long time no post !!

recently so many amazing and synchronous events have been happening and i finally decided to start recording the highlights of my day to day experiences as i am moved to do so...today is one such day !!

i am on vacation now and i had a very productive and ecletic day...

- this morning eric (a sierra leonean man i met 5 months ago at "calabash" restaurant where he is head chef) called me about a sierra leonean man living in gotanda and married to a japanese woman. gotanda is less than 10 minutes from my house by train. this is amazing and very exciting !! i live on the toei asakusa line, which is one of the smaller subway lines. yet and still eric's house is a 20 minute train ride from my house, and now this new person is less than 10 minutes away on the same small train line !! i think the liklihood of me finding 2 sierra leonean men in tokyo living on my train line and so near would be next to impossible ...but it isn't! it's a reality !!


- did some more work on my sierra leone presenation. i am excited to share my experiences and insights with so many interested people including some of my students and people from a japanese based ngo called "ki-africa". i really admire japan international cooperation agency and i am happy and excited that my first presentation will be given at the jica global plaza in hiroo.

- i registered for the early bird discount for ngo 401 towards my ngo certification program at temple university japan. mami and i exchanged emails earlier this evening and hopefully we will be taking the class together this term.

- i emailed karen anton hill, an african american who has lived in japan over 30 years and has her own consulting company. i learned that her company is providing training at shinsei bank where i teach english. i emailed asking for an opportunity to meet and talk with her. i am sure she is busy, but i am already looking forward to meeting her.

- i also emailed sayaka funada classen whose name i have seen several times in the past few months: professor of african studies for the graduate school of peace and conflict studies at tokyo university, participant at the G8 prep meeting in tamachi a few months ago and her name was on a poster of africa written in japanese. i decided it must be time to email her and make contact. she is the vice president for the tokyo international conference on african development or ticad forum. ticad is held every 5 years and it will be held in yokohama next month. the president of sierra leone is scheduled to attend and it is my highest intention to meet him when he comes to japan !

- called alpha in sierra leone to initiate some other options for contacting someone in president koroma's administration in sierra leone. sierra leone foreign minister bangura is a woman and visited japan a few months ago. she would also be a great contact for "project sierra" by soroptimist international. it is a 4 year commitment to raise funds for women and children in sierra leone.

- mami confirmed that sunday the 20th will be a meeting with the mentors of step 22 in yoyogi park. this weekend is earth day and i am looking forward to checking out the event and enjoying the beautiful weather and vibe with friends and like minded positive folks.

the game plan for the weekend is:
- "refugees international japan" cocktail reception at the conrad tokyo hotel
- sierra leone presenation at jica in hiroo
- meeting with "step 22" mentors at earth day in yoyogi park

after the event on sunday, malik and i plan to upgrade my au cell phone to one that is sms capable. that means i will be able to send emails to sierra leone, ghana and london !! woo- hoo!!

more to share but i am getting sleepy... teaching at gensler in nagatacho tomorrow early morning. tomorrow i will share about a video rental i came across in tsutaya called "moolaade" and directed by the renowned sengalese director ousamne sembene.

online tarot reading regarding my new websites...

http://sldigitalvillage.wetpaint.com/
http://africaintokyo.wetpaint.com/



The Fourfold Vision spread offers a progression of different ways of looking at an object, person, or situation. It is a powerful tool for gaining deeper insight into the specific subjects of other readings.

The card on the far right represents the object being viewed, be it an idea, relationship, or the self. King of Cups: The essence of water behaving as air, such as a billowing cloud in the blue sky: Great maturity, endless patience, tolerance of other points of view, and a deep knowledge of human nature. One who intuitively knows the strengths of those around him, and gently cultivates them. Remaining calm and relaxed in all situations, and making artful use of diplomacy or a quiet word to resolve conflicts. The ability to listen to what another person is saying, and truly understand what is in their heart. A rewarding partner and a beloved leader.

The card second from the right represents the physical vision: how the object is seen at a base or mechanical level. Queen of Cups: The essence of water, such as a deep and placid lake: Spirituality, maturity, and grace. A natural counselor and healer, One whose relaxed presence seems to embody deep love and spirituality. A tranquil poet who reflects the nature of the observer. The embrace of all things dreamlike and receptive, such as perfect and unconditional love.

The card in the middle represents the mental vision: the object personified and seen through a humanized perspective. The Magician: Mastery over word, mind, and matter. The ability to turn ideas into actions, handle problems, and control one's life. The initiation of new projects, great works, or a new way of life. Eloquent and moving communication. Arcane and eldritch technologies.

The card second from the left represents the emotional vision: how passions and values are creatively stimulated by the mental vision. The Hanged Man: Pausing to reflect. Surrendering to an experience. Adjusting to new ideas through sacrifice. Opening oneself to intuition and enhanced awareness. Letting go of past patterns and growing beyond them. Inner peace, faith, and serenity.

The card on the far left represents the fourfold or mystical vision: still viewing through the previous three, we now add a spiritual element, revealing unseen aspects of the object. The Hermit: Withdrawal from events and relationship to introspect and gather strength. Seeking the inner voice or calling upon vision from within. A need of understanding and advice, or a wise man who will offer knowing guidance. Personal experience and thoughtful temperance.

久しぶりですね！！

i decided to start making entries into my blog again. i know it will be a wonderful way to look back and remember all the amazing opportunities, resources and people that have come into my life.

actually mommy sent me some great links today about sierra leone, mali and the state of female child soldiers. all topics of great interest to me; the country my father was from, the country my grandfather was from and the role of women in so important to all of society and the ability to create a peaceful and sustainable society for everyone.

Sierra Leone

Personal Message:
There is so much information on the itnernet, I'm sure you're website will beoverflowing and informative for all of us. Love, Mom

Returning diaspora help rebuild battered Sierra Leone By Katrina Manson FREETOWN (Reuters) - Kofie Macauley knew it wouldn't beeasy when he gave up asuccessful property career in Britain tojoin a trickle of Sierra Leonean businessmen returning torebuild their war-scarred homeland. To view the entire article, go tohttp://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/23/AR2007082300502.html?referrer=emailarticle

Mali

Wednesday, August 29, 2007 12:58 AM
Subject :
Check out Mali News & Articles on washingtonpost.com

Inbox
Mali News & Articles on washingtonpost.com Wow, the universe is with us. Love, Mom

Personal Message:
I thought you would like this article. Love, Mom Students Learn to Seal the Deal, African Style By Tara Bahrampour If you spot Arlington County kids trying to persuade cashiers at Whole Foods or7-Eleven to knock 50 cents off a soda or chocolate bar, don't blame them. Theymight just be honing new skills learned at school.

To view the entire article, go tohttp://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/03/24/AR2007032400821.html?referrer=emailarticle

i really enjoyed reading the article for a few reasons; that is where my grandfather was born, malik's father is from mali and the name "francesca" is on the 2nd page of the article !!!

sacral affirmations

I heal any condition that affects me by knowing my body seeks balance and regeneration.

I stimulate my immunity by knowing God lives in and thru me.

I encourage healing each time I affirm my worth and honor my choices for love.
I love who I am exactly as I am.

There is nothing to change about the way I am.

As I love and respect myself, healing happens naturally.

numerology reading

Free Numerology
Your Reading
This reading is based on —Birth Name: francesca nicole conateBirth Date: 10/10/1971 (October 10, 1971)

Your Inner or Soul's Urge: This is spiritual and emotional expression more than physical. It is your heart-felt desires, your incentive, how you look at life. Here are your areas of personal satisfaction.
Number: 3
You respond to life from the heart. You want joy and happiness for yourself and for those around you. Inspiration and imagination are yours in abundance. You are somewhat of a dreamer.
Children and pets occupy a special place within.
You enjoy beauty, popularity, and constant activity. What you have is all you ask for.
Life is a game. You enjoy life as it comes, laughing at discouragement or failure, and never letting depression get the upper hand. Even so, there is a reticent side to your nature. You might be living in a world of feeling and emotion. You fall in Love easily.
You can see beauty everywhere. And you express your own beauty through your varied artistic talents -- painting, sculpting, speaking, decorating, acting, music, writing -- anything with color, form, or rhythm.
Seems you have a lot of friends; often entertaining, broadcasting your energy and your Love, giving everyone a good time. You are probably not unfaithful, but you enjoy flirting. You are kind and obliging. Your friends mean a great deal to you.
Patience and ability to concentrate could be enhanced for your personal benefit.

Your Personality: This is physical expression more than spiritual or emotional; your outer self, the way you express when meeting others. It may or may not be the real you.
Number: 3
You are seen as a colorful, cheerful, and entertaining person; a natural host or hostess. You can cheer up a lifeless party. Friends are important to you, and you are easy to talk to.
In communication, you tend to elaborate and exaggerate in the direction of color and creativity, preferring to overlook the drab and mundane.
If you take on too many activities at once, you can appear superficial or contrived.
You probably enjoy wearing jewelry and fancy clothing. Just don't overdress or wear extreme styles in relation to the occasion.

Your Quiescent Self: Stripping away all outside influences, aspirations, ambitions, "shoulds", and "shouldn'ts" -- this is you when you are alone; just you and your dreams..
Number: 3
You are popular, attractive, and sought after. You are successful in one or more artistic fields -- designing, decorating, painting, acting, singing, sculpting, or related arts. A guest list is not complete without your name. You are applauded for your talents and spread happiness wherever you go. It all comes natural to you.
Your thoughts and pleasure are related to seeding happiness and personal recognition of your artistic talents.

Your Destiny or Ultimate Goal: This is your desired lifetime accomplishment. It is a key to a useful and happy life, and to feeling fulfillment during your latter days.
Number: 6
You are a humanitarian, like a "cosmic" Mother or Father. People look to you for ideals of love and companionship, charity, truth, justice, and harmony and beauty of surroundings. Your ability to help individuals and humankind is definite and sincere, and you are called upon to do so. Your personal happiness depends on how much good you can do. You find pleasure in rendering assistance to others.
You are happiest with a position of trust and responsibility which you can regulate, harmonize, and adjust to optimum. You are concerned with the care of the old, the training of the young, and the improvement of the entire community. Selfless service pays rich dividends for you.
You are a natural counselor and teacher.

Your Life's Path: Here are clues to what fate has in store for you. It indicates the type of encounters, events, and opportunities you are likely to experience along your physical life path.
Number: 2
Your path includes diplomacy in its various aspects -- smoothing the affairs of others with discretion, tact, intuition, cooperation, patience, persistence, persuasion, and loyalty to those you serve; being the peacemaker; cultivating friendships, and helping others reach their goals. Your path is easier when you express kindness and gentleness and are considerate of others' feelings.
Sometimes you find it hard to make a decision for fear of being wrong. Enhanced self-confidence can alleviate those fears and can also help cope with criticism. You are truly adaptable. There is gentleness in you. You have high analytical ability and your reasoning is accurate and detailed.
Groups and communities probably appeal more to you than do solitary endeavors. If you should desire to do so, you can achieve positions of leadership by personal influence, allowing others to push you to those higher positions.

This Year's Path: Here is what you are likely to encounter this year -- your feelings, your predominant perspective, and the type of situations, circumstances, and opportunities you tend to attract during the calendar year.
Number: 11
Harmonious associations are very important for you this year. The year's success and good results will be obtained through diplomacy, cooperation, tactfulness, good relationships, and, especially, personal introspection. It is a year for receiving and sharing rather than aggressively pursuing your own way.
Your intuition and emotions are enhanced this year.
It is a busy year, with endless demands on your time. It is easier to work with others rather than doing things by yourself.
Your plans and developments may experience periods of delay. No need to worry about that. Things seem to move slower this year.
The year can revitalize your peace of mind. It is a good time to strengthen your friendships.
A heightened religious, mystical, and psychic awareness can bring you to a position of influence. This is the year your ideals of a personal, inner nature become visible even to others.
It is a busy year.

Next Year's Path.
Number: 3
This is the year to express your inspiration, your imagination, your creative thought, and your deep emotional feelings. You desire to do more entertaining this year and accept more invitations. Take time off to enjoy yourself.
You can give color and warmth to all levels of living. Be artistic. Express yourself joyfully. Now is the time to follow those inspirational and imaginative ideas you are so excited about. Follow your desire for self-improvement; the year is rich with opportunities for inner growth.
It is a colorful and eventful year, with pleasure, opportunities for travel, enjoyable social activities, and entertainment coming your way.
Allow your abundance of cheer and optimism to guide you.

Last Year's Path.
Number: 1
More so than usual, you feel desire to move forward, to improve situations, to assert your individuality, and to get on with life. Reach for opportunities and they will come to you.
Life is beginning anew! Now is the time to put your best foot forward; to take up a hobby or other activity that will freshen your thinking and broaden your general activities; to look ahead.
This is an active year with many decisions to make. Your affairs are making a new start. The next nine years' experience will depend a great deal on what you do and don't do this year. It calls for strength of purpose, clear thinking, and listening to your inner voice.

sacral chakra

unconcsious guidance in adding more orange in my life and diet:

- mikan

- orange juice

- apricot jam

- mango soy joy

- orange and red flowers in oil lamp *b-day gift from kei

- orange based adinkra symbol * malik

- carpet in my bedroom in predominately orange * my apartment was pre-furnished

(the below information was taken from http://www.laraffinage.com/chakra/charchives_sacral.html )

Learning more about the Sacral Chakra:

The second chakra is at the center of the abdomen, “the hara”, the “dan tien” ... it correlates to the spleen (in the front or the yin side of this area of the body) and the kidney (in the back or the yang side of this area of the body). This chakra correlates to the water element, which manifests as the kidney of the five yin organs. Also, as this chakra correlates to the reproductive system and the sex organs, herein is the kidney’s influence, which ultimately controls the vitality of this system. Meanwhile, it’s correlation to the sense of taste implies an influence from the spleen, which controls this sense. This chakra is about willingness, particularly the willingness to feel and experience one’s emotions, and the willingness to allow oneself to have what it finds pleasurable, especially in relation to the sexual appetite. Here again it is the kidneys that control our will - the stronger and more vital is the qi of our kidneys, the more potent is our willingness and our willpower!

Sacral Chakra Attributes:

Life issues: To know that who you are and what you do are enough; to have enough rest, food, exercise, fun, and money; not to link self-worth with what you do or have; to create healthy boundaries to protect your vital life force
Physical activities: Yoga, dance swimming, walking
Spiritual activities: Meditation, celibacy, fasting
Negative archetype: Martyr
Positive archetype: Emperor/Empress
Sacral Chakra Essential Oil:The essence of Svadisthana is a blend of jasmine, orange, petigrain and sandalwood.

Cooking for the Sacral Chakra:Created by Nancy Yerby – Cameron, member of the La Raffinage Spirit Spa Team
The following healthy recipes are extremely simple, yet in their profound simplicity they supply such satisfying pleasure to the senses; their natural sweetness is so soothing and nourishing to the spleen and the kidneys, respectively... The sweet taste of winter squashes are appreciated by the spleen, while the balancing effect of the aduki bean and the salty taste of the sea vegetable nori are likewise greatly appreciated by the kidneys... Bon Appetit!
Affirmations for the Sacral Chakra

Repeat these affirmations once every morning and once every evening to bring openness to your Sacral Chakra
I love my life

I honor my body and treat myself respectfully

I feel the power of healing moving in and through me as I affirm my worth and honour my body.
I trust my feelings and give them ample room for expression.

I lighten my body each time I feel well within myself.

I am a creature of light, open to my highest joy.

I am grateful for the joy of being me.

I receive pleasure and abundance with every breath I take.

Goodness, beauty, and joy resonate with my soul. I am at one with them.

Healing happens each time I rest, relax, and enjoy myself.

My body responds to thoughts of pure love and goodness.

I heal any condition that affects me by knowing my body seeks balance and regeneration.

I stimulate my immunity by knowing God lives in and through me.

I encourage healing each time I affirm my worth and honour my choices for love.

I love who I am exactly as I am.
There is nothing to change about the way I am. As I love and respect myself, healing happens naturally.

Sacral Chakra Colours:

The color of the Sacral Chakra is orange. This is a hot color, full of vital energy and deeply connected with the life force. It represents sensuality and sexuality, as well as a deep connection to joy and passion. This color stimulates physical energy in the body and can open channels of suppressed vitality from an overactive mind. Wearing this color or painting a shade of it in a room brings warmth, healing and physical well-being.

Sacral Chakra Power Tips:

Treat yourself to the joys of life and know that you deserve what you say you want!!

i-ching

"The time is exceptional in terms of inspiration, energy, and will. All activities will center around your imperatives. You can now catapult yourself and others into great and significant activity. Direct this new strength wisely. Choose endeavors that will be useful and inspiring to all of humanity. Righteous and worthwhile goals will meet with success."