In Pursuit of Wisdom

As I have mentioned Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu spoke at my graduation from Gonzaga University (May 13th, 2012). Tutu is a powerful speaker whom commands attention from audience members. Tutu himself is a petite man with the charisma liked to a Santa Claus character. Tutu speaks with purpose and is inspired by truth. On Graduation day, I was over whelmed with excitement and fear to fully hear the entirety of Tutu's speech. My mind was busy with distracted thoughts. What I heard the first time I listened to Tutu's speech was the shrill of new adventures and the journey that presents it self when faced with immediate change. I heard Tutu say that young people everywhere do amazing things. Desmond Tutu, called us "incredible creatures." What I heard on graduation day was the promise of hope and the excitement of life unfolding. 

The messages we here, we hear selectively. In our heart we may know an answer or be aware of the necessary course of action needed to fully capitalize on the joys of possibilities laid out for us. There is an ancient adverbs that states: "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear." 

I believe that we only allow our self to learn, to feel, and to push mountains when are ready to meet the challenges, and are no longer paralyzed by a fear of failure. In the pursuit of excellence, failure is eminent. Through failure we learn. Through failure we differentiate ourselves, we filter out the weak. To fail with  grace is admirable. Failure can act as a catalyst for success, as it teaches one to learn from their mistakes. 

Upon re-listening to Desmond Tutu's speech, I still hear the hope in his voice as he admires the beauty of youthful energy. Though upon re-listening I am aware of his request for us to find passion and pursue our goals with out fear or hesitation. Tutu says that none of us are accidents, even though we may appear to look so, he pleads us to dream unaffected by cynicism. There are no mistakes, no accidents. There is a gentleness to his request, just as there is a call for action, Tutu wishes us the luxury of never being: "To good to enjoy the challenges of life."  

A Greener Cap An Gown

I feel privileged to part of the 2012 graduating class from Gonzaga. My graduation year marks the 125 anniversary of Gonzaga as a registered university. In honor of the Gonzaga's big birthday the university sent out a special request for a powerful and charismatic speaker. Arch Bishop, Sir Desmond Tutu will be speaking at my commencement. I'm ecstatic to hear Tutu speak (even though he has made some crude remarks about Canada). The man in a visionary who has fought for freedom against the oppression of apartheid. Tutu's courage and commitment to his beliefs earned him the 1981 Nobel Peace Prize. 

But that's not all, no, in addition to being blessed with one of the worlds most revered public speakers the 2012 GU class gets to "debut" GreenWeaver Academic Regalia.

GreenWeaver uses recycled plastic bottle to create the fabric of their academic attire including the "Cap and Gown." When I first heard that my commencement outfit would be made of used pop bottles I was apprehensive. I questioned the wear ability and the aesthetics of the gown. Fortunately, there was no alternative option. Either you bought the gown commissioned by Gonzaga or you don't walk.  Now, that I have the "Academic Regalia" in my possession I am pleased to report that the recycled gown surpasses my expectation.

GreenWeaver is supplying the academic regalia for 5% of the colleges and universities in the US for the 2012 commencement. Across the nation approximately 310,000 students will be modeling recycled and re purposed plastic bottles. GreenWeaver states that the 310,000 cap and gowns saved 9, 000, 000 plastic bottles from landfills. Each student, by wearing a gown saves the pollutant equivalent of 29 plastic bottles. The only fallacy though, is that after graduation I will never wear my "Academic Regalia" again. After Graduation my "cap and gown" will tossed, donated, disposed of.  The company does offer a gown recycling program to allow graduates to donate their gown to future graduates. At a cost of $100 for the Cap and Gown and no incentive to donate I wonder how many hypothetical water bottles will wind up back in land fills.

Horoscope: May 14- 20

You know that you are loved, when your friends and family sit through the name calling of over 1000 students to see you walk across a stage to pick up a "fake" diploma and shake the hand of Thane McCulloh the president of Gonzaga University. I am absolutely exhausted from the festivities of the weekend. The enormity of the event has yet to sink in. I am proud of my self for finishing my degree, and I am excited to embark upon a life rich with milestones and amazement. I am nervous for the future, and the obligatory unknown that accompanies traveling a path less wondered. In  the words of Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu; Young people do extraordinary things. We are all capable of the extraordinary. 

With that, happy Monday! Below are your Georgia Nicols horoscopes for May 14- 20. 

(And of course happy belated Mothers Day to all those who have given life, with out you none of my dream could exist. I love you mum!)

Taurus:

You're highly energetic and ready to claim to the world "I am!" You want to do your own thing, especially in love, romance, sports and amusements. Sex is hot because your physical nature is aroused, but your self-discipline is a little slack because you don't want to do what you don't want to do. (Oh well.) You do, however, feel quite competitive but probably playfully so. Meanwhile, back in the counting house where the King is counting out his money, financial opportunities exist for you this summer. You can easily borrow money and you might need to do this because you are certainly shopping for beautiful, lavish goodies. (You do love to collect your treasures.)

Gemini:

There's good news and there's bad news. The bad news is you might be aggressive at home or with family. Your impulse to fight with others is so instinctive (especially with parents or partners), you might act downright silly. (And you're not even embarrassed!) The best way to use this energy is to tackle home renovations or move your furniture around. Fortunately, the good news is stupendous. Fair Venus in your sign (for months) makes you charming and diplomatic, especially away from home. This is a great summer to enjoy friends, take a vacation and do whatever pleases you. Soon lucky Jupiter enters your sign, bringing you fabulous good fortune until the fall of 2013. (I wanna be a Gemini!)

Cancer:

There's no question everyone around you is surprised at how aggressive you are in all your communications. Your style is to be friendly and chatty, catching up on gossip over the neighbourhood fence, right? But this summer, you stand hands on hips, feet apart, ready to say what you mean and mean what you say! (Yikes.) Of course, the upside to this (aside from the arguments) is you're beautifully prepared to defend yourself. If you soften your defiance, your ability to sell, promote, write, teach and act is fabulous. Meanwhile, Venus will soften your energy even further by giving you opportunities to discover the joy and satisfaction in charitably helping others. (It's a Mother Teresa thang.)

Leo:

Fiery Mars is a mixed blessing for you, dear Leo. It's making you spend money like it's going out of style, which (let's face it) is your style! But now you're doing it without apology. (Up at dawn waiting for the stores to open.) Actually, this is fun because you have always seen spending as a way of exercising your prerogative in life. (Partly this is because you identify strongly with what you own now. But, of course, you're not your bank account or your furniture; however, you are your car.) Ironically, the influence of Venus makes you want to socialize like mad, which spurs your drive to spend even more! Who lavishes more on their guests than you? (You're having fun, but it ain't cheap.)

Virgo:

You have never before in your lifetime felt Mars in your sign for so long. Mars rules your muscles and your blood (as well as your aggressive and sexual energy). This is why you feel so passionate! You might even literally quiver or tremble with passion. (No kidding.) Guard against coming on too strong with others or steamrolling over people. "Outta my way!" Instead, use this influence to work because your physical energy is high. You'll also benefit from outdoor exercise or working out in a gym. Meanwhile, Venus attracts romance with bosses and VIPs. You might also be asked for your creative take on things: design, layout, redecorating or PR matters. (You're so clever.)

Libra:

Things are tricky for Libra. You might feel vaguely irritated with others. ("Jerks!") You might also find you're constantly in that classic yoga position of pulling your foot out of your mouth. (Great for hip flexibility.) Be aware of your self-defeating behaviour. Instead of confronting others, confront yourself! (I like to use a mirror.) What beautifully offsets this impulse this summer is your love of adventure. You want to experience something fresh and new! You want to travel, see art exhibits and discuss profound intellectual concepts over a good wine. People who are "different" intrigue you. By all means, get outta Dodge if you can because you need a change of scenery!

Scorpio:

This Venus/Mars combo works well for you. (Did you phone in a request?) Although Mars makes you competitive, it gives you lots of energy to work co-operatively in groups. Yes, things can be touchy with friends but you're also a dynamo in classes, meetings or conferences. Everyone wants to be on your team. Do remember that you can easily achieve your goals now by working with others. Meanwhile, in another part of the forest, fair Venus sweetens your intimate personal relationships. ("Is that Opium you're wearing?") Sex goes beyond sex and becomes a vehicle for self-transformation. (This is so you.) Plus, gifts, goodies and favours from others will come your way all summer! Sweet!

Sagittarius:

Like Scorpio, you're looking pretty swell. For months fiery Mars is sitting at the top of your chart arousing your ambition. You're prepared to work hard - really hard - at whatever you want to accomplish. One caveat: You gotta be your own boss. This is great for your productivity as long as you don't threaten authority figures or co-workers. (Not really your style.) Nevertheless, avoid conflict if you can. (Anger serves no purpose other than to make everyone miserable.) Fortunately, Venus greatly ameliorates this aggression by sweetening all your relationships - love affairs, professional partnerships and even your enemies. In fact, many of you will encounter new love. (Be still my beating heart.)

Capricorn:

Your love of travel is practically insatiable now. Since last year, you've been taking off for places unknown and this travel bug is not abating. (Don't even bother to unpack.) You're attracted to creative, intellectual work more than usual and might find yourself arguing about politics, religion and racial issues. You might be equally aggressive dealing with publishing, the media, medicine and the law. This is because you identify with your beliefs! Be careful because you could end up with egg on your face. (Ketchup helps.) Fair Venus will smoothe the way with co-workers and bring you praise and possibly a raise at work. Continue to study and learn what you can. (Did you know? In one day your blood travels about 12,000 miles and more if you eat doughnuts.)

Aquarius:

Disputes about shared property, insurance matters, inheritances, taxes and debt are likely at this time. You'll be strong because you will definitely defend your turf. (Ya think?) Ironically, this same energy puts your gonads into overdrive. You feel hot and sexy! (Yes, deep down you're shallow.) This playful physical energy is fueled by fair Venus and its lengthy visit in your House of Romance. For you, this summer is all about fun, entertainment and having a good time. Love affairs, sports, vacations and playful activities with children will come first. You feel totally comfortable in your own skin.

Pisces:

Like Gemini, this Venus/Mars combo gives you good news and bad news. This unusually lengthy stay of Mars in Virgo completely opposes your sign. (Pisces and Virgo are 180 degrees.) Tres challenging! This creates unavoidable tension with partnerships and close friends. However, the upside is you will defend your own best interests and will not be disregarded or pushed around. (A healthy self-interest is a good thing.) The good news is this summer promises a warm and cozy relationship with family members. Relations with parents will be close as well. Real-estate dealings will be profitable. You'll enjoy redecorating where you live and you'll love entertaining at home.

Aries:

Here's the scoop. You're taking considerable pride in whatever you do this year. Because of this, it behooves you to find work and get down to it! You'll definitely want the credit for whatever you do because you identify with your activities now. (You're not exactly a team player at the moment.) Fortunately, fair Venus soothes your words, making your dealings with your everyday world pleasant and light. In fact, you'll be surprised to discover how much love there is in your everyday surroundings. (Gosh.) Look for ways to make money from your writing and speech. Enjoy short drives or meandering walks because your appreciation of the beauty around you is heightened.