28 August 2005

AIDS LifeCycle Cyclist speaks to Harpo Productions - Oprah Winfrey - Tim Bennett - Ellen Rakieten - Harriet Seitler & Lisa Halliday- Interivew #11

The following interviews are the opinions of individuals in the AIDS/LifeCycle Community. No harm of any kind is intended. . . . And each individual's statements are truly their own ....


Djalma


Nane: Djalma
Education: College
Height: 5-11
Weight: 178lbs
Age: 41
Birth Place/Origin: Rio De Janeiro, Brasil
Occupation: Registered Nurse
Present Location/Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94110
Favorite Book: When Things Fall Apart

1.) What do you think is the world's greatest asset?
People like you.

2.) If you could make one wish for humanity what would it be?
To learn from previous mistakes and history.

3.) How has the AIDS/HIV Panademic affected you?
The pandemic has not affected me directely, but if one suffers, we all suffer.

4.) How many years have you participated in the AIDS LifeCycle Event?
I just completed my first AIDS/LifeCycle Event!

5.) Have you participated in any other AIDS related charity events? (If so, what? And, how many?)
No

6.) If you had one thing to say to the world, what would it be?
Slow down, pay attention to your surroundings, try to learn something, keep your mind and spirit open.

7.) If you had one thing to say to Oprah Winfrey, what would it be?
Where are you?

8.) If you had one thing to say to Lance Armstrong, what would it be?
Where are you?

9.) What are you passions in life?
My passions in life are my family, reading, cycling. I could go on, but need to move on for fear of sounding like a commercial.

10.) What are your passions in life?

To continue to learn, change, and better myself so I can be the change I want to see in the world.

11.) What are your personal goals in life?

My primary goal is to continue to advance in all areas of my life - physically, mentally, professionally, emotionally, and spiritually.

12.) Who is your favorite cyclist?
My buddy Alfonso

13.) What is your life motto?
Live, let live, don't settle, and pursuit your dreams

Thank you Djalma, we will be in touch ....tony eason, AIDS/LifeCycle cyclist

Hello: Oprah Winfrey - Tim Bennett - Ellen Rakieten - Harriet Seitler & Lisa Halliday

19 August 2005

"The whole is Yoga"

After speaking with several students, many strangers, enemies, and friends, I've chosen to provide various perspectives on the ideas of "WHAT IS YOGA?"

-Swami Jnaneshvara Bharati 
"The whole is Yoga: Not only has there been a reversal of Hatha Yoga and Yoga, whereby Hatha Yoga (the "part") has been labeled as "Yoga" (the "whole"), but the whole process and scope of Yoga has been effected in our collective perceptions of Yoga.

Yoga is the whole, of which Kundalini is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Laya is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Mantra is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Astangais a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Raja is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Tantra is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Bhakti is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Hatha is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which JnanaJnana is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which Karma is a part.
Yoga is the whole, of which _______ is a part."


Yoda


-Yoda
"Judge me by my size, do you? And well you should not - for my ally is the Force. And a powerful ally it is. Life greets it, makes it grow. Its energy surrounds us, and binds us. Luminescent beings are we, not this crude matter! You must feel the Force around you, everywhere. You must feel the water beneath the ship. .."

-B.K.S. Iyengar
"The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning to bind, join, attach and yoke, to direct and concentrate one's attention on, to use and apply. It also means union or communion. It is the true union of our will with the will of God. 'It thus means,' says Mahadev Desai in his introduction to the Gita according to Gandhi, 'the yoking of all the powers of body, mind and soul to God; it means the disciplining of the intellect, the mind, the emotions, the will, which that Yoga presupposes; it means a poise of the soul which enables one to look at life in all its aspects evenly."

-Rodney Yee
"I believe yoga helps synthesize the mind, the body, the breath, the spirit... (but) it is not actually creating union, it's cutting out the illusion of our separateness... Yoga is a way for us to listen to ourselves deeply and
then begin to, from that listening be able to respond in a way that is fulfilling for our lives... All the meditation, the pranayama (breathing), the asanas (poses) are a way to come to some sort of clarity, even if it's the clarity that you're confused."

-Yoga Definition - Answers.com
Hindu tradition in general recognizes three main kinds of yoga: jnana yoga, the path of realization and wisdom, bhakti yoga, the path of love and devotion to a personal God, and karma yoga, the path of selfless action. Other classifications exist. Patañjali's yoga is known as raja, or “royal,” yoga. Hatha yoga, which stresses physical control and postures, is widely practiced in the West. Kundalini yoga, especially associated with Tantra, is based on the physiology of the “subtle body,” according to which seven major centers of psychic energy, called chakras, are located along the spinal column, with the kundalini, or “coiled” energy in latent form, located at the base of the spine. When the kundalini is activated by yogic methods, it ascends the spine through the main subtle artery of the sushumna, “opening” each chakra in turn. When the kundalini reaches the topmost chakra in the brain, samadhi is attained.



Wishing the best of all possible worlds,8th year AIDS Life Cyclist, Iyengar Yoga teacher, tony eason, San francisco

Iyengar yoga teacher speaks to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions

12 August 2005

Don't let "fear" rule your thoughts

At 7:00am on Wednesday morning, I was confronted with many emotional challenges. And by Wednesday afternoon, I had "received" stress into my life ...So, I went home for refuge. As I woke from my nap, I noticed a phone message from an employer..

My employer asked me, "tony are you available to meet up with us on Thursday evening to discuss the future of the studio?"

I replied, "yes."

At that moment, 'FEAR' told me: "tony, you are going to be fired from your job."

And although I had no logical reason for believing my old time friend, I walked with "FEAR" into the realm of depression. And, I began to think, "what am I going to do now?

The next evening, I met with my employer. We visited a local establishment. And then, the conversation began. Yet, my employer spoke nothing but praise about me ...And, they asked of ways to promote the success of the yoga studio.

I didn't get FIRED!!!! Instead, I got a pat on the back!

Imagine that? (smile).

Don't be fooled by "fear."

AIDS Life Cycle Cyclist, Yoga teacher, tony eason, San francisco

A wishlist to the Oprah Winfrey Show & Harpo Productions

09 August 2005

AIDS/LifeCycle Cyclist Speaks to Harpo Productions & Oprah - Interview #10

The following interviews are the opinions of individuals in the AIDS/LifeCycle Community. No harm of any kind is intended. . . . And each individual's statements are truly their own ....


Tracy


Nane: Tracy
Education: CA. State Los Angeles - University Nevada - Las Vegas
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 140lbs.
Age: 38
Birth Place/Origin: Bellflower, CA.
Occupation: Special Education Teacher
Present Location/Where do you live? Henderson, NV 89015
Favorite Book: The Firm

1.) What do you think is the world's greatest asset?
The world's greatest asset is people. We as humans tend to be selfish and wish great things for ourselves, but often do things that limit the wishes of those around us. I find it hard to digest the things we hear in the news regarding the killing of people (for whatever reason). It just seems so crude.

2.) If you could make one wish for humanity what would it be?
My wish for humanity is for all of us to live in peace and harmony and for everyone to have a warm bed to sleep in, a loved one to hug, and plenty of food on the table.

3.) How has the AIDS/HIV Panademic affected you?
The AIDS pandemic has affected me by the loss of my brother Michael. The day he died was tortuous. I can't verbalize adequately the impact his death has had on myself and my family.

4.) How many years have you participated in the AIDS/LifeCycle Event?
I just completed my first AIDS/LifeCycle Event!

5.) Have you participated in any other AIDS related charity events? (If so, what? And, how many?)
15 year, I have participated in AIDS Walk Los Angeles.

6.) If you had one thing to say to the world, what would it be?
I am thankful for being given the health, strength, and desire to be a positive force in the fight to end "all human suffering, of any kind."


7.) If you had one thing to say to Oprah Winfrey, what would it be?
If I could talk to Oprah Winfey I would say, "thanks for all you do for so many people in this world."

8.) If you had one thing to say to Lance Armstrong, what would it be?
"You are truly amazing! Your strength - physically and emotionally - is a true inspiration!"

9.) What are you passions in life?
My passions in life are my family, reading, cycling. I could go on, but need to move on for fear of sounding like a commercial.

10.) What are your personal goals in life?
My personal goal is to find a taller, steeper, longer hill, climb it, than find another one. And whe I crest that hill, to find one even more challenging. (I speak metaphorically here).

11.) Who is your favorite cyclist?
My favorite cyclist is Lance Armstrong (because he is the antithesis is hope).

12.) What is your life motto?
My life motto is, "never give up."

Thank you Tracy, we will be in touch ....Yoga teacher, tony eason

A wishlist to Harpo Productions

08 August 2005

AIDS/LifeCycle Cyclist speaks to Oprah Winfrey - Interview #9

The following interviews are the opinions of individuals in the AIDS/LifeCycle Community. No harm of any kind is intended. . . . And each individual's statements are truly their own ....


Erinda



Erinda at the Tour De Sewer


Nane: Erlinda
Education: Completed 4 years of college
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 150
Age: 26
Birth Place/Origin: Ridgecrest, CA.
Occupation: Data Analyst for Netzero
Present Location/Where do you live? Woodland Hills, CA. 91364
Favorite Book: The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

1.) What do you think is the world's greatest asset?
I think that the worlds's greatest asset is the human heart. It's utterly amazing to me that people can give so much of themselves in order to make another person live. I tasted this during AIDS/LifeCycle #4 - 2005. I injured myself on Day Two (at 4.2 miles in to be exact). I spent the day in the ER and came back to camp on crutches. I stayed with my new family until I go to Los Angeles. And, I was so changed from the whole experience that now, I want to do more ...

2.) If you could make one wish for humanity what would it be?
Ronald Regan said it best: "I know in my heart that man is good." I agree completely and my wish is that more people would try to seek out the good in people instead of jumping to conclusions about a person based on age, gender, race, or sexual preference. I wish more people could try to help others, even if it's the littlest thing. The smallest effort can change a person's outlook on life, even if it is just for a moment in time.

3.) How has the AIDS/HIV Panademic affected you?
I realized that I pretty much grew up with AIDS/HIV being in the mainstream culture. I grew up learning about it in every grade. I grew up when it was a death sentence. Now that I'm older, I realized I don't want my nieces, my nephew or even my future kids to deal with it like I had to. I want the next generations to live in a world that some insidious disease that could have been prevented isn't killing off their world.

4.) How many years have you participated in the AIDS/LifeCycle Event?
This will be my second year. I signed up to roadie since I didn't know how long it would take for my knee to heal. I had surgery three weeks ago. And now, I've been thinking about changing my roadie status to rider. I want to do the ride that I never got to finish last year.

5.) Have you participated in any other AIDS related charity events? (If so, what? And, how many?)
Just the AIDS/LifeCycle #4 - 2005 And this coming year, I will be participating in the Camp Laurel Ride for AIDS

6.) If you had one thing to say to the world, what would it be?
There is good in each and every one of us. It's up to us to change the world and make it a better place. You're smallest action is one step forward to a world without hate.


7.) If you had one thing to say to Oprah Winfrey, what would it be?
Thank you. Thank you for everything you've done. You are an inspiration to so many people. You are truly and angel.

8.) If you had one thing to say to Lance Armstrong, what would it be?
YOU ROCK! You made me push myself to ride longer than I ever have! You are an inspiration for me not to give up! Thanks!

9.) What are you passions in life?
Art, cycling, family and friends.

10.) What are your personal goals in life?
Stay on course with my career, do my AIDS charity work. FINALLY FINISH an AIDS/LifeCycle Event! Remember to always know how to smile!

Thank you Erlinda, we will be in touch ....Yoga teacher, tony eason

A wishlist to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions

06 August 2005

Obsessed

Yesterday, I had my morning coffee with a friend.
As we sat, I spoke of my strategies of How to get the attention of Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions.

And, my friend responded with "you are obsessed with Oprah Winfrey."

I was shocked by his response. Therefore, I went to the dictionary.

Definition of obsessed:
[adjective] having or showing excessive or compulsive concern with something; "became more and more haunted by the stupid riddle"; "was absolutely obsessed with the girl"; "got no help from his wife who was preoccupied with the children"; "he was taken up in worry for the old woman"
Synonyms: haunted, preoccupied, taken up


[adjective] influenced or controlled by a powerful force such as a strong emotion; "by love possessed"
Synonyms: possessed

And, I conclude that my friend was incorrect in his observation.

I'm not obsessed ...I'm focussed.

In order to reach the higher ground ...

1. one must challenge one's self . ... ..
2. one must go where no other one has gone ...
3. one must know that one's doing the right thing ...
4. one must have a sense of pratayahara ....
5. one must feel the water beneath the ship ..... .. .

Oprah Winfrey is on the higher ground (smile).

Love to you all, Yoga teacher, tony eason

02 August 2005

Life shouldn't be "totally serious" - Tour De Fat - Fat Tire Beer


Fat Tire Truck & Iyengar Yoga teacher, tony eason


At approximately 12:00 noon, I finished up my Iyengar yoga class at Satori Yoga Studio and slipped into my Fat Tire Spandex. Then ..I raced off to the Speedway Meadow - Golden Gate Park, S.F. CA. for a rolling bike parade through the park, sponsored by the Bay Guardian and the SFBC. Cyclist (from all walks of the earth) decorated their bikes . . bodies ...booties ...and friend's bike.

Contest categories included...

Vintage Cruiser... in rideable condition, of course!
Best Rider Costume.
Best Decorated Bike
Most Original Mutant/Frankenstien/Art bike...again, rideable!

Well . . . I missed the parade! Yet, I waited patiently. And then ..there he was ... Fat tire beer sponsor ... Brew Meister, Jamie Mastin! (check out that bike!).


Fat Tire Brew Meister, Jamie Mastin (left)



Fat Tire Brew Meister, Jamie Mastin


After speaking with Jamie, I wandered around to check out the New Belgium Portfolio of beers. And then, I listened to the sound check of Denver Colorado’s own Devotchka and local favorite, Samantha (without "The Ritual"). And although, I didn't hear their performance, I knew that The Yard Dogs Roadshow would "take the cake." . . . .. .... .. ..One sexy bunch of people!


The Yard Dogs Roadshow



The Yard Dogs Roadshow


All proceeds from the Fat Tire beer sales benefitted the San Francisco Bike Coalition, and The Bay Area Ridge Trail Council.

The San Francisco Bike Coalition has gained national recognition as one of the country's most effective bicycle advocacy organizations. The mission of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition is to transform San Francisco's streets and neighborhoods into more livable and safe places by promoting the bicycle for everyday transportation.


San Francisco Bicycle Coalition




Tour De Fat Folks



Tour De Fat - Fat Tire Banner




A wish to Oprah Winfrey & Harpo Productions


Hello: Harpo Productions & Oprah Winfrey

Charity Benefit Sponsor - Fat Tire Beer

Wishing the best of all possible worlds, Yoga teacher, tony eason, san francisco