When the child inside the adult gets scared, some really juicy drama can happen, but only if we withhold our compassion, re-assurance, and loving boundaries. When we can resist such mushy self-help nonsense, our inner children will wreak havoc trying to get those things from others, usually through some very exciting acting out in the drama department.

#3. Have A Swinging Good Time – In the 60’s and 70’s, a swinger was a person who relieved the monotony of monogamy by attending a variety of extra-curricular relationships. Nowadays, the term swingers has broadened, and is often used to refer to drama majors when they are found swinging like a pendulum from one extreme to another, churning with the thrill of constant crises, skillfully sidestepping the boredom of emotional stability.

When two or more people abandon their little kids at the same time, oh boy, that’s when the fun begins. The adults have left the vehicle, and you can guess who’s in the front seat, banging on the horn, flooding the accelerator, yelling out the window, and playing extreme bumper cars. Yippee!

Would you like to be able to create, at the snap your fingers, a soap opera drenched in drama anytime you want? All you need to do is to

#5. Set Huge Goals, Maintain Unrealistic Expectations - There is nothing more beneficial to your lifestyle than the habit of reaching

for the stars, falling short of your lofty goals, and feeling like a colossal failure. Taking big leaps and falling flat on your face is paramount for maintaining healthy low self-esteem, which is the foundation of all good drama. Go for the mountaintop, and don’t look down at your feet on your way. One step at a time is for people satisfied with proceeding at a snail’s pace, always leaving behind a slime trail of serenity, gentleness, balance, and other dismal downers that drama kings and queens take royal pains to avoid. You can do better than that!

Blame first, ask questions and take responsibility later, if at all. Appropriate targets are Mom and Dad, friends (if you still have any), your mate (if they are still around), the Bush administration, the Clinton administration, big corporations, small minds, and, of course, God. Self-responsibility can lead to issues finding solutions, which flushes good drama right down the drain. Instead, be generous with the blame dispenser, letting it overflow on everyone, uncontained, uncensored, unedited. Blame, Blame, Blame!

#6. Judge Your Judgments – Every human being judges, but only the ones who have learned the art of judging their own judgments excel in creating melodrama. Have you ever been known to shame and blame yourself for feeling afraid and stuck, telling yourself that there is something really wrong with you for not moving forward? Good! You are on the right track. Now, take your next step. Judge your judgments! Tell yourself that you should know better than to shame and blame yourself. Heap truckloads of guilt on yourself for stooping so low to the curb of self-criticism, yet again. This will make you quite an energetic downer that can’t help but suck energy from those around you. You’ll be the lifelessness of the party!

Affirmations For Good Drama

#7. Get Grounded In The 3 B’s…. Blame, Blame, & Blame - Blaming yourself has already been covered. But don’t rest there. Blame everyone else too. Life’s not going the way you want? Blame, blame, blame!

Every day in every way I am stressing out over everything, real or imagined. Everything is working together to conspire to bring the worst possible outcome to my doorstep. Life is against me and I am doomed. This, or something worse, is now manifesting for the highest cost to all concerned. I no longer have to work to create drama. Drama happens effortlessly and naturally, all around me. Whatever calamity I can conceive, I can achieve. I always have everything I need to manifest everything I don’t want, and all is hell in my world.

Copyright 2008 Scott Kalechstein, All Rights Reserved

Scott Kalechstein is an inspirational speaker, a transformational humorist, a life coach, and a modern day troubadour. He makes his home in Marin, California and loves presenting at conferences, giving talks, concerts and workshops. In his phone counseling practice, he is a relationship specialist, helping both individuals and couples heal, manifest, and awaken into conscious relationship. Call 415-721-2954 to schedule a session, or email him at [email protected]. You can visit: www.scottsongs.com to read more about his workshops, to hear his talks or to sample songs from his nine CD’s. Sign up for his free muse-letters to receive writings like this one on a semioccasional basis.

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Raven Digitalis (The Author of Goth Craft) is fast becoming a big name in the metaphysical community at large and with good reason. He’s a fifth-year Neopagan Priest trained specifically in the shadow magick tradition Opus Aima Obscurae. In addition, he’s also trained in Buddhist philosophy. He is the co-owner of Twigs & Brews, a metaphysical business specializing in essential oil blends, bath herbs/ salts, soaps, medicine bags, medicinal cataplasms and stone pendants wrapped in wire. Digitalis is also a wonderful black-and-white photographic artist and poet. Moreover, he’s an animal rights activist who believes that people should embrace a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle if possible, as stopping unnecessary animal suffering in factory-farming will better us all. Changing gears, Digitalis is frequently found spinning in the underground as a club DJ of Gothic, Industrial and EBM music. Be sure to check out his website for updates, etc. at

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www.RavenDigitalis.com .

Interview with Raven Digitalis – Author of Goth Craft By: G.L. Giles 1) Your book, Goth Craft, published in August of 2007, is already in its third printing. It’s been wildly successful in both Gothic and Pagan circles. Do you think this is because you’ve captured and brilliantly penned an idea, the merging of two subcultures, that has gone unrecognized before? Thank you. Yes, as has been said before, a book with this theme could have easily been either quite a success, or an absolute failure and insult to both communities. Luckily, I believe I’ve accomplished the former. I designed it from the start to respectfully and accurately document both lifestyles—that of Gothic culture and that of magickal spirituality—and explore the ways in which they can operate together. Though these lifestyles are entirely distinct entities, it’s undeniable that many people feel they go hand-in-hand for them personally. There is an element of mysticism and mysterious allure apparent in both the Gothic and Pagan/occult lifestyles, and it’s from this platform that I structured the book.

able fiction authors, I feel more of a motivation to continue trying my hand (or pen… or keyboard) at fiction. It’s a fun world, and one that’s entirely different from nonfiction. I’ve always found it to be a bit intimidating a field, but if it’s something that I have talent in (which I hadn’t realized), I’ll keep on with exploring that realm! I always feel that the most important element of writing—or any art for that matter—is that one enjoys it. 3) Being a Neopagan Priest, what are your thoughts on the popular debate, between many in the metaphysical community as a whole, of religion versus spirituality?

I definitely think that spirituality does not have to be religious, and that many religions are not spiritual! Spirituality transcends religion, plain and simple. Nowadays, you’ll see so many people who live their life ethically, strive to help others, expand their minds, and live honestly progressive, positive lives, yet at the same time don’t strictly subscribe to any religious philosophy. In the 21st century, a person can study Buddhism, Taoism, 2) Goth Craft is a well-crafted work Wicca, Sufism, Qabalah, New Age, of nonfiction, but you also write Theosophy, etc., etc., and never actufiction as well. You had one of your ally declare themselves a member of short stories entitled “Masks” appear any of these systems. A person can be in Bloody Kisses: A Vampire Erotica absolutely spiritually versatile withAnthology, and you have some of out being necessarily religious. At your poetry posted on your website. the same time, a person may find that How does writing fiction differ from they vibe with one particular spiritual writing nonfiction? Which do you system, or religion, above others, and prefer? may fully devote themselves to that path. Just the same, any legitimate For now, I definitely prefer nonficreligion would not discourage spirition metaphysical guidebook writing. tual seeking outside of the religion’s Actually, “Masks” is only the second confines. In reality, no religion is piece of fiction I’ve ever written, ‘pure;’ everything has been influenced and after receiving unprecedented and even molded by other religious praise for it from a number of respect- and spiritual movements over time.

All religions truly are One Path. Paradoxically, this One Path has just as many fractions as there are people incarnate on earth. Spirituality is a personal experience and way of life, and no single religion can fully and exclusively capture the Divine. 4) You bring up many interesting points in your chapter entitled “Philosophies of the Dark Witch.” For instance, you say: “We cannot accurately walk the path toward enlightenment without recognizing and working with our own darkness. We cannot evolve without the humility to face that which we have pushed aside.” (Goth Craft, p. 83) What’s the danger in not facing one’s darkness? Is the light not as bright without first facing one’s darkness? Yeah, that’s one of my favorite chapters! I’m most proud of the ‘Philosophies’ and ‘The Death Current’ chapters. Anyway; yes, I think you’ve hit it spot-on: without facing one’s darkness, and without enduring and overcoming absolutely negative, emotionally destructive periods of life, one cannot fully understand the ‘light.’ Without truly coming to an understanding of how cruel life can be, and without learning the lessons in these Dark Nights of the Soul, the ‘light’ is only the light of illusion… an escapist idealization. Now, don’t get me wrong; ‘darkness’ is not just bad or destructive—that’s just one aspect of darkness by definition. And in actuality, ‘darkness’ means something different to anyone, which is something that my second book explores in depth. 5) You also make a good point when you say: “Humans have both a light and dark side; overemphasis on

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one side or the other simply causes imbalance, making the person overwhelmed and ungrounded. To practice dark Witchcraft is to walk a light path in a dark skin, balancing lightness with darkness for the sake of balance.” (Goth Craft, p. 83) So, is balancing one’s light and dark sides the key then? Definitely. Understanding all aspects of human nature is essential to knowing the Self. If our focus is purely on one side or another (and this goes for any set of polarities), we ignore a whole other aspect of our beingness. In this example, it would be an equal hindrance to believe that life is all faeries and unicorns, as believing it’s all destruction and bitterness. There is always a balance. 6) Some people see lots of beauty in the darkness and some ugliness in the light. Would you agree with them? Not really… I see so much beauty in ‘light.’ Of course, I am more drawn to darker energies (and I don’t mean evil, of course) and thus perceive a particular sense of beauty in darkness. Cemeteries, bats, eyeshadow and red wine are just so gorgeous to me! Everyone has different taste, and it’s this diversity that makes the world such a beautiful place. 7) Do you believe that darkness and light are really opposing sides of the same coin? And that the value we chose to place on either side is really what determines our happiness?

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Well, if we look at the Chinese mystical symbol of the Yin-Yang, we see that one polarity is dependent on the other, and that each polarity contains within it an essence of its equal-opposite. So yes, darkness and light are forces contained within one coin: reality. Of course, one can categorize everything in reality to being ‘dark’

or ‘light,’ Yin or Yang, but in truth, nothing is that definitive! Happiness lies in striking our own balance; mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. 8) Another area you cover quite well in Goth Craft is the general acceptance of gay and lesbian lifestyles in both the Gothic and Pagan communities. The page on “Gender-Neutral Pronouns” alone is worthy of mention! Why do you think Goths and Pagans are more enlightened in this arena than much of mainstream society? Being somewhat outcastes of society, it only makes sense that ‘alternative’ people, in this case Goths and Pagans, are not quite as conservative as the majority! Gay,

lesbian, bisexual and transgendered identities have always been a part of life; it’s simply the nature of humanity, and it would be impossible for a person to find a current or historical society that doesn’t recognize these things. Prejudice against these states of being are a result of Puritanical Christianity; it’s by no means natural to take issue against those who aren’t straight-white -upper-classChristian-males. Because people who walk alternative lifestyles or spiritualities are often discriminated against, it would be stupid to discriminate against others who have long suffered the same fate. We all know the difference between right and wrong; we don’t need a Bible to politically explain it to us!

9) Your section on “Psychic Vampyrism” is spot on as you point out that “Psi-vamps are catalysts of intense change and are most certainly natural energy workers. The positive psi-vamp uses his or her powers in a projective manner rather than an exclusively absorptive one.” (Goth Craft p. 264) Would you say it’s important for all energy workers to acknowledge their darker, shadow self side? Definitely. How can a person truly heal another without Empathy? Healers and energy-workers of all types must have the ability to feel another person’s emotions and sense surrounding energies as they relate to one’s own. If healers and energy-workers acknowledge their own dark side, and have experienced that which it personally entails, they can more easily relate to their clients’ experiences and emotional states, making their abilities more acute, holistic and genuine. 10) You also bring to light that “Dark Witchcraft has nothing to do with evil, self-serving, or sinister motivations. The goal of shadow magick isn’t to attain godhead or control over others; it is to know allsides of the self and become the master of one’s own existence---not everybody else’s.” (Goth Craft p. 84) I know that you’re primarily talking about human beings here, but I believe that “everybody” could also apply to animals. Far from being evil, many of those I’ve met who practice shadow magick have been especially concerned with animal rights, which can be viewed as quite caring and positive. Do you think that Goths and Pagans, as a whole, are more concerned with animal rights than most of mainstream society?

To some extent. Personally, I’ve been vegetarian for about 6 years and couldn’t imagine consuming animal flesh. The thought absolutely sickens me. Now, I don’t think that ethical hunting and fishing are so bad, but the fact alone that so many people eat factory-farmed meat, dairy and eggs is enough to make me almost entirely give up on the human race altogether. Then again, I realize that most people who consume factory-produced animal products have no idea as to what happens behind closed doors. It’s difficult for me to conceive that anyone with emotional capacity, Empathic skills, or spiritual alignment could possibly support these most horrific and torturous industries. There is no excuse to encourage the torture of our animal allies. Yes, a high number of compassionate Goths and metaphysicians understand these implications and fight against them, and I can only hope that more will awaken to these atrocities with time and will actively look ‘behind the scenes’ of reality to see what’s really going on, be it in the realm of animal rights, human rights, environmental rights, and anything else 11) Your next book, Shadow Magick Compendium, will be released in September 2008. What can you tell us about it? And, are there any other book projects in the works? Yep! I’m very excited for this book. It explores many definitions and aspects of ‘shadow’ and how they metaphysically apply to both magickal spirituality and daily life. To summarize, the chapters are entitled as such: “The Internal Shadow,” “The External Shadow,” “The Astral Shadow,” “The Shadow of Nature” and “The Shadow of Society.” As for other projects, I am currently compiling a spellbook with a darker slant on things—this is going to be a bit less ‘heavy’ than the other two books, and will be fun yet

significant. Otherwise, I have a couple other projects in the works (which I will be hush-hush about for now), and soon plan on launching an occult horror short-story fiction anthology. I’m very excited for the future, and it’s my hope above anything else that my writing will continue to positively influence people, expand their spiritual views, and will help readers develop a deepened sense of love for the self and others.

About the Interviewer: G.L.Giles

I’m the author of nontraditional vampyre/vampire series. I’ve written three books to date: The Vampire Vignettes , V2:B4 (The Vampire Vignettes Prequel) , and V3: The Vampire Vignettes ReVamped. I’m also a reviewer and interviewer. I’m an animal rights activist as well as a vegetarian. I graduated cum laude from the College of Charleston in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts in English. I’ve had well over 100 major bookstore signings, for various Borders, Barnes & Noble and Waldenbooks stores, in the Southeast and Midwest. I’ve been on television six times talking about my books. I was recently published in Psychic Times for my article “On Lightworking.” The article can be viewed at www.voicesfrombeyond7.com/PsychicTimesWelcome.html www.thevampirevignettesrevamped.net

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SILVER ERA TAROT By: Aunia Kahn and Russell Moon

ABOUT THE “SILVER ERA TAROT DECK” The Silver Era Deck is a fully functional deck based on the original Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) interpretation. The Silver Era Tarot deck is a new-age interpretation of classical ideas, historical ideas updated through technology and 21st Century artistic breakthroughs and change, or as a bold, groundbreaking success at bringing tarot into the 21st Century for older generations to rediscover while exposing it to whole new generations of learners and thinkers. This deck is compiled of 78 cards (22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana in four suits; Wands, Swords, Pentacles and Cups) and a companion book using a brief description of every card, its interpreted meaning, reverse meaning as described seen and felt by me, astrological sign, and relative keywords to assist those that strive to further their expansion of the tarot deck by learning an association and also memorizing a possible take on the significance of each card. This deck is a collaboration between renowned artist Aunia Kahn and published writer Russell Moon:

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THE ARTIST & CREATOR

THE AUTHOR OF THE “HAND BOOK”

Artist: Aunia Kahn Location: My Blue Star, United States Sign: Sagittarius

Author: Russell Moon Location: Illinois Sign: Pisces

Self taught in the arts, I have been engaging in some form of art/expression since I can remember. I claim my inspiration from pure emotions; powerful and oftentimes personal, ranging from love, anger, betrayal and the scores in-between. I feel honoring the human soul, spirit and determination wholeheartedly breathes life into my creations and my hope is that the images and expressions fuel the desire for life and walk a path of their own through each of my viewer’s interpretations. I feel that as I continue to evolve and explore the human spirit with flights and pursuits I gain new ground in my motivation to create my own world. I spend a majority of my time continuing my mostly self-taught artistic endeavors and maintaining and growing in skills, not only with my artist brush, but though my need to express my life and feelings though music, performance, design and writing.

Motivated by traditional, yet a questioning recognition of religion, published author Russell Moon continues to explore realities within divination and the concepts of God and a “higher power”. To this end the intertwining reflections of positive energy and enlightenment have been taken and expressed through the combined interpretations of himself and artist Aunia Kahn in the “Silver Era Tarot” deck. Ultimately, the companion book is one unique interpretation of many possible, varying aspects of tarot; it is as different as the deck itself is to others. The reader is encouraged to further pursue meanings that may be personal to themselves, as Russell hopes to inspire and intrigue others to establish and investigate their own understanding of tarot and all things that bring a person to a closer consciousness understanding.

http://www.afterchain.com/silverera/theartist.html www.findkahn.com

www.afterchain.com/silverera/author.html www.silvereratarot.com/

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Featured Artist: Mark T. Zeilman

Self Portrait Mark T. Zeilman began painting in 1997 and has been drawing for as long as he can remember. He is influenced by his earliest memories: the colors and movements from cartoons and television shows, childhood drives down the neon lit Las Vegas strip and desert sunsets twisted into surreal and cubist visions. He is inspired by the Rock and Roll he grew up listening to. The Beatles, Southern Rock, Heavy Metal, Shred and Guitar virtuosos help shape and color his art.

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Through his work, Mark seeks to explore an alternate reality of colors, lines, motion and broken skies. His work is at once dark and colorful, alive and colored by death. His fascination with everything human is reflected in his subjects of celebrity, pop culture and made up people in made up places. He takes inspiration from every situation, environment and the fragile vulnerability he finds when looking into another’s eyes.

Eyedia

Sunset Canyon Zeilman has been a force in the Downtown Las Vegas art scene since his first solo show in 2002 at the Funkhouse. He has been involved in the monthly arts event known as First Friday since its inception. He has owned his own galleries and curated shows downtown since 2004. He currently shows and works at his studio / gallery, MTZC the edge of sin city, where he hosts monthly shows by local, regional and national artists. http://www.peacefulrage.com

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Featured Artist: Adrian Avila

Washed Away

Adrian Avila feels that art is a way of expressing what you really see. Everyone sees things differently, but only those who seek to know and understand one another’s differences make the difference in showing one’s art. Avila looks at life, nature, and situations strangely and beautifully at the same time. It’s some sort of complex mix of heart, mind, and life that breaks into a balance inside him that gives him the surreal vision he portrays in front of are eyes. He catches himself staring at things, people, and events and tries to see or figure out the inner truth to show. He tries to convey whom and what they really are inside. To see the naked truth in everything, including himself, could be either shockingly disturbing or heavenly beautiful.

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ADRIAN AVILA (323) 253 - 2096 [email protected] www.enolapro.blogspot.com www.myspace.com/aa_artist

Coming For You

Eyes On You

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Artistic Diva - Lucky Lulu (Commentary by Mystikka)

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Bees And Roses

Lucky Lulu’s psychedelic, Egyptian tinged, extraterrestrial influenced signature style of art pulses with energy. One of MetaCreative Magazine’s favorite talents, Lucky Lulu’s work has been featured in the premiere (May/ June 2007) issue and on the cover of the Fall 2007 issue. We are proud to welcome her back to the Spring 2008 issue and hope to feature more of her art in the future.

Owl Eyes

Buy Lucky Lulu Prints: http://goatgirl1.deviantart.com/prints/

Lucky Lulu has also lent her talents to designing art banners that friends of MetaCreative Magazine are free to post on their websites.

Art banners: http://mystikka.com/magbanners.html

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Community Art and Poetry “Green and Cream” a poem by G.L. Giles

Dark Road By: David McDonald

Green and Cream was in my dreams Manifesting in this life, so no more strife Piles of it look larger-than-life Freshly-minted Ben Franklin beans Enabling elite and unknown scenes Stacks and stacks facilitating my way Accomplishing goals every day Helping others out Green and cream clout ‘Cause it’s no longer all about me Bathing in your sea of green and cream In the moment, I’m Count-essing you Bloodless Bathory-style bathing in you Fresh and clean money without bloodshed Lying on your mattress-stacks in my bed. ©2008 http://www.thevampirevignettesrevamped.net/

The Seeker A poem by Jefery Greer There he goes, adrift, seeking a new adventure Tapping on all his knowledge of old Brisk showers plummeting his head He stampedes through fearless trails Bewildering images come and go Moving further down the spiral of time Leaping out of the flames Madness can consume him and you Through the many perils of misfortune For this traveler there are many days and nights Yet there is no end for him On and on and on he goes On his pilgrimage of wisdom and knowledge Unearthing new secrets of himself and man Mystifying and perplexing those around him Mystifying and perplexing him self all the while http://www.myspace.com/apothieosjeffery

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Can’t Remember Sometimes (Oil on Canvas 2006) By: Candace Price http://www.candaceprice.com

Community Art and Poetry

Artist: Javier Marín http://javiermarin.artelista.com

Collaboration Piece between KD Matheson and Jorge Catoni www.myspace.com/jorgecatoni www.myspace.com/kdmatheson

In Balance - Wild_Ponies Artist: Sita Loop

Powder Horn Artist: James Joy

http://www.sitaloop.com/

Jim’s art will be featured in next issue. http://www.wynotdesign.com http:/www.myspace.com/i_love_life_daily

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Vegetarian / Vegan Cuisine AFRICAN BEAN SOUP: By Chef Michele * 3 Tbsp margarine or soy spread * 2 cups carrots thinly sliced * 12 cups boiling water * 1 cup black eye peas dry * 1 cup navy beans dry * 1 cup green pepper diced * 3 1/2 tsp salt * 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper * 1 cup salted peanuts chopped * 2 Tbsp onion powder * 1 Tbsp basil leaves crushed * 1 1/2 tsp ground coriander 1. Melt margarine in large stock pot. Add carrots. Cook for 5 minutes. 2. Add water, black eyed peas, navy beans, green pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper (add more water, if necessary, to cover). 3. Cook, covered, until ingredients are tender, 1 1/2-2 hours. 4. Add peanuts, onion powder, basil, and coriander during last 10-15 minutes of cooking. 5. Taste to correct seasonings. Soup should be thick. NOTES: If you want more of a peanut flavor, add peanut butter (any kind) to taste during step 4. I use about 1/2 of a cup. Time: 15 minutes preparation, 2 hours cooking. ************************

POTATO SOUP: By Chef Michele This recipe is good on cold days when you need something warm in your tummy. It serves 2-4 depending on whether it’s served as a meal or a side.

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* 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed * 1 medium onion, chopped * 1 1/2 cups chopped celery * 1 clove garlic, minced * 2 T. olive oil or animal product free margarine

* 2 cups water * 2 cups soy milk * 3 T. flour * sea salt * freshly ground black pepper Heat the oil in a dutchoven or soup pot. Add the onion, celery, and garlic - saute until tender. Stir in the potatoes and water, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the flour to 1/2 cup of soy milk and stir well. Add this mixture as well as the rest of the soy milk in with the other ingredients. Stir the soup constantly over a medium - high heat until it becomes thick and bubbly. Add sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Voila! ;) This is from an old recipe of my mom’s that I converted into a vegetarian form. ************************

SPICY RED LENTIL SOUP: By Chef Michele * 1 teaspoon olive oil * 1 1/2 cups chopped red onion * salt and pepper to taste * 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes * 1 1/2 cups frozen chopped spinach * 2 cups dry red lentils * 2 cups water * 2 teaspoons dried basil * 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom * 1 teaspoon ground cumin * 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper * 1/2 teaspoon curry powder 1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat, and cook the onion until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Mix in tomatoes, spinach, and lentils, and pour in water. Season with basil, cardamom, cumin, cayenne pepper, and curry powder. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender. 2. Transfer the soup to a blender (or use a hand held blender), and blend until smooth before serving.

EAST AFRICAN SWEET PEA SOUP By Chef Michele * 2 cups chopped onion * 2 tsp minced garlic * 1 tsp grated fresh peeled ginger * 1 tsp salt * 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper * 1 tbsp homemade garam masala, OR o 1/2 tsp ground black pepper o 1 tsp ground coriander seeds o 1 tsp ground cumin seeds o 1/4 tsp ground cardamom o 1/8 tsp ground cloves o 1/4 tsp cinnamon o 1 tsp turmeric * 2 tomatoes, chopped * 1 sweet potato, diced * 3 1/2 cups water * 3 cups fresh green peas (took me 45 minutes to shell them!) Braise/deglaze onions and garlic in a pot for 5-10 minutes. Mix in the ginger, salt, and all spices and cook for a few minutes, stirring often. Add tomatoes and sweet potato, stir. Add 1 1/2 cups of water, stir. Bring soup to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Add 2 cups of the peas and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add remaining 2 cups of water. Puree in batches in a blender until smooth. return to the pot, add the last cup of peas, and cook on medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Visit Chef Michele online for more of her diverse recipes: http://www.myspace.com/chefmichele ************************

HUSHICHO’S VEGAN BLACK BEAN-CORN SALSA 1 can black beans 1 can kernel corn 1 can tomato paste 1/2 can diced tomatoes 1 jalapeno, sliced, seeds removed

1/2 onion Spices, to Taste Cumin Cilantro Oregano Garlic Coriander Salt 1. Open the cans and drain out the water from the corn. Add the canned ingredients together and mix well. Save the extra half-can of diced tomatoes (unless you’re a huge tomato fanatic) for another day. If you’re using fresh garlic, press it in now and use at least 3 cloves, or even as much as 1 whole bulb. If using garlic powder, wait a bit. 2. Slice the onion in half width-wise and dice it. You can cut it into chunks and use a food processor to do this, if you want to save time. Add this to the bowl. Then slice the jalapeno and remove the seeds (or, if you want a hotter salsa, leave the seeds in), and add it. Mix well, again. 3. Add your spices. If using garlic powder, add it now. The amount of spices added should be according to your taste, although I would recommend not going overboard on the cumin or the oregano, since these are both very strong-tasting spices. Coriander can balance out too-bold flavors with its natural well-rounded mildness, while adding a nice touch. Add just a little bit of salt, not too much. Mix well, one more time! 4. To this you can add a dash of lemon juice or lime juice, a small splash of balsamic vinegar, or really whatever finishing touch you’d like. Just make sure you mix it again, then place it in a glass jar or some other container with a lid (glass is easiest to clean and doesn’t tend to take a scent from strong spices like plastic does), and refrigerate it for at least an hour. The longer it’s allowed to sit, the more flavorful it will become. 5. Enjoy with tortilla chips, as a garnish on enchiladas, or as a spicy topping to salads or with fresh vegetables. This is an extremely nutritious and healthful salsa that will add a very nice touch to any meal.

An artist who has studied styles the world over, Hushicho also spends an inordinate amount of his time cooking and trying new recipes. http://hushicho.captainn.net/haupt

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Artificial Intelligence in Texas, “Time Remembers” An independent music review by: Sometimes Girl

Artificial Intelligence in Texas (AI), a rare name indeed, as rare as it is to find such a musically talented, lyrically provocative, and melodically grandiose band in contemporary society today; transcending indie artists from all over the globe trying to make their mark on a craving palate of musical connoisseurs. Original lyrics written expressively about conflicted souls, spiritual journeys, and unrequited love; reminiscent of the poetic simplicity of such artists like the Smiths, Joy Division, House of Love, and Ramones, while at the same time lyrically complex paralleled to more contemporary artists as Sarah McLachlan, Duncan Sheik, and the Organ. Perfectly mirrored to a montage of musical genre’s, not easily attempted or succeeded by the talentless or weak of heart. I found AI on myspace, which I randomly and often search for anything I can worth find “listening to twice.” I was immediately drawn in while listening to “Absolution” The name in itself as brilliant as the accompanying lyrics, “throw your past away, begin again today…” With rockin’ English beats, complex changing meter, and perfected with strenuous guitar riffs similar to the great Johnny Marr. Imagine Jim Morrison at a confessional… an eerie and accurate personal observation of the liquid beliefs of a lost human race.

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“Time Remembers” is a succulent musical impression on this unforgettable compilation. “Time remembers how lies concealed the truth, time remembers the haze of youth” one of the lyrical lines of this sentimental song that reflects on our past life’s choices, regrets, yet aging hopes for our future. You can’t but help feel young

again with this mid- 80’s rock beat, the almost ghostly duet (you’ll love the added voice on this piece), and the exquisite musicianship. What is so amazing about this song is AI’s ability to serve you that rare combination of great musicians that are also able to compliment each other so brilliantly. It’s hard not to think of your high school sweetheart while listening to this song; I’d keep a tissue close if I were you. “One, two, three” melancholy and sarcastic, with comparable lyrics to the great Morrissey and Marr of the Smiths, there is a more upbeat 80’s rock sound, yet at the same time written and sung in consistent satirical form nostalgic of Manchester punk. Add a side of bluegrass infused guitar riffs - incredibly rare and difficult to find well played since the late 80’s, salt and pepper it with extremely tight rhythms; it satisfies even the most fastidious of Joy Division lovers. “January,” a refreshing shift of genre for listeners; lyrics read, “Things can never be the same…I was calling out your name” I have more than a few names to describe this retro, rock-out, fast moving song. Rockers from all generations will eat this one up alive. This song is a guilty pleasure; a musically inspiring feast that stimulates one visually to days of smoky air, plastic cups, sticky- liquor covered floors, multi-colored big hair, Idol t-shirts, and screaming but perfectly instrumented guitars… all found in almost every city across this great country in the mid to late 80’s. Can you scream nostalgia? This song totally and utterly rocks. Don’t eat your ice cream cone while driving if you have this one playing in your car! “Bittersweet” one of my personal favorites, it’s original, and it’s infused with a variety of musical flavors - like chocolate, strawberries and bananas blended together. The song begins with classic rock guitar riffs, drum beats, simple key changes; then effortlessly transforms into an almost Doors-ey, Smiths, and other English punk sound; one has to hear it themselves to understand the previous statement. The lyrics are amazing, and Giaquinto sounds uniquely different on this song, softer vibrato, and his upper range is near flawless. Rabeler (guitar) is unmatched here, top that with a percussion section that is very controlled but keeps this song very tight, and you have a musical masterpiece. Once you start listening to the lyrics with the complex fusion of accompanying music, you won’t be able to stop listening. I can’t… This entire CD is a delectable dish for those fans of Manchester punk, lyrically melancholy and intoxicating artists, or those of you who just want to listen to great rock. It offers the whole buffet; there is no “green- jello” on this buffet, it’s all crème brulee baby. A must buy! www.myspace.com/artificialintelligenceintexas Editors note: You can sample the sounds of Artificial Intelligence In Texas on Indie Playlist # 9 on MetaCreative Radio: http://www.metacreativeradio.com ABOUT THE CRITIC “Sometimes Girl©” a Wisconsin native, grew up surrounded by literature, art, academics and music. She is a classically trained pianist and oboeist, whose love of music far outreaches classical to almost every music genre. She is a freelance music critic, writer, and business consultant currently residing in Illinois with her two children. www.myspace.com/passionateprolificwriter copyright, sometimes girl, 2008

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NEW AGE INDIE MUSIC MENTIONS By: Mystikka Indie music is becoming the new mainstream now, however in the 90’s, prior to our internet fueled cultural shift, new age music for many of us was limited to the sounds of Enigma, Enya and Yanni. If you have ever been captivated by any of the aforementioned artists, you are sure to enjoy delving deeper into some of the offerings featured on MetaCreative Radio indie playlist episodes.

Aquarius Minded - Meditation Music with an Edge: Aquarius Minded has continued to create electrifying music that takes you on a journey through a soulful spectrum of soundscapes where Eastern, celestial and obscure haunting melodies combine with lively, ambient rhythms. I find the instrumental ‘entrancedbalanced’ CD to be inspiring as an accompaniment to the creative process of any art, craft or writing project. The songs create a harmonious backdrop to healing meditations, aromatherapy bubble baths or vegan candlelight dinners

Visit Aquarius Minded on myspace to purchase ‘entrancedbalance,’ and for information on the highly anticipated new release, ‘Vintage Sun.’ http://www.myspace.com/ aquariusmind3d Aquarius Minded has been featured on Indie Playlist # 2 and # 3 of MetaCreative Radio http://www.metacreativeradio.com

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SiriSat – Healing Feminine Grace:

I feel as if my spirit is soaring on a journey over meadows, mountains and temples while chilling to the sounds of Barcelona based musician, vocalist and lightworker Julia Claire known also by the name ‘SiriSat.’ Her graceful yet powerful feminine voice is warm, soft and strong, encapsulating the quality of Tibetan bells ringing out uplifting melodic mantras. SiriSat’s vocal harmonies weave depth and a heavenly choir element into many of her songs. The instrumental elements of her music carry across both European and Universal influences. Blends of ambient electronic vibrations and flows mingle with complex, beautifully arranged, creatively passionate piano and guitar riffs. I am confident that any new age music connoisseur would love to have SiriSat’s ‘Celestial’ CD in their collection. For more information SiriSat’s music, as well as track samples, visit: http://www.myspace.com/sirisat Also visit SiriSat’s label, Ohm Spirit Sound: www.ohmm.com SiriSat’s song ‘Searching - Ong Namo’ is featured on Indie Playlist # 2 of MetaCreative Radio. www.metacreativeradio.com About the author: Mystikka is a professional empathic psychic, spiritual coach, author, artist, and the founder of the MetaCreative projects. Subscribe to her free newsletter on www.mystikka.com

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INTERESTED IN A PSYCHIC READING? For more information on my empathic psychic readings, please visit: http://mystikka.com/aboutmyreadings.html Or choose a different psychic in The God Light Tribe.

The God Light Tribe is a group of 5 star psychic advisors personally selected by me for their accuracy. Whether you prefer a reading with a medium, clairvoyant, empath, tarot reader or astrologer, you can find psychics of all specialties and price ranges in this group. Two of the psychics in The God Light Tribe, Robin Zodiac and Silvana Fillmore, gained international exposure on Lifetime Televisions ‘America’s Psychic Challenge.’ If you have never made a ‘keen call’ before and you are interested in getting a phone reading with a God Light Tribe psychic, just send your email address to [email protected] with the words ‘psychic offer’ in the subject line, and I will send you a special invitation with free minutes toward a reading. God Light Tribe psychic readers are on call 24/7 to talk with you at: http://www.keen.com/grouplist/9840/GHP/1/ Much love and thanks to you for reading MetaCreative Magazine…. Mystikka

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