I normally write my novel, which I will refer to henceforth as T3, to a playlist on my WinAmp.

That is, I am in an infinitely better mindset to bang out the words when I am listening to certain musical tracks. This being said, I must confess I also listen to these songs while I work out at the gym. Physical exercise actually makes my mind plot better and gives me the best ideas at the most unexpected times!

The songs are listed below in no particular order. Enjoy!

T3 Playlist (February to May 2011)

· Sara Bareilles, Gravity (If given the chance, I will choose this as the series love theme!)
· Sara Bareilles, Hold My Heart
· Ashley Tisdale, We’ll Be Together
· Sum 41, With Me
· Cheap Trick, The Flame
· Bellefire, Stay
· Evanescence, Lithium
· Bonnie Tyler, Total Eclipse of the Heart
· Trading Yesterday, Shattered
· Rihanna featuring Eminem, Love the Way You Lie Part 2
· A Fine Frenzy, Almost Lover
· Patty Smyth, Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough

I am dedicating the following to all my fellow martial artists, especially those who have retired from competition but still practice their craft as part of their lifelong commitment to being modern-day warriors.

Focus the mind,
cleanse the soul,
keep sight of my target,
concentrate,
be prepared for the unexpected,
concentrate mind and body as one,
achieve tranquility through movement,
integrate spirit and flesh,
channel the powers,
separate darkness and light,
give birth to yourself,
define your existence,
create your divinations,
from strength learn gentleness,
through gentleness strength will prevail,
tell me what you see beyond your fist?
AWAKEN…

This is from Street Fighter 2: The Animated Movie. I cut out some repetitive parts so the ideas will flow more smoothly and beautifully.

So much of my existence would seem meaningless, only a bewildering blur of random events, without you, my dearest enemy. You bring “moral clarity” where there once was only the murk of self doubt. This new-found sense of certainty soothes the anxiety created by the falling away of so many of the verities of the past.

My finite existence, which before you came into my life seemed so confused and devoid of meaning, is now imbrued with mythic purpose. Because of you, meaningful narrative has been bestowed upon the vast, incomprehensible and impersonal cosmos. The wayward prince has become a warrior king.

~Phil Rockstroh, A Love Letter To My Enemy

Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) and Ralph Fiennes (Lord Voldemort) in the 16 November 2005 premier of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

In honor of the final installment of the Harry Potter movie franchise, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part 2), I would like to share the above quote and image.

What can I say, every time I look at the picture, I can’t help but think of numerous written and illustrated Harry/Voldie slash throughout the Web. Keep bringing them on, I say, while supplies last.