cassendre xavier - renaissance negresse

Diary of a renaissance negresse - 03 Oct 2011

2011-10-03T15:14:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 3, 2011

I am feeling very good today. Getting lots done. Really healing and connecting with and understanding and being patient with myself and others.

Today is day 5 of a water fast I'm doing to spiritually heal from unhealthy eating habits. I drink water, and I allow myself to drink coffee (highly diluted decaf mostly during the day and evening, regular coffee in the morning to help me not sleep all day due to this highly drowsy-making allergy over the counter drug I'm on temporarily. I also allow myself to put lime or lemon juice in the water I drink all day (usually fresh-squeezed). I also allow myself to chew sugarless gum now and then. I allow myself to do whatever I want. I'm just choosing based on the consequences.

For instance, it is far from ideal to consume the chemicals that make up the artificial sweeteners in the gum I eat. And caffeine is also not good for me.

However, the benefits are:

1) It helps me greatly in avoiding eating anything right now, during my fast.

2) Neither coffee nor artificial sweeteners have any significant nutrients, which is the basic idea behind water fasting. Your body must rely on itself to fuel it. So it starts using your cells, starting with the sick, dying, or excess fat ones. So, I'm losing weight and detoxing as I ought to on a water fast.

3) Coffee and sugarless gum are toxic, so my detox is more gradual, as are the unpleasant detox symptoms. Once I accepted I wasn't "perfectly" doing my water fast - I realized the benefits - including that soon after detoxing, I wouldn't get the painful, and lipline-altering cold sore I always get when I've been 100% raw for a couple of weeks.

So, today and the previous 4 days, I am consuming no, or very low caloric, non-nutritive substances in liquid form only. (Gum is chewed but doesn't go down solid like candy does, so I allow myself gum but not candy, not even sugarless/low or no calorie or nutrition candy.) There are many benefits to this fast, and I just remind myself that even though numbers-wise I want to eventually see 140 or less on the scale, the idea is to: Get Healthy, Get Spiritual, Love and Accept Myself and Others, Be Serene with my Eating, and Live a Joyful, Powerful, Positive, FEARLESS Life!

My plan is to do the water fast for as long as I feel comfortable (people can live up to 60 days or more on water alone), then go to a juice "feast" as us rawheads call it, and then go to a lifelong, and easily maintained habit of eating only raw vegan foods and drinking a large amount of my other nutritive intake. My plan is to learn how to eat right and to get all the support I need to do it. Support group meetings, potlucks, and dining with friends very often will be a large part of my life in the next few months. And writing every day as well as prayer, meditation, reading the books and listening to a lot of very encouraging and healing recordings of my teachers, mentors, and peers is a large part of my healing journey now.

I am writing and keeping my day to day schedule of activities. Making progress in all areas of my life and getting stronger every day. More accepting of others. Praying to God and calling on the constantly available assistance of God's angels.

So grateful to be alive and able to share my journey!

May you be blessed and know it.

Cassendre

Cassendre Xavier is a Haitian-Chinese-American artist, musician, author, actress, and award-winning community cultural arts organizer whose mission in life is to share joy, inspiration, and sensuality through the creative and healing arts. Coining the term *"renaissance negresse" in 2002, and also working under the names "Amethyste Rah" (spirituality and guided meditations http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE) and "Amrita Waterfalls" (sexuality and erotica) Xavier is the founder and director of Philadelphia's Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003 www.BWAFphilly.org) and the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002 www.WomensWritingSeries.org). Xavier has been an imperfectly practicing raw vegan since 2005 and is author of the print & ebook Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal (ARtivist Publications 2009). On September 19, 2011, she celebrated her first year as an ordained interfaith minister. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

*"Negresse, Negre: In the French- and Spanish-speaking Caribbean Islands, these words often have a connotation of affection, entirely non-racial in meaning. `Ma petite negresse, mon negre, are equivalent to `My dear, my darling, my sweet.'" (From Masters of the Dew, a contemporary classic novel by the Haitian author Jacques Roumain, translated by Langston Hughes and Mercer Cook.)

Copyright © 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reprint this article, in part, or in whole, only with the inclusion of the author bio, copyright credit, and contact URL http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Diary of a renaissance negresse - 02 Oct 2011

2011-10-02T12:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Day 4 of water fast to heal food addiction with spirituality and the raw vegan diet. Lost 10lbs in 4 days. Miracles are already happening. The plan is to detox, get really really dependent on God, and engage all the support systems I've been researching, collecting, and using, from support groups, potlucks, eating with friends, and writing.

Will be very happy to repair my laptop, although going to the library daily and for very limited amounts of time encourages me to publish every day and be concise in my posts.

Have been writing so much, it's amazing. Focusing on making it useful to self and others. Grateful beyond measure.

Every day I pray and breathe and relax and tell myself to calm down and not freak out about anything. One moment at a time...to serenity.

Drinking my food is fine. It's the eventual chewing and learning of moderation that scares and usually tosses me into the inferno of active overeating and out of control eating again. But I remind myself that all is well and I don't have to think about anything but the next 5 minutes and all the love and power available at my disposal of mere thought, acceptance, surrender, and community.

Highlight: I weigh 203. I started at 238.
Friday people I know from the early 2000s said I've lost a lot of weight. I didn't think so, but then I saw my journal from 2009 and I weighed 230 then. This means that even thought I have 60lbs to lost, I can honor and see that I did lose 30lb in the last few years.

Again - grateful beyond measure.

Sorry for any typos. No time to proof :-)

Enjoy your week and see you tomorrow if I stay on my plan and I will ;-)

Blessings abounding in thyself,

Cassendre

Cassendre Xavier is a Haitian-Chinese-American artist, musician, author, actress, and award-winning community cultural arts organizer whose mission in life is to share joy, inspiration, and sensuality through the creative and healing arts. Coining the term *"renaissance negresse" in 2002, and also working under the names "Amethyste Rah" (spirituality and guided meditations http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE) and "Amrita Waterfalls" (sexuality and erotica) Xavier is the founder and director of Philadelphia's Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003 www.BWAFphilly.org) and the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002 www.WomensWritingSeries.org). Xavier has been an imperfectly practicing raw vegan since 2005 and is author of the print & ebook Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal (ARtivist Publications 2009). On September 19, 2011, she celebrated her first year as an ordained interfaith minister. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

*"Negresse, Negre: In the French- and Spanish-speaking Caribbean Islands, these words often have a connotation of affection, entirely non-racial in meaning. `Ma petite negresse, mon negre, are equivalent to `My dear, my darling, my sweet.'" (From Masters of the Dew, a contemporary classic novel by the Haitian author Jacques Roumain, translated by Langston Hughes and Mercer Cook.)

Copyright © 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reprint this article, in part, or in whole, only with the inclusion of the author bio, copyright credit, and contact URL http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Diary of a renaissance negresse - 01 Oct 2011

2011-10-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 1, 2011

A good day starts with a smile knowing that rent will be paid! Ran lots of errands today - totally on schedule. Amazing. I write I want to be at the post office at 1:50pm and I arrive at the post office exactly at 1:50pm. You'd think because scheduling my days works so well for me that I'd have been doing it since I discovered that benefit years ago and would still do it everyday. Only increasing self-care has made this a more regular habit for me. And writing this blog, which I just started three days ago but has been helping me a lot.
I am so affected by what I write - it's so easy to co-create with the universe what I want when I write things down. That's why I started a novel for myself a couple of months ago. It has no form, and it changes all the time in style. It's probably terrible, but I don't care, because I'm writing it for myself. I'm writing the dreams I've been wanting to womanifest, and I'm writing a world I want see and live in. I'm writing my life. That's all that matters. I want to see if it works.
I've noticed that some novelists write a beautiful fictional story, probably choosing a heroine they identify with. They give this imagined creature all their dreams and make them come true. Then, a few years after the publication of the novel, many of these things have occurred in the novelist's "actual" life.
One of the featured artist's of Philadelphia's 8th Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (http://BWAFphilly.org), Kendra, whose band is "Vie Boheme" said our dreams are just like our waking life. There is no separation or difference. I love that idea. Grace Jones said "Whatever I dream, I want to do." And she does it. Why not?
So that's what I've been doing - blending the line between my dreams and my waking life. I was very inspired by that talk I had with Kendra.

What are your dreams? Are you writing them down? Because, that's a huge part of making them happen! Here - let me help you :-)

My Dreams Are To:

1)_____________________________________________________

2)_____________________________________________________

3)_____________________________________________________

4)_____________________________________________________

5)_____________________________________________________

(I stopped at 5 because that's the number of change, according to general numerology. You can continue to 8, which is the number of prosperity :-)

What can you start doing right now, and every day, to begin blending the fake/so-called "line" between your night dreams, your day dreams, and your so-called "actual" "waking life"?

I Could:

1)_____________________________________________________

2)_____________________________________________________

3)_____________________________________________________

4)_____________________________________________________

5)_____________________________________________________

Helpful Hint: Get yourself a journal that you keep your spiritual daily writings and/or dreams and goals in. Or get several for several different purposes. But if having just one means you'll write every day, no matter how little, and no matter for what purpose, start there. You be as simple in your choice as a single-subject notebook, all the way up to a very fancy journal. It's better if it's lightweight and easily portable.

I myself have many different notebooks for different purposes. I have many single-subject notebooks for my various works in progress and journals, then I have a small but thick fancy leather one I write other people's quotes in, and I have my one and only "Dreamer's Journal" by Paula White (http://PaulaWhite.org) which I saw in one of her newsletters or mailings and ordered for dirt-ass cheap at Amazon! I highly recommend it regardless of your spiritual or religious faith, just because it's highly motivating, and you can always enjoy what you put into it rather than read every page of the quotes, etc. Because she is a Christian minister, it does include a passage of biblical scripture on every page, but what's perhaps even more valuable - at least to me, is that every other page also has an original, highly motivating quote by Paula herself. Check it ooot!

May sunshine have its way with you today and every day.
Make the art and be happy.

Cassendre

Cassendre Xavier is a Haitian-Chinese-American artist, musician, author, actress, and award-winning community cultural arts organizer whose mission in life is to share joy, inspiration, and sensuality through the creative and healing arts. Coining the term *"renaissance negresse" in 2002, and also working under the names "Amethyste Rah" (spirituality and guided meditations http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE) and "Amrita Waterfalls" (sexuality and erotica) Xavier is the founder and director of Philadelphia's Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003 www.BWAFphilly.org) and the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002 www.WomensWritingSeries.org). Xavier has been an imperfectly practicing raw vegan since 2005 and is author of the print & ebook Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal (ARtivist Publications 2009). On September 19, 2011, she celebrated her first year as an ordained interfaith minister. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

*"Negresse, Negre: In the French- and Spanish-speaking Caribbean Islands, these words often have a connotation of affection, entirely non-racial in meaning. `Ma petite negresse, mon negre, are equivalent to `My dear, my darling, my sweet.'" (From Masters of the Dew, a contemporary classic novel by the Haitian author Jacques Roumain, translated by Langston Hughes and Mercer Cook.)

Copyright © 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reprint this article, in part, or in whole, only with the inclusion of the author bio, copyright credit, and contact URL http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Diary of a renaissance negresse - 30 Sept 2011

2011-09-30T10:25:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 30, 2011

Hello, dear reader!

Happy "Ask a Stupid Question Day" and "Hug a Vegetarian Day"! (Real, Wacky Holidays courtesy of http://brownielocks.com)

I am $39 away from making my rent, whoo-hoo!!! SOOO happy and relieved. It also feels sooo good to have taken a step towards my goal of finding a good job, rather than just taking notes and networking with folks about leads. I went to Careerlink yesterday and made an appointment for an orientation. My friend S. said they "hooked him up" which his current job, which is how I met him recently. I walked up to the kiosk of the internet company he works for and asked if they were hiring. Somehow (he saw my guitar case) we ended up talking about music (he's a musician, too, and has his own indie record label), and flirting (because that's just how we do ;-) and I went to one of the two open mics that he hosts, where I kicked ASS and sold not a single CD but he did give me twenty bucks so all was not lost.I also met some really nice folks there. But I was pissed and bitter as hell. Where else does one work for free?
Anyhoo, this ain't sposed to be "bitterfest" :-)
Anyway, the joy is improving and expanding.
For the last couple of days I've been thinking about my stationery I used to make for fun and profit. Then today my friend S. in Alburque, who had ordered them before, asked if I had any more of my self-mailing cardstock letters. So, now I'll be making 12 for her to order. Funny thing, that, because my friend M, who had also ordered them before, said he used them only for himself, right? So I ask S. how she uses them - she writes them to HERSELF every year for Rosh Hashannah! My friend M is also Jewish, so I sent him a copy of that text message. Longstoryshort, this bitch is getting her groove back, baby! (Never let it be said.)

So where am I, you ask? I'm at yet another public library, because on Fridays, they're all closed at 5pm or earlier, and my illustrious busking occurrifies (aka "occurriates" from 3-6pm. Since I'm committed to trying out this here new daily blog thing, it became apparent, I'd have to gets my writing and posting needs met in hours before my busking shift.

So, all for now. As much as I'd love to sit and jibber jabber with you good people all day, I've got lots of nifty newsletters of some of my favorite artists and writers, and other documents to print at 7 cents a page, rather than the astronomical quarter of a dollar that the Free Library charges. Why, the noive :-)

Quick facts:
Laptop crashed on July 31st, hence my using other equipment til mine is repaired.
I'm on the 2nd day of a water fast.
I'm very grateful for all the wonderful things in my life, including you, fine reader!

In art and community,

Cassendre

Cassendre Xavier is a musician, author, and community cultural arts organizer whose mission in life is to share joy, inspiration, and sensuality through the creative and healing arts. She is the founder and director of the Black Women’s Arts Festival, and has been an imperfectly practicing raw vegan since 2005. On September 19, 2011, Cassendre celebrated her first year as an ordained interfaith minister. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Copyright © 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reprint this article, in part, or in whole, only with the inclusion of the author bio, copyright credit, and contact URL http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Diary of a renaissance negresse - 29 Sept 2011

2011-09-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 29, 2011

I don't know what I'm doing here. I thought I was supposed to start writing and posting a daily blog, as my technical supplies allow. But I'm stuck now. What to say?

There was a time, years ago that I wanted to be like Anais Nin - write diaries and publish them. That was my dream for such a long time. Then things changed and now it seems I want that again, only I haven't the patience to save them and then try to publish them.

As a writer, I'm hurt when I don't write enough. And even though I keep a handwritten diary at home, I feel my blog needs more use. So I'm sharing my journey.

Today I ran into a woman who is a creative artist trying to maintain a family of 4 (herself, her partner, and their 2 young children), and a full-time day job (which, thankfully is arts-related). As I spoke of my new desire for a day job myself, and my path over the years of being a full-time book clerk to a full-time multi-media artist, back to wanting a day job, I was amazed at how rapt she was by my story. I was talking so long I felt self-conscious. I actually said, "I'm talking too much" and she said, "No! This is very interesting to me - I'm going through the same thing!"

So, here I write. For anyone out there who is a writer, artist, musician, painter, sculptor, actor/actress, mother, father, guardian, foster parent. Working full time at a job that doesn't directly support your creative passions and talents.

One thing I realized recently is that our careers sometimes go in waves. Don't feel bad if from time to time you need to take on a day job.
I used to think it was a sign of failing that I wasn't making enough from my music, writing, workshops, etc. I felt ashamed to be broke so often and didn't want to think about "giving up" to have a day job.

Then, I remembered the times that I was gainfully employed outside of the arts. It was so nice to have that regular check that would pay my rent and other expenses. It was so nice to have hundreds of dollars here and there to put into getting CDs made, or going to Staples to make chapbooks and stationery and nifty stickers and postcards, etc. That was great! I had money to buy nice outfits and to generally be more relaxed as an artist and as a persun.

Now, I remember that. I also remember there were many times after a few years that I suffered greatly from the desire to not be in a bookstore all day. It was time to spread my artist wings. So I did. And after a few years of trial and error, I eventually became gainfully full-time self-employed as a renaissance negresse. NO day job!

But the pendulum has swung again. I am seeking employment and I'm happy about that! I expect that my life as an artist will improve once I'm not struggling so much to pay my basic living expenses and can once again buy all the equipment and services I need to make the art that brings my life and soul so much joy and helps me put a little more love out in the world.

It is a great privilege to share this with you. If you can relate or want to share, please feel free to post or share this.

Hang in there, stay creative, and don't ever lose faith in your ability to succeed! Life is worth living, and there's no such thing as the perfect way to do it. Just enjoy every single moment and breath. Know you are doing the best you can and take time every day to note your progress. You are not who you were 5 or 10 years ago and 5 or 10 years from now you and your creative portfolio will be even more kick-ass!

Love yourself,

Cassendre

Cassendre Xavier is a musician, author, and community cultural arts
organizer whose mission in life is to share joy, inspiration, and
sensuality through the creative and healing arts. She is the founder
and director of the Black Women’s Arts Festival, and has been an
imperfectly practicing raw vegan since 2005. On September 19, 2011,
Cassendre celebrated her first year as an ordained interfaith
minister. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Copyright © 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission
is granted to reprint this article, in part, or in whole, only with
the inclusion of the author bio, copyright credit, and contact URL
http://cassEndrExavier.com.

ME ME ME! CX Museletter “Celebrating Abundance” ediccione

2011-07-08T21:02:00.001-07:00

Me! Me! Me! A Cassendre Xavier Museletter
The “Celebrating Abundance” Ediccione, if you will. (As it were.)

Friday, July 8, 2011

Dear friends,

How are you? I am well and I trust you are well also!
Thank you so much for your support of my art/work, and therefore, life, whether via financial support, prayers, well wishes, or visualizations of me as happy and successful.
I apologize for having been so focused on my lack when I wrote last time. I’m glad I did it, and that I expressed myself authentically, but doing so actually made things worse a little bit, in a way! Some folks started avoiding me, because of the vibe of “suffering” I had put out there. I think it made some people feel bad.
In the book Creating Money: Attracting Abundance by Sanaya Roman & Duane Packer (http://orindaben.com), they list qualities that attract and qualities that repel money, or abundance. One of the qualities that attracts is “Giving to people’s prosperity” and one that repels is “Giving to people’s need”. I understand that now. This doesn’t mean that one oughtn’t help when someone is asking for it, it means to affirm abundance, and to focus on this, rather than on lack. (This information is also in the older edition of Creating Money: Keys to Abundance, available for Dirt Ass Cheap at http://amazon.com).
Not to get all “scripture-y”, but in Matthew 25:29 Jesus Christ says, “For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.” (NKJV). I read that a few days ago and so, absolutely, totally got it! It really resonated with me. Doesn’t it seem to you that folks who are usually doing well are usually doing well, and those who are usually complaining always have “material”, if you will? (As it were.)
Energy is energy, and money is energy. You are energy, I am energy, it’s all energy. And energy attracts like energy. An object in motion stays in motion. Do you want your energy to be flowing in the lane of lack, or in that of abundance? Once I realized that, I became more determined to be serious about celebrating my abundance, of which I have a lot. Everything we think is affirmed by the universe. Everything we focus on and say magnetizes things that are like it. This affirms our beliefs. The good news is we get to choose where we place our focus. We can choose to start ignoring negative thoughts and feelings, and replacing them with the positive. Think and do what makes you feel good! Believe the best is yet to come for you!
But getting back to the aftereffects of my most recent museletter, the one called “Gifts of Suffering”...
I also asked the angels to give me more clarity to see what I am doing that’s not serving me and how I can, with their help, make some changes.
One thing is I’m going about fundraising the wrong way. You, my fans, and my friends, and sometimes both, are not my Source. And you’re not my livelihood. It wasn’t just Divine Guidance that gave me this little lesson. It was numbers. Pure and simple math. .
Of all the outlets I sent my fundraising plea last month, I yielded the record-shattering amount of $98. Three folks sent money, and one made a purchase. All were close friends of mine. I didn’t get the windfall of CD Baby or Lulu orders I expected from a high and random number of fans from anear and afar.
Observing the flow of energy is something that comes very easily to me and that I am grateful to be able to do very well and often. I looked at other places where there is a good flow of energy for me – and that is in two places: Grants, and CD sales at concerts.
So, having made that observation, I am focusing on those two things.
In that line, I’ve been researching grants to apply for, feeling very, very good about them, for two reasons: One: I have good chemistry with institutions that have lots of money :-) They tend to like to give it to me, and I’m very happy to be there to assist them with that. But I do have to apply. Therein’s the rub as we say in the business.
Regarding the CDs, I had a realization recently: I am going back to jewel cases complete with picture and liner notes that I wrote and drew myself.
Because I was such in scarcity-thinking mode, for the last several months I had gone to paperless slimline cases. My reasoning was two-fold, one: they were 75% less expensive for me to produce. And secondly: I figured folks were so into just making MP3s out of CDs and playing them on their portable digital listening devices, that they wouldn’t miss the “album art” as it were (if you will). But I’ve noticed that I’ve had way less repeat sales than I’m used to having. And I’m pretty sure it’s because folk aren’t as excited about just a CD in a skinny case – no lyrics, no picture of my lovely face :-)
I had a guy a couple of weeks ago who was passing through when I was busking, and he purchased a CD, and insisted on taking my display copy which has my photo on it. Because he was an older gentleman, pretty cocky, and also from out of town, not likely to see me again anytime soon, I relinquished the copy to him.
I was thinking a couple of days ago, this: I enjoy making liner notes. I love drawing the artwork on them. It’s my holding back of my joy, and *cutting corners from a space of scarcity and lack that reduced my sales, not the quality of my music or performing. (*By the way “Doing your best” is on the list of qualities that attract money, while “Cutting corners” is its opposite.)
We are supposed to be happy. We are supposed to enjoy ourselves in life. That’s why certain things feel good to us, because we’re supposed to do them.
I was thinking yesterday about how I was when I was just starting out as an artist. I was really happy, really free, and really confident in making my CDs. I got into the album art, I enjoyed making the lyrics sheet, I was like a kid playing in the sandbox, not wanting to come in the house for dinner. Just that happy.
I asked myself why I wasn’t happy like that anymore. When had it become just numbers and bitterness and jadedness about the lack of online sales and concert turn-out?
Why was I so sure that following my bliss would indeed yield (eventually) high numbers for me? Why was I so comfortable in that knowing – and completely without doubt or any sense of lack?
It was because I had the physical comfort and stability of gainful employment. I was always comfortably employed full-time at one of a series of bookstores that would be the bulk of my career in retail in Philadelphia.
Because I had plenty of money coming in (I wasn’t rich, but being an Aquarian with a penchant for trash picked and thrift store bought furniture and milk crate everything, I didn’t need much to be happy and comfortable), so I not only easily paid my living expenses, I also had plenty left over to make CDs and go around playing places for fun.
I used to think it was because I was younger that I had more folks coming out to my shows back then. That’s a part of it, I’m sure. But I’m aware that the major thing is energy: I’m out there with an energy of take and not give. And as I’ve learned from busking, which is one of the very best ways to learn the power of the law of attraction, an energy of take repels, while an energy of give attracts. Back then I was excited to perform. I was new to the game. There were coffeehouses, and bookstores and bars and community centers and house parties, and folk venues and Unitarian churches (which were sometimes one and the same), and all sorts of opportunities and invitations to perform, and I enjoyed many of them, because I was new to it and I was living my long-held dream.
If I only made twenty bucks at a gig, I didn’t care, because I had a paycheck. Everything else was extra. Well, that was then. Years went by and I started to feel bad. I started to literally suffer mental anguish (in the form of severe depression) because I wasn’t born to be a bookstore clerk my whole life. I started wanting to become a full time multi-media artist, a performing and recording singer-songwriter-musician and multi-genre publishing author who also acted and did visual arts on occasion. Then I started working towards that. Eventually, I succeeded, but not with financial success or stability, yet. So then, the goal became to be a gainfully and comfortably employed multi-media artist. I’d have spots of windfalls and comforts here and there (Like the $15,000 Leeway Transformation Award I received in 2005, and getting paid upwards of $300, $650, and $750 to perform at higher learning institutions).
The 1990s for me were about me developing a strong desire to become an active, multi-media artist. That’s when I was working at bookstores full time and performing and getting published “on the side” or “in my free time”. The early 2000s were when I became and started fully working as a multi-media artist. That’s when I started community cultural arts events, like the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series (http://WomensWritingSeries.org - Click to read and see pretty pictures about the next event on July 20, featuring Jeanine Hoffman, Angel Rollins, and myself as musical host!) and the Black Women’s Arts Festival (http://BWAFphilly.org - Click to read about the 8th Annual BWAF, happening July 27 – 31 at 3 different venues!). I released several albums of music described as “a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade and Enya” (Steven M. Wilson, Borders Books) http://tinyurl.com/CXCDBaby. I also was published in various anthologies and periodicals (
http://ARTivistPublications.homestead.com, or http://cassEndrExavier.com, click “Writing”) and produced and performed in a 4-cast member play (including theatre artist and spiritual teacher O, cellist/vocalist/lyricist/composer/former BWAF Creative Director Monica McIntyre, and poet Samantha Barrow) for 3 days of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival. But those years were more full of financial famine than of feast, although the creative output was tremendous, inspiring me to coin the term “renaissance negresse” to define myself as an artist most succinctly and clearly.
The next few years are about my balancing my creative output with my financial abundance.
I had begun to rest on my laurels, expecting certain rewards because of my previous years of experience in the arts. But now I have relinquished all of that, because it created an attitude of bitterness that isn’t pretty at all!
I am ready to work for what I want again. I have discipline. I am ready to pay the dues I thought I had already paid. I now know there are new dues all the time, because the dream is always changing and growing. I don’t want for myself alone anymore. I have a family to think of – and by family I mean the initiatives that I’ve created. I want to them to last and grow, and do so without me. So I must do whatever it takes to start getting smart about my business as an ARTrepreneur.
The Black Women’s Arts Festival is very important. It deserves to have someone running it who is well taken care of and able to do good work in a comfortable, relaxed way.
So, wish me luck as I embark upon this new adventure!

I intend to remain disciplined in my intention and focus on my abundance from now on. And I am grateful for the lesson that your response, or lack thereof (unless you went to iTunes and ordered a bunch of 99 cent songs that I won’t know about until I get my royalties a few weeks from now!) taught me: You are not my Source of abundance. Spirit is my Source. God/The Most High/the All that Is/Goddess, etc. And the way to be is joyful. I am back to following my bliss. I get it. And I thank you!

Thank you for your kind attention, as always, and I wish you the very best.

In art and community, and ABUNDANCE,

Cassendre Xavier
renaissance negresse & ARTrepreneur
http://cassEndrExavier.com

Number of times the word “ass” was used in this ediccione, if you will. (As it were.): 1 (Maybe I’ll do better next time :-)

© Copyright 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rightzen reservenitzken.
Permission is granted to reprint this article, in part, or its entirety, provided the following is included: “ME! ME! ME! The Cassendre Xavier Museletter: “Celebrating Abundance” Ediccione. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more info. Please share responsibly.”

6/20 Nikki Powerhouse & Laurie Pollack – Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series

2011-06-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

[Scroll down for feature bios! You're invited to attend in person or watch us from anywhere in the world!]

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series, a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing, presents Nikki Powerhouse & Laurie Pollack!

Monday, June 20, 2011
7pm-9pm, $5 Admission
Moonstone Arts Center
110A S. 13th St (at Sansom)
Philadelphia, PA

Hosted with live music by Cassendre Xavier!

Always includes a Mixed-Gender Open Mic!

Streams LIVE at www.moonstoneartscenter.org, click on the Watch Live button.

Your contribution of $5 or more helps to support the featured readers, the Series, and Moonstone. (No one turned away.)

ABOUT NIKKI POWERHOUSE
Nikki Powerhouse is a native of Philadelphia, PA soil. An actress, playwright, poet, nude figure model and freedom dancer are many of her artistic expressions. She considers herself “commissioned by the ancestors” and is a channel for many characters, ranging from small child to elders, which she plays starkly and convincingly. Nikki began her extensive theater training at the Philadelphia Creative Performing Arts High School, and continued her theater passion at Black Nexxus, Theatre for New Generation, and many theater classes in New York City. Her New York City stage credits includes: Notice Me presented in NYC Fringe Festival, Sex, God, and Heels, Queen Mary of Scotland and Khepera. In Philadelphia she has trained with The New Freedom Theater, and currently in her second year at Community College of Philadelphia and will finish her BFA at Temple University School of Theater Communications. Philadelphia stage credits includes: her one-woman show Fantasy is an Addiction (2005 Philly Fringe Festival), Black Women’s Arts Festival, lead role in Antigone, Seven Guitars, Fences, and Merry Wives of Windsor. Ms. Powerhouse’s flexibility leaves her audiences captivated by each every performance giving true mean to the name: Powerhouse! Contact: NikkiPowerhouse(at)yahoo.com

ABOUT LAURIE POLLACK
Laurie Pollack believes that by creating, we honor, and connect to, the Source of inspiration and creative “fire” and create a more peaceful, gentler world. She honors Brighid, goddess of creativity and healing. She has self-published one book, “Peace Walk”, and is working on a new book, “Musings”, expected to be self-published in 2012. She is the facilitator of The Blank Canvas: a monthly creativity circle/gathering that meets in Delaware County to do creative “stuff” together. She walks for peace every year in Nevada with Nevada Desert Experience and maintains the website for the Delaware County Peace Center. Laurie has recently branched out into collage and is experimenting with several forms of visual arts. She is in love with color in all its forms.
In her “day” job she is a computer programmer for a health related company. Writing and art feed her “right brain” after a day of precise report writing. She lives with her life partner of 16 years, Mary, and two carnivorous cats, Maggie and Kyra, who generously allow her to be vegetarian while under their roof. Contact: webpoet1(at)aol.com

Founded in 2002 by Cassendre Xavier, the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series is a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. For submissions and other information, please visit www.WomensWritingSeries.org

[To see author pics, visit http://tinyurl.com/WWSWS or visit www.MoonstoneArtsCenter.org and click “Calendar” June 20]

ME! ME! ME! CX Museletter “Gifts of Suffering” ediccione

2011-06-07T23:56:00.000-07:00

ME! ME! ME! The Cassendre Xavier Museletter

The “Gifts of Suffering” ediccione, as it were. (If you will.)

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

A) GREETINGS
1) GIFTS OF SUFFERING
2) ORDER STUFF! SEND DONATIONS! PLEASE! THANKS!
3) SOULMATE ATTRACTION FOR THE REST OF US
4) COME SEE ME IN CONCERT!
5) BLACK WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL NEWSLETTER
Z) FAREWELL BLESSING

A) GREETINGS
Hi, there, friends! I am very happy once again to be sharing my life with you via this writing. It is my hope that those of you who are on a similar path of art-making as life-living (okay, that was a strange turn of phrasing, but, hey, it’s late and I’m a quirky one anyway!), that this will help you somehow. If not, simply delete and move along, folks – there’s nothing to see here!
My life is all about gratitude these days. Ever since I read in a book by renowned psychic Linda Georgian that she gives thanks to her migraine headaches as they are happening, and the result is they are lessened and gone sooner, I have been on a gratitude mission even more than usual.
I am grateful for my first active library card in many years. I am addicted to the Mr. Monk novels by Lee Goldberg based on the popular TV series, and as soon as I’m done those, I intend to attack with equal vigor the Diagnosis Murder novels he writes, too. I am grateful for every cool summer day between heat waves, for the friendly dogs in my neighborhood, for the hay fever allergy-healing benefits of local honey made by my friendly neighborhood Amish-operated farmer’s market, I’m even grateful for the occasionally and partially effective drugstore purchases which attempt to bring me ease from the same ailment. I’m grateful for air conditioning and for www.FamilyRadio.com for keeping me company in the wee hours of the day and helping me aim my thoughts on high things, even though I’m not too keen on all their teachings, in particular the prophecies of a certain teacher there whose name needn’t be mentioned constantly, in my opinion.
I’m grateful for lots and lots of things, but time and space are a wastin’...
Most of all I’m grateful right now for your two eyes (at least I hope you have two, and if you don’t, I hope you’re grateful for what you do have and can see with)!

1) GIFTS OF SUFFERING
In my lifelong mission to turn my experiences into art that you, my readers and listeners, can use, part of my job as a performing singer songwriter has become highly challenging in recent weeks and this has caused some, um, “discomfort”, financial and otherwise, on my part. I wrote an essay about it, which will soon be published hither and yon, to, and fro. I thought you might like to read it here:

Gifts of Suffering by Cassendre Xavier

Nationally recognized personal growth coach, spiritual teacher, and New York Times bestselling author Iyanla Vanzant was once a regular feature of the television show “Starting Over”. I remember once watching when she was talking to a Starting Over household and cast member about how to deal with her past. The woman had been abused in her youth and seemed to have a difficult time embracing a more positive present and creating a better future for herself.
Iyanla coached her to talk about her abuse a little bit. Then, she looked deeply into the woman’s eyes, held her hands, and with great compassion said, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry those terrible things happened to you. Is that what you want to hear?” The woman’s face quickly went from contorted in sadness and wet tears to straight, plain, and incredulous. She was listening, and maybe a little startled and embarrassed.

To read more, please visit http://tinyurl.com/CXGOS2011.

2) ORDER STUFF! SEND DONATIONS! PLEASE! THANKS!
Folks, I need your help to get through some particularly challenging times I’ve been having financially in recent weeks. I realize I need to be that blatant and bold (aka “clear and direct”) about asking for help, because that’s what strong people do – ask for help when they need it.
It’s not enough to just affirm my abundance as I do by donating regularly to others.
I donate to and share my resources with folks for three reasons: a) Out of gratitude for the monies I am regularly receiving in my daily performing work from folks who tip my services and buy CDs at performances and to keep the flow going. As I receive, so I also give to receive again, and so on... b) They ask. I get letters, Facebook posts, and more requesting donations from various sources for various reasons. The ones that get my quickest response are from actual realtime associates who happen to be in my Facebook network. For instance, one posted an urgent request for $2. Even though I was struggling myself and had only about $6 in my Paypal account, I right away, minutes after seeing her post, went to Paypal and sent $2 to her. I’ve also given much more here and there, and again, I do it because I receive so much from the universe, of which you are a very vital and appreciated part! c) We are all one. Because I recognize that, and because I receive, I also give, because it’s math. What goes up must come down, and what comes in must go out, or else it will be stagnant, and who wants that? Not me!
Anyway, it occurred to me that one of the reasons I’m having a hard time these days is because I haven’t been doing what my contemporaries do on a regular basis – hittin’ ya up for cash!
I’m supposed to remind you that I’m a full-time self-employed artist and that absolutely every single sale of my CDs, downloads, books, e-books, etc. goes directly to my day to day living costs.
It’s my job to make what I do so irresistible to you that you feel compelled to support my art/work, and therefore life, so I’m working on that.
Because right now I don’t have concert tickets to some cool ass venue, or a brand new CD (because I need to raise production costs first – oy vey!) I must do what I can.
I’ve been paying the bills by performing and selling CDs and chapbooks. I’ve also been receiving income from application/submission and ticket sales to events I produce. Needless to say these haven’t exactly been earth shatteringly high numbers, to say the least, but I am soooooo grateful that I have been able to do what I love (produce events, make art, write, publish my works, basically live a creative life and make a living from sharing my life experiences). Absolutely sooooo lucky and blessed!
It’s my job to make these things attractive to you, and it’s my honor to step up to the challenge.
For now, I am fully experiencing my feelings and putting them in writing, then sharing any lessons I’ve learned with my reading audience.
I intend to continue doing this over the next few weeks, and always include an order form and links of my available works for you to support or consider supporting, and forwarding to any of your writer friends.
I would so appreciate if you could either make a purchase every now and then or make a free will open donation to my Paypal account email address cxmusic(at)gmail.com. This is very simple to do. You just go to www.paypal.com, find the “Send Money” button, and send to: cxmusic(at)gmail.com (replace the “at” with @). Even if it’s just two bucks, trust me, it adds up and makes a difference.
I promise I will continue to be the best artist I can be, share my stories with others, and re-gift a portion of my own income to other performers and authors and artists doing similar work. As a former co-worker of mine used do say, “You know I love to do it!”

Ways you can financially support my art/work, and therefore, life:

CD Baby http://tinyurl.com/CXCDBaby
iTunes http://tinyurl.com/CXiTunes
Lulu http://tinyurl.com/CXatLulu
CX Direct http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com
CX Books & E-Books http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com
Paypal http://paypal.com “Send Money” to cxmusic(at)gmail.com (replace the “at” with “@)
Paper postal mail: Please send a US Postal Money Order payable to Cassendre Xavier, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204

Lastly, I want to so, so, so, so, sooooo thank each and every one of you who regularly help me or have helped me in the past in various ways, financial and otherwise. I appreciate you all so very much. Yes, the tips and CD sales are paramount because my landlord and utility companies don’t accept smiles and hugs :-) but I also appreciate thoughts, prayers, well-wishes, blessings, visualizations, forwarding my emails to your friend(s), and even just your taking the time to read my work is a blessing which I appreciate. It is very often in my mind the time I watched Jill Scott being interviewed in a room of black women while she was getting her hair done. I was looking at her bright and smiling, talented face, and I knew, I just knew and could see and feel all the love and support that she had received not only from those women, but from the women who reared her and from her poetry community and her entire fan base and supporters in Philadelphia who held her up in their psychic arms. Whenever I am blessed in public by someone, I feel that same thing is happening to me, and that someday, people will say, “I used to see that girl playing in the subway.” You are one of those people and I thank you very, very much, not exactly in advance because it’s been happening for years and I have been witnessing the gradual effects of your well-wishes for me! Thanks, and right back atcha!

3) SOULMATE ATTRACTION FOR THE REST OF US

Soulmate Attraction for the Rest of Us by Cassendre Xavier

I’ve been really enjoying lately reading and listening to audio guided meditations of works about manifesting one’s ideal romantic partnership. The two best that I can recommend are the “Soulmate Secret” materials by Arielle Ford, which focus on “using the law of attraction to manifest the love of your life”, and “Attracting Your Soul Mate” a single guided meditation audio download by Sanaya Roman, who channels her spirit guide named Orin. In this single meditation, Orin teaches a powerful method to help you actually reach through space and time to communicate now with your ideal partner of the future. I find it a very peaceful meditation, and I sense that my communications are real and effective. (Complete audio course on “Attracting Your Soul Mate” also available.)
Arielle Ford has successfully used the law of attraction for decades to grow her business and develop a wonderful single life. When, in her 40s, she found herself still single, she decided to apply these laws to manifest the love of her life. Not long after that, at age 44 she met and married her husband of over 12 years, Brian Hilliard.

To continue reading the complete, unedited article and reader comments at Wisdom Magazine, visit http://tinyurl.com/CXsaftrou
To continue reading a very attractive edited version and reader comments at Inner Self Magazine, visit http://tinyurl.com/CXISsaftrou.

4) COME SEE ME IN CONCERT!
Thursday, June 16, 2011 7:00pm FREE! Elixr Coffee, 207 S. 15th St. (between Walnut & Locust) Philadelphia, PA 19102
-----------------------------------------
Monday, June 20, 2011 7pm-9pm $5
The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series presents...
Laurie Pollack and Nikki Powerhouse
Hosted with live music by Cassendre Xavier
Includes Mixed-Gender Open Mic
Streams LIVE at www.MoonstoneArtsCenter.org! (Click "Watch Live")
Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St. (at Sansom St.), Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-735-9598
The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002 at Robin's Bookstore) is a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. For submissions information, our complete calendar, email list sign-up, and more, please visit http://www.WomensWritingSeries.org. SASE to: Women's Writing Series, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.

-----------------------------
Saturday, June 25, 2011 10:30am-12:30pm FREE
Lansdowne Farmer's Market
with David Falcone

Address and link coming soon!
Complete calendar at www.cassEndrExavier.com

5) BLACK WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL NEWSLETTER
Some little girls are born wanting to make humyn babies. Others have a different destiny and later learn to call their projects their “children”. The latest update about my main offspring, if you will, was released just yesterday. (As it were.) Read it at http://bwafphilly.org/news.html

Z) FAREWELL BLESSING
If you’re in Philadelphia, may you daftly manage the coming heat wave this week. It’s about to get hot as ass up in here! But, seriously, folks...

May you constantly find yourself increasing in self-love, and compassion for all living beings.
May you learn to accept that all of life contains painful moments, and that these challenges are necessary and helpful; no one will ever be completely satisfied with all of life. This realization will bring peace and most joy.
May you step by step surround yourself with people who “get” you and love you exactly as you are right now, not when you’ve improved your body or become more “actualized” in your mind.
May you never give up seeking the love your deepest, most innocent self has always known you deserve.
May children and animals like and want to be around you.
May each day bring you closer to your dream life, more peace, and more smiles, more health, and always, big, real LOVE.

Thank you for your continued support of my art/work, and therefore, life. I appreciate YOU!

In art and community,

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls)
renaissance negresse & ARTrepreneur
(musician/writer/visual artist/actress)
http://cassEndrExavier.com

Founder & Director of Philadelphia’s 8th Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival
(Thurs July 28th thru Sun July 31st, 2011) Accepting year-round submissions at http://BWAFphilly.org

Founder & Director of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002)
Accepting year-round submissions at http://WomensWritingSeries.org

-----------------------------------------------------------
Number of times the word “ass” was used: 2. (I’ll do better next time!)

Last call for financial support: If any of the contents of this was helpful or inspiring to you in any way, please place an order at any of the links below, or donate to Payapal (also below). Thank you so very much and see you soon, hopefully! Oh, and please tell your friends!
Ways you can financially support my art/work, and thefore, life:

CD Baby http://tinyurl.com/CXCDBaby
iTunes http://tinyurl.com/CXiTunes
Lulu http://tinyurl.com/CXatLulu
CX Direct http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com
CX Books & E-Books http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com
Paypal http://paypal.com “Send Money” to cxmusic(at)gmail.com (replace the “at” with “@)
Paper postal mail: Please send a US postal money order payable to:
Cassendre Xavier, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204

Copyright (c) 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint is granted provided the passage’s title, author, copyright info, credit, and URL http://www.cassEndrExavier.com are included. Thank you for sharing responsibly!

“You needn’t have a perfect life to have a moment of true appreciation of your life, and having those feelings as often as possible will help make your life more perfect. So, take a moment every day to appreciate and feel really good about all you have.” ~Cassendre Xavier

“Strong people ask for help when they need it.” ~Cassendre Xavier

--------------------------------------------

Want “ME! ME! ME!” in your inbox? Send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

To Unsubscribe: Reply with “Remove” in the subject. I won’t cry, honest. Well, not much, anyway.

Gifts of Suffering by Cassendre Xavier

2011-06-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

Nationally recognized personal growth coach, spiritual teacher, and New York Times bestselling author Iyanla Vanzant was once a regular feature of the television show “Starting Over”. I remember once watching when she was talking to a Starting Over household and cast member about how to deal with her past. The woman had been abused in her youth and seemed to have a difficult time embracing a more positive present and creating a better future for herself.
Iyanla coached her to talk about her abuse a little bit. Then, she looked deeply into the woman’s eyes, held her hands, and with great compassion said, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry those terrible things happened to you. Is that what you want to hear?” The woman’s face quickly went from contorted in sadness and wet tears to straight, plain, and incredulous. She was listening, and maybe a little startled and embarrassed. “You have been waiting all this time for someone to tell you they’re sorry. You want people to acknowledge your pain. I’m doing that now. I’m sorry that happened to you. It’s terrible. But you must let it go and never speak of it again. Never speak of it again.” Well, that threw me for a loop, so I can imagine the woman hearing it was also surprised at this new information.
I started then taking Iyanla’s advice. I, too, started trying to forget about my painful abusive past, and not thinking about. Months and years later I even got into story making as a craft, and creating and recreating the kind of parents and childhood I would’ve liked to have had to become the person I wanted to be. It was very helpful, because in the doing, in the “making believe”, I also realized I actually did have some very good and pleasant things in my childhood and in my parents. I didn’t have to make it all up.
This work is very good to do – to let go of a painful past, and to stop reliving the stories and sadness we sometimes keep bringing up.
But there is something to being truthful about our present sorrows, too.
If in being so focused on “magickal living” and creating a reality based on our desired fantasies and affirmations we forget to sometimes talk about our struggles, we miss out on some important and even helpful experiences.
This happened to me recently when I started having a hard time at a job that had been for some months paying me quite well and meeting several of my basic needs.
I had been enjoying this work, which was a temporary job, and not working hard enough on creating more permanent, and appropriate work. I had also been spending most of my time speaking positively of my financial situation, even though things were usually much more dire than I spoke of, because of the spiritual work and studies I’d done that focused on positive affirmations and speaking “as if”. The books I’d been reading had said to speak of my life as I wanted it to be, and so I did, without lying, just being creative in my speaking. While this did work and I saw their benefits in my well-paying temporary job, I was also missing out on an opportunity to make progress in my permanent business and receive more donations and sales from my audience of fans and customers who often were reminded that my success was largely reliant on their support.
Because of circumstances that arose a few months into my temporary job bliss, I began experiencing difficulties, resistance, and other challenges in my work. Because of the way people around me were responding to how my work was being received by the majority of my customers, my work was beginning to be sabotaged. Now, going to work was no longer pleasant, and because of the sabotage, I was making a third of the income and a third of new customer growth.
The suffering I began experiencing at work was becoming too much for me to be able to creatively and positively speak about. I decided to drop all pretence and just admit to myself and to my audience that I was suffering. As soon as that decision was made, I had some experiences, which turned into lessons I would like to share in hopes that they may help you. Here’s what can happen when you can fully accept, experience, and share your suffering with others:

1) Physically, you may relax. Your shoulders may drop, and you may be able to feel all of your feelings about the circumstance you are in. You may realize then, that you were holding a lot of tension pretending everything was great, or even just okay.

2) You get to really look around and see that you deserve more. You may see that you were selling yourself short by settling for less than you deserve.

3) You can take the opportunity to express gratitude to everyone and everything, including those who were attempting to hurt you. In doing so, you may see things you didn’t see before and learn about yourself and your so-called enemies. Everything and everyone, even if they are hurting you, is a gift if you see at that way and make it one in your life.

4) You may see direct parallels in your present situation and past relationships that link to a possible past painful or traumatic experience. You may have the opportunity to examine what beliefs where created in your past and how you may have been replaying a traumatic experience by not demanding more for yourself. You may discover that you need to, and could heal your past pain by loving yourself more and by giving yourself new beliefs to replace the old.

5) In feeling the pain of your experience, you may use those moments seeking spiritual guidance to direct your next steps. Often, it is in our most challenging moments that the best questions and answers to our deepest life issues arise.

If we face our difficulties with grace, gratitude, and a willingness to honor all of our feelings, if we can combine occasional expressions of pain and sadness with our usual routine of focusing on the positive and speaking our most desired realities into being, we can live a more balanced, whole life, and manifest our dreams and best life ever.

Cassendre Xavier is an award-winning multi-media Haitian and Chinese-American artist. Her latest print and e-books are This is What a Millionaire Looks Like: Inspiring Essays (ARtivist Publications, 2011) Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: A Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal (ARtivist Publications, 2009) her latest CD/download of music (described by Borders Music’s Steven M. Wilson as “a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade and Enya”) is Capable of Love (Serious Creature Music, 2009), and her latest guided meditation recordings Affirmations for Survivors: Self-Love, and Affirmations for Survivors: Spirituality (Amethyste Affirmations, 2007) feature the music of Thaddeus (Sanaya Roman www.orindaben.com). Visit www.cassEndrExavier.com for more information about Cassendre.

Copyright (c) 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint granted as long as "Gifts of Suffering by Cassendre Xavier" appears with the aforementioned copyright date, credit and website www.cassEndrExavier.com are included. Thank you for sharing responsibly!

Soulmate Attraction for the Rest of Us by Cassendre Xavier

2011-05-25T20:04:00.000-07:00

I’ve been really enjoying lately reading and listening to audio guided meditations of works about manifesting one’s ideal romantic partnership. The two best that I can recommend are the “Soulmate Secret” materials by Arielle Ford, which focus on “using the law of attraction to manifest the love of your life”, and “Attracting Your Soul Mate” a single guided meditation audio download by Sanaya Roman, who channels her spirit guide named Orin. In this single meditation, Orin teaches a powerful method to help you actually reach through space and time to communicate now with your ideal partner of the future. I find it a very peaceful meditation, and I sense that my communications are real and effective. (Complete audio course on “Attracting Your Soul Mate” also available.)
Arielle Ford has successfully used the law of attraction for decades to grow her business and develop a wonderful single life. When, in her 40s, she found herself still single, she decided to apply these laws to manifest the love of her life. Not long after that, at age 44 she met and married her husband of over 12 years, Brian Hilliard. The Soulmate Secret teaches basic law of attraction principles, as well as her own unique point of view and gifts of insight from using Feng Shui to various “feelingizations” (her coined phrase) and wonderful advice and techniques for removing blocks, healing and reversing traumas that may have you repeating unhealthy patterns in your love relationships.
As I was studying and meditating on the Soulmate Secret materials, something began bugging me a little bit. I noticed I was having some resistance to the repeated mention of the “one true love” model. In all of Arielle’s anthologies (including her popular Hot Chocolate series, in the style of Chicken Soup for the Soul...) she has been wonderfully diverse in including stories from same-gender-loving folks. In the Soulmate Secret, Ford stresses that everyone, absolutely everyone, can have a wonderful love life and partner, if they believe they can. And that is the key, they need to believe it. Ford says that no matter what your age, build, or financial status, you can have the love of your life. Gay or straight, disabled or able-bodied, thin or fat, rich or poor, you can have the love of your life.
Reading that made me feel good as a late bloomer, and I started getting into the flow of the Soulmate Secret teachings. Where I started to get stuck was maybe about the 30th mention of having one partner for the rest of your life. At first, I took this resistance to mean I needed to expand my capacity for joy – that I hadn’t yet wrapped my mind around having a “healthy” relationship, and that this discomfort was a sign I needed to look at and change my mind, feelings, and expectations. But, when I explored this further, over several weeks, I realized something: I didn’t want what Arielle and many of her contributors wanted. Well, I wanted most things: a loving, caring partner who was self-caring and was also well caring of me, someone kind, with whom I felt safe, trusting, and cherished. I wanted those things. What I didn’t want was monogamy. I have been polyamorous my entire adult dating life. All of my relationships, with the exception of 6 short experimental months in one long-term relationship, have been open. And this opened a wide door of possibility and acceptance for me.
Yes, you absolutely can have what you want. But you have to be clear on it, decide it for yourself in your mind and in your heart, and you have to say it out loud and write it down and dwell on it and wear the energy of it, and live as if you have it and be it until you have it on the physical plane. You don’t just look at what everyone else is doing and ignore inner signs that those things may not be for your. Listen to your inner self and go where you’re led. Obey your yearnings, passions, and desires.
The Soulmate Secret gave a few examples of this: Arielle’s list of characteristics her ideal mate would have included gray hair. She had never been attracted to men with gray hair before, but something told her to write this down, and she did. Brian turned out to not only have gray hair, but it had turned gray in his 20s.
Another example of admitting to yourself and to your manifestation exercises was a woman who created a beautiful mandala of her ideal mate. Each color represented a different trait. At the very end of her exercise, she wanted to include that “he has a cute butt”. She immediately admonished herself for being what she called “shallow”, but spiritually felt compelled to continue, so she did add the “cute butt” color to her soulmate manifestation mandala. When her future soulmate walked away after their first, and excellent date, guess what she noticed? If you guessed, “That he had a cute butt?” you are correct!
I have a theory of attraction. I believe that when we want something, it is somewhere not too far from us (spiritually) wanting us, too. The reason Arielle thought to write “gray hair” was because Brian was not far away wanting a mate just like Arielle, and his call reached out to her and she felt it. She picked up the imprint of his signal and began to piece together the map they would travel to meet in the middle of.
Unlike Arielle who didn’t happen to have a gray-haired-guy fetish, I believe the woman whose guy had the cute butt had actually always had a thing for cute butts. But here’s what about that particular story really jumped out at me and confirmed for me the need for us to be true to our passionate selves, and honest about our specific desires: I don’t care about “cute” butts! I am not a butt person at all. In fact, I have always liked the opposite of “cute butts”. I like when baggy jeans hang on a guy and he’s completely flat back there. To me that is so manly and sexy! See? That’s why it was so important for Cute Butt Lady to speak her dream, because her dreamy Cute Butt Guy was out there for her – specifically for her, who would dig his “Cute Butt” and not me, because I couldn’t care less!
I love standing in line at street vendors’ carts and listen to people order their food. Everyone orders their food differently than the person behind them, and everyone is a serious and passionate about their food being prepared just right. That’s how it is in all of life. We all are wired to want exactly what we what, exactly how we want it, and it’s out there – we can have it!
Know what you like, be honest about it, and go for it, knowing that it is out there waiting for and reaching out to you. If you want to manifest not one but three ideal mates to either be involved with together or individually, go for it. They’re looking for you. If you want to be married to one person but travel the world part-time and have other lovers, go for it. If you want to have a lasting, trusting, safe relationship within the context of a kinky/BDSM relationship, go for it. If you want to have several commitment ceremonies of mixed spiritual traditions, a skyclad, Goddess-focused handfasting in the forest, or one completely atheist celebration in a Scottish castle, you can create that. The universe expands when we all live our dreams, and seek our deepest joys. As Arielle states, healthy, wonderful love isn’t just for some people but for everyone, and that includes those of us who have always been on the edge of the mass culture – lightworkers, LGBT, kinky, polyamorous, bohemian, artistic, spiritually eclectic rebels of society’s norms. We are worthy of the same kind of wonderful, lasting love accessible to everyone else, and we can make a choice to believe that and become it.

About the author: Cassendre Xavier is an award-winning, multi-media arts performer and organizer based in Philadelphia. She has released several recordings of original music described as “a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade and Enya” (Steven M. Wilson, Borders Music), had her multi-genre writing published internationally, and is the founder and director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (est. 2003). Visit www.cassEndrExavier.com for more information.

How to Love a Girl – a Cassendre Xavier Museletter

2011-05-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Greetings, folks!

Just wanted to remind you that I’ll be hosting (reading and performing live music at) the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series tomorrow, Wed, May 18, at Moonstone Arts Center, 110A South 13th St (at Sansom St), Philadelphia, 7pm. Featured readers will be Jesse White and Lee ScottLorde. $5 admission.

Jesse White is an Expressionistic painter, writer and altered book artist. Conveying emotion through themes of love, loss and spirit, her writing is deeply personal, honest and often raw. She finds creating to be both restorative and spiritual. Jesse teaches the process of cathartic art making through her organization, Pigeon Arts. A Leeway Foundation grant awardee, she has facilitated her workshops with the Trans community, teen writing groups, spiritual communities, youth survivors/witnesses of domestic violence and murder, adults with chronic illnesses, and the general public. Contact: Jesse(at)pigeon-arts.com

Lee ScottLorde says: “I am a Temple University bred performance poet who has been writing poetry for the last 13 years, and professionally performing for two. I write now for the same reasons I began: to inform, entertain, liberate, and give a voice that will destroy the silences that bind and render us invisible. Poetry is so many things; political, romantic, spiritual or religious, and therapeutic. For me, poetry is an extension of living, and time. In a poem, I have the honor of experiencing every moment again and again, be it pleasurable and joyous or hard and mournful, just as I, he, or she, felt in that moment. In a poem one can even write to change history. It’s makes tangible the statement “If I could I would…” because in poetry you and I can. However dreaming and speaking it is only the first step. We too must live out our words. Currently I am in the process of establishing Sweethearts For Charity, a nonprofit bakery, that will fund-raise to support organizations and causes that aid undeserved populations in Philadelphia and writing my first book of poetry, Lopsided Warrior: The Silent Battle of Motherhood.” Contact: Lee.ScottLorde(at)gmail.com

Hosted with live music by Cassendre Xavier! Always includes a Mixed-Gender Open Mic! Streams LIVE at www.moonstoneartscenter.org, click on the Watch Live button. Founded in 2002 by Cassendre Xavier, the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series is a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. For submissions and other information, please visit www.WomensWritingSeries.org.

=========================================
Also,

Thursday, May 19, 2011 6:00pm FREE! I’ll be singing at Elixr Coffee, an acclaimed espresso joint in Center City. 207 S 15th St. (at Walnut), Philadelphia, PA 19102

==========================================

How to Love a Girl
[My friend Alisa Raymond sent me this. I asked if I could share it. She said yes, so I'm forwarding it to you all. Please feel free to share it, following the permissions info at the end of the article. Thank you and enjoy!]

How to Love a Girl Who Hates the Skin She’s In by Alisa Raymond

1. Tell her to stop apologizing for her body. tell her sorry's are serious things and she shouldn't go wasting them.

2. Tell her she's beautiful.she is unlikely to ever believe you but just hearing it will bring that crooked smile to her face.

3. Undress her when you're in bed together.she will fight you tooth and nail because she hates the body that she ended up with, let her know its not as bad as she makes it out to be, but don't ever lie and say its not bad at all, she'll resent you for that.

4. Kiss the soft, loose skin that remains where so many pounds used to be. don't stop when you feel her cringe or when she says "you don't have too" she's just exorcising her own ghost's that have been haunting her for years. Assure her that "you ain't afraid of no ghosts" and help her rid her house of them.

5. If you're serious about loving her,love all of her, unconditionally, from her barely there hair follicles to the tips of her always pedicured toes and everything in between. She may not look like the girl you always dreamed of laying next too but she has the heart and the everything else of the girl you want to wake up to everyday for the rest of your life, and keep in mind, dream girl will be old and grey one day and the one thing that drew you to her will have faded. Stick with the girl who has heart.The heart has staying power.

6. Understand when she insists on only making love when its dark. Don't ask that the lights be on, or candles be lit. Learn every inch of her body in the pitch black like braille, let the fire you start inside of her be all the light that you need.

7. Tell her you like her better without her wig. tell her it's because she's relaxed and more herself. tell her she's beautiful regardless but her comfortable and beautiful trumps any other way.

8. Tell her she has sexy collarbones or wrists.pick a piece of her that wasn't ruined by the surgery and pay extra attention to it. let her own these sexy parts of her like some people do their entire bodies. help her be proud of a small portion of the body she's ashamed of. make her understand that we're all made up of pieces, some bad some good, but either way we need them all for our puzzles to make any sense.

9. Let her know that when she constantly makes negative comments about her body that it hurts you too, that it feels like she is trying to convince you that she is too hideous to be loved and that your love no matter how great will never be good enough. tell her it feels like she is pushing you away, also tell her that the way she obsessively critiques and puts down every inch of her makes you think that she is doing the same to you. That she is silently judging all of your parts while she loudly presides over her own.

10. Hold her hand and keep her busy, because when she's bored she binges and binging inevitably leads to purging whether its an accident or not. There's a tornado of emotion inside this girl that no amount of food will quell,but she can't stop trying, she's a storm chaser. Rescue her from the fingers that mud slide down her throat, from her eyes that burn brush fires into her ruined skin, from her mind that makes her believe her body is a tragedy. Be her disaster relief.

To post comments, please visit: http://tinyurl.com/5vzl6ps
(Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2011/05/how-to-love-girl-who-hates-skin-shes-in.html)

Thanks for your time and attention, everyone,

Cassendre Xavier
Suburban Station's "Subway Siren" Since 2005
"A cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade, and Enya" –Steven M. Wilson, Borders Music
http://tinyurl.com/CXiTunes
http://tinyurl.com/CXCDBaby
http://tinyurl.com/CXYouTube
Newly updated website! http://cassEndrExavier.com

How to Love a Girl Who Hates the Skin She's In, by Alisa Raymond

2011-05-17T18:04:00.000-07:00

[My friend Alisa Raymond sent me this. I asked if I could share it. She said yes, so I'm forwarding it to you all. Please feel free to share it, following the permissions info at the end of the article. Thank you and enjoy!]

My poetry mentor gave us a writing prompt to write instructions on how to love yourself.i wrote it this week and won my first slam with it last night i thought i would share it with you..

(for those of you who don't know 2 years ago I was 486 lbs. during that time i had an illness that caused me to lose most of my hair so i wear a wig.also because of the fact that i lost 312 lbs so rapidly my skin is very loose and looks terrible.i'm grateful for my health but the way my body turned out is a constant source of shame for me. i'm working on those feelings.this poem helped a lot. I started it in april but it was very emotionally draining so i put it on the back burner. I finished it today. it took so long because its pretty damn hard to write instructions on something you haven't yet figured out how to do yourself.)

How to Love a Girl Who Hates the Skin She’s In
by Alisa Raymond

1. tell her to stop apologizing for her body. tell her sorry's are serious things and she shouldn't go wasting them.

2. Tell her she's beautiful.she is unlikely to ever believe you but just hearing it will bring that crooked smile to her face.

3. Undress her when you're in bed together.she will fight you tooth and nail because she hates the body that she ended up with, let her know its not as bad as she makes it out to be, but don't ever lie and say its not bad at all, she'll resent you for that.

4. Kiss the soft, loose skin that remains where so many pounds used to be. don't stop when you feel her cringe or when she says "you don't have too" she's just exorcising her own ghost's that have been haunting her for years. Assure her that "you ain't afraid of no ghosts" and help her rid her house of them.

5. If you're serious about loving her,love all of her, unconditionally, from her barely there hair follicles to the tips of her always pedicured toes and everything in between. She may not look like the girl you always dreamed of laying next too but she has the heart and the everything else of the girl you want to wake up to everyday for the rest of your life, and keep in mind, dream girl will be old and grey one day and the one thing that drew you to her will have faded. Stick with the girl who has heart.The heart has staying power.

6. Understand when she insists on only making love when its dark. Don't ask that the lights be on, or candles be lit. Learn every inch of her body in the pitch black like braille, let the fire you start inside of her be all the light that you need.

7. Tell her you like her better without her wig. tell her it's because she's relaxed and more herself. tell her she's beautiful regardless but her comfortable and beautiful trumps any other way.

8. Tell her she has sexy collarbones or wrists.pick a piece of her that wasn't ruined by the surgery and pay extra attention to it. let her own these sexy parts of her like some people do their entire bodies. help her be proud of a small portion of the body she's ashamed of. make her understand that we're all made up of pieces, some bad some good, but either way we need them all for our puzzles to make any sense.

9. Let her know that when she constantly makes negative comments about her body that it hurts you too, that it feels like she is trying to convince you that she is too hideous to be loved and that your love no matter how great will never be good enough. tell her it feels like she is pushing you away, also tell her that the way she obsessively critiques and puts down every inch of her makes you think that she is doing the same to you. That she is silently judging all of your parts while she loudly presides over her own.

10. Hold her hand and keep her busy, because when she's bored she binges and binging inevitably leads to purging whether its an accident or not. There's a tornado of emotion inside this girl that no amount of food will quell,but she can't stop trying, she's a storm chaser. Rescue her from the fingers that mud slide down her throat, from her eyes that burn brush fires into her ruined skin, from her mind that makes her believe her body is a tragedy. Be her diaster relief.

Permission granted to reprint, as long as the content is not altered (grammatical/spelling corrections okay), and credit is listed as: Copyright 2011 by Alisa Raymond. All rights reserved.

rainbowimmin newsletter (dinner/concert Sun 4/10!)

2011-04-06T16:42:00.000-07:00

rainbowimmin newsletter: for womyn-loving-womyn of all colours in Greater Philadelphia

(a Cassendre Xavier Enterprise)

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Table of Contents....

1) GREETING
2) RAINBOWIMMIN UPDATE
3) NEXT RAINBOWIMMIN EVENT
4) BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!
5) CREDITS AND OTHER PLUGGERY DEVICERY UNITS (AKA “SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTION”)
6) FAREWELL BLESSING

Contents of Table...

1) GREETING
Dear wimminfolk!
I trust this letter finds you doing well :-)
I am thrilled to announce that for the first time in over 7 years, rainbowimmin is having an event and this release is also its first newsletter in a very long time!

2) RAINBOWIMMIN UPDATE
For years, I waited for “someone” or group to approach me to take over rainbowimmin, but no one ever did. I am no longer waiting and have decided to let go of the typical newsletter and/or event production model and simply find things I’d like to attend and post them as events. This reminds me that was the original idea and functioning of rainbowimmin to begin with – funny how as we “grow” we solo/ARTrepreneurs sometimes feel pressured to mimic other business models. We don’t have to do that. We can just do what makes us happy!

3) NEXT RAINBOWIMMIN EVENT
Gaye Adegbalola in concert!
Gaye was a long-standing member of Saffire: Uppity Blues Women (including blues piano-playing singer Ann Rabson, whom I had the pleasure of twice sharing the stage with).
Gaye is one of the first well-known singers to come out as a womon-loving-womon in the early 1990s, well before k.d. lang, Melissa Etheridge, and Janis Ian did, and for those of us black chyks who are always looking for examples of ourselves, Gaye is also melanin-enriched! You can learn more about her at www.GayeAdegbalola.com.
She will be performing at the esteemed acoustic listening venue the Psalm Salon, located in the Overbrook area of Philadelpia (accessible to SEPTA’s Thorndale/Paoli regional rail, and buses G and 65 among others.)

Further details:

Gaye Adegbalola sings at the Psalm Salon
Sunday April 10, 2011
8:00pm
Tickets $22 in advance (includes $2 service fee)
Psalm Salon
5841 Overbrook Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19131
215-477-7578
www.PsalmSalon.com

4) BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!
For those of you who would like to meet and much before the show, I and a few of my friends will be meeting at a nearby restaurant before the concert. You’re welcome to join us, as this is an official rainbowimmin event. So, you’re actually very much wanted there!

rainbowimmin dinner (before Gaye Adegbalola’s Psalm Salon concert)
Sunday April 10, 2011
6:00pm
Saffron Indian Kitchen
145 Montgomery Avenue
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Ph. 484-278-4112
Ph. 484-278-4113
www.saffronofphilly.com (Please note their homepage shows their city as being “Ambler”, but that is incorrect. They are indeed in Bala Cynwyd. But you don’t have to take my word for it – call them if you want more confirmation!)

RSVP requested: Please email rainbowimmin(at)yahoo.com if you plan on coming. Thanks!

5) CREDITS AND OTHER PLUGGERY DEVICERY UNITS (AKA “SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTION”)
rainbowimmin newsletter & events is a project of Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls). Cassendre, as she prefers to be called, is an award-winning multi-media artist and community/arts organizer who coined the term “renaissance negresse” in 2002.
Between a whole lot of naps, dates, tomfoolery, malarkey, and shenanigans, Cassendre is the founder, director, and, where applicable, multi-media performing host of the following, which are all projects of Cassendre Xavier Enterprises:

Serious Creature Music (Indie record label, established in 1994). Musical projects: http://www.Cdbaby.com/artist/cassEndrExavier. Guided meditations: http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE.

ARtivist Publications (Small press, established in 1995): Multi-genre feminist writing (mostly spiritual, uplifting, overall health-related, and humorous) with a black, New Age, eclectic pagan, sexy, LGBT-friendly slant. http://artivistpublications.homestead.com.

The Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series (Established 2002), a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. Monthly reading at Moonstone Arts Center/Robin’s Books, in Center City, Philadelphia, featuring 2 female readers, and always including a Mixed-Gender Open Mic. Streams live, and only $5 Admission! Schedule and submissions: http://WomensWritingSeries.org.

Black Women’s Arts Festival (Established in 2003) Philadelphia’s 8th Annual - Thursday July 28th thru Sunday July 31sth, 2011 at multiple venues including the Rotunda, Moonstone Arts Center, and Big Marble Bookstore. Submissions and other information, such as how I can assist you in producing a BWAF in your neck of the woods, at http://www.BWAFphilly.org.

6) FAREWELL BLESSING
May you stay true to yourself in all ways.
May you continue to seek, be, and find community.
May you celebrate your life and all its joys.
May you receive all your heart’s desires, surpassing all your expectations – this, or something better, and may it be for the good of all.

~Cassendre

CONTACT US
Join the mailing list by sending a blank email to: rainbowimmin-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. After you send this email, please add to your Contacts/Safe list: rainbowimmin AT yahoo.com (remove spaces and “At” – add @).
Email us (no events, please): rainbowimmin(at)yahoo.com
Visit our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rainbowimmin
Please, NO calls, texts, or emails to any other address other than what is listed here. Help a busy gal keep on the saner side of things, will ya? Thanks!

(c) 2011 by Cassendre Xavier Enterprises. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com.

ME! ME! ME! CX Museletter “Joy at the Psalm 4/2”

2011-04-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

ME! ME! ME! A Cassendre Xavier Museletter
The “Joy at the Psalm 4/2” ediccione, if you will. (As it were.)
Friday, April 1, 2011

A) GREETING
1) I WANNA BE ON THE MERV GRIFFIN SHOW!
2) SINGING WITH RUPERT WATES!
3) DID YOU SEE ME ON THE “COMPUTER TV” LAST NIGHT?
4) BUYING TICKETS IN ABSENTIA
5) BLAH BLAH BLAH, AND DUELING FOR GUMMI BEARS
Z) FAREWELL BLESSING

A) GREETING
Howdy, folkseses! How’s it goin’?
Fine, here. I loves me some overcast/rain so I’ve been pretty tickled these last few days, but it’s challenging because the general population doesn’t feel so much enamored of this weather. I’ve gotta hear rain being slandered hither and yon most of the time when it rains and I’m tired of it, iffn’ ya wanna know the truth!
But Moi digresseth (aka “digressifieth”):
I am here to share a story:

1) I WANNA BE ON THE MERV GRIFFIN SHOW!
So I’m busking the other day (Google it) and a new CX music appreciator stopped by to say how much he enjoyed my CD. He said, “You should be on...” and proceeded to list the latest talk shows. I responded, “Funny, ‘cause when you said that, the first thought I had was “Merv Griffin”. And he said, “Ohhhh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were that old!” High-larious! I thought about it later and realized why I had thought of Merv Griffin. Why had I gone so far back in my TV watchin’ experience? Surely, I have watched many shows, from Jimmy Kimmel to Craig Ferguson and so forth. I realized that Merv Griffin’s show was what I watched in my formative years as budding musician. I was coming home from school and watching his show, dreaming of the day I’d play that, or a similar stage. I merged myself with Diana Ross (later to be Sade, as most black female singers dream of being/like), for some reason always a huge ‘fro, and lights – always lights. I watched the Merv Griffin show, enjoying his curious combination of gaydar-alarming behavior and chyk-flirt-with-ism. He had chemistry with Zsa Zsa Gabor, dahling, and I thrilled when the always outrageous Grace “Grapes” Jones said, “Would you like a black lipstick kiss?” and planted one before I could squeal, “Omigod, a black woman is kissing a white guy on TV!!!” How far we have come, my friends. How far we have come.
But where was I??
Oh, yeah, some deud said I was old. But I am forever young at heart, so there!
Guess what I’m doing tomorrow?

2) SINGING WITH RUPERT WATES!
Saturday, April 2, 2011 8PM - $16/Advance, $20/Door
I'll be singing with Rupert Wates at The Psalm Salon, 5841 Overbrook Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19131, 215-477-7578 www.PsalmSalon.com . Rupert Wates online www.BiteMusicLimited.com, www.RupertWatesMusic.com, www.MySpace.com/RupertWates
I am so busy I haven’t taken the time to tell you this:
Rupert rocks. He is my friend and you should go because he’s a superb songwriter. I met him in NY in 2009. We’ve been friends ever since and I’m one of the many singers on his acclaimed project Joe’s Cafe. This is an album based on true stories of the American dust bowl era, whatever that is. History and geography are not so much my thing, but music? You’re damn skippy, and those songs are GOOD. I sing track 6 “Snow in New York” and it’s been getting play all over the world. Rupert and various musicians have performed this album live numerous times, culling local singers whenever he is able. I’ve sung with him in New York’s Metropolitan Room and now tomorrow.
Please know that you can watch the show live tomorrow from wherever you are, then anytime for free, because it’s archived!!! www.ustream.tv/channel/live-at-the-psalm-salon

3) DID YOU SEE ME ON THE “COMPUTER TV” LAST NIGHT?
If you missed our show last night at Ray Naylor’s, it also is archived. Visit the following link for details: CX singing with Rupert Wates on Ray Naylor's UStream internet show "Artists You Should Know About" www.RayNaylor.net
Incidentalment, Ray invited me to be his featured guest in autumn, so I’ll be sure to let you know about that rockin’ segment when it is schedulified (aka “scheduliated”).

I am very impressed with all this live streaming business. Another way cool idea is...

4) BUYING TICKETS IN ABSENTIA
The great Toshi Reagon (www.ToshiReagon.com) gave me the idea when around 2008 I noticed she not only hardcore plugs her shows (I didn’t have a naturally occurring need to use the beloved word “ass” in this newsletter, so of course I took the opportunity to put the word “plug” next to the word “hardcore”. See? I does what I cans :-), but she also encourages folks to buy tickets even if they couldn’t make it. A grand idea, that, being that she being a typical Aquarian (such as Yorz Trooli) has a wide breadth of fannery (aka “fannage”). Twixt MySpace, Facebook, and the newfangled Twitterocity, one has the capacity to have appreciators all across this green, green globe of ours. If someone in Arkansas wants to support our work, they can, simply by buying a ticket from afar.
And you can make your gift go further if you buy the ticket(s), then notify the venue that you’d like the ticket reserved for the artist you are supporting. Then we can offer those tickets to people we barter services with, or with human services organizations, such as homeless shelters. I’ve been at events before wherein some of the attendees were the recipients of such gifts. It’s a grand idea. $16 (the advance price of the Rupert Wates tickets) is not such a high number for most people, and it would do a great service to Rupert and us, as we not only fill seats but sell tickets for the venue as well. And the more people who appear, the more who are likely to either purchase CDs of the artists(s) or become fans.

5) BLAH BLAH BLAH, AND DUELING FOR GUMMI BEARS
Last thing, and I know I should’ve covered this in the “just the facts” section (the beginning), but the singers who will be with Rupert tomorrow: J.D. Malone, Craig Bickhardt, Gina (sorry, don’t know her last name), Stacey Lorin Merkl and myself, will not only be singing 2-3 songs of Ruperts, but in the 1st set, we will be performing our own songs – one each.
So, come to the show, watch us do our thing – what we were born to do. If you can’t be there, buy a ticket, or more than one ticket. Support the arts, and the arts will support you. Or something, I dunno. I’m bummed because I thought I was going to busk today, being a Friday and the 1st of the month and all, I thought it would’ve been a great day to do that, but alas, I may have missed my opportunity writing this here love letter to you good people. But it’s all good, as my people say (they do say that, you know. They really do! What? You dare to dispute me? You wanna take it outside huh? Fine. You take it outside. I’ll wait here and not pursue this matter any further as I really do prefer to avoid confrontation. So go ahead and put your little white glove back on, buddy, because I will NOT duel you, okay? Well, I mean, not unless by “duel”, you mean having a contest to see who can eat the most Gummi bears. ‘Cause that I could do. Seriously. And you wouldn’t have a chance. You’d be all cryin’ on your way home. Waaaaaah! Yep. That’s what you would sound like, ya jive turkey. Don’t get me started! Now where was I? Oh yeah!)
I shall do some writing and much needed napcatchuppage (aka “napcatchuppery”)!

Hope to see you tomorrow or at some future CX show.
Rock on with yourself that is oh so very, very....GOOD!
P.S. I just realized what I can do....practice for tomorrow show! Duh! :-)
P.P.S. And I have a hunch there might be some rewards for avoiding great numbers of people on a day notoriously known as “April Fool’s”, although it’s not nearly as ominous as “Mischief Night” :-)

Z) FAREWELL BLESSING
May you feel the glory and fullness of Life at every moment.
May you notice when you have a negative thought, and without judgment, put a positive thought next to it.
May you muster up the gumption to say the L word more often (love, love, love).
May you make loving yourself your top priority.
May this year harmoniously and joyfully bring you all your heart’s desires, surpassing all your expectations – this, or something better, and may it be for the good of all. And so it is.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Make yourself a beautiful day!

In art and community,

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls)
renaissance negresse (musician, writer, visual artist, actress)
http://www.cassEndrExavier.com

Founder, Curator and Musical Host of the Women's Writing & Spoken Word
Series (Est. 2002) http://WomensWritingSeries.org (Next event: Wednesday, April 20, 2011 streaming LIVE from the Moonstone Arts Center, and featuring The Ignant Intellectual, and Brooke Strauss! $5 includes Mixed-Gender Open Mic!)

Founder & Director of Philadelphia's Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003) http://BWAFphilly.org (Next event: Thursday, July 28th thru Sunday, July 31st, 2011 at the Rotunda, Moonstone Arts Center, Big Blue Marble Bookstore! Mid Submissions April 1 thru May 1!)

Ó 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rightsen reservenitzhken. www.cassEndrExavier.com.
Number of times the word “ass” appeared in this writing: 1. (I’ll do better next time :-)
To unsubscribe: Reply with “Remove” in the subject.
To subscribe: Send blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoo.com.

CX’s “Millionaire” Release Sunday 3/20 @ 3pm in Philly!

2011-03-19T21:14:00.001-07:00

Greetings, Folks!

First, I want to share this with you, “Let us join together and hold light for the world
during times such as these.” – http://www.orindaben.com. Please visit that website for more ways you can help, wherever you are. Thanks! And now, to our regularly scheduled thingiemajobbie:
I hope you’re enjoying the weekend so far! I didn’t want to say anything until it was fully, really, totally, and completely done-done-done, so as not to getten zie hopsen up, but I just released my first chapbook since 2005!
Whoo-hoo!!
Mon, Tues, and Wed of last week, I compiled materials for two (2) chapbooks. Thurs night I met with a friend to do the layout, and we finished it just under our 3 hour timeframe.
Friday, I took the thumbdrive to Staples, where they printed a few for me to have that night. And Saturday, I picked up more copies to bring with me at my
Reading with the divine Janet Mason at Big Blue Marble Bookstore, Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 3pm! BBM is at 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119, their website is www.BigBlueMarbleBooks.com. The event is FREE, and there will be an open reading to follow!
------------------------------------------
About Janet Mason:
Philadelphia poet and author Janet Mason will be reading from her recently published novel Hitching To Nirvana, a novel of midlife and adolescence (Cycladic Press) is now available online and also from bookstores. Poet Maria Fama describes Hitching... as " 'experimental' in the best sense of the word. The writing takes chances that lead to a greater understanding of class, gender, mythology, love, friendship, and family." Visit Janet at amusejanetmason.com.
------------------------------------------------
My chapbook is called “This is What a Millionaire Looks Like: Inspiring Essays” – a Curious BooklingÔ by Cassendre Xavier. I am very happy with it for various reasons, including the fact that it’s my first full color on white background chapbook cover. I will have copies of “Millionaire” with me at the BBM reading.
Today I spent about 5 hours updating lots of online CX ordering thingies.
If you’re too far away to attend the event and would like a chapbook, you can do so by ordering at http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com. You can also order “Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal” in print and e-book format. (“Millionaire” will be available in e-book format within the next 2 weeks or so.) You can also print out the mail order form and mail it in postal-like with a check or money order, you know, just like the good ol’ days :-)
I am tha-rilled to report that I have updated http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com to include all of my available full-length musical and guided meditations CDs. All of them! You can order one musical CD for $12, or two for $20. You can order a guided meditation CD for $15 or two for $25. And you can either pay online or mail in a check. So many options, so many opportunities for you to participate in the generous universe’s support the creative livelihood of the renaissance negresse :-)
All for now, folks. I’ve got still a few things to do before getting some of that sweet, sweet shut-eye.

Wishing the best for ye n’ yern,

Cassendre Xavier
renaissance negresse
“She Who Nappeth”
www.cassEndrExavier.com

-------------------And below is my long-ass writer’s bio iffn’ any of you care :-) -------
In addition to her work as a prolific and recording singer-songwriter-guitarist described as “a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade & Enya (Steven M. Wilson, Borders Books & Music), “renaissance negresse” Cassendre Xavier is also a visual artist, actress, and a multi-genre writer. Her poems and essays have been described as “snappy” and “redeeming” (Karen Gross, Philadelphia City Paper) and been published in national anthologies including When Falls the Coliseum: A Journal of American Culture Or Lack Thereof (Free Reign Press) and We’Moon: Gaia Rhythms for Womyn (Mother Tongue Ink). She self-published several periodicals and chapbooks and has served as editor of Labyrinth-the Philadelphia Women’s Newspaper, and judge of two poetry contests (Barnes & Noble and Giovanni’s Room Bookstore). As a playwright and director, she produced the 5-castmember play Sex for Survivors, which ran for three days in the Philadelphia Fringe Festival. She currently is a columnist for Wisdom Magazine, and
released the print/e-book Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal. She is the founder and director of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series at Robin’s Books/Moonstone (Est. 2002 www.WomensWritingSeries.org) and the Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003 www.BWAFphilly.org), respectively. Cassendre is a recipient of the Transformation Award from the Leeway Foundation for her work in art and change. For the latest news about Cassendre, and her schedule of appearances, visit www.cassEndrExavier.com.
--------------------
Number of times the word “ass” was used in this writing: 1. Sorry, folks. I’ll do better next time :-)

To subscribe, send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
To unsubscribe, reply with “Remove” in the subject. Much obligiated.

3/9 Lynne Rabchuk & Maleka Fruean – Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series

2011-03-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series presents Lynne “Inner Light” Rabchuk & Maleka Fruean

Hosted with live music by Cassendre Xavier!

Always includes Mixed-Gender Open Mic!

Wednesday, March 9, 2011
7pm
$5 Admission
Moonstone Arts Center
110A S. 13th Street (at Sansom St)
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-735-9598
Streaming LIVE at http://www.MoonstoneLIVE.com!

ABOUT LYNNE “INNER LIGHT” RABCHUK
Born and raised in the big-small-town that is Philly, Inner Light managed to adopt a worldview that enables her to identify as a human being living on earth. Now, in her thirties (which she considers her second puberty) she is having much more fun being a grown up kid. Inner Light started writing poetry while going through a depression in high school. Though mostly unstudied in the art, she continued practicing her therapeutic craft even after moving beyond that dark period, in order to share her Inner Light with you, with the intention of inspiring hope and thought in others. Check out her newest blog www.pollyannaponderings.tumblr.com or email her at iaminnerlight(at)hotmail.com

ABOUT MALEKA FRUEAN
Maleka Fruean was born in Western Samoa, grew up in New Jersey, and became an adult in Philly. She's a mama, writer, artist, events coordinator, and aspiring activist. She's read her poetry in tea houses, festivals, communal houses, and bookstores all throughout Philadelphia. She recently had her first piece of flash fiction published.

ABOUT THE HOST
Cassendre Xavier coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002 to describe her identity as a black female multi-media artist. She is a first generation American born, Brooklyn, NY native of Haitian and Chinese heritage who has worked as a musician, mult-genre writer and community cultural arts organizer in Philadelphia since 1991. Her 6 independently-released musical recordings are described as "a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade and Enya" (Borders Music Expert, Steven M. Wilson). She also creates spoken word guided meditation and affirmation recordings under the name Amethyste Rah and erotic writing under the name Amrita Waterfalls. The founder and director of the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series as well as Philadelphia's Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003, www.BWAFphilly.org), Cassendre is a recipient of a Transformation Award from the Leeway Foundation, which funds women and trans artists creating social change. For more information about Cassendre, please visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

ABOUT THE SERIES
The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series is a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. The Series was established in 2002 at Robin's Bookstore, now Moonstone Arts Center/Robins Books, by and in collaboration with Cassendre Xavier Enterprises. All are welcome to attend and participate in the Series' Mixed-Gender Open Mic. For submissions information, our complete calendar, email list sign-up, and more, please visit http://www.WomensWritingSeries.org (Submissions link: http://WomensWritingSeries.eventbrite.com). SASE (self-addressed, stamped envelope) to: Women's Writing Series, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.

CX Sings Cash/Williams 2/23 & Other Upcoming Shows!

2011-02-20T22:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends: You often ask me where I’m playing. I’m usually very busy doing other things and these event announcements fall by the wayside. But I’m transforming my life a little every day, and making progress in all ways is a part of the success I am building and attracting. So, here’s a notice of upcoming appearances. I hope to see you sometime again soon in person :-) -Appreciatively, Cassendre

Wednesday, February 23, 2011 8pm, No cover.
Hank Williams/Johnny Cash Tribute Show hosted by Kenn Kweder and Dani Mari

Triumph Brewing Company OLD CITY
117 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.triumphbrew.com
This is going to be a really fun show!

Featured artists and their set times:

8:00-8:15 Shawn Kilroy- Angel of Death & The Folksinger
8:15-8:30 Alec Stewart- Sunday Morning Coming Down
8:30-8:45 Dave Robins- I Saw the Light & Folsom Prison Blues
8:45-9:00 David Rowan- Hurt & I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry
9:00-9:15 Cassendre Xavier – TBA , TBA (I likes to surprise my peoples :-)
9:15-9:30 Jon Houlon- Honky Tonkin & Beast in Me
9:30-9:45 Fishstick
9:45-10:00 Scott Kollman- Like the 309 & God's Gonna Cut You Down
10:00-10:15 Peter Stone Brown- Big River & Lost Highway
10:15-10:30 Adam Gregory- Ramblin Man & Would You Play With Me
10:30- 10:45 Reverand TJ McGlinchey- Cocaine Blues & Long Black Veil
10:45-11:00 TC Cole- 25 Minutes to Go & I've Been Everywhere
11:00-11:15 Josh Olmstead
11:15- 11:30 The Travelers- Walk the Line & Ring of Fire
11:30-11:45 Sunshine Superman- Jackson
11:45- 12:00 Eric Gershenow- Flesh & Blood & I Hang My Head
12:00-12:15- September
12:15-12:30- Jaime Olsen
12:30-1:00- Todd Zamostein
1:00-1:15- Neil Subramanya- Give My Love to Rose
===============================
Wednesday, March 9, Cassendre hosts, reads her writing, and performs
live music at the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series at Moonstone
Arts Center, 110A S. 13th Street (at Sansom St), Philadelphia, PA
19107 Tel 215-735-9598. 7pm – 8:30pm $5 admission includes featured
readers Lynne “Inner Light” Rabchuk, Maleka Fruean, and a mixed-gender
open mic. The event streams live at http://www.MoonstoneLIVE.com. For
ongoing submissions and more about the Series, visit
www.WomensWritingSeries.org.

=================================

Saturday, March 26, opens for women’s music icon Tret Fure at the
Unitarian Universalist Church of Delaware County
145 West Rose Tree Road, Media, PA, PA 19070, 7pm, tickets $18 in
advance, $22 at the door, Student with ID $10, www.tinyurl.com/TretCX
or www.brownpapertickets.com/event/153187.

Thursday, March 31, sings with London-born singer-songwriter Rupert
Wates when he appears on Ray Naylor’s UStream internet show “Artists
You Should Know About”, which streams live at 8pm from
www.RayNaylor.net.
==============================================
Saturday, April 2, singing with Rupert Wates at the Psalm Salon, 5841
Overbrook Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19131, 215-477-7578, 8pm, $16 in
advance, $20 at the door. www.PsalmSalon.com.

Cassendre has also been a raw vegan since 2005 and runs an on-going
raw vegan – green smoothie challenge on Facebook at
www.tinyurl.com/CXRawChallenge.

Cassendre is a columnist at Wisdom Magazine. Visit archives here http://tinyurl.com/CXWisdom (Source: http://wisdom-magazine.com/ArticleArchives.aspx?isLike=true&author=cassendre%20xavier)

Musical CDs: http://cdbaby.com/artist/cassendrexavier (also at iTunes, Amazon, etc.)
Guided Meditations by Amethyste Rah (aka CX) http://stores.lulu.com/cassendre
CX Direct (including books and guided meditations): http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com

My “Women’s Music” Bio:

Cassendre Xavier has co-billed with Alix Dobkin, Lucie Blue Tremblay, Toshi Reagon, Pat Humphries of emma's revolution, Ubaka Hill, and Anne Rabson of Sapphire: Uppity Blues Women. Under her Serious Creature Music label, she released 6 original recordings described as "a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade, and Enya" (Steven M. Wilson, Borders), and her album "Live at Tin Angel" was honorably mentioned by Philadelphia City Paper's M. J. Fine as the number 9 of "Top 21 Local EPs of 2007". WXPN 88.5's Amazon Country host Debra D'Alessandro has said, "Her stage presence is one part sex kitten serenading in heels, two parts powerhouse kick-ass feminist troubadour poet. In concert with Cassendre Xavier, there is never a dull moment."

For more, uh, stuff, visit www.cassEndrExavier.com. Thanks :-)

renaissance negresse Museletter February 11, 2011

2011-02-11T01:02:00.001-08:00

renaissance negresse Museletter February 11, 2011

art | inspiration | community

brought to you by Cassendre Xavier

Friday, February 11, 2011

In this ediccione:

A) WHO IS THE RENAISSANCE NEGRESSE?
1) SOMETHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT EGYPT
2) JOAN HANNA & ANGEL HOGAN READING
3) BLACK WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL SUBMISSIONS
4) FACEBOOK WALL
5) THINGS YOU PROBABLY WANT ME TO TALK ABOUT
6) CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM
Z) BUT DON’T BE MEAN

A) WHO IS THE RENAISSANCE NEGRESSE?
Haitian/Chinese-American multi-media artist Cassendre Xavier coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002. A musician, writer, actress, and visual artist, Xavier (who sometimes works under the names Amethyste Rah and Amrita Waterfalls) says the term describes a black woman who is skilled or gifted in 3 or more arts. Xavier is a recipient of a Leeway Transformation Award for her work as a community cultural arts advocate, having founded and directed several Philadelphia arts initiatives including the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002) and the Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003). She is originally from Brooklyn, NY and has resided in Philadelphia since 1990. ["Negresse, Negre: In the French- and Spanish-speaking Caribbean Islands, these words often have a connotation of affection, entirely non-racial in meaning. `Ma petite negresse, mon negre, are equivalent to `My dear, my darling, my sweet.'" [From Masters of the Dew, a contemporary classic novel by the Haitian author Jacques Roumain, translated by Langston Hughes and Mercer Cook.]

1) SOMETHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT EGYPT
“There will be blood tomorrow, but I still have hope. I still have some hope left.” ~Amira Hanafi in Egypt. Please write to your representatives in America and ask them to stop funding Egyptian president Mubarak's regime. See if you can do it online if that’s easier. Thank you.

2) JOAN HANNA & ANGEL HOGAN READING
The Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series at Moonstone Arts Center presents Joan Hanna & Angel Hogan

Hosted with live music by Cassendre Xavier
Always Includes a Mixed-Gender Open Mic!

Saturday, February 12, 2011
7pm – 8:30pm
$5 Admission
Moonstone Arts Center
110A S. 13th Street (at Sansom St)
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-735-9598
Streaming LIVE at http://www.MoonstoneLIVE.com !

ABOUT JOAN HANNA

Joan Hanna was born and raised in Philadelphia. She is the new Nonfiction Editor for r.kv.r.y.com. Joan will also be the new Managing Editor for Poets’ Quarterly, summer 2011. Joan's poems have appeared in: Common Threads and Moldicum, the premier issue of Glassworks and her nonfiction story “Breathing” appeared in the October issue of r.kv.r.y. Joan has a BA in Writing Arts and is completing her MFA in Poetry and Creative Nonfiction at Ashland University. (Joan says on her blog: "My soul has always been grounded in poetry which has tangled its roots in non-fiction. I took a chance two years ago, quit my job, went back to finish my BA in Writing Arts and found myself in an MFA program for creative writing at Ashland University in Ohio. Sometimes when you jump off a cliff you land in soft places that change your life. Welcome to my changing life." Read more at http://www.writingthroughquicksand.blogspot.com. Joan is also celebrating her birthday this week!)

ABOUT ANGEL HOGAN

Transplanted from a rural horse farm to downtown Philadelphia in her teens, much of Angel Hogan's writing is fueled by her non-traditional upbringing, which she describes as “a heap of multicultural embarrassments.” After studying Literary Theory at Bucknell University, Angel traveled cross-country with a Chow-pit puppy in a diaper, and spent time at her Mom’s home in the Yucatan. As a toddler, her favorite foods were coffee and pan-fried liver. Angel currently works at the University of Pennsylvania and lives in West Philly with her cat Mamacita, and Sauce! the dog. She is a storytelling champ with First Person Arts. See more at: http://angelhogan.com

ABOUT THE SERIES

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002) is a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. All are welcome to attend and participate in the Series' Mixed-Gender Open Mic. For submissions and schedule information, please visit http://WomensWritingSeries.com. Submissions only: http://WomensWritingSeries.eventbrite.com), email WomensWritingSeries(at)yahoo.com, call 215-436-9702 or send a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) to: Women's Writing Series, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.
=========================================================

3) BLACK WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL SUBMISSIONS
I checked and all is smooth sailing and running well with the submissions, available at www.BWAFphilly.org (where you can also learn more about Philadelphia’s 8th Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival) or at the specific submissions page http://BWAF2011submissions.eventbrite.com.

4) FACEBOOK WALL

From my Wall at http://facebook.com/cassEndrExavier...

Confidence, enthusiasm & loving self & others is more attractive than physical appearance, intelligence, talent, or even money."~CassEndrE Xavier's on iTunes!

"Learning to trust your intuition is an art form, and like all other art forms, it takes practice to perfect." ~Shakti Gawain, Living in the Light

Doreen Virtue Official Fan Page: "Trust this world and your experiences within it. Have faith in yourself, including your gut feelings, dreams, and desires."

"Trust your first response, your gut feelings and instincts; trust yourself, then act accordingly." ~CassEndrE Xavier is on iTunes, YouTube, Amazon & CD Baby!

Did you know you can SMS Subscribe to 50 of your Facebook friends? Make me one(Go to Settings, Mobile) and get my wacky, oft-inspiring updates as text messages!

"All of life is a meditation, most of it unintentional." ~Joseph Campbell, The Power of Myth

I didn't log onto FB for days so I didn't see all the wonderful birthday messages on Feb 7 (191 to be exact). I am overwhelmed with appreciation. Thank you! I am even more motivated now to post inspiring things for you to read. Enjoy your day!

"Your thoughts and beliefs of the past have created this moment, and all the moments up to this moment. What you are now choosing to believe and think and say will create the next moment and the next day and the next month and the next year." ~Louise L. Hay

I just found out my guitar hero Gary Moore died on Feb 6, the day before my birthday. I had a dream of sharing the stage with him one day, as I did with the recently passed Tom "T-Bone" Wolk (bassist & music director of Hall & Oates). I am very sad and tempted to give up dreaming, but I know that's never the answer to, or lesson in any difficult experience. R.I.P. Gary Moore. You are already sorely missed. Incidentally, they both died at 58, of heart attacks (Wolk confirmed, Moore suspected), and in the month of February. 58 is way too early to die of anything.

I just saw someone I used to work with from 1994-1998. I told him that 2 days ago I turned 42. He said I look younger now than I did then. Score for raw vegans!

"Success is focusing the full power of all you are on what you have a burning desire to achieve." ~Wilfred Peterson

SMS Subscription Awards (Frequent short status w/no link): Amira Hanafi in Egypt,Kelli Dunham,Steve Lower's Daily Philly Weather,Debra D'Alessandro,Paulo Coelho

"To succeed in life, you need two things: ignorance and confidence." ~Mark Twain
Paulo Coelho says, "What other people think of you is none of your business."

"I take loving care of the earth, and the earth loves me in return." ~Louise L. Hay

Doreen Virtue Official Fan Page says, "Your intuition guides you through all situations safely, provided that you listen to it."

"To succeed, you need to find something to hold on to, something to motivate you, something to inspire you." ~Tony Dorsett

"Success means doing the best we can with what we have." ~Zig Ziglar

If God/dess is love and God/dess is everywhere why don't we see love everywhere? Because we haven't expressed it enough ourselves yet. Love is inside us. ~CX

"Even atheists recognize God when it's being expressed; they just call it other things: talent, love, compassion, brilliance." ~Cassendre Xavier is on iTunes!

Doreen Virtue Official Fan Page says: "You are a being composed of light, love, and intelligence."

"Up, up, up, up, up, up goes the spire of the steeple/God's work isn't done by God, it's done by people." ~from the Ani Di Franco song/CD "Up Up Up Up Up Up"

The more I buy Thank You cards, the more wonderful things happen for me to send them. I just performed and saw an old friend/former employer. He saw that in the years we'd been apart, I'd released 3 live albums and 3 studio ones. Guess how many CDs he walked away with? 7 (6 of my musical ones, which he purchased, and 1 guided meditation CD I threw in for free)! Guess who's getting a Thank You card next week? :-)

Ever want to call a friend but worry you might be interrupting them having sex? Once, in the Olden Days, I called a friend & spoke into the machine, “Hey. Hey, are you having sex? You’re having sex aren’t you?” then I wouldn’t shut up. Next day, he was a wee miffed. Turns out he *was* having sex & my hilarious monologue was a little less than helpful. Lesson: Turn everything OFF but your bootknockery partner!

Former Women's Writing & Spoken Word feature (and designer of the WWSWS logo, and my former co-worker at an independently owned academic bookstore) Amira Hanafi has decided to stay in Egypt and tell us all why. Please send her light, love, and your total support!

"Nothing attracts wealth like Thank You. (Not only material wealth, but emotional and spiritual as well.) Everything good loves a Thank You." ~Cassendre Xavier

"For more good in your life, give thanks &count your blessings often. Stock & often send paper/postal Thank You cards; they create miracles!" ~Cassendre Xavier

Doreen Virtue Official Fan Page says, "Your guardian angel continuously talks to you&gently offers advice&guidance. You need to quiet your body&mind to listen."

Malcolm S. Forbes said, "Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat." So,
single/recovering folks&survivors can look forward to the sweetness of healthy love!

People are often afraid to ask-the Universe/God, other people-for a favor, a job, love. Don't be afraid to ask! The worst that can happen is...you don't ask!-CX

I, the "Subway Siren" since 2005, am singing 3-6pm at Designated Performance Area #2 of Philly's Suburban Station, 16th & Market-Concourse near SEPTA Sales!

Paulo Coelho says, "Avoiding problems you need to face is avoiding the life you need to live."

"The fastest way to 'change' someone is to love them completely and unconditionally; accept them as they are, as if they will never change." ~Cassendre Xavier

Posted daily:
Steve Lower’s Daily Philly Weather and

“What are some nice things that happened for you today?”

5) THINGS YOU PROBABLY WANT ME TO TALK ABOUT
POETRY CHAPBOOK CONTEST UPDATE
The poetry chapbook contest for the Black Women’s Arts Festival will continue as soon as we (I) find one or two people to design the system of, and process submissions. We already have 3 poetry judges at the ready (Tara Betts, Tamara Oakman, and Stephanie Durann.

AFFIRMATION SONG ALBUM & GUIDED MEDITATIONS UPDATE
I’ve created a budget for the affirmation song albums I’ve been working on, as well as the last two Affirmations for Survivors guided meditation albums “Sexuality” and “Life Skills” to complete the series which began in 2007 with “Self-Love” and “Spirituality”. These are available in download and CD at http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE or in CD from me from http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com or by emailing cxmusic(at)gmail.com. These projects are gestating and waiting as the funds or other options are created. I’ll keep you postified (aka “posticated”)!

A STROKE OF LUCK
Around two weeks ago I posted on Facebook that I’d spent the day in the hospital being treated for what I thought were stroke or heart attack symptoms. Though the day was scary, starting with not being able to feel my fingers for several minutes and feeling weird cramps on the left side of my body, as well as chest pain and several of the “female” symptoms of heart attack, I was examined by at least 5 physicians, two nurses, and several technicians, was x-rayed, had bloodwork drawn, enjoyed hours of TV in the comfort and privacy of my own room, and learned that my symptoms were likely due to wearing my belt too tight (pinching a nerve that causes pain in my leg), acid indigestion/reflux, and my blood being low in potassium. Within hours I felt much, much better having received potassium at the hospital and since then I’ve been eating lots of yogurt (mostly from Trader Joe’s) sometimes mixed with a little molasses which also has tons of potassium as well as iron, calcium, and other things. If you have hypertension and or/are obese, I highly recommend doing the potassium thing to counteract the sodium intake. So, that’s it. No heart attack, no stroke, not even close to either, just scary-feeling symptoms. Oh, and in addition to upping my potassium, I must not lie down less than an hour after eating. Docs recommended also the website www.webMD.com for advice, not Google. And they said never to lie about when you have had onset of symptoms so you can get the drugs that will treat your symptoms, because you could make things worse. For instance, I’d Googled that if you’re actually having a heart attack or stroke there is a drug they can give you to stop clogging or something but it must be administered within 3 hours of symptom onset. By the time I’d walked to two hospitals (to find one with an emergency room), it was almost 3 hours and I kind of fibbed about when I started having the symptoms. I cannot stay in the fibborial state for long, so I fessed up to my first doctor that I had lied, and he told me why that’s really not a good idea. Turns out if given at the wrong time, that precious anti-clogging drug could’ve caused brain bleeding. So, never lie about what’s going on with your body!

RAW VEGAN UPDATE
I’ve been low- or off raw for weeks, gaining weight and my eating is pretty out of control. I don’t really know why or what I’m doing or what’s going on, but I’m not worried about it too much. Everything comes in cycles, and I’m not going to make things better by being extra hard on myself. I expect the tide to come around in favor of my being healthier and exercising, but for now, I’m dealing with basic life skill things such as working and paying my bills. I realize there is no work without health, though, and I want to practice what I preach, so I know I will have to get on that soon. Or not. I could also stay sick and out of shape my entire life, and still enjoy life and work and art. It’s all good. No worries. Except that I am worried. And not worried. All at the same time! And I’m not really “sick”. I’m mostly healthy, just have some thingies that quite frankly a lot of Americans have. It’s just hard to be the Queen of Self-Care when there are so many other stressors in one’s life. But it can be done. And this is why I write the books and things about being healthy, because if I don’t, I don’t have much to be accountable for. For the last two weeks, I’ve thought: I need another book! (The last one: Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook and Journal, is available in print format at Arnold’s Way store, from me at http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com or by emailing cxwriting(at)gmail.com, and as an e-book at http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com). It has a chart in it for logging your progress in weight, diet, and even blood pressure numbers. I even used it back in the day when I was much more on my game. I plan to get back there again, step by step. It also has a list of black-owned raw vegan restaurants in the region, including two right here in Philadelphia!

LOVE, ROMANCE, AND TOTAL TOMFOOLERY
I’ve been private about the relationship thing for a few reasons, which I’ll probably say in my next or a future museletter, but doesn’t quite fit here. All for now. I hope I’ve addressed some of your curiositational devices!

6) CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM
To view, print, and/or order CDs and books from me directly, please visit http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com, send a SASE to Cassendre Xavier, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204, or email cxmusic(at)gmail.com.

Z) BUT DON’T BE MEAN
"Do whatever it takes to make your life more worth living. Anything at all. It can be illegal, immoral, unethical, or self-destructive.There’s only one rule to follow to make that kind of blanket permission work: Don’t be mean." ~Kate Bornstein, author of 'Hello, Cruel World: 101 Alternatives to Suicide for Teens, Freaks, and Other Outlaws' http://katebornstein.typepad.com

===================== Thank you, and good night :-) =================

renaissance negresse Museletter is © 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. All rightsen reservenitzken. www.cassEndrExavier.com

2/12 - Joan Hanna & Angel Hogan - Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series

2011-01-31T09:34:00.000-08:00

The Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series at Moonstone Arts Center presents Joan Hanna & Angel Hogan

Hosted with live music by Cassendre Xavier
Always Includes a Mixed-Gender Open Mic!

Saturday, February 12, 2011
7pm – 8:30pm
$5 Admission
Moonstone Arts Center
110A S. 13th Street (at Sansom St)
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-735-9598
Streaming LIVE at http://www.MoonstoneLIVE.com !

ABOUT JOAN HANNA

Joan Hanna was born and raised in Philadelphia. She is the new Nonfiction Editor for r.kv.r.y.com. Joan will also be the new Managing Editor for Poets’ Quarterly, summer 2011. Joan's poems have appeared in: Common Threads and Moldicum, the premier issue of Glassworks and her nonfiction story “Breathing” appeared in the October issue of r.kv.r.y. Joan has a BA in Writing Arts and is completing her MFA in Poetry and Creative Nonfiction at Ashland University. (Joan says on her blog: "My soul has always been grounded in poetry which has tangled its roots in non-fiction. I took a chance two years ago, quit my job, went back to finish my BA in Writing Arts and found myself in an MFA program for creative writing at Ashland University in Ohio. Sometimes when you jump off a cliff you land in soft places that change your life. Welcome to my changing life." Read more at http://www.writingthroughquicksand.blogspot.com. Joan is also celebrating her birthday this week!)

ABOUT ANGEL HOGAN

Transplanted from a rural horse farm to downtown Philadelphia in her teens, much of Angel Hogan's writing is fueled by her non-traditional upbringing, which she describes as “a heap of multicultural embarrassments.” After studying Literary Theory at Bucknell University, Angel traveled cross-country with a Chow-pit puppy in a diaper, and spent time at her Mom’s home in the Yucatan. As a toddler, her favorite foods were coffee and pan-fried liver. Angel currently works at the University of Pennsylvania and lives in West Philly with her cat Mamacita, and Sauce! the dog. She is a storytelling champ with First Person Arts. See more at: http://angelhogan.com

ABOUT THE HOST

Self-described “renaissance negresse” Cassendre Xavier is an award-winning Philadelphia-based musician, multi-genre writer and community cultural arts organizer. Her 6 independently-released albums are described as “a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade and Enya” (Borders Music Expert, Steven M. Wilson). She also creates spoken word guided meditation and affirmation recordings under the name Amethyste Rah and erotic writing under the name Amrita Waterfalls. The founder and director of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series as well as Philadelphia’s Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003, www.BWAFphilly.org), Cassendre is a recipient of the Leeway Transformation Award for her work in art and change. For more information, please visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

ABOUT THE SERIES

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002) is a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing. All are welcome to attend and participate in the Series' Mixed-Gender Open Mic. For submissions and schedule information, please visit http://WomensWritingSeries.com. Submissions only: http://WomensWritingSeries.eventbrite.com), email WomensWritingSeries(at)yahoo.com, call 215-436-9702 or send a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) to: Women's Writing Series, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.

ME! ME! ME! A CX Museletter “Home Office At Last” ediccione

2011-01-23T14:40:00.001-08:00

ME! ME! ME! a Cassendre Xavier Museletter
The “Home Office At Last” ediccione, as it were. (If you will.)

Sunday, January 23rd, 2011

(Control Freak Reading Instructions: Best to print this bad boy out and read it over the john, the “jane”, the breakfast table, or in the sack. It’s a long ‘un.)

A) GREETINGS
1) WHO IS CASSENDRE XAVIER?
2) HOME OFFICE AT LAST
3) RAW VEGAN UPDATE
4) BLACK WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL UPDATE
5) WOMEN’S WRITING & SPOKEN WORD UPDATE
6) MUSIC UPDATE & CONCERT SCHEDULE
8) WRITING UPDATE & ARCHIVES
9) WHAT I’M READING & MY LATEST INSPIRATIONS
10) CX DIRECT PRODUCT ORDER FORM
Z) FAREWELL BLESSING

A) GREETINGS

1) WHO IS CASSENDRE XAVIER?
Since you can read my professional bio in my other museletters or online, I thought I’d take this rare opportunity to write a ME ME ME version from my heartal reggione, if you will. (As it were.) I’m basically your average Philadelphia-based Haitian-Chinese-American chyk who writes and plays music and is majorly into promoting community arts and culture. I’ve started a bunch of stuff, sometimes am actually not even completely broke in the process, and most enjoy sharing whatever I’ve learned along the way that helps me in the universal experience of life. My primary audience is creative people, and I believe everyone is creative, so that includes you! I was born under the sign of Aquarius, in the fair city of Brooklyn, New York, where, it seems all Haitians and other immigrants are required to be born (East Flatbush, baby!). The kind of work I most enjoy is performing onstage, meeting audience members after a show, recording albums of my own original (and a few covers) music and spoken word guided meditations, and running my own business(es). In 2002, I started using the term “renaissance negresse” to describe myself and any other black woman who works in 3 or more media. (It’s a controversial term for Americans for historical reasons, which I do understand. But with my French-influenced background, to me, “negresse” is a neutral word, which merely means black woman, and unlike “renaissance woman” who could be any color, it is melanin-specific. I stand by it. P.S. And hot stud Penn Jillette personally complimented me on it. So there!) I believe in progress, not perfection, that the journey is the destination, and that there’s no such thing as failure (although I also believe failure is your friend and guiding light). You probably met me at a show or in the hallowed halls of Suburban Station, where I sing and give out flyers of my work.

2) HOME OFFICE AT LAST
I’ve been living and working in Philadelphia since 1991. For my own creative and self-employed professional endeavors, I used to use the computers and internet of whatever day job I had, those at public/college libraries, or later, those at whatever sponsored office I had at the time. I’ve had two such official “sponsored” offices. The first was that of a friend, who allowed myself and Black Women’s Arts Festival co-organizer and former director Monica McIntyre to use her home office for much of the day when she was out – we had our own key and everything, and the second was the Midvale office of Resources for Human Development’s New Beginnings Nonprofit Incubator program, of which BWAF was a member from 2007-2010. Other than a few weak attempts in the early 2000s to have a home office, I really didn’t have much of an interest in having a computer with internet at home. I felt I didn’t want the hassle of computer viruses, and I believed at the time I couldn’t afford to pay the monthly internet service fee.
This all changed when I recently chose to resign from the New Beginnings program. After three years of trying to operate as a nonprofit, so many things happened to make it an uphill journey, that I realized things aren’t supposed to be such a struggle. It was a sign to leave. Once I accepted that, I realized I never wanted to be a nonprofit to begin with – I’d merely wanted an office and not to have to pay for it. What a revelation! When I got in touch with my feelings, I realized what I really, really wanted (as the Spice Girls sang), was to have my own laptop with wireless internet, and a cell phone with unlimited minutes and text messages. Things started coming together soon after that realization.
First, I was able to expand my plan to Unlimited Text messages very affordably, and while I don’t have unlimited minutes (yet!) I do have so many that right now every month I’m hundreds of minutes under my allowed usage. The unlimited texts allow me to post regularly, oh okay, hyper-regularly on Facebook, which, good or bad, does increase my visibility, and for a self-employed person, that’s pretty good marketing. I don’t just post what I’m doing professionally – I don’t like those Facebook accounts that only post the upcoming appearances of the person. I post what I’m going through, where I am, what the person on the bus just said, what I’m eating, how much I weigh, what my dating life is like, as well as beautiful inspiring quotes by people who sometimes aren’t even me! I’m sure many people have “hidden” my profile, but these same people, some of them, do check my profile to see what wackiness I’m up to. That’s better advertising than anything I could pay for – the sheer interest in my life and work. Not to sound self-congratulatory, I merely share this to show how one can be completely flawed, annoying, and still effective as a self-promoter – and this isn’t by design – I merely try to tweak my urgings, and make them work for Moi!
After doing some research, I learned I could get unlimited wifi service for only $40 a month from Cricket (www.mycricket.com), the least expensive I’ve found so far. That, plus a Dell Insprion laptop a friend gave me when she upgraded her computer back in 2007, and that I’d never used, makes it possible for me to be typing this from my kitchen table. Oh, also, what got me here was all the doors that slammed in my face when I sought another free “sponsored” office. I asked around, to various arts organizations and even individuals, and nothing panned out. I didn’t want to pay for an office for some reason, although I’m paying for internet service. Once again I took a look at the situation and asked what all the “No”s were trying to tell me. The universe answered, “You deserve your own office. It’s time. You’re a big girl. How long have you been doing this? Get on it!” So here I am. And I’m grateful. (Oh, the time frame from my last sponsored office to my home office? Nineteen days. Less than a month to a dream come true. I’m visualizing similar speed in growing my business and attracting my ideal mate!)

3) RAW VEGAN UPDATE
Since I last wrote ye, I was doing pretty well, was all raw until the holidays when I started incorporating more cooked foods into my diet after a date at a man friend’s house that ran a little, um, “over”. Let’s just say it started on a Monday night and ended that Friday. Hypothetically. Although I was prepared and had brought my Green Smoothie with me, by day 2 the Green Smoothie was just a far away dream, and in came the pasta, meat, and dairy of yonder past. I went from 206 to today’s 212 since Christmas day, whereas prior, on the raw vegan diet, I was losing 1-2 lbs a week. The last two weeks I have had almost no fruits or vegetables, not even cooked, as I was spending more time with this persun and not shopping for myself when I was home. I just got lazy, and honestly, the cold weather and holidays doesn’t make it easy to resist temptation when it’s in the form of a tall, sexy ass man with a fridge full of food. But, alas, he and I have just broken up (again! Oh the drama!) and hopefully the next few weeks will resemble some more balance. Who the eff knows. I mean, really. Whatever. See? The food you eat affects your brain. I’m sure if I had had some Green Smoothies this week, I’d have some nicer, spiritually high things to say about the matter. But all I have right now is pasta brain – whole wheat, brown, high fiber pasta, but pasta nonethless!

4) BLACK WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL UPDATE
Submission info has been posted and available for weeks but none have come in, so I’m thinking there may be a technical problem. Also someone called to say she wasn’t able to apply online. This is one of the reasons I sacrificed part of my rent money to risk the purchase of internet access, so I can research the problem and fix it asap. Perhaps all is well, I’m not sure, as it is a major priority to get this newsletter out to you and look into the issue next (by Wednesday of this week any problem that exists regarding submitting online will be corrected). Only one way to find out – visit www.BWAFphilly.org! Also, our new contact info is: Black Women’s Arts Festival, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204, Phone: 215-436-9702, Email: BWAFphilly(at)yahoo.com. Never let it be said!

5) WOMEN’S WRITING & SPOKEN WORD UPDATE
The Series has re-started with a bang (back in November 2010 after a 4-year hiatus. Founded by Cassendre Xavier Enterprises in 2002 and run til 2006) and is soooo much more pleasant to run now that it’s only monthly instead of twice a month and that instead of being free, there’s a $5 admission. Neither I nor the venue are rollin’ in it, but boy does it make a difference to see even one dollar as an energy exchange for your work and time. The event streams live on the ‘net and welcomes men and women in that there’s a mixed gender open mic and men can host. For more about this wonderful series, visit www.WomensWritingSeries.org. Next date: Saturday, February 12, 2011. (2 female features to be announced. Previous 2010-2011 features: November - Renda Rose & Ruth A. Rouff. December - Pat McLean & Carol Bond. January – Anne-Adele Wight & Debra Wright-Powell.)

6) MUSIC UPDATE & CONCERT SCHEDULE
Please note that I’m not singing at Mango Moon anymore, although the venue and I would like me to. It became necessary to end my working relationship with my former drummer, whose gig it was. I wish them all the best, and I highly encourage you to m/patronize the restaurant! www.MyMangoMoon.com.

On random weekdays or weekends, I can sometimes be seen performing at my new busking post – one that has much more visibility and heat!
The Subway Siren Suburban Station Tour continues – 3pm – 6pm, Designated Performance Area #2, on the concourse of Philadelphia’s Suburban Station, below 16th & Market Streets, near the SEPTA Sales windows. If you’re ever in the area, stop by for a smile, hug, CD, or all of the above!

You are among the very first to know that starting the next one on February 12th, I will perform music as the host of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series! Usually I just share some of my writing before introducing the first name on the Mixed-Gender Open Mic list, but now I will include 2 songs. So, now every month, you know you can hear me sing at Moonstone! www.MoonstoneArtsCenter.org 7pm $5 Streaming live!

On Sunday, March 26th I’m opening for Tret Fure. You can buy tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com and learn more about Tret at www.tretfure.com. Legendary!

8) WRITING UPDATE & ARCHIVES
My book Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal, sold at my most recent appearance at Arnold’s Way’s monthly potluck. It is still available there, as well as online. (I haven’t checked stock at Essene Market & Cafe and Giovanni’s Room no longer carries CDs nor my books.) Visit www.cassEndrExavier.com or www.cxbooks.eventbrite.com for ordering info.

You can read my archived museletters/newsletters at www.groups.yahoo.com/group/cassendrexavier or www.cassendrexavier.blogspot.com.

My writing is also in various anthologies, available online, or in some stores. You can read more about these at my official writing site www.artivistpublications.homestead.com.

Although I took a wee break during the wild and wacky holidays, I do write a monthly column for Wisdom Magazine’s online edition. You can read them here:

9) WHAT I’M READING & MY LATEST INSPIRATIONS
Living in the Light, by Shakti Gawain
Love is the River: Learning to Live in the Flow of Divine Grace, by Ann Albers www.VisionsOfHeaven.com
Your Best Life Now, by Joel Osteen www.JoelOsteen.com
The Affected Provincial’s Companion, by Lord Braulove Swells Whimsy www.LordWhimsy.com
Goodness Had Nothing to Do With It: The Autobiography of Mae West
The Holy Bible (Particularly the specifics regarding the construction of Solomon’s palaces and temples)
Truth or Dare, by Starhawk
The Sparkling Lavender Dust of Lust, by Tee Corinne

10) WITH A LITTLE HELP FOR MY FRIENDS
If any of these folks’ bios or work interests you, please do more than read – please engage. Contact them – get on their email list, go to see a show, buy a product or service of theirs. We working artists live for our art and for life, which to many of us includes our various beloved communities, and we can’t go on without community support from people just like you. Help us continue to create work that inspires ourselves, and the world in general. Thank you so much!

Shandra Staley, dancer/teacher, massage therapist (Look at my Friends list on Facebook)

NASSUNNI, fine arts painter (Facebook)

Alex Kudera, novelist, author of Fight for Your Long Day (Atticus Books) www.AlexKudera.blogspot.com

Kelli Dunham, performer, lecturer, author, www.kellidunham.com

Cheryl Burke, poet, www.cherylb.com (Cheryl’s the girlfriend of my ex, Kelli Dunham, and Cheryl just last week celebrated 10 years of sobriety! And as if that weren’t fierce enough, she’s currently transforming herself into a completely healthy body, after a recent diagnosis of cancer. Please send this awesome survivor some love, even if that’s in the form of stopping right now to say a prayer for and hold a vision of her many years from now in total glowing sober health. We love you, Cheryl!)

Esperanza Cortes, fine artist (interdisciplinary), www.EsperanzaCortes.com Beautiful persun, beautiful artwork. Visit visit visit!

Traycee Lynn, poet, musician, publisher, www.phillycypher.com

Larry Robin, Moonstone Artist Center www.moonstoneartscenter.com Larry is really into promoting Frances Ellen Harper right now. It’s like he was chosen as a channel or something. He gets all googly-eyed and chatty about her like she was his girlfriend. Check it out!

Ignacio Rivera, performer, lecturer, www.ignaciorivera.com

Arnold’s Way Raw Vegetarian Cafe & Education Center, Lansdale PA www.ArnoldsWay.com, www.youtube.com/ArnoldsWay

11) CX DIRECT PRODUCT ORDER FORM
I’m pretty sure you can find the latest version of this either at www.cassendrexavier.com or www.cassendrexavier.blogspot.com. If not, well then I guess I’ll have to send another museletter out toot sweet, now won’t I? :-)

Z) FAREWELL BLESSING

May you become better and better at receiving and promptly following your inner guidance.
May you believe you deserve the best life has to offer.
May you be surrounded by healthy love from friends, family, and sweethearts.
May you be guided by love and joy in your heart, and a willingness to serve.
May you feel blessed and abundant regardless of your health, finances, or circumstances.
May all your dreams and goals come true, surpassing all your expectations.
This, or something better, and may it be for the good of all.

Sincerely in art and community,

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls)
renaissance negresse (musician, writer, visual artist, actress, award-winning community cultural arts organizer)
www.cassEndrExavier.com

Founder & Director of Philadelphia’s 8th Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Thursday July 28th thru Sunday, July 31st) Now accepting submissions: www.BWAFphilly.org

Founder & Director of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series at Moonstone Arts Center www.WomensWritingSeries.org

Recipient of a Leeway Transformation Award, which supports women and trans artists working in art and change. www.Leeway.org

Friend me on Facebook! www.facebook.com/cassendrexavier

Watch me on YouTube! www.youtube.com/cassendrexavier

Listen/buy downloads at iTunes! (search cassEndrE xavier)

Although I prefer you order from CX Direct (I get way more money that way), I also have product at CD Baby! www.cdbaby.com/artist/cassEndrExavier

Again, if not ordering from CX Direct, my guided meditation albums are available at http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE

Booking contact: cxmusic(at)gmail.com (remove “at” and replace with @) or call 215-436-9702.

Maybe now that I have my own computer and internet at home, I’ll write these more often and they won’t be forty pages long. Ya think? :-)

Copyright (c) 2011 by Cassendre Xavier. Please forward and include credit and subscription info: To subscribe, send blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Number of times the word “ass” was used in this ediccione: 1. Sad, but true. Will have to do better next time!

Apologies for any typos. As soon as I get a printer, and can therefore easily proofread my work, that kind of thing will be slimmed down to a minimum.

To unsubscribe, reply with “Remove” in the subject. Never let it be said!

renaissance negresse Museletter December 13, 2010 art | inspiration | community

2010-12-13T01:23:00.001-08:00

renaissance negresse Museletter December 13, 2010
art | inspiration | community
brought to you by Cassendre Xavier
Monday, December 13, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A) WHO IS THE RENAISSANCE NEGRESSE?
1) GREETINGS
2) BREAKTHROUGH – ART / WORK
3) BREAKTHROUGH – RELATIONSHIPS
4) BREAKTHROUGH – SURVIVORS’ MOUNTAINTOP (INCLUDING HOLIDAY TIPS FOR SURVIVORS!)
5) BREAKTHROUGH – SPIRITUALITY
6) GREEN SMOOTHIE RAW BLOG
7) ALL ROCKSTAR CRYSTAL GALLERY SHOWS CANCELLED
8) EVERY THURSDAY AT MANGO MOON
9) FACEBOOK POSTS GALORE
10) WITH A LITTLE HELP FOR MY FRIENDS
Z) FAREWELL BLESSING

CONTENTS OF TABLE

A) WHO IS THE RENAISSANCE NEGRESSE?
Haitian-American multi-media artist Cassendre Xavier coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002. A musician, writer, actress, and visual artist, Xavier (who sometimes works under the names Amethyste Rah and Amrita Waterfalls) says the term describes a black woman who is skilled or gifted in 3 or more arts. Xavier is a recipient of a Leeway Transformation Award for her work as a community cultural arts advocate, having founded and directed several Philadelphia arts initiatives including the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Est. 2002) and the Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003). She is originally from Brooklyn, NY and has resided in Philadelphia since 1990. ["Negresse, Negre: In the French- and Spanish-speaking Caribbean Islands, these words often have a connotation of affection, entirely non-racial in meaning. `Ma petite negresse, mon negre, are equivalent to `My dear, my darling, my sweet.'" � From Masters of the Dew, a contemporary classic novel by the Haitian author Jacques Roumain, translated by Langston Hughes and Mercer Cook.]

1) GREETINGS
Peaceful psychic hugs to you, Dear Readers! I always appreciate this chance to share my journey in life in hopes that my lessons and observations assist you on yours as well!

2) BREAKTHROUGH – ART / WORK
I was telling a friend tonight that the last couple of weeks have looked like this for me:
No prolonged worrying about money. (I’m not made of wood – I worry when I’m broke, just like everyone else. But I learn to let go of the thoughts when they come, and replace them with thoughts of peace, trust, and abundance.)
Increasing self-care.
Focusing on service.
Being a very giving artist.
In just giving, giving, giving, trusting that all is well and will be taken care of, and also simultaneously working on increasing my self-care, I feel a sense of peace about my life. The more I give, the less I worry that I will receive. It’s math – a universal law of physics. What comes up must come down, and what is given must at some point return.
I hope my work continues to be helpful to some, but even so as I do it much of the motivation is my own healing, and that’s how I know I’m on the right track. I am becoming less and less aware of what I’m doing. Going with the flow, the mystery, with the feeling, with instinct. Ironically, as that happens I also get more clear about what earth laws I must follow for abundance, too. I’m getting more aware about what is needed to create a captive audience, what’s needed to be financially viable, and so forth, and what I’m doing right and what I need to fix.
Oh one thing I learned is that as you open your mind more and more to believing that your dreams can come true, things happen to show you material ways that can happen. For instance, I’ve always wanted to perform with multiple vocal harmonies and play both rhythm and lead. I saw Christine Havrilla performing last night and she used a loop system that did just that. It was pretty amazing. It’s called a TC-Helicon | VoiceLive Touch - Versatile Vocal Processor & Looper (which only costs around $500 Christine says. Part of my entire lifelong childhood dream – what I thought was so impossible, costs $500!)
One of the folks there told me that another artist, Keller Williams, uses similar gadgets also to sing with himself and create many layers of sounds, too. The first time I heard such things was in the late 1990s when Caryn Lin came to play Borders Bookshop when it was in Rittenhouse Square. She played violin and used loops sequences. One of these days I’ll actually know what that stuff is called. Christine said “It’s much cheaper than bringing a choir in!”

3) BREAKTHROUGH – RELATIONSHIPS
I treat people the way my father treats me - viciously. Been working on that – how critical I am and how quick to end relationships and shove people away. I also manipulate love in relationships the way my father manipulates his children with money and promises. I was telling a friend yesterday that I want to live my life as if I have nothing. I’ve relied on my accomplishments to keep people interested in me or want to be my friend. But if I had nothing to offer, I would have to be loving and that’s all that counts anyway. No one’s gonna come to my funeral because I let them feature in one of my events or because I sang at their house or at some venue. They’re gonna come because I gave them something of value, and the only thing of true value in this life is love. Love in its many forms and colors, from acceptance to forgiveness to encouragement, etc. So that’s my goal now – to be loving in all ways, and that’s not easy, but it’s totally worth it. Also it’s good to remember that all you have to do to be lovable is be alive. You don’t have to earn love or being lovable, just as no one has to earn your love. They should earn your trust over time, and you theirs, but love should be free and abundant to and from everyone. That doesn’t mean you stay in an abusive relationship, as I recently learned, just to prove how loving you can be. Sometimes we, as survivors (and I’m learning that almost everyone is a survivor of something, even only “life”) and lightworkers/healers tend to attract people who hurt us and we stay just to prove how strong we can be, and how “good” we are that we can see the good in others. (And we also sometimes do that, I think, from a deep-seated, not yet corrected belief that we aren’t good enough to have better.) Having just gone through something like that, and becoming the kind of person who has the kind of relationships I am now spiritually aware I am worthy of, I’ve had to see that in myself and start changing it.

4) BREAKTHROUGH – SURVIVORS’ MOUNTAINTOP (INCLUDING HOLIDAY TIPS FOR SURVIVORS!)
The more I admit my weaknesses, the stronger I am, because I’m then able to build supports around my weaknesses. For instance, I am considering applying for certain services meant to assist people like me to make life a little easier. In another example, when I realized I regress very significantly after spending time at my parents’ house, I decided to take measures to make my visits there safer and more comfortable for me. It’s still very very difficult, so much so that I’m seriously considering not going there at all for a very long time, but in the mean time I’m learning things like how many hours I can be there before communications become violent. Probably the best thing that’s happened to me lately is that I realized I, or we survivors aren’t as alone as we think we are. Even if you didn’t grow up with physical, sexual, spiritual, substance abuse, neglect, or dysfunction, almost everyone has had some significant challenge in life they’re learning to live with and overcome. The more we identify with one another, the more we can give and receive help in life. And it’s always nice to feel like less of an uninvited oddball on this wacky beautiful intense planet someone long ago chose to call earth!
By the way, I used to call this feature “Survivors’ Corner” but just now I decided to uplift us way, way, up – out of the corner into the middle of the room, out of the goddamned house into the streets shouting our truths, claiming our self-worth, healing ourselves, asking for help and receiving it, and eventually getting to the top of the proverbial mountain of joy-filled living. That is so sappy I myself am ready to vomit right now. But I also know when I’m down, I will go back to that phrase over and over again, thrilled to see it there in all its syrupy glory and truth!
And in case you’re wondering what qualifies me to speak of this issue, I’m the founder and former facilitator of Sisters Healing Together - a peer support group for women survivors of incest with a special focus on compulsive overeating at the William Way LGBT Community Center of Philadelphia 1996-1999. I also did a play called Sex for Survivors which ran for 3 days in Sept 2003 of the Philly Fringe Festival, and released 2 Affirmations for Survivors CDs/downloads of spoken word guided meditations. So there 
Holiday Tips for Survivors: Go with a friend or don’t go. Having a friend there cuts the spell/force field that sometimes feels like evil. I know that’s a loaded sentence, but some of you know I speak the truth of our experience. If the perpetrator is there, that’s what it feels like. If your parents live in the suburbs with limited public transportation and you don’t drive or have a car, go with a friend who drives, or arrange with a relative to leave when you want to leave. If the only relatives who could drive you tend to not leave on time, don’t go. If you decide not to go, don’t feel guilty. You can make alternate holiday plans. Follow the Jews is what I always say! Go to Chinatown for dinner and go see a movie with friends. Or take it as a day off. Stay home with Netflix. My idea of heaven? Murder She Wrote, Golden Girls, Diagnosis Murder, anything on the Hallmark Channel or Lifetime: Television for Women. All the crime shows, because the bad guys almost always get caught and the often female victims are almost always vindicated – and by the way Thank you Tyler Perry for writing in a justified stabbing death of a rapist in For Colored Girls. All my years of TV and movie watching I’ve never seen, or maybe haven’t seen enough of that kind of thing. All we’re treated to is footage of prisoners who are locked up for killing their abusers. But I digress. Holidays with the folks if you’re a survivor can be quite the challenge. Do all you can to get through it – including deciding not to go. Good luck and be good to yourself no matter what! I will be good to myself right now and say I am open to being invited to spend part of Christmas Day with folks as I’m not sure what I’m doing that day. If you’re going to the movies, or want to invite me over for popcorn and fluff TV, contact me by replying to this email or calling 215-436-9702! I also may create a Facebook event if I choose to go to the movies and invite complete strangers to join Moi. The heart will lead!
5) BREAKTHROUGH – SPIRITUALITY
Lastly, I wanted to share a bit of my spirituality, not because I feel it’s relevant to anyone, really, nor because it’s something I think should be public – it’s neither of those. I would really rather keep much of it private, but being so into visibility, and having suffered much growing up because I didn’t see many examples of people like me – whether that was black female fine artists, or black female singers who didn’t just play a tambourine, or black pagans, or hear or read about the Goddess or learn more about Angels, or openly non-heterosexual black people, or the open marriage/polyamorous relationship model, etc. all of these things – I am now a strong advocate for visibility of many kinds. So that said I would like to share that I’ve been really enjoying my spirituality lately, and found it very empowering. I would like to encourage everyone on a path that they are carving out for themselves: Believe what you believe. Do not wait or look for examples to prove to you that what you believe is correct. You may never find the proof, because certain things have happened and continue to happen to keep certain things from you. The only proof you need is what your heart tells you. Your instincts will lead you to do certain things, read certain things, go certain places and be certain ways. Do them. Do them all, and if you’re truly brave, write about them to begin keeping new records and teach them to re-kindle our stories. Invent things and expect them to last and grow, the way Kwanzaa was created. You have the power. You, in fact, are the power.

6) GREEN SMOOTHIE RAW BLOG
Weekly Weigh-In: 215 lbs. Last Week: 216. Orig: 238.
Thoughts, Feelings, and Stuff: I went to Arnold’s Way (www.ArnoldsWay.com) Saturday night with some friends. We enjoyed a lovely raw vegan dinner together, and I had my favorite Green Smoothie – a spirulina and cacao one. Soooo delicious!
My schedule is very busy and it’s hard to eat well, but I noticed it’s easier when I plan grocery shopping in advance. Also, support is essential, and I’ve been working on that.
I posted that I was seeking inspiring words and scriptures from friends, because I feel that as I get more raw and less of a food addict, I need all the help I can get to do some serious battle with fear of embracing more joy and the new, etc. One of my raw vegan friends Jon McGrath (who created the Philadelphia Raw Food Movement group on Facebook) said:
Hi Cassendre,

Sorry this email is late! I've been preoccupied with many things, including finals next week... but I hope this email finds you well. I didn't know which real email you use for personal stuff so I went with a FB message.

So I remember you asked about scriptures and other things I use to battle fear.

There are a lot of great Psalms about battling fear and relying on God. One example is Psalm 27. I recommend just going through them at checking out different ones. I don't know if you'r familiar with it, but most of the Psalms are written by David (who battled Goliath), and are in the format of a song or a poem. Most of them are David's raw emotions and his expression of those emotions directly to God.

Other things I do, which you seem to do as well, is communicate to people. If I'm feeling anxious or otherwise struggling in some regard, getting open with someone helps out a lot. It terms of being raw, if I am wanting to be all raw and am struggling with that, talking about it with someone generally helps. The key, I've found, is to talk about it as early as possible, and don't let the thought (whatever it is) incubate in your head.

Another thing I've found helps with being raw is building good memories around it. When I lived with Francesco [CX says: “Francesco Barone, who I co-billed with at www.TinAngel.com in 2006”] we would make it a point to make really good raw meals together and eat together, or sometimes go to the park, or kelly drive, or somewhere like that. Or we would have double dates and make raw food. One interesting aspect of our human nature in holding onto old ways of life, I think, is our attachment to the memories of those things. So build better memories of the new way of life! Doing this helped a lot.

Another thing I do, of course, is pray. Praying with other people is good. Also, if you're reading psalms, you can "pray through them", and change them as you see fit. Like start praying out a psalm, but then like expand on each phrase in your own words or add stuff in or whatever you want to do. This helps "get outside the box" sometimes with prayer.

That's all I can think of right now... I hope that helps! Also if you have more specific questions too, I'd be happy to tackle them since I'm not sure exactly what you needed.

Ttyl sista
-Jon
Duckling/Swan/Piece of God Chronicles (formerly Piece of Ass :-) – I’m gonna try being single for a while. Happens once every decade or so. As my self-esteem increases, so decreases my satisfaction with incomplete love affairs. Who knows what will happen next, but as I manifest my life partner, I am feeling more and more the need to clear the space thusly.
Rags to Riches Chronicles: It’s starting to be time for me to prove what I wrote about in my book Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal, that when you’re raw, nature makes sure you have all you need, and that includes money. In the meantime, I enjoyed many soft pretzels as highly economical bread and bagel substitutes, until my friend Linda Martin told me, well, I’ll show ye:
Posting for Better Health: I just ate 1 soft pretzel (bcz it's the cheapest bread/food) w/raspberry jam. (More to come in my next Museletter!)
Linda Martin responds: “It may be cheap, but it's hurting you. A lb bag of rolled oats from Nuts To You costs $0.69 and takes 90 sec to make in microwave.” [CX says: I thanked her profusely!]
Stay tuned, folks!
7) ALL ROCKSTAR CRYSTAL GALLERY SHOWS CANCELLED
I apologize for any convenience but due to scheduling issues beyond my control, I’ve cancelled all my shows there, but I highly recommend it at as a place to get your crystals, and many of the other spiritual services they provide there! www.RockStarCrystalGallery.com
8) EVERY THURSDAY AT MANGO MOON
Thai Thursdays with Cassendre!
Every Thursday 7:30PM-9:30PM No cover!

Mango Moon, Thai restaurant and bar, 4161 Main St, Philadelphia, PA 19127 Tel: 215-487-1230
http://MyMangoMoon.com
I'm performing my own original and a few cover songs with my drummer Rich Santucci (www.SantucciTrio.com). Join us and have a wonderful meal to lovely music!
9) FACEBOOK POSTS GALORE
Every week I post dozens of things on my Facebook Wall via my cellular mobile unit. I’ve decided to share some of them in my Museletter for posterity and those of you who are justifiably not playing on the Facebook playgroundal units! I put my full name after some of the quotes so that in case they’re re-posted it’s very easy to copy and paste the whole thing, to ensure the proper spelling of my name, which is, after all, one’s “brand”, if you will. (As it were :-)
Daily between 9 & 11pm I post: “What are some nice things that happened for you today?” I like to encourage folks to think about the good things that happen every day. It helps me, so I hope it helps others!
"Start failing now. You're not doing enough if your bureau isn't full of rejection slips-from publishers, agents, prospective lovers...etc.!" ~Cassendre Xavier
"Please be yourself. Please make your art, write your story, sing your song. Please say what helps you create. You can significantly influence an artist!" ~CX
Dying a full-face beard black may look half decent. Staining or penciling the visible skin underneath shiny? Not so much.
Just went produce shopping: kale, apples, limes, garlic. $5.39 www.Iovine.com
A pleasant rainy evening made enchanting by not needing to wear gloves,carry guitar nor wash off eye makeup. Also, got a letter from an inspiring artist friend.
Oh man, this is so my kind of weather - warm and softly raining. The better my self-esteem gets, the less sad I am when there's "no one" to "share" such splendid moments with. I recall learning of Oprah's "Parties for One", and get better at knowing that I am enough.
Want to rev up your social life? Send a generic "Hey watcha doin'?" text msg to 10+ people & make plans with those who respond soonest. ~Cassendre Xavier
Posting for Better Health: @6pm I drank a 24 oz spirulina-cacao Green Smoothie & ate a small plate of raw "spaghetti" ("pasta" is peeled zucchini, spiralized).
Cassendre Xavier is witnessing 2 opposite examples of coupling: one bickering loudly w/violent contempt & one sitting entwined, sharing the same meal & talking lovingly, softly.
"You give part of yourself away permanently when you do things for money, so select your work, and in some cases, relationships, carefully." ~Cassendre Xavier
“It's that time of decade to be single-not "Single & Poly", not "Single & Slutty", not "Single & Looking", just single.” – Cassendre Xavier
Someday receivng flowers may make me happier than folding lots of mine own cleane sockes,but I wouldn't bet on it.O blessed sockal units!How I loveth thyselves!
Dreamlogue & Interpretation in mere seconds-but first a reminder to incorporate night dreams into day living! Have a "dreamy" day. Blendage! (Aka "blendery" :-)
"Don't sell yrself short! Ur just like someone else I know&she's always selling herself short! Ur better than u think u are! Don't sell yourself short!" ~a fan
I tip buskers to keep my cycle of money flowing. I put 1 token in dapper Anthony Riley's case today, and 3 hours later a guy put 2 tokens in my guitar case!
Gratitudes: Paid my rent. Sold CDs. Anthony Riley tipped me $2. Opened my heart more w/forgiveness & love. Opened my eyes more. More value of self w/men&work.
..Who gets her dinner delivered to her busking station? A bitch Goddess Diva, that's who.(Why bitch? Bcz ur not a successful woman till biznessmen call u that.)
I'm a hust-loar, I'm a-I'm a hust-loar!
*Next Show* Wed Dec15, Private House Concert. Want this to be your place sometime in the future? Book in advance! cxmusic at gmail.com 215-436-9702 Pass it on!
just had a great house meeting. My suggestions to start&end w/smiles& gratitudes,have check-ins&end w/manifestation exercise w/a stack of real cash went well!
Working on "Life Skills" & "Sexuality" the last 2 of my Affirmations for Survivors guided meditation CD series is at times tough! Next I'll do "Rich&Happy" :-)
Book Recommendation: Angel Therapy by Doreen Virtue. Someday you'll be able to order cheap ass books thru my Amazon store in progress www.FabBookDeals.com!
just did the Morning Pages writing exercise from Julia Cameron's book "The Artist's Way:a Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity". Apparently I want 100% romances.
"Our lives are the direct results of our powers of concentration. You can change what your life shows by changing your thoughts and focus." ~Cassendre Xavier
Restaurant gigs are the shiznit! Customers dig the music, buy CDs, like to talk to the musicians during breaks & the best part? Guaranteed payment from venue!
"I try to be around people who are happy with who and where they are in life." ~Cassendre Xavier
“Healthy self-esteem lets rejection sting, but not linger, and certainly not affect your entire day. Must the whole world adore your lovable self? Get back on that horse, bucko!” ~Cassendre Xavier
Oh, I am so glad to be accepting the ways I authentically am and prefer to be in the world. I am making friends of a like mind all over the place!
"What kind of artist does not strive for total honesty in her work? Not a very effective one, to be sure." ~Cassendre Xavier
W/the changing technology× nothing is as it was re: artist/self-promotion,but still do it for joy,in service w/love&expect great things 4 best results.-CX
Word of the Day: "Delervous." (Adj.) Something that feels (tastes, etc.) very pleasant but has unpleasant side/after-effects or consequences. "Delervous." ~Cassendre Xavier
is taking deep breaths and appreciating Charles Aznavour.
just did the Morning Pages writing exercise from Julia Cameron's book "The Artist's Way:a Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity".Apparently I'm a very angry girl!
would really love an effin' punching bag right about now. Or to stand atop a mountain and scream. But I'm at my office with a co-worker right now. Wouldn't be prudent. And I can't stab the walls with an ice pick pretending it's someone's face as I did once at another job that had hidden walls where I could do that kind of thing. Dagnab it!! Tummy hurts.
“If God/dess is love and God/dess is everywhere why don't we see love everywhere? Because we haven't expressed it enough ourselves yet. Love is inside us.” ~Cassendre Xavier

10) WITH A LITTLE HELP FOR MY FRIENDS
Freshdirect Account for Kelli & Cheryl (Deadline to donate: Fri Dec 17, 2010, 11pm)
[Some of you may know my dear friend and former girlfriend Kelli Dunham is caring for her girlfriend Cheryl Burke who was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in November 2010 and is responding very well to chemo. They are both under-insured freelance artists living in New York city. Their friends Mamone, Zoe, and Genne have created the following. Please read on and help if you can. I know hundreds, possibly thousands may be reading. If we all chip in a little, it will mean a lot!]
There are several of us in the Cantaloupe Attack Society that are pulling our resources together to set up Kelli & Cheryl a Freshdirect account for over the holidays. Many of you like myself will be traveling and spending time with family all over the country. Its hard when a significant % of your support system leaves town for a holiday and Kelli & Cheryl are still here with the same needs.

Freshdirect will allow their money... to go further, bodega shopping is pricey and known for small servings.

Even if Kelli orders cases of Diet Mountain Dew, they will be hauled up all of those flights of steps for them.

Freshdirect has a wide selection of local organic pre made veggie meals for Cheryl and meat ones for Kelli. Without so many people in town dropping off meals this could get them by until we all return.

Next Day Delivery as long as your order is in by 11pm

This is a complicated time of year to ask people for money, this is a confidential passing of the e- hat. No one will know how much who gave other than myself and I will not share that information with anyone. I will put a card together with everyones names that chipped in so Kelli & Cheryl do know who all helped to make this happen. Please send your donation to Helenmamone@yahoo.com (Riot Grrl Ink) will donate the paypal % that it takes so your donation will be enjoyed in full by Kelli & Cheryl.)

**Instructions:** Once you are signed into Paypal (if you don't have an account you'll have to set one up), go to "send money." In the "to" space, put Helenmamone@yahoo.com and then put the amount you want to donate in the amount box. Click the "personal" tab and make sure it's set to "gift." From there, just hit continue and follow the directions for how you want to pay and then hit 'send money.'

We will accept donations until the 17th of the month. Please email me with any questions and feel free to pass along to those that you feel would be interested ~ every drop in the bucket helps!

in rEvolution & Respect
Mamone
---------------------------------------------------
House & Garden Work by Laureen Griffin www.homework.laureengriffin.com Contact us for a free one hour visitation and home assessment. We will meet with you and put together an estimate. Our work is high quality at reasonable rates
Rasa Salon & Boutique, 62 W Manheim St (Mt. Airy/Germantown area), Philadelphia, PA 19144 (215) 668-6296
www.RockStarCrystalGallery.com
http://kitholmesmusic.com/
http://christinehavrilla.com/ -#1 Favorite Local Band of WXPN Amazon Country Host Debra D’Alessandro. (2nd Favorite? A certain “Cassendre Xavier”. Wacky!)

Z) FAREWELL BLESSING
May you easily master fear releasement.
May you claim your spirituality as your own.
May you be your own authority.
May you compare yourself to no one but your dreams for yourself.
May you always know you are loved.
May all your dreams come true, surpassing all your expections.
This, or something better, and may it be for the good of all.

In art and community,
Cassendre Xavier
Humyn, Being.
www.cassEndrExavier.com
© Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com
------------------------Ways to give back to the renaissance negresse-------------
Make a Paypal Donation: **Instructions:** Once you are signed into Paypal (if you don't have an account you'll have to set one up), go to "send money." In the "to" space, put cxmusic@gmail.com and then put the amount you want to donate in the amount box. Click the "personal" tab and make sure it's set to "gift." From there, just hit continue and follow the directions for how you want to pay and then hit 'send money.'
Beloved Old School Paper Mail: Send love letters, dark chocolate, French perfume and money orders PAYABLE TO: Cassendre Xavier, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204 USA
Order CDs/Downloads: http://cdbaby.com/all/cassendre
Order CDs from CX Direct: http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com/
Come to see CX perform: http://cassendrexavier.com/calendar.html
Booking CX to Sing & Treating CX to Meals, Movies, Concerts Oh My! Email: cxmusic(at)gmail.com, Voicemail 215-436-9702
====================Please forward this message. =========================
To subscribe, please send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
To unsubscribe, please reply from this message to: cassendrexavier-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com or reply with “Remove” in the subject.
=======================Thank you for your time============================

ME! ME! ME! Cassendre Xavier Museletter December 5, 2010

2010-12-05T04:47:00.001-08:00

TABLE OF CONTENTS

~WHO IS CASSENDRE XAVIER?
~GREETING
~SOUNDTRACK
~LIFE IS HUGE AND INTENSE
~EMBRACING THE SHADOW
~www.SOULMATESECRET.COM
~FOR THE GRATEFULLY & GAINFULLY EMPLOYED OR OTHERWISE CASH-COMFY WHO EITHER ENJOY ALCOHOL AND/OR RESTAURANTS!
~CX DIRECT FOR ALL YOUR CD HOLIDAY PURCHASING NEEDS!
~WHO’S THAT BLACK GIRL SINGING IN SUBURBAN STATION?
~THE SUBURBAN STATION SUBWAY SIREN TOUR
~WHO WANTS A HOUSE CONCERT?
~FAREWELL BLESSING

CONTENTS OF TABLE

WHO IS CASSENDRE XAVIER?
“Cassendre Xavier is a multi-media healing artist based in Philadelphia. As a singer-writer, she spans the range of pop from folk to blues to rock; and her songs are rich in a soulful expression of emotions. Cassendre has a rich, sweet singing voice and entertains audiences with jokes and witty banter. She is a leader in the raw vegan health community and has facilitated support groups for survivors of abuse. Cassendre is an honored recipient of a Leeway Foundation Transformation Award for her work in art and change.” –from the Women in Transitions & The Survivors Network’s “Celebrating Survivors” event program October 29, 2010.

GREETING
Hi, there!

Glad to be writing to you once again. Hope you’re not bored by this :-)

SOUNDTRACK (what I listened to as I wrote this): Bossa Combo: Accolade, Charles Aznavour, Ubaka Hill: The Spiral Dance, Teena Marie: Passion Play.

==========================================================

LIFE IS HUGE AND INTENSE
Let’s see, what’s going on – life. Life is BIG. Huge. Really. Can’t get over how intense it is these days. Is it just Moi? Canst thou relate? Sheesh!

I’ve been doing a lot of work trying to maintain my good feelings, be less critical of self and others, and I’m doing a lot of work on fears and anger. I’m still posting what I eat on Facebook and making progress as a normal, healthy eater. Okay, that’s the positive language that I’ve learned is important to use. You read between the lines. Aaaargh!

============================================================

EMBRACING THE SHADOW
May I recommend Debbie Ford’s shadow work? Many of her books deal with the shadow and I’ve been working with some of her concepts. One of the great things that’s happened in my embracing my shadow is that I’ve gotten much more important work done. For example, instead of being upset with myself that I am addicted to Facebook, I just said, Okay. I’m addicted to Facebook. I accept that. What’s good about that, or what can be good about that? I then decided that before I log on, I’ll first update my website and/or MySpace calendar. My website’s calendar has been updated regularly for the first time in years. And that’s not because I’m addicted to Facebook, but because I accepted that I was and refused to beat myself up about it. Love the shadow is Debbie Ford’s whole thing about that. Another thing is that as I accepted more of my shadow parts I became more able to mend friendships and accept others’ shadows. Thanks to my friend Edie Weinstein for first telling me about Debbie, and for Arielle Ford, Debbie’s sister, for promoting her work, which I discovered through Arielle’s website…

www.SOULMATESECRET.COM
I highly recommend Arielle Ford’s work on law of attraction, which she used to manifest her successful business and now marriage. She married for the first time at age 44 and she and her husband have been happy their entire 12 years of marriage. Check it out and see if it resonates with you!

If you like this type of personal growth stuff, check out my articles at Wisdom Magazine’s online edition:
http://wisdom-magazine.com/ArticleArchives.aspx?author=Cassendre+Xavier or http://tinyurl.com/yh9e95c.

FOR THE GRATEFULLY & GAINFULLY EMPLOYED OR OTHERWISE CASH-COMFY WHO EITHER ENJOY ALCOHOL AND/OR RESTAURANTS!

Every Thursday, my drummer Rich and I are playing the Mango Moon, 4161 Main St, (in the Manayunk section of) Philadelphia, PA 19127 Tel: 215-487-1230. 7:30pm-9:30pm. No cover. www.MyMangoMoon.com. It’s a great place, and the website matches its wonderousness, and how nice Moon, the Chef is!

Very excited that later tonight I’ll be singing with a jazz trio for the first time ever. Drummer, bass, guitar, and a little female type (me!) singing some pop and rock tunes re-worked in the jazzular way. (I’m also bringing my guitar and will do a tune or two of Moi’s own!) Sunday, December 05, 2010, 5:30pm-7:30pm at Divan Turkish Kitchen & Bar, Corner of 22nd & Carpenter, Philadelphia, PA 19146. www.DivanTurkishKitchen.com. 215.545.5790. No cover.

On Tuesday, December 7, 2010 – 8:30pm
I’ll be singing at The Exchange. An evening of multi-media performance featuring: Cassendre Xavier, James Hearne, Ms Pain, Aleister Mraz. Upstairs at Copabanana, 344 South Street, Philadelphia PA 19147 215.923.6180. Drink and food specials~
Info/Contact: www.myspace.com/communityculturalexchange. No cover.

Friday, December 17, 2010 8PM (Doors 7:30PM)
Capable of Love Concert - $15 Donation includes CD!
Arrive early to meet, mix, mingle & browse the crystals. Show starts promptly at 8:00PM. I’ll be singing songs from my 2009 album Capable of Love.
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 267-286-1011 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com
(Hear and read about this and my other musical recordings at www.cdbaby.com/all/cassendre)

========================================

CX DIRECT FOR ALL YOUR CD HOLIDAY PURCHASING NEEDS!

As a full-time self-employed musician, I am required by law to pester you to seriously consider throwing some of your greenery devices in this Haitian-American sista’s direccione! If I don’t, someone else’s multi-million dollar advertising budget (or really strong indie street team) will get your attention first!

Please remember that I don’t believe you owe me anything. Everyone works for what they have in life, or simply accepts what they’re offered, depending on what spiritual teacher you ask! I think it’s a little, or a lot of both. You don’t have to creatively tithe nor are you obliged to support your local artists and live music scene, but do consider that if you and your contemporaries don’t, who will?

I have dozens of serious artists who “get” and wholly support my work, hundreds of actually interested CX appreciators on my internet scene, and thousands of voyeuristic readers who kinda don’t care, really (but would buy an album by a super famous person). I don’t know where you fall on the continuum, but I did the math and if I could entice you to either order here or online any of my downloads, I’d be a whole lot more comfy in the material world!

Here’s my CX Direct Order Form (I can send you CDs) in both web and paper-friendly formats: Oh, and in addition to cash and credit/debit cards in person and online, I also accept other forms of “gifts” such as prayers and well wishes, which do work, believe me!

When I’m busking, I get many many blessings, as well as smiles, sometimes hugs, and also gig leads. People tell me about venues, they invite me to perform house concerts for them, it’s really good stuff.

You can be a blessing by simply visualizing me becoming a touring singer-songwriter and playing venues you’re excited about bringing your friends to come see “the girl I met who was playing the subway in Philly” or whatever. Holding the vision of my success is one of the greatest gifts you can give me. And I send it right back to you in wishes for continued success, growth, prosperity, health, and true enjoyment of living!

Online version: http://cxdirect.eventbrite.com

Recommended first purchase: Beautiful (2004) or Capable of Love (2009) and
The Whittenberg Sessions (2002) –an excellent value at only $20 for both CDs!

CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM
(SHIPPING INCLUDED IN THE U.S.A.!)

Send orders to: Cassendre Xavier, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204 USA
(Or order securely with your Credit/Debit Card at www.cassEndrExavier.com!)

MUSICAL *CDs - $12 each, TWO for $20!
Capable of Love (2009)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Tin Angel (2006)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Beautiful (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at the Kraftbrau, Kalamazoo (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Café Improv (2002)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
The Whittenberg Sessions (2002) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GUIDED MEDITATION CDs - $15 each, TWO for $25!
Affirmations for Survivors: Self-Love (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $__________
Affirmations for Survivors: Spirituality (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $_________

GRAND TOTAL: $____________. Money order/checks PAYABLE TO: Cassendre Xavier
Name________________________________________ Email: _____________________________
Shipping Address_____________________________________ City________________
State_________Zip Code______________________Phone: (_______)________-_______________

*All CDs may or may not contain artwork and lyric/credit inserts, but are quality recordings with song titles printed on the CD, and in sturdy slimline cases ready to listen or “rip”/ “burn” immediately!

(Please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery. Call with any questions or concerns 215-436-9702.)
=======================================

WHO’S THAT BLACK GIRL SINGING IN SUBURBAN STATION?
I’ve been wanting to place this ad on Craigslist for months, and I finally did it! http://tinyurl.com/2f7wjv9

WHO WANTS A HOUSE CONCERT?

I love performing for small groups, and tis the season for gatheral purposes, so iffn’ you’re interested, give a call at 215-436-9702 or email cxmusic(at)gmail.com. I’ve got references galorrificment!

THE SUBURBAN STATION SUBWAY SIREN TOUR
ONGOING The Subway Siren Suburban Station Tour (2005 – Present)
Cassendre’s busking (street/subway performance) has been featured in the Philadelphia Daily News and the Philadelphia Inquirer!
Various Weekdays, 3:00PM-6:00PM
Designated Performance Area #1 of Philadelphia’s Suburban Station, Directly below 17th Street & JFK Blvd
Stop by and say hello! (Elevator to Concourse Level)

All for now, folks….

FAREWELL BLESSING

May you always know that you are loved.
May you be gentle with yourself and know true friendship, from the inside out.
May you follow your bliss and be supported.
May you be bold, fearless, and filled with gratitude.
May all your dreams come true, surpassing all your expectations.
All this, or something better, and may it be for the good of all.

Cassendre Xavier
Musician & Writer
www.cassEndrExavier.com

Founder & Director of the blah blah blah. I’m tired :-)

© 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rightzen reservenitzkhen.

Please forward this message.

To subscribe, please send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

To unsubscribe, please reply from this message to: cassendrexavier-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com or reply with “Remove” in the subject.

==================Thank you for your time=======================

With Jazz Trio @Divan Turkish - Sunday 12/5 No Cover!

2010-12-04T18:33:00.001-08:00

Greetings humyn-type CX appreciators!

Just want to let you know/remind ye I'll be singing with a jazz trio for the first time ever tomorrow, Divan Turkish Kitchen & Bar tomorrow Sun 12/5 from 5:30pm-7:30pm, at the corner of 22nd and Carpenter Streets in South Philly! No cover.

It’s a lovely place with soft white holiday lights outside year-round. Visit their website at http://divanturkishkitchen.com.

If you’d like to hear samples of the dreamy Santucci Trio, led by my friend and CX drummer Rich Santucci, visit them at http://santuccitrio.com. I’ll be singing pop and rock songs in a jazz style arranged by Rich. It’ll be very casual and fun. Come eat, drink, and be merry with us!

Hope to see you then, if not, send psychic huggery device units our way as we will be having fun and surely sending our own all around the world!

Blah blah blah,

Cassendre Xavier
She Does Stuff
www.cassEndrExavier.com

ME! ME! ME! Cassendre Xavier Museletter Nov 24, 2014

2010-11-25T16:27:00.000-08:00

In this issue:
HAPPY 4th THURSDAY OF NOVEMBER DAY
SUBWAY SIREN ALERT! - BUSKING ON BLACK FRIDAY November 25th
SINGING WITH JAZZ TRIO ON SUNDAY 12/5

Greetings, Friends!

Hello from singer-songwriter Cassendre Xavier ("a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade and Enya" - Borders Music Expert Steven M. Wilson)!

HAPPY 4th THURSDAY OF NOVEMBER DAY
I don't even know how to wish you a happy day today, because it's so rife with controversy. Yes, I understand what this day is in American history, all aspects of it, but can't I just wish folks that they enjoy their day, and that hopefully it's an off day and that if they're with their family of choice and/or origin, friends, or whomever they're spending time with, that they're (you're) enjoying yourselves?
Do I really have to receive text messages like the one that just beeped into my phone, "Happy Native American Massacre Day"? Why would I be "happy" about that?

Anyway, I'm enjoying a day off and I'm with my family and I'm keeping to my 50% raw vegan regimen, so I'm good. Hope you are, too!

SUBWAY SIREN ALERT! - BUSKING ON BLACK FRIDAY November 25th
Toomorrow's a big shopping day, Black Friday, November 25th, with some stores opening as early as 3AM - wow! Some of you may know that I busk (street/subway perform, in this case, sing and play the guitar) frequent weekdays from 3PM-6PM at Philadelphia's Suburban Station - in fact, this may even be how we met! I will be there tomorrow during my regular shift. If you're in the neighborhood shopping, please stop by! Designated Performance Area #1, directly below 17th Street & JFK Blvd.

SINGING WITH JAZZ TRIO ON SUNDAY 12/5
I've been a performing singer-songwriter-guitarist since 1991, a recording one since 1994 (first release in 2002), I've been a member of he Anna Crusis Women's Choir (the oldest feminist choir in the United States), and I've performed with various performers from rap artists to folk/rock artists. I've had a band twice, and I've played electric guitar in performance and in the studio. What I've never done is sing with a jazz band! I am very excited to report that I will be performing pop and rock songs arranged by Rich Santucci (who has performed my music before), along with one or two of my own songs, with Rich's jazz trio, the Santucci Trio. Details:

The Santucci Trio, featuring vocalist Cassendre Xavier
Sunday, December 5, 2010
5:30PM-7:30PM, FREE
Divan Turkish Kitchen & Bar
Corner of 22nd Street & Carpenter Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19146
www.DivanTurkishKitchen.com

All for now, folks. Hope to see you soon, and enjoy your day, no matter what wonderful or horrible thing happened. You're alive. Thanks for your time :-)

Very best,

Cassendre Xavier
Humyn, Being.
www.cassEndrExavier.com (site will be up again tomorrow)

www.CDbaby.com/all/cassendre
http://stores.lulu.com/cassendre
www.youtube.com/cassendrexavier
www.myspace.com/cassendrexaviermusic
www.facebook.com/cassendrexavier

Streaming LIVE 11/24 Women’s Writing Series+Open Mic!

2010-11-23T18:48:00.001-08:00

Greetings, Friends!

I just want to remind you that I will be hosting the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series, which returns tomorrow, Wednesday, November 24, 2010 after a 4 year hiatus!
The wonderful featured readers will be Ruth A. Rouff and Renda Rose (bios below)!
The time is from 7pm--9pm. Location: Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St. (at Sansom St.), Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-735-9598.
The event will be streaming LIVE on the worldwide web at www.moonstoneartscenter.org!
Admission is $5 and includes a Mixed-Gender Open Mic as always.

About Ruth A. Rouff:
Ruth A. Rouff is a poet, novelist, and educator. She has published a novel, a biography, numerous poems and freelance articles, and is currently at work on a book of poetry. She is featured at poetry readings around the metro Philadelphia area.
Ruth was raised in southern New Jersey, near Philadelphia, and attended Vassar College on scholarship, majoring in English. She has worked at a variety of jobs, including retail management, publishing, and teaching in the Philadelphia public schools. She currently works as a writer, editor, and educator.
Visit Ruth online at www.RuthRouff.com.

About Renda Rose:

Renda Rose is among the nations most sought after voices, as she boldly stands as a spokesperson for those with internal wounds and unheard cries. A life coach, motivational speaker, and inspirational poet all but scratch the surface of who Renda Rose is.

Resilient defines this woman who uses the devastation of her youth as a testament that there is indeed life after death! Having experienced the aftermath of molestation and rape at the hand of her biological uncle, which started at the tender age of 5; this plague again met her at the age of 19, when she was brutally raped by a couple of felons; one of which a convicted murderer.
Oh yes! Ms. Rose is well acquainted with the stifling affects of abuse. Because Renda didn’t have the tools to properly heal, the aftermath of this devastation stayed with her, and would ricochet into her adulthood. Renda Rose has arisen victorious over a 20 year stint of drug addiction and depression. Nine of these years Renda spent homeless on the streets of Philadelphia. She proclaims that her turn around happened in the solitude of a rehabilitation institution.

Today, Ms. Rose stands by her statement that she was, “wounded only for a moment, and on purpose.” That purpose is to speak life into broken hearts of the young and old, from all walks of life across the nations. With thirteen victorious years of sobriety, Ms. Rose stands free from her past of desolation, shame, and insecurity. And once becoming totally clean from her addictions, Renda became a volunteer aid for five years at the very day shelter which once was a place of refuge for her.

Though on the move, Renda still has a strong passion for individuals addicted to drugs, and without a home; and is putting action behind her passion as she builds her nonprofit company, Rosewaters Inc. which will serve to educate, empower, and equip these individuals with the tools necessary to acquire healing and success. Ms. Rose firmly believes that, “healing is a choice!”

With a growing resume, Renda has worked with Victims Services of Montgomery Co. in the state of Pennsylvania, made a national television appearance on Channel 8, It’s Your Call with Lynn Dole, and was also featured on the international radio broadcast, In the RAWW with Paula Edwards. She has also hosted her very own internet talk show called, Heart to Heart.

There’s no stopping this dynamic woman now that she is finally walking in her purpose! Ms. Rose is preparing for the release of her very first manuscript entitled, Grace and Mercy Brought Me Home, a masterpiece which details her incredible transformation from a mere weed, into the beautiful “rose” she is today! Additionally she is currently a spokesperson for The Truth Behind Incest the Movement, and has availed herself for speaking engagements from large banquets, to small intimate settings; sharing her wisdom and insight with diverse audiences. She has also traveled far and near imparting hope, truth, and inspiration through her phenomenal gift of poetry. Renda’s poems have been likened to the remarkable and highly acclaimed, Maya Angelou. Renda makes her poems available in gift sets, which are great for all occasions.

With a personal desire to see wounded hearts healed, and to bring restoration back to the mother/daughter unit, driven to aide people from all walks of life that have somehow gotten off track along this journey called life to find their course; Renda has set out to spread her revelation about “Truth and Choices.”

Renda Rose, a woman of great faith, courage, and zeal is taking on the great task of spreading the good news which is that there “is” life after death through a process of rebuilding, and restoring. As she remains transparent about her journey, she encourages individuals entrapped in guilt and shame to “come out! “And as she embraces the truth, the choice, the freedom, the hope, the faith, the victory, the peace, the grace, the mercy, the purpose, and most importantly, the love,” this mighty woman is managing to lead humanity as a race into a place of healing, purpose, and destiny. Along with her personal declaration, God is marvelous; Renda’s favorite quote comes from the Bible, Philippians 4:13 which states, “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.” Her favorite song… Amazing Grace.

Visit Rose online at www.RendaRose.com
Rose Waters, Inc.
Telephone: (610) 270-0695
Email: rosewaters1940(at)yahoo.com

About the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series: The Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series provides a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing, at all levels of accomplishment, from diverse backgrounds, and always including a mixed-gender open mic. The Series was founded in 2002 by singer-songwriter and award-winning community cultural arts organizer Cassendre Xavier who is also founder of Philadelphia’s Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival, est. 2003, www.BWAFphilly.org). The Series continued throughout 2006 with co-hosts/co-curators fiction writer Louise Bierig and journalist Sherella Gibbs, as well as various guest hosts including Atticus Books novelist Alex Kudera and Eugene The Composer.
Some noteworthy features of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series include cellist/composer/lyricist Monica McIntyre, scholar Dr. Leslie Niama Williams, and New York Times bestselling novelist L.A. Banks (aka Leslie Esdaile Banks).

Ongoing submissions to feature (female only) or guest host (any gender) are online at www.WomensWritingSeries.org, or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Women’s Writing Series, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204. Email: WomensWritingSeries(at)yahoo.com.

--------If you can’t join us, perhaps you can watch us online and we look forward to seeing you sometime! -Cassendre-----------

Cassendre Xavier Museletter November 14, 2010

2010-11-14T16:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

Just want to let you know that I’ll be doing a concert of my 2002 album “The Whittenberg Sessions” this Friday, and next Wednesday, the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series will return after a 4 year hiatus. I’ll be hosting and the featured readers will be Ruth A. Rouff (www.RuthRouff.com) and Renda Rose (www.RendaRose.com). The Series will be streaming live on the internet at www.moonstoneartscenter.org for those of you who can’t attend in person.
Details for both events, as well as my mail order form are below as usual.
I hope you’ll join us!

In art and community,

Cassendre

Friday, November 19, 2010 8PM (Doors open 7:30pm)
$15 Donation includes CD!

The Whittenberg Sessions Concert
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 267-286-1011 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

Cassendre sings songs from her acclaimed 2002 debut studio album The Whittenberg Sessions. (Hear and read about this and Cassendre’s other musical recordings: http://www.cdbaby.com/all/cassendre)

======================================================================================

Wednesday, November 24, 2010 7pm--9pm $5

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series feat. Ruth A. Rouff and Renda Rose, hosted by Cassendre, at Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St. (at Sansom St.), Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-735-9598, www.moonstoneartscenter.org

The Series provides a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing, at all levels of accomplishment, from diverse backgrounds, and always including a mixed-gender Open Mic.

Ongoing submissions: www.WomensWritingSeries.org, or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Women’s Writing Series, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.
For my complete schedule of events, please visit http://cassendrexavier.com/calendar.html

============================================
CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM (FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.!)

Send orders PAYABLE TO CASSENDRE XAVIER: Cassendre Xavier, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204 USA

MUSICAL CDs - $12 each, TWO for $20!

Capable of Love (2009)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Tin Angel (2006)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Beautiful (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at the Kraftbrau, Kalamazoo (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Café Improv (2002)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
The Whittenberg Sessions (2002) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GUIDED MEDITATION CDs - $15 each, TWO for $25!

Affirmations for Survivors: Self-Love (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $__________
Affirmations for Survivors: Spirituality (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

BOOKS - $15 each, TWO for $25!
Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

CURIOUS BOOKLINGS™ (CHAPBOOKS) - $7 each, TWO for $12!

Yoko Ono & Brad Pitt’s Art Class – Creative Writing (2009) ----Quantity:___X $_____= $________
Making of a Woman/Atist: a book for every black girl & every black woman who has ever wanted to be an artist (2005) ---- Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
secrets & lies: poetry and other words (2004) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GRAND TOTAL: $____________

Method of donation: Money order (preferred)/checks. (Coming soon - online orders / Paypal / Credit & Debit Cards)

Send orders PAYABLE TO CASSENDRE XAVIER: Cassendre Xavier, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204 USA

Name________________________________________ Email: _____________________________
Shipping Address_____________________________________ City________________
State_________Zip Code______________________Phone: (_______)________-_______________

(Please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery.)

© 2010 Copyright by Cassendre Xavier. All rightzen reservenitzhken. Aur Elsen. http://cassendrexavier.com/

“Action is the new black.” ~CX

Previous venues: Oct 29 thru Nov 14, 2010

2010-11-14T15:22:00.001-08:00

==================================================

Friday, October 29, 2010 Celebrating Survivors Concert

7:00 – 10:00 pm

Featuring Featuring R&B music by Ann Rabson, formerly of Saffire, the Uppity Blues Women, American “roots” music by Pat Wictor, Also, a spoken word performance by WIT’s own Marsheila Sutton.

First Unitarian Church

21st & Chestnut Streets in Philadelphia

$20 in advance (credit card), $25 at the door (cash/check). General admission. Info: http://www.helpwomen.org/wp/upcoming/490

=============================================================

Monday, November 1, 2010 7:00pm-8:30pm

$5

Living with Joy - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the book "Living With Joy" by Sanaya Roman. Info: www.orindaben.com

Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119

www.bigbluemarblebooks.com

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

======================================================
Thursday, November 4, 2010 8:30PM - Free

Late Night Series - Philadelphia, an open mic at Drexel University's Creese Student Center, 33rd & Chestnut, Philadelphia, PA. I'm not featuring, just hanging out with friends and participating in the Open Mic! Feel free to join us!

==============================================================
Thursday, November 11, 2010 8PM-9PM (Doors open at 7:30PM) One Measly Dollar!

Affirmations Sing-Along

Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

Join acclaimed singer-songwriter Cassendre Xavier in song to affirm health, love, and abundance.
Cassendre has been writing affirmation songs since 2007 and was spiritually called to start leading Affirmation Sing Alongs that same year. She has done so at venues as varied as Arnold's Way Raw Vegetarian Cafe & Education Center, the Germantown Friends School, and house concerts. All are welcome, especially the tone deaf and scaredy cats!

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.
===================================================================================================

Friday, November 12, 2010 10AM - 5PM - Free
25th Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo

I'll be performing music in the lobby. www.octobergallery.com

======================================================

Saturday, November 13, 2010 10AM - 5PM - Free
25th Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo.

I'll be performing music in the lobby. www.octobergallery.com

==============================================================

Sunday, November 14, 2010 2:00pm-3:30pm $5

Embracing the Goddess – Wimmin’s Spirit Circle

A safe space to explore feminist female-centered spirituality.

Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119

www.bigbluemarblebooks.com

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

Cassendre Xavier Museletter - November 1, 2010

2010-10-31T21:56:00.001-07:00

CGREETING
Well hellooooo there!

You may have met me at a concert or recently where I was singing, or maybe perhaps in the illustrious hallowed hall of Suburban Station, where I’ve been busking off and on since 2005.

Just writing to send warm greetings to thyselves, and letcha know what all I’ve been up to. (Yes, I know that’s not grammatically correct but who cares, really? :-)

CORRECTION: The link to my Wisdom Magazine articles is actually http://tinyurl.com/26r99ry, and not the boob-filled YouTube link I accidentally sent ya, heh-heh, although I’m certainly not saying there isn’t tremendous wisdom in boobary type objects. Just sayin’ :-) [Said aforementioned linkery device is heretoforn: http://tinyurl.com/28dkkph]

AFFIRMATIONS SING-ALONG UPDATE
My Affirmations Sing-Alongs are really pickin’ up steam since I started doing them in October 2007 at Arnold’s Way Raw Vegetarian Café & Education Center in Lansdale, PA. Here you can see video footage of our most recent one at RockStar Crystal Gallery in East Mt. Airy, Philadelphia http://youtu.be/9vpPPDKJQVs. Extra sweet and juicy thanks to Stephanie, Darryl, and Kate for bringing so much to the event (movement, percussion, and information about the throat chakra and power of the solar plexus, respectively!) Plenty more of these are booked below, and I’ve been sneaking them into most of my performances, ranging from chem-free events for folks in recovery to blues concerts! Caraaaaazy! Wild wacky stuff, man. As I said last week on my Facebook Wall, “When Spirit says jump I wear two bras.” :-)

WOMEN’S WRITING & SPOKEN WORD UPDATE
Some of you may recall that I founded and directed the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series from 2002 – 2006 at Robin’s, Philadelphia’s oldest independent bookstore? Well, we’re bringin’ it back in November – November 24th, to be exact! It’s happening every month, still 2 features with a mixed-gender open mic, and it’ll be at the Moonstone Arts Center. Please visit the website at www.WomensWritingSeries.org and check out the Schedule and Submissions pages which I spent much of today doing. I hope to see some of you there sometime!

CRAZY ACTION ON FACEBOOK
Und zie sprichen of Facebook, I am totally outpouring all kindsa CX love all up in there. You can visit anytime, friend or not at http://www.facebook.com/cassendrexavier or http://tinyurl.com/2eephv9. You can read inspiring quotes, and also, you’ll never believe this – I post everything I eat. All day long. I’m a recovering food addict and I have found that nothing, not raw veganism, not Overeaters Anonymous, nothing in my 41 years has worked as well as posting on Facebook everything I put in my mouth. I’ve been losing weight and, I think, providing some fodder for folks into that kind of thing. Hopefully my progress and wagonfalloffery (aka “wagonfalloffage”) also occasionally assists others on their journey to serenity. I do so much on Facebook it’s hard to describe here. Just visit and see for thyself!

Well, I wanted to be brief. Just a few things I really, really wanna drum in:

WARM FUZZIE SENDAGE (AKA “SENDERY”)
Love yourself.
Don’t sweat the holidays – create one as comfy for yourself as possible.
I’m all over YouTube and Facebook. Posting silly things, raw vegan foods and drinks, blah blah blah.
I really appreciate that you’re there. Thanks for inspiring me to continue with my work. I’d do it anyway but without you it woudn’t be nearly as fun ;-)
Oh, and please be yourself. I mean – who else ya gonna be? We need *you*, the flower thatcha be, just as you is, nothin’ else, capiche? Thanks!

UPCOMING EVENTS & SNAZZY, JAZZY NEW CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM (WHOO-HOO!!) Well, you may not be quite as excited about this as I am… :-)

Lastly, I just re-did my calendar, and it looks a little somethin’ like…..this! (Links below, then the long version at the end of this message.)

Source: http://cassendrexavier.com/calendar.html or http://tinyurl.com/2vyyt3m

Order Form Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/10/cx-direct-mail-order-form-november-1.html or http://tinyurl.com/26cckd4 (Links below, then the long version at the end of this message.)

FAREWELL BLESSING
May you all ways know your value and worth.
May you never, or cease to value yourself, your worth, your spirituality, your intellect.
May the sun warm your body and soul from all sides.
May you feel the companionship that comes from being connected with your self first.
May you know you are loved, and feel that on a frequent basis.
May others know and feel your love for them as well.
May you receive all the wonderful things you desire. This, or something better, and may it be for the good of all.

Thanks for your time and consideration. Hope to see you soon, and in the meantime…

Make yourself a beautiful day!

Cassendre
She Does Stuff (Between Naps)

====================UPCOMING EVENTS===================

==================================================

Friday, October 29, 2010 Celebrating Survivors Concert
7:00 – 10:00 pm
Featuring Featuring R&B music by Ann Rabson, formerly of Saffire, the Uppity Blues Women, American “roots” music by Pat Wictor, Also, a spoken word performance by WIT’s own Marsheila Sutton.
First Unitarian Church
21st & Chestnut Streets in Philadelphia
$20 in advance (credit card), $25 at the door (cash/check). General admission. Info: http://www.helpwomen.org/wp/upcoming/490

=============================================================

Monday, November 1, 2010 7:00pm-8:30pm
$5
Living with Joy - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the book "Living With Joy" by Sanaya Roman. Info: www.orindaben.com
Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119
www.bigbluemarblebooks.com
Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

======================================================
Thursday, November 4, 2010 8:30PM - Free

Late Night Series - Philadelphia, an open mic at Drexel University's Creese Student Center, 33rd & Chestnut, Philadelphia, PA. I'm not featuring, just hanging out with friends and participating in the Open Mic! Feel free to join us!

==============================================================
Thursday, November 11, 2010 8PM-9PM (Doors open at 7:30PM) One Measly Dollar!

Affirmations Sing-Along

Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

Join acclaimed singer-songwriter Cassendre Xavier in song to affirm health, love, and abundance.
Cassendre has been writing affirmation songs since 2007 and was spiritually called to start leading Affirmation Sing Alongs that same year. She has done so at venues as varied as Arnold's Way Raw Vegetarian Cafe & Education Center, the Germantown Friends School, and house concerts. All are welcome, especially the tone deaf and scaredy cats!

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.
===================================================================================================

Friday, November 12, 2010 10AM - 5PM - Free
25th Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo
I'll be performing music in the lobby. www.octobergallery.com

======================================================

Saturday, November 13, 2010 10AM - 5PM - Free
25th Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo.
I'll be performing music in the lobby. www.octobergallery.com

==============================================================

Sunday, November 14, 2010 2:00pm-3:30pm $5
Embracing the Goddess – Wimmin’s Spirit Circle

A safe space to explore feminist female-centered spirituality.
Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119
www.bigbluemarblebooks.com

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

=======================================================
Tuesday, November 16, 2010 8PM-9PM (Gathering begins at 7:30PM)
Donation: $5-$10 Sliding Scale

Angelic Awareness
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19119
www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

This is an open discussion forum for anyone who would like to share their angel experiences, learn more about angels and how they can help, ask questions, or develop their practice as, and network with other psychics, mediums, and angel communicators. There will be no angel readings - just a warm and friendly gathering of like-minded folks on the angelic path!

Moderated by Cassendre Xavier.
Light refreshments will be provided.

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

==========================================================
Friday, November 19, 2010 8PM (Doors open 7:30pm)
$15 Donation - show+CD / $5 Show Only

The Whittenberg Sessions Concert
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

Cassendre sings songs from her acclaimed debut album The Whittenberg Sessions. (Hear and read about this and Cassendre’s other musical recordings: http://www.cdbaby.com/all/cassendre)

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.
===============================================================
Monday, November 22, 2010 7PM $10
Angel & Spiritual Guidance Share with Cassendre and Joshua C. Barber of White Light Sanctuary
Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119
www.bigbluemarblebooks.com

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

===============================================================
Wednesday, November 24, 2010 7pm--9pm $5

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series, hosted by Cassendre, at Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St. (at Sansom St.), Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-735-9598, www.moonstoneartscenter.org

The Series provides a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing, at all levels of accomplishment, from diverse backgrounds, and always including a mixed-gender Open Mic.

Ongoing submissions: www.WomensWritingSeries.org, or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Women’s Writing Series, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.

===============================================================

Sunday, November 28, 2010 4:00pm-5:30pm $5

Creating Your Ideal Body - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the guided meditation by Sanaya Roman. Info: www.orindaben.com
Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.
========================================================
Tuesday, November 30, 2010 7:30pm-9:00 $5 Donation
Creating Money - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the book by Sanaya Roman and Duane Packer, Ph.D..
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com
Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

Saturday, December 4, 2010 - 12:00pm - 11:00pm $15

Rock for Recovery - Fundraiser for DCACNA.......music all day and night.......some Rock & Roll, some Alternative, some Rap etc. Food, fun and fellowship!
First Presbyterian Church of Lansdowne
N. Lansdowne Avenue and W. Greenwood Avenue, Lansdowne, PA 19050
Contact/Info: Charles Dougherty 610-931-2363

======================================================================
Monday, December 6, 2010 7:00pm-8:30pm $5

Creating Money - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the book by Sanaya Roman and Duane Packer, Ph.D. Info: www.orindaben.com
Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119
www.bigbluemarblebooks.com

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

==================================================
Tuesday, December 7, 2010 – 8:30pm – Free

The Exchange
I’ll be singing and reading my multi-genre writing at this event –

An evening of multi-media performance featuring: Cassendre Xavier, James Hearne, Ms Pain, Aleister Mraz.

Upstairs at Copabanana, 344 South Street, Philadelphia PA 19147

Drink and food specials~
Info/Contact: http://www.myspace.com/communityculturalexchange

Saturday, December 11, 2010 11:30am-1:00pm $5
Attracting Your Soul Mate - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the guided meditation by Sanaya Roman. Info: www.orindaben.com

Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119 www.bigbluemarblebooks.com

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

===============================================================
Sunday, December 12, 2010 5pm-6pm (Gathering at 4:30pm) One Measly Dollar!

Affirmations Sing-Along

Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

Join acclaimed singer-songwriter Cassendre Xavier in song to affirm health, love, and abundance.
Cassendre has been writing affirmation songs since 2007 and was spiritually called to start leading Affirmation Sing Alongs that same year. She has done so at venues as varied as Arnold's Way Raw Vegetarian Cafe & Education Center, the Germantown Friends School, and house concerts. All are welcome, especially the tone deaf and scaredy cats!

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

Friday, December 17, 2010 8PM (Doors open 7:30pm)
$15 Donation - show+CD / $5 Show Only

Capable of Love Concert
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

Cassendre sings songs from her acclaimed debut album Capable of Love. (Hear and read about this and Cassendre’s other musical recordings: http://www.cdbaby.com/all/cassendre)

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

===================================================================

Monday, December 20, 2010 7pm--9pm $5

The Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series, hosted by Cassendre, at Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St. (at Sansom St.), Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-735-9598, www.moonstoneartscenter.org

The Series provides a nurturing environment that celebrates women in the craft of multi-genre writing, at all levels of accomplishment, from diverse backgrounds, and always including a mixed-gender Open Mic.

Ongoing submissions: www.WomensWritingSeries.org, or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Women’s Writing Series, POB 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204.

===============================================================

Tuesday, December 21, 2010 8PM-9PM (Gathering begins at 7:30PM)

Donation: $5-$10 Sliding Scale

Angelic Awareness
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 Tel: 267-286-1011 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com

This is an open discussion forum for anyone who would like to share their angel experiences, learn more about angels and how they can help, ask questions, or develop their practice as, and network with other psychics, mediums, and angel communicators. There will be no angel readings - just a warm and friendly gathering of like-minded folks on the angelic path!

Moderated by Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier.
Light refreshments will be provided.

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

==================================================

CANCELLED - Wednesday, December 22, 2010 7PM $10
Angel & Spiritual Guidance Share with Cassendre and Joshua C. Barber of White Light Sanctuary

===================================================================

Wednesday, December 22, 2010 7PM $2

I'll be attending my friend Alex Kudera's reading from his new novel Fight for Your Long Day at Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th St. (at Sansom St.), Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-735-9598, www.moonstoneartscenter.org

===============================================================

Tuesday, December 28, 2010 7:30pm-9:00 $5 Donation
Creating Money - an Orin DaBen Study Group, based on the book by Sanaya Roman and Duane Packer, Ph.D..
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com
Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

===============================================================

Fri Feb 11, 2011 - 8PM (Doors open 7:30pm) $15 Donation - show+CD / $5 Show Only

Beautiful Concert
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 www.rockstarcrystalgallery.com
Cassendre sings songs from her acclaimed studio album Beautiful. (Hear and read about this and Cassendre’s other musical recordings: http://www.cdbaby.com/all/cassendre)

Pre-registration required at 215-436-9702, no later than the day before.

===============================================================

Saturday, March 26, 2011 7:30PM/Doors Open at 7:00PM $TBA
Tret Fure with very special guest CX
Unitarian Universalist Church of Delaware (UUCDC)
145 W. Rose Tree Road, Media, PA 19063 Phone: 610-566-4853
Accessible to the Media/Elwin line to Media Station
Info: http://www.uucdc.org/aboutus.html

==================================================

CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM (FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.!)

Send orders to: Cassendre Xavier, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204 USA

MUSICAL CDs - $12 each, TWO for $20!

Capable of Love (2009)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Tin Angel (2006)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Beautiful (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at the Kraftbrau, Kalamazoo (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Café Improv (2002)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
The Whittenberg Sessions (2002) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GUIDED MEDITATION CDs - $15 each, TWO for $25!

Affirmations for Survivors: Self-Love (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $__________
Affirmations for Survivors: Spirituality (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

BOOKS - $15 each, TWO for $25!
Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

CURIOUS BOOKLINGS™ (CHAPBOOKS) - $7 each, TWO for $12!

Yoko Ono & Brad Pitt’s Art Class – Creative Writing (2009) ----Quantity:___X $_____= $________
Making of a Woman/Atist: a book for every black girl & every black woman who has ever wanted to be an artist (2005) ---- Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
secrets & lies: poetry and other words (2004) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GRAND TOTAL: $____________

Money order/checks PAYABLE TO: Cassendre Xavier

Name________________________________________ Email: _____________________________
Shipping Address_____________________________________ City________________
State_________Zip Code______________________Phone: (_______)________-_______________

(Please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery.)

Thank you for supporting my art/work, and therefore, Life  ~Cassendre

© 2010 Copyright by Cassendre Xavier. All rightzen reservenitzhken. Aur Elsen. http://cassendrexavier.com

Please spread the wealth. Good stuff ;-)

Quotes of the Week:
When life hits you hard, don't complain. Cry out loud, curse, but don't complain. You are not a victim.
Live passionately, with all the injuries that can happen as a result: it is worth it. ~Paulo Coelho

CX Direct Mail Order Form November 1, 2010

2010-10-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

CX DIRECT MAIL ORDER FORM (FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.!)

Send orders to: Cassendre Xavier, PO Box 30204, Philadelphia, PA 19103-8204 USA

MUSICAL CDs - $12 each, TWO for $20!

Capable of Love (2009)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Tin Angel (2006)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Beautiful (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at the Kraftbrau, Kalamazoo (2004)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
Live at Café Improv (2002)----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________
The Whittenberg Sessions (2002) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GUIDED MEDITATION CDs - $15 each, TWO for $25!

Affirmations for Survivors: Self-Love (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $__________

Affirmations for Survivors: Spirituality (2007) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

(Coming soon – AFS: Sexuality, AFS: Life Skills)

BOOKS - $15 each, TWO for $25!

Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

CURIOUS BOOKLINGS™ (CHAPBOOKS) - $7 each, TWO for $10!

Yoko Ono & Brad Pitt’s Art Class – Creative Writing (2009) ----Quantity:___X $_____= $________

Making of a Woman/Atist: a book for every black girl & every black woman who has ever wanted to be an artist (2005) ---- Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

secrets & lies: poetry and other words (2004) ----Quantity:_______X $______= $___________

GRAND TOTAL: $____________.

Money order/checks PAYABLE TO: Cassendre Xavier

Name________________________________________ Email: _____________________________
Shipping Address_____________________________________ City________________
State_________Zip Code______________________Phone: (_______)________-_______________
(Please allow up to 2 weeks for delivery.)

Thank you for supporting my art/work, and therefore, Life  ~Cassendre

Calendar of events & appearances October 16 - 27, 2010

2010-10-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Hi, friends,

I'm posting these previous events (before I remove them from my website) for burgeoning performers and other creative types who'd like to know about venues - so they can find me in internet searches :-)

For my current schedule, please visit http://cassendrexavier.com/Calendar.html

------------------------
Calendar of Events & Appearances

Thursday, October 14, 2010 (formerly scheduled for Fri 10/15) 8PM-9PM One Measly Dollar!

Affirmations Sing-Along

Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 Tel: 267-286-1011

Join acclaimed singer-songwriter Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah) in song to affirm health, love, and abundance.
Cassendre has been writing affirmation songs since 2007 and was spiritually called to start leading Affirmation Sing Alongs that same year. She has done so at venues as varied as Arnold's Way Raw Vegetarian Cafe & Education Center, the Germantown Friends School, and house concerts. All are welcome, especially the tone deaf and scaredy cats!

=====================================================

Saturday, October 16, 2010 10:30AM - 12:30PM - FREE
Lansdowne Farmers Market, in Lansdowne PA www.LansdowneFarmersMarket.com. Public transportation directions from 69th St. Station: Take either the 109 or 113 bus to Lansdowne and Lacrosse. It's just. That. Simple!

=====================================================

Saturday, October 16, 2010 7:30PM
MYRA’S PLACE: ANNIVERSARY FUNDRAISER!
Saturday October 16th at 7:30pm
Music provided by “Just Roses & Friends”
Jean Lenke, Sue Hunt & Ingrid Rosenback ...
with Christine Kinslow ... Dolores Magro ...
& special guest CassEndrE Xavier!

Suggested Donation $5-$25
Please give generously!

Myra’s Place is dedicated to empowering women through education and therapy, while utilizing a strength based approach in a solution focused setting, so that women may lead fully independent and productive lives. Myra’s Place offers women the opportunity to live freely in pursuit of their familial, societal, intellectual and professional goals. Most importantly, Myra’s Place recognizes and embraces each woman’s individual potential.

Myra’s Place is a non-profit organization supported in part by the Phoenix Charities, our own Friday & Saturday Night Cafe entertainment projects, volunteer service and your donations. Our non-profit organization serves people of all races, creeds and religions. We invite diversity! We believe that diversity offers the opportunity to learn from one another. www.myrasplace.org

Call: 610-733-0450 for more information about Myra’s.
Call: 484.431.3524 for more information about Just Roses & Friends

Myra's Place
615 Macdade Blvd
Collingdale, PA 19023
(610) 733-0450
myrasplace333@gmail.com

=====================================================

Tuesday, October 19, 2010 7PM FREE

Poets & Prophets Presents...Cassendre Xavier

Moonstone Arts Center, 110A S. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Phone: 215-735-9598

www.moonstoneartscenter.org

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah and Amrita Waterfalls) is an award-winning multi-media artist and community cultural arts organizer working in Philadelphia since 1991. Cassendre coined the term “renaissance negresse” to describe her identity as a first generation American-born citizen multi-media artist of Haitian and Chinese heritage. She is the author of Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal (ARtivist Publications), secrets & lies: poetry and other words (ARtivist Publications), Making of a Woman/Artist: a book for every black girl & every black woman who has ever wanted to be an artist (ARtivist Publications), and has self-published many zines throughout the years.

Her poems, essays, fiction, non-fiction, humorous, spiritual and erotic writings have been published in various national publications including When Falls the Coliseum: a Journal of American Culture (or Lack Thereof) (Free Reign Press, ed. Scott Stein), We’Moon: Gaia Rhythms for Womyn ’99 & ’01 (Mother Tongue Ink), Dykes with Baggage: a Lighter Side of Lesbians in Therapy (Alyson Publications, ed. Riggin Waugh), The Butch Cookbook (TRP Cookbooks, ed. Lee Lynch, Nel Ward, Sue Hardesty),The SandMUtopian Guardian: a Journal of BDSM Realities, Hair To Stay, GBF Magazine, and others. She has been a journalist with Philadelphia’s University/Weekly Press, a columnist with the Philadelphia Gay News (“Black/Out”) and currently writes popular spiritual and personal growth articles for the online edition of Wisdom Magazine.

A recipient of a 2005 Leeway Foundation Transformation Award for women and transgender artists creating social change, and voted one of Go Magazine's "100 Women We Love Class of 2010, Cassendre is the founder and director of Philadelphia’s 8th Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (www.BWAFphilly.org), and founder/director of the Women’s Writing & Spoken Word Series at Robin’s Bookstore (2002-2006). Visit Cassendre at http://cassEndrExavier.com.

============================================================

CANCELLED - Tuesday, October 19, 2010 8PM-9PM (Gathering begins at 7:30PM)
Angelic Awareness

Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
PA 19119 Tel: 267-286-1011

This is an open discussion forum for anyone who would like to share their angel experiences, learn more about angels and how they can help, ask questions, or develop their practice as, and network with other psychics, mediums, and angel communicators. There will be no angel readings - just a warm and friendly gathering of like-minded folks on the angelic path!

Moderated by Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier.
Light refreshments will be provided.

Donation: $5-$10 Sliding Scale.
======================================================

Saturday, October 23, 2010 11:30am-1:00pm $5

Attracting Your Soul Mate – an Orin DaBen Study Group

with Cassendre Xavier

Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119 215.844.1870

Journey to the soul plane to meet the soul of your soul mate. You will play at the soul level to expand the light and love between you. You will build a bridge of light between your two heart centers, send and receive telepathic messages from your soul mate, and draw your soul mate to you.

If you’re not familiar with the teachings of Orin & DaBen as taught in the books and audio guided meditations of Sanaya Roman and Duane Packer Ph.D., please visit www.orindaben.com for more information.

Please bring a journal.

RSVP required: 215.436.9702

=====================================================

Wednesday, October 27, 2010 7:00pm-8:30pm

Angelic Awareness with Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier

Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119

More info coming soon…

PrayerSpell for Healer/Writers

2010-10-21T21:20:00.001-07:00

“[Great Spirit], speak through my pen. Make my words carry the healing light of truth and love to all who read them and may they be moved and inspired by my writing which comes from You.
Thank you for giving me this joyful gift and talent, to heal myself and assist others on their own, precious path of healing and self-revelatory actualization.
I express my gratitude in advance for all of the endless gifts I continually receive from You and all positive Sources of the Universe, yesterday, now and forever.
This, or something better, and may it be for the good of all. And so it is.”

-Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier
http://www.cassEndrExavier.com

Recommended article: Start Where You Are - A Call to Healing Artists http://wisdom-magazine.com/Article.aspx/1770 or http://tinyurl.com/29v5kqs

Article Archives: http://wisdom-magazine.com/ArticleArchives.aspx?author=Cassendre+Xavier or http://tinyurl.com/yh9e95c

Wazzuup! Cassendre Xavier Museletter *10/10/10

2010-10-10T21:39:00.001-07:00

Greetings, Friends!

Sorry if I bummed you out last time. I just wanted to “be real” and “let ya know where I’m at”! I got some nice feedback, and thank you for your support, but I also got more than the usual amount of unsubscriptions, too – Doh! Oh well, I guess it’s best to write in my diary during the down times, and save the museletter writing for when I’m feeling more chipper, as it were (if you will)! But don’t blame me if I still do sometimes express my sadness – that’s just how I rolls, yo!

In the news:

So many changes to my website! Bizarre holidays, new videos being added, calendar updates – really good stuff!

I’m really excited about my YouTube Channel which is seeing a lot of action these days, including Today’s Date in Angel Numbers based on and inspired by the book “Angel Numbers” by Doreen Virtue Ph.D. and Lynnette Brown. You can see these video posts of mine at http://tinyurl.com/28dkkph. I can’t wait to upload some videos about Goddess spirituality, which I’ve been really getting (back?) into.

I have lots of cool events coming up, including a return to the Lansdowne Farmer’s Market on Saturday October 16, 2010 at 10:30AM. www.LansdowneFarmersMarket.com
I’m singing at a great benefit in Collingdale later that same day at 7:30pm. The venue and beneficiary is Myra’s Place www.myrasplace.org.

I’m also very excited to be doing my first feature poetry and multi-genre reading in years! (Poets and Prophets presents…, at Moonstone Arts Center at 13th & Sansom, Tues 10/19/10 at 7pm Free. www.moonstoneartscenter.org. This will be my 3rd time featuring at P & P since I’ve been making art in Philly - 1991.)

Also: Thursday, October 14, 2010 (formerly scheduled for Fri 10/15) 8PM-9PM One Measly Dollar! I’ll be leading an “Affirmations Sing-Along” at Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19119 Tel: 267-286-1011 www.RockStarCrystalGallery.com

I also have a bunch of New Age groups and classes coming up at Big Blue Marble Bookstore in West Mt. Airy www.bigbluemarblebooks.com/classes.html

I also am still busking in Suburban Station, where I meet lots of folks and actually get gigs from this rogue type of networking. It’s fun!

For the above dates and more schedule additions, please see my Calendar page for details: http://cassendrexavier.com/Calendar.html

I have a new book coming out in print and e-book format! It’s called “How to Wear a Crystal” and is informative, erotic, and features photos and commentary by Mek. For more information, please visit www.artivistpublications.homestead.com/services.html or my main website.

I’m still writing a lot for Wisdom Magazine’s online edition. You can read my articles at http://tinyurl.com/28dkkph.

I’m now an Interfaith Minister providing a whole sloppy mess o’ services including legal wedding and commitment ceremonies all over the world. I’m also doing spiritual classes, readings, and counseling of various sorts which I’ll detail another time. Just bein’ brief today! Please check my Spiritual Services page for details. http://cassendrexavier.com/spiritualservices.html

I also I just released a very exciting Black Women’s Arts Festival Newsletter, announcing the dates for Philly’s 8th Annual BWAF in 2011, as well as the brand schpankin’ new Licensed International BWAF Producers system, which will allow me to flit aboot and live my life without being tethered to the beauty that is the BWAF headquarters in Philly! You can read the latest newsletter at the BWWAF website at www.BWAFphilly.org.

All for now, dearies!

I trust you’re being good to yourself, ‘cause you’re the one who counts the most. Remember – You are Special and Unique (just like everybody else) :-)

In Art and Community,

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah and Amrita Waterfalls)
Artist, Founder & Director of Philadelphia’s 8th Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival
www.BWAFphilly.org
www.cassEndrExavier.com

*Veeeerrrry powerful spiritual/Angel numbers, folks! The number 1 represents the importance of your thoughts and the power they have, and zero represents God (or “Source” as many of us like to say). So all these ones and zeros are here to remind us to watch our thoughts – only focus on what we want, not what we don’t want, because thoughts WoManifest, and to keep our thoughts on God. Meditation time! Love, light, and gratitude – Amethyste (my spiritual name :-)

© 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved so there.
Permission granted to reprint as long as credit and www.cassendrexavier.com are included.

Jealousy & Envy: 7 Ways to Heal and Grow

2010-10-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier

When you take steady and regular action toward your dreams and goals, you feel more secure in yourself, and you are much less likely to be jealous of others.

As a self-avowed “late bloomer”, I am often presented with opportunities to deal with feelings of jealousy and envy. I see people around me who are much younger and have accomplished much more of the things I am working towards creating in my life. I yearn for the success and stability of not only recognition for my work, which I’m grateful, blessed, and lucky to already and often experience, but material abundance as well. After many years of hard work, it’s no longer enough to receive kudos and thanks for my writings, recordings, and community organizing efforts. I want cold hard cash and checks coming in to pay my living expenses and allow me the opportunities to have adventures in life I feel I deserve and am well worthy of.
This, and other humyn, egocentric thoughts of fear, scarcity, and lack are often the stages I’m in when the thoughts of jealousy and envy creep in. It’s never when I’m feeling full of bliss and love – when I’m aware that the universe is abundant and that there is enough for everyone. For, when I am feeling that way, it’s quite clear to me there is no competition- not at all, whatsoever. There are only those of us who try our best and those of us who do not – those of us who create and those of us who stifle in fears of various kinds – ourselves and others.
Recently, various life factors, some of which affect us all – like “the economy” we hear so much about, have piled on top of others – like my survivor issues, eating disorder, and overwhelming schedule have wreaked havoc on my lightworker/Law of Attraction-trained mind. I have been afraid. I have been afraid I’ll never accomplish all of my goals, my dreams won’t come true, I’ll never get my act together enough to attract my ideal soul mate, and similar thoughts. The good news is that I recognize them as what they are – fear having its way with me, and me being given a Spirit-sent opportunity to go to Source (sometimes called God) for guidance, healing, and comfort.
From time to time, this issue has come up for me – of what Van Morrison called “Professional Jealousy” in his song of the same title, and I’ve made a mental note to write and share my thoughts and experience about it.
Just now something happened for me to immediately accomplish this task.
I was looking online for images of a tour bus. I have a very strong dream of going on tour as a singer-songwriter, and of having my own tour bus. I am totally open to the Universe co-creating this with me, and although it’s a lesser expensive bus I keep expecting, Spirit keeps presenting me with opportunities to expand my vision and possibilities. I see images of much snazzier buses, and interiors deemed in the “party bus” category. As Abraham-Hicks teach, it’s a time for me to expand what I really want. Do I really want the Volkswagen bus painted wild pink and other colors on the outside and in, with a friendly small band and that’s it? Or do I want the RV camper that looks like a couples first tiny apartment – homey but not too glam? Or maybe the type of bus Reba McIntyre might have, which looks “too fancy” for me, but has amenities I know that I want – like my own private sleeping space, in part because I’m self-conscious about my highly unglamorous snoring!
This exercise of browsing, picking and choosing my dream tour bus, interior and exterior, for my mental visualization exercises and dream/vision board created many opportunities for personal growth in this topic.
One major thing that happened is that I came across only one image of a woman singer-songwriter, inside her tour bus, with a guitar in her hands, posed as if playing, capo and all (fifth fret – one of my faves! I would overlook that she is slender and white, while I am large and black.)
At first I saved the image and used it in the background of my computer, then I went back to the image and saw that it had a caption and an article attached to it. The caption was “Singer-songwriter Lori McKenna on her tour bus after she opened for Faith Hill and Tim McGraw in Tacoma, Wa.”
Then I searched her name and read more about her.
For some reason, as I read that she was a songwriter who had started late and was already married with three children (now she has five) when she achieved success, I started feeling sadder and sadder. All these thoughts ran through my head which made me think of her as specially blessed, or able, and different from me – that was the prevailing thought, “I can’t do what she did. She’s different. I’m different. I’m not like her. I’m not good enough,” and my stomach started hurting and I just felt worse and worse. Then I caught myself and started stroking my soul with feel-good, healing thoughts. I hope these words help you heal your own feelings of jealousy and envy. Remember these are perfectly normal feelings, and you would have to be dead or a robot not to ever feel jealous or envious of your peers!

Here are some tips I’ve learned and wish to share:

1) Have a make-believe conversation. As soon as you feel jealous of someone, imagine you are having a conversation with that person. Ask them if they want you to feel that way. In most cases, you’ll immediately feel relief knowing that absolutely no, they do not want you to feel badly and lesser-than. Most people want others to be successful and happy in life. In fact, it’s a fear of others’ jealousy that often keeps some folks stagnated in self-destructive, project-sabotaging behaviors. If none of us had any of that to fear, more of us would accomplish a great deal more.
2) Forgive yourself. It hurts (especially your inner child) to be flagellated with thoughts of not being good enough, not having accomplished enough, and that’s exactly what you’re doing when you’re jealous of someone. Be gentle with yourself.
3) Ask spirit for guidance and forgiveness. Go to your various sources: God, Goddess, the ascended masters, the angels, nature, love, etc., and ask them to be with you, hold your hand and heal your heart during this temporary time of crisis. Expect relief and you will likely receive it.
4) Express gratitude. When you are clear that your needs are provided for, including your needs to accomplish your dreams, you have all the gratitude to help reach them. When you’re lacking in gratitude, you’re vulnerable to feelings of jealousy and envy. When you express gratitude, those thoughts are much less attracted to you, and less likely to occur.
5) Practice an abundance of love – for yourself and others. As with gratitude, when you are focused on being loving, there is very little room for fearful, self-loathing thoughts like being jealous of others to slip in.
6) Eat well. You become what you eat, and your thoughts are very much affected by what you eat and drink. Try to eat as well as you can, not only to support your physical being, but your mental and spiritual one as well. The better you eat, the better your thoughts.
7) Take action. You won’t give a hoot what Sally or Jim’s doing down the road if you’re busy preparing to run your own race. Keep focused on your own dreams and moving towards your own goals, remaining in tune with your inner guidance and spiritual support system. When you take steady and regular action on your dreams and goals, you feel more secure in yourself, and you become much less likely to fall prey to thoughts and feelings of jealousy and envy of others.

Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier is an award-winning multi-media cultural and healing artist dealing mostly with survivor issues, self-love, creativity, humor, spirituality, raw vegan lifestyle and sexuality. Amethyste (as she likes to be called in spiritual circles) is known mostly as a singer-songwriter, recording artist, author of multi-genre writing, YouTube personality, as well as being the founder and director of Philadelphia’s 8th Annual Black Women’s Arts Festival. Although Amethyste is an ordained Interfaith Minister permitted to perform legal wedding ceremonies throughout the United States and many parts of the world, she specializes in commitment ceremonies and celebrations for polyamorous, LGBT and alternative/intentional families of choice. For more information about her products and appearances (including musical concerts and Affirmations Sing-Alongs, literary and poetry readings, Orin DaBen study groups, Angel Healing and spiritual counseling sessions, and personal growth classes and workshops), please visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

© 2010 by Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier. All rights reserved.

Permission is granted to share this article free of charge, provided the following credit is included: Jealousy & Envy: 7 Ways to Heal and Grow, by Cassendre Amethyste Rah Xavier www.cassEndrExavier.com

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/10/jealousy-envy-7-ways-to-heal-and-grow.html or http://tinyurl.com/26hbcna

Dear Beautiful - Cassendre Xavier Museletter

2010-09-18T21:24:00.001-07:00

BIO: Cassendre Xavier is a multi-media artist who coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002. Known mostly as a recording artist and author, she is the founder and director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003). www.BWAFphilly.org, www.cassEndrExavier.com

INTRO: This newsletter takes many forms and many names from time to time (“ME! ME! ME!” and “the renaissance negresse museletter” being the most commonly used). I decided I don’t have to use one same name all the time for this newsletter. Hope that’s cool with you :-) Below was transcribed from my journal.

16 Sept 10

Dear Beautiful,

It is past 2AM and I am lying here writing to you with a black felt tip pen (best for bed/upside-down/any-which-way writing), and a green single-subject spiral notebook and a painful stomach.
My stomach has hurt every day for weeks because of my compulsive and late night overeating, which was starting to get under control with my Raw Transformation updates. But when I had technical problems at my office and couldn’t upload my videos for weeks, I feel off the wagon.
I now am able to upload again, but it takes about three hours to upload a five minute video and I tend to choose fun things like music or sexy posts instead.
I’m looking forward to doing more lectures and Q&As on the raw lifestyle to help me with this lifelong eating disorder. I don’t know how to feel good physically. I don’t take care of myself. I like to treat pain with more pain to help me both forget and remember the first pain. My stomach ache keeps me company and distracts me from thinking about or feeling sad about my other problems.
But of course that’s all bullshit what I’m saying. I’m just talking but I have no understanding of what I do. I just stuff til it hurts because it’s what I’ve known to do since childhood. It’s how I keep myself company. And that so much change.

MONEY: Stressed. Unemployed. Underemployed. Job-hunting. Grateful for gigs and busking. Generating interest in workshops. Increasing trust in the Universe’s ability to provide all my needs. Constantly and routinely shown just that.

LOVE: Growing exponentially. Self-love increasing. I’m patient about my next romantic love. Plants, crystals, children, animals, nature, and friendship are teaching me a lot about love.

SPIRITUALITY: Self-trust. Love. Orin & DaBen. Angels. Doreen Virtue. Tolerance. Christianity. Paganism. Sexuality. Barbara Carrellas. Annie Sprinkle.

MOST INSPIRED BY: Books. Facebook friends’ status reports sent to my mobile phone’s new unlimited text plan: Barbara Carrellas, Annie Sprinkle, Ann Albers, Kenn Kweder, Bren Ryder, Victor Galli, Jon Mercer, Gab Guma, Paulo Coelho, Lili Anel, Gary Null, Nina Hartley.

WHAT I WANT TO SHARE WITH YOU:

Downloads/CDs: http://cdbaby.com/all/cassendre, http://stores.lulu.com/cassendre
Print & eBooks: http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com
Videos: http://youtube.com/cassendrexavier

CALENDAR OF APPEARANCES:

Saturday, September 25, 2010. FREE
Lansdowne Farmers Market 11:30AM – 12:45PM
Info: http://tinyurl.com/23b3dnv

Monday, October 4, 2010 7:00PM – 8:30PM $5
Orin DaBen Study Group – Creating Money: Attracting Abundance
Big Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19119
Pre-registration required online or by phone 215-436-9702
For more about Orin & DaBen, visit http://orindaben.com

Friday, October 15, 2010 8PM-9PM One Measly Dollar!
Affirmations Sing-Along
Rockstar Crystal Gallery, 20 E. Mt. Airy Avenue, Philadelphia
Join acclaimed singer-songwriter Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah) in song to affirm health, love, and abundance.
Cassendre has been writing affirmation songs since 2007 and was spiritually called to start leading Affirmation Sing Alongs that same year. She has done so at venues as varied as Arnold's Way Raw Vegetarian Cafe & Education Center, the Germantown Friends School, and house concerts. All are welcome, especially the tone deaf and scaredy cats!

Many more dates added regularly…please visit www.cassEndrExavier.com for updates.

© Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com. To unsubscribe, please reply with “Peanut Butter” in the subject field. It smarts less. Yes, I’m aware that’s very codependent of me :-)

Free Cupcakes & CX Music Thurs 8/19/10 @ Noon!

2010-08-18T19:11:00.001-07:00

Hi, folks! I just got booked to sing at this event tomorrow. See message for details and hope to meet ya there or soon! -Cassendre Xavier, Singer-Songwriter-Guitarist http://cassEndrExavier.com
--------------------------------------
from Monica Montgomery:

Hello CupCake,

Join It's a CupCake! tommorrow for a live tastingand TV taping as we are being featured on Food Network TV for the"Unique Eats" TV Show. Our Press Release is attached and featuredbelow, Media is welcomed and cupcake lovers are too. Tell all yourfriends far and wide, they will love you for telling them about Freecupcakes!

Details:100 Mini Cupcakes given out Free! Live Taping for Food Network TVDate & Time:Thursday August 19th 2010 / 12 NoonLocation:Unitea Cafe & It's a CupCake!265 South 44th StreetPhiladelphia Pa 10104

Come and Taste the Excitement!

----------------------------------------

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Contact

Monica O. Montgomery

Public Relations & Outreach Director

It's A CupCake!

info@itsacupcake.com

347-445-7784

Free Cupcakes: Philly Cupcakery It's A CupCake! featuredon Food Network TV!

Philadelphia, PA – It's a CupCake! Sweet & Savoryboutique, a local women owned business is being featured on the popular newCooking Channel TV show "Unique Eats" as shown on cable affiliate Food NetworkTV. The live taping and cupcake tasting is open to the public and will beheld: Thursday August 20th 2010 @ 12noon @ Unitea Cafe, 265 S. 44thStreet, University City, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

It's a CupCake! Sweet and Savory Boutique, is known andloved throughout the greater Philadelphia region and beyond. Their cupcakeshave been featured on 6ABC, FYI show, Food & Wine Magazine's website The 10Show! and several other media outlets. It's a CupCake! and Unitea have joinedforces to present the finest sweet & savory cupcakes, exotic teas, crepesand lunch time delights! Come celebrate their launch into national network TVprominence and watch the live tapping of the new Unique Eats – Savory Cupcakeedition. Complimentary cupcakes will be distributed to the audience firstcome, first served. Cameras will be rolling as 100 free mini savory and sweetcupcakes are given away. Shooting and tasting opens to the public around12:00pm so line up early.

It's a CupCake! owner Mona Wilson is often referred to as "The CupCakeSommelier" for her expertise in pairing and creating delicious award winningSavory cupcakes. Mona said "I am excited to be profiled on a Food Network show,this is a dream come true for me! It is an honor to showcase my craft to theworld and have Philadelphia taste the sweet fruits of my labor." Her shopspecializes in making Savory Cupcakes, unique gourmet cupcakes that are filledand topped with mouthwatering creations of your choice. Considered thesophisticated "new appetizer", the range of toppings is endless, featuring richflavors; from hummus to bacon or barbeque to caviar. The CupCake Sommelierlives up to her tagline: Chasing the taste of a exquisite cupcake!

# # #

It's aCupCake!Sweets Boutique is an artisan bakeshop creating delectable sweet and savorycupcakes. Our cupcakes are crafted with care, using ingredients locally sourcedand grown. www.itsacupcake.com

TheCupCake Sommelier is a lifestyle brand committed to innovating tastes; we showcase thedelicious diversity of cupcakes. The CupCake Sommelier has all yourentertaining lifestyle needs, specializing in tasting demonstrations, catering,wholesale and retail for individual customers, nonprofit groups and corporateclients. The CupCake Sommelier matches savory cupcakes as a complimentary Horsd'oeuvre, to enhance your meal or add flair to your luxury affair. Contact UsToday: info@itsacupcake.com

UniteaCafefeatures of 30 loose leaf teas from around the world, come taste and createyour own brew.

Letter to Our Fathers

2010-06-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Dear Daddies,

We, your children, forgive and thank you.

You were not taught that it was safe for men to cry. You were not treated with gentleness as a boy. You were not loved nearly as much as your dear heart was worthy of.

You were imperfect, and in some ways, you were wonderful as a father. But we often forgot the good times, and weren't reminded enough to remember.

We are healing from the harsh lessons we learned from you, and we now recognize you are healing from yours.

We forgive you and know you always did the best you knew how. We thank you for your hard work in providing for us.

Thank you for agreeing to parent us in this lifetime. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to learn and practice understanding, compassion, empathy, and forgiveness. Thank you for teaching us to be strong and independent.

We wish your spirit peace and we know your highest self wants the same for us.

With love, forgiveness, and gratitude from your healing children.

------------------------

Cassendre Xavier is a multi-media healing artist and Creative Life Coach. Based in Philadelphia, she is the founder and director of that city's 7th Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (July 29 thru August 1, 2010). For more information, please visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Permission is granted to reprint this article, provided the following credit and link are included:
"Letter to Our Fathers" (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. http://cassEndrExavier.com

How to Help the Gulf of Mexico

2010-06-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Millions of people all over the world are working on the tragic Gulf of Mexico oil spill. Since our strongest power comes from joining our heart-centered intentions with two or more people, let those of us who wish to act to solve this problem find others of a like mind. Not everyone is working in the same way to resolve this problem, and not everything about this problem is "bad". There are blessings in every situation, and we have a choice to seek and maximize the blessings. In this case, an awareness of many issues has been raised among a formerly sleeping public.

Also, many are (finally) being held accountable for their actions, and we all have this opportunity to significantly effect and/or transform the way business is done. Let us all stop judging. While it is reasonable to want and expect justice and an evening of the proverbial scales, our efforts are much better used at continued, nonstop focus on finding a way to stop the spill. We are all geniuses and when we combine our efforts for good and only coming from a place of love, we can create miracles.

If you ever feel anger or hatred towards "those" who "created" this situation, replace those feelings and thoughts with love for them and for our planet. It's not that they won't be held accountable - they will, but it's our love that will heal the planet and from there we can create a system of, or impart justice - from a wiser place.
None of us has to have the answers, but we would be much wiser to clear our hearts and minds of any thoughts that are not loving.

I'm feeling that it would be very helpful for us all to do a lot of forgiveness work. Many of us are very frustrated, and afraid. Fear is not love - and fear grows exponentially. Let's do a lot of forgiveness - think about the "jerks who made this mess" and see them as children who made a mistake. I'm not saying corporate heads need to be coddled, but we won't be the clear channels of transformational miracles if we're busy running around trying to "spank" the "bad guys". Let's put our energies on healing mother earth - ask her what she needs from us.

Do you remember the bees thing from years ago? They started disappearing? When lightworkers asked the bees why, they were told that the bees had been overused for too long.

I'm sure we don't have to go too far deep into meditation to find out what Mother Nature is trying to tell us. We as a whole have been abusing her body for far too long. We plunder without thinking --we are full of greed. We don't think of what might happen if we make a mistake. We are All One. Those "guys" who "created this mess" are extensions of, and connected to us. And that's another reason not to hate or want to hurt them. How do you want to be treated when you've made a mistake, or are misguided or didn't know any better?

At any given time, we are all doing the best we can. And when we are making mistakes, or doing things that are hurting others, we can be shown a better way, and forgiven our errors.

That's the kind of parent, friend, or lover I think I'd want, that's the kind of person I'm trying to become, and that's the way we will heal our planet, not only of this spill, but of the hatred and intolerance, and fear we've allowed to dominate our hearts and minds for far too long.

Lastly, scientists are beginning to have tools to guage things that lightworkers have always known. One of those things is that our heart and feelings significantly effect the earth. (NY Times bestselling author and scientist Gregg Braden explains this in this video http://tinyurl.com/2d7wf87). I also highly recommend part one of the interview http://tinyurl.com/d4qycj)

When we have thoughts or feelings of fear, chaos, anger, rage, guilt, shame, etc. we actually contribute to the creation of hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, etc.
When we use and strenghen our hearts in love, we also bring peace and love to our physical environment.

The most powerful thing we can all do to help solve the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is to focus on love at all times, and recongize that fear is an absence of love.

Forgiveness is love, patience is love, generosity is love, hope and faith are love. Anger is a lack of love, fear is a lack of love, despair and hopelessness are an absence of love.

When we focus love and forgiveness, we will be guided to the next steps we can take. We may be led to contact an individual, organization, or action that will help this issue. Or we may simply be instructed to meditate more. Not everyone is designed to be on the frontlines.

Thanks for your consciousness, love, generosity, and focus on healing our planet.

We are All One.

------------------------

Cassendre Xavier is a healing multi-media artist and Creative Life Coach. Based in Philadelphia, she is the founder and director of that city's 7th Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (July 29 thru August 1, 2010). For more information, please visit http://cassEndrExavier.com.

Permission is granted to reprint this article, provided the following credit and link are included:
"How to Help the Gulf of Mexico" (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. http://cassEndrExavier.com

Don't Save the Best for Last

2010-06-16T17:40:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

I realized a couple of years ago that I often "save the best for last".

It started with little things - I'd use the crumpled facial tissue or paper towel before grabbing the crisp new one next to it, or I'd save the best bite of food on my plate until I reached the end of my meal. Something told me at the time that it was symbolic of other areas in my life where I was settling for less in hopes of a better thing "later" - always "later".

I made a mental note of it, to remember to use the "good" thing first, but I wasn't committed to the exercise and soon was back to my old ways.
Lately, I've realized that this way of doing things really is symbolic of a behavior I'd like to change.

It all started with perfume.
I had purchased a few perfume oils that I really liked a lot. Two were Indian scents - strong, floral, perfume-y, and rollerball, I just loved them. I started wearing the one I liked the least on a daily basis (why did I do that?), then when that one was finished, I used the one I liked more. I had also purchased two other oils, one which it turned out my Main Squeeze liked a lot, but I didn't like that much, so I only wore it on our outings or other special occasions.

Lastly, there was "Beautiful", a copycat of two of my favorite Estee Lauder scents "Beautiful" and "Knowing". The "Beautiful" fragrance oil was by far my favorite scent, and because it was, I chose to save it for extra special occasions.

But in recent weeks, I decided I didn't always want to be looking forward to some brighter future while suffering in a difficult present, and I connected to my continued "saving the best for last" to my challenge. I decided to use the best first.

I began with, well everything. If I pulled out a bunch of crumpled, yet clean tissues from my purse or backpack, I would still go out of my way to use the clean and folded napkins or tissues inches away. From my collection of scented body lotions and creams, I began using the pricier, more fragrant, "special" stuff.

Maya Angelou says she always eats dinner on her finest china and silverware. Now I know why. When you use the best for yourself, even when you're by yourself, you're saying "I'm worth it."

When you don't save the best for last, when you use the best first, you're creating space for even better to come into your life.

This is what I learned when I started using "Beautiful". I made it my everyday scent, and here's what happened:

First, I felt very special. I felt rich, like Oprah, wise, like Maya Angelou, and glamorous like Miss Piggy and Mae West!
Secondly, I noticed that as I used the oil, I realized I would at some point need to replace it.
And then I had the thought, "I wonder what he (the perfume shop owner) has that's even better than this and in my price range?"
After that, I thought, "Or by then I'll probably have much more money and will be able to choose from many more options in his store!"
And after that, "Or maybe by then I'll be able to afford and actual bottle of Estee Lauder's 'Beautiful'!"
And lastly, I recalled that a friend of mine had recently been window shopping at Macy's and I'd discovered another Estee fragrance I liked a lot, Azuree. My friend teased me because it was so strong and perfumey- like Indian incense, which I liked a lot, but which is totally not her style.

When I was at Macy's smelling Azuree I knew I would sometime soon have it, even though it wasn't in my budget at the time. And as long as I was using my least favorite fragrances, I wasn't really thinking much about Azuree - certainly not enough to WoManifest it into my existence and enjoyment.

By putting "Beautiful" to use - enjoying the best first, space was immediately created to be filled - in this case, space that previously had held the best.

You see, when you use up the best, you automatically make room for a new and better "best" to come into your life.

So now I exercise this new theory often.

Is there a down side? Sure, there is. I feel a sense of loss and sadness using the best first because then I no longer have anything in my immediate future to look forward to.
Whenever I'm eating now, and there's that delicious bite on my plate, and I decide I'm going to eat it first, I'm sad because I no longer have that bite to look forward to anymore. But I do it because it's a good exercise. It's a metaphor for other areas in my life where I no longer want to be longing for improvement or something better.

I invite you to partake of this experiment and experience with me.

If you have "nice" or "good" china or silverware, take it out and use it yourself, use it now. You'll find that sometime in the near future you'll want to replace them with even better china and silverware, and when you have acquired those, use them first, too, and so on. Think of Maya!

When you're eating, enjoy the finest part of the meal first. Don't wait until the end.

If you have three kinds of shampoo, one "every day" kind and one "special occasions" one, use the "special occasions" or fancy one first. See how you feel using fancy shampoo every single day, even just to go grocery shopping.

Why should you only take out the best of anything for "company" (your guests), your job/employer, or a date? Are any of those human beings worth more than you? Absolutely not. And more importantly, they probably won't care or notice that your hair is more fragrant or your skin is softer than on another day. They won't go home and shriek with delight how impressed they were at your glimmering dishware, and if they do, that says something about their personal values and priorities, which likely don't match yours, or you probably wouldn't be reading this article!

Don't let your lover be the only one who sees you in sexy underwear. Wear sexy underwear for yourself, first! Maybe no one else will know what you have on underneath, but you will, and you'll feel better for it - more confident, and more worthy because you took the time and effort to put it on for yourself - not for anyone else.

Think of Oprah Winfrey. She has the finest things, and uses them for herself. And I believe that's why she continues to WoManifest even more things and more money to have more things, because she actually uses them for herself, and not only for others. It's important to use your resources to make the world a better place, but it's no good to put yourself lower, as second class citizen. Spirit didn't make you any less worthy and the world doesn't do any better by anyone's misguided so-called sacrifice. We are All One, and that means you're worth every bit of good you want to do "for" others.

Now, you may ask about recycling and overconsumption of products. Doesn't using the best and then creating more new "bests" just overcrowd landfills and create waste? It doesn't have to, and that's a very valid concern. In fact, this is one story I would tell myself when I was resisting using the best first.

I thought it was good to use the soap til it's a speck o' nothing, while I left the fancy one in the box to be opened and displayed for, and used by, guests only.

Then I realized there were no exceptions to my "Use the Best First" exercise. I had to go through the motions until I learned all there was to know about this issue.
And what I learned is this - we can always adjust. The world will not be harmed by your giving yourself the best.

I still save soap scraps - I just use them to wash my hands on a daily basis, while I use the fancy soap in the shower. And I enjoy this - that's what counts - to do what you enjoy while using the best. You can still have your values. You can still recycle.

Someday, I plan to have a system of putting all my small pieces of used soap in a mitt-like contraption so that lots of bits of soap can be used at once. I can also, if I wish, or when I'm ready, boil it in water with a little bit of borax to make liquid soap. My schedule is too busy these days to do that, but I do think about it. And so can you make similar adjustments as you use the best first!

Enjoy the best now. Know what it feels like to create space for even more and even better in your life. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you discover about yourself while you consider and enjoy being worthy of the best. Why? Because your soul knows you're worth the best, and not later, but now!

Cassendre Xavier is a multi-media healing artist and community organizer. An author and recording artist of music, guided meditations, and affirmations, she is the founder and director of Philadelphia's 7th Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (July 29 - Aug 1, 2010). She is currently giving away FREE e-books at http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com & FREE complete album downloads of music and guided meditations at http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE.

Permission is granted to forward and share part or all of this article. Please include the title, author and website link as printed below:
"Don't Save the Best for Last" by Cassendre Xavier. (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more information.

FREE Raw Coaching, Support & E-Book

2010-06-15T18:43:00.001-07:00

Hi, folks!

I'm offering FREE raw food coaching, support, and e-books. If you'd like someone to act as your raw vegan "sponsor", or you need any help at all to start, or stay raw, please message me here, or email cxmusic(at)gmail.com.

My FREE e-book "Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: A Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal" is available at http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com

You can take or email the PDF file to your friendly neighborhood copy/print shop and have it bound, read it right out of your printer, or purchase it in print format at Arnold's Way (www.ArnoldsWay.com), Essene Market & Cafe (www.EsseneMarket.com), or Giovanni's Room Bookstore (www.GiovannisRoom.com).

Also, you can watch my raw food prep videos -to start where you are- at http://youtube.com/cassEndrExavier.

Thank you for this opportunity to both serve you and grow my raw life!

In glowing health and gratitude,

Cassendre

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls)
Multi-Media Healing Artist
http://cassEndrExavier.com
Get your FREE Album Downloads of Music, Guided Meditations & Affirmations at http://stores.lulu.com/cassEndrE

Trusting Divine Guidance

2010-06-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

Never doubt divine guidance.

Yesterday I "sold" two (2) of my e-books for the very first time! I was ecstatic, as this was a very longtime dream come true. How much did I make? Nothing. The books were FREE (and they still are).

I was called to give away most of my pre-existing writing and music in digital download format.

When I processed the e-book sales, I felt really happy and rich - putting me in the zone I need to be on to WoManifest more of that good stuff.

I've had my e-book "Expanding Your Capacity for Joy" for sale for over a year, and it sells in print format in several walk-in outlets (www.ArnoldsWay.com, www.EsseneMarket.com, www.GiovannisRoom.com), but I'd sold not a single e-book.

When I got the spiritual feeling to just give them away, I doubted, I questioned, and I resisted. After all, I "need" the money, I'm a hard worker, I love to write and have received good reviews for my writing. "Why should I give away my work for free?" I rebelliously asked God and my Guiding Angels. They didn't answer anything but "Trust us." (And I'm pretty sure at least one smart alec one said, "We don't have to tell you that. It's not our job!")

So, I figured, well, it couldn't get any worse. It's not like giving my writing away will actually take money from me. It's just sitting there in my email - these PDFs, not being read, enjoyed, or used by anyone. Maybe Spirit just wants them to be out in the world. Maybe that's how I will generate more interest in and sales of my work. Who knows? The models of success in business have changed for the publishing and recording industries. This is a whole new ballgame, folks.

I think we're seeing a whole new wave of everything, from how to shop, eat, live, love, and work as artists. No more is the model of making work and hoarding it until you find some greater source to manufacture and promote it for you. Now, the model is to make it, give it away for free, and let the world be your audience. Now spirit and you are the Source.

It's all about spirit now. In truth, it always ways, but people are getting to the truth of that now.
Now we know the importance of giving and being truthful about who we are.
Now is the time to trust that if we focus on being loving, authentic, and in service, our needs will be provided. I'm finally prepared to try that for myself.
And I've begun by sharing my writing for free.
And I genuinely trust and believe that everything will be okay. I am creating my work right now, today, by giving it away.

Please help me by taking what I offer.

My music can be downloaded for FREE (complete albums in MP3 format) at http://stores.lulu.com/cassendre

My growing collection of e-books can be downloaded for FREE (complete books in digital format) at http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com.

I now know that I was led by Spirit to give away my e-books because people would "buy" them very soon, and then I could have the experience of processing those sales. I would feel good, I would be affirmed for my work, and know that it was helping people.
Those feelings would lead me to do more work that will grow my career as a gainfully employed and successful musician and writer.
And it may have taken many more months more to get those feelings, if I had continued trying to sell my e-book "Expanding Your Capacity for Joy". As it is, I get to have thoughts like, "It's all energy anyway, and I'm giving energy that is sure to return to me. I have faith. I am provided for. I am joyful. I am working as a writer. My writing is being used and appreciated. I feel successful!"

So, if there are any writers, musicians, artists, or creators out there - particularly if you're in the healing arts in any way, and you would like to make a living doing what you love. Please listen to your heart. Be willing to be guided by your inner signals and messages from spirit, God, your angels, or whatever you believe. If they say go left, go left. If they say give away your work, give it away.
No business school course or instructor has a fraction of the amount of wisdom your divine teachers do. Let spirit lead, and surrender to the way of your success!

Thank you for your time!

In gratitude,

Cassendre

------------Cassendre Xavier has been writing, making music, and creating award-winning community cultural arts events in Philadelphia since 1991. Founder of the Women's Writing & Spoken Word Series (Robin's Bookstore 2002-2006) she is founder and director of Philadelphia's 7th Annual Black Women's Arts Festival (July 29 thru Aug 1, 2010) http://BWAFphilly.org------------

Permission granted to forward, reprint, republish, as long as the following credit and link is included:
(c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com

WE! WE! WE! Newsletter "Free Stuff / Your Calling" ediccione

2010-06-12T18:32:00.000-07:00

WE! WE! WE! The Cassendre Xavier Newsletter

The "Free Stuff / Your Calling" ediccione, if you will. (As it were.)

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Dear Friends,

Being that I'm going through a very developmentally rich time in my life right now, I can send one email saying I'm going to be selling my works online, then four days later, change my mind and say that I'll be giving them away for free!

Check out my FREE e-book "Expanding Your Capacity for Joy"! http://cxbooks.eventbrite.com/.

Also: FREE Complete Album Downloads! "Capable of Love" & guided meditations "Affirmations for Survivors" at http://stores.lulu.com/cassendre.

Being that I'm now giving away my musical downloads and e-books, I've still got a donations page - why not create the space just in case someone wants to use it, right? :-) http://cxdonations.eventbrite.com.

Please note these are all new links and different from those in the previous newsletter.

I'm also trying out a new name for this newsletter, from ME ME ME to WE WE WE. Thanks to Amy L. Dalton for the suggestion, and please forgive me if I revert to the old title some time in the future!

Special thanks to you all who gave me feedback on my last newsletter, by speaking (Eric Hammell) or not speaking (everyone else)!
Also special thanks to Ellie Drake www.braveheartwomen.com who reminded me of the importance of following one's calling. Let that drive your life!

And now for your Farewell Blessing:

May you be surrounded by love all ways.

May you know the strength of your potential.

May you remain present in the present.

May you stay focused in joy.

May you often have good-feeling thoughts.

May your dreams and wishes all come true (or something better), surpassing all your expectations, and may it be for the good of all.

In art, community, and gratitude,

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls)

Musician, Author & Raw Foodist

http://cassendrexavier.com

Founder & Executive Director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (July 29 – Aug 1, 2010) http://BWAFphilly.org

Please share this message with anyone you think may dig it with a major shovel :-)

© Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com

ME! ME! ME! Newsletter “M.O.N.E.Y.” ediccione

2010-06-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

ME! ME! ME! The Cassendre Xavier Newsletter

The "M.O.N.E.Y." ediccione, if you will. (As it were.)

Tuesday, June 08, 2010

Cassendre Xavier is a multi-media artist who coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002. Known mostly as a recording artist and author, she is the founder and director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003). www.BWAFphilly.org, www.cassEndrExavier.com

Dear Friends,

I trust all is well and that this note finds you feeling joyful or at least trying to feel better!

It's been months, I believe, since I've written this newsletter, and I've been busy as ever:

I've been working on the Black Women's Arts Festival. Newsletter coming soon, but you can read archived newsletters at our official website: http://BWAFphilly.org.

I've been doing a lot of reading and spiritual work. I've been trading energy shares and counseling sessions with former mentors who are now peers. I'm a Reiki Level I practitioner and plan to take a Level II class within the year. I also practice distant healings for people on a regular basis. If you'd ever like a distant healing, email me at artchyk@yahoo.com.

I'm still sharing my music, and affirmations at my official YouTube channel. I'm also uploading videos of me preparing raw meals and drinks there. Visit http://youtube.com/cassendrexavier.

In my raw vegan practice, I've made some progress and slid back in other ways. I recently went up to 238lbs, and recently weight in at 225. I've discovered the value and satisfying yumminess of greens+fruit salads. That's a fruitarian secret I hadn't known before. I also have now a raw vegan Overeaters Anonymous sponsor. You can read my Green Smoothie Raw Blog series at: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com.

I live in the Lansdowne suburbs now and it's a mixed blessing I will write about soon. It's to do with the lessons of self-sufficiency, and it's bittersweet, but the sweet is very sweet indeed and you know I'm the queen of blessing countage (aka "countery" :-)

I've also been WoManifesting things and situations very quickly and well. I see now that I'm on a path to become a spiritual teacher, author, and coach, and have been writing a monthly column for Wisdom Magazine's online edition since last year. You can read my current column and archives here: http://tinyurl.com/yh9e95c.

I've been releasing lots of fears and making breakthroughs in the creative and professional arena.

Even though I still have the dream of becoming a very successful musician and singer-songwriter, I know the time is now for me to learn to be self-sufficient in other ways – ways that will build up my body, mind, spirit, and finances to create the resources to supply what I need to make significant progress in music. That's what I think anyway, but as I try, I will note where the energy goes. If it's stagnant in my non-musical projects that I hope will earn me a good income while I serve folks in my spiritual work, then I will have to do something else, which will be to wholeheartedly throw myself into music first and foremost. You can see and hear my musical recordings and downloads at http://cdbaby.com/all/cassendre.

I'm starting to release a lot of my creative energy and trying to become the artist I've always wanted to be. My Own Natural Energy Yield = Money (according to Iyanla Vanzant) so I'm trying to put out as much of this natural energy as possible.

One of the first things I'm doing is designing online courses to teach and lead. If you'd like to be notified of these when they're released (in the next few weeks), please send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Another thing I'm doing is preparing to offer sessions as a Creative Life Coach. I have been coaching folks since 1991 and am thrilled to have the opportunity to provide a service that I seem attuned to, and enjoy greatly. Like the classes, these take time to design. I'm even thinking about whether or not I am equipped emotionally to offer the same services to men that I offer women. I don't think so, and hadn't even considered this until yesterday when I came across a Creative Life Coach who works only with female clients. Given my abuse history with men in my childhood, and my almost 20 years of experience creating events and support groups for women, I think I may be a perfect candidate to offer coaching sessions to women only. I'll keep you posted, but in the meantime, no matter what gender you are, if you'd like to be notified when I'm offering Creative Life Coaching sessions, please send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

I've created a couple of pages to start getting more of my work out, to allow me to do the work I'm suited for to be of service. It'll take some time, and in the meantime, it seems I'm no longer suitable for the kinds of jobs I used to do before I had the courage to become a full-time artist. It's a longer story, detailed at my new Love Offering page, which includes not only nifty packages of CDs and original CX stationery you can order, but also a blank open "Love Offering" you can use to donate any amount to The Cause :-). Click here for more info: http://cxloveofferings.eventbrite.com or http://tinyurl.com/22vxelu.

My long-time dream of writing e-books and making them instantaneously available has finally come true! I have only one e-book posted right now, but I will soon have many, many more. I am currently finishing transcribing my first chapbook "secrets & lies: poetry and other words" (ARtivist Publications, 2005) which was sold at Robin's and Giovanni's Room bookstores, and now will be available worldwide at the click of a button! It includes my poems "to the 4' asian woman who swears she's so tough", "Be Coming Magical: a Blackwomyn's Journey, Or: How to Become a Witch When All Your Teachers are White", and "telegram to erotic from terror", the latter of which became the script to my play "Sex for Survivors" which ran for 3 days at the 2003 Philadelphia Fringe Festival and featured cellist/composer/vocalist Monica McIntyre, poet Samantha Barrow, and love activist/healing artist O aka Loretta Lynne Payne. You can keep tabs of my new e-books at: http://artivistebooks.eventbrite.com or http://tinyurl.com/24ou5fk.

And now for your Farewell Blessing:

May you be surrounded by love all ways.

May you know the strength of your potential.

May you remain present in the present.

May you stay focused in joy.

May you often have good-feeling thoughts.

May your dreams and wishes all come true (or something better), surpassing all your expectations, and may it be for the good of all.

In art, community, and gratitude,

Cassendre Xavier

Healing Artist, Raw Foodist & Creative Life Coach

http://cassendrexavier.com

Founder & Executive Director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (July 29 – Aug 1, 2010) http://BWAFphilly.org

Coming soon: Online Courses, Creative Life Coaching!

Please share this message with anyone you think may dig it with a major shovel :-)

© Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com

Worldwide Sunday Meditations for Universal Healing

2010-05-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Join me on the inner planes this and every Sunday for only 15 minutes, from 12:15PM to 12:30PM (Eastern Standard Time, Philadelphia USA).
I will be joined by millions of people around the world, from many different spiritual faiths and practices, to focus on the healing, comfort, light, and abundance of the universe.
This is a collection of some of my friends in spiritual study, as well as many other spiritual people who wish to take the time to meditate for fifteen minutes around Noon every Sunday, to help make the world a better place.

I hope you will join us!

Anyone from any faith is welcome. All that is required is 15 minutes of quiet, meditative time alone, and a willingness to open your heart, your mind, and sending love out to where it can be used for the highest good of all involved.

You do not have to be an expert in meditation or prayer. And you do not have to commit to meditating with us every Sunday.

We will close our eyes, become still, centered, and peaceful while we visualize the healing and comfort of all beings, bathing the universe with the energy of love and light, and offer a prayer of gratitude and everlasting, universal abundance of joy and material comfort.

You may wish to focus on one or a combination of the following (let your first instinct and heart lead you):

HEALING – Focus on the healing of illness, physical conditions, dis-eases, etc. with the powerful vibration of love. See a vibrant green light covering the world, and healing all illnesses with lightning speed. Support those who are healing themselves or asking for healing. Transform ailing organs with renewed ones in your vision. All illnesses are transformed with the spirit of wellness and health. Take action every day in your own health matters – baby steps are fine – it’s the essence of the action that matters.

COMFORT – Call on the angels to comfort those in pain or torment. Send the prayer of relief from pain to anyone anywhere in the world who may be crying out. Promise yourself you will be comforting to your soul and your inner child. Take small steps every day to be kind to yourself and others. See the world as a basketball-sized globe receiving a huge psychic hug from your own two arms. Wrap the globe in the pink light of your comforting, heart-based love. Send the love from your soul out, while protecting yourself from negativity. Give comfort without fear to those in your life day to day.

LIGHT – Ask the Ascended Masters (such as Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, Buddha, Confucius, Kuan-Yin, etc.) to bring the light of knowledge, wisdom, and clarity to transform ignorance, intolerance, and dysfunction. See the world as being completely filled with light, glowing, peaceful, and inviting to all who experience it. Strengthen your light by visualizing it glowing brighter and brighter within you, and make a commitment to yourself that you will shine your light often, boldly and respectfully.

ABUNDANCE – Thank Divine Intelligence (Mother Father God/Goddess, etc.) with multiple thoughts and prayers of gratitude for the love, joy, material comforts, and health you personally experience. See the world as complete exactly as it is, and wish nothing but total wellbeing for your fellow humyns, being, as well as all members of the animal, plant, and mineral kingdoms. Remain in a state of gratitude for the rest of the day and week, remembering that when you give thanks for what you have, what you give thanks for grows and multiplies, as it will around the world after this collective prayer and visualization.

PEACE - We can make the most change in the world by taking on the characteristics in ourselves we wish to see in others, and we can have more world peace, if we have peace in our hearts, in our minds, in our homes, in our relationships, and in all situations. If you feel called to this issue during meditation time, silently say in your mind, "I am at peace with myself. I am at peace with others. I am peaceful in any situation."

[If you cannot join us, please mark your calendar for this date and time, and think of us during the 15 minutes we will be joined together in meditation.]

I hope you’ll join us on the inner planes this coming Sunday!

Lovingly with light, in spirit and community,

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls)
renaissance negresse (musician,author,visual artist, actress)
http://cassendrexavier.com

Founder & Executive Director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival
http://BWAFphilly.org

To share this meditation with others, please visit http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/worldwide-sunday-meditations-for.html or http://tinyurl.com/29jtrxz.

Permission is granted to forward and share part or all of this article. Please include the title, author and website link as printed below:

Worldwide Sunday Meditations for Universal Healing by Cassendre Xavier. (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more information.

Comments/feedback are welcome and appreciated! Post here, by message, or email: cxwriting(at)gmail.com.

You can subscribe to Cassendre’s email list by sending a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/worldwide-sunday-meditations-for.html or http://tinyurl.com/29jtrxz.

Citrus Breakfast Salad Recipe

2010-05-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

This is a quick and simple breakfast that is raw vegan, fruitarian, and an example of good food combining.
Citrus is a wonderful breakfast food for many reasons: it's refreshing and bright - a nice wake up!, it's also acidic, which helps to break up the mucus that's collected in your body overnight. (Always drink a full glass of warm water with lemon upon waking, to break up mucus, and also to help digest your food which you'll eat ideally a half hour later.)
The oranges also sweeten the grapefruit, and the greens balance the fruit sugars.
Because of the particular health and nutritional benefits of the grapefruit and celery, this recipe is perfect for anyone with obesity or hypertension/high blood pressure.

Tips: Remember drink a glass of water 30 minutes before every meal, to aid digestion and prevent dehydration. Also, don't forget to chew slowly, to produce the saliva that is critical to proper digestion ("Drink your food and chew your juice"). Enjoy your food with love, gratitude, and moderation, and it will do its best to heal you so you can enjoy your life more and be of more service to others, and to our planet. I always like to share my favorite quote about food, "Let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food." -Hippocrates. If you'd like more info about the raw food diet and lifestyle, visit the raw community website www.rawfoods.com.

Citrus Breakfast Salad

4-8 leaves of fresh, rinsed kale
1 grapefruit
2 large oranges
2 stalks of celery

In a large bowl, cut the kale into small, bite-size pieces to create one thin layer of greens, saving about 1/4 of the greens for the final part of the dish. Then peel the grapefruit, part it in half, then cut small, bite-size pieces to add a layer of grapefruit. Then do the same with one orange. Then grab the 2 celery stalks, cut the tips off a little bit, then slice them into very small pieces and finish them by layering them on top of the oranges. Then slice more of the kale to create a new and final layer of greens. Take the other half of the grapefruit, and cut and layer it, along with the last orange.
Makes one large serving or two regular sized ones.
Enjoy!

Cassendre Xavier is has been raw vegan since 2005, using the diet to lose weight and lower her blood pressure. She is an acclaimed multi-media artist and community organizer (founder and director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival), NOT a licensed healthcare provider. Claims that the raw vegan diet creates optimal health and reverses dis-ease is strictly from Cassendre's personal experience and that of millions of others' testimonies, including many people she met while working as a raw vegan chef. She has been documenting her raw vegan transformation on MySpace and at http://YouTube.com/cassEndrExavier. Her website is www.cassEndrExavier.com. If you'd like to be on Cassendr's mailing list, send a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Cassendre is the author of Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: A Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal, which is available in stores (including www.ArnoldsWay.com, www.EsseneMarket.com, www.GiovannisRoom.com). It is also available as an e-book at www.cassEndrExavier.com.

Permission is granted to forward and share part or all of this article. Please include the title, author and website link as printed below:

Citrus Breakfast Salad by Cassendre Xavier. (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more information.

Comments/feedback are welcome and appreciated! Post here, by message, or email: cxwriting(at)gmail.com.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/citrus-breakfast-salad.html or http://tinyurl.com/2fvrhrh.

Tips for Manifesting Money & More

2010-05-20T11:34:00.001-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Dear Friends,

I’m sharing a recent conversation I had with someone about manifesting more money. It received a good response and I thought I’d re-post it here. I hope it’s useful to you, and if it is, please feel free to share it, including the credits and link at the end. Thank you for your time! –Cassendre

From: L.S.L.:
“Generally where my cash would go i stuff receipts, cards and other random things, i wondered if i left that space neat and tidy, along with hard work would money manifest.”

I noticed you used words like “stuff” and “other random things”. You suggest where and how you treat money is the opposite of “neat and tidy”. That sounds to me like you may want to examine how you feel about money. Perhaps you feel resentful of it, or overwhelmed with the responsibility of having to manage or earn it?
You also mention that if you did “hard work” then you could manifest money. That tells me that perhaps you feel undeserving of having a comfortable amount of money, because you believe you need to work hard for it, and if you say “If I work hard” that means you’re not working hard. Well, that’s good, because you’re not supposed to work hard for money! That’s a good thing and you’re on your way to manifesting it more easily!

The universe is abundant, as you know, and we all could have all we need if we were loving with each other and had no money system and just manifested and shared everything, but as long as we do have a money system and aren’t yet all well trained in manifestation (largely due to some of the powers that be wanting us to struggle so that we work for them), we’re best equipped to learn how to manifest.

One way you can do that is to keep reminding yourself of who/what your Source is. That could be the universe, god, yourself, etc. Whatever it is – recognize that you are infinitely and divinely connected to it – the creative force that exists all around us. When you recognize that the universe/God/Creator/Divine Intelligence/the Most High is the Source of all abundance, and of yours, you’ll start to appreciate how powerful YOU are.

You are not at the whim of someone writing you a paycheck every 2 weeks.

I recommend daily meditation – 10 minutes upon waking and 10 minutes before you go to sleep.
Take time to notice how much abundance there is all around you. There really is no shortage of anything – that’s just mankind’s misbelief.
Then, decide what it is you want money for. Many times it’s a feeling we want – we want to feel happier or more secure. Discover the ESSENCE of what you want money for, and the FEELINGS you think you will have when you have it.
Then, and here’s a huge thing: begin to feel that way right now – today. If you think having more money will buy you a full wardrobe of fashionable, well-fitting, expensive clothes that will get you more respect – start to command respect for yourself now, and believe that you are respectable. If you think you’ll be able to travel more, take a bus ride to a part of town you haven’t been to yet. Create an adventure however you can.
What is the essence of what you want more money for – comfort? How can you be more comfortable right now this second and every moment of every day? Could you get softer bath towels? Could you get more hugs? And what feeling do you want? You need absolutely nothing to feel a certain way – nothing at all but time.
Take time every to feel how you want to feel “when” the money comes.

Also, study about finances in the earthly aspect. All the spiritual stuff doesn’t amount to very much if you don’t know how to write a check or open a bank account. Find books like “Personal Finance for Dummies” or read free articles online to get more familiar with how to handle money. I also recommend “The Courage to be Rich” which is about both spiritual and material abundance, by Suze Orman.

Back to the spiritual aspects:
See yourself as having everything you need already, at this moment.
You can manifest much more quickly when you start with what you have as opposed to thinking about what you don’t have.

Read “Creating Money: Keys to Abundance” or the revised edition “Creating Money: Attracting Abundance, by Sanaya Roman & Duane Packer PhD.

Examine your relationship to, feelings and ideas about money. Did you grow up being told that “Money doesn’t grow on trees”? Do you think rich people are bad? Do you think money, or the love of money, is the root of all evil? If so, you may be blocking your abundance.

You can start telling yourself that money is only energy – another form of energy. As long as you yourself are alive and have energy, you can manifest money and object and situations from a place of love and gratitude.

Lastly, give. Many times, people who are coming from a place of (trained) scarcity don’t give. We don’t donate, we don’t buy things that we really want – we think we don’t have enough. Relax about that, and realize that energy needs to circulate. If you want love, the best way to get it is to give it. The best way to get new friends is to be a friend to as many people. The same goes with money – the best way to get more money is to give money away. That doesn’t mean you have to give everything away. But if you’re passing by someone on the street and they ask you for 30 cents, give them a dollar. You’ve just told the universe you believe you are going to receive more money to replace that and then some, and the universe will affirm your belief and make that happen. If you don’t give because you believe you won’t have enough, the universe will affirm that belief as well and make that happen for ya.
The way that works is just another reminder of how we are all one, without separation. So give, and you will receive. Receive, and you will be able to give again.

Read those books or website articles if you can, start meditating on abundance, transform your feelings about and relationship with money, and you will find you attract it much more quickly.

There’s more, but I don’t wanna write a second book here :-) Thanks for asking!

P.S. I’m preparing some online courses to help people with their manifesting skills, and if you join my official mailing list (by sending a blank email to: cassendrexavier-subscribe@yahoogroups.com), I will definitely let you know when they’re ready. In the mean time, keep those questions comin’, as they make me very happy to answer and feel useful!

Response from L.S.L.:
thank you so much. I will check out the books and work on that meditation. I appreciate you.

(c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. http://cassendrexavier.com

Meditation for Universal Healing

2010-05-17T11:48:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Join millions of people around the world, from many different spiritual faiths and practices, meditating regularly to focus on the healing, comfort, light, and abundance of the universe.

Whether you meditate twice a day or once a month, your efforts do help the world make a better place.

You do not have to be an expert in meditation or prayer. Anyone from any faith is welcome. All that is required is about 10 minutes of quiet, meditative time alone, and a willingness to open your heart, your mind, and sending love out to where it can be used for the highest good of all involved.

How to start: Close your eyes, become still, centered, and peaceful while you visualize the healing and comfort of all beings, bathing the universe with the energy of love and light, and offer a prayer of gratitude and everlasting, universal abundance of joy and material comfort.

You may wish to focus on one or a combination of the following (let your first instinct and heart lead you):

Healing – focus on the healing of illness, physical conditions, dis-eases, etc. with the powerful vibration of love. See a vibrant green light covering the world, and healing all illnesses with lightning speed. Support those who are healing themselves or asking for healing. Transform ailing organs with renewed ones in your vision. All illnesses are transformed with the spirit of wellness and health. Take action every day in your own health matters – baby steps are fine – it’s the essence of the action that matters.

Comfort – call on the angels to comfort those in pain or torment. Send the prayer of relief from pain to anyone anywhere in the world who may be crying out. Promise yourself you will be comforting to your soul and your inner child. Take small steps every day to be kind to yourself and others. See the world as a basketball-sized globe receiving a huge psychic hug from your own two arms. Wrap the globe in the pink light of your comforting, heart-based love. Send the love from your soul out, while protecting yourself from negativity. Give comfort without fear to those in your life day to day.

Light – Ask the Ascended Masters (such as Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, Buddha, Confucius, Kuan-Yin, etc.) to bring the light of knowledge, wisdom, and clarity to transform ignorance, intolerance, and dysfunction. See the world as being completely filled with light, glowing, peaceful, and inviting to all who experience it. Strengthen your light by visualizing it glowing brighter and brighter within you, and make a commitment to yourself that you will shine your light often, boldly and respectfully.

Abundance – Thank Divine Intelligence (Mother Father God/Goddess, etc.) with multiple thoughts and prayers of gratitude for the love, joy, material comforts, and health you personally experience. See the world as complete exactly as it is, and wish nothing but total wellbeing for your fellow humyns, being, as well as all members of the animal, plant, and mineral kingdoms. Remain in a state of gratitude for the rest of the day and week, remembering that when you give thanks for what you have, what you give thanks for grows and multiplies, as it will around the world after this collective prayer and visualization.

PEACE - We can make the most change in the world by taking on the characteristics in ourselves we wish to see in others, and we can have more world peace, if we have peace in our hearts, in our minds, in our homes, in our relationships, and in all situations. If you feel called to this issue during meditation time, silently say in your mind, "I am at peace with myself. I am at peace with others. I am peaceful in any situation."

Use this meditation whenever you can, and share it with others as well. May you experience the benefits of your efforts!

About the author:
Cassendre Xavier is an award-winning multi-media healing artist and community organizer. A first generation American born citizen of Haitian and Chinese heritage, she coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002 to describe her work as a musician, author, visual artist, and actress. Cassendre sometimes works under the names Amethyste Rah and Amrita Waterfalls, also identifies as a lightworker-in-training, and has been involved as a producer of books, audio and video (YouTube) recordings, as well as a peer support group facilitator in the personal growth, spirituality, and recovery movements since 1991. She is the founder and excutive director of Philadelphia's 7th annual Black Women's Arts Festival, an acclaimed, inclusive community event at which all respectful persons are welcome and encouraged to attend or volunteer. For more information, please visit http://cassendrexavier.com.

Permission is granted to forward and share part or all of this article. Please include the title, author and website link as printed below:

Meditation for Universal Healing, Comfort, Light & Abundance by Cassendre Xavier. (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more information.

Comments/feedback are welcome and appreciated! Post here, by message, or email: cxwriting(at)gmail.com.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/meditation-for-universal-healing.html or http://tinyurl.com/26q3wmd.

Start Where You Are - A Call to Healing Artists

2010-05-15T06:09:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

I am writing this for anyone who has ever thought of creating work for the purpose of healing or motivating self or others. If you've ever wanted to write, record, perform, or be a practitioner of healing in the fields of personal growth, spirituality, prosperity, health, recovery, creativity, and/or other topic(s), I would like to share my experience with you. I do so in the hopes that you will be encouraged to begin pursuing your dreams and use your creative works to assist those on the healing path.

May this writing assist you on your own path of self-actualization as you become clearer on what you need to heal yourself, and make the contribution you came to make.

At the time of this printing, I am 41 "moons" as some might say. In recent months, I have been feeling more secure about my work as a writer of personal growth articles and recording artist of guided meditations and spoken or sung positive affirmations for healing, self-actualization and transformation. Although I am not yet gainfully employed in this work, I feel I am doing at least part of my world service and am fulfilled not only by the act of creating my works, but of utilizing my works myself, and most especially, by the feedback I receive from those who benefit from my works. I recognize, finally, that I do not have to be perfect in order to produce these works, and, to my most enjoyable surprise, I've learned that doing so helps me tremendously!

Sometimes I feel self-conscious about the fact that I write articles about financial abundance, and am not yet completely comfortable financially, or about health and weight loss, and I struggle in those issues as well. I write about the importance of maintaining a high and positive emotional set-point to wo/manifest your desires (the basic teaching of Law of Attraction), but many times I struggle just to feel one tiny level up from anger, sadness, frustration, hopelessness or resentment.

I know that I create works perfectly designed to assist me on my journey of healing, self-actualization, and transformation.

There really is something to this notion I've heard bestselling personal growth author and artist Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy (who works under the name "SARK") say: "Please yourself first." I create work I need for myself. When I struggled against past programming, and eating disorder and other issues stemming from incest/child sexual abuse, I began a support group for my sister survivors who also had eating disorders. I also created a line of guided meditation affirmation recordings for survivors on the issues I dealt with, beginning with self-love, and spirituality (the forthcoming recordings on life skills and sexuality will complete the series). These are some examples of my work, which have led to the personal growth articles I began writing recently for online publication and to share with the members of my personal mailing lists.

I am grateful to now feel worthy and self-fulfilled as a creator of this work, regardless of whether or not it pays the bills, because I recall when I had the desire to create personal growth works, but not the confidence.

I am also aware that another possibility is that this work may never be a significant stream of income, but assist me in developing the skills I need to strengthen my music or other divinely create another, unexpected career path to that desired result.

My desire to be a personal growth artist began when was around 26 and working at a popular chain bookstore in Center City, Philadelphia. I would often browse through the self-help sections of the bookstore, poring through titles I was well familiar with, as an avid reader and one who significantly benefited from "bibliotherapy". I was also introduced to new titles on recovery and relationships by authors I hadn't heard of previously. I became familar with, and was helped by the works of Louise L. Hay (You Can Heal Your Life), Ellen Bass and Laura Davis (The Courage to Heal), E. Sue Blume (Secret Survivors), Julia Cameron (The Artist's Way), Sanaya Roman (Creating Money; Living with Joy; Spiritual Growth; Soul Love, and others), Shakti Gawain (Creative Visualization), Melonie Beatty (Codependent No More), Dave Pelzer (A Boy Called It), Ann Catherine (Boundaries), and many others.

I also fell in love with certain publishers, most notably Health Communications, Inc. (HCI), Hay House, HJ Kramer, and New World Library - some of the nation's leading personal growth and recovery publishing houses, most of whose titles and authors I seemed attracted to, of all others.

I very much wanted to write self-help books. I knew that's what I wanted, but I had many fears and doubts. Looking back now, I see that I had enough information and experience at the time to pursue my dream, to begin writing, to create and submit book proposals to publishers, or to even self-publish. But at the time, I had many self-limiting thoughts, some of which I'll list here, along with new answers I have now, and didn't have years ago - new possibilities I offer for you to consider in your own life.

(Limiting thought): I don't have a college degree or other typically accepted training for my chosen field(s) of healing work.

(New possibility): A college degree isn't necessary to create and/or sell self-help/personal growth etc. print, audio, or video material. Research online and you'll find that some of the bestselling author/producers in the fields(s) in which you wish to create never went to or graduated from college. If you really would like to see PhD after your name, enroll in one of the many online, expedited college degree-granting programs, some of which even allow you to include and utilize part of your life experience as credit (which is great, given than many of us on this path have had quite some life experience!). For much less time and money than the standard in-class method, you can receive a degree and proudly display your new credentials, which may increase your income, improve your visibility, and most importantly, make you feel more accomplished. As for the other training, you can always enroll in courses for certification. Many of these are offered online as well as in your community's spiritual bookstores, alternative healing schools, community colleges, or nearby similar institutions. One of the fastest growing fields which offer certification is life coaching. Like many new fields, however, certification isn't legally required, nor as important as having a charismatic personality, a following or audience of potential clients, and relevant, well-produced work that attracts attention. And you won't know if you have all those qualifications until you do your work!

(Limiting thought): My life isn't nearly what it "should" be in order for me to begin preaching on a particular subject. I am obviously imperfect and/or struggling with the very same issues of which I wish to deal in my work.

(New possibility): You're exactly where you need to be in order to begin this work, otherwise you wouldn't have the desire to do it. And, you won't be "preaching", you'll be sharing your journey, offering comforting and motivating words and ideas, as well as creating solutions or practical systems of healing and transformation for yourself and your audience to try. (Good examples of this dynamic are some relationship authors whose books are very successful, but who have been married many times.)

Many people need self-help, recovery, and personal growth books so much that they don't seek to approve the personal resumes and life experiences of the works' creators. They're too busy trying to make their own lives work and relieve themselves of long-standing despair or less-than-satisfactory conditions to mind whether your life exactly matches your suggestions for living.

No one will judge or criticize you if your work resonates with and assists them. And if you are judged and criticized, hopefully by then you will have learned to shrug it off and focus on making the contribution you came to make, and focus on your own healing as well. Hopefully, the work will be financially viable, or at the very least, personally fulfilling enough to distract you from the critics.

Also, consider that this work is an essential tool of your own self-healing. In the tradition of "physician heal thyself", "write what you know", and the "teacher is student/student becomes teacher" dynamic, the doing of the work may well be a major pathway to your life's transformation.

I've definitely found this to be the case for me. For example, I struggled as a raw vegan/live foodist, so I decided to be a leader in the raw food movement. This way, I could teach, and be held accountable to manifest my own success as a raw vegan. This decision and commitment has led to my writing about the diet and lifestyle, and receiving letters from people interested in weight loss or healing themselves of life-threatening dis-eases. I'm not a physician - just a person who has been raw, lost weight, and healed similar issues with food. That qualifies me to teach it, and doing this work creates resources and support networks for my struggles as a food addict. I'm clearly not perfect, but I've found a tool that works. And it helps others.

Additionally, I recently wrote about not waiting to accept the universe's abundance - not delaying when you receive money, to immediately deposit and/or make use of it. After I wrote that article, several people wrote to me saying they moved much more quickly to deposit checks they'd received in their work, as a direct result of my article, and they thanked me. And as a result of having written that article, the other day it took me less than one hour to deposit a check I had received for my work, whereas I'd waited over a month to deposit the checks I'd received previously.

Doing the work provides its creator with healing and project-specific tools for transformation of self and others. You can feel better about being imperfect when you focus on that, and on the fact that others are helped by your creations, which sometimes feels like its own reward - seeing your work used and appreciated by others.

(Limiting thought): There are so many subjects I want to focus on in my work. I'm overwhelmed and have no idea how or where to start.

(New possibility): It doesn't matter which topic you start with first. What matters is that you've begun. Make a list of the topics you would like to create work about (Holistic/Alternative Health, Spirituality, Abundance/Prosperity, Relationships/Sexuality, Recovery/Abuse/Addiction, etc.) and pick one that speaks to you more than the others. You also have the option of beginning several projects at once. You don't have to do just one. As you work, the projects themselves will begin to take shape and lead the way. Some will have the energy of movement and others will stagnate. Some will attract interest and others will not. Simply begin anywhere, any way, and let the work guide you and answer your questions.

I have faith you will at some point be moved to take your first steps on your journey as a healing artist, as I, and many others were. We all (you included) need, and are eagerly awaiting, your work and how it will impact the planet.

Cassendre Xavier is an award-winning multi-media healing artist and community organizer. A first generation American born citizen of Haitian and Chinese heritage, she coined the term "renaissance negresse" in 2002 to describe her work as a musician, author, visual artist, and actress. Cassendre sometimes works under the names Amethyste Rah and Amrita Waterfalls, also identifies as a lightworker-in-training, and has been involved as a producer of books, audio and video (YouTube) recordings, as well as a peer support group facilitator in the personal growth, spirituality, and recovery movements since 1991. She is the founder and excutive director of Philadelphia's 7th annual Black Women's Arts Festival, an acclaimed, inclusive community event at which all respectful persons are welcome and encouraged to attend or volunteer. For more information, please visit http://cassendrexavier.com.

Permission is granted to forward and share part or all of this article. Please include the title, author and website link as printed below:

Start Where You Are - A Call to Healing Artists by Cassendre Xavier. (c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more information.

All comments or messages about this article may be reprinted or published with the sender's initials.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/start-where-you-are-call-to-healing.html or http://tinyurl.com/2fxswhz.

Black Women’s Arts Festival Newsletter 10/5/2010

2010-05-10T11:44:00.001-07:00

5 Days to Apply to Black Women’s Arts Festival!

Greetings, Friends!!

Just a reminder that the Late Submissions to apply to be a featured artist, vendor, and/or workshop presenter at Philadelphia’s 7th annual Black Women’s Arts Festival ends May 15, 2010.

The Black Women’s Arts Festival is an acclaimed, inclusive, community cultural arts event which was founded in 2003 and began operating as a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization in 2007.

This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, July 29 thru Sunday, August 1st, 2010.

BWAF Philly 2010 will feature many very special, first-time featured artists, workshops, children’s events and more at several venues in Greater Philadelphia including our primary venue, The Rotunda, on the campus of, and in our longtime partnership with the University of Pennsylvania.
We will also feature erotic, spiritual, and family events to honor the elders and ancestors from all our communities.

As always, all respectful persons are welcome, invited, and encouraged to participate as attendees, volunteers, and/or organizers.

To view our Late Submissions application, or to apply, please visit our website at http://BWAFphilly.org. click “Submissions”, or visit the Submissions page directly at http://bwaf2010submissions.eventbrite.com or http://tinyurl.com/ya8bv67.

In art and community,

Cassendre Xavier
Founder & Executive Director
Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003, Philadelphia)
http://BWAFphilly.org

© 2010 by Black Women’s Arts Festival and BWAF Philly. All rights reserved.

Source: http://bwafphilly.blogspot.com/2010/05/5-days-to-apply-to-black-womens-arts.html or http://tinyurl.com/2dmk5c6.

Letter to a Grieving Mother

2010-05-09T13:05:00.001-07:00

Dear Friend,

I heard you say your daughter has died, and you don't think you can go on.
I felt compelled to share with you some thoughts which may comfort you.
I'm sure it's not much of a consolation and that your grief is profound, but please try to remember:

She is completely in spirit form now, and still as available to you as ever.
She is probably around right now, trying to comfort you in some way - Look out for little signs she may be sending you. I may be someone she sent your way. Her heart is reaching out to comfort you, and those of us who are feeling, sensing people, reach out to comfort when we receive the signal.

She wouldn't want you to be in pain. Try to think about how you would want her to feel if it had been the other way around. Grieve, yes, but also celebrate her life every chance you can. Try to remember the very thin veil between the living and the so-called dead. We are not so separate after all.

My friend *Adala lost her daughter Harata years ago. I knew Harata. Adala had two daughters. One, Yalda, was severely developmentally challenged. The other, Harata, was very gifted and was just about to graduate from college. Politically astute, loving, and openly bisexual, she was poised to change the world. Then her SUV overturned and in an instant, her life was over, and her boyfriend, who was in the passenger seat, was devastated, but relatively unharmed.

I attended the memorial ceremony and later spent time with Adala and her ex-lover, and our friends. I dyed Adala's hair with nontoxic dye from Whole Foods. We made a delicious chai tea with cinnamon and vanilla beans in a huge pot that lasted forever and was very comforting, and listened to an endless reel of various artists singing devotional and classical music from India.
Adala was Bangladeshi, her ex-lover Palestinian, and I am Haitian.
The house was filled with love as Adala performed Reiki on me and talked me into feeling better about a recent bipolar diagnosis "Maybe you're just like that", she said - meaning just prolific and high energy, and occasionally sad. Not sick.

Anyway, it was a beautiful day, which I mention because Adala said, "My daughter has died. I don't think I can go on." That is the only time anyone has ever said that to me, and I read the same words on your page.

An angel has brought me today to say to you that you can go on, even if you don't feel like you can. You don't have to try to force it. Just take one baby step at a time - one small breath at a time. Look at the sun - stay in the sun. Call uplifting, encouraging friends. Remember the good times with your daughter, and talk to her. Talk to her all the time. Talk to her without ceasing. Ask her to communicate to you somehow, how you are to go on. Ask her to guide you. She will answer. In the bend of a leaf on a tree in the breeze - in the look of a cat's peaceful, mysterious eyes, in the sparkling chuckle of an infant. You will feel joy again. Let your daughter lead you to it.

In the meantime, know that I, and many others are praying for your well-being, and your healing.

Love and light,

Cassendre

*Names and other details have been changed for confidentiality.

(c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved.

Comments and messages will be published with the sender's initials.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/open-letter-to-grieving-mother.html or http://tinyurl.com/37j4kah.

Happy Mother's & Self-/Nurturing Day!

2010-05-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

Hello, Friends!

I just wanted to take a moment to issue my annual Mother's Day greeting!

To all the mothers, parents, and guardians out there - thank you for all you do to rear young folks. Your job is the most important of all, and we all benefit from your sacrifices.

If you have a mother or mother figure in your life, please take a moment to call, visit, hug, or write her a Thank You, a universal "Kudos!" or "Brava!" for all she does in the world.

And celebrate the concept of nurturing today by being nurturing to someone or something, and be extra self-nurturing today, too! Make yourself a big ol' mug of chai tea with honey, cuddle up under the comforters (it's chilly, ain't it?), and tell yourself something new you appreciate about yourself.

I hope this day is wonderful, and I appreciate the opportunity to share it with you this way.

Enjoy life,

Cassendre

Humyn, being.
http://cassEndrExavier.com

Bonus:
A fun Mother's Day link!
http://tinyurl.com/2ujybd4

Please comment on this note or blog itself - no messages, please. All messages in response to this post will be re-posted as a comment with the sender's initials. Thank you!

Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/05/happy-mothers-self-nurturing-day.html or http://tinyurl.com/2dymao8.

Why Are Confident Blacks Considered Arrogant? An Open Letter

2010-04-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Today, I posted the following quote on my Facebook wall:

"Sometimes, I feel discriminated against, but it does not make me angry. It merely astonishes me. How can any deny themselves the pleasure of my company? It is beyond me." -Zora Neale Hurston

A "friend" of unknown ethnic heritage responded:

"Cassendre, the quote makes Black people out to be somewhat arrogant. Careful. Do you really want to be perceived as being that? Hoping not."

To which I responded on my wall:

"After wailing, 'Oh Lawd, puh-leeez help me keep it together, Jesus, please!' and holding my crystals to seek guidance from my spirit teachers, I got the answer on how to respond. Then after I started writing the response in my head, before I started typing, I realized, no, this should be a public response. This is too good an opportunity to miss. So, Dear Lady, stay tuned for a blog that will answer your very controversial question. And thank you for asking it, because in the spirit of 'even bad press is good press', it created a space for dialogue to occur - between myself and the other readers who probably saw your question and thought, 'Oh NO she didn't!' Thank you."

And now, here's that aforementioned blog:

Why Are Confident Blacks Considered Arrogant? An Open Letter

I realize I know several people who have died of cancer in part because they spent their entire lives focusing on what was wrong in their worlds, and even though they were activists and made a difference in the world, they still died of cancer. I'm one of the many people who believe that cancer is a dis-ease of long-term and deep-seated resentment - it's a dis-ease of nonforgiveness.

I prefer to focus on what's working in my world - on being joyful - on health. That's the road I'm on. Form follows thought, and our thoughts create our reality, so I'm focusing on health and what makes me happy. That means I must ignore anything to the contrary (not hate it, because that also grows it - all focus grows the object of the focus).

But that doesn't mean I have to turn a blind eye or be silent when I see injustice, or when something has upset me. So I will say this: Your statement is, to me, incredibly racist, and worse: it's damn condescending.

I highly recommend you copy and paste the quote you were responding to, along with your exact response - search online or in person for anti-racism workshops led by progressive whites, and let THEM inform you of exactly how and why you've crossed a serious line. Or, you might show it to an African American history or AF-Am feminism professor. They can help you understand how your statement is racist. But, as my people say, "I am not the one."

Now, I don't hate you. Don't become one of those guilty white people who, for fear of never again offending a Black person, never speaks up again. It's better to become educated and to do this, risk offending and hurting people's feelings, as your statement did.

I mean, maybe you're not even white. Maybe you're even Black - I don't know, but your statement was racist, to me. And I don't want to talk about it anymore, because doing so will take up energy I'd rather spend being happy and generating health in my body. Health and only health.

And to cap, Zora Neale Hurston was a novelist, short story writer, folklorist, and anthropologist. She was amazing and fierce and lived a juicy life despite dealing with racism throughout. (Imagine trying to be your fabulous self with a constant almighty thumb pressing on your throat? She thrived besides.)

Because she was black and female and died poor, she was buried in an unmarked grave and her impressive body of work went largely ignored until many years later when Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "The Color Purple" Alice Walker took an interest, and brought her work out into the general American public, where it since has become part of the curriculum of many colleges and universities. Halle Barry has starred in a television movie based on Hurston's work.

While I don't have the educational background to give you more facts about American race politics, I can speak personally from my own experience as a Haitian-American born here in the US, which technically also makes me African American.
I can also speak as a writer who is female, and has dealt with racism in her work as an artist, like Zora, who often had to clean houses to make a living.

I was incredibly offended by your statement of "Careful." Do you know how condescending that is? What am I, your child? Why the blank do I have to be "careful"? Who am I afraid of offending, by sharing a quote by a woman who left a legacy of art behind for generations to learn from and enjoy? Do I not want to offend the racists in Texas who still enjoy a lovely evening of dragging black men to their deaths behind a pick up truck? Is that who I want to avoid "offending"? Or perhaps the cops who stop my brother in his car simply because he wears his hair in dreds. Is that whose feelings I don't want to hurt?

Why does knowing one is good company make one sound arrogant? If a white person said, "Why would any want to deprive themselves of my my company?" would you respond by warning, "Careful. You don't want to sound arrogant"?

Whenever someone thinks I'm arrogant, that's equal to them calling me "uppity", which is racist and basically says, "You've got to be kept in your place - and that is as my slave." That's what it says to me. On occasion, a white woman who herself hasn't been encouraged to be fierce and fabulous is the culprit of that. So it's not always racism, I'll grant you that. Sometimes it's sheer NON-fabulousness.

I believe the truly fabulous adore the other truly fabulous. I'm fabulous, so I adore Barbra Streisand. It's the ones who are not divas who don't believe anyone should be a diva, either. I believe if she needs rose petals to walk on, then goddamn it somebody bring her those petals and quick! She's got work to do!

We applaud the product of so-called divas- the ones whose bodies of work are vast and prolific, but we don't allow them what they need to create it.

I am sickened and so frustrated when men (usually jealous, insecure, less talented men), call Streisand a bitchy perfectionist. Any male her equal would be called a "genius", but she gets "bitch". (I knew I had reached a significant level of success when I first was called "bitch" by a man in the business.)

No, Zora Neale Hurston wasn't "arrogant". She was brilliant, she was courageous, she was extremely gifted and creative. And she was probably indeed very, very fine company.

Cassendre Xavier is an award-winning multi-media artist, founder and executive director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003). Visit her at http://cassendrexavier.com.

(To reply to this article, please post a comment on the same page/website/blog on which it appears.)

Copyright (c) 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. Please share and include the following link: http://cassendrexavier.com.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/04/why-are-confident-blacks-considered.html or http://tinyurl.com/24vaksy

Your Soul & Your Emotions Know Your Worth

2010-04-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Why is it that when someone insults you, you feel bad? Have you ever thought about that?
When we’re in the depths of self-loathing, or even if it’s only for a quick second, we temporarily believe we are really bad. We don’t look good enough, we’re not smart enough, we haven’t accomplished enough, etc.
But if all that were actually true, wouldn’t we feel good when insulted? Wouldn’t it be inherent and natural to accept and feel good about hearing that we’re dumb, or stupid, or clumsy, or that we don’t measure up in some way to what our partner, friend, parent, or boss says we should?
If you were really a bad person, if you were anything less than a splendid spiritual being having a humyn experience - then you wouldn’t feel so bad when someone said something bad about you. You would agree and not dispute it.
But that’s not what happens, is it?
When we hear, read, or feel criticism from anyone, including ourselves, it hurts. It hurts a lot. And the reason for that is because it doesn’t match the truth of who we are: beings of light and love here only to expand and grow, to love and be loved.
It hurts when we’re criticized, or when we criticize ourselves, because our spirits, our true selves, know the real deal. We are light and love, and whenever we are not expressing that, it’s time to check in and return to that truth.
Remember this the next time you experience a challenge in loving yourself. Remember the proof in how badly you feel when criticized, and how good you feel when someone says, “Hey, gorgeous, what’s shaking?” or “How are you doing today” or “I care about you.” Remember how good you feel when instead of saying “I love you”, a friend or sweetie acts it out in a gesture of true friendship, generosity, care and affection.
How good you feel when someone treats you well, or something good happens to you is your soul communicating that all is well. You are experiencing what life can be like on a regular basis. You are feeling valued, worthy, and loved.
Feel good about yourself today knowing that your emotions are doing such a wonderful job of taking care of and showing you how precious you are.
You are as good, really and truly, as you feel when good things happen to you. And this is why you feel so bad when the opposite happens. You are wonderful and that’s the only truth!

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah) is a multi-media artist and creator of the Affirmations for Survivors guided meditations series featuring Music of Light by Thaddeus. She is a widely published multi-genre writer and the author of the print and e-book Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal. A folk-rock singer-songwriter described as “a cross between Tracy Chapman, Sade & Enya” (Steven M. Wilson, Borders Music Expert), Ms. Xavier recently released her 7th musical CD/MP3 download Capable of Love to critical acclaim. She maintains a vibrant YouTube channel of her original, cover, parody, live and recorded songs, as well as her stark, thought-provoking poetry and enlightening, comforting guided meditations. In 2003, she founded Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival, which she currently serves as executive director, and in 2005 she received a Leeway Foundation Transformation Award for her “work in art and change”. Visit Cassendre at http://cassEndrExavier.com.

© 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/04/your-soul-your-emotions-know-your-worth.html or http://tinyurl.com/37gs6kg

How Quickly Do You Accept Abundance?

2010-04-20T12:27:00.001-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

As a self-employed multi-media artist and director of a nonprofit arts organization, aside from actually being creative, probably my biggest focus is that of raising, and receiving funds with which to not only continue my work, but just get through my day to day necessary activities, like grocery shopping and other such glamorous things.

I noticed recently that I had a pile, albeit a small pile, of checks and money orders awaiting my attention. One of the checks was from a dear friend and frequent artistic collaborator, who had included a form from her company which offered a matching funds program. This meant her donation would be doubled once I submitted the properly filled-out paperwork.

I was very happy to receive the funds, and I recognized opportunities to maximize the experience, including a visualization that the checks and money orders multiplied and attracted more and larger amounts of their kind in the very near future. Although I gave a lot of thanks for this opportunity to live my dream life and receive financial and emotional support for the privilege, I still thought too much of the paperwork required to process them. I wouldn’t just be able to immediately deposit the checks and money orders, I had to fill out the necessary forms for our accounting department to process them. Meanwhile, my life’s schedule and obligations felt overwhelming, and I kept putting this “work” off.

Finally, just a little over a month later, I sat down to start this project. I asked myself why it took so long, and was even more frustrated with myself when I noticed how easy it was to do the paperwork, which I’d done before and was never difficult. Why did I wait so long to receive this money? Why did I procrastinate about doing a very easy exercise? Why did I spend weeks struggling financially when I had checks sitting right there that could’ve been in action to make my life a little easier?

Has anything similar ever happened to you? Do you, like me, spend hours a day visualizing abundance, believing you deserve more and can have it, work on your law of attraction techniques, and meditate for your financial prosperity? And then what happens when you receive it? Do you immediately accept it and do whatever is necessary to keep or grow the money or similar gift? Or do you let it sit there and continue living your life as you were before, in struggle or living at a lesser level than you now know you are capable of?

I invite and challenge you today to become a different person financially. I invite you to join me in being the kind of person who immediately accepts money, gives thanks, and processes the abundance accordingly.

Prosperity is right there for you. When it comes, accept your abundance quickly, and with open, non-resistant arms. Be ready, process, and receive money as soon as it comes to you, so that it can go right out again and begin to attract more to come your way. This keeps the money cycle flowing quickly, surely, and smoothly – without blocks or sluggishness.

When you get money, do the paperwork, do the math, file it accordingly, and/or do whatever else you need to do, what rich people do, to continually attract and grow the abundance you can achieve.

Remember, money is energy, and we can all do our best to give, use, receive, and share in such a way that it becomes, or remains, an abundant and beautiful flow.

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls) is an award-winning multi-media artist, personal growth author/recording artist, founder and director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (since 2003). She is the founder and moderator of several Facebook groups including Creating Money: Using the Law of Attraction & Other Spiritual Tools for Abundance, Self-Love at Any Weight, among others. Visit her at http://cassendrexavier.com

© 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com

Source: http://tinyurl.com/y5bh4cd

Green Smoothie Raw Blog 4/13/10

2010-04-13T03:48:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Advice for an Aspiring (Yet Struggling) Raw Foodist

W. (female) writes:
Hello, I have been trying to become a raw foodie but living in a house with my whole family eating the SAD sad american diet. I fall off the wagon even to where now i am back eating cheese and butter .. I know being raw is better for me ..I want to do it but am at a loss how to keep doing it.. Thank you again for all your positive and uplifting messages. Its great to hear ! Peace and Love from W. in Minneapolis

Hi, W.!
I completely understand your struggle. Cooked food is highly addictive, and we who want to be really healthy and raw often don't have the support we need. That's why we need to create our own support. For me, that is in making YouTube videos and writing about my journey. That helps me stay on the path, which is really challenging for me as a food addict and child abuse survivor. Whenever I lose weight, I freak out and gain it back again - anyway, that's my path and you'll hear all about it on my Oprah-like journey!
Check out Victoria Boutenko's book about ending your addiction to cooked foods. I forget the new title, but it used to be "12 Steps to Raw Foods:". You can find it, and other great articles at http://rawfamily.com.
Please stay in touch and let me know how you’re doing, and remember, the thing is to simply add more raw to your diet to start. Don't worry about how you'll stay a high percentage - to 100% raw right now. I've been on this journey since 2005. It doesn't always take this long for folks (Matt Monarch went raw overnight and never went back), but everyone's path is unique.
Stay focused, keep dreaming, and imagining yourself as fully raw, healthy, and surrounded by raw or raw-supportive friends. Also, writing raw affirmations and saying them in front of the mirror is very helpful. Just one will do, "I am a healthy, wealthy, beautiful raw vegan living the life of my dreams." I say a similar sentence every morning in the front of my mirror and that's been helping me. Also, the times I've been most "on my game" with raw is when I've written my raw affirmation enough times to completely fill out at least on one whole sheet of paper.

Best of luck and let me know how you're doing. It was lovely to hear from you.

Make yourself a beautiful day!

Love and light,

Cassendre

Multi-media artist founder & director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003), Cassendre Xavier is the author of “Expanding Your Capacity for Joy: a Raw Vegan Comfort Book, Sourcebook & Journal” available at Arnold’s Way Raw Vegetarian Café, Store & Education Center (Lansdale, PA), Essene Market & Café (Phila), and Giovanni’s Room bookstore (Phila), as well as an e-book at her website http://cassendrexavier.com. You can see her raw vegan posts at http://youtube.com/cassendrexavier.

Cassendre’s Song of the Day: “Reach” http://tinyurl.com/ydu73ps, from the album “Capable of Love” available in CD or MP3 download format at http://cdbaby.com/all/cassendre and http://stores.lulu.com/cassendre.

© 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved.

Source: http://tinyurl.com/yceado5

What is Your Body For?

2010-04-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

What is your body for, do you know? Reared Fundamentalist Christian, I was taught the body houses the holy spirit. Later, when I studied other spiritual paths, I came to realize the body means different things to different people or groups. Some, like Catholics, think we are to be pious and only be sexual for procreation. Others, like Tantra and Tao practitioners, believe the body to be, in part, instruments of pleasure. What do you believe for yourself?
When we decide for ourselves what our values are, then we can begin living our lives according to what we choose for ourselves, and not what our parents or the dominant culture told us we should be or do.
Take the time to get to know different cultures’ ideas of what the body is for. Choose, or create for yourself, what you would like your body to mean to you. Then go about living your life according to your own system of values. This will increase your self-esteem and self-confidence, especially as time goes by and you become stronger and stronger in your faith.
This is what happened to me. I grew up a pagan queer girl surrounded by people who told me that the likes of me were evil. I internalized a lot of that, but in my 30s (I’m now 41), I decided to reclaim for myself my own values.
Since then I’ve had a spiritual path that is right for me, and I decide for myself what my body is for – and much of that is to make my dreams come true. To me, my body is a tool to bring forth and wo/manifests all the gifts I’ve been given. I’m here to sing, to write as I am to you now, to dream and to live my dreams. I’m here to serve and enjoy life and have pleasure. I’m here to love and to receive love. And none of those things are dependent on what my weight is.
I love myself much more than I ever have, and it’s largely because I decided, for myself, what my body is for.
If you haven’t already, I invite you to take a similar journey. What’s your body for?

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls) is an award-winning multi-media artist, personal growth author/recording artist, founder and director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (since 2003). Visit her at http://cassendrexavier.com

© 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. www.cassEndrExavier.com

Dodson & Ross / With Pleasure Newsletter

2010-04-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hello, Beautiful!

Welcome to another sexy ediccione (if you will) of the Dodson & Ross / With Pleasure double newsletter, by group creator/moderator Cassendre Xavier (aka Amrita Waterfalls).

It's been a while since I've written, as I've been busy with producing Philadelphia's 7th annual Black Women's Arts Festival. Many of us are super busy with various projects, so I'm sure you're not angry with me!

I just want to say thank you for celebrating your sexuality! I believe self-love of all kinds is a revolutionary act and definitely makes the world a better place. So, thanks for joining other like-minded folks and being in community here at Facebook!

The Official D & R Group (389 Members and growing) is http://tinyurl.com/yjoo6h8.
The Official D & R Fan Page (179 Fans and growing) is http://tinyurl.com/y6t83bt.
Please join, regularly post on, and widely forward the links to both!

Betty Dodson is a shero of mine and along with Carlin Ross, Dodson & Ross are doing a lot of great work in promoting healthy sex and relationships at http://dodsonandross.com. Please go to the site often to visit and see the blogs, products (like Betty's Vaginal Bar Bell), articles, and news there.

You can also visit them on YouTube. Their official channel is http://tinyurl.com/yyj4mzm. There you can see exciting posts about masturbation, sex, male & female genital issues, toys, kinks & fetishes, female ejaculation, public sex, relationships and more. The posts are not only informative, but they're extremely delightful and entertaining as both Betty's and Carlin's personalities shine through. They laugh a lot!

If you would like to be included in this newsletter, please send a 75 word blurb/free classified ad with link/contact to: cxwriting(at)gmail.com, or reply to this post. I'd be happy to do so in the next newsletter, but I make no promises when, and if I'm very overwhelmed I may not be able to do so.

If you'd like to be one of the "admins" of the Dodson & Ross group, and write a newsletter that includes our members' news and ads, please let me know! One of the best features of Facebook and all online social networking is that it allows those of us who are self-employed and/or doing creative/alternative work to share news about our work to like-minded folks who are also potential/future friends, creative collaborators/business partners, clients/customers, or audience. Let's optimize the opportunity!

I'm glad that I had this opportunity to create, with their approval, the Official Dodson & Ross Facebook group.

Enjoy your weekend!

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amrita Waterfalls, aka Amethyste Rah)
renaissance negresse (musician/author/visual artist/actress)
http://cassEndrExavier.com

Founder & Director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est. 2003)
http://BWAFphilly.org
Late submissions end soon!
7th Annual Festival dates: Thurs July 29 thru Sun Aug 1, 2010

--------------------------------------------------

For more information about Betty Dodson & Carlin Ross, visit http://dodsonandross.com

Source: http://tinyurl.com/yyktnyc

Fat Girl Pledge, or: No More Headshots

2010-04-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

i am a fat girl
i have fat cheeks
fat arms
and a big fat belly
that gets in the way sometimes
my thighs rub together
and my behind is not as big
as i wish it were
i'm not hourglass shaped
like the big girl models
in the plus size fashion magazines
but i'm not going to hate myself
anymore
from now on i pledge to love myself
big girl belly
pert butt and all
i refuse to detest
my double-chin and profile
no more headshots from the top view only
no more headshots for that matter
when a full-body shot is an option
for as long as i am big
i will be proud of my big body
i will show it off
and give other big girls (and big boys)
something to feel good about
i won't be shy to show my curves
whether they're societally approved or not
i'm tired of seeing only the faces
of my sisters
pictures taken from above
to hide the so-called unflattering curves
i'm tired of only headshots
on my big girl sisters
what about your body?
i want to see more of us in fishnet stockings
and photographed from head to toe, not just our faces
and our pretty pretty hair
since i must be the change i want to see in the world
i start with myself
and from here on, i pledge and i promise
to be a diva goddess big girl
proud of my everywhere curves
and not afraid to show them
in my pledge it's my intention
that all who see my full-body shots
are increased in your own self-love
and feel more like you, too, can boldly
show yourself as beautiful
and lovely
and/or handsome and attractive
no matter what your weight, your size,
your shape, or your age
so bring on the heels, the short skirts
and the corsets
bring on the t-shirts and jeans that are made
to find, fit, and flatter my own specific
woman curves
and bring on the cameras so the world can see
that i love myself
double-chin
big belly
tiny hiney
and
all
and, please
no more headshots
i'm saving those
for promotional purposes only

(c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. (Please forward freely.)

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls) is an award-winning multi-media artist and community/arts organizer. She is the founding director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003) and has a growing presence on YouTube where she features her music, writing, guided meditations, and raw/living foods lifestyle tips. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more info.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/04/fat-girl-pledge-or-no-more-headshots.html or http://tinyurl.com/y94nkug

People React to Your Self-Image

2010-03-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

Have you ever noticed you treat people according to how they carry or what they think of themselves? You may return one person's call or answer their email much more quickly than you do another - letting the response languish until the last possible minute.
Have you noticed you are treated differently depending on how you feel about yourself on any particular day?
We teach people how to treat us, not only by what we accept or don't accept from them, but by our own thoughts about ourselves.
If you're feeling bad about yourself, you may hunch your shoulders or have a defeated facial expression. You may radiate the opposite of confidence and make people want to avoid you.
On the other hand, feeling good about yourself makes you look more confident, stand taller, have a brighter disposition and be more pleasant to look at and be around.
Remember, it doesn't take long to smile, and that can make all the difference! Even if you're feeling bad, a smile can turn all that around and significantly improve your self-esteem and confidence for the day.
Try to smile regularly every day, stand taller, and tell yourself you're a wonderful and worthy person - anyone would be proud to know you.
You're worth it, and it makes all the difference, not only in how you are treated, but in how others feel about themselves, too. After all, confidence makes everyone feel good, just as being a downer makes everyone feel bad. Choose confidence and a smile for a healthier and brighter self-image!

(c) Copyright 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved. (Please forward freely.)

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls) is an award-winning multi-media artist and community/arts organizer. She is the founding director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003) and has a growing presence on YouTube where she features her music, writing, guided meditations, and raw/living foods lifestyle tips. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more info.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/03/people-react-to-your-self-image.html or http://tinyurl.com/yg264uc

How to Be Beautiful - Show Others Their Beauty

2010-03-28T18:38:00.000-07:00

by Cassendre Xavier

I try to do something frightening as often as I can. This grows my spirit and encourages me to overcome fear and generally comfortable or accustomed to being courageous. The latest thing, my latest challenge, is children! Or, more accurately, “youth”, as I believe most non-adult human types prefer to be called. As the Universe would have it, I was then invited to perform at a progressive private school, where I would sing and interact with an auditorium full of middle schoolers.
I chose to sing two of my original pop songs, accompanying myself on guitar, then I led the group in an affirmation sing-along.
One of the reasons I’m so scared of kids is that I was made fun of a lot growing up. A child of immigrant parents, and having spent part of my childhood in their country (Haiti) I dressed and talked "funny", and was teased relentlessly.
Even though I’m an adult now, there are still many aspects of my life that I thought would warrant being made fun of again. My braided extensions were severely in need of a touch up. One could say they looked downright “ratty” , or a “hot mess” as a young fashionista/o might say.
The whole time preparing and being in the school before my set, I worried someone would make fun of me and I’d hear the kids laughing, and my subsequent embarrassment. I wasn’t wearing the fancy clothes I thought would impress the kids – I wasn’t rich and I wasn’t famous.
Rather than continue to worry about these things, I decided to leave the fear behind and focus instead on my purpose for being there.
I wasn’t there to do a fashion show or teach them how they could go into the modeling profession. I was there to share my gift of music, and to teach them some tools I used to feel better, and empower myself to create the things I wanted in my life.
I spoke with my host, who invited me and introduced me, and found out from her what the students’ concerns were. They wanted confidence. That’s not what she said, but that was my interpretation. Confidence to do well on their tests, confidence to get along well with their peers, confidence to feel good about themselves, their looks, their abilities. They wanted confidence. She didn’t say, “They need to be around black women with very well groomed braids as often as possible.” Nothing she said remotely rhymed with, “They want to only be around cool people coming out of limos all the time.”
We all want the same thing: love. We want to be comfortable in life, and to feel good about ourselves. We want things to go well in our families, in our work, and to have fun friendships. We want to know our lives count, and that we are important.
I decided I would go to impart upon those kids as many feel-goods as I could. And as much as I focused on this, my ratty hair completely disappeared, both in my mind, and in their eyes.
I focused on my goal of being more comfortable talking with kids, and wanting to be a bold actress. So I did this event, and I focused on improvisation – something really scary to me.
I improvised and collectively wrote an affirmation song with the students, and invited two of them to play percussion drums on stage behind me while I sang.
It went really well, and I’d also written a special affirmation song just for them.
Afterwards, they asked me to sign autographs for them (me?!) and I signed their assignment books, “Love yourself and stay beautiful”.
In the picture of me with the kids as I’m signing my autographs for them, I don’t see my “ratty” hair in severe need of a touch up. I don’t focus on my overweight self in my inexpensive clothes. That’s not what I see. I just see a beautiful, bold woman in room full of beautiful young people, young people who taught me much, made my day, and helped me feel much better about myself. I realized then that it really doesn’t matter how much or how little you weigh, what clothes you wear, or what kind of hairstyle you have. Real beauty is inside and much more of it shows when you focus on the real beauty in others. If you tell people they’re beautiful, handsome, and lovely, they will feel it, and they will see the same in you.

Cassendre Xavier (aka Amethyste Rah, aka Amrita Waterfalls) is an award-winning multi-media artist and community/arts organizer. She is the founding director of Philadelphia’s annual Black Women’s Arts Festival (Est. 2003) and has a growing presence on YouTube where she features her music, writing, guided meditations, and raw/living foods lifestyle tips. Visit http://cassEndrExavier.com for more info.

Source: http://cassendrexavier.blogspot.com/2010/03/how-to-be-beautiful-show-others-their.html or http://tinyurl.com/yctxx89

Self-Love Tip - Make a Contribution to the Universe

2010-03-09T18:12:00.000-08:00

One of the best ways to improve your outlook on life and automatically and significantly increase your self-love is to shift the focus from yourself and your own pain or so-called inadequacies to helping make someone else's life better.
I've read countless stories of people who were despondent, but once they made up their minds to help others, and did that, not only did they feel much better, but their life circumstances also improved significantly!
From Joel Osteen's book "Your Best Life Now" he recounts talking with a friend who was near suicide. The guy had been left by his wife, he was jobless, and almost homeless. Joel advised him to help someone, then he went out and started helping drug addicts recover. Very soon he was so grateful to be alive, BECAUSE HE WAS NEEDED. Someone depended on him and made him feel very important, which he was, even before that.
Soon he had a job, and the overwhelming feeling of joy from helping recovering drug addicts never left him.
Another story is from the move "You Can Heal Your Life" in which Gay Hendricks recounts a story in which one of his clients called him, very sad and depressed. Gay asked him if there was something he could do to "contribute" to the universe. He answered there was an elderly woman who lived nearby. Her doorway was full of old papers and trash. Gay advised him to put the phone down and go clean it up, then come back to the phone. He did that and there was a dramatic shift when he returned to the conversation. He felt elated!

So, if you're feeling down today, or are working on improving how you feel about yourself right now, consider how you can be of service or contribute to the universe. It doesn't have to be something big or elaborate. And it doesn't even have to be for another person. You can be significantly helpful to either the animal, plant, or mineral kingdoms, too!

For years I've tried to contribute as a volunteer to various causes, but none of them ever worked out. I lamented my lack of service to humanity, but now I don't see it that way. Now I see my efforts everywhere. My taking the time to write and send this note, even as my tummy growls because I was on my way to the kitchen to make a late dinner :-), I tell myself, I am contributing to humynkind. I am making a difference. I am being of service to the collective call for comfort and the cause of self-actualization.

Do what you can according to who YOU are as a special humyn being with your own unique interests, talents, and life experience. You have your own schedule, your own resources, your own abilities and things you want and can do to make the world a better place.

Making your own unique contribution will make you feel amazing about life, and about your own unique wonderful self!

(c) 2010 by Cassendre Xavier. All rights reserved.

About the author: Cassendre Xavier is a multi-media artist and founder/director of Philadelphia's annual Black Women's Arts Festival (Est 2003). You can visit her at http://cassendrexavier.com

Time Tested Beauty Tips, by Sam Levenson

2010-03-09T06:17:00.000-08:00

For attractive lips,
Speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes,
Seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure,
Share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair,
Let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.

For poise,
Walk with the knowledge you'll never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored,
renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed;
Never throw out anybody.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand,
you'll find one at the end of your arm.

As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands;
one for helping yourself,
the other for helping others.

By Sam Levenson (1911-1980)
From his book: "In One Era & Out the Other"

[This quote was used by Audrey Hepburn.]