Film Friday – Top Spiritual Movies

May 25, 2012

Don’t go through life, grow through life.” ~ Eric Butterworth 

During times of economic, social, political or personal upheaval, people more actively seek escape and look for things that bring them a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. 

Some individuals look inward (finding ways to rebuild life through self-examination, spirituality and religion) and others search for answers outside of themselves – perhaps a bigger home, an exotic vacation, more money, a new car.  Attached is an article that may provide some insight into why each of us explore different avenues and what we value when looking for personal fulfillment. http://bit.ly/LevZ8M

Today is Film Friday. Our focus is top spiritual movies that help people discover inner ways of finding satisfaction in their lives. Here are ten suggestions: 

  • What the Bleep?
  • Peaceful Warrior
  • The Celestine Prophecy
  • The Secret
  • From Ambition to Meaning
  • Wishes Fulfilled
  • Conversations with God
  • Small Miracles (Family appropriate)
  • The Blue Butterfly
  • The Kid (Family appropriate)
  • You Can Heal Your Life 

I do more reading and writing than anything else, so I have only seen a few of these films. It’s time I put down my reading glasses and do more “inner work” by gaining new perspectives through film. A journey through cinema can be equally as satisfying. 

If you were to cast a vote, what is your favorite spiritual movie?  I would love to hear more suggestions from our readers. Click on the comment section, below and send it in.

Have a good Memorial Day weekend, everyone!

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A Beautifully Understated Sundance

May 15, 2012

Simplicity is nature’s first step, and the last of art.” ~ Philip James Bailey 

Last Thursday, on a magnificent, crystal-clear, blue morning, I made the short trek from Park City,Utah over to Sundance; a simply stunning  “enclave” for artists. The surroundings are awe-inspiring and rustic – beautifully understated. The natural environment has been left as undisturbed as possible. Tumbling, sparkling clean streams run between the outbuildings on the secluded, small mountainous woodland resort appropriately called “nature inspired.” 

During the height of the summer season, the art studio where professional potters, jewerly makers, photographers and glass blowers teach their craft, is a beehive of activity. Glassblowers create glassware from recycled glass. Unfortunately, I arrived two weeks too early to see the place abuzz;  it was “off-season.”  It was still a worthwhile trip and I nearly had the place to myself. 

The summer season will officially open with the 10th Sundance author’s series. On Saturday May 19th, Ann Packer, author of Swim Back to Me will be presenting her book, a drama-filled collection of stories, about one family, that is filled with psychological twists and turns. The book is said to make “the reader see situations with new perspective.” 

The event includes admission to the book presentation, a ticket for brunch and an autographed copy of Swim Back to Me. Lodging can be arranged by the resort. I am sorry I will not be in the area to participate. For more information and to obtain tickets, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/KIOTGZ

Also on the calendar this summer, during the weeks of July 23 to August 18th, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers will grace the stage at the Sundance Resort. http://bit.ly/mHZvlh. Musical events and a harvest market of artisan crafts in the fall will keep the property, previously Ute territory, busy. The inital acreage for the resort was purchased for $500 in 1960. Additional acreage was purchased in 1969 and developed by Robert Redford. To read about the history of Timphaven, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/J1CYDT

The drive from Heber City around Deer Creek Reservoir is so scenic. If you are ever in the area, take time to drive up to Sundance. Although seemingly private, it is only two miles off the well beaten path of State Route 189. 

That is all from the fulfilling art scene from the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. It was a great trip!

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Canyons of Art and Culture in the Wasatch

May 14, 2012

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” ~ Confucius  

Last week I had an enjoyable three days exploring the art scene in Park City and Sundance, Utah. Both places you’ll you find yourself nestled between steep canyons that have a high emphasis on nature, recreation, art and culture; literary, visual , performing arts and filmmaking. 

I came across two wonderful bookstores while exploring downtown, historic Park City. Dolly’s Bookstore http://bit.ly/dfGVjX  is a small, independent bookstore but the selection of titles was impeccable. The organization of the store was flawless with a cheerful, bright atmosphere.  They must have known I was coming! One of the first books I noticed as I walked into the store was a book that has been nagging at me for a long time, yet I have not read it. This time, without blinking, I bought! It has been said that it takes 10 times for someone to see a book before they decide to buy. I believe it! Good argument for the need for continual marketing! 

My book of my choice was Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott. What a surprise when I turned to the author’s bio. I discovered Anne Lamott studied writing at Goucher College http://bit.ly/huNMDI   - a University well-known for it’s outstanding writing program, in the town where I grew up -Towson, Maryland. Perhaps the reason so many have told me to read the book! 

The second bookstore was called the Expanding Heart http://bit.ly/KdulFo   - a retail place filled with books, music and other wares all focused upon spirituality and personal fulfillment; subjects such as angels, miracles, yoga, meditation, mysticism, religion, the power of attraction, miracles, chakras,  and much more filled the shelves. So much to absorb; I could have spent forever in that space. 

If you are ever in the area of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, do stop by both Park City bookstores! Plan on extra time so you can visit historic Main Street in its entirety! Their retail establishments and restaurants, including Robert Redford’s Zoom are outstanding. I can understand why Park Cityand Sundance draws a huge audience to their annual film festival. It is a great place to visit or live! 

Tomorrow, I’ll give you an overview of my fulfilling trip to Sundance and an upcoming literary event which is scheduled for this coming weekend. More independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Film Study: Dog and Human Relationships Worldwide

May 11, 2012

 “The bond with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth will ever be.” ~ Konrad Lorenz

Last Friday, I wrote a blog about the top dog films, and it had a very nice following. If you missed it,  visit this link http://bit.ly/Kkywjs.

 In this town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado dogs rule! It is as if owning a dog is a sign of prestige. I love dogs and I’ve always had one in my life except for brief periods of time when I have been “between dogs,” like right now. 

I’ve often wondered whether people’s obsession with their pets (specifically canines) is unique to the United States. Do families in other countries place as much importance on their animals well being as their own? 

It has been said that people who own dogs live longer and are more personally fulfilled. A study in the correlation between countries, dog ownership or not, and average life expectancy would be fascinating. Don’t you think? It would make for a very interesting global film study (by way of documentary). I’d be up for traveling the world with the objective of gathering information on the importance and value people put on their dogs in various countries. Of course, we’d need the help of some independent film investors . Perhaps a film like that has already been produced, and I am not aware of it. 

I can hear all the cat owners, now! “What about us?” they are asking. We find just as much satisfaction and companionship with felines! 

If anyone decides to invest in this proposed venture, please let me know way in advance – before my ship comes in and before I grab a flight out. I need to find a travel companion. My constant canine companion of 17 years went to doggie heaven last November. I sure do miss the ole girl, and it could take me a while to decide on a new breed.

On second thought, I’d better travel without a dog. Sometimes dogs are too territorial and they fight with other pooches. We don’t need any more soured international relationships; there is enough fighting going on in this world as it is!  I am looking for personal fulfillment.

Is that not the cutest picture you’ve ever seen? It made my day!  Have a fulfilling Friday, everyone!  This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Humor: It is Innate or Nutured?

May 10, 2012

“A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It’s jolted by every pebble on the road. ~ Henry Ward Beecher

The Department of Behavioral Sciences at my alma mater, Johnson State College in northernVermont, is involved in a research project on infant humor. http://on.fb.me/KDvKjj. Professor Gina Mireault’s findings were presented at the International Conference on Infant Studies in Baltimore in 2010. Since then, the study on infant humor has gained a very positive response worldwide from infancy researchers. In October 2012, this project will air on PBS’ NOVA. A very fascinating subject, I think. 

Infant humor leads me to wonder whether an individual’s feelings of a life time of happiness and fulfillment has it’s beginnings with parenting and in the home or is it innate; a human being’s personality? How much of our lifetime experience is determined by whether a child is raised in home filled with laughter versus a home with an austere environment? In my opinion, there could be a very real correlation. 

We have so often heard that “laughter is the best medicine.” http://bit.ly/ZRPQp.  According to research, humor, positive attitudes and faith are all components to rapid healing and fulfilling living. In recent years, hospitals have begun inviting professional clowns to visit sick patients. There is a whole website devoted to the art of humor for healing. It is called www.AHeart4Clowing.com. Books, audios and training videos are available through this site for people who are interested in sharing laughter with others and making life brighter for people suffering from an illness. 

I look forward to seeing the NOVA production on infant humor. Perhaps the PBS production will answer some of my ponderings.  I’ll keep my eye on TV programming for it. Stay tuned to this site, All Things Fulfilling, and we will share what we find out.

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Celebrate Teachers in a Dynamic Industry

May 8, 2012

Today is May 8th and it is Celebrate Teachers Day. Although it is not an easy thing for me to do, I am going to take this opportunity to be a little smug. I am feeling rather proud of myself! 

I have become something of a teacher. Who would have imagined it?  Over the course of the past few years, I have had a growing string of clients, both independent publishers and independent businesses who have hired me  to consult with them and teach them the ropes about this new dimension of advertising and promotion called e-marketing. It has been a fulfilling metamorphosis which has come purely as the result of using my creativity in writing, vision and thought.

My knowledge in the field has  not been entirely self-taught, however. I have had teachers along with way that I must acknowledge.  I have attended independent publishing conferences, seminars and on-line webinars; a real commitment. Today, I would like to say thank you to all the mentors that I have been exposed to over the past few years . I  greatly appreciate the inspiration you have given me.

Independent publishing will continue to be a dynamic , growing industry with more changes on the way. Working in the arts can be a life long and personally fulfilling journey. I am going to stay on-board!

A year or so ago, I had a wonderful opportunity, through the Colorado Independent Publishers Association, to meet motivational speaker Tama Kieves. She was awesome! Her presentation made it clear to me that we all need push for our passions , celebrate our successes, and give ourselves permission to pat ourselves on the back when we’ve made personal change. Check –out what she has to say in her books http://bit.ly/Vz1Bt.

If you are interested in learning how you can follow your dream of writing your own story or share your knowledge and expertise through independent publishing, I would suggest this on-line webinar published by the Colorado Independent Publishers Association. It starts with the basics! http://bit.ly/oIkV2g.

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Worldwide Interest in Indie Publishing

May 7, 2012

It is not in the pursuit of happiness we find fulfillment, it is in the happiness of pursuit.” ~ Denis Waitley

What do the U.K., India, Australia, Macedonia, Russia and Canada have in common? These countries are only the start of the long list of countries that frequent this site. Over the weekend we reached a new landmark in readership – one that I would never have predicted when this blog was started. It’ s thrilling!

What does this tell us? About the internet’s ability to reach far and wide! It also tells me that independent publishing of books, films and music is, indeed, a hot topic of conversation in this age of digitally produced art content. Countries that endorse independent publishing, have common concerns. 

In July, the 2012 Yale Publishing Course will take place. Many global issues surrounding independent publishing will be addressed. The website Independent Publisher has featured an interview of YPC’s Director Tina C. Weiner. To read her interview which provides an overview of this year’s discussion, please visit http://bit.ly/I48Vd6.  To apply for the Yale Publishing course, designed for mid and upper level publishing professionals, please visit this link http://bit.ly/ln4cFX

Obtaining copyright permissions is just one of many issues that will be discussed at the YPC. A  perplexing and time consuming task, there are experts in this field who can steer you, such as Integrated Writer Services, LLC.  To view the website of Integrated Writers Services, LLC, please follow this link http://bit.ly/JRBnfW

Thank you to all readers who visit this blog site. Our objective is to share interesting, useful, and fun information for anyone who is interested in the topic of  independent publishing and finding fulfillment in the Arts. 

Return tomorrow for more independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Master of Children’s Creative Imagery

April 30, 2012

To bring anything into your life, imagine that it’s already there. ~ Richard Bach 

On Friday’s blog, I reminisced about a popular TV character from the 1950’s – a nostalgic look back.  If you missed it, scroll below to the previous blog “The Power of Imaginative Intelligence.” 

The king of reaching children’s hearts through creative concepts and images is Disney! Although Mr. Disney himself is no longer with us in this world, his legacy lives on . The engine that powers all Disney Enterprises is a strong vision and knowledge about human imagination and intelligence. 

In May, a new theme park will open in Florida, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Children will no longer just dream about the world of their favorite animated characters as they sleep, they will have an even more fulfilling experience surrounded by  fantasy lands created inside the hotel rooms of the destination resort. http://bit.ly/9IAT5J

In Friday’s blog we also discussed the line of merchandise that developed as a result of the Howdy Duty Show; that’s smart business. Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) “is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and magazines, reaching more than 100 million readers each month in 75 countries.” www.Disneystore.com  sells books, DVDs, art and other consumer products branded with the Disney trademark. 

Other independent publishers can learn from that! When in the development stage of your independent publishing project, think …Is it possible the theme of your book could be parlayed into another brand product? Consider that and use your power of imaginative intelligence to create.

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Power of Imaginative Intelligence

April 27, 2012

Everyone has a photographic memory… some just don’t have film.” ~ Unknown 

It’s another fun-filled day on All Things Fulfilling. Once again, it is time to do my duty by saying “Howdy…Good Morning, to fans of independent publishing.” Blogging is my way of getting my creative juices flowing in order to complete the work that is ahead for the day. 

If you were on this earth in the 1950s, you know that Howdy Doody, was an innovative character for children’s television programming. A pioneer in imaginative intelligence! Howdy Doody was a puppet for his creator’s thoughts. Bob Smith’s use of a marionette was a unique channel for reaching children through TV media. A line of merchandise developed as a result! How hunky dory was that? 

Interested in taking a nostalgic look back at other vintage puppet friends of the freckle face boy Howdy Doody that were created for the show? Please go to this link http://bit.ly/5vqXK8

Don’t freak out because this blog is short and sweet. I am going to break-away since I have other things to attend to. I hope I have reached my objective and have brought you, my readers, something fulfilling to reminisce about today. 

See ya later, alligator! Come on back tomorrow for more independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Moving Heaven and Earth Day

April 23, 2012

“Expectancy is the atmosphere for miracles.” ~ Edwin Louis Cole 

Yesterday was Earth Day. Today, I am left wondering “Why on earth did I do it?” Wasn’t I told many, many months ago when I began writing a book “never, never trash any of your work?” Hadn’t I already gone through mourning the loss of a film script with my son? His computer had  a serious meltdown sometime ago and his work in progress was devoured with no chance of recovery. “He  would move heaven and earth ” he said “if only he could retrieve the script again.” 

Why, oh why, didn’t I learn from that? 

And, why, dear God, didn’t  I listen to Harriet? She’s the co-leader of the Steamboat Writers Group; full of wisdom and good advice. My source of encouragement! “Keep it going,” She says. “Don’t stop!” 

Now, this leaves me with a confession to make. I am in  desperate need of some of the writing I had cast aside as no good. I can never get it back; it’s trashed. Some of what I now see as my best laid chapters are kaput! Sure, I can try to recreate, but that is a difficult thing to do. I am no longer in the same mindset. 

According to an article, the first step in learning from our mistakes is to acknowledge where you went wrong. Ok, I’ve done that. Then, you have to stop blaming others. I’ve already said “sending my writing to the trash bin was my own fault. ”

 All I can think to write right now is - 

  • Don’t delete, modify!
  • Don’t delete, modify!
  • Don’t delete, modify!
  • Don’t delete, modify!

A third step in learning from our mistakes is to categorize. http://bit.ly/ySPFr. Trash  is no longer an option. All words can be modified. I have already started a new file called  Don’t delete, modify

Why, oh, why am I still hindered in creating more text for this book?

That’s it. I am finished; I am done. I will  no longer bemoan the fact that what I trashed is lost. I am moving ahead. Nothing good will come out of wondering “Why on earth did I do it?”  I am also moving Earth Day to every 4 or 5 years. That way I’ll have more time to celebrate every time the heavens open up and I receive a new fulfilling shipment of creative thought.

When I finally publish my book, I will indeed be celebrating a miraculous birth. “I am a believer; it can be done. ” I will shout out. “Hallelujah and Amen.”

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