Social media has changed the world forever. In just 140 characters or an update to your Facebook status, you have the potential to connect with a complete stranger in the same town or across the globe. In an instant, Friendships are being formed. Business is taking place. People are connecting. And the world will never be the same.
But it isn’t that easy…
Many people are standing on the sidelines of social media, unsure of how to jump into the conversation and contribute their thoughts. There is uncertainty about how one can form bonds with people they have never met “face to face.”
Are you one of many asking the question, “how?”
That is why we are here and you can know one thing for sure… You are in the right place! We have teamed up with Ricki Lake, one of the most engaged celebrities on social media, to share 5 tips for connecting with people in an instant on social media.
Watch this video to hear Ricki Lake’s #1 Tip for Connecting on Social Media
2. Be Respectful.
Leave judgment at the door and respect that other people on social media have beliefs and opinions that are their own. This is what makes them unique! Just as in offline relationships, if you want to make friends, you have to be one first. If you want people to respect you, start by being respectful of them.
3. Be Inspiring.
People like social media for many reasons. Many will share that they feel uplifted and empowered to live their best life by connecting with inspiring and positive people. If you want to make a lot of friends on social media, be inspiring. Be encouraging. Be a friend.
4. Be Generous.
The more you offer to help others in life, the more “likeable” you will be. When on social media you can help others by supporting their work. Take the time to mention people, and give them positive feedback. When you re-tweet or share the content of others they feel good and are more likely to appreciate and connect with you. Remember, “it’s not about me, it’s about we”.
5. Find a Fun Community!
Following a hashtag community on Twitter or joining a group or community on Facebook is a great way to connect with people who are like you and who are usually looking for the same type of connection you are looking for. Twitter and Facebook are the largest gathering of individuals on the planet. Communities are simply small groups within. Think of communities on social media as you would small break-out sessions at a very, very large conference. The name on the door is the community. Pick the door that tells you that you share common interests with those on the other side. Then, open the door, step inside and say hello via a tweet or a post on the Facebook wall. You will be surprised that many are waiting for… you!
If you are looking for a community that is based on friendship and connection, please join Ricki Lake and the Friends of Ricki for a very special announcement and a first hand look at social media connection on Ustream at http://ustream.tv/rickilake and using Twitter hashtag #FriendsofRicki at 5pm PST this Wednesday, February 1. We look forward to seeing you and connecting with you there!
Do you have any ideas or questions about making connections on social media? Please leave your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss.
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “SharpArt”) Brand new tires begets flats. Above is my culprit. How something so tiny could paralyze a car! I guess it brings light to the thought “small but mighty!” (Laughing) http://www.HennArtOnline.com/index.html
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “Single Arrow”) While fielding a barrage of phone calls and text messages from girls, my son pauses to ask why people found the need to go “online” to find dates. Self-consciously caught off guard, I was mentally reminded that I, in fact, had not checked my “online dating” provider for quite some [...]
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “The Truck”) Never even been in one before then. Though perfectly described, I couldn’t locate it inches away from me. Practically pole vaulting myself into it, I finally surrender to the essence of its interior, littered with energy, as I try to hear above the pounding beat of my heart. [...]
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “Ban Ahh na Leaf”) It’s all about texture isn’t it? The feel of your lover’s hands holding yours. Your baby’s feet flailing up against your cheek. Hardened acrylic paint splattered across the canvas. The visual grain of a photograph. Even the wind has texture in her presence; the softness of a [...]
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “HeartStart”) Of course we all seem to need, want and even depend on that first cup of coffee or tea in the morning. The warmth, the strength, the bitterness and the sweetness all entwined as it slinks down our throat. Ahhh, what could be better and more invigorating? Since this [...]
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “BarbedKiss”) Yes, the soul of the universe matters to me. I hold in my heart my own convictions, unshakable, especially when challenged. But in dissecting my own nucleus and how it lays out in this vast and endless schema of things, my thought is merely a speck yet an indelible [...]
(Photo by Henie (c) 2009: “TinyVastness”) Just imagine the silence of the wind above your beating heart. Your neck craned reaching up to the endless blue. Golden mountains hugging you at horizon’s every turn. Imagine being in your own speck of remote. Just you in a space more open and wider than a fearless heart madly in [...]
Where oh where can my glasses be? Without them I just can’t see! I can’t find them! This reminds me of a friend who was frantically looking for her cell phone while talking on it! :) You think it’s funny, don’t you? Has it ever happened to you? http://www.HennArtOnline.com/index.html
“Don’t Steal Someone Else’s Thunder…Be Your Own Lightning!!!!” Click on the link below and “listen” to some “thunder”…then share what your “lightning” is! :) http://northxeast.com/general/nxe%E2%80%99s-fifty-most-influential-female-bloggers/ (Photo by Priscilla Sundheim (c) 2009: “AlwaysHappyHenie”) ~ http://www.HennArtOnline.com/index.html ~ “Don’t steal someone else’s thunder…be your own lightning!” ~Henie~
Barring obvious life responsibilities…what would you say your “full time passion” is… that if you could, you would embrace and be it 24/7 ? I welcome you to mine.:) “Dawndelion (c)” (Yes, this is a shot of a pesky dandelion weed I couldn’t yank from my lawn so I shot it instead…doesn’t everybody do yard [...]
“Ebonique” (c) I really wish you all could have been at this photo shoot. If you are arachnophobic I completely understand. Ebonique was the most uncooperative model. I really could have used some help. Anyway, this shoot lasted for quite awhile. Initially, I was intrigued with the shadows cast by this black widow on concrete [...]
Ball without a dog OR Dog without a ball? What do YOU think happened? Serious good, funny the better! Share YOUR story/thoughts here… “BallDog Without” (c) http://www.HennArtOnline.com/index.html
Written by Guest Author Seth Simonds If you asked me to write a photo blog, I’d have to post thumbnails with extensive descriptions because my photography skills are just that bad. The only great photo I ever took was of a child on a swing. He was 4 years old at the time…and he had [...]
“The Odd Couple” (c) Life gets a bit too serious sometimes so when I happen upon something funny and obscure like this I reach for my camera! Technically, it’s not a great photo but the context made me laugh and then it got me thinking. Here is a man and his dog out for an early [...]
“It’s the little things that make me feel BIG!” ~Henie~ “Little Big Journey” (c) It’s true. Little things in life make me very happy! Little things can’t stop the smile from my heart, soul and face no matter how hard I try…and I like that! The little snail in the photograph has a BIG story. It [...]
“May the innocence of your own youth never grow old!” ~Henie~ Thank you everyone for being a big part of my incredible week! Wishing you all a weekend of dreams come true!!! :0) What’s your focus for today? Please enjoy my art pieces…click on link below. http://www.HennArtOnline.com/artwall.php
“Fully Loaded Ego” For Sale – Final Sale – No Returns – No Exchanges” Yes, it’s fantastically true! My ego is up for sale! And before I post it on eBay and Craig’s List, I wanted to give all of you the first heads-up! I have been admiring a lot of egos lately (you know who [...]
“Each brilliance shines its own unique hue upon the spectrum.” ~Henie~ Each one of us is unique so there’s no need to scream! At least this was the first lesson I learned when I did a beautiful seamless dive into the Blogosphere Sea. Soon as I hit the water though, I was flailing like a fish [...]
“And so shall you laugh…this be my delight!” ~Punker~ This new business of blogging is FUN but sometimes I wish I could just be a duck! I’m serious! Ducks have always followed me no matter where I seem to be. And I do love them! I especially love the way I laugh when I see them waddling [...]
“Born unto this earth of greatness and worth May your happiness carry your dreams across the crimson sky of dusk And love blanket your soul as the saffron dawn whispers your world awake in splendor!” ~Henie~ “Magic of Innocence” (c) 2009 Magic! All those mysteriously enchanting things that make our hearts burst with joy and awe! [...]
“Isolation” (c) 2009 Have you ever fallen madly in love with someone you’ve never met? Have you been so enamoured by some one’s written word? Has your day ever depended on that red flashing light on your BlackBerry? Have you opened the door of your soul through the clicks on your keyboard? I [...]
“If only I could photograph my soul, then eye would see the vivid colors of the tapestry within.” ~Henie~ Unbeknownst to most, I am monocular in vision and having just “one working eye” I am often bemused when told that I have a really “good eye.” A well meaning comment often referring to my innate composition and style. Perhaps [...]
“By any measure, no one’s life is so ordinary to not warrant as much as a glimpse.” ~Henie~ “Transient Dawn” (c) 2009 My orthopedic surgeon said I needed another MRI so I took the earliest appointment available at the Lab. Problem was, there was nobody there. I sat idly in my [...]
We all do it! Those words that evade our subconscious! Barring the obvious typos and the bastardization of words to fit shortened versions for text messaging, it isn’t a wonder why kids today cannot spell properly…but this will be for another post. Regarding those words that can make or break a sentence, here is a friendly [...]
“Our difference is hilarity for the mind yet likeness for the soul.” ~Henie~ “Barely Patriotism” (c) When I quickly took this shot, it tickled me into such laughter! And everytime I come across it, I laugh all over again! I hope that you will also enjoy in whatever laughter it brings you! :) Last week this time, we [...]
“And she wished upon a dream…a dream full of wishes!” ~Henie~ “DreamWishes” (c) 2009 I’ve often wondered why we wish upon a star. Why not the moon or the sun or perhaps even a shoe? What’s the matter with wishing upon a shoe? (smile) And what sort of wish do you make while pulling on [...]
“Though her tears I cannot see And her sighs I cannot hear Saddened by clutches of fear She yearns her soul be free!” ~Henie~ “Screams Within the Whisper” (c) 2009 I was on a photo jaunt at the beach. I sat down on the wet sand to enjoy the unfolding dusk for just a moment…when [...]
Beguiling beauty of thorn, Leave your lover forlorn. With just one pierce, Flow can the tears. ~Henie~ “ThornBeauty” (c) 2009 We all have thorns and we all have beauty. I invite you to focus on that special thorn in your life…look past it and see the beauty that is deep within. I’ve been pierced, I [...]
Most people lose buttons but I find them! The other day on my way to the car wash, I was thinking about things that people may have forgotten how to do, in particular, sewing a button back on. So you can imagine my surprise when while waiting for my car, there on the concrete [...]
“Passion is an erupting volcano, where the flow of glowing lava cannot be stopped!” ~Henie~ “Passion’s Passion” (c) 2009 Are you more passionate than passion fruit? Are you driven by powerful and compelling emotions to be a certain way and if you couldn’t be that certain way, you just know your soul would wither behind the curtain [...]
Written by Guest Author Jay Frawley Please welcome Jay from InnerNoodle whose raw and instinctive insights propel individuals to think and take positive actions! Jay is the hardest working person I know yet he never hesitates to lend his time to help others…no one cares more for others like Jay does and I am humbly honored by his presence [...]
“The higher we soar, the smaller we appear to those who cannot fly! ~Nietzsche~ This is one of my favorite quotes. It is so profound to me, it leaves me speechless but it enriches my mind and stirs the passion in my soul. What about you? Does it invoke, evoke or [...]
“Perception is the driver, belief the passenger.” ~Henie~ “What’s At The End Of The Line?” (c) 2009 I believe in many things. I believe I can sit atop a rainbow’s fictive hues. I believe I can chase the sunset to horizon’s saffron end. I believe I can tickle the moon with the tip of my nose. I believe [...]
Believe it or not, some research is being conducted in the area of “tickling.” In fact, researchers at the University of California in San Diego have even constructed a “tickle machine.” Some scientists believe that laughing caused by tickling is a built-in reflex. If this is true, then, theoretically, you should be able to tickle [...]
“Cockles Sunbathing” (c) 2009 Everytime I look at this photo of our cat, I laugh! Cockles, our cat, is a real character as you can see. He is a bundle of laughter and can head butt you unconscious if you let him. Everyday, he props himself just so to soak in the sun filtering through the picture [...]
“With hope and determination, all obstacles are blown to the wind.” ~Henie~ “Mr. Chipps” (c) 2009 Absorbing the unfamiliar early morning humidity of the South, I unexpectedly become aware that I am fearfully being scrutinized. Being very careful to take a sip of my coffee (an indulgence I just recently developed) without any apparent movement, I [...]
“When I meet The Tin Man, I will gladly give him my heart.” ~Henie~ “CactusHeart” (c) 2009 The heart of the matter is, almost every blogger is most likely writing about Valentine’s Day and there are some really awesome works connected with it like Julie over at WritingRoads who has published “love ebook.” Her goal is [...]
“Son at Dawn” (C) 2009 My eyes misted by the heavy fog, windshield wipers no help at all. My son sitting quietly beside me, anxiously contemplating his journey. I curse beneath my breath as I swerve over the centerline. Recovering quickly, I flick my high beams on. We both ponder in silence, challenging our thoughts and [...]
Have you ever stumbled upon a star Almost touch it from where you are? “SnowStar” (c) 1998 Everytime I come across this old photograph (pre-digital) my soul is always aglow as I recall the story behind the shot. The snow was abundant that year even for Lake Tahoe. I remember the house completely submerged by [...]
“And in the end…how and what we hold in our heart and soul, matters most.” ~Henie~ “The EmptyDawn” (c) 2009 With dirty laundry strewn, seemingly in every conceivable place, I methodically begin to pick up where my son “left off.” (Perhaps, “just dropped” would be more appropriate) The piquant scent left by his cologne mingled [...]
If you’ve been awed by wisdom and tickled with a little wit along the way…then you’ve met and enjoyed Daphne of Joyful Days! I am so honored and grateful to have her as my guest post for today! Might I also suggest you indulge in one of my favorite posts by Daphne: “8 Lessons A Nearly-Dead Dog [...]
“Suddenly the beat of their heart becomes their very own!” ~Henie~ “GlowHeart”~Charcoal Drawing by Henie (c) 2009 As the haunting percussion of fine white sand beneath our feet dominates our silent stroll, I am awash in radiance from the sleepy sun…seemingly forcing to languish at the horizon of dusk. Just silently ahead of me, I [...]
It’s been a stellar year! I’ve had sunrises and sunsets delivered at my door and moonbeams placed in my hands. My soul has soared beyond the highest star and so it would seem, my insignificance as a mere speck on the back of the universe is indeed significant and remarkable! I’ve waited ’round the bend [...]
“Let us spend everyday in the bosom of Mother Nature!” ~Henie~ “Glorious Sighs” (c) 2009 (This photo was taken while driving on the freeway. No one was harmed.) Mother Nature Gallery has launched today! Please stop by to enjoy and support! I look forward to all your wonderful comments over there too! Mother Nature Gallery was [...]
“Magic never goes away, unless we ignore it!” ~Henie~ “Treasures” (c) 2009 The pristine white carpet installed to cushion falls and bumps is gone now. Somehow I can still see it littered with every conceivable toy! Replaced by hardwood floors purposely distressed to camouflage roller blades, skateboards and shoe scuffs from friends in an out, I [...]
“A flower blooms for the heart, not for the viewer… …and so does a writer write for the heart, and not for the reader!” ~Henie~ What about you? How do you bloom and write?
All Photographs by Henie (c) 2009 All at once, the dusk invited my soul to savor her last offerings for the day! After sitting in front of my computer all day writing…my eyes began to protest along with my brain shutting down in defiance! It was time for a walk. Armed with the restlessness within and [...]
“Poppy” (c) 2009 I Give I give to the mind Each uncovered find. I give to the heart An awakening start. I give to the soul That which is whole. I give all that is I Until the day I die! ~Henie~
“The beauty of the shadow of past Is seeing how much I have grown!” ~Henie~ “Magnificent Shadow”” (c) 2009 I still can taste the sweetness of the sunrise that day. My son was only five years old. I remember his eagerness and excitement as he ran up and down the river bank! His sense of innocence tapped gently [...]
“Only your own fury can ignite or extinguish the fire within!” ~Henie~ “BloominLeaves” (c) 2009 Anxiously, I stand amidst the escalating winds! I heard on the news another hurricane is about to land. A certain state awaiting a second whack, they presume. I remain witness to the trees slapping each other! Wondering if I will feel [...]
“The LURE in faiLURE is the success that follows!” ~Henie~ “Illusion of Eye” (c) 2009 Often, I become paralyzed with the fear of failure. Yet I know, it is in failure that I learn all the lessons for success. I believe that failure is the yang to the yin of success! What do you think?
The true beauty of our essence is when our external reflection matches what’s deep within us. ~Henie~ “Reflection” (c) 2009 I recently looked at myself in the mirror…it wasn’t for grooming nor vanity. I held my stare at myself for at least 10 minutes. I wanted to know if my reflection was the same as [...]
Long ago once, we were whole. Now my heart bears a cavernous hole. ~Henie~ “Somewhat Hole” (c) 2009 It is not that I am not whole on my own, but once in a while, someone dances into my life to add a textured richness…and when they fly away, I am left with a “somewhat whole [...]
Sunday traditions are best! Last Sunday my son and I ventured to the Ventura Harbor for some fresh tuna brought in by fishermen on an old tuna rig. One summer years ago, we made friends with the local fishermen when we lived on the harbor for two weeks aboard a 46 footer “boatel” that I [...]
“Expecting the unexpected is like surprising yourself to breathe!” ~Henie~ “Unexpected Sign” (c) 2009 There’s nothing extraordinary about this photo except for the seemingly well placed sign in the lower right-hand corner. This was completely unexpected! My camera may as well be built in to my skull to help quell my unrelenting passion to capture and [...]
“My life has been anything but ordinary Since your soul touched mine.” ~Henie~ “Here Comes The Son” (c) 2009 The role of single Mom was bestowed upon me almost 17 years ago. The birth of my beautiful child adorned my being with a banner of such high esteem, that I am not so sure I could [...]
“Make your desire to communicate more important than your fear of rejection.” ~Henie~ “The Old Shiny Car” (c) 2009 My thoughts are of many things this evening but I keep thinking how enamoured I am with cars. I’ve also been accused of loving ostentatious cars but this really isn’t so. I simply love cars…all kinds of cars! [...]
“Don’t let anybody judge you from where you came But let them cheer you on to where you’re going!” ~Henie~ “1950 Ford” (c) 2009 I don’t know about you but I am fearlessly passionate about everything I do…sometimes to the point of a maddening state! I call this my “van Gogh moment.” :~) Other people [...]
“Speed be the demon inside of me Lightning fast as far as I can see! Yet some just old With stories untold.” ~Henie~ “Hen In Pink Furry Boots” (c) 2009 “Rear Exterior” (c) 2009 ~~~~~~~~~~ Evoked My breath is deep and exact. My back arrogantly arched. My legs vividly muscled and toned. I glance over [...]
Life is like a door! You can stare at it in fear Or you can open it and find endless opportunities!” ~Henie~ “The Orange Door” (c) 2009 Most of the time I consider myself fearless since I walk hand in hand with my passion! I can at any moment, soar so high with inspiration that [...]
Gurus How tos Don’t dos Here, there Everywhere! “Soothing Brilliance” (c) 2009 *If only Social Media was like a flower…to bloom under one sunshine!* What was I thinking? Two months in and already my tongue is swollen and confused from all the different flavors offered…sometimes it’s even crammed down the throat…I’m thinking of going on a hunger [...]
“Whenever I’m out and about All the ducks they seek me out! It’s the waddle and the walk That makes me laugh and gawk!” ~Henie~ “Duck Luck” (c) 2009 “Mama Duck” (c) 2009 For some delightful reason ducks always seem to seek me out but perhaps it is I who seeks them! I have traveled [...]
“Sunrise to sunset One without the other Just could never be!” ~Henie~ “Sun Rise-Set” (c) 2009 I remember so clearly when my son was about 5 years old, he would always say “Look, mama, it’s God’s painting!” How else could one describe the magnificent hues splattered across the sky? I’ve been mesmerized by many sunrises [...]
“Make your followers count and I don’t mean numbers!” ~Henie~ “100′s of 1000′s +” (c) 2009 I just don’t get it! Actually, I do! If we were meant to maintain hundreds of thousands of “really close friends,” I think that our brains would have been designed as such, when all the atoms and cells were [...]
“Crooked contours calling Ground beneath is falling Sometimes life takes not The sure straightened shot!” ~Henie~ “BeyondCrooked” (c) 2009 I like to deviate from defined paths…Sometimes I even rebel…I prefer discovering the uncommon and the not so obvious…Pedestrian thinking is boring but then again I always learn…I enjoy questions whose answers lead to more questions…I seek [...]
“From dawn’s early light To dusk’s splendid sight A sigh in my soul Makes everything whole.” ~Henie~ “Ojai Mist” (c) 2009 I don’t really want to just “get away” but rather I want an added bonus to my already incandescent life! It’s true! I awake every morning making love to the magnificent sunrise always beckoning with a [...]
“I really love old places With dark intriguing spaces I think of all the faces Who left me all the traces.” ~Henie~ “Through A Sliver” (c) 2009 “External Internal View” (c) 2009 Today I am down with the flu so I thought I would leave the stories to you. When you look at the photographs above, what do [...]
“For 20 years she stayed Until the day it frayed At first she was afraid Of dreams sunddenly unplayed.” ~Henie~ ~’fraid~ (c) 2009 It felt like a billion out of control needles stabbing my numb skin! Every muscle shaking internally stopping the flow of blood in my veins! Deep inhaled breaths not coming back out and [...]
I just returned from the doctor! It’s official I have a certain strain of the over-publicized swine flu! S’Wine = SipWine My symptoms are highly contagious (and sociable) as listed below: Dusk kissed~Oakey chocolately red wine~Whimsical wine glass Laughter~Smiles~Bliss Cheers, dears! S’Wine = SipWine! (c) 2009 Aren’t you all just so *sick* of hearing about the *swine [...]
No words No time Nothing is enough to let all mothers know how much they are loved! From sunrise To sunset And everything in between! God made Moms and Moms make God look good! Happy Mother’s Day not just for today but for every sweet second of the day EVERYDAY! I LOVE YOU!
“Sitting on the Whale!” (c) 2009 Everybody has an opinion about Twitter! Opinions, however, are not weapons! Twitter is for everybody! It’s not just about what one individual thinks, it’s really about what everybody thinks! Nobody is right or wrong…it’s all about what works or may not work according to what you want or need [...]
Photographs by Henie (c) 2009 As if the aroma of coffee was not enough to entice, I was lured by the ambiance of “It’s A Grind,” a local coffee house around the corner from my home. But it’s more than just a “coffee house” I soon discovered. Greeted by Shelly Cazan, the lovely propreitress, who always [...]
“A mother’s glow Will always show!” ~Henie~ Photograph by Priscilla Sundheim (c) 2009 I love, love, love this young man! My son, the greatest gift a mum could ever deserve! I only wish babyhood could have warned me better of teenagehood! Phew + Sigh = Mother of a Teenager
“Cockles & Freddy” (c) 2009 If you found your way here via Twitter, then chances are you and I have had intercourse! Social intercourse, that is! This of course, an impossibility between my old cat and my new puppy, where sniffing each other’s bum is about as close as they will ever get! (In human terms, that’s [...]
“If we politely follow the arrow of our own path we can somehow converge down the road!” ~Henie~ “Ourrow” (c) 2009 What’s happened to us? No, really, what? Have we all forgotten how to care, share and give? Do we not remember how to enjoy the magnificent sunrise or sunset with one another? What is so [...]
“And the earth was cocooned under fog and mist Where’s the sun to kiss my open fist?” ~Henie~ “Silhouette” (c) 2009 I love cloudy days! It sparks my creativity beyond my passion’s grasp sometimes! When you awake and it’s cloudy…how does this change/affect your creative plans for the day? *And mama bird teaches her young to kiss the [...]
“May the souls of those who fought to the death, for our country to be Rest peacefully in our hearts for always, so our children can run FREE!” ~Henie~ “ForRest Lawn Cemetery” (c) 2009 Happy Memorial Day! May you enjoy your freedom in every way! There are no words, not even a designated day, to [...]
“Simplicity quiets the soul!” ~Henie~ “Simplicity” (c) 2009 Not only does simplicity quiet the soul, it awakens it to a full symphony, that only YOU will hear! How will you enjoy life’s simple pleasures today?
“My passion cried When my heart lied! My aching soul Begged to be whole!” ~Henie~ “BloominBud” (c) 2009 Does your passion take you into people’s hearts? Are you content to be in full bloom or do you choose to remain a hovering bud?
“Belief is the driver, perspective the passenger!” ~Henie~ “Awareness” (c) 2009 Often I wonder, if it is my belief that drives me to capture a shot in a certain way, because I believe that anything and everything IS possible! But then again, it gets me thinking that perhaps, it is the moment’s perspective that simply [...]
“The underside of beauty is beauty!” ~Henie~ ”BeautyUnderside” (c) 2009 When you change your perspective ever so slightly, you will always find beauty underneath every vision! I wish I were a flower! And you, would you not agree that every angle of every thing is beauty unto its own?
“And the soul said be happy Though the body felt crappy Body cried, feeling sad and old Soul smiled, still here to hold!” ~Henie~ “BeholdenYouth” (c) 2009 Sometimes when we awake, the body yearns for the strength of youth. It feels the wear of time. Know that the soul is always there to blanket your body [...]
“There’s something about a door It blocks you from what’s in store Or you can open it to find something more But in heaven, what’s it’s use for?” ~Henie~ We close our doors at night for safety. We close our doors for protection. Yet a door can entice and offer a new horizon of endless [...]
“I saw the red chair. Just sitting there. Without a care. And no one to share.” ~Henie~ “The Red Chair” (c) 2009 Sometimes I feel like my life is a red chair. No story. No plot. No characters. Until I take full authorship. Do you ever feel like a red chair? What story would you write?
“If you think nothing glimmers just look at your soul!” ~Henie~ “SoulBurst” (c) 2009 Truly, if you think there are no miracles in the the world, take a moment to look at yourself in the mirror! You are the greatest miracle of all!
“Only true beauty is unleashed from within!” ~Henie~ “InnerBrilliance” (c) 2009 I look at my face. Traces of youth barely there. I feel the textured canvas of my tired hands. My body, almost completely square. My legs still muscled and toned. I sigh. For a moment, I see and feel no beauty. But in the end, [...]
“Every petal is needed to make a flower whole!” ~Henie~ “OneWholeness” (c) 2009 “If we make kindness our universal currency, We will never be broke!” ~Henie~ My goal is to spread global kindness and excitement by following (via Twitter) at least one person from every country by Friday, June 19, 2009! This is not a numbers [...]
He who summoned the universe and placed it at my feet He who showed me to stand a dignified fight without retreat He who propelled my mind to take flight and stay aloft He whose soul taught mine to live, love, laugh and oft! ~Henie~ “Father” (c) 2009 Happy Fathers Day, Dad! I am certain, [...]
Fear is not letting go of the old, Courage is embracing the new! ~Henie~ “ThruZero” (c) 2009 This post was inspired by my dear friend, Detlef Cordes, who held my hand through my uncertainty, and then went further to share Andrew Crane’s wisdom with me! It was a day full of random thoughts. HR scheduled that [...]
“From tired hands crooked and old Fragments of life sculpted and told.” ~Henie~ “Fragments” (c) 2009 10″ x 30″ Re-Cycled Sculpted Paper on Canvas $1500 (SOLD) “Fragments” (c) 2009 Close-Up Life. Made up of fragments. Each piece takes its prominent place somewhere. Some of black, some of gold! Changes. Life. Fragments. Not too long ago, my [...]
WHAT IS CULTURE? “…It’s about building relationships where we treat each other like family; It’s about teamwork and having fun and not taking ourselves too seriously…” ~Tony Hsieh, CEO Zappos.com~ Honestly, I never paid much attention to Zappos until I watched an interview with Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos.com which was conducted in a bathroom! [...]
“Patterns are changes of where we’ve been and where we are going!” ~Henie~ “Patterns” (c) 2009 10″ x 10″ Re-Cycled Sculpted Paper on Canvas (No longer available $300) “Patterns” (c) 2009 Side View ~ Mounted on 1 1/4″ Canvas As I continue to create and prepare for an upcoming Art Show, I am amazed that [...]
“Ahhh, that hundreth sip of coffee Sometimes topped with sweet Toffee. What would we all do Without this simple brew?” ~Henie~ “TrueBrew” (c) 2009 A recent indulgence for me, coffee has become my unflailing partner in all things. Perhaps it is the same for you? I remember the first ceremony. In front of me, a [...]
“Children are the greatest miracles to live by.” ~Henie~ “Momo” (c) 2009 What child doesn’t lift your heart with awe? They believe they can fly With just a simple sigh. “Momo2″ (c) 2009 May the innocence of your own youth never grow old! “Momo3″ (c) 2009 Hug yourself through a child by giving from your [...]
The greatest shadow that I fear is my very own. “HenShadow” (c) 2009 Please, God, help me light the wick of my essence so I can beam the light on my shadow so it goes away. Not that you don’t already know these things, God, but I speak to you so I can hear my [...]
Remnants Re-woven Become A new whole “Remnants” (c) 2009 12 x 40 Sculpted Re-Cycled Paper on Canvas ($2500) As I sculpted each piece of paper, I realized that I was weaving another tapestry of my life, your life, all life… into a framed canvas so I can re-live the magnificence through art…and share it forever! [...]
A hot tamale costs a dollar somewhere! When I embarked on the *spur of the moment* #dollargame this morning on Twitter, I called on many of you for your help and support (some privately, some publicly). My intent was to have an engaging forum to create visibility in support of the wonderful organization 12for12k. My plan was [...]
All great stories share a thread, that one thread is LOVE “SoulTears” (c) 2009 We all have a story don’t we? The one nestled so deep within our soul. And sometimes we take it out, unwrap it slowly, inhale the very memory of it before we carefully tuck it back in. I am lucky in numerous [...]
Not quite sure what the significance is of all these 9′s but as I post this the crooked clock on my wall just struck 9:00pm (PST) “09~09~09″ 22 x 48 Mixed Medium on Canvas (c) 2009 ~ Hmmm, I’ve had this piece ready to post all afternoon long, yet when I sat down to finally [...]
“Stinky toes, stinky toes Don’t you think it’s neat? Smell my feet, smell my feet And you won’t wanna eat!” “KPR” (c) 2009 That was the song I’d sing all night long Oh, how you giggled My heart all but jiggled! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LOVE OF MY LIFE! My son and I made a truce…he’s accepted [...]
What matters most Is the shadow Of my soul Perhaps. “ShadowBlue” (c) 2009 sometimes my soul speaks in shadows I am numb I am mute. whispers say wait meet me beyond cerulean dreams. but I tremble I reach in deep. my lips of tears heart not of whole love clutch me wicked desire pressing against [...]
wriphoruntist (n.) [rahy-fo-ruhnt-tist] WriterPhotographerRunnerArtist No matter what hat/shoes I wear, the outcome of my sight and thoughts are as obtuse as the angle. Pressed by passion from every facet can sometimes leave me frothing and not sated. Most of all, I sometimes feel insane and unfulfilled if I don’t let my creativity soar out of my core. Time, [...]
The Black Card Circle Foundation presented An Evening at Tiffany’s on July 30th, 2009. My heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Lotay Yang CEO and Founder, BCCF for giving me the opportunity to attend & photograph the event. ~Additional photos to follow~ All photos by Henie Reisinger (c) 2009
And so I stared At this hole squared My sight it dared Not to be scared. “wHoleSquared” (c) 2009 I don’t know why I see things the way I do because I really can’t see at all. Perhaps, I “feel” things…things that are rough…things that are hidden from the naked I/eye. Things that have texture [...]
That which I see is not, is. “OutsideChairs” (c) 2009 “OutsideChairs2″ (c) 2009 I often wonder what it is that people really see. My friend Andrew Crane has said that *looking* is quite diferent than *seeing.* My great love has told me that what I lack in vision has given me acuity in insight. Perhaps [...]
Every moment has a scar and a star. It is our choice which one to wear. “InOrOut” (c) 2009 ~ Why do you knock at my soul? It is always open. the welcome sign is the glow of my smile I think of this song “smile though your heart is aching, smile even though it’s [...]
These eyes before me have undressed my soul! “Calvin” (c) 2009 My writing partner pointed out that my book character was too perfect. I wondered what was wrong with being perfect and soon realized that perfection is boring and unrealistic. In order to continue to write what I know, I summoned one of my fears to [...]
The grandest pleasure is bestowed upon those who are still for it. (c) 2009 My latest photoshoot involved horses. As you will see, the following compilations are not of the usual captures of these magnificent animals! I hope you will enjoy a deepened perspective, for these photographs were taken by the eye of my soul. (c) 2009 [...]
The world is smaller today My heart bigger in a way The sky is bluer than blue Just being touched by you! (c) 2009 There is this dance Of life and chance You hail a soul Offer it whole. (c) 2009 Oh, the things we do Of old and new Our child of doubt Are fears that [...]
Reality TV shows Is how reality goes Am stuck in virtual Where nothing’s actual! “NeckSavers” (c) 2009* I am simply a gnat on a gnat’s ass. There, I said it! I don’t even know where to begin! But I will say that this is not another how-to-what-not-to-do post. This is not written to vilify anybody, anything, [...]
And sometimes it all comes out in poetry (c) 2009 Lost Uncertain Horizon muted yellow gray Sluggish sun forcing way Tired frozen fingertips Lukewarm coffee touching lips. Silence pounding troubled head Sighing echoes words unsaid Worried heart beating slow Veins pulsing nowhere to go. Child ambling lost in dark Glint of joy [...]
My last day Will be of play Words unsaid said Before I’m truly dead. (c) 2009 What’s the above photograph of me have anything to do with my last day? If today was my last day I wouldn’t be writing this post I’d speak the words to say Let my open soul be host. If today was my last [...]
Hated Weighted Waited Sated “FireSunset” (c) 2009 Hated There are just some days when I hate everything about myself. Weighted Sometimes I take on way too much and then complain about how heavy the load. Waited This seems like forever, waiting for everything to just be, standing still. Sated When you taste a sunset down to [...]
There isn’t much sense When my heart’s behind the fence. “BarbedSense” (c) 2009 I was enjoying a lovely dinner with friends tonight when I became distracted by a stream of tweets. Suddenly, I felt a lead ball pressing against my soul and I felt quite ill. I instantly wanted to react and lash out but having a [...]
Hello to Goodbye http://bit.ly/4zPDCM “FreshFallenTears” (c) 2009 I took down my tapestry from the wall And hugged it as I walked down the hall I caressed the corner that was frayed Thinking how much I wish he had stayed. I closed my eyes tight as can be So his scent I could taste and see [...]
HeartMind “Flowed” (c) 2009 I know my heart has a mind Thoughts sometimes unkind It shakes me deep to core Leaving me wanting nothing more. I dance the wind with a smile Though it leaves me bare awhile Up at golden moon I gaze Sanity cloaked in darkened haze. Who are these loves with shiny [...]
Heart and soul Nothing but whole! “LoveThorns” (c) 2009 He is my moment He drips into my soul In the stillness of us. No I cannot bear his soul away In between the truths of words we say We sing our hearts alive with sparks To the envy of many lonely hearts I long for [...]
For my love I sigh Until in joy I die… “HenLegs” (c) 2009 He drinks me like a warrior in full primal stride Leaving my senses quivered my soul badged with pride Over wrinkled creases he lingers in the scent of me I succumb in soft nakedness longing for all the world to see. [...]
I surely didn’t know the colors that show… “TheFakeChick” (c) 2009 I have often wondered if my passion is a gift or a curse. Seemingly, everyday I scurry about doing a myriad of passion-driven projects and then at the end of the day, feeling like a lonely dilettante. But my greatest fear is that I should [...]
You may weaken the body But you strengthen the soul! ”C” (c) 2009 The “S” Stage: Shocked Stunned Speechless Scared Screaming Sick Shit! And finally… STRENGTH SURVIVE SOUL!
Opinions are not weapons! “Un~Bunched” (c) 2009 I love opinions but I despise weapons of any kind! Opinions are not weapons, although from what I’ve observed, this seems to be what Social Media has armed itself with lately. Please, enough already! ~ Opinions have nothing to do with you. It only belongs to its originator [...]
Looking in or looking out the soul’s depth remains. “wHole Beyond” (c) 2009 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The moon hovered like a half-closed eye I could hear their violence through the air The neighbors were yelling angry pitch high My heart wondered of truths within their lair But my sweet restless soul busy looking out Looked in as it craned [...]
Life is an ever changing landscape bedaubed with jewels within the simplest of forms! “RustedShadow” (c) 2009 ~~~~~~ Can you see the beauty in everything?
The true beauty of our essence is when our external reflection matches what is deep within us. “WisdomStairs” (c) 2009 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ What do your steps to the top look like?
Love and memories adorn the heart best! Photo by Priscilla Sundheim (c) 2009 The pristine white carpet has long been replaced. Scattered toys that used to teach and entertain are gone, and so is the little baby boy with eyes of green! Distressed lighthouse planks now adorn the floors, though simple stained concrete would have [...]
Your own trouble means nothing Until you see beyond… “HomelessLuxury” (c) 2009 I see My friend in the street Slowly he shuffles feet Under the blue of sky I curse and ask why? I watch My friend for awhile They looking with vile He nods his dirtied head I smile with nothing said. I saw Him shaking in the bitter cold [...]
Young priority…Old option. “BeyondThru” (c) 2009 Know that I love you More than my soul can bear But there’s someone new And for you she’s there to care. Her young face will bathe you Lithe body crowned blonde head Endless days of things to do Together you will someday wed . No need to taunt me my love I can [...]
For 17 and a year You held my fear And all that is dear. This the last day Of a golden ray You sent my way. “LastRay” (c) 2010 My home for 18 years was finally all packed up and empty! As I sat on the top step of the stairs, I watched as [...]
My mom died yesterday. After a courageous 5 year battle With cancer. “My Laughter” (c) 2010 She was the seed from which beauty sprouted. That I would be writing about her death today is the biggest hurt I shall ever know in my life! But that’s just it…it was she who taught me that no [...]
The ocean always puts me in my proper place. It humbles my thoughts, words and actions! (c) 2010 Ever since my mother died, I found it very difficult to login to this site until now. I even forgot my password and had to search for it just before being locked out for too many incorrect [...]
The past was a moment The future will be a moment But what truly matters Is the moment we’re standing on! (c) 2010 Sometimes I walk the streets endlessly. Not sure if I’m running away from or searching for something. I know that searching for something is a sure way not to find it and [...]
We are disconnected by the very devices that connect us! BEhind the wHole (c) 2010 Saying goodbye is never easy…especially within the social media realm…and I squirm as I write the words social media. Yes, it’s true! As an avid participant in social media, I am swirling out of control trying to grasp why I am in it [...]
True love cannot be found where it truly does not exist, Nor can it be hidden where it truly does! ~Anonymous~ “Someone’sSomeone” (c) 2010 We all want that special someone don’t we? How many times have you had wishful stirrings when you see two people entangled on the sand by the beach; or that older [...]
Tears are diamonds produced by the soul! (c) 2010 It’s been about four months now since I lost my mother after her five year battle with cancer. Since then, I have been searching for ways to assuage myself of this deep piercing grief that never leaves my consciousness as it continues to enlarge an already [...]
By any measure, no one’s life is so ordinary to not warrant as much as a glimpse. (c) 2010 Ignore it or not, homelessness is right under your nose and I bet you don’t like the smell of it! (c) 2010 Some of the people I have met on the streets have become friends… (c) [...]
To know dignity one must sometimes walk the streets in someone else’s shoes… “Left in a Hurry” (c) Through the years, I’ve met many who call “nowhere” home. Some have become friends. I see them everyday as I walk the streets. Their stories are all compelling…each one laced with a tinge of hope and dignity. Rather [...]
Give me hope Help me cope With this heavy load ~George Harrison~ “HeavyLoad” (c) Trying to touch you with heart and soul Please take my hand That I might understand you Won’t you please? ~George Harrison~ Not only is homelessness without words to describe its heart, its eyes look out from “homeless rooms with a [...]
The true beauty of our essence is when our external reflection matches what is deep within us! (c) 2010 Does your vision drive your heart or does your heart drive your vision?
Is it the sand or is it the shadows that make the stripes? “BeachZebra” (c) 2010 Is it the heart that makes the love or is it the love that makes the heart?
I am attracted to holes for a number of reasons. Sometimes it signifies fear of the unknown… Sometimes it’s intrigue for the thrill of discovery… Sometimes it’s curiosity for a little bit of both. Sometimes you can just stuff it and pretend it’s not there… And sometimes you can you can look into it endlessly… But sometimes [...]
This flag of the United States of America now being folded is a living memorial to the courageous thoughts of our comrade; the one you came here to honor today. The blue field represents the sky that overlooks our land and denotes the watchfulness of God, our heavenly father. The red stripes tell us of [...]
Sing with your heart Dance with your soul! “TheWriteStuff” (c) 2011 Technology is always at my fingertips…multi-clicking here, there and everywhere…but when I finally sit down to write, my basic tools are pen and paper. And though ultimately unseen in the photograph above, the main ingredients when I write is the fearlessness of my heart [...]
…the world’s first acai spirit! (c) 2011 (c) 2011 (c) 2011 When I attend social media events, I am always delighted to see VeeV, the makers of my favorite drink, “Eco~Mojito!” Cheers!
Behind every flaw lies beauty in all its glory! “FlawedBeauty” (c) 2011 For me, it is the flaw that magnifies beauty; the pain that intensifies pleasure…and the fear that builds courage…so help me god!
It is when we let go of our fear that we can succumb to raw sexuality and its beauty! “TheBudding” (c) 2011 “TheExibition” (c) 2011 “TheAllure” (c) 2011 “TheTouch” (c) 2011 Do we imitate nature or does nature imitate us? ~
Pride comes in many colors… Pride shows in every swish… Pride exists in all their hearts! “PrideLA” (c) 2011 I took many photographs when I attended PrideLA 2011…somehow, this one is my favorite…I hope you’ll enjoy it for the message it so clearly expresses! Happy Pride!
The marvelous richness of human experience would lose something of rewarding joy if there were no limitations to overcome. ~Helen Keller~ “FollowMyLead” (c) 2011 Once in a while we receive an unexpected gift to remind us that everything, though sometimes imperfect, is perfectly fine! I found this gift…in this book…that a dear friend of mine [...]
I’m not against Google by any means (not that I really have a choice, so it seems) but ever since I signed on to Google+ strange things have been happening and some people have called me crazy and full of sh*t. While I can understand (to a degree) that Google has brilliantly streamlined all it’s [...]
When I was asked to review the new Revolution by LG on Verizon’s 4G LTE network, I fretted a little bit…ok, I fretted a lot! I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to stand behind the product, especially if it couldn’t perform to my necessary expectations. I transitioned quite smoothly since I am a [...]
Where the vines kiss the sky So, too, shall my soul Flutter its wings to fly! “SkyVines” 2011 (c) Just want to share this good fortune with everyone! Behold… Greystone Estate in the Vines! I hope you’ll allow the team to help you embed magical memories in your heart by visiting the beautiful Sonoma Wine Country! Please say hello [...]
“Cocooned” “Cocooned” (c) 2011 Inside your womb Safe tho’ entombed Amniotic splashes External flashes A waiting world Soon unfurled Welcome to life Moments of strife Your loving sigh My first cry!
“Unattainable Within” “SomewhereIn” (c) 2011 I’ve become my own pain that never ends… Owning my insides that have fallen into pieces. It’s time to pay my price as I face my truth and my dancing demons that mock me everyday! Life has not been unkind by the stretch of a retreating wave; it’s just me…I [...]
“withOUT” “withOUT” (c) 2011 We are old lovers on a dusty shelf… He and I. We used to pour laughter into our souls. Touch each other until our skin was raw from longing. A few days ago when I heard from him, anger screamed! I felt like a pile of fallen leaves in a corner. Truth falls [...]
“Again” “DepthIn” (c) 2011 It’s just another again… I walk silently sometimes…as if to undetect my own existence. I keep the door to my heart locked and chained so tight…to avert any robbers hiding in between the walls. Dare not I even think of my secrets…just in case they escape and run away screaming to [...]
“InOrOut” (c) 2011 Sometimes I don’t even know where to begin with myself I walk around sighing, thinking and methodically dusting the shelf Where once youth ruled with a fearlessness and carelessness of heart Now age of lost cadence mumbles and ambles not knowing where to start. ~o~ Prosperity is an insolent bastard forcing me to [...]
“MyLittleAngel” (c) 2012
